SPRING 2011
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Plus! Prom & Wedding Style CSI - Gibsonia
Contents Hampton | SPRING 2011 |
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside
5
14 Publisher’s Message
FEATURES
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page 2
Coming Back from a Back Injury
page 3
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
page 4
page 5
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed? UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
page 6
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
page 7
Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant
© 2011 UPMC
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34
3
Proms and Weddings Focus Prom Fashion Tips for 2011 | 25
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Venue Planning for Your Wedding | 26 Wedding Etiquette for the Socially Inept | 27 Wedding Reception to Remember | 28
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
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Real Estate In Hampton
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Bill Few and Associates
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29
The Time to Feel Good About Your Money Is Now | 10
Vein Institute of Pittsburgh
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You Don’t Have to Live with Painful Varicose and Spider Veins | 12
The Linda DiBucci Team
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The “Jewel” of North Hills– Hampton Township | 32
HP Starr Lumber Company
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Expertise and Experience for Your Projects | 37
Mazzei and Associates
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The Truth About Bankruptcy | 38
Lutheran Senior Life
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Opens New Assisted Living Care Facility in Mars | 41
COMMUNITY INTEREST
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CSI Gibsonia
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Gateway Analytical | 5
A Trot Through Tuscany
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Riding for the Handicapped of Western PA | 6
The Township of Hampton Celebrating 150 Years | 14 UPMC Today
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 17
Older Adults in Hampton | Keep Your Credit Card Secure | 34 Cinderella Ball
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Celebrates 85 Years | 39 ON THE COVER
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Robbie Seibert and Sarah Carroll
SPRING 2011 Welcome to the spring issue of Hampton Magazine. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, and fun. Typically, I use this space to talk about your community or features in the magazine that spotlight the people in your community who are doing wonderful things. Well, this time I want to update you regarding our newest feature for 2011—our new website. Without venturing too far into the realm of shameless self-promotion, I want to emphasize that this website is something for you, our readers. How so? Well, you can have input and help shape the website just like your ideas help shape your magazine. Now you have a place to list all of the nonprofit community organizations that are active in the community. We are also developing pages where we list the local houses of worship. In addition, we now offer every magazine in a fully downloadable PDF format, rather than the outdated flipbook format we used to have. This will allow you to send the magazine, or links to it, to friends and family both near and far. We tied our website into Facebook as well, not to get the biggest list of “friends” we could get but to have a place to keep our readers abreast of all the news we get between issues. It also gives us a place to upload all the photos from community events that we don’t have room for in the magazine. As with all things, there’s always room for improvement, but we always have open ears. If you have comments about our new website or want to see your organization listed, e-mail mark@incommunitymagazines.com with your link or feedback. There’s no charge for listing your church, synagogue, or scout troop’s link, so send your links in today! And if you happen to be on Facebook and like what you see in the magazine, don’t hesitate to click that “Like” button. It’s always nice to be liked! I hope you have a wonderful Spring!
Wayne Dollard Publisher
"No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another." Charles Dickens
When I think about spring, I can’t help but think about light. The days get “lighter”, the sun stays with us a little longer each day. When we have a great idea, a light bulb goes off in our minds. At Hampton Magazine we try to spot-light our communities. What are you doing to be a “light”? If you or an organization that you volunteer or work for is a light in the community, will you let me know? So many good deeds, are left unsung! If you have a family member who is in the Armed Forces, your church, scouting group, or even your Mom are providing a service to someone in need, we want to know! Please email me your ideas and photos to Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to celebrate with residents, your township manager Chris Lochner and other officials at the Hampton Township 150th Anniversary Gala. What a wonderful party! Volunteers from the Depreciation Lands Museum were there in full costume, taking everyone back 150 years. The rich and varied history is truly the crown jewel for Hampton. I met many of your council members and some wonderful residents, who are all interested in preserving the best qualities of the township. How fortunate you are to have such an engaged community! As we look forward to warmer and brighter days ahead, I hope you will enjoy this edition of In Hampton Magazine!
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor
IN Hampton is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Hampton area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R
Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T
Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS
Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny
Pamela Palongue
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco
P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S
Nicholas Buzzell Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes Jason Huffman Jessie Jones Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Summer content deadline: April 1, 2011 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
C.S.I.GIBSONIA By Jamie Ward
I
ide Pres Vice , r o i n y e e, Se N ed l Exlin nd Sara cientist a S Devid nsic Fore
nt,
t may not be CSI-Gibsonia, but it's pretty close. A new analytical testing laboratory opened up along William Flynn highway and is sure to bring plenty of opportunities for local students. Gateway Analytical is an analytical testing laboratory and consulting company that offers standard and novel analytical testing techniques to the pharmaceutical, materials science, and forensics industries. The company moved into its new 3,000-square-foot facility in September. “Our lab is a high technology, analytical laboratory that combines a high level of expert materials analysis with innovative technology,” explains David Exline, senior vice president. “We do work in the areas of forensic materials and pharmaceutical sciences,” says Exline. The criminal forensic work they do includes trace evidence with hairs and fibers, very much like what you see on the CBS television show “CSI.” The company can also conduct analysis' of any type of materials. “A lot of the forensic stuff we do is criminal forensics work that most criminal laboratories do, but sometimes we have an expertise that the crime labs and police departments don't have,” says Exline. A large part of the company’s client base comes from large Fortune 500 companies who might not have access to the right kind of labs or expertise. Gateway Analytical is a subsidiary of its Pittsburgh-based parent company ChemImage Corp. They use innovative technology developed by ChemImage in the characterization of drugs in the drug development process. “We use our technology to compare generic drugs and innovator drugs and make comparisons for the development process,” says Exline. “We specialize in pharmaceutical forensics, which, in essence, is identifying contamination products,” he adds. Gateway Analytical's local office employs seven full-time employees. The company employs five scientists with expertise in areas from materials science to forensic work, to the pharmaceutical realms. Many of them considered court-qualified experts. Exline also credits much of the office's success to Office Manager Ellen Martin and Quality Control Manager Tricia Wood. Exline says their efforts to reach out within the local community have started with their neighboring school district. “We have been in contact with Pine-Richland School District about participating within their science curriculum,” he says. “We will be able to demonstrate real world applications of science to students as well as give them a firsthand glimpse of high technology instrumentation in our industry. Our goal is to form a strong relationship with the district.” The company’s relationship with the school district would also entail their scientists making trips to the school to give talks. The lab's grand opening celebration is scheduled for April 12. For more information, visit www.gatewayanalytical.com.
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
A Trot Through Tuscany The Women's Board of Pittsburgh hosted A Trot Through Tuscany, a fundraiser luncheon named for its beneficiary, Riding for the Handicapped of Western PA, and the heritage of the event's featured chef, Joseph Tambellini of Highland Park. Guests at this luncheon were treated to a culinary demonstration by Chef Tambellini, a teacup auction, silent auction and raffles–all full of fabulous items. Informal modeling was provided by Carabella. Since 1992, The Women's Board of Pittsburgh has been providing financial aid to non-profit organizations that support children in the Pittsburgh area. This year's beneficiary, Riding for the Handicapped of Western PA, is an Allison Park-based organization that provides free riding therapy for handicapped adults and children throughout western Pennsylvania. Not only do the horses provide therapeutic exercise for those with disabilities, they become friends that can offer freedom of mobility without the constraints of a wheelchair or lack of muscle control. For more information on this local organization, visit www.rhwpa.tk.
Linda Kirk, Sally Horsman
Brenda Zangas, Jean Marie Schneider
Rose Hucke, Janet Galioto, Karen Dudkowski, Mary Lynn Dugan
Debra Mortillaro, Kathy Forbes
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"The horse is an amazing intuitive creature, capable of sensing a emotions from humans. Humans and horses form a bond and tru
Artist Judi Collins
BonnieLee Dake, Joyce Bussler, Debbie Burke, Judy Goehring
Martha Ball, Ginny Merchant Sandra Woncheck, Newlin Archinal, Joseph Tambellini Tracey Marsh, Missy Tambellini
Mary Miller, Sally Wiggin
and responding to the slightest signals and ust that can quite literally lift the human spirit."
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
Route 8 and Duncan Avenue Improvement Project Hampton township plans to make roadway improvements and add a park & ride facility at the Route 8 and Duncan Avenue intersection. In addition to the park & ride lot, the township plans to add turning lanes, sidewalks, signalization and drainage. The improvements come after a 2008 traffic study by Trans Associates intended to determine long-range improvements to the intersection. The report detailed data collection, projected traffic volumes, traffic analysis and conclusions/recommendations. Based on the reports analysis, these were recommendations to widen northbound Route 8, southbound Route 8 and eastbound Route 8 to provide exclusive turning lanes. The improvements will extend approximately 719 feet south of the intersection to the bridge crossing Pine Creek, 557 feet north to Spadafora's Bar and Restaurant and along part of Duncan Avenue. The new park & ride will be owned and maintained by the township, which plans to enter into an agreement with Myers Transit to provide Port Authority bus service along the Route 8 Corridor. The township estimates the entire project’s cost at around $1.5 million dollars. For more information, visit www.hampton-pa.org.
