SPRING 2011
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Montour Battles Central Valley for the 2010-2011 WPIAL Class AAA Football Championship
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Contents Montour | SPRING 2011 |
SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Publisher’s Message COMMUNITY INTEREST
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Healthy Family, Happy Family
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Real Estate in Montour | Beware of Overpricing | 40 Reeducation of the Seller | 41 American Cancer Center Relays for Life Wedding Etiquette for the Socially Inept |
Strategic Financial Design The Financial Stages of Life | 15 At Home Senior Services
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What is Non-Medical In-Home Care? | 49 ON THE COVER
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Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
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UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
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Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
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Urology 101
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Older Adults in Montour
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
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UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Project Advances
Keep Your Credit Card Secure | 30
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A Clean Sweep Make fire safety a focus of your spring clean-up projects
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© 2011 UPMC
Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 21
FEATURES
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With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.
Montour High-Q Team Advances to Second Round | 3 Montour Senior Awarded for Extra Effort | 4 Montour Cheerleaders Win 7th National Championship Football Championship Leads to Friendships | 6 Thornburg Community Club Demonstrates Growth | 9 UPMC Today
What’s Inside
Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job.
Bound for Glory has become the rally cry for the Montour High School Spartans. Based on the ESPN/Dick Butkus reality show of the same name that followed Montour’s climb through the WPIAL rankings, the Spartans have since become a perennial Pennsylvania state contender, leading them to the 2010-2011 WPIAL Class AA Championship.
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SPRING 2011 Welcome to the spring issue of Montour 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 in to the realm of shameless selfpromotion, 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,” 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 Montour 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 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.
IN Montour is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Montour 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 Beatriz Harrison Jason Huffman Jessie Jones Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Tara Reis 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: 4/14 www.incommunitymagazines.com
Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
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Montour senior Michael Kochis, captain of the Hometown High-Q team, lead his team to victory in the first round of the competition back in October. The team beat out Moniteau and West Allegheny High schools and will now go on to compete in the next round. Hometown High-Q is a high school quiz bowl game show broadcasted on KDKA-TV. The competition is hosted by KDKA news anchor Ken Rice and sponsored by Westfield Insurance Company. “Winning the competition would be a reward for the time we put in practicing,” says Kochis. “Two years ago, we made it to the semifinals and earned $2000 for our school.” “Interested students compete against one another for positions on the team,” says Janet Morris, Hometown High-Q sponsor. The team consists of five members: three who actually compete and two alternates. The students practice for an hour after school once a week. Competing for Montour this year are captain Michael Kochis, Andrew Hodowanes, and T.J. Sauer. Zack Harper and Marisa Postava are alternates for the competition. According to Kochis, the competition can be quite challenging. “Not only trying to recall the answer and being the first to buzz in, but also judging the direction in which the question is going,” he says. “Sometimes it's easy to predict what Ken Rice is asking, but other times you have to wait it out before you risk losing points for answering incorrectly, simply because you couldn't wait to hear the full question.” The competitions are taped downtown at the KDKA studios in Gateway Center. “More than 80 schools compete in the single-elimination process, three times at a time,” says Morris. Winners of the first round then have the chance to compete in the second round in the spring. Montour will compete in the second round on February 26 against Venango Catholic and Homer Center. Winners of the second round win at least $2000 for their school, and will go on to compete at the third level. The final three winning teams will compete for the grand prize—first place is $10,000, and second and third place teams win $5000. Kochis says that, while being on TV at the KDKA studio is certainly fun, “it’s the mental spark when you remember an answer that's really rewarding.” And what’s better, he says, is working with his friends. For more information and to find out how you can watch the Montour team compete, visit www.montourschools.com
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
Alena Esposito, a member of Ohio Valley Rainbow Girls and a senior at Montour High School, received the “Extra Effort” Award on Wednesday, December 8, 2010. The “Extra Effort” Award is chosen by Bob Pompeani and the crew at KDKA TV. A special senior assembly was called by Principal Todd Price to honor Alena for all of her extra Academic, Athletic, and Community Service efforts. The Montour High School cheerleaders started the assembly with an “Alena Cheer” followed by the award presentation. A $200.00 check was also presented to the Montour High School Athletic Department in honor of Alena. Bob Pompeani then interviewed Alena for broadcast on KDKA’s Thursday 6 p.m. evening news. Alena Esposito is the first student in the history of Montour High School and the first member of Ohio Valley Rainbow to receive the “Extra Effort” Award.
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Bob Pompeani has been awarding the “Extra Effort” Award for 22 years. An average of 1800 nominations is received each year but only 22 are selected to receive the award. Alena was nominated by Joseph A. Schrock, Jr., a family friend and Chapter Advisor for Steel City, Order of DeMolay. Alena is one of the stars on the girl’s volleyball and basketball team and exemplifies the term “student athlete” with a 4.08 grade point average. Her community service includes the Special Olympics and Partners for Quality. The Montour High School seniors, her four younger sisters and her brother, her proud parents and grandparents, coaches, teachers, and numerous friends attended the Award Ceremony. It was a proud moment for the hardworking and humble Alena, her school, family and friends.
Congratulations to the Montour High School varsity cheerleaders on winning their 7th national championship! The team traveled to Disney World, Florida from February 10 to February 14 for the National High School Cheerleading Championship sponsored by Universal Cheerleaders Association. Over 400 teams from 30 states participated in the competition, which is the premiere cheerleading championship in the nation.
For their first place win, the team received jackets and ribbons, as well as a banner to display in the high school gym. The team members are seniors: Sarah Ambrosini, Brittany Bosetti, Danielle Lang, Lauren Marasti, Maura McCarthy, Kristina Porada, Katie Schaefer, Staci Sutermaster, juniors: Brandi Baker, Lanette Banks, Alex Barone, Natalie Desisto, Austin Kronz, Michael Mack, Dariane Maietta, Ian Natale, Jocelyn Nicotero, Lauren O’Connor, Caitlin O’Donnell, Ashley Randall, Alyssa Schneider, Pam Soltez, sophomores: Kayla Brophy, Gina Richardson, and Lex Samber. The team is coached by Cyndi “Haddie” Hadfield.
