SUMMER 2011
t. Lebanon COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
New Heart of the South Hills:
Historic Elegance on Kenmont COMMUNITY-DRIVEN
Contents Mt. Lebanon | SUMMER 2011 |
SUMMER 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside
12
20 Publisher’s Message
COMMUNITY INTEREST
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page 2
A Woman’s Heart Is Special
page 3
The Good News About Heart Disease Six Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure
page 4
Young Athletes and Sudden Cardiac Death What Parents Need to Know
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59
Exercise: Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Harmful
© 2011 UPMC
page 5
The Downside of Falls
page 6
Choosing the Right Doctor for You
page 7
Welcoming New Physicians
4
Peoples Natural Gas | Community-Driven | 7 New Heart of the South Hills: Newbury | 8 | Advice for Great Grilling |
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Enjoy Summer in Mt. Lebanon | 30 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 37 Real Estate in Mt. Lebanon | An Enjoyable Living Space is as Close as Your Backyard | 50 Mt. Lebanon Physician Moved His House | 52 Special Value Coupons | 76 FEATURES
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Mt. Lebanon Veterans Memorial | 14 Mt. Lebanon Student Musicians Perform in Italy
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24
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
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Sunrooms Provide Natural Light, Panoramic Views & Yearlong Enjoyment | By Jeff Morris | 69 What’s New in Hearing Aids for 2011 | By Dolores Y. Payne, M.A., CCC-A, Audiologist | 70 How to Choose a Financial Professional | By Tim Bywalski | 74
SPOTLIGHTS
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The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts | 57 Washington WIld Things | 59 Burns & Scalo | 63 Metro Heating & Cooling | 67 Pool Design and the Outdoor Kitchen Company Westmoreland Supply | 75 78
DINING OUT
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Cain’s Saloon
ON THE COVER
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The Martin home on Kenmont Avenue was built by a prominent physician in 1857 and was originally located about a half of a mile away. Photo by Michael Haritan
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Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3
t. Lebanon SUMMER 2011
Welcome to the summer issue of Mt. Lebanon Magazine. Summer is the time for home improvement projects and this issue contains information about house maintenance, landscaping and real estate. Our annual advertising section on real estate in Washington and Allegheny Counties reminds us of the beautiful, affordable homes – both old and new – that are available in our region. If you’re in the market t o buy or sell a home, we hope you will find this issue to be helpful. For those you who plan to stay in your home but want to fix up the outside, this issue contains plenty of tips from professional landscapers and gardeners. We also have a feature on the new Miracle Field that will be built for special needs children later this year in the South Hills. Like other Miracle League Fields across the Uni ted States, this one will be specially-designed so that physically-challenged youngsters can play baseball during the summer months. What a great resource for children and their parents. Finally, this issue has information about Mt. Lebanon residents and businesses, an interview with the school superintendent, a listing of summer activities in the community, and recent student achievements and awards. Have a great summer!
IN Mt. Lebanon is a 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. PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard M A N AG I N G E D I TO R
Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com R E G I O N A L E D I TO R
Christina Clinton Evans c.evans@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com STA F F P H OTO G R A P H E R
Wayne Dollard Publisher
Jack Megaw j.megaw@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS
Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN
After what seems like a colder and wetter-than-normal spring, hopefully a warm, dry summer is in store for all of us western Pennsylvanians. Summer in this part of the world is a special time and there are plenty of yearly events and activities that can quickly become a tradition for your family. There are the obvious ones – such as a school or community picnic day at Kennywood – but there are some less-obvious ones that your family can adopt as traditions and begin to create summer memories that will last a lifetime. A visit to a local farmers market is a great way to spend time with your kids while teaching them that fruits, vegetables and other commodities can come from places other than a mega grocery store. There are two farmers markets in Mt. Lebanon that are held each week through October : the Mt. Lebanon Lions Farmer’s Market is held on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Mt. Lebanon Methodist Church at 975 Washington Road, and a second one is held on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon in the section of Washington Road known as “uptown.” Another summer tradition that my family looks forward to every year are the church fairs, community days and benefit walks held throughout the region eve ry summer. Mt. Lebanon’s First Fridays continue this summer and are a great way to meet your neighbors and get to know the community. Finally, take some time to do some exploring around your own town. This issue of Mt. Lebanon includes a feature about one of the oldest homes in the community once known as the McCormick House on Kenmont Avenue. When you’re out riding around some evening, take a few minutes to check out this piece of Mt. Lebanon history. Have a great summer full of family traditions and memories, and Mt. Lebanon magazine will
see you in the fall!
Christina Clinton Evans Editor
Cassie Brkich Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
P H OTO G R A P H E R S
Garyyonphotography.com Michael Haritan A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S
Derek Bayer Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes John Gartley Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Rita Lengvarsky Connie McDaniel Brian McKee
David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki CapezioWatson
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968
Fall content deadline: 7/29 www.incommunitymagazines.com
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rom virtually anywhere in South Fayette, progress on the Newbury Development can be seen. Whether you’re on Route 50, Thom’s Run, or I-79, the project has moved far beyond the earthmoving phase and has opened up Phase 2 for sales. Brett Malky, the President of EQA Landmark Communities and managing partner of Newbury Development Associates, said that the commitment to quality development in the heart of the South Hills is paying off in spades.
“We have had spectacular sales results at Newbury,” Malky said. “Our dedication to building excellence and a new kind of community demonstrate that people want projects like Newbury and not the same old subdivision. They want thoughtful design, attention to detail and a home that’s unique.” So far, 45 homes in Phase One have sold, ranging in prices from $280,000 to $1.2 million, and 10 people have already moved in and 12 more homes are under construction. In Phase Two, six of 15 homes have sold within the couple weeks of release, making
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Newbury the best-selling community in the South Hills, and one of the best in the entire Pittsburgh MSA. Newbury can offer all of those aspects to homebuyers. The 325-acre, $450 million dollar, mixed-use development, underwent more than 18 months of conceptualization before work began on the site. Tennesseebased architectural firm Shapiro & Company Architects came to the South Hills to document thousands of homes, noting their architecture, design and placement on their lots. The information was distilled into a
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“I love the whole concept - the way the plans were configured and the style of the houses. There are so many plans out there that have brick fronts with vinyl siding wrapped around. There’s none of that at Newbury. And when the business district is built, it will truly offer residents the whole live, work, play concept. I can’t say enough about it, really. It’s going to be a special thing. It’s going to be a real gem for the South Hills.” Dave Pirain, Newbury resident of 1 month
design for Newbury that would combine the best aspects of the architecture of the South Hills, looking like a neighborhood that’s always been there – new, yet already familiar within the surrounding municipalities. What’s more, consideration was given to South Fayette’s needs as well. Newbury not only is changing the face of South Fayette, it’s also improving on it. The main entrance to the commercial area will be off of Route 50, through the existing 84 Lumber store. Work on 84 Lumber’s new home at Newbury is nearing completion and they will be moving into their new home in the coming months. “This will have a true Main Street component complete with small shops, mom and pop retailers, restaurants and the like,” Malky said. “There will be a fountain for the kids to play in, a cotton candy kiosk and a booth playing calliope music. It’s going to have a small town feel. It will be a place to be proud of to live, work, play, dine and shop.” Newbury’s commercial district will also
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have a hotel, banks and every service imaginable with space for the national retailers, the local barber, chain vendors, and office buildings. Newbury Market is finalizing agreements of sale and leases for all the space within Phase One of the retail/commercial center. Restaurants, banks, shops, a hotel,
offices, big-box and mid-box retailers will soon be announced. “We can tell you that we will have offices, a hotel, banks, a grocery store, apparel and shoe stores as well as goods retailers…and as many as 5 restaurants in the first phase of Newbury continued on page 11
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Unparalleled
Every home in the United States is built to the minimum standards of a building code. That code addresses standards for safety, livability, and energy efficiency. The developer of Newbury has developed its own home performance standards to ensure that every home within its communities achieves the highest level of quality in the region, making these homes measurably better than typical code-compliant homes. Rather than default to the minimum industry standards, Newbury is committed to offering homeowners the opportunity to own a high performance home, using proven technologies and best practice construction techniques to deliver a better home. The home performance standards for Newbury were created in partnership with IBACOS (Integrated Building and Construction Solutions), a leading national research and development firm for the housing industry, and a strategic partner with EQA Landmark Communities for more than 13 years. The Newbury Home Performance Standards address the following criteria for construction quality and performance: 1. Energy – Improve the energy efficiency of the home to at least 30% better than energy code in order to reduce utility bills and ensure optimum occupant comfort. 2. Indoor Environmental Quality – Provide homeowners with better indoor air quality and a more comfortable living environment through the use of fresh air ventilation systems, high efficiency air filtration and less toxic building materials. 3. Building Durability – Build the home to last longer while minimizing the need for routine maintenance by using best practices in home construction to control the movement of water, moisture vapor and air through the home. 4. Materials & Resources – Reduce the environmental impact of the home by using sustainable building materials and efficient construction techniques. By building homes to these quality standards, Newbury is offering homeowners the benefits of improved comfort, healthier living environments, and the peace of mind of knowing that their new home at Newbury is the best home in the region. In addition, every home is built to an architectural standard and guideline at Newbury overseen by the founding architect and town architect, Brad Shapiro with Shapiro & Company Architects, Inc. Brad assures that every home in Newbury beautifully integrates with the surrounding homes to enhance the unique sense of place established by Newbury’s pedestrian-friendly master plan, community amenities, and neighborhood streetscape with sidewalks, street trees, street lights and generous front porches. And finally, a fundamental part of assuring the highest quality homes is partnering with industry leaders to assure that the best products are used in the construction of homes at Newbury. Every home at Newbury will have a high efficient, custom designed window from Andersen Windows. All exterior cladding materials will be long-lasting, durable products such as the factory finished James Hardie fiber cement siding with Colorplus Technology, natural stone or Cultured Stone®, or quality brick materials – there will be no vinyl siding at Newbury. And in addition to 10 foot ceiling as standard in every home at Newbury, all homes will benefit from two of the best product manufacturers in the industry who will be providing the appliances and plumbing fixtures for every home, namely Whirlpool Corporation and Kohler.
at Newbury
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continued from page 9 Market. We have more retailers interested in Newbury than we have space to accommodate, so we are building strong momentum with our current sales and leasing efforts,” Malky said. “We also are encouraging our retailers to build in a more sustainable manner, and with ‘green’ buildings,” Malky said. “And, as with the residential component on top, everything will be tied together with sidewalks and be com pletely pedestrian-friendly.” In addition to all of the effort prior to breaking ground, Newbury has some of the top names in the nation working on the home construction on site. Deklewa Home, Heartland Homes, S & A Homes and Stambrosky Homes all are part of the home-building team at Newbury. S& A’s Carriage homes will be completed soon, with a model opening in weeks, and Heartland townhomes will be com pleted this summer. What’s more, Newbury will be featuring one of the top zeroenergy homebuilders in the country to create homes on the site that will not only produce their own energy for running the household, but can actually sell power back to the electric company when the household’s power loads are at a minimum. “We’ll have our zero-energy model open this summer,” Malky said.
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“And with that, homeo wners will be getting a true, solar home, producing power through solar energy. They’ll still be connected to the grid, so if the power needs of the home rise, those needs will always be met, but the home will produce energy and, homeowners may be a net producer of energy.” Creating options like the zero-energy models have been a lynchpin of Newbury’s strategy from the start, not only because the develop ers believe in progressive designs, but because variety has appeal among homebuyers. Comfort, indoor air quality and energy performance are assured by Newbury’s strategic partnership with Carrier Corporation. Hearth & Home assure the best performing fireplaces in the marketplace as energy performance and beauty. “Buying a home is a big decision, and a lot of people have decided that Newbury is going to be the place where they want to spend the next phase of their lives,” Malky said. “Our job is to ensure that that home serves them for decades to come, and even generations to come. We’re looking to create neighborhoods and community. Over time, these homes will be neighborhood landmarks – the house where little Jimmy Smith grew up, or the house where the Smiths have the Fourth of July block party. It take s great people to make that happen, and Newbury is attracting those people.”
