Spring 2011
ars Area COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Mars Area
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
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Welcome to the spring issue of Mars area magazine. i hope you all had a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, and fun. Typically, i use this space to talk about your community or features in the magazine that spotlight the people in your community who are doing wonderful things. Well, this time i want to update you regarding our newest feature for 2011âour new website. Without venturing too far into the realm of shameless self-promotion, i want to emphasize that this website is something for you, our readers. how so? Well, you can have input and help shape the website just like your ideas help shape your magazine. now you have a place to list all of the nonprofit community organizations that are active in the community. We are also developing pages where we list the local houses of worship. in addition, we now offer every magazine in a fully downloadable PDF format, rather than the outdated flipbook format we used to have. This will allow you to send the magazine, or links to it, to friends and family both near and far. We tied our website into Facebook as well, not to get the biggest list of âfriendsâ we could get but to have a place to keep our readers abreast of all the news we get between issues. it also gives us a place to upload all the photos from community events that we donât have room for in the magazine. as with all things, thereâs always room for improvement, but we always have open ears. if you have comments about our new website or want to see your organization listed, e-mail mark@incommunitymagazines.com with your link or feedback. Thereâs no charge for listing your church, synagogue, or scout troopâs link, so send your links in today! and if you happen to be on Facebook and like what you see in the magazine, donât hesitate to click that âlikeâ button. itâs always nice to be liked! i hope you have a wonderful spring!
ars Area SPRING 2011 IN Mars Area is a non-partisan community magazine dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Mars Area School District and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R
Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T
Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS
Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny
Pamela Palongue
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco
P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Publisher
Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S
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"No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another."
hen i think about spring, i canât help but think about light. The days get âlighter,â the sun stays with us a little longer each day. When we have a great idea, a light bulb goes off in our minds. at Mars area Magazine we try to spotlight our communities. What are you doing to be a âlightâ? if you or an organization that you volunteer or work for is a light in the community, will you let me know? so many good deeds, are left unsung! if you have a family member who is in the armed forces, or if your church group or Mom or Dad are providing a service to someone in need, we want to know! Please e-mail your ideas and photos to me at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. every spring i look forward to our annual high school poetry contest and this year is no exception. On page 6, i want to introduce you to some amazing young adults from the community. We truly value the words of everyone who puts âpen to paper.â But when you read some of the talented writing from area students, iâm sure you will be impressed! Darcy silbaugh, high school english teacher from Mars area school District, deserves our thanks for coordinating this fabulous project for us at the school district level.
Nicholas Buzzell Brian Daley Gina DâAlicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes Jason Huffman Jessie Jones Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Summer content deadline: 4/4/11 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Charles DiCkens
Managing editor
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Mars Area
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Contents Mars Area | SPRING 2011 |
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
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Healthy Family, Happy Family
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Whatâs Inside
Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job. With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.
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Coming Back from a Back Injury
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From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
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Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
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UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
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Welcoming New Physicians Whatâs Happening at UPMC Passavant
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 25
Older Adults in Mars Area
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Mars Area School District Poetry Contest
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Real Estate in Mars Area
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Venue Planning for Your Wedding
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
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Early Mammograms Detect Cancer Early By Christina A. Cirucci, M.D. | 57
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
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H.P. Starr Lumber Company
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Lutheran SeniorLife to Open New Assisted Living Care Facility in Mars | 46
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Mars area high school students designing the set for spring Musical, "Back to the 80's".
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IN KIDS
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ON THE COVER
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Places of Worship
FEATURE
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Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation | 42 |
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Mars Area School District Quarterly Newsletter | 8 UPMC Today
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© 2011 UPMC
Publisherâs Message COMMUNITY INTEREST
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Mars area sChOOl DisTriCT & in Mars area Magazine Presenting some of the best poetry in the Mars area school District from Mrs. silbaugh's high school english Classes.
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Warmth Soaking into my skin it seeps into my bones kissing my sleeping lashes the warm sun caresses my face.
Asleep in the cool summer grass it tickles our intertwined hands we stare up into a crisp blue sky, nothing can harm us here. I look into your dark brown eyes darkness against the day, the rich, deep color calms me, itâs time to leave. We walk, down the open street, fallen leaves rustle around our feet Iâm not ready to let go. But look to the sky, love, our reminder is there the warm, smiling sun is our story of what we have, and the happiness we found there. Siempre tú y yo
katie richards
Katie Richards is a junior at Mars area high school. she enjoys writing, especially poetry and song lyrics. she lives by her favorite phrase, âcarpe diem,â and believes that we should live everyday to the fullest. 6
Mars Area
You. You're just another boy. You're a plaster-cast of the one that I know. You don't know me. You don't know anything. You, with your false-lit eyes, thoughtless thoughts and thoughtless words. You're like all of the other boys. All cellophane and saccharin and sugar-coated promises. But no one ever bothers to read your warning labels. You're bad for me.
abby Michalowski
Abby Michalowski is a senior at Mars area high school. she is planning on attending an art college to obtain her BFa in painting. she works as a volunteer with children and attends national competitions for art, drama, and dance. in her spare time, she enjoys folding origami cranes and writing her own bios.
Untitled
Situating the Spectacles Situating the Spectacles in position Allows a sudden glance at the free world. One moment of truth, heâs certain. None of this sort heâs viewed before. Perplexity between lightness and darkness Issues longing bewilderment in his mind. Yesterdayâs proven facts- today he stresses At the behavior of his own kind. Newfound knowledge dangles above his head. Sparing such insight, conside r crime here after. Grab hold, he must, this cloud of dust impending Over all creation overlooking such disaster. Frenzied, furious, forceful conditions. He now sees- through the looking glassinto the core, The place called home which he lives in, Summoned to heal this enormous sore. Dried up clay needs reshaping, remolding shall be strenuous. Underway, creation of massive forest fire After the drought of innocence. He nearly seeks to pull them out of the mire. The whole, as a species, mislead, Marching down trails of demonic exemplars. Acceptably ignorant, unknowingly naïve; fears he dreads. Halt! This animal abuse he implores. Situating the spectacles in position Reassures his view one last time. Crystal clear now, his perception Of the duty he hath been assigned.
emily elder Emily Elder is a senior at Mars area high school, graduating one year early. she will be attending Pitt-Bradford in the fall of 2011 with a double major of writing and political science. she believes that no longer modeling, but writing, is her calling.
Iâm stuck in a world that does not know me Lost in the world that disowned me Hunted by the one who loved me Love is nothing to be played with You lived for the lies Fell for the tricks Everyone is thrown into the same mix Iâm locked behind these four walls Hidden behind the fallen cause Scared of what will become Love is nothing to be messed with you trust the words Get hurt by the worst Everyone is t hrown into the mix Iâm lost in a world that doesnât love me Forced behind fallen walls There is you Love is something to be played with Something to mess with No matter what you do love will always find you
kirsten kohler Kirsten Kohler is a senior at Mars area high school. she enjoys hanging out with her friends, Xbox, and writing. she claims that though she enjoys writing, most of it is in her head, and rarely ends up on paper.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
MARS AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT 545 Route 228 ⢠Mars, PA 16046 (724) 625-1518
Board of School Directors Kimberly Geyer, President J. Dayle Ferguson, Vice President Rebecca Brown Rita Dorsch Gordon Marburger H. Ross McConnell Christian Ola Christine Stroup Bonnie L. Weaver
District Information Web site ............................................................ www.marsk12.org The eCommunicator ................................. Subscribe online at www.marsk12.org Mars Area School District -TV .................... Cable Ch. 50; Digital Cable Ch. 209 Community Information Line .................... (724) 625-1581 Sports Information Line .............................. (724) 625-1581
Administration Dr. William Pettigrew ...................................... Superintendent Matthew Friedman ......................... Assistant Superintendent Jill L. Swaney.................................................. Business Manager Frank Randza..................................... Maintenance Supervisor Jeffrey Bitzer ......................................... Director of Technology Josh Schwoebel.......................... Director of Communications Jane Roth .................................... Transportation Coordinator Scott Heinauer................................................ Athletic Director Liz Peters ..............................Food Service Director, Nutrition Inc.
Mars Area High School Todd Kolson ................................................................ Principal Dale Sleva Jr. ............................................... Assistant Principal
Mars Area Middle School Richard Cornell............................................................ Principal
Mars Area Centennial School Todd Lape .................................................................... Principal
Mars Area Elementary School
School Board Reorganizes for 2011 Mars Area School Board reorganized for 2011. Kimberly Geyer will remain in her post as Board President and Dayle Ferguson as Board Vice President. Other Board members are Rebecca S. Brown, Rita Dorsch, Gordon Marburger, H. Ross McConnell, Christian Ola, Christine Stroup and Bonnie L. Weaver. Work sessions and regular Board meetings will continue to be held at 7 p.m. on the first and second Tuesday of each month, respectively, with some exceptions. Remaining meeting dates for 2011 are March 1 and 8, April 5 and 19, May 3 and 10, June 7 and 14, July 19, Aug. 2 and 9, Sept. 6 and 13, Oct. 4 and 11, Nov. 1 and 7 (Monday), and Dec. 6. All meetings are open to the public and will be held in the boardroom at the Districtâs Administration Office, 545 Route 228, Mars, Pa. 16046. For more information, visit www.marsk12.org.
Act 34 Hearing Reviews Centennial School Project Mars Area School Board held an Act 34 Public Hearing on Jan. 11 to discuss plans for a 12-classroom addition to Mars Area Centennial School. Pennsylvania Act 34 of 1973 requires that a public hearing be held in regards to any proposed school construction project that exceeds 20 percent of the buildingâs original square footage. âDue to existing growth within Mars Area School District, (Mars Area Centennial School) is at capacity,â says Bob Marz of Roth Marz Partnership. âAdditional classroom space needs to be added to accommodate future enrollment at the school.â The $6,072,167 project would include a two-story classroom wing located at the western end of the existing building near the student drop-off area, says Marz. The new wing would also include restrooms, a 9,000square-foot basement area for storage, and a large group instruction (LGI) classroom. The overall project would also move the schoolâs existing kitchen out at the eastern end of the building to allow for a 2,300-square-foot addition to the schoolâs cafeteria, says Marz. And, 17 parking spaces would also be added in the schoolâs lower lot and near the cafeteria. Financing for the project will come from a general obligation bond issue, which offers the District lower interest rates, more favorable refunding provisions and keeps more control with the local School Board, says Dr. William Pettigrew, superintendent. The construction project is not eligible for state reimbursement. For more information, call (724) 625-1518.
Mars Area principals (from left) Todd Kolson and Dale Sleva Jr. (assistant principal), Mars Area High School; Todd Lape, Mars Area Centennial School; Elizabeth McMahon, Mars Area Primary Center; Robert Zaccari, Mars Area Elementary School; and Richard Cornell, Mars Area Middle School; display banners recognizing their individual schoolâs achievement of AYP for two consecutive years. Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Schools Achieve AYP for Second Consecutive Year Each of Mars Area School Districtâs five school buildings was recognized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education for achieving AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) for two consecutive years. Mars Area Primary Center, Mars Area Elementary School, Mars Area Centennial School, Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area High School each attained AYP during the 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 school years. All five schools achieved AYP during the 2007-2008 school year as well. The recognition is co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania Association of Federal Program Coordinators.
Board Approves Bids for Elementary School Project Mars Area School Board unanimously approved bids for a 12-classroom addition to Mars Area Elementary School at a special meeting on Jan. 25. Bids were awarded to R.A. Glancy & Sons, General Construction ($1,713,614); Shipley Bros. Construction Inc., Plumbing ($183,275); R&B Mechanical Inc., Mechanical ($476,300); Pitt Electric Inc., Electrical ($274,600); and Shultz Installation & Service Co. Inc., Automatic Temperature Controls ($179,540). Total cost of the project including additional fees and costs is $3,431,617. The overall project will include an eight-classroom, twostory addition at the rear of the building and two more twoclassroom, two-story additions will be constructed in separate corners of the schoolâs interior courtyard. The schoolâs cafeteria will also be expanded. Work on the project is expected to begin in February and continue through August. All additions are scheduled to be completed prior to the start of the 2011-2012 school year. For more information, call (724) 625-1518.
Robert Zaccari.............................................................. Principal
Mars Area Primary Center Dr. Elizabeth McMahon............................................. Principal
Office of Special Education & Pupil Services Dr. Susan Cunnup................... Director of Special Education Deborah Adams ............. Asst. Director of Special Education Anna Saker ....................................... Director of Pupil Services Scott Semow....... School Psychologist, Intermediate Unit IV Richard Glosser....... School Psychologist, Intermediate Unit IV
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Mars Area School District Taxpayer Bill of Rights Notice You are entitled to receive a written explanation of your rights with regard to the assessment, audit, appeal, enforcement, refund and collection of certain School District taxes. The written explanation is titled Mars Area School District Taxpayer Bill of Rights Statement. Upon receiving a request from you, the School District will give a copy of the Disclosure Statement at no charge. You may request a copy in person or by mailing a request to: Mars Area School District; 545 Route 228; Mars, Pa. 16046. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on any weekday other than a holiday. A copy will also be mailed to you if you call the School District at (724) 625-1518. Mars Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex and handicap in its activities, programs or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX and Section 504.
district news District Welcomes New Staff Members
Schools Working to Encourage Bully-Free Environment Mars Area School District is continuing to work to encourage bully-free schools through its âPlanet Peace: You Can Make the Differenceâ anti-bullying program. The purpose of the âPlanet Peaceâ Olweus Bullying Prevention Program is to empower students, teachers and staff members to recognize and prevent bullying and to increase their feelings of positive belonging. In the last few months, three Mars Area schools held âPlanet Peaceâ events to encourage students to contribute and âmake the differenceâ by promoting acceptance and tolerance through their own actions. On Nov. 23, Mars Area Elementary School held an assembly featuring The Hill Brothersâ âThe Bullying Show: Thereâs No Place for Bullies in Our Schoolâ program, which encourages students to recognize and take a stand against bullying. Mars Area High School and Mars Area Middle School held assemblies on Jan. 7 and Nov. 8, respectively, featuring Jon Pritikin of the National Character Education Foundation. Pritikin, founder of the âFeel the Powerâ program, holds the title in the 2009 Guinness Book of World Records for bending two aluminum frying pans together with his hands in less than 30 seconds. After ripping a telephone book in two, rolling an aluminum frying pan and bending a steel bar held in his teeth, Pritikin spoke to students about bullying and peer pressure. Pritikin, who was diagnosed at an early age with a severe learning disability, faced cruelty and bullying from his classmates in grade school and high school. Through hard work and determination, he was able to rise above the ridicule and after graduating college, he dedicated his life to addressing issues of bullying, poor self-image and overcoming personal obstacles. âThere is going to be a time when you need a hero because you are going through a tough time. And, there is going to be a time when you need to be a hero because someone else is facing a tough time,â Pritikin told students. âWe need people to be heroes... to make a difference.â Pritikin ended his program by breaking a baseball bat over his leg and stuck around to answer studentsâ questions. In addition to the guest speaker, Mars Area High Schoolâs event featured a performance by the schoolâs cheerleaders and a video skit by members of the schoolâs REACH (Responsible Educated Adolescents Can Help) Program. Freshman Allen Shaffer wrote and performed an antibullying song on keyboard and seniors Eric Connolly and Conner Clydeoffered an anti-bullying rap. Event sponsors were Armstrong Cable, Mars National Bank, Geyer Construction and Woodward Inc. as well as Rob Shazer and David Nearhoof, both of whom were instrumen-
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Mars Area High School cheerleaders lead students in a cheer to kick off the schoolâs âPlanet Peaceâ event on Jan. 13. At left, Jon Pritikin, founder of the âFeel the Powerâ program, shows off his strength before talking with students at Mars Area Middle School.
tal in garnering financial support for the event. The assembly introduced the âPlanet Peaceâ program to students at Mars Area High School. District students in kindergarten through eighth grade have been participating in the program since 2008. Mars Area High School has joined the ranks of only a few high schools in the Pittsburgh region to offer an anti-bullying program for students in ninth through 12th grades, says Dale Sleva Jr., vice principal, adding that the schoolâs anti-bullying program is made possible through the support of numerous teacher and staff volunteers. In addition to the kickoff assembly, once a month through the remainder of the school year, a student-run group or club will write and produce a video skit on a different anti-bullying topic, says Sleva. The skit will be edited by students in the schoolâs Broadcast Media classes and aired in each classroom during homeroom, he says, noting that each skit will be accompanied by talking points for homeroom teachers to address with their students. Also, throughout the school year at Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area Elementary School, teachers are facilitating classroom discussions about bullying behaviors and promoting positive school behavior throughout the school year. For more information about the Districtâs âPlanet Peaceâ anti-bullying program, contact Anna Saker, director of pupil services/grant writer, at (724) 898-1561, opt. 2.
Community College to Offer Lifelong Learning Classes Butler County Community College will offer several Lifelong Learning classes at Mars Area High School beginning in March, as Mars Area School Board approved a plan to provide classroom space for the programs. Classes are offered for community members of all ages and skill levels at Butler County Community College sites as well as at various other locations throughout Butler County. Classes at Mars Area High School will include:
Still Life Art in Multi-Media (NARTS 226-T51) ïïStill â Wednesdays, March 2 and 9; 6 to 9 p.m.; Tuition is $35. ïïArtistic Stencil Making (NARTS 226-T51)â Wednesdays, March 2 and 9; 6 to 9 p.m.; Tuition is $49. ïïParanormal Phenomenon (NPERS 225-T51) â Wednesday, March 23; 6 to 9 p.m.; Tuition is $29.
Several new faces joined the staff of Mars Area School District since the start of the 2010-2011 school year. Jamie Reddinger is a nurse paraprofessional at Mars Area Elementary School and Mars Area Primary Center. Reddinger holds a bachelorâs degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania; a masterâs degree as a pediatric nurse practitioner from the University of Pittsburgh; and a school nurse certificate from Slippery Rock University. She previously worked as a staff nurse and pediatric nurse practitioner at Childrenâs Hospital of Pittsburgh and as a pediatric nurse practitioner at Childrenâs Home of Pittsburgh. Reddinger lives in EvansCity with her husband, Adam, and their two children, Madalyn and Delaney. Rachel Cogley is a long-term substitute geometry teacher at Mars Area High School. Cogley, who holds a bachelorâs degree in mathematics with a minor in education from Washington & Jefferson College, is working toward a masterâs degree in advanced secondary studies at California University of Pennsylvania. She previously served as a geometry teacher/counselor at The Academy Charter and as a preschool teacher at World of Wonders Learning Center. Cogley is a resident of South Fayette. Pamela Alikhani is secretary to the principal at Mars Area High School. Alikhani, who holds a bachelorâs degree from Grove City College, previously worked as a substitute secretary at Mars Area and Seneca Valley school districts. She and her husband, Fariborz, live in Mars. The couple has two children, Christopher and Amanda. Kelly Neely is an accountant in the Business Office at Mars Area School Districtâs Administration Office. Neely, who holds a bachelorâs degree in accounting and business management from the University of Pittsburgh, previously worked as an accounts receivable representative at Vector Marketing Corporation (Cutco) and as a teller at Hamlin Bank & Trust Company. She is a resident of Chicora. Alex Greenawalt,is a technology administrative assistant in Mars Area School Districtâs Administration Office. Greenawalt holds an associateâs degree in computer network systems from ITT Technical Institute and is a graduate of Butler County Area Vocational-Technical School. He previously worked as a technical support advisor for Armstrong Cable; a POS installer for IST; and as a member of the Geek Squad at Best Buy. He is a resident of Butler.
