IN Carlynton-Montour by IN Community Magazines

SUMMER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

LocalThornburg Home a Study in Charm and History

COMMUNITY-DRIVEN

upmc

Contents Montour | SUMMER 2011 |

Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message COMMUNITY INTEREST

Thornburg Village Players

AAA State Championships

Advice for Great Grilling | 6

Peoples Natural Gas

Community-Driven | 13

UPMC Today

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 21

Real Estate in Montour

An Enjoyable Backyard Living Space | 32 Trading Spaces | 36 Real Estate Options for the Retired | 40 FEATURES

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden Walker-Ewing Log House Little Tara

Local Thornburg Home A Study in Charm and History | 34

Where is Robinson Township?

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Salvation Army | 9 Ingram Dental | 18 Stategic Financial Designs | 43 Robinson Chiropractic | 45

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Metro Heating and Cooling

Metro delivers on retrofit concept | ON THE COVER

Little Tara, a 102-year old home in Thornburg

SUMMER 2011 Welcome to the Summer issue of Montour Magazine. And what a welcome to summer it is. After weeks of extreme temperature fluctuations, rain and wind, the warm, summer sun couldn’t be any more of a sight. Despite the cold of winter and the lackluster spring we’ve had, much has happened here with your magazine. We have restructured to accommodate our growth and I would like to introduce some people to you that are working behind the scenes to make sure your magazine is the best community magazine that we can produce. First off, I’d like to reintroduce Mark Berton as our new West Zone Editor. Mark is my longest-serving employee and has worked every position at Community Magazines throughout our growth from just three magazines to 32. He has been a resident of Moon Township since 2002, served on both the township cable TV advisory board and planning commission, and is an active member of Coraopolis Masonic Lodge 674, where he’s held officer positions. Mark also literally “wrote the book” on Moon Township, publishing that history through Arcadia Publishing in 2007. He also published “Dixmont State Hospital” through Arcadia, chronicling the history of the 150-year-old mental hospital in Kilbuck Township. Because of his longevity in the West Hills, Mark was the perfect choice to lead our Western magazines. I’ve also hired Sharon Cobb to work with Mark as the dedicated graphic designer for our western magazines. Sharon comes to us from the Seattle Times, where she spent more than a decade working with creative teams on editorial and advertising initiatives, earning her the distinctions of Advertising Design Person of the Year. Prior to that, she worked for Northwest Adventure Publishing, laying out all of the magazines under their umbrella and ensuring that they met deadline. Sharon’s experience, attention to detail and flair for creative and engaging designs quickly endeared her to us, as I am sure her work will endear itself to you. We invested in this team because we felt it would be the best way to serve all of the residents of the West Hills, by offering the highest-quality magazine possible. But there is an even more important part of the team that I can’t hire – you. Your contributions of ideas and time have been invaluable to us and we thank you. We urge even more of you to contact us with your feature ideas and events. Email Mark at: mark@incommunitymagazines.com with your thoughts. We all know a neighbor who volunteers, or a scout that is working on a project. We all have children and grandchildren that are doing something special either at school or for community service. We also know seniors who deliver meals, or organize choirs. These are the people we are looking to tell you about. Because without community, we have nothing, so promoting the best in our communities we celebrate that which is great within ourselves. Have a great summer!

IN Montour is a 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 M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com R E G I O N A L E D I TO R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Sharon Cobb Susie Doak Jan McEvoy

Joe Milne Gail Murray Tamara Tylenda

A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Derek Bayer Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes John Gartley Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Rita Lengvarsky Connie McDaniel

Brian McKee Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki CapezioWatson

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Brad Lauer Gary Yon 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

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Fall content deadline: 7/13/11 www.incommunitymagazines.com

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Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Thornburg Village Players

f youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never heard of the Thornburg Village Players,

chances are you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live in Thornburg. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because the performance troupe, which has been in existence since 1937, is solely made up of residents of Thornburg to put on performances for, you guessed it, residents of Thornburg. Frank Losos, president of the Thornburg Village Players, said some of his neighbors have been doing productions with the group since 1946. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t advertise, and our performances have a seating capacity of 100 each,â&#x20AC;? Losos said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The group goes back to a time when mass entertainment was radio and movies.

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Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s it. People were interested in putting on productions of their own.â&#x20AC;? While getting an audience isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a problem, getting performers is difficult. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of the neighborhood doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t participate,â&#x20AC;? Losos said, . â&#x20AC;&#x153;wWhich is incredible to me, because , as a kid, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d pretend to be a cowboy, or play space games. It was such fun. One of the things weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re seeing is that we really have to push hard to get people to participate.â&#x20AC;? Sylvia Wyatt is the grand dame of the Thornburg Village Players, with both the longest history and, arguably the most enthusiasm for the group. Wyatt said that in past years, the group was extremely active and entertaining to those who lived in Thornburg. Today, performances are given for those who live in Thornburg, former residents, and those from the surrounding areas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been active in the players for many years and my father was before me. As we go back in years, we used to have a play-reading committee and they would take on three or

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yatt said that through the years, changes in society have changed how those living in Thornburg interact. The reemergence of women in the workplace in the last several decades, has eroded reduced the number of stay-at-home wives and moms who used to help participate in the Thornburg Village Players’ performances. “With more women working these days, it’s changed the whole rhythm of things here in town,” Wyatt said. “We don’t have the ability to do as much as we did in the past. It used to be also that we would have social things in the community. They’d have an entertainment night – m. Monologues. We had voting, and officers. We still have a board of directors, but we don’t have gatherings like we used to.” Wyatt said that at one point in time, when Thornburg had an independent school, children from the school were

included in the productions, which made it easier for casting. However, Thornburg became part of the Montour School District in 1971. Wyatt believes that Losos will be able to reinvigorate the community and share his love of theater and performance. “Frank is just wonderful, and we’ll see what happens. I’m hoping we can inspire the village to come together and come down to a community gathering so we can find out who’s interested,” she said. “Pittsburgh has so many little theaters. The public has seen a lot of theater. I’m hoping we can all get behind our shared love of theater here in Thornburg.” This fall, Losos said the troupe will be performing “Twelve Angry Men,” and have has a murder-mystery scheduled for next spring. Losos said he’d like to get Thornburg resident participation back up to levels where it once was, but acknowledges that that it may be a difficult task given today’s working families and extracurricular activities. “People are very busy, and it’s been tough. Being a director is s a full-time job,” Losos said. “Even though there’s help with the cast, and things like make up, it’s still a huge responsibility.”

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four different plays, [to] read, analyze and decide what was good for the community,” Wyatt said. “We’d get ideas from what was on Broadway. Our principle really was to select a play that was well written – s. Something by Neil Simon, or someone like that. When it was available to be redone, a year or two after it closed on Broadway, we’d select it.”

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Join your host, Pittsburgh Steelers great, Heath Miller, for a night of fun and philanthropy at The Salvation Army and WTAE TV’s 14th Annual Minigolf Classic. Enjoy an exclusive evening with Heath and a host of Steelers alumni players on Thursday, June 16th, along with celebrity guests from WTAE TV Channel 4 at the RMU Island Sports Center on Neville Island for food, photos and a round of miniature golf. Peoples Natural Gas, a faithful supporter of Project Bundle-Up is sponsoring the event. Registration begins at 5:00 pm. The event starts oﬀ with an exceptional dinner, followed by a round of celebrity minigolf, a sumptuous dessert buﬀet and a selection of great give-aways. Two entrance fees are available, depending upon the extensive array of perks and keepsakes that are chosen. At the top price point is the Black & Gold Team Sponsor at $1,500. This package allows six players and provides participants with custom apparel; dinner by Bart’s Catering and Fine Foods, Inc.; a round of minigolf; putt with event host, Heath Miller; putt with former Steelers Greats like Robin Cole, Marv Kellum, Randy Grossman and John Banaszak; putt with WTAE-TV Channel 4 personality hosts; a professional photograph taken with Heath Miller for each team member in a keepsake folder; professional plaque for each member of the winning team; and a post minigolf dessert reception with great giveaways. The economical Individual Rookie sponsor pays $150 and receives custom apparel, a round of minigolf and admittance into the dessert reception. To register for The Salvation Army and WTAE TV’s 14th Annual Minigolf Classic, contact Melissa Fereday, Director of Project BundleUp at 412-446-1639 or melissa_fereday@use.salvationarmy.org. Reservations must be received by Tuesday, June 14th. "There are many ways to support Project Bundle-Up...BOUNCE for Bundle-Up in your local elementary school, sponsor a team in the Heath Miller Minigolf Classic, donate an item or services to the Annual Project Bundle-Up Auction, volunteer by shopping with the kids, or send in your donation today. Thank you for thinking of the children and seniors who stay warm because of your support!" Both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 124 countries worldwide. The 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division serves thousands of needy families through a wide variety of support services. To learn more about The Salvation Army in Western Pennsylvania, log onto www.salvationarmy-wpa.org. The Salvation Army…Doing the most good…for the most people…in the most need.

