Spring 2010
ox Chapel Area COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
I nside
Information on the Fox Chapel Area School District Community Gala P l us
Blooming Summer
Introducing a health plan option for small business designed to save green. asy to use, conomical and Environmentally friendly.
Enjoy a discount and the ease of 24/7 on-line access for all of your health plan needs. Has there ever been an easier business decision? At UPMC Health Plan, we want to make it that simple. That’s why we’ve introduced the region’s most comprehensive all-electronic option. It’s called and it’s an easy-to-use, paperless option that complements any of our Small Business Advantage health plans. With , all enrollment, billing, claims, and payments are conducted online – providing you and your employees with greater convenience. Your employees also enjoy easy access to all their health information, wellness tools, and health support. And, as always, you and your employees have access to our network of more than 80 hospitals and 7,000 physicians, and the award-winning member service you expect from UPMC Health Plan. In other words you get more for less. To learn more about how you can save, go to upmchealthplan.com.
Shouldn’t the people who insure your health understand it? This managed care plan may not cover all your health care expenses. Read your contract carefully to determine which health care services are covered. If you have questions, call Member Services at 1-888-876-2756.
“
I couldn’t be happier with my new look. Clothing fits better, I look better, but more importantly, I feel better about myself. This is about so much more than how we look. It’s about how we feel and I thank you.
Call
877.245.6467
to Schedule Your Consulation
“
FRANCIS R. JOHNS, MD Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Creating, Shaping, Enhancing the Ideal You
".&3*$"/ 40$*&5: 0' 1-"45*$ 463(&0/4 */$
1*554#63() t (3&&/4#63(
Artisan-PlasticSurgery.com
SHE E RE R & ASSOCIATE S A T T O R N E Y S- A T - L A W 4 1 2 -7 8 1 -3 1 0 0 1000 M ain S treet • Pittsburgh, PA 15215 •T im@
S heererlaw.com
We can provide you with assistance in all of your legal matters. W e are I N F ox Ch apel A rea – SH A R P SB U R G
2
• Wills,T rusts and E states • E lder L aw • Business L aw • E mployment L aw 724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
• D river L icense R estoration • Criminal L aw • Civil L itigation • G eneral Practice
Features
2 5 6 SPRING 2010
3 8
H ealth and Wellness N ews Y ou Can Use
A Healthier You in 2010 I s you r N e w Y e ar ' s di e t f i z z l i n g ? Tu r n t o p ag e 3 an d l e ar n w h i c h di e t i n g t i p s m ay ac t u al l y k e e p you f r om l os i n g t h os e e x t r a p ou n ds .
W
hat’s I nside page 2
Changing Habits to Change the Scale
page 3
Dieting Tips That May Keep the Weight On
page 4
Tips from UPMC Health Plan D on ’ t L e t D i ab e t e s S t op Y ou f r om E x e r c i s i n g
Community Interest
2 9 page 5
Innovation at UPMC Tak i n g Con t r ol of My L i f e
page 6
A Network of Hope and Help
Fox Chapel Area School District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
When Weight Loss Goes Too Far… There’s COPE
page 7
© 2010 UPMC
Welcoming New Physicians
6
A BLOOMING SUMMER
2 5
LUKE HADLEY FOUNDATION
2 6
POETRY CONTEST
2 9
UPMC TODAY
3 8
AUBERLE HELPS YOUTH THROUGH VARIETY OF PROGRAMS
Municipalities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Places of Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Ind ustry Insights Wills, Durable Powers of Attorney and Living Wills . . . . . . .37 by Gusty A.E. Sunseri
Take the Stress Out of Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 by Gary L. Arndt
Health and Wellness News You Can Use Stick With It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 by David Jeter CFP®
Sunrooms, Patios & Porches in April? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 by Cathy Davin
Flooring a Key Design Element . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 by Jane Moffet
on the cov er
Dorseyville Middle School students pose with the football fox, one of five themed foxes that will be auctioned at the Fox Chapel Area School District Community Gala. Cover Photo Courtesy Town and Country Studio
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 3
L ook forward to every day. Welcome to The Grandview! The Grandview complements the Longwood at Oakmont community, the region’s premier choice in retirement living. The Grandview offers luxurious accommodations while providing residents with a lifecare program. It also is the region’s first residence for older adults registered for LEED certification for its environmentally friendly design. The Grandview is nearly 70 percent reserved. Take advantage of Take advantage of limited-time incentives. limited-time incentives now.
Call 1-866 -797- 6270 Call 1-866-797-6270 today for additional information or to arrange a personal tour.
today for special pricing options.
Longwood at Oakmont. F o r a li fe as u n i q u e as yo u .
LEXINGTON T wo B edroom, D en u Sunroom
www.LongwoodatOakmont.com
FrOM The PublISher
ox Chapel Area Spring 2 0 1 0 IN Fox Chapel Area is a non-partisan community magazine dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Fox Chapel School District 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. P U B L I SH E R Wayne Dollard A SSI ST A N T T O T H E P U B L I SH E R Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com MA N A G I N G E D I T O R Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com
elcome to the spring issue of IN Fox Chapel Area Magazine. Spring is a season of hope, change and new beginnings. The harsh cold and freeze of winter gives way to the gentle thaw of a growing sun’s strengthening rays. For us at IN Community Magazine, spring is a time of new beginning as well. Our staff works diligently to plan out the entire year of features and news that will keep you informed and entertained. We have received numerous story ideas from you and have been putting them together for your friends and relatives to read and enjoy. You, our readers, continue to be the single most important “employee” of the magazine. Without your ideas, input and critique, this magazine would be a shell of the vibrant and lively magazine that it is. So keep all of those great story ideas coming in! Call 724.942.0940 with your story and we’ll be delighted to include it in an upcoming issue. Sincerely,
W
O F F I CE MA N A G E R Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com
G R A P H I C D E SI G N Cassie Brkich Susie Doak Bridget Michael Katelyn Ruffing Tamara Tylenda P H O T O G R A P H E R S Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions Some Fox Chapel Area School District photos are courtesy of Town and Country Studio A D V E R T I SI N G SA L E S Stephanie Baker-Wolfson Renee Bennett Tina Dollard Rose Estes Linda Hall Jason Huffman Brian McKee David Mitchell Tara Reis Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert Maureen Smith RJ Vighetti
S u m m er 2 0 0 8
pring! even the sound of the word gets me brewing with excitement about the beautiful days which I know must be coming soon! Days spent in my garden, walking my boys to school or watching the days sun set just a bit later. With the beginning of each season, you can expect a little bit of good news from us. Our staff is hard at work following up on all of your phone calls and emails which let us know about things that are happening in the community. Whether it is a resident who is volunteering and making a difference or your favorite organization hosting a fund raiser, please, keep me up to speed! I am so pleased to share with you the winners of the Fox Chapel Area high School Poetry Contest on page 26. I think you will be impressed with the talent of the winners! Many thanks to Jessica Green , Faculty Sponsor of Tapestry Magazine who coordinated the contest at the school district level. enjoy!
S
724.942.0940
FrOM The eDITOr
W R IT E R S Jonathan Barnes Karen Ferrieri Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue Sandy Trozzo Chris Weber
Calling all IN Fox Chapel Area Readers!
sales@incommunitymagazines.com
Summer Issue Deadline: May 2, 2010
Do you know someone in your school or neighborhood who is doing something positive to benefit our community? We’d like to know about it! Contact Marybeth Jeffries – North editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com with your suggestions!
IN Fox Chapel Area, published four times a year, is carrier route mailed to all Fox Chapel households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.
www.incommunitymagazines.com
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 5
S
g n i pr
n w la
o t y e k k r o w d r a y , e r a c
by Jonathan Barnes
s the remaining winter days dwindle and the weather mellows, green-thumbed folks itch to get out and do a bit of digging in the dirt. So even before buds shoot from vegetation that’s been asleep all winter, many folks don their boots and gloves to put spades into the soil, or take clippers to the shrubs. They should remember that completing yard maintenance tasks is just half of the work needed to have a fresh and vibrant yard. With yard maintenance, timing is everything, since completing yard chores at the proper times is almost as important as doing them, if you want to get the full benefit from the work. Doing certain tasks at the wrong times can do more harm than good. experts sometimes vary on when or how often they prefer to prune shrubs, mulch flowerbeds or re-seed lawns and do other common yard maintenance tasks performed in springtime. but most landscape pros agree that not completing yard maintenance tasks could haunt a homeowner when the weather is nice.
A
Greening lawns
6
Proper lawn maintenance early in the year can help ensure that in the dog days of summer, family and friends will be barbecuing, playing and lounging on a soft green carpet of grass, rather than scuffing around on a ragged lawn riddled with brown spots and bare spots. Creating or maintaining a verdant lawn doesn’t have to be a difficult task, if you plan wisely. regular maintenance is necessary, though, because a lawn left unchecked can soon become a dandelion-clover-infested unsightly mess. So plan ahead, and stick to a schedule of yard maintenance that begins each year in the spring. begin with the lawn care. 724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Start the process by warding off crab grass through a treatment to inhibit the weed’s growth, said George Girty, owner of library-based George Girty landscape and Design. “Once crab grass is growing, you can’t kill it,” Girty said. “Put down a pre-emergent crab grass control in March or April… If you don’t do it, you’ll probably have to live with crab grass until you can apply the treatment in the fall.” Crab grass control comes in granular form and as a liquid. The treatment works to inhibit growth of the weed when it goes to seed at different times of the year. Cleaning out the dead stuff is key to maintaining an attractive yard, be it a tree, or shrub, but especially with a lawn. Marco Viglio, owner of Wilkins-based Viglio landscaping, likes to dethatch and re-seed his clients’ lawns in springtime in order to start the lawn’s growing season off strong. “De-thatching gets all the dead thatch out and then you seed right into the lawn. That new seed helps to thicken up the lawn,” Viglio said. When re-seeding a lawn, it is important to use the most appropriate seed. Viglio and Girty both recommend using the brand Penn State Mix because it is made for this climate and its soil, which has a heavy clay content, and also because the mix is resistant to dry seasons. William Dugan, owner of Finleyville-based Wm. “Dirt” Dugan landscaping, prefers a seed mix that is a three-way blend of Perennial rye, which is compatible with a lawn made up of mostly Kentucky bluegrass, he said. both types of seed mix are available at home Depot and other garden stores. Southern grass seed varieties, such as Zoysia Grass, should be avoided when seeding or re-seeding a lawn, local experts agree. Zoysia Grass is drought-resistant, but it stays green for only about five months, browning out for the winter after the first frost. It also is an invasive species that is hard to contain once it is well-established. The best time to seed a lawn is from mid-April to mid-May. Soil temperatures at that time of year are warm enough to germinate seeds, and it’s not going to be too hot or too dry for seed growth. A good rule of thumb for applying seed for a new lawn is nine pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet. After seeding, cover the seed with mushroom manure, peat moss or straw, and water the lawn once or twice a day for up to two weeks. The idea is to keep it moist. After two weeks, water it every other day, and cut the grass once a week.
blooming s ummer Yard-lovers should not apply crab grass control if they plan to re-seed the lawn, because crab grass control will kill a lawn.
Mulching, Pruning & Fertilizing In spring, homeowners also should start to fertilize their lawns with a fertilizer of high potassium content, for healthy root development. This should be done in early May, Girty said. Girty and Viglio both recommend using the widely popular fertilizer Milorganite. It’s an organic fertilizer with a high potassium content (for root development), and a lot of nitrogen for good green color. Girty said it’s crucial to fertilize new lawns and lawns comprised of freshly installed sod. “They’ll check out without the help,” he said. In preparation for the bursts of seasonal color that happen in Spring, homeowners should pay attention to their flowerbeds, which may look bedraggled from winter. usually, Viglio edges flowerbeds for his clients in springtime. It’s one way that he works to clean up the contours of yards. he also mulches flowerbeds at that time, because his clients prefer that he do so and because spreading a fresh layer of mulch over the beds brings back the color in those beds and spruces up planting areas. Mulching also controls the weeds in the flowerbeds and helps to retain moisture. Standard mulch is double-shredded hardwood bark, and usually goes for $15-$25 per yard, picked up. Triple-shredded mulch runs $18$30 or more per yard. Dyed mulch costs even more, but since it is chunkier, it retains its color and can last two or three years. Dugan shies from the brighter-colored mulches. “Anything in the outdoors should be subtle,” he said. Trees and shrubs in the yard should be inspected for damage, with dead growth and “dieback” parts of the plant removed. roses, which are pruned in fall, also are pruned in spring because they usually have winter dieback. That pruning will ensure that the bush grows properly and looks good as it’s blooming. With rhododendrons, azaleas and other spring-blooming broadleaf perennial bushes, there is a six-week window after blooming during which these plants can be cut back. Pruning these bushes later will result in decreased blooms later in the yard, or worse yet—no blossoms at all. “You can’t see the flower buds, but you’re cutting them off,” Dugan said. Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 7
P roper Colorectal Screening
“Colon cancer is a very lethal, but preventable disease. Approximately 30- to 40-percent of all adults will develop polyps in their lifetime, and the lifetime risk of a colon or rectal cancer is about 5 percent – about the same risk as developing appendicitis. However, unlike appendicitis, 50,000 Americans die because of colon cancer every year.”
8
Dr. James Celebrezze
724.942.0940 to advertise
f you ask Dr. James Celebrezze, assistant professor of surgery and a colon and rectal surgeon at uPMC Passavant-Cranberry, having a routine colonoscopy today can save your life tomorrow. however, the perceived inconvenience and general ignorance of the procedure can be a dangerous deterrent to discovering the polyps and cancers that can be treated rather routinely if found early. So when should you schedule your exam? “like most things in medicine, it depends,” Celebrezze said. “If the patient has no family history of colon cancer or polyps, screenings should start at age 50, with a follow-up exam every five to 10 years afterward. In my opinion, colonoscopy is the best screening option. It is preventive as well as therapeutic, since we can remove any polyps we detect during the exam.” That convenience isn’t afforded to other exams such as blood testing, CT scans or barium enemas, he said, since any polyps that are found would require a colonoscopy. Patients who are considered moderate to highrisk should start their screenings earlier, typically 10 years earlier than the age at which the family member’s cancer was detected.
I
| IN Fox Chapel Area
“Colon cancer is a very lethal, but preventable disease,” Celebrezze said. Approximately 30- to 40-percent of all adults will develop polyps in their lifetime, and the lifetime risk of a colon or rectal cancer is about 5 percent – about the same risk as developing appendicitis. however, unlike appendicitis, 50,000 Americans die because of colon cancer every year. Polyps typically take 40 years to grow, and about 8 to 10 additional years to develop into cancer, which is why five to 10-year screenings are recommended after age 50. Polyps and colon cancer may present no symptoms until they are in advanced stages. less than 50 percent of adults in the u.S. have adequate screening, and in Western Pennsylvania, the numbers are worse: only 20 to 25 percent of adults are appropriately screened. What’s more, the causes of colon cancer are unknown. While Celebrezze always advocates a diet high in fiber and calcium for overall good health, studies have not proven that specialized diets prevent or reduce polyps or colon cancer. “A balanced, high fiber diet in general will be a healthier diet,” he said. “but it does not negate the need for screening.” While no procedure is fail-safe, colonoscopies are very safe when compared to other medical tests. Patients are given intravenous sedation for the procedure and are unaware of what’s going on at the time of the exam. Preparation begins a day before the procedure with a hefty dosage of oral laxatives. Celebrezze said the day is, admittedly, unpleasant, but is well worth the trouble to ensure that the patient has a clean colon for examination. “In the greater scheme of things, the downside is nothing compared to the preventive upside to the patient if polyps or cancer is found,” he said. “The tragedy is when I see someone in their late 50s or early 60s with colon cancer. If they had their screening at age 50, we likely wouldn’t be discussing treatment options for cancer,” said Celebrezze. Patients eligible for and looking to schedule an exam should see a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist.
Fox Chapel Area School District
A
ME SSA G E
F R O M T H E
SU P E R I N T E N D E N T
Dear Residents of the Fox Chapel Area School District,
T
he spring IN Fox Chapel Area magazine is filled with exciting news about student and building-level achievements throughout the school district. I have stated many times that the Fox Chapel Area School District is one of the finest public school systems in the nation. The academic gains we have been able to make over the past few years have been truly amazing. You will read about the latest recognition for Dorseyville Middle School and the second consecutive Silver Medal awarded to Fox Chapel Area high School in this edition of IN Fox Chapel Area. I am extremely proud of our teachers and administrators who have worked tirelessly to create schools that have received national recognition for excellence in education. In October, I had the honor of being inducted into my university’s “Wall of Fame.” Following is part of my acceptance speech that outlines part of my administrative journey in education and expresses my feelings about our award-winning school district: During my career in education, the most challenging position I have held was as an administrator with the Steubenville City Schools in Ohio. Coming to Steubenville, I welcomed the opportunity to work with minority children and many children living in poverty. I accepted a position with the Steubenville City School District thinking that I would stay a year or two and ended up staying for six. During that time we began all-day, everyday preschool and kindergarten and at the end of six years we became the only city school district in Ohio that was closing the achievement gap. The challenges were great, the work was at times exhausting, but the rewards were endless. It was my work there that opened the door to my most rewarding position as the Executive Director for School Reform for the State of Ohio and acting as Ohio’s liaison to Washington, D.C. This came right at the beginning of No Child Left Behind, so I had the opportunity to work with representatives in Washington to design what the Ohio model would look like and I was given the opportunity to sit informally with politicians in Washington to talk about school reform and federal financial support for schools. I also sat with the best in the field of education as a member of the Pew Forum panel discussions and I had the opportunity to have an impact on education on many levels. My most gratifying position is my current position with the Fox Chapel Area School District in Pennsylvania. I am blessed with wonderful students, parents, staff, and most of all, a wonderful School Board. Last year, U.S.News & World Report named Fox Chapel Area High School a Silver Award winner for high achievement for students at all levels. Our elementary schools rank among the top elementary schools in western Pennsylvania, and we continue to outscore the state and the nation on both the SAT and ACT. Education really doesn’t get any better than this. education is a partnership of many people working toward the same goals. It is that focus and that partnership that make Fox Chapel Area Schools so successful. Thank you for your continued support of education in the Fox Chapel Area School District. Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D. Superintendent
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
9
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
“Dancin’ in the Endzone” “What’s Goin’ On?” The gala expenses are being underwritten by corporate and patron sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for both individuals and businesses. The sponsorship levels are as follows: • Platinum ($10,000) – reserved table for 10 at the event, listed as a platinum sponsor in program book, full-page ad in program book, and sponsor name and logo displayed on the school district Web site. • Gold ($5,000) – eight tickets to the event, listed as a gold star sponsor in program book, half-page ad in program book, and sponsor name and logo displayed on the school district Web site. • Silver ($2,500) – Six tickets to the event, name listed as a silver sponsor in program book, quarter-page ad in program book, and sponsor name and logo displayed on the school district Web site. • Bronze ($1,500) – Four tickets to the event, name listed as a bronze sponsor in program book, business card size ad in program book, and sponsor name and logo displayed on the school district Web site. • Patron ($500-$1,000) – Two tickets to the event, name listed in program and on invitation, opportunity to win special prizes.
ocal PTA/PTO groups have been raising money to enhance the educational and extracurricular opportunities for students for a long time. but never before in the history of the Fox Chapel Area School District have all of the parentteacher organizations joined together to collaborate on a single effort of this magnitude. The goal is for 1,000 people to attend the special gala event “Dancin’ in the endzone” at heinz Field on May 1, 2010. According to Fox Chapel Area School District Superintendent Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D., over the years, parents have worked very diligently at fundraisers that benefited their children’s own individual schools. but this fundraiser is distinctively different, with everyone coming together to celebrate the school district and meet a common need. “We hope this event brings the entire community together for an evening of fun,” she says. representatives from the school district’s PTA/PTOs, as well as a cast of hundreds of volunteers and supporters from the community, are preparing for the event. The evening will feature a live Motown band,
l
dinner stations, live and silent auctions, and themed-basket raffles, and artwork and music performances by district students. The proceeds of this event, through the coordination of the Pittsburgh Foundation, will benefit the Dorseyville Middle School Technology Fund and initiatives of the PTA/PTOs at each school in the district. Over the past few years the district has been looking at alternative sources of funding in order to continue to provide an exemplary education for the students. Act 1, the Taxpayer relief Act, flat state funding, and relatively limited increases in local tax revenue have made school district funding more challenging. “We need to look at creative ways to enhance our educational and extracurricular programs,” Dr. Stephens says. To meet this funding challenge, the idea for a joint fundraising effort was initiated, and the PTA/PTO Council was formed. last summer the group decided to sponsor a communitywide gala that would not only help fund technology at the middle school, but would help all the PTA/PTOs raise money for initiatives at their schools.