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
Cover Story
Football Championship Leads to New Friendships More than 50 Years Later If you ask John Brown about the EdgewoodMontour WPIAL playoff game of Nov. 14, 1958, you would swear he played in it last weekend. It’s not that he’s replaying the game and wondering about what could have been – Edgewood lost by 13 points – but rather that he was immersed in a time and place that was special to him and all the kids who took to the field that day. “For Edgewood, it was our first time to the playoffs in the history of the school, and the only time in the history of the school,” Brown said. “This was the Class B WPIAL Championship, which is probably AA now. It was a big game for both schools.” The following year, Montour moved up to Class A, and would never play Edgewood again. “Montour won 20-7, but it was a really hard-fought game,” Brown said. “We both had a really strong season. When Montour went into the locker room tied 7-7, it was the first time in two years where they went in at halftime with their opponents scoring against them.” Two years ago, Brown was at a reunion and started talking to other guys there who also played in that game. “I was taken aback by how significant that game was to us all. It was one of the highlights of our lives,” he said. The teammates thought that if they looked hard enough, there might be a videotape of the game languishing away in some drawer somewhere. He knew that Edgewood was
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too small of a school to film their football games, but maybe Montour had the answer. His hunch was right. Brown was referred to a coach at Montour who had been retired for a few years. Brown soon learned that not only was he a coach at Montour, he happened to be the quarterback from the team that beat his team 52 years ago. Bill Kriger, number 11, did in fact have a tape. And 20 years after the game, he transferred that tape to VHS cassette. “The quality wasn’t too bad,” Kriger said. “John Brown’s group, they sent it somewhere to have it professionally reproduced, and that company slowed it down and cleaned it up. It’s as good as can be expected after 52 years.” Together, Brown and Kriger organized a reunion to celebrate the game and watch it together. Kriger said that Montour brought about 10 players to the reunion to watch the game, and they overwhelmingly thought the idea of a reunion would be great. “They tremendously thought it was a great thing,” Kriger said. “They want to get together again at 55 years. We found out that Edgewood had the same type of guys we had. We all got along so well, kidding one another on missed tackles and fumbles. At our age, you don’t want to make any enemies, and we really made some friendships. John and I had lunch a couple times. It was a great game. We look back, and we’re not as big, fast, and strong as the guys today, and both teams played exceptionally hard.” Brown concurred. “When you watch the film, you can see that. In the second half, once we fell behind, we didn’t give up. We were fighting back and
forth the whole way through that second half. We went into halftime tied 7-7,” he said. “We were both very dominant in our leagues. We both had scored more than 300 points against our opponents and only had 18 scored against us. Montour only had 26 points scored against them that season.” All in all, the 52nd anniversary brought together 30 players the day before the actually day of the anniversary. The son of one of the late referees attended as well, and he told Brown that his dad had always talked about this particular game. “We really had a good turnout, great camaraderie. We’re working on putting together a DVD of the reunion,” Brown said. “It was really unique. We’re not aware of any other opponents that ever got together like this. It was such an experience to meet guys that you had in your memory. I always remember number 12—I could never break away from him. I cut through the hole and that guy was waiting for me. We got to know each other, and we were more alike than you would expect your opponents to be 50 years after the fact. To meet these guys in the flesh, it was just wonderful.”
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
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THORNBURG COMMUNITY CLUB:
The community also has some of the first “green space” areas in If you live in Thornburg, chances are you’re a member of the Thornburg Allegheny County, stemming from land that had been designed for Community Club. But you may not be aware that the club, which golfing, and was officially acquired by Thornburg in 2005 through has been around for more than 80 years, also welcomes former private donations, fundraising, and grants. The community also had the residents of Thornburg as well, and it has a rich history of service benefit of a clubhouse that was built in 1908. to the community at large. Thornburg also has their own theater troupe, the Thornburg Village Dorothy Falk, communications chair for the club, said that the Players, which was founded in 1937 and thrives to this day, providing original mission of the Thornburg Community Club was to help out entertainment at the Thornburg with the war effort during World War II. Community Center and cultivating “They used to get together and make the talents of the people in the community. sweaters for the folks in the army,” Falk Falk said that all interests are represented said. “Today, we have several committees that address a lot of different issues.” in the Thornburg Community Club. “We’re busy year-round with children’s programs In addition to adult education, the club also has a monthly book club, social activities scheduled year-round, and activities, adult education, civic and social events,” she said. “Whatever your interests, from yoga to international cuisine, from balland charity work, such as clothing drives. room dance to gardening, from hiking to discussing a good book, Falk said the Thornburg Community Club is as active as it is because Thornburgers have or will gladly embark on an activity that interests or of the size of Thornburg itself. “It’s a tight knit community and there are inspires you.” fewer than 200 households in our borough,” Falk said. “About 80 to 90 Because of its dedication to cultivating and fostering community, percent of people living here are members.” Thornburg has been called “Pennsylvania’s Best Little Borough” Thornburg’s history goes back to 1899, when Frank and David Thornburg decided to develop 250 acres into a residential area. By 1910, and remains a popular community in which to live. It’s also unique in that it’s very evenly distributed by way of age groups as reported by the Thornburg School, which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary the 2000 census. Thornburg has 27 percent of its population aged with the help of the Thornburg Community Club, was built. The school under 18, 21 percent aged 25–44, 33 percent aged 45–64, and operated until 1971, when Thornburg officially became part of the 14 percent aged 65 and older. No one living in Thornburg is living Montour School District. below the poverty guideline, either. For more information on Thornburg, go to www.thornburg-pa.gov.
