IN Mt. Lebanon

SPRING 2013

Clark Renovations Bringing Kitchens and Baths Back to Life

t. Lebanon FROM THE PUBLISHER Â Welcome to the spring issue of IN Mt. Lebanon magazine!

I hope that you are as anxious as I am to get the cold and snow behind us and get busy planning projects around the house.

This issue is dedicated to home-improvement projects great and small. Some projects will give you curb appeal, some will increase your home’s value, and others are for the sheer enjoyment or luxury of it.

Regardless of your aims with your home, whether gutting the walls, or just planting the perfect tree in the yard, our homes are a source of pride for us, and not in a status sense. They are where we raise our families, where we feel safe, and where we invite our friends and loved ones for parties and fellowship.

Our homes are where our children play, and where oftentimes, we tend to sick loved ones.

They are where we try hardest in life, and where the challenges of life hit us the most. Our homes bear witness to our triumphs as well as our sorrows, and they are as much a part of our personalities as what we choose to wear or adorn ourselves with.

So with so much importance placed on the walls that contain us, we hope that you can find at least one project within these pages to be fodder for your next project around the home.

Have a wonderful spring!

t. Lebanon

t. Lebanon

Wayne Dollard, Publisher

Summer content deadline: 4/16/13

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INSIDE

SPRING

IN Mt. Lebanon is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Mt. Lebanon 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.

2013

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Vein Institute of Pittsburgh You Don’t Have to Live with Painful Varicose and Spider Veins .................................... | 3

Dr. Daniel Rairigh Straighter Teeth in Six Months ............... | 30 ON THE COVER

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Julian Gray Associates Pennsylvania Death Taxes ...................... | 59

Steve Clark of Clark Renovations in one of his creations.

Healthy Pet Products

UPMC TODAY

Our Pets Can Survive on Anything But Don’t We Want Them To Thrive? ............... | 65

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Spring 2013

NovaCare Rehabilitation ............ | 88 What’s Inside 2 3 4

When It’s More than Just Heartburn

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Hope and Healing A Healing Touch Food in a Glass

5 6 7

34

Clinical Trials Can Change Lives Depression and Older Adults Comprehensive Care for Today’s Urology Patients

41

© 2013 UPMC

UPMC Today_Mercy_Spring_2013_v16.indd 1

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FEATURES

Clark Renovations - From Bathroom Blahs to Bathroom Spas ................................................................................... | 6 Home Improvements in Mt. Lebanon .................................. | 8 Local Dancer Featured As Sugar Plum Fairy .................... | 26 Mt. Lebanon Resident Helps Children Thrive at Local Orthodox Preschool ...................................................... | 74 Cruising Into Spring in True Mt. Lebanon Fashion ............ | 78 COMMUNITY INTERESTS

Home Improvement Special Value Coupons

.................... | 24

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News ..................................... | 41 Tomosynthesis Offers Women Greater Detection of Breast Abnormalities ................................................................ | 62 Special Value Coupons

.......................................................... | 86

New Advanced Treatment for Skin Cancer ......................... | 87

Visions Remodeling & Home Repair ...................................... | 19 DINING OUT

Peters Place ....................................... | 25

Clark

Renovations

From Bathroom Blahs, to Bathroom Spas

C

lark Renovations was tasked with the job of incorporating the wants and desires of a Mt. Lebanon couple into a functional, yet visually pleasing master bathroom retreat. One key component requested by this Virginia Manor couple was the elimination of their whirlpool tub to allow for the incorporation of a significantly larger zero threshold shower. This type of entry enables a safe access path without having to step up over a physical barrier. Chris Clark, one of Clark Renovations’ experienced designers, went to work developing a solution that met both the client’s needs and their budget. A granite seat and soap dishes were added to improve function while maintaining a feeling of luxury. A hand shower was added alongside the standard showerhead to ease cleaning and provide access from the seated position. Lastly, a tile feature was incorporated along the rear wall of the shower to provide a focal point.

The main dry space incorporates a radiant heated floor to ensure a comfortable atmosphere and eliminate the “cold feet” often associated with tile floors. Custom Amish cabinetry by Schrock’s of Walnut Creek provides

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a warm contrast against the cool colors of the granite and porcelain tile. Ample storage abounds through the use of a tall linen closet with six pullout shelves and a seven foot vanity cabinet complete with large storage drawers and tip outs at each sink. A recessed area at the center of the toe kick in the vanity base makes a perfect storage location for the couple’s scale. The granite vanity top was built with an extended 4” backsplash that acts as a raised shelf and runs the full width of the room. Twin Kohler Archer medicine cabinets are centered above the Kohler Caxton under mount sinks in a mirror field that stretches from wall to wall.

Two triple sconce lights top off the space and provide for optimum illumination.

The commode was relocated to improve traffic flow and replaced with a coordinating Kohler Archer “comfort height” unit that greatly reduces the strain on legs and knees. Adjacent to the commode, an inset tiled shelf was added per the homeowner’s request, to allow for storage of additional tissue.

General lighting for the space is accomplished by the use of four Lightolier recessed lights. A Nutone fan was added on a timer, which allows for adequate ventilation and a means to ensure the fan is not left running all day long.

Finishing touches include crown molding, a wainscot accent wall with chair rail, and polished chrome accessories.

Clark Renovations has been remodeling homes in Pittsburgh for over 43 years. Quality products, skilled craftsmen, experienced designers, and a large support staff help to ensure your project starts on time, stays on track, and is completed efficiently. Their five-year warranty leads the industry and provides added peace of mind.

If you are considering remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, windows or doors, visit their showroom located at 3180 Industrial Blvd. in Bethel Park or visit them on the web at www.CLARKREMODELING.com.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

Home

Improvements In Mt. Lebanon If you have a home, you know how challenging it is to maintain it. Roofs leak, landscapes need weeding, and kitchens and baths need facelifts. If you’re handy, you can get by with your own sweat equity. However, most people don’t have the skills, let alone the time, to tackle major household projects – many of which will require you spending more time at the office just to be able to tackle the price tags such projects come with. Here, we try to cover it all for you – from financing your project to enjoying it when it’s complete.

Building a home addition can be a good alternative to buying a new home or building a house from scratch. Besides saving money, it can be a means of investing in your home and customizing your home to serve your family’s specific needs and desires. But additions also bring up potential problems that may not make them the best option for everyone.

An addition can drastically change the way a house looks from the road or yard. An addition that isn’t well planned can look like it doesn’t belong or doesn’t match the rest of the house in terms of style or overall shape.

Planning an addition carefully with a skilled architect is the best way to ensure that the house looks as good, or even better, than it did before the addition. An architect should be able to produce sketches that give a sense of how the finished addition will look. To minimize the appearance of an addition, homeowners can usually choose to build onto the back of the existing house, thereby hiding the new construction from the road.

Depending on the size of an addition and the construction schedule, it may take weeks or months before an addition is completed. Bad weather can cause unanticipated delays, and working with an unreliable contractor can prolong the process even further. If a homeowner can’t afford to be patient during the planning and construction process, moving into a new, larger home may be a better option.

An addition can be a good investment, helping to increase the value of a home. Using a home equity line of credit or getting a new mortgage that includes money to pay for the addition can be a wise financial decision, especially when interest rates are low. However, if the expected value of an addition – which a homeowner can estimate by studying the sale prices of nearby homes with similar characteristics – is less than its cost, it may be a poor investment.

An addition is likely to raise the value of a home. After the addition is completed, a new assessment will raise property taxes. Prior to adding on, homeowners should estimate the value of their home with the addition and compute a new annual tax liability based on current tax rates.

Building an addition is an ideal time to invest in energy-efficient fixtures and construction. Windows that prevent hot or cool air from escaping and low-energy-consuming appliances can minimize the cost of an addition by reducing energy bills and its environmental impact.

Remodeling your bathroom is another popular way to jazz up your home as well as build equity. In some cases, not only is remodeling the bathroom an aesthetic choice but a functional choice as well. Giving your bathroom a boost doesn’t always have to require a boatload of cash or space – just a little planning and creativity before you get started. Refresh your bath’s

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look with a wow-worthy makeover that improves its style and function. Perhaps you have an old toilet that you want to replace with a highefficiency model that will lower your water bill. Or perhaps the old tile is falling off your shower and you need to replace it. Whatever your situation is, there are many options to choose from, including do-ityourself options.

One popular and inexpensive option is to have a theme for your bathroom. Examples could be a Disney theme for a child’s bathroom, or perhaps a beach theme. This can be accomplished by painting the walls, adding a wall border and by wellplaced décor. Some larger and more costly bathroom updates include new flooring, new sink and vanity and a new bathtub or shower. These improvements will get even costlier if you paid someone to do it for you.

Decks on the rear or side of homes have become extremely popular in the United States. Used for entertaining or just relaxing, decks come in all shapes, sizes, designs and material.

The most popular, and least expensive, deck material is treated wood. It is durable, however it will need to be painted or stained yearly or every other year depending on your climate. Composite decking products are building materials manufactured using a mixture of plastic and wood fiber. Composite decking materials are very popular because they require less maintenance than wood and often use recycled materials. Composite decking is easy to install and is guaranteed with a 20-year warranty against rotting, splitting, splintering or termite damage. However, composite decking can be very costly.

Vinyl decking made from Cellular PVC is a great choice for decking because it is essentially resistant to stains, mold, insects and fading. PVC material is low maintenance and is a sustainable building material. But like composite, it can get costly.

Powder coated aluminum decking can be used to create a watertight floor for your deck. This unique material will never splinter, rot or rust. LockDry Aluminum decking is cool to the touch and is available in five colors.

Aluminum decking is strong and lightweight. The LockDry system can be used to create a dry space to use under your deck on rainy days.

Decks can built right on the ground, or be elevated high in the air, depending on the design of your home. If you are building a deck yourself it is very important to check all local building codes and follow all of the guidelines very closely to ensure the safety and long-term durability of your deck.

Bringing your family together is often difficult.

A family game room is a fantastic way to upgrade your home and bring the family together. Whether you have an unfinished basement, an unused attic room or an empty garage, you can transform it into a fantastic oasis where your family can spend countless enjoyable hours. There are many aspects to making your game room

Our Home Improvement Partners Action Builders is a Design Build company.

We believe in listening to our customers and designing within a budget. We pride ourselves on professionalism, quality and total commitment to your project. We back our projects with 30 years of experience and a five year warranty.

Check out our website for more details.

AB Action Builders 412.212.6009 • www.pittsburghadditions.com

We specialize in fabricating granite counter tops for all jobs, whether it is for kitchen, island, vanity or decks. We provide the best price because we import our granite slabs directly and do our own fabrication onsite with no middleman markups. We will be happy to assist you with choosing colors, designs and provide you with information about granite counter top fabrication.

New Choice Home Deco., Inc. 412.567.0596 • Pitgranite.com

With Angelo Associates, a professional installation means your work will be done by skilled, experienced craftsmen using the finest tools and equipment available. We want to serve you. Please visit our office/showroom or call for a free design consultation and estimate in your home. You can also visit our website at: www.angeloassociates.com Angelo Associates Inc. 412.655.3430 • www.angeloassociates.com

Whether it’s building your dream home or making a livable space come alive, Prime 1 Builders, Inc. excels in single home residential projects. From sustainable and energy efficient home design to custom renovations, we work to exceed your expectations and stay within your budget. Let Dan Meade and his team of craftsman, make your dream home become a reality. Call us today to discuss your project.

Prime 1 Builders 412.257.0161 • www.prime1builders.com Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

Home Improvements In Mt. Lebanon remodel a success. First you should talk to a Design/Build contractor about water access, waste lines and additional electricity needs. The contractor can also offer advice on any changes that might be necessary to update the space, whether it be additional insulation for a garage or attic room or waterproofing for a basement room.

Water access could also be an important aspect if you plan to have a bar or sink area. A Design/Build contractor can offer advice on what needs to be done to make the area completely usable. You might also want to speak with the contractor about creating an additional half bathroom for guests and family members to use when you’re entertaining.

yourself including painting, laying carpet, adding shelves or simply updating the dĂŠcor.

Gone are the days when it was frowned upon to bring work home. Today a home is not a home unless it has a home office. Whether you are turning an extra bedroom into a workspace with store-bought furniture or constructing a full-scale two-level library and office, home offices are a regular part of what makes a house a home in 2012.

Making the space your own is essential to effective use of a home office.

Create a space that makes you more productive and relaxed at the same time and that is a winning combination. A desk is an essential part of most offices. Choose one that meets your needs. If all you need is a work top to use your laptop from, consider a computer cart and save the space for a comfortable chair or small sofa. If you are in the market for a larger desk, consider office furniture resellers. They sell executive-grade used furniture for a fraction of the cost.

Electricity for lighting and appliances is also incredibly important. If you are updating an unused area of your home, the current electric wiring may not be able to handle the additional demands of a game room. The Design/Build contractor can guide you through what will need to be updated and how much it will cost.

Bookcases or other storage can be a nice addition. Not only can they store books, but they are also great places to display awards or showcase your favorite collection of knicknacks or memorabilia. Decide whether you prefer furniture pieces or built-ins. Antique shops have great deals on beautiful bookcases, and most local cabinet shops can design and install custom built-ins. If you have a closet in your office, visit your local home center for a plethora of storage and organizing options.

If finances are an issue there are definitely still projects you can complete

A comfortable chair or two is a necessity. Choose long-lasting fabrics and

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Our Home Improvement Partners sturdy frames. Go with classic styles that won’t end up as next year’s garage sale item. Test out the chair before you buy it. Desk chairs especially need to provide good support and be comfortable.

We live in a society of over-indulgence. Nothing shows this like the home theater. So many popular home magazines have a page dedicated to converting your basement into a home theater, or something similar. The HGTV website has 16 home theater features alone. But how doable is the home theater in reality? First, you need a fairly large space, either a big family room or a basement. Second, you need to budget for all the furnishings including, of course, the stars of the show: home theater equipment – a big-screen TV, DVD player and speakers – and comfy seating. Also very popular for home theaters is floor and aisle lighting similar to real movie theaters, and perhaps even an oldfashioned popcorn maker.

Frankly, home theaters are generally for those with deep pockets because there really is no way to make a home theater cheaply. Still thinking of taking the plunge? The home improvement website Home Time has a really useful feature on home theater planning. It covers everything you’ll need to consider, like the space you’ll need and even suggested room layouts, to maximize your viewing pleasure.

Kitchens are the most popular room in the house to remodel. Many people consider the kitchen to be the center of the home and its most important component. Another reason it is so popular to remodel is there are so many things in the kitchen that can be remodeled... cabinets, cabinet hardware, countertops, floor, appliances, lighting, walls and sinks.

There is very little right or wrong when it comes to remodeling your kitchen; it comes down to personal taste. There are so many choices when it comes to style, design and type of material for every component of your kitchen. When remodeling there is much to consider: cost, what is your goal, what is your situation (pets or small children could help decide what type of flooring to use, for example) and what is the cost vs. equity value of the remodel.

If finances are an issue and you are not the handiest individual, there are still many simple and easy things you can do to add pizzazz and value to your kitchen. For example, you can paint your cabinets and add new handles rather than buying new cabinets. Adding a stylish splashguard behind your stove and sink is easy to do and adds great appeal. Painting the

In 1987 Inks Installations, a home remodeling business was established by Michael T. Inks.

Today, Inks Installations is ranked at the top of the businesses involved in home remodeling.

Inks is family owned and operated, serving Allegheny County and the surrounding areas, specializing in bathrooms, kitchens, additions, game rooms, roofing, siding, and other small jobs. For more information call or stop by the showroom!

Inks Installations 412.653.0850 • www.inksinstallations.com

Visions Remodeling & Home Repair (formerly Case Handyman and Remodeling) is your fullservice, locally-owned, expert home repair and remodeling company, based in Canonsburg.

We offer the full range of home improvement services, including complete design and installation of the latest kitchen and bath concepts, and most any home repair or improvement project – large or small. For more information visit our web site at www.visionsremodel.com Visions Remodeling & Home Repair 724.745.9888 • www.visionsremodel.com

Pittsburgh Rug Company has been providing the region with the most stunningly beautiful collection of Oriental rugs at the guaranteed lowest prices. Now, in addition to receiving accolades as the best source for rugs, Pittsburgh Rug Company is now being recognized as the area’s number one source for Oriental rug cleaning.

