SPRING 2011
SERVING THE RESIDENTS OF MONROEVILLE AND PITCAIRN
SPRING 2011 IN Monroeville is a non-partisan community SPRING 2011 publication dedicated to representing,
Welcome to the spring issue of Monroeville Magazine. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, and fun. Typically, I use this space to talk about your community or features in the magazine that spotlight the people in your community who are doing wonderful things. Well, this time I want to update you regarding our newest feature for 2011—our new website. Without venturing too far into the realm of shameless self-promotion, I want to emphasize that this website is something for you, our readers. How so? Well, you can have input and help shape the website just like your ideas help shape your magazine. Now you have a place to list all of the nonprofit community organizations that are active in the community. We are also developing pages where we list the local houses of worship. In addition, we now offer every magazine in a fully downloadable PDF format, rather than the outdated flipbook format we used to have. This will allow you to send the magazine, or links to it, to friends and family both near and far. We tied our website into Facebook as well, not to get the biggest list of “friends” we could get but to have a place to keep our readers abreast of all the news we get between issues. It also gives us a place to upload all the photos from community events that we don’t have room for in the magazine. As with all things, there’s always room for improvement, but we always have open ears. If you have comments about our new website or want to see your organization listed, e-mail mark@incommunitymagazines.com with your link or feedback. There’s no charge for listing your church, synagogue, or scout troop’s link, so send your links in today! And if you happen to be on Facebook and like what you see in the magazine, don’t hesitate to click that “Like” button. It’s always nice to be liked! I hope you have a wonderful spring!
Wayne Dollard Publisher When I think about spring, I can’t help but think about light. The days get “lighter,”and the sun stays with us a little longer each day. When we have a great idea, a light bulb goes off in our minds. At Monroeville Magazine we try to spotlight our communities. What are you doing to be a “light”? If you or an organization that you volunteer or work for is a light in the community, will you let me know? So many good deeds are left unsung. If you have a family member who is in the armed forces, or if your church group or even Mom or Dad are providing a service to someone in need, we want to know! Please e-mail your ideas and photos to me at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. On page 16 of this edition, I want to introduce you to three young men who have contributed to the community by rehabilitating the Old Stone Church next to Crossroads Cemetery. Zach Carns, Brendan Demich, and Will Schultz all deserve our praise and thanks for attending to a community gem so that it’s preserved for future generations to enjoy. As we look forward to warmer and brighter days ahead, I hope you will enjoy this edition of Monroeville Magazine.
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor 2
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
encouraging and promoting the Monroeville area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R
Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T
Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS
Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny
Pamela Palongue
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco
P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S
Nicholas Buzzell Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes Jason Huffman Jessie Jones Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Summer content deadline:4/5 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Contents Monroeville | Spring 2011 |
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use For residents of eastern communities
What’s Inside
16
12
Healthy Family, Happy Family
COMMUNITY INTEREST
|
UPMC East on Schedule to Open in Summer 2012
45
21
Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job.
With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere. © 2011 UPMC
Publisher’s Message
page 2 page 3
page 4
page 5
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
page 6
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
page 7
Shaping Up to Play Preventing Weekend Warrior Injuries
2
|
The Borough of Pitcairn
|
6
Student Artwork Contest Monroeville Public Library
|
10 14
|
Boy Scouts Rescue the Old Stone Church
|
16
Older Adults in Monroeville | Keep Your Credit Card Secure | 18 Digital Photography for Seniors | 19 Dom Care Program | 20 UPMC Today
|
Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 21
In Kids
|
30
Monroeville Area Chamber
|
Real Estate in Monroeville
35
|
Both Buyers and Sellers Need to BEWARE of OVERpricing | 38 Reeducation of the Seller | 39 FEATURES
|
Proms & Wedding Section Venue Planning for Your Wedding | Prom Fashion Tips for 2011 | 45
|
44
Wedding Reception to Remember | 46 Wedding Etiquette for the Socially Inept | 47
Home Improvements
|
Fireplace—Creates Warmth & the Perfect Decor | 5 Rethinking the Attic | 40 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
|
Pro Bikes
|
Powered by Passion | 29
Allegheny Hearing
|
Are Your Ears Ringing? | 43 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
|
Garage Door Doctor
|
Learning Express Toys Toys to Talk About | 37 ON THE COVER
|
33 |
Eagle Scout, Zack Carns works on rehabilitating The Old Stone Church in Monroeville.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
4
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
firePlaCe
&
Creates Warmth
W
the PerfeCt DeCor
Add Warmth, Style, and Value to Your Home
hat is it about a fireplace that is so comforting? That warm glow and the advantages of heat efficiency and home resale value, all make installing a fireplace the ideal home renovation project. Innovations today in cost-efficient, energy-saving models have put fireplaces at the top of the “to-do” list for home remodeling projects. In spite of the new energy efficiency, a fireplace still continues to provide ambience, warmth, and an upgrade in any décor.
What's Your Style Fireplaces have come a long way from the typical wood-burning variety. They can be specifically designed to fit any room, and there are a large variety of fuels to produce heat or just glow. A wood-burning fireplace is the classic option. They provide a beautiful flame, crackling-wood sound, and heat. Newer to the market are gas fireplaces, which can be designed to imitate real burning wood, but their fuel source is natural gas or propane. Gas burns cleanly and is much more convenient than its
wood-burning counterpart. Electric fireplaces have some of the same advantages as gas-burning fireplaces, but have the extra benefit of being able to flip a switch and have instant ambience.
Which is the right investment for you? When deciding which option in fireplaces is right for your home, it is important to look at the space limitations in your home. Determine how much heat you need from the unit and whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a professional. Another thing to consider is that if you do not have a chimney in the house, installing one will add additional expense. Your choice of fuel for the fire should also be considered. Dealing with split wood—the stacking and handling, versus turning on a switch to give you the fire, is something to think about when choosing options. Adding a fireplace to any room in your home will add value to your home and provide a comfortable setting for you to relax.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
Government Information Borough Manager: Patty Logo
BOROUGH OF
Available at the office: Permit and inspection information Park Building or Sugar Camp rental information
Pitcairn
Elected Officials State Senator James Brewster 412.380.2242
State Representative Joseph Markosek 412.856.8284
PITCAIRN TOWN CLEAN-UP DAY
Mayor and Council 412.372.6500
Saturday, April 16 • 7:30-11:30 a.m.
Borough Meetings 7 p.m. in the Pitcairn Borough Council Chambers Council Agenda Workshop: Second Tuesday Council Business Meeting: Fourth Tuesday
Pitcairn Borough Community Events
own Clean-Up Day is an excellent time to spring clean your house and help keep our community clean. Dumpsters will be located at the Borough Building, Fire Company #1, and at Sugar Camp for your convenience. Hard-to-dispose-of items such as automotive batteries, refrigerators, air conditioners, metal, and tires will be accepted only at Fire Company #1 and will require a small charge to cover environmental fees associated with their disposal. As in past years, permits for residents are available at the Borough office and will be limited to one permit per family or resident. Proof of residency is required prior to issuance of the permit. If you or your organization would like to volunteer your time to the community, please call the borough office at 412.372.6500 to register for a location. Gloves and safety equipment will be provided.
T
Advertised on Pitcairn Community Station–Ch. 4: Easter Egg Hunt Harvest Festival Spring/Fall Clean-Up Community Day Summer Lunch Program Fireman’s Fair Summer Recreation Program Old Fashioned Christmas
Pitcairn Directory Police/Fire Emergency 911 Police Non-Emergency 412.856.1111 Pitcairn Police Department 412.372.6505 Chief: Dennis Hockenberry 412.372.6505 Fire Non-Emergency Pitcairn Hose No. 1: 412.372.7040 Chief – Henry Farally Pitcairn Hose No. 2: 412.856.5630 Chief – Chris Fouser Ambulance Pitcairn Ambulance 412.856.6432 Gateway School District 412.372.5300 Tax Collector Sally DiRobbio 412.372.3009 Wage Tax Collector EIT Collector 412.856.1045 Borough Engineer EADS 412.754.0801 Borough Solicitor Bruce Dice and Associates 412.733.3080 Magistrate Jeffery Herbst 412.372.1125 Animal Control Triangle Pet 412.771.7387 Trash Waste Management 724.864.5166 Utilities Wilkinsburg Penn Joint Water 412.243.6200 Equitable Gas Company 412.395.3050 ALCOSAN Sewage 412.766.6696 Verizon Telephone 800.660.2215 Pitcairn Borough Electric/Cable Department Pitcairn Power 582 Sixth Street, Pitcairn, PA 15140 412.372.6500 Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday Monthly bills include electric usage, cable, garbage and sewer maintenance fees. Bills are sent out approximately the 15th of each month, and are due the fifth of each month. There is a drop off box on the front door of the Borough building for payments after office hours. Trash Days: Trash may be put out after 6 p.m. on the day before collection.
6
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
Do you have a basement full of “stuff” you'll never use again? Would you like to actually put your car in the garage? If so, Borough Council can help!
Pitcairn Borough provides two facilities for rental to residents and the public at large. To rent either facility for your group or personal event, please contact the Borough office at 412.372.6500. Sugar Camp Park, on Wall Avenue, is a large multi-purpose recreational facility. Amenities include two picnic pavilions, full kitchen, restrooms, basketball court, playground with swings, and a recreational field for outdoor sports. Ample parking is available. Electricity is provided at the pavilion. Pitcairn Park Building, on Broadway, is a large indoor facility suited for meetings, parties, and other large indoor events. The building seats 150-200 people, depending on configuration. The building has a full kitchen, restrooms, air conditioning, and ample parking in an adjacent free lot. Also available is posting of your event on the outdoor marquis.
The Borough of Pitcairn is upgrading its Internet service. The new service, Level 3, will be six times faster than the current Internet speed. The new, faster service will be competitive with FIOS and Comcast. The new provider is also a primary content provider for Netflix, so that type of content will be much easier to download. Pitcairn's Internet solution will be easily expandable, should the demand increase. The utilization will be available for review/monitoring via an online Web portal. The new service will not add any additional cost to the customer and is expected to be completed within the next two months.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
8
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
Monroeville r
ELAINE SUNG • Gra de 12
• Gateway High
School
Winne
10
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
District Artwork
WINNER ELAINE SUNG
We treat your pet like one of our fur-kids! SPECIAL OFFER: $10 off any service
RUNNERS UP
• PetSitting • Dog Walks • Dog Training Bonded, Insured, Background checked Check out our testimonials on our web site.
BAVNEET MAKKAR
AUSTIN JANOCKO
NAZOKAT TUKHTAMURODOVA
724-515-7790
• w w w. m y a u n t p e n n y. c o m
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
eatty Pointe Village in Monroeville celebrated its “Sweet 15� anniversary on January 15 with an event designed to please any sweet tooth. Julie Alakson, spokeswoman for Beatty Pointe Village, said the event was centered around desserts that reflect the sweet theme. Guests were treated to candies, flavored coffees and teas in addition to the decadent desserts offered. Alakson also said that the event also highlighted residents and staff who have been with facility since its inception. Two residents that moved in when Beatty Pointe first opened its doors are still living there, and 10 employees who were part of the original staff are still part of the Beatty Pointe Team. Music was furnished by the nimble fingers of harpist Lucy Scandrett. Beatty Pointe Village also offered move-in incentives for residents who moved in prior to February 1. Alakson said that Beatty Pointe Village will be hosting other events throughout the year that also will be open to the public, including a health fair in March. Beatty Pointe Village is part of UPMC Senior Communities and is located at 700 Beatty Road in Monroeville.