Golf with Steelers supports needy kids and seniors

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

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Montour makes ✩ ✩ p i o m n a S h h i C p S e t a O u g t in St After K✩nockSouth Fayette

★✩

It was a momentum that should have gone on for state champion gold, but in the end the Spartan basketball team, after defeating the green behemoth that is South Fayette, fell to Sts. Neuman and Goretti out of Philadelphia in the AAA state championships. The South Fayette Lions basketball team rolled through the regular season in Class AAA with an undefeated section record. They finished 19-1 overall, with the lone loss coming to Class AAAA finalist Chartiers Valley. That record earned them the top seed in the AAA playoffs. The Spartans fell to South Fayette in the regular season with a 65-58 road loss and 20 point win at home. The third clash between

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the two took place at the A.J. Palumbo Center on the campus of Duquesne University. The Spartans came with swords sharpened and ready for a fight. Neither team was very sharp at the start of the game. The Lions led 11-7 after the first quarter. The Lions still led and still held a 139 lead early in the second when Montour locked down on defense. The Lions slumped into a 4-minute scoring drought that allowed Montour to take the lead. The Spartans caught fire from outside the arc after an ugly start. They made four triples, including a buzzer-beater that capped a 9-0 run, and which vaulted them into a 21-18 lead at halftime. The Lions fell behind by as many as 8 eight points late in the third quarter as Montour extended their its pre-halftime run to 17-3. Mike Lamberti hit a huge trey for the Lions to close the gap to five entering the fourth quarter. The Lions got no closer until Lamberti hit a three to bring them within four at 34-30. However, four Montour free throws spiked the lead back to 38-30 with 1:15 to play. Lamberti hit another three, and then the Lions’ defense came up with a stop.

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However, they could not convert on the offensive end. Montour sealed the win with free throws. The Lions suffered only their second loss of the year, 45-34, and the Spartans won the day. The Lions still qualified for the PIAA Championships despite the loss. They handled General McLane, 51-39, and then blew past Johnstown by 20. A 67-59 victory over Eastern York in the quarterfinals set up a fourth meeting with Montour’s Spartans. The victor would earn a trip to Penn State for the PIAA title game. The game played out much like the WPIAL title game did, with South Fayette taking a 14-11 lead after one quarter. Montour rallied to take a 25-22 halftime lead and used a 15-2 run to extend the lead to 11 entering the fourth quarter. The Lions chipped away and trailed 49-44 with two minutes left. Montour would not allow them to get any closer and ended the Lions’ season, with a 57-44 win. Montour held Lamberti (17.9 PPG) scoreless and won the rebounding battle 38-30. Despite eventually being stopped by Sts. Neuman and Goretti with just three minutes left in the game, Montour’s Spartans proved this season that they never gave up on themselves and their quest for victory. Montour still walked away District 7 Champions.

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Montour

★

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Montour Montour||Summer Summer2011 2011||incommunitymagazines.com incommunitymagazines.com 11 11

The employees of Peoples Natural Gas – more than 650 strong – are bringing a new sense of energy to Western Pennsylvania. With Peoples now fully Pittsburgh based and run, decisions are being made locally -- with an eye to investing for the energy future of the region. We're making $100 million in infrastructure, service and technology upgrades to better serve our more than 360,000 customers. Customer service is becoming fully local, too... with a dedicated new service center staffed by experienced people who thoroughly know the region and its people. Our vision: to help Western Pennsylvania move forward by creating new jobs and serving our customers well. It's a commitment we're proud to make.

IN THE PHOTO

JIM MILLER / CUSTOMER SERVICEMAN

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Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

Montour Student Athletes Honored At the M.A.C. Athletic Conference Banquet held at the Holiday Inn in Beaver Falls Â on April 20th Montour had 3 seniors honored. Matt Penz won the John Challis Courage Award for his exemplary character, work ethic, and ability to overcome adversity. He is a 2 time PIHL All-Star goaltender for Montour. Marina Scarantino is an all- conference soccer goalie, point guard, and shortstop earning 12 letters at Montour. Austin Heter is an allstate tackle, all-conference basketball center, WPIAL finalist in the shot-put, javelin, and discus , and was also All-WPIAL in boys volleyball earning and earning 10 letters at Montour.

Pictured left-right: Matt Penz (Hockey), Mitch Galiyas (Athletic Director), Marina Scarantino (Soccer, Basketball, Softball,) Austin Heter (Football, Basketball, Track, Volleyball).

14 724.942.0940 to advertise

Montour

2011 Pennsbury Village Performing Arts Summer Concert Series Announced each year, pennsbury Village performing arts offers residents and neighbors the opportunity to enjoy music by the community pool. the concerts are free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. no glass at poolside. all beverages must be in non-breakable containers. Coolers are welcome. the tennis courts and sports court are closed during all concerts.

ConCerts start at 8 p.m. the gates open at 7 p.m. SCheduled for the 2011 SeaSon are: June 26:

Freedom Band Reggae and classic tracks

July 17:

The Igniters

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auguSt 21:

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Concerts may be rescheduled or cancelled because of inclement weather. Call 412.279.7876 for more information.

Student-Athlete Collegiate Scholarship Recognition Alena Esposito, a senior at Montour High School, will attend Robert Morris University in August 2011, where she will play Division 1 Volleyball for the Colonials and major in premed/pediatrics. Alena is actively involved in Montour as a member of the National Honor Society, GATE Program, President and founding member of the Montour Mile Leadership and a member of the MHS Cure Finders. Alena was captain of both the volleyball and basketball teams and she does the high jump for the track team. In April 2011, Alena was selected as one of the Senior Student Athletes to be on the Anthony W. Russo Wall of Fame. In December 2010, Alena was the recipient of the KDKA Extra Effort Award, sponsored by Allegheny General Hospital Sports Medicine. The award was Alena Esposito presented to her by Bob Pompeani, KDKA – TV sports anchor. In May 2007, Alena was recognized by the staff of the Montour School district and was chosen to be the recipient of the Ron Oliver Memorial Award. Her activities outside of school include being a member of the International Order of Rainbow Girls, a CIT for the Life Skills Academy Conference and her community service is focused on Special Olympics and Partners for Quality. Congratulations Alena and best wishes!

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

New Base Commander Committed to Country, Community and the Air Show Colonel Jeffrey Pennington hadn’t shoveled snow since 1983, but moving to Moon Township as PLAN ON GOING: the new Base Commander for the 911th Airlift Wing changed all that. As installation commander, he is the senior officer responsible for the wing organization, which includes authorized manning of 1,263 Air WHEN: Force Reserve members and September 10 and 11, 2011 approximately 320 civilian WHERE: employees including more than 911th Airlift Wing Base, 184 dual-status Air Reserve Moon Township Technicians. Reservists at the base www.wingsoverpittsburgh.com represent the entire tri-state area, and most of them live within an hour’s drive. It’s a responsibility that no one in his position would take lightly, and Pennington said that he is committed to his mission to the utmost. “We have many pilots here, and as the wing commander, I have a mission to organize training and equipment, taking our resources and making sure we’re ready for war-time testing,” Pennington said. “As equally important is taking care of the airmen, the people who are part of the air wing. There’s a Reserve triad, as it’s known, which is [composed of] family, civic relationships (which are the employers of the reservists or their commitment to their communities) and the reserves.” Pennington brings to the 911th a distinguished history of service. He completed undergraduate pilot training at Williams Air Force Base, Ariz., in 1989 and was initially assigned to the 344th Air Refueling Squadron at Seymour-Johnson AFB, N.C., flying the KC-10’s and T-38’s. While stationed there, he deployed supporting Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Proud Return, Provide Comfort, Restore Hope and Desert Strike. Pennington joined the Air Force Reserve in 1997 as an Air Reserve Technician initially serving in the 70th ARS, Travis AFB, Calif. In May 2001, he was selected as the director of operations for the 70th ARS. During his tenure, he coordinated, deployed and supported his unit’s participation in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In January 2007 Col. Pennington assumed command of the 452nd Operations Group located at March ARB, Calif., remaining there until October of 2010 when he assumed command of the 911th Airlift Wing. He has been awarded the National Defense Medal with Bronze Star Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal to name a few. While his service has been a priority, Pennington said family is his top priority. “I am extremely committed to my family – my wife and kids,” he said. “I

Wings Over Pittsburgh Air Show

Colonel Jeﬀrey Pennington

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Mark Mustio, Pennsylvania 44th District State Representative, Col. Jeff Pennington, Senator John Pippy

Mark Winklosky, Shawn M. Walleck, Pennington Allan Bross, George Dukovich

Gordon Elwell, Beth Maurer Lt. Paul Espy, Lt. Charlie Baker, Col. Bryan Bly

A RECEPTION WELCOMING COLONEL JEFFREY T. PENNINGTON A reception welcoming Col. Jeffrey T. Pennington, who became Commander Jackie Erickson, Walter Olshanski of the 911th Airlift Wing in October 2010, was celebrated at the Pittsburgh International Airport Reserve Station in Coraopolis, PA. Col. Pennington, formerly commanding the 452nd Operations Group, Jim Vitale, George Dukovich, located at March ARB, Terry Engel California, is now responsible for the wing organization which includes 1263 Air Force Reserve members and approximately 320 civilian employees. Besides the essential role of providing quality of life programs and services to deployed troops, the 911 Services Squadron also hosts the Wings Over Pittsburgh Air Show, which will celebrating its tenth year on September 11, 2011. Guests at the reception included former Commander of the 911th Airlift Wing, Col. Gordon Elwell, Pennsylvania Senator John Pippy, Pennsylvania State Representative Mark Mustio, Pittsburgh IAP Air Reserve Station Staff, local business leaders and friends.