Pittsburgh Rug Company 412.325.RUGS (7847) • www.pittsburghrugcompany.com

ARK Home Improvements has been owned and operated by Tony Konopka and has been servicing the South Hills area with all phases of interior and exterior remodeling, garages and custom addition renovations. As well as offering preliminary design consultation and final architectural renderings of a proposed project. We have built an excellent reputation in our 28 years of business and our customer service record is impeccable.

ARK Home Improvements 724.942.4222 • arkhomeimp.com

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Home Improvements In Mt. Lebanon

walls can also make a huge difference in your kitchen, as can changing the light fixture.

If done well, landscaping can completely change the character and perception of a home. Landscaping encompasses anything on the outside of the home including grass cutting, plants, flowers, rock, mulch, borders, vegetable gardens and more.

Beyond the aesthetics, landscaping can be beneficial to a property if designed properly. Solar heat absorbed through windows and roofs can increase cooling costs, and incorporating shade from landscaping elements can help reduce this solar heat gain. Shading and evapotranspiration (the process by which a plant actively moves and releases water vapor) from trees can reduce surrounding air temperatures as much as 9°F (5°C).

Because cool air settles near the ground, air temperatures directly under trees can be as much as 25°F (14°C) cooler than air temperatures above nearby blacktop.

Using shade effectively requires you to know the size, shape, and location of the moving shadow that your shading device casts.

Also, homes in cool regions may never overheat and may not require shading. Therefore, you need to know what landscape shade strategies will work best in your regional climate and your microclimate.

Also, if you can determine how much water your plants actually need, then you won’t overwater them and waste water. It is important to not only understand a plant’s particular watering requirements, but also evapotranspiration.

Evapotranspiration (Et) is the amount of water that is evaporated from the soil and transpired through the plant’s leaves. This amount of water needs to be replaced through watering. If you know your area’s Et rate, you can plan the amount of water to be replaced through irrigation. It’s best to water or irrigate your plants in the early morning when evaporation rates are low.

This also provides plants with water before midday when the evaporation rate is the highest.

Lighting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to cast an enchanting spell on any outdoor space. It is also very effective for safety and security purposes.

Examples of exterior lighting include: torches, candles, lanterns, solar ground lighting, flood lights, lamp posts, landscape lighting and general light fixtures. For setting a mood the most popular lighting is candles or small lanterns. For security and safety purposes, it is critical to have flood light or lamp posts or ground solar lighting or all. A burglar is much more likely to enter a home without a lot of light on the outside illuminating the property.

With countless styles and options available, there are no right or wrong choices. The outdoor lighting a homeowner will choose will come down to budget and personal preference.

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Home Improvements In Mt. Lebanon Many of us take pride in our homes, investing countless hours rearranging and remodeling the interior. But it can also be refreshing to step out of the confines of the inside and spend some time outside.

It’s especially enjoyable during the spring, summer and fall months. When the weather is favorable, it’s difficult to miss out on a nice day outside.

But spending time outside doesn’t mean you have to forfeit your creature comforts. With a few small adjustments you can make your outdoor space comfortable and inviting. Turning a yard, patio, porch or other outdoor area into a functional living space can be a rewarding task, and will expand your living space to the outdoors. With the right setup, you can spend more time in the sunshine and fresh air, and host events al fresco for friends, family and neighbors.

Options for outdoor living include outdoor kitchens, dramatic lighting, fireplaces or fire pits, a water feature (like a fountain), outdoor living rooms, gazebos and pavilions. With so many options to choose from,

Habitat for Humanity’s Pittsburgh ReStore sells reusable house building and home improvement materials to the public at 50-70% off the retail value. All proceeds help secure affordable, safe housing for lowincome families in the Greater Pittsburgh area. The ReStore presents an environmentally and socially responsible way to keep good, reusable materials out of the waste stream while gaining funds for Habitat’s community improvement work.

Donate: We accept new and gently-used residential building materials, furniture, appliances, and home décor. Clean out unwanted items, reduce handling and storage costs, and help your community.

Shop: New inventory arrives daily priced at 50%-70% below retail value.

Watch for weekly sales in addition to our already low prices.

Volunteer: Offering a variety of positions for all ages and abilities including customer service, picking up donations, and sorting donated goods.

For more information on store hours, donations, or volunteering, please call 412-271-HOME (4663) or visit pittsburghhabitat.org/shop.

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Our Home Improvement Partners for most people it will come down to price, climate where they live and available space in which to be creative.

Ponds can be a wonderful addition to your property’s outdoor experience.

Surprisingly, they are not as difficult to build as one might think.

Before you start, call 811 or your local one-call center to have electric and gas lines marked so you know where to dig to steer clear of them. Then, when you map out the location of your pond, put it where it will be noticed – visible from a window, off a patio, or along a walkway – but away from the play areas of small children or pets. Keep clear of major root systems or mature trees, which can block too much of the sunlight plants and fish need. You’ll also need to be within reach of a grounded exterior outlet so you can plug in a pump, an essential tool for keeping the water aerated; most pumps come with a maximum cord length of 25 feet, and extension cords are not recommended. You may need to bury the power cord a few inches down in PVC pipe to hide it.

Space permitting, you need at least 40 cubic feet for your pond – about 7 feet by 4 feet – to keep the water clean. An initial shallow terrace just inside the perimeter of the pond holds rocks that conceal the liner edge and keep it in place. A second, deeper terrace supports plants that live in the water and help balance the pond’s ecosystem. As you dig, you must slope the sides of the pond so that if the water freezes, the ice will push up instead of against the liner. Even in warmer climates, small ponds can change temperature rapidly, so if you’re adding fish you’ll want a deeper pond that will maintain a more consistent temperature and accommodate the fish – 18 to 24 inches for goldfish and at least 3 feet for koi.

To maintain the consistent depth of the water, you need to line the pond.

A thin layer of sand and old newspapers or burlap bags softens the jagged edges of rocks and roots. But over that you will need to put a waterproof skin. There are several types of flexible liners meant for small ponds – made from polypropylene and EPDM, among other materials. Look

Habitat for Humanity’s Pittsburgh ReStore sells reusable house building and home improvement materials to the public. The ReStore accepts donated goods which are sold at 50-70% off the retail value. All proceeds help secure affordable, safe housing for low-income families in the Greater Pittsburgh area. We accept new and gently-used building materials, furniture, appliances, and home décor.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh ReStore 412.271.HOME (4663) • pittsburghhabitat.org/shop John R. Swentosky, owner of Oxford Landscaping, has been providing landscaping/construction services to the South Hills of Pittsburgh for over 25 years. We are proud to offer an extensive variety of hard and soft scape services to commercial and residential customers. Phone 412.996.7589. Fax 412.221.6145. www.oxfordlandscapingpa.com.

Follow us on Facebook for project photos and tips. P.L.N.A. Member Oxford Landscaping 412.996.7589 • www.oxfordlandscapingpa.com Taylor Rental, a premier rental center, has been serving the Pittsburgh area for 34 years.

Our products include canopies, tables, chairs, concession equipment, pipe/drape, staging, contractor’s equipment (Bobcats, excavators), lawn/garden, floor care, plumbing, home improvement, etc. Delivery and pickup service is available. Reservations recommended. We fill propane tanks and motorhomes. New and used equipment for sale, and equipment repair available. Visit our newly renovated showroom.

Taylor Rental Center 412.833.7300 • www.taylorrentalpittsburgh.com/bethelpark Jim Jenkins Lawn & Garden Center is the place “Where Every Lawn & Garden Should Begin.” We are a family owned business with 30 years of experience providing our customers with top-quality plants, products, and the knowledge to teach you to be a successful gardener. We offer the hottest trends in lawn and garden design and care, including unique and exclusive plants and decorating items.

Jim Jenkins Lawn & Garden Center 412.221.3070 • www.jenkinslawnandgarden.com Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

Our Home Improvement Partners

Home Improvements Real Fairview SPECIAL:

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Provides a full range of remodeling, design, and decorating products since 1995. Locally owned and operated, we offer complimentary initial design service, friendly, knowledgeable staff, and quality professional installation.

Products offered include kitchen and bath cabinetry, countertops, tile, hardwood, cork and bamboo flooring, carpet, area rugs, bath fixtures, and wallpaper.

for one that’s weather-resistant, so it will stand up to UV rays and freezing temperatures. It should also be rated “fish-safe” if you plan to stock your pond and come with a warranty of 10 to 20 years so your pond will be watertight for many years to come. sletter rict New PLUS! er School Dist Fairview p Newslett Programs Townshi on Recreati Fairview Parks & Summer

Walls, Floors, & More, Inc. 412.344.2400 • waIlsfloorsandmore.com ate Section Real Est Fairview SPECIAL:

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Clark Renovations has turned dreams into reality for over 40 years. Beautiful new kitchens, windows and doors transform your home into an energy efficient, updated space. Bathroom renovations with certain recommendations allow you to remain at home comfortably throughout the golden years. Visit our showroom at 3180 Industrial Blvd. Bethel Park or online at www. clarkremodeling.com letter trict News PLUS! School DisNewsletter ms Fairview Township reation Progra Rec Fairview Parks & Summer

Clark Renovations 412.833.7222 • www.clarkremodeling.com

Remodeling your home can generate tremendous equity for the future, as well as personal enjoyment in the present. Remodeling projects come in all shapes, sizes and costs. Projects can range from replacing flooring or a faucet, to installing new trim work or tile and replacing windows and doors. Remodeling can also take on the form of revamping or adding a bathroom, redoing a kitchen, overhauling your home’s exterior for improved curb appeal, or completing an addition to increase your home’s square footage and add valuable space. Big and small changes can both have an impact and will improve the way your home looks and functions, increasing its value and making it more enjoyable for you and your family.

The key to any remodeling job is to make sure it makes sense financially. Not all remodeling jobs are cost-effective. For example, it is possible to pay $75,000 for a new addition, but an appraiser may be of the opinion that it only raised the value of your house by $50,000. It is very important that you do as much research as possible and talk to as many experienced professionals as possible so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

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Home Improvements In Mt. Lebanon

Financing Remodeling Projects While home sales may be sluggish, home remodels are roaring. In the second quarter of 2011, Americans were expected to spend $132.8 billion on remodeling – up 12.8% over the previous year, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

And it’s no surprise that these projects aren’t cheap. In fact, the same studies report that 57% of home-remodeling projects cost at least $20,000.

Since saving your pennies in a pickle jar is probably not enough to update your master bathroom with a slate walk-in shower or add granite countertops to your kitchen, explore these options to finance your new-and-improved home.

Purchase a Variable-Rate CD What it’s good for: Projects that can wait until a fixed time in the future with a price tag you can pay by saving.

If you plan to pay for the kitchen of your dreams the old-fashioned way – by saving for it – consider a variable-rate certificate of deposit.

This savings vehicle is similar to a traditional savings account in that you can add money to it at any time (a fixed-rate CD does not allow additional deposits during the term of the CD).

In return for an interest rate that may go up or down, the interest rate often is slightly higher than a traditional CD when you buy it. You make a low minimum deposit and lock in your money for a fixed time – usually at least 6 or 12 months. If you withdraw your funds before then, you pay penalties and lose the interest.

Open a Home Equity Line of Credit What it’s good for: Long-term projects that can be paid off over five or fewer years.

The beauty of using the equity in your home is that you write yourself checks from a line of credit and pay interest on only what you borrow. Plus, the interest is typically tax deductible.

While current low interest rates add to the allure, these credit lines can be tough to come by in this climate of lowered home values and tight credit.

When interest rates rise, your home improvement project may become more expensive than you anticipated.

Refinance Your Home What it’s good for: Larger projects for a home you plan to live in for the long term.

A “cash-out” refinance allows you to refinance your mortgage for an amount that is larger than your current mortgage. You get the difference in a check – effectively rolling the sum into a newly financed 15- or 30-year mortgage. This can be an attractive option, as mortgage rates have hovered at historic lows in recent years.

continued on page 20

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business spotlight

Visions Remodeling & Home Repair (formerly Case Handyman & Remodeling)

Covering the full range of home remodeling and repair services.

C

ase Handyman & Remodeling has long been known in the South Hills area as a reliable company for everything from complete kitchen and bath remodeling to small “handyman” projects. That tradition is carried on now with a new name – Visions Remodeling & Home Repair. Founder Jeff Morris and his son Jeffrey remain with the company, and are joined by David Neff, a lifelong area resident and businessman who intends to be even more responsive to the home project needs of area residents. The company began operations seven years ago as a franchisee of Case Remodeling, and has grown significantly since then. But while the franchise model made sense as a startup company, it became unnecessary for an existing, thriving business. Visions will continue to operate with the same staff, services, and consistent quality that Case has been known for, but under a different name.

Visions is a rather unique company in the scope of services that it offers to homeowners. While some companies may offer kitchen and bath remodeling, few of them are interested in working on small projects. On the other hand, there are many small handyman companies (sometimes one person) that don’t have broad capabilities, and may be unreliable. Visions can perform almost any home service – full remodeling, small repairs, roofs, basements, window replacements, and more.

“We know how frustrating it can be for homeowners to find a good reliable, reputable source for their home repair and improvement needs,”

explains Neff. “I have experienced it many times myself. You need somebody that you can trust, even on small repairs that don’t involve a large dollar value. We want to be that company that you rely on. Many of our customers that count on us for the small stuff become clients for major projects, because they have experienced our quality and reliability, and they know that we are not just there for the high priced jobs.”

Also different about Visions is the depth of their capabilities. Their office at 2544 Washington Road in North Strabane contains a showroom for kitchen cabinets, countertops and other items, but also has an inhouse granite fabrication facility, a complete wood shop, and a painting and staining facility. Having the granite fabrication allows Visions to offer not only complete kitchen countertops, but also smaller pieces for bathroom vanities, bar surfaces, tabletops and sills. These are usually carved from remnant pieces left over from larger projects, and are on display in the outside Visions lot. They fabricate from granite, marble, quartz, soapstone, and other popular materials.

On top of all that, Visions also operates Pittsburgh Shed Company, one of the area’s largest suppliers of backyard sheds, garages and barns.

Unlike many of Pittsburgh Shed’s competitors, sheds are built at the customer premises, and many varieties and options are offered. Several examples are in place on the Visions lot.

For more information regarding Visions Remodeling & Home Repair, please visit the web site at www.visionsremodel.com, or for Pittsburgh Shed, www.pittsburghshed.com.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

Providing Outdoor Enjoyment for Over 25 Years Are you dreaming of a backyard oasis, complete with comfortable seating, fireplace and outdoor grilling station? Do you want a healthy manicured lawn, and colorful plantings to enhance the natural beauty of your yard? It’s never too early to start planning for your outdoor enjoyment.

John R. Swentosky, owner of Oxford Landscaping, has been providing professional landscaping and construction services to commercial and residential customers in the South Hills of Pittsburgh for over 25 years. His extensive landscaping knowledge and attention to detail has created gorgeous projects for residents all over Pittsburgh.

Commercial customers enjoy the benefits of having Oxford Landscaping maintain their properties, as well. Warming up to a crackling fireplace brings family and friends together. Impress your guests with home-cooked meals and chilled beverages served in your outdoor living area. Exposed aggregate patios and walkways create a unique personality of their own and are easy to maintain.

Follow us on Facebook to see pictures of completed projects and useful tips for your own yard. John is proud to be a P.L.N.A. Member.

• Lawn and landscape care/maintenance • Retaining walls/patios • Concrete sidewalks/driveways • Outdoor living areas • Fireplaces/fire pits

• Designs/plantings • Planter bed care/maintenance • Outdoor lighting • Fencing • Snow and ice removal services

The downsides include closing fees that can be in the thousands of dollars. Plus, the threshold to qualify, including income and home-value requirements, can be high – both of which can pose a challenge in this economy.

Return on your Investment Thinking about adding a deck or revamping the kitchen so you can up the price of your home before you sell? You might want to crunch the 2010-11 Cost vs. Value numbers, compiled by Remodeling magazine, before you do.

