in-mars-area

Winter 2012

COMMUnitY MAGAZine

AdAms Township

Celebrates Community Day

“I’d like to have my questions answered in just one phone call.”

Here’s the Plan At UPMC Health Plan, we believe customer service should be a service to you, not a headache.

That’s why we offer you a personal health care concierge. A live person who lives here and can answer all your questions in just one phone call. Sure, we win awards for our customer service.

But it’s the reaction we get from satisfied members that we find most rewarding.

To find out more visit upmchealthplan.com

The faces of integrity at

NORTHWOOD Meet Gail and Steve Carpenter. Gail and Steve have been Northwood agents for over 10 years. They can assist you with all your real estate needs - from luxury homes to commercial property, vacant land, and the list goes on! Stop by to talk with Gail and Steve at their new work cafe in the Adams Twp. Shoppes on Route 228 today.

Come meet the New Face of Northwood.

- Gail & Steve Carpenter Office • 724.741.2111 Cell • 412.585.1153 (Gail) Cell • 412.585.4460 (Steve) gailcarpenter@northwood.com scarpenter@northwood.com

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Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

Church Mars High School

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INSIDE

UnitY COMM

IN Mars Area is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Mars 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.

Zine MAGA

2012 Winter

IN Mars Area | WINTER 2012 |

hip wns s To AdAm

Celebratesy ity Da Commun

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FEATURES

Local Artists Help to Paint a Bright Future for the Mars Area Public Library

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True Love Really Does Wait

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River City Brass Band

Brings Signature Style to Mars High School | 13

on the cover

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Four youths enjoy food and fun at Adams Township Community Day

UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Winter 2012-13

Stay Well This Winter Some people seem to sail through winter without a sniffle or a grumble. These simple steps may help you do the same: Spend some time in the fresh air, de-stress your holiday planning, wash your hands often, get plenty of sleep, and get a flu shot.

What’s Inside 2 3 4

A Cut Above the Rest

Local Pilots Help Residents Reach for the Skies

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One Resident’s Quest to Save the Lake

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The Santa Watch Continues

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He Knew Right from the Start

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Absent From Pain Butt Out: New Reasons to Quit Smoking Brittle Bones

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Shedding More Than Pounds

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Growing Up With Heart Disease Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

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© 2012 UPMC

UPMC Today_Passavant_Winter_2012_Final.indd 1

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COMMUNITY INTEREST

The Lighthouse Foundation

Northwest Savings Bank

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Vein Institute of Pittsburgh You Don’t Have to Live with Painful Varicose and Spider Veins

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The Lighthouse Foundation held its Second Annual Evening Gala

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Dining Out for the Holidays

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UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use

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J and D Lawn & Tractor Sales

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Taste of the New North

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Little House Learning

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Adams Township Celebrates Community Day

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Health and Wellness

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

At this time of year, I want to take the opportunity to thank you for taking the journey with us that was 2012.

And while we’ve endured extremes of nature via the summer heat waves and Hurricane Sandy, as well as the onslaught of a presidential election that ate up any time available between our favorite shows, we still have much to be thankful for.

IN Community Magazines continues to grow, and for that we thank you, our readers and our advertisers.

Our readers help shape these magazines. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents.

We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com.

I wish to thank our advertisers for your continued support of IN Community Magazines. By advertising with us, you are supporting your community by underwriting the cost of the editorial content that those who read these magazines enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed.

In this last issue before 2013, I urge our readers to support the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors.

I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2013 has to offer!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Miracles Happen Everyday...

Have you or someone in your family ever experienced a miracle in your life?

A check arrives from an unexpected source, just as the house was about to be foreclosed upon? Someone was healed, despite all odds and predictions? Or maybe you were reunited with someone by circumstances that were far too phenomenal to be called coincidence...

If you have, we would love to hear your story and so would your friends and neighbors. Because at the end of the day, we could all use a little hope and encouragement. Miracles really do happen all the time!

Please mail your story to: IN Community Magazines Attn. Pamela 603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317 or you can email them to Pamela at: p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com.

Photos are welcomed with submissions, but not required.

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Spring content deadline: January 25

Lending a Hand How one local bank’s history of service, award-winning track record, and desire to make responsible loans is making the difference right here in Valencia.

“While many other banks continue to find it challenging to help customers get the loans they need, we are actively lending,” says Frank Girardi, Manager at Northwest Savings Bank in Valencia.

“Northwest is an experienced, local bank with expert lenders. Our low rates and fees make it easier to do what you need to do, with monthly payments to fit your budget,” Mr. Girardi adds. “Best of all, we can make it happen right here in our Valencia office.”

Northwest Savings Bank prides itself on local decision making, quick turnaround, and competitive rates on: • Mortgages* with fast, free pre-qualifications so you can qualify before you buy.

• Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit* to use your home to pay for the things you need.

• Personal Loans* for other necessities, such as purchasing a car, consolidating debt, or paying for medical expenses.

In addition, Northwest Savings Bank has been nationally recognized for exceptional service and trust.

For the third consecutive year, Northwest was awarded “Highest Customer Satisfaction with Retail Banking in the Mid-Atlantic Region” by J.D. Power and Associates, 2010–2012. And, for the second time, in analyzing more than 8,000 publicly-traded companies across the country, Forbes named Northwest one of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies in 2012.

For 116 years, Northwest Savings Bank has been committed to the communities it serves. There are plenty of them, with 167 Northwest offices across four states — 28 right here in the Greater Pittsburgh area. loan?

Need a Manager Frank Girardi and Valencia’s Northwest Savings Bank can make it happen.

Northwest customers enjoy convenient services including Online Banking and Bill Pay, eStatementsplus, Mobile Banking, GO! Rewards Check Cards, and 43,000+ service charge free ATM locations.

Not yet a Northwest customer? Interested in a loan? Visit Frank Girardi at Northwest’s Valencia office to get started today.

1421 Pittsburgh Road, Valencia (724) 443-6100 Frank Girardi, Manager Northwest Direct: 1-877-672-5678 www.northwestsavingsbank.com *Credit approval required.

Northwest Savings Bank received the highest numerical score among retail banks in the Mid-Atlantic region in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2010-2012 Retail Banking Satisfaction Marsand Area | Winter 2012 | of incommunitymagazines.com Studies.SM Study based on 51,498 total responses measuring 31 providers in the Mid-Atlantic region (DE, MD, NJ, NY, PA, VA & Wash., D.C.) measures opinions consumers with their primary 5 banking provider. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed January-February, 2012. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com. Member FDIC

business spotlight

When Jim Stepp sold his first tractor out in front of Hampton Hardware, he had no idea that it would lead to the establishment of J and D Lawn & Tractor Sales, a locally-owned business that has been serving the area for 48 years.

Stepp sold his first tractor while still in the Army in Pittsburgh. He enjoyed the experience so much he decided to stick with it and has built a business helping residential homeowners care for their lawns and gardens. J and D Lawn & Tractor Sales sells tractors, chain saws, pressure washers, leaf blowers, snow blowers and just about any kind of equipment you would ever need to take care of your home.

More than just sales though, the staff can advise homeowners on what type of equipment will work best for their particular needs, as well as maintaining their equipment and repairing it. If a product is under warranty and needs repair, they are right there in the neighborhood to resolve the problem, without the bureaucracy of dealing with a big box store. They repair everything that they sell. They also sell parts for the equipment they carry, for those who prefer to do their own maintenance.

“We’ve won a lot of awards over the years for selling the most [products] and also for customer service,” says Stepp.

His youngest son, Tyler, is now the manager of the business and has worked at the store for about 15 years. He started cleaning around the store while still a teen and eventually worked in every phase of the

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business, including repair, sales and now management.

“He really showed an interest in it from an early age,” says Jim, “and the customers just love him.”

Tyler feels one of the greatest strengths of the family-owned business is the knowledge of the employees who work there. “All of our employees have been with us for a long time. We all have masters level certifications from the many different manufacturers that we carry in our store.”

In addition to lawn care equipment, Tyler has seen a big surge in the purchase of generators in recent years.

In the event of a power outage, whether it’s from the high winds of a spring thunderstorm or the ice of a winter storm, the generators offer extra security for homeowners.

“They give homeowners standby power for light, heat and cooking in emergency situations,” explains Tyler. Given the giant snowstorm we experienced a few years ago, the increase in generator sales is not surprising.

J and D Lawn & Tractor Sales can help homeowners to be better equipped for any season, with a knowledgeable, friendly staff that is there for the long haul.

f e at u r e

Local Artists Help to

e r u t u F t h g i r B a t n i a P for the Mars Area Public Library

By Kathy Rudolph

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ocal artists pitched in to help by participating in the recent Mars Area Public Library Chair Raffle. The artists summoned their creative skills to paint colorful chairs and furniture that focused on subjects children love.

The furniture would successfully motivate any child to read, as it came alive with Asiago, Dr. Seuss, Pokey Little Puppy, Strawberry Shortcake and “Where the Sidewalk Ends� book themes. Raggedy Ann, teddy bear and polar bear characters were others represented. The imaginative pieces were decorated with hand-painted whimsical flowers, bright polka dots and stripes. The proceeds from the chair raffle go directly to the library for operational costs.

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Mary Jo Simons is the Mars Area Public Library director.

“The chair raffle has been going on for years,” says Simons. “Most of the same artists participate year after year. We also try to touch base with the Mars Area High School art teacher and ask her students to paint chairs for us. It is a great way to get people into the library who would normally not come. Cheryl Kennedy generously painted four chairs for us and Diane Szulewski painted three pieces for us.”

Kennedy painted a white miniature “Read to Me, Mommy” highchair; a black Dr. Seuss “Read with the Cat, A Cat in the Hat” chair; a blue Raggedy Ann rocker; and a pink Strawberry Shortcake chair. Her love of painting shows with her depiction of happy characters in bright hues encouraging kids to read.

With coordinating pieces including a black floral and vine chair, a bookcase and a white plant table, Szulewski provided the reader with an instant, quiet space to enjoy reading books.