Alumni are also encouraged to get involved as well. There are special sponsorship levels for Fox Chapel Area high School alumni. Alumni sponsorships include: • Red ($1,000) – Includes two tickets to the event and a business card size ad in the program. • White ($500) – Includes a personal message ad in the program. • Black (Under $500) – Includes a listing in the program. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor should call 412/967-2413.
1 0
IN Fox Chapel Area
Fox Chapel Area School District superintendent and the gala committee co-chairs – seated is Terri Good and standing, left to right, are Dr. Anne Stephens, Superintendent; Cindy Stadtlander; and Nan Cohen. Not pictured, Elaine Mitsch.
Theme of First-ever Districtwide Gala The co-chairs of the gala committee are Nan Cohen, Terri Good, elaine Mitsch, and Cindy Stadtlander. The volunteer coordinators are Chris baldwin and Debbie Groomes. The patron committee chairs are laurel breuner, rosemarie loevner, and Diane Waldman and the alumni committee chair is Margie Damico. The group has been working to plan and promote the gala over the last several months and members have been gathering auction and raffle items from individuals and businesses from across the region. beginning at 6:30 p.m. there will be starters (appetizers) and music performed by the Dorseyville Middle School and Fox Chapel Area high School students. Guests will then proceed to dinner stations which will be followed by the live auction. There will also be dancing and Motown music will be performed by the Atlantic All Star band. The celebrity emcee of the event is Jon burnett of KDKA-TV. Mrs. Good, who is coordinating the auction, says her committee has been collecting exciting items for the live auction, featuring vacation packages, tickets to both college and professional sporting events and sports memorabilia, golf and theater packages, and jewelry. In a nod to the Carnegie Museum’s promotional event Dinomite Days, there will be a “Foxes Around Town” display and auction. Dorseyville Middle School students have been decorating five themed foxes: a Fox Chapel Area football fox, a gardening fox, a mosaic fox, a Pittsburgh-proud fox, and a student-themed fox. Gala planners expect lively bidding for the foxes. Additionally, the four elementary schools and the high school are also providing artwork for display and auction. The high school art students are donating handmade jewelry, and the elementary art students are creating pottery items. Parents will also have the opportunity to bid on prizes for their children at the building-level auctions. Prizes will include “principal for a day” and “teacher for a day.”
Mrs. Good is looking forward to an evening out with friends. “I am really looking forward to a nice night out with my friends from other areas of the district,” she says. Planners hope that the gala will be, not only an evening to remember, but become an annual district event.
Dorseyville Middle School students have decorated themed foxes to be auctioned off at the Fox Chapel Area Community Gala. The students are under the direction of art teachers Nanci Goldberg, Rebecca Sonnenberg, and Mary Jo Montgomery.
A Dorseyville Middle School student works on a decorative mosaic wall hanging featuring the school district fox. The piece is just one of many that will be up for auction the evening of the gala.
“I’ll Be There” Don’t miss your opportunity to attend this adult-only special event! Tickets are still available for “Dancin’ in the Endzone” to be held May 1, 2010, at heinz Field at 6:30 p.m. There will be a cash bar throughout the evening and dinner stations will open at approximately 7:30 p.m. To order tickets, send a $100 check or money order, payable to “The Pittsburgh Foundation,” to: FCASD Gala, 611 Field Club road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238. Proceeds from the gala will benefit the Dorseyville Middle School Challenge Technology Fund and initiatives of the PTA/PTOs at each school in the district. Cash, checks, and credit cards will be accepted the night of the gala. Cocktail attire is requested. For more information, visit www.fcasd.edu/gala or call 412/967-2413.
Photos Courtesy Town and Country Studio Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
1 1
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
D ors ey v i lle M i d d le S c hool H on ored b y S c hools t o W at c h P rog ram orseyville Middle School is one of only four Pennsylvania schools to be named a 2010 PA Don eichhorn Schools: “Schools to Watch” as part of a recognition program developed by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades reform. As a Schools to Watch school, Dorseyville joins a very select group of 15 schools in Pennsylvania named within the last three years, and more than 200 around the nation that have qualified as Schools to Watch. each school was selected by state leaders for academic excellence, responsiveness to the needs and interests of young adolescents, and commitment to helping all students achieve at high levels. In addition, each school has strong leadership, teachers who work together to improve curriculum and instruction, and a commitment to assessment and accountability to bring about continuous improvement. According to Fox Chapel Area School District Superintendent Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D., this is an incredible honor for Dorseyville Middle School. “The distinction of being named a middle school to watch by the National Forum places Dorseyville Middle School among the top public schools in the united States. We are extremely proud of the staff, administration, and students at Dorseyville Middle School for their hard work and high performance.” Dr. John harrison, past president of the National Forum states, “We congratulate these schools for being places that do great things for all of their students. These schools demonstrate that high-performing middle grades schools are places that focus on academic growth and achievement. They are also places that recognize the importance of meeting the needs of all of their students and ensure that every child has access to a rigorous, high-quality education.” As a part of the review process, representatives from the Pennsylvania Don eichhorn Schools: Schools to Watch Program visited Dorseyville Middle School in December 2009. Among other things, the Schools to Watch team interviewed students, parents, teachers, building and district administrators, and support staff members. They also visited classrooms during a school day and examined a great deal of data and documentation.
D
1 2
IN Fox Chapel Area
The members of the Dorseyville Middle School ELI (Education Leadership Initiative) Team accept the Schools to Watch Award. Pictured from left to right: guidance counselor Mark Cooper, assistant principal Patricia Clark, teacher Mike Wolinsky, principal Matthew Harris, assistant principal Jonathan Nauhaus, teacher Cathie Gillner, teacher Tim Derbish, teacher Kelli Flanigan, and PMSA President and Pennsylvania Schools to Watch Director Paul Meck.
“The distinction of being named a middle school to watch by the National Forum places Dorseyville Middle School among the top public schools in the united States.” Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D., Fox Chapel Area School District Superintendent
According to Dorseyville Middle School Principal Matthew harris, Schools to Watch has provided Dorseyville Middle School with a comprehensive structure in which to evaluate the school program and make the changes needed to be a model middle school. “We are committed to continuous improvement and the Schools to Watch program gives us the feedback and the process to do just that. We are honored to be recognized as a Schools to Watch for 2010 and look forward to continuing our relationship with such a prestigious organization,” Mr. harris says. Dorseyville Middle School was officially recognized at a Schools to Watch ceremony
at the Pennsylvania Middle School Association Professional Development Institute (PMSA PDI) in State College on February 28. Additionally, a celebration will be held at Dorseyville Middle School this spring. The school will also be recognized June 24, along with other schools from across the nation, as part of the National Schools to Watch Conference in Washington, D.C. Schools to Watch is an initiative launched in 1999 by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades reform. The National Forum is an alliance of 65 educators, researchers, national associations, and officers of professional organizations and foundations dedicated to improving education in the middle grades. The Pennsylvania Schools to Watch team includes a partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of education, the Pennsylvania Middle School Association, Duquesne university, edinboro university, lehigh university, and horace-Mann.
high School receives Second Consecutive Silver rank ox Chapel Area high School was recently ranked among the best high schools from across the nation. The school received a Silver Medal rank from u.S.News & World report for the second year in a row. A total of 15 high schools from across Pennsylvania, and only four in Allegheny County, received a silver ranking. u.S.News & World report, in collaboration with School evaluation Services, analyzed academic and enrollment data from 21,786 public high schools in 48 states and the District of Columbia to find the very best across the country to be featured in the January 2010 issue. The top schools were placed into gold, silver, bronze, and honorable mention categories. School evaluation Services is a K-12 education data research business run by Standard & Poor’s. Fox Chapel Area School District Superintendent Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D., says the ranking from u.S.News and World report is very meaningful.
F
“The Fox Chapel Area School District services a diverse student population,” Dr. Stephens says. “This award is important to us because it validates the fact that the district is doing a superior job of educating children at all academic and developmental levels.” According to the u.S.News & World report Web site, “The America’s best high Schools project is an annual report that identifies the country’s topperforming high schools. The goal is to provide a clear, unbiased picture of how well public schools serve all of their students — from the highest achieving to the lowest achieving— in preparing them to demonstrate proficiency in basic skills as well as readiness for college-level work.”
Congratulations
Superintendent Named educator of the Year award was presented at the ox Chapel Area Tri-State Area School Study Council’s 62nd Annual School board 2010 Distinguished educator.” School District and Distinguished educator The Tri-State Area School Study Superintendent Anne banquet at the end of March. Council is one of the oldest and largest e. Stephens, Ph.D., has been study councils in the nation. Its named the Tri-State Area The Tri-State Area School membership includes more than 100 School Study Council’s Study Council has presented Distinguished educator for the Distinguished educator school districts, intermediate units, 2010. Award every year since 1981. vocational-technical schools, dioceses, According to a letter to Dr. Stephens says she is colleges, and private schools. The council Dr. Stephens from Dr. very honored to receive this is a part of the university of Pittsburgh, Diane Kirk and Dr. Sean award from such a prestigious where it is headquartered. Its mission is to organization. “Western improve the quality of educational hughes, co-directors of the Anne E. Stephens, Ph.D. Pennsylvania has so many opportunity for children and youth by council, “Your hard work, innovative ideas, and dedication to the Fox superintendents who are making a positive helping to strengthen school organization Chapel Area School District over the years difference in their districts,” she says. “I am and administration. have put you in the highest tier of humbled to have been selected as the educational administrators and we are honored to recognize you in this way.” “Your hard work, innovative ideas, and dedication to the Fox Chapel Area each year the Tri-State Area School Study Council honors an educator who has School District over the years have put you in the highest tier of developed a clear focus and track record to demonstrate accountability for student educational administrators and we are honored to recognize you in this way.” academic results. The group also honors – Dr. Diane Kirk and Dr. Sean hughes, co-directors, school boards for their achievements and Tri-State Area School Study Council contributions to education. This year’s
F
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
1 3
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
H igh School Senior W ins N ational Cak e Decorating Contest Jessica Hatheway stands with the cake she designed for the Washington, D.C., FCCLA regional meeting and the “Win the Icing … Decorate Our 65th FCCLA Birthday Cake Contest.”
our cake decorating classes at a local craft store led Jessica hatheway to turn a hobby she enjoyed with her mother into a career path that has already brought her national attention. A senior at Fox Chapel Area high School and A. W. beattie Career Center, she was recently named national champion of the “Win the Icing . . . Decorate Our 65th FCClA birthday Cake Contest.” Jessica will travel to Chicago this summer to the national Family, Career and Community leaders of America (FCClA) Conference, where her cake will be replicated by a professional baker as the organization’s official 65th birthday cake. The FCClA is a nonprofit national career and technical student organization for young men and women that promotes personal growth and leadership development through family and consumer sciences education.
F
1 4
IN Fox Chapel Area
earlier this school year, Jessica designed and decorated the three-tier yellow cake which included the FCClA’s colors of red, black, and white and incorporated words that represent the purpose of the FCClA — such as dynamic, future, career, and leaders. She also included two gum-paste stars with the numbers six and five on them. She packed up the layers and the premade decorations stored in bubble wrap and drove to Washington, D.C., where she assembled the cake for the regional competition. It turned out that one of the biggest challenges for this competition was getting the cake transported to Washington. “It was the biggest cake I’ve done so far,” Jessica says. The smaller, top layer was packed in a box, but the bottom two layers were so large they would not fit into a box so she assembled them and had to lay them on the back seat.
After she was announced as the regional winner at the Washington, D.C., competition, Jessica’s cake design, along with two other entries from Colorado and Kentucky, were posted online by the FCClA for public judging. This was not the first cake that Jessica has entered in a baking competition and these contests encompass different facets of baking and pastry design. Sometimes the competitions are rated for baking (and taste) criteria, while others, like the 65th birthday cake competition, are rated for artistry. “I have learned to use guidelines and my creativity to make cakes that use a different design approach than the traditional,” Jessica says. Jessica has been attending beattie, where she studies pastry arts, for half-day classes since her junior year. She also works with beattie’s entrepreneur teacher each week to begin to develop a business plan which she may use in the future. The other half of the school day she spends at Fox Chapel Area high School taking classes in Advanced Placement economics, accelerated english, business essentials, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Jessica is a member of beattie’s National Technical honor Society and also treasurer of the local chapter of the FCClA. These organizations have provided her with the opportunity to be involved in community service and leadership conferences that she knows will help her as she prepares to pursue a career in culinary arts and pastry arts. recently she participated in a pancake breakfast to benefit the Children’s Miracle Network and she plans to seek additional opportunities to expand her cake decorating skills through future FCClA competitions. Following graduation this June, Jessica plans to study culinary arts and pastry arts at Indiana university of Pennsylvania Academy of Culinary Arts and then pursue a degree in hospitality management. her goal is to someday own her own bakery. In the meantime, Jessica says that she will continue to bake and decorate cakes and cookies for friends and family.
P lay er an d Coac h P art i c i pat e i n N at i on al F oot b all S how c as e Miles Dieffenbach and head football coach Bryan Deal have their photo taken at the 2010 Under Armour All-America Football Game.
ox Chapel Area high School senior Miles Dieffenbach was selected to play in the 2010 under Armour AllAmerica Football Game. he was accompanied by head football coach bryan Deal who was chosen to coach running backs in the national game. The under Armour game, the nation’s premiere high school all-star showcase, was held at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, January 2, and was nationally televised live by eSPN.
F
Named the starting center for the game, Miles was one of only 88 of the top high school football players from across the united States chosen as an under Armour All-Star. Miles played for the winning black team (Team Nitro) coached by NFl vet Sam Wyche, inventor of the no-huddle defense. Miles has been described as a very versatile offensive lineman with quick feet who can play center, guard, or tackle. he was named by scout.com as the number three center in the country and he has committed to play football at Penn State in the fall. “learning where I am physically against some of the best players in the country is probably the most important thing I gained
Fox Chapel Area High School representatives received the PIAA/WPIAL 2008-2009 sportsmanship banner at Heinz Field in November during the 2009 WPIAL Football Championships. Pictured from left to right are: Dan Lentz, high school program principal; Michael O’Brien, district athletic director; senior Miles Dieffenbach (football); senior Cali
from the experience,” Miles says of the under Armour game. “It was a lot of fun to work hard during practices, and a great experience to be playing alongside some of the best players in the country. I was very happy with my performance.” under Armour game preparations included three days of practice under the direction of some of the greatest legends in NFl and collegiate coaching history, including longtime NFl retired coaches larry Kennan, George Dyer, Ted Marchibroda, Dave levy, rex Norris, and Joe Avezzano. Additionally, 22 high school head coaches of players were selected as position coaches, including Coach Deal. Coach Deal has been coaching football and teaching health and physical education at Fox Chapel Area high School since 2005. Prior to that, he was the recruiting coordinator and an assistant football coach for the university of Pittsburgh. Coach Deal has won numerous football coaching awards, including being named the 1991 Associated Press Division I Ohio Coach of the Year and receiving the 1995 Woody hayes Award as Ohio State Coach of the Year.
Skalski (field hockey and lacrosse); and sophomore Adam Bisnowaty (football, wrestling, and track). The award is given based on the various sportsmanship programs offered by the school, as well as coach, player, and fan sportsmanship during athletic contests. Fox Chapel Area is one of only five schools in the WPIAL to receive the award. Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
1 5
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
Ron Frank to be Inducted into Wrestling Hall of Fame Ron Frank coaches the Foxes during a home wrestling match.
I
PhOTO COurTeSY TOWN AND COuNTrY STuDIO
t’s difficult to choose a single accomplishment that makes long-time wrestling coach ron Frank an outstanding candidate for induction into the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wrestling hall of Fame. however, his former and current Fox Chapel Area wrestlers, family, and other supporters will have the chance to recount each of his many accomplishments when he receives a “lifetime Service to Wrestling Award” at a banquet this spring as part of his induction into the hall of fame. Mr. Frank’s name will also be added to the Pennsylvania Wall in the National Wrestling hall of Fame located in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Former Fox Chapel Area wrestling coach and retired high school teacher Greg Caldwell says that Mr. Frank’s induction for a lifetime of service to the sport of wrestling is well-deserved. “I have a great deal of respect for ron Frank and what he’s done for the program and the community,” he says. “ron is not only a great coach, but a great person.” Mr. Caldwell cites the personal achievements and wrestling success of Mr. Frank’s three sons who all wrestled under their father’s direction, as well as the highly successful annual Allegheny County high School Wrestling Championships. In addition to organizing the high school wrestling championships each year, the long-time Fox Chapel Area high School head wrestling coach has scored 325 victories during his career. he is the second most winning wrestling coach of all active wrestling coaches in WPIAl and ranks eighth in all-time dual meet victories for a head varsity wrestling coach. Mr. Frank has served as head varsity coach for the Foxes since 1980. 1 6
IN Fox Chapel Area
Ron Frank will receive a “Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award” at a banquet April 18, 2010, at the Pittsburgh Marriott North in Cranberry Township.
he has coached section and regional champions and PIAA placewinners over the years. his wrestlers have gone on to compete for the university of Maryland, the university of Pittsburgh, Duquesne university, the u.S. Naval Academy, Virginia Technical Institute, the university of Pittsburgh Johnstown, Gannon university, and Arizona State university, among others.
