Winter 2010
ars Area COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Hats for Heroes Older Adults in Mars Area Mars Area School District Quarterly Newsletter Inside
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elcome to our winter issue! At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking that journey with us that was 2010. This year was one full of blessings for IN Community Magazines, as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, and with great success. For that, I would like to thank my staff. I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazine what it is – you, our readers, and our advertisers. Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support of IN Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed. So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2011 has to offer!
s the holiday season approaches, I hope you'll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of Mars Area. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things "community." As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don't forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the Mars Area community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at In Community Magazines, we hope your holiday will be filled with a good dose of of peace, a little bit of joy and surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor
PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com MANAGING EDITOR Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS Jonathan Barnes Karen Ferrieri Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue Sandy Trozzo Chris Weber
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ADVERTISING SALES Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Rob Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Jason Huffman Tara Reis Jessie Jones Vincent Sabatini Connie McDaniel Michael Silvert Brian McKee RJ Vighetti IN Mars Area, published four times a year, is carrier route mailed to all Adams, Mars, Middlesex, and Valencia households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010. 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
www.incommunitymagazines.com SPRING ISSUE DEADLINE: January 14, 2011
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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.
PHOTOGRAPHERS Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions
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universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you.
WINTER 2010
GRAPHIC DESIGN Cassie Brkich Joe Milne Susie Doak Tamara Tylenda Pati Ingold Tracey Wasilco Jan McEvoy
Wayne Dollard Publisher
Every piece of the
ars Area
Mars Area
Contents Mars Area | WINTER 2010 |
W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.
What’s Inside page 2
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Publisher’s Message FEATURE
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Taking the Fear Out of Pain After Surgery
25 page 3
© 2010 UPMC
The Difference a Number Can Make When the Snow Comes Down ... Should You Pick Up the Shovel?
page 4
Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
page 5
New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
page 6
When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready
page 7
Eat Healthy and Still Be Merry This Season
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Proud Young American
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Honors Those Who Died on 9-11-2001 | 22 |
Cardio Exercises
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Hats for Heroes
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Raises Money for Susan G. Komen Foundation | 36 COMMUNITY INTEREST
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Mars Area School District Quarterly Newsletter | 4
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UPMC Today
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Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 25 |
Older Adults in Mars Area
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Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation | 38
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
49
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IN KIDS
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Places of Worship
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You don’t have to live with painful varicose and spider veins
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Q & A with a Vein Specialist By Theresa Schneider | 47 |
Innovative Solutions to Common Gynecological Problems By Kristine R. Santerini, M.D. | 57
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
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PTI Preparing Students for a Networked Future
ON THE COVER
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Middle School Students from Mars Centennial School donate money for the opportunity to wear hats to school. Hats for Heros raised money for Breast Cancer Research.
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Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
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
Board Establishes Goals for District In planning for the future, Mars Area School Board has established a set of goals to help guide Mars Area School District in providing and maintaining a quality system of education. District goals are: 1. To enhance and improve the District’s technology framework; 2. To increase overall student achievement in kinder- Renovations to Mars Area High School’s Boys Varsity Baseball Field continue.The field is located along Davidson Road garten through 12th grade; adjacent to Mars Athletic Complex. 3. To continue to develop a District-wide system of curriculum alignment while increasing rigor and relMars Planet Foundation Board of Directors usually evance in all subject areas; and meets at 7 p..m. on the first Wednesday of each month at 4. To continue to promote a safe and drug-free school Mars Area School District Administration Office, 545 Route environment. 228, Mars, Pa. 16046. All meetings are open to the public. For more information, contact Anna Saker, Director of Moving forward, Mars Area School Board will present Pupil Services/Grant Writer, at (724) 898-1561, opt. 2. the goals to the District’s administration and staff members to further define the parameters under which the goals may be successfully achieved. For more information, call (724) 625-1518.
Foundation Board Organizes, Sets Mission Mars Planet Foundation Board of Directors held its inaugural meeting on Oct. 12 to elect its officers and establish the organization’s mission. The Board elected member Bonnie Weaver to serve as president; Wyatt Lee as vice president; Debbie Vogel as secretary; and Tammy Manjerovic as treasurer. Other Board members are Lee Myford, Erv Weischedel, Holly Wetherholt, Christine Stroup and Ross McConnell. Board members will approve all major decisions in regards to fund-raising and the allocation of funding. Mars Planet Foundation’s mission, as established by the Board, states that the organization “is dedicated to enriching, enhancing and supporting Mars Area School District’s endeavor in providing a challenging educational experience that maximizes the learning potential of every student and prepares them to succeed in the 21st Century.” The Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, will serve to develop, promote and finance educational programs, activities and projects within Mars Area School District. As a 501(c)(3), which is approved by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a tax-exempt, charitable organization, the foundation will be able to apply for specific grants and other private and public allocations. Moving forward, Board members are expected to define guidelines/restrictions for accepting and distributing funding; to develop forms/processes for allocating funds; and to devise methods for making donations to the Foundation.
Renovations Underway at Varsity Baseball Field Work on renovations to Mars Area High School’s Boys Varsity Baseball Field continue, as Mars Area School Board approved plans to renovate the field, located along Davidson Road adjacent to Mars Athletic Complex . As part of the project, the infield was moved back 15 feet and reconstructed to increase the distance from home plate to the outfield fence, said Tom Varner of S & S Processing Inc. All old fencing was removed and will be replaced, with the height of the backstop fence raised to 30 feet and the fence along the Mars Athletic Complex track boundary to 20 feet. A 12-foot warning track was located along the fence in the outfield, which was excavated to allow for the installation of new irrigation pipes and sprinklers, said Varner. The outfield was then re-seeded. Total cost of the project is $221,430.91. The District hopes to have work on the field completed before the start of the Spring 2011 baseball season. For more information, call (724) 625-1518.
District Offers Thanks for Removal of Bushes Mars Area School District would like to thank Robert Geyer of Geyer Construction, who volunteered to remove and dispose of the shrubs along Route 228 in front of Mars Area High School. The shrubbery, which was damaged under the weight of the heavy February snow, was excavated on July 26. The area has since been seeded while Mars Area School Board reviews options for landscaping the area. For details, 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
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 High School Renovation, Expansion Project Completed Work on the $12.3 million renovation and expansion project at Mars Area High School was completed in September. The project, which began in June 2009, included renovations to the entire building and demolition of the school’s rear wing, which was replaced with an expanded two-story classroom wing. The new wing includes numerous general education classrooms, two art rooms, a family & consumer science suite and five science classrooms as well as new pre-engineering and robotics classrooms. The main office was also relocated to newly constructed offices, located to the right of the school’s main entrance and the guidance/nurse’s office to a new area to the left of the main entrance. The school’s auxiliary auditorium was also converted into a LGI (large group instruction) room, a broadcast/ television studio, a classroom and a computer lab. As part of additional renovations to the existing building, the outer wall on both sides of the school’s front classroom wing were removed and replaced with a new brick exterior. On the interior, the school’s main hallways were painted and new lockers were installed. The entrance lobby was also completely renovated.
District Welcomes New Assistant Superintendent Matthew B. Friedman has joined the staff of Mars Area School District as Assistant Superintendent of Instruction & Technology. Friedman replaces Dr. Sharon Kamicker, former assistant superintendent who retired at the end of the 2009-2010 school year. He holds a superintendent’s letter of eligibility from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania; a master’s degree in public policy and management/educational leadership from Carnegie Mellon University; a master’s degree in education from Duquesne University; and a bachelor’s degree in political science/communications from the University of Pittsburgh. Friedman comes to Mars Area from Keystone Oaks School District where he served as supervisor of curriculum/instruction and staff development, a member of the district’s negotiating team, lead administrator for developing a strategic plan, an assistant middle school principal, and as activities coordinator. He has also worked as a ninth grade teacher in Penn Hills School District.
Board OKs Elementary School Addition Project Mars Area School Board approved plans for an approximately $2.8 million, 10-classroom addition to Mars Area Elementary School.
Visitors to Mars Area High School’s Building Open House on Sept. 12 check out one of the school’s new science labs. Photos by Josh Schwoebel
One of several business education classrooms are located in Mars Area High School’s new wing. At left, the school’s entrance lobby and hallways were completely renovated.
And, the overall project also included a new roof on the school and paving of the school’s parking areas. For more information, call (724) 625-1581 or to view construction photos, visit www.marsk12.org.
The 14,000-square-foot addition to the northern corner of the building will include five new classrooms, boys and girls bathrooms, and a small storage space on each of the school’s two floors, said Bob Marz of Roth Marz Partnership. The project will also include a 1,000-square foot expansion of the school’s cafeteria. The building is at capacity with every available classroom and additional space in use by students and teachers, said Dr. William Pettigrew, superintendent. The school houses more than 700 second- through fourthgraders. Board members are also considering plans to build a driveway connecting the school to Three Degree Road. The driveway may also serve as an access road for construction vehicles during the project. For more information, call (724) 625-1518.
District Bids Farewell to Long-Time Employee Mars Area School District said goodbye to long-time secretary Mary Emmett in August, as she retired after 44 years with the District. Emmett, who began her career as a secretary at Mars Area High School in 1966, moved to the position of Mars Area School District Business Office secretary in 1988. In addition to working at the District, Emmett also served as a part-time police officer for Adams Township Police Department for 23 years. She retired from the department in 2008.
Parks & Recreation Study Ends Without Agreement As Adams Township officials have opted out of participation in a proposed intergovernmental agreement for a community-wide parks and recreation plan, Mars Area Community Council’s Parks & Recreation Study Committee has decided to end its discussions without a final agreement between the remaining municipalities. As stated in an Aug. 24 letter from Adams Township Board of Supervisors to Kim Geyer, Mars Area School Board president and committee member, the township will “no longer participate in the peer study group and will not be signing an agreement that would form a joint parks and recreation commission… (The board members) do not feel this particular program will benefit the taxpayers they represent.” In July, Adams Township officials raised concerns with a proposed agreement that would require a five-year commitment to the program and objected to plans for a commission to supervise a parks and recreation director who would be hired through a Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR) grant. Whether or not a commission is established, some type of group would be needed to collect and manage municipal contributions and to oversee payroll and expenditures, said Bob Good of Pashek Associates. And, a five-year commitment is required to obtain approximately $100,000 in DCNR grant funding for a parks and recreation director. Without a five-year agreement, the program would need to be funded entirely by the participating municipalities, noted Good. “We cannot in good faith proceed forward without the commitment of officials from Adams Township in meeting the goals and objectives of the (study committee),” said Geyer. “It’s simply unaffordable for the remaining core municipalities.” At the study committee’s Aug. 25 meeting, members representing Mars and Valencia boroughs noted that their respective municipalities would, most likely, not be interested in continuing without Adams Township’s participation. “This is a lost opportunity to demonstrate to the entire community through actions and not just words that ‘multimunicipal cooperation’ exists amongst locally elected leaders of the Mars Area community,” said Geyer, noting that the objective of the study was simply to find a solution to the increasing demand for parks and recreation programs that would benefit residents of all four municipalities. The committee will now provide a final report to DCNR, which awarded the group a $10,000 DCNR “peerto-peer project” grant to conduct the initial study, said Good. The committee’s discussions will be kept on file if, in the future, the municipalities wish to reconsider an agreement.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
district news
District Welcomes New Teachers, Staff Members Several new faces joined the staff of Mars Area School District at the start of the 2010-2011 school year. New teachers/staff members are:
High School Erica Nigro is a family and consumer science teacher at Mars Area High School. Nigro is a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a degree in family and consumer science education. She previously served as Richard Schoeffel Ryan Siniawski Maegan Fabanich Lisa Ausefski Jaime Bresnei Erica Nigro a substitute teacher and completed her student teaching at Penn-Trafford High School. She is a resident of tion and a master’s degree in instructional technology. She has Schietroma holds a bachelor’s degree in business adminNorth Huntingdon. previously worked as a fourth and fifth grade teacher at Lone istration (marketing/management) from Slippery Rock Richard S. Schoeffel is a physical education/health Star Elementary School in Duval County, Fla., and as a long- University. She previously worked in international business as teacher at Mars Area High School. term substitute second grade teacher at Hampton Township a customs compliance administrator. Schoeffel holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education/ School District. health from Slippery Rock University. He previously served as Administration She and her husband, Alan, live in Shaler Township. substitute teacher at Mars Area School District and as a sumStephanie Cooperis a fourth grade teacher at Mars Area Dale Riley is a technology administrative assistant in mer school physical education teacher at Butler Area School Elementary School. Mars Area School District’s Administration Office. District. Cooper, who holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary Riley, who holds an associate’s degree in computer netHe lives in Evans City with his wife, Cheryl. The couple education from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, previous- working from ITT Technical Institute, previously worked for has two grown children and two grandchildren. Ryan Siniawski is a technology education teacher and ly served as a long-term substitute teacher of kindergarten at Armstrong Cable and Brunner Blackstone & Associates. He North Hills School District and second grade at Butler Area lives in Mars. television broadcast director at Mars Area High School. Siniawski, who holds a bachelor’s degree from the Califor- School District. She is a resident of Ross Township. Randy Smith is an assistant maintenance supervisor in Theresa Eshenbaugh is a long-term substitute second Mars Area School District’s Administration Office. nia University of Pennsylvania, worked as a technology education teacher at Beaver Falls High School. He is a resident of grade teacher at Mars Area Elementary School. Smith previously served as a transportation supervisor for Eshenbaugh, who holds a bachelor’s degree in elemen- LIFE Butler County and as a program supervisor for ComWest Homestead. Maegan Fabanich is a part-time autistic support teacher tary education and early childhood education from Clarion munity Care Connections. He lives in Butler with his wife, at Mars Area High School, Mars Area Middle School and University of Pennsylvania, is also working toward a degree in Sarah, and their four children, Lauren, Stacie, Andy and Adam. middle-level mathematics education. She previously served as Mars Area Centennial School. A graduate of Clarion University of Pennsylvania, a student teacher of kindergarten at Mars Area Primary Office of Special Education Fabanich has previously taught fifth grade special education at Center and fourth grade at Mars Area Elementary School. Candace Mathews is a secretary in Mars Area School Eagle Heights Academy in Youngstown, Ohio. She also She is a resident of Shaler Township. District’s Office of Special Education. served as student teacher at Mars Area School District. Primary Center Mathews previously worked in the accounting departShe and her husband, Phil, live in Baden. ment at George Moving & Storage. She lives in Middlesex Debi Kravets is an autistic support teacher at Mars Area Middle School Township with her husband, Phil, and their two children, Primary Center and Mars Area Elementary School. Lisa Ausefski is a seventh/eighth grade gifted support Kravets, who holds a bachelor’s degree in communica- Alyssa and Ethan. teacher at Mars Area Middle School. tions and master’s degree in elementary education from ❖❖❖ Ausefski, who holds a bachelor’s degree from Westmin- University of Pittsburgh, is working toward a master’s degree In addition, Anastasia Andronus, who previously served ster College, is a 2006 graduate of Mars Area High School. She in special education from Slippery Rock University. previously worked for Wesley Spectrum Services and She previously taught fifth grade at Marshall Elementary as a long-term substitute fourth grade teacher at Mars Area National Signal Technology Inc. She is a resident of Adams School in North Allegheny School District and served as a Elementary School, has taken over the position as a full-time Township. long-term substitute seventh/eighth grade math teacher in teacher. Tammy Mitchell, a former fourth grade teacher at Mars Highlands School District. She also worked as a behavior speElementary School Area Elementary School, moved to Mars Area Centennial cialist consultant for SharpVisions Inc. in Pittsburgh. Jaime Bresnei is a third grade teacher at Mars Area School as a fifth grade teacher. And, Julie Clifton, a former She and her husband, Matt, live in Hampton Township. Elementary School. Susan Schietroma is a paraprofessional/personal care gifted support teacher at Mars Area Middle School, is now a Bresnei holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary educa- aide at Mars Area Primary Center. seventh grade language arts teacher at the school.
