in-mars-area-summer

SUMMER 2012

ars Area

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

The New Way to Work

The Home Office plus

Artwork from Mars Area High School

Coffeehouse Art Gallery Venango Trails A Neighborhood Built for the Way You Live

120 over 80.

What’s it worth to U?

Introducing HealthyU from UPMC Health Plan.

Reaching your goals is worth more than ever. It’s worth money.

That’s because HealthyU offers financial incentives for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Now when you do things like quit smoking, work with a health coach, or even get a flu shot, we put money into your very own Health Incentive Account. Money that can be used to help pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and even surgery. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, talk to your employer or visit UPMCHealthyU.com.

upmchealthyu.com

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

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Mars Area

INSIDE

IN Mars Area is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Mars area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here.

Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

IN Mars Area | SUMMER 2012 |

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FEATURES

Real Estate in Mars Area Venango Trails A Neighborhood Built for the Way You Live

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS ON THE COVER

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Vein Institute of Pittsburgh

Luxurious home office offered by Kathe Barge of Howard Hanna Real Estate. Photo by Gary Yon.

You Don’t Have to Live with Painful Varicose and Spider Veins

UPMC TODAY

Clow Chiropractic

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Sports Injuries

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it.

Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

What’s Inside 2 3 4

New GI Center Merges High-Tech Tools with Patient Comfort and Privacy Exhausted and Sleepy?

Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6 7

Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

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© 2012 UPMC

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COMMUNITY INTEREST

Author Days Bring Books to Life

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Engaging Tomorrow’s Scientists

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Mars Track and Field Invitational

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UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use

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Coffeehouse Art Gallery

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Esther the Musical

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Middlesex Woman Pens Musical About Esther

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Welcome to the summer issue of Mars Area magazine.

This year, it seems summer started in early March. However, the warm days have given people a reason to get outside early and often. Bulbs are blooming earlier and joggers are out in force. So I hope you’ve had a chance to get out there and take advantage of the early summer, and while you’re at it, let us know what you’re up to. We try to feature as much local content as we can in each issue and hope that you enjoy that content. Now, we want to get even more local and ask you directly for your stories in each issue. These features don’t have to be about you or someone you know doing something extraordinary like climbing Mt. Everest or swimming the English Channel. We want to know what makes our readers tick. It could be that you’ve always wanted a classic Thunderbird and have been restoring one for the past few years. We’d like to see it, and I’m sure others would too. So let’s start off with that, since we’re coming into car cruise season: If you or someone you know has a pretty interesting restoration project going on in the garage, let us know! Email our editor, Pamela Palongue, at p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com or call us at 724.942.0940. We’ll be happy to hear your story and may even send one of our photographers out to capture your work for the next issue. Keep in mind, the project doesn’t necessarily need to be current – if you’ve been cruising in your restoration project for some time now, that’s OK, too.

But we’d like to know what you did at the nuts-and-bolts level to get your baby roadworthy. If you’re just not sure one way or the other whether you have a good story, call Pamela and she’ll be happy to help you out!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Do you have a classic car that you’ve restored?

If so, we’d like to hear about it. Email your name and contact information to p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com.

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Mars Area

Fall content deadline: 8/10/12

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

Author Days Bring Books to

Life

by Brenda Haines

e Knudson Author Mik

I

n today’s fast-paced world where GPS, mobile devices and highspeed Internet are everywhere, it’s not as easy to get lost as it once was, literally or figuratively. However, for Mars Elementary School students, getting lost is exactly what they want — lost in a good book, that is.

For these students, the fun doesn’t stop after they read the last page and close the book. They get to make a special connection with books and gain a new appreciation for reading by meeting the author or illustrator of some of their favorite books.

Two children’s authors and a book illustrator visited the school library in April to interact with students, teach them about the writing process, sign autographs and answer questions, all part of the fifth annual Author Days.

“I love visiting schools,” said Mike Knudson, author of the Raymond and Graham series, via his website. “In fact, I visit over 100 schools around the country each year.”

These author visits help motivate students to read and gives them insight into some of their favorite characters.

“We discuss the author’s and illustrator’s work and visit their websites to learn about them [in advance],” said Tracey Jones, Mars Elementary School librarian. “I read the books or parts of the books to the children during our library classes, prior to the visits. My students are excited to read the books of people that they feel they know.”

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This year’s Author Days event helped cultivate this excitement because it included a lighthearted, interactive approach to the writing and editing process by Knudson, nominee for a 2010–2011 Pennsylvania Young Readers Choice Award. “[Knudson] started with brainstorming and showed the kids how one idea would remind him of another,” Jones said. “He also talked about the importance of editing and revising.”

Laughing and learning should go hand in hand to keep students engaged, and visiting author Kitty Griffin said sometimes these school visits also help inspire budding writers.

“In every audience there will be several students who dream of being a writer,” she said. “I want to encourage them and let them know it’s hard, but it’s possible.”

Author Kitty Griffi n

Children’s Il lustrator

Stacy Innerst

Griffin, currently a resident of Venetia, Pa., and author of Cowboy Sam, Clementine Sweet and Stinker and the Onion Princess, talked to the students about the importance of research in writing a book with accurate details and further explained the importance of reading.

“I always tell [the students] to be a good writer, be a good reader,” she said.

Author Days’ goal is to introduce more than just reading to the students. Children’s illustrator Stacy Innerst, also a resident of western Pennsylvania and former editorial illustrator for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, talked to the students about the making of art and picture books and how vital it is for them to find their own voice. Innerst explained how he went from “a child who wanted to draw, to an adult who gets to draw,” opening the students’ eyes to that possibility as well.

As soon as books by Knudson, Griffin and Innerst are returned to the shelves at Mars Elementary School library, other students quickly snatch them up because their books are in high demand, said Jones. However, having their very own autographed copy is something students can cherish for years.

“Students did have the opportunity to purchase books prior to [Author Days] and those books were signed [by the authors and illustrator],” she said.

Because the spirit of any book is an extension of its creator, author and illustrator, it was only fitting that Mars Elementary School welcomed these craftsmen to give the students an inside look into the untapped potential of reading.

“The students took with them an excitement about reading and writing,” Jones said. “I also think many were motivated to write their own stories and create their own illustrations.”

Even with the Internet at their fingertips, Mars Elementary School students hold a special fondness for reading books. They can be found draped over a comfy chair, lost in a good book — figuratively and magically — enjoying one of the simplest delights of childhood.

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

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-Amy B. Maynard

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Mars Area

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

Should I Have My Veins Evaluated?

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

Here are some examples:

What is Phlebology?

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

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

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

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

Is membership the same as board certification?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider.

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

724-934-VEIN (8346) Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

Engaging Tomorro w’s Scientists

by Heather Holtschlag

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merica’s future scientists put their talents on display this year at the fourth annual Centennial School District Science Fair which took place last month. Nearly 85 fifth and sixth graders participated in the fair, about 25 more students than last year’s event.

“Our science fair is an opportunity for students to have fun with science in a non-threatening, non-competitive way,” said Minette Thompson, fifth grade teacher who coordinated the event. “The fair is a way for students to familiarize themselves with the scientific process and draw conclusions from the data gained from whatever experiments they chose to do.”

The science fair encouraged students to create projects that were of interest to them, however there were certain guidelines that they had to follow. For example, if a project was designed to answer a question using the scientific method, then the methodology had to be clearly shown. Or, if the project was some sort of model, the student needed to provide an in-depth explanation of what was featured. Thompson said that the fair showcased a wide variety of science projects, from one that showed where germs are hiding in the school environment to a comparison of the gravitational pull on Earth and in space. One student built his own computer and put it on display, while others answered questions such as, “Does waterproof mascara really work?” and “Does music affect a memory test?”

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Mars Area

“You can see why I look forward each year to seeing all of the students’ creations!” Thompson said. “I am constantly amazed at how smart, clever and fun our kids are with their projects.