ïïAntiques Handling (NPERS 250-T51) â Wednesdays, March 23 through April 13; 6 to 8 p.m.; Tuition is $45 ïïFinancial Planning (NPERS 234-T51) â Wednesdays, March 2-23; 6 to 7 p.m.; Tuition is $29. The five Butler County Community College courses are an initial offering at Mars Area High School. If the programs are successful, more courses may be added in the future. For more information, visit www.bc3.edu/communityed.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
making a difference
School activities, fund-raisers aid local charities Students at Mars Area School District strive each year to make a difference in their local community. Through a variety of fund-raisers, charitable contributions and other activities, Mars Area students and staff members continue to work to help those in need so far this year. At Mars Area High School, members of the schoolâs Interact Club participated in Rich-Mar Rotaryâs âPennies for Peaceâ fund-raiser to provide financial support for wartorn schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Interact Club, in cooperation with students at Knoch High School, held a âPink Outâ Night at the Fightinâ Planets boys varsity football game against the Knoch Knights on Oct. 30. The schools sold t-shirts to raise $1,910.50 and Mars Area High Schoolâs Interact Club collected an additional $820.57 to benefit the Young Womenâs Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation. Mars Area High Schoolâs Coed Varsity Swimming & Diving Team and the schoolâs Student Council sponsored community food drives to benefit The Lighthouse Foundation in Middlesex Township. The groups accepted donations of non-perishable food items, diapers and paper products to benefit the foundationâs food bank. Members of Student Council walked in the âPick Up the Paceâ Race for Pancreatic Cancer on Aug. 15 in North Park and participated in âChildrenâs Grief Awareness Dayâ on Nov. 18. The event is sponsored by Highmark Caring Place: A Center for Grieving Children, Adolescents and Their Families.
Members of Mars Area High Schoolâs Coed Varsity Swimming/Diving Team held a Food Drive to benefit The Lighthouse Foundation. At right, a high school student helps to load items donated to the schoolâs annual âTreasures for Childrenâ program, which provided 100 children and three families in need with gifts during the holiday season. Photo by Josh Schwoebel 10
Mars Area
Students at Mars Area Primary Center display items donated to the schoolâs âBundle Up Butlerâ Winter Clothing Drive, held in October. Below, Mars Area Centennial School students make donations to Susan G. Komen for the Cure as part of the schoolâs annual âHats for Heroesâ fund-raiser.
The students asked their peers in ninth through 12th grades to wear the color blue to support those children, families and staff members who are grieving because they have lost a loved one. Student Council, in partnership with Butler County Salvation Army, held its annual âTreasures for Childrenâ program, providing 100 children and three families in need in and around the area with gifts during the holidays. In addition, Student Council held its annual Winter Coat Drive to benefit Glade Run Presbyterianâs Boaz House and worked with Central Blood Bank to coordinate several blood drives at the school. Mars Area High Schoolâs Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Team, the âMars Schools Miracle Marchersâ held a Pink Point Challenge during the 2010-2011 High School Basketball Season. As part of the fund-raiser, which will benefit the 19th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on Sunday, May 8, the team sought monetary pledges from local businesses and community members based on points scored by Mars Area High Schoolâs Boys Varsity Basketball Team. Students were also asked to make a pledge of âa penny a pointâ or to make a flat donation. At Mars Area Middle School, the Charity Committee collected more than 500 items as part of a Food Drive (Nov. 15-23) to benefit The Lighthouse Foundation food bank. Students at Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area Centennial School collected a combined $10,133.03 for breast cancer research, as part of the schoolsâ annual âHats for Heroesâ fund-raiser. Students and staff members at the schools were asked to make a donation in return for the opportunity to wear a hat in school on Oct. 8. As part of the event, Mars Area Middle School collected $4,950.46 and Mars Area Centennial School brought in $3,994.91. On Oct. 12, the schools
continued their fundraising effort with âDollar Tuesday,â asking that each student bring in $1 to help the schools reach their goal of $10,000. Students at Mars Area Centennial School brought in an additional $511.11 and Mars Area Middle School collected $676.55. All proceeds benefited Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Mars Area Middle Schoolâs Environmental Committee is continuing its annual Recycling Campaign, collecting aluminum cans to benefit Habitat for Humanity; aluminum can tabs for Mars History & Landmarks Society; and phone books to be donated to Consolidated Communicationsâ phone book recycling program, which recycles phone books into ceiling tiles. At Mars Area Elementary School, staff members collected $1,955 to benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania & Southern West Virginia as part of the schoolâs âMake-A-Wish Fridayâ Jean Days. The school also joined with Mars Area Primary Center to raise a combined $1,333.52 for Susan G. Komen for the Cure through a âThink Pinkâ breast cancer awareness fund-raiser. Mars Area Primary Center participated in a âBundle Up Butlerâ Winter Clothing Drive to benefit the Center for Community Resources. And, the school collected $1,661.80 in addition to 42 boxes of non-perishable items as part of its annual Holiday Food Drive & Raffle to benefit The Lighthouse Foundation. Students could purchase raffle tickets for 25 cents each or by bringing in a non-perishable food item. The students could then use their tickets in a Chinese auction for toys and other items. Students and staff members at all of Mars Areaâs school buildings are committed to serving the community and doing what they can to help those in need. For more information about upcoming charitable events or activities, contact the individual school building.
whatâs happening Schools to Host Open House Events Several Mars Area schools will hold upcoming Open House events: ïïMars Area Centennial School â Wednesday, March 2, 6 to 8 p.m. (724) 625-2601 ïïMars Area Middle School â Thursday, March 3, 6 to 8 p.m. (724) 625-3145 ïïMars Area Elementary School â Thursday, April 7, 6 to 8 p.m. (724) 625-3161 ïïMars Area Primary Center â Thursday, April 14, 6 to 8 p.m. (724) 625-1588 For more information, contact the individual school building.
District to Sponsor Free Developmental Screenings Mars Area School District and Lifesteps will offer free developmental screenings from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, at Mars Area Primary Center. Screenings, which are for newborns through children age 5, will include vision, hearing and speech as well as motor and cognitive skills.
To schedule an appointment, call (800) 225-2010.
For more information, contact the individual school building.
2011 Spring Break Set for April 22-25 Mars Area School District will hold its Spring Break from Friday, April 22, through Monday, April 25. Students and staff members will return to school on Tuesday, April 26. For more information, call (724) 6251518.
Schools to Offer Scholastic Book Fairs Several Mars Area schools will offer upcoming Scholastic Book Fairs: ïïïMars Area Centennial School â Monday through Friday, Feb. 28-March 4 (724) 625-2601 ïïMars Area Elementary School â Monday through Thursday, March 7-10 (Family Night â Monday, March 7, 3 to 8 p.m.) Note: Book Fair sponsored by Mars Area Elementary PTO. (724) 625-3161 ïïMars Area Primary Center â Monday through Friday, April 11-15 (Family Night â Thursday, April 14, 6 to 8 p.m.) (724) 625-1588
Schools to Hold Concerts in May Mars Area School District will offer a variety of spring concerts in May. Performances will include: ïïMonday, May 9 â High School Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. ïïTuesday, May 10â High School Chorus & Middle School Eighth Grade Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m. ïïTuesday, May 11 â Middle School Wind Ensemble, Orchestra & Seventh Grade Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m. ïïTuesday, May 17 â Centennial School Chorus, Band & Orchestra Concert â Fifth Grade, 6 p.m.; Sixth Grade, 7:30 p.m. All performances will be held in Mars Area High School auditorium. For more information, call the individual school building.
events at a glance FEBRUARY FEB. 16 FEB. 18 FEB. 21 FEB. 28
Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School. Elementary PTO Movie Night @ Elementary School No School â Act 80 Day (Staff Development) Primary Center Read Across America Week Begins; Centennial School Scholastic Book Fair Begins
MARCH MARCH 1-4 Primary Center Read Across America Week; Centennial School Scholastic Book Fair MARCH 2 Centennial School Open House, 6 to 8 p.m. MARCH 3 Spring Sports Physicals, 8 a.m. at Middle School, 1 p.m. at High School; Middle School Open House, 6 to 8 p.m. MARCH 4 Middle School Parent Advisory Board Meeting, 9:15 a.m. MARCH 7 Spring Sports Season Begins MARCH 7-10 Elementary PTO Scholastic Book Fair @ Elementary School MARCH 9 High School AFS/MISA Chapter Meeting, 7 p.m. MARCH 9-11 High School AFS/MISA International Days MARCH 10 Elementary School Family Literacy Night, 6:15 to 8 p.m. MARCH 12 SAT Test Date @ High School MARCH 14 High School âMaking College & Career Countâ Assembly for Seniors, 8 a.m. MARCH 16 Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School MARCH 17 Lifesteps Developmental Screenings, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. @ Primary Center MARCH 18 Centennial School St. Patrickâs Day Party, Grade 6, 1 to 2 p.m.; Grade 5, 2 to 3 p.m.; High School Spring Musical, 7:30 p.m. @ Auditorium
MARCH 19 MARCH 21 MARCH 22
MARCH 24 MARCH 25 MARCH 29 MARCH 31
High School Spring Musical, 7:30 p.m. @ Auditorium High School Parent/Principal Communication Connection Meeting, 7 p.m. in Cafeteria Special Education Parent Training, âSpeech & Language Development,â 6:30 p.m. @ Primary Center Elementary School Science Fair, 6 to 8:15 p.m. @ High School Elementary PTO Movie Night @ Primary Center Primary Center Kindergarten Preview End of Third Nine Weeks
APRIL APRIL 1
No School â Act 80 Day (Parent Conferences â Grades K-8; Staff Development, Grades 9-12) APRIL 2 Elementary PTO Spring Carnival, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. @ High School APRIL 7 Centennial School DARE Graduation Ceremony, 2:15 p.m.; PMEA Performance Assessment @ High School Auditorium; Elementary School Open House, 6 to 8 p.m. APRIL 8 PMEA District 5 Middle School Band Festival @ High School Auditorium; Middle School Parent Advisory Board Meeting, 9:15 a.m.; Middle School Spirit Dance/Activity Night, 7 to 9:30 p.m. APRIL 9 ACT Test Date @ High School APRIL 11-15 Primary Center Scholastic Book Fair APRIL 13 Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School; High School AFS/MISA Meeting, 7 p.m. APRIL 14 Title I Parent Advisory Council Workshop, 4 to 6 p.m. @ Primary Center; Primary Center Open House, 6 to 8 p.m.; High School National Honor Society Induction, 7 p.m. @ Auditorium APRIL 14-15 Elementary School Author Days
APRIL 15
Primary Center âStuff the Busâ Diaper Drive; Middle School Talent Show, 7 p.m. APRIL 22-25 No School â Spring Break APRIL 27 MAC Track & Field Invitational, 2 p.m. @ Mars Athletic Complex APRIL 28 2011-2012Kindergarten Registration; Mars Area Junior High Track & Field Invitational, 2 p.m. @ Mars Athletic Complex; High School Marching Band/Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. APRIL 29 2011-2012 Kindergarten Registration; Mars Area Varsity Track & Field Invitational, 1 p.m. @ Mars Athletic Complex; High School Key Club Talent Show , 7 p.m.
MAY MAY 3 MAY 4 MAY 5 MAY 6
MAY 7 MAY 9 MAY 10
MAY 11
MAY 12 MAY 13
High School Blood Drive, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Centennial School Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Primary Center Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Elementary School Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Middle School Parent Advisory Board Meeting, 9:15 a.m.; Coffeehouse Gallery Art Showcase, 6 to 9 p.m. @ High School SAT Test Date @ High School High School Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. @ Auditorium High School Chorus & Middle School Eighth Grade Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m. @ High School Auditorium Middle School Wind Ensemble, Orchestra & Seventh Grade Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m. @ High School Auditorium; AFS/MISA Chapter Meeting, 7 p.m. @ High School Centennial School Student Art Show, 6 to 8 p.m. No School â Act 80 Day (Staff Development); High School Senior Prom
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
FAMILYAND CONSUMER
High school students work with children in the schoolâs Planet Preschool program, which offers a unique opportunity for students to work with and be around younger children and help students to decide if they would like to pursue a career in a child care-related field.
SCIENCE
Preparing Students for a Future in Family, Careers rom college level âDomestic Economyâ courses to high school âHome Economicsâ classes, educating students on how to care for their families and homes has taken a winding course over the last 200 years. Now called âFamily & Consumer Science,â classes are focused on preparing students for family life, work life, and careers in an ever-burgeoning number of fields and disciplines. âI tell students when they come in to (Family &
F
Consumer Science) classes on the first day that this is a class that they will be able to apply immediately,â says Cindy Knauff, a long-term substitute Family & Consumer Science teacher at Mars Area Middle School, noting that what students learn will make them more independent and confident as college students, family members and potential employees. â(The students) are learning how to prepare meals, make better choices about the food they eat, do their own laundry, set goals, use the decision-making process, manage resources, the responsibilities of caring for children, to be knowledgeable consumers, to repair clothing, and about family and peer relationships.â Home Economics was originally designed to teach girls how to be the perfect âhousewifeâ or how to âstitch and stir,â says Erica Nigro, Mars Area High School Family & Consumer Science teacher. Todayâs Family & Consumer Science education is geared toward all students, both boys and girls, and while classes still involve the fundamentals of cooking and sewing, classes now encompasses four main areas: financial and resource management, balancing work, family and community responsibly, food science and nutrition, and child development. At Mars Area Middle School, all seventh-graders are required to take a nine-week Family & Consumer Science class, says Knauff. Mars Area High School students learn how to make an âOmelet-In-A-Bagâ as part of a food lab during their Family & Consumer Science class.
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Eighth-graders may take Family & Consumer Science as an elective if they are not taking a World Language course. At Mars Area High School, Family & Consumer Science courses are open to juniors and seniors who are required to have a good attendance record and demonstrate positive school behavior. High school courses include Food Fundamentals, Interior Design, Child Development I and Child Development II. The Family & Consumer Science curriculum teaches students basic cooking techniques, food safety and sanitation as well as the importance of how essential vitamins and nutrients affect their personal diet, says Nigro. Mars Area High Schoolâs child development courses offer a unique opportunity for students to work with and be around younger children and help students to decide if they would like to pursue a career in a related field. Mars Area High School also offers a unique 24-week Planet Preschool program as part of the schoolâs Child Development I and Child Development II classes. Planet Preschool is offered for children ages 3-5, Tuesday through Friday, during the school year. High school students run Planet Preschool and are responsible for planning and implementing lesson plans, says Nigro, noting that as Planet Preschool is held four days a week, which is why it is important for students running the program to have a positive attendance record. âStudents are given the opportunity to work hands on and apply the information they learn in (their classes),â says Nigro, noting that many activities incorporate team-building and leadership skills. Mars Area High Schoolâs Family & Consumer Science
An Educational History: From Making a Home to Molding a Future
Students at Mars Area Middle School participate in a food lab on the making of French toast. The Family & Consumer Science activity required that students measure, mix and prepare all of the appropriate ingredients according to a specific recipe.
curriculum also incorporates the use of the latest technologies, says Nigro. Students use a Promethean interactive white board to work on puzzles and games with preschool students. Students also use classroom computers to look up lesson plan ideas for preschool classes and to find recipes for their food classes via the âMyPyramidâ Web site. The school is also working on installing a Web cam to do demonstrations on the cook top and have the demonstration displayed on the Promethean board. In the future, Family & Consumer Science courses will continue to integrate new technologies and will remain proactive in engaging students with hands-on learning opportunities, says Knauff. âFamily and Consumer Sciences classes are more important today than at any other time in our history. So many of our students now come from single parent homes where lessons that might have been taught by a parent in the past are simply slipping through the cracks,â says Knauff.
âMany students are left to fend for themselves for breakfast and also for dinner as parents are working during those hours. They are also left to care for younger siblings for the same reason. With all of the outside activities that students have as options today learning how to manage their time and responsibilities can make the difference between an average student and an excellent one.â Family & Consumer Science students may decide to pursue post-high school studies or careers in a variety of areas including education, child and family studies, social work or the health care profession. âThe information taught in a Family & Consumer Science classroom is beneficial to every student,â says Nigro. âNo matter what a person does after high school, all students will prepare meals for themselves and others, clean or tend to a house, budget their personal finances, live a healthy lifestyle and most will become parents at some point.â For more information about Mars Area School Districtâs Family & Consumer Science curriculum, contact Erica Nigro at (724) 625-1581 or Cindy Knauff at (724) 625-3145.
Planet Preschool is offered for children ages 3-5 as part of Mars Area High Schoolâs Child Development I and Child Development II classes. High school students run Planet Preschool and are responsible for planning and implementing lesson plans. Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Family & Consumer Science education began with âDomestic Economy,â a course taught at the college level in the 1800s, a time when the primary responsibilities for women were caring for their families and their homes. During the 20th century, cultural, political and societal changes led to âHome Economicsâ classes being offered at the high school level. And, the Smith-Hughes Act of 1917 established vocational home economics in most public schools. Classes not only prepared students for home life but also encouraged them to be leaders in their communities. By the 1950s the perception of women onlyworking in the home was changing and the curriculum took on the possibility of careers related to home economics outside of the home. The focus shifted to managing family, community, and career responsibilities. In 1972, when the Mars Area Middle School opened, boys and girls were integrated in both âHome Economicsâ and âIndustrial Arts.â The mission of Family and Consumer Sciences education continues to be to prepare students for family life, work life, and careers in the family and consumer sciences. In 1994, the Family & Consumer Sciences Division of the American Vocational Association (currently the Association for Career & Technical Education) developed nine goals for Family & Consumer Science curriculum: 1. Strengthen the well-being of individuals and families across the life span. 2. Become responsible citizens and leaders for family, community, and work settings. 3. Promote optimal nutrition and wellness across the life span. 4. Manage resources to meet the material needs of individuals and families. 5. Balance personal, home, family, and work lives. 6. Use critical thinking skills to address problems in diverse family, community, and work environments. 7. Foster successful life management, employment, and career development. 8. Function as providers and consumers of goods and services for families. 9. Appreciate human worth and accept responsibility for oneâs actions and success in family and work life. These goals are the basis for the Family & Consumer Science standards that continue to be used in Mars Areaâs schools today.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
high school Seniors, Graduates Named AP Scholars
Mars Area seniors Blake McCarty, Kaleb Trudeau and Han Gao placed in the 2010-2011 FBLA District 13 Regional Leadership Conference. Photo by Josh Schwoebel
FBLA Members Place at Regional Conference Three members of Mars Area High Schoolâs Future Business Leaders of America Chapter placed at the 20102011 FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) District 13 Regional Leadership Conference on Dec. 16. Seniors Han Gao and Kaleb Trudeau placed second in the Business Calculations and Personal Finance categories, respectively, and senior Blake McCarty, placed fourth in the Hospitality Management category. Gao and Trudeau qualified to compete at the 20102011 FBLA State Leadership Conference, to be held April 4-6 in Hershey, Pa. Anthony Moraco, Class of 2009 graduate, chartered Mars Area High Schoolâs FBLA Chapter during the 20082009 school year. FBLA is a non-profit educational association of students preparing for careers in business or simply interested in learning more about the American Business Enterprise. The organization aids students in enhancing leadership abilities as well as in preparing for entry into and advancement within a business or business-related occupation. The purpose of FBLA is to help students to develop leadership skills and build character through a variety of business-related activities as well as fund-raisers and charitable actions. The chapter is planning an FBLA Dodgeball Tournament in April to benefit Teen Challenge Pennsylvania, which offers faith-based treatment from drugs, alcohol and other life-controlling problems. Members of the Mars Area chapter, located in Pennsylvania FBLA Western District Region 13, also have an opportunity to compete in regional competitions held throughout each school year. Competitive events range from accounting and business communications to public speaking and word processing. For more information, call (724) 625-1581 or visit www.pafbla.org.
