in-keystone-oaks-summer by IN Community Magazines

FALL 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Dormont Celebrates

3rd Annual Castle Shannon Revitalization Pitcher Memorial Skate Park Musicians for Dormont Pool

Thank you, Pittsburgh. At UPMC Health Plan, we don’t set out to win awards. We simply focus on doing what’s right for our members. Like providing them with access to world-renowned UPMC doctors and hospitals as well as outstanding community hospitals and physicians. Giving them the tools and programs they need to live a healthy lifestyle. And offering them a personal Health Care Concierge and online chat capabilities to answer all of their questions. So when J.D. Power and Associates ranked us Highest in Member Satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania, we don’t see it as adding another award to the trophy case. We see it as doing our jobs.To learn more visit upmchealthplan.com.

“Highest Member Satisfaction Among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania” UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Member Health Insurance . Study based on 33,039 total member responses, measuring 11 plans in the Pennsylvania-Delaware Region (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are Plan StudySM based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2010-January 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

Contents Keystone Oaks | FALL 2011 |

Publisher’s Message | 2

FEATURES

Rebecca Enright | City Theatre Announces 2011 Young Playwrights | 4

Castle Shannon | Revitalization Corporation Sow Seeds for Borough’s Facelifts | 5

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 13

Imperial Landfill | Final Resting Place for Your Trash | 26

Travel Agents vs. Online Booking | 32

Pitcher Memorial Skate Park Moving Forward | 8

DOGGIE STORY | 22

Musicians for Dormont Pool Fundraiser | 30

IN Kids | 33

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Beinhauer Family Services | 11

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Sports Medicine and Joint Replacement Specialist | Dr. Gregory Flinn Habib Keeps People Moving in the South Hills | 25

Canines from all over the region were able dip their paws in the cool waters of Dormont Pool for the 3rd Annual Doggy Dip organized by Dormont Pool and the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society. Photos by Gary Yon.

COMMUNITY INTEREST

ON THE COVER

FALL 2011 Welcome to the Fall issue of Keystone Oaks Magazine. As the summer winds down, and the kids get ready to go back to school, I sincerely hope that you and your family had some time to get away from it all and relax. It seems that these days, parents driving the family taxi, and kids with their sports/lessons/parties rarely get a chance to enjoy the slow pace of an ever more elusive “lazy summer.” Ask yourself – when was the last time everyone ate together around a family table? When did everyone gather to play a board game? Does anyone remember board games? If your answer was “That one night that the power went out,” then you might be trapped in the 21st Century jail of hyper-life. (I made that term up, but I can do that – I’m the publisher.) I’m not an old guy, unless you ask my kids, but I think that life should be simpler. Moms, dads, brothers, sisters, should all try to spend some time with each other as a family more than that one night when the power goes out. Family time is an important part of being a community. And every community should value quality time with their families – it’s how we teach our children values, etiquette, and more importantly, how to participate in a family structure so they can pass on to their kids what you worked so hard to build. Recently, I saw a commercial where a father shut off the main power to the house so that the family could enjoy dinner together and blamed the outage on a thunderstorm. The Xboxes were dead. The Facebook was closed. The kids came downstairs in disillusionment to ask what happened. While the commercial was pushing some tasty dinner product, the message was more palatable – you have to make family time. I would take that message one step further – you have to make family time a priority. I hope that it’s one of yours. Have a great Fall!

IN Keystone Oaks is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the South Fayette 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 M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com R E G I O N A L E D I TO R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Wayne Dollard

Publisher

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Gail Murray Tamara Tylenda

A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

FROM THE EDITOR While my boss waxes poetic about family time, I’d like to address something along a similar line – neighbors, or your family outside of your family. My wife and I recently bought a house and moved from the one-bedroom condo that I had lived in for nearly 10 years. While it was good for a bachelor, it quickly became small for a married couple looking to start a family. During those years in the condo, I shared a building with nine other neighbors, most of whom were friendly and good-natured people like Don who lived across the hall from me. Don enjoyed going to the high school football games on Friday nights, watching the races at the racetrack in Imperial and fishing. More often than not, he would bring over a couple of extra fillets that I would season up and devour. He had a nephew that re-shafted golf clubs as a hobby and gladly delivered my broken clubs to him for repair at a more than reasonable price. Then there were some cranky people who just looked out for themselves. They would gawk from their windows into the parking lot to see who was walking by or what was going on, convinced that they were up to no good; would complain about everything from the height of the grass to the paint job on somebody’s car; and really never knew what it was to be part of a community where other people also had a voice and an opinion. Sure, Don would complain if the stock market was down or the price of gas was up, but he never complained that someone left their holiday decorations up a few days longer than everyone else or that the community dues were going up because natural gas was rising and landscapers won’t work for free. He knew how to be a neighbor, and I appreciate that. Now we have new neighbors. All of which are friendly and what every new couple hopes for when they move into a new neighborhood. We hope that we can be the same to them. Because in the end, I didn’t consider Don just a neighbor, I considered him a friend and friends are what neighbors can eventually turn into if you let it. Don asked us when we were selling our condo to sell it to a “pretty, young blonde.” I couldn’t come through for him, but Don – I’m still looking for you, buddy. Don’t lose hope!

Derek Bayer Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes John Gartley Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Rita Lengvarsky Connie McDaniel

Brian McKee Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki CapezioWatson

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Brad Lauer Gary Yon 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

Fall content deadline: 11/8/11 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Mark Berton PS – If you have an exceptional neighbor you think we should profile, drop me a line at mark@incommunitymagazines.com. There are more Don’s out there who deserve to be recognized.

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To see all of photos from events go to our facebook page at facebook.com/icmags

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Keystone Oaks student announced to be one of City Theatre’s 2011 Young Playwrights

ity Theatre has announced that Keystone Oaks Middle School student Rebecca Enright was named one of six 2011 Young Playwrights from the region who will receive professional productions of their one-act plays at City Theatre. The 12th Annual Young Playwrights Festival will run September 26October 6, 2011 on City Theatre’s Lester Hamburg Studio Stage. The Festival features six exciting and imaginative new one-act plays selected from submissions to the 2011 Young Playwrights Contest. Students from middle and high schools in western Pennsylvania were eligible to submit. Enright’s play is entitled, “The Show Must Go On.” City Theatre’s 2011 Young Playwrights Contest received more than 200 submissions. Each script was read by at least three members of the Literary Committee, comprised of theatre professionals across the nation, who also provided each writer with constructive feedback. City Theatre’s senior artistic staﬀ made the final selections. “We’re thrilled about this year’s plays,” says Kristen Link, City Theatre’s Director of Education & Accessibility. “We received some of the most charming and thoughtprovoking plays in the history of the Young Playwrights Contest. Our six winners receiving productions span a range of worlds and styles, from the historic trenches of World War I, to a mixture of real and magical in a rural mining community, to a futuristic military