am committed to my country through my service, and have a great passion for the team concept. Life’s a team sport and the team is everybody working together for the country.” Much of Pennington’s duties are military in nature – drills and exercises, training and preparation – but one aspect of the triad involves everyone who’s willing to come to the 911th for the Wings Over Pittsburgh Air Show. The air show gives the community the opportunity to see what goes on at the base, the men and women who train endlessly for the common good of the nation, and the equipment that can be called up at a moment’s notice in defense of the nation. “I firmly believe as an American citizen that we’re all on the same team. Community relationship-building is an important part of our job here,” Pennington said. “We want people to know who we are, what we do and the team role we play in Western Pennsylvania. We foster the service component of our mission, so the local community can see that.” Organizing the air show is an enormous endeavor, but one that has universal appeal to the general public. While naysayers might criticize the air show for too much taxpayer buck for too little bang in today’s economy, Pennington said it’s not all about proud displays. The majority of aircraft involved in the air show undergo rigorous drills and training before, during and after their public displays. “We weigh out what the investments are and prioritize the expenditures. Again, it’s all about fostering that civic relationship. Most aircraft do training on the way here and on the way back, and budgets are carefully considered. Budgets affect us all, and we respond to what our leaders give us as far as resources,” Pennington said. “The military aspect of the equipment also is affected by the military tempo. Scheduled displays may not materialize because they are called away for other missions. The military mission will always outweigh the training mission and that’s something we can’t control.” Aside from the “wow” factor for attendees, the air show does have a return to the base by way of recruitment. Pennington said the metrics for calculating recruitment aren’t precise enough to gauge direct effects from the show, but air show exposure is a “phenomenal recruiting tool.” Perhaps the biggest challenge to organizers comes from the popularity of the air show itself. “The numbers keep growing and the infrastructure isn’t designed to handle the volume of people,” Pennington said. “We’re sensitive to that and take steps to address the issues to mitigate those problems.” Lt. Col. Chuck Sargent, who has helped organize the air show for the past several years, said there will be much for people to enjoy this year. “We’re going to [have] the AV-8 Harrier demonstration back. This is a civilian-owned harrier and it’s a fantastic demonstration,” Sargent said. “The F-16 flies 200-500 mph. This goes 500 mph and goes backward 30 mph. It has a normal jet engine that goes through a ducting system, so the pilot can rotate it so the harrier can hover as well as provide backward thrust.” Sargent said the Heavy Metal Jet Team also is booked and will be performing in their first-ever season. The team flies four L-39s and one T-33 painted in arctic camouflage. “Dale Snodgrass, who’s part of the team, has the most time in the F-14 of anyone on the planet,” Sargent said. “He’ll retain that record for eternity because the F-14 has since been retired.” For a full listing of performers, as well as the most current information on the air show, go to: www.wingsoverpittsburgh.com. From there, you can also follow the air show on Facebook. Admission and parking for the event are free.

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

very day so many of us face the embarrassment of damaged, missing, or crooked teeth. At Ingram Family Dentistry we see patients day in and day out with these types of problems. As time passes many patients ask themselves, “Why didn’t I do more for my smile?” Now with the advances in dentistry it is possible to have the smile you always dreamed of, functionally and aesthetically. All dental problems have a variety of dental solutions. In today’s busy dental practice it is common for the dentist to have inadequate diagnosing and treatment planning time. This can result in treatment that is less than ideal and often insuﬃcient. When a person visits a dental oﬃce most of the time the dentist will evaluate and treatment plan their options without getting

restoration within our practice we see a much better result pertaining to the fit and function of the patients new tooth restoration. Also, by allowing our patients to have the procedure done in one day we can limit the number of visits needed to set aside for the dentist. We can all agree that the extraction of a tooth can be a diﬃcult experience. Not only due to the procedure itself, but also due to the removal of a tooth that previously had an important role in function and appearance. In addition to decreased function and appearance, what most people don’t know is that a missing tooth will also lead to bone loss in the extraction site as well as the

Do more for your smile now! all the vital information. With each of our patients we take the time to gather this information as it is pertinent to providing our patients with various comprehensive dental options. By providing our patients with a customized layout of their treatment plan they are able to meet their long term goals for their teeth and achieve dental success. This also allows our patients to be educated as to what their dental needs actually are. Now they have the option to implement their customized treatment plan at a pace that works best for them. Ingram Family Dentistry is located in the Ingram-Crafton area of Pittsburgh. With the addition of Dr. Wang in October of 2010 came the introduction of many new dental procedures at Ingram Family Dentistry. We are now able to oﬀer more cosmetic and restorative procedures, one-day CEREC crowns, root canal treatments, extractions, bone grafting, implants, snap-in implant supported dentures, conventional partial and full dentures, and in-oﬃce whitening. CEREC crowns utilize the latest technology in dentistry. CEREC, the acronym meaning Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics, or CEramic REConstruction, operates via 3D imaging and CAD/CAM technologies. CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) allows us to use design, analyze, and manufacture veneers, ¾ crowns and traditional full crown restorations. By being able to prepare a tooth and make the 18 724.942.0940 to advertise

Montour

movement of adjacent teeth. This often The staﬀ at Ingram Family Dentistry is results in the teeth shifting creating spaces dedicated to serving the Pittsburgh area and were there previously were not and the super doing everything they can to see Pittsburgh eruption of opposing teeth. By having an smile for years to come! implant placed in an extraction area bone can be preserved, it will prohibit teeth from moving, and will stop others from super erupting. Let us give you a With the option of smile that will last dental implants our a lifetime. Our dentists patients are able to are caring doctors that restore the smile of have your best their youth allowing interests at heart. them to take a big We can assist you, step towards a comfortably, to healthier happier achieve your greatest smile. dental desires. It’s agreed by all Now, relax dentists that the and smile. number one step to oral health success is MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED the maintenance • Dentures • Cosmetic & Restorative • Root Canals and prevention of • In-office Whitening Procedures • Bone Grafting our oral cavity. By • Snap-In Dentures • One Day Cerec Crowns • Implants making sure you attend your periodic maintenance E.J. HESTER, DMD appointment with a 2725 Center Street hygienist most Pittsburgh, PA 15205 patients are able 412.922.9292 www.IngramSmiles.com avoid costly dental procedures that occur from neglect.

Need a reason to smile?

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

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Health and Wellness News You Can Use

What’s Inside page 2

A Woman’s Heart Is Special

page 3

The Good News About Heart Disease Six Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure

page 4

Young Athletes and Sudden Cardiac Death What Parents Need to Know Exercise: Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Harmful

page 5

The Downside of Falls

page 6

Choosing the Right Doctor for You

page 7

Welcoming New Physicians

A Woman’s Heart Is Special It’s important to recognize you’re not immune to the dangers of heart disease Have you ever heard the adage, “Know your enemy?” Heart disease is pandemic in the United States — but many women remain unaware that it’s an “equal opportunity” disease. The symptoms of heart disease can differ between men and women, but if you have a heart, you can get heart disease. “Every woman, regardless of age, should know her risk factors and work with her doctor to develop a plan for good heart health,” says John R. Ward, MD, a cardiologist and specialist in women’s heart issues at UPMC Mercy, which is part of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. “Taking action could save your life or the life of someone you love.” Know your risks An astonishing 80 percent of women between the ages of 40 and 60 have one or more risk factors for heart disease. “Having just one risk factor doubles your chance for heart disease,” adds Dr. Ward. Having multiple risk factors significantly increases your potential for heart problems. Smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and family history are risk factors that men and women share. Additional risk factors specific to women’s heart health include: • Metabolic syndrome, a combination of excessive fat around the abdomen, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high triglycerides that increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. • Mental stress and depression, both of which make it difficult to follow a healthy lifestyle. • Low levels of estrogen after menopause, which pose serious risks of heart disease developing in a woman’s smaller blood vessels. “You can’t do anything about your genes and family history, but lifestyle changes can certainly help reduce your risk of heart disease,” says Dr. Ward.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Take action for your heart health Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women over the age of 65. And over the last 20 years, the rate of heart attacks in women between the ages of 35 and 54 has been on the rise. Given these statistics, every woman should pay close attention to her heart health. The first step in becoming “heart smart” is to meet with your doctor or primary care physician. An honest conversation with your doctor will help ensure that you get the best possible care. Here are a few questions to ask: • What are my risk factors for heart disease? • What should I know about the effects of menopause on my heart health? • What is my blood pressure? Is that healthy for my age? • What is my cholesterol and how could it affect my health? • Based on my history and risk factors, what can I do to lower my risk? Take action for your family, too The staggering increase in obesity and diabetes in children in the United States puts them at significant risk of heart disease. “We’ve learned that plaque can begin to build up in arteries in children as young as two years old,” says Dr. Ward. “Moms are role models for their children. By making healthy changes for yourself, you can help improve the heart health of the entire family.” To learn more about cardiac services at UPMC Mercy, visit www.UPMCMercy.com and click on Our Services. To schedule an appointment with a UPMC-affiliated physician, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

The Good News About Heart Disease Take charge of your heart through health screenings and heart-healthy lifestyle changes Heart disease is the nation’s leading cause of death for both men and women. Every 25 seconds, someone experiences a coronary event; every minute, heart disease claims a life. The good news? You can take steps to reduce your risk of heart disease through routine screenings and lifestyle changes — even if you’ve already had a heart attack or stroke.

If needed, you also can take advantage of the region’s only low radiation electron beam CT scan at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. It looks specifically for calcium in the coronary arteries as a marker of the cholesterol accumulation that can cause sudden heart attacks. Dr. Fallert recommends regular health screenings that tell you your numbers and whether you need to take action. For example, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels, but you wouldn’t know you have these conditions without testing for them.

