FALL 2012
anon Mac COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
anon Mac Back to School Issue safety-driven
safety-driven
anon Mac FROM THE PUBLISHER I hope that the slow descent into cooler temperatures and the start of the changing leaf colors bring a smile to your face, as they do mine. Fall is one of my favorite times of year. It marks the start of ski season, a sport I share with my whole family. It also means warm cider on chilly nights, the return of some amazing stargazing as the skies darken earlier, and lower electric bills as the air conditioners can finally be removed from the windows. We also have Halloween, of course, which allows us to share some fun with the kids either through haunted hayrides and houses, or just making the rounds from door to door, filling that pillowcase to the brim with sugary delights. Halloween kicks off the holiday season, and it seems that every year, the last three months on the calendar flip faster than the previous nine. Thanksgiving gives way to Christmas and Hanukah, followed by New Year’s. It will be over before you know it, so take some time to have that extra cup of cider, make a few extra wishes on those stars, spend a few more runs down the slopes, and take the time to walk door-to-door with the kids this Halloween. This time is something we can never get back, which makes it one of the most valuable things we have.
anon Mac
Enjoy your fall with the ones you love,
Wayne Dollard, Publisher
WE WANT How did you meet your spouse? Some of the best stories we hear are how two TO KNOW... people happened to get together. Some met in
bars, some in supermarkets, while others met in more unique circumstances. Send us your story of how you met your spouse. We’ll run the best ones in the next issue. Also include a photo of you and your spouse, how many years you’ve been married and when your anniversary is. Send your story to mark@incommunitymagazines.com or mail them to IN Community Magazines, 603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317. You can also fax us at 724.942.0968.
Winter content deadline: 11/5/12
INSIDE
FALL 2012
IN Canon Mac is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Canon Mac 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.
anon Mac COMMUNITY
MAGAZINE
Back to School Issue
IN Canon Mac | FALL 2012 | TBGFUZ ESJW FO
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COMMUNITY INTEREST
Canon McMillan School District .. | 6 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................................... | 29 Community Service Awards Form
| 61
Special Value Coupons .................... | 64 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
ON THE COVER
| Students go back to class in the Canon-McMillan School District. Photo by Primetime Shots
Ivana Liberatore & Associates
UPMC TODAY
Plan to Reduce the Tax Hit in 2013 .............. | 37
Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Fall 2012
The Herrnberger Insurance Agency Safety Sites for Teen Drivers ....................... | 53
Get Ready for Fall Soon the leaves will change color and fall to the ground — a welcome mat for cooler days, chilly nights, football games, hayrides, warm sweaters, and everything else that makes fall special.
The Physical Therapy Institute Stadiums are for Spectators ....................... | 58
What’s Inside 2
Elevating Cancer Surgery for Women to a New Level
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Give Your Back a Break Using Your Blood for Natural Healing
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Northwest Savings Bank Lending a Hand ......................................... | 27
A Partnership of Hope and Transformation
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Magee’s Newest Baby Is Two Stories Tall — and Ready for Guests
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Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship
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FEATURES
Back to School .......................................................................
Synergy School of Artistic Dance by Roz Get to Know Your Local Dance Studio ........ | 60 SPOTLIGHTS
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Beinhauer Family Services .............. | 28 Brookside Lumber Company .......... | 52
Strong Senior Class Looking to Lead Canon Mac Boys Soccer...............................................................................
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North Strabane Municipal Park Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration ................................................
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Jonathan Naser Travels to his Roots ................................
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Car Buffs Abound in the Region .......................................
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Canon-Mac Artist’s Work Exhibited at Museum of Pennsylvania ............................................................................
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Gym Dandy’s Receives State’s Top Honors ....................
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Colin McKinney - Taekwondo Champ ..............................
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The Borough of Canonsburg’s Banner Program ..........
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Steel City Airsoft ............................... | 57
safetydriven learn more on page 12
NEW FACULTY AT CANON-McMILLAN
MISS MAKENZIE BLACK ASSIGNMENT: Reading specialist, Muse DEGREES: B.S.Ed. (K-6), Indiana Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: Elem. and Reading specialist
MISS NATALIE BLACKBURN ASSIGNMENT: 3rd grade, Cecil Elem. DEGREES: B.A., studio arts, communication; M.A.T, ed., both from Pitt CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed & art
MRS. SUSAN CICCONE ASSIGNMENT: Autistic support, South Central DEGREES: B.S., elem. ed; master’s, special ed., both from Robert Morris Univ. CERTIFICATION: Special ed. & elem. ed.
MISS MARY GIDAS ASSIGNMENT: 7th-grade math, Canonsburg Middle DEGREES: B.A., psychology, Gettysburg College; M.A., elem ed., Chatham CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed. & midlevel math
MISS MEGAN GILLESPIE ASSIGNMENT: Kindergarten, Borland Manor & South Central DEGREES: B.S., elem. & early childhood ed., Penn State CERTIFICATION: Elem. & early childhood ed.
MRS. LOUISE GLIVIC ASSIGNMENT: 4th grade, South Central DEGREES: B.S.Ed., elem. ed., Indiana Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed.
MISS DANIELLE GREGORY ASSIGNMENT: Phys. ed., High School DEGREES: B.S., kinesiology, Penn State CERTIFICATION: Health & physical ed.
MISS MICHELE MORGAN ASSIGNMENT: 6th-grade learning support, Cecil Intermediate DEGREES: B.S., special ed.; B.S., elem. ed., both from Calif. Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: Special ed. & elem. ed.
MRS. BECKY O’NEILL ASSIGNMENT: 2nd grade, South Central DEGREES: B.S., special ed., Clarion Univ. CERTIFICATION: Special ed. & elem. ed.
MISS ANGELA RICCIARDI ASSIGNMENT: Social studies, High School DEGREES: B.S., psychology, Allegheny College; M.A.T., social studies ed., Pitt CERTIFICATION: Social studies
MISS JACKIE ROACH ASSIGNMENT: 1st grade, South Central DEGREES: B.S., early childhood and elem. ed., Penn State CERTIFICATION: Early childhood & elem. ed.
MRS. RACHEL SCHEIB ASSIGNMENT: Special ed., Canonsburg Middle DEGREES: B.A., English lit., Pitt; M.A., teaching English, Indiana Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: English & special ed.
MR. BROOK SHARPNACK ASSIGNMENT: 1st grade, First Street DEGREES: B.A., communication, Seton Hill Univ. CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed., special ed., communications & mid-level English
MRS. JESSICA STIFFY ASSIGNMENT: Therapeutic emotional support, High School DEGREES: B.S., elem./special ed., Clarion Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: Elem. & special ed.
Canonsburg Middle School video named “Video of the Day”
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anonsburg Middle School staff participated in a teacher-created, anti-bullying video parody to the song “Down” by Jay Sean last year. The video was used to inspire students to prevent bullying in the school. The video, titled “Stop Putting Me Down: CMS Anti-Bullying Sing-off,” was named the “Video of the Day” selection for Aug. 28, 2012, by the St. Louis-based SchoolTube, Inc. Ms. Lauren canon-McMillan school district Paddick, 6
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eighth-grade English teacher, and Mrs. Marcie Killmeyer, special education, wrote the lyrics. The parody was sung by Mrs. Jill Dennick, eighth-grade social studies, and rapped by Ms. Paddick, Ms. Melissa Cashell, eighth-grade social studies, and Ms. Sheila Mitchell, special education. The video was directed by Mrs. Killmeyer and edited by Ms. Paddick. The video was used as the kick-off to a multifaceted program with various interventions and education components used throughout the year.
“Thousands of videos are uploaded to our site everyday,” said Mr. Jeff Johnston, SchoolTube’s Community Director. “Our ‘Video of the Day’ selections are the cream of the crop from the most innovative students and teachers.” Ms. Paddick’s production was distributed via Twitter by @SchoolTube, posted on facebook.com/SchoolTube and featured on SchoolTube.com with a network that reaches over 300,000 people each day. SchoolTube, Inc., is the nation’s largest
NEW FACULTY AT CANON-McMILLAN
MISS SARAH GRISSO ASSIGNMENT: Music, Muse & NSIS DEGREES: B.M.E., music ed., WVU CERTIFICATION: Music
MS. AMBER HINTON ASSIGNMENT: Emotional support, Cecil Intermediate DEGREES: B.A., psychology; B.A., ed.; M.A. special ed.; all from Univ. of Wyoming CERTIFICATION: Special ed.
MISS LAUREN KOSTLEY ASSIGNMENT: 5th-grade language arts & social studies, Cecil Intermediate DEGREES: B.S., elem, & special ed., Slippery Rock CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed. & special ed.
MS. ANNA KRAVEC ASSIGNMENT: Kindergarten, South Central DEGREES: B.A., communications, minor in psychology; M.S.Ed., early childhood & elem. ed., both from Duquesne CERTIFICATION: Early childhood & elem. ed.
MISS SARA LAMARS ASSIGNMENT: English, High School DEGREES: B.A., English, minors in ed. & music, W&J CERTIFICATION: English
MR. ROBERT MARRA ASSIGNMENT: Learning support, First Street DEGREES: B.A., elem. & special ed., Westminster College CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed. & special ed.
MRS. CRYSTAL D. MILES ASSIGNMENT: Autistic support, South Central DEGREES: B.S., elem. & special ed.; master’s, ed., Calif. Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: Elem., special ed., & Principal’s certification
Keep up-to-date on news about Canon-McMillan School District!
MISS KATELYN TYLER ASSIGNMENT: Learning support, High School DEGREES: B.S., special ed. & B.S., elem. ed., both from Slippery Rock CERTIFICATION: Mid-level English, general science, elem. & special ed.
MISS TARA UTCHEL ASSIGNMENT: Physical ed., Canonsburg Middle DEGREES: B.A. economics & English, Bucknell; B.S., health & physical ed., Slippery Rock CERTIFICATION: Health & physical ed.
MISS JENNIFER WHERRY ASSIGNMENT: 8th-grade English, Canonsburg Middle DEGREES: B.S.Ed., secondary ed. English; B.A., English language & literacy, both from Calif. Univ. of PA CERTIFICATION: English
K-12 video sharing site and is endorsed by over a dozen national education associations. Its mission is to empower students and teachers through the use of video in a fun and safe environment. The school produced a second video this past spring titled "Bully Free Anthem," an anti-bullying parody of "Party Rock Anthem." It is also posted on SchoolTube and YouTube. This was just one more accolade for Canonsburg Middle School which also was named a 2011 Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn and National Schools to Watch Middle School. Its principal, Dr. Greg Taranto, was named the 2012 Pennsylvania Middle Level Principal of the Year.
MISS LINDSAY WHITEFORD ASSIGNMENT: 3rd grade, South Central DEGREES: B.A., child development & ed., W&J CERTIFICATION: Elem. ed.
Go online to: www.cmsd.k12.pa.us Click on: District Click on: CM News Click on: Highlights You’ll find more stories and photos about the work going on in CMSD.
check it often!
Pictured from left are: Mrs. Lauren Petras (paraprofessional), Ms. Virginia McAnulty (substitute paraprofessional), Mrs. Sharon Baxter (special education), Mrs. Ricki DeBlasio (special education), Mrs. Courtney Saxon (paraprofessional), and Mrs. Elaine Hixon (paraprofessional).
Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
learninG is fun toGether
Left: Student Nicholas Baum with his TSS (therapeutic staff support), Jennifer Fehl, exploring in the creek at the Outdoor Classroom in Boyce-Mayview Park. Right: Easton Swart, a 4th-grader at Borland Manor Elementary School and captain of his group, is seen with Eruption Athletics staff member, Chris Engler.