interrogation chamber, to a comic quest for love by a determined little pig down on the farm. I can’t wait to see actors bring these imaginative stories to life.” The full schedule for the 2011 Young Playwrights Festival will be announced in August. Tickets will go on sale in September. City Theatre Young Playwrights is a comprehensive, dynamic approach to arts education serving teachers, students, and the Pittsburgh community. The program fulfills state academic standards, including Arts & Humanities and Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. Four major components make up the Young Playwrights program: the Young Playwrights Teacher Institute, In-School Workshops, the Young Playwrights Contest, and the Young Playwrights Festival. City Theatre, located on Pittsburgh’s historic South Side, specializes in contemporary and new plays and has brought to Pittsburgh playwrights such as Adam Rapp, Christopher Durang, and Jeﬀrey Hatcher. Under the leadership of through Artistic Director Tracy Brigden, Managing Director Mark R. Power, and a 45member Board of Directors, City Theatre’s mission is to provide an artistic home for the development and production of contemporary plays of substance and ideas that engage and challenge a diverse audience.

12Th AnnuAl YOung PlAYwrighTs FesTivAl september 26 October 6, 2011

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w w w. c i t y t h e a t re c o m p a ny. o rg

Revitalization Corporation Sow Seeds for

Borough’s Facelifts

f you ask Michael Warhold the Castle Shannon Councilman, Castle Shannon is a great community in which to live, work and shop. If you ask Michael Warhold the head of the Castle Shanon Revitalization Corporation, the best of Castle Shannon is yet to come. It’s not that he’s talking out of both sides of his mouth; it’s that he’s seen the data collected over the past three years by volunteers, interns and borough oﬃcials distilled into a report on how to best revitalize Castle Shannon in the near-term and long-term. Data collection began by surveying all of the businesses in the borough and cataloging them. a task taken on by Local Government Academy intern for the borough, Larry Chen. "We do have a comprehensive list of all the community businesses and all of the new permits that are going to new businesses," said Larry Chen, Local Government Academy intern who was responsible for the project. “Larry made sure we knew who we have in town as businesses. Some of what Larry did might be a template for other communities,” Warhold said. “We’ve also been down for the last two years walking the

streets and beating the bushes, so we know what’s in the community.” The resulting work, a nearly 300-page tome of analysis, recommendations and remediations, lays the groundwork for Castle Shannon’s eligibility for funding for decades to come. Tom Hartswick, borough manager, said the report is the first step in a long process of project identification and grantseeking. “The revitalization plan was an action we needed to take to secure other state and federal funding to work on the overall revitalization eﬀorts here,” Hartswick said. “And we took a hybrid approach with the report, so that we can be eligible for both Main Street and Elm Street funding.” Main Street and Elm Street programs are state-funded

revitalization programs, where Main Street serves to fund projects related to the revitalization of business districts and commercial interests, and Elm Street serves to fund historic neighborhood preservation and revitalization near the Main Street locations. For Warhold, the work means long hours as a volunteer, doing something that many communities have dedicated employees for. “I’m trying to take the same approach as a Main Street manager, who works 40 hours a week and makes $48,000 a year, and I’m trying to do that as a part time volunteer, without the same clout that a main street manager would have,” he said. Right now, the focus of the Castle Shannon Revitalization Corporation is the Y-shaped business district running along the ‘T’ tracks. Future areas of improvement will include parts of Route 88, Warhold said, but that might not be for years to come.

Continued on page 6

ELM ST.

Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

MAIN ST. If you would like to make a donation, or find out more about the Castle Shannon Revitalization Corporation, go to www.csrevitalization.com or call 412.885.9200. Continued from page 5 “There are a lot of ideas and recommendations in this report,” he said, “but it comes down to priority, need, and funding. There are a number of things in there that we couldn’t feasibly accomplish with the budget we’re working with.” This is why the Corporation is focusing on fundraising for the latter half of this year. Warhold is planning a series of events, such as golf outings, that will help raise the money needed to continue the work of improving Castle Shannon. Some of the early projects, such as Shannon’s Heroes and the community garden, have already reaped rewards in the borough, and Warhold doesn’t want to lose that momentum. “We’re all volunteers with this,” he said. “And we not only need volunteers, but we need funding. We need people to donate to the cause and keep Castle Shannon moving forward in the right direction.” And while that direction may mean zoning changes, or the accommodation of the transit revitalization investment district – a multistory, mixed use residential and commercial development along the T tracks that residents have been anticipating for years, it needs the support of everyone who calls Castle Shannon home.

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rk a P u o y a B o BuffalHouston, Texas

Pitcher M emorial Skate Park

Moving Forward

Park or a skatable spot – anywhere outside of Dormont to ride bikes, rollerblade or skate,” Pitcher said. “At home, they would get ticket after Mary Pitcher didn’t set ticket for being in the elementary school lot. There just isn’t a place out to start a foundation, that’s safe, or legal, for them to go.” but when her sons Stephen Now, more than 3 years into her efforts, she’s not only garnered a lot and Vincent drowned of community support, but support from Dormont’s council, the Tony tragically during a camping Hawk Foundation, and private donors. trip in 2008, she soon “The project was approved through Dormont Borough in April of learned that she needed to try 2010, and we got our 501c3 and 509a1 applications on March 22 of this and make a difference for those year,” Pitcher said. “I did all the paperwork myself to save on lawyer fees, they left behind. and I never expected to be deemed a public charity as well as a “When the funeral took place, I realized that nonprofit. Now people can bequeath things to us, people could give us a these people were grieving so strongly for them. It became apparent to car to raffle off. Materials me they touched more people than I even knew,” she said. “I wanted to will be more easily donated start something to make people, that way.” and myself, become positive and About a week after she do something good for the received notification of her community, for people who were nonprofit status, Pitcher touched by my sons. Every day, ornia if l a received a call from the it’s a hard thing to live with. It’s C , e Oceansid Tony Hawk Foundation, not even sorrow for myself. It’s which already gave the sorrow that they aren’t here to group a $10,000 grant to fulfill what they could have been.” help get the project off the So she began the long process ground. The foundation of getting a skateboard park in put Pitcher in touch with Dormont, a tribute to a sport the a local private donor who brothers, as well as many other granted the Pitcher youths in the community, loved. Memorial Park “I would take 10-15 kids at a Foundation $40,000 to start the design time and take them out to South

k r a P e t a k eS Oceansid

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e Sk y of Grindlin photos courtes

seattle Cen Seattle ter Ska , Was te hington

process for the park. That work is being done by Grindline Skateparks out of Seattle, Washington. Grindline is known for progressive and unique skate park designs throughout the world. The design process, from concept to construction drawings, cost the foundation $36,000, Pitcher said. The park can’t get underway until it has raised all the money for construction, which Pitcher said frustrates some people. “It’s hard because right now, we have $60,000. We won’t know what the final construction costs are until we get the construction drawings completed. Only then can we estimate what cost will be and ask the community to start donating materials,” she said. “Then people can not only donate towards that goal, but they can donate things in-kind such as excavation, rebar and lumber.” The Pitcher Memorial Park Foundation keeps active with fundraising events, such as haunted houses, street fairs, music festivals, and spaghetti dinners through the Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church, which she said has been extremely supportive of the project and even inquired about starting a skateboard ministry when construction is complete. Pitcher’s even gotten inquires from churches in the North Hills that already have skateboard ministries in place, asking when the project will

s atepark

Inc.