Stephanie Cooper Theresa Eshenbaugh 6
Mars Area
Debra Kravets
Susan Schietroma
Dale Riley
Randy Smith
Candace Mathews
what’s happening Parent Training Workshops
Fall Craft Show
Holiday Concerts
Mars Area School District Office of Special & Gifted Education will offer parent training workshops on the following dates: ❖ Tuesday, Nov. 16 — “Beyond High School,” 6:30 p.m. at Mars Area High School library ❖ Wednesday, Jan. 19 — “On to High School,” 6:30 p.m. at Mars Area Middle School LGI room ❖ Tuesday, March 22 — “Speech & Language Development,” 6:30 p.m. at Mars Area Primary Center.
Mars Area High School’s AFS/MISA Chapter and Mars Area Foundation for Educational Excellence (MAFEE) will hold its 2010 Fall Craft Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20, at Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area High School. For more information, contact Bonnie at (724) 5383397.
Mars Area School District will offer a variety of holiday concerts in December: ❖ Tuesday, Dec. 7 — High School Chorus Concert, 6:30 p.m. (724) 625-1581 ❖ Monday, Dec. 13 — High School Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. (724) 625-1581 ❖ Wednesday, Dec. 15 — Middle School Band, Chorus & Orchestra Concert, 6:30 p.m. ❖ Thursday, Dec. 16 — Centennial School Band, Chorus & Orchestra Concert (Grade 5, 6 p.m.; Grade 6, 7:30 p.m.)
For more information, call (724) 898-1561, opt. 1.
PTO Holiday Stores Mars Area Elementary PTO will offer Holiday Stores at Mars Area’s elementary schools in December: ❖ Mars Area Primary Center — Thursday and Friday, Dec. 2-3 (724) 625-1588 ❖ Mars Area Elementary School — Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 6-7 (724) 625-3161 ❖ Mars Area Centennial School — Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 8-9 (724) 625-2601
Thanksgiving Break Mars Area School District will hold its 2009 Thanksgiving Break, Thursday through Monday, Nov. 25-29. Students and staff members will return to school on Tuesday, Nov. 30. For more information, call (724) 6251518.
Ensemble Visits
All performances will be held in Mars Area High School auditorium. For more information, call the individual school buildings.
Winter Break
Members of Mars Area High School’s Chamber Ensemble and String Orchestra will offer holiday performances on Friday, Dec. 17, at Mars Area Middle School, Mars Area Centennial School and Mars Area Elementary School . For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
For more information, contact the individual school building.
Mars Area School District will hold its Winter Break from Friday, Dec. 24, through Friday, Dec. 31. An Act 80 Day will be held on Thursday, Dec. 23, therefore there will be no school for students. Students and staff members will return to school on Monday, Jan. 3. For more information, call (724) 625-1518.
events at a glance NOVEMBER NOV. 10
NOV. 11 NOV. 12 NOV. 16
NOV. 17 NOV. 18 NOV. 19 NOV. 20
NOV. 22 NOV. 24 NOV. 25-29 NOV. 30
High School Blood Drive, 8 a.m.to 1 p.m.; Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School; High School AFS/MISA Chapter Meeting, 7 p.m. No School — In-Service Day (Parent Conferences — Grades K-12) No School — Act 80 Day (Staff Development) Elementary School Second Grade Parent Visitation Day; Special Education Parent Training, “Beyond High School,” 6:30 p.m. @ High School Elementary School Third Grade Parent Visitation Day Elementary School Fourth Grade Parent Visitation Day High School Fall Play, 7:30 p.m. @ Auditorium AFS/MISA Fall Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. @ High School & Middle School; High School Fall Play, 7:30 p.m. @ Auditorium High School Financial Aid Night, 6:30 p.m. High School 2011Yearbook Sale Ends Thanksgiving Break High School Treasures for Children Program Ends
DEC. 8-9 DEC. 11 DEC. 13 DEC. 14 DEC. 15 DEC. 16
DEC. 17 DEC. 20 DEC. 21 DEC. 22
DECEMBER DEC. 1 DEC. 2-3 DEC. 3
DEC. 4 DEC. 6-7 DEC. 8
High School Winter Coat Drive Begins PTO Holiday Store @ Primary Center Middle School Parent Advisory Board Meeting, 9:15 a.m.; Middle School Spirit Dance/Activity Night, 7 to 9:30 p.m. SAT Test Date PTO Holiday Store @ Elementary School Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School; High School FBLA Regional Leadership Online Testing Begins
DEC. 23 DEC. 24-31 DEC. 29
PTO Holiday Store @ Centennial School ACT Test Date @ High School; High School FBLA Regional Leadership Online Testing Ends High School Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. @ Auditorium Middle School Band, Chorus & Orchestra Assembly, 8:30 a.m. Middle School Band, Chorus & Orchestra Concert, 6:30 p.m. @ High School Auditorium Middle School Holiday Caroling; High School FBLA Regional Leadership Conference; Centennial School Band, Chorus & Orchestra Concert (Grade 5, 6 p.m.; Grade 6, 7:30 p.m.) @ High School Auditorium High School String Ensemble & Chamber Ensemble Visits to Mars Area Schools Middle School Holiday Caroling High School Student Council Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Elementary School Holiday Party, 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.; Primary Center Holiday Party, AM Kindergarten, 10:15 to 11 a.m.; Grades K-1, 2 to 3 p.m.; Centennial School Holiday Party, Grade 5, 1 to 2 p.m.,Grade 6, 2 to 3 p.m. No School — Act 80 Day (Staff Development) No School — Winter Break Mars Area Alumni Basketball Games @ High School
JAN. 12 JAN. 17 JAN. 19
JAN. 22 JAN. 24 JAN. 26 JAN. 27 JAN. 28
FEBRUARY FEB. 3 FEB. 4 FEB. 8 FEB. 9 FEB. 11
FEB. 12 FEB. 14
JANUARY JAN. 6 JAN. 7 JAN. 8
High School Winter Coat Drive Ends Middle School Parents Advisory Board Meeting, 9:15 a.m. AFS/MISA Chapter Ski Trip
High School AFS/MISA Chapter Meeting, 7 p.m. No School — In-Service Day (Staff Development) High School Blood Drive, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Special Education Parent Training , “On to High School,” 6:30 p.m. @ Middle School; Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School SAT Test Date @ High School High School Parent/Principal Communication Connection Meeting, 7 p.m. @ Cafeteria End of Second Nine Weeks No School — In-Service Day (Clerical Day) High School “Making College Search Count” Assembly for Juniors, 8 a.m.
FEB. 16 FEB. 21 FEB. 28
Spring Sports Physicals, 8 a.m. @ Middle School Middle School Parent Advisory Board Meeting, 9:15 a.m. Middle School Seventh/Eighth Grade Girls Volleyball Practice Begins High School AFS/MISA Chapter Meeting, 7 p.m. Elementary School Valentine’s Day Party, 2 to 3 p.m.; Middle School Spirit Dance/Activity Night, 7 to 9:30 p.m. ACT Test Date Primary Center Valentine’s Day Party, AM Kindergarten, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.; Grades K-1, 2 to 3 p.m. Market Day Pick-up, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. @ Elementary School. No School — Act 80 Day (Staff Development) Primary Center Read Across America Week Begins
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
Preparing Students for a Future in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
M
ars Area School District is moving forward into the 21st Century with a renewed focus on the District’s Technology Education curriculum. Technology Education has evolved from traditional Industrial Arts, which focuses on specific hands-on skill sets such as woodworking, metalworking and mechanical drawing. Technology Education is the study of technological systems, which provides an opportunity for students to learn about the processes and knowledge related to technology. As a study, Technology Education covers the human ability to shape and change the physical world to meet needs by manipulating materials and tools with techniques. Mars Area School District has adopted an underlying department theme, the Engineering Design Process, and is focused on cross-curricular STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) education. “People still equate (technology education teachers) to traditional Industrial Arts teachers,” says Ray Machusko, Mars Area High School TechnolMars Area Middle School students ogy Education teacher. use a variety of equipment in their Technology Education classes as “While we have kept the part of the school’s Engineering by roots based in Industrial Arts, Design curriculum. we have adopted the new
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Mars Area
methodology of STEM into all aspects of our curriculum.” With a new focus on the inter-relationships between science, technology, engineering and mathematics, Technology Education has become the optimal venue for applying practical solutions to real world problems. As part of the recent renovations to Mars Area High School, specific classrooms were dedicated for robotics and pre-engineering courses. And, Mars Area High School now offers numerous Technology Education courses for students in ninth through 12th grades, including Foundations of Technology, Foundations of Design, Advanced Design, Materials Processing I/Technology Education, Materials Processing II, Manufacturing Technologies I, Manufacturing Technologies II, Robotics I, Robotics II, Broadcast Media I, Broadcast Media II and Engineering by Design. Mars Area High School’s approach to the Engineering Design Process enables students to follow an interest-based tract of study to prepare them for their desired profession, trade or future endeavors. All ninth-graders are required to take the school’s Foundations of Technology course, which exposes all incoming high school students to the school’s various Technology Education programs and resources. “We provide our students with real world, problemsolving skills,” says Machusko. “The content and training that they receive will create an easy transition into either a college or real-world setting.” Students at Mars Area High School have access to stateof-the-art, industry-standard software and advanced equipment for design, graphics, multimedia, broadcasting and manufacturing. New equipment at Mars Area High School this year includes a laser engraver, three-dimensional printer and a CNC machine. “Mars Area High School’s departmental focus has evolved from standard technical preparedness into an engineering-based curriculum,” says Machusko. “This gives us the opportunity to better prepare those students interested in a future in both technical and professional fields.” With the implementation of new technologies and courses such as Robotics, advanced CNC applications and prototyping, Mars Area High School’s Technology Education department has already experienced growth in
On Course Mars Area School District offers various Technology Education courses for students in seventh through 12th grades Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area High School. Course offerings are as follows: Middle School Engineering by Design(mandatory in seventh grade; optional in eighth grade) High School Foundations of Technology (mandatory for all ninth-graders) Foundations of Design Advanced Design Materials Processing I/Tech. Ed. Materials Processing II Manufacturing Technologies I Manufacturing Technologies II Robotics I Robotics II Broadcast Media I Broadcast Media II Engineering by Design
Ryan Siniawski, a technology education teacher at Mars Area High School, shows students how to use the school’s new laser engraver.
some areas, while a significant overall growth is projected after the new curriculum have been fully implemented. Mars Area High School is continually exploring the latest technologies and trends in Technology Education, technical colleges and industry to constantly adjust course offerings to meet the wants, needs and interests of its students. While full exposure to the District’s Technology Education curriculum occurs at the High School level, students are introduced to all aspects of STEM education as part of the Technology Education curriculum at Mars Area Middle School. Mars Area Middle School’s Technology Education curriculum is derived from a standards-based Engineering by Design model that enables students to learn concepts and principles in a problem-based environment, says Curtis Funkhouser, Mars Area Middle School Technology Education teacher. The seventh grade Engineering by Design curricu-
lum at Mars Area Middle School is one of eight pilot programs being offered across the country. The school’s Introduction to Technology Engineering by Design course is mandatory for all students in seventh grade. As part of the course, students are placed into design teams and asked to brainstorm; develop a solution to the problem at hand; construct a prototype; and test and evaluate the prototype using the same methods as industry engineers. “We don’t give a set of plans to students and require them to build the same old thing,” says Funkhouser, noting that students are encouraged to employ their critical-thinking skills. If a student is asked to build a chair, he would look at the height and shape of current designs to determine why it is built to specific requirements, says Funkhouser. Students may also study other designs or develop a survey to determine other opinions about the design, then work to create a more ergonomic chair. The middle school’s eighth grade Technology Education curriculum includes units on manufacturing, balsawood tower engineering and catapult design, however; the classes are optional for eighth-graders at the school. Mars Area Middle School is always working to incorporate the best practices and latest trends as well as to implement standards from other areas of the curriculum including language arts, mathematics and science, says Funkhouser. “We live in a technological era that is constantly evolving. Without exposure to these technologies and processes, our student population would be lacking fundamentals to be competitive in future education or the work force,” says Machusko. For more information, call (724) 625-1581. Using Mars Area High School’s CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) lab, a student works on a design that he will later send to the school’s new laser engraver.
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
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Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Dana Wonderly, senior, is crowned Mars Area High School’s 2010 Homecoming Queen.
Mars Area High School held its 2010 Homecoming celebration in October. The week kicked off with the High School’s annual Powder Puff Football Games. The juniors team dominated the event, finally defeating the seniors 14-6. Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of Homecoming activities, including themed days, a banner contest, Penny Wars and the Mr. Mars High competition. Freshman Allen Shaffer earned the crown in the Mr. Mars High pageant, in which one student from each class participated in formal wear, question and answer, and talent competitions. Other participants were Chris Blahnik, sophomore; Harrison Walter, junior; and Patrick Duffy, senior. The freshman class triumphed over the week’s competition, earning the coveted Spirit Stick. Hundreds were in attendance at the annual Homecoming parade through downtown Mars. The parade was followed by the Homecoming football game, at which the Mars Area Fightin’ Planets defeated the Highlands Golden Rams 21-0. At halftime, senior Dana Wonderly was crowned the 2010 Homecoming Queen. At the Homecoming Dance, senior Cameron Ozarski was named 2010 Homecoming King. Theme of the dance was “A Night to Shine.” Other members of Mars Area High School’s 2010 Homecoming Court are Dennis Riosa, Tyler Odom, Dylan Bear, Alex Perri, Shane Smith, Justin Stevens, Dominic Cosentino, John Peterson, Valentina Kuttnig, Jenn Hulse, Nicole Soose, Kathleen Kraus, Sammi Rosswog, Sasha Mathews, Alexandra Zortman and junior Kira Mattina. 10
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(Clockwise from left) Mars Area High School cheerleaders show their school spirit in the 2010 Homecoming Parade; court members Cameron Ozarski and Kathleen Kraus toss candy to the crowd; teacher James Frank prepares to get a pie in the face at the school’s Homecoming Pep Rally; members of Mars Area High School Marching Band join in the Homecoming Parade; freshman Allen Shaffer is crowned Mr. Mars High 2010; and, the juniors and seniors battle it out in the final game of the annual Powder Puff Football Games.