B
12
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
For more information on Beatty Pointe Village or for a current listing of their events, go to: www.upmc.com/Services/SeniorCommunities/ independent-living/Pages/beatty-pointe-village.aspx.
Students at Gateway High School will be taking the stage in late April for their spring musical, “Seussical The Musical.” In the meantime, the kids have kept very busy with rehearsals. Cast members have been rehearsing with a choreographer, musical director, vocal director, and music director after school each week. “Rehearsals so far are very good,” says Bob Read, musical director. “The kids really like the music, and they are looking forward to another good production.” Read says he never selects the show prior to auditions. “This year we were very impressed with the talent of the kids, and there were many very good auditions,” says Read. “We decided on 'Seussical,' allowing masny kids to be featured in a lead-type role, even double-casting some roles to provide even more students with an opportunity.” Gateway has hired a professional set designer from Point Park University to build the show's set. “We have parents involved in the construction, and many kids help as well,” says Read. The set is mostly worked on during the weekends. Plans are made for each set piece and are detailed in their design. “This way, certain parents and kids can be working on one set piece while others may be working on something else,” says Read. “Seussical” is based on the books of beloved children's author Dr. Seuss. The musical's story integrates many of Seuss's most famous books. Don’t miss out on your chance to see the show at Gateway High School Auditorium. For information and to reserve tickets, patrons may call the box office at 412.373.5866.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
Tot Time
Tot Time has been moved to the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
10–10:30 a.m. in the Gallery Space These story times for one- to threeyear-olds with an adult are held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month in the Gallery Space. Registration begins one week before each program.
Family Craft Nights
All Monroeville Public Library patrons are invited to join MPL Adult Program E-News, an electronic mail group designed to keep you informed about adult programs at MPL. Members receive e-mails with information about upcoming local history programs, travel slide shows, local author talks, science programs, health lectures and more.To join MPL Adult Program E-News, just send a blank e-mail message to mpladultprograms-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Within a few minutes you will receive an e-mail with instructions for joining the group. If you have any questions about how to join the MPL Adult Program E-News group, contact Mark Hudson, Adult Services Librarian, at 412.372.0500, ext. 13.
Easter Family Craft Night Tuesday, April 12 from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Registration begins April 1
Recycled Family Craft Night Thursday, April 28 from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Registration begins April 12
Winter Storytime This series of stories and crafts for children ages 3–5 are held each Wednesday from February 16 to April 20. Parents do not stay during the story portion but return to help with crafts during the last 10 minutes.
Teen Gaming Thursday Afternoons – 3–5 p.m. Join us for Guitar Hero: World Tour, Madden '09, and a whole lot more on our PlayStation 3! We've also got free snacks while you wait for your turn at the system. Feel free to bring some games of your own.
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Thanks to Friends of the Library, MPL is able to repair DVD/CDs that have been damaged. The state of the art equipment was purchased because DVD/CDs were being discarded due to scratches. In most cases, the equipment can repair the discs. Discs that are cracked or delaminated cannot be repaired. The library is offering to repair DVD/CDs for the public, for a donation of $2 per disc.
The Teen Book Club meets the second Monday of each month from 3:30–4:30 p.m. in the Conference Room. Check the Teen Page for book titles.
14
For additional information, please contact Evan Karelitz at 412.372.0500, ext. 26.
Teen Book Club
Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 2 – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., Gallery Space 4000 Gateway Campus Boulevard Free of charge; call 412.372.0500 to register Co-sponsored by Heal from Pet Loss
Family Craft Nights, held in the Program Room, are a fun evening of craft making for the entire family. Space is limited, so register early!
For additional information, visit the Teen page of our website or contact the Teen Librarian at 412.372.0500, ext. 18.
Expert Advice for Owners of Aging or Ailing Pets: The Final Paw of the Journey
As an essential part of our community, Monroeville Public Library needs your support. Each and every day, people turn to the library seeking a book, a job, access to the Internet, or a quiet oasis where they can enjoy the newspaper, a magazine, or our gallery. At any time, Monroeville Public Library welcomes your gift to help us sustain an ever-growing collection of resources and a wide variety of programs and activities for individuals of all ages—all FREE to the public. Make a gift today for one of the following MPL priorities. For more information visit: www.monroevillelibrary.org/screens/ donate.html
Monroeville
Books By Mail represents a library without walls, a special service to patrons ages 50+ who cannot get to the Monroeville Public Library. The elderly, the homebound, those without adequate means of transportation, and people with disabilities living in the taxing district (Monroeville and Pitcairn) all qualify. There is no charge for Books By Mail. www.monroevillelibrary.org/screens/ booksbymail.html
Monroeville Public Library 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd. 412.372.0500 Children’s Room: ext. 3, Teen Librarian: ext. 18 Adult Reference: ext. 4 Christy Fusco, Director
Write for Monroeville! We are looking for experienced writers! If you’re a writer based in the Chartiers Valley community and you’re interested in writing features that keep our readers up to date on what’s happening, e-mail hr@incommunitymagazines.com. No phone calls please!
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
MONROEVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Boy Scouts Rescue the
W
When it became evident that Monroeville’s 117-year-old landmark needed lifesaving restoration, three Boy Scouts from Troops 205 and 111 came to the rescue. Like the Three Kings who offered gifts of spices and gold, they offered many hours of planning and labor to prevent the Old Stone Church next to Crossroads Cemetery from further deterioration. Even though it is perched atop the hill near Miracle Mile Shopping Center, the church’s basement flooded during rainstorms
“I was pleased with the outcome of my project which took 401 hours to complete. This includes my hours of planning and working on paperwork and everyone’s time who helped me.”
members who oversee its preservation. After submitting and receiving approval for his extensive plans to the Municipality of Monroeville who owns the building, Monroeville Historical Society, and the Boy Scout board of approval, Zach Carns, 15, began his project the first of October and worked every Sunday through November. A sophomore at Franklin Regional High School and a member of BSA Troop 205 that meets in Murrysville, Zach said he researched the best way to solve the wet basement problem, and also consulted with Ernest W. Carns, his grandfather who is a civil engineer; Kevin Beamer, his Troop Eagle Award advisor; and John Hyzy, Monroeville Public Works Department foreman. “Their support and encouragement was priceless,” Zach stressed. Zach learned three reinforced-concrete window wells needed to be constructed to replace the original wells that were breaking and falling apart. First, the old wells, made of brick and mortar, had to be dug out which required many hours of digging and hauling. “After that, forming the frames for the window wells was a slow process,” he said. “Wood and rebar had to be cut. I had to use levels and squares to make sure the forms were straight and then brace them in every direction before the heavy concrete was poured.” Even though it was a dusty job, Zach chose
and its bathroom walls looked like waterfalls during rainy days. In addition, the old pews were coming apart. This is when Boy Scouts, who needed projects to earn their Eagle awards, offered their help to the delight of the Monroeville Historical Society 16
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
Brendan Demich on the floor checking out the pew problem at the Old Stone Church.
to top off the window wells with stone caps to enhance their appearance. Ernie Carns, Zach’s father and Scoutmaster said, “Safety was emphasized every step of the project. Everyone used gloves, safety glasses and ear plugs. Only adults used the powered hand tools.” Zach added extra dirt for drainage into the French drain he dug, used plate tampers to level the ground for the final grade, and then the Municipality personnel used topsoil and grass seed to complete the landscaping around the wells. The project’s goals were achieved because the rooms in the basement have stayed dry and damage to the structure was averted. “I was pleased with the outcome of my project which took 401 hours to complete. This includes my hours of planning and working on paperwork and everyone’s time who helped me. I appreciate all the photos my mother, Susanne, took to record this effort. I felt every step of the project went well because there was great communication between those involved on how best to complete each task,” Zach said. A junior at Plum Senior High School, Brendan Demich, 16, chose to work on a
By Marilyn K. Wempa project at the church because he had sentimental feelings for this uniquely-shaped, historical structure. He knew his parents, Butch and Elaine Demich, were married there in June, 1989, and when his sister, Emily, was married there last April, he learned Historical Society members were looking for help to fix the deteriorating condition of the pews. Historical Society member Bob Elms explained to Brendan fixing the pews would consist of cleaning, gluing and screwing together the pew joints that connect the backs to the seats in this historical church that holds 160 and he accepted the challenge. “I’m glad I picked the Old Stone Church for my project,” Brendan said, “because I learned about woodworking techniques, especially the skills needed to use clamps, glue, and drilling screws into older, softer wood. But the best things I learned were leadership and organization.” A member of BSA Troop 111 that meets in Monroeville, he also said he was glad he refurbished the church’s 38 rows of pews that involved more than 125 hours of work. He appreciated all the cooperation he got from Society members who faithfully met him there for scheduled appointments. His father said, “Elaine and I loved spending the time in the church while Brendan worked on his project because it brought back great memories of both of the family weddings. We are happy our son made a lasting contribution to this beautiful church.” A third project involved the redesigning of a roof over an addition to the church and making it watertight to prevent rain from seeping into the restrooms below. This task was accepted by William Schultz of Troop 205, the son of Paul and Loretta Schultz. A senior at Franklin Regional High School, Will said he gained a lot from earning his Eagle award. “I learned how to manage a project, especially the procedures necessary to get approvals, make changes, and obtain new approvals, all within a budget.” He decided to substitute Fiberglass for
wood where possible to insure a longer lasting and watertight roof. “By redesigning the roof to allow for a greater pitch, a better slope was created so rain could drain into a gutter and downspout and then into a French drain that we dug,” Will explained. “Grading of the area to direct water away from the restrooms completed the project.” Will said he appreciates the funding and cooperation he received from the Historical Society members and Monroeville Municipal personnel, especially Mary Lou Span and John Hyzy. Although the actual construction was completed in two days, the project hours totaled 101, which included his hours of planning and expediting the paper work and the time spent by him, adults, and other Scouts who helped complete this project. After years of problems, the restroom floors are dry and safe for visitors. Will plans to continue his education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. His goal is to earn a theater arts degree with emphasis on stage crew. Lynn Chandler, president of the Historical Society, said she is very grateful for the achievements of these Scouts. “The maintenance of the old structures under our care is an ongoing struggle. The work of these young men is invaluable and could not otherwise have been accomplished by us without considerable expense and delay. The Historical Society is grateful, as well as impressed, by the outstanding work of these Scouts. These projects allow the Society to continue to offer a first-class facility for those who would like to marry in a church setting or hold a religious service, musical, or meeting at a reasonable cost. In turn, this provides funds for repairs and upkeep; publishing a newsletter and maintaining a website; and free activities to the public like the Children’s Festival in June; tours of McGinley and McCully Log historical houses every Sunday in June, July, and August; and the Heritage Day Festival in October.” Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 17
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
ow that the holidays are behind us, you’re hopefully putting that smoking credit card back into your wallet or purse for a while. But even though this may be a down time for you and your credit card, it’s no time to be lax about your credit card security. So what do you need to know about keeping your credit card safe? First, off, don’t give yourself a pin number that’s easy to guess. Issuing banks typically assign you a random pin number when you first get your card that you can change later. Keep this assigned number and avoid picking a pin for yourself like “1234” or your birth date. While it may be easy for you to remember, those choices are also very easy for predators to figure out. If you make a lot of online purchases or just want to dip your toes into the world of Internet shopping, get yourself a dedicated card with a low credit limit. You can open up a secured credit card at most financial institutions that require you to deposit a balance to borrow against, allowing you to open a card with a $500 limit. Your deposit will gain interest and you will be able to use your card for online purchases. What’s more, most scammers try to run a small purchase 18
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
through before running a larger purchase on the card. You may not notice a $0.32 charge right away, but when your bank calls you asking if you tried to purchase a $779 laptop, you’ll be happy your limit was low enough to be declined. If your credit card number is compromised, you should call your bank immediately and report it. While police are able to enforce credit card fraud on a local level, with the Internet the person trying to run your numbers may be six states away, if they’re in the United States at all. In all cases, the sooner it’s reported, the better. Your bank will cancel the card number and reissue you another card. While you’re online, keep in mind that your bank will most likely never contact you via email regarding your account. If you do get an e-mail from a bank that you use, double check the address. Chances are it will be slightly askew from any legitimate
Monroeville
address. Instead of “@yourcreditcard.com,” you may see, “@yourcreditcard1.com” or “@yourcreditcard.uk.” Banks understand that scammers routinely try to get you to give up your personal information via e-mail. Therefore, most have secured e-mail available through their websites, where you can be sure you’re talking straight to legitimate bank representatives. Lastly, if you have several credit cards that you use often, take the time to flip them over and write down the 1-800 customer service numbers on the back and keep that list in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to keep a copy in your purse or wallet. This way, when you notice your card is missing and are frantic, you can at least go to your list and call to report the missing card. In the end, you should treat your credit card like you would treat your cash—never leave it lying around.