Park

be complete so they can visit and enjoy it. For now, however, Pitcher will continue her vigil, and wait for the designs to be completed. Her resolve remains steadfast, and she’s prepared to see the park remain part of Dormont’s landscape for generations to come. “This isn’t a fly-by-night thing,” she said. “It’s an extreme process because these parks last about 50 years, and it’s minimal to maintain the park physically. We have answered the maintenance issues and have escrowed money for that maintenance for 20 years to come.” If you would like to make a donation to the Pitcher Memorial Park Foundation, your tax-deductible donation can be made at any PNC Bank, or mailed to: Stephen P. & Vincent E. Pitcher Memorial Fund, PNC Bank, 285 Fort Couch Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15241. Go to: www.pitcherpark.com for more information about how you can get involved. Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

Did you know... that Keystone Oaks High School is home to a theater organ that’s nearly 100years-old? It’s true. The Pittsburgh Area Theatre Organ Society, or PATOS, can trace the organ’s history back to 1926, where the Wurlitzer first known as Opus 1497 began tooting tunes at the Prospect Theatre in Brooklyn, New York. In the early 1960s, it was relegated to storage with an uncertain future. However, PATOS liberated the organ in 1974, brought it to Pittsburgh, and, after extensive restoration, placed the unit for permanent housing in the Keystone Oaks High School Auditorium, where it was briefly removed this summer for HVAC renovations and reinstalled. It was dedicated on February 18, 1978, with an inaugural concert by Don Baker to a sellout crowd. It also has increased its operations to 19 ranks of pipes. For more information, go to www.theatreorgans.com/patos.

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Funeral, Cremation, Cemetery & Pre-Need Specialists

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can be scheduled. “We have a lot of service based groups that meet in our community room. A church group meets at the Peters Township location every Sunday at 10 a.m.,” says Scott Beinhauer. The decision to open up the community room to groups was twofold: One, it gave the funeral home a place for large groups to assemble or hold ceremonies; second, it was a way to give back to the community that has supported them over the decades. “We wanted to make available a space that anyone in the community could use; for example, educational seminars and continuing education courses for nurses, seniors, caregivers, hospices, and veterans, to mention a few. An annual memorial service is held in the community room for any family that wishes to attend. In Bridgeville, we have a digital resource sign that not only informs the community about funeral service information, but also other community events, such as programs at the library, Rotary functions, community day, church fairs, and other newsworthy information. Our community

BeinhauerFamily Services IF YOU DON’T KNOW THE BEINHAUER NAME, YOU MUST BE NEW TO THE COMMUNITY.

Beinhauer Funeral Homes have been part of the community since 1860, with six generations of the family, nurturing and growing their business, along with operating the second oldest active crematory in the United States. The Beinhauer family strives to be a part of the communities they serve. “The family business is important to all of us, and there’s a great deal of heritage and legacy that has been established by past generations. We’re making impressions and building relationships today within our communities, continuing a legacy of heritage and trust,” says Rick Beinhauer, the company’s leader and a fifth generation family member. Beinhauer is proud to have the sixth generation currently active in the family business with Scott Beinhauer, licensed funeral director. The Beinhauer family serves five communities in the South Hills—Peters Township, Bethel Park, Bridgeville, Dormont/Mt. Lebanon, and Canonsburg. Their locations are family-friendly, providing children’s rooms, cafés where food and beverages can be served, and a community room where dinners and luncheons

Outreach program has provided us the opportunity to grow and strengthen our relationships within the community.” Beinhauers can personalize services for their clients in a way that other funeral homes can’t. No other funeral company can provide the options they can in-house with their own staff. “We’re in the business of helping families create an event or service that is an extension of their loved one’s life—something that provides a meaningful experience for the family and the community,” says Scott Beinhauer. Some of those personal touches include an interactive website, personalized DVD videos, and webcasting of funerals, which, through the use of a password protected website, can give those with physical considerations or travel limitations the ability to attend a loved one’s funeral service over the Internet. “There are a lot of little things that are done for funerals. People create photo collages that chronicle their loved one’s life, or bring in personal items that represent one’s hobbies or lifestyles. You have the year of birth and the year of death, and then you have the dash in the middle. We focus on the dash—everything in the middle that that person has done for their family and community. We help the family celebrate and honor the life that was lived,” says Scott Beinhauer. The Beinhauer family also manages Woodruff Memorial Park Cemetery, located on Route 19 in North Strabane Township. The newly constructed Community Mausoleum offers magnificent crypt entombment as well as extensive cremation niches, including bronze and beveled glass and a beautiful indoor chapel. Adjacent to the human cemetery, Peaceful Pastures provides a final resting place for pets of any kind, including the area’s only pet funeral and cremation center, which houses its own crematory. For more information on Beinhauer Family Funeral Homes and their cemetery and cremation options, call 724.969.0200 or visit them at www.beinhauer.com.

Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

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FA L L 2 0 1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

What’s Inside

page 2

Serious Games for Stroke Recovery

page 3

Use Your Head to Stop Strokes

page 4

Healthy Eating for Busy Families Achoo! Don’t Get the Flu

page 5

Giving Women Options for Fibroid Treatment Magee’s Fibroid Treatment Center helps women determine the right solution for themselves

page 6

A New Level of Pinpoint Accuracy That’s Patient Friendly

page 7

Take the Hit of a Concussion Seriously

Serious Games for Stroke Recovery Robotics and gaming offer fun — and effective — therapy for patients in rehabilitation It’s hard to resist playing video games that allow us to escape from the ordinary. That bit of fun and distraction is exactly what doctors are prescribing for patients at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s Center for Stroke Rehabilitation — and the results are impressive. Located at UPMC Mercy, the center regularly uses robotics and gaming technologies, along with traditional therapies, as part of its treatment plan.

An individualized approach “Because strokes result in a loss of important physical and mental abilities, they can be devastating to patients and their families,” says Jennifer Shen, MD, the center’s medical director. “No two stroke patients are alike, so we create a specific multidisciplinary treatment plan for each patient that can include speech, occupational, and physical therapies.” The one common element in stroke rehabilitation is repetition, which is essential to increased strength, motor learning, and recovery. But while repetition is key to the healing process, it can soon lead to boredom.