CAMP L.I.F.T. I
t was only to be a short walk from South Central Elementary School to the Fire Station in Canonsburg. Bob Chuey had planned it for weeks, but he was worried that the walk with 25 children and staff would not go well. He had filled his backpack with Band-aids, water, and emergency numbers as well as a full charge on his cell phone. “I knew that some of our children could run, refuse to walk or just wander off,” said Mr. Chuey. “I was wrong. All our kids followed directions, listened to the adults and the trip was wonderfully incident-free.” The children, some who are non-verbal, were all special needs and autistic students in Canon-McMillan’s elementary and intermediate schools and took part in Camp L.I.F.T. (Learning Is Fun Together), the extended-school-year program run this summer. “The fire chief went down the pole for the children, showed them equipment and so much more,” said Mr. canon-McMillan Chuey. “Even school district 8
Canon Mac
the walk there ended up being fun.” Mr. Chuey, who has experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher, is the special education coordinator for the Canon-McMillan School District. The program ran July 9 to August 9 at South Central Elementary School, where about 70 percent of the participants attend school during the school year. The goal was to provide academic, social and behavioral instruction to prevent regression over the summer recess. The program was therapeutic because of the occupational, physical and speech/language instruction by professionals certified in those areas. Each week the programming was geared to a theme: building with Legos; community helpers/safety; literacy; health and wellness; nature and animals. Three special education teachers each taught a different level of programming covering a wide spectrum of needs and abilities. Ms. Devon Diesel’s students were in the intermediate school level. Most were nonverbal, autistic students. “This was a challenging group with challenging behaviors,” said Mr. Chuey. Ms. Michele Morgan had the highest functioning academically. Some were at or above grade level. “They were very active and needed to change activities often,” said Mr. Chuey. “They are bright kids and extremely active. Most also have social challenges.”
Ms. Sherree Mohler had the students with the greatest degree of language and social issues. “Most were non-verbal, so the staff needed to work hard to help these students communicate,” Mr. Chuey added. “They had receptive language skills, so they could be instructed and learned to follow directions.” Mr. Chuey worked on organizing this project for nearly a year. “We wanted to provide services that rivaled those we had contracted outside of the district; in other words, we wanted to provide an opportunity for Canon-McMillan students to attend extended school year within the district.” Mr. Chuey’s supervisor and Canon-McMillan School District Special Education Director, Ms. Betsy Somerville, was totally supportive of Camp L.I.F.T. He expected that the 30 percent of the participants from C-M schools other than South Central Elementary might take several days to make the transition and be comfortable at a school that was unfamiliar to them. But within two or three days, all the students were working well in the program. “These teachers knew from the start that they needed to have a structured program and hit the ground running,” said Mr. Chuey. “We have a group of hard-working, enthusiastic, dedicated staff who enjoyed their time with the kids. It was just a blessing to have such a dynamic, positive group of people.” Mr. Chuey explained that the program
odyssey of the Mind needed teachers and staff who were both compassionate and caring, but also had to know how to effectively teach students who present with a complex mix of challenges and strengths. “From the start we wanted to base the program on weekly themes. That allows you to teach without being repetitious and gave the camp an identity,” said Mr. Chuey. The students were in the program from 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. There was an event or field trip each Thursday. One example was a visit from Eruption Athletics, an organization founded by Mr. Joe Jelinski and Mr. Chris Engler that empowers special athletes through exercise. The program’s final activity was a sun-filled day at The Outdoor Classroom in Boyce-Mayview Park, complete with a hike on the sensory trail, “creek stomping,” and tossing seed-filled mud balls into the meadow. The experts at The Outdoor Classroom made the experience educational as well as enjoyable for the students, parents and staff. “Our extended-school-year program extended academic, behavioral and social services for autistic and lifeskills students with severe communication and development issues,” says Mr. Chuey. “It was rewarding to see the students (ages 6-12) thrive in this program and maintain or add to their progress so that they were prepared for a new school year.” Included on staff for Camp L.I.F.T. in addition to Mr. Chuey as on-site administrator and the three special education teachers were: C-M Paraeducators: Mrs. Erin Keaney, Mr. Tim Amos, Mrs. Rachel LoRusso and Mrs. Denise Peterson. C-M Speech/Language Therapists: Ms. Lisa Hepner and Mrs. Jessica ShafferGilbert. Occupational Therapist (consultant): Mrs. Jillet Mertens. Physical Therapist (consultant): Mrs. Cary Spilsbury. C-M Behavior Specialist: Mrs. Sara Cambotti. C-M Administrative Intern: Ms. Kathryn Tate. Program Consultant: Mrs. Marcia Laus of the Watson Institute. Student Volunteers: Olivia and Bart LoRusso; Benny, Kent and Drew Peterson; Jamie Walters and Natalie Chuey.
Preparing C-M students for 21st Century creativity
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here is a demand for creative individuals in all professions from engineers and scientists to teachers, welders, carpenters, stayat-home parents, and politicians. Children of today represent the next generation of these professions. This is where the international organization, Odyssey of the Mind, starts to help meet the changes envisioned in the 21st Century. Odyssey of the Mind teaches students to learn creative problem-solving methods while having fun in the process. For more than 25 years, this unique program has helped teachers generate excitement in their students. Through reassuring creative paths to problem solving, students learn skills that will provide them with the ability to solve problems professionally and personally. Odyssey of the Mind teaches students how to think outside the box by providing open-ended problems that appeal to various interests such as science, math, and the arts. Students are free to express their ideas and suggestions without fear of criticism and they learn how to identify challenges and to think creatively to solve those problems. Shy students are afforded the opportunity to open up and express themselves. Students learn to work in teams by solving problems together. This program teaches the students to think creatively, work within a team environment, refine their individual skills, build self-confidence, and foster friendships that last a lifetime. Millions of students from kindergarten through college have participated in the Odyssey of the Mind. Each year, five new competitive problems are presented for the teams to solve. These long-term problems are solved over weeks and months. Some of the problems are technical in nature, while others are artistic or performance based. Each longterm problem rewards "Style" in the solution. This helps teach students that they should not simply try to solve problems but take the next step of enhancing their solutions. Students taking part in the OM competition get no outside assistance from parents, teachers, or coaches and must come up with the script, sets, costumes and props themselves. Teams have coaches who provide guidance, demonstrate problem-solving techniques, and prepare the students on the protocol of the competitions. This gives the teams the ability to confidently produce a solution of their own.
Participants were, from left: Front row: Emma Gross, Kaylee Gross, Hannah McAleer; 2nd row: Scott Waugh, Vinny Sutherland, Wyatt Wybranowski, Angelina Compeggie and Angelina Mitchell; 3rd row: Ethan Bukovinsky, Evan Moltz, Carrera Sutherland, Nathan Yakupkovic, Colton Speer and Alex Shaffer; Back row Sponsors: Mrs. Hollie McAleer, Mr. Noah Moltz, Mrs. Franny McAleer, Mrs. Kristen Speer, Mrs. Melissa Gross and Mr. Gerry Sutherland
Canon-McMillan School District has three Odyssey of the Mind teams at First Street Elementary, and this will be First Street Elementary School’s third year participating. The program was started during the 20102011 school year by Mrs. Hollie McAleer with the help of Mrs. Franny McAleer. Odyssey of the Mind competition is for students of all ages and is a worldwide competition. The teams select the problem that they want to solve and the creativity begins! The 2011-12 Canon Mac teams were coached by Mrs. Hollie McAleer, Mrs. Franny McAleer, Mr. Noah Moltz, Mr. Gerry Sutherland, Mrs. Melissa Gross, and Mrs. Kristen Speer. The primary team (K-2) members were Vinnie Sutherland, Hannah McAleer, Angelina Mitchell, Angelina Compeggie, Scott Downer, Emma Gross, Kaylee Gross, Ethan Bukovinsky, Wyatt Wybranowski and Colton Speer. The Division I team (3rd & 4th grade) members were Alex Shaffer, Nathan Yakupkovic, Evan Moltz, Carrera Sutherland and Mark McAleer Jr. The First Street teams competed in the Western PA Odyssey of the Mind competition at Moon High School. All teams presented their solutions to their selected long-term problems and competed in a Spontaneous problem-solving session. All students and coaches enjoyed the relief of a job well done and the time spent with other OMers! In today’s society there is a huge need for children to think outside the box and embrace the spirit of innovation. Odyssey of the Mind encourages them to accomplish these goals and sets the stage for the next generation of creative thinkers. This year’s OM members will compete March 2013 at the Moon Area High School. Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
Mini-Grants
Teachers Receive Grants to Start Six New Programs new programs will each get a kick-start this year with an $800 mini-grant from the Canon-McMillan SixSchool District. Below are the projects that were selected and the teachers who are implementing them .
WATERSHED, WILDFLOWER AND BIRD EDUCATION
BECOMING AN INDEPENDENT READER
MRS. LISA STIMPSON & MRS. COURTNEY LASKOWSKI CECIL INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
MRS. SANDY STROSKO CANON-MCMILLAN HIGH SCHOOL
The purpose of the “Watershed, Wildflower and Bird Education Program” is to enhance students’ knowledge of science research and ecology using Politan Pond located on the grounds of Canon-McMillan High School. The students will be able to link ecology and human impact within the community’s watershed basin. Because of the uniqueness of having a pond and wetland area on the school district property, students can have many learning experiences outside the school’s door. Data can be collected and analyzed throughout the school year and the change of seasons. The watershed component of the pond program will provide monitoring in three parameters: physical, chemical and biological. The wildflower and bird program components will include students viewing specimens and recording data in their field notebooks. The overall intent of the program’s three components will be to develop students’ problem-solving skills, use of technology, application of the scientific method, and to help students become environmentally literate citizens.
NSI THE KIDS OF STEEL
MRS. JEANNA REDA & MS. AMY DULANEY NORTH STRABANE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
“NSI The Kids of STEEL” is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle among North Strabane Intermediate School students by introducing them to exercise and proper nutrition. The Kids of STEEL program will challenge students to run 26.2 miles over an 18-week period. Students will run 25.2 miles leading up to race weekend. Their final mile will be run at the Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2013. Additionally, students will participate in the Giant Eagle STEEL Taste program. STEEL Taste encourages kids to make healthier food choices by tasting, studying and sharing nutritious
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The fifth-grade language arts grant “Becoming an Independent Reader” was written to enhance the daily goals of using best practices to teach students to read and comprehend independently. In order to accomplish these goals, research-based and teacher-proven methods that involve texts of all genres at a variety of reading levels will be used. With the guidance of teachers, students will select texts to read independently. As they read, students will self-monitor to check for understanding. They will also conference with teachers as well as complete oral and written activities to demonstrate comprehension.
APPS FOR ALL
MRS. ASHLEY SHARPNACK CECIL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
“Apps for All” incorporates the iPod Touch into the classroom, and embeds it into the first-grade curriculum. Students will use the iPod Touch to enhance their knowledge of concepts being taught while making it a fun way to learn. The students will be completing Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Health activities on the iPod that parallel the curriculum.
food. Students will be given a running log and STEEL Taste nutrition log. Students participating in the Kids of STEEL Program will be responsible for keeping a running log for the entire 18week time period. The log must be turned in weekly with a parent’s signature. Students will also be expected to participate in group runs offered during exploratory one day per week for 18 weeks. The program will conclude on May 4, 2013, when the participating students will be bused into Pittsburgh to run the last mile of the Toyota of Pittsburgh Kids Marathon. Completed logs will be turned in at the marathon, and each student will receive a finisher’s medal and a STEEL Taste certificate. Upon completion of the running program the students will use technology to
make a video of the journey to share with the school. Students will show their peers that by stepping up to the starting line, they can make healthy lifestyle changes and have fun doing it! The Kids of STEEL program will not only challenge students to run 26.2 miles over 18 weeks, but will also encourage them to make healthier food choices. By participating in Kids of STEEL, students will discover that physical activity can be fun and rewarding. Running helps develop fitness while building muscles, burning calories, reducing stress and creating good lifelong habits. Students will learn how to set goals, work to achieve them and then evaluate their personal achievement. The goal of this program is to give students a head start on a healthy life.