Another work of art included a blue toy box displaying a polar bear and teddy bears reading and sleeping next to stacks of books. It was painted

by Alma Felger. Her daughter, Elizabeth Hoy, works at the library and spoke about her mother.

“She is retired and loves to paint,” says Hoy. “She also quilts and paints antique saws, not for profit but for enjoyment. When I told her that the library was having the chair raffle, she was anxious to help and was happy to do it for the library.”

It is good news that Pennsylvania public libraries escaped the recent

“The proceeds from the Chair Raffle go directly to the library” budget chopping block and secured funding.

Unfortunately, services such as Library Access and Library Services for the Visually Impaired and Disabled were reduced by 5% each. It is crucial for libraries to fundraise so that everyone from kids to seniors can enjoy the library for years to come. The chair raffle helps ensure that they will.

The Mars Area Public Library invites residents from Mars Borough, Adams Township, Middlesex Township and Valencia Borough to enjoy the library. To learn more about the chair raffle and other events at the library, visit the website at www.marslibrary.org.

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Tom & Mary Drissler

True Love Really Does Wait I n 1963 I met my best friend, my husband and the father of our three loving, beautiful children.

Tom was supposed to be getting “fixed up” with my best friend. I was the “mail carrier” for them – she would write him a note and I would deliver it to him. He would answer and give me the note for her. This went on for a while...

I was 16, a little older than him, and had a babysitting job at the house next door to his. It turned out to be the best job I ever had.

Sometimes it would be late when I would finish babysitting and I would stop to talk to Tom afterward. I used to cut through his yard to walk home to avoid a dark street, but he always walked me home.

We got to know each other and became very good friends, steady friends you might say. My girlfriend and her family eventually moved away and Tom and I became even closer.

We had our ups and downs, but we always managed to find each other. We were planning on getting married when the Vietnam War escalated and, due to family commitments and responsibilities, we had to wait. We dated and were engaged for almost 10 years.

Finally on June 23, 1973, “the two became one” and from those two, there came three beautiful children: two wonderful, strong men and a beautiful, loving daughter. And from those three children have come four grandsons, ages 10, 2, 1, and 2 weeks, and a very precious granddaughter, 12.

Tom and I celebrated our 39th wedding anniversary this summer. And every year I try to find just the right card for him. This year I found the perfect one that explains how I went from seeing Tom as a friend to falling in love and eventually marrying him. We have had a beautiful, loving and wonderful life all because of two people meeting and falling in love. It isn’t the end; it’s just the beginning!

-Submitted by Mary Drissler

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

E V ENTS

The Lighthouse Foundation

The Lighthouse Foundation Held its Second Annual Evening Gala on September 28

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he elegant Twelve Oaks Mansion was the setting for the lovely event which featured a cocktail reception, dinner, a presentation and silent auction.

This year’s theme was “Seasons of Hope.”

Dining tables were centered with fresh-cut flowers in tones of magenta, accented by votive candlelight. A wide assortment of treasures were auctioned off, including wine hampers, pet baskets and memorabilia autographed by famous celebrities including Sidney Crosby, the Dave Matthews Band and U2.

All proceeds went to help support the work of The Lighthouse Foundation which operates Safe Harbor, an emergency homeless shelter, and The Lighthouse Food Pantry. The organization also helps to provide transitional housing and serves thousands of clients each month.

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

Why More and More Families in Mars Will Be

Dining Out for the Holidays

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he holiday season seems almost synonymous with good food.

Almost everyone has images of their family matriarch, hovering over the stove in the kitchen, creating those special dishes and desserts that signaled the advent of the holidays and defined family celebrations.

But nowadays, more and more people are choosing to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with family.

Many popular restaurants are now remaining open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and News Years. Originally, these restaurants generally catered to those who were alone at the holidays or had very little family. But now, many large families are also choosing to enjoy their holiday meal at a favorite restaurant. There is no cleanup afterwards and no laboring over a hot stove. Some Mars restaurants will be staying open for the holidays, such as Max and Erma’s and the Pavillion Cafe at Four Points Sheraton.

Both will be offering holiday hours for both travelers and locals.

Even the most experienced cooks can feel a bit pressured to present a sumptuous meal at the holidays and it usually requires the preparation of entrees that are only eaten once or twice a year, such as a juicy, golden-brown turkey or a practically 12

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perfect pumpkin pie. In addition to the actual preparation and cooking time, the holiday meal requires a massive amount of shopping as well, often making jaunts to several local stores to acquire just the right ingredients.

The alternative is that many holiday hosts will simply pick up the turkey and dessert from their favorite local restaurant and whip up a few simple sides to go with the meal. Still others will have the entire affair catered, leaving them with a stressfree holiday and more free time. Everyone’s time is precious in the holiday months with travel, parties to attend and gifts to buy. The convenience of leaving the cooking to the professionals is an appealing option.

Another advantage to dining out for the holidays is the ambiance of the experience.

Restaurants, are experts in the presentation of a meal, with fine china, crystal stemware and warm candles glowing from silver candelabra. They often have staff that are very creative at dressing a table for a special occasion and are used to planning parties for hundreds.

Dining out also gives you more leeway when it comes to documenting the occasion. If you have family coming in from out of town, you can spend more

Mars Area

time taking photographs that will last a lifetime rather than trying to keep up with conversations while you’re stuck at the oven.

Relatives who are in from out of town, or those who drive across town to show up for the party, typically have limited time to spare. They may be heading straight to the airport afterwards, or trying to get home before it gets too dark, so a restaurant not only gives you the ability to choose a place that’s convenient to everyone, it allows you to enjoy those long goodbyes without having to worry about clearing plates and getting the dishes started.

Making the most of the holiday season means making the most of your time. With a little help from the professional chefs and party planners, your holiday can be both memorable and enjoyable.

Mars Area Band Boosters Inc PO Box 1061 Mars PA 16046

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River City Brass Band Brings Signature Style to Mars High School Contact: bandinfo@marsband.com Web site: www.marsband.com Race contact: racedirector@marsband5k.com Race Web Site: www.marsband5k.com

In addition to unique performance style, RCBB is renowned n December 2, the River City Brass Band will present its first RIVER CITY BRASS BAND -­‐‑ MORE THAN 25 YEARS OF MUSIC AND FUN! for its recordings and original compositions. To date, the band has concert in Mars at the Mars High School Auditorium at 2 released 15 recordings, many of which are available for purchase at p.m. This concert will benefit the Mars High School Band concerts and online. The most recent one, “Polished Brass,” offers and the Twenty-­‐‑ Band Boosters by providing funding for items that are not five years ago, something special happened – a musical renaissance took place in he River City Brass selections showcasing the band’s style. RCBB 13tclassically-flavored includedPittsburgh, Pennsylvania. in the school’s budget. Under the baton of conductor Robert Bernat, 21, 1981. for It nearly 200 compositions and arrangements has been responsible RiverBand took to the Carnegie City Brass Band (RCBB) M is usic Hall stage for its inaugural known as “America’s favorite concert on November was an evening f musical excellence and determination – determination to bring about the

by American and British composers, which have premiered at the brass band. ” Founded ino1981 by the late Robert Bernat, conductor revival of the grass-­‐‑ roots tradition of the American concerts. Many of these works have since been published and are and music director for the group from 1981 to 1994, it wasbrass band. the first professional concert band to be established in the U.S. in over 25 performed by brass bands throughout the world.

For tickets and information on the River City Brass Band’s concert, years. At one point, there were more than 20,000 such performance groups throughout the United In 1981, it was a bleak picture: fewer than 1000 bands were still in existence in please visit www.bluefoldevents.com or call 412.402.9123. Tickets Today,States. the RCBB performs a 56-concert series in western America. Throughout the rest of the world, the genre was flourishing and the River City Brass are $10, $20, $25 and $30. Handicapped accessible and wheelchair Pennsylvania. In addition, the 28-piece ensemble tours nationally, Band was determined to foster a similar appreciation here in the United States. seating is available upon request. Use discount code INMARS for $1 with many performances each year as part of community concert

series, major symphony pops series and arts festivals.

From California off per ticket. For more information on the River City Brass Band, That determination has paid off. Today, the River City Brass Band performs a 56-­‐‑concert to New York (as well as everywhere in between), RCBB has delighted please visit www.rivercitybrass.org. series in eight different venues in Western Pennsylvania. In addition, the 28-­‐‑piece ensemble audiences with its signature style.

Every performance features each year as tours extensively throughout the United States with more than 60 performances “It’s not a reach to say that this may be the most fun both superb soloists and some lighthearted fun! Often called the part of community concert series, major symphony pops series and arts festivals.

From going to have all year.” with music you’re “BostonCalifornia Pops in Brass,” the band’s extensive repertoire includes River City Brass Band has to New York (as well as everywhere in between), – St. Louis Post-Dispatch American tunes, big band, swing and jazz, music from Broadway and delighted audiences with its signature style.

Hollywood, classical and contemporary masterworks and, of course, “River City Brass Band puts the fun Every performance features superb soloists and powerful repertoire from classical to pops and traditional marches. back into music.” from jazz to marches.

A River City Brass Band performance, whether in Pittsburgh or The concert in Marsowill feature “Brasstacular” songs, – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Poughkeepsie r Pensacola, is a memorable Christmas event! performed in the signature style of River City Brass.

In addition to its unique performance style, RCBB is renowned for its recordings and original compositions. To date, RCBB has released 15 recordings and been responsible for nearly 200 compositions and arrangements by American and British composers which have premiered at RCBB concerts. Many of these works have since been published and are performed by brass bands throughout the world. In October of 2002, the Band released its 15th CD –

On Christmas morning...

Polished Brass, a collection of more classical pieces, on the Summit Records label.

River City Brass Band receives praise from audiences and critics alike: “It’s not a reach to say that this may be the most fun with music you’re going to have all year,” touts the St. Louis Post-­‐‑Dispatch. “RCBB delivers the rare kind of show that truly manages to combine lighthearted fun with serious musicianship,” notes an audience member in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. And, most tellingly, “River City Brass Band puts the fun back into music,” explains The Tribune Review of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Catholic Charities is the primary social service

agency of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, serving all regardless of religious affiliation in their time of need.