f the last time you took holiday photos required clumsily spooling film into your 35 mm camera, don’t be intimidated by what technology has done to photography in the past few years. In fact, once you have some basics down, you may find that your digital camera is easier to use than you thought. So let’s start at the beginning and go over your new toy from stem to stern. We can’t go into detail about every feature of every camera, but luckily most cameras share the same properties, so we can cover most scenarios. More than likely, your camera came with a lithium ion battery pack and charger. All you need to know about this is that this battery can last a long time. Thanks to self-timers built into your camera, if you forget to shut it off, it will shut off automatically for you, saving battery life and allowing you to take that unexpected shot when the time comes. That said, the battery won’t last forever, especially if you are shooting with the flash often or shooting video, if your camera has that feature. If you know you’re going to be somewhere with a lot of natural light, turn your flash off altogether and shoot longer. The second thing to familiarize yourself with is your memory card. Cameras come with a variety of memory cards to choose from. Regardless of the kind your camera takes, just remember that bigger is better. A 16 gigabyte memory card can hold hundreds of photos, and if you’re not in the habit of printing your photos right away or moving them to your computer, the extra space is a must. How many pictures you can store on your memory card depends on your resolution setting for your pictures. Your resolution is how big the picture is. If you’re shooting for a website, low resolutions are better because the file size is smaller. However, if you try to print the same low resolution photo as an 8x10, it will appear distorted or “pixilated” because the camera wasn’t set to capture all of the fine details of the image. With most point-and-shoot cameras on high resolution, you can print very large prints or zoom in to crop shots for better composition. The last thing to get to know is the USB cable. This is the cable that came with your camera and connects it to any USB port on your computer. Through this cable, you can transfer your images for future sorting, correction, or sharing. Believe it or not, once you have those things down, your digital camera has many of the same features of your old 35 mm. You can zoom in, set a timer so you have a chance to get into frame, and set a scenic mode where you can select how the camera operates in certain conditions, such as a portrait, sports shot, night shot, or landscape. Your manual will list the specific icons and their meanings. Don’t be afraid to leaf through it if you get stuck. Manuals have come a long way as well and are clearly written for users of all experience levels.
SeniorAgencies
ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port There are several agencies Authority’s service area. It serves primarily senior that offer free or reduced rate transportation services citizens and persons with disabilities. There are no to individuals who qualify. restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which may be taken by riders, except that riders are required to share their Provides non-emergency vehicle with others traveling medical transportation to in the same direction and at residents of Allegheny the same time. County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card. Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs The Port Authority allows throughout Allegheny Allegheny County County is available to residents, 65 years of age adults 60 years of age and and older, to ride free on older who live in Allegheny local public transportation County. Call SeniorLine at (buses, trolleys and rapid- 412.350.5460. transit lines). Participants Are you a nonprofit Senior Center must obtain identification cards, which are available serving the needs of our community’s older adults? free of charge, from participating transportation We would be happy to post your providers. Call contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity 412.442.2000 for the magazines.com with your center’s location nearest to you. name and phone number.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
he Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging’s Dom Care Program has been in existence for over 30 years providing foster care homes to adults, age 18 years or older who are not able to live alone. Dom Care has enabled many people to live a comfortable life in safe and nurturing surroundings. Through Dom Care, individuals are matched with families who offer a home and assistance with daily activities, as well as support and companionship. The Dom Care Program is particularly helpful to seniors and people with intellectual disabilities who might benefit from the care and supervision of a family home. By opening their homes, Dom Care Providers enable these individuals to remain within the community in a home-like setting. Providers are only permitted to care for up to three residents. Dom Care providers assist with activities such as personal hygiene, grooming and medication management. They also provide three nutritious provide meals a day along with housekeeping and laundry services.
To become a Dom Care provider an approval and certification process must be completed. It includes home inspections by both a care manager and the Allegheny County Health Department. Providers are also required to have certification in First Aid and CPR. Additionally, they must present personal and financial references, submit to a police record search and obtain a medical clearance from a physician. Care managers will assist with this process. Anyone interested in becoming a resident in a Dom Care home can inquire on their own or can be referred by someone else, including family members, health care professionals or agencies that serve people with disabilities. In return for the room, board and personalized care they receive, Dom Care residents pay a set monthly fee. Those with limited income and resources may be eligible for a financial supplement to assist with the payment and to assure that they have personal spending money. The benefits of being a Dom Care provider include companionship, support
from professional staff, and a monthly payment for the services they give. Most importantly, it is the feeling of satisfaction and fulfillment for sharing a warm and caring home. To learn more about the Dom Care Program, to make a referral for an individual or to find out how to become a provider, call the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, Area Agency on Aging Dom Care Program at 412.350.5105 or visit: www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/ adultfoster.aspx
Meet Our Comfort Keepers® Comfort Keepers are the compassionate people who deliver Comfort Keepers’ premier brand of in-home caregiving. They enrich the lives of seniors and other adults as they help them live safely, happily and independently in the comfort of their own homes. Comfort Keepers are professional and well trained. What truly sets them above other in-home caregivers, however, is their natural gift for caring for others. They have a heart for caregiving—and Comfort Keepers has a thorough screening and interviewing process to identify them from those less devoted. Only those who pass this process go on to complete training to deliver our special brand of care and become Comfort Keepers. Also, they’re bonded, insured, and covered by Workers' Compensation insurance to protect our clients and their families. To achieve the most favorable outcome for each Comfort Keepers client, we carefully match Comfort Keepers and clients whose personalities and interests – as well as skills and needs – mesh well. This forms the basis of strong, healthful relationships. The Comfort Keepers in your community is locally owned and operated by Mary (Mame) Donohue, RN, and Tom Donohue, Certified Sr. Advisor. Their entire staff works as trusted partners with family caregivers to provide their loved ones a complete inhome care solution to promote independent living.
20
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use For residents of eastern communities
What’s Inside
Healthy Family, Happy Family Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job. With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.
page 2
UPMC East on Schedule to Open in Summer 2012
page 3
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
page 4
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
page 5
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
page 6
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
page 7
Shaping Up to Play Preventing Weekend Warrior Injuries
Š 2011 UPMC
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
UPMC East on Schedule to Open in Summer 2012 New hospital shows UPMC’s commitment to green construction and renovation In the last year, area residents have seen major changes at the site where construction of the new UPMC East hospital is well under way. “With the steel structure in place, people can actually see that progress is being made,” says Melissa Kovtun, executive director of Monroeville-based services. On schedule for a summer 2012 opening, UPMC East will be a fullservice community hospital featuring: • 140 private medical-surgical beds • 16 ICU rooms • Two cardiac catheterization labs • State-of-the-art operating rooms • Full diagnostic services, including CT, MRI, and ultrasound • Radiation Oncology • Emergency Department • Helipad for immediate airlift of critical cases to UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, or UPMC Mercy All outpatient services available at the Daugherty Drive and Oxford Drive locations will continue. “UPMC has been offering a wide range of outpatient services here for the past five years,” says Ms. Kovtun.
When completed, UPMC East will be the centerpiece of a plan to create a campus that links UPMC’s inpatient and outpatient services. “Building a full-service hospital shows that we are committed to bringing more high quality care options into this community.”
Going green from the ground up Since the project’s inception, building green has been a top priority. “Reducing energy consumption, enhancing air quality, and promoting a healthy environment were important considerations in our decision to go green,” says Joseph Badalich, UPMC senior project manager. “Our goal is to become one of the first hospitals to attain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.” Pittsburgh has long been a leader in employing energy-efficient construction. According to the New York Times, Pittsburgh ranks seventh nationally in the number of buildings with LEED certification. Among the city’s long list of certified green buildings are the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, the first green convention center in the world, and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, one of the first LEED-certified children’s hospitals in the nation.
A leader in greening health care UPMC has taken a leadership role in creating a new model for green health care — one in which health systems not only recycle medical equipment and remove mercury from their hospitals, but also educate individuals on environmental health issues and support research into the mysterious links between the environment and disease. These wide-ranging environmental efforts have a potentially powerful impact.Working with the U.S. Department of Energy, UPMC has designed a training program to help all hospitals better manage energy in one of the most energy-intensive sectors of the economy.
Did You Know? LEED is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.
Architectural rendering of UPMC East. Opening summer 2012.
2 22
www.UPMC.com/Today
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future UPMC’s Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Center wields a powerful “triple threat” against IBD: Groundbreaking immunology, genetics research, and innovative clinical care. The primary goal of drug therapy is to reduce inflammation in the intestines. Medications include anti-inflammatory drugs; antibiotics to kill germs in the intestinal track; probiotics to restore good bacteria; corticosteroids to provide short-term relief during flare-ups; and immunosuppressants.