Mini-Grants
SHOW WHAT YOU KNOW CECIL
MRS. LUCY GAYDOS & MRS. JENNIFER STEALEY CECIL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The implementation of this trivia program, “Show What You Know Cecil,” will allow the students in fourth grade at Cecil Elementary School to apply their acquired knowledge, facts, techniques and rules in a unique, competitive, cooperative group setting. This program will foster teamwork, debate, communication (both written and oral) and decision-making while enhancing previously taught subject matter and relating learning to real world situations. Students, working in cooperative groups, will compete in a team trivia challenge weekly to support and apply previously acquired cross-curricular knowledge. During the challenge, students will be asked questions based on an assigned category. Students will debate the answer within their group and turn in a written response to the question. This response will be given a point value based on the team’s confidence of the answer. As teams progress through the challenges each week, “bowl points” will be awarded to the top five performing teams each week. At the conclusion of nine weeks of participation, the top five scoring teams from each fourth-
AP Scholar Awards at Canon-McMillan High School
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eventeen students at Canon-McMillan High School have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP Exams.The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful
grade classroom will compete in the quiz bowl in which families will be invited to attend. Students will choose a team name, design a team logo, and create flags that will be displayed during competition. Medals will be given for top performing teams and a book will be donated to the Frank Sarris Public Library in honor of the winning teams. Winning teams will also be featured in the local newspapers. During Cecil Elementary’s V.I.P. Day held in the spring, students’ V.I.P.s will be asked to participate with their children in a team trivia challenge as a fun way to include the community in the project. The adult will then be able to participate in weekly trivia until the trivia bowl. As the Canon-McMillan School District strives to find unique ways to challenge students, this program differentiates learning, focuses on the multiple intelligences of students and enriches learning both in and out of the classroom. In additional to the cognitive aspect of the program, students will build communication and apply teamwork skills that they will carry with them throughout their lives. This program will also promote awareness of the accomplishments of the students within the community as well as create an atmosphere of pride within the school.
performance on the AP Exams. About 18 percent of the more than 1.9 million students worldwide who took AP Exams performed at a sufficiently high level to also earn an AP Scholar Award. The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on students’ performance on AP Exams. At Canon-McMillan High School: One student qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average score of 4 or higher on a five-point scale on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. The National AP Scholar is 2012 graduate Matthew Jones. Four students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of
GAMES TO SOAR TO THE COMMON CORE!
MRS. SALLY JESWILKOWSKI & MRS. KELLY SHEPPARD WYLANDVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Hopscotch, Monopoly, Trouble…who doesn’t love games? The mini-grant titled “Games to Soar to the Common Core” was written by Mrs. Sally Jeswilkowski and Mrs. Kelly Sheppard at Wylandville Elementary School. The purpose of the grant is to utilize games, materials and activities that support individualized instruction within the newly adopted program ”Response to Intervention and Instruction” (RTII). The teachers also hope to provide hands-on learning centers that will help students meet the National Common Core Standards that are being adopted by Pennsylvania. Students will participate in game shows at the Smart Board, board games that reinforce comprehension and context clues, and "At My Seat" learning activities that they can work on when their assignments are completed. The games and activities purchased are ones that will specifically target and foster cooperative learning skills, higher-order thinking skills, and real-life problem solving. The teachers will continually assess children so that they can use the data collected to guide the creation and differentiation of new learning centers. Happy playing!
these exams. These students are 2012 graduates Matthew Jones, Sarah Trossman, and Tyler Wake; and senior Jonathan Seward. Four students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. These students are 2012 graduates Eric Falascino, Gail Falcione, Sydney Severyn, and senior Chad Lani. Nine students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with scores of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are 2012 graduates Emma Chase, Benjamin DuCarme, Natalie Paonessa, Anthony Sciulli, Stephen Strosko; along with seniors Daniel Buker, Austin Jones, Benjamin Macioszek, and Isabela Tetino.
Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
12 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE |
Canon Mac
ANNOUNCEMENTS South Fayette Class of ‘82 South Fayette Class of ‘82 will celebrate their 30th High School reunion on October 20, 2012. Please contact us for more information at SFReunion82@gmail.com or call 412.266.6497.
The Little Sisters of the Poor Celebrate their 140th Anniversary with “A Heavenly Feast.” On October 25, 2012 the Little Sisters will continue their celebration of 140 years of caring for the elderly poor in Pittsburgh by serving up “A Heavenly Feast” Celebrity Chef Tasting. Eight priests from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, who are celebrity chefs in their own right, will dazzle our guests with their culinary wizardry. The evening, hosted by Honorary Chair Bishop David Zubik, will take place at the newly renovated Cardinals’ Great Hall at the St. Paul Seminary. The evening will include an offering of wines from Cana and homemade Limoncello, special recipes from our “chef ’s” own collections, a unique assortment of Live Auction Items, and the presentation of the St. Jeanne Jugan Medal to the Sisters’ longtime board chair and friend James F. Will. Tickets are $150/person. For more information, please contact Kathleen Bowser at 412.307.1268 or adevpittsburgh@littlesistersofthepoor.org.
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The Fall is not just a time of changing leaves and cooler temperatures, it’s a time when the dormant diesel engines of the school buses fire up, SAT applications and college inquiry letters are sent, and students return to college campuses across the nation. In the United States, education is a $900 billion a year business, and that investment, either by the federal and state government, parents and students themselves via student loans, is a testament as to how important learning is to making a name for yourself in the world. Fortunately, for individuals and the economy as a whole, everyone is different and educational opportunities abound for people no matter what their interests or aptitudes. ★★ College: College remains one of the most traditional avenues for graduated high school students to pursue. Colleges can be public or private and offer two-year or four-year degrees. While post-secondary education is not a requirement for securing work, those who obtain a college degree can expect estimated lifetime earnings of $2.1 million, according to the US Census Bureau. A master’s degree boosts that to $2.5 million, a professional degree averages $4.4 million, and a doctoral degree $3.4 million. High school graduates are estimated to earn just $1.2 million over the course of their lifetime, according to the same report. ★★ Trade Schools and Vocational Careers: While vocational training can start in high school, thanks to regional vocational/technical centers that serve school districts, post-high school programs can take graduates from apprentices to masters of their field. What’s more, vocational programs aren’t like they used to be in the latter half of the 20th Century. Today’s vocational schools still cover trades such as carpentry, plumbing and stonemasonry, but they also excel in specialty fields such as computer networking, HVAC, and robotics. ★★ Online Learning: Online learning is a relatively new form of degree program using the power of the Internet to bring students and schools together. Also known as E-learning or distance education, online programs have brought some big
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names into the fold as Harvard and MIT recently joined forces, offering a variety of free, online courses. Online education typically costs less than bricks and mortar schools. ★★ Financing Education: No matter where you end up after high school, chances are you’re going to need to take out a few loans to make your goals attainable. Student loans come in a variety of forms ranging from federal to private. Scholarships often are attainable for eligible students, and are nice to have, but realistic students shouldn’t expect to garner enough scholarship money to cover their entire academic career. Programs such as the Federal Stafford Loan can offset up to $23,000 of tuition, which can be increased to $46,000 if parents do not qualify for the Parent PLUS program. The downside to student loans is that you will be graduating with substantial debt to pay down. The upside, however, is that student loan interest rates are generally low, tax deductible and the loans themselves can be deferred until you are in a position to make payments on them, such as the time necessary for you to find a job. ★★ Benefits of tutoring services: One of the keys to acquiring scholarships is good grades. While that’s totally on the student to achieve, there are many services available that can help that student put in the extra effort to make the grade. From SAT preparation centers to study centers that cover a broader range of curricula, these investments are well worth the cost if the result is several thousand dollars coming off your tuition bill because you got a 4.0 versus a 3.8 GPA. ★★ development, researchers have found that that children who attend preschool tend to show higher intelligence quotients than those who do not, according to Early Childhood Research and Practice (ECRP). Although sending your child to preschool can help them academically, it also improves their early social skills. Preschool is the time when children become aware of sharing and learning how to interact with one another. The classroom gives the young students a friendly, safe environment that allows them to grow and prepare for the later education in kindergarten and Grade School. Children who attend preschool are usually between 3-5 years old. No matter what your path in life may be, being prepared academically for that path is the key to future success.
BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY C hildren everywhere are dreading the sound of those three little words that mean that summer vacation time is over : “back to school.” Though they may be a bit resistant to returning to the daily grind of rising early, most kids love school after they get over the initial shock of being awake before 8 a.m. But the difference in routine is not just about kids, it’s about everyone who will be out on the roadways when children are scattered around the area. Area police encourage all drivers to remember that school areas will once again be full of life and to take a little extra precaution when approaching them. • According to SafeKids.org, many children will linger on the curb of the street, dangerously close to traffic. Be sure to give them a wide berth. • It goes without saying that drivers should be especially alert in school zones, but kids will fan out in every direction for several blocks, so it’s important to watch for one or two children who may be easily missed because they are a good distance from the school. It’s important to keep an eye on the time, and if it’s earlier than 9 a.m. or later than 2:30 p.m., there’s a good chance that children may be out on the streets.
• Exit driveways slowly, since many times sidewalks cross the driveway. Although many children are excellent at looking both ways before crossing a street, they frequently forget to watch for cars backing out of driveways when on the sidewalk.
• A great tip for anyone of any age is to avoid cell phone usage altogether while driving.
• No talking or texting while the car is in motion. While a person drinking is five times more likely to have an accident, a person texting is 23 times more likely to have an accident, according to The NoPhoneZone.org. In fact, even talking on the cell phone is dangerous because the driver is likely so engrossed in the conversation his/her level of alertness is greatly diminished. If you must use your cell phone, pull over in a convenient parking lot. • Parents can help prevent accidents from happening by walking the route that children will be taking from school. By actually walking the same path with them, parents can make children aware of possible dangers and also familiarize them with the safest route possible. SafeKids.org recommends that children be accompanied by an adult when crossing the street until they are 10 years old. • Children should only cross the street at corners and use the traffic signals. They should NEVER run out into the street or enter the roadway from between parked cars. When exiting the school bus, they
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should always walk in front of the bus so that the driver is aware that they are there. • Drivers should ALWAYS stop when the school bus stops, whether you are behind the bus or meeting the bus on the roadway. This is a state law which carries hefty fines for violation of it. With a little effort on our part, these safety precautions will very quickly become routine and make the streets a little safer for everyone.
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T
he Canon McMillan Boys Soccer Team is looking to improve upon their third place finish in a tough section from last year. Second year head coach Larry Fingers is excited to see what his senior-led team can do in arguably the best section in all of the W.P.I.A.L. “Last year we had a record of 8-6-5, which is no small feat in our section,” Coach Fingers recollected. “Despite what happens this year, there will be two to three teams on the outside of playoffs looking in that would probably make the playoffs in any other section.” Peters Township and Upper St. Clair are the heavy favorites coming out of Canon Mac’s section. Both Peters and USC made the W.P.I.A.L. Championship game last year, and Canon Mac will be ready for the challenge that awaits them from those two section rivals. Coach Fingers will look to his seniors, and most especially his captains, this year to help lead his team to the W.P.I.A.L. playoffs. The Big Macs boast nine seniors on the team this year. Senior captains Alex Brumbaugh, James Hathaway and Nate Jacobs will be joined by junior captain
Corey McCurdy. “The captains this year are acting coaches on and off the field. The players were voted in by their peers and are respected members of the team,” Coach Fingers said. Coach Fingers has leaned on this year’s captains to make the team their own and to own their environment at training and at games. That’s a lot of responsibility given to a few select group of teenagers, but in the long run, the players will end up feeling more intertwined in the success and failure of the team. Coach Fingers believes that the stronger his captains are in terms of leadership will directly correlate with the strength that his boys will be as a team. Between the seniors and captains, the Canon Mac Boys Soccer Team seems committed to putting everything together to win games and be successful in this upcoming season. Going into a season riddled with difficult opponents, Coach Fingers and his team have both short-term and long-term goals in order to keep the team focused on a daily basis. “We feel that we are talented, but we have to take on a humble persona that pushes us each day to get better and to not
Strong Senior Class Looking To Lead Canon Mac Boys Soccer
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By Leigh Lyons
be satisfied with where we are,” Coach Fingers preached. The biggest thing for the Big Macs this year is that they stay focused on the overall development of the program. Coach Fingers is proud of his group of 36 players between the JV and Varsity. He is quick to announce that each and every player is important to the program both now and as they move forward. Coach Fingers said, “We are focusing on the long term development of this program and are committed to improving each and every player along the way.” A player that will be heavily relied on this year though will be returning starting goalkeeper, and captain, James Hathaway. His team will expect big saves and quality leadership from him in the back. They also return a strong core of defenders from last year in Alex Brumbaugh, Nate Jacobs, and Eddie Hartman. Coach Fingers is excited to add junior Brian Sontag to the experienced back line so that the team is able to move junior Ivan Viveros forward and into the Big Macs midfield to help contribute. Sophomore Caden Meier will also see time in the back to gain more experience and help contribute when his number is called. The midfielders are described as a talented group with returning starters junior Corey McCurdy and junior Ivan Viveros. They will add junior Alex Hannigan, senior Tyler Lohm and sophomore Jake Trainor. This group is expected, by their coach and teammates, to not only be the glue that holds a great deal of responsibility defensively and organizationally, but they are also expected to put some balls into the back of the nets for the Big Macs as well. Up top for Canon McMillan will be returning starters senior Nick Oberhaus and sophomore Josh Kruczek. Sophomore Jake Wilcox, freshman Nick Sodini and senior Matt Wheery will also see time in the attack. Coach Fingers is pleased that he can rotate these players interchangeably to find the best mix each and every game. “The boys are truly a great bunch to work with and I enjoy getting to the field each day to continue our work. It makes coaching that much better when you genuinely like and have a relationship with the student-athletes in your program,” Coach Fingers beamed. Couple a great group of student-athletes with a great training facility, and the Canon Mac Soccer Program seems to have a lot going for them. This year, the team has been training on the new North Strabane field. Coach Fingers believes that training on this field has revolutionized the team’s training. It was a collaborative effort with the Boosters, Athletic Director (Guy Montecalvo) and Parks and Recreation. “The private setting at the field, the ambiance, the usage of many goals, the quality surface, and the full field space has really pushed our program forward this year,” Fingers credits. Everything seems to be headed in the right direction for Coach Larry Fingers and his team. They have been fortunate to step up their training at an efficient and aesthetically pleasing field, and seem excited to keep building this program throughout the years. “We have a great bunch of young men in this program, and the program is moving forward quickly. We hope great things are in store for all of those involved with Canon McMillan Soccer from the youth programs to junior high and on to the varsity programs,” Coach Fingers said in closing.