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
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Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
Hollow Oak Land Trust Celebrates 20thAnniversary
Land trusts tend to be quiet organizations. Managing hundreds of acres into perpetuity, land trusts ensure that natural areas are preserved for future generations to enjoy. For Janet Thorne, executive director of the Hollow Oak Land Trust, HOLT is truly a grassroots effort turned success. “We were formed in 1991 as a grassroots organization. People were concerned with the amount of development going on in the airport area and wanted to preserve areas for clean air, clean water, recreational opportunities, and wildlife,” Thorne said. “They felt a land trust would be a good organization for that. “We focus on undeveloped land. We acquire land or management control through a conservation easement, and we currently own over 400 acres in five communities.” Those communities encompass Moon, Robinson, North Fayette, and Kennedy townships, and Franklin Park Borough. While HOLT’s primary focus is in the West Hills, Thorne said the 34-acre Franklin Park property was donated by someone who wanted to keep the property as a community recreation area but couldn’t find anyone to donate it to. “We felt it was more important to keep it than not to keep it,” she said. “It’s surrounded by a housing development, but the property itself is an old farm. It has pine woods and a lot of diversity of vegetation. We think it’s valuable to have that in the area.” When HOLT acquires a property, it’s given a name and designated a conservation area. The property is open to the public free-of-charge for walks, bird watching, or any other passive, non-motorized use. Certain properties are open to deer-hunting by permit only. “The deer population in Allegheny County has gotten so large that the deer do a lot of damage to a forest,” Thorne said. “They destroy the habitat needed by other animals, so we decided to allow deer hunting by written permission only. Fewer deer allows the vegetation to be available for the other animals there.” Thorne said HOLT is constantly reviewing properties that are publicly for sale or those owned by owners who are thinking about selling them. HOLT tries to acquire properties that are 10 acres or more but has acquired smaller lots, such as a 6-acre wetland in North Fayette. Once it gains ownership, the 15-member organization and volunteers maintain the properties. “Just because land is vacant doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free,” Thorne said. “On one property we maintain a parking area and an old fence. On the other properties, primarily, maintenance is picking up trash. “We have a program trying to eradicate Japanese knotweed, which is taking over Montour Run,” she added. “We do try to remove invasive species; we’re trying to maintain a balance for the natural resources that are found on the property.”
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If you would like to become a member of HOLT, Thorne said the membership fee has been the same since the trust started 20 years ago—$15 a year for individuals and $25 per year for families. The organization currently has approximately 100 members and is one of the largest land trusts in the region. “We would like people to support our efforts,” she said. “We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so donations of cash, land, or goods are all tax-deductible. We also invite volunteers on special occasions for clean-up days or other events that need volunteer work.” Those events include property walks to pick up trash on Feb. 19, March 20, and one other coinciding with Earth Day in April. HOLT will also need help to clear Japanese knotweed on May 22. “We think we’re doing quite a bit. And with the properties being undeveloped, it does help because we don’t have to take care of buildings, driveways, and all that,” Thorne said. “But we always welcome more people to help us out.” Anyone interested in becoming a member or helping out can contact HOLT at www.hollowoak.org or by calling 412.264.5354.
Land Holdings of the Hollow Oak Land Trust: Frank A. Santucci Conservation Area, acquired in 1993, was the first property purchased by HOLT. Located in Moon Township, this 113-acre property is adjacent to a former federal government Nike missile site. Bogg’s Run Conservation Area was donated to HOLT in 1995. The 60-acre site is on the north side of the Beaver Valley Expressway. This property is located in both Moon Township (Allegheny County) and Hopewell Township (Beaver County). Meek’s Run Conservation Area is a 37-acre tract located adjacent to the Londonbury plan in Moon Township. Holt purchased the parcel, which straddles Meek's Run, in 1997. Fifer’s Fields Conservation Area was an old farm in the possession of the Fifer family since the early 1940s. This property is located in the Borough of Franklin Park. HOLT accepted the donation of the 35-acre site in 1998. In the autumn of 1998, HOLT accepted a donation of the Kenmawr Conservation Area, a 60-acre site in Kennedy Township. The site includes a steep ravine and protects water quality in an unnamed tributary of Moon Run. In July 1999, HOLT accepted a donation of land from the Clemmons Estate. This conservation area is located in Robinson Township near the trailhead of the Montour Trail.
The Financial Stages of Life Presented by: G. Benjamin Rovee, MBA Many people put off financial planning, especially during uncertain economic times, because they either don’t know where to begin, or they don’t think they have enough money to make it worthwhile. There is never an ideal time or place to begin and there is no specific level of income or assets one needs to have to make planning for the future “worthwhile.” You can (and should!) begin planning for th e future regardless of which life stage you are in and regardless of how much money you have. To begin the planning process, you first need to identify your present and future financial goals. If you’re like most people, your goals will include protecting your family; managing expenses while paying down debt; buying your first home; and, saving for retirement or kids’ college. Fortunately, there are steps you can take during each stage of your life that will help you build, and then maintain, your personal financial security. Let’s take a look at them: The Foundation Years: If you’re in your foundation years, you are probably facing the most difficult times you will ever have financially. You may be newly married or just out of school; maybe taking on debt in order to acquire – and maintain – your family’s lifestyle. While you may be earning enough money to live on, it could easily be taking all you have just to meet your monthly expenses. Steps you can begin taking now to plan for the future include managing your cash flow without going further into debt; establishing an emergency fund of six months income; and protecting your family. The Accumulation Years: Once you’ve covered the basics – protecting your family and income, establishing yourself in a job or career and perhaps buying your first home – it won’t be long before you’ll want to start setting aside a portion of your earnings. During these years, money you were formerly paying in rent may now be going towards your mortgage, the interest on which may be income tax-deductible to you. At the same time, you may also be building equity in your house, and you may want to begin expanding your investment portfolio. The Preservation Years: Once you’ve reached the preservation years, you will probably have accomplished many of your early financial goals. What’s more, you may finally have the financial freedom to accomplish a few of the special things you may always have wanted to do such as purchase a vacation home, help your children or grandchildren get established financially, or perhaps even retire early. There are still steps you will want to take to help ensure that your future financial security won’t be compromised by a long-term illness or unnecessary taxes. The Golden Years: When you do finally retire, you will enter what many people refer to as their “golden years”. During your golden years you can finally begin enjoying the fruits of all your hard work and planning. In this stage your debts are probably paid off; your finances are probably in order; and you likely have some discretionary funds that allow you to travel or enjoy a few favorite activities. If you’ve planned carefully, your golden years can be a time for doing what you want, when you want. During this stage, you may not only want to plan how you will pass your assets on to your heirs, but also how you might benefit a favorite charity.