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Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
The Time to Feel Good About Your Money
Is Now
n life, the only thing that does not change is the fact that everything changes. When we graduate from college and enter the workforce, things like retirement, a decline in health, saving for the loss of a job or a spouse or a home, or preparing for an inheritance barely make it onto our field of vision, much less dominate our financial plans. That is, if we even consider a financial plan at that point in our lives. The future feels unlimited and eternal, with plenty of time to save and plan later.
I
“I never think of the future – it comes soon enough.” – Albert Einstein Better late than never, perhaps, we at long last appreciate the value of solid financial planning, defined as the process of preparing for financial goals through saving, investing and insuring. Of course, financial planning yields the greatest reward when started early. But human nature being what it is, many of us
put it off until later in life. Typically, in our 40s and 50s, we have reached our peak earnings years, but we are dealing at the same time with many stressful issues involving career pressures and family demands. Today’s middle-aged population is also known as the “Sandwich Generation,” meaning that just as their children reach college age with the enormous financial demands that implies, they feel pulled emotionally and financially by the health and homecare needs of their parents. Trying to accommodate these demands while simultaneously planning for their own retirement future can take a severe strain on this group, if they have not taken the time and the counsel to make a proper financial plan. So how are people expected to feel good about their money under these circumstances? And when you add the
volatile economic environment that has preoccupied the U.S. and most of the world since late 2008, that question becomes even more relevant. The answer remains very simple and clear – committing to a financial plan with the help of qualified financial counselors who have successfully guided clients through similar market downturns. Founded in 1987, Bill Few Associates Inc. is a financial planning firm comprised of professional, experienced financial consultants and investment analysts that serve more than 2,000 families. At Bill Few Associates Inc. we do not represent any specific financial product or service. We are fee-based financial planners who help our clients with investments, insurance, estate issues, tax issues, and education planning. That means we are free to select from the best available resources in the financial industry to help clients meet their financial goals and objectives. “The best thing about the future is that it only comes one day at a time.” – Abraham Lincoln The future will be here before we know it. Whether you are in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, or already retired, you can benefit from discussing financial planning with a Bill Few Associates Inc. financial planner. We would encourage you to start a discussion with us if you have yet to start planning. If you already have a plan and the recent market turmoil has you concerned, give us an opportunity to give you a second opinion. Use the days now to plan for the days to come, because they will come quicker than you think. The time to feel good about your money is today, tomorrow and always. And that feel-good feeling begins with a solid financial plan. We hope to hear from you soon and look forward to sharing more financial planning information with you through IN Community Magazines in upcoming issues. For more information or to speak with a Bill Few Associates' financial consultant call 412.630.6000 or visit www.billfew.com.
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Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
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Bryant Wesley Named Newest Hampton School Board Member Bryant Wesley II was sworn in as the newest member of the Hampton School Board on January 10. He, along with eight other applicants, applied to fill the vacancy of the late Harold Sarver. Wesley recently moved to Hampton with his wife and three young boys, and says it was the school district's reputation that drew him to the area. “The thing that was so impressive is that it's a smaller district that still competes academically on the same level, and often exceeds, larger districts,” he says. “That really says a lot about the community’s involvement in the school district and the type of families and parents in that district.” When the school board position became available, Wesley jumped at the opportunity to become more involved in the community. “We really are so happy and fortunate to be in Hampton, and my wife and I feel it’s our responsibility to be involved,” he says. “The thing about a school district is that it really is the core of a community.” Wesley also felt that his legal and financial background, as well as experience working with a large non-profit organization would be valuable skills to bring to the position. Wesley and his wife are also both involved in the Hampton Soccer Club Program. “Because of our young children, we are very interested in the continued success of the school district,” says Wesley. He and his wife are both strong proponents of the public education system. Wesley was
By Jamie Ward
the first person in his family to attend and graduate college, and considers that his greatest accomplishment. Right now, Wesley is working on getting up to speed on what it means to be a school board member. “I work in a highly regulated industry, and it's almost inconceivable to think that there could be any other area that's subject to more laws and regulations—but that would be a school district,” he says. “There is definitely a learning curve.” Wesley's immediate goals are to get involved as quickly as possible and help the district address the critical issue of the budget. “Pennsylvania is expected to have a $4 billion budget deficit, and it’s very likely education funding will cut back,” he says. “I want to help to make sure the district continues to operate at a high level even with difficult funding issues that will probably arrive in next couple of years.” Wesley learned a lot from working with his mentor, Judge Robert Cindrich, who he describes as the perfect public servant. “I've learned that we are really serving the people of Hampton Township,” he says. “I welcome input from the community and will definitely work hard to address the issues people in the district bring to our attention.” Wesley is currently employed by UPMC Health System. He is originally from Roxboro, N.C. He graduated from East Carolina University, as well as the University of Pittsburgh Law School.
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
s e t a r b e l e C
Hampton By Jamie Ward
In the past 150 years, Hampton Township has gone from a home to hunters and trappers to one of the top ten towns for family living in the United States. Hampton Township celebrates its sesquicentennial anniversary this year, and it has plenty of exciting events planned for the entire community. Now, when you enter Hampton Township's boarders, you are welcomed with boundary signs commemorating the special anniversary, including the township's new anniversary logo. The year-long celebration was kicked off with an Anniversary Gala and Dinner in February. The gala was held at the Hampton Community Center, where attendees enjoyed food, entertainment and a special toast to family members of the township's original founders. A Fourth of July celebration is planed for July 3 and 4. The annual event includes a military flyover, fireworks, and a free concert. In recent years, the event had been cut back to one day, but this year will return to its two-day format for this special occasion. The Depreciation Lands Museum in Allison Park will be a big part of the celebration as well. The living history museum was created by the township in 1973 to preserve and interpret the early years of European settlement in the Depreciation Lands. This year, their fall festival will be expanded to include township history, food, and live entertainment. The festival transports visitors back to the 1790s to lend a hand as settlers prepared for winter. Families can participate in historical activities like candle dipping, wool carting, preserving food, and spinning and dying wool. Sue Stanny, site director at the Depreciation Lands Museum, says that most people don't realize that Allegheny County was the “wild west” at one time. “Until the Depreciation Lands were developed,” she says, “there was nothing here.” The Depreciation Lands was land that had been set aside by the State of Pennsylvania to compensate its Revolutionary War soldiers for their services. During the war the dollar had depreciated
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150
drastically, so the 720,000 acres of land, which included all of the North Hills of Pittsburgh, was known as the Depreciation Lands. History runs deep in Hampton Township, and residents are making extra efforts this year to pay homage. In their January 15 council meeting, the township paid thanks in their own way to the man who started it all. The Honorable Moses Hampton was a well respected judge and member of Congress who filed the incorporation of Hampton Township in 1861. At the meeting, Moses Hampton was portrayed by Ken Gahagan, from the Depreciation Lands Museum Association, who read the articles of incorporation aloud. Today, the residential community, with over 17,500 residents, boasts amenities like the Hampton Community Park and Community Center, which offer loads of recreational programs for the kids and adults alike. Sponsorship opportunities are offered to local businesses and organizations who want to be a part of the special milestone and get some recognition while they're at it. Sponsors will receive benefits like tickets to the gala and July 4 post-event party, logo acknowledgment, and name recognition on welcome signs. Companies can also sponsor a banner along the four-mile stretch of Route 8. The banners will be up from April through December of 2011. Don't miss out on your chance to be a part of this special milestone! For more information on this year's events, visit www.hampton-pa.org.
YEARS 1861 - 2011
Larry & Judy Zang, Susan Bernet Nancy & Ted Schaffer, Brandon Montgomery, Karen & Cary Montgomery
Don Hunkele, Patricia & Jerry Speakman
Paul Claus, Glenn Jones, Frank Hardt, Linda Monaco, Gertrude Hardt, Phyllis Jones
Judy Hutzler, Pat Connolly
Ron Benesh, David Hughes
Michael O'Rorke Judy & Sam Scarfone
Dan Connolly with Proclamation of Incorporation
Sesquicentennial Celebration Gala
Jeffrey & Ellen Bauman, Dana & Tom McDermott
Hampton's 150th Anniversary Gala was held at the Community Center on Saturday, February 12. Nearly 250 guests enjoyed an evening full of history, delicious food, music and fun. Community officials, residents and friends gathered to toast the community and for a presentation honoring some of Hampton's founding families. Volunteers from the Depreciation Lands Museum Association, fashioned in period costume, were also on hand to share their knowledge of times passed. For more information on upcoming events planned for Hampton's 150th Anniversary, visit the township's website at www.hampton-pa.org Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
Worship In Hampton Would you like to list your Hampton Township church in this directory? Please contact Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com with your church name, website address and phone number.