Members of Mars Area High School’s 2010 Homecoming Court are (back row, from left) Dennis Riosa, Tyler Odom, Dylan Bear, Alex Perri, Shane Smith, Justin Stevens, Dominic Cosentino, Cameron Ozarski and John Peterson. In the front row are (from left) Valentina Kuttnig, Jenn Hulse, Nicole Soose, Dana Wonderly, Kathleen Kraus, Sammi Rosswog, Sasha Mathews, Alexandra Zortman and junior Kira Mattina.
high school Senior Spending Year Abroad in Austria Sarah Baehr, a senior at Mars Area High School, is spending a year in Austria as part of Mars Area High School’s AFS/MISA (American Field Service/Mars International Student Association) cultural exchange program. When Sarah was trying to decide what classes to take at Mars Area High School this school year, her guidance counselor, Mark Varlotta, asked if she had ever considered participating in the exchange program. “It is a big commitment and I had never thought about it before. As time passed … I realized that I needed a change and this would be an awesome opportunity for me,” says Sarah, 17, who received a partial scholarship for her trip from the Mars Area AFS/MISA Chapter. “I selected Austria because I wanted to go to a country where I could work on my German. Austria just seemed so beautiful and different from the United States, so I decided it was a good fit.” On Sept. 1, Sarah left her home in Mars for the small town of Wernberg, located 15 kilometers outside the city of Villach, Austria. Sarah’s host family includes her host father and mother and three host sisters, two of who are grown and no longer live at home. “My host family is great. We are interested in many of the same things and … they help me with my German,” says Sarah, noting that she is also glad she could be placed with a vegetarian family, as she does not eat meat. Sarah and her host sister, Vici, travel to Villach each day to attend school, where her host father teaches geography and physical education. School is different in Austria in that the students remain in the same room each day, while the teachers rotate between classes, she says. Austrian culture is also very different, as Austrians are more reserved than Americans, says Sarah. The country’s official language is German and the Euro is the common currency, which Sarah prefers because the size of the coin or bill correlates to the amount each is worth. “The bigger the coin the more its worth and the same goes for paper money,” she says. While in Austria, Sarah hopes to improve upon her German language skills as well as to travel around the country and, possibly, to spend some time in neighboring Italy. In addition to Sarah, numerous Mars Area High School students have traveled abroad through the AFS/MISA exchange program during its more than 40year history in Mars Area School District. Mars Area graduate Andrew Dorsch (Class of 2010) received a full AFS scholarship for a year-long stay in Germany. And, 2010 Mars Area graduate Rachael Becker, earned a full scholarship through the U.S. Department of State National Strategic Language Initiative to travel to
High School Names 2010 Valedictorian, Salutatorian Mars Area graduates Camille Plesniak and Marla Crawford have been named as the valedictorian and salutatorian of the Class of 2010, respectively. Plesniak is attending the University of Pittsburgh this fall. At Mars Area High School, she was president of National Honor Society and a Mars Area School Board representative for Student Council.
AFS/MISA Chapter to Meet Mars Area High School’s AFS/MISA (American Field Service/Mars International Student Association)Chapter will meet at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 13. Anyone interested in learning more about available cultural exchange programs or about housing an exchange student is encouraged to attend. Mars Area’s AFS/MISA Chapter usually meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. For more information, contact Scott McCarthy, AFS/MISA sponsor, at (724) 625-1581. Beijing, China, for a year as part of the American Councils exchange program. And, this year, Mars Area High School is hosting four exchange students including senior John Petersen and junior Kira Mattina from Germany, senior Valentina Kuttnig from Austria, and senior Dennis Riosa from Italy. AFS offers more than 140 programs in 40 countries and approximately $1.5 million annually in scholarship funds, says Scott McCarthy, a Spanish teacher at Mars Area High School and sponsor of the school’s AFS/MISA Chapter. The Mars Area AFS/MISA Chapter is an international exchange program that welcomes high school students She also served on Class Council, as a peer tutor, and was captain of the Girls Varsity Volleyball Team. Plesniak received the United States Marine Corp Scholastic Excellence Award, the Thomas J. Watson Memorial Scholarship and a four-year scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh. Crawford is attending the honors program St. Vincent’s College this fall as she majors in biology with a focus in optometry. At Mars Area High School, Crawford was a member of the Girls Varsity Golf Team, Class
from around the globe and offers scholarships to eligible students who are interested in traveling abroad. “Programs prepare students for living and working abroad in an increasingly global society,” says McCarthy. In addition, Mars Area’s AFS/MISA Chapter, in cooperation with Mars Area Foundation for Educational Excellence (MAFEE), sponsors an annual Mars Fall Craft Show. This year’s craft show will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20, at Mars Area High School and Mars Area Middle School. Each spring, the chapter also welcomes foreign exchange students from Mars Area High School and surrounding school districts to participate in its annual International Days. As part of the event, exchange students share information about their countries and cultures with students at Mars Area High School and Mars Area Middle School. The Mars Area AFS/MISA Chapter usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month during the school year. (The chapter does not meet in December.) The chapter’s next meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 12, at Mars Area High School. Families interested in learning about other cultures by hosting students from other countries during the 20112012 school year are encouraged to attend the chapter’s next meeting. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
Council and Interact Club. She was inducted into National Honor Society in her sophomore year and served as the secretary in her senior year. Crawford achieved Honor Roll during all four years of high school and received the Exxon Mobil Scholarship and an academic scholarship to St. Vincent’s College. For more information on the High School’s valedictorian, salutatorian and honors selection process, visit www.marsk12.org.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
high school Photos by Josh Schwoebel
“I thought this would be a great idea to do at Mars,” says Bryan, who along with several student volunteers placed 2,977 flags along Route 228 in front of Mars Area High School after school on Sept. 10. The flags remained in place throughout the day on Sept. 11. “After all of these years, Sept. 11 victims are being forgotten in America,” says Bryan. “(This project is) not about being a democrat. It’s not about being a republican. It’s about being an American.” For more information, visit www.yaf.org.
High School to Present “Trouble in Tumbleweed’ Bryan Thomas (right), a junior at Mars Area High School, places 2,977 American flags along Route 228 in front of Mars Area High School as part of a special project to remember the victims Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Project Commemorates Victims of Sept. 11 Attacks
Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Mars Area junior Bryan Thomas completed a project to remember the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. “It’s about all of those who died on that horrific day in America,” says Bryan, 16, of Mars, who learned about the 9/11: Never Forget Project at a Young America’s Foundation conference, held earlier this year in Grove City. As part of the project, participants are asked to create a memorial consisting of 2,977 American flags, one for each person who died in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Debra Lanzarotta of Susan G. Komen for the Cure presents the Top Fund-Raiser School Team Challenge Public School award to Mars Area High School teacher James Frank.
Race Team Named Top Event Fund-raiser Mars Area High School’s Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Team received an award as the Top Fundraiser School Team Challenge Public School for the 18th annual Komen Pittsburgh Race for the Cure held May 2010. The team raised $11,472.88 to benefit the cause during the 2010-2011 school year. Debra Lanzarotta, Susan G. Komen for the Cure director of volunteer service, presented the “Mars Schools Miracle Marchers” with a plaque denoting the honor on Oct. 8. 12
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Mars Area High School will present the comedy, “Trouble in Tumbleweed” by Tim Kelly, at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 19 and 20, in the auditorium. In the 1880s, Mayor Oates (played by Zach Dorsch) has been hired by a Boston businessman to build a town that will one day be the capital of the Arizona Territory. However, Oates employs his incompetent relatives to run the town, but the family members, who have been pocketing the businessman’s money, begin to panic when word is received that a Pinkerton detective is coming to investigate. When Medicine Show huckster Professor Burns (Ryan Miller) becomes stranded in the town, the family assumes he is the detective and Burns is all too happy to oblige their mistake. With the help of the beautiful Lily de Lilac (Alexandra Zortman), the family stops at nothing to bribe Burns until the real detective turns up.
Other cast members are Nicholas Ashmore as Lawyer Maxwell, Michelle Flynn as Miranda Oates, Alex Manalo as Gert, Kathleen Kraus as Electra, Maria Albensi as Julie Oates, Cody Moody as Sheriff Plunkett, Katie Williams as Almira Sessions, Mark Gaynord as Doc Snipes, Troy Giel as Gilroy Cavender, Phil Lowry as Harry Dobbs, Kara Angeletti as Victoria Dobbs, Grace Morgan as Opal Crabtree, Paige Mundy as Mrs. Baywater, Chris Hardt as Luther, Kate Rodriguez as Ottillie Dobbs, Julie Koenig as Antoinette Dobbs, and Abbi Wright as Widder Haskins. Student director is Carly Rodriguez and stage crew members are Greg Leysens, Danni Double, Kevin Shebek and Samantha Woodward. Tickets are $3 and are available for purchase at Mars Area High School. (No reserved seating). For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
PMEA Honors Chorus Three members of Mars Area High School Chorus were selected by solo audition to perform in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 5 Honors Chorus Festival, held Nov. 4-6, at Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pa. Senior Christi Blahnik and juniors Philip Lowry and Troy Giel were chosen to perform alongside 80 students from more than 50 school districts. Dr. Grace Muzzo, York College director of choral activities served as guest conductor.
Renaissance Breakfast
Winter Coat Drive
Mars Area High School will hold a Renaissance Breakfast from 7:52 to 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 18, in the cafeteria. The event will honor those students with perfect attendance and positive school behavior during the first nine weeks of the 2010-2011 school year. Activities will include a continental breakfast, guest speakers and door prizes. For more information, contact Dale Sleva Jr., Mars Area High School assistant principal, at (724) 625-1581.
Mars Area High School Student Council is holding its annual Winter Coat Drive from Wednesday, Dec. 1, through Thursday, Jan. 6. The school is collecting new and gently used hats, gloves, boots and coats to be donated to students and families in need to help keep them warm during the cold winter months. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
‘Treasures for Children’ Mars Area High School Student Council will accept donations for its 2010 Treasures for Children Program through Tuesday, Nov. 30. The program, held in partnership with Butler County Salvation Army, provides children and families in need in and around the area with gifts during the holidays. Donations may be dropped off at the high school during school hours. Monetary contributions will also be accepted. For more information, contact Dr. Tina Bigante or Tanis Rose, Student Council advisors, at (724) 625-1581.
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 Wednesday, Jan. 19. 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.
Parent/Principal Meeting Mars Area High School will offer a Parent/Principal Communication Connection Meeting at 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 24, in the cafeteria. All parents are encouraged to attend. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
high school Tech Ed Students Designing Contraptions for Chain Reaction Contest
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Guidance Office
Several Mars Area High School technology education students are working on designs for a device to enter into the 2010-2011 Chain Reaction Contraption Contest on Friday, Dec. 10, at Carnegie Science Center. This year’s contest challenge is to create a Rube Goldberg-type device that can make change for a dollar. The contraption must complete its objective in 20 steps or more and may be no bigger than 5-byJacob A. Dvorak Jr., Westinghouse Electric Company principal 3-by-2 feet in dimensions. works with Mars Area High School technology educaStudents have to work together as a team to engineer, tion students on designs for their chain-reaction contraptions. design and build the project, while practicing their In addition to the contest’s various restrictions, time management skills and staying within the contest’s $100 budget. Recycled and scavenged materials do not Machusko is also requiring that the students create an element in their contraptions using each one of Mars Area count toward the total budget. And, while three teams are working on designs for the High School’s three new machines: a laser engraver, threeproject, only one team of four students will be selected to dimensional printer and a CNC machine. “This is inherently a physics competition, but it fit our represent Mars Area High School at the competition. “Just like in the real world, there is going to be some engineering curriculum ‘to a T,’” says Ray Machusko, techinherent competition,” says Jacob A. Dvorak Jr., Westing- nology education teacher, noting that the students are takhouse Electric Company principal engineer — automation ing what they have learned in school about the Engineering services and District resident, who is serving as a mentor for Design Process and applying it to this project. The project also combines all aspects of STEM educastudents during the project. “This is a good real-world application of what the stu- tion — Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathemadents are learning in their (technology education) classes. tics. For more information, visit www.chainreactionconThe project is very hands-on and requires various practical test.org. skills and teamwork.”
Marching Band Joins in Regional Competition Mars Area High School Marching Band advanced to the finals of the 2010 Bands of America Regional Competition, held Sept. 25 at Norwin High School in North Huntingdon, Pa. The marching band scored among the Top 10 marching bands in the preliminary round of the competition, thereby qualifying to perform in the finals. The competition featured marching bands representing various high schools from across Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and North Carolina. This year’s marching band halftime show features the songs of Kansas, including “Carry on My Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind” and “Song for America.” The program also highlight several student soloists including seniors Abby Iksic (trumpet) and Kylee O’Donnell (flute); and juniors Sam Concelman (tuba), Michael Prijatelj (trombone) and Dan Muchnok (tenor saxophone).
National Merit Program Mars Area senior Roberta Mettus was named a Commended Student in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Program. Mettus placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2011 competition by
2014 Class Counselor — Tanis Rose 2013 Class Counselor — Colleen Tosadori 2012 Class Counselor — Dr. Tina Bigante 2011 Class Counselor — Mark Varlotta Student Assistance Coordinator — Tanis Rose Guidance Secretary — Diane Truver Guidance Secretary — Laurie Dufford Phone —(724) 625-1581, opt. 1 Web site — www.marsk12.org
SAT Test Dates SAT Test Dates Dec. 9* Jan. 22* March 12* May 7* June 4*
Registration Deadlines Nov. 5 Dec. 23 Feb. 11 April 8 May 6
Late Registration Deadlines Nov. 19 Jan. 7 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
Financial Aid Night Mars Area High School will hold a Financial Aid Information Night at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 22, in the auditorium. The event, which is geared toward parents of juniors and seniors, will include a presentation by a representative of PHEAA (Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency), followed by a question and answer session. Topics will include loans, grants, scholarships, workstudy opportunities and how eligibility is determined. For more information, contact the Mars Area High School Guidance Office at (724) 625-1581.
Job Shadowing Opportunities Mars Area High School Marching Band advanced to the finals of the 2010 Bands of America Regional Competition.
taking the 2009 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. She will receive a letter of commendation from Mars Area High School and National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
Art Award 2010 Mars Area graduate Connor Scott received an honorable mention in The Associated Artists of Butler County’s “Wood & Metal” Art Exhibit, held in July. Scott, who is attending the Tyler School of Art at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa., received the award for his sculpture, “Lighting Bug.” For details, visit www.aabcartcenter.com.
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 to Mary Salony, Tri-County Workforce Investment Board planning and grant coordinator, at msalony@tcwib.net. Information may also be faxed to (724) 282-2896. For a complete list of upcoming events at various colleges and universities as well as additional guidance resources, visit the Mars Area High School’s “Guidance” page at www.marsk12.org.