When asked which of all of his accomplishments he is most proud, Mr. Frank points out the number of wrestlers who have gone on to successful careers following high school. “I am most proud of the students that I have coached, the parents that I have worked with, and the other coaches that have worked with the athletes in wrestling from grades one through twelve,” Mr. Frank states. he goes on to say that coaching is a team effort between him and assistant coaches bob Siar, who has been with the program for 17 years, and his son Michael Frank. “We all coach together — there really is no head coach — just a group of hardworking men promoting the excellence of wrestling as a sport and our athletes. The coaches that have worked in our program are very dedicated to making each young person successful,” Mr. Frank says. “I like kids and I like to see them grow as individuals through involvement in extracurricular activities, as well as in a classroom environment,” he comments about his continued involvement as an athletic coach, as well as a high school art teacher in the district. “Wrestling is filled with some of the toughest challenges they will encounter as young adults. If they learn from each loss or victory a little bit about themselves — that would be great.”
high School Senior
Finds Joy in Helping Others J
PhOTO COurTeSY rON rIChArDS PhOTOGrAPhY
ane Orringer is a young woman who likes to help others. In fact, most of the 18year-old’s free time is spent working to make the lives of others happier. At healthSouth harmarville rehabilitation hospital alone, Jane has logged approximately 400 hours as a volunteer, which she has done since the end of her eighth grade year. Jane, a Fox Chapel Area high School senior, goes to healthSouth two days a week. There, she escorts patients to the
dining room, helps them get their meals and drinks, and just spends time talking with them. When asked about Jane’s service, Nancy Fazio, the volunteer coordinator at healthSouth says, “Oh my goodness! What can I say? Nothing I say can ever be good enough!” She goes on to state that Jane is “wonderful” with the patients and that people light up when they see her. “She is always so cheerful and happy to be here… her smile greets the patients at the
door and her caring nature helps them through their meal. She is totally dedicated and one of the hardest working volunteers we have — totally ‘one of a kind.’ ” Jane also volunteers every other week at the All-Kiski Medical Center in Natrona heights. There she works in the coffee shop/gift shop. According to fellow volunteer and the president of the Allegheny Valley hospital Auxiliary, ruth becker, Jane is a “delight.” “Janie is a person you enjoy. She always comes in and she’s so happy,” Mrs. becker says. “The other volunteers also love Janie. We grew up with her and we have seen her mature.” She describes some of Jane’s most outstanding qualities as her “cheerfulness, her smile, and her enthusiasm.” Jane also goes to heartland homes, an assisted living facility, every day as part of the Fox Chapel Area high School Work experience Program. Additionally, Jane attended the A.W. beattie Career Center to study nursing during her junior year. Following graduation, Jane plans to attend Community College of Allegheny County and also work part time. She hopes to become a nurse. “I like to help people. It’s been my dream, basically, my whole life,” Jane says. Jane’s teacher at Fox Chapel Area high School, Susan Cataldi, says she knows there are great things in store for Jane. “She has inspired me in ways that are immeasurable. Jane has a can-do attitude in all areas,” Mrs. Cataldi says. “Nothing brings her down. She’s inspired me to be a better teacher and she also inspires my classroom and my students.”
In recognition of her many volunteer hours, senior Jane Orringer was honored at the Medallion Ball held at the Pittsburgh Hilton in November 2009. All 119 young women invited to the ball completed at least 100 hours of community service. Each young woman is presented to the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, and he gives her a Joan of Arc Medallion.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
1 7
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
T elet h on T rad it ion Cont inues M on ey R ai s ed f or L u k e H ad ley F ou n d at i on t all started 20 years ago at Fox Chapel Area high School when then student government sponsor Jeanne White approached television production teacher Doug Martin. She relayed that the students wanted to do a coordinated fundraising effort to make a positive impact through community service — but they needed one major project that they could all work on together. Without much thought, Mr. Martin blurted out, “Do a telethon!” When Mrs. White expressed her enthusiasm, Mr. Martin thought more about it and realized what he had gotten himself, and his young television production program, into. however, he and Mrs. White worked together to gather the support of district and high school administrators and staff for the idea of a telethon. Then he led his secondyear television production students to plan and produce the first-ever FCTV telethon that was scheduled to be broadcast live during lunch periods at the high school on the last school day before winter break. According to Mr. Martin, the telethon had to be produced so that it did not interrupt classes during the school day, but that every student could have the opportunity to participate if he or she chose. The first telethon, which raised about $850 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, has since become an annual event. During the following years, the marketing/ management students became involved. under the direction of business education teacher Jill Tabis, the marketing/ management students choose the event’s theme and plan the marketing and promotion of the event. The television production department continues to handle all aspects of the actual live production. To add to the excitement, local television and radio personalities have been invited to appear on camera.
I
1 8
IN Fox Chapel Area
Above: Jeff Hadley appeared with Assistant Principal Susan Gentile at the telethon. At right: Business education students tally donations during the telethon.
by the fifth year, with all buildings in the school district wired with fiber optics, the telethon could be broadcast at all of the schools, and each school participated in the fundraising event. The telethon was also broadcast to homes throughout the district via various cable companies. The students in the Fox Chapel Area School District have donated more than $422,000 to various charities through their annual telethon over the last 20 years. The 2009 telethon raised $33,300 for the luke hadley Foundation. Students, teachers, and parent representatives from all of the schools in the district participated by planning their own fund drives and making donations at the telethon. The telethon theme was “All Aboard the hadley express.” Jeff hadley, a founder of the luke hadley Foundation, was also present during this year’s telethon. his son, luke, was born with an extremely rare chromosome disorder called ring 14. luke was one of 65 documented cases worldwide, and he lost his life on October 30, 2008, at the age of two. Following his passing, the hadley family formed the luke hadley Foundation in luke’s memory. Mr. hadley, and his wife, Kara hadley, are teachers in the Fox Chapel Area School District and residents of Indiana Township.
“There are no words to describe how touched Kara and I felt by the overwhelming support given to the luke hadley Foundation throughout the school district leading up to and on the day of the telethon. The students, families, and staff that make up the Fox Chapel Area School are second to none,” Mr. hadley states. “The tremendous support given to our foundation is going to bring an endless amount of smiles to medically fragile children in the Pittsburgh area.” besides rallying the school community in support of a cause and raising funds for that worthy cause, the experience of the telethon is invaluable for his students says Mr. Martin. “To plan and produce the telethon live — that is a learning experience you can’t replicate by just sitting down in class.”
Kerr Student Serves as Ambassador
M
arissa ritter has a perfect heart. but it wasn’t always perfect. As the kickoff of Kerr elementary School’s Jump rope for heart fundraising activity, Marissa told the story of how she was born with a hole in her heart, and that six months ago she had open-heart surgery to correct the defect. What made the story especially meaningful to the Kerr student body is that Marissa is a first grader at their school. Marissa was recently named the local ambassador for the American heart Association. In that role, the seven-yearold and her mother, Alison ritter, will be traveling to local schools on behalf of the American heart Association to share Marissa’s story. Additionally, she will be invited to attend the next annual heart ball. Marissa and her mother told her schoolmates that doctors said the hole (located in the ventricle in her heart) might repair itself over time. even with the defect, Marissa was allowed to participate in normal activities. however, this past summer, doctors told her and her family that she would need open-heart surgery. Marissa said she was “kind of scared” when the doctor asked if he could fix her heart. “It really hurt. but it was fun because I got lots of presents,” Marissa said about the surgery and her four-day stay at Children’s hospital. Ten weeks later, Marissa was able to resume her normal life of dancing, playing soccer, being involved in Girl Scouts, and swimming. Physical education teacher Alex Slezak, who coordinates the annual American heart Association fundraiser at Kerr and nominated Marissa for her role as ambassador, described how Jump rope for heart involves physical activity and raising money for the American heart Association. he also shared a video with the students, entitled “Champion of hearts,” that showed Marissa engaged in a normal school day full of activity and fun, thanks to her successful heart surgery. Students from Kerr, as well as students from some of the other Fox Chapel Area schools, gathered pledges from family and friends before they conducted their actual jump rope activity. Money raised will be contributed to the American heart Association.
by the end of the fundraising event, students learn the importance of maintaining a healthy heart by engaging in healthy eating habits and physical activity. They also know that the American heart Association exists to help maintain healthy hearts. And Marissa knows how important a healthy heart can be!
Heart Ambassador Marissa Ritter shows off the medal she received from the American Heart Association.
School Board Holds Reorganization Meeting
T
he Fox Chapel Area board of School Directors held its annual reorganization meeting in December 2009. Charles r. burke was re-elected president. robin F. baum was re-elected vice president. Sandra M. Garbisch was elected assistant secretary. The board also set the following meeting schedule for 2010: Agenda Study Sessions – April 12 (Fox Chapel Area high School - April 12 is a combined agenda study session and regular business meeting); May 3 (O’hara elementary School); June 7 (Dorseyville Middle School); August 23 (Fox Chapel Area high School - August 23 is a combined agenda study session and regular business meeting); September 13 (Fox Chapel Area high School - September 13 is a combined agenda study session and regular business meeting); October 4 (hartwood elementary School); November 1 (Kerr elementary School); and November 30 (Fairview elementary School - Tuesday). Regular Business Meetings – April 12 (Fox Chapel Area high School - April 12 is a
combined agenda study session and regular business meeting); May 10 (Fox Chapel Area high School); June 14 (Fox Chapel Area high School); August 23 (Fox Chapel Area high School - August 23 is a combined agenda study session and regular business meeting); September 13 (Fox Chapel Area high School - September 13 is a combined agenda study session and regular business meeting); October 11 (Fox Chapel Area high School); November 8 (Fox Chapel Area high School); and December 6 (Fox Chapel Area high School). The School board will also hold a special year-end meeting June 21 at Fox Chapel Area high School. The School board’s annual reorganization meeting will be held December 6 immediately following the December regular business meeting. All board meetings are held on Mondays (unless otherwise noted) at 7 p.m. Treasurer Karen A. Mitesser and Joanne C. Gaus, Frederick C. leech, robert Mauro, Sherman M. Snyder, and Joel r. Weinstein are also members of the board of School Directors.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
1 9
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
F
ox Chapel Area School District students were touched by the devastating earthquake in haiti. Students and staff at each of the district’s schools have undertaken fundraising projects in an effort to help the haitian people. Dorseyville Middle School students were among the first to get involved. They recently donated 80 five-gallon buckets filled with toiletry items. The idea for the project came from eighth grade student council secretary Patrick Denny who approached teachers the morning following the earthquake. Patrick has mission ties to haiti and has visited there before. he developed a slideshow presentation of haiti that was shown to the entire student body in January, in an effort to teach the students about the past and present conditions there. Patrick and fellow eighth grader Gregory Fiorillo (who has also been on a mission trip to haiti) also explained the collection plan to the students and staff members. each homebase (homeroom) then received a fivegallon bucket (donated by home Depot) that the students and staff filled with toiletry items. The brother’s brother Foundation picked up the buckets February 17 to ship them to haiti. Patrick, Gregory, and two Dorseyville Middle School Student Council officers, brothers Jacob Norman (grade eight) and elliot Norman (grade six), had planned to visit haiti this summer on another mission trip. For now, their plans are on hold, although they are all anxious to go back and help with the earthquake recovery efforts. Additionally, the middle school students held a talent show at the end of March with all proceeds benefitting haitian relief efforts.
2 0
IN Fox Chapel Area
Students in the other Fox Chapel Area schools also did their part to help with haitian relief efforts. Fox Chapel Area High School students sponsored a “bake for the Quake,” a large-scale bake sale during several lunch periods. Two student government representatives, sisters senior robin Wein and sophomore Amy Wein, came up with the idea. All of the students involved with the high school student government donated items for the bake sale. Student government also collected monetary donations with all of the money going to the red Cross. Additionally, the Fox Chapel Area high School Spanish Club recently sold empanadas (meat pastries) as a fundraiser with all the proceeds going to the Pittsburgh-based organization, Global links. Senior students bradley Portnoy and Julie Shuff led the group’s efforts. Fox Chapel Area high School teachers also raised money by holding a casual-dress day with the proceeds benefiting hôpital Albert Schweitzer. O’Hara Elementary School sponsored a “hats for haiti Day” and, for a donation, students could wear a hat to school. More than $3,600 was generated by O’hara’s hat Day and the money was sent to support the relief work of the hôpital Albert Schweitzer. This fundraiser was done as a prelude to children’s author Karen lynne Williams’ visit to O’hara elementary School February 2. Mrs. Williams and her husband Dr. Steve Williams have spent several years in haiti living and working at the hôpital Albert Schweitzer in Deschapelles. O’hara students, parents, and staff members also collected toiletry items in five-gallon buckets (donated by lowe’s and Sherwin Williams) to help the haitian people. The approximately 100 five-gallon construction buckets were filled with items such as baby wipes, washcloths, bar soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, and brushes and are being sent to haiti through the brother’s brother Foundation in Pittsburgh. The other elementary schools also got in on the action. In February and March, Hartwood Elementary School and Kerr Elementary School sponsored family movie nights with all proceeds going toward haitian relief efforts. Kerr students also participated in theme days (for a donation) and students purchased hearts as part of a “hearts for haiti” project. All of the Kerr elementary School donations are being sent to the American red Cross and all of the hartwood elementary School donations are being sent to brother’s brother. Finally, the fifth grade students of Fairview Elementary School, in conjunction with Fairview’s brownie Troop, collected toiletry items to benefit the people of haiti. These items are also being sent to haiti through the brother’s brother Foundation.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
2 1
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict
2009-2010 Facts & Figures Professional Staff Statistics
2009-2010 Student enrollment
Number of Professional Staff
elementary Schools (K-Grade 5) Fairview elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .366 hartwood elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .376 Kerr elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .476 O’hara elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .690
elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187 Secondary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246
Total elementary enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,908
elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64% Secondary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66%
Secondary Schools (Grades 6-12) Dorseyville Middle School (6-8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .997 Fox Chapel Area high School (9-12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,492 Total Secondary enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,489 Total District enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,397
Class of 2009 The total number of Fox Chapel Area high School graduates in the class of 2009 was 420. The percentages of 2009 graduates entering some type of post-secondary education were as follows: Four-Year Colleges 340 or 81.0% Two-Year Colleges 39 or 9.3% Other Types of education 8 or 1.9% Total Continuing education
387
or
92.2%
Average SAT Scores Critical reading Math Writing Class of 2009 563 568 562 Class of 2008 561 581 560 Class of 2007 547 546 539 Class of 2006 552 560 557 A total of 353 members of the 420 students in the class of 2009 took the SAT during their junior or senior year. The national average scores for all 2009 graduates taking the test were 501 in critical reading, 515 in math, and 493 in writing.
Total Professional Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .433
Master’s Degree or equivalent
Average Years of Teaching experience elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Years Secondary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Years
The Community The Fox Chapel Area School District is located in a dynamic suburban community about 11 miles northeast of downtown Pittsburgh. The district includes six municipalities (the boroughs of Aspinwall, blawnox, Fox Chapel, and Sharpsburg and the townships of Indiana and O’hara) representing a wide range of social, economic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. The schools provide a comprehensive array of educational opportunities to serve the needs of this diverse population and to meet the high expectations of its residents. The district encompasses an area of about 36 square miles with approximately 30,000 residents.
The School District The Fox Chapel Area School District is a nationally recognized, award-winning school district that produces high achievement in students, with a motivated and professional faculty and an involved and caring administration. The district currently operates six schools.
Vision Students in the Fox Chapel Area School District will enter schools that are prepared to address individual needs. The school community will nurture and inspire students’ desire for knowledge and provide the foundation for them to be successful in a global society and to become lifelong learners.
Mission Statement 2009 PSSA Scores Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 11
reading 93% 88% 83% 85% 89% 94% 81%
Math 95% 96% 84% 88% 89% 90% 79%
Writing n/a n/a 81% n/a n/a 90% 94%
% = Percent Scoring Advanced and Proficient 2 2
IN Fox Chapel Area
The Fox Chapel Area School District exists to provide a rigorous school program that strives to take students to their maximum levels of educational achievement and to develop the whole person in order to accomplish his or her personal best.
Core Values respect – responsibility – Integrity
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area
2 3
F ox Ch apel A rea Sch ool D ist rict DISTrICT ADMINISTrATION
FOx ChAPel AreA SChOOlS
611 Field Club road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412/963-9600 www.fcasd.edu Superintendent: Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D. Assistant Superintendent: David P. McCommons, ed.D. Administrative Assistant for business Affairs: l. Douglas McCausland
FAIrVIeW eleMeNTArY SChOOl 738 Dorseyville road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412/963-9315 Principal: Sari e. McNamara, ed.D.
DISTrICT reSOurCe STAFF Coordinator of elementary education and Instruction: ronald Korenich, ed.D. Coordinator of Instruction, Staff Development and Secondary Curriculum: Shelley beck, Ph.D. Coordinator of Special education and Pupil Services: lonnie Carey, ed.D. Coordinator of educational Technology: Norton Gusky Coordinator of Ancillary Services: Sam Miceli Director of Athletics & Activities: Michael O’brien Coordinator of Communications: bonnie berzonski
hArTWOOD eleMeNTArY SChOOl 3730 Saxonburg boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412/767-5396 Principal: Jacquelyn M. Gregory-rauzan, ed.D. Kerr eleMeNTArY SChOOl 341 Kittanning Pike Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412/781-4105 Principal: Paul S. Noro, ed.D. O’hArA eleMeNTArY SChOOl 115 Cabin lane Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412/963-0333 Principal: Michael r. rowe Assistant Principal: James Phillip Prager, Jr.
DOrSeYVIlle MIDDle SChOOl 3732 Saxonburg boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412/767-5343 Principal: Matthew J. harris Assistant Principal: Patricia A. Clark Assistant Principal: Jonathan T. Nauhaus FOx ChAPel AreA hIGh SChOOl 611 Field Club road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412/967-2430 Senior/lead Principal: Michael h. hower Program Principal: Daniel e. lentz Assistant Principal – Senior Program: John J. McGee Assistant Principal – Intermediate Program: Susan K. Gentile For the latest school district information, call the Fox Chapel Area School District 24-hour Information line at 412/967-2500 or visit the Web site at www.fcasd.edu. The athletic events calendar can be found on the Fox Chapel Area School District Web site at www.fcasd.edu or visit www.highschoolsports.net.