At age 23, John Oliver* is feeling better about the future. Free from the gutwrenching pain of Crohn’s disease since a second bowel surgery in 2008 — this time followed by a promising new treatment developed at UPMC using biologic-based drug therapy — he is now making plans to attend medical school next fall. “I think the medicine is working. It’s the best I’ve felt and the best I’ve looked,” says John, who earned his biomedical engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University and a master’s degree in engineering management from Duke University. His gastroenterologist, Miguel Regueiro, MD, clinical head and codirector of the UPMC Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, says the future has never looked brighter for IBD patients. “Ten years ago, a diagnosis of IBD was devastating. Now, we have new medicines, a greater understanding of the disease, and better research,” he says.
IBD: Who’s at risk? Nearly two million Americans live with IBD, which is not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD involves two chronic diseases that cause inflammation of the intestines: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Symptoms include abdominal cramps and pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and bleeding.
Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the small and large intestines, while ulcerative colitis affects the large bowel alone. IBD cuts across all ages, genders, and ethnicities, but generally affects Caucasians ages 15 to 35. While the exact cause is not known, experts believe IBD involves a compromised or overactive immune system. Because IBD may run in families, doctors also believe genetics plays a role. While stress and certain foods do not cause IBD, both can make symptoms worse.
Treatment According to Dr. Regueiro, drugs cannot cure IBD, but they can be effective in reducing the inflammation and accompanying symptoms. While some patients have mild symptoms requiring little medication, others have more debilitating flare-ups, and some patients have severe problems requiring surgery and even transplants.
In addition, the IBD Center recently developed a Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center to help patients deal with both the physical pain and emotional stress of coping with IBD.
Exciting breakthroughs The latest generation of drugs, called biologic therapies, are proving very effective in inducing remission so that patients can lead normal lives. At UPMC, doctors took this approach a step further — as in John’s case — by prescribing biologic drug therapy after performing surgery to remove the damaged section of the intestine. In use now at other hospitals, this treatment has reduced the recurrence of Crohn’s disease in patients by nearly two thirds. * John Oliver’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.
Stomachaches: When to Worry Everyone gets a stomachache — or abdominal pain — from time to time. Most of the time, stomachaches are harmless conditions caused by overeating, gas, or indigestion. Frequent or recurring stomachaches are often due to stress and worry, even in children. But they can point to more serious medical problems.
Get medical help immediately if: • You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden. • You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder. • You’re vomiting blood or have bloody diarrhea.
Harmless abdominal pain usually subsides or goes away within two hours. If you have the stomach flu, your stomach may hurt before each episode of vomiting or diarrhea. In serious cases, the pain worsens or becomes constant. According to UPMC physicians in the Monroeville area, you should call your primary care physician if mild pain lasts more than a couple of days, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms.
• Your abdomen is stiff, hard, and tender to the touch. • You can’t move your bowels, especially if you’re also vomiting. The bottom line: Trust your gut! Contact your doctor if you’re concerned about lingering or unusual stomach pain.
1-800-533-UPMC 23 Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com
3
Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are you among the millions of Americans suffering from lack of sleep? If so, droopy eyelids, wide yawns, and low energy are the least of your worries. Sleep disruption — not sleeping enough or sleeping poorly — can affect your memory, disease resistance, and leave you struggling to stay alert in school, on the job, and on the road. Studies show that people who get the appropriate amount of sleep on a regular basis also tend to live longer, healthier lives than those who sleep too few or even too many hours each night. So, what is a good night’s sleep? According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. School-aged children and teens need at least nine hours of sleep each night. Tips to help you sleep • Stick to a sleep schedule. Get up about the same time each day, no matter how many hours of sleep you got the previous night. • Maintain healthy sleep habits. Go to bed only when you’re sleepy. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and relaxing — not too hot or too cold. Don’t text, e-mail, read, or watch TV in bed. • Make sure your mattress is comfortable. Remember, even a good quality mattress needs to be replaced within 10 years. • Exercise is great, but not too late. Avoid exercising within a few hours before bedtime. • Avoid caffeinated drinks after lunch. The stimulating effects of caffeine in coffee, colas, teas, and chocolate can take as long as eight hours to wear off. • Avoid large meals at night. A large meal can cause indigestion that interferes with sleep. • Avoid alcoholic drinks before bedtime. While a nightcap may help you relax, alcohol keeps you in the lighter stages of sleep and tends to wake you during the night. And, for adolescents and young adults: • Avoid stimulating activities around bedtime. This includes intense studying, text messaging, video games, and lengthy phone conversations. • Avoid pulling “all nighters” during exams.
AreYouAllergic toYour Bed? The dust in your bedroom might be making you sick. Dust mites, and dander, and fibers — oh my! These are just some of the microscopic menaces in ordinary house dust that can cause health problems. Dust mites are a common cause of allergies and asthma. It’s not the dust mite itself that can make you sick; it’s the dust mite debris (the mite’s feces and decaying body). Dust collects in every room of the house because it is easily trapped in linens, upholstery, carpets, and draperies. But the bedroom is a favorite habitat for dust mites because it provides a warm, humid environment, and plenty of food (dead skin from humans and pets).
Five ways to help wipe out dust mites While you can’t completely eliminate dust mites, these simple steps may help reduce their numbers: 1. Cover your mattress and pillows in dust-proof or allergen-blocking covers, and encase box springs in vinyl or plastic covers. 2. Wash and dry bed sheets, pillowcases, blankets, curtains, and bedcovers weekly in hot water (140 degrees). If bedding can’t be washed, put the items in the dryer set at a high temperature for 20 minutes. 3. Vacuum carpeting and upholstery weekly. Using a HEPA-filter vacuum can help keep dust from floating back into the air.
• Sleep in on weekends — but not more than two to three hours past your normal wake time. Sleeping longer may disrupt your body clock.
4. Use a damp cloth or mop to remove dust from hard surfaces and exposed floors. This will prevent dust from becoming airborne and resettling.
Find a more complete list of the benefits of good sleep at www.UPMC.com/Today.
5. Keep the indoor temperature at 70 degrees and humidity at no more than 50 percent. Dust mites aren’t the only puny pests that can invade your bedroom. Bed bugs have made a comeback in recent years. For tips on ways to avoid a bed bug infestation, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: National Institutes of Health, Environmental Protection Agency
4
24
www.UPMC.com/Today
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
UPMC Spotlight
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
Keeping track of health issues, test results, and medications is challenging for Sandy Hogue*, who is disabled and chronically ill. Because she must rely on cabs for transportation, seeing a primary care doctor can be an all-day affair. That’s why she was eager to sign up for UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that enables patients to receive and manage information about their health. Sandy uses it to monitor her glucose and high cholesterol levels, check test results, make appointments, renew prescriptions, and diagnose medical conditions — all from the comfort of her home in Westmoreland County. “It’s a good system. I get the medical treatment I need faster without spending a day traveling around,” says Sandy. “It keeps me in contact with my doctor and helps me monitor my medical conditions. And if I have anything contagious, like the flu, it prevents me from infecting other people.” More patients choosing HealthTrak Approximately 42,000 UPMC patients have signed on to HealthTrak, which gives them secure electronic access to their medical records, medications, and other information. HealthTrak recently was expanded to include eVisits — an online digital house call — with a primary care physician. * These patients’ treatments and results may not be representative of similar cases.
During an eVisit, patients select a symptom and complete an interactive questionnaire. A UPMC doctor then reviews the information and makes a diagnosis. If medication is needed, a prescription can be sent electronically to the patient’s pharmacy.
“HealthTrak is great for college students who are far from home, the elderly, and other people who have trouble getting to the doctor. It doesn’t take the place of going to the doctor for regular check-ups, but it’s very useful,” Robin says. “If only UPMC could figure a way for me to see my dentist online!”
Oakmont resident Mark Gleeson* uses HealthTrak primarily to keep track of his medical records. In October, when the computer-savvy 83-year-old came down with a cough and cold late in the day, he decided to “see” a doctor via eVisit. Within an hour of completing the questionnaire, a UPMC doctor responded with medical instructions and a prescription for his sinus infection and chest congestion. “It was so convenient, and it worked! Within three days, I felt good as new,” Mark says. Convenience and comfort As a graduate student, Robin Sales* relied on HealthTrak to connect with her hometown doctor while attending school in Nevada. Now a young professional living in New York City, she continues to use the online service for eVisits, to fill prescriptions, and access her medical records.
UPMC HealthTrak Benefits Manage your health from home with HealthTrak. Here’s what you can do online: • Send a message to your doctor • View medical records and test results
“It’s comforting. Having easy access to a doctor back home gives me the chance to find the right doctor for me locally, without rushing into it. It’s one less thing to worry about,” she says.
• Renew prescriptions
Robin, who first used eVisit to consult a doctor about an eye infection, says the online questionnaire asks the same questions the doctor would ask at an appointment. When she needs medicine, her doctor in Pittsburgh faxes the prescription to her New York drug store two minutes away.
• Ask billing questions
• Track current health issues such as glucose levels and blood pressure • Request appointments • “See” a doctor (digital house call) For more information or to sign up, visit www.UPMCHealthTrak.com.
1-800-533-UPMC Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25 5
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Could it Happen to You? Most of us associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with returning military veterans who have experienced the tragedy of war. But you don’t have to be a soldier to undergo the intense feelings of helplessness, horror, and fear that characterize PTSD. Imagine being in a terrible car accident on your way to the mall. For days and weeks afterwards, you constantly relive the accident in your mind. You take a different route to shop and, worst of all, your body won’t let you relax. You can’t sleep — and when you finally do doze off, you’re awakened by nightmares. You can’t concentrate, your heart pounds, and you break out in cold sweats. “We know that anyone who has undergone some kind of trauma can be at risk for post-traumatic stress disorder,” explains Anne Germain, PhD, associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Based at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC, she currently leads several sleep research projects with returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who have PTSD. PTSD can be triggered by a single event you’ve experienced or even witnessed — be it an accident, violent crime, or natural disaster — or by ongoing trauma, such as child abuse or domestic violence. When we experience a life-threatening event, it’s normal for our body to react with a powerful, stressful response; it’s what enables us to fight or flee. “But for some people, these symptoms persist and worsen,” says Dr. Germain. “The toll can be profound if symptoms are ignored. PTSD has a devastating impact on the lives of people who have it — and on those around them. It also has enormous financial and economic implications.”
Did You Know? UPMC's Sleep Medicine Center — accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine — is the only multidisciplinary sleep medicine facility in western Pennsylvania. The center performs approximately 2,000 sleep studies annually for adult patients with all types of sleep disorders. The staff at the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center include board-certified physicians, certified nurse practitioners, and registered sleep laboratory technologists. To schedule an appointment, call 412-692-2880.
6
26
www.UPMC.com/Today
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
PTSD is a relatively new specialization in psychology, and experts are still trying to determine why it affects some people and not others. Fortunately, for most people, the symptoms of PTSD begin to ease in about a month. “If they continue, it’s extremely important to seek professional help,” notes Dr. Germain. “The best place to begin is to talk with your family doctor and seek a referral to a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist.”