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Parade Marshalls: Jay Papuga Trey Papuga Jason Brock T.J. Conroy Ken Puskas Parade Marchers: Mt. Lebanon Police Honor Guard City of Pittsburgh Police, Dormont Police, Mt. Lebanon Police Dormont/Mt. Lebanon Fire Honor Guard Sergeant Ryan Lane Family Pennsylvania Lottery Mayor Tom Lloyd Dormont Engine #31 Constable Extinguishing Systems Salvation Army KDKA Radio 1020 Shriners Rode Riggs Air Force Keystone Oaks High School Marching Band Vietnam Vets Dormont American Legion #756 Dormont Council Friends of Dormont Pool Brookline American Legion #540 64 T-Birds PA State Representative Matt Smith Dance Express by Dawn B94 Radio Dormont/Mt. Lebanon Fire Engine #32 and #22 Dormont Elementary 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students Dormont Eagles Boosters Twirling Corps Mt. Lebanon American Legion Post #156 Y108 Radio Carrick High School Bagpipe Band Beechview Library Mt. Lebanon Cub Scouts Pack #28 Dormont Elementary School Brownies U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy Brashear High School Marching Band Antique Cars & Corvette Club Medical Rescue Team South (MRTSA) Kennywood Trolley Brookline Chamber of Commerce Mt. Lebanon High School Marching Band Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon McCormick/Dorman VFW Post #694 Air Force ROTC Dormont Cub Scouts Troop #870 Dormont Brownies #50480 Dormont AARP #3016 Dormont Historical Society Dormont Woman's Club Dormont Day Committee Star 107 Radio Dormont Elementary School Drill Team Fawcett Karate and Self-Defense Dormont/Mt. Lebanon Fire Truck #35 and #25 Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
ith close to 150 people in attendance, ground was broken on a warm Memorial Day morning for the Mt. Lebanon’s Veterans Memorial. Located at the entrance of Mt. Lebanon Park on Morgan Drive, the memorial will honor all Mt. Lebanon residents who have served their country from World War II up through the current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. A special section of the memorial will be dedicated to those residents who gave their lives while defending the United States. Pittsburgh Steeler great, Vietnam veteran and Mt. Lebanon resident Rocky Bleier is the honorary chair of the Veterans Memorial Committee and spoke about the importance of the memorial. “What I did 42 years ago is forever etched in my memory, as it is with all of the others who have served their country,” Bleier said. “It’s up to us to provide an oral history to future generations of what we did while serving our country.” With that, Bleier asked all of the individuals attending the service who are veterans or are currently serving in the U.S. Military to join him on stage. At least two dozen men and women were recognized by the crowd for their service. District Justice Blaise Larotonda introduced World War II veteran and Mt. Lebanon resident Jack Haller who was instrumental in getting the Veterans Memorial project started several years ago by his persistence with the Mt. Lebanon Commissioners. Haller and students from the district’s 10 schools were the official “ground-breakers” during the program. The Mt. Lebanon students and the schools they represented included: • Cassidy Higgins – Howe Elementary School • Sean and Patrick Fitzgerald – Washington Elementary School • Nick Rendulic – Foster Elementary School • Katie Strohl – Lincoln Elementary School • Aidan Witte – Jefferson Elementary School • Aidan Bareford – Hoover Elementary School • Erich Bosch – Markham Elementary School • Brynn Fuller-Becker and Jackson Hopey – Mellon Middle School • Justin Grennbaum – Jefferson Middle School • Brad Nealon and Alex Pecoraro – Mt. Lebanon High School
The architecture firm Loysen Kreuthmeier will design the memorial and its white marble stones – which represent the veterans’ contributions -- will radiate outward into the landscape as a reminder of those who served far from home. The centerpiece of the memorial will be an American flag atop a lighted pylon. It will also include an enclosed area with seating for quiet reflection. The Veterans Memorial Committee estimates that the memorial will cost $180,000, which includes construction costs and a legacy trust that will enable the community to maintain the memorials and update it as necessary. The committee hopes the memorial will be completed by summer 2012. Donations for the memorial are still being accepted and can be sent to: Mt. Lebanon Veterans Memorial, c/o Mt. Lebanon Municipality, 710 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228.
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Rocky Bleier, Honorary Chair Dan Gigler, Chair Lisa Brown Jim Cannon Jody Colby Rebecca Cortese Jon Delano Ted Ford Keira Hightower Blaise Larotonda Anthony Moretti Robert P. Morgan Alby Oxrenreiter Jennifer Papale Rignani John Rombold Holly B. Schultz Ken Schultz Brienne Colby Sembrat Linda Smartschan Matt Smith Nick Sohyda J.W. Stehle Kim Tilghman Lee Tilghman Jeff Zeiders
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Mt. Lebanon Resident Profile:
hoever said romance is dead never met Mt. Lebanon’s Gwyn Cready. The Mt. Lebanon native has published four romance novels and a fifth one is due to hit book shelves in late October, followed by another one next spring. Cready’s books begin in the present, but a weird quirk in the universe transports the heroine back through time to another period and country – usually Scotland or England during the 1700s a nd 1800s. A 1979 graduate of Mt. Lebanon High School, Cready earned her BA in English and an MBA in marketing from the University of Chicago. Following her marriage, she convinced her husband, a native of North Dakota, to move back to her beloved Pittsburgh to raise their two children. She worked for over two decades for Beecham Products (now Glaxo Smith Kline). It was a tragedy – the unexpected death of her younger sister – that convinced Cready to put pen to paper and begin working on her first book. “I wanted to do something to honor her memory,” Cready said. “Writing a book and dedicating it to her seemed to be the right thing to do especially because a book is long-lasting.” Deciding to write a book and actually writing one, however, is not as easy as it sounds. “The first book took six years to write because I was working full-time and raising children,” she said. “I worked on it in secret – I didn’t even tell my husband about it – because I was so nervous.” While the first book didn’t get 18 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
published, it did get her an agent. “She (the agent) told me that she was 100 percent positive that she would get me published and she really believed in and encouraged me to write,” she said. Cready went back to the computer and wrote a few chapters of another book, which the agent loved and started shopping to publishers. This one only took her 20 months to finish. The novel – Flirting with Forever – was sold in 2006, and she signed a two-book contract with Pocket Books, a mass market paperback book publisher. It was about that time that fate intervened in Cready’s professional life. Her employer wanted to t ransfer her to New Jersey and rather than move her family, she decided to take an early retirement and begin writing full-time. She hasn’t looked back since. Her next three books, Seducing Mr. Darcy, Tumbling Through Time, and Aching for Always were instant hits with romance novel readers and established Cready as a major player in the genre. All of Cready’s heroines are “spunky, sassy women” (who happen to live and work in Pittsburgh and, in one case, Mt. Lebanon), and the men are always handsome, strong and chivalrous. “All romance novels follow a pattern,” she said. “Readers know the hero and heroine are going to live happily ever after, the key is getting them to that point. Time-travel adds an extra hurdle they
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have to overcome: what period will they wind up living in? It adds an extra layer of tension.” Cready said she likes playing with the timetravel theme because everyone, at least once in their lives, has asked the question: ‘if I had to do it over again, what would I do differently?’ And the critics seem to agree. One of her books, Seducing Mr. Darcy, was so well-received that it won Cready a RITA Award, the highest honor in the romance fiction genre. If the name “Mr. Darcy” sounds familiar, it’s because he’s the hero in Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen’s Gothic romance. Her next book, A Novel Seduction, takes a slightly different turn on the time-travel theme. The heroine, a literary critic, is forced to write a magazine article about why women seem to love romance novels. The heroine reads her first romance novel and becomes hooked herself. Of course, there’s some tension involved with an e xboyfriend, but readers will have to wait for the book to be published to see how it’s resolved. While Cready said that winning the RITA award was a major highlight of her career, she points to another incident that was just as fulfilling. “My son, who lives in Washington, DC, was sitting on the Metro next to a woman who was reading one of my books,” she said. “When he told the woman that his mother had written the book, it was said with such pride that I was very touched by it.”
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The start of the much-anticipated construction of the new Mt. Lebanon High School has been delayed because of budgetary projections, according to superintendent Timothy Steinhauer, but he predicts that by the fall of 2011 or early winter of 2012, ground will be broken.
“In April, we opened the bids and the costs were 16 percent higher than what we had anticipated,” he said. “Right now, we are reworking the project to see what we can cut out or cut back.” He said the school district is rethinking some engineering techniques that could potentially shave $15 million off the project bid.
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“These changes would be made to things that the public wouldn’t even see, such as the type of wall units we install or the window sashes we use,” Steinhauer said. Space – and money – also will be saved by moving some district-wide administrative departments or functions -- such as the school psychologist – to one of the elementary or middle schools. “Everyone is being very creative,” Steinhauer said. “I think we are getting very close to a number that the [school] board is comfortable with and hopefully we can start construction in the fall or winter.”
724.814.0742 To make up for lost time, Steinhauer said that once everything is approved, he hopes the construction schedule can be shortened. Summer, he said, presents a “great opportunity” for the district.
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“Summer is always very busy with hiring, pre-planning, and getting organized for the next school year,” he said. “It also gives us the time to pause and reflect on the last school year and evaluate what we did right and what we need to improve upon as well as analyzing our most recent PSSA scores.” Unlike some of the districts around western Pennsylvania, Mt. Lebanon is not planning any teacher furloughs for the 2011-2010 school year because of Governor Tom Corbett’s education budget. In fact, because 12 teachers have retired this year, the district is in hiring mode. There are no planned millage increases for Mt. Lebanon, either. “At Mt. Lebanon, we’re not as significantly impacted by the state’s budget cuts as some other school districts are,” he said. “Last spring, we worked very hard to trim costs, such as renegotiating contracts with some vendors and refinancing some debt, so that we would be in a good place for the 2011-2012 school year.” Steinhauer has been Mt. Lebanon’s superintendent for two years, following stints at North Allegheny and Upper St. Clair. His two sons are students in the district, and he said they have had a wonderful transition to their new schools. Even his dog has gotten in on the act: he played Toto in the high school’s spring production of The Wizard of Oz. “This is a super district and we love living here,” he said. “I feel very connected to the kids, their parents and the teachers. It was a good move for my family.” Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 23
M t n u e s d i u c t i a S n s n o n a b e L t.
MW
addition to their classroom studies so playing with the PYSO is a major time commitment,” he said.
hen members of the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra (PYSO) take the stage in Italy this summer as part of its international tour, there will be plenty of representation from South Hills student musicians. Almost one-quarter of the orchestra's 102 members come from South Hills school district music programs such as Mt. Lebanon, Peters Township, Bethel Park, and Upper St. Clair.
Craig Johnson, executive director of PYSO, said students must undergo a rigorous audition prior to being selected to play with the orchestra, commit to weekly rehearsals throughout the school year, and perform in three concerts. “Many of these students also are involved in sports, debate clubs, science clubs and other extra-curricular activities in
The PYSO is one of the oldest in the country. Founded in 1946, said the group cultivates discipline, fine musicianship and an overall appreciation for excellence among it members.
“Through their impressive performances, dedication and commitment, the group also serves as role-models for aspiring younger musicians and students,” he said. Every three years, the student musicians have the opportunity to travel overseas and perform for an international audience. The summer 2011 International Tour will be in Italy and the orchestra will perform four concerts in several venues as part of the prestigious Florence Youth Festival. “Preparation for a tour of this size is an enormous commitment of time, effort and resources,” Johnson said. “Every member must pay their own way in order to participate and we also rely on fund-raising and other donations throughout the year to help defray costs.”