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middle school/centennial school Events Net More Than $10,114 for Cancer Research
Chief Justice Zachary Regan swears in President Claire Georgiadis at Mars Area Middle School’s annual MidiDay celebration on Oct. 15. Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Student Government Officers Inducted at Midi-Day Celebration As part of Mars Area Middle School’s annual Midi-Day program, held on Oct. 15, members of the school’s student government were inducted into their new positions. Officers are Claire Georgiadis, president; Brendan Knox, vice president; Zachary Regan, chief justice; Mae Haggerty and Dana Kingsley, secretaries to the president; and Noah Hudac and Tyler Grove, secretaries to the vice president. Class senators are eighth-graders Matt Bean and Shannon McChesney and seventh-graders Josh Raymundo and Logan Reck. Committee chairpersons are Lauren Baum and Natalie Hanna, bulletin board; Morgan Ainsworth and Casey Magdinec, charity; Garrett Beacom, election & evaluation; Taylor Campbell, hospitality; Cassandra Berteotti and Brandon Ford, intramurals; Cole McManus and Patience Yobp, library; Samantha Hornyak and Andee Reynolds, multimedia; Jenna Odom and Rachel Shaffer, performance; Nicholas Pecora and Dylan Sitterly, public relations; Taylor Swann, recycling; Justina Nichols and Suzanne Papik, school spirit; Matthew Brand and Madalyn Michaels, television news; and Angela Botti and Amanda Lytle, yearbook. Homeroom representatives are eighth-graders Reed McDonough, Justin Mack, Adrianna Mazzotta, Sonya McLaughlin, Alex Kwong, Cameron Marshall, Adam Soergel, Ori Rinamin, Lucy Alexander and Brad Nanna and seventh-graders Jeremy Landau, Mitch Corsi, Jordan Conner, Nico Romano, Erin Posey, Jimmy Pierre, Alexis Funderlich, Enzo Nolfi, Kelly O’Connell and Hanna Semega. The student government program at Mars Area Middle School is modeled after state and federal government, giving a practical lesson in how government works. The program and its activities are a means of developing pride in the school and in the community.
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Students in fifth through eighth grades raised a combined $10,114.23 for breast cancer research, through the schools’ annual “Hats for Heroes” fund-raiser. As part of the “Hats for Heroes” event on Oct. 8, Mars Area Middle School collected $4,950.46 and Mars Area Centennial School brought in $3,994.91. 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. On Oct. 12, the schools continued their fundraising effort with “Dollar Tuesday,” asking that each student bring in $1 to help the schools reach their goal of $10,000. Since Oct. 12, students at Mars Area Centennial School brought in an additional $532.07 and Mars Area Middle School collected $636.79. All proceeds will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. For more information, call (724) 625-2601.
Teacher Participates in Roundtable Discussion Christopher Protho, a music/ band teacher at Mars Area Middle School, was invited to join in a roundtable discussion at the Professional Practices Institute of the National Association of State Director of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC), held Oct. 7 in Pittsburgh. Topic was “What is an Employment Issue and What is a Licensure Issue?” Other participants included Brenda Allen of Fayette County Public Schools in Kentucky; John Tarka, Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers president; and Rich Haglund, Tennessee State Board of Education general counsel.
Environmental Committee Holding Recycling Campaign Mars Area Middle School’s Environmental Committee is collecting old telephone books, aluminum soda cans and tabs, used ink and toner cartridges, newspapers, magazines and office paper as part of the school’s annual Recycling Campaign. The committee is recycling aluminum cans to benefit Habitat for Humanity; aluminum can tabs for Mars History & Landmarks Society; and phone books to be donated to Consolidated Communications’ phone book recycling program, which recycles phone books into ceiling tiles. Used ink and toner cartridges as well as all newspapers, magazines and office paper will be recycled to benefit Mars Area Middle School. Newspapers, magazines, office paper and junk mail may also be recycled in one of the yellow and green “Paper Retriever” recycling bins located at each of the District’s five school buildings. (Note: No phone books or cardboard
Mars Area Middle School students make donations to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure as part of the schools’ annual “Hats for Heroes” Day fund-raiser on Oct. 8. At left, students at Mars Area Centennial School contribute to the cause.
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 fourthgrader 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 may advance to the NFL Pepsi Punt, Pass & Kick competition to be held during the Pittsburgh Steelers football game against the Oakland Raiders at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 21, at Heinz Field.
as well as any plastic, glass, metal and trash will be accepted.) Other recyclables may be dropped off at the school’s main office, Monday through Friday during school hours. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
School Offers Online Curriculum Resources Mars Area Centennial School offers numerous online curriculum resources that are available to parents and students via the “Centennial School” page of Mars Area School District’s Web site, www.marsk12.org. By clicking on the “Curriculum” link, students and parents may access online resources in various curriculum areas as well as an online resource access guide. A link to the the school’s “Technology Home Page” is also available via this Web page. To obtain your child’s username and password to access the technology page, call (724) 625-2601.
middle school/centennial school Stream Study Examines Properties of Breakneck Creek Fifth-graders at Mars Area Centennial School are studying water resources and conservation as part of the Mars Area Water Protection Program. Each fall, fifth-graders travel to Breakneck Creek in Valencia to study the physical, chemical and biological properties of the watershed. With guidance from student volunteers and science teachers from Mars Area High School, fifth-graders test the temperature, depth and speed of the stream as well as pH levels. The students also collect biological samples such as crayfish and mayflies. Fifth-graders learn about the characteristics of Breakneck Creek, which flows into Connoquenessing Creek. From there the creek flows into the Beaver River, Ohio River, Mississippi River and eventually to the Gulf of Mexico. The program stresses the importance of keeping the watershed pollution-free, noting that while approximately three-fourths of the earth is covered by water, less than one percent is drinkable. The field trips are part of the Mars Area Water Protection Program, which employs a “hands-on, crosscurricular” approach to train high school students in hydrogeological content and technology. Through the Mars Area Water Protection Program, high school students have been testing and studying water in the area for more than 15 years, under the direction of Mars Area High School’s science department. As part of the program high-schoolers are asked to impart their knowledge to fifth-graders through field trips to Breakneck Creek. For more information, call (724) 625-1581.
Spirit Dance/Activity Night Mars Area Middle School will hold a Spirit Dance/ Activity Night from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3. 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.
Community Caroling Students in seventh and eighth grade at Mars Area Middle School will be caroling throughout the community on Thursday, Dec. 16, and Monday, Dec. 20. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
Geography Bee Mars Area students in fifth through eighth grades will participate in the 2011 Geography Bee Final Round Qualifier at 10 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 7, at Mars Area Middle School gymnasium. To prepare for the event, all students at Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area Centennial School will complete 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 miss no more than eight
Fifth-graders from Mars Area Elementary School perform chemical tests on water from Breakneck Creek with some help from a Mars Area High School science student. Below, a High School student prepares students to test the physical properties of the creek. Photos by Josh Schwoebel
A Mars Area Centennial School fifth-grader gets a closer look at a crayfish, one of many biological samples students collected from Breakneck Creek during the school’s annual Stream Study field trip.
questions will then take the round-two exam in December. The 12 students who miss no more than eight questions will move on to the final round on Friday, Jan. 7. The winner of the schools’ Geography Bee will complete a written exam that will be mailed to the Pennsylvania State Geography Bee, which will notify the student as to whether he or she has qualified for the state contest on Friday, April 1. The state winner will then advance to the National Geography Bee competition, to be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 24-25. The National Geographic Society sponsors the contest. For more information, call (724) 625-2601 or visit www.nationalgeographic.com/geographybee.
ropes course
Centennial School Open House Mars Area Centennial School will hold an Open House event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
Middle School Open House Mars Area Middle School will hold a Mid-Winter Open House event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 3. For more information, call (724) 625-3145.
Mars Area Centennial School sixth-graders participate in the Slippery Rock Leadership Course at Slippery Rock University. As part of the ropes course, students joined in various activities designed to encourage teamwork and decision-making skills as well as to boost students’ self-confidence.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
elementary schools Charlie Aeschliman (left), motivational speaker, feeds pudding to a student while balancing a spinning basketball on the spoon. Below, students display their class banner during Mars Area Centennial School’s Anti-Bullying Kickoff Rally.
Photos by Josh Schwoebel
Students Renew Pledge to Maintain Bully-Free School
Fifth- and sixth-graders at Mars Area Centennial School renewed their pledge to make a difference by promoting acceptance and tolerance through their own actions as part of the school’s “Planet Peace” AntiBullying Kickoff Rally, held Oct. 7. The event featured a performance by Mars Area High School Marching Band as well as a skit on identifying bullying by members of the High School’s REACH (Responsible Educated Adolescents Can Help) Program. And, Charlie Aeschliman, a nationally recognized speaker and basketball handler, also entertained students and talked with them about overcoming obstacles and believing in their dreams. Students also displayed class banners featuring the Anti-Bullying Program’s new name, “Planet Peace,” along with messages denouncing bullying. In addition, all students made a pledge to resist and report bullying. Fifth-grader Alex Hornfeck, was named the winner of the school’s anti-bullying t-shirt design contest. His design will be featured on the school’s “Planet Peace” tshirts. The event re-introduced students to Mars Area
School District’s Olweus Bullying Prevention Program. The purpose of the program is to empower Mars Area students, teachers and staff members to recognize and prevent bullying and to increase their feelings of positive belonging.
In addition to the kickoff rally, teachers will facilitate classroom discussions about bullying behaviors and promoting positive school behavior throughout the school year. For details, call (724) 625-2601.
winter clothing drive
Elementary Visitation Days
sentative of the colonial time period. For more information, call (724) 625-3161.
A sign displays the District’s Anti-Bullying Program’s new name, “Planet Peace.” At left, members of Mars Area High School’s REACH program present a skit on bullying behaviors.
Mars Area Elementary School will offer its second annual Parent Visitation Days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the following dates: ❖ Tuesday, Nov. 16 — Second Grade ❖ Wednesday, Nov. 17 — Third Grade ❖ Thursday, Nov. 18 — Fourth Grade
Students at Mars Area Primary Center collected 275 items including coats, vests, blankets, hats, scarves, gloves and snow pants as part of the school’s “Bundle Up Butler” Winter Clothing Drive, held Oct. 4-15 to benefit Butler County residents in need through the Center for Community Resources.
School Fund-raiser Benefits Make-A-Wish Mars Area Elementary School raised a total of $1,955 during the 2009-2010 school year to benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania & Southern West Virginia. As part of the fifth annual fund-raiser, the school held “Make-A-Wish Fridays” several times a month during the school year. Staff members were asked to donate a minimum of $5 to be able to wear jeans to school on those days. The fund-raiser has earned the school membership in Make-A-Wish’s WishPartner Club. 16
Mars Area
“The events will provide parents with an opportunity to see what their child’s day is really like,” says Robert Zaccari, principal, adding that last year’s program had 75 percent participation. “The program has been well-received by teachers and parents alike.” For more information, call (724) 625-3161.
Colonial Day Second-graders at Mars Area Elementary School will participate in a Colonial Day celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 24. The event will offer students a full day of hands-on learning activities that support the students’ social studies unit on American history. The day will include sessions on colonial toys, games and music; Native American dwellings and games; butter churning; achievement feathers, wampum belts, quilt-making and square-dancing. Students and teachers will also dress in clothing repre-
Holiday Parties Mars Area’s elementary schools will hold various Holiday Parties on Wednesday, Dec. 22: ❖ Mars Area Elementary School — 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. (724) 625-3161 ❖ Mars Area Primary Center — Morning Kindergarten, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.; Afternoon Kindergarten and First Grade, 2 to 3 p.m. (724) 625-1588 ❖ Mars Area Centennial School — Fifth Grade, 1 to 2 p.m.; Sixth Grade, 2 to 3 p.m. (724) 625-2601 For details, contact the individual school building.
Valentine’s Day Party Mars Area’s elementary schools will hold Valentine’s Day Parties on the following dates: ❖ Friday, Feb. 11 — Mars Area Elementary School, 2 to 3 p.m. (724) 625-3161 ❖ Monday, Feb. 14— Mars Area Primary Center — Morning Kindergarten, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.; Afternoon Kindergarten and First Grade, 2 to 3 p.m. (724) 625-1588 For more information, contact the individual school building
primary center School Offering After-School Reading Program To accommodate all of its emerging readers, Mars Area Primary Center now offers an added opportunity for firstgraders to expand upon their reading skills through the school’s free after-school reading program. Each “Primary Progress” program, offered from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, begins with a light snack in the school’s cafeteria, followed by reading instruction from a school staff member. The program is open to all first-graders at the school. The goal of the program is to improve student achievement by providing practice to increase “phenomic awareness” and “word attack skills;” building sight word recognition to increase student reading fluency rates; offering literacy enrichment opportunities to broaden student speaking and reading vocabulary; and practicing various reading strategies to increase student reading comprehension. First-graders who are participating in “Primary Progress” must bring in a signed note from a parent on the day that they will be attending the program. No transportation will be provided for those students who participate and students must be picked up at 5 p.m. at the school’s cafeteria entrance in the rear of the building. In addition to the after-school reading program, Mars Area School District also offers various Title I Parent
Mars Area Primary Center teachers Sasha Burton (above) and Cami Shuck (left) teach lessons as part of the school’s after-school reading program.
Advisory Council (PAC) Workshops during each school year for parents of Title I students. Each workshop offers parents of Title I students in kindergarten through fourth grade new ways to help their children improve their reading and math skills as well as provide materials that parents can use to help support their
child’s education at home. The next Title I PAC Workshop will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 14, at Mars Area Primary Center. For more information about either program, call (724) 625-1588.
on campus District to Notify Parents of School Closings, Delays As winter is approaching, Mars Area School District may need to close its schools or delay the start of school because of inclement weather. In the event of school closing or delay, the District will notify all parents and staff members using the District’s Global Connect Telephone Notification System. When receiving a call, parents are asked to listen to the entire message and to report any problems to their child’s school building. If parents do not receive a call, they should also contact their child’s school building. Parents with a Caller ID device will see the District’s main phone number (724-625-1518). In the event of a true emergency, calls from the District will have the digits, “911,” contained in the last four digits of the number to alert parents that the call is urgent. To keep the District’s records up-to-date and to provide this communications tool most effectively, the District requests that parents provide up to three (3) contact phone numbers in their order of priority for emergency situations for all parents. Note: Telemarketer call-blocking devices or answering systems that require additional touch tones to leave a message as well as cell phone ring-back systems and answering machines with an outgoing message longer than 20 seconds will prevent parents from receiving calls from the District. Parents are asked to provide an unblocked cell phone number or other number at
which they can be reached by the District in the event of an emergency. The system will not call phone numbers with extensions, so parents are asked to provide any work numbers that are direct lines. If at any time parents wish to change the phone numbers, they are encouraged to contact their child’s school building. In the event of a school closing or delay as a result of inclement weather, Mars Area School District will attempt to notify parents and staff members as soon as a decision is made. The District will make every effort to avoid making calls between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., when possible. Up-to-date school closing and delay information will continue to be available via the District’s Community Information Line (724-625-1581) as well as on the District’s Web site, www.marsk12.org. For more information, including answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding school closings and delays, visit www.marsk12.org.