On the night of the fair, half of the fun was watching the students set up their projects with such great pride. The other half was listening to them describe their endeavor with often surprising detail.”

Announcements for the science fair are distributed about eight weeks in advance, and the interest level is immediately high. Thompson creates a display which includes about 200 questions around which a project can be designed. After reading the material, even some of the more reluctant students realize how easy and interesting it can be to design a project.

“I am sure that some of the students began working on their projects as soon as the science fair notices went home!” Thompson said.

She added that she would not be surprised if more than half of the students pursued some kind of science-related career, as she emphasizes to them that science touches our lives in so many fields, from medicine, engineering and environmental careers to working with animals.

“A science fair, like a science class, can offer kids the opportunity to experience and realize that the type of thinking scientists do is just as, if not more, important than the actual scientific knowledge,” Thompson explained. “Anyone can learn something, but to learn it, think about it and apply it to something else in a new way is what makes the world move forward.”

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

by Kathy Rudolph

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spectacular view from the East Club Lounge at Heinz Field combined with a reception, dinner, silent auction and a chance to meet gala nominee Vicki Lawrence gave guests the opportunity to have fun and give back to seniors at the Lutheran SeniorLife “Excellence is Ageless” Gala and Award Dinner.

Chaired by Todd Moules, regional president of First Niagara Bank, proceeds from the gala benefited Lutheran SeniorLife Benevolent Care Fund.

Lutheran SeniorLife operates various senior communities including Passavant Retirement Community in Zelienople, St. John Specialty Care Center and RoseCrest Assisted Living in Mars, Crown Pointe at Clearview

in Butler, Lindwood Crest in Greensburg and The Commons at Stonebrook Village in McCandless. It also has LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) centers in Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence counties as well as in Pittsburgh. “On behalf of our moral owners, Lutheran SeniorLife serves elders in our threesynod region, intending that recipients of our services experience a more abundant life regardless of their physical condition or financial circumstances,” according to the website.

David Fenoglietto is Lutheran SeniorLife’s CEO and was present at the gala.

“This event allows us to enrich the lives of older adults by raising monies for those who need the care, but can’t afford to purchase the care that they receive throughout their senior years,” said Mr. Fenoglietto. “Our mission is to

Karin and Mark Trauman, Chairman of the Board of Directors and of Reliance Financial Advisors

David Fenoglietto, Lutheran SeniorLife’s CEO and Vicki Lawrence, Gala Nominee

Lance Whiteman, Board Member and Christine Whiteman

Paulette Musser, Kristen Ginzburg, Rev. Robert Musser, Board Member, Jane A. Bittcher, Jane E. Bittcher, Board Member

Elizabeth Garrett, Jean Smart, Laura Roy, Executive Director Passavant Retirement Community

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provide abundant life for older adults so that we are able to enrich their lives. We want to create an environment for them that is enriching and ‘person centered,’ where individuals can grow and prosper.”

According to a 13-year study from Harvard University, with exercise, social and educational activities, seniors can prolong life and make retirement more enjoyable. These activities can also keep the brain sharp and defend the body against disease. Lutheran SeniorLife provides seniors with many programs to help in achieving this, from computer classes to nature hikes, arts and crafts classes, parties and much more.

To learn more about Lutheran SeniorLife and the many services it provides, visit the website at http://www.lutheranseniorlife.org/.

Mars Area

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

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Junk in Your Trunk Rummage Sale

dams Township Parks and Recreation is holding its second annual Junk in the Trunk Rummage Sale on Saturday, June 16.

Residents are invited to bring their household items to the Adams Township Municipal Building parking lot to sell from their car trunks or truck beds. The items must be sold from the car or truck; no trailers or hitches will be accepted.

In order to sell items, individuals must be registered no later than June 8. Registration forms are available at the Adams Township Municipal Building and a $10.00 non-refundable registration fee is required.

Sellers may arrive at 8 a.m., with the sale taking place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

As the saying goes, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure!” You can sell your junk or perhaps even find your own treasure!

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Mars Area

by Pamela Palongue If you subscribe to cable or satellite TV, you may have seen the Disney movie “Mars Needs Moms” on your program schedule in the last few months. What you may not know is that some very lucky Mars Elementary School students were invited to attend a special premiere of the movie, right here in Pittsburgh.

The film, which is an animated science fiction creation, stars Seth Green (via motion capture) as Milo, a nine-year-old boy whose mom, played by Joan Cusack, is abducted by Martians. He runs into several misadventures trying to rescue his mother on the red planet. The film is directed by Simon Wells and was based on the book of the same name by Berkeley Breathed.

The interesting turn of events came about because one of Disney’s publicists was reading an article about the Pittsburgh Steelers that quoted a fan from Mars, Pa. He became so intrigued with the Pennsylvania version of Mars that he tracked down Mars Elementary School principal Bob Zaccari to discuss the possibility of the kids attending a special preview of the movie.

A lottery was held to select 300 kids and parents to attend the event, which was held at a theater on Route 28. The children were able to screen “Mars Needs Moms” one week before it opened in theaters across the country. The kids were given free popcorn and a T-shirt to remember the event.

Afterwards, the kids and parents who attended traveled to downtown Mars to have their photos taken with the famous flying saucer sculpture.

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

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Cooks Up a Tasty Event!

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Mars Area

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

Mars Track and Mars Area Middle School

by Amanda Fastuca

T

he Mars Area High School and Middle School track and field teams wrapped up their spring 2012 season with high hopes for next year.

The Invitational on Friday, May 1, left both the girls and boys high school teams with quite a few qualifiers for the WPIAL Championship.

The boys’ team, ending their season with three wins and three losses in the section, narrowly missed the playoffs by only a few points.

However, four individuals were able to make it to the next level. Scott Flamey, Sonny Zangaro, Alec Battin, and Ori Rinaman, were scheduled to compete at the WPIAL championships at Baldwin High School on Thursday, May 17.

“All of these guys have a great shot at qualifying for the state championships,” boys track coach Dale Boring said. “We have a lot of young, and very talented kids, as well as a lot of young talent coming back next year.”

The girl’s team finished their season by taking second place in the section with only one loss. Coach Deb Knox said, “It was the best they’ve done in the AAA section so far!”

The girls who are participating in the WPIAL championships are Lydia Dennis, Sabrina Edwards, Emily Thomas, Erica Hans, and alternate Brianna Wilkinson. “The girls team is a fantastic group of young ladies. We only have three seniors on the team this year so we are really looking forward to see what next season has in store for us,” added Knox.

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Mars Area

Field Invitational Mars Area High School

Photos by Gary Yon Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

Spring Promise Promise

Mars Area High School Hosts

Promise Spring

Spring Promise Fashion Show

by Kathy Rudolph

REACH (Responsible Educated Adolescents Can Help) program members and student volunteers rivaled New York or Paris runway models as they strutted their stuff across the stage wearing vibrant hues and current styles of gowns and tuxedos by Exquisite Bride North and Jack’s Tuxedo. Entertaining their peers in the audience with elegant ballroom dips, dance floor moves and even a push-up demonstration, one was reminded of the excitement of prom season and the students’ bright futures that are ahead of them.

Keeping this idea in mind, REACH members were not just giving the audience members fashion ideas for the prom and fun door prizes, but were promoting the message of a safe, drug- and alcohol-free atmosphere for the prom.

“I think REACH is important because it sends a positive message to promote living a healthy lifestyle and being drug and alcohol free,” said Colleen Tosadori, a Mars Area High School counselor who helped to organize the fashion show. “The fashion show is also great because the students look forward to it every year and it gets them excited for prom.”

Each year the rate of alcohol use among teens and related car crashes hits a peak during the spring prom season starting in April through June, according to the Partnership at Drugfree.org. Creative events like the fashion show help to educate teens about the dangers of drinking or doing drugs and are instrumental in saving lives.

To learn more about Mars Area High School upcoming events, visit the school’s website at marsk12.org.

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UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it.

Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

What’s Inside 2

New GI Center Merges High-Tech Tools with Patient Comfort and Privacy

3 4

Exhausted and Sleepy?

Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6 7

Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

© 2012 UPMC

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

New GI Center Merges High-Tech Tools with Patient Comfort and Privacy Beautiful, comfortable, and private. That’s how Andrea Morse describes the new GI Center at UPMC Passavant after having a colonoscopy performed there in March. “I was so impressed,” she says. “I have to admit I was a little nervous, since it was my first time having the procedure, so I was thrilled to relax in the privacy of my own room.”

Where high-tech care and comfort meet Providing state-of-the-art gastrointestinal care has always been the goal of the GI Center. Now it’s done in a more patientfriendly setting. One of the busiest in the UPMC system, the GI Center at UPMC Passavant performs both routine and complex procedures, including: • Colonoscopy • Endoscopic tumor removal or bypass • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) • Endoscopy • Esophageal manometry • Flexible sigmoidoscopy • Ileoscopy • Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) • Pancreatic function test The new center has eight procedure rooms — twice as many as before. “Our expanded capacity gives patients more options when scheduling procedures,” says James Celebrezze, MD, a colon and rectal surgeon at UPMC Passavant.

Easier scheduling gets high marks from Patty O’Neil of Shaler, whose doctor recommended annual colonoscopy screenings because of a family history of colon cancer. “Now I don’t have to wait for an appointment, and I have more options to choose from,” she says.

Making a good first impression

Demonstrating patient-caregiver interaction in a new GI Center patient room.

A few months earlier, the Bradford Woods resident had a much different experience when she accompanied her mother-in-law to have a colonoscopy at the former GI Center location. “The beds were just separated by curtains, so there was no privacy when the doctor came to talk to us about the results,” recalls Andrea.

The new GI Center features 26 private patient rooms, each with a television and warming blankets. “Patient comfort and privacy was our top priority when we designed it,” explains Andrew Thomas, MD, chair, Division of Gastroenterology.

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UPMC.com/Today

Dr. Thomas and his staff take pride in combining the best in quality care and personal service. With the GI Center’s new comfort and privacy features, Dr. Thomas expects service will be even better. “That’s very important, because when patients have a positive experience, it makes them feel much better about coming back for follow-ups,” explains Dr. Thomas.

Just ask Andrea. Although her colonoscopy was performed at UPMC Passavant, her follow-up for an abnormality was originally scheduled at a different location. Andrea changed the appointment. “I really wanted to go back to UPMC Passavant,” she says. “It’s beautiful, and the people there were kind and very reassuring. I’m definitely going back — and I’m not nervous at all.”

To learn more about the new GI Center and all of the other services available at UPMC Passavant, visit UPMCPassavant.com.

Exhausted and Sleepy?

At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, doctors can diagnose and treat sleep apnea, often with surprisingly fast results.

Overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure, diabetes, and an irregular heartbeat, Robert Guthrie underwent a sleep study at UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center to evaluate his pulmonary function and suitability for gastric bypass surgery.

He was shocked to discover he had sleep apnea so severe he actually stopped breathing 147 times per hour.

Affecting 12 million Americans, sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep. Untreated, it can cause serious health problems and lead to deadly accidents due to exhaustion.

“I was totally clueless. It was serendipity that took me to a sleep expert, and it probably saved my life,” says Robert, 65, who immediately began using a nighttime breathing apparatus known as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Within a week, he was sleeping soundly for the first time in six years. “It was life changing,” says the Hopwood, Pa., resident. “I feel 20 years younger.”

Most people don’t know they have obstructive sleep apnea, usually caused when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep. People with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly. With each interruption, the drop in oxygen levels prompts the brain to send a surge of adrenaline to kick-start breathing, which also leads to a spike in blood pressure.

“This can happen 600 times a night. It’s a burden on the cardiovascular system and affects the quality of sleep,” says Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD, medical director of the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center.

According to Dr. Strollo, if you snore loudly, wake up exhausted despite a “good night’s sleep,” or feel tired or sleepy during the day, you should talk to your primary care physician. Since sleep apnea cannot be detected while you’re awake, your doctor may ask you to participate in an overnight sleep study.

At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, patients stay in a private bedroom where a sleep technician applies sensors that measure breathing, heart rate, brain activity, and other body functions during sleep. A team of specialists diagnose sleep apnea by looking at the test results and reviewing medical history. Treatment options may include a CPAP machine like Robert uses, which blows air through a special mask worn over the nose.

“I wasn’t wild about wearing the mask. But staying on it was a no-brainer — it’s worth it for a good night’s sleep,” says Robert.

For information about the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center, visit UPMC.com and click Our Services for an alphabetical listing of departments and services.

Other health consequences of sleep apnea According to Thomas Schauble, MD, a pulmonologist at UPMC Passavant, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, memory problems, weight gain, and daytime sleepiness. “Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea — but almost everyone with sleep apnea snores,” notes Dr. Schauble. “This is not a problem to keep from your family doctor.

Sleep apnea can have significant health and safety consequences, but it usually can be treated effectively and inexpensively.”

The services of the UPMC Passavant Sleep Center are available at the hospital’s McCandless and Cranberry locations.

For more information or to schedule a sleep study at either location, call 412-367-6496.

1-800-533-UPMC

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Pamper the Skin You’re In Your skin is a multitasking marvel. Soft, pliable, and strong, it protects your organs, regulates body temperature, detects and fights off infection, and even repairs itself.

Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

But most of us take our hard-working skin for granted. A little TLC will help keep it healthy and looking good from the inside out.

They’re more common — and easier to treat — than you think.

Keep it clean Daily cleansing can take a toll on your skin, so be gentle. Take shorter baths or showers using warm water, choose a mild cleanser, pat or blot skin dry, and apply a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type.

Eat, drink, and be healthy Feed your skin from the inside for a healthy glow on the outside. Experts recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Drinking plenty of water keeps skin hydrated.

Get moving Regular exercise promotes circulation that energizes skin cells and carries away waste products. It also promotes the restful sleep that’s needed to rejuvenate skin.

Be sun smart Small amounts of daily sun exposure add up, so protect skin from the sun’s rays whenever you’re outdoors — even in wintertime.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and apply it liberally and often. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants provide even more protection.

Check it out Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers occur on parts of the body exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and hands.

Mohs micrographic surgery has proven to be an effective treatment for most skin cancers. This type of surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible and is often used to remove skin cancer on the face.

Regularly checking your own skin can help find cancers early, when they are easier to treat. You’ll find the American Cancer Society’s skin self-examination guide and other sun safety tips at cancer.org.

Sources: American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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UPMC.com/Today

They can be tiny or bulging, painless or throbbing.

But nearly half of us can expect to get spider or varicose veins, especially after age 50.

“The good news is that many techniques now make vein treatments more safe, comfortable, and effective,” says Ellen D. Dillavou, MD, a vascular surgeon at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.

What new treatments are available?

Among the newest is the injection of polidocanol for the treatment of spider veins. “It’s a cosmetic procedure that works much better than saline to collapse surface veins,” says Dr. Dillavou. “Spider veins do reoccur, though, so expect to do ‘touch ups’ periodically.” Injections also are used for larger veins and may replace older procedures like a “vein stripping.”

For treating varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation (a minimally invasive procedure in which radiofrequency energy seals the vein closed) is a popular treatment among her patients, says Dr. Dillavou, “because it’s comfortable and effective.”

Are varicose veins dangerous?

“Varicose and spider veins typically don’t pose a health risk, but they can point to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI),” says Luke Marone, MD, a vascular surgeon at UPMC Passavant. “It’s a visual cue that blood may not be optimally flowing to and from the feet and legs to the heart, which can lead to more serious problems.”

Other CVI symptoms include painful, tired, restless, achy, itchy, or swollen legs or ankles. In more advanced cases, skin changes and ulcers can develop. “The problem becomes more difficult to treat as it advances, so it’s important to always share your symptoms with your doctor,” says Dr. Marone.