“Heart disease is a disease we can do something about. In most instances, it is preventable,” says Daniel Edmundowicz, MD, associate professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, and director The more risk factors you have, the greater of preventive cardiology at the UPMC your chance of developing heart disease, Heart and Vascular Institute. says Dr. Fallert. While you can’t control “Screening absolutely saves lives. We genetics, you can take steps to control can help people change the outcome many other risk factors by eating a once we know the risk-factor levels,” healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, Dr. Edmundowicz says. and maintaining a healthy body weight. Some changes — like quitting smoking — Heart-Healthy Resources at can have an immediate impact. UPMC Mercy

Six Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke, and other serious diseases. Follow these recommendations from Dr. Fallert to take charge of this “silent killer”: • Increase physical activity. Aim for at least 30 minutes each day (most days) of brisk walking, bike riding, or other aerobic activity. • Monitor your sodium. Limit your sodium intake to less than two grams (2,000 mg) a day. Beware of “hidden” sodium in processed foods, including canned soup, lunch meats, frozen dinners, and crackers. • Eat healthy. Follow a lower-fat diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods. • Control your stress. Take 15 minutes each day to decompress and focus on yourself. Listen to music, read, pray, or meditate. • Don’t smoke! Nicotine causes your blood vessels to constrict and your heart to beat faster, which raises your blood pressure.

Michael A. Fallert, MD, chief of cardiology at UPMC Mercy, says doctors use tools such as EKGs, stress testing, ultrasound, and CT scans to look for signs of atherosclerosis in the heart, neck, legs, and arms — especially if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease.

“The bottom line is: If you know your numbers and know your risk, you can do something about it,” Dr. Fallert says.

Risk factors that can’t be chaged

Know your numbers

Become heart smart

Aim for these vital numbers to keep your ticker in good working condition:

Take time to educate yourself about heart disease and the treatments available. The UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute website is a one-stop source of information about cardiac conditions, as well as UPMC’s full spectrum of cardiovascular services from routine screenings to advanced cardiac care.

• Family history of heart disease, carotid artery disease, or peripheral artery disease • Age (65 and older) • Gender (men have a greater risk of heart attack)

Risk factors that can be changed • • • • •

Smoking High blood pressure High cholesterol levels Obesity Physical inactivity

Monitor

Target Levels

Cholesterol

less than 200 mg/dL

Blood Pressure

below 120/80

BMI (body mass index) 18.5–24.9

Ask your doctor

• Take your medicine. If medicine is needed to control your blood pressure, make sure you take it as prescribed by your doctor.

Be sure to check it out at www.UPMC.com/HeartandVascular.

If you have questions or concerns about your heart health, call your physician to schedule an appointment.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Young Athletes and Sudden Cardiac Death

What Parents Need to Know Is your child among the three to five million young people in the United States who play organized sports each year? If so, you know that a pre-participation physical examination can help identify young athletes who may be at risk for an injury or illness that could require additional medical evaluation. Recently, identifying young athletes who may be at risk of sudden cardiac death has become a hot topic among sports medicine professionals, focusing the attention of parents on the need for better cardiovascular screening of young athletes. “Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young athletes is extremely rare,” says Vivekanand Allada, MD, clinical director of pediatric cardiology at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and professor of pediatrics. “In fact, it’s a one in a million risk.” According to Dr. Allada, sudden death in young athletes is most often due to heart problems, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (an abnormal thickening of the heart). Other causes include congenital coronary anomalies, arrhythmia (which can be caused by a blow to the chest), and Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that can weaken the aorta and lead to a tear or rupture. “Unfortunately, there’s no perfect test to find a needle in a haystack,” says Dr. Allada. However, parents can take steps to uncover risk factors that may require more testing or a consultation with a pediatric cardiologist. The American Heart Association recommends that young athletes undergo a screening medical history to check specifically for: • Chest pain, palpitations, or fainting during exercise (red flags that require immediate attention) • A history of a heart murmur or hypertension • Family history of coronary disease, sudden death, or Marfan syndrome Children with any of these risk factors or an abnormal physical exam should see a pediatric cardiologist, who is specially trained to look for cardiac problems in children and teens, Dr. Allada says. Further testing might include an EKG, echocardiogram, and stress test. He offers these tips to parents: • Don’t let your child play through chest pain. Pain can be a warning sign. • Teach your child to avoid energy drinks that have high levels of caffeine. Such drinks can make the heart race and cause cardiac arrhythmias. They are particularly dangerous for athletes with undiagnosed cardiac problems. To learn more about caring for your child’s heart, visit www.chp.edu, then click on Child Health A-Z. To schedule an appointment with a Children’s-affiliated physician, call 412-692-PEDS (7337).

www.UPMC.com/Today

Exercise:

Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Harmful Regular exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy life. Many of us, however, still struggle to fit even a moderate amount of exercise into our schedules. But there are plenty of people who are getting too much exercise. If some exercise is good, they think more will be better. Not true. In fact, excessive exercise can lead to a host of physical issues, including injuries, the loss of lean muscle mass, a weakened immune system, sleep problems, irritability, and depression. A study in the American Journal of Cardiology suggests that too much vigorous exercise also can increase the risk of heart problems.

Are you exercising too much? Experts say that if your workouts suddenly seem more difficult than usual and you aren’t making progress, you may be overexercising. Other trouble signs include: • Insomnia • Aches or pain in muscles and/or joints • Fatigue • Feeling unmotivated and lacking energy • Increased susceptibility to colds, sore throats, and other illnesses If you’re experiencing any of these signs, see your doctor to find out if something else is causing the problem.

Just starting an exercise program? Congratulations on taking an important step to improve your health. Here are a few tips to help your body adjust to a new routine: • Create a reasonable exercise program based on attainable goals. • Exercise in moderation. • Begin slowly and build up gradually to avoid injuries. • Cut back the volume and intensity of your workouts at the first sign of injury. • Listen to your body. When it needs a rest, give it a rest. Sources: American College of Sports Medicine, American Heart Association

UPMC Spotlight

The Downside of Falls Preventing tripping, falling can be key to maintaining independence Falls may be funny on comedy shows, but they can be traumatic for older adults. Simply tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet floor can change an older person’s life in an instant — posing serious threats to his or her health and independence. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in three people over 65 experience at least one fall each year, and more than two-thirds of them are likely to fall again within six months. Falls also are the leading cause of accidental death in seniors. And, as many as 30 percent of those who fall end up with debilitating hip, pelvic, or spine fractures that make it harder to get around and adversely affect self-confidence. Even those who don’t suffer serious injury can become fearful. “The most obvious concern when an older adult falls or trips is injury,” says Stephanie Studenski, MD, MPH, director of the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center at the University of Pittsburgh and associate director of research at the Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh. “But the fear of falling can cause people to restrict their activity and sacrifice their independence. In some cases, it can lead to social isolation,” she says. Everyone is at risk for falls, but that risk increases with the changes that come with aging, plus other medical conditions such as arthritis, cataracts and glaucoma, and balance problems. “Fortunately, there’s a lot people can do to prevent most risk factors,” says Dr. Studenski. “Taking care of your overall health, staying active, socializing with friends, and taking a few common-sense precautions can help you avoid falls and broken bones.” To learn more about the Falls Clinic, located at UPMC Senior Care-Benedum Geriatric Center in Oakland, call 412-692-4200.

Three things you can do to prevent falls Exercise! Exercises such as tai chi or other relaxation exercises that improve balance and coordination can help lower your chances of falling and make you feel stronger. See your doctor regularly. Annual physical and eye examinations can uncover underlying medical problems that can lead to falls. See your doctor if you feel unstable or dizzy, possibly due to medications. Tell your doctor if you fall; a medical evaluation can help. Make your home safer. Seventy-five percent of all falls occur at home. To help make your home fall-proof: • Improve lighting. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Use night lights in your bedroom, hall, and bathroom. • Remove small throw rugs. Tack down all carpets and area rugs so they are firmly fastened to the floor. • Remove things you can trip over. Clear books, clothes, and shoes from stairs and places you walk. Keep cords and wires near walls. • Use handrails. Install grab bars near toilets, and both inside and outside your tub and shower. Always use the handrail when using the stairs. • Store items within easy reach. Don’t store things too high or too low. Avoid using stepladders or step stools. Most of all, think before you reach. • Wear shoes with non-skid, non-friction soles. Avoid going barefoot or wearing only socks or loose-fitting slippers.

Leading the Work in Falls Prevention Dr. Stephanie Studenski received the 2010 National Award for Falls Prevention Research and will be honored as the grand champion at the third annual Celebrating Senior Champions benefit dinner and auction Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011. For more information about the event, sponsored by UPMC Senior Services, the Aging Institute, and the Division of Geriatric Medicine of the University of Pittsburgh, call Peggy VanHorn, benevolent care advocate, at 412-622-9239.