Nick Brown
Angela-Maureen Nagem
Mana Aliabadi
Jeremy Hois Arjun Kar Lily Chen 24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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Claire Neiderberger
Perform in Italy
Other countries that prior orchestras have visited include Austria, Scotland, Switzerland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Germany, and China. Students from Mt. Lebanon High School who participated in the PYSO this year are: • Mana Aliabadi, cello, senior • Nick Brown, violin, junior • Lily Chen, violin, sophomore • Jeremy Hois, oboe, senior • Arjun Kar, violin, senior • Angela-Maureen Nagem, viola, senior • Claire Niederberger, violin, junior • Kevin Silmorre Skolnick, junior, violin • Benjamin Spilsbury, cello, senior • Grace Stokan, viola, junior • Amanda Vosburgh, cello, • Christopher Weis, violin, senior 8th grade (Jefferson Middle School) • Amy Xie, violin, senior For more information about the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra, including upcoming programs, performance schedules, auditions, and providing support, visit www.pittsburghyouthsymphony.org or call the office at 412.392.4872. Christopher Weis Kevin Silmore Skolnick Grace Stokan
Amy Xie Ben Spilspury Amanda Vosburgh
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Mt. Lebanon
team of fifth grade students from Howe Elementary School represented the school district in the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals Competition at the University of Maryland over Memorial Day weekend. The Howe students competed against students from all over the United States and from 30 other countries. The six-member team, called “The Howe Brains,” worked on the problem, “As Good As….Goldberg”, which challenged teams to create a device, using an unnecessarily complex series of components, that performs the same task as an existing item. "Odyssey values a kids hands-on, parents hands-off approach to problem solving,” said Howe coach and teacher Sharon Biasca. “Our kids were equal contributors to the problem’s solution and along the way learned that a group is a more powerful force than an individual. This quality is sometimes lost in sports and academic competitions. This quality will serve them well in life." The Howe team was able to go to finals because they placed second in the Pennsylvania State Odyssey of the Mind Competition in April. Their registration and other fees were covered through fund raising activities. “What an experience,” said George Brzezinski, a parent of one of the Howe students. “The participation alone was something they will remember the rest of their lives. They stayed on campus for five days, joined 857 other teams that competed including those from 33 states and 14 foreign countries.” Brzezinski said the team was paired with a “buddy” team from Singapore. The two groups had lunch together, traded gifts (which included a Terrible Towel) and watched each other compete. At the University of Maryland, the Howe team competed against 60 other teams in their
The Howe Brains Odyssey of the Mind team with Omer, the Odyssey mascot, attended the World Championship in May. From left, Kelsey McKiernan, Anthony Procaccini, Ethan Cuccarese, Alexa Brzezinski, Kenny Giarla and Dylan Jones
division and had a respectable showing. “As it turned out, their buddy team won the gold medal in another problem,” he said. “Our kids were as excited as if they had won it themselves!” The Howe Brains advanced to the Pennsylvania state finals after placing second in a regional competition held at Moon Area High School in March. Winners from five regions across Pennsylvania competed in the state finals tournament in Williamsport. Pennsylvania is recognized as having one of the strongest Odyssey of the Mind programs in the world.
Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. Team members apply their creativity to solve problems that range from building mechanical devices to presenting their own interpretation of literary classics. Kids are rewarded for how they apply their creativity, knowledge, skills, and talents. Teams are coached and supervised by adults, but cannot accept help, ideas, solutions from an adult or anyone outside of their team. For more information, visit www.odysseyofthemind.com.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27
Mt. Lebanon Girls Win Third Straight PIAA Title
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he Mt. Lebanon girls’ basketball team entered the 2010-11 season as the two-time defending WPIAL and PIAA champions. A challenging early season schedule yielded some struggles, and they were only 3-5 on January 3. However, Notre Dame recruit Madison Cable led the charge to finish the regular season with 14 straight wins. They cruised to the WPIAL championship game with wins by 26, 29, and 21 points, and faced Shaler at the A.J. Palumbo Center. The Lady Titans scored the first four points of the game. Mt. Lebanon responded with a 13-0 run that extended into the second quarter. Shaler finally scored with 4:36 left before halftime. That basket ended a ten-minute drought. The Blue Devils led 18-9 at the half. Cable had eight points, six rebounds, and two blocked shots. Shaler opened the second half on a 13-4 run to tie the game at 22. Mt. Lebanon turned the ball over on three consecutive possessions to help key Shaler’s run. The Lady Titans kept their run going throughout the entire third quarter. Shaler won the quarter 21-7 to lead 30-25. Cable capped a 7-2 run to open the fourth quarter with three-point play that leveled the score at 32. However, Shaler scored the next seven points to lead 39-32 with 1:37 to go. The Blue Devils trailed by four with 31 seconds left. Liz Tommasi scored to bring them within two, but the basket was waved off because of an offensive foul. Shaler hit two free throws to seal the 41-35 upset. Cable finished with 12 points and 12 rebounds. They still had back-to-back PIAA championships to defend. Two blowouts put them in the quarterfinals for a rematch with Shaler. This turned out far different. The Blue Devils led 19-5 after one quarter and
36-15 at halftime. They forced 20 Shaler turnovers in the first half. Unlike the WPIAL title game, they continued to pressure in the second half. The lead swelled to 51-25 after three quarters, and they cruised to a 65-39 victory. Cable led the way with 24 points. Kelly Johnson added 13, and Christine Ehland had 10. In the PIAA semifinals, they hammered Lower Merion 62-35. Emma Pellicano and Kelly Johnson each had 16 points to pace the Blue Devils. They advanced to their fourth straight PIAA title game. Standing in the way of a third consecutive state gold was Archbishop Carroll. The Blue Devils were clinging to a one-point lead with under 30 seconds to play. The Patriots had the ball with a chance to win. Jen Carney drove to the basket and put up a shot…no good! Anna Kestler grabbed the defensive rebound and time expired. Cable was held to 9 points, but Johnson again stepped up to score 13 points in a heart-pounding 47-46 win. The Blue Devils finished 25-6 with a WPIAL silver medal. More importantly, they won their third straight PIAA gold medal. Although star Madison Cable graduates this year, they have plenty of talent coming back next season. It goes without saying what a dominant run this was. They will look to continue their great success in 2011-12.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
Enjoy Summer in Whatever your interests, you’re bound to find something to do in Mt. Lebanon this summer. Here’s a rundown of some of the activities and events that will heat up (or cool down) the summer of 2011!
Farmers Markets Mt. Lebanon Lions Farmer’s Market 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesdays through October Mt. Lebanon Methodist Church, 975 Washington Road Mt. Lebanon Uptown Farmer’s Market 8 a.m, to noon, Saturdays through October Washington Road (between 650 and 720 blocks)
4th of July Celebration 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Activities for children of all ages, including carnival games, climbing wall, petting zoo, and lots of food! Mt. Lebanon Park 7:30 p.m. – Concert by Radio Tokyo in Mt. Lebanon Park
Music in the Park
9:30 p.m. – Fireworks
Sunday, June 19, 7:30 p.m. Tres Lads, Acoustic rock
Swimming
Sunday, July 16, 7:30 p.m. Todd Jones, Country music
Mt. Lebanon Swimming Center 900 Cedar Boulevard, Mt. Lebanon For more information, call 412.561.6626 or log onto www.mtlebanon.org Hours (subject to change depending on weather and special events) General Swim Sunday – Saturday: Noon to 8 p.m. Adult Swim Sunday through Saturday: 11 a.m. to Noon Monday through Thursday: 8:15 to 9:15 p.m.
16th Annual Classic Car Show & Festival Sunday, June 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Washington Road Classic cars, food vendors, shopping, and music by Trainwreck (country rock) Proceeds benefit the Mt. Lebanon Police Department’s youth programs
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Rates: • All-season passes are available for residents and nonresidents and prices run from $75 - $110 for individuals up to $300 for a family of six. • Daily prices: Adult (19-61): $6, (62+) $5 Child (4-18): $5 Twilight swim (4 to 8 p.m.): $4
Mt. Lebanon T ennis The Municipal Tennis Center is located on Cedar Boulevard in Mt. Lebanon and there are 15 tennis courts available to rent by the season or the hour. The Tennis Center is open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Court times can be reserved by calling 412.343.3411. Rates: Season passes: Resident adults: $245 Resident juniors (under 19): $110 Nonresidents: $275 Seniors: $220 Hourly rates: Adults: $7; Junior (under 19): $5 Nonresidents: $7; Seniors: $7
Cinema
Last Saturday Cinema will be held again this summer to benefit the Denis Theatre Foundation. All movies begin at dusk at the Clearview Commons.
Church and Walking Tour ”Saints and Stained Class” tours of St. Bernard and Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian churches, sponsored by the Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon. Friday, August 12 6 p.m. Meet in the Presbyterian church parking lot. Cost is $5 for Historical Society of Mt. Lebanon members and $10 for non-members. The Historical Society will also conduct 90-minute walking tours of Mt. Lebanon on Saturday, July 9, and Saturday, September 10. Register at 412.563.1941 or info@hsmtl.org
OutdoorParties
First Friday Washington Road June 25:The Freshman, comedy starring Friday, July 1 Matthew Broderic Food, activities, shopping, and July 30: Every Little Step, documentary music by Fungus about Broadway auditions First Friday August 27: 1932’s Trouble in Paradise Washington Road Friday, August 5 Food, activities, shopping,and music by City Dwelling Nature Seekers Mt. Lebanon Library’s Annual Garden Tour ULTAparty Sunday, July 10 Saturday, August 6 Noon to 5 p.m. Sundown to midnight Tickets are $15 per person in Washington Road and Clearview advance or $20 the day of the tour Commons and are available at the library. Music, food, family activities Includes tour, plant sales, and free First Friday consultations with master Washington Road gardeners. Friday, September 2 Pre-tour party on Saturday, Food, activities, shopping, and July 9 with live music, food music by Freedom Band and raffles Tickets are $30 per person in advance or at the door.
Garden Tour
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
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Carl Palka (of Chartiers Valley) (Best Art Manipulation)
Nancy Barnard, club president, and Bob Hayes, club vice president.
Carl Pascarella admiring his photo entry with Larry Nist.
Barb Bennett (Best Nature and Second Place Overall)
Nancy Koch (of Upper St. Clair) (Best Table Top)
The Photographic Section of the Academy of Science and Art of Pittsburgh, an active photo club in the city since 1885, had many of their club members enter a competition on Saturday, March 5. Sixty percent of the 256 print and 206 digital entries were accepted by the judges and were on display at an open house held on Tuesday, March 8 at the Mt. Lebanon Rec. Center. The three non-member judges chose the best entries in ten different categories such as best landscape and best art manipulation. Then the judges chose the top three entries from those winners. The club is also sponsoring a photography workshop at Phipps Conservatory May 20-21 (100 participants can be accommodated). For information go to www.billcampbellphoto.com.
Sandy Duffy with her daughter's entry, her grandchildren as the subjects.
Bob Fleming (Chartiers Valley) (Best Landscape and First Place Overall)
Stephen Celento (of Canonsburg) and his father and subject of his entry, Edward Celento
Tricia Zeiler (Best Outdoor Portrait and Third Place Overall)
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
The 11th Annual Diocesan Cheerleading Championship was recently hosted by St. Teresa of Avila Cheerleaders at North Hills High School. Close to 20 Pittsburgh area Catholic schools participated, including St. Bernard. The students showed that cheerleading is a competitive sport as they excelled in tumbling, jumps, stunting, cheers and dance. Go Chargers!
GABBY BINDSEIL JACKI DOLAN ISABELLA HARRIS PATIENCE KISH ELIZABETH KITTLE MARIJA PAVLICK CLAUDIA PIERCE ELINOR ROMAN MOLLY SCOTTI SAMANTHA WILHELM
Judges Judy Bradley and Tracy Howe
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MT. LEBANON MAIN LINE II D is t inc t ive Ca r r ia ge Hom e s in t he H e a r t of M t. Le ba n on
D ia ne Ra ndolp h drandolph@royalmile.biz
412 .34 3.0 350 or 412.884.0350
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
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SUMMER 2011
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
What’s Inside page 2
A Woman’s Heart Is Special
page 3
The Good News About Heart Disease Six Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure
page 4
Young Athletes and Sudden Cardiac Death What Parents Need to Know Exercise: Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Harmful
© 2011 UPMC
page 5
The Downside of Falls
page 6
Choosing the Right Doctor for You
page 7
Welcoming New Physicians
A Woman’s Heart Is Special It’s important to recognize you’re not immune to the dangers of heart disease Have you ever heard the adage, “Know your enemy?” Heart disease is pandemic in the United States — but many women remain unaware that it’s an “equal opportunity” disease. The symptoms of heart disease can differ between men and women, but if you have a heart, you can get heart disease.
Take action for your heart health
“Every woman, regardless of age, should know her risk factors and work with her doctor to develop a plan for good heart health,” says John R. Ward, MD, a cardiologist and specialist in women’s heart issues at UPMC Mercy, which is part of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. “Taking action could save your life or the life of someone you love.”