FOx ChAPel AreA SChOOl bOArD
PhOTO COurTeSY TOWN AND COuNTrY STuDIO
region I covers all of Sharpsburg borough and Wards 2, 3, and 4 of O’hara Township; region II covers Districts 2, 4, and 5 of Fox Chapel borough and all of Indiana Township; and region III covers all of Aspinwall borough, blawnox borough, Wards 1 and 5 of O’hara Township, and Districts 1 and 3 of Fox Chapel borough. School board regular business meetings are usually scheduled for the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. and are held at the high school. The public is invited to attend.
Front row (l to r): Karen A. Mitesser, Treasurer (region I); Charles r. burke, President (region III); robin F. baum, Vice President (region I); and Joanne C. Gaus (region II). row 2 (l to r): David P. McCommons, ed.D., Assistant Superintendent; Sherman M. Snyder (region I); robert Mauro (region II); Sandra M. Garbisch, Assistant Secretary (region II); and Anne e. Stephens, Ph.D., Superintendent. row 3 (l to r): Frederick C. leech (region III); Martin W. Sheerer, esq., Solicitor; and Joel r. Weinstein (region III).
2 4
IN Fox Chapel Area
by Pamela Palongue
any times in life, we start out following one road and then find ourselves at a completely different destination than we had expected. So it was for Jeff and Kara hadley. They probably never could have guessed the journey that lay in store for them. luke hadley was born on August 20, 2006, the first child of Jeff and Kara hadley with a rare disorder called ring 14, a devastating illness with no known cure. luke was unable to eat and had to be fed through a tube. his breathing was done with the help of a ventilator a great deal of the time and he was unable to move or speak. If the hadleys had any expectations of what life would be like for their first born, it certainly had to be reevaluated when they were given the staggering news that luke’s life would be brief. Jeff and Kara began with one simple premise; to give luke the best life possible in the short time he was given to experience it. In order to accomplish this goal, they wanted to spend as much time as possible with their son. This meant working around their job schedules (they are both teachers) in order to spend days and weeks in the pediatric intensive care unit. They understood that sometimes the greatest gift is just being there. During this time, they learned many things about medically fragile children. Jeff hadley says plainly, “I always thought of hospitals as a place where children go to get fixed up and then they come home. I had no idea there were so many children who spend a significant amount of their lives just fighting to survive in the hospital.” And perhaps even more disturbing was the fact that many of these children spent hours and days alone with no family members present. Many times the parents wanted to be there, but work schedules would not allow the time off, the travel time was too great or financial constraints prevented it. Although the child life specialists tried to make it around to spend time with each child, they were often in charge of dozens of children and their time with each child was limited or non-existent.
M
The Foundation that Luke Built
Jeff and Kara noticed something else during this time. Though luke was unable to speak, he had the unique ability to communicate through his eyes. The hadleys were able to tell when he was happy, distressed, excited or wanted something by his expressive eyes. And remarkably, when another child in the room was crying, luke’s eyes would become sad as if he wanted to help them somehow. This concern for other children would become the basis for the work Jeff and Kara were about to begin. luke passed away on October 30, 2008 and just eight short months later, the hadleys with the help of their community would begin the luke hadley Foundation to help medically fragile children. With the funds raised in the first year, the Foundation has been able to supply the Child life Department of Children’s hospital and the Children’s home of Pittsburgh with many interactive devices. They also have been able to plan many activities and field trips for the kids. local jazz musician lee robinson visited the Children’s home of Pittsburgh and played his saxophone and other instruments for them. later the children had a chance to make their
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
own percussion instruments and play music. Also at the Children’s home a garden was created, where with assistance the kids planted tomatoes and other vegetables and got to harvest them in the fall. Field trips to Carnegie Science Center, a pumpkin patch and hayrides were also enjoyed by the children. Many times the average person does not realize the tremendous amount of effort and planning that goes into a field trip. These children are on ventilators and other medical devices which must be transported with them, along with medically trained personnel to handle the devices and in case of an emergency. because it is sometimes difficult to relocate a child even a few feet, special mobile play stations have been designed called luke’s Art Carts that can easily be moved from room to room. Some of the devices the foundation provides are extremely important to the children’s wellbeing and happiness. For example, a device called a boardmaker allows a child who is intubated, (a tube inserted in the airway for breathing) to be able to communicate simple needs such as hunger, wanting a book or a toy. Another important device that the luke hadley Foundation supplies are dolls which are approximately three feet tall. These dolls are used to demonstrate medical procedures to both children and parents that will be performed on the child. Jeff hadley adds that these medical dolls have served to calm the fears of parents and siblings as well as the sick child. The hadleys are appreciative of all the individuals, businesses and corporations who have donated their time and money to the foundation and especially the Fox Chapel School District who chose the luke hadley Foundation as recipient for their annual telethon, raising over $33,000. These simple devices and activities are helping to make a difference and to bring joy to children whose lives are defined by endless testing and medical procedures. Sometimes beautiful things are birthed from tragedy. Jeff and Kara hadley are sure that luke wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
www.incommunitymagazines.com 2 5
FOX CHAPEL AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT & IN FOX CHAPEL AREA MAGAZINE
The War of the Squirrels By Mark Hollingsworth
happy endings By Ariane Beckman
The weak suffer, cherishing rage. They fear the tranquility, Yet aspire to grow. The weary wander, bitterly lonely. regretful of courage they adored once, in shadow. The blushing betray, cruelly gentle. Thoughtful only of one, that lives blissfully ignorant. All tremble in fear at the one thing that eludes them: satisfaction with life, and their own happy ending. Ariane Beckman is a seventeen-year-old junior at Fox Chapel Area High School. She participates in many different school activities such as Cross Country, Vulpes Cantantes, and Student Government. She is also involved with Tapestry, the literary arts magazine for the high school, as the Senior Admissions editor. She enjoys traveling, Asian food, and rollercoasters. She lives with her mom, dad, brother, two cats, and dog in Aspinwall.
2 6
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
The squirrels sit there suspiciously Plotting quite viciously The means of world domination And utter human annihilation. Those damned squirrels! burying their acorns in the yard, My entire existence has been marred by these horrible creatures With their disgusting features: Their bushy tails, And sharp, squirrelly nails. What truly frightens me Is not their appearance, ghastly as it may be, but the fact that they plan to destroy humanity! And haven’t we been nice? To those squirrels, who are no better than mice. They live in our trees- oak, maple, and cedar. They sneak around, stealing from our bird feeders. The time has come to end this squirrel trouble. We’ll reduce their nests to smoldering rubble. Now, we shall expel These ungrateful invaders, These mean, hateful raiders, To their own squirrelly hell. The War of the Squirrels has begun, And who can say if it can be won. Mark Hollingsworth has always enjoyed creative writing. He was born in 1992 in Pittsburgh, PA, where he has lived ever since. He has always enjoyed his English classes, especially when assigned writing assignments. He took the Creative Composition class because he thought that it would be interesting and fun to write creatively for a whole semester. It was. He found lots of inspiration in his fellow classmates and in the assignments that were given.
any thanks to Jessica Green, Teacher and Faculty Sponsor of Tapestry at Fox Chapel Area high School for coordinating the Tapestry/IN Fox Chapel Area Magazine Poetry Contest. Tapestry is the school’s literary art magazine. Mrs. Green is deeply proud of all the students who make Tapestry possible and encourages them to submit their writing and art to foxchapeltapestry@gmail.com.
M
An excerpt from
“Dirty Cars and What Forever Means” by Katherine Davis The engine takes two tries to get started. Our ears are suddenly struck with an outburst of bass from the decaying sound system. My life is a lot like music that’s always getting louder. he says something, but not loud enough for his voice to carry over the crass explosions occurring within the dashboard. I do not ask him to repeat himself. he doesn’t bother and lights a cigarette instead, rolling down the window to discard of the now empty pack of menthols. Moisture from outside fills the car, darkening his long eyelashes and causing them to clump together. I see his gaze from underneath dark colored bangs flicker uneasily from the road, to me, then back again as he wonders why I continue to stare. My mind wanders as I watch each long drag. I think of the room with stolen traffic
signs lining the walls like trophies and the ashes ground into the nubby beige carpeting. Inhale. I think of the pots and pans in the sink and the empty orange juice carton sitting out on the kitchen counter. exhale. I think of the handsome boy that I barely know and what we’ve been through. Inhale. And I wonder what people will think of me. exhale. I shift in my seat, watching the wind toss my hair around wildly in the rear view mirror. I examine his poorly concealed dental records on my neck. My green eyes looked dull, my vision glazed as though I was perceiving the world through a piece of wax paper. I realize I am very tired. “Is this what it means to be young?” I ask.
Katherine Davis took an interest in creative composition at a young age, writing her first drama in elementary school and moving onto more intimate poetry and prose throughout the duration of her adolescence. Her pieces stem from the simplicity in her daily routine, to the fragility of human emotion, and people she’s loved, influenced, or talked to recently. Coming from a family involved in the arts, Katherine feels a strong spiritual connection to music and often pulls inspiration from the lyrical
“No, just ignorant.” he closed his eyes, taking a final drag, then flicked the cigarette butt carelessly out of the open window. his motions enthralled me, especially how his hands grasped the steering wheel and the way his lips opened slightly before we kissed. It really was effortless. I got out of the car knowing I would never see him again. Pushing the unwashed hair out of my face, I watched blue car drive away, and his open palm extended out the window as a farewell. I stood there until it vanished into nothing. At that moment, the sun emerged, drenching the road in white light, and setting the earth on fire. I turned and started walking again, ignoring the harsh environment around me. I bit my lip hard until it bled, my insides as dead as a photograph. My right hand tightly grasped the blue canvas shoes. The best lovers die alone. Arms wrapped taut around themselves.
stylings of the punk and independent music scenes. She aspires to one day write her own songs dedicated to the free speech movement and is fascinated by the 60’s concept of youth in revolt. Though Katherine intends to major in Accounting next fall when she attends Duquesne University, she plans to continue to sharpen her skills in the English field and to utilize her unique talent of selfexpression to voice her feelings and opinions forever.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 2 7
Fox Chapel Racquet Club Promises Family, Fun and More f you’re looking for a club that offers the most bang for your buck, Fox Chapel racquet Club’s manager len Chorney can assure you that his is “the best deal in town.” And from the amenities and events members get with the Fox Chapel racquet Club, he’s not lying. From tennis and platform tennis to swimming and its luxurious clubhouse that’s constantly active with cocktail parties and mixers, the Fox Chapel racquet Club has everything a discerning member could want. by the club’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2013, those amenities will be even greater with a complete swimming pool renovation, new locker rooms, and even more programming. “We have a long-range planning committee working on the details of these changes right now,” Chorney said. “The pool renovation will result in more of a resort-style theme.” Add to that the changes that have already taken place, including complete Wi-Fi internet coverage and a soon-to-be launched new website, the Fox Chapel racquet Club is not only keeping up with the times, it’s growing new members at a substantial rate. even with all the club amenities and slated improvements, Fox Chapel racquet Club is always mindful of keeping the dues and club activities affordable.
I
2 8
724.942.0940 to advertise
“Over the past three to five years, the club has targeted younger families with children,” Chorney said. “We created a 37-and-under membership class and lessened the burden of joining the club. The non-refundable initiation fee can now be paid over the course of a two-year commitment.” Additions to the programming also reflect a desire to court younger members. With an expanded juniors program and augmented summer program that includes a toddler program in addition to its swim team, the Fox Chapel racquet Club has become a place for families more so now than ever. The new website promises to increase club activities through interactive court reservations, calendars and automated rSVP for club events. The membership directory also will be online so that members can securely find others who share their interests or a game going on. “We’ve really been bringing the club up to par with our technology based on membership feedback,” Chorney said. All of the new bells and whistles will bring members together for events and programs that they may not have known about before. Chorney said that the club is much more than just tennis and swimming. “There’s a huge social aspect to the club,” he said. “Always, our sports are outside, but we have a lot going on in the clubhouse as
| IN Fox Chapel Area
well. We have entertainment committees for both juniors and adults which generate a variety of activities, such as ballroom dancing, bridge nights, seasonal wine-tasting dinners, monthly theme dinners, holiday brunches and more. We also do outside activities such as bike rides, golf outings, canoe trips, jogs and runs, and go to Pirates and Wild Things games. This is a very vibrant and active club.” While most of the club’s activities are based around its outdoor facilities, the Fox Chapel racquet Club is a year-round operation. Nearly 300 families partake in the offerings its nine tennis courts, five platform tennis courts, and swimming pool have to offer. Not only do they partake in their club’s sports, they excel at them. The Fox Chapel racquet Club’s director of racquet sports, Martin Sturgess and his platform tennis partner Fritz Odenbach, won the Nationals 55 in New Jersey, his second platform championship win. Sturgess also has won two national tennis championships, accomplishments that Chorney said the club is extremely proud of. “There truly is something for everybody here,” he said. For more information on the Fox Chapel racquet Club, go to www.fcrclub.com or call 412.963.8331. Photos by Kevin Ross and K Processing.
SPRING 2010
H ealth and Wellness N ews Y ou Can Use
A Healthier You in 2010 I s you r N e w Y e ar ' s di e t f i z z l i n g ? Tu r n t o p ag e 3 an d l e ar n w h i c h di e t i n g t i p s m ay ac t u al l y k e e p you f r om l os i n g t h os e e x t r a p ou n ds .
Wha t’s I nside page 2
Changing Habits to Change the Scale
page 3
Dieting Tips That May Keep the Weight On
page 4
Tips from UPMC Health Plan D on ’ t L e t D i ab e t e s S t op Y ou f r om E x e r c i s i n g
page 5
Innovation at UPMC Tak i n g Con t r ol of My L i f e
page 6
A Network of Hope and Help When Weight Loss Goes Too Far… There’s COPE
page 7 © 2010 UPMC
Welcoming New Physicians
Changing Habits to Change the Scale For many of us, weight loss and weight management is, and always will be, a lifetime commitment. It req uires hard work, dedication, and a new way of thinking. It’s about recogniz ing our weaknesses, making permanent lifestyle changes, and realiz ing that successful weight loss isn’t dropping a q uick 10 pounds before next month’s class reunion. Rather, it’s based on habits — behavior modifications — which can take some time to change. So, if your jeans are getting snug, and your refrigerator hasn’t seen a vegetable in months, maybe it’s time to change a few of your habits. Focus on what you can and will dourather than what you did not and will not do. Be sure to set realistic goals. Drinking one more glass of water a day instead of one gallon or walking 10 minutes a day when you are currently not exercising at all are attainable and achievable goals. “We encourage people to set realistic goals. Reviewing them on a regular basis is a crucial part of a person’s success,” says Abby Savitz , registered dietitian, Pittsburgh Bariatrics at UPMC St. Margaret.
ake meal time an ex perience. See, smell, and taste each bite you take. Using utensils, even when eating piz z a or a sandwich, adds to the experience and encourages you to enjoy your food, not devour it.
Decide what you’ re willing to giv e up for your health. If you’re short on time, consider trading 30 minutes of TV time for 30 minutes of exercise.
M
“Designate a specific time for exercise. When exercise is part of your schedule, then it becomes part of your life,” says Patrick Martin, MS, exercise physiologist, Pittsburgh Bariatrics at UPMC St. Margaret.
“Slow down and focus on your meals. It takes 20 minutes for your brain to get the message that your body is getting food,” says Mary Lynn Nash, nutrition services manager, UPMC St. Margaret.
Or, if you enjoy eating dinner out three times a week, cut two of the nights out and cook a healthy dinner at home.
K eep your weight loss tools within reach. Choose appropriatesiz ed glasses, bowls, and plates to control your portions. Also, keep measuring cups and spoons handy and ready to use. rite it down. Tracking what, when, and how much you eat or drink can be very helpful and eye opening. It’s also important to note where you eat. If you find yourself eating more in front of the TV or computer, establish those areas as “no eating” z ones, and watch just how many calories you save. W
“Record keeping is an essential part of behavior modification as it relates to weight. Anyone trying to lose weight, and keep it off long term, should keep a food record, which increases a person’s awareness of his or her food habits and eating patterns,” explains Ms. Savitz . For more information about serv ices at U P M C S t. M argaretu please call 412-7 8 4-4000 or v isit www.upmc.com/ stmargaret.
2
www.UPMC.com/Today
Dieting Tips That May Keep the Weight On A new year, a new you, right? Well, if you have resolved to lose weight in 2010, you may think that as long as you follow diet advice, the number on the scale will drop. Not always. Let’s look at some of the advice out there and whether or not it really works. 1) Drink eight glasses of water a day. It is important to be well hydrated, but drinking more water alone may not curb your appetite or prevent you from consuming high-calorie foods. Having a glass of water with a cheeseburger means you still get all the calories in the burger! What can help is to decrease intake of high-calorie beverages in favor of low-calorie items, including water, vegetable juice, sparkling water, coffee, and tea, so at least you aren’t drinking your calories. 2) Cut portions to an absolute minimum. If you want to lose weight, you should slash your intake as much as you can, right? Wrong. We eat a certain volume of food every day, so if you go from a 12-inch diameter plate to a salad plate, you are
probably not going to feel satisfied. It’s a better idea to gradually decrease the amount of food you eat — maybe two to three bites less at each meal. 3) Choose fat-free or sugar-free foods. First of all, the calories in many of these items are identical to those in the regular products. Second, the word free implies “eat as much as you want,” so you end up consuming MORE than you normally would. Third, these products really don’t taste as good as the “real” ones, so you may not be satisfied. So, use some fat in cooking — a small amount of olive oil, or a few nuts on a salad, or a small scoop of regular ice cream instead of sugar-free. 4) Follow a diet 100 percent of the time. No one is perfect when it comes to eating, and the problem with this attitude is that if you “cheat” by eating a food that is not allowed, you may say, “Well, I’ve already blown my diet, so I may as well eat whatever.” Better advice: if there is something you really want, then make a deal. Have the cookie instead of the potato, rather than both.
Bottom line: To have a little less of you — discriminate, don’t eliminate, know what you eat, and take your time. Sit, chew, enjoy! Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD D irector of Sports Nutrition, U P M C
Managing Your Diabetes Education is an important component of managing and living with diabetes. At UPMC St. Margaret, we offer one-on-one appointments with dietitians and diabetes educators. During these appointments, patients have the opportunity to meet with a diabetes specialist to develop healthy meal plans that promote glucose control and weight loss (if needed) and to learn how to better interpret blood glucose readings and lab results. Training on glucose meters and insulin injection also is provided. Group classes are available and focus on medications, meal planning, exercise, monitoring, and goal setting. Support group meetings are held monthly. Individual consults and classes are covered by most insurance companies. Please contact your insurance company to confirm coverage. For more information about support group meetings, call 412-784-4194; to register for classes or schedule an appointment, call 1-866-334-5227.