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Several Mars Area High School seniors and Class of 2010 graduates received Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar awards in recognition of the achievements on AP Exams taken through May 2010. Graduates Corinne Gressang, Rebekah Parsons and Camille Plesniak qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken and score of 3 or higher on five or more of the AP Exams. Senior Meghan Diefenbacher and graduate Marla Crawfordqualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by achieving an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken and scores of three or higher on four or more of the AP exams. Seniors Alexandra Douglass, Heather Foltz and Shannon Johnston along with graduates Jaclyn Amurgis, Gregory Kraus, Robert Nicholsand Meredith Sweetqualified for the AP Scholar Award by earning an average score of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams. The AP program enables high school students to take rigorous college-level courses to earn college credit and/or advanced placement.
âFocus on Peopleâ Award Mars Area senior Michelle Flynn was nominated for a 2010 Oticon Inc. âFocus on Peopleâ Award. The national award celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of hearing-impaired individuals who are helping to change perceptions of what it means to have a hearing loss. Award recipients must show a determination to succeed, achieve and contribute that distinguishes them as role models for all.
Marching Band Boosters to Hold Third Annual 5K Run/Walk Mars Area High School Marching Band Boosters is taking registration for its third annual âMars Band on the Runâ 5K Run/Walk, to be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, at Mars Area High School. Awards will be presented to the top three male and female overall runners; the top three male and female masters (age 40 and above); and to the top three male and female runners in various other age groups. The top three teams of three to five runners and the top male, female and coed teams will also be awarded. All runners ages 14 and younger will receive finisher ribbons. The race, which begins and ends at Mars Area High School, will be timed by Miles of Smiles timing service and all results will be posted online at www.smileymiles. com and www.marsband5K.com. A Post-Race âOut of This Worldâ Party will include refreshments, music, prizes and an awards ceremony. This year, a non-competitive 1K Childrenâs Fun Run
Vo-Tech Principalâs List Several Mars Area High School students received the Butler County Area Vocational-Technical School Principalâs List Award for the first nine weeks of the 20102011 school year. Recipients are juniors Johnathan Gissendaner, Cody Scheible and Allison Scott as well as sophomores Nickolas Kline, Ashley Louis, Joseph Ow, Michael Young and Joshua Zimmerman. Students who are selected maintain an âAâ grade average, have exceptional attendance, no disciplinary issues and are recommended by their trade area teacher.
Discus Award Winner Mars Area senior Abigail Iksic was named a 20102011 Discus Award winner for achievements in athletics, academics and the arts. The Discus Awards, a merit-based awards program, provides recognition and scholarship opportunities to âall-aroundâ high school students throughout the United States. Iksic, a member of Mars Area High School Marching Band, Jazz Band and Brass Quintet, also performs with the Mars Indoor Percussion group. She is a three-year member of the schoolâs Girls Varsity Softball Team and she plays Gaelic football for the Pittsburgh Banshees Ladies Gaelic Football Club. For more information, visit www.discusawards.com.
âStudents of the Monthâ Three Mars Area students were selected as Rich-Mar Rotary âStudents of the Month.â Seniors Alexandra Douglass, Alex Perri and Niki Wolbert were selected for the honor based upon their academic performance as well as their commitment to community service and civic spirit.
will be offered for children ages 11 and younger. The event will take place immediately following the 5K Run/Walk. Cost to register is $18 per runner through Saturday, April 30, then $22 per runner through Monday, May 16, for mail-in registration or Thursday, May 19, for online registration. Runners who register by Saturday, April 30, will receive a technical running shirt. Registration will also available for $22 per runner from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 20, at Up-N-Running Specialty Running & Walking Center on Route 8 and for $25 from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, at Mars Area High School. Childrenâs Fun Run registration is $8 in advance or $10 on race day. All participants will receive a t-shirt. All proceeds benefit Mars Area High School Marching Band, which will provide entertainment along the 3.1-mile race route. Registration forms and information are available in each Mars Area school building as well as online at www.marsband5K.com.
high school Quarterly Breakfast Honors Perfect Attendees In an effort to recognize those students with perfect attendance and positive school behavior, Mars Area High School offers its Renaissance Breakfast Program. The free breakfast is offered for students at the end of each corresponding nine weeks of the school year. To be eligible to attend the breakfast, students must have perfect attendance, no more than two tardies and no in-school or out-of-school suspensions. During the 2010-2011 School Year, the Renaissance Breakfast was offered on Nov. 18 and Feb. 10. At the Nov. 18 event, which honored 441 students, perfect attendees were treated to a continental breakfast provided by Bob Evans in Cranberry Township and refreshments by Marburger Farm Dairy. Attendees were also eligible to win gift cards and other prizes donated by various local business and were entered into a raffle to win one of three grand prizes. Grand prize winners were junior Ryan Winner, Playstation 3; senior Samantha Rosswog, Memorex Audio System for iPhone/iPod; and sophomore Morgan Verplank, a FLO-TV personal television.
Jeffrey Orr of Bob Evans Restaurant serves students at the high schoolâs quarterly Renaissance Breakfast. At left, Nov. 18 grand prize winners Morgan Verplank, Samantha Rosswog and Ryan Winner pose for a picture with Orr; volunteers fromTarget; Anna Saker, director of pupil services; Dale Sleva, assistant principal, and Todd Kolson, principal.
Prizes were purchased through partial funding from Target department storeâs âTake Charge of Educationâ program. The program allows shoppers to designate that Mars Area High School receive a percentage of their total purchase when they use their Target card.
The event was coordinated by Anna Saker, director of pupil services/grant writer. Upcoming Renaissance Breakfast programs will be held on Thursdays, April 14 and May 19. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
AFS/MISA Chapter to Hold âInternational Daysâ
Band Wins PIMBA Class AAA Championship Mars Area High School Marching Band took first place and was named a regional finalist at the 2010 PIMBA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association) Class AAA Championship, held Oct. 30 at Penn-Trafford High School. The marching band earned its 11th title in PIMBA competition at the event with a combined score of 86.15 and achieved awards for high music, high visual and high general effect. The band competed against Class AAA marching bands from West Allegheny and Trinity high schools. This yearâs marching show features the songs of Kansas, Mars Area High School Marching Band earned its 11th title including âCarry on My Wayward Son,â âDust in the Windâ at the 2010 PIMBA Class AAA Championship on Oct. 30. and âSong for America.â PMEA District Chorus For more information, visit www.pimba.org. Six members of Mars Area High School Chorus were selected by solo audition to perform in the Pennsylvania Music PMEA Honors Band Educators Association (PMEA) Several members of Mars Area High School Band were District 5 Chorus Festival, held Jan. selected by solo audition to perform in the Pennsylvania 12-14 at Seneca Valley IntermediMusic Educators Association ate High School. (PMEA) District 5 Honors Band Seniors Christiana Blahnik, Festival, held Dec. 9-11 at WestminMichelle Flynn and Zachary ster College in New Wilmington, Herrmann; juniors Phillip Lowry and Troy Giel; and Pa. sophomore Chris Blahnik were chosen to perform alongStudents are seniors Christiana side 216 high school students from more than 40 school disBlahnik, clarinet; Kylee OâDonnell, flute; and Abby Iksic, tricts. trumpet; as well as juniors Michael Prijatelj, trombone; Dr. John Sinclair, Rollins College Music Department Sam Concelman, tuba; and Sara Chodkowski, bass clar- chair and the John M. Tiedtke Professor of Music, served as inet. guest conductor. Dr. Adam Brennan, Mansfield University director of instrumental activities and music professor, served as guest conductor.
Mars Area High School will hold its annual âInternational Days,â Wednesday through Friday, March 9-11, as the schoolâs AFS/MISA (American Field Service/Mars International Student Association) Chapter welcomes foreign exchange students from around the globe. Exchange students from various countries will speak with students at Mars Area High School on Thursday, March 10, and at Mars Area Middle School on Friday, March 11. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
Jazz Band, Tommy Dorsey Orchestra to Offer Concert Mars Area High School Marching Band will present The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra for a special concert at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 28, in the auditorium. Doors open at 5 p.m. Mars Area High School Jazz Band will open the concert at 7 p.m., followed by The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10 to $30. Proceeds will benefit Mars Area High School Marching Band. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.marsband.com.
Key Club Talent Show Mars Area High School will hold its annual Key Club Talent Show at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 29, in the auditorium. The show will feature various acts including dance routines, vocal performances and other acts. Tickets for the event are $3 per person. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
high school Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Ryan Miller as Professor Tom Burns lets the townsfolk believe he is a Pinkerton detective in disguise in Mars Area High Schoolâs fall play, âTrouble in Tumbleweed.â At right, Julie Oates (Maria Albensi) and Luther (Chris Hardt) discuss their future together.
High School to Present Musical Back to the â80s Mars Area High School students will take the stage with a performance of the musical, Back to the â80s by Neil Gooding, at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19, in the auditorium. The show features the music of the â80s including the songs âFootlooseâ by Kenny Loggins, âGirls Just Want to Have Funâ by Cindy Lauper, âMaterial Girlâ by Madonna and âYou Give Love a Bad Nameâ by Bon Jovi. The musical tells the story of the senior class of William
Guidance Office 2014 Class Counselor â Tanis Rose 2013 Class Counselor â Colleen Tosadori 2012 Class Counselor â Dr. Tina Bigante 2011 Class Counselor â Mark Varlotta Student Assistance Coordinator â Tanis Rose Guidance Secretary â Diane Truver Guidance Secretary â Laurie Dufford Phone â(724) 625-1581, opt. 1 Web site â www.marsk12.org
SAT Test Dates SAT Test Dates March 12* May 7* June 4*
Registration Deadlines Feb. 11 April 8 May 6
Late Registration Deadlines Feb. 25 April 22 May 20
Registration Deadlines Nov. 5 Jan. 7 March 4 May 6
Late Registration Deadlines Nov. 19 Jan. 21 March 18 May 20
ACT Test Dates ACT Test Dates Dec. 11* Feb. 12 April 9* June 11*
* Test will be held at Mars Area High School
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Ocean High School that graduate in the 1980s, as remembered by 30-something Corey Palmer (Ryan Miller). The 17-year-old Corey (Mark Gaynord) is madly in love with his popular neighbor, Tiffany Houston (Paige Mundy), who is only interested in good-looking Micheal Feldman (Dominic Cosentino). Things only become worse when Michael steals Coreyâs bid for class president and makes Tiffany his vice president. Other cast members are Chris Blahnik as Alf Bueller; Zachary Herrmann as Kirk Keaton; Alex Manalo as Cyndi Gibson; Melissa Marshall as Mel Easton; Ali Zortman as Kim Easton; Matthew Lofstrom as Billy Arnold; Phillip Lowry as Lionel Astley; Zach Dorsch as Huey Jackson; Troy Giel as Feargal McFerrin III; Michelle Flynn as Eileen Reagan; Abbi Wright as Laura Wilde; Maria Albensi as Debbie Fox; Kathleen Kraus as Sheena Brannigan; and Nicholas Ashmore as Steven âStevieâ Cocker. Featured Singers are Christi Blahnik, Jamie Drennen, Angela Hay, Elizabeth Meyer, Carly Rodriguez, Lindsay Seipp, Maddie Smith and Michaela Valenta. Featured Dancers are Shelby Ainsworth, Gretchen Bleakney, Elena Daskivich, Emma Robash, Samantha Rumbaugh and Ashley Starr. Ensemble members are Gregory Campbell, Bethany Catanzaro, Ariel Clifford, Mac Clyde, Callie Drennen, Olivia Erickson, Gabriella Fabish, Andy Fredley, Katie
Businesses Sought to Create Connections for Students As part of Tri-County Workforce Investment Boardâs outreach to the business and education communities, TCWIB is compiling a directory of businesses willing to participate in the advancement of todayâs youth. The purpose of this directory is to provide a connection for youth and schools interested in job shadowing, industry tours, educator in the workplace, classroom presentations, career fairs, internships, or anything else that the organization might be willing to do. All of these opportunities are aimed at providing the best possible education and career choices. Since 2008, TCWIB has served more than 16,700 youths and 621 educators through its programs and partnerships to accomplish the above goals. The organization works closely with businesses and educators to provide crucial opportunities to the regionâs youth for career planning and development. TCWIB identifies gaps between education and employ-
Gable, Jasmine Jockel, Julie Koenig, Olivia Laughlin, Sara Lofstrom, Abby Michalowski, Grace Morgan, Catherine Paletta, Kate Rodriguez, Kaitlin Rymer, Jessie Smelscer, Cassidy Vinson, Clare Walters and Kyra Walters. Tickets are $7 per person for reserved seating. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
Parents Welcome at Principal Meeting Mars Area High School will offer a Parent/Principal Communication Connection Meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, March 21, in the cafeteria. All parents are encouraged to attend. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
Event to Showcase Student Artworks Mars Area High School will host its fifth annual Coffeehouse Gallery Art Showcase from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 6. The event, a juried art show, will feature artworks such as paintings, ceramics, sculptures and drawings created by students in seventh through 12th grades. Festivities will also include entertainment, refreshments and other activities. One student will be selected as the winner of the second annual Robinson Purchase Prize, sponsored by Robinson Family Industries. The studentâs work will be framed and displayed in the lobby of Mars Area High Schoolâs auditorium. Admission is free. For more information, contact call (724) 625-1581.
ers in preparing the emerging workforce for regional career and employment opportunities; provides career awareness and work-based experiences to youth linked to regional high demand occupations; and provides high-quality professional development for teachers and counselors. For more information, contact Mary Salony, TCWIB planning and grant coordinator at (724) 282-9341 or via email at msalony@tcwib.net. In addition, Mars Area High School and Butler County Educators & Employers are partnering to provide students with job shadowing opportunities within Butler County. Butler County Educators & Employers has created a Web site where Mars Area students will be able to locate those individuals willing to allow job shadowing at their site. Anyone interested in offering this educational opportunity for students or who would like to be included on the Butler County Educators & Employers Web site is asked to contact Dr. Tina Bigante, Mars Area High School guidance counselor, at tbigante@marsk12.org; or Salony at msalony@tcwib.net.
For a complete list of upcoming events at various colleges and universities as well as additional guidance resources, visit the Mars Area High Schoolâs âGuidanceâ page at www.marsk12.org.
high school/middle school Students Create Games with Accounting Theme In the spirit of Parker Brothers, students in Mars Area High Schoolâs CHS (College within the High School) Financial Accounting class created board games to review the information they have learned. The students were asked to work in small groups to create an accounting game board with 36 spaces including a designated start and finish and specific theme, says Diane Iman, CHS Financial Accounting teacher. Some groups chose themes similar to those of Risk and Clue, while others came up with new concepts. Each game also had to include game pieces, dice or a spinner, and question/answer cards on topics such as vocabulary, transactions, debits/credits and careers. And, students had to create a brochure with directions on how to play the game. Once the games were completed, the groups were invited to play each otherâs games and to conduct a peer evaluation, judging each gameâs creativity, craftsmanship and playability. Groups also needed to evaulate their own game. âItâs been a really good experience. The kids did such a good job,â says Diane Iman, CHS Financial Accounting teacher, who plans to share the games with students in her Accounting I class at the end of the school year. Mars Area High School offers a number of CHS or Dual Enrollment Courses each school year. Weighted CHS courses enable students an opportunity to be concurrently enrolled in a college course while
School to Sponsor Prom Fashion Show Mars Area High School will hold its 2011 Prom Promise Fashion Show at 9 a.m. on Friday, March 25, in the auditorium. This yearâs theme is âNight at the Oscars.â Senior and junior members of REACH (Responsible Educated Adolescents Can Help) will model the latest prom gowns and tuxedos. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
National Honor Society Induction Set for April 14
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
CHS Financial Accounting students at Mars Area High School play accountingthemed board games created by their classmates.
receiving credits from both Butler County Community College and Mars Area High School. CHS courses are taught at Mars Area High School, but follow the Butler County Community College curriculum. Available subjects include Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, General Psychology, Introduction to Microcomputing, Marketing and Microeconomics. For more information, call (724) 625-1581or visit www.marsk12.org.
Numerous students at Mars Area High School will be inducted into the National Honor Society at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, in Mars Area High School auditorium. Throughout the school year, National Honor Society members participate in a variety of service-related projects. For details, call (724) 625-1581.
Student Council to Hold Blood Drive Mars Area High School Student Council and Central Blood Bank will sponsor a Blood Drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds and be in general good health. To schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Tina Bigante or Tanis Rose, Student Council advisors, at (724) 625-1581.
Holocaust Survivor Speaks with Eighth-graders About Experiences To supplement their discussions of the book, âThe Diary of Anne Frank,â in their language arts classes, eighthgraders at Mars Area Middle School attended a special presentation on the Holocaust on Dec. 9. âIt is difficult to speak to young people about the negative aspects of our life and our history, but you have to know,â said Moshe Baran, who spoke with the eighthgraders about his experiences during the Holocaust. Baran played the short film, âA Look in the Eyes of Resistance: The Stories of Moshe and Malka Baran,â which recounts his and his wifeâs experiences during the Holocaust. In 1941, two years after the German army invaded Poland, Baran and his family were herded into a ghetto surrounded on three sides by a barbed wire fence and on the other by a bridge guarded by German soldiers. A year later, the German army entered the ghetto, separated the able-bodied people and removed the others to an old barn, where they were shot with machine guns and the barn was burned. While in the ghetto, Baran and others began collecting and hiding guns and other weapons to be used by the resistance. After meeting a woman who told him about a resistance camp located in a forest 20 miles away, Baran crawled
in the ghetto. In 1944, Baran joined the Russian army and was sent to the front lines in GâDansk, Poland. Having been a bookkeeper before the war, Baran was pulled off the front lines and made an assistant to the treasurer. He remained stationed in Germany until after the war in 1946. As his hometown was destroyed in the war, he ended up in a âDisplaced Personsâ camp, where he met his wife. Some time later, Baran was contacted by members of his family who were living in Shreveport, La., and in 1948, he and his wife immigrated to America. Following the presentation, Baran answered studentsâ Moshe Baran, Holocaust survivor, speaks about his expe- questions and offered his advice to students: riences during the World War II, as part of a special presenâThis is your world for you to change. If you want to tation for eighth-graders at Mars Area Middle School on have a peaceful future, when you see something (negative) Photo by Josh Schwoebel Dec. 9. happening in your community or in your school, say somethrough a space under the fence surrounding the ghetto thing about it.â In addition to the presentation, students watched the and made for the camp. At the camp, Baran joined the Jewish resistance and film, âPittsburgh to Polandâ and participated in workshops became the liaison between the resistance fighters and the on the topics: Chanukah, War Propaganda, Poems from Russian army, which introduced Baran to a local farmer Terezin and Danielâs Story & Photographs. For more information, call (724) 625-3145. who had access to the ghetto. The farmer was able to aid Baran in rescuing his family and acquiring the guns stored
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middle school/centennial school Students Create Cards for Local Veterans
Eighth-grader Richie Mamajek (center) took first place in the 2011 Mars Area Geography Bee Final Round Qualifier on Jan. 7. Sixth-grader D.J. Bauer and eighthgrader Andee Reynolds earned second and third place, Photo by Josh Schwoebel respectively.