Projects with highest return on investment • Replacing entry door with steel door (102%) • Garage door replacement (84%) • Adding a wood deck (73%) • Minor kitchen remodel (73%) • Vinyl siding replacement (72%) • Wood window replacement (72%) • Attic bedroom addition (72%)

Project with lowest rate of return on investment • Home office remodel (46%) • Sunroom addition (49%) • Bathroom addition (53%) • Garage addition (59%) The data includes national and regional averages on over 20 common home improvement projects ranging from kitchens and baths to roofs and decks. Data for both midrange and upscale projects is provided on: • Average cost of project.

• Added resale value.

• Percentage of investment recouped.

• Change from last year’s report.

The above numbers assume you’re hiring out the labor on the project. If it’s a do-it-yourself project, and you do a good job, the rate of return on your investment will be higher. Unless you plan on doing the work yourself, or not doing the project makes your house undesirable or unsellable, most home improvement projects will return less from your investment than you put in, so you might want to consider staying in your home a while to enjoy the results of your improved home!

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Mt. Lebanon

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

22 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Mt. Lebanon

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

Home Improvements In Mt. Lebanon

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Mt. Lebanon

SPECIAL VALUE COUPONS

S

tarted by brothers Bill and Mike Peters more than 25 years ago, Peters Place is a destination restaurant known for its fresh, unique recipes and calm, warm atmosphere.

The restaurant’s menu is so good, Peters Place has carved out a niche as the place to go for wedding receptions.

“We do more than 40 weddings a year and can hold anywhere from 30 to 300 people in our banquet rooms,” said Mike Peters. “Our wedding packages start at $29.95 per person and include a complete dinner, 4-hour bar, champagne toasts and custom wedding cake.”

If you have your own hall, Peters Place does offsite catering as well.

But for everyday lunch and dinner, you can’t go wrong at Peters Place.

Open seven days a week at 11 a.m., patrons can get a typical lunch entrée for around $9, and a dinner entrée for around $18.

“We also do daily specials,” Peters said. “We typically have six lunch specials and six dinner specials every day.”

We had the opportunity to sample the Orange Glazed Salmon, which arrived at the table a feast to the eyes as well as the palate.

Visually, the pink salmon covered in a thick layer of orange marmalade, was served with a side of fresh, crisp green beans and a strawberry garnish. The salmon was moist, supple and perfectly done. The glaze complemented the salmon and the green beans, for a savory, fruity mix that recalls the fresh bounties of the fall farmers’ markets.

To say our chocolate mousse was decadent would be cliché, but very apropos. Fluffy and thick at the same time, the mousse was sweet, but not too sweet, and covered with a blanket

of whipped cream streaming with chocolate sauce. This is a dessert that merits a trip to Peters Place on its own.

Peters Place and their experienced

chefs never hesitate to take on a challenge. So if you like your meal prepared a certain way, just ask and they’ll do their best to accommodate your needs and flavors to your liking.

No challenge is too great for their more than 70 years of combined culinary experience.

Peters Place is conveniently located at 1199 Washington Pike, just off the I-79 exit before the Great Southern Shopping Center.

With plenty of on-site parking, you and your party will never want for a space. The kitchen closes at 9 p.m. weeknights, 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays and 8 p.m. on Sundays.

Peters Place also does off-site catering for showers, anniversaries, corporate events and more.

For more information, go to www.

Petersplacerestaurant.net, where you can view banquet room design plans, wedding menus and more. Or you can call 412.221.5000 to make reservations, although they are not required.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

BY MEL ANIE O. PAULICK

LOCAL DANCER FEATURED AS

Sugar Plum Fairy in Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh’s Rendition of “The Nutcracker”

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Mt. Lebanon

“BEING CHOSEN TO PERFORM THE SUGAR PLUM FAIRY,”

explains Caroline, “means that you have put in enough time and energy to be personally chosen to perform the legendary and difficult role.”

F

or many young girls, going to see The Nutcracker for the very first time is a rite of passage. It is a passage into a magical world, one in which form, grace and beauty are praised. It is an enchanted world: a place where a story and the imagination can play with the music of Tchaikovsky.

Undeniably, the most alluring character of the entire ballet is the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The audience waits for the moment when she enters the stage during the second act. She is the prima ballerina; she is in command of the evening. All eyes are on her. This is the role that all young girls dream of dancing when they begin learning ballet.

For three students at the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh, dreams were realized when they each got to dance the coveted role at the company’s annual performance of The Nutcracker. Lacey Gigliotti of Castle Shannon, Caroline Wilde of Bethel Park and Emily Carskadden of Mt. Lebanon each danced the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy at Independence Middle School Theater in Bethel Park on December 7, 8, and 9, 2012.

Both Emily Carskadden and Lacey Gigliotti began dancing at the age of three and Caroline Wilde started when she was six.

All have studied ballet at the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh since their opening in 2006.

Lindsay and Steven Piper, directors of the Ballet Academy, have been instrumental in teaching the girls proper technique and form, as well as pushing them to excel athletically.

At the Academy, Lacey, Caroline and Emily became the dancers that they are today. In addition to the excellent dance instruction

that they received on a daily basis at the Ballet Academy, Caroline recalls some remarkable dance teachers who guided students through summer intensives and master classes.

They include Allison DeBona of the CW’s “Breaking Pointe” and Stephen Hanna and Jock Soto, principal dancers for the New York City Ballet. “These teachers were memorable to me,” Caroline comments, “because their careers are so amazing… and I felt that if I correctly used what they taught me, I could successfully start my own career.”

All three girls have vivid memories of seeing The Nutcracker when they were young. When Emily was three years old, she went to see her cousin perform in the ballet and was instantly captivated. She remembers “…the magic of the performance: the gorgeous costumes, stunning backdrops and beautiful dancers.” When Lacey was four, her grandmother took her to see the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production in the city. She recalls that “…it was the most beautiful experience ever. I remember the dancers twirling in the falling snowflakes, the ever-growing Christmas tree, the battle scene between the mice and the Nutcracker, and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier.

I stood up to watch their every move.” It was then that Lacey knew that her life would never be the same. She thinks back to “one moment that will always be my favorite memory: when the Cavalier offers his hand to the Sugar Plum at the start of the Grande Pas [de deux]. I can honestly say that is the moment I fell in love with ballet, and started dreaming that I would someday get to wear the glistening tutu and have a hand extended to me.” Ms. Carskadden

was also smitten by the magic of the Sugar Plum Fairy. “When [she] performed, I was mesmerized. It was then that I decided that I wanted to start dancing.” It seems that seeing the Sugar Plum Fairy perform once is all it takes to inspire a future generation of dancers.

And the Sugar Plum is, indeed, iconic.

Ms. Carskadden concurs: “…[she] is the prima ballerina. The ballerina that little girls recognize. The ballerina that inspires.”

And so, Lacey, Caroline and Emily fell in love with ballet. As the years went by, the girls performed a variety of roles in the annual winter performance of The Nutcracker. Since entering the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh’s high school program, Lacey has danced the lead Spanish and Mirliton roles, the Dew Drop Fairy and the Demi-soloist in the Waltz of the Flowers. Caroline loves to perform the Marzipan lead, Dew Drop and Snow Queen.

Emily has danced a large variety of roles as well, and is so well-versed in the various characters, in fact, that she challenges anyone to “play a random piece of music from The Nutcracker and [she] will be able to dance the choreography for that part!”

This year, it was their turn to be the Sugar Plum Fairy. “Being chosen to perform the Sugar Plum Fairy,” explains Caroline, “means that you have put in enough time and energy to be personally chosen to perform the legendary and difficult role.” Thinking back to how she was feeling during those tense moments before she went on stage, Lacey Gigliotti recalls that she was “running over the choreography in my mind, reminding myself to breathe, thinking how thankful I am to have parents that support me… and I prayed.”

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

There was one moment on stage, however, that immediately calmed her and brought her confidence and assurance. During the second act, a group of the youngest dancers ran on tip-toe to give the Sugar Plum Fairy her wand.

For Lacey, “the smiles on their precious faces took away any nervousness I had. It reminded me of how far I had come.” Emily Carskadden felt like a celebrity walking from the dressing room to the stage on her performance night. “…I was stopped constantly to take photos with the younger students. It took me an extra five minutes to…get to the stage!” For the most part, Emily felt calm leading up to her performance, except for one moment before the show when her partner, who had been having back and ankle problems for a while, told her he wasn’t feeling so well.

“I tried to hold myself together,” explains Emily, “but I think by that point, I had been [feeling the] stress for so long that I had a bit of a meltdown.” What abated her stress?

Having her friends backstage supporting her and telling her that she was going to be great.

Also, one of the instructors from the Ballet Academy, Lindy Mandradjieff, made a point

to hug Emily and tell her that she was going to be amazing. “I don’t think she realizes how much that meant to me,” recalls Emily, “but I felt so much better afterwards.”

Aside from the beautiful costume and the pretty face, perhaps the main reason that the Sugar Plum Fairy is so highly regarded is the level of technique one must master in order to dance that role. Lacey explains that there are so many challenges for this dancer, including solo work, partnering, lead work with the rest of the cast, and working with the youngest dancers. Also, she explains that “the turn sequences have to be timed and spaced so carefully; the choreography is very intricate and specific to that role, not the standard combinations [from class].” Furthermore, incredible stamina is required to perform for the length of time that the Sugar Plum Fairy is on stage. Finally, everyone who performs this role has the pressure of dancing just as well or better than the previous Fairies.

While Lacey, Caroline and Emily have different plans for the future, each of them can’t imagine life without dance. Lacey hopes to make a career out of dancing, although

While balancing life as a high-school student with life as a dancer can be overwhelming at times, the girls have learned how to budget their time and manage their stress. It is never easy, however, to have to miss out on so many social and extra-curricular activities.

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she has not decided what route she would like to take. She is currently looking into college dance programs as well as graduate programs with professional companies. Caroline would like to join a ballet company or Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s graduate program. One of Emily’s prerequisites for any college or university that she will attend is that it must have some sort of ballet program – whether that is a ballet major, minor, or student-run ballet company. She comments that “…

I have been dancing for so many years - I can’t just stop dancing completely after high school. Ballet has been a part of me for as long as I can remember…to give it up now would definitely leave a gaping hole in my life.”

While balancing life as a highschool student with life as a dancer can be overwhelming at times, the girls have learned how to budget their time and manage their stress.

It is never easy, however, to have to miss out on so many social and extra-curricular activities. But, ballet does and must take precedence over those things. When asked if they had any advice for the beginning dancer, Emily responds that “… the most important thing is to keep dancing, no matter how hard it is sometimes. You will have days when [you want to quit] because you are sick of missing events and friends, but with those days come [others] when you absolutely love dance and can’t wait for your classes each day.” Lacey adds that one should “remember to dance for the moment… enjoy every part, every class. The reason you dance should be because it is fun and that there is nothing in the world you would rather do.”

For more information about the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh, visit: www.balletacademypgh.com.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

b

Straighter Teeth in Six Months after efor e

W

hen people hear that someone is getting braces, immediately images of “metal mouth” come to mind. This treatment is most commonly associated with teenagers and at one time may have led to embarrassment and insecurity. However, today braces are so widely accepted during the school-age years that children are sometimes eager to begin orthodontic treatment. It is refreshing to see this shift in acceptance among teenagers.

What about the adults who have crooked, crowded, uneven, or spaced smiles? There are adults who may have missed the opportunity to straighten their teeth when they were younger and are now looking at their options. The workplace can be as unforgiving as high schools once were. However, this shouldn’t limit adults from the opportunity to have a straighter, more attractive smile. There are currently a few options for adults to have their teeth straightened.

The traditional method of metal braces and wires over a treatment time of a couple years is still a great option for a

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Mt. Lebanon

straighter smile. For some patients’ teeth this may be the only real option. Many people do, however, fall into a category that can benefit from Invisalign or “Short Term Orthodontics.” Almost everyone has heard of Invisalign, and it is a great treatment option for patients with mild crowding and moderate spacing. However, there are limitations in tooth movement for more severe cases.

Short Term Orthodontics can provide an alternative to traditional braces and Invisalign. All three options have their benefits and limitations that should be explored before making a decision.

6 Month Smiles is a cosmetic short-term orthodontic option that uses clear brackets and tooth-colored wires. The average treatment time is six months. The technique works by focusing treatment on the patient’s primary concern. The faster treatment times are accomplished by treating only the teeth you see when you smile, not by increasing the forces on the teeth. 6 Month Smiles does not make major changes to the alignment of the back teeth as traditional braces can. Fortunately, most adults’ primary cosmetic concerns do not involve the back teeth. The treatment comfort is comparable to traditional braces. With 6 Month Smiles, your smile can be straighter and more symmetrical in 5 -8 months.

Whitening is also included with treatment. Another benefit of 6 Month Smiles is that it is typically a more economical choice due to shorter treatment times and lower cost.

6 Month Smiles is not a replacement for traditional braces, but rather an alternative that can provide a more symmetrical and pleasing smile for adults who are not interested in the time, costs, or cosmetics of traditional braces. Children are still best treated by traditional comprehensive orthodontics, but it is nice for adults to have one more option for a straighter smile. Dr. Rairigh is a certified Invisalign and 6 Month Smiles provider. Learn more at PittsburghIsSmiling.com or 6MonthSmiles.com.

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Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

GAELIC FOOTBALL GROWING in Pittsburgh Area and Across the United States

BY MATTHEW J. FASCETTI

When Mt. Lebanon resident, John Young, was a 17 year old boy he left Ireland with a group and participated in an eight month study program at Duquesne University. He didn’t know what to expect in Pittsburgh, but he soon fell in love with it, in part because of the city’s rich Irish culture. He returned to Ireland at the end of the program to finish school. Ten months later, he won a lifetime visa and returned to Pittsburgh for good.

Shortly after coming back to Pittsburgh, Young began playing on the Pittsburgh Gaelic football team. So what is Gaelic football you might ask?

According to the Pittsburgh Gaelic Athletic Association, Gaelic Football can be described as a mixture of soccer and rugby, although it pre-dates both of those games. It is a field game which originated in Ireland in the 14th century and is the most popular sport in Ireland in terms of attendance. Gaelic Football has spread throughout the world, especially in North America where the North American County Board (NACB) of the Gaelic Athletic Association was formed to promote the sports of Hurling, Gaelic Football, and Camogie.

Gaelic Football is played on a field approximately 135 yards long and 90 yards wide. The goalposts are the same

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shape as on a rugby field, with the crossbar lower than a rugby one and slightly higher than a soccer one. The ball used in Gaelic Football is round and slightly smaller and harder than a soccer ball. It can be carried in the hand for a distance of four steps and can be kicked or “hand-passed” (a striking motion with the hand or fist) to a teammate. After every four steps the ball must be either bounced (similar to a basketball dribble) or “solo-ed”, an action of dropping the ball onto the foot and kicking it back into the hand. You may not bounce the ball twice in a row. To score, you put the ball over the crossbar by foot or hand/fist for one point or under the crossbar and into the net (similar to a soccer goal) by foot (or hand/fist in certain circumstances) for a goal. The goal is defended by a goalie and worth three points when scored.

The scoring of a Gaelic game is posted as follows: the number of goals scored by a team is posted first and the number of points scored by that same team is posted second. So a score of 3-11 would be the American equivalent to 20 ((3x3)+11).

A final score of 4-8 to 1-15 would be the American equivalent to 20-18. In North America, each team consists of thirteen players, lining out as follows: one goalkeeper, two full-backs, three half-backs, two midfielders, three halfforwards and two full-forwards. A game is

Mt. Lebanon

played over two 30 minute halves.

The Pittsburgh men’s Gaelic football team has 35 players. They play their games at Founders Field and practice at Bishop Canevin. The team travels around the country to play other teams; playing between 14 and 16 games a year. After playing for nearly twenty years, Young is now coach of the team, along with John Connolly. Young is also Chairman of the Association. Young owes a lot to the Gaelic football league; he even met his wife Marie through the league. “Marie is from Ireland and she was living there at the time,” he explains. “She came to visit her brother, who was playing on the Pittsburgh team with me, and we met and the rest is history. She loves it here now as well.” Marie plays on the Gaelic football’s ladies team, which has approximately 25 players.

The Pittsburgh team is a two time National Champion, having won the title in San Francisco two years ago and won the title again in Philadelphia last season.