PTSD and sleep disorders Among the most troubling aspects of chronic PTSD for patients are the recurring nightmares and insomnia it can bring. There is growing evidence that such sleep disorders have a direct impact on both a person’s mental and physical health. Individuals with PTSD often say they have problems falling or staying asleep, and that the sleep they get isn’t refreshing and restorative. “Our sleep research studies with veterans show that they have many more sleep disorders than the general public, including sleep apnea and other breathing problems,” notes Dr. Germain. With PTSD, nightmares can become an ingrained behavior, affecting a person’s daytime functioning — from faltering concentration and poor memory, to emotional outbursts. “By stopping the nightmares and helping to make sleep more normal, restful, and restorative, patients can overcome other aspects of chronic PTSD in their lives a bit more easily. And sleep can be improved in a matter of weeks,” she says. Dr. Germain uses several methods to treat PTSD-related sleep disorders, including image reversal therapy. “We help patients replace a recurring nightmare with a more positive, affirming dream. They write it down and rehearse it several times a day to train the brain to have a new dream image.” Individuals interested in participating in Dr. Germain’s sleep research studies for military veterans are invited to call 412-246-6404 or visit www.veteranssleep.pitt.edu.
Shaping Up to Play Preventing Weekend Warrior Injuries A warm spring day can inspire even the most dedicated couch potato to head outside for a pick-up game of basketball, work in the garden, or bike with the family. But if you spend most of your time at a desk — or on the couch — you run the risk of a weekend warrior injury.
No pain, no gain … not true
Jumping into a sport or activity without proper training and equipment can make you more susceptible to these typical sports injuries:
See your doctor immediately if you experience a serious injury like a fracture, or if your pain is severe, increased, or continues for more than a week or so.
• • • • • •
If your injury requires treatment or surgery, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor to locate UPMC orthopaedic specialists in the Monroeville area.
Strains Bursitis Sprains Epicondylitis (tennis/golfer’s elbow) Stress fractures Plantar fasciitis
If you experience a sprain, strain, muscle pull, or tear, remember the acronym PRICE to prevent complications and heal faster: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Anti-inflammatory medication also may be taken.
Shape up to play Both men and women are vulnerable to weekend warrior injuries. However, such injuries are most common in formerly active 30-somethings. The best way to prevent pain and injury is to improve your overall fitness. These tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are designed to keep athletes of all ages healthy and active. • Don’t pack a week's worth of activity into a day or two. Try to maintain a moderate level of activity throughout the week. • Learn to do your sport right. Proper form reduces the risk of overuse injuries such as tendonitis and stress fractures. • Remember safety gear. Depending on the sport, this may mean knee or wrist pads, chest protector, helmet, or more. • Make warmups and cooldowns part of your routine. Exercises, such as stretching or light jogging, can help minimize the chances of muscle strain or other soft tissue injury. They also make the body’s tissues warmer and more flexible. Cooldown exercises loosen the muscles that have tightened during exercise. • Accept your body's limits. You may not be able to perform at the same level you did 10 or 20 years ago; modify activities as necessary. • Increase exercise levels gradually. • Strive for a total body workout of cardiovascular, strength training, and flexibility exercises; cross-training reduces injury and promotes fitness.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27 1-800-533-UPMC
7
UPMC 600 Oxford Drive Monroeville, PA 15146
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.
Follow UPMC on Facebook.
Our Monroeville-based services are rooted in your community. UPMC has always been proud to be a part of Monroeville, providing residents access to all of the resources of a nationally recognized academic medical center. We offer a breadth of services close to home, including primary care, advanced diagnostic capabilities, specialty physician and surgical services, and cancer care. It’s our tradition, and commitment, to bring advanced and compassionate care to you where it matters most ... in your very own community. For aa comprehensive comprehensivelist listof ofour ourMonroeville-based Monroeville-basedservices servicesororfor fordirections directionstotoany anyof For of our convenient locations, 1-800-533-UPMC oror visit www.UPMC.com/East. our convenient locations, call call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) visit www.UPMC.com/East.
28
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
C
raig Cozza knows that biking is addictive, and he wants to do everything he can to get you passionate John F. Kennedy put it best when he about cycling, fitness, and the well being that goes said, “Nothing compares to the simple along with cycling. Not because it sells bikes, but because bikers are part of a unique community of pleasure of riding a bike.� enthusiasts who share fitness, camaraderie, fun, and because biking is “green.� Biking is great physically, mentally, and emotionally. You release your negative energy into nature, and nature recycles it, endorphins flowing. It's really tough to go on a bike ride and come back in a bad mood. Can't do it! “Biking is a no-impact sport, and the second largest sport in the USA, only second to walking,� Cozza said. “But with walking or running, there’s an impact. Runners usually become bikers because you do not get beat up from the impact. You can go out for a long, hard ride and come back with only your muscles being tired, not your joints. Our trails, single-tracks, and roads are great and growing rapidly in the Pittsburgh region.� Pro Bikes supports every organization you can think of when it comes to biking, from a multitude of charity rides like the annual Race to Anyplace, various M.S. 150's, school programs, racers and racing, fitness and fun rides, as well as every type of cycling imaginable. “We support road, mountain, trail, cyclocross, triathlons, unicycles, BMX riding and everything in between� says Cozza. “We currently support 15 plus race teams.� That support brings people back to the shop for service, fittings, bikes, supplies, and training. The success of Pro Bikes has led to the expansion of all three locations, tripling the square footage in the South Hills, Monroeville and Squirrel Hill locations. “We’ll be finished with all three of the expansions by spring, which will help us do a better job of meeting people’s needs,� Cozza said. “Our three major brands are Cannondale, Specialized, and Giant. We carry 15-plus other specialty brands. We buy and sell the best – a true pro shop for every type of riding – and we service and fit everything. We’re the fourth largest Cannondale dealer in the country. Our goal is to get more people on bikes because it is a healthy lifestyle. We can start kids as young as two on balance bikes, and fit people well past their 70s. We also help people train or find them a coach for an event if they need it.� The expanding Squirrel Hill Pro Bikes will have four floors—over 13,000 square feet—making it one of the largest in the country, offering everything biking. It will be a comprehensive, full-service bike facility with something for everyone. Pro Bikes will also be a “spin center� with focused training, coaching, and professional bike fitting. There will be a custom building and teams area, and people can sign up for maintenance and training workshops. By
spring, these amenities will be available in all locations to help even more people with anything from lubing a chain to fixing a flat to riding skills and triathlon techniques. “We’re teamed up with local coaches and can offer training and rides to help everyone accomplish their goals,� Cozza said. “Our big push is to get people out supporting charity events, races, and rides, and to keep growing fitness and cycling in western Pennsylvania.� Cozza hopes that all people will give cycling a spin and stop in to see the enthusiasm for biking that Pro Bikes and its employees can impart. “We are ‘Powered by Passion,’ because we are passionate about cycling, fitness, and well being,� Cozza said. “We’re bike people. That enthusiasm pours over, and you get hooked. It's a way of life—a really good way of life!�
a Cannondale CAAD 9 Road Bike or a Specialized Hybrid Bike. at www.ProBikesLLC.com Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
S P R I N G
2 0 1 1
What Are Allergies?
When our bodies need to fight off germs, they make antibodies to attack germs and keep us healthy. Just as our bodies make antibodies to fight germs, they may also make antibodies in response to other substances that get inside our bodies. This results in an allergy—an adverse reaction caused by hypersensitivity to a normally harmless substance such as pollen, dust, food, or a drug. Allergens—the substance that causes the allergic reaction—can cause one or several responses.
Key Fact:
When you sneeze germs can travel at 80 miles per hour across a room!
When should kids wash their hands?
Children should be reminded to wash their hands before, during and after food is prepared; before and after you eat; after using the bathroom; after handling animals or animal waste such as The "Happy Birthday" song changing a cage or catbox; whenever hands are dirty or when helps keep your hands clean? kids have been outside playing; and more frequently when Not exactly. Yet we recommend that when anyone in the classroom, care setting or home is sick. you wash your hands – with soap and warm water – that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. That's about the same time it takes to sing the A single germ can grow to become more “Happy Birthday” song twice!
Key Fact:
than 8 million germs in just one day.
mon Most Com erms dG Places to Fin droom in Your Be ame
nd-held g ✓ Your ha rd ter Keyboa ✓ Compu itches d Lamp Sw ✓ Wall an cans ✓ Garbage
m Fighter, r e G a e b To to: remember our
y neeze into ✓ Cough/s e elbow/sleev after our hands y h s a W ✓ ue using a tiss
30
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
he groundhog, or woodchuck, is one of 14 species of marmots. These rodents eat during the summer to fatten themselves up for hibernation during the winter. After the first frost, they retreat to their underground burrows and snooze until spring. During hibernation, the groundhog lives off its body fat, its heart rate plunges, and its body temperature is not much warmer than the temperature inside its burrow. Groundhog hibernation is where the popular American custom of Groundhog Day got its name. Groundhog Day is held on February 2 every year. By tradition, if the groundhog sees its shadow that day, there will be six more weeks of winter. In the spring, females welcome a litter of perhaps a half dozen newborns, which stay with their mother for several months. Groundhogs are the largest members of the squirrel family.
Though they are usually seen on the ground, they can climb trees and are also good swimmers. These rodents hang out in areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like fields, roads, or streams. Here they eat r e v grasses and plants as well e n as fruits and tree bark.
NG
WARNI
ld You shou wild go near a he’s ven if animal...e kyard! ac in your b
Groundhogs can mean trouble for many gardeners. They can wreak havoc on a garden while fattening themselves up during the summer and fall seasons.
germs...
find these things hiding in this picture.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
Serra High School, Grade 10, Pitcairn
ongratulations to MinSoo Kang, of Pitcairn. A 10th-grade student at Serra Catholic High School, she was selected as one of the winners in the Allegheny County Health Department Immunization Contest. The theme of the 2010 contest was “The Flu Ends with U,” emphasizing the fact that being proactive and getting flu vaccine every year is the single best way to prevent and stop the spread of flu.
Pictured, left-to-right: Michael Weidman, Merit Award Winner; Wei Mon Lu, Merit Award Winner; MinSoo Kang, Merit Award Winner; Olivia Saccameno, 1st Place Award Winner
32
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
“Is the doctor in?” The call came in early in the morning, and the woman’s voice on the phone sounded distressed. Her garage door wouldn’t go up, she had to leave for work, and the old wooden door was too heavy for her to lift. She needed help fast. This was not an unusual call for Leet Sommerfeld Sr. After several years of helping homeowners solve all kinds of repair problems, he had heard it all before. What was unusual about this call was the woman referring to him as “the doctor.” Thus a new name for the business was born on that early morning in 1979. At the Garage Door Doctor today, just as in 1979, Sommerfeld and his employees deal with many types of garage door and operator malfunctions, including broken springs, broken cables, and garage doors that “get stuck” midway open. “The garage door is the heaviest moving part in the house, and often people are not aware that it can pose a safety hazard,” says Leet Sommerfeld Jr., who has taken over the operation of the company from his dad. “A door that is not working properly is dangerous for everyone—but especially for children and pets.” Sadly, the Garage Door Doctor has received calls from broken-hearted pet owners whose pets were trapped under a closing door. Because of the safety issue, the Garage Door Doctor is recommending a yearly “check up” for garage doors in which parts are inspected, lubricated, and adjusted if necessary. Nowadays, the Garage Door Doctor is a third-generation corporation. When Sommerfeld Sr. incorporated his business from his Churchill home in 1979, he did not realize that the Garage Door Doctor would become a way of life for his son, Leet Jr., and his grandson, Brandon. “When I started the business in 1979, I wrote a letter that I had hand delivered to homes in Churchill, Monroeville, and Penn Hills, in which I introduced myself, my family, and what services were offered by the Garage Door Doctor,” says Sommerfeld Sr. “People would tape the letter to their garage door and call when they needed us.”