Canon-McMillan High School Boys Soccer Schedule Tuesday, October 2 - 6 P.M. @ Ambridge Thursday, October 4 - 6 P.M. Home vs. Moon Saturday, October 6 - 6 P.M. @ Shaler Tuesday, October 9 - 6 P.M. @ Peters Thursday, October 11 - 6 P.M. Home vs Chartiers Valley (Kickin’ Cancer - Pink Out Event) Saturday, October 13 - TBD @ Trinity (Breast Cancer Awareness Night) Monday, October 15 - 6 P.M. Home vs South Fayette (Senior Recognition Night) Monday, October 22 - TBD @ WPIAL Playoffs Begin Present your CMHS Boys Soccer Game Day Ticket @ Vocelli’s Pizza in Canonsburg and receive a Large, One Topping Pizza for only $6.99 For more Game Day and Home Game Sponsor Information, visit our Facebook Page “Canon-McMillan Varsity & JV Boys Soccer” and www.highschoolsports.net
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NORTH STRABANE MUNICIPAL PARK GRAND OPENING and RIBBON CUTTING CELEBRATION “Where Family and Community Come Together” It is with great pleasure and excitement that the North Strabane Parks & Recreation Board, along with the Grand Opening Celebration Committee, announced the highly anticipated Grand Opening of the North Strabane Municipal Park. On Saturday, June 30, 2012 the Park came alive with the commencement of the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. The Grand Opening Celebration concluded with a Firework Display by Zambelli Fireworks that lit the sky at dusk.
Photos by Primetime Shots
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Jonathan Naser Travels to his Roots
onathan Naser of Canonsburg traveled to one of his ancestral homelands this summer to reconnect with his roots. Through the program, ReConnect Hungary, Mr. Naser traveled for 17 days throughout the countryside and into Slovakia, which claimed part of Hungary after World War II. “I really enjoyed the countryside,” explained Mr. Naser, 19. “I would love to go again. Budapest is a beautiful and busy city with wonderful, relaxed people. I was also very impressed with the architecture.” Traveling with eight other students from North and South Americas, Mr. Naser met with Viktor Orban, prime minister of Hungary and other government officials. “He was very nice to us and generous with his time,” said Mr. Naser, who is a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh. “It was exciting to meet a head of state.” Also meeting with business officials, Mr. Naser and the team met Marton Szoke, who sold his company to Yahoo! in 2008 for millions. He developed one of the top five web analytical tools in the world, according to Forrester/Jupiter Research. Mr. Szoke now provides angel funding to start-up small Hungarian companies, explained Mr. Naser.
Moving throughout the countryside, the group swam in a hot springs, took a night boat ride on the Danube River, cooked fresh food on a farm, saw fine art, and toured the famous Opera House. “Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria was mad because the Budapest Opera House was more beautiful than the one in Vienna,” stated Mr. Naser. Hungary lost 70 percent of its land after World War I and nearly two thirds of its population due to those traveling to present-day Slovakia, America, Ukraine, Romania, Croatia, Austria and Serbia. Mr. Naser reported that “to keep the Hungarian culture alive, they have Hungarian Boy Scout programs throughout the world. The nearest program is in Cleveland, Ohio.” Also, Hungary has a holocaust museum because 50 percent of the Jews killed at Auschwitz were Hungarians, said Mr. Naser. The country attempted to protect the Jews and the first ones to be killed were in 1944. The group also visited House of Terror, which “was very sad and showed torture rooms from the Nazi and Soviet occupations,” he stated. “The Hungarian government partnered with us to make ReConnect Hungary happen,” said Rev. Leslie Martin, who is the executive director of the Kossuth Foundation in Washington, DC, which Continued on page 25
Jon at the Hungarian residence of Prime Minister Orban.
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The group as they met with former NY Governor George Pataki and his daughter, Allison Pataki Levy, who are patrons for the ReConnect Hungary program.
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Jon picking tomatoes
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Continued from page 22 was established to preserve Hungarian culture in America. ReConnect Hungary “is a program for young American Hungarians between the ages of 18 and 26 to learn more about the Hungarian language, culture and history,” explained Rev. Martin. “This was the first year for the program, but we will continue it next year.” The son of Joann Naser and the late Jim Naser, Mr. Naser traced his Hungarian roots through his mother’s family. “All my maternal great-grandparents came from Hungary and traveled through Ellis Island,” he stated, which he also visited recently. The trip to Hungary started in New York City when the group met with former New York governor and Hungarian American, George Pataki and his daughter, Allison Pataki Levy, who raised funds for the program. Touring several areas of New York City that focused on the Hungarian immigrants’ influence, “we saw some beautiful Hungarian churches and a statue of Lajos Kossuth, who was a Hungarian president during the 19th century and considered a great freedom fighter,” said Mr. Naser. For more information about ReConnect Hungary, one may go to www.ReConnectHungary.com.
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UPMC TODAY Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Fall 2012
Get Ready for Fall Soon the leaves will change color and fall to the ground — a welcome mat for cooler days, chilly nights, football games, hayrides, warm sweaters, and everything else that makes fall special.
What’s Inside 2
Elevating Cancer Surgery for Women to a New Level
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Give Your Back a Break Using Your Blood for Natural Healing
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A Partnership of Hope and Transformation
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Magee’s Newest Baby Is Two Stories Tall — and Ready for Guests
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Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship
© 2012 UPMC
Elevating Cancer Surgery for Women to a New Level Robotic surgery is transforming the treatment of gynecologic cancers with minimally invasive techniques that offer greater precision and promote faster healing.
For women diagnosed with cervical, endometrial (uterine), and early ovarian cancer, the use of minimally invasive robotic surgery is offering impressive results. “The robotic surgical system is truly revolutionizing the way we operate on certain cancers,” says Alexander Olawaiye, MD, a gynecologic oncologist and director of robotic surgery at UPMC Mercy. Also certified to perform robotic surgery at UPMC Mercy is gynecologic oncologist Wayne Christopherson, MD.
Enhanced clarity and precision With robotic surgery, surgeons also get a magnified, threedimensional view of the inside of the body — up to 12 times what the human eye can see. “That enhanced vision allows us to navigate with far greater precision around delicate internal organs, nerves, and large blood vessels,” says Dr. Olawaiye. “We’re able to see and dissect tissue and lymph nodes more thoroughly, which allows us to do a better job of removing any cancerous growths.” While surgeons applaud the robot’s surgical applications, patients appreciate the benefits it offers after surgery. “Because the incisions are small, there is less bleeding, less pain, and less risk of infection,” explains Dr. Olawaiye. “Most patients go home the day after surgery and return to their regular activities in a week or two.” The most advanced surgical care for all types of cancers is available to patients at the UPMC CancerCenter at UPMC Mercy. To learn more about all the cancer services and treatments offered at UPMC Mercy, visit UPMCMercy.com and click Our Services.
How robotic surgery works
Traditionally, women with gynecologic cancers faced a 12to 14-inch open incision that often involved weeks of recovery. Laparoscopic surgery offered patients a less invasive option, but its stick-like instrument often limited a surgeon’s range of motion. With today’s robotically assisted surgery, the robot becomes an extension of the surgeon’s hands, offering flexibility and a 360-degree range of motion that’s virtually impossible for humans to achieve. “We’re able to manipulate the tips of the surgical instrument at highly unusual angles,” says Dr. Olawaiye. “That gives us critical access to very compact and limited areas of the body.”
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Once you are put to sleep, your surgeon generally makes a series of small incisions (“ports”) in your abdomen. The number and size will vary based on your condition. A surgical cart is then attached to the ports, and specialized instruments are inserted into your body. Your surgeon controls the movements of these instruments from a nearby consol, using controls to guide the surgery. Your surgeon is always in charge — the robot moves only as directed.
Typical benefits of robotic surgery for select gynecologic cancers • Smaller incisions • Minimal scarring • Reduced blood loss
• Less pain • Shorter hospital stays • Faster recovery
Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Give Your Back a Break Tips that can help you avoid back pain. Amazingly complex, remarkably strong, and incredibly flexible, your back is one of the most important parts of your body. Without it, you couldn’t stand up straight, walk on the beach, chase after the kids, or dance the night away. Like most people, you probably take your back for granted — until it starts to hurt. “Eight out of 10 Americans will have back pain at some point in their lives,” says M. Melissa Moon, DO, a physician in the UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. So what’s causing all those achy backs? “Everyday habits like hunching over your computer, toting a heavy purse or backpack, or picking up a toddler are often to blame for the pain,” says Dr. Moon.
Using Your Blood for Natural Healing Even after having surgery for a sports-related groin injury, recovery was slow for Megan Cortazzo, MD, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with UPMC. A fellow physician suggested platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy — and her results were so positive that she now offers the service to patients at UPMC.
What is PRP therapy? PRP therapy is a type of regenerative injection therapy (RIT) that promotes the healing of injured or deteriorated tissue. “Platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate healing,” explains Dr. Cortazzo. “We draw a small quantity of the patient’s blood and spin it in a special centrifuge machine. The process extracts platelets, which we then inject at the point of injury or inflammation,” says Dr. Cortazzo.
Who should use PRP therapy? “PRP therapy’s use by professional athletes has generated tremendous interest in the procedure,” says Dr. Cortazzo.
“And studies show that smokers have more back problems than non-smokers, which is another good reason to quit,” she adds. To help keep your back healthy and strong, Dr. Moon also recommends the following: Sit up straight. Use good posture when sitting or standing. That improves muscle tone and makes breathing easier. Work out. Back and abdominal exercises strengthen the core muscles that support your back, while low-impact aerobics strengthens bones and improves blood flow to muscles. Lose it. Being overweight puts added strain on your back muscles. Carrying weight around your midsection isn’t good for your heart either. Think before lifting. Remember to keep your back straight and bend at the knees or hips when lifting something. Ask for help with a heavy load. Pay attention. If you feel back pain during any activity, stop and rest. Your body may be trying to keep you from getting hurt. Call the doctor. Most back pain can be relieved with self-care. However, Dr. Moon recommends that you see a doctor if: • You have pain after a fall or injury. • You have weakness, pain, or numbness in one or both legs. • The pain is severe and doesn’t improve with medication and rest. • The pain is accompanied by trouble urinating, fever, or unintentional weight loss. Learn more about building a healthy back at UPMC.com/Today. Source: National Institutes of Health
It also can be an effective alternative to surgery for patients with a wide range of conditions, she says, including: • Chronic tennis elbow (tendinosis) • Mild to moderate rotator cuff tears • Chronic ankle sprains • Mild arthritis of the knee For best results, Dr. Cortazzo recommends combining PRP therapy with physical therapy.