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Allison Park Church www.allisonparkchurch.com 412.487.7220 Bakerstown Alliance Church bakerstownalliance.blogspot.com 724.443.7040 Calvary Baptist Church www.friendsatcbc.org 412.487.2130 Memorial Park Church www.memorialparkchurch.org 412.364.9492 Nativity Lutheran Church www.nativitylutheranchurc..org 412.487.1071 Parkwood United Presbyterian Church www.parkwoodchurch.org 412.486.9220 St Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral www.stalexandernevsky.org 412.366.4647 St Catherine of Sweden Church www.stcatherineofsweden.org 412.486.6001 St Richard Church www.saintrich.org 724.444.1971
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St Ursula Church: Religious Ed www.stursula.com 412.486.3374
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside
© 2011 UPMC
page 2
Coming Back from a Back Injury
page 3
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
page 4
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
page 5
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
page 6
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
page 7
Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant
Coming Back from a Back Injury UPMC Passavant’s state-of-the-art spine care services offer the latest surgical and nonsurgical treatments Nearly 12,000 spinal injuries occur in the United States each year. While most are the result of motor vehicle accidents or falls, nearly 12 percent are the result of sports-related injuries. An accident, a sudden fall, or the accumulated trauma of several minor injuries can sideline anyone with a serious back injury. Just ask John Busse* of Charleston, W. Va. The gifted basketball player started playing on his high school’s varsity team as a freshman. By his senior year, John was close to matching the high school record of legendary NBA player and fellow West Virginian, Jerry West. But then he started experiencing lower back pain. “I can’t blame my herniated disk on any one injury,” says John, now a wildlife biology/pre-vet major in his junior year at Auburn University in Alabama. “I continued playing until I realized I couldn’t really feel my legs any more.” Following in his father’s footsteps John’s dad — himself an active outdoorsman — wasted no time convincing his son to make the journey to Pittsburgh’s North Hills for evaluation by Matt El-Kadi, MD, chief of Neurosurgery at UPMC Passavant and clinical professor, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “My dad had undergone four failed back surgeries until Dr. El-Kadi operated on him. There was no question that’s where I wanted to go,” adds John. * John Busse’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
2
www.UPMC.com/Today
The Spine Center at UPMC Passavant features one of the region’s most comprehensive programs for the treatment of spine injuries, with a multidisciplinary team of specialists who can provide both surgical and nonsurgical options. “We’re generally able to treat most back pain and injuries with conservative measures (including rest, medication, and physical therapy),” explains Dr. El-Kadi. “When an operation is the only option, we specialize in minimally invasive surgery, which incurs less damage to muscle tissue so that patients generally recover more quickly and experience less postoperative pain.” Spine Center offers advanced neurologic services Individuals with back injuries have access to the latest imaging and diagnostic tools at the Spine Center. UPMC Passavant’s new pavilion also houses a complete navigation suite for spine surgery where surgeons can perform a wide range of complex and advanced spine surgeries that attract patients from hundreds of miles away. While most herniated disks don’t require surgery, it was John’s only recourse due to the extent of his injury. “Everything went like clockwork. Except for being a little stiff right after the operation, the whole thing was painless,” he says. “I did physical therapy for a few months afterward, too, mostly for reconditioning. Nothing has stopped me since — I’m now playing intramural basketball and football at Auburn.”
When to Get Help Your back is an integral part of everyday movement, providing strength, flexibility, and stability for the entire body. Keeping your back healthy means knowing when to get help for an injury. Minor back injuries can be selftreated with rest; over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication for pain; the use of ice for the first 48 hours, followed by heat; and exercises to build the core muscles of the stomach and lower back. However, Dr. El-Kadi recommends that you seek prompt medical attention if you experience any of the following after sustaining a back injury: • Any neurologic symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or searing pain down the leg • Bowel or bladder problems • Pain that gets progressively worse • Pain at night or at rest • Longer-than-usual recovery time For more information about the Spine Center at UPMC Passavant, or to make an appointment, call 1-877-967-2225, or visit www.UPMC.com/Passavant.
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future UPMC’s Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Center wields a powerful “triple threat” against IBD: Groundbreaking immunology, genetics research, and innovative clinical care At age 23, John Oliver* is feeling better about the future. Free from the gutwrenching pain of Crohn’s disease since a second bowel surgery in 2008 — this time followed by a promising new treatment developed at UPMC using biologic-based drug therapy — he is now making plans to attend medical school next fall. “I think the medicine is working. It’s the best I’ve felt and the best I’ve looked,” says John, who earned his biomedical engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University and a master’s degree in engineering management from Duke University. His gastroenterologist, Miguel Regueiro, MD, clinical head and codirector of the UPMC Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, says the future has never looked brighter for IBD patients. “Ten years ago, a diagnosis of IBD was devastating. Now, we have new medicines, a greater understanding of the disease, and better research,” he says.
IBD: Who’s at risk? Nearly two million Americans live with IBD, which is not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD involves two chronic diseases that cause inflammation of the intestines: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Symptoms include abdominal cramps and pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and bleeding.
The primary goal of drug therapy is to reduce inflammation in the intestines. Medications include anti-inflammatory drugs; antibiotics to kill germs in the intestinal track; probiotics to restore good bacteria; corticosteroids to provide short-term relief during flare-ups; and immunosuppressants. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the small and large intestines, while ulcerative colitis affects the large bowel alone. IBD cuts across all ages, genders, and ethnicities, but generally affects Caucasians ages 15 to 35. While the exact cause is not known, experts believe IBD involves a compromised or overactive immune system. Because IBD may run in families, doctors also believe genetics plays a role. While stress and certain foods do not cause IBD, both can make symptoms worse.
Treatment According to Dr. Regueiro, drugs cannot cure IBD, but they can be effective in reducing the inflammation and accompanying symptoms. While some patients have mild symptoms requiring little medication, others have more debilitating flareups, and some patients have severe problems requiring surgery and even transplants.
In addition, the IBD Center recently developed a Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center to help patients deal with both the physical pain and emotional stress of coping with IBD.
Exciting breakthroughs The latest generation of drugs, called biologic therapies, are proving very effective in inducing remission so that patients can lead normal lives. At UPMC, doctors took this approach a step further — as in John’s case — by prescribing biologic drug therapy after performing surgery to remove the damaged section of the intestine. In use now at other hospitals, this treatment has reduced the recurrence of Crohn’s disease in patients by nearly two thirds. * John Oliver’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
Stomachaches: When to Worry Everyone gets a stomachache — or abdominal pain — from time to time. Usually, stomachaches are harmless conditions caused by overeating, gas, or indigestion. Frequent or recurring stomachaches are often due to stress and worry, even in children. But they can point to more serious medical problems.
Get medical help immediately if: • You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden. • You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder. • You’re vomiting blood or have bloody diarrhea.
Harmless abdominal pain usually subsides or goes away within two hours. If you have the stomach flu, your stomach may hurt before each episode of vomiting or diarrhea. In serious cases, the pain worsens or becomes constant. According to gastroenterologists at UPMC Passavant, you should call your primary care physician if mild pain lasts more than a couple of days, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms.
• Your abdomen is stiff, hard, and tender to the touch. • You can’t move your bowels, especially if you’re also vomiting. Bottom line: Trust your gut! Contact your doctor if you’re concerned about lingering or unusual stomach pain.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are you among the millions of Americans suffering from lack of sleep? If so, droopy eyelids, wide yawns, and low energy are the least of your worries. Sleep disruption — not sleeping enough or sleeping poorly — can affect your memory, disease resistance, and leave you struggling to stay alert in school, on the job, and on the road. Studies show that people who get the appropriate amount of sleep on a regular basis also tend to live longer, healthier lives than those who sleep too few or even too many hours each night. So, what is a good night’s sleep? According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. School-aged children and teens need at least nine hours of sleep each night. Tips to help you sleep • Stick to a sleep schedule. Get up about the same time each day, no matter how many hours of sleep you got the previous night. • Maintain healthy sleep habits. Go to bed only when you’re sleepy. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and relaxing — not too hot or too cold. Don’t text, e-mail, read, or watch TV in bed. • Make sure your mattress is comfortable. Remember, even a good quality mattress needs to be replaced within 10 years. • Exercise is great, but not too late. Avoid exercising within a few hours before bedtime. • Avoid caffeinated drinks after lunch. The stimulating effects of caffeine in coffee, colas, teas, and chocolate can take as long as eight hours to wear off. • Avoid large meals at night. A large meal can cause indigestion that interferes with sleep. • Avoid alcoholic drinks before bedtime. While a nightcap may help you relax, alcohol keeps you in the lighter stages of sleep and tends to wake you during the night. And, for adolescents and young adults: • Avoid stimulating activities around bedtime. This includes intense studying, text messaging, video games, and lengthy phone conversations. • Avoid pulling “all nighters” during exams. • Sleep in on weekends — but not more than two to three hours past your normal wake time. Sleeping longer may disrupt your body clock. Find a more complete list of the benefits of good sleep at www.UPMC.com/Today.