Building personal financial security is not something you accomplish just once, nor is it something you begin once you’ve accumulated a specific amount of assets. It is something you start doing as soon as you can and keep doing throughout the various stages of your life. To that end, if you’re among the millions of working men and women who dream of one day being financially secure, I encourage you to take a few minutes – right now, right where you are – to consider your financial goals and the various life stages through which you’ll pass. Knowing which stage you are in – and the challenges and opportunities you will face during those stages – can help you make the right decisions. Ben Rovee is the Co-Founder of Strategic Financial Designs, LLC, a Pittsburgh-based planning firm. Ben received his undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1987. He earned a Masters in Business Administration from Pitt's Katz Graduate School of Business. Ben combines his extensive education and personal experience to create a comprehensive strategy that educates, guides, and facilitates a high value game plan for his clients. His ability to simplify and explain complex financial and estate planning strategies makes him an invaluable advisor to the people he works with. For more information, call (412) 733-4003. G. Benjamin Rovee is a registered representative of securities and investment advisory services offered through Hornor, Townsend, & Kent, Inc (HTK)* Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA, SIPC* 130 Springside Dr, Suite 100, Akron Ohio, 43333 Phone: 330-668-9065 Strategic Financial Designs, LLC and 21st Century are Independent of HTK
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
Robinson Township Municipal Information Robinson Township 1000 Church Hill Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Phone (412) 788-8120 FAX (412) 788-8126 Administration Township Manager: Richard Charnovich rcharnovich@townshipofrobinson.com Township Secretary: Dolly Cvengros Assistant Township Manager: Aaron Bibro abibro@townshipofrobinson.com Township Solicitor: Samuel Kamin, Esq. Township Engineer: Remington, Vernick and Beach Engineers Township Planning Commission: Rick Urbano, Chairman Tax Collector: Edward C. Ritter Township Commissioners: Daniel Tallon, Chair dtallon@townshipofrobinson.com Samuel Abatta, Vice Chair s.abatta@yahoo.com Jesse Forquer, Commissioner Stephanie Triko-Selelyo, Commissioner striko@townshipofrobinson.com Ronald Shiwarski, Commissioner rshiwarski@hotmail.com Meetings Commissioners Meetings Caucus - 1st Monday of the month- 7:00 p.m. Regular - 2nd Monday of the month- 7:00 p.m. Planning Commission 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month - 7:00 p.m. Zoning Hearing Board 4th Wednesday of the month 7:00 p.m. Parks & Recreation Board 3rd Wednesday of the month 7:00 p.m. Civil Service Board as needed
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Montour
Public Safety Robinson Township Police Dept. 1000 Church Hill Road Robinson Township, PA 15205 Non-Emergency: 412.788.8115 412.788.8131 fax Chief Dale Vietmeier Moon Run Volunteer Fire Company 5624 Steubenville Pike Pittsburgh Pennsylvania 15244 Non-Emergency: 412.787.0527 Robinson EMS 998 Church Hill Road Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Business 412.787.5044 Fax 412.787.1107 Library Robinson Township Library 1000 Church Hill Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Phone: 412.787.3906 robinson@einetwork.net Thornburg 1133 Dartmouth Road Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Phone: 412.921.3713 Fax: 412.921.7205 Administration Mayor: Thomas Mackin 412.921.7876 librtyfuelnsuply@aol.com Borough Secretary-Treasurer and Right to Know Officer: Dorothy Falk 412.921.3713 thornburg.secretary@gmail.com Borough Maintenance Director Rob Murphy 412.921.3720
Council President of Council Patti Dodge 412.919.0910 pld@muslaw.com Vice Pres. of Council Vince Coppola 412.937.8733 vcoppola@pribanic.com Jerry Clarke 412.920.9149 jclarke@clarkehealthcare.com Tim Gordon 412.922.7997 THGordon@gtscofpa.com Barbara Larimer 412.920.0414 barbara.larimer@gmail.com Bert McConomy 412.921.2305 jhm@muslaw.com Scott Quinn 412.928.1940 stquinn537@comcast.net Public Safety Crafton P.D. 100 Stotz Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412.921.2014 412.921.1818 (Fax) Robinson EMS 998 Church Hill Road Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Business 412.787.5044 Fax 412.787.1107
Borough of Ingram
Pennsbury Village
Montour School District
Administration Mayor: Gerald C. Croushore gcroushore@ingramborough.org
Borough Of Pennsbury Village 1043 Pennsbury Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15205 412.279.7876
School Board President Mrs. Cynthia J. Morrow morrowc@mail.montourschools.com
Borough Secretary-Treasurer: Debbie Stecko 412.921.3625 dstecko@ingramborough.org
Administration Mayor Lucy Harper
Vice-President Mrs. Joyce Snell snellj@mail.montourschools.com
Real Estate Tax Collector: Jan Sulima 412.922.5877 jsulima@ingramborough.org
Emergency Management Lucy Harper
Treasurer Mr. John Mosimann mosimannj@mail.montourschools.com
Manager Irv Foreman
Code Enforcement Officer: George Jak 412.921.3625 georgejak@ingramborough.org
Mr. Gregory Clarke clarkeg@mail.montourschools.com
Property Tax Collector Patricia Notaro
Mr. Frank Dalmas dalmasf@mail.montourschools.com
Refuse Fee Collector Patricia Notaro
Mr. William Ewonce ewoncew@mail.montourschools.com
Wage Tax Collector Jordan Tax
Mrs. Anne Mazza mazzaa@mail.montourschools.com
Council Council President: Steve Stecko
Mr. Jay Richards richardsj@mail.montourschools.com
Centax Earned Income Collector 412.220.7347 Public Works Supervisor: spalmer@ingramborough.org Council President Richard “Sam� Nucci rnucci@ingramborough.org Vice President Greg Butler gbutler@ingramborough.org Karen Dixon kdixon@ingramborough.org Joe Chesno jchesno@ingramborough.org Russell Dettling rdettling@ingramborough.org Scott Sims ssims@ingramborough.org Scott Trevenen strevenen@ingramborough.org Borough Council Meeting 2nd Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Public Safety Ingram P.D. 40 West Prospect Avenue Pittsburgh, PA. 15205 412.921.6969 412.921.6367 (Fax) Chief: Jack Doherty Ingram Vol. Fire Dept. 40 W Prospect Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15205-2241 Phone: 412.921.2820 Fire Chief: George Beerhalter Ingram Community Emergency Ambulance Service 40 W Prospect Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15205-2241 Phone: 412.921.1449
Council Vice President: Bob Wable Public Works: Daryl Albert Condominium Liaison / Asst. Public Works: Paul Lim Community Affairs: Marita Haubrick Administrative Liaison: Barbara Sigler Parks & Recreation: Carolyn Waldner Public Safety Carnegie Police Dept. One Veterans Way, Carnegie, PA 15106 Non-Emergency: 412.279.6911 Carnegie Volunteer Fire and Rescue Bureau 201 West Main Street, Carnegie, PA 15106