The first step in becoming “heart smart” is to meet with your doctor or primary care physician. An honest conversation with your doctor will help ensure that you get the best possible care. Here are a few questions to ask:
Know your risks An astonishing 80 percent of women between the ages of 40 and 60 have one or more risk factors for heart disease. “Having just one risk factor doubles your chance for heart disease,” adds Dr. Ward. Having multiple risk factors significantly increases your potential for heart problems. Smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and family history are risk factors that men and women share. Additional risk factors specific to women’s heart health include: • Metabolic syndrome, a combination of excessive fat around the abdomen, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high triglycerides that increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. • Mental stress and depression, both of which make it difficult to follow a healthy lifestyle. • Low levels of estrogen after menopause, which pose serious risks of heart disease developing in a woman’s smaller blood vessels. “You can’t do anything about your genes and family history, but lifestyle changes can certainly help reduce your risk of heart disease,” says Dr. Ward.
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Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women over the age of 65. And over the last 20 years, the rate of heart attacks in women between the ages of 35 and 54 has been on the rise. Given these statistics, every woman should pay close attention to her heart health.
• What are my risk factors for heart disease? • What should I know about the effects of menopause on my heart health? • What is my blood pressure? Is that healthy for my age? • What is my cholesterol and how could it affect my health? • Based on my history and risk factors, what can I do to lower my risk? Take action for your family, too The staggering increase in obesity and diabetes in children in the United States puts them at significant risk of heart disease. “We’ve learned that plaque can begin to build up in arteries in children as young as two years old,” says Dr. Ward. “Moms are role models for their children. By making healthy changes for yourself, you can help improve the heart health of the entire family.” To learn more about cardiac services at UPMC Mercy, visit www.UPMCMercy.com and click on Our Services. To schedule an appointment with a UPMC-affiliated physician, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
The Good News About Heart Disease Take charge of your heart through health screenings and heart-healthy lifestyle changes Heart disease is the nation’s leading cause of death for both men and women. Every 25 seconds, someone experiences a coronary event; every minute, heart disease claims a life. The good news? You can take steps to reduce your risk of heart disease through routine screenings and lifestyle changes — even if you’ve already had a heart attack or stroke.
If needed, you also can take advantage of the region’s only low radiation electron beam CT scan at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. It looks specifically for calcium in the coronary arteries as a marker of the cholesterol accumulation that can cause sudden heart attacks. Dr. Fallert recommends regular health screenings that tell you your numbers and whether you need to take action. For example, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels, but you wouldn’t know you have these conditions without testing for them.
“Heart disease is a disease we can do something about. In most instances, it is preventable,” says Daniel Edmundowicz, MD, associate professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, and director The more risk factors you have, the greater of preventive cardiology at the UPMC your chance of developing heart disease, Heart and Vascular Institute. says Dr. Fallert. While you can’t control “Screening absolutely saves lives. We genetics, you can take steps to control can help people change the outcome many other risk factors by eating a once we know the risk-factor levels,” healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, Dr. Edmundowicz says. and maintaining a healthy body weight. Some changes — like quitting smoking — Heart-Healthy Resources at can have an immediate impact. UPMC Mercy
Six Ways to Lower Your Blood Pressure High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke, and other serious diseases. Follow these recommendations from Dr. Fallert to take charge of this “silent killer”: • Increase physical activity. Aim for at least 30 minutes each day (most days) of brisk walking, bike riding, or other aerobic activity. • Monitor your sodium. Limit your sodium intake to less than two grams (2,000 mg) a day. Beware of “hidden” sodium in processed foods, including canned soup, lunch meats, frozen dinners, and crackers. • Eat healthy. Follow a lower-fat diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods. • Control your stress. Take 15 minutes each day to decompress and focus on yourself. Listen to music, read, pray, or meditate. • Don’t smoke! Nicotine causes your blood vessels to constrict and your heart to beat faster, which raises your blood pressure.
Michael A. Fallert, MD, chief of cardiology at UPMC Mercy, says doctors use tools such as EKGs, stress testing, ultrasound, and CT scans to look for signs of atherosclerosis in the heart, neck, legs, and arms — especially if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease.
“The bottom line is: If you know your numbers and know your risk, you can do something about it,” Dr. Fallert says.
Risk factors that can’t be chaged
Know your numbers
Become heart smart
Aim for these vital numbers to keep your ticker in good working condition:
Take time to educate yourself about heart disease and the treatments available. The UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute website is a one-stop source of information about cardiac conditions, as well as UPMC’s full spectrum of cardiovascular services from routine screenings to advanced cardiac care.
• Family history of heart disease, carotid artery disease, or peripheral artery disease • Age (65 and older) • Gender (men have a greater risk of heart attack)
Risk factors that can be changed • • • • •
Smoking High blood pressure High cholesterol levels Obesity Physical inactivity
Monitor
Target Levels
Cholesterol
less than 200 mg/dL
Blood Pressure
below 120/80
BMI (body mass index) 18.5–24.9
Ask your doctor
• Take your medicine. If medicine is needed to control your blood pressure, make sure you take it as prescribed by your doctor.
Be sure to check it out at www.UPMC.com/HeartandVascular.
If you have questions or concerns about your heart health, call your physician to schedule an appointment.
1-800-533-UPMC
3
Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Young Athletes and Sudden Cardiac Death
What Parents Need to Know Is your child among the three to five million young people in the United States who play organized sports each year? If so, you know that a pre-participation physical examination can help identify young athletes who may be at risk for an injury or illness that could require additional medical evaluation. Recently, identifying young athletes who may be at risk of sudden cardiac death has become a hot topic among sports medicine professionals, focusing the attention of parents on the need for better cardiovascular screening of young athletes. “Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young athletes is extremely rare,” says Vivekanand Allada, MD, clinical director of pediatric cardiology at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and professor of pediatrics. “In fact, it’s a one in a million risk.” According to Dr. Allada, sudden death in young athletes is most often due to heart problems, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (an abnormal thickening of the heart). Other causes include congenital coronary anomalies, arrhythmia (which can be caused by a blow to the chest), and Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that can weaken the aorta and lead to a tear or rupture. “Unfortunately, there’s no perfect test to find a needle in a haystack,” says Dr. Allada. However, parents can take steps to uncover risk factors that may require more testing or a consultation with a pediatric cardiologist. The American Heart Association recommends that young athletes undergo a screening medical history to check specifically for: • Chest pain, palpitations, or fainting during exercise (red flags that require immediate attention) • A history of a heart murmur or hypertension • Family history of coronary disease, sudden death, or Marfan syndrome Children with any of these risk factors or an abnormal physical exam should see a pediatric cardiologist, who is specially trained to look for cardiac problems in children and teens, Dr. Allada says. Further testing might include an EKG, echocardiogram, and stress test. He offers these tips to parents: • Don’t let your child play through chest pain. Pain can be a warning sign. • Teach your child to avoid energy drinks that have high levels of caffeine. Such drinks can make the heart race and cause cardiac arrhythmias. They are particularly dangerous for athletes with undiagnosed cardiac problems. To learn more about caring for your child’s heart, visit www.chp.edu, then click on Child Health A-Z. To schedule an appointment with a Children’s-affiliated physician, call 412-692-PEDS (7337).
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www.UPMC.com/Today
Exercise:
Too Much of a Good Thing Can Be Harmful Regular exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy life. Many of us, however, still struggle to fit even a moderate amount of exercise into our schedules. But there are plenty of people who are getting too much exercise. If some exercise is good, they think more will be better. Not true. In fact, excessive exercise can lead to a host of physical issues, including injuries, the loss of lean muscle mass, a weakened immune system, sleep problems, irritability, and depression. A study in the American Journal of Cardiology suggests that too much vigorous exercise also can increase the risk of heart problems.
Are you exercising too much? Experts say that if your workouts suddenly seem more difficult than usual and you aren’t making progress, you may be overexercising. Other trouble signs include: • Insomnia • Aches or pain in muscles and/or joints • Fatigue • Feeling unmotivated and lacking energy • Increased susceptibility to colds, sore throats, and other illnesses If you’re experiencing any of these signs, see your doctor to find out if something else is causing the problem.
Just starting an exercise program? Congratulations on taking an important step to improve your health. Here are a few tips to help your body adjust to a new routine: • Create a reasonable exercise program based on attainable goals. • Exercise in moderation. • Begin slowly and build up gradually to avoid injuries. • Cut back the volume and intensity of your workouts at the first sign of injury. • Listen to your body. When it needs a rest, give it a rest. Sources: American College of Sports Medicine, American Heart Association
UPMC Spotlight
The Downside of Falls Preventing tripping, falling can be key to maintaining independence Falls may be funny on comedy shows, but they can be traumatic for older adults. Simply tripping on a rug or slipping on a wet floor can change an older person’s life in an instant — posing serious threats to his or her health and independence. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in three people over 65 experience at least one fall each year, and more than two-thirds of them are likely to fall again within six months. Falls also are the leading cause of accidental death in seniors. And, as many as 30 percent of those who fall end up with debilitating hip, pelvic, or spine fractures that make it harder to get around and adversely affect self-confidence. Even those who don’t suffer serious injury can become fearful. “The most obvious concern when an older adult falls or trips is injury,” says Stephanie Studenski, MD, MPH, director of the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center at the University of Pittsburgh and associate director of research at the Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh. “But the fear of falling can cause people to restrict their activity and sacrifice their independence. In some cases, it can lead to social isolation,” she says. Everyone is at risk for falls, but that risk increases with the changes that come with aging, plus other medical conditions such as arthritis, cataracts and glaucoma, and balance problems. “Fortunately, there’s a lot people can do to prevent most risk factors,” says Dr. Studenski. “Taking care of your overall health, staying active, socializing with friends, and taking a few common-sense precautions can help you avoid falls and broken bones.” To learn more about the Falls Clinic, located at UPMC Senior Care-Benedum Geriatric Center in Oakland, call 412-692-4200.
Three things you can do to prevent falls Exercise! Exercises such as tai chi or other relaxation exercises that improve balance and coordination can help lower your chances of falling and make you feel stronger. See your doctor regularly. Annual physical and eye examinations can uncover underlying medical problems that can lead to falls. See your doctor if you feel unstable or dizzy, possibly due to medications. Tell your doctor if you fall; a medical evaluation can help. Make your home safer. Seventy-five percent of all falls occur at home. To help make your home fall-proof: • Improve lighting. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Use night lights in your bedroom, hall, and bathroom. • Remove small throw rugs. Tack down all carpets and area rugs so they are firmly fastened to the floor. • Remove things you can trip over. Clear books, clothes, and shoes from stairs and places you walk. Keep cords and wires near walls. • Use handrails. Install grab bars near toilets, and both inside and outside your tub and shower. Always use the handrail when using the stairs. • Store items within easy reach. Don’t store things too high or too low. Avoid using stepladders or step stools. Most of all, think before you reach. • Wear shoes with non-skid, non-friction soles. Avoid going barefoot or wearing only socks or loose-fitting slippers.
Leading the Work in Falls Prevention Dr. Stephanie Studenski received the 2010 National Award for Falls Prevention Research and will be honored as the grand champion at the third annual Celebrating Senior Champions benefit dinner and auction Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011. For more information about the event, sponsored by UPMC Senior Services, the Aging Institute, and the Division of Geriatric Medicine of the University of Pittsburgh, call Peggy VanHorn, benevolent care advocate, at 412-622-9239.
1-800-533-UPMC
5
Choosing the Right Doctor for You Taking the time to find “Dr. Right” is one of the most important investments you can make. We’ve all heard about the importance of the doctor/patient relationship, often described as the cornerstone of quality medical care. “In fact, the stronger that relationship, the better your chances of receiving the right care at the right time in the right way,” says Tami Minnier, vice president of UPMC’s Donald J. Wolff, Jr. Center for Quality Improvement and Innovation. “At UPMC, our goal is to help you develop a long-term partnership in which your doctor is your number one health care champion.” According to a 2010 survey by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, most of us are very satisfied with our physicians. It usually takes something major — like moving to a new area, changing medical insurance, or being diagnosed with a serious condition — to prompt us to look for a new doctor. “If you’re in the process of changing doctors, there are some exciting new options to consider,” says Ms. Minnier. “For example, UPMC’s Health Plan is working with a growing number of primary care physicians to implement patient-centered medical homes in their practices.” In this medical model, your family doctor becomes the hub for all your care by linking you to a collaborative team of medical professionals — from physician assistants to specialists. Medical homes are designed to ensure that you receive appropriate and comprehensive care over your entire lifetime, including preventive health care, treatment for acute or chronic illness, and assistance with end-of-life care. Studies show that medical homes are resulting in improved care, access, and communication between patients and their “medical team” — as well as improved quality, safety, and cost of care.