The team is approximately 50% American and 50% Irish. They are the first and only non all Irish team in league history to win a championship.

The team, along with the Pittsburgh Gaelic Athletic Association, is active in all things Irish across the city, including marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The team is able to operate through

sponsorships and year-long fundraising efforts.

Anyone is eligible to be a part of the Gaelic football league either as a player or a volunteer; they are always looking for new people that are enthusiastic about learning the game.

For more information, or to get involved, please visit www.pittsburghgaa.com or call John Young at 412.452.1040.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Mt. Lebanon resident Dr. Hanna Dziamko creates stunning Ukrainian Easter eggs and shares her knowledge with those who want to learn this ancient art 34 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE |

Two sisters – Svitlana and Hanna Dziamko were born in Ukraine and came to the USA after Perestroika when the Soviet borders got somewhat softer. Both sisters reside in Mt. Lebanon just a few streets away from each other and are accomplished professionals.

Svitlana Dziamko Tomson is a CPA and Dr. Hanna Dziamko is a pharmacist in the Pittsburgh area.

However, Ukrainian heritage is very dear to both of them and that’s what enticed them in 2009 to spearhead the establishment of The Ukrainian Community of Western Pennsylvania (UCOWPA) – a 501(c) (3) arts and cultural nonprofit organization.

Currently, more than 40,000 people in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area trace their heritage to Ukraine and UCOWPA’s objectives are to bring together the different generations of Ukrainian Americans, their descendants and any person who is interested in the promotion of Ukrainian culture in Western Pennsylvania, and to present cultural and educational programs at which all ages can participate.

When it comes to preserving her Ukrainian heritage, Svitlana refers to Ukraine’s greatest poet, artist and champion of his people’s freedom, Taras Shevchenko, who once wrote: “…learn from others, but do not forsake your own.”

Svitlana believes that “… those words are as relevant today as they were over 100 years ago. To forget where we came from is to be as a river without a source or a tree without roots and it is very important that our children learn as much as possible about their ancestors and keep our beautiful Ukrainian culture alive.”

Hanna believes that “… we are blessed to live in the Pittsburgh region where cultural contributions from people around the world are appreciated and valued.

Mt. Lebanon

There are always people that search for resources to enrich their knowledge about different cultures.“ To contribute to this cause, Svitlana and Hanna volunteer at UCOWPA’s Ukrainian Easter Egg Decoration Workshop. Hanna creates stunning

Ukrainian Easter Eggs and she shares her knowledge with those who want to learn this ancient art.

Are you ready to learn a new skill and make something pretty? Register for the 4th Annual UCOWPA Ukrainian Easter Egg Decorating Workshop. How cool is this? You use beeswax to draw on an egg, and then dye the egg. When the wax is removed, you’ve got a beautifully decorated, unique egg. This ancient technique is fun for all ages, and allows for artistic expression as well as an enjoyable process. Dr. Hanna Dziamko will show you how to do it – step by step. No experience necessary and all participants will take home their own creation.

This year Western churches will celebrate Easter on March 31st while Orthodox Christians will celebrate Easter on May 5th. To accommodate both, UCOWPA will offer two workshops: March 16th and April 13, 2013. Space is limited and pre-registration is required by March 8 and April 7, 2013 accordingly.

Register online at ucowpa.org or call 412.364.0968.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

A Stellar Send-Off Pittsburgh City Council recently honored Family Hospice and Palliative Care full-time therapy dog Ivan, a five year-old Golden Retriever, with an official proclamation. Since June of 2010, Ivan has provided compassionate care to patients at Family Hospice’s Center for Compassionate Care inpatient unit in Mt. Lebanon. The inpatient center serves patients who are residents of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County and Western Pennsylvania. Reading the proclamation at The Center for Compassionate Care is Lori Marabello, Executive Assistant to Pittsburgh Councilwoman Theresa Kail-Smith. Ivan is seen with his owner and Family Hospice President & CEO Rafael Sciullo. Family Hospice is also served by nine other therapy dogs who visit patients in the community thanks to the efforts of Family Hospice volunteers. Sciullo and Ivan departed Family Hospice at the end of January, as Sciullo is moving on to become President and CEO of Suncoast Hospice in Clearwater, FL.

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Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

Help for Lonely in Mt. Lebanon

Professional actors performing F.J. Hartland’s “Adrift.”

The gallery area of Third Street Art Gallery

Mike Buzzelli, actor, writer and standup comedian addresses the audience about local screenwriters.

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Mt. Lebanon

Screenwriter s

by P a m e l a P a l o n g u e

D

oes the name Tony Kushner ring a bell? How about William Nicholson?

Kushner wrote the screenplay for the recently released “Lincoln” and Nicholson did the screen adaptation for the film version of “Les Miserables.”

Though many of us may have seen these movies and laughed and cried with the characters as their words plucked at our emotions and the story unfolds before us, few people give much thought to the fact that their utterances were penned by a screenwriter, laboring away in a solitary endeavor.

Everyone has their story to tell and a new group called Carnegie Screenwriters Group, supports local aspiring screenwriters to help them get their works from the written page to film. The group originally met at the Carnegie Library in Oakland, hence the name, but now meets the third Saturday of every month at the Mt. Lebanon Library. Mt. Lebanon area residents are lucky to have the group right around the corner in the neighborhood, when individuals drive from the four corners of Pittsburgh to attend the meetings.

Founded by Bob Scott, who is the current president of the group, they are seeking non-profit status, which should be obtained later this year. “We are interested in every type of screenplay from full-length features to short films, teleplays or documentaries,” explains Scott. “Our goal is to support local screenwriters in getting their works into production and to help with the educational aspect of screenwriting.”

The group meets and discusses strategies for submitting and producing works and then readings are done of scenes from feature length screenplays and short scripts, with helpful suggestions and encouragement.

Recently, the group has begun sponsoring live readings of scripts at the Third Street Art Gallery in Carnegie on the third Monday of each month. The

Carnegie Mayor Jack Kobistek speaks with Carnegie Screenwriter’s Founder and President, Bob Scott.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

Car negie Screenwriter s Group continued from previous page scripts are read by professional actors amid the ambiance of colorful works of art in a turn-of-the-century building with painted tin ceilings, exposed brick and original hardwood floors.

The first event, which took place on February 18, was a great success in which three short scripts were presented, “Adrift” by F. J. Hartland, “Poetry Camp” by Ken Levarse and “The Shoe Rack” by Beth Rohach. All the works were well-received by the audience with enthusiastic applause. “Poetry Camp” had the audience howling with laughter and local author, screenwriter and stand-up comedian Mike Buzzelli read from his recently released book, “Below Average Genius.” Based on his comical view of every day life, the audience connected with his endearing humor.

Scott commented on the event which was attended by approximately 50 people. “I think this is a great inaugural event for us and a great turnout. It’s nice to have a forum to present the screenplays and we hope to get many more submissions and members.”

Glassware and pottery displayed at the art gallery.

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For more information on the Carnegie Screenwriters Group, you may visit the group’s website at www.carnegieceenwriters.squarespace. com. The organization also has a Facebook page. The group’s meeting times are listed on the Mt. Lebanon Public Library Calendar at www.MtLebanonLibary.org.

UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Spring 2013

What’s Inside 2

When It’s More than Just Heartburn

3 4

Hope and Healing A Healing Touch Food in a Glass

5

Clinical Trials Can Change Lives

6 7

Depression and Older Adults Comprehensive Care for Today’s Urology Patients

© 2013 UPMC

When It’s More Than Just Heartburn UPMC Mercy offers comprehensive testing and minimally invasive surgery for complex problems of the esophagus.

Most of us can count on an antacid or two to tame a bad case of heartburn. But acid reflux, of which heartburn is a symptom, can lead to a far more uncomfortable and potentially dangerous condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

• Large hiatal hernia (also known as giant paraesophageal hernia) repair • Achalasia (a rare swallowing disorder) surgical therapy • Esophageal diverticulum repair and removal “Patients travel hundreds of miles, and most have had prior surgeries,” notes Dr. Awais. “Before and after operating, we use a quality of life test to measure a patient’s degree of reflux.

We’ve learned that our patients typically experience better outcomes, less pain, and faster recovery times through our efforts. We also work with patients on long-term lifestyle changes to maintain their health.”

Linette says her re-operation “saved my life. I feel like a new person.” She has lost weight and no longer takes medication for diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

Testing is key A variety of tests are needed prior to any esophageal or gastric surgery. At UPMC Mercy, patients can get these tests done quickly and efficiently at one location, including: Endoscopy — Allows a doctor to use a thin, narrow tube with a camera and light to view the inside of the throat and stomach Motility testing — Identifies how well the muscles of the esophagus are functioning

Linette Johns of Upper Burrell first underwent surgery for GERD in 2000. But in recent years, severe heartburn and other symptoms reappeared. “I knew the success rate of a repeat surgery on the esophagus wasn’t good, so I was hesitant to have it done,” says Linette. “But my son, Jeff, who’s studying to be a doctor, told me that I could be at risk for esophageal cancer. That motivated me to take the next step.”

Tackling complicated cases In March 2012, Omar Awais, DO, chief of thoracic surgery at UPMC Mercy, performed the repeat surgery on Linette. Under his expertise, some of the region’s most complex, minimally invasive esophageal surgeries are taking place at UPMC Mercy, including: • Minimally invasive surgery to remove all or part of the esophagus to treat esophageal cancer • Repair of recurrent hiatal hernia • Repeat esophageal surgery

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Acid ph testing — Measures the amount of acid exposure into the esophagus Impedance testing — Measures the frequency and amount of gastric fluids (both acidic and non-acidic) entering the esophagus and larynx from the stomach

Are you at risk?

“Certainly not everyone with GERD requires surgery. Most cases can be controlled through medical therapy, weight loss, modified diet, and medication,” says Dr. Awais. “But early detection and treatment of GERD is key because of its associated risk with esophageal cancer.” At greatest risk are men over the age of 50 who are obese and have suffered from heartburn three or more times a week for five years or longer.

To learn more about UPMC Mercy’s programs to diagnose and treat complex problems of the esophagus, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Hope and Healing UPMC is leading the way with new treatment options for hepatitis C.

Decades after receiving a childhood blood transfusion, Chris Sosinski was shocked to learn he had the hepatitis C virus, which had led to cirrhosis and the prospect of a liver transplant.

Today, Chris remains hepatitis C negative, thanks to a new direct-acting antiviral therapy he received at the UPMC Center for Liver Diseases last year. Months after ending treatment in October, his viral load remains at zero.

“That means it’s gone,” says Chris, 49, of Jeannette. “No more medicine and — if I take care of myself — no transplant.”

Baby boomers beware Chris is one of a growing number of baby boomers diagnosed with hepatitis C, a problem so serious that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that everyone born between 1945 and 1965 be tested for the virus.

The CDC estimates that more than 75 percent of the nation’s 3 million adults currently living with hepatitis C are baby boomers — and most don’t know they’re infected.

“Hepatitis C is a silent disease; most people have no symptoms,” says Kapil Chopra, MD, director, UPMC Center for Liver Diseases. “But if diagnosed early, it can be cured or managed successfully before it can develop into cirrhosis or liver cancer.”

A new era of treatment Thankfully for Chris and other hepatitis C patients, two drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 ushered in a new era of treatment, delivering improved cure rates and shorter treatment time for the most prevalent — and hardest to treat — strain of the virus. Playing a critical role was the UPMC Center for Liver Diseases, where specialists have been at the forefront in the evaluation and clinical trials of promising new therapies.

Hundreds of UPMC patients took part in groundbreaking clinical trials for those new drugs. (Turn to page 5 to learn about other clinical trials and how they are affecting patients’ lives.) Today, even more are participating in clinical trials of new therapies at UPMC with the potential for even better results in fighting chronic hepatitis C infections.

“These are exciting times. Over the next few years, we expect to have several new options that will eradicate the hepatitis C virus in most patients without side effects,” says Dr. Chopra.

“It’s a new era of treatment and hope for our patients.”

A leading resource for complex care Treating and managing hepatitis C can be complex for both patients and health care providers. In the tri-state area, UPMC is the leading provider of comprehensive and advanced specialty care for patients with the virus.

“Our multidisciplinary specialists are involved in researching and evaluating new treatments. They bring a unique perspective for managing these complex therapies,” explains Dr. Chopra.

These specialists work together to assess patients, select appropriate antiviral therapies, educate patients, monitor for adverse effects and drug interactions, and provide support for patients and family members. “They are familiar with the latest, cutting-edge therapies and developing new ones,” adds Dr. Chopra. For those patients who don’t respond to treatment and are experiencing liver failure, the program also provides seamless transition to UPMC’s internationally renowned transplant program.

To read about the risk factors for hepatitis C and what you can do, visit UPMC.com/Today. For more information about treatments for hepatitis C, contact the UPMC Center for Liver Diseases at 1-800-447-1651.

1-800-533-UPMC

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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

A Healing Touch There are ways to relieve pain and nausea through alternative medicine.

A growing number of patients are adding acupuncture and other alternative therapies to their medical care.

“You don’t have to be a believer for it to work,” says Betty Liu, MD, a physician and acupuncture specialist at the UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “I’ve seen dramatic reductions in pain and nausea — some instantaneous, some after multiple sessions.”

Who uses it?

Patients frequently turn to acupuncture and other therapies to control pain, including arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, migraines, and spasms, or to ease nausea due to pregnancy or chemotherapy.

Integrating these therapies with conventional medicine can help patients find relief more quickly, or continue making progress toward their goals.

What are some treatments?

Acupuncture, one of the most popular therapies, uses thin needles to stimulate various points around the body. “We’re not certain how it works, but we know it releases endorphins, which act like opiates to relieve pain,” Dr. Liu says.

Massage therapy uses acupressure and deep tissue massage to increase blood flow to an injured area and release endorphins.

What is alternative medicine?

If you visit an acupuncturist or chiropractor, you’re seeking treatment in the field of complementary and alternative medicine — an increasingly mainstream tool for doctors.

Chiropractic medicine adjusts the spine through manipulation to put the body into better alignment.

For more information about alternative treatments, visit UPMC.com/Today.

Food in a Glass Choosing the best milk option for you.

Are you lingering longer in the dairy aisle, pondering your ever-increasing options?

Should you reach for your usual skim milk — or be adventurous and try rice, almond, or soy?

Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD, UPMC’s director of sports nutrition, says making the right choice is this simple: “Essentially, milk is food in a glass. Choose the drink that offers the best nutrition for your needs.”

Not all milk and dairy alternatives are equal: read labels carefully, comparing the fat and carbohydrate contents. “For example, to reduce soy milk’s ‘beanie’ taste, sugar is added,” explains Ms. Bonci. “That can jump the carbohydrate count from 12 to 24 grams.”

Look beyond just calories, too: milk is rich in protein, calcium, and minerals. “An 8-ounce serving of milk has 8 grams of protein, compared to 6 grams for soy milk and just 1 gram for almond and rice milk,” she adds.

Unless a food allergy is present, the best choice for most of us is cow’s milk. “For children under two, select whole milk,” says Ms. Bonci. “Otherwise, reach for 1 percent or skim milk — both offer a lower saturated fat content and higher calcium. Enhanced or ‘super’ skim milk features a richer texture many people prefer.”

And if you’re debating about organic versus regular milk, Ms. Bonci advises that your pocketbook be your guide. “There’s no nutritional difference between the two,” she says.

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Clinical Trials Can Change Lives Bringing patients, physicians, and researchers together to change the future of medicine.

Research opens the door for new possibilities in patient care.

But long before a drug, medical device, treatment, or surgical procedure becomes widely available, it must first be proven safe and effective.

therapy from a patient’s own fat tissue,” explains Dr. Rubin.

“By harnessing the body’s own regenerative capabilities, we’re applying new technologies and scientific advancements to restore both form and function in patients.” For more information, visit UPMC.com/restore or call 412-864-2587.

Solutions for out-of-control blood pressure. Of the 67 million Americans with high blood pressure, more than half fail to keep it under control. Many have difficulty battling the disease despite taking three or more medications, a condition known as treatment-resistant hypertension.

As part of the body’s sympathetic nervous system, our kidneys play an important role in regulating long-term blood pressure.