1-800-533-UPMC
3
Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Don’t Let Diabetes Stop You from Exercising As John waits in his car to pick up his daughter, he watches — not entirely without envy — as two runners circle the high school track. “I used to be able to run like that,” he thinks. “But those days are behind me now.” John was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes three years earlier and gave up exercising. He still manages to walk with his wife every now and then, but John has convinced himself that any kind of serious exercise, like running or lifting weights, is out of the question. What John doesn’t know is that for people with type 2 diabetes, exercise can be — and should be — a daily part of life. With a little bit of time and dedication, John could be running around the track while he waits for his daughter, instead of sitting in his car.
Talk to Your Doctor If you have diabetes or another chronic health condition and are thinking about starting an exercise program, the first step should always be to talk to your doctor. Discuss what activities are safe for you. Your doctor’s advice will depend on the condition of your heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, feet, and nervous system.
Start Slowly Based on that advice, plan what you’d like to do. Be realistic and start slowly. Challenge yourself, but keep your exercise at a level that is enjoyable and something you look forward to.
Learn When It’s OK to Exercise Check your blood sugar before and after exercising to learn your body’s response to exercise. Checking your blood sugar in this way can show you the benefits of activity. You also can use the results of your blood sugar checks to prevent it from going too low or too high. For example, if your blood sugar is high (above 300) before you exercise, physical activity can make it go even higher. In that case, you need to be cautious about doing something active.
A re Y ou at R isk for D iabetes? D id you know that nearly 57 million people are considered pre-diabetic? This means that the bodyes blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. V isit www.upmc.com/today and take our diabetes quiz to learn if you’re at risk.
4
www.UPMC.com/Today
Know Your Body’s Low Blood Sugar Symptoms Low blood sugar is called hypoglycemia. Symptoms include nervousness, sweating, intense hunger, trembling, weakness, palpitations, and trouble speaking. Low blood sugar can be brought on by physical activity. If you find that low blood glucose interferes with your exercise, have a snack before you exercise or adjust your medication. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you. If you are in the middle of exercising and your blood sugar becomes low, drink juice or chew glucose tablets. You also can drink a half-can of regular soft drink to raise your blood glucose. It’s a good idea to always have water, snacks, and juice on hand.
Wear Medical Identification For your safety, always wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace, or a medical ID tag, so people know you have diabetes. Finally, keep track of your progress. It can be very motivating to see where you were when you started on your exercise journey. When you compare that with where you are in a month, three months, and then six months, you will be impressed with how far you’ve come. For more health tips, visit www.upmchealthplan.com. Source: www.diabetes.org
Innovation at UPMC
Taking Control of My Life For years, Norma H ufnagel struggled to lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle. After several unsuccessful attempts, and facing a future of diabetes, worsening back pain, and even a liver transplant wthe result of a fatty, poorly functioning livery, M s. H ufnagel knew that she couldn’t win her weight loss battle alone. She needed help… and needed it fast. A Life-Changing Solution At the recommendation of her primary care physician, she attended a surgical weight loss seminar at UPMC St. Margaret. She knew that this wasn’t a quick fix — that she needed to commit to healthy lifestyle changes — but that it could give her the help she needed not only to lose weight, but also to save her life. It wasn’t long after this session that Ms. Hufnagel made one of the healthiest decisions of her life — to have gastric bypass surgery.
“This can truly be a lifechanging event with reversal or improvement of serious co-morbid conditions…” —
M ark Z el k o v ic, M D , F A C S
Shortly after her surgery, the pounds began to drop. More remarkably, medical tests confirmed that her liver was totally rej uvenated… only three short months after surgery. Over time, her back pain diminished, and blood tests showed no signs of diabetes. “This can truly be a life-changing event with reversal or
Weight Loss Surgery: Are You a Candidate?
improvement of serious co-morbid conditions and an improved quality of life,” says Mark Z elkovic, Mu , FACS, bariatric surgeon, who recently j oined the office of Pittsburgh Bariatrics at UPMC St. Margaret.
Winning Her Battle It’s been nearly three years since Robert Q uinlin, Mu , FACS, medical director of bariatric surgery, Pittsburgh Bariatrics at UPMC St. Margaret, performed gastric bypass on Ms. Hufnagel. Today, she stands 125 pounds lighter and remains passionate about helping others who are on their j ourney to weight loss and weight management. “It’s exciting because I continue to attend support group meetings and mentor others who are in various stages of their j ourney,” she says.
Maintaining her new lifestyle isn’t always easy, which is why she’s thankful for Pittsburgh Bariatrics’ comprehensive approach to weight loss. Through the support of an experienced team of dietitians, exercise physiologists, nurses, psychologists, and plastic surgeons, Ms. Hufnagel is confident in her ongoing success. “If a roadblock occurs, it’s reassuring to know that support is only a phone call away. I never feel alone,” she emphasizes. B ariatric surg e ry is p e rf orme d at UPMC S t. Marg are t, UPMC H oriz on , an d Mag e e -W ome n s H osp ital of UPMC. F or more in f ormation , call 1-800-533-UPMC or v isit w w w .up mc.com/ b ariatricsurg e ry .
Criteria for weight loss surgery are based on guidelines established by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and the National Institutes of Health. Candidates are usually 80 to 100 pounds over their ideal body weight or have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. You may also be a candidate if you have a BMI between 35 and 40 along with other serious co-morbid conditions, such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
1-800-533-UPMC
5
A Network of Hope and Help A concerned mother wanted help for her son, a college student who was struggling with addiction. From the moment re:solve Crisis Network’s mobile crisis team met with him, her son’s recovery began. A woman couldn’t share her feelings of despair with friends and family. She connected with re:solve Crisis Network and is now getting help, finding support from her loved ones, and has hope for her future. Crisis Services Close to Home These individuals were facing a crisis and they turned to re:solve Crisis Network for help. A partnership between Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC and Allegheny County, re:solve Crisis Network offers a unique combination of crisis services and comprehensive behavioral health services to residents of Allegheny County. Staffed by trained counselors, re:solve Crisis Network can help people through confidential telephone counseling, mobile crisis teams that travel anywhere in Allegheny County, or at re:solve Crisis Network’s center at 333 North Braddock Ave. near the North Point
Breeze section of Pittsburgh. re:solve Crisis Network provides flexible, effective services, offering safety, interventions, and an environment for recovery.
Hope and Help When You Need It re:solve Crisis Network began operation in July 2008 and since has received nearly 50,000 crisis calls and provided phone counseling to more than 19,800 people. The mobile crisis team has made over 7,600 mobile visits to 4,960 adults and 7,620 children. Their crisis experts have met community needs arising from situations such as the Stanton Heights police shooting, the LA Fitness shooting, and the Turtle Creek flooding, in addition to providing outreach to schools that have experienced tragedies. “re:solve Crisis Network has been built on the ability to understand and respond to the very unique and individual needs that we have as human beings and experience as crises in our lives. It’s important for people to understand that no matter what their situation is, how great or small, they don’t need to go it alone. There is always hope and help when you need it,” says Ellie Medved, RN, MSN, vice president, Ambulatory and Crisis Operations, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC.
Any Day, Any Time, for Any Reason 6
www.UPMC.com/Today
When Weight Loss Goes Too Far… There’s COPE Caitlyn* was ambitious and headed for success. It was no surprise that when Caitlyn dieted, she was obsessive about counting every calorie. Her exercise routine was excessive, even when she hadn’t eaten much. Caitlyn’s mood swings became apparent and she seemed anxious and irritable most of the time. Her parents called COPE and, after an assessment, Caitlyn was admitted to the inpatient unit. It’s taking time, but Caitlyn is beginning to enjoy life again. Caitlyn found the expertise and level of behavioral health and medical treatment she needed for her eating disorder at the Center for Overcoming Problem Eating (COPE) at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. With a full spectrum of services, including inpatient, outpatient, and intermediate levels of care, COPE provides comprehensive assessment and evidenceinformed treatment for individuals of all ages at any stage of an eating disorder. In addition to providing clinical care, COPE is involved in NIH-funded research studies designed to improve understanding and treatment of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. COPE specialists will answer questions, offer information, and help determine if referral to COPE would be beneficial. For more information, call 1-877-624-4100. * Cai t l yn i s a f i c t i on al p at i e n t w h o i s r e p r e s e n t at i v e of t h e t yp e s of s ym p t om s an d c on di t i on s t h at CO PE h an dl e s .
re:solve Crisis Network offers crisis services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, regardless of age, ability to pay, or history of using behavioral health services. The goal is to help resolve a crisis before it becomes a bigger crisis. Help is available any day, any time, for any reason. Contact the re:solve Crisis Network at 1-888-7-YOU CAN.
Welcoming New Physicians Please visit www.upmc.com/findadoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information about any of our physicians.
UPMC St. Margaret is pleased to welcome the following new physicians: Georges Al-Khoury, MD V as cul ar Surgery
Jennifer P. Johnson, MD P s ych iatry
Irina Scutaru, MD I n tern al M ed icin e
Sumana Bangalore, MD F am il y P ractice an d P ed iatrics
Lea Ann Lope, DO O p h th al m o l o gy
Alex Senchenkov, MD P l as tic Surgery
Donald T. Baril, MD V as cul ar Surgery
Frank A. Mino, MD R ad io l o gy
Brian W. Shippert, DO E m ergen cy M ed icin e
Aaron M. Brown, MD E m ergen cy M ed icin e
Lara Murphy, DPM P o d iatry
Jaspaal Singh, MD P h ys ical M ed icin e an d R eh ab il itatio n
Chris C. Cook, MD C ard io th o racic Surgery
Kevin T. Nguyen, MD, PhD G en eral Surgery
Bryan W. Tillman, MD V as cul ar Surgery
Daniel DeLo, MD R h eum ato l o gy
Christopher Passero, MD R en al M ed icin e
Lisa A. Weidner, MD A n es th es io l o gy
Jonathan Engh, MD N euro s urgery
Louis E. Penrod, MD P h ys ical M ed icin e an d R eh ab il itatio n
Albert B. Zajko, MD R ad io l o gy
Linda M. Farkas, MD G en eral Surgery
Leela V. Raju, MD O p h th al m o l o gy
Margarita Zuley, MD R ad io l o gy
Nathan T. Gilmore, MD E m ergen cy M ed icin e
John D. Sangl, MD E m ergen cy M ed icin e
What’s Happening at UPMC St. Margaret Classes
Support Groups
Event Spotlight
Car Seat Safety Program 412-784-5262 COPD Educational Sessions 412-784-5827 CPR/AED Training 412-784-5262 EMT Program 412-647-4674 Insulin Pump Class 1-866-334-5227 Look Good, Feel Better 1-800-227-2345 Managing Your Diabetes 1-866-334-5227 Paramedic Program 412-647-4674 Smoking Cessation Program 412-784-5043
Alzheimer’s Support Group 412-784-5054 Bariatric Support Group 412-784-5900 Diabetes Support Group 412-784-4194
St. Margaret Foundation Fitness Classic 5K Run/Walk Sunday, May 16, 8:30 a.m. Call 412-784-4205 for more information. Free Bicycle Rodeo Saturday, June 5, Noon to 2 p.m. UPMC St. Margaret Employee Parking Lot Helmet fittings, bike safety checks, and obstacle course.
Weight Loss Sessions and Support Group Free patient education sessions and support group meetings are held monthly at UPMC St. Margaret. Call 412-784-5900 to register. Visit w w w . u p m c . c om / b ar i at r i c s u r g e r y for more information about UPMC St. Margaret’s surgical weight loss program.
Volunteer Opportunities For information about volunteer opportunities at UPMC St. Margaret, call Volunteer Services at 412-784-4081.
F or m or e i n f or m at i on ab ou t an y of t h e c l as s e s or g r ou p s l i s t e d h e r e , c al l t h e n u m b e r i n di c at e d or c al l Com m u n i t y R e l at i on s at 412-784-5160.
1-800-533-UPMC
7
UPMC St. Margaret 815 Freeport Road Pittsburgh, PA 15215
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
As the region’s leading surgical weight loss experts, we’re pioneers in the field of transformation. We are leaders in restoring self-esteem and inspiring confidence. As a pioneer in using bariatric surgery to treat obesity and its related complications, we’ve seen many patients lose their weight and gain back their lives. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons work with dietitians, psychologists, and exercise specialists to develop your personalized weight loss plan. From evaluation to procedure to follow-up, we’ll be with you every step of the way. After all, we still enjoy seeing the most obvious change in our patients’ appearance – the smiles on their faces. To learn about bariatric surgery at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, UPMC St. Margaret and UPMC Horizon, visit UPMC.com. Visit UPMC.com or call us at 1-800-533-UPMC.
Wills, Durable Powers of Attorney and living Wills Great planning tools have been asked so many times, “Do I really need a will?” The answer is, regardless of your age, yes you do! If you are older and you want to make sure that you determine who gets your assets after death, you must have a will or the state will allocate your assets after you die pursuant to a statute, regardless of your verbal wishes before death. Dying without a will is known as dying “intestate”. Pennsylvania has its own intestate statute which determines the after death distribution of assets. It is really important that you have a will if you are a young parent because the will is generally used to determine the subsequent guardianship of your children. Without a will, the courts will decide who will be the guardians and it may not be what you would have chosen if you had a will. Another important aspect of a will, for younger or older parents, is the use of a trust. If you have young children, you certainly do not want them to have unfettered control over your estate, so you would form a trust within the will. In the trust, you get to describe who manages the trust (i.e., the “trustee”) and, most importantly, how the assets will be distributed. For example, you might not want a child to receive a significant portion of the trust until they are thirty (30) years old or older. This can be outlined in the trust. even if you have older children, a trust might be helpful. let’s face it, with a 50% divorce rate, sometimes you might want to keep the assets away from your children’s spouses. A trust us one way of accomplishing that goal as funds in trust are not part of the marital estate.
I
believe me, there are numerous reasons to have a will and it does not take much time with the attorney to draft one. Feel free to call me for a free initial consultation. It will be worth the peace of mind you will gain.
What is a Durable Power of Attorney? A durable power of attorney (DPA) is a document, in the form of a power of attorney, by which an individual (the “principal”) designates another person (the” agent”) to exercise certain powers for the principal in the case the principal is disabled or incapacitated and cannot act on their own. The document generally states that said power given to the agent becomes effective at a specific future time or occurrence of a specific event. If should be noted that all acts performed by the agent under the DPA have the exact same affect as if performed by the principal. Durable powers of attorney are generally used by elder children whose parents are in their golden ages. It is a great management tool for the family in case of illness. Feel free to call for further discussion or for the need and uses of a durable power of attorney.
living Will A living will is a legal document by which individuals, who are patients of a health care provider, give advance medical directives to the health care providers as to medical procedures in case certain conditions occur (i.e., debilitating illness or incapacity) that would not allow the patient to make immediate decisions regarding his or her own care. The advance directive can be very general or very narrow. Many of the directives relate to whether or not you would want your family to continue life support machines or the administration of certain drugs. The living will is a great planning tool for adults of any age. Feel free to contact me with any questions.
This I nd ust ry I nsigh t was written by Gusty A.E. Sunseri.
1 2 9 0 F reeport R oad • L IT IGAT IO N • P E R SO N AL IN J U R Y • DIV O R CE • BU SIN E SS L AW
• P it t sb urgh , P A 1 5 2 3 8 • R E • CO • CR • W
AL E N SU IM IN IL L S/
ST AT E M E R L AW AL E ST AT E S
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
Gusty is a graduate with University honors from Carnegie Mellon University, earning a B.S. Degree in Administrative Management Sciences and a B.S. Degree in Economics. Mr. Sunseri, who has 25 years experience in general legal practice, earned his Juris Doctor Degree from Catholic University. www.sunserilawfirm.com Feel free to contact me with any questions.
www.incommunitymagazines.com 3 7
by Jonathan Barnes
Gallery owner and Auberle Foundation board member Kathleen Miclot, a mother of three adult sons, has a tender heart for kids, thanks to her own boys. So when Miclot, a Fox Chapel resident, first visited Auberle’s McKeesport campus five years ago, a couple of little girls caught her eye. The two girls obviously were close friends, though one was more poised and confident, having been at the school for some time. The other child was a new resident and less confident, Miclot explained. “She had a hairstyle that covered half of her face,� Miclot recalled. “I thought, one day, she’ll move her hair out of her face. right now, she’s hiding.�
Kathleen Miclot, Auberle Foundation board member
3 8
724.942.0940 to advertise
That empathy for the child hooked Miclot into volunteering with the largest service provider for children in Allegheny County and Miclot became a member of Auberle’s board. These days, she chairs Auberle’s events committee, where she organizes fundraisers such as “Welcome to Auberle� meet-and-greets for potential donors and the foundation’s All Star banquet, held in April for the children. “It’s an opportunity to recognize the children’s accomplishments,� Miclot explained. The recognition of the youth’ progress is measured and praised daily by the dedicated people who work for the organization, such as Auberle Foundation supervisor Tim Kelly.
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Moving Forward Kelly likes to tell the story of one of the many that got away—former residents of the nonprofit’s youth-oriented programs who succeeded outside the program, that is. Young people like John ray, now flourishing on his own and living in Pittsburgh. ray was a 19-year-old who had been in foster care and in group homes since he was 13, but was close to being cut loose from agency involvement in his life. “I was about to be left to my own devices,� ray said. “Moving On gave me another two years of stability before stepping out on my own.� With the help of Auberle’s Moving On program for homeless young people, ray made the successful transition out of the program and into a job and an apartment of his own. Now 22, ray works for Allegheny County Department of human Services as a counselor, assisting youth who are in a position he was in just a few years ago. “he was [of] that population; now he is working with that population,� Kelly said of ray. With the young people who are helped by the Auberle Foundation, ray’s path is more typical than not. but the individual successes of the many young people benefiting from Auberle’s programs are a result of a group approach to teaching them that involves mentoring, life skills teaching, academic tutoring and close attention from the counselors and other professionals working with the youngsters. Sometimes the impact on those tender minds is profound, as it has been with ray, who chose social service as his profession.
The Moving On program is one of numerous youth-focused programs of the McKeesport-based Auberle Foundation Moving On works with young people ages 18 to 20 years old whose Children and Youth Services cases have been closed. The program is sort of a preparatory measure that helps the young men transition into productive lives on their own, rather than allowing them to simply try to fend for themselves without a little more help from caring adults. located in Duquesne, the Moving On program serves just 10 young men at a time. ray said he understands the importance of the work done with the young men in the program he was a part of, which is why he is a counselor. “I enjoy the work, because I understand the importance of it… It’s a little stressful helping others with their goals, but it’s taught me a lot,” ray said. “being on this side of it, where I’m the helper, you find that you know what’s best for someone, but you can’t always convince the person to agree with you.”