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www.UPMC.com/Today
When searching for “Dr. Right,” here are five helpful tips to locate the best match:
Determine what’s important to you “Finding the ‘right’ doctor often involves personal preferences apart from a physician’s skills or qualifications,” says Ms. Minnier. “For example, are you more comfortable with a doctor of your gender? Is a primary care physician right for you, or do you have a medical condition that requires treatment by a specialist? And if easy access is a concern, do you need a doctor located close to your home or workplace?”
Get the opinion of people you trust “Begin your search by asking your circle of family, friends, and co-workers about the positive experiences they’ve had,” she advises. “If you’re moving, or seeking a specialist, your current doctor also can be an excellent referral source.”
Do some homework “There are a number of credible online resources, including UPMC’s Find a Doctor (www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor), with information on more than 5,000 physicians, that allow you to confirm a physician’s medical credentials, board certifications, and specialties,” says Ms. Minnier. You also can check with the state medical board at docboard.org. In general, avoid “doctor ranking” sites, which are unregulated and difficult to verify for accuracy.
At UPMC, a variety of tools are used to assess physician quality, including patient satisfaction surveys. “We literally review thousands of surveys monthly, which provide us with invaluable insights and feedback,” says Ms. Minnier.
Verify your doctor’s insurance plans and hospital affiliations “Most practices accept a variety of insurance plans, but be sure yours is among them,” advises Ms. Minnier. “And should you ever require hospitalization or special tests, it’s important that your doctor be affiliated with a hospital you know and trust.”
Call for an appointment “Bring a written set of questions covering your concerns and expectations. When your visit is over, evaluate the experience,” suggests Ms. Minnier. “Was it easy to get an appointment? Were you treated with respect by both the doctor and the staff? If your answers are positive, you’re on the right path to a doctor/patient relationship characterized by quality care, compassion, and open communication.” For more information, or to schedule an appointment with a UPMC-affiliated physician, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Welcoming New Physicians to UPMC Mercy To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Anesthesiology
Head & Neck Surgery
Nephrology
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Albert J. Carvelli, MD
Grant Shale Gillman, MD
Khaled Abdel-Kader, MD
Shailen F. Greene, MD
Steffanie J. Labate, MD
Andrea F. Lewis, MD
Jose F. Bernardo, MD
Margaret E. Reidy, MD
Joel M. Pomerantz, MD
Andrew A. McCall, MD
Patricia Khalil, MD
Maria F. Twichell, MD
David M. Ruttum, MD
Ryan Jeremy Soose, MD
Kelly V. Liang MD
Joseph F. Talarico, DO
Andrew Burchess Tassler, MD
Preethi V. Murty, MD
Psychiatry
Manisha Loomba Trivedi, MD
Kristin Woodbury, DO
Christopher J. Passero, MD
Saghir Ahmad, MD Anna M. Boettcher, MD
Cardiology
Infectious Diseases
Neuroradiology
Kristina M. Curci, MD
George S. Mendenhall, MD
Bernard J. C. Macatangay, MD
Vera Rachel Spelling, MD
Antoine B. Douaihy, MD
Kathleen Rebecca Sheridan, MD
Hoang Minh Trang, DO
Julie A. Kmiec, MD
Amesh A. Adalja, MD
Internal Medicine
Neurosurgery
Radiation Oncology
Lakshmipathi P. Chelluri, MD
Maliha Ahmad Kamal, MD
Robert M. Friedlander, MD
Ryan Patrick Smith, MD
Lillian L. Emlet, MD
Oksana Karpov, DO
Brian T. Jankowitz, MD
Kevin Ho, MD
Abdul Q. Khan, MD
Critical Care Medicine
Diagnostic Radiology
Ashish Sharma, MD
Neal J. Klitsch, MD
Adam Edmund Sohnen, MD
Michael F. Lupinetti, MD
Marios D. Papachristou, MD
Stephanie L. Nicholas, MD
Jamie L. Parent, MD
Sara A. Majewski, MD Iclal Ocak, MD Daria Elizabeth Setlik, MD
Radiology Obstetrics & Gynecology
Laboratory Medicine Thomas S. Talamo, MD
Amy Vogia, DO Ophthalmology Tineke L. Chan, MD
Urology
Emergency Medicine
Maternal Fetal Medicine
Vasiliki A. Christopoulos, MD
Ronald M. Benoit, MD
Michael C. Campbell, MD
David Collier Streitman, MD
Paul William Conrad, MD
Jodi K. Maranchie, MD
Kimberly V. Miller, MD
Ankur Ashok Doshi, MD Robert J. Hyde, MD
Neonatology
John M. Murray, MD
Charles V. Bender, MD
Troy Christian Sims, MD
Beverly S. Brozanski, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery
Barbara A. Clouser, MD
Lisa Blackrick, MD
Avni Patel Vyas, MD
Timothy Wu, MD
Endocrinology
Barbara Ann Cohlan, MD
Jennifer Pennock Holst, MD
Kara L. Gardner, MD
Orthopaedic Surgery/Podiatry
Jennifer L. Kloesz, MD
Nicholas J. Lowery, DPM
Family Medicine
Burhanuddin Mahmood, MD
Brent E. Clark, MD
William J. McCarran, MD
Pain Management
Richard Rocco Telesco, MD
Karsten Bartels, MD
Gastroenterology
Amy M. Urban, DO
Shahid Masood Malik, MD
Kalyani Rai Vats, MD
Pediatrics/General
Jon F. Watchko, MD
Rita Kaul, MD
Geriatric Medicine
Vascular Surgery
Toby Debra Yanowitz, MD
George H. Gleeson, MD James Richard Sahovey, MD
1-800-533-UPMC
7
UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
Mt. Lebanon Public Library
16 Castle Shannon Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15228 412.531.1912 www.mtlebanonlibrary.org
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.
Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday: 1-5 (Jan - May)
FOR CHILDREN Chess Club For kids in grade K-& Tuesdays, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 5, July 19, August 2, August 16 Tail Waggin’ Tutors Sign up to read to a dog that is trained by Therapy Dogs International Thursday, July 7, 7 p.m. Preregistration required
Spanish Fiestas For kid in grades 1-3 Share stories and make an activity with Spanish teachers from the school district Wednesdays, 1 p.m. July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27 Cool Chemistry Join chemist Professor Kernion and be awed as he demonstrates mysterious and amazing science experiments. Kids 6 and older Thursday, July 14, 7 p.m. Concerts in the Courtyard Enjoy a free concert in the library’s courtyard Thursdays, 7 p.m. • August 4 – Jim Farquar Trio (jazz) • August 11 – Underscore Adia (indie rock) • August 18 – Call to Attraction (pop rock) • August 25 – Mt. Lebanon High School String Quartet (classical)
Totally Terrific Tuesdays An hour-long program for kids entering first grade and up Tuesdays, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Mystery Readers Book Club Tuesdays, 7 p.m. July 19 – The Chicago Way by Michael Harvey
• July 5 – Build creations inspired by famous structures from around the world using LEGOs and other materials • July 12 – Play a game that kids play in different parts of the world • July 19 – Help to create a world map art project • July 26 – Learn different dances from around the world
Saturday Non-Fiction Book Group Saturdays, 3 p.m. July 23 – Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA by Tim Weiner
STORYTIMES Book Babies For children 6 months – 2 years with an adult Mondays, 10 and 11 a.m., through July 25 Mother Goose Storytime For children ages 2-3 with an adult Thursdays,10 and 11 a.m., through July 28 Pajama Storytime For children 6 months – 2 years with an adult Mondays, 10 and 11 a.m., through July 2 FOR ADULTS American History Book Club Thursday, 9:15 a.m. July 7 and July 21 – Wilderness Empire by Walter Borneman Evening Book Group Mondays, 7 p.m. July 18 – The Unnamed by Joshua Ferris Mt. Lebanon Writer’s Group Tuesdays, 7 p.m. July 12 and July 26
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Science Fiction Wednesdays, 7 p.m. July 27 – Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson and short stories The Hemingway Hoax by Joe Haldeman and Flowers for Algernon by Daniels
Sunday, July 10, 12 - 5 p.m. Tickets for the Garden Tour will be available in advance for $15 per person or $20 on the day of the tour at the library. At the library, tour activities will include the annual plant sale, free consultations with Penn State Master Gardeners and a Pittsburgh Rose Society Consulting Rosarian, and special promotional offers at The Book Cellar.
Saturday July 9, 6 - 8 p.m. A pre-tour Garden Party hosted by the Library Board of Trustees in the Library Garden Courtyard. Tickets are $30 per person in advance or at the door.
Saturday August 27, 6 - 8 p.m. Welcome beer aficionados and fans of the library! Taste and enjoy fine brews in our exclusive Biergarten. Tickets on sale ONLY at The Book Cellar. Admission includes an evening of excellent beers, savory treats, and great company!
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47
‘“Oh, The Places You’ll Go” Benefit Gala Hosted by Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club
MLJWC President, Katie Graybill, MLJWC Silent Auction Committee Members, Kim Martin, Robin Scibek
The Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club held their benefit gala, ‘Oh, The Places You’ll Go’ at Duquesne University. Guests were treated to a fabulous evening of music, delicious food and a silent auction. WTAE-TV anchor Andrew Stockey acted as master of ceremonies.
Scott and Elizabeth Beanner
Some of the proceeds from the gala will go to Reading Is FUNdamental (RIF) Pittsburgh, which provides books to children from low-income families to increase literacy and develop a love for reading. RIF Pittsburgh also provides after-school programs, community centers for economically-struggling schools. Additional proceeds from the gala went toward the Junior Women’s Club grants. Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club has a long history of giving to Pittsburgh area communities for the past 43 years. The nonprofit club has over 80 members and has donated over $500,000 to local charities and organizations. The club annually chooses a primary beneficiary organization that supports women and children and, through charity benefits, raises funds for that organization. Members reside in Mt. Lebanon, Upper St. Clair Bethel Park, and other South Hills communities.
Kim & Lee Tilghman, Linda Lanham and Paul Skrok
Ed and Marybeth Stoker and Rose Eddy
Robin Scibek, Andrew Stockey, Kim Martin Rodger Arndt
Trisha and Grafton Eliason
To find out how you can help RIF Pittsburgh, call 412.321.8022, or visit the website at www.rifpittsburgh.org. For more information about the Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club, view their website at www.mljwc.com. Bonnie Stright, Coldwell Banker Realtor and Steve Struebing Douglas Levine and Eric Defade
48 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Mt. Lebanon
Lisa Sweeney, In charge of publicity for the gala, Ryan Sweeney, Nadeana Cook
Patricia Arnold 412-496-7683
Therese Hoetzlein 412-606-4702
Kris Freund Price 412-559-5661
Karen Auffenberg 412-303-0046
Darlene Kruth 412-874-0415
Judi Scheidler 412-654-8195
Verlie Brooks 412-708-9415
Bill Matyger 412-951-1005
Karen Demma 412-427-7139
Marlene McNaughton & Bonnie Detwiler 412-537-7333 412-298-6646
Jeff Earley 412-225-4553
Marilyn Mielnicki 412-377-3422
Cheryl Volchko 412-915-0931
Patricia Sharpe 412-576-1251
Dan Gillette 412-403-7071
Diane Miller 412-759-0137
Audrey & Frank Wadsworth 412-831-0100
Eric Graziano 412-523-9234
Dennis Moorcroft 412-302-7022
Deborah Yu 412-606-8824
FREE HOME WARRANTY! Mention this ad to any of the agents shown. $500 value.
REAL ESTATE
MT. L E B A NON
IN Community Magazines proudly announces a comprehensive look at the Mt. Lebanon real estate market. In this section, you’ll find interesting information about creating beautiful spaces to live in, and other interesting facts about your community.
F E AT U R E S T O R Y
If you’re looking for ways to increase your property value, attract buyers or just improve your way of life, you may find the answer is in your yard. Figures in the last two years suggest that the landscaping of your home is worth somewhere between 5% and 15% of the total home value. We’re all familiar with the term “curb appeal,” which basically means that buyers must be attracted to the outside of the house before they will ever see the inside. If your yard is unappealing, it may kill the sale of your home in the first few seconds. And the new outdoor room is increasingly appearing on the list of “must-have” features for new homebuyers. Today, landscaping is more than just plants and bushes. Some of the features you may want to consider in making your space more attractive are lighting, color, foliage, fencing and water features. Lighting goes a long way in defining an outdoor space for nighttime enjoyment, but it’s also a wise investment for security. Motion detector lights can illuminate pathways and deter crime. They are inexpensive, and solar-powered models are available that are wireless. For more subtle lighting, wall sconces can create ambience in heavily-used areas. For dining spaces, outdoor chandeliers come in a variety of styles from old world to contemporary. Next, try adding some color. Pick a shade that will coordinate with the color and hue of your home, but add some contrast. The color theme can be achieved through the use of chair cushions, throw pillows, table umbrellas, canopies and flowering plants. Keep in mind that wooden patio furniture can also be painted to further carry out the theme.