Is PRP therapy covered by insurance? Because it is still in its infancy, medical insurance does not cover PRP therapy. “Although it’s a self-pay procedure, many patients feel it’s worthwhile because it can eliminate lost work time and the cost of a deductible for surgery,” explains Dr. Cortazzo. “Most of all, they want the relief from pain it offers.” For more information about PRP, call UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at 412-692-4400, or go to UPMC.com/prp.
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A Partnership of Hope and Transformation Every year, the lives of 74,000 cancer patients and their families are transformed by the care, specialized services, and research of UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.
Applying good science, investing in smart technology, and putting patients first. That’s the philosophy driving the cuttingedge research and lifesaving care offered through UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI).
A network like no other UPMC CancerCenter is one of the nation’s largest integrated community networks of cancer physicians and health care specialists. Its more than 30 locations throughout western Pennsylvania and Ohio — including UPMC Mercy — bring outstanding cancer care close to home for many patients. “One of the main strengths of the UPMC CancerCenter network is its ability to obtain virtually identical results wherever patients are treated,” says Peter Ellis, MD, director of the medical oncology network. “Our Clinical Pathways are evidence-based care standards that provide uniformity across the network.”
Three powerful pillars supported by 1,700 experts “Through our quarter-century-long partnership, UPCI and UPMC CancerCenter have identified three pillars that enable us to achieve our common goals: clinical care, specialized care, and research,” says Stanley Marks, MD, chairman of UPMC CancerCenter.
p UPMC is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as having one of the best cancer programs in the nation.
“We’re committed to being a leader in the fight against cancer today and tomorrow, with the patient always at the center of all we do,” says Nancy Davidson, MD, director of UPMC CancerCenter. “From the groundbreaking research that takes place in our laboratories to our delivery of the latest cancer therapies in locations throughout the region, we’re at the frontline of cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment,” she says. “We also play a key role in inspiring and educating the next generation of bright young scientists and cancer specialists.”
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“It’s not always easy to see the ‘behind the scenes’ story of who we are and what we do. With these three pillars, we marshal the resources of nearly 250 medical, radiation, and surgical oncology physicians; more than 1,160 nurses, technicians, and staff; and 350 research and clinical faculty,” he explains. “Few organizations in the country can match the level of scientific and medical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and physical locations found here.”
Pillar I: Clinical Care From the moment of diagnosis, UPMC CancerCenter’s network of nearly 100 medical oncologists links patients to a full range of treatments and services that include: • Conventional chemotherapy • Stem cell transplants • Biological therapy
• Targeted therapies • Hormone therapy • Perfusion therapy
Pillar III: Research UPCI physicians and scientists are recognized leaders in molecular and medical oncology research. Their primary goal is to discover new ways to prevent, treat, and cure all types of cancer, particularly those with the lowest survival rates. Working hand-in-hand with UPMC CancerCenter, UPCI’s investigators strive to translate their research into actual treatment. More than 300 clinical trials now underway at UPCI give patients access to cutting-edge therapies long before they are broadly available. The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) 12th most-funded cancer research institution, UPCI received more than $174 million in support in 2011. UPCI is also western Pennsylvania’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. p Mark Sosinski, MD, a nationally recognized lung cancer specialist who joined the UPMC CancerCenter and UPCI team in 2011, says “This was a good fit for me and my research, but the strong leadership really stood out.”
The UPMC CancerCenter radiation oncology network includes 16 community-based radiation oncology centers and 10 dual radiation and medical oncology centers. Many of these sites offer innovative, advanced technology that allows for more precise tumor imaging and radiation treatment. The surgical oncology network specializes in the surgical treatment of a wide variety of cancers, including many rare and difficult tumors. Its multidisciplinary team of physicians has attracted national attention for work in areas such as minimally invasive surgery, including robotic surgery; specialized procedures, such as the pancreatic Whipple; and regional perfusion therapy, which directs high concentrations of chemotherapy to the tumor site.
Pillar II: Specialized Care For patients with challenging or late-stage cancers, UPMC’s Hillman Cancer Center is a beacon of hope and innovation. It is home to internationally regarded surgical, medical, and radiation oncology specialists who perform treatments and procedures unavailable elsewhere in the region. Hillman also has the area’s most advanced imaging technologies to detect cancer and monitor treatment. Nationally ranked Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC features dedicated and comprehensive women’s cancer care, including breast, ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers. For patients with hard-to-treat cancers, UPCI and UPMC CancerCenter offer disease-specific multidisciplinary clinics called Specialty Care Centers (SCC) designed to provide quick access to leading specialists. Many SCC reviews are done over the Internet, eliminating the need for long-distance travel. Care for children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer is provided at the highly-ranked Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.
To learn more about UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.
Hillman Cancer Center Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary When the Hillman Cancer Center opened its doors in 2002, it was hailed as an architectural gem — its spectacular, glass-block walled atrium serving as a symbolic link between research and patient care. Today, Hillman Cancer Center is the treatment and research flagship of the growing UPMC CancerCenter network. A 350,000-square-foot comprehensive cancer center, Hillman is home to UPMC CancerCenter’s pre-eminent clinical care for patients and UPCI’s internationally recognized academic and research programs. Here, patients and their families have access to specialized cancer diagnosis, prevention, care, and treatment, including multidisciplinary outpatient stem cell transplant services. Architectural rendering of the patient waiting area of the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers, currently under construction at Hillman Cancer Center. u
Opening in January 2013, the new Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers will offer comprehensive diagnostic services, individually designed treatment plans, and long-term follow-up services to patients with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and other blood malignancies. For more information, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Magee’s Newest Baby Is Two Stories Tall — and Ready for Guests New state-of-the-art intensive care and cancer care units blend the latest in medical technology with the best in patient comfort.
It’s no coincidence that the words hospital and hospitality share the same Latin root, hospes, which means to treat guests with kindness and care. That spirit of welcome is immediately evident in the thoughtful design of two newly opened patient care units at MageeWomens Hospital of UPMC — one of Magee’s major expansion projects during a century of providing medical service.
“Their ideas and suggestions helped us create a quiet, calming, and safe environment for patients and caregivers. Each patient room is filled with natural light and decorated in soothing earth tones, blending comfort with technology. That kind of setting is very important to healing.”
Emphasizing patient and family-centered care Because studies confirm that the presence of loved ones promotes recovery, each patient room in the new unit features a comfortable sleeper sofa to encourage overnight stays. Family members also can order in-room meals for a modest fee, and all patient rooms have free Internet access and cable television. “Every room has separate zoned areas for families and caregivers, minimizing disruption and reducing infection,” explains David Muigai, MD, medical director of Magee’s ICU. “Visitors comment on how quiet it is here, thanks to acoustical features to minimize sound. And the ICU rooms are designed to accommodate changes in a patient’s condition, eliminating the need to transfer patients as they continue to recover.”
p The patient rooms are warm and spacious, with a comfortable sleep sofa to encourage overnight stays by a family member or close friend.
“We wanted Magee’s latest major construction to focus on our patients with the greatest medical needs: those requiring intensive care and women undergoing cancer treatment,” says Leslie C. Davis, hospital president. “We’re still among the leading deliverers of babies in the nation, but we also care for men and children, from infants to centenarians. The additional beds also allow us to expand our core obstetrical (OB) services to the units that relocated. Adding space for our OB patients was a primary reason for this expansion.” Two floors were added to a three-story section of the hospital to create the new 14-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 28-bed Cancer Care Unit, more than doubling the number of critical care beds. Completed in record time, the new units increased the hospital’s overall bed capacity by 13 percent. “Before starting the project, we sought the advice of former patients, as well as our doctors, nurses, and staff,” says Joseph Kelley, MD, director of both the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and the Gynecologic Cancer Program at Magee.
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Each floor also has a family lounge and a meditation room. They offer privacy when needed, and company when desired. Both floors also incorporate the latest technology and best practices in green building solutions to minimize environmental impact. “We couldn’t be prouder of our newest addition,” says Dr. Kelley. “It reflects the kind of signature care and compassion Magee has delivered for more than 100 years.” Several of Magee’s programs, including cancer care, are again ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News and World Report (2012-13). Learn more about Magee’s services for women and men at UPMC.com/Magee. The meditation room on each floor provides patients and families with a private space that is peaceful and soothing. q
Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship Whether you have a minor concern or a more serious medical issue, your primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense in getting well and staying well. If you don’t already have a PCP, it’s best to find the right one before you get sick.
A trusted partner in your good health “It’s important to have a relationship with a PCP you trust and are comfortable with, even when you feel great,” says Jorge Lindenbaum, MD, an internal medicine specialist with Lindenbaum Perryman and Associates-UPMC and medical director of the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic. By getting to know you and your health history, your PCP can provide you with the best care possible.
Someone to watch over you Research indicates that people who have an ongoing relationship with a PCP are healthier than those without one. “Personalized care leads to patient trust, and that is vitally important in the doctor-patient relationship,” says Dr. Lindenbaum. Patients who trust their doctors are shown to have improved outcomes, such as better control of their diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. If you need advanced care, your PCP is the most effective and efficient link to medical specialists, or advanced services or treatments. “For patients and their families, having a PCP to coordinate their care with specialists and other providers is a huge relief,” adds Dr. Lindenbaum. Since early detection can minimize the impact of many illnesses, your PCP will recommend screenings, including annual physicals, Pap tests, breast examinations and mammograms; prostate screenings, and colonoscopies. “Without a PCP, you might ignore important health maintenance issues,” he says.
Finding Dr. Right A PCP can be a family medicine physician, internal medicine specialist, pediatrician, or obstetrician/gynecologist. With so many types of PCPs, how do you choose? For many adults, internal medicine specialists or family practitioners are their PCP of choice. These physicians are equipped to deal with all kinds of health problems, whether simple or complex. “The benefit of having access to highquality, comprehensive care at one convenient location is something patients really appreciate,” says Dr. Lindenbaum. Two new physicians recently joined Lindenbaum Perryman and Associates-UPMC and are accepting new patients. Kelly Chaney, DO, an internal medicine specialist, earned her medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisberg, W.Va., and completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC Mercy. John Wohar, DO, also completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC Mercy. He received his medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pa. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaney, Dr. Wohar, or any UPMC physician, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Did You Know? Back-to-school and sports physicals as well as vaccinations for children of all ages are available at the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic, located at 2000 Mary St. Appointments aren’t needed, and parking is free and plentiful. Clinic hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 412-488-5705.
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 information 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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The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.
Plan to Reduce the Tax Hit in 2013 A
ct now before it’s too late to take advantage of opportunities that will be gone with the change of tax legislation. Unless Congress decides to act, the federal government will take a larger bite out of your salary, investment income, and the legacy that takes a lifetime to build. Below is a simplified summary of the federal tax changes which will take effect in 2013, and general solutions. These changes will result in higher income tax rates for everyone who pays taxes. Current Tax Rate 2013 Tax Rate 10.0% 15.0% 25.0% 28.0% 28.0% 31.0% 33.0% 36.0% 35.0% 39.6%
35% to 55%. In 2013 the estate of a single decedent, with an estate of $2,000,000 will pay from 35% to 55%. In 2013 the estate of a single decedent, with an estate of $2,000,000 will pay $435,000, when under the 2012 rules the tax is -0-. Ultimately, an Advisor who is qualified in tax, financial planning*, and investment management*, with knowledge about your complete financial picture, can provide the optimum advice for your individual situation. *Securities offered through H.D. Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member SIPC Advisory services offered through H.D. Vest Advisory ServicesSM 6333 N. State Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving, TX 75038 (972) 870 -6000. Asset allocation does not assure or guarantee better performance and cannot eliminate the risk of investment losses. Ivana Liberatore & Associates is not a registered broker/dealer or independent investment advisory firm.