Defeating the boredom factor To keep patients engaged and involved in their therapy, the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute established the Robotics and Gaming Center at UPMC Mercy. The center’s technologies — which include the GameCycle®, Lokomat®, Nintendo® Wii , Armeo®Spring, and Armeo®Boom — allow for precise, measured, and varied repetition that can be adjusted for individualized care. The ArmeoBoom is in clinical use nowhere else in Pittsburgh, and in very few places across the country. (See the box below to learn more about some of these technologies and their role in a patient’s rehabilitation.) TM

UPMC’s Robotics and Gaming Center Robotics and gaming technology are fast becoming valuable tools in stroke rehabilitation. In addition to the ArmeoBoom, the robotics and gaming technologies available at UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s Center for Stroke Rehabilitation include: GameCycle: A stationary hand cycle that’s used with a commercial video game to combine cardiovascular and balance exercises with flexibility and strength training. The GameCycle was invented at the University of Pittsburgh. Lokomat: A robotic treadmill for people who can’t walk on their own that allows them to build leg muscles while retraining the brain to control leg movements. ArmeoSpring: Like the ArmeoBoom, it provides fun and motivating therapeutic exercises for arms and hands to help patients relearn tasks.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Dr. Michael Boninger shows how the ArmeoBoom’s games and simulated tasks allow rehab patients to work hard and have fun.

“Rehabilitation can be tedious because it takes a lot of repetition to teach the body to move again,” explains Michael Boninger, MD, director of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute. “Using robotic equipment, such as the ArmeoBoom, for rehabilitation is kind of sneaky. It allows patients to enjoy playing a game while they’re actually working very hard at rehabilitation.” To use the ArmeoBoom, patients strap their arm into a sling attached to an overhead boom. Robotic supports allow patients to move their arm while playing reach-and-retrieval computer games such as solitaire and placing apples in a shopping cart, along with simulated tasks, such as cooking or cleaning. “Besides injecting a much-needed sense of fun and adventure into the challenges of rehabilitation, the computer games on the ArmeoBoom provide quick feedback that gives patients a sense of accomplishment that is very important,” says Jaclyn Glosser, MS, OTR/L, CBIS, an occupational therapist at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute who works with patients on the ArmeoBoom. Dr. Shen agrees that instant feedback is important in stroke rehabilitation. “It can be very hard for stroke patients to see that they are making progress,” she notes, “but with the ArmeoBoom, patients see what they can do. With even the smallest movement, patients recognize that they are getting better.” For more information about the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s Center for Stroke Rehabilitation, call 1-877-AT-REHAB (1-877-287-3422) or visit www.UPMC.com/RehabInstitute.

Use Your Head to Stop Strokes Be smart about your heart — and stroke treatment — to protect your brain The myths about stroke are numerous. Among the most popular — and perhaps one of the most dangerous — is that stroke is something that happens only to older adults. In fact, a recent report by the American Stroke Association showed a sharp rise in stroke hospitalizations among men and women ages 15 to 44, while rates declined by 25 percent among older adults. “The biggest mistake people make is thinking it won’t happen to them,” says Tudor Jovin, MD, director of the UPMC Stroke Institute. “Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age,” he says.

“You’re at risk any time your blood pressure or cholesterol are up. It’s far better to prevent a stroke than to deal with the consequences.” — Lawrence Wechsler, MD

Lowering your risk is the best way to avoid the life-changing impact a stroke can have on you and your family. When a stroke does occur, fast action is critical to minimize damage. The window of opportunity for the most successful stroke treatment is just three hours after onset.

Think FAST

Prevention: What you can do

Use this simple acronym to help determine whether you’re witnessing a stroke:

“Heart disease increases your chances of having a stroke, so it’s important to control the risk factors,” says Lawrence Wechsler, MD, chair of the Department of Neurology at UPMC. While you can’t do anything about your age, family history, or ethnicity (African-Americans have a higher incidence of stroke), you can control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking.

Face:

Can the person smile (or does one side of the face droop)?

Arms:

Can the person raise both arms (or does one side drift downward)?

Speech: Can the person speak clearly or repeat a simple phrase?

“You’re at risk any time your blood pressure or cholesterol are up. It’s far better to prevent a stroke than to deal with the consequences,” Dr. Wechsler says.

Time:

Treatment: Time lost is brain lost

Act FAST

Every minute after the start of a stroke means greater risk of permanent damage or death. One of the best treatments for ischemic strokes — where a clot blocks blood flow to the brain — is the quick administration of the clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). While UPMC doctors have had success beyond three hours with a special procedure to retrieve the blockage or dissolve it with drugs administered directly into the clot, time is critical.

Strokes require immediate medical attention, so knowing the warning signs is crucial, says Maxim D. Hammer, MD, director of stroke services at UPMC Mercy. Stroke symptoms can include sudden onset of:

For patients experiencing a hemorrhagic stroke caused by bleeding in the brain, fast action is needed to repair the leaking blood vessel.

Call 911 If you suspect someone has suffered a stroke, call for emergency medical help immediately so treatment can begin without delay. Specialized stroke centers — such as UPMC’s Stroke Institute at UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, UPMC St. Margaret, and UPMC Mercy — have experts available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to diagnose and treat patients. The UPMC Stroke Telemedicine Program also uses technology to provide fast treatment to patients at other UPMC hospitals throughout western Pennsylvania.

Call 911 immediately, if someone exhibits any of these warning signs!

• Paralysis or weakness in the face or limbs, especially on one side of the body • Problems with balance or walking • Vision problems • Slurred speech • Problems communicating or understanding • Severe headache To learn more about stroke prevention and treatment, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Healthy Eating for Busy Families America is getting fatter and Pennsylvania is helping to lead the way as one of the nation’s top 20 “most obese” states. Our busy lifestyles encourage unhealthy eating habits, like eating on the run and high-fat/high-sugar snacking. But with a little effort, you can gradually transform your family’s diet from “fat” to “fit”!

Achoo!

Don’t Get the Flu

Start your day off right Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Kids who eat breakfast — especially those packed with “brain food” like protein, vitamin C, and omega 3 — are more alert and focused in school; adults have more energy and concentrate better.

Unpredictable. That’s the best way to describe flu season, which officially begins in late October and winds down in May. Winter is prime flu season, but it can peak as early as October or as late as April.

• Is cereal your family’s breakfast of choice? Look for low-sugar, high-fiber options and top with fresh fruit and low-fat milk (1% or fat-free). • Get your creative juices flowing with easy-to-make fruit and yogurt smoothies. • Crunched for time? Grab a hard-boiled egg and toast, or top an apple or banana with peanut butter for a tasty “breakfast to go.”

It’s impossible to know what the 2011-12 flu season has in store for us. What we do know is that the flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe reactions, and it can even be fatal. Every year, more than 200,000 people in the United States are hospitalized with the flu. The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get vaccinated every year.