1-800-533-UPMC

Choosing the Right Doctor for You Taking the time to find “Dr. Right” is one of the most important investments you can make. We’ve all heard about the importance of the doctor/patient relationship, often described as the cornerstone of quality medical care. “In fact, the stronger that relationship, the better your chances of receiving the right care at the right time in the right way,” says Tami Minnier, vice president of UPMC’s Donald J. Wolff, Jr. Center for Quality Improvement and Innovation. “At UPMC, our goal is to help you develop a long-term partnership in which your doctor is your number one health care champion.” According to a 2010 survey by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, most of us are very satisfied with our physicians. It usually takes something major — like moving to a new area, changing medical insurance, or being diagnosed with a serious condition — to prompt us to look for a new doctor. “If you’re in the process of changing doctors, there are some exciting new options to consider,” says Ms. Minnier. “For example, UPMC’s Health Plan is working with a growing number of primary care physicians to implement patient-centered medical homes in their practices.” In this medical model, your family doctor becomes the hub for all your care by linking you to a collaborative team of medical professionals — from physician assistants to specialists. Medical homes are designed to ensure that you receive appropriate and comprehensive care over your entire lifetime, including preventive health care, treatment for acute or chronic illness, and assistance with end-of-life care. Studies show that medical homes are resulting in improved care, access, and communication between patients and their “medical team” — as well as improved quality, safety, and cost of care.

www.UPMC.com/Today

When searching for “Dr. Right,” here are five helpful tips to locate the best match:

Determine what’s important to you “Finding the ‘right’ doctor often involves personal preferences apart from a physician’s skills or qualifications,” says Ms. Minnier. “For example, are you more comfortable with a doctor of your gender? Is a primary care physician right for you, or do you have a medical condition that requires treatment by a specialist? And if easy access is a concern, do you need a doctor located close to your home or workplace?”

Get the opinion of people you trust “Begin your search by asking your circle of family, friends, and co-workers about the positive experiences they’ve had,” she advises. “If you’re moving, or seeking a specialist, your current doctor also can be an excellent referral source.”

Do some homework “There are a number of credible online resources, including UPMC’s Find a Doctor (www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor), with information on more than 5,000 physicians, that allow you to confirm a physician’s medical credentials, board certifications, and specialties,” says Ms. Minnier. You also can check with the state medical board at docboard.org. In general, avoid “doctor ranking” sites, which are unregulated and difficult to verify for accuracy.

At UPMC, a variety of tools are used to assess physician quality, including patient satisfaction surveys. “We literally review thousands of surveys monthly, which provide us with invaluable insights and feedback,” says Ms. Minnier.

Verify your doctor’s insurance plans and hospital affiliations “Most practices accept a variety of insurance plans, but be sure yours is among them,” advises Ms. Minnier. “And should you ever require hospitalization or special tests, it’s important that your doctor be affiliated with a hospital you know and trust.”

Call for an appointment “Bring a written set of questions covering your concerns and expectations. When your visit is over, evaluate the experience,” suggests Ms. Minnier. “Was it easy to get an appointment? Were you treated with respect by both the doctor and the staff? If your answers are positive, you’re on the right path to a doctor/patient relationship characterized by quality care, compassion, and open communication.” For more information, or to schedule an appointment with a UPMC-affiliated physician, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

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

Head & Neck Surgery

Nephrology

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Albert J. Carvelli, MD

Grant Shale Gillman, MD

Khaled Abdel-Kader, MD

Shailen F. Greene, MD

Steffanie J. Labate, MD

Andrea F. Lewis, MD

Jose F. Bernardo, MD

Margaret E. Reidy, MD

Joel M. Pomerantz, MD

Andrew A. McCall, MD

Patricia Khalil, MD

Maria F. Twichell, MD

David M. Ruttum, MD

Ryan Jeremy Soose, MD

Kelly V. Liang MD

Joseph F. Talarico, DO

Andrew Burchess Tassler, MD

Preethi V. Murty, MD

Psychiatry

Manisha Loomba Trivedi, MD

Kristin Woodbury, DO

Christopher J. Passero, MD

Saghir Ahmad, MD Anna M. Boettcher, MD

Cardiology

Infectious Diseases

Neuroradiology

Kristina M. Curci, MD

George S. Mendenhall, MD

Bernard J. C. Macatangay, MD

Vera Rachel Spelling, MD

Antoine B. Douaihy, MD

Kathleen Rebecca Sheridan, MD

Hoang Minh Trang, DO

Julie A. Kmiec, MD

Amesh A. Adalja, MD

Internal Medicine

Neurosurgery

Radiation Oncology

Lakshmipathi P. Chelluri, MD

Maliha Ahmad Kamal, MD

Robert M. Friedlander, MD

Ryan Patrick Smith, MD

Lillian L. Emlet, MD

Oksana Karpov, DO

Brian T. Jankowitz, MD

Kevin Ho, MD

Abdul Q. Khan, MD

Critical Care Medicine

Diagnostic Radiology

Ashish Sharma, MD

Neal J. Klitsch, MD

Adam Edmund Sohnen, MD

Michael F. Lupinetti, MD

Marios D. Papachristou, MD

Stephanie L. Nicholas, MD

Jamie L. Parent, MD

Sara A. Majewski, MD Iclal Ocak, MD Daria Elizabeth Setlik, MD

Radiology Obstetrics & Gynecology

Laboratory Medicine Thomas S. Talamo, MD

Amy Vogia, DO Ophthalmology Tineke L. Chan, MD

Urology

Emergency Medicine

Maternal Fetal Medicine

Vasiliki A. Christopoulos, MD

Ronald M. Benoit, MD

Michael C. Campbell, MD

David Collier Streitman, MD

Paul William Conrad, MD

Jodi K. Maranchie, MD

Kimberly V. Miller, MD

Ankur Ashok Doshi, MD Robert J. Hyde, MD

Neonatology

John M. Murray, MD

Charles V. Bender, MD

Troy Christian Sims, MD

Beverly S. Brozanski, MD

Orthopaedic Surgery

Barbara A. Clouser, MD

Lisa Blackrick, MD

Avni Patel Vyas, MD

Timothy Wu, MD

Endocrinology

Barbara Ann Cohlan, MD

Jennifer Pennock Holst, MD

Kara L. Gardner, MD

Orthopaedic Surgery/Podiatry

Jennifer L. Kloesz, MD

Nicholas J. Lowery, DPM

Family Medicine

Burhanuddin Mahmood, MD

Brent E. Clark, MD

William J. McCarran, MD

Pain Management

Richard Rocco Telesco, MD

Karsten Bartels, MD

Gastroenterology

Amy M. Urban, DO

Shahid Masood Malik, MD

Kalyani Rai Vats, MD

Pediatrics/General

Jon F. Watchko, MD

Rita Kaul, MD

Geriatric Medicine

Vascular Surgery

Toby Debra Yanowitz, MD

George H. Gleeson, MD James Richard Sahovey, MD

1-800-533-UPMC

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.

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Sewickley Cemetery

The Cremation Garden

“Where a family’s needs and wishes come first.” Before deciding, drive through, see for yourself and compare. Visit our web site sewickleycemetery.com 412.741.4409

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Pittsburgh

Botanic Garden

soon to be blooming near Settler’s Cabin

itty Vagley started work on January 3 and already is deep in the development of one of the largest undertakings in western Pennsylvania—converting the brownfield just south of Settler’s Cabin Park into a botanical garden unlike anything seen before in the region.

The mission of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is to plan, build and operate the region’s first comprehensive outdoor botanic garden—a public institution with vast scientific and cultural value and beauty. Vagley, director of development, said that by the end of this year, the transformation on the 452-acre site will be dramatic.

“We are moving forward on the 452 acres that we have, which is in North Fayette and Collier townships,” Vagley said. “We’re doing reclamation work, getting rid of the coal, and minimizing the acid mine drainage, and we are just now working with the county to take over the historic cabin for which the adjacent park is named. It hasn’t happened yet. It will probably happen later this

Swamp Milkweed Elderberry

Fern 30 724.942.0940 to advertise

Montour

year. When it does, we can start work on the area around the cabin next year.” Named for the 18thcentury log cabin, Settler’s Cabin Park is owned by Allegheny County. A 99-year lease is in place, charging the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden $1/year for the property to the south of the park. By year’s end, Vagley said she anticipates that the maintenance barn, the old farmhouse and the cabin in the park will be leased to the Garden. Vagley said the barn is envisioned to become the welcome center, with a classroom, and a meeting-and-event rental space. A wedding garden will be nearby. The farmhouse will be used for administrative offices, and the cabin will be an educational program site surrounded by period gardens. North Fayette and Collier townships have been helpful and quite supportive to the project. About 90 percent of the park is in North Fayette, and 10 percent in Collier. Because of coal, oil and gas mining, the park was designated a brownfield by the state, which made the site eligible for special funding for remediation. That funding is keeping the botanical garden project moving forward. “We did receive some state funding,” Vagley said. “We got a PennVest grant, and Mashuda is onsite now doing a stellar job. The DEP is looking to make them a model as far as mining practices.” Mashuda Corporation was contracted in 2008 to reclaim 72 acres of abandoned mines

{} “We’re doing reclamation work, getting rid of the coal, and minimizing the acid mine drainage...” Kitty Vagley,

Director of Development

over a three-year period. Those mines polluted the main water source for the site with acid mine drainage. The remediation of the site will benefit Robinson Run, Chartiers Creek and the Ohio River. “It’s just a fascinating and marvelous project,” Vagley said. ”I’m thrilled to be involved. We did do some history on the site, and there was a farming family there for three or four generations. They would drive to get clean water because the water on the site was undrinkable for humans and farm animals. We are cleaning that whole area up, which will greatly help the Chartiers Creek Watershed.” The reclaimed area is part of Phase One of the project, which also

includes completion of the Woodland Gardens of the World and an ADA accessible trail throughout that area, which touches on a meadow area, a tree nursery, the Fred Rogers’ Garden of Make Believe and the visitors center. All of that work, slated to be complete by 2015, has a price tag of $12 million, which includes $5 million already granted by the Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program and the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development. All in all, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden will have an estimated price tag of $75 million and take about 30 years to reach its full-grown capacity. The rewards to western Pennsylvania will be immeasurable. The nearest similar gardens to Pittsburgh are in Ohio to the west and Philadelphia to the east. “We’ll be proceeding with a woodland gardens and tree nursery this year,” Vagley said. “And, when we get the buildings from the county, we’ll be cleaning them up and opening them up for programming.”