Mars For Area 102 Band Boosters Inc been is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. years, we’ve making good mornings and Your donation may be tax deductible better days possible for our neighbors in need. Last year alone, 72,656 people rose to brand new days!

Through offices in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Greene, Lawrence and Washington counties we can help with adoption and foster care, utility assistance, ...and all year long, together, we can make homeless outreach, counseling, and pregnancy and good mornings and better days possible parenting support. Medical and dental care for the uninsured is provided at the Catholic Charities for our neighbors in need.

Free Health Care Center. Homeless men 50+ are welcomed at St. Joseph House of Hospitality where they receive a comfortable room, meals and supportive services. Seniors thrive from recreational, social and in-home services offered through Challenges: Options in Aging in Lawrence County.

WWW.CCPGH.ORG You can learn more about what we do and how you can help at www.ccpgh.org.

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

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Local Pilots Help Residents

“Reach for the Skies” at Mars Area Public Library

By Kathy Rudolph

The late Neil Armstrong, who became the first man to walk on the moon in 1969, had such a passion for flying he decided to get his pilot’s license before he got his driver’s license at age 16.

That is something that pilots Steve Setnar and Harlan Simons can relate to. Setnar is a JetBlue captain who has been a commercial pilot for over 24 years and a private pilot for over 34 years. Simons is a private pilot and has flown planes and helicopters for over 25 years.

The two veteran pilots recently visited the Mars Area Public Library to share what it’s really like to be a pilot with a roomful of interested future pilots and flying enthusiasts.

Their life experiences as pilots were presented by both men and were followed by a question and answer session. Each offered honest advice and tips about the when, where and how to become a pilot. A DVD presentation following a day in the life of an airline pilot also gave the audience a realistic portrait of being a commercial pilot.

Mary Jo Simons, director of the library, is also a private pilot.

“We are trying to have programs that will interest people and bring them to the library,” says Simons. “Also, we are looking

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at different ways to present career programs and give people the opportunity to speak to a professional who is working in a job that they are interested in.”

Setnar has been with JetBlue Airways for 11 years. A native of Butler County, his vast experience includes being able to pilot all types of aircraft. He has been a flight instructor, college instructor and supervisor; a captain for Chautauqua Airlines; first officer for US Airways; and captain and flight engineer for Ryan International Airlines and is trained to be an air traffic controller. He has 21,000 hours of flight time, including time piloting planes on international flights.

“My whole life has been about flying airplanes,” says Setnar. “Although there have been ups and downs, it has been a great and rewarding career. It is a fun job that I enjoy.”

Continued on page 16 Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

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Mars Area

Harlan Simons, who is retired, had a somewhat different journey than Setnar. He served in the Navy for four years and was stationed on the USS Enterprise. After his discharge, he joined his family’s manufacturing company that had customers all over the United States. He would fly his plane to visit customers for convenience. Today, he enjoys flying his helicopter, which is great for sightseeing, and he also owns an airplane.

“I never flew for a living, but it is a fun hobby,” says Simons, who actually built a helicopter. “Being a commercial pilot is rigorous compared to being a private pilot, which is pretty relaxing. When I get into an airplane I feel like I am getting into a car. One of the points that I want to make is that people who have never been around the airport environment feel that it is out of their reach. That isn’t so. It is achievable for anyone who wants to learn how to be a pilot. Many people think you have to put up a lot of money to try it and that is not the case either. My dad would always say, ‘I wish I would have done that.’ I don’t wish I would have done anything because I’ve done it all. I’m still as enthused about flying as I was years ago.”

To learn more about upcoming programs at Mars Area Public Library, visit the website at www.marslibrary.org.

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One Resident’s Quest to

Save the Lake B y H e a t h e r H o l t s c hl a g

M

ars resident Sigmund Pehel has led an active life and has many accomplishments of which he can be very proud.

He served as postmaster of Wilmerding, New Brighton and Allison Park and was a member of the National Association of Postmasters of the United States (NAPUS), serving as secretary/ treasurer, vice president and president of the group. He has served on the national level of the organization and was elected twice as the national vice president from Pennsylvania, and was appointed to numerous national committees overseeing policy, training and development.

But one of his greatest achievements may be what he is doing for his own community. Pehel devotes much of his time now to a cause that is not only important to him, but to thousands of other people: the restoration of Glade Run Lake.

Glade Run Lake was drained in July 2011 – a result of a declaration made by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection when it deemed the high-hazard dam unsafe.

The department directed the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) to drain the lake for the protection of the community, as it could have potentially caused loss of property or even human life.

A month later, the Glade Run Lake Conservancy group was formed with the goal of getting the dam fixed and to have the water and fish restored to the lake.

An active member of the community for more than 20 years, Pehel has coached soccer, softball and hockey, and helped organize the Mars Area Developmental Hockey Program.

But one of Pehel’s greatest loves has been fishing, canoeing, ice skating and playing hockey on

Glade Run Lake. He even taught his Labrador/Golden Retriever to swim there.

“I live one mile, as the crow flies, from the lake,” says Pehel. “But the most important reason I want the lake to be restored is for the community and everyone who has a similar story and memories of

Siggy Pehel (Left) Matt Schelhaas (Right)

this beautiful 52-acre lake that is now gone. The lake is a perfect place for students to study environmental conservation and nature and is a great ‘laboratory’ for teachers – a place to take photos, paint, fish, boat, canoe, skate, play hockey, bird watch, walk and identify trees and wildlife. It’s the perfect place to turn off your cell phone and listen to another type of call!”

Our [conservancy’s] primary actions are to raise money and work with the PFBC and other government entities to ensure that this happens as quickly as possible,” said Pehel, who is the group’s current president. “We were not happy that the lake was drained, but we further realized that we now had the opportunity to make the park and lake better than it was before. A formal organization such as ours is critical to implement this vision.”

According to Pehel, who leads the board in its business strategies and activities and spends much of his time devoted to communicating with groups in the community and government officials, the group began with 25 members and now has about 1,200. Membership continues to grow on a daily basis.

“A large portion of our initial time was devoted to getting state and federal approval as a nonprofit charitable organization, something that is extremely important in attracting and ensuring responsible management of the funding that we are seeking to pay for the lake’s restoration,” Pehel explained. “We started with about $500 of individual donations. Today, with memberships, donations and Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

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E K A L N LADE RU

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Donor / r e b m e rg aM Become nLakeConservancy.o GladeRu pledges, we have about $60,000, all of which has been raised since April 2012!”

Some of the money raised is used as seed money for membership and fundraising expenses such as outreach at community events, brochures, websites and mailings. However, most of it is earmarked to cover the cost of dam reconstruction, silt removal and other activities directly associated with the restoration effort. Pehel noted that much of what is “spent” is thousands of hours of board member time devoted toward this effort. Indeed, the group’s hard work has not gone unnoticed.

“We have received letters of support from nine municipalities, the Butler County Commissioners and two local state representatives, Daryl Metcalfe and Brian Ellis,” Pehel said.

“We delivered our petition, complete with 2,000 signatures, to the governor’s office, Rep. Metcalfe and the Butler County Commissioners. Additionally, hundreds of residents have written letters to their state representatives and senators voicing the importance of rapid lake restoration. But perhaps our greatest support has been from our local Middlesex Township supervisors, who not only gave us a letter of support, but also donated $10,000 for this year, pledged $10,000 for next year, and ANOTHER $10,000 for the following year.”

State Senator Randy Vulakovich, who is an advocate for all Pennsylvania lakes, also extended his support to the

Glade Run Lake Conservancy.

“Pennsylvania is a beautiful state,” he said, “and I am strongly in favor of seeing Glade Run Lake returned to service. It is an important venue for recreation and environmental conservation in our region. It is a special resource for firefighting training, scouting, and veteran rehabilitation.”

Pehel added that all of the group’s work and the support they have received thus far will ultimately enable them to not only build a new dam, but allow new fish habitats and beautification of the park as well. “We want people to come back to enjoy the beauty, nature and serenity that the lake provides, and to do this as rapidly as possible,” he said.

In his “spare” time, Pehel is quite active with his church, Holy Sepulcher, where he previously served as a confirmation instructor Continued on page 20

Gail Oare (Left) Brian Ellis (Center) Siggy Pehel (Right)

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and can now be seen working the takeout kitchen at its annual bazaar. An amateur wine maker, Pehel also enjoys a variety of activities such as cross-country skiing, running, biking, swimming, canoeing and hiking. He has

“I want the lake to be restored for the community and everyone who has a similar story and memories of this beautiful 52-acre lake� participated in half and full marathons and several triathlons as well.

Pehel lives with Linda, his wife of 36 years, in the borough of Mars. They have two children, Siggy and Elyse, and one grandchild, Liam Joseph.

For those individuals interested in membership in the Glade Run Lake Conservancy, three-year memberships are $5 for students, $10 for individuals and $20 for families. For more information, please visit www.gladerunlakeconservancy.org.

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UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Winter 2012-13

Stay Well This Winter Some people seem to sail through winter without a sniffle or a grumble. These simple steps may help you do the same: Spend some time in the fresh air, de-stress your holiday planning, wash your hands often, get plenty of sleep, and get a flu shot.

What’s Inside 2 3 4

A Cut Above the Rest Absent From Pain Butt Out: New Reasons to Quit Smoking Brittle Bones

5 6 7

Shedding More Than Pounds Growing Up With Heart Disease Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

© 2012 UPMC

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A Cut Above the Rest UPMC Passavant’s new single-incision robotic gallbladder surgery can offer patients faster recovery, less pain, and minimal scarring.

It was a typical summer day last August for Lauren Silver. But by nightfall, she began experiencing severe back pain. “It was so sharp, I decided to go to the emergency room,” says the 24-year-old tax accountant from Cranberry. “I was shocked to learn I had gallstones, because I never had any symptoms.”