Achieving Goals Another of Auberle’s programs is the 22year-old GOAl program, which helps young men ages 16 to 21 with life skills, education goals, job goals and other life objectives. until two years ago, the GOAl program was a
satellite program of the nonprofit and had been housed in a house along beach Street in McKeesport. There, 10 young men were housed and educated through the GOAl program. Two years ago, Auberle Foundation built a new facility to house the GOAl program on the nonprofit’s campus near renziehausen Park in McKeesport. Prior to having the structure built, Auberle officials involved staff members who work in the GOAl program to provide their input regarding the design of the planned facility. The GOAl program residents also were involved in the design planning, said Charles Wade, program manager for GOAl. “It gave them a chance to claim ownership of the place,” Wade said. Now, up to 24 young men can live in the facility and 20 reside there now. The facility is staffed by three or four Auberle counselors at all times of the day and night. That level of adult attention doesn’t mean that the counselors are picking up after their young charges— they are not. Actually, life skills such as housecleaning are some of the lessons the young men in the GOAl program receive. each week, two of the residents of the GOAl house prepare all of the meals for themselves and the other 18 residents, meaning three meals per day, seven days per week. One of the residents also will have the task of cleaning the facility’s bathrooms, while another resident will have to clean the kitchen all week, and likewise with all of the other housekeeping tasks needed to be done to keep the GOAl house ship-shape. readers who are parents of teens might be shocked to know that these young men even do their own laundry. On the plus side, the youths live in a modern facility that includes a large living room with a flat screen television, a recreation room and a laundry room and other state-ofthe-art facilities. each of the residents has his own room, too. All of the young men in the GOAl program have court orders compelling them to be there. Prior to coming to Auberle, some of the GOAl residents were in the care of CYF, while others were previously at juvenile detention centers such as Glenn Mills, George Junior republic, Schuman Center and Newcastle Maximum Security. The young men all have similar goals of establishing themselves on their own in productive lives, Wade said. The innovative Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
effort recently was named the Allegheny County residential Program of the Year, said Annie Schultheis, spokesperson for Auberle. Part of the reason for the success of GOAl is the consistency that is provided by the adults working with the program’s residents, said Wade, who is also a pastor. “What I do here is more ministry than anything else… We treat a young person after we understand what made him wayward,” he said. Providing young people with consistent examples of living by values they stand for is part of what Wade and other staff members of GOAl teach their young mentees, Wade noted. “I pride myself in telling a kid ‘You’re talking to somebody who will never lie to you… I’m not here to make friends, I’m here to improve the quality of your life,’” he said. Teaching practical, daily skills such as housekeeping or even how to tie a tie is another aspect of the work. each resident has an Individual Service Plan that sets him on a course toward independent living and full employment. A resident’s progress is charted by staff members from week to week. Quarterly reports on a youth’s progress are provided to the court. Staff members dealing with the residents include counselors, who work with the young men on daily shifts. Specialists are staffers who interact with the resident’s probation officer and caseworker. each resident also receives help from a therapist, who meets regularly with the resident. All of these professionals are involved in the weekly meetings tracking the resident’s progress. Depending upon the progress of the youth, he might need to stay with Auberle a few months longer than anticipated in order to achieve his goals, Kelly said. “Our main goal is never to assume a kid should know [something], but to teach him those things he should know,” he said. Part of the job of the youth-focused professionals also is providing a positive and consistent approach to dealing with the youngsters, Kelly added. “A lot of these kids have never been told, ‘Good job,’” he said. Auberle officials are hoping to start a program similar to GOAl for girls in the future, though plans for such a girls-centered program are not set. “We have kids who are 16, 17, and 18 years old who can’t read or tell time,” Wade said. “We’ve actually put several kids in college… We try to get them prepared to step out on their own.” For more information on the Auberle Foundation, visit the group’s website at www.auberle.org.
www.incommunitymagazines.com 3 9
It is not a luxury to be transported safely and promptly. Given the types of issues people face when travelling, hiring a limousine is a service that many are willing to pay for to insure that their plans for travel are not derailed. All of those external factors such as parking, safety, negotiating an airport, even the stress of driving, can be eliminated by hiring a car and driver. What should people look for when hiring a limousine service? There are several factors you want to ask for when hiring a driver. Ask about the driver- If you are a new customer, it is always good to know about the person who will be driving your car. Do they have clearances? Can they speak english? Did they pass a drug screen? At A limousine Service, we hand pick our drivers. They have all had license and airport security clearances, are drug tested, and are put through an extensive training program to insure that our customers are well taken care of while in our care. A limousine Service drivers arrive at your location dressed professionally and will be able to communicate with you in english.
A Limousine Service
We get you there safely and reliably. 30 Prager Street Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.782.5466 1.800.241.5466 412.782.2013 fax 4 0
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
What types of cars are in the Fleet? I definitely recommend asking about the type of vehicle in which you will be transported. The fleet at A limousine Service is rotated every 36 months. We do this because our customers expect to be transported in top of the line, new vehicles. Our vehicles are cleaned daily and maintained. How long has the company been in business? Find a reputable company. One who has been in business long enough to know how to get you where you need to be promptly. At A limousine Service, we have been transporting people for over 25 years. We have garaged our fleet at the same Sharpsburg address for 25 years. Ask aroundresidents who live in the Fox Chapel Area know us. That’s an important feature. We are successful because of our reputation in providing prompt, friendly service in clean, new cars. How should I find a limo service out of town? reputable services will arrange for your transportation, even if you are traveling out of town. A limousine Service has an extensive network of companies that we work with in all fifty states to provide you with a simple way to secure transportation when you travel to other cities. We make it easy for our customers with door to door service. From their front door to the airport to their destination and back home again, we can handle everything with one transaction. What about my personal security? Security is in the forefront of many travelers’ minds today. A reputable service will let you know that all of their drivers have security clearances. We take security very seriously at A limousine Service. Our clients have included high level security officials that participated in the G-20 Summit, actors working on a movie and many corporate travelers. With our service, clients are offered the security and safety of a curb side drop off and prompt pick up. Your safety and schedule are of the utmost concern to us. With A limousine Service, you can be assured that you will be taken care of from start to finish. How Do I Arrange Transportation? Find a reputable company who is there twenty four hours a day, seven days a week (even holidays). This will give you an indication that when you need service, you can be sure you will get transportation promptly, when you need it. Take the time to research your transportation options. Find a reputable company who can provide you with a driver who is professional and prompt. Knowing that you will be transported safely and reliably will make your trip much more enjoyable!
This I nd ust ry I nsigh t was written by Gary L Arndt. Gary is President of A Limousine Service, located in Sharpsburg, PA. He and his wife Lenita have been transporting government officials, those involved with the acting industry, and corporate clients for over 25 years. They pride themselves on their distinctive customer service and wide range of vehicles to suit their customers’ needs. You can reach A Limousine Service at 800.241.5466 or 412.782.5466.
ANDREW LEO Hair Salon
5416 Walnut Street Mineo Bldg. 2nd Floor Shadyside
412.683.6668 Hair • • • • •
Cutting Styling Coloring Relaxing Treatment
Kerastase Retail Products
The CrOSS KeYS INN
Hair Salon
We apologize to Candace Urrichio for the misprint in the last edition. The corrected recipe follows.
2 Cup Graham Cracker Crumbs 2/3 Cup Sugar ½ Cup unsalted butter (melted) Pinch Salt ½ Tsp. Cinnamon
Candied Pecan Pumpkin Cheese Cake
Candied Pecans
Yields 9-inch Cheese Cake bake: 400° oven for 10 min, reduce to 250° for 2 ½ hours 9-inch Spring Form Pan Individual Cheese Cakes bake 250° for 60 minutes
Cheese Cake Batter 2 lbs. Cream Cheese 1 2/3 Cup Sugar 14 oz. Pumpkin Puree 5 eggs 4 egg Yolks 1 Tsp. Cinnamon ½ Tsp. Ginger Ÿ Tsp. Clove Pinch Nutmeg
to combine. On low speed add eggs and yolks slowly. Once eggs are added and incorporated turn mixer to medium speed and beat for 10 seconds to mix batter thoroughly. Do not overmix. Pour batter into prepared 9-inch pan and bake for 10 minutes at 400°, reduce heat to 250° and bake for approximately 2 ½ hours more until cheesecake has a slight wobble, yet is dry to the touch of a finger to the surface of the cake. Cool cheesecake completely before unmolding from pan and serving.
Crumb Crust
3 cups of Pecans (chopped) 2 egg Whites ½ Cup Sugar Pinch Salt Preheat oven to 400°
Crumb Crust: In a small bowl, combine crumb crust ingredients. Mix to blend. butter a 9-inch spring form pan, press crumb mixture firmly into bottom of pan, set aside.
Cheese Cake Batter: In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the cream cheese and sugar. With the paddle attachment on low speed, beat together until creamy and smooth, scraping down sides and bottom of bowl a couple of times to eliminate lumps. Add pumpkin, spices and salt, mix
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
Candied Pecans: In a bowl, toss all ingredients. Spread mixture evenly and thinly on a parchment lined sheet tray and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. When nuts have cooled, crumble and store in an airtight container until ready to serve cheesecake. To Serve: unmold cheesecake and garnish.
www.incommunitymagazines.com 4 1
MU
N
I CI P A
L I T I E S
blawnox Aspinwall Chamber of Commerce Meeting - 8 a.m. Third Wednesday of each month Planning / Zoning Meeting - 7 p.m. Fourth Wednesday of each month
Aspinwall borough Manager: ed Warchol Administration: Georgene Veltri, Dawn Celendar building/Zoning Inspector: ed Crates Public Works Foreman/Fire Chief: lee Albacker
FIREMEN’S MEMORIAL PARK Firemen’s Memorial Park located at the end of Ninth Street , has a public shelter for rent. The rental fee is $50 (subject to change) and non-refundable. The park is available April 15th thru October 15th. Alcohol permits are available. rentals are first come first served to borough residents only. Stop in the borough office Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or call 412.781.0213 to check on availability.
POLICE Chief of Police: John Sabol DIAl 9-1-1 FOr eMerGeNCY POlICe DePArTMeNT Non-emergency: 412.781.3568 FIRE Aspinwall Volunteer Fire Department Inc. 217 Commercial Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15215 2.24 miles from blAWNOx, PA 15238 412.781.0447 For information on becoming a volunteer firefighter call the non-emergency number at the First Street Station at 412.781.0447 Foxwall eMS - 412.963.6611 real estate Tax - Georgene Veltri 412.781.0213 earned Income - Joint Tax Collection Agency 412.967.9680
724.942.0940 to advertise
Manager: Sherry A. Kordas POlICe: DIAl 9-1-1 FOr eMerGeNCY POlICe DePArTMeNT business hours non-emergency phone: 412.828.4149 FIre DePArTMeNT: blawnox VFD 378 Freeport rd Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412.828.6380
ASPINWALL CIVIC ASSOCIATION December 28: Aspinwall’s 117th birthda /birthday cake at the borough building. Stop in and have a piece. Note: everything is subject to change without notice due to weather or other unforeseen situations.
Meetings at the Municipal building on Commercial Avenue Agenda Meeting - 6:30 p.m. First Wednesday of each month Council Meeting - 7 p.m. Second Wednesday of each month
4 2
Township blawnox 376 Freeport road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 Phone: 412.828.4141 Fax: 412.828.7138 blawnox@choiceonemail.com
Blawnox
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Indiana Township 3710 Saxonburg blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15238-1068 Phone: 412.767.5333 e-mail: admin@indianatownship.com hours of operation: M-F 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays EMERGENCY SERVICES DIRECTORY POLICE DIAl 9-1-1 FOr eMerGeNCY POlICe DePArTMeNT 3710 Saxonburgh blvd. Pittsburgh PA 15238-1068 Non-emergency 412.767.5333, ext. 15 FIRE DOrSeYVIlle VOl FIre DePT Chief Noel bongartz 100 Charles Street Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412.767.4343 412.767.9977 MIDDle rOAD VOl FIre DePT Chief Mike Dolegowski 2034 Middle road Glenshaw, PA 15116 412.486.6365 Fax: 412.487.1815 e-mail: middleroadvfd@yahoo.com
rurAl rIDGe VOl FIre DePT Chief bob ben 135 little Deer Creek road P. O. box 58 rural ridge, PA 15075 724.265.4000 Fax: 724.265.4077 e-mail: ruralridge175@nauticom.net AMBULANCE SeNeCA e.M.S. 1885 Main Street Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.781.8596 412.767.4343 lOWer VAlleY 1201 Freeport road P. O. box 13 Cheswick, PA 15024 emergency: 724.274.4499 business: 724.274.4155 eArNeD INCOMe (WAGe) TAx COlleCTOr: Joint Tax Collection Agency: 412.767.4027 reAl eSTATe TAx COlleCTOr: Phyllis Will: 412.486.5559
borough of Fox Chapel 401 Fox Chapel road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412.963.1100 Office 412.963.1819 Fax 412.963.7220 Police (office/non-emergency) 412.963.1854 Police Fax foxchap@fox-chapel.pa.us Manager: Gary Koehler The borough Office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
POLICE The Fox Chapel borough Police Department consists of the Chief, two Sergeants and eight patrolmen. DIAl 9-1-1 FOr eMerGeNCY POlICe DePArTMeNT Non-emergency: 412.963.7220. David M. laux, Police Chief FIRE Fox Chapel Fire Department 401 Fox Chapel road Fox Chapel, PA 15238 Non-emergency Calls 412.963.1100
Fox Chapel Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 4 3
MU
N
I CI P A
L I T I E S
Township of Sharpsburg 1611 Main Street Pittsburgh, PA 15215 Phone: 412.781.0546 Fax: 412.781.8449 MANAGer: ron borczyk POLICE DIAl 9-1-1 FOr eMerGeNCY POlICe DePArTMeNT business hours non-emergency phone: 412.486.3201
Firemen’s Memorial Park, Aspinwall
FIRE Sharpsburg VFD 1611 Main Street Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.781.1116 etna VFD 437 butler Street Pittsburgh, PA 15223 412.781.1155
Township of O'hara 325 Fox Chapel road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 Phone: 412.782.1400 Fax: 412.782.4530 www.ohara.pa.us MANAGer: Julie A. Jakubec, CPA e-mail: jjakubec@ohara.pa.us POLICE DIAl 9-1-1 FOr eMerGeNCY POlICe DePArTMeNT business-hours non-emergency number: 412.782.1403 After-hours non-emergency number: 412.486.3201 FIRE Guyasuta VFD 1341 Old Freeport road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412.963.7577 Parkview VFD 726 Midway Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.781.1220 4 4
724.942.0940 to advertise
Township of O’Hara Pleasant Valley VFD 152 Kittanning Pike Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.781.8108 MuNICIPAl MeeTINGS: Township Council – regular: Second Tuesday 7 p.m. Township Council – Workshop: First Tuesday 7 p.m. Second Tuesday following the regular meeting 7 p.m. | IN Fox Chapel Area
PlANNING COMMISSION: Third Monday 7:30 p.m. PArKS/reCreATION COMMISSION: Fourth Wednesday 7:30 p.m. Civil Service Commission: First Monday 7 p.m. Zoning hearing board: First Monday 7:30 p.m.
SPRING
2010
l Winn er is... a d e M The 2010 Caldecott Medal winner 0 1 20 is T he L i on & t he M ou s e, illustrated e h and written by Jerry Pinkney (Little, T Brown and Company Books for
Hey kids- swing
by the library to check out the new Caldec ott Medal Winner! The Caldecott M edal was named in hono r of nineteenth century English illus Randolph Caldec trator ott. It is awarded annual ly by the Association for Libr to Children, a di ary Service vision of the American Librar y Association, to the artist of the most distinguished Am erican picture book for childre n.
MUN
E
AZIN
ITY
ap Inf el orm Ar ea ati on Co Sc mmho on Blo ol the I n un Dis om F ity tr G Ch
Spri ng
201 0
COM
MAG
ox Ch ap el Are a
Young Readers). The screech of an owl, the squeak of a mouse and the roar of a lion transport readers to the Serengeti plains for this virtually wordless retelling of Aesop’s classic fable. In glowing colors, Pinkney’s textured watercolor illustrations masterfully portray the relationship between two very unlikely friends.
on the go...
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 4 5
Provided by Mrs. Becky Sonnenberg, Art Teacher at FCASD
4 6
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
1 . L 2 . G 3 . G 4 . B 5 . B
ab rad or R et riever erm an Sh eph ard old en R et riever ox er ulld og
Oi nkment
Because Robin at e all the worms!
Because he swep t in!
The outside!
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 4 7
Dedicated to the Fine Art of Living Within the Community
hosting a Party Where to have Your Party
by Marybeth Jeffries ave a reason to celebrate? how fabulous! Party planning may seem a little daunting, but with the right organization, you are on your way to a fun and entertaining time for you and your guests. The “how to” starts with a software program or a good oldfashioned notebook. For my purposes, I always rely on a software program that will list and locate all of my contacts for a guest list, required vendors, and a place to establish a timeline leading up to the party.
h
establish a Goal and Theme To make your party a success, you will need to establish what the goal for the party will be. Try to think about this in terms of who the guest of honor is and how to best make him or her happy. Generally, a theme for the party should be established. This will make your job so much easier! For a graduation party, you might want to plan the party around your graduate’s favorite activity. If those themes don’t work, then create one! I love island-themed parties; guests dress in their favorite resort wear and drink tropical drinks to the sounds of a steel drum band.
Timeline Once you have established a theme, get busy with a timeline. Figure out when you want to host your party and work backwards, noting when to order food, send invitations, and rSVP dates. Now you have some deadlines to work with and can keep your cool because you’re so organized.
Decide if You Need help You’ll want to decide early in the process whether you will require help in the planning or execution of your party. For those who decide that they don’t want the work of planning their own party, a full-service event planner can handle all of the details including what foods to suggest, hiring service staff, coordination of rentals, and decorations to make your party special. Other planners may decide that all they need is one person to run your kitchen while you are attending to guests. Many times a family member or close friend will step in to take over the kitchen. You’ll want to enlist the help of family and friends, or hire an event planner as soon as possible.
4 8
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
There are many places to host a great party. Most people choose their homes, and are able to set up their backyard, garage, or deck to accommodate their guests. There are other really great choices if you simply don’t have enough room to handle a large crowd. Check out local fire or church halls, hotels or parks located in your municipality. hosting your party at home can be done easily with the right setup. Party rental houses can rent tables and chairs, a dance floor, as well as tents and lighting to create the perfect atmosphere. Also, it is always a good idea to have a rain plan. I always count on it raining in Southwestern Pennsylvania in late spring or early summer! If you get lucky, you’ll have a beautiful day and if it rains, you’ll be prepared with a tent to keep everyone dry!