To learn more about all the vascular services at UPMC Passavant, visit UPMCPassavant.com.

Your Health Care Goes Mobile It’s now easy to manage your medical records or get automatic access to select test results — because HealthTrak has an app for that.

Need to keep track of your elderly parents’ appointments and test results? Want instant access to your children’s immunization records? Run out of medicine while traveling and need a refill? Have a follow-up question for your doctor after office hours?

All are available with a click of your mouse — and most with a tap on your iPhone®, iPad®, or Android™ — via UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that allows patients, and approved family members, to receive and manage information about their health. Recent upgrades include a new mobile HealthTrak application that provides patients with secure access anytime and anywhere.

HealthTrak also provides patients with automatic access to certain test results, including x-rays, lab, and pathology tests, with links they can use to help interpret information. This makes it easier for patients to keep track of their cholesterol, blood pressure, sugar levels, and other important health numbers, adds Dr. Shevchik. UPMC hopes to add cardiology test results in the near future. Also on the horizon are plans to use photos to identify some skin conditions or diseases.

“We’re giving people what they want — even when they’re on the go. It’s a convenient, safe, and free way to manage their own health,” says G. Daniel Martich, MD, UPMC chief medical information officer.

Going mobile is fast and easy To access HealthTrak data using a mobile device, you must first secure a HealthTrak account through UPMCHealthTrak.com.

You should then download the free “MyChart app” from the App Store, iTunes Store, or Google Play (formerly Android Market). The mobile app provides access to everything except eVisits, or online doctor visits. According to Dr. Martich, more than 100,000 patients have signed up for HealthTrak — and nearly 6,000 are mobile app users.

Grant Shevchik, MD, a family physician and geriatrician who is medical director of HealthTrak, says online medical care is “the future.” He predicts an explosion of users once word spreads about the overall convenience and newest features — including access for authorized family members.

More patient-centered solutions Adults juggling the health care of their children and aging parents can use the “proxy access” feature to keep track of health records and appointments, refill prescriptions, communicate with doctors, and ask billing questions.

Parents especially appreciate having instant access to a child’s immunization record when they need it, says Dr. Shevchik.

Approved caregivers find eVisit, the online doctor visit service, very useful for the diagnosis of common, non-urgent ailments in their elderly relatives.

“HealthTrak gives people immediate accessibility. And that accessibility is improving health care by encouraging patients to accept responsibility for their health,” says Dr. Shevchik.

Sign up today!

Easy, direct signup for HealthTrak is available online by going to UPMCHealthTrak.com and clicking “Sign up now” under New User. Follow the steps to complete an online application and answer personal questions designed to ensure that you, and not another person, are creating the account.

If you have difficulties, email healthtrak@upmc.edu or call the UPMC HealthTrak Support Line at 1-866-884-8579.

1-800-533-UPMC

5

Talent + Imagination + Learning =

Events You Won’t Want to Miss UPMC Senior Communities’ year-long calendar of entertainment, movies, and educational seminars aims to enrich the lives of seniors — and delight the public, too.

What do Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners, a Meryl Streep movie, and acupuncture have in common? All are among UPMC Senior Communities’ upcoming 2012 Legacy Lineup.

“We’re committed to providing residents at all our senior communities with activities that will capture their interests, generate conversation, and stimulate their minds,” says Nanci Case, vice president for sales, marketing, and activities for UPMC Senior Communities. “Through The Legacy Lineup and other programs, we’re bringing seniors — and people of all ages — together to relax, laugh, and learn together.”

Open to the public, The Legacy Lineup programs are offered at UPMC Passavant Hospital Foundation’s Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Senior Communities’ independent living facility located on the UPMC Passavant campus.

“You can attend a Legacy Lineup event every week of the month, with many events offered at no charge,” says Greta Ceranic, marketing director for Cumberland Woods Village.

The Legacy Theatre is part of a state-of-the-art conference center and 247-seat amphitheatre funded through a generous $16.5 million grant by the Passavant Hospital Foundation. One of the Foundation’s primary goals is public education and outreach.

UPMC physicians, nurses, and other medical staff members also use the facility for professional development training.

“And funds raised through The Legacy Lineup support UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund,” adds Ms. Case, “providing financial assistance and other support services to residents in need at all 17 UPMC retirement communities.”

6

UPMC.com/Today

Productions showcase local and national talent “Each month, The Legacy Lineup features at least one major production featuring a band, soloist, or performance troupe,” says Ms. Ceranic. “Earlier this year, the Tamburitzans appeared to a sell-out crowd. Later this year, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand impersonators will perform with a full orchestra.”

The 2012 lineup also includes the Jaggerz and the Fabulous Hubcaps, as well as a major holiday production in December.

Because seating is limited, advance tickets are recommended.

Group discounts and ticket packages are available.

Spend Mondays at the movies From cinematic classics like Citizen Kane to recent blockbusters like Iron Lady with Meryl Streep, seniors can enjoy free matinee movies every Monday at 2 p.m. at the Legacy Theatre.

Explore your interests at learning seminars On alternating Tuesdays at 11 a.m., The Legacy Lineup offers educational programming that covers a wide range of subjects, from tips on aging, caregiver support, health and nutrition, history, and local topics of interest. The seminars are free and open to the public, but advance reservations are requested.

For the full 2012 calendar of activities, or to make reservations, call 412-635-8080 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

To learn about the independent living, personal care, assisted living, and skilled nursing options offered

by UPMC Senior Communities, call 1-800-324-5523 to schedule a tour.

Locations include Allison Park, Cranberry, Fox Chapel, Greensburg, Lawrenceville, McCandless, Monroeville, Penn Hills, Scott Township, and Washington, Pa.

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

Meghana Amit, MD Hospitalist Medicine

Jaya Prakash Buddineni, MD Hospitalist Medicine

Brian Thomas Kazienko, MD Cardiology

Bryan Paul Negrini, MD, MPH Internal Medicine

Vinay Badhwar, MD Cardiac Surgery

Stacey J. Carlitz, DO Gynecology

Margaret M. Moon, DO Physical Medicine/Rehabilitation

George S. Tunder, DMD Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

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

Chamber Music Community Concert

How’s Your Hearing?

Friday, July 13, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 15, 12:30 p.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village

Senior Center Cranberry Township Municipal Building

Passavant Hospital Foundation’s Legacy Music Series and the Center for Young Musicians present a concert featuring the works of Seitz, Vivaldi, J.S. Bach, and more. The event is open to the public and free of charge.

Speaker: Jonathan Urffer, MD

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

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Advances in Conservative & Surgical Knee Treatments

Dr. Urffer, an ear, nose, and throat physician, will discuss the causes and effects of hearing loss, when to have a hearing test, and what to expect. Free hearing screenings will be available.

Heart Health & Exercise for Seniors Wednesday, Aug. 22, 11 a.m.

Wednesday, July 18, 12:30 p.m.

Zelienople Senior Center

Senior Center Cranberry Township Municipal Building

Speakers: Staff from the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Passavant

Speaker: William Abraham, MD TriRivers Surgical Associates, Inc.

Heart disease is America’s leading killer, but few people really understand how the heart and vascular system work.

Learn how to follow a heart-healthy lifestyle at any age.

An orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Abraham will discuss advancements in surgical and conservative knee treatments, joint fluid therapy, arthroscopic knee surgery, and minimally invasive knee replacement.

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Managing Dizziness & Balance Disorders Wednesday, Sept. 26, 10:30 a.m.

Auditorium Sherwood Oaks Senior Community 100 Norman Drive, Cranberry Township Speakers: Susan Whitney, DPT, Centers for Rehab Services Balance/Vestibular Rehab and Tracy Spitz, MPT, Outpatient Physical Therapy, UPMC Passavant Balance disorders are a common problem with potentially debilitating effects. This seminar will help increase your awareness of these disorders, treatments, and therapies so you can return to a safe and active lifestyle.

Please call 1-800-642-2217 to register.