A few weeks later, Lauren’s gallbladder was removed by M. Lance Weaver, MD, a general surgeon at UPMC Passavant specializing in robotic single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery. Dr. Weaver and his associates at Northern Area Surgical Associates–UPMC — James Valuska, MD, and Thomas Lheureau, MD — are among approximately 100 surgeons nationwide trained in this cutting-edge procedure.

His hand, wrist, and finger movements were translated into precise, real-time surgical movements.

“This is technically a more difficult operation for the surgeon because instead of making four small incisions, we use only a single incision at the belly button where all the instruments are placed,” explains Dr. Weaver. “But the benefits are absolutely worth it.”

Dr. Weaver especially praises the greater visualization this procedure offers the surgeon. “It allows us to see in 3D — a kind of depth perception you don’t get in traditional laparoscopic surgery. It also enables us to be more precise, because the robot eliminates any trace of a hand movement.”

A better patient experience Even more important are the benefits for patients. “Because we’re only making one small incision, patients typically have less pain, recover faster, and experience minimal scarring,” says Dr. Weaver.

Lauren’s surgery was completed in under an hour. She went home the same day and was ready to return to work a week later. “I’d highly recommend robotic surgery and felt fortunate that the new procedure was available,” she says. “In just a few days, I was back to living my life like it never happened.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Weaver or one of his associates at Northern Area Surgical Associates–UPMC, 9930 Grubbs Rd., Ste. 100, Wexford, call 866-633-1075.

About Gallstones They can be present for years, without any pain symptoms.

Like Lauren, most of the 1.2 million Americans who had their gallbladder removed last year never knew they had gallstones.

Gallstones are hard deposits that can be as small as grains of sand or as large as golf balls. They form in the gallbladder, a small sac-like organ under the liver on the right side of the abdomen. Its job is to store the bile made by the liver, which helps the body digest fats.

From four incisions to one To remove Lauren’s gallbladder, Dr. Weaver inserted the surgical instruments and a small camera into her abdomen through a single incision. Sitting at a special console that displays high-definition images, Dr. Weaver used controls to move the surgical instruments.

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Attacks often occur at night, and can last one to four hours.

“Pain typically occurs in the right upper or middle upper belly, and can extend to the back and shoulders,” says Dr. Weaver. “If the pain is severe or accompanied by fever or chills, you should seek immediate medical care.”

Absent From Pain Most of us think of anesthesiology as the medical specialty that “puts you to sleep,” but it’s really all about pain relief.

internal medicine, pharmacology, and surgery. Many also pursue subspecialty training in such areas as pain medicine, and pediatric, cardiothoracic, or obstetric anesthesia.

In today’s complex surgical suites, anesthesiologists lead an entire team of skilled professionals, which can include a certified registered nurse anesthetist, resident physician, student nurse anesthetist, and anesthetist assistant. “It’s a true team effort, with each member playing a distinct role in delivering patient care,” says Dr. Williams.

Anesthesia’s role in health care extends far beyond the operating room. Anesthesiologists offer pain management in a variety of settings, enhancing the daily lives of patients with chronic diseases or complex medical conditions.

Getting to know you For minor operations, you’ll typically meet your anesthesiologist at the hospital, shortly before surgery. For major surgeries, you will be asked to participate in a pre-surgery consultation.

“With patients who live at a distance, we’re now using telemedicine to conduct pre-op visits,” says Dr. Williams.

“It allows us to get to know you, address your questions and concerns, review options, and determine if any additional tests or consultations are needed.”

What to tell your anesthesiologist

Anesthesia makes possible some of modern medicine’s greatest miracles. Can you imagine undergoing surgery without it?

The father of Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes is generally credited with bringing the term into popular use in 1846, though references to anesthesia can be traced back to 1741.

The term is based on a Greek word meaning “lack of sensation.”

“Anesthesiology uses medicine to eliminate your ability to feel pain or other sensations,” explains John Williams, MD, the Peter and Eva Safar Professor and chair of the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Anesthesiology. “Your anesthesiologist partners with your surgeon to manage your vital functions before, during, and after surgery. Everything from breathing, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, body temperature, blood clotting, and fluid loss is consistently monitored.”

A team of professionals Anesthesiologists are physicians who complete four years of residency after finishing medical school. Their extensive preparation includes training in cardiology, critical care medicine,

Prior to surgery, you’ll be asked to provide information about yourself. “Be candid and comprehensive. What you share will be held in strict confidence,” advises Dr. Williams.

Be sure to include the following: • Previous reactions you or other family members have had to anesthesia • Any food, medicine, or latex allergies you have • Prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you take • Your use of alcohol or recreational drugs

Did You Know?

There are four basic categories of anesthesia: Local: Numbs a small, specific part of your body Regional: Numbs a larger area of your body, usually below the waist Twilight: Sedates and provides pain relief General: Renders you unconscious

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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Butt Out Despite dire health warnings, one out of five Americans still smokes. If you’re one of them, here are some new reasons to crush that butt.

Before you light up your next cigarette, consider this: With every puff, you’re inhaling more than 7,000 chemicals.

Hundreds of them are poisonous, and about 70 can cause cancer. And no organ or tissue in the body is immune to this toxic cloud.

Most people know that cancer, heart disease, and lung disease are major health threats caused by smoking. But are you aware that smoking increases your risk of getting diabetes by 44 percent?

That’s just one of the not-so-obvious reasons to put that butt out. Here are five more.

1. See the difference. If you smoke, your risk of age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, doubles. Smokers also have double the risk of developing cataracts.

Brittle Bones Osteoporosis is quickly becoming a national health care concern.

It’s estimated that 10 million Americans now have osteoporosis and 34 million are at risk. Whether you’re young or old, male or female, chances are good that you — or someone you love — will be affected by the disease.

“In osteoporosis, your bones become thin and brittle, putting you at increased risk of a bone fracture,” says Susan Greenspan, MD, UPMC’s director of osteoporosis prevention and treatment.

“In advanced stages, simple acts like lifting a baby or sneezing can lead to a fracture.”

Here are four facts everyone should know about osteoporosis: 1. Osteoporosis can appear at any age. But after the age of 50, one out of every two women — and one out of every four men — are likely to experience a fracture due to the disease. These breaks occur most often in the hip, wrist, and spine.

2. Osteoporosis is silent. It’s often diagnosed only after a fracture. Menopause, family and medical history, physical build, and your lifestyle and diet can increase your odds of the disease.

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2. Heal better. Smoking weakens the body’s ability to heal from surgery, disease, broken bones, and even minor back strains.

3. Now hear this. Smokers are more likely to develop a hearing loss. Exposure to secondhand smoke also puts former smokers and nonsmokers at risk.

4. Stand tall. Smoking weakens bones and raises the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures in men and women.

5. Keep your head. If your mind is cloudy, smoking may be the culprit. It’s been linked to memory problems and poor reasoning skills in middle-aged smokers.

You’re not just hurting yourself The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that secondhand smoke kills about 50,000 people every year and sickens many more. Children who live with a smoker are especially susceptible to lung and breathing problems, and they run an increased risk of hearing loss as adolescents.

If you’re among the eight out of 10 smokers who want to quit, talk to your primary care doctor. To locate a doctor in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call toll-free 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Sources: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Journal of the American Medical Association.

3. You can take proactive steps at any age to promote bone health. These include: eating foods rich in calcium, such as milk, cottage cheese, and calcium-enriched juices; exercising (weight-bearing exercise like walking); stopping smoking; and limiting alcohol use. If needed, consider taking a calcium supplement and vitamin D daily.

4. The good news is early detection is easy.

If you’re 65 years of age or older, Dr. Greenspan recommends talking to your doctor about your risks. A simple bone mineral density test can assess your bone health.

To learn more about osteoporosis, talk to your primary care provider, or visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s website at nof.org.

Shedding More Than Pounds Bariatric surgery helps free patients from a range of life-threatening health problems.

It’s well known that bariatric surgery can produce impressive weight loss. But there’s increasing evidence that it offers other health benefits, too. For example, a recent Swedish study showed weight-loss surgery can prevent diabetes among individuals who struggle with obesity.

That news came as no surprise to Anita Courcoulas, MD, professor of surgery and chief of the Section of Minimally Invasive Bariatric and General Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “It’s another study demonstrating the lasting impact of bariatric surgery on health improvement,” says Dr. Courcoulas. “The changes are real and durable.”

Is bariatric surgery right for you?

Current national guidelines recommend bariatric surgery for patients who are 80 to 100 pounds overweight and with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40, or a BMI of 35 or more for those with one or more significant obesity-related health conditions.

Those guidelines may change, though. For example, at UPMC — one of the most highly funded centers of bariatric research in the country — Dr. Courcoulas is heading a study examining the impact of bariatric surgery on diabetic patients with lower BMIs (30–35).

She predicts more and more patients will seek out bariatric surgery for health reasons — not just weight reasons. “We’re just beginning to understand its full potential,” she says.

Bariatric Surgery Centers at UPMC Each of UPMC’s four bariatric surgery centers has been named a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Our multidisciplinary approach to weight loss through both surgery and lifestyle changes is available at: UPMC Hamot: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, and gastric sleeve. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Amjad Ali, MD, or Rodolfo Arreola, MD, call 814-877-6997.

UPMC Horizon: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Christopher Myers, MD, call 724-588-6660.

A life-altering surgery According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, an estimated 72 million Americans are considered obese and nearly 200,000 undergo bariatric surgery annually.

UPMC is a leader nationally in bariatric surgery and in the number of bariatric procedures performed annually.

Dr. Courcoulas says bariatric surgery (including gastric bypass, gastric band, and gastric sleeve) can help reverse a variety of serious obesity-related health conditions, such as: • Diabetes • Heart disease

• High blood pressure • High cholesterol

• Sleep apnea

UPMC St. Margaret: Pittsburgh Bariatrics offers gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Joseph Colella, MD, or LeeAnn Peluso, MD, call 412-784-5900.

Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, revisional surgery, and clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Anita Courcoulas, MD, director, Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery; George Eid, MD; Giselle Hamad, MD; Carol McCloskey, MD; or Ramesh Ramanathan, MD, call 412-641-3632.