Kennedy Kennedy Township P.D. 3450 Forest Grove Road Coraopolis, PA 15108 412.331.8184 412.71.4666 (Fax)
Mr. Ronald Smith smithr@mail.montourschools.com Montour School District Acting Superintendent Dr. Donald E. Boyer 412.490.6500 x 6222 boyerd@mail.montourschools.com Assistant to the Superintendent Ms. Jean Maravich 412.490.6500 x 6230 maravichj@mail.montourschools.com Director of Fiscal Management Mr. Sam Reichl 412.490.6500 x 6212 reichls@mail.montourschools.com Director of Facilities and Operations Mr. Robert Rosensteel 412.264.6452 x 3628 rosensteelb@mail.montourschools.com Supervisor of Facilities and Operations Mr. John Sullivan 412.264.6452 x 3627 sullivanj@mail.montourschools.com Accountant Mrs. Connie Luksis 412.490.6500 x 6218 luksisc@mail.montourschools.com
Kennedy Township Independent Volunteer Fire Company 1796 Pine Hollow Road McKees Rocks, PA 15136
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Montour
Choosing a Business Structure One of the most important choices you make as a business owner is the type of legal organization for your company. This affects how much you pay in taxes, the amount of paperwork you are required to do, the personal liability you face and your ability to borrow money. While state law controls the formation of your business, federal tax law controls how your business is taxed. All businesses must file an annual return. Sole proprietorships and corporations file an income tax return. Partnerships and S Corporations file an information return. An LLC, except in certain cases, can choose to be classified for tax purposes as a corporation or as a “disregarded entity.� As a disregarded entity the LLC will not file a separate return, but instead all the income or loss is repor ted by the member(s)/owner(s) on their annual return. So, what structure makes the most sense for you? The simple answer is, it depends. There are many factors that play into this decision and professional legal and tax advice is beneficial in seeing the full picture. Whether you are a startup or an existing business, the form you choose is a big decision, since it will have a significant impact on how income tax rules and regulations affect you and the way you are protected under the law. For more information on choosing the right entity for your small business, please contact our office. Kate Wise, Padgett Business Services k.wise@smallbizpros.com, (412) 458-0639
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SPRING 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Healthy Family, Happy Family
What’s Inside page 2
A Clean Sweep Make fire safety a focus of your spring clean-up projects
page 3
From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry
Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job.
page 4
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?
With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.
page 5
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
page 6
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?
page 7
Urology 101 UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Project Advances
© 2011 UPMC
A Clean Sweep Make fire safety a focus of your spring clean-up projects
Consider these potentially lifesaving tips from UPMC Mercy’s Trauma and Burn Center, which recently earned prestigious verification by the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons. Spring is a great time to clean up around the house — inside and out. It’s also a great time to do a fire safety check and simple spring cleaning to help make your home safer. “Most home fires and burn injuries can be prevented,” says Jenny A. Ziembicki, MD, medical director of the UPMC Mercy Trauma and Burn Center. “Too often, we see children scalded by bath water that’s too hot, people with painful inhalation burns caused by mixing cleaning products, or deaths in homes with no working smoke alarms.” About 300 people are admitted to UPMC Mercy each year for treatment of burn injuries. Nearly one out of three of those burn patients is under the age of 15. UPMC Mercy is designated as a Level I Regional Resource Trauma Center by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation. “We were the first burn center in Pennsylvania and the 17th in the country when we opened in 1966,” Dr. Ziembicki says. “Today, we’re the only center in the region with Level I trauma and comprehensive burn capabilities under the same roof.”
Dr. Ziembicki advises families to reduce the risk of fires and burn injuries in their home by following these simple spring cleaning tips: • Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, replace the batteries, and vacuum away any dust or debris. • Set your water heater to 120 degrees. Consider using a bath thermometer, especially if you live with young children, the elderly, or diabetics. • Clean out your basement and garage. Properly dispose of any oily rags, and empty paint or aerosol cans. Recycle unnecessary papers and boxes. • Clean out lint build-up in your clothes dryer vents, exhaust ducts, and behind the dryer. Remember to clean the screen/filter after each use. • Read instructions carefully when using cleaning products. Mixing solvents can produce toxic fumes that can burn eyes and airways. • If you have children, look for any evidence they’ve been playing with matches.
• Don’t fire up that propane grill until you check for leaks and cracks, and signs of blockage from insects, spiders, and food grease. • For charcoal grills, use only charcoal lighter fluid, and never add any lighter fluid or other flammable liquids after igniting. • Place your grill away from railings, high traffic areas, windows, heating/air conditioning units, or places with high/dead vegetation. • Make sure all family members know how to respond to a smoke alarm alert. Choose a meeting place such as a tree, light pole, or mailbox that is a safe distance from your home in the event of a fire. • Make an escape plan. Draw a floor plan of each level of your home and discuss it with all members of your household. For more information, contact the Hydrotherapy Department at UPMC Mercy at 412-232-8794.
Did You Know? • Across the nation, someone dies in a fire every 175 minutes, and someone is injured in a fire every 31 minutes.
• Approximately 85 percent of all U.S. fire deaths occur in homes.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
• A residential fire occurs every 84 seconds. • Every day, 435 children from infancy to age 19 are treated in emergency departments for burn-related injuries, and two children die as a result of being burned.