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

R E A L E STAT E

MONTOUR

AN ENJOYABLE LIVING SPACE

IS AS CLOSE AS YOUR

by Pamela Palongue If you’re looking for ways to increase your property value, attract buyers or just improve your way of life, you may find the answer is in your yard. Figures in the last two years suggest that the landscaping of your home is worth somewhere between 5% and 15% of the total home value. We’re all familiar with the term “curb appeal,” which basically means that buyers must be attracted to the outside of the house before they will ever see the inside. If your yard is unappealing, it may kill the sale of your home in the first few seconds. And the new outdoor room is increasingly appearing on the list of “must-have” features for new homebuyers. Today, landscaping is more than just plants and bushes. Some of the features you may want to consider in making your space more attractive are lighting, color, foliage, fencing and water features. Lighting goes a long way in defining an outdoor space for nighttime enjoyment, but it’s also a wise investment for security. Motion detector lights can illuminate pathways and deter crime. They are inexpensive, and solar-powered models are available that are wireless. For more subtle lighting, wall sconces can create ambience in heavily-used areas. For dining spaces, outdoor chandeliers come in a variety of styles from old world to contemporary. Next, try adding some color. Pick a shade that will coordinate with the color and hue of your home, but add some contrast. The color theme can be achieved through the use of chair cushions, throw pillows, table umbrellas, canopies and flowering plants. Keep in mind that wooden patio furniture can also be painted to further carry out the theme. Trees, bushes, plants and flowers can breathe new life into a barren space. Trees increase in value over time as they grow. Bushes and hedges can be used to add beauty and also to add security. Thorny rosebushes or holly bushes with their pointy leaves can be strategically planted in front of ground floor windows to discourage would-be intruders. Lavender bushes generally grow fairly quickly and will add a wonderful scent to your outdoor area. They are also a good deterrent for spiders since they avoid the lavender scent.

32 724.942.0940 to advertise

Montour

When choosing plants and flowers, keep in mind that most people prefer low maintenance if you are planning on selling your home. Some good low-maintenance flowers for our area, Zone 6, are Shasta daisies, irises, coneflowers and peonies. These perennials come in a variety of colors to highlight your yard and your color scheme. Don’t forget the lawn. It’s the foundation for your landscape. Be sure to replace all the “bald” spots with new sod to cover these worn areas. Consider using paving stones for heavy traffic areas. If your grass is brown in spots and you are having a party or open-house showing, consider using a green lawn spray that is specially made to dye your lawn, giving it a lush, verdant look. The dye is permanent and will last until you mow the lawn. Although fencing may be one of the more expensive improvements to your landscaping project, it is also one of the most attractive and efficient. A fence defines property lines, and adds privacy and security. A lattice fence is a less-expensive option and lends a cottage flair to most yards. It may be purchased in sections for fairly quick installation. Chain link fencing is a sturdier but more expensive option. Fencing is generally available in brown, green or black to blend in more easily with natural surroundings. Split rail fencing adds a rustic feeling and may be lined with chicken wire to keep small pets secure. Water features are extremely popular and offer the greatest opportunity for creative expression in your landscape design. They can be as complex as a custom-designed waterfall and as simple as a birdbath. Keep in mind that still water breeds mosquitoes. If your water feature is not going to be aerated with a circulation pump, it will need to be flushed out and cleaned weekly or you can add fish which will eat the mosquito larvae. Many solar-powered pumps are available for use with water fountains which eliminate the need for electricity or cords. Most come with a backup battery for cloudy days and nighttime use. An outdoor space is a great place for the entire family to spend time and enjoy nature while adding to the value to your property.

recent article in Fortune Magazine not only predicted a housing comeback during 2011, but it actually projected that a housing shortage may be in our near future. After four years of downward pricing trends and constant headlines about doom and gloom in the real estate market, it is encouraging to hear that downward pressures will soon be easing. Shawn Tully, author of ‘Real Estate: It’s Time to Buy Again’, along with Fortune Magazine, was one of the first to predict the housing bubble burst back in 2004. By analyzing supply, credit standards, and the cost of renting vs. owning, Tully stated that the price appreciation at that time far exceeded the normal zone and that the housing market was in for a rude awakening. Today, new home inventory is at a record low. In fact, the 78,000 homes available nationwide are less than a quarter of what was available four years ago and well below the inventory available a decade ago. Yes, credit has tightened, but standards for obtaining a loan are no different than they were 10 years ago. That encourages healthy home buying and discourages speculative purchases that fueled the bubble in the first place. Placing an even greater emphasis on In many of the country’s rebounding real estate markets, the cost of renting now significantly exceeds owning. That combined with the lowest prices in years, means more and more renters will continue to jump into the housing market. Trends are also leaning towards better built, higher efficiency homes, like the S&A EHome. Homes designed to save you post construction by lowering energy bills through design efficiency. Innovations that, over the ownership of your home, will help contribute to a lower cost of living. Of course, this rebound hinges on continued job growth, but for those of us in the Northeast, this truly may be the best time to buy. If you are thinking of taking advantage of great prices for a quality new home, go to: www.sahomebuilder.com today!

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Local Thornburg Home a Study in Charm and History

WHEN YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT HISTORIC HOMES, THORNBURG HAS ONE THAT NOT ONLY CAN BE DESCRIBED AS HISTORIC, BUT GORGEOUS AS WELL. Known locally as “Little Tara,” the 102-year-old house belonging to Tucker and Katie Gordon is a scaled-down copy of the Palladian style Morris-Jumel Mansion in New York’s Washington Heights. The Morris-Jumel Mansion, while much larger in grandeur, is known for being the headquarters for George Washington and his troops during the American Revolution of 1776. It was valued for its hilltop location overlooking all of

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New York City. A two-story, column-supported portico graces the front of the Morris-Jumel Mansion, and is reflected at Little Tara. For the Gordons – who married 30 years ago, a widow and a widower with 10 children between them – Little Tara was a home that could accommodate their larger family. “The difference between Little Tara and the Morris-Jumel Mansion is when you walk through the front door of our

house, you can continue straight through to the back of the house and into the backyard. In the Morris-Jumel Mansion, you walk in the front door and then into a grand ballroom,” Katie Gordon said. “Little Tara was built in “It was in need of 1909, and is really just a redoing when we bought wonderful house. It had it just because of its age, few owners prior to us, and was well taken care but we took it really of by all of them.” slowly because it was Gordon said that easy to live with.It was while she and her like a museum,really…” family have made changes to the interior to reflect their own — Katie Gordon,owner style and taste, they have always tried to keep the house as historic as possible. “It was in need of redoing when we bought it just because of its age, but we took it really slowly because it was easy to live with. It was like a museum, really,” she said. “We did things that we really liked. My husband has collected paintings and antique oriental rugs and we’ve decorated around that, but we’ve tried to keep it as much as how it was when we got it. We have the old chandelier in the dining room, and the cherry wood doors and large windows in the house are unchanged.” When the Gordons first moved in, nearly every light in the house was on every night because of the size of the family. At the time, eight of the 10 children were living there, doing homework and studying into the evening. Gordon said neighbors loved seeing the house all lit up from the outside, because it afforded them a view of old-time colonial beauty fit for a postcard. Now they only do that on holidays for guests, but the appeal is still palpable. What’s more, holidays offer the Gordons something special at Little Tara. “I said to my husband 30 years ago that if you buy that house, we’ll have to have an Easter egg hunt every year,” Katie Gordon said. “The yard is just spectacular for having egg hunts.”

Gordon said that while she and her family have made changes to the interior to reflect their own style and taste,they have always tried to keep the house as historic as possible.

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

R E A L E STAT E

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by Pamela Palongue Once upon a time, they may Increase in Average Square Feet young people bought a upgrade to an house and lived there even larger, more happily ever after. End of luxurious home if story. Now an individual income allows. or couple may buy four or There are a 2000 2,200 sq. ft. five different houses in a few key lifetime and even more if considerations to 1970 1,500 sq. ft. they are working in an look at when industry where transfers buying a home 1950 happen frequently. In and upgrading it 1,000 sq. ft. today’s real estate as an investment. market, is it smart to buy Most importantly, and sell so many times? when selecting a Or is it safer to buy a neighborhood in dream home and remain there for life? which to live, take special notice of the school According to Sandy Goldstein a Pittsburgh district. Because parents want their children to be Real Estate Agent, it all depends upon the able to attend the very best schools, the school individual and the situation. Decades ago, people district is key to the area retaining its value over stayed in the same job for their entire lives. Now the long haul. Choosing an area that is safe, lowpeople may switch companies or relocate across crime and likely to the country for job opportunities. Corporate remain that way is executives may be transferred within their also important. company 10 or more times in a 25-year period. People tend to People are also basing their housing choices on gravitate their immediate needs, rather than longtoward areas term requirements. “Since 2009, I with shopping have noticed that there are fewer malls, groceries move up buyers. Most buyers and entertainment that are move up buyers are nearby as well. These ones that have out grown a elements will help small home or have ensure that your included a family member in home retains its the home,” says Goldstein. value when you are People begin their ready to sell it in a home-buying adventure in a few years. Another starter home, which may important have only two bedrooms and one bath. Then when they start a family and consideration is are more stable in their careers, they will advance to a mid-range home to accommodate the growing number of children. Eventually

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to make sure that you are not over-improving for your particular neighborhood if you hope to get a good return on your investment. Check comparable home prices in your area before making remodeling choices Goldstein has also pointed out that that Pittsburgh’s growing elderly population has created a need for housing that is sensitive to the mobility problems of this age group. Many older parents are moving in with children making inlaw suites more desirable. Retirees- mostly as empty-nesters don’t need as much space as a growing family. They also don’t need stairs. A type of dwelling called a “flat” has become popular. A typical flat has no basement, and the kitchen, bathroom and master bedroom are all located on the ground floor. The upstairs may include one or two bedrooms and a bath for their adult children when they are visiting or residing in the home while taking care of their aging parents. Most older Pittsburgh homes do not fit this description. There were new flats being built in recent years, until 2008 when the economic recession halted new construction. In the future, with the greater numbers of elderly, this type of housing could be in short supply. Goldstein is optimistic about the current state of Pittsburgh real estate and says, “If you have a home to sell, now is the time. Inventory of homes is extremely low. The market has appreciated nicely and if the home is priced correctly, it will sell easily.”