Mars Area eNewsletter Subscriptions Available Looking for the latest news about Mars Area School District? Subscribe to Mars Area School District’s weekly eNewsletter, The eCommunicator. The publication, which features District news and information as well as upcoming events and activities, is emailed at approximately 3 p.m. every Thursday. To subscribe, visit www.marsk12.org.
Schools Receive Grants for Physical Education Program Mars Area students in fifth through 12th grades are benefiting from funding provided through three Highmark “Healthy High 5 School Challenge” grants. Mars Area High School, Mars Area Middle School and Mars Area Centennial School each received grants to purchase new fitness equipment and monitoring devices that will be used as part of the schools’ physical education curriculum. Mars Area High School received $9,880, which was used to purchase heart rate monitors and software to implement a cardiovascular program. Mars Area Middle School received $9,810 to purchase 10 spin bikes and heart rate monitors for a cardio-biking program. Mars Area Centennial School received a $9,828 grant that was used to purchase three spin bikes, two ellipticals, a recumbent bike, heart rate monitors, flexibility tester and pulse monitors, jump ropes and mats. “We are very fortunate to have access to this grant funding,” says Todd Lape, principal. “Our physical education teachers are excited to have the new fitness equipment and to incorporate it into the curriculum.” The Highmark Healthy High 5 School Challenge grant program is designed to support schools in their efforts to introduce nutrition and physical activity programs that will create healthier students. For more information, call (724) 898-1561, opt. 2. Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
sports sports hall of fame
Mars Area High School’s 2010 Sports Hall of Fame inductees pose for a picture at a special induction ceremony on Sept. 10. Inductees are (from left) Jean Santom Schmiedel (Class of 1979), Leda Best (Class of 1977), Robert Matter (Class of 1995) Michele Ross Goodworth (Class of 1992), and Brandon Mueller (Class of 2000). Each inductee received a plaque denoting their honor and their names are listed on a banner (pictured) that will hang in Mars Area High School gymnasium. For a complete list of all inductees or to obtain a nomination form, visit www.marsk12.org. Photo by Josh Schwoebel
Spring Sports Physicals Mars Area School District will offer physicals for 2011 spring sports on the following dates: ❖ Thursday, Feb. 3 — beginning at 8 a.m. at Mars Area Middle School ❖ Thursday, March 3 — beginning at 8 a.m. at Mars Area Middle School; beginning at 1 p.m. at Mars Area High School Cost is $15 per student. The Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (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 “Athletics” page at www.marsk12.org, and click on the “Athletic Physicals” link. For more information, call (724) 625-9380.
Alumni Basketball Games Mars Area High School will hold its second annual Mars Area Alumni Basketball Games at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 29, in the gymnasium. The event will begin with a Women’s Alumni Basketball Game, followed by a Men’s Alumni Basketball Game at 7:30 p.m. All Mars Area alumni basketball players are welcome to participate in the event. Admission is $3 per person. Proceeds benefit Mars Area High School’s boys and girls basketball teams. For more information, call (724) 625-9380.
Holiday Basketball Tournament Mars Area High School will host the 2010 Boys & Girls Holiday Basketball Tournament beginning at 3 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 27 and 28. The event will feature boys varsity basketball teams from Mars Area, Sto-Rox, Seneca Valley and North Gate high schools and girls teams from Mars Area, Sto Rox, Hopewell and Moon Area high schools. For more information, call (724) 625-9380. 18
Mars Area
Boys Hockey Team Wins Foundation Tourney Mars Area High School’s Boys Varsity Hockey Team took first place in the preseason St. Margaret Foundation Fall Face-Off Hockey Tournament, held Oct. 11 at Harmarville BladeRunners Ice Complex. The Fightin’ Planets vanquished the Canon McMillan Big Macs 6-0 in the championship round of the tournament. The team advanced to the championship game after grounding the Bethel Park Mars Area High School’s Boys Varsity Hockey Team gathers for a Black Hawks 6-3 in the semifinal round and photo with the first place trophy in the pre-season St. Margaret defeating the Shaler Area Titans (3-1), the Foundation Fall Face-Off Hockey Tournament, held Oct. 11 at Seneca Valley Raiders (9-1), and the Bishop Harmarville BladeRunners Ice Complex. Canevin Crusaders (8-3) in the preliminary Girls Golf Team Advances rounds of the competition. Seniors on this year’s team include Blake Friday, to WPIAL Championship Kevin Leslie, Chris Greco, Ryan Magdinec, Hunter Mars Area High School’s Girls Varsity Golf Team comSacchini, Robbie Sigurdsson, Tyler Thomas, Tyler peted in the first round of the 2010 WPIAL/McDonald’s Stepke, Walker Enstad and Colt Berneberg. Girls Team Golf Division I & II Championships, held Oct. Other players to watch include juniors Nick Blaney, 11 at Rittswood Golf Course. Robert Foley, Greg Makozy, Rusty Miller, Joe The team competed against the Blackhawk Bender, Bryan Thomas and Elliot Tisdale as well as Cougars, the Central Valley Warriors, the Kiski sophomores Max Master and Austin Heakins. Area Cavaliers, the Mt. Pleasant Vikings and the For more information, visit www.marhockey.org. Penn-Trafford Warriors. However, the team’s combined score of 405 was not enough to advance the team to the Golfers Compete WPIAL semifinals. in WPIAL Events The Lady Planets ended the 2010 regular season with an overall record of 8-2, earning the team second place in Mars Area senior Christian Locher competed in the 2010 WPIAL/McDonald’s Division I Boys Individual Division II play. In individual competition, junior Alexa Glew placed Golf Championship, held Oct. 6 at Longue Vue Club in 12th with a score of 105 in the WPIAL/McDonald’s DivVerona, Pa. Locher, a member of Mars Area High ision II Girls Individual Golf Championship, held Oct. 5 at The Club at Nevillewood in Preston, Pa. School’s Boys Varsity Golf team, placed 19th in She advanced to the competition after taking first place the competition with an overall score of 78. with a score of 83 in the Girls Division II — Section 2 qualHe qualified for the WPIAL Championifier, held Sept. 22 at Meadow Lane Golf Course. ship after tying for first place with a score of 76 in the 2010 WPIAL/McDonald’s Boys Golf Championship Tennis Team Competes Semifinals, held Sept. 28 at St. Jude Golf Club in Chicora, in WPIAL Championship Pa.Senior Billy Benderplaced 18th in the WPIAL semiMars Area High School’s Girls Varsity Tennis Team finals with a score of 89. In addition, Bender and Locher each competed in the competed in the 2010 WPIAL/McDonald’s Section AAA 2010 WPIAL Boys Division I — Section 8 Qualifier, held Girls Team Tennis Championship, held Oct. 18-21. The Lady Planets advanced to the first round Sept. 20 at Kittanning Country Club. Locher took first of the competition , but were defeated by the Mt. place with a score of 75 and Bender tied for seventh place Lebanon Blue Devils 5-0. This season, the team with a score of 81. also took second place in the 2010 MAC Tournament, held Sept. 24 at Pearson Park in New Castle, Pa. Girls Soccer Team Earns In singles competition, sophomore Kaitlyn Craig Section Championship Title advanced to the semifinal round of the 2010 WPIAL The undefeated Mars Area High School’s Girls Section 2-AAA Singles Tournament, held Sept. 16-17 at Varsity Soccer Team clinched the 2010 Section 2-AA North Allegheny Senior High School. Sophomore Shireen Championship Title. Ghaznavi competed in the first round of the tournament. The Lady Planets advanced to the 2010 In doubles competition, the team of Craig and sophoWPIAL championship after ending the more Brianna Beck advanced to the quarterfinal round of 2010 regular season with an overall record the 2010 WPIAL Section 2-AAA Doubles Tournament, of 18-0 and 14-0 in section play. (Note: Playoff results were held Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at Lakeview Racquet Club. The team of not available before iN Mars Area’s editorial deadline.) seniors Madison Dubrock and Ellen Limback competed Seniors on this year’s team are captains Alanna in the first round of the competition. Haefner and Dana Wonderly as well as Meghan Kelly, Nicole Soose, Kara Angeletti and Audra Sitterly.
sports Winter Sports 2010-2011 Boys Varsity Basketball 11/21/10 — Brentwood (scrimmage), 1 p.m. 12/04/10 — Northgate (scrimmage), 1 p.m. 12/10/10 — Keystone Oaks Tourn., 7:30 p.m. 12/11/10 — Keystone Oaks Tourn. , TBA 12/14/10 — Shenango, 7:30 p.m. 12/15/10 — Montour, 7:30 p.m. 12/17/10 — Valley*, 7:30 p.m. 12/18/10 — Seton LaSalle @ North Catholic, 4 p.m. 12/21/10 — Hampton*, 7:30 p.m. 12/27/10 — Mars Area Holiday Tourn., 7:30 p.m. 12/28/10 — Mars Area Holiday Tourn., 7:30 p.m. 01/04/11 — Burrell*, 7:30 p.m. 01/07/11 — Deer Lakes*, 7:30 p.m. 01/11/11 — Highlands*, 7:30 p.m. 01/14/11 — Kittanning*, 7:30 p.m. 01/18/11 — Knoch*, 7:30 p.m. 01/21/11 — Valley*, 7:30 p.m. 01/25/11 — Hampton*, 7:30 p.m. 01/28/11 — Burrell*, 7:30 p.m. 01/31/11 — North Hills, 7:30 p.m. 02/01/11 — Deer Lakes*, 7:30 p.m. 02/04/11 — Highlands*, 7:30 p.m. 02/08/11 — Kittanning*, 7:30 p.m. 02/11/11 — Knoch*, 7:30 p.m.
Boys 9th Grade Basketball 12/01/10 — Freeport (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 12/03/10 — Seneca Valley (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 12/10/10 — Riverview, 3:30 p.m. 12/14/10 — Shady Side Academy, 4 p.m. 12/15/10 — Butler, 3:30 p.m. 12/17/10 — Seneca Valley, 3:30 p.m. 12/21/10 — Pine-Richland, 4 p.m. 12/22/10 — Burrell, 3:30 p.m. 01/04/11 — Kittanning*, 3:30 p.m. 01/06/11 — St. Joseph’s*, 3:30 p.m. 01/11/11 — Highlands*, 3:30 p.m. 01/14/11 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m. 01/18/11 — Valley*, 3:30 p.m. 01/20/11 — Pine-Richland, 3:30 p.m. 01/21/11 — Deer Lakes*, 3:30 p.m. 01/25/11 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m. 01/27/11 — Shady Side Acad., 3:30 p.m. 01/28/11 — Kittanning*, 3:30 p.m. 02/01/11 — St. Joseph’s*, 3:30 p.m. 02/04/11 — Highlands*, 3:30 p.m. 02/08/11 — Hampton*, 3:30 p.m. 02/11/11 — Valley*, 4 p.m. 02/15/11 — Deer Lakes*, 3:30 p.m. 02/18/11 — Knoch*, 3:30 p.m.
Boys 7th/8th Grade Basketball 12/03/10 — Butler (White) (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 12/08/10 — Seneca Valley (Black) (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 12/10/10 — North Allegheny (Carson), 3:30 p.m. 12/13/10 — Knoch, 3:30 p.m. 12/16/10 — Hampton, 3:30 p.m. 12/20/10 — Pine-Richland, 3:30 p.m.
01/03/11 — Kittanning, 3:30 p.m. 01/06/11 — Seneca Valley (Blue)*, 3:30 p.m. 01/10/11 — North Hills*, 3:30 p.m. 01/11/11 — Knoch, 3:30 p.m. 01/13/11 — Manchester Charter*, 3:30 p.m. 01/18/11 — North Allegheny (Ingomar)*, 3:30 p.m. 01/19/11 — Pine-Richland, 3:30 p.m. 01/21/11 — Butler (Gold)*, 3:30 p.m. 01/24/11 — North Allegheny (Marshall)*, 3:30 p.m. 01/26/11 — North Allegheny (Carson), 3:30 p.m. 01/27/11 — Kittanning, 3:45 p.m. 01/31/11 — Seneca Valley (Blue)*, 3:30 p.m. 02/03/11 — North Hills*, 3:30 p.m. 02/07/11 — Manchester Charter*, 3:30 p.m. 02/09/11 — Hampton 02/10/11 — North Allegheny (Ingomar)*, 3:30 p.m. 02/14/11 — Butler (Gold)*, 3:30 p.m. 02/17/11 — North Allegheny (Marshall)*, 3:30 p.m.
Girls Varsity Basketball 11/27/10 — Ambridge (scrimmage), 10 a.m. 12/04/10 — New Castle (scrimmage), 10 a.m. 12/10/10 — Blackhawk Tourn., 7:30 p.m. 12/11/10 — Blackhawk Tourn., TBA 12/13/10 — Keystone Oaks, 7:30 p.m. 12/15/10 — Montour, 6 p.m. 12/20/10 — Elizabeth Forward, 7:30 p.m. 12/22/10 — Shenango, 7:30 p.m. 12/23/10 — Trinity Senior, 7:30 p.m. 12/27/10 — Mars Area Holiday Tourn., 6 p.m. 12/28/10 — Mars Area Holiday Tourn., TBA 01/03/11 — Mohawk, 7:30 p.m. 01/05/11 — North Hills, 7:30 p.m. 01/06/11 — Kittanning*, 7:30 p.m. 01/10/11 — Highlands*, 7:30 p.m. 01/13/11 — Hampton*, 7:30 p.m. 01/17/11 — Valley*, 7:30 p.m. 01/20/11 — Knoch*, 7:30 p.m. 01/24/11 — South Park, 7:30 p.m. 01/27/11 — Kittanning*, 7:30 p.m. 01/31/11 — Highlands*, 7:30 p.m. 02/03/11 — Hampton*, 7:30 p.m. 02/07/11 — Valley*, 7:30 p.m. 02/10/11 — Knoch*, 7:30 p.m.
Boys Varsity Wrestling 11/27/10 — Montour (scrimmage), 10 a.m. 12/04/10 — Fox Chapel* (scrimmage), 10 a.m. 12/10/10 — Brooke Tourn., TBA 12/11/10 — Brooke Tourn., TBA 12/14/10 — Fox Chapel*, 7 p.m. 12/22/10 — Butler*, 7:30 p.m. 12/28/10 — Wheeling Park Duels, 9 a.m. 12/29/10 — Wheeling Park Duels, 9 a.m. 01/05/11 — Shaler*, 7 p.m. 01/07/11 — MAC Tourn. @ Moon Area, 4 p.m. 01/08/11 — MAC Tourn. @ Moon Area, 9 a.m. 01/12/11 — Hampton*, 7 p.m.