In most patients with hypertension, the sympathetic nervous system is overactive, thereby increasing blood pressure and causing heart, kidney, and blood vessel damage.

At UPMC, clinical trials are the bridge between research and the future of modern medicine. As one of the nation’s top-ranked health care systems, UPMC annually directs or participates in hundreds of groundbreaking clinical trials in virtually every medical specialty. Some are offered only at UPMC, while others are part of national and even international trials. Each is carefully monitored and measured by expert UPMC physicians who are leaders in their fields.

For a patients whose illness has no cure or no longer responds to current treatment, UPMC’s clinical trials offer potentially life-saving medical breakthroughs. Other patients enroll in clinical trials with the hope of finding a better or more costeffective treatment.

The following three UPMC trials currently are seeking qualified patient volunteers: Healing soldiers disfigured in battle. A flash of light, the sound of an explosion … and a soldier’s life is forever changed by a traumatic facial injury. But thanks to two government-funded clinical trials, efforts are under way at UPMC to improve the lives of wounded soldiers through facial reconstruction using the person’s own tissue. The study is enrolling military and civilian patients with visible deformities of the head or face following trauma, applying minimally invasive therapy to restore a more normal appearance.

These trials are led by J. Peter Rubin, MD, director of UPMC’s Center for Innovation in Restorative Medicine and an expert in adult stem cells derived from fat. “We’re using stem cell

John Schindler, MD, an interventional cardiologist with UPMC’s Heart and Vascular Institute, is participating in an industryfunded clinical trial in which a device is placed in an artery leading to the kidney. “This therapy uses a catheter to deliver low radiofrequency energy to destroy or disable the renal nerves,” says Dr. Schindler. “If effective, this device could be a valuable alternative to medications for patients with resistant hypertension.” For more information, contact Lisa Baxendell, RN, at 412-802-8672.

Eliminating blood clots. In 2013, nearly a quarter-million adults will be diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in which blood clots form mainly in a deep vein in the leg. DVT can result in persistent leg pain and swelling; if the clot breaks loose and moves to the lungs, a potentially deadly pulmonary embolism can occur. Conventional treatment involves blood thinners and wearing compression hosiery. “We want to dissolve the clot to eliminate its consequences,” says Rabih Chaer, MD, a UPMC vascular surgeon.

Dr. Chaer is participating in a national, multidisciplinary clinical trial to determine if DVT patients would benefit from a more aggressive treatment involving the use of an image-guided catheter to dissolve the clot. “In vascular surgery, our work is technology driven; medical devices are constantly changing,” says Dr. Chaer. “By testing innovative devices, we offer our patients new opportunities to alleviate or resolve their illness.”

For more information, contact Susan Tamburro at 412-623-8452.

For a complete list of clinical trials now available, please visit UPMC.com/Today. To learn more about the benefits of clinical trials in patient care, please turn to page 3 and read about UPMC’s advancements in the treatment of hepatitis C.

1-800-533-UPMC

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Depression and Older Adults While it may be common, it’s important to know that depression is not a normal part of aging.

Its services include: • Preventive services, evaluation, and consultation • Treatment through therapy and/or medication • Participation in innovative research studies • Educational support • Referrals for assistance

Research studies benefit patients today and tomorrow Among the center’s current research studies are efforts to improve sleep patterns, lower stress levels, promote brain health, and reduce pain as a way of preventing depression among adults age 60 and older.

These include: RECALL: A study about reducing stress among seniors experiencing mild memory, language, or judgment loss RAPID: A study for adults with osteoarthritis knee pain More than 6.5 million Americans over age 65 experience latelife depression that can last for months and even years. But many older adults and their caretakers don’t seek treatment because they think depression is inevitable as we age. Its symptoms — irritability, social isolation, poor sleep, loss of appetite, and memory loss — also are easily mistaken as signs of other illnesses.

“Depression erodes our quality of life, our productivity, and our ability to have fulfilling relationships,” explains Charles Reynolds III, MD, director, Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh. He also is director of the Center of Excellence in Late Life Depression Prevention and Treatment Research at the University of Pittsburgh. The center is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

“Untreated, late-life depression puts older adults at risk for significant declines in their mental and physical health. It can be so debilitating that it threatens their ability to live independently,” he notes. “But the right professional help and medications can be life changing for these individuals.”

A wide range of support The center offers expertise in the detection, prevention, and treatment of depression, stress, complicated bereavement, or bipolar disorders in older adults. Through its research focus, all visits and medications are provided at no cost.

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Addressing Pain and Depression Together (ADAPT): A study for adults living with both depression and back pain Healing Emotions After Loss (HEAL): A study for adults ages 18 to 95 who are experiencing prolonged or acute grief lasting six months or more over the loss of a loved one

One of the nation’s leading programs of its kind The Center of Excellence in Late Life Depression Prevention and Treatment Research is located in the Oakland area of Pittsburgh at both the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health and Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. It is one of only three centers of excellence in geriatric psychiatry funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and the John A. Hartford Foundation.

To learn more about the center’s services or to participate in one of its current research programs, call 412-246-6006 or visit latelifedepression.org.

Comprehensive Care for Today’s Urology Patients From medication to radiation to surgical robotic technology, the new UPMC Mercy urology center offers tailored, cutting-edge care for patients.

Whether you need medical care for bladder cancer, an enlarged prostate, urinary tract infection, or sexual dysfunction, UPMC Mercy offers comprehensive care to treat the special urological health needs of both men and women.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy — A highly specialized, minimally invasive keyhole procedure to remove large kidney stones by using high frequency sound waves to break them down and a vacuum to quickly remove fragments.

“Our urologists are experts in caring for even the most complicated and difficult cases,” says Ronald Benoit, MD, a urologic surgeon and director of the UPMC Mercy urology center, where he leads a team of highly trained specialists in general urology, urologic oncology, reconstructive surgery, and kidney stone removal.

To schedule an appointment with a urologist at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-5850.

As a Center of Excellence in Urologic Care, UPMC Mercy features a skilled multidisciplinary team of urologists trained in treating patients who have disorders and diseases of the kidneys, bladder, or prostate.

The latest in diagnosis and treatment techniques According to Dr. Benoit, the hospital’s urology specialists use advanced technologies, medical equipment, and treatments — including minimally invasive surgical technology and robotic surgery — aimed at reducing postoperative pain, recovery time, and side effects.

“Robotic urology uses endoscopic techniques, so patients have smaller incisions and a faster recovery time,” says Dr. Benoit.

This technology is ideal for complex and delicate urologic surgeries, such as a prostatectomy, where doctors must operate in a tightly confined area surrounded by nerves affecting urinary control and sexual function.

Special procedures at UPMC Mercy’s urology center include: Robotic-assisted prostatectomy — A minimally invasive, nerve-sparing procedure for prostate cancer that preserves potency and urinary control.

Laparoscopic nephrectomy — A minimally invasive procedure that allows all or part of the kidney to be removed through a keyhole procedure instead of a large open incision.

Prostate brachytherapy (seed implants) — An effective treatment for patients with prostate cancer where seed implants are used to deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumor while reducing the risk of complications to surrounding tissue. UPMC Mercy is the only Pittsburgh hospital using Cesium-131, a newer compound that does not remain in the body as long as traditional treatments, resulting in faster resolution of side effects.

Leaders in urologic care As a Center of Excellence in Urologic Care, UPMC Mercy has recently recruited several prominent experts — all of whom earned medical degrees at the University of Pittsburgh, including: Mang Chen, MD, a reconstructive urology specialist, completed a fellowship in urologic trauma and reconstruction at the Detroit Medical Center.

Michelle Jo Semins, MD, a kidney stone specialist, completed her residency in urology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, where she also underwent special training in endourology, a minimally invasive technique to treat kidney stones.

Tatum Tarin, MD, a urologic oncology specialist, completed his residency in urology at Stanford University Medical Center and a urologic oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

1-800-533-UPMC

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UPMC Mercy

1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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

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

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

Care that women can believe in as strongly as their Catholic faith.

UPMC Mercy provides a full range of women’s health services rooted in the Catholic tradition.

From prenatal education, to menopause diagnosis and treatment, to complete oncological care, and much more, UPMC Mercy strives to ensure the comfort of patients in body, mind, and spirit. This holistic approach is the foundation of more than 150 years of women’s health services.

To learn more about UPMC Mercy OB/GYN services, or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/Mercy.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 49

Mt. Lebanon Public Library

NEWS

Cynthia K. Richey named 2013 ALSC Distinguished Service Award recipient

By Caroline Jewell Cynthia K. Richey was named the 2013 recipient of the Association for Library Service to Children’s (ALSC) Distinguished Service Award, honoring an individual who has made significant contributions to library service to children and to ALSC. She began her career as children’s librarian in 1971 and for the past 17 years has served as director of the Mt. Lebanon Public Library in Pennsylvania . She has been a role model and mentor to many over the years. ALSC, libraries, children and their families have significantly benefited from her exemplary practical and visionary leadership and knowledge of both children and children’s literature.

Richey was 1994 president of the Pennsylvania Library Association and was on the board of directors of the Allegheny County Library Association. In 2006, she won the New York Times Librarian Award.

She is a frequent speaker and spokesperson for libraries in print and broadcast media throughout her state and the country. She is also chair of the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Council on Library Development, as well as an Honorary Life Member of the Pennsylvania PTA. She has been an active member of ALSC and ALA throughout her career. In addition to serving as ALSC President (2003-2004) and on ALA Council, she has served on numerous committees and as a priority group consultant. “I am deeply honored to be admitted to this distinguished group of colleagues who share a passion for the profession and an abiding commitment to the very best library service to children and their families. I absolutely love my service for ALSC and libraries and librarians everywhere. It is the most rewarding career,” said Richey.

“Cynthia has been active on the local, state and national levels, taking on more responsibility as she progressed to leadership levels,” said Distinguished Service Award Committee Chair Carol Doll.

“Her contributions to children and to ALSC are far reaching and long lasting in developing literacy in children and in moving ALSC forward in a positive, helpful way that brings out the best in all of us.”

ALSC, a division of the ALA, is the world’s largest organization dedicated to the support and enhancement of library service to children. With a network of more than 4,000 children’s and youth librarians, literature experts, publishers and educational faculty, ALSC is committed to creating a better future for children through libraries. To learn more about ALSC, visit ALSC’s website at www.ala.org/alsc.

The 2013 ALSC Distinguished Service Award Committee includes: Chair Carol A. Doll, Old Dominion University, Darden College of Education, Norfolk, Va.; Margaret A. Bush, Professor Emeritus, Graduate School of Library and Information Science, Simmons College, Boston; Sharon Haupt, San Luis Coastal Unified School District, San Luis Obispo, Calif.; Dr. Barbara F. Immroth, University of Texas at Austin; Dr. Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Va.

Volunteer Opportunities at Mt. Lebanon Public Library!

The word “volunteer” stems from the Latin word for choice. We are fortunate, indeed, that so many members of our community have chosen to volunteer at the library. People do it for many reasons: personal satisfaction, a desire to give to others, a keen sense of social responsibility, a love of books and reading opportunity, or to socialize with like-minded others. In 2012 more than 300 volunteers contributed over 13,400 hours to the library!

What do our volunteers do? Among other innumerable activities, they edit and mail the Friends of the Library newsletter, staff The Book Cellar, conduct library programs such as our Language Groups and Book Clubs, keep books in order on the shelves, landscape the library grounds, prepare new books for the public to check out, teach computer classes, make posters and fliers for programs, deliver books to institutional or homebound residents, and conduct our fabulous Garden Tour, Beer Fests, and other fundraising events each year.

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The Book Cellar—Help with this terrific year-round used book shop

benefiting the library.

Computer Coach—Provide interactive computer instruction for

individuals and small groups.

Library Gardener—Participate in hands-on gardening and landscaping activities in the library’s award-winning garden.

Gadget Guru—Guide individuals or small groups in hands-on instruction for new technologies and related library resources, such as tablets, eReaders, or smart phones as well as downloadable digital library content like eBooks, digital magazines, and media.

Library Aide—Help keep materials in order along with book displays and other special projects.

Program Partner—Assist librarians in presenting library programs for adults, teens or children, or present a program of your own.

We invite you to become a member of our impressive group of volunteers. Please ask for a volunteer form or check our web site: www. mtlebanonlibrary.org/volunteering-library.

Financial History Study Series at Mt. Lebanon Public Library A facilitated program series entitled “The History and Impact of Financial Power – The Vampiric Rise, Fall and Rise Again of Financial Capitalism, 1868 to 2008” will be held at Mt. Lebanon Public Library starting on March 5th. The moderator is John Hemington, a retired attorney and IT director with over 40 years’ independent study of economic and political power. In this series, group members will examine, evaluate and draw conclusions from the historical, political and economic roots of the Great Financial Crisis of 2008 (GFC). They will attempt to determine whether the same processes, problems and structures which led to the Great Depression are related to the later events which triggered the GFC and evaluate the contribution of the economic establishment’s ideas, models and policy prescriptions, and their relationship to the ongoing turmoil in the world’s largest economies.

The program begins on March 5th and will meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Participation is free and an interest in this area of study is important. It will involve a commitment of time and a willingness to read three books on which the seminar is based: Tragedy and Hope – A History of the World in Our Time (1966), by Carroll Quigley; The Gods of Money – Wall Street and the Death of the American Century (2009), by F. William Engdahl; and Debunking Economics – The Naked Emperor Dethroned (Revised Edition, 2011), by Prof. Steve Keen. These texts are available for use at Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

Carroll Quigley, whose book Tragedy and Hope is a central focus of this project, is one of the very few historians whose studies concentrated on the activities and operations of the world’s “power elite” in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and is reputed to have been the only historian ever given unfettered access to the Archives of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Rockefeller archives. Prior to his death in 1977 Quigley taught at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, where one of his better known students was Bill Clinton, he earlier taught at both Princeton and Harvard.

For more information about this program, please contact Mt. Lebanon Public Library at 412.531.1912 or John Hemington at jehemington@verizon.net.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 51

Mt. Lebanon Public Library

16 Castle Shannon Blvd. • Pittsburgh, PA 15228 • 412.531.1912 • www.mtlebanonlibrary.org Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. / Friday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. / Sunday: 1 – 5 p.m. (Jan - May)

M A R C H • A P R I L • M AY All library events are on our website www.mtlebanonlibrary.org The calendar of events website is www.eventkeeper.com/code/events. cfm?curOrg=MTLEB Be advised that non-library events are also included on the calendar. Some are simply organization meetings, but others may be of interest to the community.

The following are strictly library events:

Exciting Events The Life and Constitutions of Benjamin Franklin 10 a.m., Fridays, March 1, 8, 15, 22 & April 5, 12 (no class March 29) Join the popular Dr. Cleon Cornes for a fascinating 6-week study of the dramatic events in his life and his many contributions to our history and culture.

Creating an Easy-care Garden of Roses 6:30 p.m., Monday, March 4 David McKibben, Consulting Rosarian for the American Rose Society, will challenge some of the myths associated with growing roses in a home garden. It all starts with selecting the right rose for the right location.

Proper planting techniques, easy pruning methods, and low-environmental impact disease and insect control are among the topics to be discussed.

Slovak Heritage 7 p.m., Mondays March 4: “Slovakia Today vs. Slovakia of Our Ancestors” Rev. Johannes Oravecz from Slovakia will make the comparisons with insights into religious practices.

April 1: “Life of a Tammy” Katka Gallagher, a Duquesne University Tamburitzan, will discuss the selection process, summer camp, costumes and the travel involved.

May 6: “Folk Customs of Eastern Slovakia” John Righetti, one of our previous speakers,

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will be back to discuss the customs of East Slovaks and Rusyns, from Christmas to Easter to christenings, funerals, weddings and fertility protection, including demonstration of the rituals with incantations.

The History & Impact of Financial Power: The Vampiric Rise, Fall & Rise Again of Financial Capitalism 7 p.m., Tuesdays, March 5, April 2 & May 7 This new year-long series meets monthly and will be a study of the historical, political, and economic roots of the Great Depression and the Great Financial Crisis of 2008.