Think smart when it comes to fast-food lunches No time to pack your own lunch? Use these healthy strategies when dining out: • Say no to fried, sautéed, or creamy foods. Opt for roasted, grilled, broiled, steamed, or baked meals. • Beware of add-ons (like mayo, butter, and salad dressing) that quickly increase calorie counts. • Replace sodas with water or fat-free or 1% milk. Even diet sodas can be bad for you! • Go online for the nutrition information on your favorite meal. Don’t just focus on calories: look at factors like fat and sodium content.

Who is at risk? Even healthy children and adults can become very sick from the flu and spread it to family and friends. You can pass on the flu before even knowing you are sick!

Who should get the flu vaccine? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone over the age of six months gets vaccinated. Those at higher risk for serious complications from the flu include: • People age 65 and older • Children younger than five, but especially children younger than two • People with health conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as well as kidney, liver, and neurological disorders • Pregnant women

Make dinner a family affair

Others who should get a flu shot: • Health care workers

Eating together as a family offers countless benefits — including serving more balanced, nutritious meals and the chance for parents to serve as “healthy eating” role models.

• Residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities, as well as family and friends who have contact with a resident

• Talk to your children about portion control, with fruits and vegetables comprising half of every plate. • Reduce the amount of meat your family eats by gradually introducing healthy alternatives into your meals, like fish, whole grains, and beans. • Look for seasonal produce that is grown locally. In the fall, that means vegetables like pumpkins and squash, and fruits like apples and pears. Interested in learning more about nutritious eating? Check out the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new guidelines at www.choosemyplate.gov.

• Caregivers of young children, especially infants under six months who are at the highest risk of flu-related complications

What is the best time to get vaccinated? The sooner you get a flu shot, the sooner you’ll be protected. However, experts agree: it’s never too late. If you have questions about getting a flu shot, talk to your doctor. To locate a physician in your area, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

www.UPMC.com/Today

Giving Women Options for Fibroid Treatment Magee’s Fibroid Treatment Center helps women determine the right solution for them In the past, the leading treatment for UFTs has been a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). “It’s still the only way to totally prevent fibroids from recurring,” says Philip Orons, DO, chief of interventional radiology at Magee. “But women who are planning to have Before embolization children or who are some years away from menopause may want to consider other options.”

Robin Eberle of Butler, Pa., never had a problem with her periods. But when this mother of five hit her mid-40s, her periods became heavier and lasted longer. “There were times I couldn’t even leave the house,” she recalls.

Fibroids

Her gynecologist prescribed an ultrasound, then an MRI. Based on those results, he diagnosed Robin with uterine fibroid tumors (UFTs) and referred her to the Fibroid Treatment Center at MageeWomens Hospital of UPMC.

For Robin, her treatment of choice was a uterine fibroid embolization, a minimally invasive procedure requiring little downtime. Using a thin catheter, about the size of a spaghetti strand, Dr. Orons injected small particles into the blood vessels that “feed” the fibroids to stop the flow of blood to them. “The procedure literally changed my life,” says Robin.

As many as three out of every four women have UFTs, but the majority never even know it. For women like Robin, though, these non-cancerous growths in the wall of the uterus can literally take over their lives.

The Fibroid Treatment Center

After embolization

Established in 2008, the Fibroid Treatment Center offers the region’s most comprehensive approach to UFTs. “We bring together gynecologists and interventional radiologists with extensive expertise in treating fibroids,” says Richard Guido, MD, the center’s founder and director. “Our focus is educating women on their full options so they can choose the best treatment plan for themselves.” The center’s structure also offers women much-valued convenience. “During a one-day visit, you can have necessary diagnostic tests done, the results of these tests evaluated, and then meet with our physicians for a counseling session to determine your best plan of action,” says Dr. Guido.

The center offers a full range of other options, including pain medication, hormonal therapy, and surgery. It also has a research component that includes trial procedures unavailable elsewhere.

To learn more Women are encouraged to first have a conversation with their doctor if they think they may have UFTs. If you’re looking for a physician in your area, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). You can also visit the Fibroid Treatment Center’s webpage at www.UPMC.com/Magee. The center also will host a Community Health Talk at Magee on Thursday, Sept. 29. For details, call 412-641-4435.

Do You Have UFTs? Chris D’Amico, RN, MSN, CRNP, UPMC Mercy’s obstetrics/ gynecology administrator, says that uterine fibroid tumors can be as small as a marble or as large as a grapefruit. “It’s not clear why fibroids occur, although family history seems to play a role,” she explains. “They’re also seen more frequently among African-American women.” She advises that women be alert to these early symptoms: • Heavy bleeding • A sense of pelvic pressure • Pain during intercourse

“Symptoms usually appear in the late 30s and 40s, and they often can be controlled through hormonal therapy or other medication,” says Ms. D’Amico. “But others require more aggressive treatment, such as surgery or uterine fibroid embolization.” For most women, the symptoms of fibroids significantly diminish during menopause. It’s important to know that other conditions can cause symptoms similar to those of UFTs. That’s why it’s vital to have regular checkups, and keep an open line of communication with your gynecologist or family doctor. For more information, visit www.UPMCMercy.com.

1-800-533-UPMC

A New Level of Pinpoint Accuracy That’s Patient Friendly TrueBeam allows UPMC cancer specialists to enhance treatment and patient comfort TM

Martha Makin of Somerset, Pa., says she’s “done it all” since being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2007. Not a candidate for surgery, the 69-year-old grandmother first received chemotherapy, followed by multiple radiation treatments that required her to remain still on a hard surface for long periods. But her most recent radiation treatment in April used a new form of technology that left her impressed and enthusiastic. “I was amazed at how fast and comfortable it was,” she says. “It’s definitely my choice for future treatments!”

Determining the right treatment “We see many cancer patients who are not good candidates for conventional surgery, particularly among the elderly,” explains Neil Christie, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon with UPMC. “Additional medical complications or hard-to-reach tumors just make surgery too risky.” Radiation therapy is often used in such instances to shrink or eliminate tumors. For Martha, her age and type of tumor made her a good candidate for the Novalis® powered by TrueBeam STx system, selected by UPMC cancer specialists for the precision, speed, and comfort it offers patients. TM

“TrueBeam is one of the most advanced radiation technology available,” says Dwight E. Heron, MD, FACRO, professor of radiation oncology and otolaryngology, and vice chairman for clinical affairs, Department of Radiation Oncology at UPMC Cancer Centers. “It’s letting us treat challenging cancers of the brain, lungs, spine, neck, and prostate with much greater precision.”