Each center offers free monthly information sessions.

To learn more about bariatric surgery, or to find out if you’re a candidate, visit UPMC.com/bariatricsurgery.

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Growing Up With Heart Disease Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC is responding to the special challenges facing adults born with congenital heart disease.

The ACHD Center — a joint program of Children’s Hospital and UPMC Presbyterian — provides specialized transition support and care for patients with congenital heart disease.

“Despite surgery, patients can experience complications as adults, including arrhythmias, stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Our care and follow-up enables these young people — now in their prime — to lead long, productive lives,” Dr. Cook says.

A healthy outlook Before her diagnosis, Alexis thought she was in great shape; she had lost 100 pounds, was running daily, and had completed a two-mile race. But her conditioning actually helped disguise her declining health. After undergoing surgery at Children’s last April to restore blood flow, she now realizes how much better she feels. This summer, she ran the race again.

Alexis Laney was only 14 months old when she underwent open heart surgery in Cleveland to repair a faulty valve.

She had annual checkups until age 17, when her pediatric cardiologist referred her to an adult cardiologist. She scheduled sporadic checkups, but stopped going after giving birth to a son in 2005. “I felt fine,” says Alexis.

Now 27, the young wife and mother finally gave in to her family’s urging last year and saw a cardiologist near her home in Youngstown, Ohio. Although her EKG and echocardiogram were normal, he urged Alexis to see a specialist at the Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, saying, “I don’t know what to look for, but they will.”

Tests conducted by Stephen Cook, MD, director of the ACHD Center, found scar tissue blocking blood flow to her aorta — a serious condition putting her at risk of sudden death. “I was shocked. I could have collapsed and died,” Alexis says.

Lifelong expert care Alexis is part of a growing population of adults born with heart defects who had lifesaving heart surgery as newborns and children. Thanks to advances in medicine and improved surgical techniques, “the number of adults with congenital heart diseases has outgrown the number of pediatric congenital heart disease patients,” says Dr. Cook.

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“Last year, I was better conditioned, but I couldn’t breathe after the race. This year, I felt fantastic,” Alexis says. “I’m glad I went to Children’s. I’m more confident about exercising now.

I know my heart can take it.”

ACHD Center Fast Facts A single childhood surgery is seldom a permanent cure for patients born with a heart defect. The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center provides lifelong care and follow-up for patients with congenital heart disease who are: • Ages 18 and up with conditions ranging from simple to severe • Women of childbearing age needing pregnancy counseling or contraception • Adolescents (13 to 17) who receive guidance, support, and care during their transition to adulthood For more information, contact the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center at 412-692-5540 or email ACHD@chp.edu.

Welcoming New Physicians To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Nduka M. Amankulor, MD Neurosurgery

Janine Michelle Frank, MD Internal Medicine

Nimish S. Naik, MD Nephrology

Priya Prabhakar Saxena, MD Internal Medicine

Efthymios D. Avgerinos, MD Vascular Surgery

Bethany Calaway Hahn, MD Gynecology

Corey Andrew Pacek, MD Orthopaedics

Barbara M. Swenson, MD Neurology

Samantha Leigh Kanarek, DO Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Leonard J. Polinski, MD Internal Medicine

What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant These free events are offered by UPMC Passavant and the Passavant Hospital Foundation.

Food Busters – Debunking Common Food Myths

Sounds of the Season Holiday Music Concert

Tuesday, Nov. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Legacy Music Series Friday, Nov. 30, 7 p.m.

CCAC, North Campus

Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village

Speakers: UPMC Passavant Registered Dietitian

The Passavant Hospital Foundation invites you to enjoy this special holiday program. Reservations suggested.

Attend this seminar to learn about weight loss and weight management to achieve a healthy, active lifestyle. Topics include healthy dieting, exercise, and behavior modification to help you lose weight safely and maintain the weight loss. Space is limited.

CCAC North Campus Speakers: Caroline Claus, MS, RD, LDN, and Samantha Mendelowitz, RD, LDN, Nutrition Services, UPMC Passavant Food and nutrition myths have been passed around for ages. Learn more about food myths that are old wives’ tales and not actual fact. Space is limited.

Please call 412-369-3701 to register for this free course #YEB-256-1450.

For more information, please call 412-367-6640.

Atrial Fibrillation: What It Means to You

Weight Loss and Weight Management Tuesday, March 19, 2013, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Please call 412-369-3701 to register.

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013, 12:30 p.m.

Healthy Living with Diabetes Wednesday, Nov. 14, 12:30 p.m.

Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Patrick McCarthy, RN, manager, Healthy Lifestyles Center and diabetic educator, UPMC Passavant Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. One in three has diabetes but hasn’t been diagnosed. This informative session will cover the basics: what is diabetes, medicines available for treatment, and current recommendations for staying healthy with diabetes.

Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speakers: UPMC Heart and Vascular Team Atrial fibrillation is an irregular beating of the top chambers of the heart, which often results in rapid heart rates and can have significant implications such as a weakened heart muscle and risk for stroke. Learn the symptoms, causes, risks, and potential treatment options for atrial fibrillation.

Bridge to Hope Family Support Group Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center, Cumberland Woods Village The Bridge to Hope support group provides education and support to families touched by addiction. Anonymity respected. No registration necessary.

For more information, please call 412-367-6640.

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

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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 information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment.

Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

take time to take care of you Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special.

Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC Passavant physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you.

Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/Patient Care and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

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Santa Claus is Coming to Adams Township

S

anta and Mrs. Claus are coming to the Adams Township Municipal Building! Children are invited to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus to get their pictures taken any time between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 8. There will also be yummy cookies to decorate and special ornaments to make. This event is free but you must register by e-mail, with the number of children attending, to adamsrecpt@zoominternet.net no later than November 30.

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

E V ENTS

Taste of the New North

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n October 15, the Strand Theater Initiative hosted the 11th annual Taste of the New North event at the Four Points by Sheraton North in Mars. Some of the area’s best restaurants pitched in to help raise funding for the next phase of renovations at the

Strand Theater, which will enable the venue to present full-scale theatrical productions.

Guests enjoyed delectable dishes, along with fine wines and entertainment provided by violinist Ron Molinaro, the North Allegheny Golden Strolling Strings and Seneca Valley Madrigal Singers.

The Strand Initiative was formed in 2001 to save the theatrical jewel, which was built in 1914. It has raised over $2 million toward renovation of the beloved, local landmark.

For more information, please visit the website www.thestrandtheater.org.

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The Santa Watch Continues in Mars

By Pamela Palongue

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ccording to Minnie Elfkin, public relations coordinator for Santa Claus Operations North America, the iconic Christmas figure will be keeping a dizzying schedule of public appearances this holiday season.

During November and December, Mr. Claus will be visiting as many cities and towns across the U.S. as possible, including appearances in Mars, Adams Township, Middlesex and Valencia.

Those wishing to consult Mr. Claus to make a particular gift request should check the shopping malls and local holiday parades. Mr. Claus also may be seen in the vicinity of 34th Street in New York City and any cold, mountainous region where reindeer may live.

In other news from the North Pole, Prancer has been placed on the injured reserve list, although he is expected to be healthy for the Christmas Eve event. A young reindeer named Techno is being called up from the farm team as a possible replacement if Prancer is unable to fly by Christmas. Elfkin stresses, “Presents WILL BE delivered on time and there will be no lapse in service regardless of personnel changes.� Elfkin also reminds homeowners to leave the damper open to provide easier access through the chimney. This season Mr. Claus is watching his cholesterol intake and low-fat snacks are much appreciated.

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Elfkin also reports that the United Federation of Elves has been working on some exciting, new toys this season that should please any toddler or preschooler. Children are alerted to be on their best behavior, now that Santa Claus has Skype capabilities.

Although there have been many imposters, there is still no official Santa Claus website at this time. Santa Claus cannot be liked on Facebook or followed on Twitter due to the covert nature of his operations in the North Pole region. Those children wishing to write Mr. Claus should send all correspondence to the usual address, Santa Claus, North Pole.

All children in the Mars area are requested to go to bed no later than 10 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Santa Claus will be arriving in Mars sometime between 2:17 and 2:18 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. In order to receive a present from Santa, children should make sure to pick up their toys and eat all their vegetables.

In the meantime, keep a sharp eye toward the northern sky and watch for flying reindeer and twinkling lights. To All a Merry Christmas and to All a Good Night!

You don’t have to live with painful varicose and spider veins.

Should I Have My Veins Evaluated?

Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST: While finishing charts at the end of my day, I took a few moments to listen to my staff answer questions for a patient on the phone. The questions asked were very important as were the answers that were given.

Here are some examples:

What is Phlebology?

Phlebology is the branch of medicine that deals with veins and the disease of veins. Two organizations dedicated to the advancement of this field are The American College of Phlebology and the American Venous Forum.

Why should I see a board-certified phlebologist to evaluate my varicose veins?

When it comes to any aspect of your health care, it is important to be proactive in the choice and research of who will become medically responsible for your evaluation and treatment. Though venous disease is not always a visible ailment, it can be a serious health problem leading to more serious issues, so choosing a specialist, or board certified phlebologist for your venous care is a wise decision.

Board certification in phlebology identifies a physician who has taken the extra step of becoming specialized in the treatment of venous disease. Not only is the physician often a member of organizations such as the American College of Phlebology (ACP) and the American Venous Forum (AVF) but they have met additional requirements set by the certifying board. After meeting these requirements, he or she must then pass a certifying exam allowing the physician to identify him or herself as board-certified.

Is membership the same as board certification?

This question is particularly important as it defines the specialty of a phlebologist. While a physician may be a member of many different organizations, these organizations only require an interest in the field for joining. Thus membership is unlike board certification where qualification is determined through training and testing. Here’s how the ACP defines its board certification: “The establishment of a Board Certification Exam brings recognition to both the field of phlebology and those providers in the field who have the knowledge, skills and experience to provide quality care to phlebology patients.”

I had a free screening at a health fair and was told that I don’t have venous disease, but I still have aching, pain and discoloration at the ankles. What should I do?