If you have any questions about the operation of your garage door or your electric door opener, the staff of the Garage Door Doctor will be happy to help you. Please call 412.829.2007.
In time, Sommerfeld Sr. took on employees who worked from their homes, but he was always assisted by his son, who helped even during his college years in the summers and on breaks. “After being awarded his degree in business management, Leet Jr. had thoughts of taking a job elsewhere. But he finally settled on the Garage Door Doctor, where he does a terrific job not only because he knows garage doors, but because he knows people and cares about satisfying their needs,” says his proud dad. “He handles every job just as if he were working on his own home, and he has instilled that attitude in his employees.” Grandson Brandon also grew up in the business and today assists his dad with both
residential and demanding commercial jobs. “Brandon was able to handle jobs on his own from a very early age,” says Sommerfeld Sr. “When he was a young teenager he would be dropped off on a job and the customer would say, ‘Isn’t your dad going to work with you?’ Brandon did it all on his own, and the customers were always pleased.” Apparently customers still are pleased with the company, as the Garage Door Doctor has been awarded the Angie’s List Super Service Award every year since 2006. Angie’s List, an organization which provides its members with evaluations of home contractors based on customer ratings, presents the award to those businesses which receive consistently superior ratings from homeowners.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
The American Cancer Society Invites You to Help Create a World Full of More Birthdays Through Relay For Life The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. Relay For Life events are held overnight as individuals and teams camp out at an athletic track, park, or other gathering area, with the goal of keeping at least one team member on the track or pathway at all times throughout the evening. Teams do most of their fundraising prior to the event, but some teams also hold creative fundraisers at their campsites during relay. Relay brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools, faith-based groups…people from all walks of life—all aimed at furthering the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives by helping people stay well, by helping them get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back. Relay is a unique opportunity for communities to come together to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and fight back against the disease. Many of the participants are cancer survivors, serving as a reminder that no one is immune to this disease. By participating in Relay, you join the American Cancer Society’s efforts to create a world with less cancer and more birthdays. Funds raised through Relay For Life enable the American Cancer Society to impact the lives of those touched by cancer within the community. The American Cancer Society is currently funding 58 cancer research projects to the tune of nearly $37.4 million throughout Pennsylvania in 2011, including current projects taking place in western Pennsylvania at the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie-Mellon University, and Robert Morris University. Funds raised through Relay also enable the American Cancer Society to provide programs and services to cancer patients and their families in communities across the state. In 2010, more than 25,000 services were
Date
34
City
Time
provided to cancer patients across Pennsylvania. Access to American Cancer Society programs and services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1.800.227.2345 or visiting www.cancer.org. In 2010, Relay For Life raised nearly $6 million at 62 Relay sites throughout western Pennsylvania. Nationwide, more than 3.5 million people participated in Relay For Life, with more than 500,000 cancer survivors participating. All in all, Relay For Life events held throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania raised nearly $20 million in 2010. For more information about the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life or to find out how you may get involved, call the American Cancer Society at 1.800.227.2345 or visit RelayForLife.org. The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; by helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1.800.227.2345 or visit cancer.org.
City
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
You should be! A re cent survey showed that consumers are likely to purchase go 63% more ods or services from a company that belon local Chamber of Co gs to its mmerce. We Mean Business. Call the ch today at 412.856.0622 am ber or vist us at www.mo nroevillechamber.com .
new members 911 Nerds A Plus Stairlifts of Pittsburgh All Clean Services, LLC Auto Bathouse Doterra Essential Oils Fabulous Flooring Glacial Energy Global Energy Market Services GMS Service, Inc. Incentivized Solutions K Specials and Pro Shop USA Kalkstein Family Chiropractic Kiwanis Club of Penn Hills Kumon of Monroeville KWS Business Consulting & Lending Solutions, LLC Learning Express Toys Liken Staffing Services MedExpress Urgent Care-Murrysville Monroeville Councilman Nail Care Systems & Boulevard Style Papa Rocks Pizza Patch Media Reach Local Reschini Group Rise High Basketball, LLC Steel City Steak House TC Valley Beer UPMC Monroeville Otolaryngology Van Management Verizon Wireless Zone Western PA Chapter National Hemophila Foundation Wisp Resort
(Below): On January 10, key members of the Mon Fayette Expressway Partnership Initiative met with Congressman Tim Murphy to discuss transportation funding as the 112th Congress takes shape. Congressman Murphy received a briefing on the status of the Mon Fayette Expressway as the group discussed way to identify funding and complete the project. Pictured (l-r): John Easoz, Board President, Mon Valley Progress Council; Joe Kirk, Executive Director, Mon Valley Progress Council; Congressman Tim Murphy; Bill Otto, Past Chairman, Monroeville Area Chamber; and Chad Amond, President Monroeville Area Chamber.
(Above): Karrie Burns from VisitMonroeville presents Donna Bour with her new 2011 Chamber Membership Directory during Operation Thank-You.
ay
tte Expressw
e Mon Faye n Update...Th
ress ntinued prog le to ensure co ro s it of d ou pr mber remains uthern Beltway projects. ille Area Cha ouncil, the The Monroev Fayette Expressway and So e Mon Valley Progress C mber holds true a Cha like th alley/ on the Mon V cades alongside partners hers, the Monroeville Are ressway. In recent de ot xp l E d ra te an ve l et se ee ay For ion of alley/F , U.S. St mber Alliance for completing the Mon V Rt. 51 to Monroeville port ha C l na io eg e R on th si t. st vi ec ju a t oj to the pr ude no ment sses to its commit nded our objective to incl uthern Beltway portion of ve with busine pa So ti e ia ex it th ve In of e' ip w n s io sh et er A year pl tn P m ar e P co th e ay t also th xpressw pletion of the project bu unding member of the E cus attention on the com Fayette Nearly 3/4 of the MFX project is fo fo a Mon Valley/ 68 in is to e y C th nt C of A ou s M C ile y m Ien 60 gh , already complete from Morgantown, ons in Alle early 2012 toll road from ne, the and organizati 6 Expressway project. By ntinuous limited access do d an W. Vir., to southern Allegheny County. l is said 37 a co Route 51 to I- be competed resulting in llegheny County. When al of Pittsburgh. y A ill it w rn C ay e he w The remaining portion of the project th ut ss so Expre around ay 51 in uthern Beltw a, to PA Route provide a beltway system a So ni d gi an ir V ay (Rt. 51 - Monroeville) could be t w es ss ni W so re va al xp yl E ld ns ou ile en w m P redtern oject completed in as little as 3-5 years with completed pr ion of the entire one hund access in all of southwes e and the et on ill ti ev The compl proper funding. ove transporta tion corridors like Monro talization in the Mon ork will impr ta highway netw ngestion in key transpor e project for economic revi co Completing MFX would save at least address traffic s and serve as a cornerston l, state and area 5.5 million gallons of fuel each year in g in nd ials at the loca is crucial ou fic rr of su d te . A ec P el r th n of ith ou ross SW Allegheny County. Valley and ac ges to continue to work w es to ensure the completio gi te ra C pled st C A ng ci M an A completed MFX would provide a innovative fin federal level on k. bypass around the Squirrel Hill Tunnels or highway netw
o Transportati
?
MFX
Did You Know? •
•
•
•
easing congestion by about 70%. • According to FHA estimates, the MFX project could create over 100,000 jobs for our region.
mber
eville Area Cha
dent, Monro mond • Presi
Chad A
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
M
embers of the Monroeville Art Council enjoyed participating in a variety of events in the community in 2010, including their annual Art Show and awards ceremony and Summer Concert Series in July, along with Celebrate Monroeville and the Mutt Festival in September. MAC is offering an opportunity to residents and businesses to become members and board members so they can participate in bringing interesting cultural events to this area for both children and adults. Membership Guidelines: $15 Individual, $20 Family, $15 Senior Family (55+), $10 Senior Individual (55+), $50 Sponsor, $100 Company/Organization. View the website at www.monroevilleartscouncil.org for an application or call 412.373.7794. MAC’s board members meet at the Monroeville Public Library the second Wednesday at 7 p.m. 1 – Winners of May’s Kids’ & Teen’s Korner Art Show are displayed at Boyce during the July show. 2 – Visitors enjoyed seeing the outstanding artwork at Boyce Campus gymnasium. 3 – Miss Independence Hayley Fedorek and Runner-up Emily Kinnunen with Art Show Committee member Nancy Dalverny. 4 – Jr. MAC members Joy Pedrow and Sara Lewkowicz facepaint at Celebrate Monroeville and the Mutt Festival. 5 – Devon Hickmon accepts MAC’s Mel Pollock Arts in Education Award during July 18’s concert. 6 – State Representative Joseph Markosek (l) and Dr. Charles Martoni, Boyce Camus President, are greeted by MAC President Marilyn Wempa at the 22nd Art Show in July. 7 – Garrick Servello leads the East End Kids in song during MAC’s Weekend of Art.
36
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
When it comes to unique toys and customer service, Learning Express Toys doesn’t play around...
n the midst of today’s online empires and mass retailers, a personal shopping experience is a precious commodity. And that’s exactly what the new Learning Express toy store at the Miracle Mile Shopping Center has set out to provide. Learning Express of Monroeville is owned by two husband-and-wife teams from greater Pittsburgh—Paul Frey and Susan DeGregorio, and Dan and Carolyn Cusick. They each have children of their own, and understand the importance of connecting the right toy to the right child when it comes to gift-giving. “I remember what an ordeal shopping for my kids and their friends used to be,” said Susan DeGregorio. “I would be standing there in the aisles, just wishing someone would come by and tell me what an eight-year-old boy who likes science would want. It’s so rewarding to be able to provide that kind of expert advice to other parents now.” All of the employees at Learning Express undergo extensive product training so they are prepared to offer thoughtful recommendations. According to DeGregorio, it’s not enough to just point out a toy. Customers want to know why that particular toy is special, and what benefits the child will get out of it. Knowing that information offhand is a big part of the Learning Express customer service philosophy. Of course, it would be impossible to provide that level of service without a great selection of toys, which is why Learning Express carries a completely unique product assortment. Special attention is paid to each toy’s quality, safety, and educational value. The store is merchandised by age from birth to five years old, and then by interest for kids aged five through 12 to make it as shopper-friendly as possible. Some of the most popular “departments” include Arts and Crafts, Science, Construction, Dolls, Books, and Games. Customers can also find products not often carried by other toy stores: jewelry and other fashion accessories; cards and stationery; party favors and collectibles; and dozens of products like piggy banks, lap desks, and signs, which the store will personalize for free with a hand-drawn design and a child’s name. “Easter will be a particularly big personalizing holiday for us,” said Dan Cusick, another co-owner of Learning Express. “I think parents will really enjoy choosing from our selection of seasonal products, picking out a colorful tote or bucket, and watching as we package it all up and add the customized design. When you’re buying gifts for your kids, that special touch really makes a difference.” Free personalization is part of a whole arsenal of one-stop-shopping services that Learning Express has created to entice busy parents looking for
convenience. The toy store also has a free gift registry called The Birthday Box. Parents can register their child’s name and birth date, and then help the birthday boy or girl find toys from their wish list and fill the box, which is then put on display. Registry cards to put in the party invitations are provided free of charge, gifts purchased out of the box get a 10% discount, and Learning Express employees will even help with party favor and goody bag planning and assembly. As DeGregorio points out, everybody benefits. “For the birthday girl or boy, the Birthday Box makes wishes come true. For Mom and Dad, it guarantees a very happy child with no disappointments or returns. And for the gift-givers? It’s all about the satisfaction of knowing that they’re buying something the child really wants, all at a reasonable price.” To top it off, Learning Express gift wraps for free all year long, and offers online shopping on their website at www.monroeville.learningexpresstoys.com. “Shopping at a local business has significant perks,” said Cusick. “We’re so grateful for all the customers who have shown their support in these first few months, and we look forward to giving back in return.” From day one the store has supported local schools and organizations with fundraisers and donations, and will continue to do so. The Learning Express grand opening event in October included a charity shopping night in support of CASA of Allegheny County, an organization which works to recruit, train and supervise community volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in court and throughout the child welfare system. “Learning Express is owned and operated by two families; it serves the families of our customers; and it gives back to all the families in this community,” DeGregorio commented. “This is a family toy store in every sense.”