This innovative and interactive program will attempt to determine whether the same processes, problems, and structures which led to the Great Depression also contributed to the GFC of 2008. Three texts will be used and a copy of each will be on reserve at Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

Tea at Downtown Abbey 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 6 You are cordially invited to join us for tea and comestibles while we discuss the show, vote for our favorite characters, engage in an exciting trivia contest with prizes, and predict the developments in future seasons!

We’ll have some intriguing surprises, too.

Feel free to dress in your best Downtown Abbey-inspired costume and bring your own cup and saucer! Please register at the Reference desk… or have a word with Carson. 412.531.1912 League of Women Voters Lunchtime Series 12:30 p.m., Thursdays, March 7: Sentencing Reform & April 4: TBA Bring a brown bag lunch and gain insights on important issues.

Knitting Circle at the Library 1:30 p.m., Wednesdays, March 13, April 10 & May 8 Do you or your child enjoy knitting?

Crocheting? Handwork? If so, come and enjoy working together - parents and homeschooled children as well as other

adults are welcome. Learn new skills, share your expertise, and make friends during this daytime group!

Author Talk: Chris Rodell 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 13 Latrobe-based Chris Rodell writes weekly offbeat travel features for msnbc. com and has written features and essays for Esquire, Cooking Light, People, Maxim, Men’s Health, Playboy, Golf, Details, and Arnold Palmer’s Kingdom magazine. He is the timeline curator for www.ArnoldPalmer. com and blogs at www.EightDaysToAmish. com. He has written for many of the most prestigious magazines in America and has been rejected by the rest. He is also the author of Use All the Crayons.

Vegetable Gardening and Seed Sharing Event 9:30 a.m., Saturday, March 16 New vegetable seeds will be divided amongst and by the participants. Thirty kinds of vegetables were selected, including beans, tomatoes, broccoli, squash, melon, and 20 more! Contact Mary Beth at mbthakar@ yahoo.com or 412.736.8216 to secure a spot. Come early on the day to be sure to keep your spot and pay at the door. Cost per person is $10 – for hundreds of seeds – a really great deal!

Screenplay Plot Development 6:45 p.m., Mondays, March 18, 25 & April 8, 15, 22, 29 (no class April 1) This 6-week Pittsburgh Filmmakers course covers screenwriting fundamentals with an emphasis on plot development.

Each student will write a script for a short film or a series of scenes from a longer film.

Please note that participants must complete a registration form and submit a course fee of $150.

Furious Gypsy Jazz and Soulful Klezmer!

7 p.m., Wednesday, March 20 Your soul will soar and your feet will move to the music of Trio Cafe Europa! Susanne Ortner-Roberts (Germany) on clarinet,

M A R • A P R • M AY Vladimir Mollov (Bulgaria) on accordion, and John Marcinizyn (USA) on guitar make up this dynamic trio. In duo- and trio-formations, these three internationally-acclaimed musicians will put on a toe-tapping and soulful show of Gypsy Jazz sounds, klezmer and more... with lots of room left for the musicians to improvise and communicate.

Robert Gangewere on Andy Warhol 7 p.m., Thursday, March 21 Robert Gangewere, author of Palace of Culture: Andrew Carnegie’s Library and Museums in Pittsburgh, will present a program about Andy Warhol. Mr. Gangewere was the longtime editor of Carnegie Magazine and an English professor at CMU. Some Beautiful Gardens in Italy 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23 Bonnie and Art Bishop, avid gardeners and frequent travelers to Italian gardens, will offer exquisite photography of 6 gardens, historical background of the sites, and tips for travelers to Italian gardens.

The History & Future of the Site of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 27 Near Settlers Cabin Park, west of the city, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is taking shape. The first phase of 60 acres is expected to open to the public in 2013 with a goal of creating a large, world-class botanic garden. A PBG representative will discuss the site and the work that is taking place to transform the site from abandoned coal mines into a space friendly to flora and the public.

Scrabble Tournament 9 a.m., Saturday Apr 13 Scrabble lovers! Test your skills in a competitive setting. Questions? Contact Bob Hagerty, founder of the South Hills Scrabble Club, bob.hagerty@wsj.com OR Terry Schroeder msch@nauticom.net for further information. Pre-registration and NASPA membership required to participate.

Advanced Slovak Language Lesson 7 p.m., Tuesdays, April 16 through June 4 The Western PA Slovak Cultural Association is sponsoring an 8-week Slovak course for advanced students. Reservations required through WPSCA @ 412.531.2990.

Friends’ Annual Program: Luis Carlos Montalvan & Tuesday 7 p.m., Wednesday, April 17 Join us for a moving and powerful program presented by the Friends of Mt. Lebanon Public Library. Luis Carlos Montalván is the New York Times bestselling author of Until Tuesday: A Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever Who Saved Him. Captain Montalván, a 17-year veteran of the U.S. Army including multiple combat tours in Iraq, was decorated with numerous awards.

Luis has been nationally recognized for his efforts to educate the public about trauma and the real experiences of veterans and people with disabilities – to help empower them on the journey of healing. Tuesday is his faithful service dog.

CHAIRity Sale and Social 6 p.m., Friday, April 19 The sale of the renewed wooden library chairs begins this evening! Creative members of the public have decorated retired wooden library chairs and set the price on their work. Buy a chair and support your library!

Refreshments will be served at this National Library Week celebration. All proceeds benefit Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

Book Cellar Spring Clearance Sale 10 a.m., Saturday, April 20 & 1:30 p.m., Sunday, April 21 Store Open, Plus Special Sales... Don’t miss this rare opportunity! All proceeds benefit Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

The 19th C Daily Medical Practice of Dr. Cyrus Schreiner 7:30 p.m., Wednesday May 15 Dr. Lorelei Stein, PhD from Point Park University, will share her research on the daily medical practice of Dr. Cyrus Schreiner. Dr. Schreiner was one of our area’s first medical doctors, arriving here in 1877 and practicing until his death in 1900. Using material from The Historical Society of Mount Lebanon’s archives, Dr. Stein spent many hours this past summer researching how the many medical and scientific discoveries during the 19th century impacted the daily practice of medicine by physicians such as Dr. Schreiner. Visit The Historical Society of Mount Lebanon for further information.

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 53

continued from previous page La Grande Seduction – A French-Language Movie 6:30 p.m., Thursday, May 16 Join us for a delightful French-language film set in Quebec. In a little harbor village of Sainte-Marie-La-Mauderne, the once bountiful fish stocks have plummeted, forcing the fishermen to rely on government welfare, but when a multinational corporation considers building a factory on the tiny island the inhabitants see an opportunity to restore the village to greatness. Unfortunately, due to insurance reasons, the factory cannot be built until the village has a resident doctor. Led by comically unscrupulous and big-hearted Germain, the villagers transform the village to make it more appealing to young Doctor Lewis.

Weekly & Monthly Activities: South Hills Community Flute Choir 7 p.m., Thursdays All flutists from the South Hills area are welcome to join the South Hills Community Flute Choir. Flute players of all levels, ages, and abilities are invited to practice with the group.

South Hills Scrabble Club 1 p.m., Saturdays South Hills Scrabble Club welcomes adults and kids ages 10 and up for an afternoon of friendly competition!

Reader’s Theater 12:30 p.m., Mondays This group rehearses pieces and then performs for senior living facilities in the South Hills.

Carnegie Screenwriters Group 10 a.m., Saturdays, March 16, April 20 & May 18 This group meets monthly at the library and engages in script readings, networking, and discussions of writing and filmmaking.

New members are welcome.

Mt. Lebanon Writer’s Group 7 p.m., Tuesdays, March 12, April 9 & May 14 Join other writers in sharing and editing work for personal use or for publication.

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MARCH • APRIL International Women’s Conversation Circles 10 a.m., Wednesdays, March 13, April 10 & May 8 Have you recently moved to Mt. Lebanon from another country? Please join us for tea, refreshments, and conversation. Learn about your community while you make new friends! New women residents are welcome to practice their English while they learn about local activities and services available for themselves and their children. All women are welcome to meet their new neighbors from around the world, share information about our community, and learn more about the diverse cultures that enrich Mt. Lebanon.

Craftastic DIY for Teens & Adults 7 p.m., Wednesdays, March 19, April 16 & May 21 Join us for nouveau or nostalgic crafts for middle & high school students and adults.

This year we are focusing on the Victorian crazy quilt and the various techniques used:

silk ribbon & other types of embroidery, lattice work smocking, patchwork with vintage cottons, velvet & silk, etc. Save your scraps or use ours!

Folksong Sharing 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, March 20, April 17 & May 15 We are an informal group of lovers of folk songs.

Senior Specials: Mt. Lebanon Conversation Salon 10 a.m., Tuesdays, March 5, April 2 & May 7 Join friends and neighbors in talking about current events and issues touching all our lives.

Creative Connections 2 p.m., Wednesdays, March 6, April 3 & May 1 Join us on the 1st Wednesday of the

Friends Give to Mt. Lebanon Public Library In December 2012 the Friends of Mt. Lebanon Public Library donated $31,000 to Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

The donation will be used for tables, chairs, and other seating in the public areas of the library and for improved lighting and signage. The funds represent proceeds from The Book Cellar, the Friends’ year-round used book shop operated entirely by volunteers.

William F. Lewis, acting Friends From left: William F. Lewis, Cynthia K. Richey and President, and Diane Gerber, Friends Diane Gerber Treasurer, presented the check to Cynthia K. Richey, director of the library. In presenting the check Mr. Lewis said, “The Friends raise funds to provide for essential services beyond what the library’s operating budget supports. We are pleased that the Friends can support the mission of the library and help the library replace old, worn-out furniture for the public.” “The library is such an important part of our community and we’re happy to help this way,” said Ms. Gerber.

The Friends of Mt. Lebanon Public Library is a 501(c)(3) organization and in addition to raising money, organizes public events at the library and sponsors a variety of library activities, such as Morning Book Discussion, Shakespeare Readers, the Genealogy Society, Summer Reading Clubs for all ages, and French, Spanish, and Italian Conversation Groups. Our Friends group is invaluable,” says Ms. Richey, “They are completely engaged in the community and constantly seek creative ways to help the library.”

For more information about the Friends of the Library visit www.mtlebanonlibrary. org/groups/friends/welcome

• M AY month for entertaining and enlightening programs especially suited for adults ages 50 and over.

Topics TBA. Mt. Lebanon Genealogy Society 1 p.m., Mondays, March 18, April 15 & May 20 Join others in discussing family history as well as picking up tips on research.

Just for Kids: Annual Library Chess Tournament 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec 1 1 p.m., Saturday, March 2 Participants MUST pre-register in the children’s library. There are 2 divisions: Grades K - 4 and Grades 5 - 8. Winners from each division will be invited to a Finals Tournament in late March.

Tail Wagging Tutors 7 p.m., Thursdays, March 7, April 4 & May 2 Children can read aloud to a furry friend! Dog listeners are trained by Therapy Dogs International. Registration required.

Chess Club 6:30 p.m., Tuesdays, March 5, 19, April 2, 16, May 7 & 21 Chess fun for kids in kindergarten - grade 7.

The Peep Program 1:30 p.m., Sunday, March 10 Come to the library for Peep fun—stories, songs, and Peeps galore! For children ages 3 - 8 and their families.

Please pre-register at the Children’s desk. 412.531.1912.

Yoga for Children 10 a.m., Tuesdays, Session 1: April 9 - April 30 OR Session 2: May 7 - May 28 Please pre-register at the Children’s desk (412.531.1912) for one of the 4-week sessions above.

Join Laura Herrmann of Schoolhouse Yoga in a fun class that uses stories, singing, play and games to teach yoga poses, breathing exercises and stretches to young children. For children ages 2 – 5, each class is approximately 50 minutes long.

Fantastic Trash!

1:30 p.m., Sunday, April 21 Come for an Earth Day Story time at 1:30 p.m. (ages 3-6) and stop in anytime between 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. (for all ages) to make some fun recycled crafts!

Cinco de Mayo!

1:30 p.m., Sunday, May 5 Celebrate this Mexican holiday with stories, songs, silly fun and scrumptious snacks! For kids ages 3 & up and their families.

Please check at the children’s library for an updated list of winter storytimes, book discussion groups, and other fun programs!

Monthly Book Clubs and Foreign Language Groups: At Mt. Lebanon Public Library, we have a wide array of monthly book groups for all ages and interests. Visit Book Discussion Groups at www.mtlebanonlibrary. org to find one that suits you.

Once you have, just come to the library to pick up your copy of the book, read it, and then come to meeting at the library to discuss.

We also offer language groups in six foreign languages. Welcome!!

Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 55

Brews for a Chili Night III: Over 300 Resident and Friends Sip and Savor to Benefit Mt. Lebanon Public Library

By Kathy Rudolph

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There has always been that fun debate amongst foodies over what ingredients creates the best chili. To bean or not to bean? Ground beef or shredded brisket? Fresh chilies or chili powder? Are tomatoes permitted? And then the question of what beer to pair it with? A complex ale or a cold lager?

Approximately 300 guests got to continue this debate and pick and choose their favorites at “Brews for a Chili Night III” to benefit Mt. Lebanon Public Library (MLPL), hosted by the Friends of the MLPL with co-chairs, Mimi Ingalls and Bob Hagerty. Along with chefs, Jamie Moore and Jeff Iovino, around 26 volunteers presented their interpretations of the ultimate, cold-weather, comfort food complemented by 38 varieties of beer.

With its reflective glass, stunning aluminum high ceilings, comfortable furniture, and the band “Cello Fury” playing in the background, the library resembled a club venue; reinforcing the viewpoint of many area libraries today: to remain relevant, libraries must continuously update to meet the needs of the residents and have become community centers.

Cynthia Richey is MLPL’s director and also served her vegetarian chili with toppings of fresh cilantro, chives, cheddar cheese and Greek yogurt at the event.

“The fundraisers raise funds for the library, but also raise awareness of what we do in the library,” said Richey, who has been director since 1996 and a children’s librarian with the library since 1983. “We have programs and services from birth to old age. To be the center of the community and to work in such a supportive community is enormously rewarding. It is the best work that I have done in my whole life. Also, to have the volunteers that step up to fundraise to benefit the library is wonderful. This is a community that loves its library and wants to support it, and with the decline in revenue streams for the library it is really hard and fundraising is much more important than it used to be.

So, to do creative fundraisers like this and bring people into the library so they can see what it is like and want to come back, really makes a difference.”

Bill Lewis is the Friends of the MLPL’s president and is described by Richey as a “staunch volunteer for the library.”

“This is a very popular library because of the collection of 175,000 items and because it puts on several thousand programs a year,” said Lewis. “We also have a list of 100 volunteers that have volunteered over 14,000 hours of their time. A successful Friends group like ours loves the library, has time, likes the public and enjoys helping the library.”

To learn more, visit the MLPL website at www.mtlebanonlibrary.org.

Upcoming MLPL Fundraising Events: The Book Cellar – Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CHAIRity Sale and Social – April 19, 2013 Garden Party in the Courtyard – July 6, 2013 23rd Annual Garden Tour – July 7, 2013 Beer and Garden Bash – August 24, 2013 Books and Bubbly Soiree – October 12, 2013 Mt. Lebanon | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 57

by Angie Townsend

The Best Gift Ever!

I am a fortunate person who enjoys many interesting activities. However, there is one memory in particular that I love to reminisce about, and that is when my mom bought us tickets to experience The Lion King at the Benedum Theater. That was the best gift I have ever received.

I was an 8 year-old second grader that cold gray Sunday in February of 2008. I had been looking forward to this event ever since I opened the envelope on Christmas morning, which contained two tickets to see The Lion King with my mom! Finally, the three week wait (that felt as though it was a million years) was over – the day I was waiting for had arrived at last!

I was very excited for my night on the town with Mom. I wore a black skirt with a leopard jacket, topped off with a Rothschild wool coat and matching hat. I miss that coat, because wearing it made me feel like one of my American Girl dolls!

We set off on foot, walking to the nearby trolley stop. I don’t get to take the T very often, so that was a fun way to start our night. Our first stop was my mom’s favorite restaurant, Bossa Nova. I ate chicken quesadillas, and my mom had tapas, which are tiny dishes of appetizer foods.