While free screenings can be informative, remember that this is just a brief glance into a patient’s venous system.

A complete venous exam and venous mapping by a boardcertified phlebologist is best to determine if a patient has venous disease.

Since a proper venous ultrasound is such an integral part of this evaluation, the American College of Phlebology has set requirements for it that include the following: • A venous ultrasound should be ordered by a physician.

• A lower extremity ultrasound should study the entire leg, from ankle to groin. Failure to identify and treat all sources of reflux may result in outright treatment failure.

• Evaluation of the venous system should be performed with the patient in the upright position. Sitting or lying down are inappropriate for the detection of reflux or the measurement of vein diameters.

• A venous ultrasound should be performed by a trained physician or a registered vascular ultrasound technician (RVT) and then interpreted by a physician.

If I have had an evaluation elsewhere, can I still be evaluated in your office?

Of course. A free evaluation is commonly ‘free’ because patients are often not meeting with a physician, a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner, so this visit cannot be billed to insurance. However, most insurances allow for a second opinion. If you have any questions about the second opinion being covered, contact member services on the back of your insurance card.

This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider.

Terrance R. Krysinski, MD General Surgeon Board Certified Phlebologist Vein Institute of Pittsburgh 724.934.VEIN (8346)

724-934-VEIN (8346) Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Mars Area High School’s

2012 Homecoming Celebration

Junior Allen Shaffer

is crowned the winner of the 2012 Mr. Mars High pageant during Mars Area High School’s “Planet Peace” Homecoming Pep Rally

Senior Maddie Smith

is crowned Homecoming Queen at halftime of the Mars Area Fightin’ Planets football game against the Uniontown Red Raider.

Homecoming Court Candidates

Caitlyn Foltz and Christian Williams smile for the crowd during Mars Area High School’s Homecoming Parade

Members of Mars Area High School Marching Band join in the 2012 Homecoming Parade

Mars Area Middle School Cheerleaders toss candy to parade-watchers

34

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Mars Area

The Painted Grasshopper

Hand Painted Furniture With Distinction 412-608-2770 / 412-559-8543 Www.thepaintedgrasshopper.com Custom Designs * Reclaimed Pieces of Art * Designer Incentives * Store and Gallery Locations

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Holiday Events In The Mars Area!

If you’re looking for ways to get into the holiday spirit, check out these local events that are fun and affordable for the whole family...

November 17

M

ars High School Craft Show

This event, now in its 30th year, is sponsored by Mars International Students, Inc. and is a very popular show. Over 275 vendors will display their wares with a wide array of arts and crafts. The event will be held at the Mars Middle School and the Mars High School, located on Route 228 in Mars, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A shuttle service will be available to ferry visitors between the two buildings.

Donuts and coffee will be available in the morning and sandwiches and snacks will be served in the afternoon.

Admission to the event is $2. For more information, contact Maureen Orchard at 724.625.3472.

December 8

S

anta Claus is Coming to Adams Township

Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming to the Adams Township Municipal Building! Children are invited to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus to get their pictures taken any time between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 8. There will also be yummy cookies to decorate and special ornaments to make.

This event is free but you must register by e-mail, with the number of children attending, to adamsrecpt@ zoominternet.net no later than November 30.

December 31

Mars Area History & Landmark Society ew Year’s Eve Party

N

Join friends and neighbors for an alcohol-free event to say goodbye to 2012! The Mars Area History and Landmark Society will sponsor its annual New Year’s Eve Party in downtown Mars located at Main and Pittsburgh Streets.

The fun begins at 9 p.m. and will feature movies, music provided by a DJ and best of all, prizes! If you’re looking for a great way for the entire family to celebrate the New Year, this is it.

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Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

f e at u r e

He Knew Right from the Start The Story of

Chuck and Priscilla Green I

t was 1990 and I was in the sixth grade. I was attending the local Fourth of July carnival with a friend. We were walking around, then suddenly a boy I didn’t know walked up to me and gave me a stuffed animal that he had won playing a game. We exchanged a few words and that was that. Or so I thought...

In 1993, a new boy moved into the school district and he was in my ninth grade class. We talked and hung out together and eventually started dating. After about a year of dating, I happened to tell him the story about the boy at the carnival who had given me the stuffed animal. He said, “That was me!” I didn’t believe him, so he repeated what he had said to me that night at the carnival. I couldn’t believe it! I ran to my bedroom and showed him the stuffed animal he had given me years before. We were shocked and excited that this was really true.

I later found out that, while driving home on the night of the carnival, he told his family that someday he was “going to marry that girl.” They all laughed at that, of course.

Sure enough, we were married July 30, 1999, and just celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary! They say that God works in mysterious ways, and we are certainly proof that He does.

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Helping Students Manage Money Money management is one skill that can be difficult for young adults to master as they head off on their own. But no matter what stage of life – whether they’re entering college or the workforce – every young adult should learn how to handle money.

EstaBlish a BudgEt. sit down together with your student and map out all monthly expenses including room and board or rent, books, supplies, food, personal care and medications, transportation, gas, entertainment and payment for phone, mobile devices, cable and internet access. stick to the budget.

PrioritizE nEEds vs. wants. have your student do the math on how much some of the “necessities” will cost, and then talk about how to weigh purchase decisions.

Find ways to sPEnd lEss. a little planning can help young adults spend less and get more value for their dollar out of cellphone use, food, clothing and entertainment.

BE sMart aBout crEdit cards. Make sure your student understands the impact of interest rates; discuss setting limitations on using a credit card to avoid non-academic debt (emergencies, travel, school expenses, etc.).

Equipping your students with some basic financial skills will help them make wise money choices now and for the rest of their lives.

Current issues of this magazine are also available online. www.incommunitymagazines.com

Say hello to the new faces of

NORTHWOOD Meet Gail and Steve Carpenter. Gail and Steve have been Northwood agents for over 10 years, and can assist you with all your real estate needs. Stop by to talk with Gail and Steve at their new work cafe in the Adams Twp. Shoppes on Route 228 today.

Come meet the New Face of Northwood.

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“Come Grow With Us”

Conveniently Located Just Off Rt. 228 Adams Twp., Mars, PA

- Gail & Steve Carpenter Office • 724.741.2111 Cell • 412.585.1153 (Gail) Cell • 412.585.4460 (Steve) gailcarpenter@northwood.com scarpenter@northwood.com

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Our goal is to provide a loving safe and educational environment where your child can grow and thrive.

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2000 Village Run Rd., Suite 208 Wexford, PA 15090 Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

E V ENTS

Adams Township

Celebrates Community Day

R

esidents came out to enjoy the many activities of Community Day despite the rainy start. The Herb Kaufman Memorial 5K Race kicked off the day and not even the weather could stop dedicated runners from getting to the finish line. The top finishers were Michael Baumgartel of Mars and Christina Mackrell of Cranberry Twp. The Rotary Pavilion was packed with people looking to enjoy hot dogs, pulled pork BBQ sandwiches courtesy of Dave’s Country Meats, fruit salad, pretzels, ice cream cups, chips and salsa donated by Moe’s, and ice cream sandwiches donated by Dairy Queen.

Throughout the day children enjoyed the inflatable bouncing obstacle course and bouncing pony races. The Gymagic Bus, a favorite every year, was on hand for smaller children to enjoy. There was an adorable petting zoo and kids were able to feed and pet the various goats, ponies and alpacas.

Children were also able to enjoy a pony ride. Sadecky’s Puppets entertained the crowd with a rendition of “The Prince and the Pauper,” and kept the audience full of giggles.

Under the big tent, bingo players kept their eyes on the prizes! The Callery Fire Department called numbers and players vied to win one of the 100 brown bag prizes. Also going on throughout the day was the annual horseshoe tournament run by Mr. and Mrs. Rich Ellis. Once again Gary McGarrity took first place. Second and third were won by Dan Gangler and Joe Rausch.

Later in the afternoon, the township welcomed nonprofit vendors for the second year. In years past, it has not been the tradition to have vendors, since the idea of the day was to celebrate the community in an old-fashioned way. As times changed and the community grew, the supervisors and parks and recreation committee came to realize that the addition of vendors had become a necessity. In the spirit of the old-fashioned community celebration, they collectively decided to allow local nonprofit groups to participate. This gives these groups the opportunity to raise money for their cause yet keeps the event from becoming too commercial.

Vendors included Mars Takedown Club, Mars Hockey Club, Mars Roundball Club and Ladies Basketball, Mars Baseball Association, Quality EMS, Mars Area Soccer, Mars High School Band, Team Duck,

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Mars Public Library, Lizzie’s Bikes, and The Women’s Club of Mars.

These groups sold a wide variety of great concessions, from walking tacos to burgers, pierogies, pizza and so much more. A few even hosted games. The library had a LEGO design table and the Women’s Club of Mars sold beautiful homemade “play pals” dolls.

Entertainment in the form of various performances took place on the stage at the ball field. The first performer was the local band Dizzy Woosh who braved the rain and got the crowd going with a great acoustic set.

Their variety of not-often-seen instruments, even a washtub bass, gave them a unique sound that was enjoyed by everyone. Next up was a ZUMBA® demonstration

by Katy Brosky who teaches a class on Wednesdays in the township building. Her energetic performance brought people up to the stage to give it a try.

Then the Ambridge Area Steel Drum Band of 12 high school students donning tie-dyed shirts took the stage. Their melodious sound sent the clouds away and brought in the sunshine. The Mars Stars truly shined with their jump rope skills.

They wowed the crowd, and at one point even jumped rope on pogo sticks! The students from the North Pittsburgh Dance Alliance danced onto the stage. They sparkled through graceful performances to much applause. Magician Bob Mullens kept the younger audience in stitches with his magic act, especially when he just couldn’t find his rabbit! For the second year, the township welcomed the music of the hEARd

Matthews Band to close out the show. They rocked the crowd with classics up until the fireworks.

As has become tradition, this year’s “Thunder Over Adams” shook the park and lit up the sky. The 30-minute fireworks spectacular definitely did not disappoint. Beautifully brilliant colors shot out in every direction, cleverly choreographed to popular music.