Home games are in Bold
* denotes conference game 01/17/11 — Highlands, 7 p.m. 01/19/11 — Knoch*, 7 p.m. 01/26/11 — Summit Academy, 7 p.m. 02/02/11 — Pine-Richland, 7:30 p.m. 02/09/11 — Moon Area, 7 p.m. 02/16/11 — Ambridge, 7 p.m. 02/26/11 — AAA Sectionals @ Fox Chapel, 10 a.m. 03/03/11 — WPIAL Champ. @ Chartiers Valley, TBA 03/04/11 — WPIAL Champ. @ Chartiers Valley, TBA 03/05/11 — WPIAL Champ. @ Chartiers Valley, TBA 03/10/11 — PIAA State Champ., TBA 03/11/11 — PIAA State Champ., TBA 03/12/11 — PIAA State Champ., TBA
Boys Junior High Wrestling 12/08/10 — Bethel Park/Hampton (scrimmage), 3:30 p.m. 12/14/10 — Fox Chapel*, 5:30 p.m. 12/18/10 — Burrell Duels, 9 a.m. 12/20/10 — Avonworth, 3:30 p.m. 12/22/10 — Butler*, 6 p.m. 01/05/11 — Shaler*, 5:30 p.m. 01/12/11 — Hampton*, 5:30 p.m. 01/15/11 — Blackhawk Tourn., 10 a.m. 01/17/11 — Highlands, 5 p.m. 01/19/11 — Knoch*, 5 p.m. 01/26/11 — North Allegheny, 5:30 p.m. 02/02/11 — Pine-Richland, 6 p.m. 02/05/11 — North Allegheny Tourn., 9 a.m. 02/09/11 — Moon, 6 p.m. 02/16/11 — MAC Tourn. @ South Side Beaver, 3:45 p.m.
Coed Varsity Swimming/Diving 12/10/10 — Beaver, 5:30 p.m. 12/13/10 — Hopewell, 6 p.m. 12/16/10 — Butler, 6 p.m. 12/21/10 — Hampton, 6 p.m. 12/22/10 — Valley, 6 p.m. 01/04/10 — Shaler, 6 p.m. 01/06/10 — Deer Lakes*, 6 p.m. 01/13/10 — Shady Side Academy*, 6 p.m. 01/18/10 — Northgate, 6 p.m. 01/20/10 — Highlands*, 6 p.m. 01/25/10 — Oakland Catholic/Central Catholic @ Chatham College, 7 p.m. 01/27/10 — Montour, 6 p.m. 02/03/10 — Burrell, 6 p.m. 02/07/10 — Pine-Richland, 6 p.m. 02/10/10 — Springdale*, 6 p.m. 02/12/10 — MAC @ Moon Area, 10:30 a.m. 02/17/10 — Knoch*/Freeport* @ Butler, 5:30 p.m. 02/25/10 — WPIAL Diving Champ. @ South Park, 10 a.m. 03/03/10 — WPIAL Swimming Champ. @ University of Pittsburgh, 3 p.m. 03/04/10 — WPIAL Swimming Champ. @ University of Pittsburgh, 3 p.m. 03/16/10 — PIAA State Champ. @ Bucknell University, TBA 03/17/10 — PIAA State Champ. @ Bucknell University, TBA 03/18/10 — PIAA State Champ. @
Bucknell University, TBA 03/19/10 — PIAA State Champ. @ Bucknell University, TBA
Boys Varsity Ice Hockey 10/19/10 — Central Valley*, 6:30 p.m. 10/26/10 — Serra Catholic, 8:30 p.m. 11/09/10 — South Fayette, 7:50 p.m. 11/16/10 — Beaver*, 8:30 p.m. 11/23/10 — South Fayette, 7 p.m. 11/30/10 — Quaker Valley*, 8:30 p.m. 12/06/10 — Sewickley Academy, 9:15 p.m. 12/13/10 — Quaker Valley*, 9 p.m. 12/16/10 — Central Valley*, 6:45 p.m. 12/21/10 — Freeport, 6:30 p.m. 01/04/11 — Sewickley Academy, 6:30 p.m. 01/06/11 — Serra Catholic, 9:20 p.m. 01/13/11 — Beaver*, 6:45 p.m. 01/18/11 — South Park, 6:30 p.m. 01/21/11 — Westmont Hilltop, 6:30 p.m. 01/24/11 — Hampton, 9 p.m. 01/28/11 — South Park, 7 p.m. 02/03/11 — Kittanning, 8:15 p.m. 02/08/11 — Bishop McCort, 8:30 p.m. 02/15/11 — Deer Lakes, 7:50 p.m. 02/28/11 — Knoch, 9 p.m.
Boys JV Hockey 10/28/10 — Seneca Valley, 9:20 p.m. 11/05/10 — Pine-Richland, 6 p.m. 11/09/10 — McDowell, 8:30 p.m. 11/18/10 — North Allegheny, 9:20 p.m. 12/03/10 — Butler, 6 p.m. 12/07/10 — Central Valley, 6:30 p.m. 12/14/10 — Shaler, 6:30 p.m. 12/17/10 — Seneca Valley, 6 p.m. 01/07/11 — Pittsburgh Central, 6 p.m. 01/11/11 — Fox Chapel, 9:20 p.m. 01/20/11 — Burrell, 8:50 p.m. 01/25/11 — Kittanning, 6:30 p.m. 02/03/11 — Plum, 8:50 p.m. 02/08/11 — Central Valley, 9:35 p.m. 02/15/11 — Erie Catholic Prep, 8:30 p.m. 02/17/11 — North Allegheny, 9:20 p.m. 02/24/11 — McDowell, 8 p.m. 03/02/11 — Hampton, 8:30 p.m.
Boys Freshmen Ice Hockey 10/19/10 — Blackhawk, 9:35 p.m. 11/04/10 — Ambridge, 8 p.m. 11/11/10 — Seneca Valley, 9:20 p.m. 11/19/10 — Beaver, 6 p.m. 11/23/10 — North Allegheny, 7:50 p.m. 12/02/10 — North Allegheny, 9:20 p.m. 12/09/10 — Montour, 8 p.m. 12/16/10 — Ambridge, 9:20 p.m. 01/04/11 — Moon, 8:20 p.m. 01/11/11 — Quaker Valley, 6:30 p.m. 01/27/11 — North Hills, 9:20 p.m. 02/03/11 — Central Valley, 8 p.m. 02/08/11 — West Allegheny, 7 p.m. 02/22/11 — Quaker Valley, 7 p.m. 02/28/11 — North Hills, 7:30 p.m. 03/03/11 — Seneca Valley, 9:20 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 | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
Social Networking Security 101 Social networking is fun, interactive and helpful in keeping in touch with friends and family. However, you should always be cautious and aware of what issues can pop up on your favorite social networking sites! 1. Security comes first! Make sure your internet security software, like AVG or Norton Internet Security are current with their subscription and up-to-date. Most importantly, make sure they’re running! 2. “Know thyself.” One of the ways that scammers can help you to trust them is to utilize information that you’ve posted on social networking sites. Make sure you know what you have out there! 3. When in doubt, be cautious and selective. You should always scrutinize closely who you’re friending, what e-mails you’re receiving and what links and applications your friends are requesting you to click. If you’re in doubt, search with Google, you’ll find out everything you need to know about that link or app! 4. Always assume everything you post is permanent. You should always conduct yourself online as you would off-line. Assume that everything you post will be there forever for future employers, family members and friends to see. If you follow these tips and use caution and common sense, you will minimize heavily the chance that you run into problems on social networking sites. Good surfing!--
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Caleb, Andy, Moriah, Trish, and Lily Hixon
Susan and Deven Bergbigler
Katie Gable, Melissa Marshall, Melinda Lammert
Eleanor Lauteri, Jim Lauteri,
The Mars and Mary Ann Horvath Applefest is a tradition
Maria Wesley, Sherry Digruttolo
for many residents every October. Delicious food, live entertainment and craft vendors were on hand to celebrate autumn. The beautiful weather helped to make for a fantastic weekend.
Madison Uhein, Laura Kramer, Morgan Uhein
Photos by Gary Yon Photography
Tim, Laurel, Gretta and Hope Hull
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
By Sandy Trozzo
O
n Sept. 11, the lawn in front of Mars Area High School was more than green space. It was a tribute to the men and women who died in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
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Proud Young American Honors Those Who Died on 9-11-2001
“Personally, I think that Americans are kind of forgetting that horrible day in America in 2001. And I think people really need to remember, because it is a big part of our lives now.” Bryan Thomas (in red shirt) and a friend place flags to create this monument.
Mars Area junior Bryan Thomas recruited family and friends to place 2,977 small American flags on the lawn, one flag for each person killed that fateful day. “I was really excited that we could do this at Mars,” Bryan said. “Personally, I think that Americans are kind of forgetting that horrible day in America in 2001. And I think people really need to remember, because it is a big part of our lives now.” Bryan recruited family and friends to help him place the flags after school on Sept. 10. The memorial attracted a lot of attention from the community, and from those driving by to attend the Mars Area/Pine Richland football game that night. “I went to some different community events over the weekend, and many people mentioned to me that they noticed the memorial that was outside the school,” said Todd Kolson, high school principal. “It made people think and remember.” Mr. Kolson said the memorial was a “wonderful project.” “It showed a lot of character—his character—to take on such a worthwhile project.” Kim Geyer, Mars Area School Board president, said board members discussed the project and were impressed. “The school board thought that the flag project was a meaningful student project that would reflect the wishes of the community overall to honor the memory of those who lost their lives on 9/11,” she said. “We thought it touching that a young person who was a young student at the time when this all happened, when this event took place, thought enough about the event … to remind people.” Bryan, son of Karen and Keith Thomas of Adams, said he got the idea after attending a conference in Grove City hosted by the Young America’s Foundation. “The Young America’s Foundation is a student outreach organization that helps students start conservative clubs, get conservative speakers,” said Evan Gassman, program officer of the Herndon, Va.–based organization.
– Bryan Thomas
Mr. Gassman said the foundation started the “9/11: Never Forget Project” in 2003. “We noticed that most schools were not recognizing the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks at all. We wanted to give our students the opportunity to set up a memorial,” he said. “We think that the terrorist attack is something that needs to be reflected upon.” This year, more than 180 high schools and colleges participated in the project, Mr. Gassman said. Most of the participants are colleges, because high schools usually don’t have active conservative clubs, he added. The foundation gives advice on how to organize the project, and puts students in contact with a flag vendor that discounts the flags, Mr. Gassman said. Bryan said he has had a “ton of support” in Mars Area for the project. “It’s been really great hearing everyone say what a great idea it is,” he said. And it’s an idea that should transcend politics, he added. “This project really isn’t about Democrat or Republican or anything like that. It is about being American. I want people to put aside political views of what we should do in this country and just remember 9/11.”
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 23
Joni & Jon Perry
FAMILY ART PHOTOGRAPHY
Doug & Patty Marsico
he 3rd Annual Rockin' Blues Concert featured The Rozanne Matthews Band, The hEARd, and Miss Freddye and Blue Faze. It was a blast! Benefitting the young people of Mars Home for Youth and families in crisis, this concert raised over $10,000 — a 233% increase from the first year and no doubt next year will yield even more for this important cause. Grazie in Wexford served as the perfect venue!
Kurt Schweiger , Jennifer & Ha ns Vanorder ecker, Kathrin B
ers Marij Ham
Sherry Jo Matt, Rozanne Matthews, Shellyn Shoenthal, Kelly Schweiger
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Michael Connelly, Deb Verplank, Jennifer Saunders
W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.
What’s Inside
© 2010 UPMC
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Taking the Fear Out of Pain After Surgery
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The Difference a Number Can Make When the Snow Comes Down ... Should You Pick Up the Shovel?
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Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
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New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready
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Eat Healthy and Still Be Merry This Season
Taking the Fear Out of Pain After Surgery New nerve-blocking techniques bring relief and boost recovery for UPMC Passavant surgery patients Whether you’re having surgery to replace a hip or to remove a tumor from your abdomen, new nerve-blocking techniques recently introduced at UPMC Passavant can help ease your postoperative pain, boost recovery, and even shorten your hospital stay. Jacques E. Chelly, MD, PhD, professor and director of the Acute Interventional Perioperative Pain Service at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, says the peripheral nerve block administered adjacent to the spine is so effective, most postoperative pain is no longer “a must.”
Impressive benefits “The vast majority of patients feel they benefit greatly from nerve blocks,” Dr. Chelly says. “Not only are they much more comfortable after surgery, many of them can leave the hospital earlier.” Other important benefits of nerve blocks may include: • less need for morphine and other narcotic pain relievers • reduced side effects from narcotics (including nausea, vomiting, itching, urine retention, constipation, and confusion — particularly in the elderly) • faster recovery and return of movement • quicker start of therapy But perhaps most importantly, easing the fear of pain from surgery encourages more people to go ahead with needed surgery. “Many people delay having hip or knee replacement surgery after hearing stories from friends or relatives who experienced postsurgical pain. That does not need to be the case any longer,” Dr. Chelly says.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
How nerve blocks work Under the direction of Charles B. Luke, MD, clinical assistant professor of anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Physicians’ Department of Anesthesiology and staff anesthesiologist at UPMC Passavant, specially trained anesthesiologists perform nerve blocks to relieve pain during and after surgery. By numbing the nerve that carries pain messages to and from the brain, the nerve block provides targeted pain relief to the specific surgery area — an arm, leg, chest, or abdomen. According to Dr. Luke, the presurgery procedure begins once the patient is examined, hooked up to monitors, and given oxygen. The anesthesiologist then administers a mild sedative through an IV to help the patient relax. Using an ultrasound machine — sometimes along with a nerve stimulator — the doctor locates the nerve involved with the surgery site and, in many cases, guides a threadlike catheter into the area surrounding the nerve. A numbing agent similar to Novocain is injected, bathing the nerve in medication so the receptors are unable to receive any pain messages. Nerve blocks can be used for outpatient procedures or more-involved inpatient surgeries, says Dr. Luke. If you need only a few hours of pain relief, your anesthesiologist may use a single injection of local anesthetic. For longer pain relief, a catheter will deliver a continuous infusion of a numbing agent through a portable pump for a few days, allowing you to begin therapy while receiving medicine. Some patients go home with a disposable pump to control pain up to 60 hours after discharge.
Organization and teamwork key to pain control Dr. Chelly says controlling postoperative pain begins before surgery starts and involves an organized team approach that is unique to UPMC and its Acute Pain Service. To ensure continuity of care, follow-up, and pain management, the acute pain team — a specialized anesthesiologist, a dedicated acute pain nurse, and an acute pain physician in training — works closely with the surgeon, floor nurse, pharmacist, physical therapist, and, most importantly, the patient. “It requires significant time and a great deal of planning, organization, and cooperation to provide this service,” says Dr. Chelly. “That’s what the team at UPMC Passavant does — to the great benefit of our patients.” For an extended version of this article, please visit www.UPMC.com/Today.
The Difference a Number Can Make See how your numbers stack up for See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call peace of mind — or a wake-up call! Many numbers are part of your daily life, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:
120/80: Optimum blood pressure There’s a reason high blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damages the walls of your arteries, it also can wreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke. When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal blood pressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.
It’s the bad, arteryclogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal.
99: Blood sugar level It’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of other medical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugar level should be 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
You should aim for a total cholesterol number (HDL + LDL) under 200 mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease.
200: Optimum cholesterol Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which then circulates through the blood stream. To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will ask you to fast before having blood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.