AreYouAllergic toYour Bed? The dust in your bedroom might be making you sick. Dust mites, and dander, and fibers — oh my! These are just some of the microscopic menaces in ordinary house dust that can cause health problems. Dust mites are a common cause of allergies and asthma. It’s not the dust mite itself that can make you sick; it’s the dust mite debris (the mite’s feces and decaying body). Dust collects in every room of the house because it is easily trapped in linens, upholstery, carpets, and draperies. But the bedroom is a favorite habitat for dust mites because it provides a warm, humid environment, and plenty of food (dead skin from humans and pets).
Five ways to help wipe out dust mites While you can’t completely eliminate dust mites, these simple steps may help reduce their numbers: 1. Cover your mattress and pillows in dust-proof or allergen-blocking covers, and encase box springs in vinyl or plastic covers. 2. Wash and dry bed sheets, pillowcases, blankets, curtains, and bedcovers weekly in hot water (140 degrees Fahrenheit). If bedding can’t be washed, put the items in the dryer set at a high temperature for 20 minutes. 3. Vacuum carpeting and upholstery weekly. Using a HEPA-filter vacuum can help keep dust from floating back into the air. 4. Use a damp cloth or mop to remove dust from hard surfaces and exposed floors. This will prevent dust from becoming airborne and resettling. 5. Keep the indoor temperature at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity at no more than 50 percent. Dust mites aren’t the only puny pests that can invade your bedroom. Bed bugs have made a comeback in recent years. For tips on ways to avoid a bed bug infestation, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: National Institutes of Health, Environmental Protection Agency
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www.UPMC.com/Today
UPMC Spotlight
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
Keeping track of health issues, test results, and medications is challenging for Sandy Hogue*, who is disabled and chronically ill. Because she must rely on cabs for transportation, seeing a primary care doctor can be an all-day affair. That’s why she was eager to sign up for UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that enables patients to receive and manage information about their health. Sandy uses it to monitor her glucose and high cholesterol levels, check test results, make appointments, renew prescriptions, and diagnose medical conditions — all from the comfort of her home in Westmoreland County. “It’s a good system. I get the medical treatment I need faster without spending a day traveling around,” says Sandy. “It keeps me in contact with my doctor and helps me monitor my medical conditions. And if I have anything contagious, like the flu, it prevents me from infecting other people.” More patients choosing HealthTrak Approximately 42,000 UPMC patients have signed on to HealthTrak, which gives them secure electronic access to their medical records, medications, and other information. HealthTrak recently was expanded to include eVisits — an online digital house call — with a primary care physician. * These patient’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
During an eVisit, patients select a symptom and complete an interactive questionnaire. A UPMC doctor then reviews the information and makes a diagnosis. If medication is needed, a prescription can be sent electronically to the patient’s pharmacy.
“HealthTrak is great for college students who are far from home, the elderly, and other people who have trouble getting to the doctor. It doesn’t take the place of going to the doctor for regular check-ups, but it’s very useful,” Robin says. “If only UPMC could figure a way for me to see my dentist online!”
Oakmont resident Mark Gleeson* uses HealthTrak primarily to keep track of his medical records. In October, when the computer-savvy 83-year-old came down with a cough and cold late in the day, he decided to “see” a doctor via eVisit. Within an hour of completing the questionnaire, a UPMC doctor responded with medical instructions and a prescription for his sinus infection and chest congestion. “It was so convenient, and it worked! Within three days, I felt good as new,” Mark says. Convenience and comfort As a graduate student, Robin Sales* relied on HealthTrak to connect with her hometown doctor while attending school in Nevada. Now a young professional living in New York City, she continues to use the online service for eVisits, to fill prescriptions, and access her medical records.
UPMC HealthTrak Benefits Manage your health from home with HealthTrak. Here’s what you can do online: • Send a message to your doctor • View medical records and test results
“It’s comforting. Having easy access to a doctor back home gives me the chance to find the right doctor for me locally, without rushing into it. It’s one less thing to worry about,” she says.
• Renew prescriptions
Robin, who first used eVisit to consult a doctor about an eye infection, says the online questionnaire asks the same questions the doctor would ask at an appointment. When she needs medicine, her doctor in Pittsburgh faxes the prescription to her New York drug store two minutes away.
• Ask billing questions
• Track current health issues such as glucose levels and blood pressure • Request appointments • “See” a doctor (digital house call) For more information or to sign up, visit www.UPMCHealthTrak.com.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Could it Happen to You? Most of us associate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with returning military veterans who have experienced the tragedy of war. But you don’t have to be a soldier to undergo the intense feelings of helplessness, horror, and fear that characterize PTSD. Imagine being in a terrible car accident on your way to the mall. For days and weeks afterwards, you constantly relive the accident in your mind. You take a different route to shop and, worst of all, your body won’t let you relax. You can’t sleep — and when you finally do doze off, you’re awakened by nightmares. You can’t concentrate, your heart pounds, and you break out in cold sweats. “We know that anyone who has undergone some kind of trauma can be at risk for posttraumatic stress disorder,” explains Anne Germain, PhD, associate professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Based at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC, she currently leads several sleep research projects with returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who have PTSD. PTSD can be triggered by a single event you’ve experienced or even witnessed — be it an accident, violent crime, or natural disaster — or by ongoing trauma, such as child abuse or domestic violence. When we experience a life-threatening event, it’s normal for our body to react with a powerful, stressful response; it’s what enables us to fight or flee. “But for some people, these symptoms persist and worsen,” says Dr. Germain. “The toll can be profound if symptoms are ignored. PTSD has a devastating impact on the lives of people who have it — and on those around them. It also has enormous financial and economic implications.”
Did You Know? UPMC's Sleep Medicine Center — accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine — is the only multidisciplinary sleep medicine facility in western Pennsylvania. The center performs approximately 2,000 sleep studies annually for adult patients with all types of sleep disorders. The staff at the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center include board-certified physicians, certified nurse practitioners, and registered sleep laboratory technologists. To schedule an appointment, call 412-692-2880.
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PTSD is a relatively new specialization in psychology, and experts are still trying to determine why it affects some people and not others. Fortunately, for most people, the symptoms of PTSD begin to ease in about a month. “If they continue, it’s extremely important to seek professional help,” notes Dr. Germain. “The best place to begin is to talk with your family doctor and seek a referral to a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist.”
PTSD and sleep disorders Among the most troubling aspects of chronic PTSD for patients are the recurring nightmares and insomnia it can bring. There is growing evidence that such sleep disorders have a direct impact on both a person’s mental and physical health. Individuals with PTSD often say they have problems falling or staying asleep, and that the sleep they get isn’t refreshing and restorative. “Our sleep research studies with veterans show that they have many more sleep disorders than the general public, including sleep apnea and other breathing problems,” notes Dr. Germain. With PTSD, nightmares can become an ingrained behavior, affecting a person’s daytime functioning — from faltering concentration and poor memory, to emotional outbursts. “By stopping the nightmares and helping to make sleep more normal, restful, and restorative, patients can overcome other aspects of chronic PTSD in their lives a bit more easily. And sleep can be improved in a matter of weeks,” she says. Dr. Germain uses several methods to treat PTSD-related sleep disorders, including image reversal therapy. “We help patients replace a recurring nightmare with a more positive, affirming dream. They write it down and rehearse it several times a day to train the brain to have a new dream image.” Individuals interested in participating in Dr. Germain’s sleep research studies for military veterans are invited to call 412-246-6404 or visit www.veteranssleep.pitt.edu.