Another UPMC first When UPMC introduced TrueBeam STx to Pittsburgh last November, it became one of the first 20 medical centers worldwide to do so. But like all technologies, TrueBeam is just a tool. Its real potential is realized through the talents of those who use it. “In the late 1980s, UPMC was the first center in the United States to use Gamma Knife® technology for radiosurgery of the brain. Since then, we’ve advanced our knowledge through research and the innovative use of technology,” notes Dr. Heron. “Our multidisciplinary team approach gives patients a highly individualized plan of treatment based on their specific needs. TrueBeam now extends the kind of care we can offer them.”

www.UPMC.com/Today

How it works Some cancerous tumors are located in a hard-to-reach part of the body, while others “float” in an organ, or shift position when a person breathes or coughs. Just like a sharpshooter often struggles to hit a moving target, such cancers make it hard to directly aim radiation at a tumor. “But TrueBeam’s built-in imager produces sharp, ‘real-time’ 3D images that fine-tune a patient’s position during treatment, even while breathing,” explains Dr. Heron. “It’s able to track a tumor’s exact location within a millimeter.” UPMC specialists are combining TrueBeam technology with RapidArc®, another radiotherapy technique that delivers a powerful, faster, more uniform dose of radiation. Radiosurgery and other radiation treatments can now be accomplished two to eight times faster, with fewer side effects reported by patients. “These and other minimally invasive treatments are really redefining how we treat cancer,” notes Dr. Christie. “We’re no longer limited by conventional procedures.”

To learn more The TrueBeam system is housed at the Mary Hillman Jennings Radiation Oncology Center at UPMC Shadyside. UPMC provides access to a number of physicians that can refer interested patients to the center. For a list, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Take the Hit of a Concussion Seriously UPMC Mercy is focusing on athletes, parents, and coaches as the front line in building awareness In 2010, an alarming number of professional athletes from a variety of sports were diagnosed with concussion, with some top players forced to sit out important games or their entire season. When a high-profile professional athlete suffers a concussion, it makes front-page news and raises awareness of the dangers of concussion to any athlete in any sport.

It can happen to anyone “A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI),” says Cara Camiolo Reddy, MD, medical director of the brain injury program at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Mercy, and medical advisor to the Sports Medicine Concussion Program at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine. “And it can happen to anyone at any age — from elite athletes to weekend warriors, high school athletes to grade-school soccer players.” Most mild concussions go unreported or undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which estimates at least 10 to 20 percent of all individuals involved in contact sports suffer some type of concussion. But the majority of sports- and recreation-related concussions happen at the high school level. “As doctors, we’ve learned significantly more about concussions over the past 20 years,” says Dr. Camiolo. “As a result, everyone — athletes, parents, coaches, trainers, and sports fans — is more aware of the signs and symptoms of concussions than ever before.”

A heads-up for athletes No two concussions are alike and symptoms aren’t always definitive, so young athletes may just shrug them off. Peer pressure can also be especially strong motivation for a teenager to hide the symptoms of a concussion. When an athlete suffers a broken leg or a broken arm, it’s obvious the player is hurt. “But a concussion isn’t visible, so it’s hard for a player to be sidelined with an injury that no one can see,” says Dr. Camiolo. “That’s why it’s so important to provide an atmosphere where young athletes are comfortable admitting their symptoms and asking for help.”

Did You Know? • You do not have to experience loss of consciousness to have a concussion. In fact, most concussions, even ones with serious lingering effects, do not involve loss of consciousness. • Any athlete thought to have sustained a concussion should be removed from practice or the game, and a medical evaluation must be done before that athlete can return to the sport. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, referral to a concussion specialist is warranted. • At last count, 27 states had passed concussion legislation, and in several others (including Pennsylvania) legislation is pending.

Education is key The UPMC Sports Medicine Concussion Program has been at the forefront in educating athletes, families, coaches, trainers, and health care professionals on how to prevent, recognize, and respond to a concussion. “We take advantage of every opportunity to talk about how serious concussions are, and how devastating this injury can be,” she says.” During a recent visit, a young patient explained his injury to Dr. Camiolo saying, ‘I got hit, but thought I was okay — until my teammates told me I wasn’t acting right and said I should go sit down.’ “If young athletes are educated about concussions to the point where they are looking out for each other, it tells me that we’re getting the message across,” she adds. She also stresses that the effects of having another concussion in close proximity to the first can be very dangerous. Her advice to coaches and parents of young athletes? “When in doubt, sit them out!”

1-800-533-UPMC

UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

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From horseback riding to whitewater rafting, Megan was always up for an adventure. But an unfortunate ATV accident left her with a broken back and neck, and unable to move her legs. After recovering from 17 hours of surgery, Megan elected to go to the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute for inpatient rehabilitation. It was a daily struggle, but working with world-class doctors, therapists, and state-of-the-art equipment, she worked to sit up, stand, and walk again. She’s come so far, in fact, she’s not only riding her horse again, but she is soon jumping into life’s ultimate adventure. This October, Megan will be, quite literally, walking down the aisle to be married.

To learn more about the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s seven locations, including UPMC Mercy, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/MyRehab. Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

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Dormont Celebrates 3rd Annual PHOTOS BY GARY YON

They say that every dog gets his day, and after these dog days of summer, canines from all over the region were able dip their paws in the cool waters of Dormont Pool for the 3rd Annual Doggy Dip organized by Dormont Pool and the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society. The event featured swim sessions for dogs of all breeds and sizes, games, raffles and more. Proceeds were split 50-50 between the pool, which relies heavily on donations to continue operations, and the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society. The event allows one dog per human to swim for the evening. Dog guards were on duty in case any pups got unruly. If you missed it, you can still donate to the Dormont Pool and Western Pennsylvania Humane Society by going to their websites:

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View magazines online Leave comments Stay in touch with your neighborhoods from a distance

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ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON, DR. GREGORY FLINN HABIB

keeps people moving in the South Hills By Laura Lorenze Judge If you’ve happened to pass by 345 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. in Castle Shannon recently, you may have noticed the extraordinary renovation undertaken by Dr. Gregory Habib of Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialists. “Were proud of our new home,” says the orthopedic surgeon. “We wanted to create an aesthetically pleasing facility that reflects our dedication to the area - one that also has the space and technology to accommodate our future growth. “ “My patients are like my extended family,” says the physician and South Hills native as several of his staﬀ members nod in agreement. “I want them to know that I am dedicated to their long term health. I have a personal investment in helping them lead active, healthy lives.” “It is this notion of overall health,” explains Habib with obvious thought, “that I truly believe in. And as an orthopedic specialist,” he adds, “my specific job is to help people keep moving. If I can do that, I have contributed a large piece to the overall puzzle of continued health.” Whether he is helping the young athlete with an acute injury or repetitive strain, helping the “weekend warrior’” keep at it, or providing a new knee for an arthritic senior, Dr. Habib’s goal is always the same: To optimize his patient’s ability to move as nature intended. As a former high school and college athlete himself, Dr. Habib has always had a firsthand interest in the body’s ability to perform optimally. In fact, it was a personal experience that led him to orthopedic medicine as a career. Having suﬀered a fairly extensive injury during his sophomore year at the University of Pittsburgh, this former football running back was suddenly up close and personal with the world of orthopedics. “I was fascinated with the treatment and information I was receiving,” says Dr. Habib, “I knew then and there that this is what I wanted to study…what I wanted to dedicate my life to.” According to many of his long time friends and associates, it is this combination of a dedication to medicine, and an intrinsic love of people that has enabled Dr. Habib to set himself apart. “You can tell how much he really cares about your progress, “ adds patient Eleanor Mitrik, “that’s something you can’t teach.” “And now I get to work in a great space in an area of Pittsburgh that I love,” says Habib with pride. Having done his internship in Philadelphia and his residency in New York City, Habib returned to his beloved city in order to complete a noted fellowship with Allegheny General Hospital. Formerly with UPMC/Mercy, Dr. Habib now celebrates his third year in private