2012 Diabetes Symposium Thursday, Sept. 27 Doors open at 8:45 a.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center and Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village

Wednesday, Sept. 19, 12:30 p.m.

This day-long event features free screenings, exhibitor displays, informational tables, and presentations on a variety of diabetes topics.

Senior Center Cranberry Township Municipal Building

Please call 412-367-6640 to register or for more information.

Foot Care for Seniors

Speaker: Mike Ryan, DPM Experts say that foot problems can be the first sign of more serious medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and nerve and circulatory disorders. Dr. Ryan, a podiatrist at UPMC Passavant, will discuss foot care for seniors. Free foot checks will be available.

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

1-800-533-UPMC

7

UPMC Passavant 9100 Babcock Blvd.

Pittsburgh, PA 15237

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

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

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

To get world-class care, your heart’s in the right place.

The UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute is one network of Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, and Vascular professionals right here in western Pennsylvania. With experts who are internationally renowned. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks UPMC among the best hospitals in the country for cardiology and heart surgery. But more important than these accolades is the trust thousands of people place in UPMC every year, for everything from simple screenings to highly advanced heart care. Put your heart in the hands of the experts. Call 1-855-UPMC-HVI for information or to make an appointment, or visit UPMC.com/HVI to learn more.

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

PART OF THE UPMC HEART AND VASCULAR INSTITUTE UPMC.com/HVI

Mars Library Hosts Read Across America for Young Children

by Kathy Rudolph

N

ational Education Association’s “Read Across America” is an annual reading motivation and awareness program that “calls for every child in the community to celebrate reading on March 2 which is Dr. Seuss’ birthday,” according to its website.

Mars Public Library gave Mars Primary Center students this opportunity by hosting its own Read Across America event filled with Dr. Seuss activities. Some of the fun activities for the kids included creating a special banner to hang in the library, listening to a storyteller and checking out their own library book to take home.

“It’s exciting to have the kids come to the library,” said Adrianne Desch, Mars Primary School librarian. “Some of them have never been to the library and it is a new event for them. We did activities all week at the school for Dr. Seuss’ birthday and this was the big event at the end of the week and they were very excited.”

The purpose of Read Across America is to motivate children to read so that they can achieve better academic success and develop into lifelong readers. There are many library programs that kids can take part in at the library to strengthen their reading skills, such as “Super Readers” which allows kids to read to dogs.

“It is good to get the children outside of the school environment,” said Ms. Carol Deringer, Mars Area School District reading specialist. “Some children aren’t even aware that there is a library here for them. It shows them all the exciting things that they can do and all of the wonderful people that are here to help them.”

To learn more about upcoming events at the Mars Public Library, visit the website at www.bcfls. org/mars-area-publiclibrary.

Adrianne Desch, Mars Primary School Librarian Ms. Carol Deringer, Mars Area School District Reading Specialist

Mary Jo Simons, Mars Area Public Library Director Mrs. Cami Shuck, First Grade Teacher Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Running on Mars J

by Heather Holtschlag

ake Montag and Mary Lou Tabisz live in single parent. She really the same neighborhood, but their lives truly enjoyed school and did intersected when they began work on a project extremely well. Brandi that will forever raise awareness of heart disease, was a strong-minded, Hayleigh Tabisz support the American Heart Association and loyal person who loved memorialize Tabisz’s daughter. country music and her Montag, a 2009 graduate of Mars Area High family. She accepted her pregnancy with the grace School, was searching for a cause to support – one and determination that a single mom needs to have that needed money, and also something that “looked to get through the rough times.” good on college applications.” Having been a crossAnd though Brandi knew she had mitral valve country athlete in high school and an avid runner, a prolapse, a condition also shared by her mother, 5K run fundraiser seemed a natural fit. grandmother, aunts, and cousins in which the valve Mary Lou Tabisz is the mother of Brandi Tabisz, that separates the upper and lower chambers of the an 18-year-old single mom who died from a heart left side of the heart does not close properly, the odds condition called mitral valve prolapse just 10 weeks that she would have died from it were very low.

Brandi Tabisz after giving birth to daughter Hayleigh in 2001.

“Hayleigh was born on February 10, and Brandi “In the beginning, the purpose of the event, called died on May 10, right before her first Mother’s Day Running on Mars, was to raise money for the Brandi weekend,” Mary Lou said. “The purpose of Running L. Tabisz Scholarship Fund,” Mary Lou explained. on Mars is to keep my daughter’s memory alive and “During the second year, we partnered with the doing this for her. On another level, we are bringing to American Heart Association, and [it’s] becoming the community an event that raises awareness of heart an event that promotes heart health awareness and health issues and becoming heart healthy!” reminds the community that heart disease is the The event this year will take place beginning with number one killer of both men and women in the sign-in and registration at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, United States.”

August 18, at Syd Field. The race will begin at 9 According to Mary Lou, Brandi had attended Mary Lou Tabisz & Jake Montag a.m. Preregistration cost is $18; the cost of raceButler Vo-Tech for cosmetology during high school. day registration is $23. All proceeds will benefit the She was planning to take her state exams for her Brandi L. Tabisz Scholarship Fund at Butler County cosmetology license after Hayleigh was born.

Community College and the American Heart Association. Checks, “In the meantime, she attended Butler County Community made payable to the Brandi L. Tabisz Scholarship Fund, can be College as an education major,” Mary Lou explained. “She was mailed to Jake Montag, 145 Tanglewood Drive, Valencia, PA 16059. committed to getting her degree, especially because she would be a

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Mars Area

The Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Hosts

Neighborhood Business Expo

by Kathy Rudolph

P ector of The Chamber Susan H. Balla, Executive Dir of Commerce, Inc.

Julie Decker of UPMC Urgent Care

ty of Lisa Capu ds lan The Wood

romoting the idea of “Doing Business with People You Can Trust,” The Chamber of Commerce, Inc. hosted its annual Neighborhood Business Expo at the Four Points by Sheraton Pittsburgh North.

“This is our third annual sold-out event for the Chamber of Commerce,” said Susan Balla, executive director of The Chamber of Commerce, Inc. “We have over 140 vendors and expected over 1,000 people in attendance. It’s a great way for the public to get to know and trust the businesses and do business in the community that they live in.”

To learn more about upcoming events at The Chamber of Commerce, Inc., visit the website at www.thechamberinc.com.

WISR, WBUT Kayla Molczan of and 97.7 FM

Kiersten White of Complete Chiropractic Health

Mark Loveland of Heavenly Cuisine Custom Catering

William Ridge an d Karen of Ridge Insurance Agency Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

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Real Estate in Mars Area

By Heather Holtschlag

S

ome women are notorious for taking up space – closet space, kitchen space and bedroom space can overflow with shoes, clothes, jewelry and general knick knacks. And, especially if the woman’s space is spread throughout the entire house, her man might just need one room to call his own: a “Man Cave.”

The idea of a Man Cave is definitely not a new one, and may have been referred to by different names, such as “The Boys Club,” a “Mantuary,” or a retreat. The concept has been around for years and has been marked by random surges in popularity, the most recent being just a few years ago when TV shows such as “Man Caves” began appearing. Although the purpose of a Man Cave has changed from its initial appearance hundreds of years ago, the basic concept remains the same: a place for men to go to escape the routine domesticities of everyday life.

A Man Cave can be any room in the house – the garage, an attic or even an extra bedroom – designed and decorated to a man’s tastes, and can incorporate a specific theme such as sports, cars or guitars and other musical instruments.

In some homes, the purpose of a Man Cave may be to provide some space to the man where he can relax and unwind and feel more at home in a house that often consists of female-driven décor and accessories. In other houses, a Man Cave might be a place where a sign is hung that states “No Girls Allowed,” or a place where he can hang out with his buddies and not feel like he needs to impress anyone. Studies have shown that when a man has a place to call his own within the home, there is increased marital harmony and decreased marital stress.