Welcoming New Physicians To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). John T. Comerci, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Andrew S. Hall, DO Internal Medicine
Richard J. Lowery, DPM Podiatric Surgery
Michael T. Stang, MD General Surgery
Noedahn Copley-Woods, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Steven M. Heilbrunn, MD Cardiology
Richard M. Maleski, DPM Podiatric Surgery
Nangali S. Srinivasa, MD Internal Medicine
Anna Dumont, DO Family Practice
Wendy M. Helkowski, MD Orthopaedics
David S. Medich, MD Colorectal Surgery
Charles H. Srodes, MD Oncology
Marsha J. Fino, MD Internal Medicine
Brian T. Jankowitz, MD Head and Neck Surgery
Antonia A. Mendoza, MD Nephrology
Przemyslaw J. Sutkowski, MD Nephrology
Robert M. Friedlander, MD Head and Neck Surgery
Uma M. Kannapadi, MD Nephrology
Nabil H. Mikhael, MD Nephrology
Ian M. Wu, MD Nephrology
Dennis Gabos, MD Cardiology
Jeff Krachkow, MD Cardiology
Jingjiang Nie, MD Nephrology
Timothy Wu, MD Cardiovascular Surgery
John M. George, MD Cardiology
John A. Lech, DO Oncology
Thanh Nguyen, MD Nephrology
Brian W. Zimmer, DO Nephrology
Chiara Ghetti, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Ryan M. Levy, MD Thoracic Surgery
Scott G. Rainey, DO Orthopaedics
Halina M. Zyczynski, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Pablo G. Giuseppucci, MD General Surgery
Jerry L. Lowder, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Lane Y. Schumacher, MD Thoracic Surgery
What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant These free events are offered by the Passavant Hospital Foundation Understanding the Cardiovascular System and You Tuesday, Mar. 15, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Apr. 19, 6:30 p.m. CCAC North Campus Speakers: Daniel Edmundowicz, MS, MD, FACC and Darlene Loebig, RN These educational sessions are for those who want to begin living a heart healthy lifestyle. Please call 412-369-3701 to register. Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know Wednesday, Mar. 16, 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Ved Kaushik, MD Prevention, detection, and advancements in treatment options related to colorectal cancer will be discussed at this seminar. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.
Autism Through the Lifespan Wednesday (day one), Apr. 13, 8 a.m. Thursday (day two), Apr. 14, 8 a.m. Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center and Legacy Theatre This two-day event will cover autism from early childhood to adolescence (day one), and adolescence through adulthood (day two). CEUs available. Registration is required. For more information, visit www.passavanthospitalfoundation.org.
Legacy Music Series UPMC Passavant–McCandless Passavant Hospital Foundation is seeking talented musicians who want to help lift people’s spirits and volunteer their time to give the gift of music. Inquiries are now being accepted for 2011 dates. Please call 412-367-6640 for more information.
Good Nutrition for Seniors: Attaining and Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle Wednesday, Apr. 20, 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Joan Avolio, RN, LDN Learn about healthy eating and exercise, and practical ways to incorporate good nutrition into day-to-day living. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Passavant 9100 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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The strength of UPMC’s advanced spine care is right here. If you’re suffering from back or neck pain, put your trust in the experts at UPMC Passavant. Our world-class, specially trained surgical team delivers high-quality care for spinal injuries and painful disk conditions, including highly advanced fusion techniques and the latest in minimally invasive procedures. And with the addition of several high-tech operating rooms in our new pavilion, our surgeons have access to real-time, integrated, 3-D imaging. This can increase the accuracy of stabilization techniques, minimize operating time, and enable surgeons to perform more complex procedures closer to your home. We even offer a full range of nonsurgical options, including on-site physical and occupational therapy programs. It all adds up to the premier spine care center north of the city. Call us at 1-800-533-UPMC or visit UPMC.com/Passavant
PATIENT PAV ILION NOW OPEN
So when it comes to finding that perfect dress and getting your hair done just so, a little planning can go a long way towards making the difference between a night that’s mediocre and a night that’s magical. Jenn Lementowski, co-owner of Reflect, a women’s boutique in Settler’s Ridge in Robinson, said that this year’s fashions will be a lot of the tried and true that proms have been known for in the past few years. “There will be a lot of patterns and a lot of basic silk dresses with beading and rhinestones,” Lementowski said. “Those have always been popular, and they’ll be popular this year as well.” Lementowski, who attends national fashion shows with her business partner, Kristy Picard, said that the duo is bringing long and short dresses to market this year. But, because of the popularity of the short dresses, the long dresses will only be offered in two sizes. Lementowski said that prom shoppers will want to allow time for proper fitting and alterations, so waiting until the last minute should not be an option. Regardless of where they go to shop, Lementowski said that people should plan on spending between $300 and $500 on the dress, depending on the level of detailing and material. “It is a pretty big expense, but I’ve noticed that people are willing to spend that much on a prom dress,” Lementowski said, “especially if their daughter’s a senior. I have seen people spending anywhere from $500 to $600 on a dress.”
While prom is a singular event, there is hope for the dress after it’s over for those who can’t justify spending that kind of money on a dress meant to be worn one time. Lementowski said that many women use the dress after prom to wear to weddings. “Depending on what type of dress they get, a lot of people may cut it and make it into a shorter dress and get it tailored,” Lementowski said. “That’s what I’ve seen, mostly.” As far as hairstyles go, John Gamble of John Edwards Color and Design said this season’s special occasion hairstyles will be a tip of the hat to the 1970s. “We predict this spring’s special occasion hairstyles will be somewhat reminiscent of the ‘70's, with a fuller, more romantic silhouette,” Gamble sad. “Although the smooth, sleek looks we've been doing in recent years will still be around, we’re definitely seeing a trend towards texture and fullness and expect that to carry over into this year’s prom season.” Gamble also said that color will be “multidimensional,” and the trend is toward softer, more natural hair. No matter where you get your dress, or do your hair, make sure you plan ahead and make your appointments for fittings and stylings early. As prom creeps up – and it will be here before you know it – knowing that you’re booked for hair, nails, and fitting will take several layers of stress off of you so that you have more time to plan that after-prom party!
Hair styles by John Edwards Salon(photos by Joanna Fassinger)
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Venue Planning for Your Wedding When it comes time to plan for the biggest day of your life, you may not know where to start. Planning a wedding is a challenging, time consuming and expensive task, which is why those who can afford it oftentimes hire wedding planners. But for those of us who have to keep an eye on the budget, knowing what to look for in your wedding venue can save you time and money up front, and less hassle when it’s over. Obviously, you want to pick a venue suitable to the size of your anticipated invitation list, and you want to pick it early. Popular venues can be booked well over a year in advance, and if you’re getting married on a date that’s unique – like Dec. 12, 2012, or 12/12/12, you’re going to want to start looking immediately. Robin Craig, Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe, said couples should plan out 12 to 18 months when booking a venue. “They need to sit down and find out their guest list and their budget. Once they determine the guest list, we can start quoting pricing,” Craig said. “Next year , 9/10/11 is a big date, and we’re already booked. Also, 10/11/12 would be a hot date. Our hot months are September and October and May and June. If you’re a teacher, June and July are busy months.” Once you have that location selected and it appeals to your personal sense of style and
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aesthetics, you should evaluate anything that may be taken for granted, such as ingress and egress and parking. Is the wedding/reception hall easy to find? Are there covered porticos for dropping off guests in case of inclement weather or for those who have trouble walking without assistance? Will guests be able to find the hall easily, or is it hidden deep in a labyrinth of hallways? And are the restrooms close by? “All of our parking is complimentary,” Craig said. “If you want valet, we can provide it for a fee.” Once you have the building chosen, you should discuss logistics of the day with any facility manager responsible for the site. Important items to discuss include catering – can you hire your own caterer or is there a caterer specific to the venue you’ve chosen? Is there an additional charge for alcohol and can you furnish your own? Will linens be provided and who will be responsible for setting up and tearing down the tables and chairs? Is there a suggested room layout for weddings? Having a tried and true seating arrangement for the venue can save you headaches later on when you’re trying to figure out where to place the bridal table. Lastly, knowing how early you can arrive and how late you can stay will be crucial information for anyone from caterers to your bridal party.
Craig said her venue offers full linens with chair covers, sashes, mirrors, candles and champagne toasts. It also offers complimentary bridal party refresher rooms. They can tray cookies at no charge and provide a gourmet coffee station. It also offers a complimentary overnight room for the bride and groom. Lastly, find out all of the financial details up front. Many venues have service charges that are above and beyond your bill. Get all of your charges in writing, up front before you sign for your venue. You don’t want to find out afterwards that there was a food and beverage minimum that you didn’t attain, or that it was ok for you to bring your own wine, but forgot to inquire about corking fees. Craig said service charge at her venue is 21 percent and sales tax is 6 percent. They also have food and drink minimums. However, discounts are offered for group room rentals for overnight guests and for offpeak days and months. Weddings in January-March and November, and those held on Fridays and Sundays, are considered off-peak. If you do your homework up front, there’s nothing stopping you from having the fairytale wedding you’ve always dreamed of. Keep in mind, like any successful marriage, wedding planning is hard work, but work that you’ll reap rewards from in the end.
for the By Pamela Palongue
A
s anyone who knows me personally will tell you, I am no expert on social occasions. However, based upon the theory that even a stopped clock is right twice a day, I have made enough social faux pas to speak authoritatively on what not to do at a wedding. Some helpful tips are listed below to help get you through the season of bliss.
1
Never wear white to a wedding. This includes eggshell, ecru, light cream, pearl lustre and Tahitian coconut.