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Mt. Lebanon
Trees, bushes, plants and flowers can breathe new life into a barren space. Trees increase in value over time as they grow. Bushes and hedges can be used to add beauty and also to add security. Thorny rosebushes or holly bushes with their pointy leaves can be strategically planted in front of ground floor windows to discourage would-be intruders. Lavender bushes generally grow fairly quickly and will add a wonderful scent to your outdoor area. They are also a good deterrent for spiders since they avoid the lavender scent. When choosing plants and flowers, keep in mind that most people prefer low maintenance if you are planning on selling your home. Some good low-maintenance flowers for our area, Zone 6, are Shasta daisies, irises, coneflowers and peonies. These perennials come in a variety of colors to highlight your yard and your color scheme. Don’t forget the lawn. It’s the foundation for your landscape. Be sure to replace all the “bald” spots with new sod to cover these worn areas. Consider using paving stones for heavy traffic areas. If your grass is brown in spots and you are having a party or open-house showing, consider using a green lawn spray that is specially made to dye your lawn, giving it a lush, verdant look. The dye is permanent and will last until you mow the lawn. Although fencing may be one of the more expensive improvements to your landscaping project, it is also one of the most attractive and efficient. A fence defines property lines, and adds privacy and security. A lattice fence is a less-expensive option and lends a cottage flair to most yards. It may be purchased in sections for fairly quick installation. Chain link fencing is a sturdier but more expensive option. Fencing is generally available in brown, green or black to blend in more easily with natural surroundings. Split rail fencing adds a rustic feeling and may be lined with chicken wire to keep small pets secure. Water features are extremely popular and offer the greatest opportunity for creative expression in your landscape design. They can be as complex as a custom-designed waterfall and as simple as a birdbath. Keep in mind that still water breeds mosquitoes. If your water feature is not going to be aerated with a circulation pump, it will need to be flushed out and cleaned weekly or you can add fish which will eat the mosquito larvae. Many solar-powered pumps are available for use with water fountains which eliminate the need for electricity or cords. Most come with a back-up battery for cloudy days and nighttime use. An outdoor space is a great place for the entire family to spend time and enjoy nature while adding to the value to your property.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 51
REAL
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Mt. Lebanon Physician Moved P
erhaps the most interesting fact about the Martin home at 424 Kenmont Avenue in Mt. Lebanon is that it was originally stood on Cedar Boulevard – several blocks away – before it was physically moved to its current location. Owner Melissa Martin tells the story of how Eichlay Engineering used oxen and wagons to move the house at the request of its original owner, Dr. John McCormick. McCormick built the home in 1857 and, despite its move, it still has the distinction of being one of the two oldest homes in Mt. Lebanon. Why the doctor wanted it moved is unknown. Martin and her three children have lived in the home for over 20 years. When she purchased the home, only one other family 52 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
besides the McCormicks had lived in it. Three owners in 133 years might not be a record for Pittsburgh, but Martin says she thinks it's pretty impressive for Mt. Lebanon, which didn’t become a stand-alone municipality until 1912. A few of the original features still remain in the ivy-covered three-story. Two mantelpieces in the upstairs bedrooms are in their original condition. A hand pump in the basement meant the McCormicks had inside access to their well – something that was very rare during in those days, and was possibly needed because McCormick’s home also served as his medical office. Martin said a brick foundation that is still behind the house leads her to believe there was a small, lean-to kitchen in the backyard,
Mt. Lebanon
a common practice with well-to-do families during that era, and a staircase located off the current kitchen was probably for domestic help. The home also has an attic, accessible by a regular staircase: a fea ture that is very rare in newer homes. The front porch, Martin said, was probably added after the house was moved and a plaque affixed to the house attests to its historical significance. Eichlay Engineering, the Pittsburgh company that
REAL
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moved the house from Cedar Boulevard to Kenmont Avenue, was famous at the time for moving structures of all types and sizes, such as churches, bridges and houses. The founder said it was less expensive to move a structure than it was to demolish an old one to build a new one. Martin speculates that the McCormicks moved the home to Kenmont Avenue because there was more space, and they probably owned the property that was adjacent to the home on either side. Real Estate Service McCormick was the son of a physician who emigrated to Pittsburgh from Scotland. Unfortunately, he died at the young age of 45 after Janet Hensler contracting typhus fever from a patient he was treating. His son, Joseph, also Real Estate Mortgage Title Insurance became a physician and had a thriving practice in the Southside for decades. Realtor® SRES Martin describes her decorating style as “eclectic funk” but said she Howard Hanna Real Estate hasn’t changed too much of the home’s look. Hard Work and and Mortgage Services “I tried to respect the original integrity of the house and keep its historic Determination 412.833.3600 ext. 244 value so I didn’t want to make too many changes,” she said. Bring Positive 412.491.2741 cell One thing that she has kept the same are the rose bushes that are growing along the driveway. Those bushes, she said, have lasted for two generations. janethensler@howardhanna.com Results and she plans to keep them thriving so that they stay around for a few more.
,
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 53
Teresa Donatelli, Relay Co-chair, Angela Giacchino, of The American Cancer Society, Brian Schieman, Relay Co-chair
Esther Vespa, Debby Larson and Cecilia Larson, Kate Scheirman of Light for the Fight
Over 1,200 people recently participated in the 2011 Mt. Lebanon Relay for Life at Mt. Lebanon High School Stadium. Voted the 2010 Pennsylvania Rookie of the Year in 2010 by the American Cancer Society, this year’s relay had 80 teams and raised over $209,000, which will be used for research, education, advocacy, and patient services. Relay for Life was founded in the mid-1980s and today, 3.5 million people in the United States and in 20 other countries hold events to raise money. Sponsored team members take turns running or walking around a track at all times for 24 hours because “cancer never sleeps.” There are several ceremonies held during the event including a Survivor’s Lap, which recognizes cancer survivors and th eir caregivers; a Luminaria Ceremony, that is held to remember loved ones who died from cancer; and a Fight Back Ceremony that allows participants to pledge to take an action – such as smoking cessation or
Team Schieman Members: Brian, Collin and Maggie Schieman, Melanie Dusdal, Stephanie and Chloe Atwell, Gary and Sue Schieman, Connie and Bill Roberts
The Harpst Family
Making Strides Team Members: Teresa Donatelli, Nancy Spangler, Amy Kubisiak Dawn Russ and Wil Midgley
Cordelia Menez-Johns and Family
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undergoing a cancer screening – to fight cancer. Teresa Donatelli and Brian Schieman, volunteer co-chairmen of Mt. Lebanon’s relay event, spent a year planning the event and supporting the fund-raising t eams. American Cancer Society representative, Angela Giacchino, and 30 active committee members assisted with the planning. Two hundred volunteers were also in attendance at the event to help out. “I am a cancer survivor and I wanted to get involved,” said Donatelli, She is also part of the 17-member team called “Making Strides” that raised approximately $14,800.”The great thing is that every dollar that is given goes to the American Cancer Society. Everything for the event is donated by our sponsors who have been wonderful,” Some of the sponsors included FHL Bank, Chick-Fil-A and Bognar and Company. Schieman said he attended a relay meeting and volunteered to be the co-chairman. His family supported
Firefighters: Robin Evans, Assistant Chief of Brentwood Fire Department; Mike Kasyan, First Assistant of Engineering, Brentwood Fire Department; Drew Brown, Firefighter, Mt. Lebanon Fire Department
Gabrielle and Toni Schwartzmiller, Lindsay Delconte of Squid
Gabrielle,Toni and Lorenza Scwartzmiller of Squid
Tyler Bluemling and Bryan Althaus of Colleen’s Angels of Jefferson Middle School
The Conboy Family
Debby and Josie Mercier of Colleen’s Angels of Jefferson Middle School
Claire Thornburgh and John Zoller
him by forming Team Schieman, a 13-member team. “My family has been affected by cancer,” he said. “I had a close uncle who was only 43 when he died of cancer and left his young family. My grandfather also died of cancer. Every family is touched by cancer in some way.” Each team represents a story of a person battling, overcoming or passing away from cancer. For example, “Squid’ is a team made up of a family who lost a husband, father and friend last December at age 52. “Squid” was the nickname of James Schwartzmiller, father of four. The 18-member team wanted to turn their tragedy into helping others by raising funds and awareness. “He suffered so much during his illness,” said Toni Schwartzmiller, James’s wife, team captain and caregiver to James during the last months of his life at home. “He had so many surgeries and was in so much pain. My wish would be a successful, early pancreatic cancer detection test because my husband had no early symptoms. When he finally had symptoms, it was too late. He would be happy that we are doing this in his honor today. Schwartzmiller recognized and thanked the Mt. Lebanon and St. Bernard’s communities for its support.. The American Cancer Society Representative, Angela Giacchino, also feels appreciation for the Mt. Lebanon Relay for Life. “Thank you so much to the committee and teams,” said the American Cancer Society’s Giacchino. “The generosity amazes me every year.” If you would like to find out more about Mt. Lebanon Relay for Life or how to make a donation, please contact relay co-chair Schieman at bjschieman@yahoo.com. Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 55
D SOL 201 KINGSBERRY CIRCLE Low Maintenance Condo Living $169,900 841 RIDGEFIELD AVENUE Fabulous Five Bedroom Home $549,900
935 COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE $219,900 173 SUNRIDGE DRIVE Great Mt. Lebanon Value $169,900
Associate Broker
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Mt. Lebanon
Contact Mary Eve at: Office: 724.941.8800 x239 Cell: 412.889.7244 email: maryeve@att.net
b u s i n e s s
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The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts A New Facility to Grow Dancers
T
he purchase and re-construction of the warehouse at 111 Washington Ave. in Bridgeville fulfills a dream of Linda Thomas Spencer and her daughter Jessica. The 7,500 sq. ft. facility allows for spacious classrooms that are 34’ by 50’ with twelve foot ceilings. This give dancers plenty of space to tumble, twirl and grow! During the purchase and rehab process the US Small Business Administration awarded Linda the Family Owned Business Award in recognition of the outstanding performance as a family owned business and the family also received and Energy Efficiency Grant from the Dept. of Environmental Protection for the energy efficient features added to the update the facility.