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
R E A L E STAT E
A
Monroeville
“You have to make sure that your agent But there’s no similar failsafe with s with any major purchase, doing your does comparisons to similar homes in the overpricing. A home that’s overpriced may homework should be something you do area, knows the market, and gets supporting get a nice offer, but ultimately, the final before you sign on a major loan. Never before evidence that the house is really worth arbiter of what it’s truly worth is the has this been more true than in the housing what it’s being advertised at before you appraiser, assigned independently by the market, where overpricing can create put in an offer,” Fincham said. “If the house bank or lender. That appraisal will dictate major headaches for buyers and sellers. doesn’t appraise for the agreed upon price, the future of the sale. For sellers, overpricing can mean that it is unlikely that you will receive any The resulting appraisal could tank the your home sits on the market longer, raising seller’s assist.” sale altogether, or force buyers to seek flags to potential buyers that something is extra money or alternative financing amiss. For buyers, an overpriced to compensate for the missed seller’s home can mean a loss in seller’s For buyers, an overpriced home can mean a loss assistance. Either way, it’s going to assistance, money that sellers in seller’s assistance, money that sellers mean a hassle for the buyer and sometimes bring to the table from sometimes bring to the table from their profits frustration for the seller. their profits to help defray closing However, if an agent does the costs for the buyer. Worse yet, if to help defray closing costs for the buyer. homework and knows their business, there is no appraisal contingency Fincham said the home should be addendum attached to the listed at a fair price, resulting in a agreement of sale, a buyer may be relatively smooth sale in reasonable forced to go through with a home length of time. purchase after being told that it is “It is now imperative that agents and not worth what they have agreed to pay. What’s more, overpricing is a one-way Sharon Fincham, a Realtor with street by way of mistakes. Homeowners who clients know the recent selling prices of comparable homes,” she said. “Buyers Prudential Preferred Realty, said that, list their homes for too little may receive and sellers agreeing on a price is not in addition to including an appraisal multiple offers, allowing the power of free necessarily enough anymore. The study contingency addendum to an offer, you market economic supply and demand of a neighborhood before an offer is made need to make sure that your agent is to take over, driving the price up until can save everyone involved a lot of grief doing the proper legwork before the it’s comparable to the other homes in and frustration.” offer is even made. the neighborhood.
38
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
R E A L E STAT E
Monroeville
Reeducation Seller
In today’s post-housing-bust world, selling your home isn’t the same process that it may have been when you moved in 10 years ago.
aureen Cavanaugh, with Howard Hanna Real Estate, said that sellers need to re-educate themselves if they want to remain competitive in today’s market and make a profit on their homes. “Selling your home is very different today, and it’s been a progressive thing,” Cavanaugh said. “Ten years ago, you could list your home as is. Buyers were willing to come in and do updates. With the changes that occurred in the last three and four years, the expectation of buyers has dramatically risen. Many sellers who have lived in their homes for years with a lot of equity should consider doing as many updates as they are willing to do.” Those updates will reap more money when it comes to their final sale price, Cavanaugh said. No updates will result in a lesser price. “It really depends on the house. I’m dealing with someone right now that has a nice home of 32 years, and they’ve spent three months and have done everything. They’re spending upwards of $25,000, but it will take their sale price from the $380,000 range to $425,000 or $430,000. They will recoup what they put into it,” Cavanaugh said. “And the reason is that today’s buyers want to move in, put down the furniture, start paying the mortgage, and get on with their lives. They don’t want to be bogged down with the projects and upgrades like taking down old wallpaper.” If you don’t have a budget for upgrades, Cavanaugh said that even minor cosmetic changes can improve your odds of getting more for your home when it comes time to sell. These types of upgrades include updating the hardware on cabinets to more contemporary styles. At the very least, Cavanaugh suggests getting rid of any junk, cleaning thoroughly, and doing some rudimentary staging. “Exposing hardwood floors is a no-brainer. You don’t have to paint the whole house beige. You can still have some color and have some interest,” she said. “But everything should be sparkling.” Cavanaugh said that now that the first-time homebuyer frenzies spurred by government tax rebates are over, the bulk of homebuyers are mid-level buyers looking in the $150,000 to $300,000 range with access to affordable mortgage money. “These are relocation buyers, and they want all the bells and whistles,” she said. Xxxxxxxx | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 2 “They want to buy more, and they want it done.”
M
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
FREE NICOTINE PATCHES OFFERED TO HELP SMOKERS QUIT Likelihood of Success Increases with Patches & Counseling Tobacco Free Allegheny, a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Allegheny County Health Department, is announcing that free nicotine replacement therapy kits are available to help people quit smoking or stop using smokeless tobacco. A four-week supply of nicotine patches can be obtained, while supplies last, through the PA Department of Health’s Free Quitline at 1-800-784-8669. Quit coaches ask callers if they are ready to set a quit date and whether they have any medical condition that would rule out the safe use of nicotine patches. In addition, participants will be enrolled in a series of free tobacco counseling sessions. While it takes most tobacco users an average of five to eight attempts before they quit, nicotine replacement therapy with counseling increases the likelihood someone will be successful in their attempt to go tobacco free. Additional information about the state’s tobacco cessation resources is available at www.DeterminedToQuit.com. The website offers guidance on developing a quit plan, video blogs of people sharing their own stories about quitting, as well as information for friends and family members who wish to support their loved one’s attempt to quit.
40
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
The first thing you need to consider is the space itself. Is it finished at all? Many attics in the area are open spaces broken up by roof and flooring joists and wads of insulation. The first thing you want to do is inspect your attic for leaks and whether those joists are strong enough to support extra weight. You can add flooring by screwing down plywood or other subflooring. Avoid nailing materials down to prevent damaging the ceilings underneath you through the vibrations of hammer blows. Once you have your flooring down, you can decide whether or not you want to finish the ceiling joists. You can insulate and attach drywall or plywood to these joists, depending on how fancy you want to get with the finished look; or you may decide that having the recessed areas between the joists is beneficial to your storage needs. Keep in mind that a triangular space is limiting only if you have boxes or items that you need to store vertically. Items that are smaller and that can be arranged into
nooks and crannies can be ideal for these odd-shaped spaces. Also keep in mind that, because of the nature of attic access in older homes, the route to your attic may be through a small trap door in a hall closet, so items you put in the attic might be limited to long-term or permanent storage, like old college textbooks, holiday decorations, luggage, or all those old National Geographics that you can’t throw away because the pictures are too pretty. If you do have easy access to your attic, either by way of a dedicated staircase or pull-down steps, more options may offer themselves to you. Even tight attics have enough room for several two-drawer filing cabinets, allowing you to store many years’ worth of tax returns or product manuals. Easier access means even more versatility when it comes to your storage plan. Rather than long term, you can use the space for things that require infrequent use—bins for extra blankets and pillows for when guests are in town, large children’s toys or games that don’t get played with during the school week,
and sporting equipment when it’s out of season. Storing items like these in the attic will keep them out of dank basement conditions, and, in the case of linens and sporting equipment, keep the smell of mildew away. Keep in mind that the attic, while dryer than the basement, still has its own set of issues. Temperatures often vary wildly in attics depending on how insulated they are, so items that can’t stand high heat or low temperatures—like candles, for instance—may not fare well in the attic environment. Each space is different, but each is unique, and how you use that space can be a fun project for the whole family. Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
42
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
More than half of the 36 million Americans who suffer from hearing loss today are under 65 years of age. Hearing loss not only affects our awareness of the sounds around us, it affects our ability to understand speech and can negatively impact our social and emotional well-being—hearing impairment can decrease our quality of life! In fact, it is the third most common health problem in the United States. These are some pretty powerful statements recently issued by the American Academy of Audiology. Hearing loss is not always thought to be important by the one experiencing it. They are often unaware of the subtle changes in their communication ability and life in general because of the slow progression of the hearing loss. For that reason it is important that we all periodically ask ourselves the questions in the Academy’s Hearing Health Quick Test below. 1. Do you find it difficult to follow a conversation in a noisy restaurant or crowded room? Yes No Sometimes
8. Do you have difficulty understanding speech on the telephone? Yes No Sometimes
2. Do you sometimes feel that people are mumbling or not speaking clearly? Yes No Sometimes
9. Does a hearing problem cause you to feel embarrassed when meeting new people? Yes No Sometimes
3. Do you experience difficulty following dialog in a theater? Yes No Sometimes
10. Do you feel handicapped by a hearing problem? Yes No Sometimes
4. Do you sometimes find it difficult to understand a speaker at a public meeting or a religious service? Yes No Sometimes
11. Does a hearing problem cause you to visit friends, relatives, or neighbors less often than you would like? Yes No Sometimes
5. Do you find yourself asking people to speak up or repeat themselves? Yes No Sometimes
12. Do you experience ringing or noises in your ears? Yes No Sometimes 13. Do you hear better with one ear than the other? Yes No Sometimes
6. Do you find men’s voices easier to understand than women’s? Yes No Sometimes 7. Do you experience difficulty understanding soft or whispered speech? Yes No Sometimes
14. Have you had any significant noise exposure during work, recreation, or military service? Yes No 15. Have any of your relatives (by birth) had a hearing loss? Yes No Sometimes
Scoring 2 points for each Yes 1 point for each Sometimes 0 points for each No Scores of 3 or more: May mean that you have a hearing problem. Scores of 6 or more: Strongly suggest that a hearing check is warranted. If you believe you may have a hearing problem, set up an appointment to have your hearing professionally evaluated. This Industry Insight was submitted by Dolores Y. Payne, M.A., CCC-A, Audiologist. Dolores is the owner of Allegheny Hearing Instruments, 800 Jonnet Building, Monroeville, PA 15146 Telephone her at 412.373.1151. Her other location is conveniently located in the South Hills at Manor Oak Village, 1910 Cochran Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15220 412.343.1320.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
When it comes time to plan for the biggest day of your life, you may not know where to start. Planning a wedding is a challenging, time consuming and expensive task, which is why those who can afford it oftentimes hire wedding planners. But for those of us who have to keep an eye on the budget, knowing what to look for in your wedding venue can save you time and money up front, and less hassle when it’s over. Obviously, you want to pick a venue suitable to the size of your anticipated invitation list, and you want to pick it early. Popular venues can be booked well over a year in advance, and if you’re getting married on a date that’s unique – like Dec. 12, 2012, or 12/12/12, you’re going to want to start looking immediately. Robin Craig, Director of Sales for the Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe, said couples should plan out 12 to 18 months when booking a venue. “They need to sit down and find out their guest list and their budget. Once they determine the guest list, we can start quoting pricing,” Craig said. “Next year , 9/10/11 is a big date, and we’re already booked. Also, 10/11/12 would be a hot date. Our hot months are September and October and May and June. If you’re a teacher, June and July are busy months.” Once you have that location selected and it appeals to your personal sense of style and
44
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
aesthetics, you should evaluate anything that may be taken for granted, such as ingress and egress and parking. Is the wedding/reception hall easy to find? Are there covered porticos for dropping off guests in case of inclement weather or for those who have trouble walking without assistance? Will guests be able to find the hall easily, or is it hidden deep in a labyrinth of hallways? And are the restrooms close by? “All of our parking is complimentary,” Craig said. “If you want valet, we can provide it for a fee.” Once you have the building chosen, you should discuss logistics of the day with any facility manager responsible for the site. Important items to discuss include catering – can you hire your own caterer or is there a caterer specific to the venue you’ve chosen? Is there an additional charge for alcohol and can you furnish your own? Will linens be provided and who will be responsible for setting up and tearing down the tables and chairs? Is there a suggested room layout for weddings? Having a tried and true seating arrangement for the venue can save you headaches later on when you’re trying to figure out where to place the bridal table. Lastly, knowing how early you can arrive and how late you can stay will be crucial information for anyone from caterers to your bridal party.