2
Never attempt to upstage the bride (unless of course you hate the bride, in which case you probably really shouldn’t be attending the wedding anyway, given the spirit of the whole love and happiness thing).
3
At Jewish weddings do not ask, “What is that big thing they’re standing under?”
4
At Catholic weddings try to refrain from asking, “Why is this taking so long?” The well-prepared wedding guest remembers to bring snacks for himself and his friends. (Avoid crunchy snacks that may disrupt the ceremony.)
5
NEVER bet on how long the marriage will last at the reception. All odds-making must be done outside the reception venue. (In the event of inclement weather, the lobby or bathroom is acceptable.)
6
Never complain about the food at the wedding reception with your mouth full of food from the wedding reception. It’s a credibility issue.
7
Throw only designated throwing materials at the bride and groom, such as rice and rose petals. Shoes, Jell-O and steak knives are not acceptable. Ever. Even when they are within the appropriate wedding color scheme.
8
The wedding day is NOT the proper time to share the fact that you once dated the groom, the bride, or their parents. In fact, the proper time to share this information may not actually exist.
9
If you simply must dance at the reception, remember you are not trying out for “Dancing With The Stars.” If you throw your partner in the air, make sure you catch them. Missing is considered grounds for divorce in most states. Avoid high kicks, which may warrant medical attention.
10
Many people adhere to the time-honored adage, “It’s not a party till something gets broken.” However, avoid breaking things that are irreplaceable, expensive and likely to lead to a law suit. Cell phones and glasses are okay.
Given the fact that marriage is a formidable undertaking and the courageous souls who dare to tread the rose-strewn path are likely to be distraught, hysterical, and panic-stricken, you owe it to the happy couple to be the best wedding guest possible. These helpful tips are the very foundation of the social graces. If you follow them carefully, you will glide effortlessly from wedding celebration to reception party in a virtual whirl of neurotic enthusiasm.
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Wedding
Reception to
Remember Whether it's set in the great outdoors, a lavish ballroom, the couple's favorite restaurant, or at home, the wedding reception is a special time for newlyweds to celebrate with family and friends. The signature dessert – cake – is usually the centerpiece for this occasion, a continuing reflection of the wedding theme and colors. An assortment of cupcakes or a tower of layers allows today's cakes to take almost any form, from square to round, even pillow or heartshaped. This stunning all-white creation from the wedding experts at Wilton is both simple yet elegant. Cake layers are covered in pure white fondant, while additional bands of fondant glistening with white sparkling sugar decorate the bottom of each tier. Dots of sugar pearl sprinkles, resembling perfect pearls, add a hint of texture, while a gem-studded monogram topper adds the finishing touch. This unique do-it-yourself wedding topper kit can easily be customized with one initial, two, or a trio. Self-adhesive crystal-like gems are used to trace the initials onto the clear disc. Gems can also be used to create a border or other complementary design. After the reception, it makes a perfect keepsake that the couple will treasure for years to come. Guests will want to raise a glass in honor of the newlyweds with the timeless custom of a champagne toast. Decorated flutes for the bride and groom create a long-lasting memory of this special tradition. Individual boxes are ideal for truffles or other candies to send home with guests. Tie these with ribbons reflecting the color theme of the wedding. Another fun memento is a mini champagne bottle favor that can be filled with small candies. Attach a label with a personalized message. Make it elegant or simple, and always make it meaningful and memorable. For more do-it-yourself wedding ideas, favors, and accessories, visit www.wilton.com. 28 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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R E A L E STAT E
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Both Buyers and Sellers Need to BEWARE of “You have to make sure that your agent But there’s no similar failsafe with overAs with any major purchase, doing your does comparisons to similar homes in the pricing. A home that’s overpriced may get a homework should be something you do bearea, knows the market, and gets supporting nice offer, but ultimately, the final arbiter of fore you sign on a major loan. Never before evidence that the house is really worth what it’s truly worth is the appraiser, ashas this been more true than in the housing what it’s being advertised at before you signed independently by the bank or lender. market, where overpricing can create major put in an offer,” Fincham said. “If the house That appraisal will dictate the future of the headaches for buyers and sellers. doesn’t appraise for the agreed upon price, sale. For sellers, overpricing can mean that it is unlikely that you will receive any The resulting appraisal could tank the sale your home sits on the market longer, raising seller’s assist.” altogether, or force buyers to seek extra flags to potential buyers that something is money or alternative financing to amiss. For buyers, an overpriced compensate for the missed seller’s home can mean a loss in seller’s For buyers, an overpriced home can mean a loss assistance. Either way, it’s going to assistance, money that sellers in seller’s assistance, money that sellers mean a hassle for the buyer and sometimes bring to the table from sometimes bring to the table from their profits frustration for the seller. their profits to help defray closing However, if an agent does the costs for the buyer. Worse yet, if to help defray closing costs for the buyer. homework and knows their business, there is no appraisal contingency Fincham said the home should be addendum attached to the listed at a fair price, resulting in a agreement of sale, a buyer may be relatively smooth sale in reasonable forced to go through with a home length of time. purchase after being told that it is not worth “It is now imperative that agents and what they have agreed to pay. What’s more, overpricing is a one-way Sharon Fincham, a Realtor with street by way of mistakes. Homeowners who clients know the recent selling prices of comparable homes,” she said. “Buyers Prudential Preferred Realty, said that, list their homes for too little may receive and sellers agreeing on a price is not in addition to including an appraisal multiple offers, allowing the power of free necessarily enough anymore. The study contingency addendum to an offer, you market economic supply and demand of a neighborhood before an offer is made need to make sure that your agent is to take over, driving the price up until can save everyone involved a lot of grief doing the proper legwork before the it’s comparable to the other homes in and frustration.” offer is even made. the neighborhood.
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
R E A L E STAT E
Reeducation
Hampton
Seller
In today’s post-housing-bust world, selling your home isn’t the same process that it may have been when you moved in 10 years ago.
Maureen Cavanaugh, with Howard Hanna Real Estate, said that sellers need to re-educate themselves if they want to remain competitive in today’s market and make a profit on their homes. “Selling your home is very different today, and it’s been a progressive thing,” Cavanaugh said. “Ten years ago, you could list your home as is. Buyers were willing to come in and do updates. With the changes that occurred in the last three and four years, the expectation of buyers has dramatically risen. Many sellers who have lived in their homes for years with a lot of equity should consider doing as many updates as they are willing to do.” Those updates will reap more money when it comes to their final sale price, Cavanaugh said. No updates will result in a lesser price. “It really depends on the house. I’m dealing with someone right now that has a nice home of 32 years, and they’ve spent three months and have done everything. They’re spending upwards of $25,000, but it will take their sale price from the $380,000 range to $425,000 or $430,000. They will recoup what they put into it,” Cavanaugh said. “And the reason is that today’s buyers want to move in, put down the furniture, start paying the mortgage, and get on with their lives.
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They don’t want to be bogged down with the projects and upgrades like taking down old wallpaper.” If you don’t have a budget for upgrades, Cavanaugh said that even minor cosmetic changes can improve your odds of getting more for your home when it comes time to sell. These types of upgrades include updating the hardware on cabinets to more contemporary styles. At the very least, Cavanaugh suggests getting rid of any junk, cleaning thoroughly, and doing some rudimentary staging. “Exposing hardwood floors is a no-brainer. You don’t have to paint the whole house beige. You can still have some color and have some interest,” she said. “But everything should be sparkling.” Cavanaugh said that now that the first-time homebuyer frenzies spurred by government tax rebates are over, the bulk of homebuyers are mid-level buyers looking in the $150,000 to $300,000 range with access to affordable mortgage money. “These are relocation buyers, and they want all the bells and whistles,” she said. “They want to buy more, and they want it done.”
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Hampton
Real Estate as aCareer Many finding the flexibility and income potential excellent
As the dwindling job market numbers continue to make the news lately, the professionals in the real estate market seem to have one of the best kept secrets going. For those who need some flexibility but desire a job with excellent income potential, a career in real estate is an excellent choice. Whether a person has just finished college or wants to return to work now that the kids are attending school, joining a sales team at a real estate agency close to home can lead to income rewards and a flexible work schedule that many people desire. In this day and age of electronic media, with all of the tools available to agents to help buyers and sellers in acquiring and disposing of properties, the fast pace of the real estate market is an exciting place to work. People who have just graduated from college have the upper hand when it comes to marketing to their peers through social network sites. The use of Face Book and Linked In is a tool that is being used to make contact with their friends, who are generally first time home buyers. Those who have taken time off to raise their children and are looking for an alternative to a standard 9am-5pm job have found
great success in a real estate career. The flexibility of the job is what makes it such an attractive option. Lisa Fleming of Howard Hanna Hampton/Allison Park says “Moms are finding that real estate is a great career option. The flex time nature of the business allows them to continue to develop a fantastic career while raising the kids.” What makes for a successful real estate professional? “Someone who is “go-getter”, and not shy to ask questions makes a great agent,” says Fleming. “We provide them with the tools they need to get the job done, but at the end of the day, if the agent wants to be successful they need to commit to working hard and staying motivated!” A person who loves working with and around people and can understand their needs easily, is one who will make a successful agent. The career path to becoming a real estate agent is varied. People who have previously worked in service- oriented fields like nursing, teaching or in the airline industry make great real estate agents. Those who have spent years volunteering their time and are now looking for a paying job, and have honed their skill in dealing with different types of personalities generally make a good transition into the real estate work force. A position within a real estate agency can be rewarding both personally and financially. The flexibility that comes with setting your own schedule and the satisfaction of assisting in one of the largest transactions that most people will make, can make the difference between a just doing a job and a creating a successful career.