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

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WALKER-EWING LOG HOUSE—

More Than

200 Years of History

in Our Own Backyard Ed Snarey has a particular interest in the Walker-Ewing Log House in Settler’s Cabin Park, mainly because he can trace his lineage back to the Ewing family. He’s not alone. Members of the Pioneers West Historical Society either have a similar bond, or a love of preserving the house in general. “The initial building was started by the two Walker boys in 1762,” Snarey said. “It

“ I’m 85 years old, but I appreciate the fact that my ancestors came over here in the 1600s and 1700s.” was in the time of the French and Indian War, and from what we understand, the Walkers were chased oﬀ the property by Indians. Upstairs, there is 1762 carved into the stone. We surmise that was when it was started. We think it was finished in 1792. None of that can be oﬃcially confirmed, but that’s the best knowledge we have.” The Walker home was later given to the Ewing family as a wedding gift, Snarey said, and the Ewings finished building it in 1792. The family kept the home generation after generation until Mrs. Jane Grace, a Ewing

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descendent, donated it to the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation which (according to a 1976 newsletter) planned to turn it into a “vacation, live-in museum.” However, those plans never materialized. “It was going to pot,” Snarey said. “Mrs. Grace had to go to [the foundation] and buy it back so she could turn it over to us. She’s been donating money to maintain it ever since.” And in that time, the Pioneers West Historical Society has been actively maintaining the property in earnest. “We’ve redone the roof. We resealed all of the logs. On the inside, we’ve put some new flooring in, removing a modern-day door that was put in, and put period logs back in. It was redone to make it look more like the original,” Snarey said. “[There is] a little wishing well, which has been repainted and resealed. New chinking was put in the

logs. We did a lot of work on it. And Mrs. Grace has been our benefactor. We don’t have any other projects going. We just keep that log cabin up. It’s in good shape on the inside now and the outside.” While the house isn’t open to the public

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After restoration

Before restoration

other than sporadic open houses, it is visible from the road. Snarey said the Pioneers West Historical Society worked extensively with Meadowcroft Village in Avella, which also has an historic period settlement that it maintains, to acquire the period building materials to make the house look as authentic as possible. “If we didn’t replace the roof, there wouldn’t be anything there,” Snarey said.

“We do have water and electric and gas and sewage, but it’s kept as old fashionedlooking as possible.” Other repairs to the property included redoing the driveway, which Snarey said became rutted over time. A mowing service keeps the property from becoming overgrown, but most other maintenance is done by the society. Even at 85, Snarey said he still checked in during the winter months to see if any work needed to be done. Fortunately, during one of those check-ins, he found a burst pipe that was caught early and repaired, resulting in no damages. “And the water company wasn’t too bad on us, so we got oﬀ lucky,” he said. “There are

only a few of us that are actually active. I’m 85 years old, but I appreciate the fact that my ancestors came over here in the 1600s and 1700s. I had an uncle killed in the Revolutionary War. The history goes back quite a bit.”

Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

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Real Estate Options for the Retired By Pamela Palongue

Retired persons are commonly advised to sell their homes to avoid the cost of repairs and maintenance. Well-meaning friends and relatives often point out that they won’t be able to mow the lawn forever. Is selling your house always the best choice? According to Kathy McKenna, a real estate broker with over 20 years of experience in Pittsburgh, it’s a decision that needs to be weighed carefully with knowledgeable people you can trust. There are many reasons a home may not be practical to maintain in retirement years. McKenna explains, “Some older homes may not be well insulated and this can lead to high gas or electric bills.” There are the major expenses like replacing a roof as well as the ongoing costs of lawn maintenance, snow removal and real estate taxes. Also on an emotional level, some individuals may not be prepared to live alone and would prefer more sociable surroundings. Some retired persons opt for condominium living which quells many of the anxieties of home ownership. As McKenna points out, the maintenance is usually taken care of in the association fees and will generally include lawn maintenance, roof repairs and replacement, and siding. Some condos may include exterior painting as part of their upkeep agreement. The downside is that association fees can be raised over time. However, most associations manage their money wisely and the increases are usually infrequent. McKenna also adds, “Do your homework. Attend the association meetings and see how the money is being spent and if they are managing it well.” Another thing to consider is that condo associations occasionally may assess their members a one-time fee to pay for a major renovation or repair.

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This is not common and generally the tenants have months to years of prior notice before such an assessment is made. An alternative to home ownership that may be even more attractive to seniors is apartment living. Apartments that have utilities included ensure that high utility bills will not be a problem in cold winter months and there are no repair bills or real estate taxes with which to contend. However, if utilities are granted a rate hike or real estate taxes are raised, those additional costs will likely be passed on to the tenants in the form of a higher rent amount. A recent trend called the reverse mortgage is a loan where the homeowner, who must be at least 62 years of age, uses the home’s equity as collateral. The bank or mortgage company in turn pays the homeowner a set amount each month. Homeowners are allowed to remain in their homes until death. The payments are based on the seller’s age; basically, the younger the homeowner at the time of procuring the mortgage, the smaller the monthly payment. McKenna adds, “This allows the homeowner to pull the equity out of his house while still living there.” The disadvantage is that the homeowner is still responsible for any repairs and maintenance for the home. Although not an attractive alternative for some, those who are living on a fixed income and need more money to meet their monthly bills may opt for this arrangement. While some people savor their privacy, others crave social interaction. One of the most popular trends in recent years has been the retirement village. These villages allow people to have the privacy of their own home while joining other residents for entertainment, activities and communal dining. Each one oﬀers diﬀerent financial plans and must be studied carefully for the best option. McKenna advises, “Before you sell your home, be sure to list it with someone who is reputable that you can trust and talk to about your particular situation.”

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Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

CREATING BEAUTIFUL HEALTHY SMILES

DEL R. BONI, D.M.D. Specialist In Orthodontics Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics For Children and Adults

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Boni orthodonti cs is pleased to announce the opening of their newest location at 995 Beaver Gr ade road, Moon township. Dr. Boni is a caring professional who delivers outstanding orthodontic treatment results. He and his skilled staff have made it the ir promise to provide each patient with the highest quality orthodontic care available. They offer a full range of services, including Invisalign , clear ceramic braces, and esthetic functional appliances, which assist in the proper growth and development of their young patients. So whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re child, teen, or adult, Dr. Bo a ni is highly skilled in utilizi ng the latest treatment techniques and technologies to ensure you receive optimal results. They offer flexible hours for your convenience and acc most insurance plans. ept Dr. Boni and his team loo k forward to meeting you and seeing you smile!

A GOOD OFFENSE REQUIRES A STRONG DEFENSE Presented by: G. Benjamin Rovee, MBA n planning for retirement and/or college education, many people focus exclusively on saving and accumulating money in their retirement plans through work, IRA’s, 529 college savings plans, and mutual funds. Seeking the best investment possible is the primary goal that most people have, and they believe that if they do this, then they will achieve financial success. This stage of planning is what I refer to as the offensive strategic design – that is, taking on risk in order to hopefully reach the desired results. The popular media constantly bombards the public with clever investment oriented advertising which leads many people to view this approach as the only thing which needs to be done in planning for the future. We see many advertisements, and financial talk shows which primarily focus on investing, and taking advantage of the latest “hot stock” that should be chosen. The reality is that this approach would be fine…if we lived in a perfect world. The reality is, however, that our world is not perfect, and there are many external factors that could cause our best planned investments not to work. The ultimate problem is that while many people, and advisors, focus on the offensive strategies, they tend not to address the defensive strategic design. This approach focuses on building a solid foundation which can help reduce the effects of many eroding factors and uncertainty which exist in our imperfect world. Without a strong defense in place, a financial plan runs the risk of financial loss, and ultimate failure. In building a successful financial plan, we must have offense strategies at work, however, the defensive strategies should be addressed first. The following principles show the logical order in building a family’s financial defense:

• Estate Planning • Retirement Planning • College Planning • Wills/Trust Analysis