Because these rooms are designed to meet each man’s own personal taste, every Man Cave is different. He may choose to stock his room with nice furniture, a big screen television, a bar or even game accessories such as a pool table, pinball machine, or dart board. Other popular must-haves are billiard lights over the pool table and a free-standing beer tap in place of a fully stocked bar.

If price is no object, the man may want to get the best of everything – from quality made bar stools and bar to the finest glassware. He may even choose to adorn the walls with various video games or hang guitars. He can display his team spirit by hanging wall decals of his favorite team’s logo throughout the room, or even on the pool table, a set of cues, or glassware. In addition, he can buy pillows, rugs, lamps and other furniture to match, making his Man Cave the perfect place to watch the game.

Any room, no matter the size or shape, can be transformed into the Man Cave of his dreams. All it takes is a bit of thought and creativity…and maybe a favorite football game.

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Mars Area

Fox Chapel Real Estate in Mars Area Area

by Heather Holtschlag

T

he front porch may rank near the bottom of the list of favorite rooms when people talk about their homes, but it ranks near the top in terms of importance. Considered a home’s “welcome mat,” the front porch offers the first – and oftentimes only – impression to family, friends, and passersby. The friendlier it looks, the more appealing the home.

Realtor Julie Rost of Prudential Preferred says that a covered outdoor space adds tons of value to a home in terms of enjoyment for the homeowners. “With a covered porch, outdoor furniture is much easier to keep clean and maintain and alfresco dining becomes a possibility,” she explains. Rost also recommends that homeowners who may be adding a front porch to their existing homes, carefully consider the style of the house and make sure that the new addition has continuity in color and period.

Think about whether you want the porch area to be a simple transition into your home, or whether you want to create an entirely new living space. Also, determine how much space

you will have to dedicate to a front porch area. If it’s a small, transitional area, you may not be able to give the area a complete overhaul, but will be able to enhance the space that is already there with charming accents.

When it comes time to decorate the porch area, consider what room it leads to within the house. If it opens into a traditional living or dining room for example, you likely will not want to decorate the porch in a tropical theme. Also, choose a type of paint for the front door that contains a high gloss and a color that will be noticeable. Go for house numbers that appear strong and bold, which could give your entire exterior a new look and add a door knocker for a touch of elegance.

Consider changing the hardware as well. Rost recommends that if your home is for sale, it is imperative that the key works seamlessly in the lock. “Make sure that steps and handrails are secure as well and that exterior lighting is working,” she adds. A nice new doormat will also add a welcoming touch.

Before adding furniture, make sure to attend to the paint on the sides and floor.

Repair any paint that is peeling and add a fresh coat to the walls, floor and the trim. When adding the furniture, look for a piece such as a loveseat that can hold two people and an ottoman that can double as storage space. The largest piece of furniture should face outward, with smaller pieces surrounding it. Artwork that is made to handle the elements of the outdoors can add attention and attractiveness if hung above the sitting area, and look for

rugs and pillows that can finish off the space. Blinds or curtains can help prevent sun damage to the furniture and provide shade.

One final note to keep in mind when sprucing up your porch is to decorate for the seasons. Add pumpkin décor during Halloween or floral accents during the spring and summer. A harvest wreath in the fall or an evergreen wreath in the winter can also add to the beauty of the season.

If selling your home, feel free to decorate, but keep in mind that buyers want to see your home, not your decorations. Rost advises, “I always tell my homeowners to continue living in their home [while they are in the process of selling]. However, sparse is better than clutter. Buyers will want to see the molding and the flooring that they are buying.”

While you may not see a dollar per dollar return on your investment in a front porch, the appeal of the addition will help attract buyers to your home and will serve as a great source of enjoyment while you reside there.

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Real Estate in Mars Area

How to Choose

a Real Estate Agent an important consideration when choosing an agent, whether you are a buyer or a seller.

Jan Schoenberger, a broker with Prudential Preferred advises, “The most important question that a potential seller should ask agents is concerning the history of their recent sales. Most specifically, how many days on average were their listings on the market and what was the final original list price to sale price ratio.”

If you are planning to sell a property, a seller’s agent is obliged to get the best deal for the seller. He/she is permitted to give potential buyers only material facts about the listing. Loyalty is to the seller, not the potential buyer.

On the other hand, if you find yourself in the market for a new home, a buyer’s agent is obligated to secure the best deal possible for the buyer. He/she is permitted to pass on any information obtained about the property or seller to his/her buying client.

According to the website Realtor.com, the following are some questions you should ask during your selection process when interviewing potential agents: Is he/she a REALTOR®?

Does the agent have an active real estate license in good standing?

To find this information, you can check with your state’s governing agency.

Does the agent belong to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and/ or a reliable online home buyer’s search service?

Multiple Listing Services are cooperative information networks of REALTORS® that provide descriptions of most of the houses for sale in a particular region.

Is real estate the person’s full-time career?

by Dana Black McGrath

What real estate designations does the agent hold?

t’s no secret that this is the time of year when more and more “for sale” signs start to dot neighborhood streets.Whether you are planning to buy or sell a home, build a new one or renovate a century-old one, upsize or downsize, chances are you will be looking for a real estate agent to help guide you through the process. Choosing the right professional to represent you is an important decision, one that could end up saving you money or adding to your bottom line. You need a seasoned professional to best represent your interests. But, when it comes to selecting an agent, one should realize that not all real estate agents are REALTORS®.

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) website explains that: “The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of NAR and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.” The organization is the nation’s largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members— including NAR’s institutes, societies and councils—involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. This is

Which party is he or she representing: you or the seller?

This discussion is supposed to occur early on, at “first serious contact” with you. The agent should discuss your state’s particular definitions of agency, so you’ll know where you stand.

In exchange for your commitment, how will the agent help you accomplish your goals? Show you homes that meet your requirements and provide you with a list of the properties he or she is showing you?

Schoenberger adds, “One statement that will always remain true about real estate anywhere, IT’S LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Be sure to contact your local realtor to get accurate facts and data about your particular marketplace.”

I

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Mars Area

Real Estate in Mars Area

Building Trends for Today

By Dana Black McGrath

I

t used to be that a first-floor laundry or home office was among some of the hottest home construction trends. Now that those are a standard more than a luxury, new home trends are emerging that reflect our changing needs as our lifestyle, culture and economy change with the times.

One major trend in homes of the last ten years is the addition of the home office. The internet and home computers have made it easier than ever for individuals to work from home.

Kathe Barge of Howard Hanna notes, “In high-end homes, a space for the office is expected.” More than just a cubicle with internet access, many home offices are designed with rich woods and leather furniture such as the office on the cover of this issue of IN Mars.

“When you work from home, it allows you to manage your stress level much better by setting your own schedule. You also become more productive because there are less interruptions and you can focus better on your work,” adds Barge.

Outdoor living spaces are another design essential for homes in Pittsburgh. In our region, many have embraced this trend by enhancing their outdoor space with comfortable outdoor furnishings and even outdoor kitchens.

Another off-shoot of this idea is the indoor/ outdoor room which allows individuals to experience nature while still in the comfort of their home. These rooms usually allow multiple uses, no matter what the weather is outside. The spaces are heated and cooled, but with largescale windows that seem to bring the outdoors inside. In some cases, the windows retract to

open up the room to the outdoors in warmer weather.

Consideration of costeffectiveness in building is another new trend. For instance, many new homes are rectangular because they are less expensive to build, innovative designs are cost-effective and efficient, and the trend is moving away from multiple odd roof lines that create unnecessary interior volumes; these are examples of ways to reduce construction and system costs for homeowners, according to the judges. These principles can be seen in many of the new construction developments around the Pittsburgh region.

Another trend is the elimination of the formal living room in favor of a flexible space or den that is adjacent to the kitchen and family room. Many who build new homes opt for only one “formal” room – rather than a formal living room and separate dining room. They choose one or the other, or use that space as an office or toy room instead.