For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association
When Snow Comes Down ... Should You Pick Up the Shovel? Every winter in western Pennsylvania, walkways and driveways disappear when snowflakes begin to fall. Before you tackle the white stuff, consider your heart health, advises Joseph A. Gerard, MD, a cardiologist at the UPMC Cardiovascular Institute at UPMC Passavant. “The risk of having a heart attack when shoveling snow is five to six times greater for someone with heart disease,” says Dr. Gerard. Cold air makes it harder to breathe when working outside, adding extra strain on the cardiovascular system. That’s because blood vessels constrict to conserve heat, increasing blood pressure as the heart works harder to squeeze blood through the narrow vessels. At the same time, arteries around the heart constrict, inhibiting blood flow and the supply of oxygen to the heart.
Snow shoveling also can unmask a sick heart. “When clearing a small driveway, you’re lifting almost 2,000 pounds of snow, and each shovelful weighs between 15 and 20 pounds,” explains Dr. Gerard. Most people tend to hold their breath when lifting that much weight, causing an even bigger jump in heart rate and blood pressure. Heart disease is just one factor that can put you at risk when shoveling snow. Think twice about shoveling if you: • lead a sedentary lifestyle • are overweight • have a history of heart disease • have high blood pressure or high cholesterol • smoke • are diabetic (or borderline diabetic) • have unhealthy eating habits
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand? You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with your health and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Follow these suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.
Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles. • Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warm water is your best defense against germs. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product. • Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available. • Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.
Winterize your skin As the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months: • Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently. • Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors. • Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping. • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.
Banish the winter blahs with exercise Don’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. • Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group. • Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend. • With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.
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Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring. “Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease in sunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman, MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression. In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience what Dr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains. Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall. If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommend antidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy. While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally, don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.
Did You Know? • People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition. • More women than men are diagnosed with SAD. • Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.
Innovation at UPMC
New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients Robotic technology revolutionizing Whipple surgery When Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed a Whipple procedure, he started getting his affairs in order. He even considered going without surgery. “It occurred to me that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith. Although he left most of the worrying up to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize the surgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine. But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC Cancer Centers to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology. Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with the nurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says. * Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreas surgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is among the world’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.
Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple • smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need for transfusion • less pain • shorter hospital stays • faster recovery time and start of treatment
Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a series of small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified threedimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy, robotic surgery equipment allows for more natural movements, including wrist function, explains Dr. Zeh. “It has a 360-degree range of motion, which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into places where your hand can’t go.” The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail and manipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.
Patients benefit The two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.
While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for blood transfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner. “We are pleased to be able to offer this new technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “The data shows that as a whole, patients who undergo the robotic-assisted Whipple procedure do as well as patients who have the traditional open surgery.” Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing fear in patients. According to Dr. Moser, as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor because they are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery. “We hope that by minimizing the trauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone with pancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.” For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any of UPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments, call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).
1-800-533-UPMC
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When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready Children’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxed evening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm. Thankfully, parents in the North Hills and South Hills now have convenient “after hours” access to the pediatric specialty care found at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses. “All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.
Urgent care just for children Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly the types of cases that the Children’s Express Care Centers are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti. The Express Care Centers provide exclusively pediatric-focused treatment in offices that are specially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed. “The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor. We also know how to interact with kids and their parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.
After-hours service, convenient locations The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexford and Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including: • animal bites • bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks • colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses • cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters • ear, throat, and sinus infections • incisions and abscess drainage • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration • rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations • splinting • cyst removal The Express Care Centers also offer on-site X-ray services, EKGs, blood tests, urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.
If necessary, children with more serious conditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists. If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatricians along with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.
Children’s Express Care Wexford Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143 724-933-3644 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome. Children’s Express Care Bethel Park Children’s South 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 412-692-3145 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.
Benefits of the Express Care Centers include: • access to treatment when your primary care physician is not available • quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries for children and teens • convenient locations • free parking • no appointments needed • referrals for further evaluation and treatment • access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging
Eat Healthy and Still Be Merry This Season For most Americans, the holiday season is a feasting season, a time to savor the tradition of sharing wonderful meals and sweet treats with family and friends. Making healthy food choices at this time of the year is challenging. According to the National Institutes of Health, holiday eating can result in a weight gain of one to two pounds. Over the course of a lifetime, those extra pounds can really add up. The holidays don’t have to be a time to gain weight. With a healthy balance of food, activity, and fun, you can enjoy the season without regret. • Be realistic. Don’t plan to lose weight during the holidays. Focus on maintaining your current weight. • Get moving. Exercise helps to relieve holiday stress and can help partially offset increased holiday eating. • Plan ahead. Every holiday table features a wide variety of food so choose healthy foods first. Offer to make a healthy dish to share with family and friends.
What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant These free events are offered by the Passavant Hospital Foundation: Classes Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Busy People Tuesday, Nov. 16, 6:30 p.m. Community College of Allegheny County North Campus Speaker: Registered dietitian Learn some important tips to help get you pointed in the right direction for eating as healthy as possible.
Healthy Living With Diabetes Wednesday, Nov. 17, 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Patrick McCarthy, RN An overview of diabetes, plus tips on how to handle living with diabetes, including exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes that can reduce or eliminate the risk of diabetes.
• Eat before you feast. Avoid arriving at a party famished so you aren’t tempted to overeat. Eat a little something beforehand and drink one or two glasses of water to feel fuller. • Avoid temptation. Position yourself far away from the buffet table, and focus on spending time with family and friends instead of the food. • Change it up. Use ingredient substitutions to make your favorite recipes healthier. For example, ditch the fat in dips and dressings by using fat-free or low-fat yogurt instead. • Stuff the turkey, not yourself. Sit down, relax, and enjoy smaller portions of your favorite holiday treats. Eat just until you are satisfied. If you do overindulge, get back on track the next day with lighter meals. Remember: It takes 500 calories a day (3,500 a week) above your normal consumption to gain a pound. Just something to think about when you’re tempted to overindulge. Sources: American Diabetes Association, National Institutes of Health
Welcoming New Physicians Please visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information about any of our physicians.
UPMC Passavant is pleased to welcome the following new physicians:
Jonas Cooper, MD Cardiovascular Services Division of Cardiology Milly P. Khan, MD Family Practice Arlan H. Mintz, MD Head and Neck Surgery Neurological Surgery
For more information about classes at UPMC Passavant and affiliated outpatient centers, call UPMC Physician Referral at 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Michael A. Pezzone, MD Medicine Gastroenterology
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Passavant 9100 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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Time to Take Care of You Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC Passavant physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments. Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/patientcare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
♥ Keeping the Most Important Muscle Fit
hen it comes to exercise, it’s hard to break through the hype and advertising ploys for the newest and best cardio machine or workout. However, the best cardio workout depends on engaging the heart through a multitude of levels and workloads, said Dan Griffin, general manager of Oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, who is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine, said people are becoming more educ ated when it comes to their cardio workout. “People understand you do not have to do long, slow distance exercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studies are showing now that low-intensity heart maintenance levels are just as efficient for calorie burn. Middle heart rates – the kind
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of exercises where you can talk to your neighbor, but can’t recite the Gettysburg Address – those work well also,” Griffin said. “The higher heart levels have a whole different physiological response and work on different parts of your body. Some who do a little bit of exercise in all three ranges lose weight quicker, and it doesn’t take more time. You take those 30-40 minutes you usually dedicate t o your workout and break it up.” Griffin said there are new workout machines that take advantage of that data to help athletes meet those various heart ranges. “There always are machines that are the ‘hot machines.’ In the ‘80s and ‘90s, it was the stepper, and now it’s treadmills, ellipticals, and multi-angular training. With a treadmill, you’re in one plane, moving forward. With multi-angular and multi-plane machines you’re moving forward, and you’re also going left, right, forward and back,” Griffin said. “Another hot machine right now is the ArcTrainer, which is a cross between a stepper and an elliptical. With step training, few people can last long enough to make that work right, so the ArcTrainer is a favorite among tennis players and other athletes who come in.” In addition to specia lized cardio machines, Griffin said circuit training still gives people a great workout. “Circuit training is still alive and well. We have trainers who take people through workouts that are as demanding as can be,” he said. “Unless you need bulk and heavy lifting, there’s a lot to be said for this functional training where you’re pushing sandbags and working out without stopping between sets. I’ve done it, and have gotten my heart rate from 130 up to 170, and it stays within that range within the whole half hour. The key though, is to do it in a circuit fashion. That way, you don’t have to stop between exercising.” Griffin said that because circuit training focuses on different muscle groups, the workouts typically are faster to get through. “Muscularly, you don’t need the rest because you’re working a different muscle group each time,” he said. “ Cardio-wise, you may have to wait 30 seconds or so between sets, but you can definitely be fit by doing that.”
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
H
ats for eroes
“This year, especially, more than anything, more kids have said to me that they have family members with cancer or have died from cancer.”
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RAISES MONEY FOR SUSAN G. KOMEN FOUNDATION or nearly a decade, students from the Mars Area School District have been raising money for breast cancer research through a unique program started by health and physical education teacher Brian Fox. Called “Hats for Heroes,” the program gives students the opportunity to donate money and, in return, students get to do something that’s not allowed in school – wear a hat. “When I was teaching back at the middle school, I knew of a lot of companies that would let you wear jeans to work if you donated money for a good cause,” Fox said. “Everyone at school can wear jeans already, so I thought, ‘Let’s let the kids do something that they can’t do that’s fun.’ So, if they donate for the cause, they get to wear a hat in class.” Fox, whose mother-in-law is a breast cancer survivor, has a personal tie to breast cancer and became involved with helping the Susan G. Komen Foundation as a result of her ordeal. “We do this every October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I’ve been talking in my classes about cancer and related issues for the month,” Fox said. “I call the Susan G. Komen Foundation each August and they supply us with T-shirts and bracelets, so the students get one of those for donating as well. The important factor is raising money for a good cause.” In addition to the Hats for Heroes program, Fox and the school have been a sponsor for the Race for the Cure for the past five years, and earned an award for their outstanding participation in fundraising for the cause.
F
Mars Area
“This year, especially, more than anything, more kids have said to me that they have family members with cancer or have died from cancer. They’ve been impacted as well. It can happen to anybody, and everyone will probably experience it in their lifetime within their own family or that of someone they know. I know a lot of teachers who have been affected as well.” While getting to wear a hat is a small consolation, the fundraiser routinely raises thousands of dollars each year. Last year, within an hour of fundraising, the students raised more than $7,400. Fox said his goal this year was even higher. “My goal this year was $10,000. I told the students that if we make that, I’ll dye my goatee pink,” he said. “Whether it’s a lot or a little, no matter what you donated, it goes to a good cause. So it’s worth it.” Fox and the Mars students did make that goal, raising $10,108.99. Fox said he’s elated that they met their goal, and, as promised, his goatee is pink. “It’s permanent, so it’s going to be pink for a couple of weeks, if not longer,” he said. “The kids love it. They’re laughing when they see me in the halls. The important thing is we raised about $2,600 more than last year. We never hit $10,000 before, so this is huge.”
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Older Adults in Mars Area
by Jamie Ward mericans filing federal returns can Marzina says that the question many So you could give gifts of up to expect year-end tax planning to be a $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay people are asking is, if you have assets bit more complicated this time around that have significant capital gains built in, a tax on it. According to the IRS, You because we don't know what the tax rates can't deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless they are left to a will be for 2011 just yet. The current charitable organization. rates, known as the Bush tax cuts from Federal estate taxes may have been 2001, are due to expire on Dec 31st of repealed for 2010 but are set to return on this year. January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% So when the new rates get passed, on estates valued at more than $1 million. taxpayers won't have a whole lot of time In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice president at Bill Few Associates says that on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and all the best plan of action here is to be assets got a “step-up” in basis when prepared. someone died. This meant that no tax “For this year I think its very would have to be paid on appreciated important that people be paying attention assets like stock and real estate. But to what happens in the political spectrum under new laws all assets inherited may be in terms of tax rates for the new year and subject to the capital gains tax. should you accelerate taxes and sell those If the current administration's to make sure you have your advisers lined assets in 2010 to ensure 15% tax rate? up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.” proposal to allow rates to expire and Instead of waiting for 2011 and having return to 2009's rate, the “step-up” in Each year, an individual is allowed to the rate jump to 20%. The problem here is that taxpayers basis will return. Another proposal is to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to have most of the current brackets stay but wont have a lot of time to make these without being subject to a gift tax. If you raise tax rates of the highest bracket, and decisions. According to Marzina, if the give beyond this, you must fill out a gift taxes on dividends and capital gains jump new tax laws are in place by Dec 1st, there will only be a 30 day window to tax return, which goes against the unified from 15% to 20%. The Republican proposal is to extend current tax rates for make any decisions this year, so the best credit amount that they are allowed to a period of 2 years and cap dividends and thing to do is make those decisions as give at their death. Which right now is capital gains at 15%. quickly as possible. not determined. 38 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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by Jamie Ward
ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the
jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It's the number one cause of injury related deaths. So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to Florida is out of the question), it's a good idea to review some
tips on keeping yourself safe this winter. • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a better grip with the ground. Leather and plastic soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather. • Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways. • Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it. • If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling.
Senior Agencies Mars Senior Center Penn Mar Plaza Gilkey Dr. Mars, PA 16046 724.625.4466
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 Transportation For appointments only. The Older Adults actual medical appointment There are several agencies time needs to be between that offer free or reduced rate transportation services 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Trip requests should be to individuals who qualify. made two weeks in advance BART (Butler Area & Rural by calling the Area Agency on Aging office at Transit) This is a shared ride system 724.282.3008 or transporting 60+ seniors to 1.888.367.2434. Riders must pre-register to senior centers, medical participate. appointments, adult day care, and other destinations THE AREA AGENCY within Butler County using ON AGING lift vans. BART is available Utilizes volunteer drivers to Monday through Friday transport seniors over the from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. age of 60 to medical Reservations can be made appointments in and out of up to one week in advance 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 community’s older adults?
And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, ask a family member or neighbor to help you.
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.
We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
DON’T LET
Winter Slow You Down –
Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions A lot of people think that
W
interizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of Western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter weather – but there are some things that are just good sense.
getting ready for winter
• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can get thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start up times until your engine is properly lubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changing viscosity for the winter months.
simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and
• Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics – make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won ’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, ice scrapers and extra gloves.
draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize your vehicle, you may
• If you don’t have jumper cables, get some! Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritan to jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress.
be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to
Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. However, you can’t eliminate bad driving, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.
come pick you up.
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Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
efore the last notes of “Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last mouth horn goes silent, chances are you’ll be suckered into making another New Year’s Resolution that will also fade as fast.