Eighth-grader Wins Annual Geography Bee Mars Area eighth-grader Richie Mamajek earned first place in the 2011 Geography Bee Final Round Qualifier, held on Jan. 7 at Mars Area Middle School. Second-place winner was sixth-grader D.J. Bauer and eighth-grader Andee Reynolds earned third place. Other participants were eighth-graders Dylan Sitterly, Nick Pecora, Andrew Guidarelli and Zach Hunkele; seventhgrader Nico Romano; and sixth-graders Evan Deddo and Claire Staresinic. Mamajek will now complete a written exam that will be mailed to the Pennsylvania State Geography Bee, which will notify the school as to whether he has qualified for the state contest on Friday, April 1. The state winner will advance to the National Geography Bee competition, to be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 24-25. The National Geographic Society sponsors the contest. Prior to the Mars Area competition, all students at Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area Centennial School completed a 50-question, written geography exam based on the physical and cultural geography of both the United States and the world during their social studies classes. The top 50 students who missed no more than eight questions then took a second round exam in December. The 10 students who missed no more than eight questions moved on to the final round on Jan. 7. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic. com/geographybee.
Midde School to Hold Spirit Dance/Activity Night Mars Area Middle School will hold a Spirit Dance/ Activity Night from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, April 8. Cost is $3. Student pick-up times will be 9:20 p.m. for seventh-graders, and 9:30 p.m. for eight-graders. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
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Members of Mars Area Middle Schoolâs Host & Hospitality, Spirit, Charity & Library committees created valentines that were sent to local veterans as part of state Sen. Jane C. Orieâs annual Valentines for Veterans program. The program collects valentines from local schools, groups and organizations then distributes the cards to veterans throughout the community on Valentineâs Day. Donation of books, puzzles, games, sports apparel, hygiene products or DVDs are also accepted. The students crafted cards replete with pink and red hearts as well as Valentineâs Day messages and limericks, says Cindy Knauff, Host & Hospitality committee advisor. The students wanted to do something to honor those who have served their country, she says. Throughout the school year, various student committees at Mars Area Middle School participate in service projects to benefit both the school and the community. For more information, call (724) 625-3145 or visit www.senatororie.com.
Middle School Students to Join in Talent Show Mars Area Middle School will hold its annual Talent Show at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 15, at Mars Area High School auditorium. The show will feature various acts including dance routines, student bands, vocal performances and other acts. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
Middle School to Offer Medieval Fair Mars Area Middle School will hold its annual seventh grade Medieval Fair from 4 to 6 p.m. on Monday, May 16, and from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 17, in the gymnasium. Students will dress in period clothing and offer presentations and demonstrations on life during the Middle Ages. The students will also sit down to a medieval dinner and offer play performances on Monday. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Members of Mars Area Middle Schoolâs Host & Hospitality, Spirit, Charity & Library committees make valentines to be distributed to local veterans as part of a special program sponsored by state Sen. Jane C. Orie.
Centennial School to Hold St. Patrickâs Day Party Mars Area Centennial School will hold a St. Patrickâs Day Party from 1 to 2 p.m. for sixth-graders and from 2 to 3 p.m. for fifth-graders on Friday, March 18. For more information, call (724) 625-2601.
Annual Student Art Show Set for May 12 Mars Area Centennial School will offer its second annual Student Art Show from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 12. The event will feature a display of artworks by fifthand sixth-graders as well as interactive photo displays, balloon animals, face painting and crafts. For more information, call (724) 625-2601.
Security Officer Earns Special Recognition Sandra Covert, a security guard at Mars Area Middle School, received a Pond Security Service LLC âCatch a Security Officer Doing Rightâ certificate of recognition. â(Covert) has developed a great rapport with the teachers and students. And, she considers Mars Area a part of her family,â says Catie Sieber, Pond Security Service marketing/communications director. âShe takes great pride in what she does. She goes above and beyond.â Covert was presented with the award by Catie Sieber; Kelly Sieber, Pond Security Service executive director; and Richard Cornell, Mars Area Middle School principal. For details, visit www.pond-security-llc.com.
Sandra Covert, security guard at Mars Area Middle School, is presented with a âCatch a Security Officer Doing Rightâ Award by Catie Sieber and Kelly Sieber of Pond Security Service LLC and Richard Cornell, principal.
centennial school Sixth-grader to Compete in USA Tae Kwon Do U.S. Open Mars Area sixth-grader Rachel Honchorek of Mars will compete in the USA Tae Kwon Do U.S. Open, to be held Feb. 19-21 in Austin, Texas. Rachel, 11, will compete in Poomsae and Junior Black Belt Sparring. If successful, the points she accumulates may earn her a spot at the 2011 Junior Olympics, to be held June 28-July 1 in San Jose, Calif. A member of ZANG Tae Kwon Do in Wexford and U.S. Tae Know Do, Rachel has studied the Korean martial art for six years, says Mike Honchorek, Rachelâs father. She first became interested in the martial art in first grade while attending a Tae Kwon Do demonstration with a neighbor. Throughout the year, Rachel joins in a number of qualifying events to accumulate points toward participating in the Junior Olympics. Out of 48 events, she has placed first, second or third in 36 events. Rachel, a first degree black belt, earned a bronze medal at the 2010 Junior Olympics. She is working toward her second degree black belt, which she hopes to receive in April.
Rachel Honchorek, a sixth-grader at Mars Area Centennial School, breaks four boards with one kick. Rachel, a member of ZANG Tae Kwon Do, will compete in the USA Tae Kwon Do U.S. Open to be held Feb. 16-19 in Austin Texas.
She is currently training for the USA Tae Kwon Do U.S. Open. She is also hoping compete in the 2011 Pennsylvania State Tae Kwon Do Championship on March 20, in Newton, Pa.; USA Tae Kwon Do National
Sixth-graders at Mars Area Centennial School honor local veterans at the schoolâs annual Veterans Day event.
Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Fifth-graders to Graduate from DARE Program
Sixth-graders Honor Veterans at Ceremony Sixth-graders at Mars Area Centennial School welcomed local veterans, as the school held its fourth annual Veterans Day celebration on Nov. 5. As part of the event, students offered a presentation on the history of Veterans Day, the armed forces, and the American Flag. Sixth-graders read poetry and essays as a tribute to those who have served their country. Fifth-graders in Jody Harbison and Brian Zimaâs classes also recited the Gettysburg Address and sixth-grader Sydney Edwards and student teacher Katherine Hall performed âTapsâ on trumpet. Guest speaker was Jim Miller, former Green Beret. Miller spoke to students about what it takes to become a Green Beret and why it is important to remember those who have served in all branches of the military. For more information, call (724) 625-2601.
Fifth-graders at Mars Area Centennial School will graduate from the 2010-2011 DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program at 2:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 7, in the schoolâs gymnasium. The program, which is brought to the school by officers from the Butler County Sheriff's Office, gives students the skills they need to recognize and resist the pressures that may cause them to experiment with drugs or become involved in violent activities. As part of the DARE program at Mars Area Centennial School, fifth-graders are asked to complete assignments as well as to write an essay about what they have learned and a pledge statement about their commitment to remaining drug free. One essay from each class will be read aloud at the DARE graduation ceremony on Thursday, April 7. For more information, call (724) 625-2601.
Students Join in Punt, Pass & Kick Competition Six Mars Area students participated in the NFL Pepsi Punt, Pass & Kick regional competition on Oct. 9, at Blueberry Hill Community Park in Franklin Park. Sixth-grader Nicole Blyth placed first and fourth-grader Gianna Buzzelli took second place in their respective age groups. Other students who participated included seventhgrader Sam Morrissey, sixth-grader Cassianna Buzzelli, fifth-grader Hunter Fetsko and third-grader Drew Schlegel. Participants who placed at the regional competition had an opportunity to advance to the NFL Pepsi Punt, Pass & Kick competition, held during the Pittsburgh Steelers football game against the Oakland Raiders on Nov. 21, at Heinz Field.
Qualifier, April 21-23 in Austin, Texas; the USA Tae Kwon Do National Qualifier, May 20-21 in Buffalo, N.Y.; and the 2011 Junior Olympics, June 28-July 1. For more information, visit www.zangtkd.com.
fitness month
Students at Mars Area Centennial School participate in a Boot Camp activity as part of the schoolâs annual Fitness Month. Other programs included Zumba, Jazzercise and Tae Kwon Do. Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Students Perform in Kean Theatre Show Four Mars Area students appeared in The Jeter Backyard Theater production of the musical, Captain Louie Jr., Oct. 28 and 31 at the Kean Theatre in Gibsonia. Mars Area Centennial School sixth-graders Megan Mallin, Annabelle Rectenwald and Nicole McCloud and Mars Area High School sophomore Rachel Rectenwald were all selected for roles in the production. The musical follows a boy named Louie, who is feeling lonely after he moves to a new neighborhood away from his friends. On Halloween night, Louie takes an imaginary journey in his Big Red Plane to visit his friends in his old neighborhood. For more information, visit www.jeterbackyardtheater.com. Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
elementary schools globe. As part of the program, members of the team, comprised of fifth- and sixth-graders, are asked to answer 100 questions on varying topics from current events to the fine arts. Team members will participate in a second Knowledge Master Open on Wednesday, March 23. For more information, call (724) 625-2601.
Jump Rope Event to Benefit Heart Association
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Students at Mars Area Centennial School answer questions displayed on a Promethean interactive white board as part of the national Knowledge Master Open academic competition.
Students Place in Academic Competition Students at Mars Area Centennial School placed seventh among 26 Pennsylvania schools participating in the national âKnowledge Master Openâ academic competition on Jan. 20. The team also placed 36th out of 250 participating schools from across the United States and around the
Mars Area Elementary Schoolâs âMars Starsâ Jump Rope Team will hold its annual Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser, Tuesday through Friday, Feb. 22-25. As part of the fund-raiser, students in second through fourth grades are asked to collect pledges for the number of times they jump a rope in their physical education classes. âMars Starsâ Jump Rope Team has been the top Jump Rope for Heart fund-raiser in Butler County for the past 18 years. For more information, call (724) 625-3161.
Elementary School to Sponsor Literacy Night Mars Area Elementary School will hold its fourth annual Family Literacy Night from 6:15 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 10. The event will begin with a skit performed by teachers,
Primary Center to Celebrate Read Across America Week
Second-graders Join in Colonial Day Activities
Mars Area Primary Center is planning a myriad of activities as part of its annual Read Across America Week celebration of reading and literacy to be held Monday through Friday, Feb. 28-March 4. Throughout the week, students will participate in various activities and theme days: ïïMonday, Feb. 28 â âFox in Soxâ Day â Students may wear crazy socks to school. ïïTuesday, March 1 â âOh the Places We Will Goâ Day â Students may wear a shirt from someplace they have been. ïïWednesday, March 2 â âWacky Wednesdayâ â Students may dress in wacky clothing. ïïThursday, March 3 â âOne Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fishâ Day â Students may wear their favorite color or number. Musician Justin Roberts who has produced various CDs of childrenâs music including âJungle Gym,â âPop Fly,â âMeltdown!,â and âYellow Bus,â will perform. ïïFriday, March 4 â âBe a Star Readerâ Day â Students may wear a crazy hat and Star Reader t-shirt to school. Various guest readers including Mars Area administrators, school board members, teachers, students and community members will read their favorite stories to students at the Primary Center.
Second-graders at Mars Area Elementary School participated in a Colonial Day celebration on Nov. 24. The event offered students a full day of hands-on learning activities that support the studentsâ social studies unit on American history. The day included sessions on colonial toys, games and music; Native American dwellings and games; butter churning; achievement feathers, popcorn necklaces, wampum belts and doll-making. Students and teachers also dressed in clothing reminiscent of the colonial time period.
For more information, call (724) 625-1588.
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followed by a variety of reading activities including author studies, songs, poetry and more. For more information, call (724) 625-3161.
Primary Center to Offer Kindergarten Preview Mars Area Primary Center will offer a Kindergarten Preview from 9:30 to 11 a.m. or 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 29. The event is open to students who may be attending the schoolâs Kindergarten Program during the 2011-2012 school year and their parents. Activities will include a tour of the school, a library âread-aloud,â and an art project. For more information or to register, call (724) 6251588.
Primary Center to Hold Kindergarten Registration Mars Area Primary Center will hold Kindergarten Registration for the 2011-2012 School Year from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, April 28-29. Kindergarten is open to children who will be 5 years old on or before Thursday, Sept. 1. Parents may stop by the schoolâs main office between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, to obtain a registration packet. For more information, call (724) 625-1588.
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Mars Area Elementary School secondgraders participate in a variety of games and other activities as part of the schoolâs annual Colonial Day celebration.
Elementary School to Welcome Local Authors
Elementary School to Hold Science Fair
Mars Area Elementary School will welcome two local authors as part of the schoolâs annual âAuthor Days,â to be held Thursday and Friday, April 14-15. Author and illustrator Joe Kulka will visit the school on Thursday, April 14. Kulka is author of the books: âVacationâs Over! Return of the Dinosaurs,â âWolf's Coming!â and âThe Rope!â and illustrator of âGingerbread Man, Superhero!,â âSmokey Bear Story,â âJust Five More Minutes!,â âGranny Gert & The Bunion Brothers,â and âWoodsyâs ABCs.â On Friday, April 15, the school will welcome author and illustrator Matt Novak. Novakâs books include âA Wish for You,â âThe Everything Machine,â âMy Froggy Valentine,â and âFlip Flop Bop.â For more information, call (724) 625-3161.
Mars Area Elementary School will hold its annual introductory, non-competitive Science Fair from 6 to 8:15 p.m. on Thursday, March 24, at Mars Area High School. The goal of the program is to stimulate imagination and independent thinking; increase studentsâ knowledge in a variety of scientific areas; teach the use of the scientific process; train students in organization and major task completion; and provide an opportunity to enjoy science. The event will also feature a presentation by Carnegie Science Center. For more information, call (724) 6253161.
elementary schools Council Offers Added Support for Parents, Students
First-grader Marine Lechelard shares pictures from her recent trip to visit relatives in France during a âCultural Cornerâ program at Mars Area Primary Center.
Mars Area School District will offer a Title I Parent Advisory Council (PAC) Workshop from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, at Mars Area Primary Center. The program is open to parents of Title I students who may be looking for ways to support their childâs reading and mathematics skills at home. The PAC program was established to build better communication between parents and the school, says Phyllis Will, reading teacher. The council meets several times each school year, offering demonstrations and âmake ânâ takeâ activities. Parents who attend the workshops take home educational activities, helpful hints and games to help support Kim Schuelke, Title I math teacher, talks with a parent about the benefits of the Parent Advisory Council at a their childâs reading and mathematics skills at home. The purpose of Title I is to ensure that all children have workshop in October. a fair and equal opportunity to obtain a high quality educaTitle I Team members work with the individual classtion and to reach proficiency on state academic achieve- room teacher to schedule small group lessons so that a stument standards and assessments. dent is not missing out on regular curriculum lessons. A studentâs eligibility to participate in Title I is based on Additional information regarding Mars Area School multiple, education-related criteria. Title I staff members Districtâs Title I Parent Advisory Council program and resouranalyze assessment data to identify those students who are ces is available on the Districtâs Web site, www.marsk12.org. in need of additional support in reading and mathematics. To access the information, go to either the Mars Area Once the student has been identified, the Title I Team Elementary School or Mars Area Primary Center page and obtains parental permission to include the student in small click on the âTitle I Parent Advisory Councilâ link. group lessons within the classroom. Lessons are held two to For more information, call (724) 625-3161 or (724) three days per week under the direction of a Title I reading 625-1588. specialist and/or math teacher.
First-graders in Maria Riosâ classroom at Mars Area Primary Center are participating in a monthly âCultural Cornerâ program. As part of the program, one student is selected each month to bring in photos, books, flags or other items that showcase his or her cultural heritage, says Megan Kutch, English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher. The items remain on display until the end of the month, at which time the student is asked to make a presentation and answer any questions. âThis is a great learning experience for the students,â says Kutch. The program is meant to celebrate diversity by educating students about different cultural traditions and languages. For more information, call (724) 625-1588.
Fourth-graders Compete in Math Olympiad Events
Elementary PTO to Host Family Movie Nights
Fourth-graders at Mars Area Elementary School competed in the first two of five Math Olympiad competitions on Nov. 16 and Dec. 21. On Nov. 16, students Shea Moffa and Aditi Edlabadkar achieved high marks by answering two out five questions correctly and Nicholas Ryan and Will Bednar answered one out of five questions correctly. On Dec. 21, Jeana Garrity and Gillan Wing tied for first place in the event by answering three out five questions correctly. The national competition, which is open to students in fourth through seventh grades, asks students to answer a series of complex math questions. For more information, call (724) 625-3161.
Diaper Drive to Benefit Food Bank Mars Area Primary Center will hold its third annual âStuff the Busâ Diaper Drive, Monday through Friday, April 11-15, to benefit The Lighthouse Foundation in Middlesex Township. The school will accepting donation of diapers, which students will âstuffâ into a school bus provided by A.J. Myers & Sons bus company and transported to The Lighthouse on Friday, April 15.
Donations may be dropped off at the schoolâs main office during school hours. The fund-raiser is being held in honor of the âNational Week of the Young Child.â For more information, call (724) 625-1588.
Primary Center to Offer First Grade Parent Picnic Mars Area Primary Center will hold its annual First Grade Parent Picnic on Wednesday, May 25. Students and parents will enjoy a picnic lunch on the schoolâs lawn. For more information, call (724) 625-1588.
Primary Center to Hold âWatermelon Welcomeâ Mars Area Primary Center will hold a âWatermelon Welcomeâ Kindergarten Preview from 9:30 to 11 a.m. or 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 26. The event is open to all students who are registered to attend the schoolâs kindergarten program for the 20112012 school year and their parents. Participants will meet the schoolâs kindergarten teachers, join in computer lab activities, and play on the schoolâs playground. The purpose of the program is to aid students in making the transition into the Mars Area Primary Center Kindergarten Program. To RSVP, call (724) 625-1588.
Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Program Highlights Cultural Diversity
Mars Area Elementary PTO will sponsor a Family Movie Nights at the following schools: ïïMars Area Elementary School â Friday, Feb. 18, 7 to 9 p.m. (724) 625-3161 ïïMars Area Primary Center â Friday, March 25, 7 to 9 p.m.(724) 625-1588 Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and pillows. Light refreshments will be provided. Note: All children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, contact the individual school building.
Elementary PTO to Host Spring Carnival Mars Area Elementary PTO will host a Spring Carnival from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 2, at Mars Area High School. Activities will include inflatable rides, games, a bake sale, 50/50 raffle, Chinese and silent auctions, concessions and various other activities. For more information, call (724) 898-7248.
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sports Girls Soccer Team Ends Season in PIAA Semifinals
Maggie Gruber, sophomore, is presented with her 2010 Championship PIAA plaque by Scott Heinauer, athletic director; Heidi Brandon, swimming/diving team coach; and Todd Kolson, principal. Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Swimmer Recognition Mars Area sophomore Maggie Gruber received a plaque from the PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association) recognizing her achievement at the 2009-2010 PIAA Girls & Boys Swimming & Diving Championships. In the PIAA Championship Finals, Gruber tied for first place in the 100-Yard Butterfly with a time of 55:47.
Student-Athlete of the Week Mars Area senior Austin Miele was named WTAE Action Sports High School Playbook Student-Athlete of the Week. Miele, a fullback for Mars Area High School Boys Varsity Football Team, rushed for 448 yards on 29 carries in the Fightinâ Planets 52-20 win against the Hollidaysburg Golden Tigers in the first round of the 2010 WPIAL/McDonaldâs Class AAA Boys Football Championship on Nov. 5. Miele earned the school record, topping the bar set at 408 yards by graduate Brad Mueller in 2002. Miele is one of only nine players to run for 400 yards in WPIAL football history. Miele was honored by WTAE during a pep rally on Nov. 10 and his achievement earned Mars Area High School a $250 check. For more information, visit www.thepittsburghchannel.com.
District to Host Track & Field Invitationals Mars Area School District will host its 2011 Track & Field Invitationals on the following dates: ïïWednesday, April 27 â MAC Track & Field Invitational, 2 p.m. ïïThursday, April 28 â Mars Area Junior High Track & Field Invita-tional, 2 p.m. ïïFriday, April 29 â Mars Area Var-sity Track & Field Invitational, 1 p.m. All events will be held at Mars Athletic Complex. For more information, call (724) 625-9380.
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Mars Area High School Girls Varsity Soccer Team ended its 2010 season in the semifinals of the 2010 PIAA Class AA Girls Soccer Championship. The Lady Planets took on the Mercyhurst Prep Lakers in the semifinals of the 2010 PIAA playoffs on Nov. 16, but were defeated 3-0. The team routed the Bradford Owls 6-0 in the PIAA quarterfinals on Nov. 13 and conquered the Villa Maria Academy Victors 8-0 in the first round on Nov. 9. The team advanced to the state competition after defeating the Beaver Area Bobcats 2-0 in the final game of the 2010 WPIAL/McDonaldâs Class AA Girls Soccer Championship on Nov. 6, thereby earning the 2010 WPIAL title. The team conquered the Hopewell Vikings 8-0 in the semifinals of the WPIAL playoffs on Nov. 1, routed the Knoch Knights 3-0 in the quarterfinals on Oct. 27 and trounced the Yough Cougars 11-0 in the first round on Oct. 23. The Planets advanced to the WPIAL playoffs after clinching the 2010 Section 2-AA Championship Title, ending the 2010 regular season undefeated with an overall record of 18-0 and 14-0 in section play. Seniors on this yearâs team are captains Alanna Haefner and Dana Wonderly as well as Meghan Kelly, Nicole Soose, Kara Angeletti and Audra Sitterly..
Boys Varsity Football Mars Area High Schoolâs Boys Varsity Football Team ended its 2010 season in the semifinals of the 2010 WPIAL/McDonaldâs Class AAA Boys Football Championship. The Fightinâ Planets took on the Montour Spartans in the semifinals of the WPIAL playoffs on Nov. 19, but were thwarted 35-14. The team defeated the West Allegheny Indians 29-3 in the WPIAL quarterfinals on Nov. 12 and trounced the Hollidaysburg Golden Tigers 52-20 in the first round on Nov. 5. The team ended the 2010 regular season with an overall record of 8-1 and 6-0 in Section 4-AAA, earning the Greater Allegheny Conference title. Seniors on this yearâs team are Austin Miele, Eric Guzak, Ryan OâConnor, Dennis Riosa, Brad Weischedel, Seth Geyer, Brandon Kline, John Petersen, Josh Pinkerton, Aaron Lozzi, Cameron Cress, Trent Nelson, A.J. Rodriguez, Dylan Bear, Shane Cress, John Glomb, Zachary Zwigart, Shane Smith, Zach Davidson, Dylan Bonzo and Mike Marchese..
Boys Varsity Soccer Mars Area High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team ended its 2010 season in the quarterfinals of the 2010 PIAA Class AA Boys Soccer Championship. The Fightinâ Planets competed against the Palmyra Cougars in the quarterfinals of the PIAA playoffs on Nov. 13, but were thwarted 3-1.
The team routed the Bradford Owls 6-0 in the first round of the PIAA playoffs on Nov. 9. Despite a 4-1 loss to the Hampton Talbots in the final game of the 2010 WPIAL/McDonaldâs Class AA Boys Soccer Championship on Nov. 6, the Planetsâ second place finish earned the team a spot in the PIAA competition. The team grounded the South Park Eagles 1-0 in the semifinals of the WPIAL playoffs on Nov. 2, defeated the Elizabeth-Forward Warriors 5-0 in the quarterfinals on Oct. 28 and outscored the Beaver Area Bobcats 2-1 in the first round on Oct. 25. The Planets ended the 2010 regular season with an overall record of 11-5-2 and 9-3-2 in Section 2-AA. Seniors on this yearâs team are Alex Perri, Yulian Lutsiv, Josh Brake, Brendan Frank, Preston Brown and Luke Sowers.
Varsity Cross Country Mars Area High Schoolâs Girls and Boys Varsity Cross Country teams placed 26th and 27th, respectively, in the 2010 WPIAL Class AAA Cross Country Championship on Oct. 28. On the girls team, sophomore Maggie McChesney, placed 87th with a time of 21:23; junior Salina Smialek, 95th (21:30); sophomore Phoebe Pierre, 128th (22:00); freshman Bethany Catanzaro, 181st (22:56); freshman Amanda Alikhani, 198th (23.27); junior Elizabeth Parsons, 219th (24:12); and senior Sammi Rosswog, 220th (24:13). On the boys team, junior Sean Gannon placed 60th with a time of 17:24; freshman Christopher Georgiadis, 69th (17:34); sophomore Scott Slaney, 147th (18:19); freshman John Caraway, 184th (18:35); junior Ryan Winner, 188th (18:37); senior Jake McMahon, 245th (19:15), and freshman Gage Zimmerman, 257th (19:25). The teams competed against runners from more than 50 high schools in Western Pennsylvania..
Girls Varsity Volleyball Mars Area High Schoolâs Girls Varsity Volleyball Team ended its 2010 season in the quarterfinals of the 2010 WPIAL/McDonaldâs Class AA Girls Volleyball Championship. The Lady Planets competed against the Freeport Yellowjackets in the quarterfinal round of the WPIAL playoffs on Nov. 2, but were thwarted 3-2. The team defeated the Thomas Jefferson Jaguars 3-2 in the first round on Oct. 28 and grounded the Brownsville Falcons 3-0 in the preliminary round on Oct. 26. The team ended the regular season with an overall record of 12-3 and 8-2 in Section 2-AA. Outstanding players on this yearâs team included seniors Brooke Finney and Heather Hodges; juniors Maura Randolph, Lara Caraway and Haley Milcic; and sophomores Jaden Zimmer, Abby Matusik and Katie King.
sports Spring Sports 2011 Boys Varsity Baseball 03/21/11 â Ambridge (scrimmage), 4 p.m. 03/23/11 â North Hills (scrimmage), 3:45 p.m. 03/25/11 â Riverview, 3:45 p.m. 04/04/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/06/11 â Indiana*, 4 p.m. 04/08/11 â Valley*, 3:45 p.m. 04/11/11 â Kittanning*, 3:45 p.m. 04/13/11 â East Allegheny*, 4 p.m. 04/15/11 â Highlands*, 5 p.m. 04/18/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 04/20/11 â Pine-Richland, 3:45 p.m. 04/25/11 â Montour, 3:45 p.m. 04/27/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/29/11 â Indiana*, 3:45 p.m. 05/02/11 â Valley*, 4 p.m. 05/04/11 â Kittanning*, 4 p.m. 05/06/11 â East Allegheny*, 3:45 p.m. 05/09/11 â Highlands*, 3:45 p.m. 05/11/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 05/12/11 â North Hills, 7 p.m.
Boys JV Baseball 03/21/11 â Ambridge, 3:45 p.m. 03/23/11 â North Hills (scrimmage), 3:45 p.m. 03/25/11 â Riverview, 3:45 p.m. 04/04/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/06/11 â Indiana*, 4 p.m. 04/08/11 â Valley*, 4 p.m. 04/11/11 â Kittanning*, 3:45 p.m. 04/15/11 â Highlands*, 7 p.m. 04/18/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 04/20/11 â Pine-Richland, 4 p.m. 04/25/11 â Montour, 3:45 p.m. 04/27/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/29/11 â Indiana*, 3:45 p.m. 05/02/11 â Valley*, 3:45 p.m. 05/03/11 â Kittanning*, 4 p.m. 05/09/11 â Highlands*, 3:45 p.m. 05/11/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 05/12/11 â North Hills, 5 p.m.
Boys Ninth Grade Baseball 03/21/11 â Hopewell, 4 p.m. 03/23/11 â Montour (scrimmage), 3:45 p.m. 03/28/11 â North Allegheny (Marshall) (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 03/29/11 â Seneca Valley*, 3:45 p.m. 03/30/11 â N.A. (Ingomar), 3:45 p.m. 03/31/11 â Fox Chapel*, 3:45 p.m. 04/04/11 â North Allegheny (Carson), 4 p.m. 04/05/11 â Butler*, 3:45 p.m. 04/06/11 â Blackhawk, 3:45 p.m. 04/07/11 â North Allegheny*, 4 p.m. 04/11/11 â New Castle, 3:45 p.m. 04/12/11 â Shaler*, 3:45 p.m. 04/14/11 â North Hills*, 4 p.m. 04/19/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/26/11 â Seneca Valley*, 4 p.m. 04/27/11 â New Castle, 4 p.m. 04/28/11 â Fox Chapel*, 3:30 p.m. 04/29/11 â Blackhawk, 4:15 p.m. 05/03/11 â Butler*, 4 p.m. 05/05/11 â North Allegheny*, 3:45 p.m. 05/10/11 â Shaler*, 3:30 p.m. 05/12/11 â North Hills*, 3:45 p.m. 05/17/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m.
Spring Sports Physicals Mars Area School District will offer physicals for 2011 spring sports beginning at 8 a.m. at Mars Area Middle School; beginning at 1 p.m. at Mars Area High School on Thursday, March 3. Cost is $15 per student. The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association
Girls Varsity Softball 03/21/11 â South Park, 4:30 p.m. 03/23/11 â Moon, 4 p.m. 03/25/11 â Vincentian, 3:45 p.m. 03/28/11 â New Castle, 4 p.m. 03/29/11 â Pine-Richland, 3:45 p.m. 03/31/11 â Central Valley, 4 p.m. 04/01/11 â Avonworth, 3:45 p.m. 04/05/11 â Indiana, 3:45 p.m. 04/07/11 â Valley*, 3:45 p.m. 04/12/11 â Hampton*, 4 p.m. 04/14/11 â Kittanning*, 3:45 p.m. 04/15/11 â Highlands*, 3:45 p.m. 04/18/11 â Ford City, 3:45 p.m. 04/19/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 04/21/11 â Hopewell, 3:45 p.m. 04/26/11 â Valley*, 4 p.m. 04/28/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/29/11 â Kittanning*, 3:30 p.m. 05/03/11 â Highlands*, 3:45 p.m. 05/05/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 05/09/11 â North Hills, 5:30 p.m. 05/10/11 â Fox Chapel, 3:30 p.m.
Girls JV Softball 03/28/11 â New Castle, 5:30 p.m. 03/29/11 â Pine-Richland, 3:45 p.m. 04/05/11 â Indiana, 3:45 p.m. 04/08/11 â North Allegheny, 3:45 p.m. 04/12/11 â Hampton*, 3:45 p.m. 04/14/11 â Kittanning*, 3:45 p.m. 04/18/11 â Ford City, 3:45 p.m. 04/19/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 04/27/11 â North Allegheny, 7 p.m. 04/28/11 â Hampton*, 4 p.m. 04/29/11 â Kittanning*, 5 p.m. 05/05/11 â Knoch*, 3:45 p.m. 05/09/11 â North Hills, 4 p.m. 05/10/11 â Fox Chapel, 3:45 p.m.
Girls Junior High Softball 03/24/11 â Butler, 4 p.m. 03/28/11 â Butler, 3:45 p.m. 03/29/11 â North Hills, 4 p.m. 03/31/11 â Deer Lakes, 3:45 p.m. 04/04/11 â Burrell*, 3:45 p.m. 04/05/11 â Pine-Richland, 4 p.m. 04/06/11 â East Allegheny*, 3:30 p.m. 04/08/11 â Valley*, 3:45 p.m. 04/11/11 â North Allegheny (White), 4 p.m. 04/13/11 â Plum*, 3:30 p.m. 04/15/11 â Highlands*, 3:45 p.m. 04/18/11 â Avonworth*, 4 p.m. 04/19/11 â Deer Lakes, 3:30 p.m. 04/20/11 â Burrell*, 4 p.m. 04/26/11 â Hampton, 4 p.m. 04/27/11 â East Allegheny*, 3:45 p.m.
Home games are in Bold
* denotes conference game
(PIAA) process and forms required for athletic physicals have changed. All student-athletes interested in participating in athletics are required to undergo one comprehensive physical evaluation per year. To obtain the necessary forms, visit the âAthleticsâ page at www.marsk12.org. For more information, call (724) 625-9380. 04/29/11 â Valley*, 4 p.m. 05/02/11 â North Allegheny (White), 3:45 p.m. 05/04/11 â Plum*, 3:45 p.m. 05/06/11 â Highlands*, 3:45 p.m. 05/09/11 â Avonworth*, 3:45 p.m. 05/11/11 â Hampton, 3:45 p.m.
Coed Varsity Track & Field 03/17/11 â North Allegheny, 3:30 p.m. 03/22/11 â P-R/Avonworth, 3:30 p.m. 03/29/11 â Blackhawk, 3:30 p.m. 04/05/11 â Knoch*, 3:30 p.m. 04/07/11 â Valley*, 3:30 p.m. 04/11/11 â Fox Chapel, 3:30 p.m. 04/12/11 â Kiski*, 3:30 p.m. 04/14/11 â Deer Lakes, 3:30 p.m. 04/19/11 â Hampton*, 3:30 p.m. 04/21/11 â Avonworth*, 3:30 p.m. 04/25/11 â Highlands*, 3:30 p.m. 04/27/11 â MAC Track& Field Invitational, 2 p.m. 04/29/11 â Mars Area Varsity Track & Field Invitational, 1 p.m. 05/04/11 â WPIAL Team Playoffs, TBA 05/10/11 â WPIAL Qualifiers, 2 p.m. 05/12/11 â WPIAL Team Championship @ West Mifflin, TBA 05/19/11 â WPIAL Championships @ Baldwin, 12:15 p.m. 05/27/11 â PIAA State Championships, TBA 05/28/11 â PIAA State Championships, TBA
Coed Junior High Track & Field 03/17/11 â Blackhawk/North Allegheny (scrimmage) North Allegheny, 3:30 p.m. 04/01/11 â Fox Chapel, 3:30 p.m. 04/05/11 â Knoch*, 3:30 p.m. 04/06/11 â Blackhawk, 3:30 p.m. 04/12/11 â Pine-Richland, 3:30 p.m. 04/13/11 â Quaker Valley, 3:30 p.m. 04/14/11 â Deer Lakes, 3:30 p.m. 04/19/11 â Hampton*, 3:30 p.m. 04/25/11 â Highlands*, 3:30 p.m. 04/28/11 â Mars Area Junior High Track & Field Invitational, 2 p.m. 05/03/11 â North Hills, 3:30 p.m. 05/05/11 â North Allegheny Invitational. 3 p.m.
Boys Varsity Tennis 03/15/11 â Pine-Richland (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 03/17/11 â Shaler (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 03/18/11 â Springdale, 3:30 p.m. 03/21/11 â Winchester-Thurston*, 3:30 p.m. 03/23/11 â Quaker Valley*, 3:30 p.m.
03/25/11 â Hopewell*, 3:30 p.m. 03/28/11 â Sewickley Academy*, 3:30 p.m. 03/30/11 â Hampton*, 3:30 p.m. 03/31/11 â Shaler, 3:30 p.m. 04/01/11 â Vincentian*, 3:30 p.m. 04/04/11 â Knoch*, 3:30 p.m. 04/05/11 â Seneca Valley, 3:30 p.m. 04/06/11 â Winchester-Thurston*, 3:30 p.m. 04/07/11 â WPIAL Section Singles, TBA 04/08/11 â WPIAL Section Singles, TBA 04/11/11 â Quaker Valley*, 3:30 p.m. 04/13/11 â Hopewell*, 3:30 p.m. 04/14/11 â WPIAL Section Singles, TBA 04/15/11 â WPIAL Section Singles, TBA 04/18/11 â Sewickley Academy*, 3:30 p.m. 04/19/11 â MAC Tournament, 9 a.m. 04/20/11 â Hampton*, 3:30 p.m. 04/26/11 â Shaler, 3:30 p.m. 04/27/11 â Vincentian*, 3:45 p.m. 04/28/11 â WPIAL Section Doubles, 11 a.m. 04/29/11 â WPIAL Section Doubles, 11 a.m. 05/02/11 â Knoch*, 3:30 p.m. 05/05/11 â WPIAL Section Doubles, TBA 05/06/11 â WPIAL Section Doubles, TBA 05/09/11 â WPIAL Playoffs, TBA
Girls 7th/8th Grade Volleyball (Blue) 02/15/11 â North Hills, 3:30 p.m. 02/23/11 â Butler (Gold), 3:30 p.m. 02/26/11 â Shaler Tournament, 8:30 a.m. 03/01/11 â Shaler (White)*, 3:30 p.m. 03/03/11 â Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m. 03/09/11 â Gateway, 4 p.m. 03/10/11 â Burrell*, 4 p.m. 03/15/11 â Deer Lakes*, 3:30 p.m. 03/17/11 â Valley*, 4 p.m. 03/21/11 â Butler (White), 3:30 p.m. 03/22/11 â Pine-Richland*, 3:30 p.m. 03/24/11 â Shaler (White)*, 3:30 p.m. 03/26/11 â Pine-Richland Tournament, 8:30 a.m. 03/28/11 â Knoch, 3:30 p.m. 03/29/11 â Seneca Valley*, 3:30 p.m.