• Nearly two-thirds of reported home fire deaths occurred in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Sources: National Fire Protection Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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 stomachaches are harmless conditions caused by overeating, gas, or indigestion. But they can point to more serious medical problems, says Ragunath Appasamy, MD, PhD, chief of gastroenterology at UPMC Mercy. “Most people know when a stomachache is simply a stomachache,” says Dr. Appasamy. “However, if the pain is different — something unusual for you — it’s time to call your doctor.” There are many potential causes of abdominal pain, explains Dr. Appasamy. “It’s important that patients contact their primary care physician if mild stomach pain lasts more than six hours or continues to worsen, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms.”
Get immediate medical help if: • You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden. Pain located on the lower right side of the abdomen can mean appendicitis. • You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder. Some heart attacks and pneumonias can cause abdominal pain. • You’re vomiting blood or having bloody diarrhea. • 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
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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. • Sleep in on weekends — but not more than two to three hours past your normal wake time. Sleeping longer may disrupt your body clock. Find a more complete list of the benefits of good sleep at www.UPMC.com/Today.
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. 4. Use a damp cloth or mop to remove dust from hard surfaces and exposed floors. This will prevent dust from becoming airborne and resettling. 5. Keep the indoor temperature at 70 degrees 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
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www.UPMC.com/Today
UPMC Spotlight
UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online
Keeping track of health issues, test results, and medications is challenging for Sandy Hogue*, who is disabled and chronically ill. Because she must rely on cabs for transportation, seeing a primary care doctor can be an all-day affair. 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
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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.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
PTSD is a relatively new specialization in psychology, and experts are still trying to determine why it affects some people and not others. Fortunately, for most people, the symptoms of PTSD begin to ease in about a month. “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.
Urology 101 From prostate cancer to kidney stones, here’s a quick crash course about your urologic health. “Out of sight, out of mind.” That’s how most of us regard our urinary tract — until we’re jarred from a sound night’s sleep by the sudden urge to urinate, or pass a painful kidney stone. These are just two of the many conditions diagnosed and treated by urologists, physicians who specialize in the medical care of the male and female urinary tracts (comprised of the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureters), and the male reproductive system. Today’s television commercials may help build public awareness of urological problems like incontinence and impotence. But many people — particularly men — remain steadfastly embarrassed to talk about such issues with their family doctor.
And while urologic problems can happen at any age, they increase as we grow older. Among men over age 50, prostate cancer is a particular concern. “It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the United States,” explains Dr. Benoit. He advises men ages 50 to 75 to undergo an annual prostate exam and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. “If you have a family history of prostate cancer, or are of African-American heritage, you’re at higher risk and should begin annual screening between the ages of 35 and 40.”
“It’s important to be proactive and take a preventative approach when it comes to your urologic health,” advises Ronald Benoit, MD, director of general urology and clinical vice chair, Department of Urology at the University of Pittsburgh. “For example, research shows that erectile dysfunction can be a sign of an underlying medical problem, such as cardiovascular disease.”
Conditions Treated by Urologists
What can you do to stay healthy? “Simply put, live a healthy lifestyle. It’s easy to say, but hard to do,” acknowledges Dr. Benoit, who recently moved his practice to UPMC Mercy. “Eat a heart-healthy diet, avoid too much alcohol, don’t smoke, and exercise regularly — and your whole body benefits.”
• Erectile dysfunction
Your family physician will typically refer you to a urologist for treatment of the following conditions: • Cancers of testicles, prostate, penis, bladder, kidneys, or adrenal gland • Enlarged prostate • Male infertility • Painful bladder syndrome
• Prostatitis • Pelvic organ prolapse • Kidney stones • Urinary incontinence • Urinary tract infections • Urinary retention
UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Project Advances Work on a major $21.3 million expansion and renovation project at UPMC Mercy’s Emergency Department (ED) is humming along with finishing touches scheduled for completion by late fall. Thomas Gronow, executive director of UPMC Mercy’s Emergency, Trauma, and Burn Services, says the project — which began in February 2010 and has been conducted in phases to minimize disruption — is “on time and running smoothly.” “We are pleased to be able to continue providing exceptional care to our patients during this exciting time of transition,” Mr. Gronow says.
Other recent improvements include: • Fifteen newly renovated treatment bays (another 21 are planned). • Two dedicated, state-of-the-art trauma resuscitation bays will be added for the most acutely injured patients. • An innovative ‘Super Track’ design that offers speedy care for patients with minor injuries and illnesses needing less urgent care. • A new 128-slice CT scanner added last year offers the latest imaging technology with faster scanning capability. • An expanded patient and family reception area to provide comfort to families of patients during treatment. By the time the project is completed, 11 beds will be added to the ED.
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.
The American Cancer Society 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
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.
Look for these local relays near you DATE
EVENT
TIME
4/9-10
RFL of Moon
TBD Robert Morris University
For Details: www.relayforlife.org/pamoon
6/11-12
6001 University Boulevard Moon Township
RFL of S. Fayette/Bridgeville TBD South Fayette High School
For Details: www.relayforlife.org/pasouthfayette
6/18-19
LOCATION
RFL of Pgh West
For Details: www.relayforlife.org/papghwest
3680 Old Oakdale Road McDonald
TBD Carlynton High School 435 Kings Highway Carnegie
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation
Montour Keep Your Credit Card Secure Older Adults in
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 typica lly 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 30 724.942.0940 to advertise
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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 m ay 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 e-mail 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
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 c redit 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 w ould treat your cash—never leave it lying around.
Senior Agencies Chabad of the South Hills 1701 McFarland Road Pittsburgh, PA 15216 412.341.1494 www.chabadsh.com
Transportation For Older Adults There are several agencies that offer free or reduced rate transportation services to individuals who qualify. Medical Assistance Transportation Program (MATP) 1.888.547.6287 Provides non-emergency medical transportation to residents of Allegheny County who have a valid Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card. Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participants must obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you. ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation provided throughout Port Authority’s service area. It serves primarily senior citizens and persons with disabilities. There are no restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which may be taken by riders, except that riders are required to share their vehicle with others traveling in the same direction and at the same time. Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460. Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.