After dinner, it was time for the show! It was truly amazing. The singing was wonderful, and the live animals were amazing! My favorite character was Nala, because she is such a trustworthy friend to Simba, and friendship is important to me. The tickets to The Lion King were truly “a gift that keeps on giving” because since then, I often think back to the lessons I learned from that play. There were many lessons about friendship and growing up.

My mom has fantastic taste for plays. I am planning to take my children to see The Lion King one day, so that they can learn the same lessons I did. Out of all the gifts I have ever received, this one was the best!

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LEBO SWIMMING EYES WPIALS

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Mt. Lebanon Swimming met Seneca Valley’s Raiders for a varsity match up in the north.

While the meet was non-sectional, it did give Lebo a chance to size up and compete against a rival that has been garnering much attention for their up and coming talents.

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Tomosynthesis Offers Women Greater Detection of Breast Abnormalities Donna Peters, 46, was told she had breast cancer in July 2012 – a diagnosis that almost had not happened, had it not been for tomosynthesis, a revolutionary three-dimensional mammography imaging technology being used at Magee-Womens Imaging.

Peters explained that she had a standard mammogram at a local hospital in March, only to be called to have a second one a few weeks later. “My doctors said that my breast tissue was dense, but they were not sure if something else might be going on,” she explained.

She returned for the second mammogram, and had a sonogram immediately after, as her physicians were still somewhat unclear of what they were seeing.

“This is the biggest advance we’ve seen in breast imaging in a long time, and we are excited to provide it to our patients.”

A few weeks later, she had an MRI, which concluded a possibly benign tumor, so another MRI was performed, but this time with a guided biopsy. The results were in and showed no cancer.

That is when Peters took matters into her own hands and sought a second opinion.

“I knew in my heart that they were wrong, so I called Dr. (Marguerite) Bonaventura’s office at Magee and made an appointment for a second opinion,” Peters said. “Thank goodness I did!

She and Dr. (Denise) Chough saw something that my previous doctors had missed.”

- Dr. Margarita Zuley

Dr. Chough ordered tomosynthesis for Peters, who said that it did not feel any different from that of a standard mammogram. The diagnosis was confirmed. Peters had infiltrated ductal carcinoma, the most common kind of breast cancer.

“Tomosynthesis provides physicians with the ability to improve upon the limitations of the standard two-dimensional mammography, which will hopefully allow us to find more cancers with fewer false-positives and limit the number of additional workups and potentially unnecessary biopsies,” said Margarita Zuley, M.D., director of breast imaging at Magee-Womens Imaging.

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“And although tomosynthesis currently does not replace traditional 2-D mammography, especially in women with dense breast tissue, it does reduce the recall rate of patients by 30 to 40 percent.”

The technology uses precise 3-D digital imaging to create a complete reconstruction of the breast, which gives radiologists the ability to identify certain abnormalities which can be more difficult to detect with traditional 2-D digital mammography screening. One of the main differences between tomosynthesis and 2-D mammography is its ability to capture 60 to 100 pictures through use of an advanced digital platform, compared to two pictures produced by the standard mammogram.

Although the test can be performed on anyone, for now, tomosynthesis is used for patients who have an inconclusive mammogram or for patients who request it, according to Dr. Zuley, who does feel that it will eventually replace the two-dimensional test. Dr. Zuley also stressed that the radiation levels in tomosynthesis are equal to that of traditional two-dimensional mammography.

Much of the research on tomosynthesis was conducted at Magee-Womens Imaging, and researchers there are the most widely published group in the country on the technology.

“I am so grateful for this new technology,” Peters said. “I feel it was a big part in my diagnosis, because it gave my doctors a clearer image of what was going on inside my body. But the equipment is only as good as the doctors who know how and when to use it, and when Drs. Bonaventura and Chough saw something that they did not like, they immediately opted to use tomosynthesis to verify their suspicions. They made the process easy!”

“This is the biggest advance we’ve seen in breast imaging in a long time, and we are excited to provide it to our patients,” Dr. Zuley said.

Tomosynthesis is currently available at Magee-Womens Imaging locations in Oakland and Monroeville and at the Magee Breast Center at UPMC St. Margaret.

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Sunset Hills’ Pastor Gracey Welcomes All

story by Melanie O. Paulick

Pastor William Gracey wants you to feel one thing when you walk through the doors of Sunset Hills Presbyterian Church: welcome.

Indeed, due largely to Pastor Gracey’s leadership and direction, people can come to Sunset Hills and feel safe. He accomplishes this by understanding that relationship is key. In other words, it is not necessarily strict theological principles or religious traditions that create a loving, familial atmosphere, it is communication and interconnection. It is seeing the other person for who they are, not for who you wish them to be. It is true, attentive listening. Pastor Gracey listens so well and so deeply, in fact, that he doesn’t use a computer and rarely writes things down. He simply listens. And remembers what people are telling him.

A Pittsburgh native (he was born at the former South Side Hospital), Pastor William Gracey received his undergraduate degree in history from Waynesburg and a Masters of Divinity degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in 1969. Following his ordination in 1969, he worked at churches in both New York and Florida as an Associate Pastor and Associate of Pastoral Care. While at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Dunedin, Florida, Pastor Gracey obtained his doctorate degree from the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary’s satellite campus at Eckerd College.

After getting married in 1989, Pastor Gracey and his family moved back to Pittsburgh, where he served as pastor of Covenant-Community Presbyterian Church in Scott Township for nearly ten years. In 1999, he came to Sunset Hills, where he has pastored for nearly fourteen years. His wife, Shelby, has been an integral part of the parish as well. Since May of 2005, she has served as music director and organist. This position was not one that she ever aspired to; it simply fell into place. Shelby has always enjoyed music and claims that it is “in [her] heart and soul.” So much so, in fact, that her band director in high school tried to get her to commit to studying music further, which she declined to do. Shelby insisted that she wanted it to remain something that she voluntarily participated in out of love. While at Covenant-Community, Mrs. Gracey assisted with the children’s choir and the chime choir while also participating in the adult choral group. She is incredibly happy that she now has the opportunity to direct music at Sunset Hills. Shelby believes that the church’s music is important because “…in a lot of ways the music is the thing that speaks to someone… maybe it is this piece of music that puts tears in their eyes or a smile on their face… [it’s important to think about] what people are going to be feeling when they hear a certain song.”

Pastor Gracey and his family love Sunset Hills. Pastor Gracey is so appreciative of his congregation, in fact, that he remarks that “… it’s the most content that I’ve been in my ministry.” This is due to a number of reasons. First, there is remarkable relationship between Pastor Gracey and the members of the church. “[The church members] let me be who I am, and I let them be who they are.”

There is no gossip; there is a great deal of trust. People listen to one another, and no one tries to make the other into someone that they’re not. Next, Pastor Gracey marvels at the level of volunteerism and commitment of the people. “The people… take community very seriously. They work for the common good.” Finally, members of Sunset Hills are always willing to try new things. For years, Pastor Gracey has desired to develop the adult mission program at Sunset Hills. This idea has come to fruition, as the church now has several specific mission outreaches and many core volunteers that dedicate much time and effort to make it all work.

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One adult mission program that has garnered much support over the last few years is Rebuilding Together America.

Pastor Gracey first heard about this national program at a rotary club event in Green Tree. He was immediately interested, especially in light of the fact that someone willed a considerable sum of money to the church to be used to assist the poor.

The aim of Rebuilding Together America is to assist those that are unable to maintain and care for their homes on their own. People that qualify are either senior citizens or are disabled with low incomes. After an application and screening process, homes are chosen and matched with groups of volunteers, who come in for one day and do everything that they can to improve the home.

This includes painting, installing flooring, replacing and updating bathrooms, cleaning and general organizing. Also, many of the homes need to have the washer and the dryer moved from the basement to the main floor for safety reasons. The volunteer group from Sunset Hills meets at 7 a.m. on the designated day, ready to work, and doesn’t stop until dinnertime or after.

to be done. “Sometimes, people are hesitant to trust someone that they don’t know coming into their home,” muses Dottie. “…it’s my job to get them to open up.” A great deal of planning, organizing and shopping takes place before the actual Rebuilding Together event.

It is a physically challenging day for the volunteers, but a rewarding day. They are overcome with emotion as the people that they assist express their complete gratitude for all that has been done to improve the home. Many of the homeowners stay in touch with members of Sunset Hills Presbyterian Church. There are phone calls. There are notes in the mail. Some come to the church

For Dick Fleming and his wife, Dottie, the volunteer effort doesn’t begin and end on the same day as it does for most of the other workers. There is much “behind-the-scene” preparation. Mr. and Mrs. Fleming go to the person’s house weeks beforehand to meet with the homeowner and determine what needs

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Sunset Hills’ Pastor Gracey Welcomes All

on a Sunday to meet everyone and re-experience the love of the church family.

Another important adult mission takes place in Asheville, North Carolina. For the last several summers, a group of adults from Sunset Hills United Presbyterian Church travels to the mountains of western North Carolina for service work and fellowship. The mission group works for and with a variety of people during their week-long trip, including at a camp for special needs children and adults, with veterans, and with the Manna food bank.

While in Asheville, the men and women stayed in the dorms at Warren Wilson College, a school founded by a Presbyterian from Titusville, PA. Warren Wilson College is located about 15 miles outside of Asheville. Nestled in valley alongside a river, this college of about 900 students has a unique “triad” program: each student must participate in service, academics, and work, much of which comes in the form of caring for the farm, animals and buildings of the college itself. In using Warren Wilson College as a “base camp” of sorts, the missionaries from Sunset Hills participate in the lifestyle at the college as authentically as possible. For example, on one day the group cared for the cemetery; on another day they weeded and tended to the garden. While doing this simple but purposeful work, real and meaningful conversation took place. More than just a garden was tended; relationships were tended.

One of the most valuable things that the members of the mission to Asheville learned is that people have such unique stories and differing struggles. Watching the veterans – themselves struggling with various traumas and addictions – assist special-needs children carefully and tenderly was eye-opening and emotional for everyone involved. One cannot help but be transformed. “The trip to Asheville,” says Dave Greenfield, “…is a sample of the many different types of things you can do. There is a corollary. You see, people participate in these kinds of activities and then they come home… and they realize just how much of it they can do in Pittsburgh. They have more knowledge.”

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Sometimes, it takes a trip away to understand what can be changed in one’s own neighborhood.

Dick Fleming remarks that the meaning of mission is different from what it used to be. It’s not forceful or demanding. “Mission… is love through action.” David Greenfield agrees, adding that one thing that Pastor Gracey has taught them is that they need to listen to people and be open to their unique stories.

Indeed, people are thirsty for relationship.

Sunset Hills United Presbyterian Church is a gem, tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood in Mt. Lebanon. But real peace is found inside the hearts of the people that belong to that congregation.

At Sunset Hills, people are cherished for who they are. People are listened to and respected. People are loved. And this love is demonstrated in the relationship between pastor and congregation, between congregation and pastor, and between congregation and their neighbors throughout the world.

Looking for solace and comfort? You are welcome at Sunset Hills.

For more information about the church and its various programs, visit: www.shupchurch.org.

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TEEN CENTER SCHEDULE FOR 2012-2013 SCHOOL YEAR DATE

LOCATION GRADES

March 8, 2013

Mellon

March 22, 2013 Mellon April 20, 2013

6th & 7th & 8th grade HOOPS ONLY Event 6th & 7th & 8th grade

Mt. Lebanon Ice Rink from 8-10 p.m.!

NOTICE: Effective January 2013, admission will be $4 and snacks/drinks will be $1/each All Teen Centers are from 8-10 p.m.

Pick up promptly at 10 p.m. Your student is NOT chaperoned after 10 p.m.

A lock-in policy always applies Teen Center follows school district behavior and dress code policies Admission is $4 Parent chaperones always needed; contact Karen Saulsbery Community service opportunities available New board members welcome; contact Karen Questions?

Contact Karen Saulsbery at: volunteer@mtlteencenter.com -ORksaulsbery@comcast.net -OR412.344.2358

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THE SOUTH HILLS COLLEGE CLUB, realizing the importance of a college education for women, annually awards a scholarship to an outstanding and deserving young woman.

The scholarship, in the amount of $2,000 will be awarded at the regular May meeting of the College Club. The applicant will be given every consideration. The following criteria will be used to evaluate and select the awardee: 1. Financial need - the financial income insufficient to adequately finance four years of college.

2. Academic standing - in or near the top fifth of graduating class; courses taken and grades received; various test scores; honors.

3. Personal evaluation - furnished by the high school and TWO individual recommendations.

4, Participation in activities-schools; extra-curricular; community; employment opportunities.

THE SOUTH HILLS COLLEGE CLUB

This application should be completed by the student with the aid and approval of her parents.

Please fill out the application completely and return by March 15, 2013.

All information furnished to the committee is confidential and will be destroyed after due consideration by the committee with the exception of the application of the awardees. The recipient’s information will be kept on file for one year.

Returning Woman’s Scholarship opportunity from the South Hills College Club The South Hills College Club has been awarding scholarships to women since 1923. We have two categories: one for high school seniors and one for a woman returning to an accredited four year college/university after an absence of at least a year. The returning woman scholarship may be for an undergraduate or graduate degree. Each award is for $2,000.

For questions or to request an application, call Janet Lipchak at 412.851.0658.

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Pa. DEP Awards Mt. Lebanon $31,500 as part of $17.8 Million in Grants for Recycling Programs The Department of Environmental Protection announced today that it has awarded $17.8 million in recycling grants to 131 municipalities and counties for developing and implementing recycling programs.

consumers; expanding recycling processing facilities; installing data collection systems on recycling vehicles; continuing and creating curbside recycling programs; and developing educational materials to encourage residents to recycle.

“Recycling plays a key role in improving Pennsylvania’s economy and protecting its environment,” DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. “These grants further that cause, and DEP is proud to invest in local programs that help the awardees strengthen their recycling programs.”

Mt. Lebanon Municipality received $31,500 as part of this state-wide grand disbursement.

Through the grant program, municipalities and counties in Pennsylvania are eligible for up to 90 percent funding of approved recycling program costs. Municipalities that are designated financially distressed under the Financial Distressed Communities Act are eligible to receive funding for an additional 10 percent of approved costs.

Examples of eligible projects include operating compost facilities; developing web-based programs on recycling for

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This is the 53rd round of grants being awarded since the inception of the Pennsylvania Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act in 1988, also known as Act 101.

Act 101 mandates recycling in municipalities with more than 10,000 residents and those with populations between 5,000 and 10,000 that have population densities greater than 300 people per square mile.

Currently, 440 of Pennsylvania’s 2,700 municipalities are required to recycle and provide curbside collection programs.

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Mt. Lebanon Resident Helps Children Thrive at Local Orthodox Preschool She didn’t always want to teach preschool, but after Mary Jo Weinheimer had her children, she became fascinated with the different stages of development. She became particularly inspired by children that were three or four years of age. “[At that age] they have such complete honesty and such an enthusiasm for learning,” Mary Jo states. “You can see the wheels turning in their heads.”

Story and Photos by Melanie O. Paulick

A resident of Mt. Lebanon since 1989, Mary Jo appreciates all of the wonderful things that a walking community has to offer.

She loves being close to the city and residing in a place where she can walk to the library or to the movie theater. “Sidewalks,” she remarks with a smile. “…after all these years [of living in Mt. Lebanon], what I most appreciate are the sidewalks.”

In 1989, when her son entered first grade, Mary Jo began working as an assistant preschool teacher at Southminster Child Care Center in Mt. Lebanon. While working at Southminster, she earned her private school teaching certificate from the state of Pennsylvania and continued to work there for ten years, until 1999.

She met Dr. Christal Chaney while attending services at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church in Mt. Lebanon and was asked to participate in the formation of a new school. Dr. Chaney’s aim was to “establish a school where [children] could be exposed to academic excellence in a nurturing Orthodox Christian environment.” (www.theosschool. org/history). Mrs. Weinheimer agreed, and, in 1998, Three Hierarchs Eastern Orthodox School (T.H.E.O.S.) opened its doors. During that first year, Mrs. Weinheimer worked both at Southminster and at Three Hierarchs. After that, she devoted all of her time and effort to Three Hierarchs. In September of 2007, the school relocated from Holy Cross to Ellsworth Avenue in Heidelberg.