Girls 7th/8th Grade Volleyball (Gold) 02/21/11 â Riverview, 3:45 p.m. 02/23/11 â Butler (Gold), 3:30 p.m. 02/25/11 â Hampton, 3:30 p.m. 02/26/11 â Shaler Tournament, 8:30 a.m. 03/01/11 â Steel Valley*, 3:45 p.m. 03/03/11 â Wilkinsburg*, 3:30 p.m. 03/08/11 â Plum*, 3:30 p.m. 03/10/11 â Duquesne (Central)*, 4 p.m. 03/15/11 â South Allegheny*, 4 p.m. 03/17/11 â East Allegheny*, 3:30 p.m. 03/21/11 â Butler (Gold), 3:30 p.m. 03/22/11 â Riverview*, 3:30 p.m. 03/24/11 â Steel Valley*, 3:30 p.m. 03/26/11 â Pine-Richland Tournament, 8:30 a.m. 03/29/11 â Wilkinsburg*, 4 p.m. 03/31/11 â Plum*, 3:30 p.m. All sports schedules are subject to change. For sports schedules, call Mars Area School District Athletic Office at (724) 625-9380 or visit www.highschoolsports.net.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 23
rom pink screwdrivers and mini toolboxes to a surge of female-targeted home improvement sites and guidebooks, the fixit-yourself revolution has come for women in the U.S. More empowered females are taking on household problems themselves instead of spending the money to hire a plumber, electrician or contractor. In fact, a recent study by the Medelia Monitor showed that more than 60 percent of women are more likely to tackle the work on their own. The majority of these women (63 percent) are being more resourceful to avoid the high costs of hiring a professional. And 71 percent of women say the desire to âfix-it-myselfâ stems from the empowering feeling of having the knowledge to improve their home. Sound familiar? If youâd like to empower yourself and join the fix-it-yourself revolution, start by picking up a few affordable tools and products to tackle quick fixes. Here are easy tips for solving five common household problems: Unstick sticky windows by opening them and rubbing wax or spraying silicone into the tracks on both sides. Move the window up and down several times to work the wax or silicone lubricant into the frame. Fix squeaky wood or tile floors by sprinkling baby powder on the surface of the floor thatâs squeaking. Then place a chisel between the boards and gently hammer the top to pry up the tile or floorboard. Sprinkle more baby powder underneath the board to seal the excess space causing the squeaking. If your drains are draining slowly or clogged completely, try a de-clogging gel that clears the toughest clogs at a fraction of the cost of a plumber house call. Liquid-Plumrâs new Penetrex Gel is a fast-acting, powerful formula that can clear the toughest clogs in just seven minutes. Mend unsightly holes or tears in your window screens by using a screwdriver to straighten the bends in the mesh and dabbing clear nail polish to seal the hole. Allow it to dry. Then repeat the polish application until the hole is completely sealed. A wobbly table leg may seem hard, but itâs a surprisingly easy repair. Just figure out how itâs attached to the seat. Then either screw the leg back into its socket or glue it back into place.
F
FEMALE
Fix-It-Yourself
REVOLUTION
SOLVE 5 COMMON HOUSEHOLD PROBLEMS
ï ï
ï ï ï
ï Fix-it resources abound online and at your local bookstore. But hereâs a few to get you started: Facebook.com/LiquidPlumr: Most clogged drains are caused by hair. Get tips on how to keep all drains clear and while youâre there, enter the Big Locks Rock! Contest before December 15th for a chance to win a trip for four to L.A. to get haircuts by a celebrity stylist. BeJane.com: A site where women of all ages and skill levels can find answers to home improvement questions and connect with others for inspiration and advice. âDare to Repairâ by Julie Sussman: This book offers a âdo-it-herselfâ guide to fixing almost anything in the home.
24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Mars Area
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Healthy Family, Happy Family Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job. With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.
© 2011 UPMC
Whatâs Inside page 2
Coming Back from a Back Injury
page 3
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
page 4
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
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UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
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Welcoming New Physicians Whatâs Happening at UPMC Passavant
Coming Back from a Back Injury UPMC Passavantâs state-of-the-art spine care services offer the latest surgical and nonsurgical treatments Nearly 12,000 spinal injuries occur in the United States each year. While most are the result of motor vehicle accidents or falls, nearly 12 percent are the result of sports-related injuries. An accident, a sudden fall, or the accumulated trauma of several minor injuries can sideline anyone with a serious back injury. Just ask John Busse* of Charleston, W. Va. The gifted basketball player started playing on his high schoolâs varsity team as a freshman. By his senior year, John was close to matching the high school record of legendary NBA player and fellow West Virginian, Jerry West. But then he started experiencing lower back pain. âI canât blame my herniated disk on any one injury,â says John, now a wildlife biology/pre-vet major in his junior year at Auburn University in Alabama. âI continued playing until I realized I couldnât really feel my legs any more.â Following in his fatherâs footsteps Johnâs dad â himself an active outdoorsman â wasted no time convincing his son to make the journey to Pittsburghâs North Hills for evaluation by Matt El-Kadi, MD, chief of Neurosurgery at UPMC Passavant and clinical professor, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. âMy dad had undergone four failed back surgeries until Dr. El-Kadi operated on him. There was no question thatâs where I wanted to go,â adds John. * John Busseâs treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
The Spine Center at UPMC Passavant features one of the regionâs most comprehensive programs for the treatment of spine injuries, with a multidisciplinary team of specialists who can provide both surgical and nonsurgical options. âWeâre generally able to treat most back pain and injuries with conservative measures (including rest, medication, and physical therapy),â explains Dr. El-Kadi. âWhen an operation is the only option, we specialize in minimally invasive surgery, which incurs less damage to muscle tissue so that patients generally recover more quickly and experience less postoperative pain.â Spine Center offers advanced neurologic services Individuals with back injuries have access to the latest imaging and diagnostic tools at the Spine Center. UPMC Passavantâs new pavilion also houses a complete navigation suite for spine surgery where surgeons can perform a wide range of complex and advanced spine surgeries that attract patients from hundreds of miles away. While most herniated disks donât require surgery, it was Johnâs only recourse due to the extent of his injury. âEverything went like clockwork. Except for being a little stiff right after the operation, the whole thing was painless,â he says. âI did physical therapy for a few months afterward, too, mostly for reconditioning. Nothing has stopped me since â Iâm now playing intramural basketball and football at Auburn.â
When to Get Help Your back is an integral part of everyday movement, providing strength, flexibility, and stability for the entire body. Keeping your back healthy means knowing when to get help for an injury. Minor back injuries can be selftreated with rest; over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication for pain; the use of ice for the first 48 hours, followed by heat; and exercises to build the core muscles of the stomach and lower back. However, Dr. El-Kadi recommends that you seek prompt medical attention if you experience any of the following after sustaining a back injury: ⢠Any neurologic symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or searing pain down the leg ⢠Bowel or bladder problems ⢠Pain that gets progressively worse ⢠Pain at night or at rest ⢠Longer-than-usual recovery time For more information about the Spine Center at UPMC Passavant, or to make an appointment, call 1-877-967-2225, or visit www.UPMC.com/Passavant.
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future UPMCâs Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Center wields a powerful âtriple threatâ against IBD: groundbreaking immunology, genetics research, and innovative clinical care The primary goal of drug therapy is to reduce inflammation in the intestines. Medications include anti-inflammatory drugs; antibiotics to kill germs in the intestinal track; probiotics to restore good bacteria; corticosteroids to provide short-term relief during flare-ups; and immunosuppressants.
At age 23, John Oliver* is feeling better about the future. Free from the gutwrenching pain of Crohnâs disease since a second bowel resection in 2008 â this time followed by a promising new treatment developed at UPMC using anti-TNF medication â he is now making plans to attend medical school next fall. âI think the medicine is working. Itâs the best Iâve felt and the best Iâve looked,â says John, who earned his biomedical engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University and a masterâs degree in engineering management from Duke University. His gastroenterologist, Miguel Regueiro, MD, clinical head and codirector of the UPMC Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, says the future has never looked brighter for IBD patients. âTen years ago, a diagnosis of IBD was devastating. Now, we have new medicines, a greater understanding of the disease, and better research,â he says.
IBD: Whoâs at risk? Nearly two million Americans live with IBD, which is not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD involves two chronic diseases that cause inflammation of the intestines: ulcerative colitis and Crohnâs disease. Symptoms include abdominal cramps and pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and bleeding.
Crohnâs disease can affect any part of the small and large intestines, while ulcerative colitis affects the large bowel alone. IBD cuts across all ages, genders, and ethnicities, but generally affects Caucasians ages 15 to 35. While the exact cause is not known, experts believe IBD involves a compromised or overactive immune system. Because IBD may run in families, doctors also believe genetics plays a role. While stress and certain foods do not cause IBD, both can make symptoms worse.
Treatment According to Dr. Regueiro, drugs cannot cure IBD, but they can be effective in reducing the inflammation and accompanying symptoms. While some patients have mild symptoms requiring little medication, others have more debilitating flareups, and some patients have severe problems requiring surgery and even transplants.
In addition, the IBD Center recently developed a Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center to help patients deal with both the physical pain and emotional stress of coping with IBD.
Exciting breakthroughs The latest generation of drugs, called biologic therapies, are proving very effective in inducing remission so that patients can lead normal lives. At UPMC, doctors took this approach a step further â as in Johnâs case â by prescribing biologic anti-TNF therapy after performing surgery to remove the damaged section of the intestine. In use now at other hospitals, this treatment has reduced the recurrence of Crohnâs disease in patients by nearly two thirds. * John Oliverâs treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
Stomachaches: When to Worry Everyone gets a stomachache â or abdominal pain â from time to time. Usually, stomachaches are harmless conditions caused by overeating, gas, or indigestion. Frequent or recurring stomachaches are often due to stress and worry, even in children. But they can point to more serious medical problems.
Get medical help immediately if: ⢠You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden. ⢠You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder. ⢠Youâre vomiting blood or have bloody diarrhea.
Harmless abdominal pain usually subsides or goes away within two hours. If you have the stomach flu, your stomach may hurt before each episode of vomiting or diarrhea. In serious cases, the pain worsens or becomes constant. According to gastroenterologists at UPMC Passavant, you should call your primary care physician if mild pain lasts more than a couple of days, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms.
⢠Your abdomen is stiff, hard, and tender to the touch. ⢠You canât move your bowels, especially if youâre also vomiting. Bottom line: Trust your gut! Contact your doctor if youâre concerned about lingering or unusual stomach pain.
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Good Night, Sleep Tight!
UPMC Health Alert
Are you among the millions of Americans suffering from lack of sleep? If so, droopy eyelids, wide yawns, and low energy are the least of your worries. Sleep disruption â not sleeping enough or sleeping poorly â can affect your memory, disease resistance, and leave you struggling to stay alert in school, on the job, and on the road. Studies show that people who get the appropriate amount of sleep on a regular basis also tend to live longer, healthier lives than those who sleep too few or even too many hours each night. So, what is a good nightâs sleep? According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. School-aged children and teens need at least nine hours of sleep each night. Tips to help you sleep
AreYouAllergic toYour Bed?
⢠Stick to a sleep schedule. Get up about the same time each day, no matter how many hours of sleep you got the previous night.
The dust in your bedroom might be making you sick.
⢠Maintain healthy sleep habits. Go to bed only when youâre sleepy. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and relaxing â not too hot or too cold. Donât text, e-mail, read, or watch TV in bed.
Dust mites, and dander, and fibers â oh my! These are just some of the microscopic menaces in ordinary house dust that can cause health problems.
⢠Make sure your mattress is comfortable. Remember, even a good quality mattress needs to be replaced within 10 years.
Dust mites are a common cause of allergies and asthma. Itâs not the dust mite itself that can make you sick; itâs the dust mite debris (the miteâs feces and decaying body).
⢠Exercise is great, but not too late. Avoid exercising within a few hours before bedtime. ⢠Avoid caffeinated drinks after lunch. The stimulating effects of caffeine in coffee, colas, teas, and chocolate can take as long as eight hours to wear off. ⢠Avoid large meals at night. A large meal can cause indigestion that interferes with sleep. ⢠Avoid alcoholic drinks before bedtime. While a nightcap may help you relax, alcohol keeps you in the lighter stages of sleep and tends to wake you during the night. And, for adolescents and young adults: ⢠Avoid stimulating activities around bedtime. This includes intense studying, text messaging, video games, and lengthy phone conversations. ⢠Avoid pulling âall nightersâ during exams. ⢠Sleep in on weekends â but not more than two to three hours past your normal wake time. Sleeping longer may disrupt your body clock. Find a more complete list of the benefits of good sleep at www.UPMC.com/Today.
Dust collects in every room of the house because it is easily trapped in linens, upholstery, carpets, and draperies. But the bedroom is a favorite habitat for dust mites because it provides a warm, humid environment, and plenty of food (dead skin from humans and pets).
Five ways to help wipe out dust mites While you canât completely eliminate dust mites, these simple steps may help reduce their numbers: 1. Cover your mattress and pillows in dust-proof or allergen-blocking covers, and encase box springs in vinyl or plastic covers. 2. Wash and dry bed sheets, pillowcases, blankets, curtains, and bedcovers weekly in hot water (140 degrees Fahrenheit). If bedding canât be washed, put the items in the dryer set at a high temperature for 20 minutes. 3. Vacuum carpeting and upholstery weekly. Using a HEPA-filter vacuum can help keep dust from floating back into the air. 4. Use a damp cloth or mop to remove dust from hard surfaces and exposed floors. This will prevent dust from becoming airborne and resettling. 5. Keep the indoor temperature at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity at no more than 50 percent. Dust mites arenât the only puny pests that can invade your bedroom. Bed bugs have made a comeback in recent years. For tips on ways to avoid a bed bug infestation, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: National Institutes of Health, Environmental Protection Agency
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www.UPMC.com/Today
UPMC Spotlight
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
Keeping track of health issues, test results, and medications is challenging for Sandy Hogue*, who is disabled and chronically ill. Because she must rely on cabs for transportation, seeing a primary care doctor can be an all-day affair. Thatâs why she was eager to sign up for UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that enables patients to receive and manage information about their health. Sandy uses it to monitor her glucose and high cholesterol levels, check test results, make appointments, renew prescriptions, and diagnose medical conditions â all from the comfort of her home in Westmoreland County. âItâs a good system. I get the medical treatment I need faster without spending a day traveling around,â says Sandy. âIt keeps me in contact with my doctor and helps me monitor my medical conditions. And if I have anything contagious, like the flu, it prevents me from infecting other people.â More patients choosing HealthTrak Approximately 42,000 UPMC patients have signed on to HealthTrak, which gives them secure electronic access to their medical records, medications, and other information. HealthTrak recently was expanded to include eVisits â an online digital house call â with a primary care physician. * These patientâs treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
During an eVisit, patients select a symptom and complete an interactive questionnaire. A UPMC doctor then reviews the information and makes a diagnosis. If medication is needed, a prescription can be sent electronically to the patientâs pharmacy.
âHealthTrak is great for college students who are far from home, the elderly, and other people who have trouble getting to the doctor. It doesnât take the place of going to the doctor for regular check-ups, but itâs very useful,â Robin says. âIf only UPMC could figure a way for me to see my dentist online!â
Oakmont resident Mark Gleeson* uses HealthTrak primarily to keep track of his medical records. In October, when the computer-savvy 83-year-old came down with a cough and cold late in the day, he decided to âseeâ a doctor via eVisit. Within an hour of completing the questionnaire, a UPMC doctor responded with medical instructions and a prescription for his sinus infection and chest congestion. âIt was so convenient, and it worked! Within three days, I felt good as new,â Mark says. Convenience and comfort As a graduate student, Robin Sales* relied on HealthTrak to connect with her hometown doctor while attending school in Nevada. Now a young professional living in New York City, she continues to use the online service for eVisits, to fill prescriptions, and access her medical records.
UPMC HealthTrak Benefits Manage your health from home with HealthTrak. Hereâs what you can do online: ⢠Send a message to your doctor ⢠View medical records and test results
âItâs comforting. Having easy access to a doctor back home gives me the chance to find the right doctor for me locally, without rushing into it. Itâs one less thing to worry about,â she says.
⢠Renew prescriptions
Robin, who first used eVisit to consult a doctor about an eye infection, says the online questionnaire asks the same questions the doctor would ask at an appointment. When she needs medicine, her doctor in Pittsburgh faxes the prescription to her New York drug store two minutes away.
⢠Ask billing questions
⢠Track current health issues such as glucose levels and blood pressure ⢠Request appointments ⢠âSeeâ a doctor (digital house call) For more information or to sign up, visit www.UPMCHealthTrak.com.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Could it Happen to You? Most of us associate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with returning military veterans who have experienced the tragedy of war. But you donât have to be a soldier to undergo the intense feelings of helplessness, horror, and fear that characterize PTSD. Imagine being in a terrible car accident on your way to the mall. For days and weeks afterwards, you constantly relive the accident in your mind. You take a different route to shop and, worst of all, your body wonât let you relax. You canât sleep â and when you finally do doze off, youâre awakened by nightmares. You canât concentrate, your heart pounds, and you break out in cold sweats. âWe know that anyone who has undergone some kind of trauma can be at risk for posttraumatic stress disorder,â explains Anne Germain, PhD, associate professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Based at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC, she currently leads several sleep research projects with returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who have PTSD. PTSD can be triggered by a single event youâve experienced or even witnessed â be it an accident, violent crime, or natural disaster â or by ongoing trauma, such as child abuse or domestic violence. When we experience a life-threatening event, itâs normal for our body to react with a powerful, stressful response; itâs what enables us to fight or flee. âBut for some people, these symptoms persist and worsen,â says Dr. Germain. âThe toll can be profound if symptoms are ignored. PTSD has a devastating impact on the lives of people who have it â and on those around them. It also has enormous financial and economic implications.â
Did You Know? UPMC's Sleep Medicine Center â accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine â is the only multidisciplinary sleep medicine facility in western Pennsylvania. The center performs approximately 2,000 sleep studies annually for adult patients with all types of sleep disorders. The staff at the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center include board certified physicians, certified nurse practitioners, and registered sleep laboratory technologists. To schedule an appointment, call 412-692-2880.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
PTSD is a relatively new specialization in psychology, and experts are still trying to determine why it affects some people and not others. Fortunately, for most people, the symptoms of PTSD begin to ease in about a month. âIf they continue, itâs extremely important to seek professional help,â notes Dr. Germain. âThe best place to begin is to talk with your family doctor and seek a referral to a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist.â
PTSD and sleep disorders Among the most troubling aspects of chronic PTSD for patients are the recurring nightmares and insomnia it can bring. There is growing evidence that such sleep disorders have a direct impact on both a personâs mental and physical health. Individuals with PTSD often say they have problems falling or staying asleep, and that the sleep they get isnât refreshing and restorative. âOur sleep research studies with veterans show that they have many more sleep disorders than the general public, including sleep apnea and other breathing problems,â notes Dr. Germain. With PTSD, nightmares can become an ingrained behavior, affecting a personâs daytime functioning â from faltering concentration and poor memory, to emotional outbursts. âBy stopping the nightmares and helping to make sleep more normal, restful, and restorative, patients can overcome other aspects of chronic PTSD in their lives a bit more easily. And sleep can be improved in a matter of weeks,â she says. Dr. Germain uses several methods to treat PTSD-related sleep disorders, including image reversal therapy. âWe help patients replace a recurring nightmare with a more positive, affirming dream. They write it down and rehearse it several times a day to train the brain to have a new dream image.â Individuals interested in participating in Dr. Germainâs sleep research studies for military veterans are invited to call 412-246-6404 or visit www.veteranssleep.pitt.edu.