Digital Photography for Seniors
I
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 selftimers 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. Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
In May 2003, Bonny Diver-Hall was at the height of her radio career at 3WS and enjoying riding her beloved horse Romeo. Unfortunately, a bad fall left her with a broken shoulder, but it was that fall that saved her life. Bonny discovered a lump in her breast while examining her wounds. That lump turned out to be breast cancer, which became an opportunity for victory. Today, almost eight years later, Bonny is cancer-free, and on a mission to bring dignity and comfort to women undergoing chemotherapy. Hair Peace Charities was born after Bonny’s oncologist mentioned that 4 out of 5 Pennsylvania health insurance companies wouldn’t cover the cost of a wig (around $300) for women who would lose their hair during chemotherapy. “It is imperative to give women the means to maintain their dignity while taking on the fight of their lives,” says Bonny. “It is not just a wig, it is the circle of support that Hair Peace Charities offers along their way.” Bonny received immense help to launch Hair Peace Charities from Ingomar Methodist Church, which remains a steady lifeline to the organization that today is independent. Hair Peace provides women in the 412 and 724 area codes with financial assistance to purchase a wig needed from chemotherapy. Donations come from generous individuals, businesses and organizations. Many donors have been personally affected by cancer. Last year, Hair Peace served nearly 175 women and expects to double that number in 2011 bringing the outreach to over 800 since inception. In addition to helping pay for wigs, Hair Peace Charities provides a helpful informational packet with ways to deal with the effects of treatment and how to fight cancer with changes in diet and lifestyle. At monthly meetings (Empowerment Circles) expert speakers educate women on a variety of topics related to health and spirituality. Volunteers have gone to women's homes to plant flower bulbs, made prayer quilts and sent prayer cards. Women struggling with cancer should contact Hair Peace Charities at (412) 327-5177 or bdiver1@verizon.net. Bonny Diver-Hall is available to speak to groups about the spiritual and practical aspects of fighting cancer. She says she is more than a survivor, she is a warrior!
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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!
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
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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 heart-shaped. 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 for the couple that will be treasured 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 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.
Never wear white to a wedding. This includes eggshell, ecru, light cream, pearl lustre and Tahitian coconut.
Never complain about the food at the wedding reception with your mouth full of food from the wedding reception. It’s a credibility issue.
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).
Throw only designated throwing materials at the bride and groom such as rice and rose petals. Shoes, jello and steak knives are not acceptable. Ever. Even when they are within the appropriate wedding color scheme.
At Jewish weddings do not ask, “What is that big thing they’re standing under?”
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.
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).
Many people ascribe 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.
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
R E A L E STAT E
MONTOUR
Both Buyers and Sellers Need to BEWARE of
OVERpricing
“You have to make sure that your agent But there’s no similar failsafe with overAs with any major purchase, doing your does comparisons to similar homes in the pricing. A home that’s overpriced may get a homework should be something you do area, knows the market, and gets supporting nice offer, but ultimately, the final arbiter of before you sign on a major loan. Never evidence that the house is really worth what it’s truly worth is the appraiser, before has this been more true than in the what it’s being advertised at before you assigned independently by the bank or housing market, where overpricing can creput in an offer,” Fincham said. “If the house lender. That appraisal will dictate the future ate major headaches for buyers and sellers. doesn’t appraise for the agreed upon price, of the sale. For sellers, overpricing can mean that it is unlikely that you will receive any The resulting appraisal could tank the sale your home sits on the market longer, raising seller’s assist.” altogether, or force buyers to seek extra flags to potential buyers that something is money or alternative financing to amiss. For buyers, an overpriced compensate for the missed 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 listaddendum attached to the ed at a fair price, resulting in a agreement of sale, a buyer may be relatively smooth sale in reasonable forced to go through with a home length of time. purchase after being told that it is not worth “It is now imperative that agents and 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.
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R E A L E STAT E
Reeducation
MONTOUR
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. Maureen 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 firsttime 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. “They want to buy more, and they want it done.”
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
R E A L E STAT E
Real Estate
MONTOUR
CAREER
Many finding the flexibility and income potential excellent As the dwindling job market numbers continue to make the news lately, the professionals in the real estate market seem to have one of the best kept secrets going. For those who need some flexibility but desire a job with excellent income potential, a career in real estate is an excellent choice. Whether a person has just finished college or wants to return to work now that the kids are attending school, joining a sales team at a real estate agency close to home can lead to income rewards and a flexible work schedule that many people desire. In this day and age of electronic media, with all of the tools available to agents to help buyers and sellers in acquiring and disposing of properties, the fast pace of the real estate market is an exciting place to work. People who have just graduated from college have the upper hand when it comes to marketing to their peers through social network sites. The use of Facebook and LinkedIn are tools that are being masterfully used to make contact with their friends, who are generally first time home buyers.
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Those who have taken time off to raise their children and are looking for an alternative to a standard 9 a.m.-5 p.m. job have found great success in a real estate career. Kay Beers of Howard Hanna Seven Fields says that the flexibility of the job is what makes it such an attractive option. “You can control your schedule, and have a successful career in the real estate field. Agents can set their own hours, and with work hard, reap the financial rewards!” What makes for a successful real estate professional? Beers says “it’s someone who is empathetic and can relate well to people. This is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It’s important that someone exploring real estate as a career understand that working with people is the name of the game. A person who loves working with and around people and can understand their needs easily is one who will make a successful agent.”
The career path to becoming a real estate agent is varied. People who have previously worked in service- oriented fields like nursing, teaching or in the airline industry make great real estate agents. Those who have spent years volunteering their time and are now looking for a paying job, and have honed their skill in dealing with different types of personalities generally make a good transition into the real estate work force. A position within a real estate agency can be rewarding both personally and financially. The flexibility that comes with setting your own schedule and the satisfaction of assisting in one of the largest transactions that most people will make, can make the difference between a just doing a job and a creating a successful career.
SPRING
2011
G U N U R T L I N X R
K R R H W I I O S V A
F D G S B L S S O V Q
M T K O K N A W K H E G Z U F O S C S U WG
T E M P E R A T U R E
X M Y H G R F O J A R
R G X S T N P J B Z W
S N E E Z E N A B F Y
W U L D T G E R M A D
C G U H U S U R I V G
Cough Germ Nose Sneeze Temperature Tissue Virus Wash
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
germs...
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We are looking for good features!