This event could not be pulled off without the help of everyone involved. Each and every person who took the time to volunteer worked together to make this day such a success—and that is exactly what “community” is. It truly was yet another fabulous celebration and it could not have happened without the commitment of this wonderful community!

The Adams Township Supervisors and the Parks and Recreation Committee would like to thank all of those involved for their time and dedication, including members of the National Honor Society who come out every year to volunteer.

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

By Matt Fascetti

Many people think of health and wellness as just diet and exercise. While those are two key components, there are many more factors that affect an individual’s overall vitality. Other areas of focus include dental and vision; specialties such as podiatry and audiology; preventive measures such as chiropractic visits and acupuncture/massage. Even feel-good procedures such as hair replacement and cosmetic surgery can boost a person’s demeanor and self-confidence.

With all of these areas of wellness to consider, it can be a daunting task to pay for the treatments and procedures that enhance the quality of our lives. So how do we decide what to spend our health care dollars on? Which procedures are the most effective and beneficial? The following is a review of what to consider when choosing a healthier lifestyle.

• Fitness • Exercise is the one thing most doctors stress when the subject of health and wellness is broached. Certainly there are other factors such as genetics, eating, smoking, drinking and medication that can play a significant role, but exercise is at the core of health and wellness. So what is the best way to stay fit?

There is no perfect answer as it is different for each individual’s needs and desires. There are many ways an individual can exercise on his/her own such as walking, running, biking, hiking, at-home workout DVDs or weight training, just to name a few. Many Americans join gyms to help them stay fit. There are advantages to having a gym membership which include a wide array of equipment, fellow members to help motivate you, professional trainers and a monthly monetary obligation that can help you stay committed to your fitness goals.

Unfortunately, gym memberships are not covered by health insurance, so it is up to the individual to not only foot the bill but to select one that best suits his/her needs. Most gyms have monthly payments, but some also have yearly or bi-yearly options as well. Depending on the facility and the region you live in, the average gym membership can vary from $10 a month to $100 a month. While gyms, fitness programs and personal trainers can be an excellent way to achieve cardiovascular health, just remember they are not the only way. If money is tight there are plenty of free alternatives that may work just as well for you.

• Acupuncture and Massage • If you’ve ever been treated to a massage, you probably don’t need a list of advantages to persuade you to have one on a regular basis. Massage is the manipulating of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being.

Massage involves working and acting on the body with pressure – structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving – tension, motion, or vibration, done manually or with mechanical aids.

Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, skin, joints or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels, or organs of the gastrointestinal system. Massage can 42

724.942.0940 to advertise

Mars Area

be applied with the hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, and feet. There are over 80 different recognized massage modalities. The most cited reasons for introducing massage as therapy have been client demand and perceived clinical effectiveness. Massage is usually only covered by insurance in very special circumstances, so be prepared to pay out of pocket for these services.

Our Health & Wellness

Partners

According to www.mayoclinic.com, acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body.

A key component of Traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain.

Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force known as qi or chi, (pronounced CHEE), believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance.

In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body’s natural painkillers and increase blood flow.

Reasons for having an acupuncture procedure include chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, fibromyalgia, headaches, labor pain, low back pain, menstrual cramps, migraines, osteoarthritis, dental pain and tennis elbow. As with massage, acupuncture is generally not covered by insurance.

Metropolitan ENT 724-940-5755

• Chiropractic Care • According to www.chiropractor.com, chiropractic care is a natural method of health care that focuses on correcting the causes of physical problems from subluxations or misalignments of the bones in the body, especially the spine.

The field of chiropractic is considered holistic, improving people’s lives by optimizing the functioning of the nervous system. Every cell in the body is controlled by the nervous system, including taste, touch, smell, hormones, digestion and cardiovascular. Chiropractic does not just treat symptoms or problems, but allows for a healthy nervous system, so the body functions better.

Positive Steps 724-486-3077

Howard K. Scott, MD & Associates 724-772-0777

Clear skin for a healthier life.

Children’s Dermatology Services has the only Acne Treatment Center of its kind in the region. Led by boardcertified pediatric dermatologists Dr. Robin Gehris and Dr. Douglas Kress, this practice offers numerous pediatric skin care services including acne, molluscum and wart treatment, annual mole screenings and more.

To schedule an appointment, contact the office at: 11279 Perry Highway Suite 108 Wexford, PA 15090 724-933-9190 www.chp.edu/CHP/dermatology

The audiologists of Metropolitan ENT are committed to providing you with the highest quality services for your hearing healthcare needs. Each audiologist holds a master’s or doctoral degree in audiology, and are board certified and licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We work as part of a medical team and have advanced training in preventive, diagnostic and non-medical care of hearing problems. We believe educating you and your family is a critical component of improving your hearing.

Positive Steps Therapy is a privately owned company which strives to be the region’s leading provider in therapy services for children and adolescents ages birth to 21. We employ passionate therapists in all disciplines including physical, occupational, speech, and developmental therapies and are consistently establishing new and innovative programs to assist children in all levels of their development.

The office of Howard K. Scott, MD and Associates has been serving the Cranberry and Seven Fields area for 22 years. We offer a complete range of pediatric care in a single office setting.

Our job is to help you ensure that your children are happy, healthy and well cared for.

Over the past 55 years, Brother’s Brother Foundation has connected over $4 billion in people’s resources with Connecting People’s Resources people’s needs across 146 with People’s Needs countries. BBF supplies hospitals with vital medication and equipment, supports hand-carried medical mission groups, funds the rebuilding of schools and fills them with donated books across the world.

1200 Galveston Ave. Pittsburgh, PA, 15233

Phone: 412-321-3160 http://www.brothersbrother.org

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

Health & Wellness A healthy nervous system has the ability to resist disease and ill health. Chiropractic restores the body’s nervous system, thereby increasing its resistance to illnesses. Chiropractors are able to determine and remove blocks to the nervous system by locating subluxations or misaligned vertebrae and adjusting them. There is one issue that will arise with chiropractic care…visits are sometimes not covered by insurance. Although suggested by many health care practitioners, including primary care physicians, some insurance companies still consider chiropractors luxury visits in some instances. One session with a chiropractor can cost anywhere from $35-$100 depending on the region you live in, with additional fees for more complicated procedures. When it comes to chiropractic care, one must decide if the benefits outweigh the cost.

• Dental Work •

such as endocarditis and cardiovascular disease, although researchers are not sure of the role that oral health plays in causing heart problems. Recent studies have also shown that women with periodontal disease are at three to five times greater risk for delivering a preterm infant than those who are periodontally healthy. There may also be a link between oral health and diabetes, Alzheimer’s and certain immune disorders.

Whether you have a cracked tooth, a cavity, braces, dental implants or are needing a simple whitening or cleaning, dental care is a priority for most people. Because the costs of dental care keep increasing, some are choosing to cut out dentist visits all together. This is not recommended.

However, if carrying dental insurance is not an option, then an individual should still stick to routine checkups. According to ehow.com, the national average cost for a regular cleaning can range anywhere from $50-130 depending on the region in which you live. Skipping these checkups and cleanings can lead to more serious issues down the road that can cost thousands of dollars. In the meantime, as is the case with most health-related issues, prevention is the key. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss after every meal and you drastically increase your odds of having great oral health.

Dental care is a vital aspect of health and wellness. Many people incorrectly believe that dental care is important for aesthetic reasons only, but this is far from the case. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there is a link between poor oral health and conditions

Are you missing the best sounds of the season?

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• Understand speech better, even in noisy environments • Automatically adjusts to your listening situation • Experience a phone call or a hug without whistling or buzzing in your ear • A truly wireless hearing aid that connects you directly to your TV, cell phone, and other audio devices ReSound Unite® Mini Microphone Clip on clothing, or plug into an iPod, to hear sound streamed directly to your hearing aids, even from across the room.

This is your chance for a no-obligation demonstration of this advanced technology right in our office.

Metropolitan ENT Associates 6001 Stonewood Drive, Suite 301 Wexford, PA 15090 (724) 940-5755 Like us on

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Our Health & Wellness

Partners

• Vision Care • Many of us take our vision for granted. But we would certainly be completely lost without it, so it is essential we take good care of our eyes with regular exams and wearing glasses or contacts, if needed.

According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 75% of adults need some sort of vision correction. Although drugstores sell non-prescription glasses for reading, which means anyone can buy them without seeing an eye doctor for an exam, there is no substitute for a professional vision exam by an eye doctor, with a customized prescription for glasses or corrective lenses.

Catholic Charities www.ccpgh.org

Catholic Charities Free Health Care Center provides free medical and dental care to individuals without health insurance and income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines regardless of race, gender or religion. Since 2007, over 10,000 patients received more than 25,000 medical and dental visits in our downtown Pittsburgh location.

A Volunteer in Medicine model, 154 professional and administrative volunteers provide $1.5 million in donated service hours annually, supported by nine staff.

Approximately 30% of the American population is nearsighted and must use glasses for activities such as driving and schoolwork. About 60% of Americans are farsighted meaning that they have trouble reading or sewing without glasses, but can focus well at a distance. The majority of young people who wear glasses are nearsighted. As people age, they are more likely to need vision correction for far-sightedness. About 25% of people who wear glasses to see distances will end up needing reading glasses or bifocals as they get older.

The recommendations for the frequency of vision exams vary somewhat, but generally individuals are advised to have an eye exam somewhere between every one to four years, depending upon their age group.

• Podiatry • Podiatry is the specialty devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the foot. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, most people log an amazing 75,000 miles on their feet by the time they reach age 50. Regular foot care can ensure that your feet are up to the task. With proper detection and intervention, most foot and ankle problems can be lessened or prevented.

Many people are unaware of the many issues that can affect feet.

Arthritis, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), peripheral neuropathy, common injuries (sprains, strains and fractures), Haglund’s deformity (bony enlargement of the back of the heel bone), heel pain and tendinitis can all create mobility problems for individuals.