Welcoming New Physicians To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). John T. Comerci, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Andrew S. Hall, DO Internal Medicine
Richard J. Lowery, DPM Podiatric Surgery
Michael T. Stang, MD General Surgery
Noedahn Copley-Woods, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Steven M. Heilbrunn, MD Cardiology
Richard M. Maleski, DPM Podiatric Surgery
Nangali S. Srinivasa, MD Internal Medicine
Anna Dumont, DO Family Practice
Wendy M. Helkowski, MD Orthopaedics
David S. Medich, MD Colorectal Surgery
Charles H. Srodes, MD Oncology
Marsha J. Fino, MD Internal Medicine
Brian T. Jankowitz, MD Head and Neck Surgery
Antonia A. Mendoza, MD Nephrology
Przemyslaw J. Sutkowski, MD Nephrology
Robert M. Friedlander, MD Head and Neck Surgery
Uma M. Kannapadi, MD Nephrology
Nabil H. Mikhael, MD Nephrology
Ian M. Wu, MD Nephrology
Dennis Gabos, MD Cardiology
Jeff Krachkow, MD Cardiology
Jingjiang Nie, MD Nephrology
Timothy Wu, MD Cardiovascular Surgery
John M. George, MD Cardiology
John A. Lech, DO Oncology
Thanh Nguyen, MD Nephrology
Brian W. Zimmer, DO Nephrology
Chiara Ghetti, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Ryan M. Levy, MD Thoracic Surgery
Scott G. Rainey, DO Orthopaedics
Halina M. Zyczynski, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Pablo G. Giuseppucci, MD General Surgery
Jerry L. Lowder, MD Gynecologic Surgery
Lane Y. Schumacher, MD Thoracic Surgery
Whatâs Happening at UPMC Passavant These free events are offered by the Passavant Hospital Foundation Understanding the Cardiovascular System and You Tuesday, Mar. 15, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Apr. 19, 6:30 p.m. CCAC North Campus Speakers: Daniel Edmundowicz, MS, MD, FACC and Darlene Loebig, RN These educational sessions are for those who want to begin living a heart healthy lifestyle. Please call 412-369-3701 to register. Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know Wednesday, Mar. 16, 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Ved Kaushik, MD Prevention, detection, and advancements in treatment options related to colorectal cancer will be discussed at this seminar. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.
Autism Through the Lifespan Wednesday (day one), Apr. 13, 8 a.m. Thursday (day two), Apr. 14, 8 a.m. Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center and Legacy Theatre This two-day event will cover autism from early childhood to adolescence (day one), and adolescence through adulthood (day two). CEUs available. Registration is required. For more information, visit www.passavanthospitalfoundation.org.
Legacy Music Series UPMC PassavantâMcCandless Passavant Hospital Foundation is seeking talented musicians who want to help lift peopleâs spirits and volunteer their time to give the gift of music. Inquiries are now being accepted for 2011 dates. Please call 412-367-6640 for more information.
Good Nutrition for Seniors: Attaining and Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle Wednesday, Apr. 20, 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Joan Avolio, RN, LDN Learn about healthy eating and exercise, and practical ways to incorporate good nutrition into day-to-day living. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Passavant 9100 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physicianâs medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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The strength of UPMCâs advanced spine care is right here. If youâre suffering from back or neck pain, put your trust in the experts at UPMC Passavant. Our world-class, specially trained surgical team delivers high-quality care for spinal injuries and painful disk conditions, including highly advanced fusion techniques and the latest in minimally invasive procedures. And with the addition of several high-tech operating rooms in our new pavilion, our surgeons have access to real-time, integrated, 3-D imaging. This can increase the accuracy of stabilization techniques, minimize operating time, and enable surgeons to perform more complex procedures closer to your home. We even offer a full range of nonsurgical options, including on-site physical and occupational therapy programs. It all adds up to the premier spine care center north of the city. Call us at 1-800-533-UPMC or visit UPMC.com/Passavant
PATIENT PAVILION NOW OPEN
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
34 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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s t n e d u t Mars S r Journey o f e r a p e r s P 0 8 â e h t Back to
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R E A L E STAT E
Both Buyers and Sellers Need to BEWARE of
MARS AREA
OVERpricing
âYou have to make sure that your agent But thereâs no similar failsafe with overas with any major purchase, doing your does comparisons to similar homes in the pricing. a home thatâs overpriced may get a homework should be something you do bearea, knows the market, and gets supporting nice oï¬er, but ultimately, the final arbiter of fore you sign on a major loan. never before evidence that the house is really worth what itâs truly worth is the appraiser, ashas this been more true than in the housing what itâs being advertised at before you signed independently by the bank or market, where overpricing can create major put in an oï¬er,â Fincham said. âif the house lender. That appraisal will dictate the future headaches for buyers and sellers. doesnât appraise for the agreed upon price, of the sale. For sellers, overpricing can mean that it is unlikely that you will receive any The resulting appraisal could tank the sale your home sits on the market longer, raising sellerâs assist.â altogether, or force buyers to seek extra flags to potential buyers that something is money or alternative financing to amiss. For buyers, an overpriced compensate for the missed sellerâs home can mean a loss in sellerâs For buyers, an overpriced home can mean a loss assistance. either way, itâs going to assistance, money that sellers in sellerâs assistance, money that sellers mean a hassle for the buyer and sometimes bring to the table from sometimes bring to the table from their profits frustration for the seller. their profits to help defray closing however, if an agent does the costs for the buyer. Worse yet, if to help defray closing costs for the buyer. homework and knows their business, there is no appraisal contingency Fincham said the home should be addendum attached to the listed at a fair price, resulting in a agreement of sale, a buyer may be relatively smooth sale in reasonable forced to go through with a home length of time. purchase after being told that it is not worth âit is now imperative that agents and what they have agreed to pay. Whatâs more, overpricing is a one-way sharon Fincham, a realtor with street by way of mistakes. homeowners who clients know the recent selling prices of comparable homes,â she said. âBuyers Prudential Preferred realty, said that, list their homes for too little may receive and sellers agreeing on a price is not in addition to including an appraisal multiple oï¬ers, allowing the power of free necessarily enough anymore. The study contingency addendum to an oï¬er, you market economic supply and demand of a neighborhood before an oï¬er is made need to make sure that your agent is to take over, driving the price up until can save everyone involved a lot of grief doing the proper legwork before the itâs comparable to the other homes in and frustration.â oï¬er is even made. the neighborhood.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
R E A L E STAT E
MARS AREA
Real Estateas a Career Many finding the flexibility and income potential excellent as the dwindling job market numbers continue to make the news lately, the professionals in the real estate market seem to have one of the best kept secrets going. For those who need some flexibility but desire a job with excellent income potential, a career in real estate is an excellent choice. Whether a person has just finished college or wants to return to work now that the kids are attending school, j oining a sales team at a real estate agency close to home can lead to income rewards and a flexible work schedule that many people desire. in this day and age of electronic media, with all of the tools available to agents to help buyers and sellers in acquiring and disposing of properties, the fast pace of the real estate market is an exciting place to work. People who have just graduated from college h ave the upper hand when it comes to marketing to their peers through social network sites. The use of Facebook and linkedin are tools that are being masterfully used to make contact with their friends, who are generally first time home buyers. Those who have taken time off to raise their children and are looking for an alternative to a standard 9am-5pm job have found great success in a real estate career. kay Beers of howard hanna
seven Fields says that the flexibility of the job is what makes it such an attractive option. âYou can control your schedule, and have a successful career in the real estate field. agents can set their own hours, and with work hard, reap the financial rewards!â What makes for a successful real estate professional? Beers says âitâs someone who is empathetic and can relate well to people. This is the largest purchase most people will ever make. itâs important that someone exploring real estate as a career understand that working with people is the name of the game. a person who loves working with and around people and can understand their needs easily is one who will make a successful agent.â The career path to becoming a real estate agent is varied. People who have previously worked in service- oriented fields like nursing, teaching or in the airline industry make great real estate agents. Those who have spent years volunteering their time and are now looking for a paying job, and have honed their skill in dealing with different types of personalities generally make a good transition into the real estate work force. a position within a real estate agency can be rewarding both personally and financially. The flexibility that comes with setting your own schedule and the satisfaction of assisting in one of the largest transactions that most people will make, can make the difference between a just doing a job and a creating a successful career.
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R E A L E STAT E
MARS AREA
Seller
Reeducation
In todayâs post-housing-bust world, selling your home isnât the same process that it may have been when you moved in 10 years ago.
Maureen Cavanaugh, with howard hanna real estate, said that sellers need to re-educate themselves if they want to remain competitive in todayâs market and make a profit on their homes. âselling your home is very diï¬erent today, and itâs been a progressive thing,â Cavanaugh said. âTen years ago, you could list your home as is. Buyers were willing to come in and do updates. With the changes that occurred in the last three and four years, the expectation of buyers has dramatically risen. Many sellers who have lived in their homes for years with a lot of equity should consider doing as many updates as they are willing to do.â Those updates will reap more money when it comes to their final sale price, Cavanaugh said. no updates will result in a lesser price. âit really depends on the house. iâm dealing with someone right now that has a nice home of 32 years, and theyâve spent three months and have done everything. Theyâre spending upwards of $25,000, but it will take their sale price from the $380,000 range to $425,000 or $430,000. They will recoup what they put into it,â Cavanaugh said. âand the reason is that todayâs buyers want to move in, put down the furniture, start paying the mortgage, and get on with their lives.
They donât want to be bogged down with the projects and upgrades like taking down old wallpaper.â if you donât have a budget for upgrades, Cavanaugh said that even minor cosmetic changes can improve your odds of getting more for your home when it comes time to sell. These types of upgrades include updating the hardware on cabinets to more contemporary styles. at the very least, Cavanaugh suggests getting rid of any junk, cleaning thoroughly, and doing some rudimentary staging. âexposing hardwood floors is a no-brainer. You donât have to paint the whole house beige. You can still have some color and have some interest,â she said. âBut everything should be sparkling.â Cavanaugh said that now that the first-time homebuyer frenzies spurred by government tax rebates are over, the bulk of homebuyers are mid-level buyers looking in the $150,000 to $300,000 range with access to aï¬ordable mortgage money. âThese are relocation buyers, and they want all the bells and whistles,â she said. âThey want to buy more, and they want it done.â
Haîy Sîing î§om
ars Area A DV E RT I S E H E R E sales@incommunitymagazines.com
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Middlesex Township Holds Line on Taxes or the
F
fourth year in a row, Middlesex Township has managed to keep its taxes at bay. âitâs been our goal to either keep the tax rate the same or reduce it over time,â said Township Manager scot Fodi. âWe scrutinize all of our expenses, from liability insurance to healthcare insurance to what it costs the township to purchase commodities.â Fodi puts the townshipâs insurance out for bid every year. âno cur rent supplier to Middlesex is comfortable because they know we will go out and get the best prices every time,â he said. and it saved the township $30,000 in liability insurances this year. Fodi says that being aggressive with underestimating revenue streams has helped him to keep the townshipâs taxes from rising. âWe always underestimate our revenues and never budget for unaccounted funds. Over the pa st two budget cycles, we underestimated revenues collected from the earned income (Wage) Tax solely due to economy,â he said. âWe assumed a 5% reduction; we are almost 7%
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down in actual numbers.â 2010 also marked the fourth year in a row that the township spent over half a million dollars on its infrastructure. âa lot of our work is underground and not seen by the eye,â said Fodi. storm pipes and inlets, and improving drainage along roadways are a few improvements made that insure that storm-water and water from snow melting drains away from roads as fast as possible. The township installs 500â1000 feet of storm pipe every year, which allows it to come back and rebuild roads appropriately. âit's pretty significant for a township of our size and population base to spend over $500,000 annually on road paving,â said Fodi. âBut with the amount of roads we have, itâs prudent that we spend at least that amount each year on our infrastructure.â âresidents, in general, will not say a word if their cable bill goes up, but if a property tax increase proposed an increase of $20â40 dollars annually, people become upset,â added Fodi. âresidents like to drive on roads that are smooth, safe, and convenient. a towns hip is generally judged on the quality of its roads â not just its school districts â when people are choosing where to live,â he said. âas long as we can keep our tax rates consistent and put capital money in the infrastructure of the community, hopefully people will choose us.â
H.P. Starr Lumber Company Expertise and Experience for Your Projects from the Foundation to the Roof hereâs a whole world of information out there when it comes to homebuilding and remodeling. Which wood molding is best suited for staining? Which deck material lasts longest for the price? Which window requires the least maintenance? at h.P. starr lumber Company, employees have an average of more than 10 years of experience with the company and are ready, willing and able to answer all of those questions and any more that you can think of. Bruce edwards, one of the owners of h.P. starr, said that experience, expertise and breadth of product selection are what customers come to h.P. starr for, not to mention value. âi would describe value as a combination of quality of product, the service provided while selecting the product, and getting the appropriate product for the project at the best price,â edwards said. h.P. starr has everything you would need to build a house from the foundation to the roof. and while you could call h.P. starr a âone-stop shopâ for your building needs, itâs still a family business at heart. There are two locations, one on route 8 in glade Mills and the other on route 68 near evans City. The glade Mills homestead has been in existence since the 1880s, and was once the starr family farm. This location began serving customers in 1948 and the evans City location later opened in 1984. in 1998, h.P.
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starr merged with another family-owned lumber business, Brookside lumber, in the south hills of Pittsburgh. edwards said the merger brought more than just two families together; it combined the experience of dozens of employees, making the company a veritable trove of knowledge when it comes to all the products they offer. âWe have conversations with our customers,â edwards said. âWe can really drill down into their projects and make sure they leave here with the best products for their projects. Can you go buy a 1âx12â board somewhere? sure. Can you come here? absolutely. But what youâll find here is a broader selection and the people who can give you the appropriate guidance so that youâre getting what you need, not what a brochure says you need.â edwards said that expertise is even more valuable today with the majority of customers perusing the internet for ideas on projects and materials. âWhen youâre on a manufacturerâs website, youâll read that their product is the best for your project, hands down, and you shouldnât even consider anything else out there,â edwards said. âBut if youâre looking for moulding, for instance, there are many choices, each with their own advantages in
their own situations. You could go with a hardwood, a composite, vinyl or MDF. Which is the best value for your project? The manufacturer wonât tell you that, but we can.â Multiply that by the hundreds of quality brands of siding, trim, windows, doors and cabinets, along with building materials, and that wealth of knowledge can be worth its weight in gold to a homeowner. For a tour of many of the products that h.P. starr lumber Company stocks, visit the company website â www.starrlumber.com. h.P. starr lumber Company is located at 2134 evans City road, 724.776.2800, and 1011 Pittsburgh road, 724.898.1501. Both locations are open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, and saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Older Adults in Mars Area ï
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ow that the holidays are behind us, youâre hopefully putting that smoking credit card back into your wallet or purse for a while. But even though this may be a down time for you and your credit card, itâs no time to be lax about your credit card security. so what do you need to know about keeping your credit card safe? First, off, donât give yourself a pin number thatâs easy to guess. issuing banks typicall y assign you a random pin number when you first get your card that you can change later. keep this assigned number and avoid picking a pin for yourself like â1234â or your birth date. While it may be easy for you to remember, those choices are also very easy for predators to figure out. if you make a lot of online purchases or just want to dip your toes into the world of internet shopping, get yourself a dedicated card with a low credit limit. You can open up a secured credit card at most financial institutions that require you to deposit a balance to borrow against, allowing you to open a card with a $500 limit. Your deposit will gain interest and you will be able to use your card for online purchases. Whatâs more, most scammers try to run a small purchase 42 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
through before running a larger purchase on the card. You may not notice a $0.32 charge right away, but when your bank calls you asking if you tried to purchase a $779 laptop, youâll be happy your limit was low enough to be declined. if your credit card number is compromised, you should call your bank immediately and report it. While police are able to enforce credit card fraud on a local level, with the internet the person trying to run your numbers may be six states away, if theyâre in the United states at all. in all cases, the sooner itâs reported, the better. Your bank will cancel the card number and reissue you another card. While youâre online, keep in mind that your bank will most likely never contact you via email regarding your account. if you do get an e-mail from a bank that you use, double check the address. Chances are it will be slightly askew from any legitimate |
Mars Area
address. instead of â@yourcreditcard.com,â you may see, â@yourcreditcard1.comâ or â@yourcreditcard.uk.â Banks understand that scammers routinely try to get you to give up your personal information via e-mail. Therefore, most have secured e-mail available through their websites, where you can be sure youâre talking straight to legitimate bank representatives. lastly, if you have several credit c ards that you use often, take the time to flip them over and write down the 1-800 customer service numbers on the back and keep that list in a safe place. itâs also a good idea to keep a copy in your purse or wallet. This way, when you notice your card is missing and are frantic, you can at least go to your list and call to report the missing card. in the end, you should treat your credit card like you would trea t your cashânever leave it lying around.
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f the last time you took holiday photos required clumsily spooling film into your 35 mm camera, donât be intimidated by what technology has done to photography in the past few years. in fact, once you have some basics down, you may find that your digital camera is easier to use than you thought. so letâs start at the beginning and go over your new toy from stem to stern. We canât go into detail about every feature of every camera, but luckily most cameras share the same properties, so we can cover most scenarios. More than likely, your camera came with a lithium ion battery pack and charger. all you need to know about this is that this battery can last a long time. Thanks to self-timers built into your camera, if you forget to shut it off, it will shut off automatically for you, saving battery life and allowing you to take that unexpected shot when the time comes. That said, the battery wonât last forever, especially if you are shooting with the flash often or shooting video, if your camera has that feature. if you know youâre going to be somewhere with a lot of natural light, turn your flash off altogether and shoot longer. The second thing to familiarize yourself with is your memory card. Cameras come with a variety of memory cards to choose from. regardless of the kind your camera takes, just remember that bigger is better. a 16 gigabyte memory card can hold hundreds of photos, and if youâre not in the habit of printing your photos right away or moving them to your computer, the extra space is a must. how many pictures you can store on your memory card depends on your resolution setting for your pictures. Your resolution is how big the picture is. if youâre shooting for a website, low resolutions are better because the file size is smaller. however, if you try to print the same low resolution photo as an 8x10, it will appear distorted or âpixilatedâ because the camera wasnât set to capture all of the fine details of the image. With most point-and-shoot cameras on high resolution, you can print very large prints or zoom in to crop shots for better composition. The last thing to get to know is the UsB cable. This is the cable that came with your camera and connects it to any UsB port on your computer. Through this cable, you can transfer your images for future sorting, correction, or sharing. Believe it or not, once you have those things down, your digital camera has many of the same features of your old 35 mm. You can zoom in, set a timer so you have a chance to get into frame, and set a scenic mode where you can select how the camera operates in certain conditions, such as a portrait, sports shot, night shot, or landscape. Your manual will list the specific icons and their meanings. Donât be afraid to leaf through it if you get stuck. Manuals have come a long way as well and are clearly written for users of all experience levels.