Do you know of a person or organization who is volunteering in the community? Let us know! E-mail Marybeth at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com
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more than four feet tall and live in western Pennsylvania, chances aref you’re that your attic is not a comfortable space that you would consider livable. Your attic can be modified, however, by the do-it-yourselfer into more than adequate storage for a variety of your belongings, if you get creative. The first thing you need to consider is the space itself. Is it finished at all? Many attics in the area are open spaces broken up by roof and flooring joists and wads of insulation. The first thing you want to do is inspect your attic for leaks and whether those joists are strong enough to support extra weight. You can add flooring by screwing down plywood or other subflooring. Avoid nailing materials down to prevent damaging the ceilings underneath you through the vibrations of hammer blows. Once you have your flooring down, you can decide whether or not you want to finish the ceiling joists. You can insulate and attach drywall or plywood to these joists, depending on how fancy you want to get with the finished look; or you may decide that having the recessed areas between the joists is beneficial to your storage needs. Keep in mind that a triangular space is limiting only if you have boxes or items that you need to store vertically. Items that are smaller and that can be arranged into nooks and crannies can be ideal for these odd-shaped spaces. Also keep in mind that, because of the nature of attic
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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.
FEMALE
Fix-It-Yourself
REVOLUTION
SOLVE 5 COMMON HOUSEHOLD PROBLEMS
From pink screwdrivers and mini toolboxes to a surge of female-targeted home improvement sites and guidebooks, the fix-it-yourself revolution has come for women in the U.S. More empowered females are taking on household problems themselves instead of spending the money to hire a plumber, electrician or contractor. In fact, a recent study by the Medelia Monitor showed that more than 60 percent of women are more likely to tackle the work on their own. The majority of these women (63 percent) are being more resourceful to avoid the high costs of hiring a professional. And 71 percent of women say the desire to “fix-it-myself” stems from the empowering feeling of having the knowledge to improve their home. Sound familiar? If you’d like to empower yourself and join the fix-it-yourself revolution, start by picking up a few affordable tools and products to tackle quick fixes. Here are easy tips for solving five common household problems:
✔Unstick sticky windows by opening them and rubbing wax or spraying silicone into the tracks on both sides. Move the window up and down several times to work the wax or silicone lubricant into the frame. ✔Fix squeaky wood or tile floors by sprinkling baby powder on the surface of the floor that’s squeaking. Then place a chisel between the boards and gently hammer the top to pry up the tile or floorboard. Sprinkle more baby powder underneath the board to seal the excess space causing the squeaking. ✔If your drains are draining slowly or clogged completely, try a de-clogging gel that clears the toughest clogs at a fraction of the cost of a plumber house call. Liquid-Plumr’s new Penetrex Gel is a fast-acting, powerful formula that can clear the toughest clogs in just seven minutes. ✔Mend unsightly holes or tears in your window screens by using a screwdriver to straighten the bends in the mesh and dabbing clear nail polish to seal the hole. Allow it to dry. Then repeat the polish application until the hole is completely sealed. ✔A wobbly table leg may seem hard, but it’s a surprisingly easy repair. Just figure out how it’s attached to the seat. Then either screw the leg back into its socket or glue it back into place. Fix-it resources abound online and at your local bookstore. But here’s a few to get you started: Facebook.com/LiquidPlumr: Most clogged drains are caused by hair. Get tips on how to keep all drains clear and while you’re there, enter the Big Locks Rock! Contest before December 15th for a chance to win a trip for four to L.A. to get haircuts by a celebrity stylist. BeJane.com: A site where women of all ages and skill levels can find answers to home improvement questions and connect with others for inspiration and advice. “Dare to Repair” by Julie Sussman: This book offers a “do-it-herself” guide to fixing almost anything in the home. Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
Add Warmth, Style & Value to Your Home
What 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 pr ovide 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. 48 724.942.0940 to advertise
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t Home Senior Services is a Non-Medical In-Home Care Company. At Home is owned by David & Mary Jo Dietrich of Franklin Park, David has a PhD in business, and brings with him 20 years of experience working in privately held consulting firms specializing in family businesses. Mary Jo has a Bachelors degree in Nursing with over 15 years of hands on nursing experience working in hospital setting. Mary Jo runs the daily operations and understands the struggles families face when they are in need of care for their loved one. Today people are very busy with their work, families, and lives so looking after and taking care of a loved one can be complicated and sometimes overwhelming. It maybe that a family member has been showing signs of confusion during the day, recovering from surgery, needs reminders with medication, or just to have a friendly caregiver around to make sure activities of daily living go a little smoother. We opened our office in 2007 to help folks when they are faced with these issues. At Home has a comprehensive range of non-medical in-home care services that have helped hundreds of people recover and prosper in the comfort of their own homes.
A
How does your service work? No matter what your age, there are times when we all need a little help with the activities of daily living. Surgery, injury, illness and challenges created by disabilities can make it tough to take care of yourself or your loved ones, and that’s where we can help, for as short or long of time as you need. At Home has a minimum requirement of 3 hours per day and can accommodate around the clock care as well, we have a nurse come in to help assess the client and family needs and then design a care plan with options. Our ultimate goal is to help promote independence in the comfort of home with the assistance of a home health aide or caregiver.
What qualifications do caregivers need to work for At Home? We hire and staff Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA’s), Home Health Aides, and Companions. Caregivers with years of experience working in the field and that have a passion for helping seniors. Our comprehensive hiring process which includes a physical drug test, criminal background investigation, and a nursing competency exam helps us select quality caregivers. All caregivers are also insured and bonded.
What should I expect a Caregiver to do? We help with chores around the house, bathing & grooming, safety and supervision, medication reminders, light housekeeping, companionship, meal preparations, exercise, transportation to doctor visits, and social events. The goal is to help keep seniors active mentally and physically.
Do you have training? Our caregivers are highly trained with knowledge of the aging process. Education to all staff is delivered by a Register Nurse and they are trained by the Alzheimer’s Association, along with quarterly in-service meetings.
How do you pay for services? We work with Long Term care insurance companies, Veterans assistance program, State funded programs, and private pay. We promote “aging in place” in the comfort of home. No matter where clients call home we can be there. Give us a call today, our sofa visits are free, and the advice could be priceless......
This Industry Insight was written by David John Dietrich 412.604.0410 www.AtHomeSeniorServices.com
Montour | Spring 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
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