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Maximum Protection: Events will occur in peoples’ lives which cannot possibly be predicted. Accidents can happen which could result in being sued, people could be hospitalized or become disabled, or there might be a premature death. These are some of the unforeseen factors that could cause a family’s financial life not to go as planned. People should evaluate all of the protection elements in their lives to make sure that they provide the maximum amount of protection to hedge against any of the above risks. These elements would include a full review of the following elements: Auto, homeowners, and liability insurance coverages. Any group or personally owned disability income insurance. Major medical insurance. Wills, power of attorney, healthcare directives, and trust provisions. Any group or personally owned life insurance. Without perfect protection in place, the best thought out offensive financial approach runs the risk of failure. Save at Least 15%: People should try to save a minimum of 15% of their gross annual income. Obviously if you want to have money come out of a plan later, we need to have money going in to it today. The reason that I believe the saving level should be at this amount is hedge against eroding factors which will continue to exist throughout our lives. The minimum of 15% savings needs to grow to address the following : Possible increased taxes in the future. Inflation in the future. The need to replace capital goods in the future. Anything else which may be needed in the future which cannot be predicted. Liquidity: People should accumulate at least 50% of their gross annual income into very safe, liquid accounts. By having six months of income readily available in accounts that are not subject to market risk, a family creates “staying power” for many unforeseen necessities which may arise. Not only can these reserves be used to help as a part of an emergency fund, but can also provide income during the 6 month waiting period of most group disability plans, in the event one becomes disabled. These dollars also can be utilized and leveraged for other potential investment opportunities, if needed. Perfect protection, saving 15%+, and having 6 months liquidity are the three key pieces in creating a sound defensive financial position. Once this has been established, people can have more peace of mind in taking on some of the risks involved in creating offensive strategies. The moral of the story is that a financial plan’s offense may only work if the defense has been established. 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 | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

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Why You need Whole Food supplements Explore wholesome nutrition and its benefits to your health Do you struggle with finding the “right” supplement? Most of us have the greatest of intentions when it comes to getting healthy for the New Year. We head to the store in search of the best supplements and healthiest foods we can find to get our resolutions launched. If you are like most, you stand in the supplement isle in amazement at the mass quantities of choices until you finally decide on one that you feel suits your needs. Generally, we take these supplements as part of our daily routine and feel good about it. But are we really getting all the quality nutrients that are missing in our diet? We all are aware of all the diﬀerent varieties of supplements available to us at many chain stores, but do you really know the

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source of the ingredients in these products? If you were given a choice of a supplement manmade in a laboratory which produces synthetic vitamins or would you choose one that is derived from organically farmed whole foods? I would expect that most of you answered the latter. Whole food supplementation is far superior to any manmade supplement in that they contain the nutrients plus all their synergistic cofactors. What does this mean? It means that your body recognizes them as real food and utilizes them properly and efficiently to provide you with the strongest, natural, and most well-balanced nutritional support. Our bodies treat all synthetic vitamins as foreign substances, reacting to them as if they were toxins. Once we ingest these substances, our body has to process and neutralize these “toxins”. This takes place in the liver and then the kidneys have to eliminate the byproduct. Have you ever taken synthetic vitamins and noticed the color of your urine? Bright yellow, right? We refer to this as “expensive urine.” Take a proactive approach this year and get on the right track with your supplementation. Make it effective and beneficial for your body and you will feel the difference. We choose the whole food supplementation company Standard Process. They have owned and operated their own organic farms since 1929. Whole supplements by Standard Process along with nutritional guidance for the right supplements tailored for you are available at Robinson Chiropractic. Montour | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

MEtro hEAtinG And cooLinG

Metro delivers on retrofit concept

✚ When Bill Wessner, Jr., was in high school, in the 60’s, Metro Heating and Cooling was already installing air conditioning in homes with radiators, and he was helping the family heating and air conditioning business grow. Back then, they carried lists of names of customers who benefited from their work for new customers to call for references. Today, those lists are now swaths of zip codes, and Metro is known as one of the region’s top specialists in the field. Part of that popularity comes from the fact that Metro can retrofit your home with an air conditioning unit even if it has radiator heating system in place. “It’s not a new concept, but it’s a concept that homeowners stumble over for several reasons,” Wessner explained. “First, they think it can’t be done. If they do think it can be done, they think it’s going to cost them a fortune. Lastly they assume doing it will trash their house. All three of those are incorrect. I’m here to tell people that it can be done, neatly and cleanly, and it’s not expensive as they may think.” Installing whole house air conditioning in homes with radiator heat entails working from the top down with an air distribution system. These systems give the homeowners the advantage of having all floors of their home cooled to the same temperature, something that can’t be achieved with conventional systems. “We never take out the existing heating systems, because radiator heat is so comfortable,” Wessner said. Because of the age of homes in the Pittsburgh area, Wessner said the retrofits have been extremely popular in areas such as Mt. Lebanon, Dormont, Point Breeze, Squirrel Hill, and Sewickley. “We’ve done more than 1,000 of these in the last 15 years or so,” he said. “We get letters all the time on how neat and clean our employees are and have a stellar rating on Angie’s List. Anyone who wants to look us up can see our reviews there.” Most of Metro’s systems carry a 10 year parts and labor warranty, and Metro guarantees satisfaction with every job. Metro also installs air cleaners on their systems for indoor air quality, which cuts down on allergens in the air such as dust and pollen. They also install a lot of high-efficiency boilers for existing radiator systems, which can save homeowners a lot of money in the long run. “Most hot water heating system are running around 60 percent efficiency,” Wessner said. “The ones we install now are 95 percent efficient and there is a Federal tax credit that goes with that right now.” While the products and technology have changed from 1953, when Metro was founded, the Wessners and their staff attend regular training and

workshops to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of their industry. The Wessners are active in the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), where Bill Jr., Bill Sr., and Tom have served as president. Metro has grown to be one of the area’s most respected heating and air conditioning companies because of reliable and dependable service. They are located at 951 Banksville rd. For more information, call 412-5617330 or check out their website at: www.metroheatingcooling.com.

Metro Heating and Cooling provides our residential and light commercial customers with superior service, installation, and replacement of heating and air conditioning systems. We are innovative and creative We solve many of your heating and cooling problems ■ We have extensive experience performing light commercial installations ■ We’ll tackle the jobs that others can’t ■ NATE certified experts ■ CARRIER factory authorized dealer ■ ■

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Where is Robinson Township, 15108, 15136, 15205, 15244, 15276, 15106? If you live in Robinson, you may have one of six separate zip codes even though the township is just 14.9 square miles of area. That’s nearly one zip code for every 2.5 square miles. Township Manager Aaron Bibro said the numerous zips make it confusing for residents, emergency service providers, businesses and those visiting Robinson from other areas and wants the six township zip codes consolidated into one. “This is something that came up years ago

and has come up again,” Bibro said. “I put a petition on the website to see what people think, and we’ve received hundreds of signatures, and that’s without even publicizing the petition.” Bibro admits, that even with every signature in the township, there may be little Robinson can do to budget the US Postal Service’s stance on the area. “There’s a review process that they have, and their decision is the ultimate one,” he said. But aside from delivering mail, zip codes have become important to people for a number of other reasons. GPS systems are so pervasive in today’s society, that people

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trying to find businesses located in Robinson may have difficulty. Emergency responders from neighboring communities may also have similar problems, especially when Allegheny County migrates to countywide 911 services in July. “The main reason residents want it

Which Robinson Township are you in? 15136 McKees Rocks 15205 pittsburgh 15106 Carnegie 15108 Coraopolis 15244 p.o. Boxes 15276 penn Center West

GPS systems are so pervasive in today’s society, that people trying to find businesses located in Robinson may have difficulty. Emergency responders from neighboring communities may also have similar problems, especially when Allegheny County migrates to county-wide 911 services in July. changed is to create a sense of identity,” Bibro said. “Confusion among businesses and not being as visible would be the second reason and emergency response would be the third.” Tad Kelly, regional spokesman for the United States Postal Service, did not respond to voice and E-mail in time for inclusion in this publication. For homeowners, having a different zip code can create problems by way of

how their homes are characterized. Numerous data-collecting agencies use zip codes to find comparable homes or to classify a home’s location for particular services such as insurance coverage. It’s less about social snobbery and more about accurate data collection. A $450,000 home in Robinson with a McKees Rocks zip code could find itself among comparable homes on a real estate, for example, giving potential homebuyers a confusing image of the neighborhood. “Business also don’t like it, because businesses want people to know exactly where they’re located. With a Coraopolis zip code, consumers are going to assume the business is in Coraopolis. The same goes for McKees Rocks or even Pittsburgh for that matter.” Robinson Commissioner Ron Shiwarski said that he found a lot of support for the change from residents when he was knocking on doors for his last two campaigns. “That seemed to be a common thread for a lot of businesses and residents. When you’re knocking on doors, that was an issue that ran across lines – Republican and Democrat. They all wondered why we didn’t have that,” he said. “A lot of municipalities have tried to do

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this, but unfortunately, in this economic climate with the post office, very few have been successful. I believe that Robinson has some valid reasons for success.” Shiwarksi said township staff have talked to state representatives and have been told that a petition is the first step and would show that it’s an issue that has some traction within the whole community. “There is a township in the eastern part of the state that has some traction with this and is a little further down the road than we are,” he said. “We are aware that in the economic conditions within the government it is difficult to commit to getting your own zip, but the benefits in the long term are something that we can’t be shortsighted with.” To sign the petition to consolidate Robinson Township’s zip codes, go to: www.townshipofrobinson.com/zipcode.html

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| IN PLUM |

Complete destination planning including: • All-Inclusive • Honeymoons • Family-Friendly Trips • Cruises • European Tours • Destination Weddings • Weekend Getaways • Shopping Excursions • Culinary & Wine Weekends • Reunions • Group Travel

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| IN SOUTH FAYETTE |

Travel and Tours

| IN UPPER ST. CLAIR | | IN WEST ALLEGHENY |

603 East McMurray Road

McMurray, PA 15317

Ph: 724.260.5341

www.threeriverstravel.com

Authorized agent for these trusted vacation specialists:

And many more.