The educational philosophy at T.H.E.O.S. is very advanced and quite unique. When setting up the school, Dr. Chaney (who has a Ph.D. in Educational Philosophy) blended together a variety of educational models that have proven to have significant positive outcomes. One of the ways that makes the preschool at T.H.E.O.S. so distinctive is the combination of open-ended and closed-ended 74 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE |

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activities. For example, the students are encouraged to play imaginatively and creatively. Blocks, objects and other materials can be used and experienced in multiple ways. On the other hand, certain things, like puzzles, only work in a specific way. Another key element in how the classroom operates is choice. In a very real sense, all of the students “own” the classroom. Everything is theirs to use and play with, and they are free to make choices about how they spend their time.

The room is set up with different “areas” such as the block area, the reading area, and the art area. Listening to their own bodies is also important, and to this end children are not forced to have a snack but are free to do so if they wish.

In addition, the preschool is a multi-age classroom because it provides a tremendous amount of role-modeling. The younger children observe the older children engaged in and focused on their work as well as following the classroom rules, and so they are more inclined to follow suit. Classroom rules address certain behaviors so as to minimize negative interactions. For example, children must ask when they want to play with another child. They must carry their chair a certain way and wash their hands before they eat. In its entirety, the preschool room is a place of active learning, filled with developmentally-appropriate materials that enable the children to “build themselves.”

Mary Jo uses her art background to enhance and heighten the creative intelligence of each child. She loves observing the self-expression of each individual and the unique ways that they use materials and objects. Even children who are not always drawn to art will benefit from active participation in it, she claims. A recent classroom project (for 3rd and 4th graders) was to give each child a bag of “snowman pieces” – cotton balls, small sticks, small parts for eyes and buttons, etc. They were then asked to use the pieces to construct

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anything but a snowman. This project was meant to encourage children, especially those who didn’t particularly like art. The challenge was to try to get them to think and see things in a different way. Mary Jo’s own daughter is now a veterinarian, and having to draw negative space when she was younger led to a greater ease in reading and interpreting graphs and X-rays. “Basically,” Mary Jo says, “art helps children be creative in whatever they do.”

T.H.E.O.S. is, of course, an Orthodox Christian school.

That means that the spiritual aspect of human nature is at the heart of it all. What this means for students is that everything is viewed through the lens of Orthodoxy. How we care for ourselves, one another, the world – all of this is addressed in the way that the church, by its very nature, is. Some days, students will attend Divine Liturgy. Other days, a priest will come in to discuss a topic of interest with the children.

Prayer is an essential element to the day.

The Orthodox Church naturally includes children.

The liturgy is fluid, much like children are fluid and active.

Movement and motion are essential elements of prayer and worship. All of the senses are called upon to heighten the experience of the spiritual life. Beautiful icons are seen, incense breathed in, bread and wine tasted. Prayers are chanted and sung. The liturgical life of the Orthodox Church is then transposed into the life of the preschool classroom, where all of the senses are gently stimulated to help the

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children experience the world in their own unique way.

While T.H.E.O.S. is an Orthodox school, it is open to everyone. Care is used to fully incorporate all children; for example, when the children who are Orthodox receive communion during the Divine Liturgy, the others may use that time to light a candle and say a special prayer. In the end, the mission of T.H.E.O.S. is to “educate the whole child for a holy life.” Children need a place where they can have their educational needs, emotional needs and spiritual needs met.

“Education is not just about information but about formation,” says Dr. Chaney, “…it’s not just about what they’re learning but about who they’re becoming.”

The preschool students thrive in the classroom due to the diligence and care of Mary Jo. “She’s quite a scientist… an observer,” remarks Dr. Chaney. “She can sit back and watch the children to see what they need.” For her part, Mary Jo is always reminded just how well the classroom works. “Parents come in and tell me that they don’t think that their child will do [certain things],” she says, “and I tell them – ‘yes they will!’”

The preschool classroom at T.H.E.O.S. is a safe place, a place where children are respected for who they are as individuals. It is, ultimately, a happy place.

For more information about the school, please visit www.theosschool.org or call 412.278.3333.

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S

Cruising Into Spring in True Mt. Lebanon Fashion

ay goodbye to winter and hello to spring at an annual Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show hosted by a local organization called Keynotes of Music for Mt. Lebanon. The event, which benefits scholarships given to music majors who reside in the South Hills, will feature a “Cruise into Spring” theme and take place beginning at noon on Saturday, April 20, at Valleybrook Country Club.

Fashions will be presented by Kohl’s this year. Valet parking also will be available.

Tickets are $25 and can be ordered by calling 412.343.6560.

The primary purpose of Keynotes of Music for Mt. Lebanon, which is an affiliate body of Music for Mt. Lebanon, is to raise money for scholarships awarded to college students who are enrolled fulltime in a music school or department and high school students who have been accepted for college admission and enrolled as a fulltime music student. Scholarship applications are available from any of the 83 members of the Keynotes group, and students must be under age 26 (or under age 30 for voice applicants) by June of the year in which they are applying and reside in Allegheny County or Peters Township.

To help them fulfill their purpose of providing annual scholarship funds to these area music students, the organization hosts four regular events each year: a summer social; a fall tea, which usually features a performance by the previous scholarship recipient; the annual spring luncheon and fashion show in April; and a scholarship dinner in May, during which the scholarship recipients are recognized and honored.

In addition to sustaining the Keynotes Music Scholarship Fund, Keynotes of Music for Mt. Lebanon also serves to promote an active interest in the concert series supported by Music for Mt. Lebanon, which provides community entertainment through this annual series that may feature dancers, Dixieland dancers, piano players, illusionists or even folk artists from the Tamburitzans. Each of the concerts takes place at Mt. Lebanon High School.

“This is such a worthy organization,” said Deanne Porter, publicity chairperson and a 10-year member of the group. “I would not be a part of it if I did not believe in the work that they do.”

Keynotes of Music for Mt. Lebanon was founded in 1970 and since 1971, has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarship funds to more than 150 participants.

There are three main monetary prizes awarded each year, plus one or two honorable mention monetary awards. All of the awards, when combined, total $12,000.

In addition to the four annual events, the Keynotes of Music for Mt. Lebanon group hosts five board meetings a year. Annual dues are $20.

For more information about the group, visit their website at www.musicformtlebanon.org.

By Heather Holtschlag

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Mt. Lebanon Falls Short in Christmas Kettle Campaign

Public Can Still Help W

ith 24 of its 39 facilities in deficit, the Western Pennsylvania Salvation Army Division has missed its Red Christmas Kettle Campaign goal by more than $270,000. The 2012 bar was set at $2,827,216.99 but only achieved a total of $2,553,893.38.

“Although we missed this year’s goal, we did thankfully manage to do better than 2011,” said Divisional Commander Major William H. Bode. The 2011 goal was $2,994,619.58 and raised $2,496,785.33. Within the 28-county Western Pennsylvania Division, $561,735.47 was donated at Walmart stores and $381,815.18 at area Giant Eagle markets.

The most significant deficits are $60,608.51 in Pittsburgh’s Northside and $46,203.84 at the Mt. Lebanon Pittsburgh Temple Corps. Others include, Altoona, Beaver Falls, Corry, Dubois, Erie, Franklin, Greensburg, Huntingdon, Indiana, Johnstown, Meadville, McKeesport, Monessen, New Castle, New Kensington, Punxsutawney, Sharon/Mercer, Warren, Washington and Pittsburgh’s Homewood, Steel Valley/Homestead, and Westside.

Allegheny County overall had the largest cumulative goal miss at nearly $150,000.

Kettle income is boosted by a few additional fundraisers including: Wendy’s Restaurant Junior Frosty keytag promotion; KDKA Radio’s Fred Honsberger Memorial Kettle; 3WS Radio’s Annual Live Broadcast and Online Kettle; and the Pittsburgh vs.

Cleveland Kettle Challenge which is still accepting donations via

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www.salvationarmywpa.org. Salvation Army fundraising, including the Red Christmas Kettle Campaign, and delivery of service are segmented according to zip code. That means each facility in every community is independent of one another. Money raised within a neighborhood remains there to support families specifically in that area. Social support services are provided according to the resident’s home address, minimizing duplication of service and stretching the donor dollar further.

“The Salvation Army is grateful for every gift, no matter the size and we are truly humbled and appreciative of the generosity,” Bode said. “But, we would still warmly welcome any additional support.”

Contributions can be made via web at www.salvationarmywpa. org. Checks can be made to The Salvation Army with “Christmas Campaign” in the memo section and mailed to the facility of your choice or directly to Western Pennsylvania Divisional Headquarters at PO Box 742, 700 North Bell Avenue, Carnegie, PA 15106 and the funds will be credited back to the local community of your choice.

Both a church and a social service organization, The Salvation Army began in London, England in 1865. Today, it provides critical services in 126 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.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Earth Day is Coming!

Earth Day will be held Saturday, April 27, 2013 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Mt. Lebanon Park.

For more information, go to www.lebogreen.org.

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Got the Fever Here are some local fish fry events available through the end of Lent: St. Anne, Castle Shannon Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday, 4-7 p.m., school cafeteria, 4040 Willow Ave. Dinners include baked or fried fish, fried seafood platter, fried sea scallops, jumbo shrimp, baked fish Florentine and “krab kakes.” Also, jumbo fish sandwich, cole slaw, french fries, onion rings, baked potato, macaroni and cheese, haluski, pizza and homemade pierogies (potato and cheese, or sauerkraut). Takeout available, call 412-561-0101 after 3 p.m. For information, call 412-531-5964.

Sponsored by St. Anne’s fair committee.

St. Bernard, Mount Lebanon Fridays of Lent (except Good Friday), 4-7:30 p.m., Clairvaux Hall, 311 Washington Road. Fried and baked fish dinners, macaroni and cheese dinner, baked and fried fish sandwiches, pizza and pierogies. Nightly specials ranging from signature pasta dishes, crab cakes and soups. Also, homemade gumbo and clam chowder, macaroni and cheese, french fries, cole slaw, beer, soft drinks and desserts. New this year, fish tacos, featuring baked fish wrapped in a tortilla, topped with crunchy red cabbage, tomatoes and homemade corn and black bean salsa. Cost: $8.50 for adult dinner, $2 a slice of pizza, $6.50 for fish sandwich, $8.50 for specials, $3.50 for gumbo and clam chowder. Takeout available. Call 412-341-1565.

Holy Child, Bridgeville Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday, 4-7 p.m., cafeteria, 220 Station St. Fried and baked fish, fish sandwiches, shrimp, cole slaw, french fries, macaroni and cheese, and pierogies. Cost: $9 for adult dinner, $5.50 for child dinner, and $7 for sandwiches. Takeout and phone orders available after 3 p.m. Call 412-221-4720.

St. Louise de Marillac, Upper St. Clair Fridays of Lent (except Good Friday), 4:30-7:30 p.m., LeGras Parish Hall, 320 McMurray Road. Weekly soup special, salads, fish sandwich, baked fish, shrimp, crab cakes, pierogies, pizza, macaroni and cheese, haluski, french fries and assorted desserts.

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for a Fish Fry?

Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday, Conroy Hall, 310 Kane Blvd., 4:30-7 p.m. (3-7 p.m. on Good Friday). Dinners feature seafood platter, shrimp, baked fish, fried fish, fish sandwich and crab cake. Cost: $9 for adults ($11 for seafood platter), $8.50 for seniors and children ($10.50 for seafood platter). Serving hand-breaded North Atlantic cod. A la carte menu includes pizza, baked potato, french fries, pierogies, haluski, soup, macaroni and cheese and more. Takeout available. For phone orders, call 412-200-2694.

St. Thomas More, Bethel Park Fridays of Lent (except Good Friday), 4:30-7:30 p.m., Family Life Center, 126 Fort Couch Road. Penne with homemade marinara sauce, penne with four cheeses, baked fish and more. Weekly specials: Feb. 24, linguini with shrimp; March 2, timballo di pasta (baked vegetable pasta); March 9, linguini with three pepper sauce; March 16, linguini with asparagus and mushrooms; March 23, lasagna with salmon, also stuffed shells Florentine. Cost: $9 for adult dinner, $5 for child. Takeout is available. Call 412-833-0031.

St. Valentine, Bethel Park Fridays of Lent, (except Good Friday), Frawley Hall, 2710 Ohio St. Jumbo beer-battered fish sandwich, baked fish, pasta dinner, butterfly shrimp, homemade pierogies and other Lenten favorites.

Takeout available. Call 412-851-9176 between 2-6:30 p.m., or visit www.stvals.org.

St. Winifred, Mount Lebanon Ash Wednesday and Fridays of Lent, including Good Friday, 4-7 p.m., Benedict Hall, 550 Sleepy Hollow Road. Fried fish, baked fish, shrimp, crab cakes, pizza, clam chowder, french fries, onion rings, cole slaw, macaroni and cheese and haluski. Cost: $8-8.50 for adult dinners, and includes macaroni and cheese or french fries, cole slaw, roll, dessert and beverage. Sandwiches are $6.

Takeout is available. Call 412-563-1415.

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B USINESS D IRECTORY

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B USINESS D IRECTORY

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SPECIAL VALUES

SPECIAL VALUES

SPECIAL VALUE COUPONS

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New Advanced Treatment for Skin Cancer Patricia Sinicki found a scratch on her nose back in 2010 and didn’t think much of it. “I thought that one of my cats had scratched me,” she said.

At the time, she was undergoing total knee reconstruction followed by physical therapy, so she didn’t have time to really worry about that scratch.

As time went on, however, the scratch continued to get worse. Her primary care physician referred her to a dermatologist who biopsied the lesion and confirmed the diagnosis: basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer, according to Melissa Pugliano-Mauro, MD, assistant professor of dermatology at UPMC St. Margaret and Mohs surgeon.

“I have a strong family history of skin cancer, so my primary care physician had prepared me for this type of diagnosis,” Sinicki explained.

Fortunately for Sinicki, her dermatologist referred her to Hakeem Sam, MD, PhD, director, Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery at UPMC Presbyterian and in April 2012, she underwent Mohs surgery, a procedure performed for skin cancer that offers the highest potential cure rate; 99 percent.

During the surgery, Dr. Sam removed layers of tumor until it was gone. Sinicki now ranks among that 99 percent, and though she continues to visit Dr. Sam regularly for follow-up, she feels very happy with the progress she has made.

“I just look at it as one more thing in my life that I have conquered,” she said.

Physicians have been performing Mohs surgery for more than 50 years, according to Dr. Sam, with the majority of procedures done on non-melanoma cancers on the head and neck, specifically the areas of skin around the eyes, nose, mouth, lips, and ears. There also is a type of melanoma, called melanoma insitu, on which Mohs surgery is effective.

Dr. Sam explained that the procedure is done in stages, or layers, of tumor removal and is performed under local anesthetic.

“We remove a layer of tumor along with a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue and examine it under a microscope.

If, upon examination, which can take up to one hour, we find more cancer, we remove another layer.

This process is repeated until all of the cancer is removed. This is the most conservative way of removing the entire tumor while still leaving behind as much healthy tissue as possible.”

When that part of the surgery is finished, reconstruction begins, and that could be as simple as side-to-side closures or as extensive as flaps and grafts. In cases where the tumor is more extensive, the patient also may be referred to appropriate specialists.

“Patients can go home the same day with a pressure dressing applied to the surgical area,” Dr. Sam said. “Pain is primarily managed with over-the-counter medications, though patients who experience more pain can be given a prescription.”

More than 3.5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer annually, Dr. Pugliano-Mauro said, and one in five will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas are the most common types of skin cancer, with basal cell being the most common out of the two, and melanoma is the deadliest form.

“There are similar risk factors for both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers, and those include fair skin complexion, a lot of outdoor sun exposure, or the use of indoor tanning beds, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently determined are linked to melanoma,” Dr. Pugliano-Mauro explained. “The most effective way to prevent skin cancer is to limit sun exposure. We also strongly advise using sunscreen labeled ‘broad spectrum and water resistant’ and with an SPF of at least 30.

Sunscreen should be applied every two hours or more often after swimming or sweating.”

To learn more about skin cancer and Mohs micrographic surgery, visit UPMC.com/skincancerprogram or call 855-SKN-SPOT (855-756-7768).

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