There is a new earned income Medicare surtax of .9% on earned income over $200,000, single and $250,000, married filing jointly (MFJ). Long-term capital gain rates will increase from a maximum of 15% to 20%. Dividends tax rates are currently capped at 15%. In 2013, there is no cap. The additional investment income Medicare surtax of 3.8% is on net investment income over $200,000 single, and $250,000 MFJ. This includes interest, dividends, taxable annuity distributions, passive royalties (including gas) and rents. Municipal bond interest is exempt. Solutions include income acceleration into 2012, such as Roth conversion, capital gain harvesting, and additional retirement distributions. Maximize contributions to your retirement plan. Review the allocation your investment portfolio and assess whether tax deferred, or tax free investments are beneficial. Itemized deductions phase out for those who have income of over $175,000 (MFJ). The federal estate tax exemption is set to be reduced from $5,120,000 to $1,000,000. The tax rate on the taxable portion is set to increase from This Industry Insight was written by Ivana Liberatore, * CPA, CFPÂŽ. She has been providing tax and wealth management solutions for individuals and businesses for over 25 years. She is a graduate of Washington & Jefferson College, and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Ivana Liberatore & Associates, A Tax and Wealth Management Firm is located at 222 E. McMurray Rd., Suite A, McMurray, PA 15317. 724.942.3340 / www.IvanaCPA.com. Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
or some, the smell of car wax, the heat of the summertime sunshine and the strains of Fifties music take them back to their younger days. In their minds, they go back to a time when having good weather and a great car for the afternoon, and the free time to enjoy it, were all that you needed for some fun. Nostalgia lovers, dust off the Turtle Wax car polish and break out the buffer. Thankfully, it’s again the time of year when you can lower the convertible roof on the car and go cruising, allowing the wind to blow through your hair, smelling the summer flowers and watching the gawkers staring at you as you roll past them in your classic car. After all, what’s the sense of having an antique car or a classic muscle car if you can’t show it off and allow others to enjoy it? Sharing the love of design, beauty and mechanics of a classic car or muscle car is part of the joy of collecting such vehicles. It also can be a quick cure for any lingering winter blues. The weather has warmed up—prematurely, in the eyes of some weather observers—but not too early for the many car buffs in
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Western Pennsylvania who have been waiting for the Car Cruise season to begin. Car cruises are an American tradition in which owners of classic and high-performance cars meet together in parking lots and other wide-open spaces, to show off their vehicles and to enjoy an afternoon or evening of fun with other car lovers. Often these events include music or entertainment and food, and sometimes, they even have races. Western Pennsylvania is home to many of these events, thanks to the many gearheads who live in the region. Here is a sampling of some of the many popular car cruises in the Pittsburgh area: Mineral Beach (in Finleyville) – This popular event happens every Friday night starting the first Friday in May, and often includes motorcycles as well as cars. This larger cruise usually includes several hundred cars. Wendy’s (in Peters Township, along Rt. 19) – This cruise is every Monday night beginning April 16th, and is a smaller cruise that usually has about 50 to 100 cars. McDonald’s (Meadowlands - Racetrack Road) – This event is held every other Saturday, beginning May 5. It is a medium-sized cruise sponsored by The Washington Cruisers Car Club (www.washingtoncruisers.com). Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise (Wexford) – Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise is held every Friday night from 6 to 10 p.m., starting May 25, through Labor Day. This is one of the largest weekly cruises in the region, and usually has more than 1,000 cars attending each week. The Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise is free and is hosted and presented by North Way Christian Community (www.starlitecarcruise.com). Ultimate Car Cruise (Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills) – Every Wednesday from 5 to 9 p.m., May 16 through October. This cruise and many others can be found listed at the website www.carcruises.com. Flashlight Drags (Waynesburg) – Features a car show, a car cruise, a vendor’s midway, music, food and more. The idea behind this
event sprang from the need for local hot rodders to have a place to legally and safely race each other. The essence of the event is providing a safe environment in which to enjoy the excitement of street racing, with an equal measure of nostalgia—which is where the antique and classic cars displayed at the event make their greatest impact. www.flashlightdrags.com. Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix International Car Show (Schenley Park, Pittsburgh) – Held every July and touted by international media including National Geographic magazine, the Vintage Grand Prix once hosted competitive races between racers in vintage cars around the park’s winding roads, but for years the entire event has been for show, and as always, still benefits charity. More than 2,000 cars, many of them very high-end, will be displayed at the event, in which all makes of car are welcome. Held annually since 1983, the Vintage Grand Prix has raised more than $2.75 million to benefit autistic and developmentally disabled people. All local car cruises are weather-dependent. Check the web sites for each cruise regularly to determine if a cruise will be held when foul weather could be imminent. While each car cruise is unique in its location and the makeup of vehicles, owners, and attractions, every car buff comes to the hobby by his or her own path. It could have started with a secret childhood yearning for a hot rod, or by catching a glimpse of something extraordinary in a shop window, seen totally by happenstance. Like a lover retelling the story of his romance, each classic car owner has a tale to tell about how he and his car were united.
By Brady Ashe
Tim Graziotto
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n the first day of his senior year at Canon-McMillan High School in 2000, Tim Graziotto rolled into the parking lot in a fully restored Nissan Hardbody pickup truck. With the low-riding truck’s black and purple metallic paint glimmering in the sun above the neon-glowing chassis, it was a far cry from the pile of rust his family bought off a farm for $200 over six months before. Graziotto’s parents bought him the Nissan his junior year of high school and over the next six months to a year, he was bagging groceries to pay for all the truck’s muchneeded restoration work that would transform the Hardbody from a hunk of metal window-deep in dust and weeds into a respectable first-day-of-high-school flashy whip. Within that process, the ambitious teenager completely remodeled the interior, repainted the exterior with a custom black and purple metallic finish, replaced the engine, attached neon beneath the truck’s frame and installed an airbag hydraulic system that could raise and lower its body on the flick of a switch. Graziotto has long-since sold that truck but the restoration process had a longstanding impact on the young man. It was through that experience that he discovered his passion for working on antiques and giving them new life. That passion led Graziotto to Wyotech in Blairsville where he learned everything from simple painting techniques to collision repair—anything he’d need to know to restore classic cars. Shortly after graduating from Wyotech at the top of his class, the handyman bought a 1973 Chevy Nova with 30,000 original miles from a North Hills woman for $2,000. Over the next two years, Graziotto would once again work his magic, transforming an
Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
Tim Graziotto BEFORE
old farmhouse junker into a showroom-quality classic car. The Canon-Mac alumni rebuilt the Nova’s engine, suspension and transmission in the two-year restoration. He also reupholstered the interior with suede seats, installed a custom exhaust pipe and refinished the exterior with a custom blue paint. Graziotto has put a conservative 2,000 miles on the ’69 Nova since its complete restoration, most of which were piled on the odometer on the way to numerous local car shows, cruises and competitions. “My favorite thing about it is the way people look at it,” the 29-year-old Cecil Township man said. “People usually honk and wave when I pass them and you just don’t really see that kind of stuff anymore.” Graziotto’s talents are now available on the open market. The young entrepreneur opened Graziotto Customs six months ago in a twocar garage adjacent to his father’s independent contracting business in Cecil Township. He performs everything from collision repair to full restorations and customizations at the auto body shop. “It’s been pretty exciting,” he said. “Business is really starting to take off and there’s been a lot of positive feedback from the clients. It’s sort of like a dream come true being able to work on cars everyday.”
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David Sollon’s Hudsons
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rowing up in the 1950’s, David Sollon of Canonsburg despised the Hudson race cars which would always place first at the stock car races ahead of the Oldsmobiles—the cars that looked like his father’s and that he adored. But somewhere down the line, Sollon had a change of heart and now his Canonsburg garage is stuffed with five classic Hudson automobiles that he purchased from all over the country and had completely restored by hand. Among the Hudson quintet is a 1936 Terraplane Panel delivery truck which represents half of its kind known to still exist in the world. A funeral director by trade, Sollon completely restored the antique truck that he bought for $15,000 in York as a funeral service car.
By Brady Ashe
“I don’t know who owns the other one or where it is,” he said. “But it feels good to own one of only two things in the world. It’s been custom restored to something that’s unique to my profession, too, which makes it that much more special.” Keeping the delivery truck company in the funeral director’s Hudson collection are a 1949 Super 8 Coupe, a 1952 Hornet convertible, a 1954 Hornet convertible and a 1946 pickup that, in an act of nostalgia, was given an Oldsmobile engine in its restoration. Each vehicle was
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David Sollon’s Hudsons worked on biweekly for two years in complete restorations that Sollon did by hand with help from a 78-year-old friend and longtime West Mifflin mechanic. Both Hornet convertibles, the ’49 coupe and the ’36 delivery truck are all first-place senior award recipients at the
annual Antique Automobile Club of America Grand National Meets. The prestigious competition draws tens of thousands of antique car-loving participants from across the country each year. Sollon personally drives the antiques to the meets rather than pulling them on a trailer like most participants. “I had a guy tell me I was crazy for driving the cars rather than pulling them and that I’d never win anything that way,” Sollon said. “We took first place and he got nothing.” Sollon, 66, said he’s unafraid to take any of the antiques out for a spin around his Canonsburg neighborhood, weather permitting. The funeral director adds significant miles to the antique vehicles’ odometers when he and his wife of 45 years go to visit their grandchildren in Massachusetts. The couple shares two sons and seven grandchildren, all of whom adore the antique cars. “The young ones love going for a ride in one of the old Hudsons,” Sollon said. “It’s really a joy to see them having fun in them.”
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Canon-Mac Artist’s Work Exhibited at Museum of Pennsylvania
Professional artist and long-time Washington resident Peter West’s artwork appeared in the “Art of the State: Pennsylvania 2012” exhibit, which concluded this month at The State Museum of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg. “Where Buffalo Roam” is West’s silk screen recreation of an original ten dollar bank note bearing the image of a wild buffalo from the Lewis and Clark era on a 28-by-48 inch sheet of heavy rag paper. The piece protrudes from a series of the 58-year-old artist’s work in which he uses an elaborate and laborious silk screen process to reanimate vintage, Americana images in more visually enticing ways. “I grew up in America in the late ‘60s and my artwork reflects a lot of what’s happened in America and its history,” West said. “The buffalo is such an iconic American image 44 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE |
and I wanted to transform that image in an exciting way that we can all relate to as American citizens.” That transformation process begins when the Washington artist scans the actual artifact into the computer in his home studio. A long-time collector of antiques and vintage currency, West acquired the 19th century piece of American tender several years ago at a Pennsylvania trader’s show. From there, the image is downloaded and encoded as a film positive, similar to how photographic negatives work, and printed onto a silk screen stencil. The artist then attaches the stencil to a sheet of heavy rag paper and uses air and hand brush painting to fill in the negative spaces with varied tones and blends before touching up the entire piece with splattering techniques to fully accentuate the desired areas.