Join Summer Dance Camp
“Hot” Summer Classes at the “Cool” Studio Parents…. Thinking back upon summer vacations past, how many times do you recall hearing the words “I’m bored” uttered by kids? We have the solution for you! Bring them to The Thomas Studio for summer dance classes. During the summer months, classes at The Thomas Studio are offered in abbreviated sessions to accommodate family vacations and other summer activities. Summer is a fantastic time to introduce new students to dance as the stresses of school and homework are eliminated. Dancers can concentrate on exploring their creativity and gaining a greater appreciation for the arts. Young dancers will enjoy themed dance camps designed around popular children’s movies and music. Your dancer will be introduced, age appropriately, to ballet, tap, gymnastics, jazz and hip-hop. Older elementary, middle school students and teens can use a class-card system that provides for complete flexibility. Dancers purchase a class-card for the estimated number of classes they would like to attend and come to those classes whenever their schedules allow! Summer is the perfect time for any dancer, whether beginner, advanced or college prep, to prepare for the upcoming yean and receive the individual attention they need. It is also an ideal time for teens to brush up on their dance and gymnastics skills for the upcoming cheerleading of dance team auditions. Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 57
58 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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b u s i n e s s
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2011 Washington Wild Things Home Game Schedule and Promotions Monday, June 27 vs. Traverse City Beach Bums 11:05 a.m. Camp Day
Tuesday, June 7 vs. So. Illinois Miners 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by ServiceLink Bark in the Park
Wednesday, June 29 vs. River City Rascals 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by Shearer’s Snack Foods Piggy Bank Giveaway presented by CONSOL Energy
Wednesday, June 8 vs. So. Illinois Miners 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by Shearer’s Snack Foods Thursday, June 9 vs. So. Illinois Miners 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: Country Night
Thursday, June 30 vs. River City Rascals 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: Social Network Night presented by CONSOL Energy Every Game
Thursday, July 28 vs. Rockford RiverHawks 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: Hamburger in Paradise Friday, July 29 vs. Rockford RiverHawks 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial Tuesday, August 2 vs. Evansville Otters 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by ServiceLink
Friday, June 10 vs. Normal CornBelters 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial 9 + One Night: Salute to 2002
Friday, July 1 vs. River City Rascals 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Pennsylvania Lottery
Wednesday, August 3 vs. Evansville Otters 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by Shearer’s Snack Foods Cow Baseball Giveaway presented by Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association
Saturday, June 11 vs. Normal CornBelters 6:35 p.m. 2011 Team Card Set Giveaway Boy Scout Night
Friday, July 8 vs. Gateway Grizzlies 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial Wild Things Hall of Fame Exhibit
Thursday, August 4 vs. Evansville Otters 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: Smurf Night
Sunday, June 12 vs. Normal CornBelters 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy Ronald McDonald House Charities Night
Saturday, July 9 vs. Gateway Grizzlies 6:35 p.m. Giveaway To Be Announced Wild Things Hall of Fame Exhibit
Friday, August 12 vs. Florence Freedom 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Halloween Night
Thursday, June 16 vs. Windy City Thunderbolts 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: St. Patrick’s Day in June Friday, June 17 vs. Windy City Thunderbolts 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial Saturday, June 18 vs. Windy City Thunderbolts 6:35 p.m. Baseball Giveaway presented by ServiceLink Wednesday, June 22 vs. Rockford RiverHawks 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by Shearer’s Snack Foods Thursday, June 23 vs. Rockford RiverHawks 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: NASCAR Night Friday, June 24 vs. Rockford RiverHawks 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial Saturday, June 25 vs. Traverse City Beach Bums 6:35 p.m. Giveaway To Be Announced Sunday, June 26 vs. Traverse City Beach Bums 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy
Sunday, July 10 vs. Gateway Grizzlies 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy Health Care Night presented by Matis Baum O’Connor 9 + One Day: Wild Things Hall of Fame Exhibit Friday, July 15 vs. Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial Saturday, July 16 vs. Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 p.m. All-Decade Team Appearance & Card Set Giveaway Sunday, July 17 vs. Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy Christmas in July Sunday, July 24 vs. Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy Monday, July 25 vs. Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 p.m. Ladies Night Tuesday, July 26 vs. Lake Erie Crushers 11:05 a.m. Camp Day Wednesday, July 27 vs. Rockford RiverHawks 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by Shearer’s Snack Foods
Saturday, August 13 vs. Florence Freedom 6:35 p.m. T-Shirt Giveaway presented by Northwood Realty
he Washington Wild Things will celebrate its 10th year in the Frontier League during the 2011 season. Lauren Hindman, media relations manager for the team, said fans will see some changes whey they go to the CONSOL Energy Park this year including some new concession and merchandise kiosks, new landscaping and field renovations, and new activities for the kids. The one thing that won’t change, however, is the good time families will have while watching one of the 48 regular season games. “We like to say that we provide three hours of entertainment that is interrupted by nine innings of baseball,” she said. As in years past, there are special promotions or themes at each home game, such as fireworks, family fun nights, ladies nights, and “kids eat free” nights. Above all, Hindman said, the Washington Wild Things team continue to provide affordable family fun. “We haven’t raised our season ticket prices in 10 years,” Hindman said. “Individual game tickets are as low as $5 so families can have a great time, see a ballgame, and not have to spend a lot of money.” For a complete listing of the Wild Things 2011 schedule, visit their website at www.washingtonwildthings.com.
Sunday, August 14 vs. Florence Freedom 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy Wedding Night Tuesday, August 16 vs. Joliet Slammers 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by ServiceLink Wednesday, August 17 vs. Joliet Slammers 6:35 p.m. Kids Eat Free presented by Shearer’s Snack Foods Thursday, August 18 vs. Joliet Slammers 6:35 p.m. Dollar Thirst-Day Theme Night Thursday: Roberto Clemente Night Friday, August 26 vs. Joliet Slammers 6:35 p.m. Fireworks Friday presented by Washington Financial Saturday, August 27 vs. Joliet Slammers 6:35 p.m. Wild Thing Garden Gnome Giveaway presented by CONSOL Energy Sunday, August 28 vs. Joliet Slammers 6:35 p.m. Family Fun Day presented by Chesapeake Energy Fan Appreciation Day
2011 Box Office Hours: Game Days: 10 a.m. to end of game
Non-Game Days: Monday-Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (in-season only) Sunday: Closed
Tickets also can be purchased by phone at 724.250.9555 or online at www.washingtonwildthings.com
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 59
A Miracle Coming to the South Hills And it’s that mission that’s the driving force behind an effort to start a Miracle League Field in the South Hills. Miracle League Fields are specially-designed ball fields and programs that allow children with special needs to play “America’s game.” The drive to open the South Hills’ only Miracle League Field is being led by Casey’s Clubhouse, a nonprofit group founded by former major league ball player and Upper St. Clair native, Sean Casey, and his wife, Mandi. “The game of baseball has given our family so many gifts, memories and important lessons,” the Casey’s have posted on their website, www.caseysclubhouse.org. “We are committed to making sure every child has the opportunity to experience the thrill of playing the game we love.” Casey said there are over 90,000 children in southwestern Pennsylvania with special needs and while there is a Miracle League Field in Cranberry, it only serves a portion of the children from southwestern Pennsylvania. The 240 Miracle League Fields across the United States have a cushioned, rubberized surface to help prevent injuries, have wheelchair and handicapped-accessible dugouts, and have flat surfaces that allow wheelchair-bound and visually-impaired children to round the bases without any obstructions. “Having a Miracle League Field in the South Hills is perfect for those families who don’t have the ability to go to Cranberry with their children to play ball,” he said. “Even though the field will technically be in Upper St. Clair, kids and their families from all over the South Hills 60 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
and the Pittsburgh area can take advantage of it.” Dave Hall, of Upper St. Clair, and his family agree that such as venue is needed in the South Hills and they have become big supporters of Casey’s Clubhouse. Hall’s 9-year-old son, Buddy, is a special needs child with Down’s Syndrome and the family has been traveling to the Cranberry field for the last couple of years so that Buddy could play baseball. “When we go to Cranberry to play ball, it’s almost like it’s a special event and Buddy’s activity has always been segregated from his sisters’ activities which are all concentrated in the South Hills,” Hall said. “Having a Miracle League Field here will bring a sense of normalcy not only into his life but into his sisters’ lives as well.” Buddy’s extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins also will find in more convenient to stay in the South Hills and can attend more of his games, Hall said. He believes in the project so much that he now serves as treasurer on the Casey’s Clubhouse Board of Directors. Ground will be broken for the ball field in June at the the USC Recreation Center at the corner of Boyce and Mayview Roads, and Casey said they should be ready to “play ball” by spring of 2012. Almost three-quarters of the $1 million dollars needed for the field has been raised. Casey was involved with building Miracle League Fields in Cincinnati and Detroit during his ball-playing days, and said watching the children play ball is an amazing experience. He said he hopes that South Hills’ residents will come to some of the games to see how happy
Mt. Lebanon
and excited the kids are while they are playing. “It is so awesome for the kids and for their parents sitting in the stands,” he said. “And the volunteers love it as well.” One of the more successful fundraisers was held at St. Clair Country Club in March when $250,000 was raised in a single evening. In addition to playing casino games, attendees were able to bid on 140 items in the silent auction, which included special ice time with current Penguin players and an all-inclusive vacation for two. The rules for each Miracle League Field are easy to follow: • • •
•
•
Every player bats once each inning. All players are safe on the bases. Every player scores a run before the inning is over (last one up gets a home run). Community children and volunteers serve as “buddies” to assist the players. Each team and each player wins every game.
Buddy Hall left and his first hit, above.
CASEY’S CLUBHOUSE CASINO NIGHT
Sarah Luther, Karen and Erin Williams
Mandi and Sean Casey
Halie and Nathan Snyder & Carrie and Ernie Yonkie Mike and Ashley Porreca David Williams, Rene Platek, Dr. Kelly Williams and Todd Williams
Laura Lund
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY June 9, 2011
Casey is a 1992 graduate of Upper St. Clair High School and attended the University of Richmond. The three-time All-Star played first base for the Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Boston Red Sox prior to retiring in 2009. When he’s not busy running after his four children – ages one through nine – he is volunteering his time with a charity or working as a studio analyst for the MLB Network. In addition to his Casey’s Clubhouse, Casey is involved with Make-A-Wish Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Nicknamed the “mayor” because of his propensity to talk to every opposing player who reached first base, Sean’s fellow MLB players named him the “friendliest player in baseball,” in 2007, and he was a two-time nominee for the Sporting News’ “Good Guys” Award.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 61
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Burns & Scalo Showcases Bursca Business Park as Class-G® Environmental stewardship has always been a defining characteristic of good, green development for Burns & Scalo. Now that green building standards such as the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification have gained widespread use throughout the commercial real estate industry, Burns & Scalo has again taken a position in the forefront of green development: founding (and now sponsoring) a new green standard for property owners and tenants called “Class-G®.” Mike Embrescia, formerly of Pittsburgh’s Green Building Alliance, is proud of the early responses to Class-G®. “We see all of the positive ways in which Class-G® will complement the LEED certification, going ‘green beyond the building’ through implementation of sustainable building operations and practices,” Embrescia explained. “This certification was created by real estate professionals, and we anticipate an enthusiastic welcome into the marketplace, as a streamlined, cost-effective green certification process. Our goal was to create a certification process that is simple, achievable & affordable for all property owners and building tenants.” Class-G will bring green building products and standards to the wider commercial real estate marketplace that Burns & Scalo has long been utilizing in their own buildings: paints and sealants containing low- or noVOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), environmentally friendly coatings and adhesives, and carpets that contain recycled materials. Providing employees with well-lit, comfortable and efficient workspaces is possible through daylight harvesting, upgrades to more energy-efficient lighting, and individually-controlled HVAC systems to ensure thermal comfort. “Class-G® is meant to recognize those stakeholders who implement sustainability measures – those who follow best practices to make positive improvements not only within their building, but within their corporate
culture. We see a real need for this type of sustainability certification, and the market is ripe for it,” said Embrescia. Class-G® officially launched on April 20th, and Embrescia fields daily requests daily to bring the Class-G® certification program to buildings and developments throughout the region. Kelley Hoover, who directs all leasing and brokerage activities for Burns & Scalo’s Bursca Business Park, is excited about the integration of Class-G® standards to meet her tenants’ needs for green space and better, healthier, and more energy-efficient workplace environments. “This certification system empowers tenants to choose the level of green that they wish to pursue to meet their individual corporate sustainability goals,” Hoover acknowledged. “And we are committed to helping our tenants reach those goals. Burns & Scalo provides, at a minimum, a two-can recycling program for all our properties. We also instituted daytime cleaning, which eliminates the need for extra lighting, heating or air conditioning at night.” “We promote the use of green cleaning products, and ensure that our spaces are smoke-free environments as well,” she said. “In each of the suites, tenants control their own heating and air conditioning. We’ve also added newly-modified, insulated roofs to our buildings that should limit heat loss and provide a more energy-efficient and
comfortable workplace. We want our tenants to be happy and healthy within their spaces, and have also added outdoor green spaces with amenities for tenants to enjoy.” Green building development is now more cost-effective than ever before, Embrescia notes. ”As consumer demand for numerous sustainable alternatives to traditional building products increases, green building products are coming down in price and their prominence on store shelves is increasing. Check your local big box store, and you will be amazed to find a wide selection - and parity in pricing - relative to conventional building materials.” “Developing and maintaining real estate in a green and sustainable way are not merely fads, but are proven industry best practices for ensuring long-term return on investment. Implementation of many of the simple sustainability practices identified in our Class-G® matrix adds no capital cost,” he said. “Education and culture change are paramount to practicing ‘green’, and we are proud to be a part of advancing sustainability.” For more details on this exciting new green certification – and to find out how Class-G® may be applicable to your own building - contact Mike Embrescia at Mike@Class-G.org or visit www.Class-G.org.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 63
Robert Friedlander, MD, left, and Michael Horowitz, MD, discuss treatment options with a patient who has an unruptured aneurysm.