practice with oﬃces in both Castle Shannon and Greensburg. According to the physician, it has been an incredible journey so far with the highlight being the completion of the building. “It’s beautiful and functional, and I love getting to share it with my patients.” Dr. Gregory F. Habib specializes in both joint replacements and sports medicine, focusing on ailments and injuries (including arthritis) of the hip, knee, shoulder and other extremities. You can visit Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement Specialist’s at 345 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. in Castle Shannon for a consultation or simply to stop in and say hello. “We love getting to know our patients and their families, says Dr. Habib. “And,” he adds with a proud grin, “I’m always ready to chat about my four children whose job it is to keep me moving.”

Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Imperial Landfill

FUN FACTS

It takes in 1,700 tons of garbage every day from 220 trucks.

t seems oxymoronic to describe a landfill as “clean.” If you’re a resident of the Keystone Oaks region, all of your non-recyclable garbage leaves the curb via hardworking trash haulers, travels down the road to Imperial and is dumped at the Imperial Landfill, which is run by Republic Services. That’s the image in your head, probably, and it would be correct, except “dumped” is a misleading term. There’s no mountain of trash surrounded by swarming birds picking open sun-baked trash bags. In fact, the reality is, well, clean. Brett Bowker, general manager for Republic, said the reason for the landfill’s cleanliness isn’t just for public relations, but for efficient landfill management surpassing what’s expected of them by agencies such as the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Allegheny County Health Department, both of which inspect the landfill regularly and permit the site for operations. From the moment one of the more than 200 garbage trucks enters the site to deposit their haul, they are met with multiple systems tasked with keeping the landfill as clean and orderly as possible. The first thing that happens with every truck is that it is weighed at a scale house at the front gate. The entire truck rolls onto a giant scale. As the driver checks in with the scale house operator, the scale reads the tonnage of the truck. After the truck deposits its trash, it’s weighed upon exiting the landfill and the difference in the before and after weights is recorded. The trash hauler’s operating company then pays fees to the landfill based on that number. But not only is the truck weighed at the gate, it’s also scanned for radioactive materials. Bowker said the detector is so sensitive that it has been known to pick up radioactivity from the disposable undergarments of people who have undergone chemotherapy, which uses radioactive chemicals to fight cancer. If anything radioactive happens to be detected, the truck is parked and searched by authorities to uncover the cause and remove the offending matter for proper disposal.

nce a truck has been checked in, it makes its way down a long, winding road to the day’s active work site – a section of the landfill that’s about the width of six garbage trucks parked side by side. Each truck will back into the site, dump their hauls and head back down the road. What happens to the trash next is key to the landfill’s organization and success.

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It collects gas from hundreds of wells onsite for renewable energy.

It’s estimated to be in operation for another 39 years before reaching capacity.

For added security, a base of 8 feet of dirt is laid over the liner before garbage starts filling it in. As it fills in the hole, it’s covered with dirt and more garbage, eventually growing to about 30 to 40 feet high. Each night, workers cover the day’s trash with a layer of dirt, to alleviate odors and keep trash from blowing about the site. Once it reaches its maximum height, it is capped with the same liner, covered over with dirt and seeded just like a field. With the passage of time, the landfill begins to look more like natural, rolling hills. In 40 years, if it’s decommissioned, the site may become home to passive recreational facilities such as a golf course, or simply green space. Gas from decomposing garbage is collected via a system of hundreds of interconnected wells, refined onsite by a contracted refinery, and sold to various outside interests. Literally nothing is wasted, and the site is able to actively contribute to the energy needs of the region.

A bulldozer pushes the dumped trash into a mound, on top of which, a 55-ton compactor – a giant machine with spiky, steel tires – drives over and over the trash, flattening it as far as it will go. At the end of each work day, the active work site is covered with a layer of dirt and another site is made ready for the next day’s haul. All of this

activity starts below ground, where the landfill is excavated to about 30 feet deep. A thick plastic liner is laid into the pit, ensuring that no trash or leachate seeps into the soil. The liner is described by Bowker as a giant trash bag that the garbage sits in. However, the material is thick, rigid and practically impervious to ripping, tearing or puncturing.

avid Borowicz, environmental manager for the landfill, said the amount of gas collected via the site’s 339 wells for 2010 was 900 million standard cubic feet of gas. That converts to the equivalent of 155,070 barrels of crude oil. A sister Republic landfill in Loraine County provides enough power to meet the needs of 8,500 homes with the gas collected from its wells. “It’s enough to power a small town or city,” he said. “It’s not just one home’s worth of power generation, it’s thousands.” Jeff Kraus, spokesman for Republic Services, said the company, which is based in Phoenix, has 30,000 employees servicing 193 landfills in 40 states. It also operates 76 recycling centers as well, and is very innovative when it comes to green technology and programs. “We have landfill gas-to-energy programs

Continued on page 29

Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

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Imperial Landfill

FUN FACTS

Continued from page 27 all across America. Anheiser-Busch in Houston and General Motors in Fort Wayne use our landfill gas for electricity in their plants,” he said. “When visitors come here, they always go away impressed with our operations. We actually have people on site who will go and pick up litter. These are extra steps that we do to help keep our site clean and efficient.” Borowicz said that the site also has 32 groundwater monitoring wells that are tested quarterly, with results reported to multiple regulatory agencies. “These facilities are very monitored,” Kraus said. “A lot of data is collected on landfills. Landfills are the most sanitary and best way to dispose of waste. Because of our professionals, every day of their lives are devoted to the operations of our landfills. We take pride in our operations. We also take pride in our employee safety here. That’s very important. Safety is something that everybody from office to operations are conscious of safety and it’s reinforced here.”

n their way back to the weigh-house, the trucks pass through an automatic rinsing station, which is essentially a drive-in bath tub with six automatic spray nozzles that wash the lower half of the truck and undercarriage, guaranteeing that no loose garbage finds its way on the roadway leading to and from the facility. Water trucks also routinely drive up and down the road leading up to the dump site, spraying water to eliminate dust and particulates from becoming airborne. The work is endless,

It takes in waste from most of Western Pennsylvania.