There are various skin disorders including athlete’s foot, corns and calluses, psoriasis, skin cancer of the feet, as well as toe joint and nerve disorders such as bunions, hammer toes and neuromas to consider. Individuals may also suffer from ingrown toenails.

Some basic but effective foot care tips include washing your feet daily, making sure to rinse off all soap and water especially between the toes and trimming nails straight across and not overly short to avoid cutting or digging at corners.

Over-the-counter medications are not recommended for removing corns or calluses. A qualified podiatrist should be consulted for treatment and removal.

Wear clean socks or stockings changed daily and make sure that they are not too tight. Always wear properly fitting shoes.

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

Health & Wellness If you do suffer a foot ailment, there are various ways to treat them.

Prescription, custom orthotics, which are specially-made devices, are designed to support and comfort your feet and may correct the problem.

For more severe issues, surgery may be needed in cases when pain or deformity persists.

• Audiology • Audiology is the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and management of hearing loss and balance disorders in adults and children. It is an important component to health and wellness, yet it tends to be ignored unless there is a noticeable problem. Individuals should get their hearing checked yearly to ensure that everything is as it should be.

An audiologist, commonly called an ear doctor, prescribes and fits hearing aids, assists in cochlear implant programs, performs ear or hearing related surgical monitoring, designs hearing conservation programs and provides newborn screening programs to test hearing levels. Audiologists may also provide hearing rehabilitation such as auditory training, speech reading and listening skills improvement.

What many people don’t realize is that almost all types of hearing loss are treatable by an audiologist. No one should ever feel there is no hope with

hearing loss. Some hearing related problems include occupational; earwax blockage; hearing loss related to aging; acoustic neuroma, a noncancerous tumor on the hearing nerve; Meniere’s disease, a serious tumor on the nerve ending; ringing in the ears; and fluid on the ear. Most hearingrelated procedures and tests will be covered by most insurance companies.

• Family Medicine • According to the American Academy of Family Medicine (AAFP), family practice is health care for the individual and family that integrates the biological, clinical and behavioral sciences. The scope of family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes and every organ system of the body.

Common services provided in family medicine include bone density screenings, EKGs, hospital care, immunizations and flu shots, lab services, minor surgery (warts, lesions, stitches), newborn health, gynecology and obstetrics, school and sports physicals and preventive visits.

Family Medicine physicians work closely with patients to prevent disease and offer them a long and healthy life. Healthy lifestyle, exercise and weight control are often points that are stressed to all members of the family. For those with a personal history of chronic disease, specific measures are taken to ensure that they are being monitored and that their disease is being managed effectively.

This is usually achieved with regular health maintenance exams and by keeping up with what is going on in their lives.

The main focus and advantage of family medicine is the very personal and intimate care that is normally received. The attending physician almost becomes a member of the family.

Another particular benefit of family medicine is that it concentrates on education as well. Everyone in the family should understand what good healthy living is and all the ins and outs of how to achieve health goals. This is done with open discussions with your physician.

• Pediatrics • Arguably, pediatric medicine is one of the most important areas of medical practice because it involves our children. This branch of medicine deals with the care of infants, children and adolescents. The ages treated usually range from birth to 18 years.

According to www.news-medical.net, pediatrics differs from adult medicine in many aspects. The obvious body size differences are paralleled by maturational changes. The smaller body of an infant or neonate is substantially different physiologically from that of an adult. Congenital defects, genetic variance and developmental issues are areas of greater concern for pediatricians.

Treating a child is not like treating a miniature adult. A major difference between pediatrics and adult medicine is that children are minors, and in most jurisdictions, cannot make decisions for themselves. The issues of guardianship, privacy, legal responsibility and informed consent must always be considered in every pediatric procedure. In a sense, pediatricians often have to treat the parents and sometimes the family, rather than just the child.

MARS021513 Expires 02-15-13

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Mars Area

Our Health & Wellness

Partners

Adolescents are in their own legal class, having rights to their own health care decisions in certain circumstances.

Pediatrics is a fairly new practice, only becoming a specialty in the mid-19th century. Today it is one of the biggest medical specialties in the United States, mainly because individuals tend to care more for their children than they do themselves and are therefore more likely to seek regular and consistent medical care for their children.

• Geriatrics • Geriatric medicine is quite unique because it usually deals with health issues related to age such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and more. Despite these challenges, geriatric wellness is better than it has ever been before. People are living longer and taking better care of themselves.

Retirement goals for the senior citizen of today differ widely from the objectives of retirees in years past. Today’s senior has a desire to not only stay healthy and prevent disease, but is passionate about living an active lifestyle.

Exercise has been shown to increase longevity and quality of life.

According to livestrong.com, the five categories of fitness include aerobic fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, body composition and flexibility. For the geriatric exercise participant, balance also plays a huge role in the development of a wellness program. For example, working on strength and balance to prevent falls is important, but in reality a trip, slip or fall will eventually happen.

Exercises that build bone density and joint integrity along with flexibility are important to prevent fractures and other injuries.

The American College of Sports Medicine exercise guidelines for men and women 65 and older include cardiovascular exercise at a moderate pace for 30 minutes, five days a week to improve aerobic fitness. It is also recommended that older adults engage

To patients of all ages from pediatrics to seniors, Drs. Rebecca Woodring and Shannon Mihalacki welcome you to Clear Vision Family Eyecare where you will experience Dr. Rebecca Woodring superior care in a friendly atmosphere.

Dr. Shannon Mihalacki From contacts and glasses to Lasik and 724-591-5501 treatment of medical conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma, it is our mission to provide you with excellent vision today and to protect it for your lifetime.

Northway Christian 724-935-0680

Learning Express 724-364-3112

Children’s Dermatology Service & Acne Treatment Center 724-933-9190

North Way Counseling Services, 12121 Perry Highway, Wexford, was established in 2002. They provide professional, masters-level counseling to those seeking a Biblically-based approach and effective Christian-based resources for all phases of life. Services include individual and familyoriented treatment. Prayer is an essential component and remains at the heart of North Way Counseling Services. For an assessment interview, please call 724935-0680. Slide fee scale. For additional information, visit www.northway.org.

At Learning Express Cranberry, we help make giving and receiving gifts an exceptionally unique and personalized experience. We offer a rich program of customer services including a Birthday Wish List Registry, free personalization, free gift wrapping and VIP service. Are you in a hurry? Call ahead and we’ll choose the perfect gift and have it wrapped and ready when you drive up to our door. We hope that you will come to see us soon!

Children’s Dermatology Services & Acne Treatment Center provides diagnostic and therapeutic dermatological services for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Our Acne Treatment Center is the only facility of its kind in the region, and our board-certified pediatric dermatologists are specially trained in the medical conditions of the skin. Our office located at 11279 Perry Highway, Suite 108, Wexford, Pa. For more information, call 724-9339190 or visit www.chp.edu/dermatology.

Mars Area | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

Health & Wellness in strength training two days per week. The focus should be on large muscle group exercises that mimic activities of daily living, such as standing, reaching overhead and pulling. It is also suggested that flexibility exercises be added at least two days per week. One should also utilize balance exercises to create a well-rounded program that focuses on both performance and prevention.

The bottom line is, today’s world offers better opportunities than ever before for seniors to live and be healthy for many years to come.

• Hair Restoration • It is no secret we live in a society where looks are important to many people. So, naturally, hair replacement has become more and more popular.

According to www.plasticsurgery.org, hair loss is primarily caused by a combination of aging, a change in hormones, and a family history of baldness. As a rule, the earlier hair loss begins, the more severe the baldness will become. Hair loss can also be caused by burns or trauma, in which case hair replacement surgery is considered a reconstructive treatment, and may be covered by health insurance.

Baldness is often blamed on poor circulation to the scalp, vitamin deficiencies, dandruff, and even excessive hat-wearing. All of these theories have been disproved. It’s also untrue that hair loss can be determined by looking at your

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maternal grandfather, or that 40-year-old men who haven’t lost their hair will never lose it.

Hair replacement surgery can enhance your appearance and your selfconfidence, but the results are not always what you envisioned. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon. It’s important to understand that all hair replacement techniques use your existing hair. The goal of surgery is to find the most efficient uses for existing hair.

Hair replacement candidates must have healthy hair growth at the back and sides of the head to serve as donor areas. Donor areas are the places on the head from which grafts and flaps are taken. Other factors, such as hair color, texture and waviness or curliness may also affect the result.

Transplant techniques, such as punch grafts, mini-grafts, micro-grafts, slit grafts and strip grafts are generally performed on patients who desire a more modest change in hair fullness. Flaps, tissue expansion and scalp reduction are procedures that are usually more appropriate for patients who desire a more dramatic change.

Remember, there are limits to what can be accomplished. An individual with very little hair might not be advised to undergo hair replacement surgery.

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• Cosmetic Surgery • Cosmetic surgery is very popular in the United States these days. In fact, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Americans spent a staggering $10.7 billion on cosmetic surgery in 2010.

According to www.cosmeticsurgery.com, the most popular cosmetic procedures include liposuction, breast augmentation, BOTOX®, eyelid surgery, thermage, facelift, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck and buttocks implants.

While cosmetic surgery is generally safe, when it does go bad, results can be disastrous. The key is to research your doctor thoroughly, making sure he/she has extensive experience and many references from satisfied patients.

Insurance does not usually cover cosmetic surgery, so it is a rather expensive, completely out-of-pocket expense. For example, a liposuction can cost around $10,000. The only kind of cosmetic surgery that is generally covered by insurance is for conditions that may interfere with someone’s overall health and wellness.

Good health is not just a linear concept of adhering to a rigid routine for everyone. Each individual is different, and his/her personality, lifestyle and priorities must be taken into account.

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IN Community Magazines is seeking nominations for its Community Awards for Service Excellence (C.A.S.E).

We know that what makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort to help others. ICM would like to honor those special people, but we need your help.

IN Community Magazines’ C.A.S.E. Dinner will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 36 magazines.

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Why are you nominating this person or nonprofit organization? (Please submit a type written statement of no more than 600 words.)

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Deadline for nominations is January 31, 2013.

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