Accommodations for multi-generational living have emerged as a result of a downturned economy and other cultural factors. Young adults are remaining with their parents or older retirees are choosing to move in with their adult children; both scenarios are frequently seen in our region, especially with the elevated population of senior citizens. Examples of this trend include homes equipped with two master suites, often with one of the suites situated on the ground floor.

Kitchens, long known to be the heart of the home and one of the most important design elements of any house, are also being impacted by new trends. Many designers are coming up with creative storage solutions to allow windows above the counter tops rather than cabinets, thus keeping the kitchen light and bright.

Green design concepts are finding their way into more and more new homes to save energy and reduce home operating costs.

Home construction and renovation projects embrace improvements such as energyefficient appliances, the use of recycled building products, solar elements, more efficient windows and even site considerations that take advantage of natural sunlight and shade for heating and cooling.

Our homes reflect our need to be more cognizant of the environment, the new way we work, the time we spend with our families and the desire to be closer to nature.

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

Come Home

to a P lace You Know www.venangotrails.com

By Pamela Palongue

T

he much anticipated and long awaited Venango Trails community is underway! Though this is a new neighborhood, visitors will likely feel at home from the moment they cross the threshold. The homes will be craftsmanstyled architecture with welcoming front porches and pleasant surroundings.

The community is located in Marshall Township and bounded

by Route 79 and the PA Turnpike, with easy access to Route 19.

Venango Trails endeavors to be the best new neighborhood in the Northern suburbs of Pittsburgh, with special consideration for the lifestyle and needs of its residents.

“We wanted the homes to feel like they had been there all along,” explains Brett A. Malky, President of EQA Landmark Communities, the development manager of the project. “We wanted the homes to be built with quality, the ways homes used to be constructed.”

Despite the fact that the homes will be built with the care and consideration that was taken years ago in construction, they are made for the way people live today. “We developed an e-Nook, which is a media center located right off of the kitchen.

Recognizing that preservation of the environment is also important to families today, the homes will be built with green construction standards. Trees and the existing lake and pond have been preserved and enhanced and a walking trail will be added to enjoy the natural surroundings.

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In an unprecedented move, the ownership group of Venango Trails has elected to contribute 88 acres to a local land trust, which will guarantee that the area will never be developed. Within this acreage is a portion of the historic Venango Trail, for which the neighborhood is named. A well-worn path cut by Native Americans, the trail was once used as a military road by George Washington and his troops.

“They could have developed it, but instead they chose to preserve this important area to ensure that it will be here for future generations,” adds Malky.

The neighborhood will also have a community center which will be multi-functional, with a kitchen, meeting rooms and a fitness center. “The community center will be a great gathering place for neighbors to get to know each other,” says Malky.

Venango Trails takes the definition of community seriously, that’s why they created an array of new home plans and house types that meet the needs of families and singles, as well as growing or aging families. The homes will come in a variety of price ranges (from the high $200’s to over $2 million) and sizes (from 1,700 to 8,000 Square feet), but all of them will come with an enclosed garage, Anderson double-paned windows,smart-wiring, and James Hardie Color Plus Hardboard siding among other great products. Another unique feature is that the first floor will have 10 ft. ceilings and the second floor ceilings will be 9 ft. This creates a feeling of space, making the interior area appear much larger, creating a light and airy living area.

Located at Route 79 and the PA Turnpike, with easy access to Route 19.

The single family offerings include Cottages, Artisan Homes as well as Park, Manor and Estate Homes in future phases. Cottage Homes will have a living area of 1900 to 2500 square feet and will be tailored to those individuals and families who do not need a large backyard space. The Artisan Homes have square footage starting around 2500 square feet and have larger yards for residents who enjoy gardening or may have pets.

The Village Town Homes and Village Homes are multi-family dwellings which will have a homeowners association to ensure that the quality of the home is maintained in every way.

with hundreds of people with several reservations having already been taken. Since the road was paved last week, traffic has been non-stop.”

The sales center of Venango Trails is located in the former golf course club house off of Freeport Road and is open 6 days a week. For more information about the neighborhood, please visit the website at www.venangotrails.com, or call Karyn Bunting at 412.638.2094.

In the second phase of Venango Trails, the Park, Manor and Estate Homes will be built which will offer the most square footage. They will feature upscale finishes and appliances in a luxurious setting.

All of the housing options are blended into one, seamless neighborhood. The community-feel didn’t happen by accident.

Malky explains,“We partnered with a nationally-known architectural firm to conduct a study of 500 homes in the region.

We wanted to know what residents were looking for and what was most important to them.”

The results are homes that have all the conveniences of modern technology with a vintage feel that marries nature, history and family living. Malky sums it up in saying, “They are built for the way you actually live.”

He adds that initial interest has been exceptional; “we opened our sales center a little over 2 weeks ago and have already visited Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

save

“Swing Into Summer�

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for Mars Home for Youth

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it benef er to uth drais o n y u f r a fo home mars , 7 p.m.

, 2012 June 15 Friday,od Golf Club, Wildwo ple Road, m 2195 Sa rk, PA 15101 Pa Allison

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M

ars Home for Youth is sponsoring its first fundraising gala, Swing into Summer, which will feature dinner, silent and live auctions, entertainment and dancing.

The event will take place on Friday, June 15, at the Wildwood Golf Club on Sample Road in Allison Park beginning at 7 p.m.

Mars Home for Youth (MHY) is over 130 years old and provides help to children and adolescents through residential, community-based and educational services.

A keynote address will be delivered by author Jessie B. Ramey, the 2010 winner of the John Heinz Dissertation Award.

MHY Executive Director Martin Harris is also expected to make a major announcement about the organization at the event.

For more information about MHY and Swing into Summer, please visit www. marshomeforyouth.org or call 724.625.3141.

Coffeehouse Art Gallery M

ars Area High School hosted its sixth annual Coffeehouse Gallery Art Showcase on Friday, May 4.

The event which was a juried art show, featured students’ creations such as paintings, ceramics and sculptures.

The Mars Area High School Orchestra Ensemble also entertained in the cafeteria.

The following students placed first in their genre: Maddie Salapow, sophomore, “SelfPortrait” for DRAWING Nick Schindler, senior, “Forest” for PAINTING Henry Barron, sophomore, “Untitled” for MIXED MEDIA Anna Rossword, Junior, “Upward” for PHOTOGRAPHY Nick Schindler,, senior, “DNA Tree” for SCULPTURE

Sophomores T.J. Pieffer and Allen Schaffer and the cast and crew of the video series “Room 133” earned a Special Purpose Award in recognition of their diligence and dedication to the anti-bullying cause. Lauren Schaper, sophomore, received the Viewers’ Choice Award for her photograph, “Rain.”

by Gabriella Fa bish

by Divine Cooper

Salina Smialek, senior, received the District Purchase Prize for her photograph, “Ladder;” and Gabriella Fabish, junior, received the Robinson Purchase Prize for her photograph, “Ghostown Road.” Both works will be framed and displayed at Mars Area High School.

Andrea Dean, junior, earned Best in Show for her shadowbox collage, “Create Art.”

by Amanda Sell

by Ivy Kuhrman

Unidentified Artwork

by Nikki Macri

by Kelsey McDonough

Congratulations to all Mars students for their exceptional creativity!

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

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Fairy Godmothers Host

Glass Slipper Ball to Help Women

by Kathy Rudolph

T

he Four Points Sheraton was transformed into a scene from Prince Charming’s castle. Greeted by Cinderella with the sound of angelic harp music, all of the senses were delighted, from the sweet treats offered at the Confectionary Café to the 20 stations of culinary delights and libations from many local chefs.

A stunning glass slipper ice sculpture and hundreds of vibrant floral arrangements showed the acute attention to detail by the volunteers. The 540 guests had fun participating in a silent auction of many donated gift baskets, dancing to the music by Airborne with Jim Jimerson and meeting local celebrity Jennifer Antkowiak, mistress of ceremonies.

Like the Cinderella character who lives in unfortunate circumstances and then is saved by her fairy godmother, the Zonta Three Rivers North Club volunteers have hosted the ball for nine years, helping the area’s economically challenged women.