Monroeville
Craig said her venue offers full linens with chair covers, sashes, mirrors, candles and champagne toasts. It also offers complimentary bridal party refresher rooms. They can tray cookies at no charge and provide a gourmet coffee station. It also offers a complimentary overnight room for the bride and groom. Lastly, find out all of the financial details up front. Many venues have service charges that are above and beyond your bill. Get all of your charges in writing, up front before you sign for your venue. You don’t want to find out afterwards that there was a food and beverage minimum that you didn’t attain, or that it was ok for you to bring your own wine, but forgot to inquire about corking fees. Craig said service charge at her venue is 21 percent and sales tax is 6 percent. They also have food and drink minimums. However, discounts are offered for group room rentals for overnight guests and for offpeak days and months. Weddings in January-March and November, and those held on Fridays and Sundays, are considered off-peak. If you do your homework up front, there’s nothing stopping you from having the fairytale wedding you’ve always dreamed of. Keep in mind, like any successful marriage, wedding planning is hard work, but work that you’ll reap rewards from in the end.
So when it comes to finding that perfect dress and getting your hair done just so, a little planning can go a long way towards making the difference between a night that’s mediocre and a night that’s magical. Jenn Lementowski, co-owner of Reflect, a women’s boutique in Settler’s Ridge in Robinson, said that this year’s fashions will be a lot of the tried and true that proms have been known for in the past few years. “There will be a lot of patterns and a lot of basic silk dresses with beading and rhinestones,” Lementowski said. “Those have always been popular, and they’ll be popular this year as well.” Lementowski, who attends national fashion shows with her business partner, Kristy Picard, said that the duo is bringing long and short dresses to market this year. But, because of the popularity of the short dresses, the long dresses will only be offered in two sizes. Lementowski said that prom shoppers will want to allow time for proper fitting and alterations, so waiting until the last minute should not be an option. Regardless of where they go to shop, Lementowski said that people should plan on spending between $300 and $500 on the dress, depending on the level of detailing and material. “It is a pretty big expense, but I’ve noticed that people are willing to spend that much on a prom dress,” Lementowski said, “especially if their daughter’s a senior. I have seen people spending anywhere from $500 to $600 on a dress.”
While prom is a singular event, there is hope for the dress after it’s over for those who can’t justify spending that kind of money on a dress meant to be worn one time. Lementowski said that many women use the dress after prom to wear to weddings. “Depending on what type of dress they get, a lot of people may cut it and make it into a shorter dress and get it tailored,” Lementowski said. “That’s what I’ve seen, mostly.” As far as hairstyles go, John Gamble of John Edwards Color and Design said this season’s special occasion hairstyles will be a tip of the hat to the 1970s. “We predict this spring’s special occasion hairstyles will be somewhat reminiscent of the ‘70's, with a fuller, more romantic silhouette,” Gamble sad. “Although the smooth, sleek looks we've been doing in recent years will still be around, we’re definitely seeing a trend towards texture and fullness and expect that to carry over into this year’s prom season.” Gamble also said that color will be “multidimensional,” and the trend is toward softer, more natural hair. No matter where you get your dress, or do your hair, make sure you plan ahead and make your appointments for fittings and stylings early. As prom creeps up –and it will be here before you know it – knowing that you’re booked for hair, nails, and fitting will take several layers of stress off of you so that you have more time to plan that after-prom party! Hair styles by John Edwards Salon (photos by Joanna Fassinger)
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
Whether it's set in the great outdoors, a lavish ballroom, the couple's favorite restaurant, or at home, the wedding reception is a special time for newlyweds to celebrate with family and friends. The signature dessert – cake – is usually the centerpiece for this occasion, a continuing reflection of the wedding theme and colors. An assortment of cupcakes or a tower of layers allows today's cakes to take almost any form, from square to round, even pillow or heartshaped. This stunning all-white creation from the wedding experts at Wilton is both simple yet elegant. Cake layers are covered in pure white fondant, while additional bands of fondant glistening with white sparkling sugar decorate the bottom of each tier. Dots of sugar pearl sprinkles, resembling perfect pearls, add a hint of texture, while a gem-studded monogram topper adds the finishing touch. This unique do-it-yourself wedding topper kit can easily be customized with one initial, two, or a trio. Self-adhesive crystal-like gems are used to trace the initials onto the clear disc. Gems can also be used to create a border or other complementary design. After the reception, it makes a perfect keepsake that the couple will treasure for years to come. Guests will want to raise a glass in honor of the newlyweds with the timeless custom of a champagne toast. Decorated flutes for the bride and groom create a long-lasting memory of this special tradition. Individual boxes are ideal for truffles or other candies to send home with guests. Tie these with ribbons reflecting the color theme of the wedding. Another fun memento is a mini champagne bottle favor that can be filled with small candies. Attach a label with a personalized message. Make it elegant or simple, and always make it meaningful and memorable. For more do-it-yourself wedding ideas, favors, and accessories, visit www.wilton.com. 46
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
gue By Pamela Palon
s anyone who knows me personally will tell you, I am no expert on social occasions. However, based upon the theory that even a stopped clock is right twice a day, I have made enough social faux pas to speak authoritatively on what not to do at a wedding. Some helpful tips are listed below to help get you through the season of bliss.
Never wear white to a wedding. This includes eggshell, ecru, light cream, pearl lustre and Tahitian coconut. Never attempt to upstage the bride (unless of course you hate the bride, in which case you probably really shouldn’t be attending the wedding anyway, given the spirit of the whole love and happiness thing).
At Jewish weddings do not ask, “What is that big thing they’re standing under?”
At Catholic weddings try to refrain from asking, “Why is this taking so long?” The well-prepared wedding guest remembers to bring snacks for himself and his friends. (Avoid crunchy snacks that may disrupt the ceremony.)
NEVER bet on how long the marriage will last at the reception. All odds-making must be done outside the reception venue. (In the event of inclement weather, the lobby or bathroom is acceptable.)
Never complain about the food at the wedding reception with your mouth full of food from the wedding reception. It’s a credibility issue.
Throw only designated throwing materials at the bride and groom, such as rice and rose petals. Shoes, Jell-O, and steak knives are not acceptable. Ever. Even when they are within the appropriate wedding color scheme.
The wedding day is NOT the proper time to share the fact that you once dated the groom, the bride, or their parents. In fact, the proper time to share this information may not actually exist.
If you simply must dance at the reception, remember you are not trying out for “Dancing With The Stars.” If you throw your partner in the air, make sure you catch them. Missing is considered grounds for divorce in most states. Avoid high kicks, which may warrant medical attention.
Many people adhere to the time-honored adage, “It’s not a party till something gets broken.” However, avoid breaking things that are irreplaceable, expensive, and likely to lead to a law suit. Cell phones and glasses are okay.
Given the fact that marriage is a formidable undertaking and the courageous souls who dare to tread the rose-strewn path are likely to be distraught, hysterical, and panic-stricken, you owe it to the happy couple to be the best wedding guest possible. These helpful tips are the very foundation of the social graces. If you follow them carefully, you will glide effortlessly from wedding celebration to reception party in a virtual whirl of neurotic enthusiasm.
Monroeville | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
B USINESS D IRECTORY
15 Vertical Tanning Booths, including the High Pressure and the MyMyst by Mystic Spray Booth! Tanning packages starting at $19.99 per month! We carry a complete line of tanning lotions. Call salon for information or follow us on Facebook to see our specials (HollywoodTans Monroeville)! GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE
www.hollywoodtans.com www.livesunless.com
www.incommunitymagazines.com
48
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Monroeville
603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com
| IN BEDFORD COUNTY | | IN BETHEL PARK | | IN BRENTWOOD-BALDWINWHITEHALL | | IN CANON-MAC | | IN CHARTIERS VALLEY | | IN FOX CHAPEL | | IN HAMPTON | | IN KEYSTONE OAKS | | IN MARS AREA | | IN McKEESPORT AREA | | IN MERCER COUNTY | |
Our Family of Magazines is Growing! ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS Our community magazines partner with over 20 School Districts and Townships.
MONROEVILLE |
| IN MONTOUR |
We direct mail to over 518,000 households including these new fall 2010 additions:
| IN MOON TOWNSHIP | | IN MT. LEBANON | | IN MURRYSVILLE | | IN NORTH ALLEGHENY | | IN NORWIN | | IN PENN HILLS | | IN PETERS TOWNSHIP | | IN PINE-RICHLAND | | IN PLUM | | IN ROSS TOWNSHIP | | IN SENECA VALLEY | | IN SEWICKLEY AREA | | IN SHALER | | IN SOUTH FAYETTE | | IN UPPER ST. CLAIR | | IN WEST ALLEGHENY | | IN WEST JEFFERSON HILLS | | IN WEST MIFFLIN | | IN WOODLAND HILLS |
TO ADVERTISE Call 724.942.0940 sales@incommunitymagazines.com