Canon Mac
The approach was used frequently and made famous by Andy Warhol who used silk screen processing to appropriate relatable pop culture symbols into vibrant, mixed media images. Among the late Warhol’s most famous silk screens are those of the legendary Marilyn Monroe and the Paramount Pictures starencompassed mountain logo. “It’s a very unique process in terms of how the final image is produced,” he said. “It’s a very stimulating form of art and I wouldn’t have done it any other way.” “Where Buffalo Roam” marks West’s second consecutive appearance in The State Museum of Pennsylvania’s annual art exhibition and his fourth feature exhibited in the museum in the past fifteen years. West also owns his own studio in downtown Washington, World West Galleries,
By Brady Ashe
which exhibits his and several other prominent Pittsburgh-area artists’ work in a vintage, three-story brick building. The studio specializes in Giclee printing, a fine art digital print method that has gained national momentum within the arts community over the past decade, according to West. West, who began creating art as a tenyear-old boy in Washington, graduated from Temple University in 1976 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and later earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from Ohio University. Aside from a brief stint in New York City where the studio owner’s work was exhibited in several Manhattan galleries, West has remained in western Pennsylvania for the majority of his life. He currently resides in Washington with his wife of 13 years. Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
n a d D y ’ s m Gy e v i s e State’s c e R o n r o s H oT p By Joann Naser
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ut of 118 gyms in Pennsylvania, Gym Dandy’s of Meadowlands received the state’s top honor as USA Gymnastics’ club of the year for 2012. “This was an exciting culmination of this year,” stated Karen Clark, co-owner. “We train normally, we do not have two-a-day practices, and to receive the respect of our peers is truly humbling.” Explaining the gym’s philosophy, Ms. Clark stated, “We are a big family here. We are passionate about the sport and the children. The staff doesn’t just walk into a class and walk out. We want to make each experience something special for the student and the parents.” The gym was started over 25 years ago by Danny and Susan Warbutton. Over the years, they have had 15 state championship teams and 8 elite gymnasts at the Olympic level. To be an elite gymnast, one “has to find children that are extremely talented, very disciplined and a mature child at a young age,” explained Ms. Clark. “There are probably 50 to 100 elites in the country. It is a very rare child and takes a long time to develop. It is also a little political.” Gymnasts who want to be elite athletes work between 30 and 35 hours a week, said Ms. Clark. “This is their full-time job. They either do cyber school or home school. This is their focus. Other
athletes want to have a normal life with teenage activities.” The gym is seeing a big boom based on the summer Olympics. “Everyone wants to be the next Gabby [Douglas],” said Ms. Clark. “They see her flipping around and having fun and they want to do it too. It seems like the economy is doing better also and students are coming to the gym.” Currently, there are 73 young women signed up for fall lessons. That is up from 50 last year, said Ms. Clark. The gym focuses on respectful winning and losing as well as getting involved in something bigger than themselves. They have raised money for the Pink Invitational, a gymnastics competition which is held in Philadelphia in February, for the past several years. “In the past three years, we have raised $20,000 doing a cartwheel-a-thon for breast cancer research and education,” explained Ms. Clark, who is a Slippery Rock University graduate. The funds also help athletes’ families who are affected by cancer either by providing tuition for students who can no longer afford it or help with other expenses. In early September, they took part of a $3,000 check presentation to UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital, Pittsburgh, to provide educational health programs to female teenagers. “We have been the top fund-raising team,” said Ms. Clark, who received the Wrona Outstanding Senior Gymnast award at Trinity High School. “I am proud of our support to this special program.” The other co-owner of the gym is Scott Miller, who is the head coach. He attended Morehead College on a wrestling scholarship. He was also a PIAA wrestling champion. “His niece was involved in gymnastics and it got him involved,” said Ms. Clark. “His wrestling skills transferred to gymnastics in regards to quick reaction time, movement and speed so it worked out well.” Goals for the next year, according to Ms. Clark, are to “remain at the top of level 9 for those athletes and we expect a lot from our level 10. We have new students, new ideas and new challenges and we plan to do our best.” Gym Dandy’s trains gymnasts in levels 4 through 10 starting when students are six years old, explained Ms. Clark. “We pride ourselves on our successes and we want to make our students receive state eligibility to compete, then go to regionals and then nationals.” Gymnastics develops strength, coordination and flexibility for no matter what other activity the student becomes involved in, said Ms. Clark. “It is a mentally tough sport where gymnasts strive for perfection. But they need to know they learn by failing and they learn by falling and getting up again.” “I come to work to do something I love to do,” concluded Ms. Clark.
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“Today not possible; tomorrow possible.”
ot yet born in 1989 when it was the most popular martial arts sport in the world, but Colin McKinney, 9, dominates Taekwondo and has become the state champion and placed third in sparring at the world championship recently in Little Rock, Arkansas. Taekwondo is the national sport of Korea and the only form of martial arts in the Olympics. It means the way of striking or breaking with the foot or the fist. According to Wikipedia, it combines combat techniques, self-defense, sport, exercise and in some cases meditation and philosophy. A member of the American Taekwondo Association (ATA), Colin attends fourth grade in the Hills-Henderson Elementary School in the Canon-McMillan School District. He started Taekwondo at the age of four and currently has a seconddegree black belt, according to his father, Harold. Colin resides in Canonsburg with his father and mother, Lori. “It feels good,” said Colin about winning the bronze medal at the World Championships. “The other kids look up to me where I train and I think they will be trying to go to different competitions like I do.” “It is fantastic,” said Michael Estep, Colin’s current martial arts instructor. “It is really great. Colin was in the top 10 in several categories at world’s so the ultimate goal for him is gold next year.” Mr. Estep, who is a fifth-degree black belt, began training when he was four, like Colin, in 1989. He won the state championships in 2004, 2005, 2007, and 2008. He operates Estep’s ATA and Karate for Kids Center in McKees Rocks. His father, James Estep, a fourth-degree black belt, also was involved in the school and began training the same year as his son. “He (Mr. Estep) has been gracious with his time for Colin,” said Mr. McKinney. “He really wanted him to achieve at world’s and he did.” Mr. McKinney
explained that Taekwondo students get points for traveling to competitions around the country and placing in the top three. For winning the state championship, the point system runs from June to April. During his travels, Colin has made friends throughout the country. At one meet, Colin met Noah Shih, from San Diego, CA, who is the twotime world champion gold medal and Shai Kochav, from Oakwood, CA, who is the world champion gold medal in creative form/weapons—both athletes around his age. “They make we want to do better,” said Colin. “They are really good. “ The competitions consist of the various categories: forms, weapons, sparring, creative form and extreme. The sparring takes place in a six-foot squared ring with two lines in the middle. There are three judges with the one on the left judging hands, the middle overall and the right feet. “You fight against someone your own age,” explains Colin. “You can get a 9.01 to 9.99.” Wearing headgear, mouth guard, boxing gloves, face shield, chest protector, feet and hand pads, Colin prepares to spar. “He has been fortunate all these years and has not really sustained any major injuries,” said Mr. McKinney. The forms are patterns of movements that combine physical skills such as blocks, strikes or kicks with mental skills such as balance and coordination against an imaginary opponent of the same size, explained the ATA website.
taekwondo champ By Joann Naser 50 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE |
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Colin rapidly traveled through the various belt levels in Taekwondo. They start with white, then move to orange, yellow, camo, green, purple, blue, brown, red, red/ black, and then black with varying degrees. He formerly trained at Steel City ATA, Bridgeville, under the direction of Bob Arent, who is a third-degree black belt. There are different training levels from the tiny tiger program, karate for kids, teens and adults. During his time with Mr. Arent, Colin and his friends demonstrated at the opening of Kung Fu Panda. “That was really fun,” said Colin. “Mr. Arent saw how Colin memorized the forms, which is a very hard thing to do at a young age,” said Mr. McKinney. “This was a very important point in his training. He (Mr. Arent) recognized in Colin a talent there.” For his school’s talent show, Colin broke a wooden board with his fist. “That was the first time some of my friends knew what I was involved in,” he said. According to the ATA website, the black belt means “he or she has absorbed all the knowledge of the color rankings and overcome or mastered that level of teaching.” The current grandmaster, In Ho Lee, is the only ninth degree black belt. For the future, Colin wants to focus on Extreme Taekwondo, which blends gymnastics and aerial tricks with martial arts. “You can use music and be creative,” said Colin. Colin also plans to achieve his thirddegree black belt in early 2013, stated his father. While not training, Colin plans to enjoy his swimming pool, learn to skateboard as well as play ice hockey. He enjoys the martial arts motto: “Today not possible; tomorrow possible.” Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 51
b u s i n e s s
s p o t l i g h t
Brookside Lumber Company
Expertise and Experience for your Projects from the Foundation to the Roof
T
here’s a whole world of information out there when it comes to homebuilding and remodeling. Which wood moulding is best suited for staining? Which deck material lasts longest for the price? Which window requires the least maintenance? At Brookside Lumber, employees have an average of more than 10 years of experience with the company and are ready, willing and able to answer all of those questions and any more that you can think of. Bruce Edwards, one of the owners of Brookside, said that experience, expertise and breadth of product selection are what customers come to Brookside for, not to mention value. “I would describe value as a combination of quality of product, the service provided while selecting the product, and getting the appropriate product for the project at the best price,” Edwards said. “We’re very good at mouldings. There are a couple of hundred different profiles of mouldings we stock. There are pine mouldings, hardwood, MDF, primed pine, lots of patterns for floors, ceilings, walls, doors and windows. Our people know what they are, how they are used and can help you refine what you’re going to be most satisfied with.” Decks are another popular area for Brookside. From treated lumber to composite decking and railings, the breadth and depth of product could be confusing or bewildering to a customer without an expert to talk to. Brookside’s employees always deliver that same depth of conversation with the customer. They can walk you through the features, benefits and advantages of one product versus another. “How do you navigate that maze of variables? Most people look on the Internet and you’ll get the manufacturer’s take that their stuff is the best of all worlds,” Edwards said. “Where do you go to get a neutral perspective or more than one perspective? We have conversations with our customers. We can really drill down into their projects and make sure they leave here with the best products for their projects. Can you go buy a 1”x12” board somewhere? Sure. Can you come here? Absolutely. But what you’ll find here is a broader selection and the people who can give you the appropriate guidance so that you’re getting what you need, not what a brochure says you need.” Edwards said that expertise is even more valuable today with the majority of customers perusing the Internet for ideas on projects and materials. Brookside also prides itself with the ability to help homeowners find the appropriate person or company to tackle their next home remodeling project, regardless of size. Multiply that by the hundreds of quality brands of siding, trim, windows, doors and cabinets, along with 52 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE |
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building materials, and that wealth of knowledge can be worth its weight in gold to a homeowner. For a tour of many of the products that Brookside Lumber Company stocks, visit the company website at www.brooksidelumber.com. Brookside Lumber Company is located at 500 Logan Road in Bethel Park and can be reached at 412.341.3600. Brookside’s hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays; and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Safety Sites for Teen Drivers A
s a parent, you probably have some jitters about your teen driver. And that’s completely understandable considering the fact that teens are statistically more likely to be involved in a crash than the general population. The good news is there’s plenty you can do to keep newly minted drivers safe behind the wheel. It all starts with information — and the following sites, all created by trusted federal and national organizations, can help. (Added bonus: Many of them also include fun features like podcasts and downloadable videos.) So click over any (or all) of them to learn how to have an important — and possibly life-saving — conversation with your teen driver.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Teen Driver Safety
www.nhtsa.gov/Teen-Drivers Tucked within this catch-all site for all things safety is a special section on teen driving. It’s full of hard research and stats as well as creative materials — among them, audio and video clips, toolkits and posters — you can use to raise awareness in your home and in your wider community.
Distraction.gov – Teens
www.distraction.gov/content/get-involved/teens.html Just a few of the features on this well-designed site include a clickable map detailing each state’s distracted driving laws, fast facts about the issue and a pledge form for anyone ready to commit to phone-free driving. Also, make sure to check out the Faces section — it’s full of high-impact stories and videos of people who lost their lives as a result of their own or others’ distracted driving.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Motor Vehicle Safety: Teen Drivers www.cdc.gov/Motorvehiclesafety/Teen_Drivers/index.html The CDC promotes traditional research and facts along with new media and social media resources such as podcasts, e-cards and widgets. There are also links to other helpful sites and a special parents’ section with free branded and customizable materials.
National Safety Council – Teen Driver Safety
www.nsc.org/safety_road/TeenDriving/Pages/teen_driving.aspx This site’s strongest selling point is its information on Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) — a novice driver licensing system that can reduce teen drivers’ high crash risk by 20 to 40 percent. Even if your state doesn’t have a GDL initiative in place, you can jump start your own program by following the step-by-step guide outlined by the experts at the NSC. If you have questions about insuring your young driver, contact our agency. Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information. This Industry Insight was provided by Paul Herrnberger of the Herrnberger Insurance Agency, located at 1815 Washington Rd. Washington, PA 15301. They can be reached at 724.745.6474 or savewithpaul@comcast.net.
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The Borough of Canonsburg’s Banner Program By Amanda Fastuca A patriotic exhibit of 60 well-designed banners will be displayed to the public in honor of those who have served our country. The Main Street Program has put together a fundraiser by placing individual veterans’ names, ranks, and photos on vinyl banners along Pike Street in downtown Canonsburg. Although there have already been a few banners posted since Memorial Day, the Borough of Canonsburg’s will be finished adding to the display for the Fourth of July. Nadeen Steffey, the Main Street Program manager, said this is the first time Canonsburg has done anything like this. “As far as our organization goes, we feel it’s an excellent way to say thank you to the men and women who are serving our country,” she said. “We are really anxious to get the rest of the banners up for the Fourth because it’s going to look amazing and will catch a lot of people’s eyes.” The banners and website for the program are designed by Harry Munson, a designer in Castle Shannon. Steffey said he does a great job in what he does and finds unique ways to make the banners look amazing. Munson has also designed banners and similar projects for other communities in the past such as West Mifflin and Castle Shannon. The program has been accepting donations for the last several months. Now that they have met their deadline, they are starting to accept donations for next summer’s display. For more information, call 724.745.1515 or go online to www.downtowncanonsburg.org.