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
The “Jewel” of the North Hills– Hampton Township Linda DiBucci Full time agent for 25+ years Effective and skilled negotiator Specializes in the North Hills Currently in the top 14 agents at Coldwell Banker Pittsburgh
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Pride, Progress and Tradition State-of-the-art community center featuring complete recreation, library and rental facility. appealing from athletics to literature enthusiasts.
Top level municipal services stemming from road maintenance to fire and police service Hampton Township offers three exceptional community parks Hartwood Acres -628 preserved acres featuring the historic stone mansion, stables, hiking and walking trails, dog park, summer concert series, theatre, cultural events and polo matches. North Park – 18 hole golf course, lake, boat house with boat rentals, ice skating rink, walking and hiking trails, nature center, wildfowl reserve, dog park, swimming pool, tennis courts and pavilion rentals.
Hampton Township Community Park 195-acre community park featuring a newly built pool, tennis courts, baseball fields, basketball courts, soccer fields, pavilions for picnics, playgrounds and a brand new community center that features programs for all ages. Housing–Hampton Township offers an array of housing from most affordable first-time-buyer homes to high end estate properties, with an abundance of choices in between. Virtually, something to fit everyone’s needs.
Location…Location…Location…. conveniently located to several specialty shopping and restaurant areas such as Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Southside Works and the upscale Ross Park Mall. Fourteen miles to downtown Pittsburgh and minutes to the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Hampton Presbyterian Church Children’s Center ...Creating memories longer than our name! Established 1986
. . . e m i T l l u Your F ervice Realtors Full S
Accepting Registration for Fall 2011 • Over 24 Years of Loving and Caring for Children! • Experience/Play-Based Curriculum • Low Child/Teacher Ratio • Certified and Experienced Teachers • ”Lunch Bunch” - Extended Care Program • Christian Education and Music • Movement Education Class • Lending Library • Programs for 2-5 year olds 2942 East Hardies Road, Gibsonia 724-443-5340 hpccc@hamptonpresbyterian.org www.hpcccpreschool.org
Gail Scott 412.260.8424
Irene Boros 412.897.3906
Terry Bienvenue 412.951.8593
Elizabeth Ejzak 412.427.5400
Mary O’Sell 412.999.0096
Silvana Conroy 412.445.6629
Patti Ninehouser 412.715.8034
Jen Ninehouser 412.680.1650
Susan Vogel 412.759.3894
Preston Moore 412.401.4156
Pat Harlovic 412.512.1476
Michelle Mattioli 412.400.5089
Bock
Funeral Home
Lawrence H. Bock F.D. Kenneth L. Rush F.D. R. Dennis Hughes F.D.
1500 Mt. Royal Blvd. Glenshaw 412-486-8500 www.bockltd.com Serving the community since 1868
Howard Hanna Hampton/ Allison Park Office 4284 Rt 8 Castletown Square South Allison Park, PA 15101 412-487-7787 Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Older Adults in Hampton
N
Keep Your Credit Card Secure
ow that the holidays are behind us, you’re hopefully putting that smoking credit card back into your wallet or purse for a while. But even though this may be a down time for you and your credit card, it’s no time to be lax about your credit card security. So what do you need to know about keeping your credit card safe? First, off, don’t give yourself a pin number that’s easy to guess. Issuing banks typically assign you a random pin number when you first get your card that you can change later. Keep this assigned number and avoid picking a pin for yourself like “1234” or your birth date. While it may be easy for you to remember, those choices are also very easy for predators to figure out. If you make a lot of online purchases or just want to dip your toes into the world of Internet shopping, get yourself a dedicated card with a low credit limit. You can open up a secured credit card at most financial institutions that require you to deposit a balance to borrow against, allowing you to open a card with a $500 limit. Your deposit will gain interest and you will be able to use your card for online purchases. What’s more, most scammers try to run a small purchase
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through before running a larger purchase on the card. You may not notice a $0.32 charge right away, but when your bank calls you asking if you tried to purchase a $779 laptop, you’ll be happy your limit was low enough to be declined. If your credit card number is compromised, you should call your bank immediately and report it. While police are able to enforce credit card fraud on a local level, with the Internet the person trying to run your numbers may be six states away, if they’re in the United States at all. In all cases, the sooner it’s reported, the better. Your bank will cancel the card number and reissue you another card. While you’re online, keep in mind that your bank will most likely never contact you via email regarding your account. If you do get an e-mail from a bank that you use, double check the address. Chances are it will be slightly askew from any legitimate
address. Instead of “@yourcreditcard.com,” you may see, “@yourcreditcard1.com” or “@yourcreditcard.uk.” Banks understand that scammers routinely try to get you to give up your personal information via e-mail. Therefore, most have secured e-mail available through their websites, where you can be sure you’re talking straight to legitimate bank representatives. Lastly, if you have several credit cards that you use often, take the time to flip them over and write down the 1-800 customer service numbers on the back and keep that list in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to keep a copy in your purse or wallet. This way, when you notice your card is missing and are frantic, you can at least go to your list and call to report the missing card. In the end, you should treat your credit card like you would treat your cash—never leave it lying around.
Digital Photography for Seniors
I
f the last time you took holiday photos required clumsily spooling film into your 35 mm camera, don’t be intimidated by what technology has done to photography in the past few years. In fact, once you have some basics down, you may find that your digital camera is easier to use than you thought. So let’s start at the beginning and go over your new toy from stem to stern. We can’t go into detail about every feature of every camera, but luckily most cameras share the same properties, so we can cover most scenarios. More than likely, your camera came with a lithium ion battery pack and charger. All you need to know about this is that this battery can last a long time. Thanks to self-timers built into your camera, if you forget to shut it off, it will shut off automatically for you, saving battery life and allowing you to take that unexpected shot when the time comes. That said, the battery won’t last forever, especially if you are shooting with the flash often or shooting video, if your camera has that feature. If you know you’re going to be somewhere with a lot of natural light, turn your flash off altogether and shoot longer. The second thing to familiarize yourself with is your memory card. Cameras come with a variety of memory cards to choose from. Regardless of the kind your camera takes, just remember that bigger is better. A 16 gigabyte memory card can hold hundreds of photos, and if you’re not in the habit of printing your photos right away or moving them to your computer, the extra space is a must. How many pictures you can store on your memory card depends on your resolution setting for your pictures. Your resolution is how big the picture is. If you’re shooting for a website, low resolutions are better because the file size is smaller. However, if you try to print the same low resolution photo as an 8x10, it will appear distorted or “pixilated” because the camera wasn’t set to capture all of the fine details of the image. With most point-and-shoot cameras on high resolution, you can print very large prints or zoom in to crop shots for better composition. The last thing to get to know is the USB cable. This is the cable that came with your camera and connects it to any USB port on your computer. Through this cable, you can transfer your images for future sorting, correction, or sharing. Believe it or not, once you have those things down, your digital camera has many of the same features of your old 35 mm. You can zoom in, set a timer so you have a chance to get into frame, and set a scenic mode where you can select how the camera operates in certain conditions, such as a portrait, sports shot, night shot, or landscape. Your manual will list the specific icons and their meanings. Don’t be afraid to leaf through it if you get stuck. Manuals have come a long way as well and are clearly written for users of all experience levels.
Senior Agencies Center North Senior Center Nativity Lutheran Church 4517 Mt. Royal Blvd. Allison Park, PA 15101 412.486.6426
ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port West Deer Center Authority's service area. In the Country It serves primarily senior 4834 Rt. 910 citizens and persons with Allison Park, PA 15101 disabilities. There are no 724.443.8220 restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which Transportation For may be taken by riders, Older Adults except that riders are There are several agencies required to share their that offer free or reduced vehicle with others rate transportation services traveling in the same to individuals who qualify. direction and at the same time. Medical Assistance Transportation Program Older Persons (MATP) Transportation 1.888.547.6287 Transportation for medical Provides non-emergency appointments, grocery medical transportation to shopping, senior center residents of Allegheny activities and other needs County who have a valid throughout Allegheny Pennsylvania Department County is available to of Public Welfare Medical adults 60 years of age Assistance Card. and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460. Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Please contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number. Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapidtransit lines). Participants must obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you. Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
Everyone Has
A Story Would you or someone you know like to be featured IN Hampton Magazine for our newest feature Resident Profiles? Please suggest a resident for the community to get to know!