Senior Agencies
Mars Senior Center Penn Mar Plaza Gilkey Dr. Mars, PA 16046 724.625.4466
Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify. BART (Butler Area & Rural Transit) This is a shared ride system transporting 60+ seniors to senior centers, medical appointments, adult day care, and other destinations within Butler County using lift vans. BART is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations can be made up to one week in advance or as late as the morning of the day before the desired trip. Advanced scheduling is highly recommended. Please schedule early by calling 724.282.6060. To register and for more information, please call Audrey at 724.282.1904. AIRE RIDE Provides transportation to out of county medical appointments for 60+ seniors. Residents must live in Butler City or south of
Butler City. Aire Ride trips are scheduled for Tuesday appointments only. The actual medical appointment time needs to be between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Trip requests should be made two weeks in advance by calling the Area Agency on Aging office at 724.282.3008 or 1.888.367.2434. Riders must pre-register to participate. THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING Utilizes volunteer drivers to transport seniors over the age of 60 to medical appointments in and out of Butler County through the Medical Transportation Service. Riders must register and trip requests must be made two weeks in advance by calling the Area Agency on Aging Office at 724.282.3008 or 1.888.367.2434. Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our communityâs older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your centerâs name and phone number.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
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Mars Area
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Add Warmth, Style and Value to Your Home
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What's Your Style? Fireplaces have come a long way from the typical wood-burning variety. They can be specifically designed to fit any room, and there are a large variety of fuels to produce heat or just glow! A wood burning fireplace is the classic option. They provide a beautiful flame, crackling wood sound and heat. Newer to the market are gas fireplaces which can be designed to imitate real burning wood, but their fuel source is natural gas or propane. Gas burns cleanly and is much more convenient than its wood-burning counterpart. Electric fireplaces have some of the same advantages as gas-burning fireplaces, but have the extra benefit of being able to flip a switch and have instant ambience!
Which is the Right Investment for You? When deciding which option in fireplaces is right for your home, it is important to look at the space limitations in your home. Determine how much heat you need from the unit and whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a professional. Another thing to consider is that if you do not have a chimney in the house, installing one will add additional expense. Your choice of fuel for the fire should also be considered. Dealing with split woodâThe stacking and handling, versus turning on a switch to give you the fire is something to think about when choosing options. Adding a fireplace to any room in your home will add value to your home and provide a comfortable setting for you to relax. Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
Lutheran SeniorLife to Open New Assisted Living Care Facility in Mars utheran seniorlife will open the doors to a new, state-ofthe-art assisted living facility this May that promises to be the pinnacle of assisted-living care with memory support. The 30-bed center, called roseCrest after Martin lutherâs rose and the fact that the center is situated on a hill, will boast all-private suites with flat-screen televisions, sitting areas and outdoor courtyard. The one-story facility is designed with easily accessible âneighborhoods,â and 24-hour memory support services, including nursing and related care. residents will receive three meals a day, including a daily snack, and benefit from the facilityâs proximity to st. John specialty Care Center, also part of the lutheran seniorlife campus. karen russell, executive director of st. John specialty Care Center, said roseCrest has a
number of amenities that will make it stand out from other facilities of its kind. âThe creative design of this facility will give residents the feeling that itâs just like home. itâs a very non-institutional look,â russell said. âresidents will live in suites, situated around a center community area with nursing staff able to provide emergency response when needed most.â russell said that all aspects of roseCrest are designed with the safety and well-being of the residents in mind. âFrom the outdoor courtyard and other amenities, which are all secured so our residents can enjoy the outdoors without leaving the premises, to the monthly wellness checks, roseCrest is a leader,â russell said.
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Mars Area
âhousekeeping is included in their stay. Thereâs also an activity center and coordinated transportation to local destinations. itâs all part of the st. John Campus - st. John specialty Care Center in Mars, which was our only facility on that campus until now. after roseCrest, weâll begin construction of residential living apartments on that campus. There may be other things down the road, but when you look at the skilled nursing, assisted and residential living, we have all elements necessary designating st. John as a certified Continuing Care retirement Community.â st. John currently serves 300 residents. lutheran seniorlife also has a campus in zelienople â the 42-acre Passavant retirement Community, which, like st. John, offers all levels of senior living care. lutheran seniorlife also has residential living communities in hempfield and Butler, and a 31-unit apartment building in McCandless â The Commons at stonebrook Village. The organization also has several programs for those in need, including its âliFeâ Programs. liFe stands for âliving independence For the elderly,â and is comprised of partnerships with area hospitals for low-income senior citizens or those who are medical-assistance eligible. Partnerships exist in three counties - Butler, Beaver, and lawrence and allow nursing-home eligible seniors to be transported to liFe centers for their routine services, including daily meals, up to three days each week. âWe are developing a waiting list for roseCrest, but itâs not filled yet,â she said. âThose who are eligible and interested should call as soon as possible so that they can be accommodated.â For more information on roseCrest, go to www.lutheranseniorlife.org, or call 724.625.1900.
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Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
ïïïï ïïïïïïï Two-Faced itâs Time to Be
ew Yearâs Day is an odd little holiday. For most of us, itâs an opportunity to stay up late and have a party or to extend the Christmas festivities. But the meaning of the holiday itself is pretty trivial: time to buy a new calendar and remember to date your checks with a different year. Perhaps youâll use it as an opportunity to change something in your life by making a new Yearâs resolution. This year iâd like to suggest that you try something different. and for inspiration, iâd like to suggest that you consider a pagan god, of all things. Usually, being called two-faced is an insult. But roman mythology included a twofaced god named Janus; our month of January is named after him. For the romans, Janus was the god of gateways, doors, beginnings and endings. he was depicted with two faces looking in opposite directions, so that he could see both what was in front of him and what was behind him. if youâve wished for
eyes in the back of your head, you can understand the advantage that Janus had. The romansâ consideration of Janus extended beyond the literal, physical, practical aspect of having a guardian god that you could never sneak up on. Janus was also understood to be the god for times of transition: when something ends and something else begins. Metaphorically, he could look back upon the past, but also look to the future. as you change your calendar and practice writing 2011 instead of 2010, i invite you to be two-faced. First, spend some time reflecting on what happened in the past year. remember what god has done in your life. how has he changed you? What wonders have you been able to experience? What challenges has god brought you through? What has god taught you in 2010? and second, think about what 2011 will be for you. We of course have no idea what surprises and
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Bible Baptist Church. . . . . . . . . . . . 724.776.2780 Calvin Presbyterian Church . . . . . 724.452.7560 Christian Community Church of Mars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724.625.3230 Congregation B'Nai Abraham . . . . 724.287.5806 Cranberry Baptist Church . . . . . . . . 724.776.3110 Cranberry Community United . . . 724.776.5310 Cranberry Reformed Presbyterian Fellowship . . . . . . 724.443.0892 Crossroads Community Church . . 724.776.6763 CrossWay Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724.898.4600 Discovery Christian Church . . . . . . 724.779.1010 Dutilh United Methodist Church . 724.776.1094 First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724.443.1555 Focus Community Church . . . . . . . 724.612.4411 Fountain Park Church. . . . . . . . . . . 724.779.2003 Glade Run Presbyterian Church . . 724.898.3503 Good Samaritan Church of the Brethren. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724.776.5508 Gospel Fellowship Presbyterian Church. . . . . . . . . . 724.898.3322 Grace Community Church. . . . . . . 724.779.7997 Hope Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . 724.776.3141 Mars Alliance Church . . . . . . . . . . . 724.776.9400
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changes are in store for us. But we should be watching for the new things that god will do, so that we can respond to them with faith. We can prepare ourselves to participate in the unfolding of his plan that we will see in 2011.
WOrshiP
Mars United Methodist Church . . 724.625.1488 Mars United Presbyterian Church 724.625.1365 New Life Anglican Church . . . . . . . 724.614.7746 Oak Hill Alliance Church. . . . . . . . . 724.776.4350 Old Union Presbyterian Church . . 724.538.8672 Plains Presbyterian Church & Cranberry Nursery School. . . . . . 724.538.8785 St. Ferdinand Catholic Church . . . 724.776.2888 St. John Lutheran Church of Mars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724.625.1830 Saint Kilian Catholic Parish . . . . . . 724.625.1665 United Methodist Center. . . . . . . . 724.776.2300 Valencia Presbyterian Church . . . . 724.625.2002 Valencia United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . 724.625.2330 Victory Family Church . . . . . . . . . . 724.435.6200 Woodland Valley Church . . . . . . . . 724.625.4500
We are interested in highlighting your church! If you are a member of the Clergy from this area and would like to contribute an inspirational message that all of our readers might enjoy, please contact Marybeth Jeffries, managing editor, at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com for more information. Mars Area
This inspirational message was written by rev. Peter C. de Vries, Ph.D., Pastor, Old Union Presbyterian Church. You can find out more about him by visiting their website, oldunionchurch.com.
SPRING
2011
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Strangers â What do I do? What is a stranger?
ïïï©ïªïšïï€ïïïšï ï©ïï© ï£ïŠï¢ï¯ïï©ï¥ï£ïï¥ï€ïïï¯ï¥ï« ïï¥ï€ïïªïï¡ï€ï¥ïïïïïªïšïï€ïïïšï©ïïïï€ïï©ïï¯ïïªïïï¯ ï¡ï€ï¥ïïï¯ï¥ï«ïï¥ïšïï¡ï€ï¥ïïï¯ï¥ï«ïšïïïï£ ï¢ï¯ï ïªïïïïïïšïï¥ïšïïïš ïï€ïï©ïïïïªïšïï€ïïïšï©ïï£ïï¯ ïï¬ïï€ïï¡ï€ï¥ïïï¯ï¥ï«ïšïï€ïï£ïïï¥ïšïïªïï ï€ïï£ïï©ïï¥ïïïŠïï¥ïŠï¢ïï ï€ïï¯ï¥ï«ïšïïïï£ ï¢ï¯ïïïï ï¯ï¥ï«ïï¥ïšïï¯ï¥ï«ïšïïŠïïšïï€ïªï©ïïï¥ïï€ï¥ïªïï¡ï€ï¥ï ïªïïïªïïŠïïšï©ï¥ï€ïïïªïïïïŠïïšï©ï¥ï€ï ï©ïï ï©ïªïšïï€ïïïšïï
What should I do if a stranger tries to talk to me?
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What if I am out with my family?
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Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 51
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ars Area
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f youâre more than four feet tall and live in western Pennsylvania, chances are that your attic is not a comfortable space that you would consider livable. Your attic can be modified, however, by the do-ityourselfer into more than adequate storage for a variety of your belongings, if you get creative.
The first thing you need to consider is the space itself. Is it finished at all? Many attics in the area are open spaces broken up by roof and flooring joists and wads of insulation. The first thing you want to do is inspect your attic for leaks and whether those joists are strong enough to support extra weight. You can add flooring by screwing down plywood or other subflooring. Avoid nailing materials down to prevent damaging the ceilings underneath you through the vibrations of hammer blows. Once you have your flooring down, you can decide whether or not you want to finish the ceiling joists. You can insulate and attach drywall or plywood to these joists, depending on how fancy you want to get with the finished look; or you may decide that having the recessed areas between the joists is beneficial to your storage needs. Keep in mind that a triangular space is limiting only if you have boxes or items that you need to store vertically. Items that are smaller and that can be arranged into nooks and crannies can be ideal for these odd-shaped spaces. Also keep in mind that, because of the nature of attic access in older homes, the route to your attic may be through a small trap door in a hall closet, so items you put in the attic might be limited to long-term or permanent storage, like old college textbooks, holiday decorations, luggage, or all those old National Geographics that you canât throw away because the pictures are too pretty. If you do have easy access to your attic, either by way of a dedicated staircase or pull-down steps, more options may offer themselves to you. Even tight attics have enough room for several two-drawer filing cabinets, allowing you to store many yearsâ worth of tax returns or product manuals.
Easier access means even more versatility when it comes to your storage plan. Rather than long term, you can use the space for things that require infrequent useâbins for extra blankets and pillows for when guests are in town, large childrenâs toys or games that donât get played with during the school week, and sporting equipment when itâs out of season. Storing items like these in the attic will keep them out of dank basement conditions, and, in the case of linens and sporting equipment, keep the smell of mildew away.
Keep in mind that the attic, while dryer than the basement, still has its own set of issues. Temperatures often vary wildly in attics depending on how insulated they are, so items that canât stand high heat or low temperatures â like candles, for instance â may not fare well in the attic environment. Each space is different, but each is unique, and how you use that space can be a fun project for the whole family.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 53
Mars Band: PIMBA AAA Champions On saturday, October 30, the Mars area high school Marching Band was named the Pennsylvania interscholastic Marching Band association̢۪s (PiMBa) class aaa champion with the high score of 86.15. Mars also took the award for high Music, high Visual, and high general effect. Under the direction of Tammi redmond, this spectacular win was the culmination of three months of ongoing work and competition by this awardwinning band.
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The band has earned championship titles in 11 of the last 15 years, most recently being named PiMBa class aa champions in 2008 and 2009, before moving up to aaa class this year. Mars area high school Marching Band is comprised of students from Mars area high school and Mars area Middle school. This talented and dedicated group of young people from the Mars area school District work tirelessly from august through October to ensure an award-winning season.
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hen it comes time to plan for the biggest day of your life, you may not know where to start. Planning a wedding is a challenging, time consuming and expensive task, which is why those who can afford it oftentimes hire wedding planners. But for those of us who have to keep an eye on the budget, knowing what to look for in your wedding venue can save you time and money up front, and less hassle when itâs over. Obviously, you want to pick a venue suitable to the size of your anticipated invitation list, and you want to pick it early. Popular venues can be booked well over a year in advance, and if youâre getting married on a date thatâs unique â like Dec. 12, 2012, or 12/12/12, youâre going to want to start looking immediately. Robin Craig, Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe, said couples should plan out 12 to 18 months when booking a venue. âThey need to sit down and find out their guest list and their budget. Once they determine the guest list, we can start quoting pricing,â Craig said. âNext year , 9/10/11 is a big date, and weâre already booked. Also, 10/11/12 would be a hot date. Our hot months are September and October and May and June. If youâre a teacher, June and July are busy months.â
Once you have that location selected and it appeals to your personal sense of style and aesthetics, you should evaluate anything that may be taken for granted, such as ingress and egress and parking. Is the wedding/reception hall easy to find? Are there covered porticos for dropping off guests in case of inclement weather or for those who have trouble walking without assistance? Will guests be able to find the hall easily, or is it hidden deep in a labyrinth of hallways? And are the restrooms close by? âAll of our parking is complimentary,â Craig said. âIf you want valet, we can provide it for a fee.â Once you have the building chosen, you should discuss logistics of the day with any facility manager responsible for the site. Important items to discuss include catering â can you hire your own caterer or is there a caterer specific to the venue youâve chosen? Is there an additional charge for alcohol and can you furnish your own? Will linens be provided and who will be responsible for setting up and tearing down the tables and chairs? Is there a suggested room layout for weddings? Having a tried and true seating arrangement for the venue can save you headaches later on when youâre trying to figure out where to place the bridal table. Lastly, knowing how early you can arrive and how late you can stay will be crucial information for anyone from caterers to your bridal party.
Craig said her venue offers full linens with chair covers, sashes, mirrors, candles and champagne toasts. It also offers complimentary bridal party refresher rooms. They can tray cookies at no charge and provide a gourmet coffee station. It also offers a complimentary overnight room for the bride and groom. Lastly, find out all of the financial details up front. Many venues have service charges that are above and beyond your bill. Get all of your charges in writing, up front before you sign for your venue. You donât want to find out afterwards that there was a food and beverage minimum that you didnât attain, or that it was ok for you to bring your own wine, but forgot to inquire about corking fees. Craig said service charge at her venue is 21 percent and sales tax is 6 percent. They also have food and drink minimums. However, discounts are offered for group room rentals for overnight guests and for offpeak days and months. Weddings in January-March and November, and those held on Fridays and Sundays, are considered off-peak. If you do your homework up front, thereâs nothing stopping you from having the fairytale wedding youâve always dreamed of. Keep in mind, like any successful marriage, wedding planning is hard work, but work that youâll reap rewards from in the end.
Mars Area | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
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e By Pamela Palongu
s anyone who knows me personally will tell you, I am no expert on social occasions. However, based upon the theory that even a stopped clock is right twice a day, I have made enough social faux pas to speak authoritatively on what not to do at a wedding. Some helpful tips are listed below to help get you through the season of bliss.
Never wear white to a wedding. This includes eggshell, ecru, light cream, pearl lustre and Tahitian coconut. Never attempt to upstage the bride (unless of course you hate the bride, in which case you probably really shouldnât be attending the wedding anyway, given the spirit of the whole love and happiness thing).
At Jewish weddings do not ask, âWhat is that big thing theyâre standing under?â
At Catholic weddings try to refrain from asking, âWhy is this taking so long?â The well-prepared wedding guest remembers to bring snacks for himself and his friends. (Avoid crunchy snacks that may disrupt the ceremony.)
NEVER bet on how long the marriage will last at the reception. All odds-making must be done outside the reception venue. (In the event of inclement weather, the lobby or bathroom is acceptable.)
Never complain about the food at the wedding reception with your mouth full of food from the wedding reception. Itâs a credibility issue.
Throw only designated throwing materials at the bride and groom, such as rice and rose petals. Shoes, Jell-O, and steak knives are not acceptable. Ever. Even when they are within the appropriate wedding color scheme.
The wedding day is NOT the proper time to share the fact that you once dated the groom, the bride, or their parents. In fact, the proper time to share this information may not actually exist.
If you simply must dance at the reception, remember you are not trying out for âDancing With The Stars.â If you throw your partner in the air, make sure you catch them. Missing is considered grounds for divorce in most states. Avoid high kicks, which may warrant medical attention.
Many people adhere to the time-honored adage, âItâs not a party till something gets broken.â However, avoid breaking things that are irreplaceable, expensive, and likely to lead to a law suit. Cell phones and glasses are okay.
Given the fact that marriage is a formidable undertaking and the courageous souls who dare to tread the rose-strewn path are likely to be distraught, hysterical, and panic-stricken, you owe it to the happy couple to be the best wedding guest possible. These helpful tips are the very foundation of the social graces. If you follow them carefully, you will glide effortlessly from wedding celebration to reception party in a virtual whirl of neurotic enthusiasm.
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