It follows strict guidelines and regimens to ensure that all groundwater, rainwater and leachate (water that comes into contact with garbage) is tested, treated if necessary, and disposed of in accordance with the law.

starting at midnight each night. Trucks end their deliveries by 3 p.m. to allow landfill workers to cover up the day’s active work phase and start a new phase for the next day. While it might be endless, not to mention thankless work, Krauss and Bowker said the work does have peaks and troughs just like any other industry. “Typically your summer months are heavier than your winter months because construction’s going on, people are cleaning their houses, things like that,” Bowker said. Kraus added that the economy also has impacted the garbage business. “People are buying fewer things and they’re disposing of fewer things, and I’ve observed that at some of other landfills, like in Ohio, that has resulted in a decrease in garbage at those sites,” he said. When the site finally does wind up its life of operations 39 years from now, it will continue to be monitored and regulated for decades to come. Borowicz said the closure period on landfills in Pennsylvania is 30 years, so during that time, while there won’t be any new garbage added to the site, wells will continue to collect gas, and officials will continue to monitor groundwater, storm water runoff and numerous other indicators to ensure the site remains properly capped. Republic will continue monitoring the site as well, during that closure period. After that time, Kraus said anything could happen. “There are former landfill sites that are golf courses. Others have been turned into nature areas,” he said. “It takes a while to get there, but over time, uses can be found.”

“We have landfill gas-toenergy programs all across America. AnheiserBusch in Houston and General Motors in Fort Wayne use our landfill gas for electricity in their plants,” David Borowicz, environmental manager

Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Musicians came together for a cool cause – or rather, a cooling cause – to raise money for the Dormont Pool at Molly Brannigans in Mt. Lebanon. The event, which featured the Justin Fabus Band playing modern country music, and Ruby Vere playing some classic and contemporary rock. Proceeds from the event benefitted Friends of Dormont Pool, which helps support the borough’s historic pool.

Justibnus Fa

For more information on the Friends of Dormont Pool, email – info@friendsofdormontpool.org.

3 1. Justin Fabus Band 2. Anna Reinhard and Dawn Holshue 3. Ruby Vere Band 4. Tom Herrman, Vice President of FODP and Lynda Herrman

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5 8 9

ruby vere

5. Darren Stroh, FODP Fundraising Committee 6. Jeff and Jennifer Reed 7. Tom Herrman, Vice President and Sarann Fisher, Treasurer of FODP 8. Tom Kenniston, Jamie Frey, Ruby Vere, Rich Goff, Jeff Pokrajac of Ruby Vere Band 9. Rich Chormanski and Alex Shefler 10. Rich Goff 11. Mary Jo Maggio and Darren Stroh, FODP Fundraising Committee Keystone Oaks | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Travel Agents vs. Online Booking You’ll be Surprised at the Results

ith the advent of travel sites on the internet, the way travelers plan their trips has changed in more ways than one. So with all of the online sites out there to choose from, you would think that finding a real flesh and blood travel agent would be near impossible these days. However, you would be very wrong. Live travel agents are still out there making quite a good living from all the shortcomings of the DIY websites. If you enjoy taking a cruise, going to an actual travel agent can save you a lot of headaches. Cruises entail planning multiple aspects of one trip — airfare to the port of departure, which stateroom has the best view, whether you go on the paragliding excursion or tour the Mayan ruins. All of those aspects can be easily handled for you by a travel agent, saving you time and money.

Think you can outbid a travel agent for discount airfare? Think again. You may like the appeal of naming your own fare on a website, but keep in mind that even the giants of internet travel booking still have a limited pool of airlines to pick from. Travel agents don’t. A travel agent can work with smaller or foreign carriers to find you a discount, and some have access to private, reduced fares that can be well worth the cost of the agent’s fees.

Looking for more than just a pair of round-trip tickets? Sometimes travelers have more than one destination in more than one country. Some agents specialize in these global itineraries and can save you the hassle of trying to plot a complicated route for 32 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Keystone Oaks

your trip. What’s more, if you’re going somewhere that has a warning for Americans issued by the state department, is known for being diﬃcult for tourists, or is simply oﬀ the typical American itinerary, your travel agent can make recommendations to help you navigate the terrain, both figuratively and literally.

Special Needs? A Travel Agent Will Accommodate Them. Whether you’re a senior citizen, or looking for an Asian-language safari in the Sahara, travel agents know more about special needs and requests than any website out there. They can help with alternative lifestyle requests such as easily finding a seat on a tour bus for someone with a disability. Your travel agent has likely heard it all when it comes to meeting the specific needs of travelers, so don’t hesitate to ask them about your particular requirements.

What if I’m really stuck? Travel agents can do more than simply rebook your flight if it’s cancelled. Agents can assist in getting you the medical help you need or even cash if your wallet is stolen. A dot-com can’t and won’t do that for their customers. The peace of mind alone can be worth the agent’s fees.

What if I’m not on the internet? Believe it or not, many people still don’t have – or want – access to the internet. Or they may have access, but don’t feel comfortable giving out their credit card numbers online. That’s totally understandable, and yet another reason why having a courteous travel agent smiling back at you can be the diﬀerence between getting sunburned…or just getting burned.

As you get ready to head back to school in the Keystone Oaks School District, there are a few things you can do to keep healthy! Keep Your Hands Clean – make sure to wash with soap and water after a visit to the girls or boys room, and before lunch. It’s also a good idea to use hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available. • Sneeze into your elbow – if you feel a sneeze coming on, make sure you use the inside of your elbow to catch the sneeze! • Fuel Up! Every morning eat something healthy for breakfast. Some kid favorites include a waffle with peanut butter, hard boiled eggs, cereal with milk or fresh fruit and yogurt. • Get your rest – Did you know that kids between the ages of 6-16 need 10-12 hours of sleep each night? This helps your body recharge and get ready for the next day. •

word search

Find and circle all of the school supplies that are hidden in the grid. The words may be hidden in any direction.

N S N O Y A R C S B E U R

R O T A L U C L A C Y S E

C R E R Q I I U C H R S U

B D O J E C P A P E R R L

S A I T N L F R T K N O G

S B C E C F P H U O G L S

A I P K R A G A T L E O C

P N U L P I R E T R E C I

M D C Q L A B T A S S R S

O E Y H A O C S O N K E S

C R G J O X E K E R E T O

O I L K K R B P G F P A R

H B S D I V I D E R S W S

BACKPACK BINDER CALCULATOR COMPASS CRAYONS DIVIDERS ERASER GLUE HIGHLIGHTERS NOTEBOOKS PAPER PENCILS PENS PROTRACTOR RULER SCISSORS STAPLER WATERCOLORS

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PITTSBURGH, PA PERMIT NO. 887

KEYSTONE OAKS |

Planning your vacation shouldn’t be a numbers game

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