“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals.”
a factor that can help them to avoid burnout. “Most people think that starting out with cardio is good because it helps to warm up muscles before weight training. Other people feel starting out with cardio may caus e too much fatigue, which could lower your workout intensity and make lifting with proper form more difficult,” she said. “Truthfully, there is no right or wrong answer. Different people will need to rotate their routine differently. The best advice is to pay attention to your fitness goals. If you are focused a bit more on endurance try to do your cardio first when you’ll have the most energy. On the other hand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass
Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travel more, or reduce stress, experts say that while it takes time to develop a habit or behavior, the expectation of changing that developed habit over night are basically unrealistic. Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals. Success in achieving those goals stems from taking baby steps, or realistic approaches to achievement. Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness at Robinson Towne Center, said burnout is a major factor in people not following through with their workout routines. “Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control your motivation and enthusiasm so you don’t burnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaul you’re entire workout program every two to three months.” Hardt also said that figuring out where cardio exercise belongs in their routine also is 42 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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work the weights first before cardio.” Pursuing a healthier lifestyle is always a good idea, and while many people make it their New Year’s resolution to get back in shape, experts agree that any health program should be focused on progressive, attainable and realistic goals. However it’s also a great idea not to overindulge during the holidays in the first place. Gai ning 10 pounds after partying for a month, grazing cookies at the office and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a lot easier than doing 30 minutes at the gym everyday for two weeks to negate those calories. While it’s cliché, moderation is still the key to a balanced lifestyle and you’ll be doing yourself a favor bypassing that cookie tray or second glass of wine in the first place.
Celebrating a Wonderful Community Allison Lu sk, Jeana Garrity, Ric hie Lusk
dams Township celebrated Community Day on Saturday, September 11, at the Community Park. The day began with the Herb Kaufman Memorial 5K Run/Walk, hosted by the Adams Area Fire District. The township treated locals to an afternoon of fun activities, such as hay rides, bingo, fire trucks, inflatable bouncers for the kids, lots of delicious food, and an oldies rock ‘n' roll concert by American Pie. As always, the celebration concluded with exciting fireworks!
A
Brianna Link
mily The O'Toole Fa
Arlene, Jasmine & Miranda Williams
Vic Morrone & Heidi
Clayton Pfeifer, Adam Stobert
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
REAL ESTATE IN Mars Area
If you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with the return of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on listing your home. January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, said Lori Crandell, Realtor and Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker. “January is definitely a good time to list a house. It’s the beginning of the spring market,” she said. “Especially after football season is over, people get bored and start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to list in the spring shoot for January or early February because you’ll get a leg up on the spring market before it gets saturated.” While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foot traffic you get will be from serious buyers, not people just browsing. “The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really important that sellers go online themselves and look at the differences between brokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popular website for consumers.” Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell said that some people worry about how their home will show if there’s a foot of snow on the ground, but if your house is attractive and inviting in the winter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny.
It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. “During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst. Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should make those photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yard looks good in the winter, it’s going to look good in the spring, but if we have the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back who can’t make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out pictures of the yard in other seasons.” Other things that the winter provides advantages for include an opportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether the 44 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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home heats evenly, and whether or not it has any drafty areas you’ll need to address. “There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like air conditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a home warranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warranty and can get that rectified before it gets too hot.”
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
sales@incommunitymagazines.com
Call
724.942.0940
ADVERTISE HERE!
ars Area
Do you know someone who is serving in the armed forces from the Mars area? We would like to honor their commitment by featuring them in IN Mars Area Magazine. Please forward your name, the soldier’s name and where they are serving, along with a photo to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.
Help us recognize these fine men and women!
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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 board-certified 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) 16000 Perry Highway, Suite 2, Warrendale • 6507 Robinson Center Dr., Pittsburgh Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
M
ost childhood Christmas memories are of joyful occasions with precious family-bonding moments: mom and dad singing Christmas carols; children with happy, angelic faces gazing up at them in tranquil adoration. My own memories are also quite happy. But after comparing notes, I have slowly come to realize that my entire family is quite possibly out of their spruce tree. So, for an inside look at how a dysfunctional family spends its Christmas, please read on… Immediately after Thanksgiving, a disturbing lunar phase would always begin at our house. My otherwise fairly normal, career-oriented mother would begin to clean our house in anticipation of my grandparents’ arrival for Christmas. Not the normal tidying up one might do for a family visit. No, this was more like a murder had been committed at our house and my mother’s cleaning was the frantic attempts of the killer to remove every shred of DNA evidence. My mother would methodically begin to disinfect every object in our house, including the dogs. Not even my toys, which were thoroughly soaked in bleach, were spared, resulting in my Malibu Barbie turning into a white-haired old lady in need of a sunbed. I have never been sure why my mother was so intimidated by her mother-in-law, but she apparently lived in fear that the frail, gray-haired woman would somehow drag a stepladder into the kitchen and, risking hip fracture, stand on the top rung to inspect for dust above the cabinets. My father’s style of celebrating the holidays was the polar opposite of a Brady Bunch Christmas. Less than enthused about stimulating the economy through gift-giving, he wasn’t terribly fond of the Christmas tree either. So in their new house, he ingeniously designed a special closet where a fully decorated Christmas tree on rollers could be wheeled out Dec. 1 and neatly rolled back into the closet on Dec. 26. Surely, he must be at least partially responsible for my quirky and oftentimes odd behavior. December 18 my grandparents would arrive. My grandfather would wheel into the driveway, screeching tires, and jump out of their Buick proudly announcing, “Made it in 6 hours and 15 minutes,” the goal being to shave minutes off of last year’s time. My grandmother, still white-lipped from the G-forces, would peel herself off the car seat and wobble in, complaining that my grandfather had driven 85 mph all the way.
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On Christmas Day, my mother, who does not cook but is highly skilled at thawing and microwaving, morphed into Betty g, a Crocker, nksgivin ays a h T r e t ly af ld alw attempting such mediate ar phase wou er wise Im n th complex dishes as lu turbing r house. My o d mother is d green-beannte t ou begin a al, career-orie house in casserole and r m u r o ts’ fairly no egin to clean congealed salad. dparen n b a r ld g u y o w m as. Unfortunately tion of anticipa al for Christm iv with the pressure r r a of the day, she would usually charcoalize the green-bean casserole. (I’m not sure if charcoalize is a word, but I really like it.) One holiday, my thoughtful grandfather shocked the entire village by crossing gender lines and washing dishes. Unfortunately, while dishwashing, his dentures flew into the garbage disposal as if sucked out of his mouth by an unseen evil force. He quickly turned off the disposal and pulled out a set of mangled dentures. Silently, he turned the switch back on and threw the dentures back into the garbage disposal. I miss him. Maybe we are all a little dysfunctional in one way or another. With the holidays, it’s easy for anyone to get a little neurotic. So, in between cursing the bakery for selling the last Boston crème pie and that mad dash for the last parking space at the mall, just keep saying under your breath, “Peace. And on earth, good will toward mankind.” Happy holidays.
WINTER
2010
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
on the go...
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 49
Adopt a Pet Red
Winter Weather Safety Tips ❅ Have a snack before going outside. It will give you energy and keep your body warmer. ❅ Make sure to wear sunscreen on your face. The snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's ultraviolet rays. ❅ Dress in layers of clothes. Waterproof pants and jackets will keep you dry and warm! ❅ Never go sled riding alone. Always have a parent supervise. ❅ When you’re playing outside, go inside every once in a while to warm up. ❅ If you start to shiver or feel numb, go inside right away and tell an adult. 50 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Sophie
It ’s the Holidays! Find each of these words in this puzzle.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 51
Celebrating Strand Theater at
Taste of the New North Ron Carter, Strand Theater's President & Executive Director
L
utheran SeniorLife, Passavant Retirement Community and The Strand Theater presented the 9th Annual Taste of the New North in support of the Strand Theater Initiative. Restaurants from the northern suburbs gathered at the Four Points Sheraton to showcase their signature menu offerings, wines and ales. More than 400 guests enjoyed a fabulous evening of delicious food and wonderful entertainment featuring Violinist Ron Molinaro, the North Allegheny Golden Strolling Stings, and the Seneca Valley Madrigals. The Strand Theater Initiative is a non-profit organization that focuses on cultural, educational, and community outreach. This event marked the one-year anniversary of the Strand's Grand Opening. The theater is located at 119 North Main Street in Zelienople. For more information, visit their website at www.thestrandtheater.org.
Janet Heckatorn, Kathy Seaton
Shawn Kurtz, Ashlee Gierlach
Jeff Rook, Meg Abernethy, Sandy Rook, Ashley Graziano Albert Presto, Jennifer Berner, Georgia Berner Nick Prugar, Larry Schweinegruber, Dennis Auld
Whitney Corrigan, Jen Shank, Theresa Stroh, Anissa Tekelenburg
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PLACES
OF
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
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 | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 53
PTI
Preparing Students
Networked Future iring a home for the demands of today’s computing, entertainment and security is a daunting task. Anyone who’s ever had trouble connecting the right wires to the right jacks between two pieces of home theater equipment can tell you that. Add the complexities of new energy efficient equipment and green technology, and you take daunting to a new level. Pittsburgh Technical Institute's Smart Building Technology (SBT) program gives students the training necessary to make the connections in new construction or existing structures. SBT prepares students for Internet, wireless networking, hardwired networking, security, and audio and visual applications. David Semich, department chair, says the course is about “integrating systems” in today’s buildings, both residential and commercial. “Today,
everything is int egrated. The students’ responsibility is to install, connect, calibrate and to make sure they achieve optimum sound and video quality. They connect to video, voice, audio and sometimes data systems. Fire and alarm systems are included as well,” Semich says. PTI's Smart Building Technology degree includes preparation for two industry certifications. The Residential Electronics Systems Integrator is a profe ssional certification for those who design and oversee the installation and integration of electronics systems in residences and light commercial buildings. The objective is to produce a residential or light commercial electronics systems package that allows all data, control, and communication signals to be integrated at the premise controller and converged into one secure cohesive communication stream. The Integrator is proficient in many protocols to communicate with
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and control residential and light commercial electronics systems. The Certified Electronics System Technician (EST) ESPA Certified-EST® certification is based upon the best practices of the commercial and residential electronic industries. It provides an entry-level credential showing that students have the basic skills required to pursue a career in many fields including commercial and residential A/V, telecom, cable, satellite, fire and security, computers, building and general trades, and advanced manufacturing. Bryan Martin, PTI instructor, says that people should not equate this program with electrician training programs.“Our Smart Building Technology students deal with low-voltage systems," he explains. “We do soft skills as well—writ ten and verbal communications so students can work with anyone they come across in the field, says John Dings, PTI instructor. "We introduce presentation software and basic drawing programs that strengthen communications with colleagues and prospective clients.” The 21-month SBT program is offered through PTI’s School of Building Technology. Students actually get to build systems in PTI’s new construction area, which is, essentially, a mock house used for demonstration and hands-on learning. Students can install systems in a totally “new home” and retrofit in an “existing home” environment. “They drill the holes, terminate the wires on both ends and hook up devices to test them. As they progress, we put drywall up and they do a simulated old construction installation,” says Dings. “If you want to put new t echnologies in a 50-year-old home, we teach students how to do it." Graduates can enter the job market working for data and telecom companies, security and alarm companies, home theater designers and contractors, even companies that help other companies “go green” via increased efficiency and energy savings. “What’s good about this program, is that it’s not just for homes,” Semich said. “It’s for the com mercial side, too. Home sales may go down, but you still have the commercial side. In addition to its School of Building Technology, PTI offers certificates and degrees through these six schools: Business, Criminal Justice, Design, Healthcare, Nursing, and Technology. For a complete listing, visit www.pti.edu.
Mars Area | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
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ars Area Reach 15,000 Potential Customers in Adams, Mars, Middlesex and Valencia
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Innovative Solutions
to a Common Gynecological Problem: Incontinence by Kristine R. Santerini, M.D.
U
rinary incontinence is a common, often embarrassing and frustrating problem for millions of women. This used to be a issue that many women felt was a normal part of aging and that it was a problem that they would need to learn how to deal with and keep to themselves. Now that women are leading longer, healthier, much more active lives, urinary incontinence is becoming an issue for which many women are seeking treatment from their doctors.
Kegel exercises, or pelvic floor exercises, are performed to strengthen the voluntary periurethral and perivaginal muscles. The principle behind Kegel Exercises depends on technique and adherence to a regular resistance Kegel exercises program. Some people have difficulty identifying and isolating the muscles of the pelvic floor, and biofeedback with a trained physical therapist can help. Kegel exercises, if done consistently and correctly, can greatly improve symptoms of SUI.
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) occurs when the pressure inside the bladder is greater than the pressure outside the bladder, and the urethral sphincter fails to stay closed. It effects women of all ages and generally occurs with laughing coughing, sneezing, and exercise. SUI incontinence is due to pelvic floor muscle weakness. Loss of urine occurs with coughing, laughing, sneezing, exercising, or other movements that increase intraabdominal pressure and increases pressure on the bladder. Physical changes resulting from pregnancy, childbirth and menopause often cause stress incontinence. It is the most common form of incontinence in women and is treatable.
Behavioral techniques and lifestyle changes can help many types of incontinence and many times will be the only form of treatment necessary.
Treatment for urinary incontinence depends on the type of incontinence, the severity and the underlying cause. Behavioral techniques and lifestyle changes can help many types of incontinence and many times will be the only form of treatment necessary.
Premier Obstetric and Gynecologic Care Close to Home!
Acceptin new patientstgs
There are numerous pharmacologic agents now available to help with frequency, urgency and urge incontinence. Generally, drugs improve detrusor overactivity by inhibiting the contractile activity of the bladder. Drug treatments generally are not useful for symptoms of stress incontinence. If non-surgical treatments have not been successful, stress urinary incontinence can be treated with surgery. Suburethral sling procedures use a strip of material to support the bladder neck like a hammock and create a backboard to support the urethra during stressful physical activities.This is a minimally invasive procedure that can have a cure rate up to 95 percent. Stress urinary incontinence is extremely common in women. Treatment of incontinence begins with a thorough evaluation of the problem. Once the cause is discovered, therapy can be initiated. At Premier Women’s Health, we are prepared to help women with this problem and help them find the best course of treatment. Do you have questions about this information or need to schedule an appointment? We will be happy to help you! Please call our Adams Township office at (724) 778-9966.
Mark J. Fuoss, R.Ph., M.D. Christina A. Cirucci, M.D. Kristine R. Santerini, M.D. Laura J. Silverman, P.A.-C. Frank D. DiCenzo, D.O., C.C.D. Bryan E. LaBuda, R.Ph., D.O. Kerri L. McIntyre, D.O.
Same-Day Appointments Available
SERVING CRANBERRY/ CRANBERRY/SEVEN SEVEN FIELD FIELDS S / MARS Next to MedExpress • 6998 Crider Road, Mars, PA 16046 APPOINTMENTS and INFORMATION INFORMATION:: ((724) 724) 778-9966 www.premierwomenshealth.org
Premier Women’s Health has two other locations to serve you. In addition to Adams Township, we are conveniently located in Sewickley (412-741-6530) and Moon Township (412-264-2450).We are able to accommodate a woman’s busy schedule with early morning and late afternoon appointments at any of our offices. Kristine R. Santerini, M.D. was chief of obstetrics and gynecology with the 347th Medical Group at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia and then served as a staff obstetrician-gynecologist at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. Dr. Santerini joined Premier Women’s Health in 1998 and is board-certified and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, as well as a member of the Pittsburgh Obstetrical and Gynecological Society, the Allegheny County Medical Society, and the Pennsylvania Medical Society.
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