Day of the Party Once the basic plan is in place, you can cut down on your “day of party” stress by taking care of the party preparation ahead of time. “Make-ahead” food items will cut down on your time away from guests, so try to give that some additional thought when planning your menu and drink selections. Most rental companies will deliver your party items the day before the party to give you time to set up. Arrange a beverage station where guests can help themselves to cans of soda or premade punches. A good caterer will help you choose foods that don’t require a lot of extra handling and will remain delicious throughout the party! Placing trash receptacles in places where guests can dispose of paper products will help cut down on your after-party cleanup. This gives you the time to meet all of your guests and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Once your party has started, you can enjoy spending time with your guests and seeing the results of all of your hard work. Party planning doesn’t have to be a chore. If you stay organized, you may actually enjoy the process.
Marybeth Jeffries has been planning corporate and social events for over 20 years. www.alleghenymedia-events.com
Summer
Science
W
Are you having a fund raising event?
e lov e parties! Send us the information and w e' ll d o our b est to get your organiz ation some w ell-d eserv ed recognition. P lease send information to maryb eth@ incommunity magaz ines. com
Camps!
Take a walk on the science side! Go on a science-filled adventure with Summer Science Camps at Carnegie Science Center! Unearth science mysteries, discover the binary brilliance of robots, fly high with roller coaster science, build a bridge, and more. For the full list of available camps, visit our website. Call 412.237.1637 to register!
CarnegieScienceCenter.org One Allegheny Avenue | Across from Heinz Field | 412.237.3400
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 4 9
They Say Dulce (duel-say) Oh So Sweet!
by Chris A. Weber
ome people tend to their gardens after a long day at work. Others escape to their garages to work on classic cars or seek the sanctuary of their basements to paint or write the next great American novel. Josephine and Gaston Oria prefer to stand on their feet until two in the morning, tethered to a pair of large copper kettles heated to 220 degrees Fahrenheit … stirring, always stirring. From the commercial-grade kitchen that used to be the dining room in their O’hara Township home, the small business owners alternate nights on duty to pursue their collective dream. For five hours, they patiently blend together raw milk, sugar and real Madagascar vanilla bean until it becomes a thick, lightly sweet concoction known as Dulce de leche. The dark amber spread (pronounced “Duel-say, day leh-chay”), which is similar to caramel but without the overwhelming stickiness or intense sweetness, was invented nearly 200 years ago in Argentina. Today, it is popular throughout South America and used on everything from ice cream to toast. Thanks to the Orias and their company, la Dorita, llC, that popularity is now reaching the palates of Pittsburghers and beyond. “This is our dream, to start our own family company,” said Josephine, the chief financial officer of Med health Services in Monroeville and a mother of four boys, ages two to six. Named in honor of Josephine’s 90-yearold grandmother, Maria Dora Germain, la Dorita began last year after two years of urging by Josephine’s friends and family, who enjoyed her homemade birthday cakes and accompanying Dulce de leche spread.
S
5 0
724.942.0940 to advertise
After months of testing to nail down the perfect consistency with the right combination of ingredients (not surprisingly, the Orias do not discuss their production techniques), Josephine took a case of their product to the Phipps Conservatory’s farmers’ market, unsure of what to expect. She ended up selling more than 20 12-oz. jars … in the pouring rain. “I was so excited I called Gaston and said, ‘We got something here!’” she recalled. Today, la Dorita (www.ladorita.net) can now be found in local Giant eagle Market District stores, Whole Foods locations and McGinnis Sisters stores. They even have a lively following on Facebook. “We get significant reorders from the markets, which is huge,” said Josephine, who was born in Argentina before moving with her family to the Fox Chapel area as a baby. “We have repeat customers on the Web from Vermont, Colorado and Maryland, too.”
As for the people in Pittsburgh … “We do presentations at the markets, and I just ask them to try it. Once they do that, it sells itself,” said Gaston, a senior credit analyst for PPG Industries by day who was born and raised in Argentina. “It’s a great feeling to build a product from scratch that people enjoy.” but the Orias’ local efforts go beyond Pittsburgh consumers. The couple also gets their milk directly from the happy holstein
| IN Fox Chapel Area
cows at le-Ara Farms, a family owned dairy facility in Worthington, PA, in Armstrong County. both the Orias and the farm are members of the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA). back in the kitchen, the Orias admitted they have not spent hours manually stirring the milk as they once did. Since purchasing their new automated cauldrons in October, things have become a bit more efficient. but that does not mean making Dulce de leche is easy. Automated or not, each batch (7 gallons equals 32 12-oz. jars) requires a commitment in time. There is no walking away from the kettles, no extended breaks of any sort. To do so would jeopardize the consistency and quality of the spread. If it is neglected for only a few moments, the product – which is 98 percent milk and two percent sugar with no glucose or artificial thickeners – will crystallize. Starting a batch means five hours of diligence. but the result is a versatile and delicious alternative to traditional American syrups. And while most people think of Dulce de leche as a perfect complement to ice cream or waffles – which it is – Josephine offered even more daring ideas. “I recently made Dulce de leche Martinis using boyd & blair potato vodka,” she said. “It’s creamy and tastes like a White russian. I’ve also made chocolate cannoli with Mascarpone cheese and Dulce de leche. It’s also wonderful with brie cheese and as a dip with fruit. “With this jar, you can let your imagine go. You can be a gourmet with just about anything.”
Stick With It advice not just for your kids he rumor of defaulting government bonds sends foreign markets down. Two months with no rise in the S&P 500 Index creates worry about another drop in big-company stock prices. China’s rapid growth hints at a new bubble. even after a recovery from the financial-market plunge that started in 2008, you still have an uneasy feeling about what’s around the corner. but let’s step back and consider the situation in the perspective of time. Prices in any open, public market fluctuate over time as a result of new information, changed conditions, the proportion of buyers to sellers, investor attitudes and emotions, and other factors. Stock prices go up and down every day. That’s what they do in the market. When they fluctuate wildly, they are said to be volatile (from latin volare, to fly). Price volatility itself is a negative risk factor for any investment, no doubt about it. Consider the long-term record. Since 1926, the S&P 500 Index, a proxy for all large-company stocks, has returned an average of 9.8% a year; bonds (the Aggregate bond Index) about 5.4% a year; and money market accounts (a cash equivalent) less than 4% a year, or almost nothing once average inflation of roughly 3% has taken its cut. As we know from recent experience, the u.S. stock market has experienced fearful volatility at various times, and not just during the Great Depression. The S&P 500 Index plummeted in the fourth quarter of 2008, closing down 38.5% for the year, then lost another 20% by early the following March.
T
but returns for the S&P 500 Index have been positive in 44 of the years since 1950. And 22 of those years produced returns in excess of 20%, while negative returns exceeded 20% in only three years (1974, 2002, and 2008). unsurprisingly, what troubles many investors now is that they often expect that present experience will continue, that bull markets will continue rising and bear markets will continue sinking. history suggests otherwise. Consider what has happened after protracted stock-market slumps in the past—again taking the S&P 500 Index as representative of bigcompany stocks in general. before the 10-year period ended December 31, 2008, with its negative 1.38% return for the period, the four 10-year periods with the worst results were those ended December 31 in 1937, 1939, and 1974. returns for those 10-year periods ranged from a minus 0.89% to a positive 1.22%, an average of about zero. each of the 10-year periods that followed, however, produced more-typical, healthy positive returns, between better than 7% a year to nearly 15%. This broad historical tendency of reversion to the mean (loosely, a return to historical averages) is a positive indicator for the stock market in the decade ahead. There are other positive signs. Among them are global economic developments such as numbers of market economies, increasing communications and trade, economic growth, growing middle classes, and increasing wealth. Positives include, too, the likely economic effects of new technologies and the increasing pace of innovation. If one believes that well-run companies will benefit from these developments, then it is reasonable to expect that stocks will not only protect against the ravages of inflation, but provide positive real returns. The lesson? Time is on your side. but only if you are broadly diversified (the S&P Index includes 500 stocks, remember, and stocks are but one type of asset). And only if you’re invested for the long term. Need that money next month, or next year? It doesn’t belong in stocks. Time is against you if you hold only a few stocks or your objectives are short-term. The previous information is for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to reflect specific investments or investment styles. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Allegheny Investments, Member FINrA/SIPC
This I nd ust ry I nsigh t was written by David Jeter CFP®. David is a Senior Vice President with Allegheny Financial Group. As a member of the executive team, David helps guide Allegheny’s Marketing and Practice Management initiatives. As a practitioner, David provides comprehensive planning and investment management advice for individuals and families. Allegheny Financial Group is a Pittsburgh based financial planning firm that has been providing advice to clients since 1976. For questions or comments contact David at: 811 Camp Horne Road Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.536.8012 djeter@alleghenyfinancial.com www.alleghenyfinancial.com Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 5 1
HOW WOULD You DES C R I BE You r F I NANC I A L P I C T U R E ?
If you don’t like how your picture looks, then contact us. We’ll help improve it with unbiased insight.
Visit alleghenyfinancial.com or call 866-620-6760.
And improve your picture. Securities offered through Allegheny Investments. Member FINRA SIPC.
Do you know someone who is doing something good for the community? May b e it' s y our Mom — does she v ol unteer w ith a charitab l e organiz ation? H as y our chil d v ol unteered their tim e som ew here? W e w ant to k now ab out it and honor their com m itm ent! E m ail m ary b eth@ incom m unity m agaz ines.com w ith y our story . (We love photos!)
5 2
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Sunrooms, Patios & Porches in April? You better believe it! n spite of all the snow and ice this year, winter is finally over! We’ve made it through March, and spring is about to blossom. It’s time to look past the barren trees and dreary skies, and see visions of enjoyable sunrooms, patios and porches. Why not start now to create yours with style and comfort!
I
before you get too far, think about the space itself. Does it have a natural focal point such as a great view of the outdoors, a fireplace, or perhaps the perfect spot for a television? Are you using your space for dining and entertaining as well as relaxing with your family? Just as we do inside, it’s usually best to arrange furniture in conversational groupings, perhaps creating an l-shape or u-shape arrangement with sofas and chairs. And keep seats close enough to invite conversation – too far apart and you’ll feel that you have to shout!
Sun and light are big considerations in designing your sunroom or outdoor spaces. Will you have issues with sun control, heat, glare or visual privacy? If not, you may want to leave the windows untreated and enjoy the maximum light and view. Otherwise, order window blinds in one of the many styles that provide functionality and flexibility while adding softness and style to your room. Consider a fresh outdoor color palette. While you generally want the style and color scheme to flow with the house as a whole, you might try colors that are either bolder or more relaxed than you would use inside. Incorporate the colors with today’s outdoor fabrics that are resistant to fading, staining and mildew. Fabric designers have done a fantastic job of using technology to create outdoor fabrics that are soft, textured, and woven in beautiful colors and patterns, yet practical and weather resistant. Also thanks to technology, outdoor furnishings are not what they used to be. Choose stylish and comfortable furniture made with treated wood or an aluminum core, and a wicker or bamboo finish. Manmade materials today are far more weather resistant than natural products. Additionally, incorporate other furnishings such as area rugs, carpet, table and floor lamps that are also designed to withstand outdoor use. Finally, infuse your space with life and energy by adding potted flowers and trees. Try an up-light for trees to create a dramatic look in the evening, or bunch several pots together on your coffee table. And please, get rid of those poinsettias from the holidays! Spring flowers and plants are beautiful, fragrant, and uplifting. Start now to update your outdoor spaces and you’ll be ready for that first cookout over Memorial Day weekend!
This I nd ust ry I nsigh t was written by Cathy Davin of Davin Interiors LLC. Davin Interiors LLC is a full-service design firm dedicated to bringing style and comfort to your home. Please contact us at 412.221.5770, or visit us on the web at www.davininteriors.com.
!! Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 5 3
Adult Programs For more information send an email to lawestref@einetwork.net or call the reference Dept. at 412-828-9520 ext.15.
Lauri Ann West Memorial Library 1220 Powers Run Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 Phone: 412-828-9520 Fax: 412-828-4960 Email: lawestref@einetwork.net www.lauriannwestlibrary.org
Children’s Programs registration required for Children’s Programs. Call 412-828-9520 ext. 18. Toddler Story Times – This story time features songs, stories, rhymes, counting and music for children ages 24-36 months. Mondays or Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. from January 11th – May. Preschool Story Times – This story time includes a simple hands-on activity for children ages 3, 4 and 5 years old. Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. or Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. from January 12th – May. Baby Lap-sit – Miss Christine shares finger plays, songs, books and rhymes with children ages 12-24 months. Fridays at 10:30 a.m. from January 15th – May. Summer Reading Program – read through the summer months and earn raffle tickets for a chance to win a prize. registration begins the first week of June. register in person at the library.
Special Programs: Just for Kids Book Club Third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Puppets and Peanut Butter for toddlers & preschoolers Tuesday, April 13th at 11:00 a.m. Earth Day Celebration for ages 4 and up Saturday, April 24th at 11:00 a.m. Hand-made by Me: Create Special Gifts for Mom & Dad for ages 5 and up Wednesday, May 5th at 4:00 p.m. For Teens: Celebrate earth Day on Thursday, April 22 at 6:30 pm. For more information, call 412-828-9520 ext. 10.
5 4
724.942.0940 to advertise
Summer reading Program enter to win a prize in the summer reading program. You only need to read four books during the summer to qualify. beginning in early June, sign up online by going to the library’s web page at www.lauriannwestlibrary.org, or visit the library reference department.
Walking Program A walking program for those over fifty is being planned at the library beginning in May. The program is called Wise Walk and includes free programs about health and fitness. Those who sign up early are eligible for free gifts. No commitment to a time or a place to walk is required and walkers participate whenever they want and how much they want.
Love the Library FuNDrAISer hONOrS MAYOr hArrY MClAuGhlIN ox Chapel Mayor harry W. Mclaughlin, Jr., will be honored at lauri Ann West Memorial library’s fundraising gala at the Pittsburgh Field Club on Thursday, April 29th, at 6:30 p.m. The name of the event is love the library which is hoped to become an annual event and subtitled We’re Just Wild about harry in honor of harry Mclaughlin who is the board president of the Community Center and library Association which operates the library. Tickets to the event are $75.00 which includes a sit-down dinner. Tickets can be purchased through the library’s website at www.lauriannwestlibrary.org or by sending a check to lauri Ann West Memorial library 1220 Powers run rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15238. Please help support the library by attending this memorable evening.
F
Computer Classes
book Discussion Groups
The library offers classes on Microsoft Word, excel and PowerPoint, basic Digital Photography and beginning computer classes year round. Contact the reference department at the library or go to the library website for more information.
Our booked for lunch group meets the second Friday of each month at 12:00 p.m. Our evening book Discussion Group meets the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 pm. both groups read and discuss general fiction and non-fiction. New members are welcome.
TIPS ON MAINTAINING YOUR HARDWOOD FLOORS Sweep wood floors often with a soft, fine
Never drag furniture or other objects
bristle broom. Vacuum once or twice a week to remove dirt and sand. use a soft brush attachment to minimize scratching. Since water is one of a wood floor’s worst enemies, get rid of water right away! remove wet spills ASAP with soft towels or a wet/dry vacuum, then dry thoroughly. use a very dry damp mop when mopping polyurethaned wood floors, since excess water can seep into seams and ruin a wood floor. Consider using carpet runners (with nonskid pads) over wood floors in high traffic areas. Vacuum area rugs and runners often so dirt doesn’t filter down through the weave and scratch the wood underneath. If possible, do not wear heavy shoes or high heels on hardwood floors, as some heels can cause dents.
across a wood floor. Instead, clean the floor thoroughly to remove dust and grit, then use “gliding” furniture pads underneath the piece to aid sliding it across the floor. Install floor mats at each entrance so you don’t track in dirt from the bottoms of shoes. be sure to follow manufacturer recommendations to treat flooring scratches and dents. If an area of the finish is damaged by water, it may be difficult to fix it. use furniture pads to place under table and chair legs and on the feet of dressers and armoires. They can be purchased at a local hardware store or home center. Some floors may require periodic waxing and buffing. Get recommendations from the manufacturer for the specific procedures for your floor.
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Flooring a Key Design Element ecent trends in housing indicate that many consumers today, even those choosing to downsize, are using unique design elements in their homes. Often focusing on more energy efficient, eco-friendly materials and natural wood and stone products, consumers are choosing products for their durability as well as their beauty. recently, interior designers have turned their attention in a big way to an element that has often been overlooked in designing a home – the flooring. Flooring is very important to the overall design scheme of the home, setting the mood for whatever you are trying to achieve visually. One of the largest and most visible surfaces in a home, designers are focusing on the basics such as the functionality of the area, the durability needed as well as the aesthetic feeling that they are trying to create when deciding on flooring. The options for fashionable floors are endless: acid-stained concrete, vintage hardwoods, ceramics, porcelains, and high tech environmentally-friendly laminates in an array of textures and colors just to name a few. hardwood continues to be a popular choice for consumers; however discriminating buyers are turning to other wood floors for their sustainability and beauty. For instance, eco-friendly bamboo wood flooring, similar in durability to the commonly used maple hardwood flooring, has become a popular choice. The heating process used to process the bamboo enables manufacturers to create a variety of colors and finishes. In the process, the longer the bamboo is heated,
r
Preferred Realty Independently Owned and Operated.
Welcome to Fox Chapel’s best kept secret, The Gardens at Fox Hall. This maintenance-free, gated community offers 11 single family home sites surrounded by lush gardens, patios and courtyards.
“Through the Gates... A Luxurious Garden Community Awaits” Preferred New Construction: Fox Chapel Area
Directions: Fox Chapel Road to Squaw Run
Road to a Right on Dorseyville Road to the first Left turn into Fox Hall. Proceed past the villages of Fox Hall to the gated entrance of The Gardens.