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View magazines online Leave comments Stay in touch with your neighborhoods from a distance
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Email our Managing Editor at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com
(Must be a resident of the Hampton community)
H.P. Starr Lumber Company Expertise and Experience for your Projects from the Foundation to the Roof There’s a whole world of information out there when it comes to homebuilding and remodeling. Which wood moulding is best suited for staining? Which deck material lasts longest for the price? Which window requires the least maintenance? At H.P. Starr Lumber Company, employees have an average of more than 10 years of experience with the company and are ready, willing and able to answer all of those questions and any more that you can think of. Bruce Edwards, one of the owners of H.P. Starr, said that experience, expertise and breadth of product selection are what customers come to H.P. Starr for, not to mention value. “I would describe value as a combination of quality of product, the service provided while selecting the product, and getting the appropriate product for the project at the best price,” Edwards said. H.P. Starr has everything you would need to build a house from the foundation to the roof. And while you could call H.P. Starr a “one-stop shop” for your building needs, it’s still a family business at heart. There are two locations, one on Route 8 in Glade Mills and the other on Route 68 near Evans City. The Glade Mills homestead has been in existence since the 1880s, and was once the Starr
family farm. This location began serving customers in 1948 and the Evans City location later opened in 1984. In 1998, H.P. Starr merged with another family-owned lumber business, Brookside Lumber, in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. Edwards said the merger brought more than just two families together; it combined the experience of dozens of employees, making the company a veritable trove of knowledge when it comes to all the products they offer. “We have conversations with our customers,” Edwards said. “We can really drill down into their projects and make sure they leave here with the best products for their projects. Can you go buy a 1”x12” board somewhere? Sure. Can you come here? Absolutely. But what you’ll find here is a broader selection and the people who can give you the appropriate guidance so that you’re getting what you need, not what a brochure says you need.” Edwards said that expertise is even more valuable today with the majority of customers perusing the Internet for ideas on projects and materials.
“When you’re on a manufacturer’s website, you’ll read that their product is the best for your project, hands down, and you shouldn’t even consider anything else out there,” Edwards said. “But if you’re looking for moulding, for instance, there are many choices, each with their own advantages in their own situations. You could go with a hardwood, a composite, vinyl or MDF. Which is the best value for your project? The manufacturer won’t tell you that, but we can.” Multiply that by the hundreds of quality brands of siding, trim, windows, doors and cabinets, along with building materials, and that wealth of knowledge can be worth its weight in gold to a homeowner. For a tour of many of the products that H.P. Starr Lumber Company stocks, visit the company website – www.starrlumber.com. H.P. Starr Lumber Company is located at 2134 Evans City Road, 724.776.2800, and 1011 Pittsburgh Road, 724.898.1501. Both locations are open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
The Truth About Bankruptcy By Jason J. Mazzei, Esquire
the amount you owe on your credit cards, medical bills, personal loans, and payday loans. We can also force student loan companies to accept lower payments or even no payments for as long as your case lasts. Businesses commonly seek bankruptcy protection when they are in • Bankruptcy will ruin my credit. Not True! • I will lose my home, car and personal belongings if I file. Not True! financial trouble. Why shouldn’t you? Uncle Sam offers businesses and banks a financial bailout when they are in financial difficulty. Where is • Most of my debts are not dischargeable. Not True! your financial bailout? Bankruptcy is not for everybody, and we do • Bankruptcy is immoral. Not True! offer alternatives to bankruptcy filing. For a FREE confidential • I must have no money in order to file. Not True! consultation, please contact us toll free at 1-800-BANKRUPT to • My taxes cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. Not True! schedule an appointment for an office near you. Our main office is in • I can lose my job if I file for bankruptcy. Not True! Pittsburgh, but we have offices located throughout Pennsylvania, and • Bankruptcy can not help with student loans. Not True! we have an office that is close and convenient to you. With our • Bankruptcy is only for businesses. Not True! experience in bankruptcy and our low costs, why go anywhere else? Although there may be some limited exceptions to some of the Call us TODAY! 1-800-BANKRUPT or visit us online www.debt-be-gone.com above myths, for the most part, they are all false when it comes down to the law. If you look up the word bankruptcy in the dictionary, you usually get words like “failure” and “defeat”; however, bankruptcy is simply a person or business declaring they are unable to pay creditors. When playing the game Monopoly, when someone goes “bankrupt,” it means that their debts are wiped out, and they start a new game with a “fresh start.” Like the board game, bankruptcy offers a person or a business the ability to start over with a clean slate by wiping out the debt they are saddled with. Bankruptcy is a legal process conducted under Federal Law, which means it’s the highest form of law in the American legal system. With predatory loans and unfair lending practices on the rise, it is difficult to navigate through the small print and know your rights. Every day there are news stories showing the financial difficulty businesses, states, local governments and businesses are experiencing. It should be no surprise that many families and businesses in your neighborhood are having financial difficulties as well. All around us we see signs of the troubled economy, including rising costs of fuel and increased costs of living. Credit card companies have been tightening their credit limits, and increasing the minimum payments. Home foreclosures are on the rise, with no end in sight. One setback, such as a loss of a job, health trouble, divorce, a new child and a (800) 226-5787 or (412) 765-3606 family’s financial troubles worsens. Mazzei & Associates is Pennsylvania’s #1 debt relief agency who helps people and businesses get though these financially difficult times by filing for relief using CAN the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Foreclosures Mazzei & Associates focuses on personal and small business Medical Bills representation. By limiting our practice to bankruptcy law cases, we are Repossessions Tax Levies more familiar with bankruptcy law than lawyers who do not limit their practice. Concentrating the practice also increases a lawyer's efficiency Creditor Harassment Utility Shut-Offs in handling a case, as it is likely that a similar case or matter was Wage Garnishments Collection Calls handled before. Our team of experienced lawyers and debt relief professionals work together to help people keep their most valuable Credit Card Bills Lawsuits assets and using the bankruptcy laws for them–not for their creditors. We will STOP the foreclosure or tax sale on your home We will STOP the repossession of your vehicle. We will STOP utility shut-offs. We will STOP harassing credit card companies, and reduce or eliminate As a bankruptcy attorney, I hear many misconceptions about bankruptcy. Here are a few examples:
1-800-BANKRUPT ST
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P:
Stella Sotereanos and Emily Bongiovanni
Taylor Linaburg and Joyce Oesterling
Margie Damico, Allie Damico, Marjorie Crimmins, Meredith Crimmins, Melissa Crimmins, Alison Mears
Cinderella Ball
Meredith Millar
CELEBRATES 85 YEARS
O
n the arms of their fathers and amongst the elegance of the Grand Ballroom at the Omni William Penn Hotel, 22 lovely young ladies were presented to society at the 2011 Cinderella Ball. This ball has been an annual event in Pittsburgh since 1924. It is our city's oldest charity ball and the second longestrunning debutante ball in the United States.
Charlotte and Katherine Robertshaw
Bill Sells Bensur and Sally Ann Bensur
More than 500 guests enjoyed an evening of age-old tradition and modern fun. Entering the ballroom and finally revealed as Prince Charming, Chase Fisher selected the name of Stella Sotereanos from a big, glittering pumpkin, presenting her as Cinderella of the Ball. The Rick Purcell Big Band provided fabulous music during dinner and the presentation ceremonies, which included the traditional Waltz of the Court and The Grand March. Sputzy and the Soul Providers got everyone dancing afterwards. Mary Francis Johnson, Roger Kingsland, Betsy Franklin
After much research by the Cinderella Women's Committee, the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh was chosen as this year's recipient of proceeds from the ball and over 715 invaluable hours of the debutantes' volunteer time. A scholarship was awarded to debutante Katharine Reineman for her outstanding volunteer commitment, alone contributing 75 hours to the Library.
Lyle Odelein, Laurel Breuner
The 85th Annual Cinderella Ball closed at the stroke of midnight!
Hampton | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
B USINESS D IRECTORY
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To order call 412.939.1910 www.go4greens.com email: go4greens@comcast.net
Shear Design Professional Hair Care
First Time Customers $5 off $30 or more!
Mon. - Closed Tues. & Thurs. 9-9 Wed. - 9-8 Fri. - 9-4 Sat. 8-4
5348 Rt. 8 • Gibsonia, PA 15044 724.444.1414 • www.sheardesigngibsonia.com
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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PITTSBURGH, PA PERMIT NO. 887
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