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THE BANNERS WILL HONOR THE FOLLOWING VETERANS:
Army Sgt Patsy Aquilino Hvy. Mort. Co., 110th Inf.
Army Cpl Louis E. Pogoreltz United States Army
Navy CPO Edward J. Horvath, Jr. United States Navy
Marine Cpl John Kasmen Krenzelak Fighting Leathernecks
Army Sgt Herman R. Bell Army Sgt Zolton J. Popp Navy Seaman Raymond B. O Shinski Marine Sgt Gabryel E. Rosmus WWII 640th Tank Destroyer Battalion 110th Inf. 28th Div. Heavy Mortar Co. USS Philadelphia 9th Communications Battalion Army 2nd Lt. Jared Bowman 1st Infantry
Army Pfc Angelo Porco 482nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery
Navy AD3 Patrick D. Kostelich VF-31
Marine Cpl Robert L Williams WWII, 4th Division
Army SSG George Milo Cannon 25th Division 28th Regiment, Korea
Army SSgt George Povich 8th Army Air Corp
Navy Coxswain John K. Patsch USS Pyro
Airman First Class Paul K. Frazier US Air Force
Army Spec. 4 Carl W. Carter US Army Corp of Engineers
Army 1st Sgt Andrew “Pooch” Puchany Co. D 331st Med. Battalion
Navy MMM3c Fred Puchany USS Kyne
Tech Sgt Joseph “Jay” Golinski Aero Medical Evac Squadron, Desert Storm
Army Cpl Francis V. Churney Diesel Repair Army Pfc Glenn E. Crum 351st Engineer Battalion Army Tech Sgt Albert R. Cwiklinski 8th Airforce – B-24 Liberator Army SP 4 Albert R. Dami Co. A 1st CAV/8th CAV 1st Bat., Korea Army Sgt William T. Danley Co. A 148th Engineers Bat. Army Pfc Mike Deep Calvary WWI - Military Police WWII Army Sgt J. P. Duckworth 630th Transportation Army SSgt Joseph J. Fartro United States Army WWII
Army Sgt James A Puchany 103rd Medical Bat. 28th Infantry Army MSgt John V. Puchi 522 2nd MI Group Army Sgt Pio Rossi Co. B–714th Tank Bat. 12th Armored Div.
Navy 1st Class Coxswain William A. South USS Pocomoke
T Sgt Joseph A Kern 760th Bomb Squadron, 460th Bomb Group
Navy Boatswain Fred J. Spicer III USS John A Bole, DD 755– Vietnam SA E-4 Benjamin Reese 436 ATS Seaman Joseph W. Talpas Merchant Marine Airman First Class Patsy Russo “1 ½ times around the world” Motor Pool / 342nd
Major Stanley J. Shutok Army Pfc Joseph L. Scears, Sr. Marine Sgt Dennis L. Gump Co. D 193rd Div. Glider Infantry Reg. 3rd Marine Div., 4th Marine Regiment 171st Air Refueling Wing Army SSgt Thomas E. Sedora 547th Night Fighter Squadron Army Sgt Walter Skowvron Company B 27th Infantry 25th Division Army Pfc Bryan John Szalanski 1-36 Infantry
Army Cpl Meade Harper 66th Troop Carrier Squadron
Army Sgt Joseph Szczerbienski Jr. WWII, 29th Infantry Division Military Police
Army T-5 Edward J. Horvath, Sr. 761st Field Artillery Battalion
Army Sgt Raymond M. Thomas B Co 67 Fort Knox KY
Army Harry J. Imperatore Heavy Mortar Co. 110th Reg, 28th Div.
Army Sgt Joseph R. Topka 28th Infantry
Army Sgt Andrew J. Tarnik Army Sgt E-5 Harry Harvison 1098th Trans. Co. 159th Trans. Bat. 2nd Armor Division Army Pfc Chuck Tatano Army Pfc John P. Herman 101st Airborne 2nd Battalion 326th Glider Inf.
Army Cpl Joseph E. Kurnal, Jr. 3rd Infantry Division Army Sgt Mike P. Matyuf WWII - 94 Infantry Division Army SSgt Chris N. Pihiou 25th Division WWII
Army SSgt Albert Wallo 28th Division Navy MoMM3c. Paul V. Cassidy WWII, South Pacific USS LST. 127 Navy MMM3c Bartholomew DeJoln USS LST 930 Navy MOMM3 Mario DeJohn USS Swanson DD443 Canon Mac | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
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I
Make Back to
n the rush to get everyone off to school, it’s easy to fall into a food rut, serving the same things for breakfast, lunch and snacks. But with some inspiration and a little planning, going back to school can taste a whole lot better than it used to. To make things even more fun, have the kids help with these recipes and ideas. Once they get the hang of it, they can experiment with new ingredients and do it themselves, taking one more thing off your to-do list. BREAKFAST: Start the day off with pizza — Breakfast Pizza, that is. This recipe layers eggs, cheese, turkey bacon, hash browns, sour cream and guacamole on your favorite pita or flatbread. Kids can make it as hot or as mild as they like. It’s a great way to sneak in avocados’ 20 vitamins and minerals, and it will give them energy to get going on their busy day. LUNCH: Skip the same old sandwiches and liven up the lunchbox with these tasty creations. Try a Tortilla Wrap made with chicken, Wholly Salsa, Wholly Guacamole and a hint of lime juice. Experiment with different kinds of tortillas, from whole wheat or sundried tomato, to spinach or jalapeño. For a full-of-flavor favorite, make a Mexican Turkey Torta. Thin turkey slices get topped with a zesty black bean and corn relish, crisp lettuce and your favorite guacamole. To help keep all the delicious flavors inside the roll, hollow it out a bit so the other ingredients don’t fall out. AFTER SCHOOL SNACK: Whether they need something to hold them over until dinner or a quick bite on the way to practice, these Wrap It Ups will do the trick. Turkey, garlic and herb spread, Havarti cheese, guac, lettuce and tomato get wrapped up in a tortilla or flatbread, then sliced into bite-sized swirls of deliciousness. Make them ahead of time, then just slice when it’s time to enjoy. Get more back to school inspiration — including quick-fix dinner recipes for busy school nights — at www. eatwholly.com. BAN THE BORING LUNCHBOX Keep school lunches interesting — and healthier — by including something nutritious to munch on. Guacamole and salsa are perfect for dipping into, and individually portioned packs of all natural Wholly Guacamole and Wholly Salsa are the perfect fit for a lunch box. Here are some “and” options to make lunch something fun to dip into:
Guacamole and… Zucchini sticks Baby carrots Whole grain pretzels Sweet potato chips
Salsa and… Blue corn chips Sliced jicama Cucumber slices Baked pita chips
School Taste Better
Yield: 1
WRAP IT UPS
1 flatbread (tortilla, w ra 1 tablespo on garlic a p, lavash) nd herb fla 2 tablespo vore on 1/4 cup sh s Wholly Guacamole d spreadable cheese redded lett classic avo uce cado 1 small tom ato, diced 2 to 3 slice sH 2 to 3 slice avarti cheese s turkey (o ptional) Spread th eg Spread gu arlic and herb spre adable ch acamole o eese on fla n On one e tbread. nd of the top. flatbread, Layer che sprinkle a ese and sl line of lett iced turke inches of uce an y be un Starting fr topped bread at the side lettuce and tom d diced tomatoes. om the le other end atoes, leav ttu . ing at least vegetable s with the ce/tomato end, ro two ll up bread first roll an Stick in to /tortilla, tu d proceed othpicks to ing to ckin keep the ro ll rolled, a the cheese/meat. g in the nd slice in two-inch thick spira ls.
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Get to know your local dance studio!
Synergy opened its doors in June 2010 under the direction of owner Rosalynn Cruz. Its purpose: to inspire and educate children in the art of dance! Located on 57 West Pike Street in Canonsburg, Synergy offers children ages 3-18 an opportunity to train in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, baton, acro and contortion. Classes and curriculum are structured to accommodate both age and talent level. Every student is personally evaluated so they may be placed in classes that will give them the best possible opportunity to grow as a dancer. Whether dancing recreationally or on the competition company level, the teaching staff at Synergy strives to deliver a professional quality dance education. Focus and attention to detail in dance vocabulary, up to date teaching methods, choreography, student appropriate music, costumes and what’s happening both in the dance world and teaching world are practiced.
Synergy’s owner and artistic director, Roz, graduated from the Point Park University Conservatory of Performing Arts with two dance degrees in 2008. With a duel concentration in jazz dance and dance pedagogy (the art of teaching dance), Roz’s drive and determination led her to become employed at various prestigious dance establishments in the Pittsburgh area. Teaching at the CLO Academy, Point Park University, Arthur Murray, Dance Alloy, NUP Pittsburgh Charter School and various local dance studios and cheer gyms, Roz decided in 2010 to open Synergy. In an effort to continue her dance education, Roz attends various dance teacher conventions, seminars, workshops and classes to better serve the students of Synergy as well as the community. Rennie Harris Puremovement Dance Company of Philadelphia, Pulse Teacher Convention in New York, Pillow Project Dance Company of Pittsburgh and The Dance Teacher Summit in New York are just some of the dance teacher functions she regularly attends throughout the year. In just two years of operation, Synergy has participated in local parades within Washington County, danced for multiple charity events and donated goods and raised money for local causes. The competitive Synergy Dance Company has performed at various competitions, winning both regional and national titles. The studio, in return, has been awarded multiple titles such as Top Choreography, Most Studio Spirit, Top Scoring Overall Studio at a competition and Creative Concept for a routine. Students have been awarded with multiple scholarships to train at conventions across the nation, acceptance to participate at the Point Park University Summer Dance Intensive and full scholarships to study with Pillow Project Dance Company. Synergy’s first senior graduate was accepted to the Clarion University Dance Team in 2011 and most recently the studio was invited to participate in the 2013 Orange Bowl in Miami, Florida. Roz will be traveling this December with five Synergy students to participate in the event. Now moving into their 3rd year, Synergy has doubled in student enrollment and is currently accepting students through December 2012. Synergy offers discounts for siblings and boys receive 50%. Currently, Synergy has over ten talented boys, Synergy Brothers, dancing at the studio. Join the Movement by contacting Roz at Synergydancer@hotmail.com.
This Industry Insight was written by Rosalynn Cruz. Rosalynn is the owner of Synergy School of Artistic Dance by Roz. It is located at 57 West Pike Street, Canonsburg, PA 15301. She can be reached at 724.554.5424.
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINES SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS IN Community Magazines (ICM) is seeking nominations for its Community Awards for Service Excellence (C.A.S.E.). We know that what makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort to help others. ICM would like to honor those special people, but we need your help. IN Community Magazines’ C.A.S.E. Dinner will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 36 magazines.
Awardees will be selected in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year; Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger); Small non-profit of the Year (staff of 10 or less); Large non-profit of the Year (staff of 11 or more). Awardees and those who nominated them will be honored at the awards dinner in Spring 2013. During the dinner an awardee from the Volunteer of the Year and Youth Volunteer of the Year categories will be selected to receive a donation for his or her chosen charity.
Name of nominee: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________ Category (circle one): Volunteer of the Year, Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger); Small non-profit (staff of 10 or less); Large non-profit (staff of 11 or more) Which IN Community Magazine is this nomination for? _____________________________________________________________________ Name of person submitting nomination: _________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________ Email: _________________________________________________ Why are you nominating this person or non-profit organization? (Please, submit a typewritten statement of no more than 600 words) Send nomination form and statement to: Monica Haynes, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317 If you have any questions, please, contact Monica Haynes at 412.254.8704 or monicahaynes2012@gmail.com. Deadline for nominations is 11/9/2012.
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B USINESS D IRECTORY
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B USINESS D IRECTORY
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Community Magazines
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