Fox Chapel Office 412.782.3700 Lynn Niman 412.719.6048 Jane Moffet 412.973.9509
www.TheGardensAtFoxHall.com
the darker the material becomes and at the same time, the material becomes softer. bamboo, not really a tree but rather a grass, is easy to replenish as the rhizomes remain in the ground after harvest and will quickly grow back, making it a very eco-friendly alternative to commonly used hardwoods and oaks. usually less costly than conventional hardwood flooring, bamboo can be installed over many types of subflooring, can be nailed, glued, or floated and is significantly more fire resistant. Consumers who choose to have the beauty of authentic wood flooring, are now turning to more exotic woods for not only their beauty, but also for their durability. For example, for the wood flooring in the Country French inspired home in the Gardens at Fox hall, builder Jack Miller of Millers homes, chose brazilian handscraped teak flooring. For high traffic areas, brazilian teak is ideal as it has a Janka (hardness) rating of 3540, considerably higher than the 1260 score of American red oak. Added benefits are it’s resistant to fungal infections, pest infestations and nonabrasive liquids. ranging in color from a medium tan to a dark reddish brown, the teak comes in plank widths as narrow as two inches and as wide as five inches. Interior designers love the product for the beauty of the finish and appreciate the durability features as a bonus. According to robie Shoff, “No matter what color or size planking you choose, the result will be striking and will add significant value to the home in which it is installed.” exotic ports-of-call like South America, Africa, Australia and the Pacific rim are foresting beautiful flooring products rich in hues and natural colors and full of distinctive graining not found in most domestic species. brazilian Cherry, Mahogany and Maple, eucalyptus, and Australian Cypress are finding great popularity amongst American interior designers. A unique flooring product, wood-like ceramic tile, that combines the beauty of a wood floor with the durability of a ceramic floor has gained in popularity since its’ introduction several decades ago. Considered a man made material, wood-look tiles are porcelain or ceramic tiles that are made to look like real wood, not only having the textured look of the real wood, but also the touch of the real wood. The color choices are limitless and designers like working with a product that can be engineered to meet their design plan. Shoff of Only by Design, chose this specialty tile for several areas of the luxurious homes in the Gardens of Fox hall, selecting this as one of her favorites, particularly in the bath areas where moisture may pose a problem for conventional wood flooring, but not for this ceramic alternative. Since their first introduction, the wood-look tile has become a serious alternative to real wood. Wood-look porcelain tile has advantages such as scratch, stain, moisture, water, and fire resistance that makes them a strong competitor against real wood. This I nd ust ry I nsigh t was written by Jane Moffett.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 5 5
Erin Leland & Maria Donahue
ox Chapel Country Day School held their annual fundraiser at hartwood Mansion on Friday, March 12. With a 1920's speakeasy theme, guests fashioned in period costumes and using aliases such as "The Nose Nantella" and "MeMe Wannabe~Mrs. boss" were put in the middle of a fictitious homicide investigation. Along with delicious appetizers, guests were treated to libations distinctive to the era. There were raffle drawings, silent and live auctions with KDKA's Stacy Smith as the guest auctioneer. beautiful works of art created by the school children, working along side Pittsburgh artist linda Koumpouras, were among the fabulous auction items. To learn more about Fox Chapel Country Day School, visit www.foxchapelcountryday.com.
Diana & Push Senan
Fotios & Linda Koumpouras Rachel Stevens, Amanda Carvelli
Peter & Mary Counihan, Justine & Tony Ryan Johnathan & Kelley Engh
Delphine & Frederic Maenhaut
Jeff & Laurie Troutman, Julie & Rocco Tarasi Don & Nan Solow
Photos by Garyyonphotography.com 5 6
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Elaine Bellin, Camille Wright
We carry a wide selection of F O U N T A I N S, ST A T U A R Y and a complete line of W A T E R G A R D E N I N G and P O N D SU P P L I E S. We also install, maintain and service P O N D S, W A T E R F A L L S & F O U N T A I N S Mention this ad and get 10% off next purchase. Call or visit us at 1615 Babcock Boulevard • Pittsburgh, PA 15209
412.821.6525
PA #051065
We Take Your Care Personally. At Fox Chapel Physical Therapy, we offer a wide variety of services to patients of all ages. Whether you require individualized therapy services to recover from an injury, accident or surgery, or specialized services to address pain, osteoporosis or incontinence, our team has the experience to develop a treatment plan for you. Rely on the professionals who take your care as personally as you do.
O’Hara Center 1339 Freeport Road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412-967-9229
RIDC Park 107 Gamma Drive, Suite 100 Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412-967-0525 Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 5 7
W elcoming new p atients Pittsburgh Bariatrics at UPMC St. Margaret is now accepting new patients at our office in Aspinwall. Robert F. Quinlin, MD, FACS Bariatric Surgery Certified by the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Quinlin earned his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He completed his residency training and fellowship in laparoscopic bariatric surgery at the University Health Center of Pittsburgh. As medical director of bariatric surgery at UPMC St. Margaret, he is recognized for having successfully conducted more than 3,000 weight loss operations.
Mark A. Zelkovic, MD, FACS Bariatric Surgery Certified by the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Zelkovic earned his medical degree from the Thomas Jefferson Medical College and completed his surgery training at the HealthEast Teaching Hospitals in Allentown, Pa., including a minimally invasive proctorship in Miami. He is trained in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, including gastric banding. Dr. Zelkovic has been in practice more than 15 years.
To schedule an appointment, or for more information, call 412-784-5900. UPMC Medical Arts Building 100 Delafield Road Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412-784-5900
UPMC.com
5 8
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
by Sandy Trozzo
popular question these days is summed up by the acronym WWJD – “What Would Jesus Do?” If he was here today, he would probably be involved with Volunteers of America. Volunteers of America is a 113-year-old service organization that is one of largest providers of affordable housing in the country and serves approximately 2 million people in 44 states. It is also considered to be an interdenominational church. “It’s really an ecumenical approach that embraces fulfilling a ministry of service as opposed to the traditional concept of four walls and a steeple. It’s acting out our Christian faith through service to people in need,” said J. Patrick Serey, chief development and marketing officer and vice president of the southwest region. Statewide, Volunteers of America serves more than 26,000 Pennsylvanians with 22 separate programs, said Serey, who is also president and chief executive officer of the harrisburg office. Two of those programs are based out of the Southwestern Pennsylvania office, at 1650 Main Street in Sharpsburg. “‘Working Order’ is essentially is a business incubator that supports entrepreneurship for individuals with disabilities and disadvantages and others seeking to be self employed,” Serey said. That program is currently helping 60 entrepreneurs get started and run their businesses. The second program, “All of us Care,” is designed to prevent crime and substance abuse among at-risk children and teens aged 5-19. That program serves approximately 1,000 children and youth in the lower Allegheny Valley each year. All of us Care offers after-school activities and youth drug and alcohol services. They also partnered with major league baseball players to encourage student leaders to create and execute service projects, Serey said. One partnership with the Pittsburgh Pirates includes safety education and computer access for low-income families. A laptop computer lab was set up at the Sharpsburg office for youth who do not have computers at home. That program serves approximately 250 children in the Fox Chapel Area and Shaler Area school districts.
A
Volunteers of America was in the Pittsburgh market from 1896 through the mid-1900s. It returned to the market three years ago, Serey said. Other regional offices are located in Philadelphia, Allentown and Wilkes barre, he added. “We truly served some of the most vulnerable people among us,” Serey said. “If we were talking about the Pennsylvania affiliate, literally we are serving persons coping with disabilities, at-risk children and youth, individuals and families in emergency situations, those in need of employment, the elderly, those with severe and chronic mental illness; families with limited incomes, infants, children and adolescents that have been abused, neglected or exploited, children dealing with behavioral challenges and educational deficits, and teenage mothers.” Nationwide, Volunteers of America has Nationwide, approximately 70,000 volunteers and 16,000 paid staff. The Pennsylvania affiliate has 2,200 volunteers and 160 paid staff. Seven full- and part-time staff and 138 volunteers work out of the Sharpsburg office. Those volunteers gave 1,498 hours of service in the last fiscal year, Serey said. he said the agency has seen a dual challenge the last couple of years. “There’s no question that the challenges that the current economic situation presents have had kind of a dual effect – there are more people in need of our services. At the same time, donors are a little more conservative with their giving. It poses extremely challenging times for us and all nonprofits trying to meet the need with limited resources,” he said. “We have a history of meeting needs day in and day out, so it might not be that there are new needs, but they are more intense. People are out of work, which is impacting their financial situations, which translates to other challenges for families and individuals. “I have great hope that the economy is beginning to make a turn, but the residual effect will last in our communities for years.” Serey asks that people remember the organization in their “philanthropic giving.” More information about Volunteers of America’s Pennsylvania affiliate can be found at www.voapa.org. The local office’s address is 1650 Main St., Sharpsburg, PA, 15215.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 5 9
B
U
SI N
E SS D
I R
E CT O
R
Y
ho
p Arou
nd
S
Chapel A a School S h l District Di D t i t PTO/PTA C il Fox F oox Chapel C Cha aapppell Area A Council ts ppresents
ha
t’s Goin
’O n
W
www.JustMath.net www.AllianceInEducation.com
, May 1st Satturday d ield at Heinz F
Mooney's Cleaning Service and Supplies O
oo
Baby B
y ab
S for the DM A benefit d n a d n u F ogy hnollo ch Tec A T ide PTO/P districtw ojects ro pr
2 1 4 Holland Ave. P ittsbur gh P A 1 5 1 0 4 P hone 4 1 2 . 7 5 9 . 5 5 8 3 mooneyscleaning@ Gmail. com Commercial and Business Cleaning
s, call For ticket 413. 2 7 76 412-9 , visit formation in e or For m .edu/galla. www.fcasd
ight Lo
ng
A
B OND E D AND INS UR E D ll N
your MESS up is my CLEAN up
Clinical Trial for patients with varicose veins available soon ! Call for details.
Bothered By... Ankle Swelling Red or Blue Veins Night Cramping Burning, Aching, Swelling or Inflammation History of Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Brown Skin Discoloration Bursting Pain Ulcerations
Mario T. Plaza-Ponte, MD
A Gift from the United Jewish Federation, Agency for Jewish Learning, Community Day School and Jewish Community Center
ATC At Home™ NON-MEDICAL HOME ASSISTANCE Homemakers Companions Personal Care Aides
FACS, FASCRS, RVT, RPVI Venous Circulation Specialist 2550 Mosside Blvd., Suite 105 Monroeville • 412-373-9580
ATC emp loy ees are experienced caregivers–tes ted, trained , screened, insured. 821 Main Street Pittsburgh, PA 15215 www.pittsburghveins.com
6 0
724.942.0940 to advertise
412.782.4ATC (4282) | IN Fox Chapel Area
ox Chapel Area ADVERTISE HERE Please submit your information to sales@incommunitymagazines.com or cal
724- 9 42- 0 9 40
Formerly Alcoma Golf Course
3 Lakes Golf Course Public Play & Events
18 Holes INCLUDES cart $39.50 Any Day, Any Time! 6700 Saltsburg Road Pittsburgh, Pa 15235
412-793-7111 www.3lakesgolf.com
Highland Milling & Asphalt Corporation RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL PAVING & SEALING
412.487.7000 Pittsburgh, PA 15215
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 6 1
Your Kitchen and Bath Dreams
cates Gift Certifi
Available
at Plumbers Equipment Showrooms!
KD’S KLEAN UPS Cleaning Up Fox Chapel
Jessica Dobrushin Plum Boro Showroom
Choose from American Standard* and other quality faucets, shower sets, lavatories, toilets, accessories and more! *American Standard faucets covered by Lifetime Limited™ Warranty! Near Mt. Lebanon
PLUM BORO 120 Sagamore Hill Rd.• 724-325-8400
SOUTH HILLS 1101 Rockwood Ave. • 412-341-1650
GREENSBURG 219 Humphrey Rd. • 724-850-2555
NORTH HILLS Fox Chapel 2134 Babcock Blvd. • 412-821-8810
Near
PLUMBERS EQUIPMENT COMPANY
www.PlumbersEquipmentCompany.com Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-4:30, Sat 8-Noon
Discover a new way to shop for carpet and floors at the area’s most spectacular flooring store! MARBLE # GRANITE SLATE # LIMESTONE CARPET # HARDWOOD TILE# LAMINATE # AREA RUGS # VINYL PROFESSIONAL CUSTOM DESIGN & INSTALLATION
Exclusively on Route 8 - Valencia Just 4 Miles North of Route 228 West Across from H.P. Starr Lumber
Mon-Wed-Fri 9-5; Tu-Th 9-8; Sat 9-2
724-586-7777
www.ParaccaInteriors.com 6 2
724.942.0940 to advertise
| IN Fox Chapel Area
Move In/Move Out Cleaning One shot Cleaning Weekly Cleanings Alternate Weekly Cleanings Monthly Cleanings Whole House Clean Outs Organization (Homes and Offices) Garage Clean Outs New Construction Clean Up
Free Phone or On Site Estimates
412.781.8110
WOrShIP NeWS
Season Finale or the past two years, the music ministry of Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church has been co-led by Dr. David billings and Katherine Mueller. During that time a vibrant concert series has become established, with up to 8 special musical events taking place each year between September and May. This diverse series features a high quality of performers, such as The heinz Chapel Choir, famous jazz pianist/composer Joe utterback, and vocalist Daphne Alderson “and Friends” to name a few. This season’s grand finale will feature two special events in May: a “Pops” Concert by the Pittsburgh Concert Chorale and professional jazz combo on Saturday, May 1st at 8:00 pm, and the 26th Annual Sponsorship Concert by the Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church Festival Choir, the Choir of The Presbyterian Church, Sewickley, and The Academy Chamber Orchestra performing music of Mozart and beethoven on Saturday, May 15th at 7:30 pm.
F
Many events are free of charge (May 15th), and some have ticket sales (May 1st). For more information, www.fcpc.us or contact the church office at 412.963.8243. Ask to be on our mailing list of season brochures. As always, invite the community is invited to join in! The church has great acoustics, ample parking, and you can enjoy the music in the magnificent air-conditioned sanctuary.
he has risen! lleluia! he has risen! he has conquered death! Sickness and suffering will no longer be our destiny for the lord Jesus has given our lives a new meaning. We must be careful, however, that the resurrection of the lord Jesus does not become a “head trip” by which one simply believes in the easter event. easter is not just a resuscitation whereby a human body comes back to an earthly existence. Nay, rather, it is called a reSurreCTION in which a glorified body takes on an eternal existence and shapes the very meaning of all human life. easter is the culmination of a three-day event that began on the previous Thursday night when the lord Jesus gathered his disciples and set the stage for his destiny and the fate of all those who come to be called his followers. he shared a last Supper with them anticipating his death and resurrection and leaving them a memorial of his presence in the breaking of the bread and sharing of the cup. This
A
“euChArIST” has remained the mainstay of the Faith of his followers for all time. The fulfillment of this last Supper was experienced in the events of the following day, Good Friday, with the crucifixion of the lord Jesus on Golgotha. easter stands on the liturgical calendar of Christianity as the celebration of the most significant event in all of human history. easter, celebrated every year on the first Sunday, after the first full moon after the spring equinox, is not controlled by human calculations. This three day celebration, called the Sacred Triduum, magnetizes the final days in the life of the lord Jesus into ONe continuous event of superabundant importance. life for all of us is no longer determined simply by human accomplishments, but now has an eternal significance! Father John Marcucci Priest of the Parish Staff St. Mary of the Assumption Parish Family
Adat Shalom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.820.7000 All Saints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.0530 Aspinwall Presbyterian . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.2884 Chabad of Fox Chapel . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.1800 Catholic Community Sharpsburg . . . . . .412.784.8700 Christ The Divine Teacher Catholic Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412-781-7927 Community United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.6951 Dorseyville Alliance Church . . . . . . . . .412.767.9797 Emmanuel Lutheran Church . . . . . . .412.781.2764 Evangelical Bible Fellowship . . . . . . . .412.726.6684 Faith United Methodist Church . . . . . .412.963.8155 First English Lutheran Church . . . . . . .412.782.1623 First Evangelical Lutheran . . . . . . . . . .412.782.2272 Fox Chapel Episcopal Church . . . . . . .412.963.8938 Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church . . . .412.963.8243 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church . . . .412.963.9494 Grace United Methodist Church . . . . .412.782.3396 Harmarville United Methodist . . . . . . .412.828.0292 Harmarville United Presbyterian . . . . .412.828.8232 Hoboken Presbyterian Church . . . . . . 412.828.2611 Holy Spirit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.821.4424 Immanuel Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . .412.271.1995 Mt. Olive Baptist Church . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.5554 Madonna of Jerusalem . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.6119 Pine Creek Prebyterian Church . . . . . .412.963.7868 St. John’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.6119 St. Joseph O’Hara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.963.8885 St. Mary of Assumption . . . . . . . . . . . .412.486.7611 St. Mary’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.2866 St. Nicholas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.821.3438 St. Scholastica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.781.0186 St. Edward Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.828.4066 St. Francis of Assisi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.828.4066 St. Juan Diego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .412.784.8700 Trinity United Church of Christ . . . . . . .412.767.4794 If your place of worship was not on our list, please E-mail the information to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.
Spring 2010 | IN Fox Chapel Area |
www.incommunitymagazines.com 6 3
Melissa Baum, Natalie Austin, Penelope Person, Katharine Waldman & Alexandra Hellberg Chairs ~ Jean Bongiovanni & Melinda Edwards
Ronald, Taylor & Judy Linaburg
Cinderella Ball CelebrATeS 84 YeArS
Katy, Maribeth & Harry Donnelly
Allison Rath, Penelope Person & Margaret Donnelly
T Kelly Latterman, Karen Dawson & Lauren Laufe
Rosemary Loevner & Laurel Breuner
wenty beautiful, charitable young ladies made their formal debut into society at Pittsburgh's oldest charity ball. More than 400 guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening filled with history, elegance and fun at the Omni William Penn hotel. With full schedules as high school seniors, these ladies donated a combined 700+ hours to Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, this year's beneficiary. A scholarship was awarded to debutante elizabeth rae Diggs for her outstanding volunteer contributions. After much secrecy, David John egan Jr. was revealed as Prince Charming and he selected the name of Taylor Judith linaburg from the magical pumpkin, bestowing upon her the title of Cinderella.
Grace Callahan & Elizabeth Campanella Hal & Diane Waldman
a series of health information presentations by UPMC
Free community health talk Fibroid Treatment Options and Information Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the wall of the uterus, and are the most frequently diagnosed tumor of the female pelvis. They are not associated with cancer, do not increase a woman’s risk of developing cancer, and almost never develop into cancer. About 25 percent of women with uterine fibroids experience symptoms. Medical advancement now offer women choices and alternative for the treatment of fibroids. Please join experts from the Fibroid Treatment Center at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC for a free seminar explaining the various treatment options to help women choose the best treatment option for them. Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC Auditorium, Level Zero 300 Halket Street Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Thursday, April 29, 6:30 p.m. Reservations required. To make a reservation, or for more information, visit magee.upmc.com and click on “More Classes and Events,” or by calling 412-802-8299. UPMC.com
i N Com m u n i t y M ag az i n 4 5 3 V alley B rook R oad | S M c M u rray I P A I 1 5 7 2 4 .9 4 2 .0 9 4 0 w w w . i n c om m u n i t y m ag az i n
es u ite3 0 0 3 1 7 es . c om
ox Chapel Area