“We are women helping women and advancing the status of women,” said Cindy Yingling, Glass Slipper Ball co-chair and North Allegheny Senior High School teacher. “All of the proceeds of the Glass Slipper Ball go to scholarships for women and girls in crisis situations who are trying to become self-sufficient....It’s wonderful and I love donating my time to helping those who are trying to help themselves.”

Founded in 1919, Zonta takes its name from the Lakota Sioux Indian word meaning “honest and trustworthy,” according to the organization’s website. Zonta is a worldwide service organization of 33,000 “executives in business and professions working together to advance the status of women.”

The Pittsburgh North chapter was established in 1980 and has raised over $350,000 from 2003 to 2010 for women’s scholarships through Hearth, Crisis Center North, North Hills Community Outreach, P.O.W.E.R., Girls Hope and women’s initiatives globally.

“We support so many different groups and it is great that we have the ability to do that,” said Linda Yon, cochair of the Glass Slipper Ball. “These girls and women in need want to be something more than what they currently are. The scholarships allow them to finish their education, go on for secondary education; whatever helps them get ahead in life and better themselves and that is our goal.”

To find out more about Zonta, visit the website at http://www.zontathreeriversnorth.com. New members and donations are welcome.

Jennifer Antkowiak, husband Joe Navarro, Carmello Wehrle and Tricia Egry Linda Von and Cindy Yingling, Co-chairs of The Glass Slipper Ball

Kathy Froehle, President of ZTRPN Sara Cunningham, Cinderella and North Allegheny Senior High School Club Member

Terry Hart and Chris Batista, ZTRPN Member

Teresa Alfonso, ZTRPN member and Kirk Alfonso

Lynne Braun-Warth, North Hills Community Outreach Board Member and Jeff Braun-Warth

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

Sports Injuries “The Power That Makes the Body, Heals the Body.”

C

hiropractic care has received much attention in regards to its successful management of sporting injuries. Since the majority of sports injuries are soft tissue in nature and because many of injuries arise from improper body biomechanics and improper sporting techniques, chiropractic doctors have become the doctors of choice - from the weekend warrior to the professional athlete.

According to an article in the June ‘98 issue of The Physician and Sports Medicine, “Interest in alternative or complementary medicine ‘especially chiropractic’ is booming... active patients are running to unconventional providers to treat their aches and pains... from chiropractors and acupuncture to magnets and meditation.”

It’s really quite simple. Chiropractic care - through the use of safe and natural spinal adjustive techniques, physical therapy applications, soft tissue mobilization, stretching and exercise programs, diet and nutritional counseling, and extensive biomechanical training - focuses on all causes which have lead to the symptoms of pain and tissue injury and do not focus on solely eliminating pain.

Successful treatments must focus not only on pain relief, but must address the underlying causes such as muscular imbalances, biomechanical deficiencies, improper sporting techniques, and improper conditioning, to name a few.

This Industry Insight was written by Dr. Curtis Clow Jr., D.C., Doctor of Chiropractic; Clow Chiropractic Center 101 Smith Drive, Suite 8 Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania 16066 www.clowchiropracticcenter.com 724.713.8388

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S

Mars Farmers Market

upport local farmers by purchasing fresh locally grown vegetables, fruits and herbs. The quaint outdoor market will be set up in the heart of Mars at 225 Crow Avenue across from the post office. The market will operate every Saturday from May through September from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

In addition to local produce, homemade breads, pies and other baked goods will be on sale. Honey, farm fresh eggs, jams, hot sauces, potted plants and fresh cut flowers will also be available for purchase. Local craftsmen will sell their wares, including beautiful jewelry.

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

Esther

the Musical Middlesex Woman Pens Musical about Esther

by Dana Black McGrath

Jeannie Allen

E

ven if you don’t recognize her name, chances are you have seen Jeannie Allen around town.

If you have not yet seen a performance of “Esther the Musical,” which she composed, you may have seen the accomplished pianist, vocalist and composer performing at a variety of venues in town and around the region. For 20 years, she played piano in the lobby of the Sheraton hotel in Cranberry. She also has played at the William Penn and former Hilton hotels in downtown Pittsburgh, as well as the PPG Wintergarden.

As a child, she started playing the violin at just 4 years old and began her piano training at age 7. “I was kind of a prodigy,” she modestly admits.

Originally from Seattle, Wash., Allen had been in the Pittsburgh area since 1972 and has lived in Middlesex Township since 1981. She studied at Seattle Pacific College and at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

She also has written nearly 100 songs and recorded five albums. Two of those albums were works of her own composition, contemporary Christian in style.

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Back in the 1980s and 1990s, she traveled the tri-state area performing and selling her albums. Her schedule was interrupted in 1993 when her son nearly died as the result of injuries he sustained in a car accident. Allen quit traveling and concentrated on taking her son to the hospital and rehabilitation center for appointments.

After a year of treatment, he was able to return to school.

“During that year, he made a commitment to the Lord that he was going to devote the rest of his life to serving the Lord and decided he wanted to become a minister,” Allen says. She devoted herself to helping her son achieve that goal, and he did.

A single mother since 1985, Allen also has five daughters. One of her daughters, Mary Phillips, plays the title role of Esther in Allen’s “Esther the Musical.” Another daughter, Kathryn Rickenback, who teaches music in the Pine-Richland School District, also performs in the show.

“Esther the Musical” was first performed six years ago at Mars Alliance Church. Since then, the full-scale production has been performed six times. After the initial performance, Allen was approached by Larry Stock of Butler County Community College and invited to perform the show at the school’s Succop Theater. The next year, the show returned to Mars Alliance then the following year returned to the Succop Theater. Last year the show was performed at Mt. Alvernia/the Sisters of St. Francis in Millvale. Most recently, in March, the sixth large-scale show was performed at Bakerstown First Presbyterian Church. Two of the performances have been benefits.

“It’s like a regular musical that you would see at the Benedum,” explains Allen. “There is scenery, beautiful costumes, choreography, dancing, singing, acting – the whole nine yards.”

Top left: Bob Norris, Jerry Gogolin, David Sloboda, and Mitch Tepper Below left: Mary Phillips as Esther Below: Jay Toogood Bottom right: Skip Cooper as Mordecai, and Sam Bartley

Performance time for the full production runs about two hours with a 15-minute intermission. An abbreviated version, with just the main characters in costume, also has been developed and runs about an hour.

There are 26 performers in the full cast, which has remained consistent over the years. “We are like a family,” Allen says. “We are really excited about doing it.”

The full-scale production includes 19 songs, all written by Allen. “I’ve been around a long while and have done a lot,” she says, “but writing a whole musical was a lot.”

The musical’s plot remains true to the Old Testament’s Book of Esther. A synopsis, described on the musical’s website, reads: “The script follows the setting of the Persian Empire 483 B.C. King Xerxes (Ahasuerus) had conquered all of the known world at that time with the exception of Greece. Jerusalem was destroyed and the Hebrews taken captive. From this scenario emerges the story of one lovely Jewish orphan girl who was raised by her older cousin Mordecai and then suddenly, without warning, taken to the harem at the king’s palace. There, she finds a destiny she would never have imagined! She eventually rises to become the Queen of Persia and saves her people from an impending holocaust.”

The key message of the show, Allen explains, comes from the scripture. “God puts you here for a specific reason,” she says. “There is something for you to do.”

One of the central songs in the show, “At This Time, In This Place,” conveys that God has a reason for everything.

When Allen is not busy with the production, she is active with the Mars/Cranberry chapter of Opus I, a group of music teachers. She also teaches at Noteworthy Music and at her home, and plays at private parties.

For more information about the show or to inquire about a performance, visit the website at www.theesthermusical.com.

Mars Area | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

Calvin Beidemen Nathan Schueller and Micah Beideman

Science Fair Winners from Mars

The innovative vision of some local kids may help to provide future solutions to problems that affect millions of people.

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