On the
TO
ROAD By Mark Berton
Ashly Hunt
UPMC neurosurgery patient making strides after suffering a near fatal brain hemorrhage.
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Mt. Lebanon
When you think of someone who has suffered a stroke, common images arise: paralysis on one side of the body and difficulty with speech and coordination. While stroke can occur at any age, most people associate strokes with older people. So if you’re an athletic 24-year-old with no history of brain injury, on the beach at Ocean City, Maryland during the Fourth of July holiday with stroke-like symptoms, denial is a natural response. And for Ashly Hunt, she denied her symptoms until the moment she was loaded into a helicopter. “I remember thinking I wanted water. I am a huge runner. I ran before this and thought I was dehydrated,” she said. “It literally took the life-flight to believe that I wasn’t dehydrated. When it’s happening to you you’re not thinking the worst.” Within a matter of hours, what she thought was a simple headache evolved and robbed her of her sight and ability to speak. She also had trouble moving her arms and hands. Emergency responders decided to life-flight her to the nearest hospital in Baltimore, where she was diagnosed with a brain stem hemorrhage. Blood from the hemorrhage was pooling in an area that connects her brain to her spinal cord, causing her to lose movement on her right side, and creating a major dilemma for the neurosurgeons because they believed the site was too risky to treat with surgery. Soon after the diagnosis, Ashly entered a rehabilitation program in her hometown of Johnstown, Pa., to help her regain movement of the extremities that were affected by the hemorrhage. However, after several weeks in rehabilitation and slight improvements in her vision and speech, Ashly’s overall condition began to worsen. Ashly still maintained her hearing, but what she heard going on around her, she didn’t like. Until she met Robert Friedlander, MD, at UPMC.
“I’m pretty close to 100 percent now. My hand and foot are the last things I’m waiting for to come back. I’m writing again. It’s like a 3-year-old, but I am. I’m going to be 100 percent.” Ashly Hunt
From left to right, Brian Jankowitz, MD, Paul Gardner, MD, Daniel Wecht, MD, and L. Dade Lunsford, MD, discuss a complex neurovascular case.
Dr. Friedlander was called after Ashly’s family doctor consulted with a neurosurgeon at The Johns Hopkins University, who recommended that Dr. Friedlander manage this complex situation. Within four hours of the initial consultation, Ashly was in an ambulance headed for Pittsburgh where, she said, she met the doctor who made all the difference. “I couldn’t speak and had a hard time seeing, but my brain was processing everything. All of the other doctors were talking above me and not looking at me, not doing anything with me even though I understood them all,” she said. “Until I went to Dr. Friedlander and he worked with me through my condition to give him the answers he needed. He never came off as pompous. He’s the most caring person I’ve dealt with to this day.” Ashly’s hemorrhage was caused by an underlying condition called a cavernous malformation, which is an abnormal, berry-like patch of blood vessels located inside her brain stem. Because the brain stem is deeply situated within the base of the brain and controls important functions such as movement, sensation, breathing, and instructing the heart to beat, surgery to remove the malformation was extremely risky. However, if left untreated, the malformed vessels could again bleed and result in additional critical neurologic damage or even death. Dr. Friedlander and the neurosurgeons at UPMC faced the challenging task of removing the malformation without causing further complications. Using advanced brain imaging technology known as High Definition Fiber Tracking, pioneered at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Friedlander was able to view the detailed wiring of Ashly’s brain fibers to determine the best way to execute the surgery with as little damage to her brain as possible. In order to obtain appropriate access to the brain stem, Dr. Friedlander turned to Dr. Barry Hirsch, a skull base ENT surgeon at UPMC. Using a special microscope and image guidance device, Dr. Friedlander approached the brain stem and was able to completely remove the cavernous malformation.
After surgery, Ashly’s vision and speech began to improve. She also could move her right hand, which had been paralyzed. She improved daily, making strides with her balance, speech, movements, and other functions, and credits her improvement to her strict discipline in following her doctors’ recommendations and her physical therapy program. “If I could say one thing to inspire anyone going through this it’s that you can’t just sit there. It becomes your job,” she said. “I’ve seen a lot of people who have had strokes. You can’t just sit down and think you’ll get better. You have to follow the therapy and give your body time.” While she’s been living with her parents in Johnstown during her recovery, Ashly is looking forward to getting back to her life in Baltimore. “I’m pretty close to 100 percent now. My hand and foot are the last things I’m waiting for to come back,” she said. “I’m writing again. It’s like a 3-year-old, but I am. I’m going to be 100 percent.” Her road to recovery has been long. Approaching the anniversary of her ordeal, she and her family are thankful to Dr. Friedlander and everyone on the UPMC staff who helped her through this challenging time. She maintains a blog at ashlystatus.com, where family and friends post updates on her condition. “I’ll never forget, Dr. Friedlander said to me, ‘We’re a team. I’ll do my part as long as you do yours,’” she said. “That’s big in my mind. That made an impact.” For more information, please call the UPMC Department of Neurological Surgery at 1-866-979-1336 or visit UPMC.com/nv. This patient’s treatment and results may not be representative of all similar cases.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 65
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METRO HEATING AND COOLING
When Bill Wessner, Jr., was in high school, in the 60’s, Metro Heating and Cooling was already installing air conditioning in homes with radiators, and he was helping the family heating and air conditioning business grow. Back then, they carried lists of names of customers who benefited from their work for new customers to call for references. Today, those lists are now swaths of zip codes, and Metro is known as one of the region’s top specialists in the field. Part of that popularity comes from the fact that Metro can retrofit your home with an air conditioning unit even if it has radiator heating system in place. “It’s not a new concept, but it’s a concept that homeowners stumble over for several reasons,” Wessner explained. “First, they think it can’t be done. If they do think it can be done, they think it’s going to cost them a fortune. Lastly they assume doing it will trash their house. All three of those are incorrect. I’m here to tell people that it can be done, neatly and cleanly, and it’s not expensive as they may think.” Installing whole house air conditioning in homes with radiator heat entails working from the top down with an air distribution syst em. These systems give the homeowners the advantage of having all floors of their home cooled to the same temperature, something that can’t be achieved with conventional systems. “We never take out the existing heating systems, because radiator heat is so comfortable,” Wessner said. Because of the age of homes in the Pittsburgh area, Wessner said the retrofits have been extremely popular in areas such as Mt . Lebanon, Dormont, Point Breeze, Squirrel Hill, and Sewickley. “We’ve done more than 1,000 of these in the last 15 years or so,” he said. “We get letters all the time on how neat and clean our employees are and have a stellar rating on Angie’s List. Anyone who wants to look us up can see our reviews there.” Most of Metro’s systems carry a 10 year parts and labor warranty, and Metro guarantees satisfaction with every job. Metro also installs air cleaners on their systems for indoor air quality, which cuts down on allergens in the air such as dust and pollen. They also install a lot of high-efficiency boilers for existing radiator systems, which can save homeowners a lot of money in the long run. “Most hot water heating system are running around 60 percent efficiency,” Wessner said. “The ones we install now are 95 percent efficient and there is a Federal tax credit that goes with that right now.” While the products and technology have changed from 1953, when Metro was founded, the Wessners and their staff attend regular training and
workshops to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of their industry. The Wessners are active in the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), where Bill Jr., Bill Sr., and Tom have served as president. Metro has grown to be one of the area’s most respected heating and air conditioning companies because of reliable and dependable service. They are located at 951 Banksville Rd. For more information, call 412.561.7330 or check out their website at: www.metroheatingcooling.com.
Metro Heating and Cooling provides our residential and light commercial customers with superior service, installation, and replacement of heating and air conditioning systems. We are innovative and creative We solve many of your heating and cooling problems ■ We have extensive experience performing light commercial installations ■ We’ll tackle the jobs that others can’t ■ NATE certified experts ■ CARRIER factory authorized dealer ■ ■
Emergency repair appointments can be made day or night, 365 days a year.
“We cool homes that have Hot Water Heat”
951 Banksville Road • Pittsburgh, PA 15216 www.metroheatingcooling.com Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 67
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Mt. Lebanon
Provide
Natural Light, Panoramic Views, and Yearlong Enjoyment Homeowners dream of having more livable space in their existing homes. Sunrooms are a reemerging trend because they provide a year-round, multi-functional area with more natural light, good views, and an abundance of livable space without sacrificing comfort. As homeowners remodel, they are constantly exploring ways to get the most out of their space by designing rooms with a purpose in mind. Sunrooms offer immediate value as practical year-round spaces. They allow more natural light into the house and mix the outdoors with indoor living space. The sunroom trend continues to rise in popularity, in part because of the new design amenities available. Skylights, arching windows, sliding doors, and high performance, climate-controlled glass creates a comfortable, light-filled area for entertaining or relaxing. Sunrooms are no longer just glassed-in porches or decks. They have evolved into elegant four-season rooms providing the beauty of outdoor surroundings even when the weather is too hot, too cold, or too rainy to go outside. Wherever you live, the sunroom trend offers versatility for entertaining family and guests or for relaxing from the daily grind. They are also a good return on investment when it’s time to sell your home. This Industry Insight was written by Jeff Morris, owner and CEO of Case Handyman & Remodeling, located at 2335 Washington Rd. in Canonsburg, PA. Case offers a variety of home repair services, from full-house remodeling to simple handyman jobs. For more information, visit www.caseremodeling.com or call 724.745.9888.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 69
ne of the most exciting changes in hearing aids continues to be the addition of wireless capability. This feature allows the hearing aid wearer to stay “connected” with devices that are important to his or her lifestyle. Examples of this would include staying connected while using mobile phones with Bluetooth technology, watching television, or listening to music. A small remote control can transform hearing aids into a rich sounding stereo headset which allows the wearer to stream television, IPOD music and other audio sources directly into their hearing aids. No removal of the hearing instruments is needed to enjoy specific listening situations. Some hearing aids can be used with a rechargeable battery unit. This charging unit is often times beneficial for persons with limited vision and/or dexterity problems, such as arthritis, who struggle changing small batteries.
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Mt. Lebanon
The year 2011 brings good news for hearing aid wearers that need a lot of power due to a more severe hearing loss. When new technology in hearing aids comes out, it is often not available in stronger power aids at the onset. Happily, I can now report that several manufacturers have true power hearing aids that come in the smaller cases and have much of today’s advanced technology, including wireless that was previously only available in lower gain aids. If you would like to learn more about the advances that have been made in hearing aids, it is recommended that you make an appointment for a hearing test. With this information, the audiologist can discuss more thoroughly your hearing and how today’s hearing aids may be beneficial to you. Submitted by Dolores Y. Payne, M.A., CCC-A Audiologist – Allegheny Hearing Instruments
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 71
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If you’re doing some home remodeling, the average return on your investment for a kitchen is 70 percent. But did you know that if you add an outdoor living space feature, such as a pool or outdoor kitchen, that figure jumps to 130- to 200 percent? Ben Morr, at Pool Designs and The Outdoor Kitchen Company, said that for more than 30 years, he and his family have been designing, installing and maintaining custom swimming pools, and more recently, outdoor kitchens, that can turn a boring backyard into a luxurious wonderland. “We do complete, custom, in-ground pools for our customers,” Morr said. “You only deal with us, not outside contractors. From design to construction, to service and even weekly cleaning, we do it all.” Pool Designs is a family business, started by owner Steve Morr, primarily focused on in-ground swimming pools until customers began clamoring for outdoor kitchens. The company rose to the challenge and started The Outdoor Kitchen
72 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
Company six years ago to complement its already successful pool business. The transformation of backyards into outdoor living havens continues to stun and amaze residents. “We do a lot with custom benches and steps to offer a place to sit and relax in a pool, and we’re doing a lot with water features such as waterfalls and deck jets,” Morr said. “We offer fire features and complete automation as well. There’s a control for every function of the pool from color light shows to shutting down all features for the day, or programming certain features to turn on automatically whenever the customer wishes.” This type of control is also a way that pools can be environmentally friendly. While you might not think it sounds like a good thing, Pool Designs can definitely make your pool “green.” Variable speed pumps, two speed pumps, salt chlorination, and heat pumps are just some of the products available designed to make a smaller impact on Mother Earth as well as your pocket book. With The Outdoor Kitchen Company, customers can add outdoor fireplaces and pits, awnings, pergolas and full kitchens to their backyard, making it virtually the most livable “room” in the house. “We offer everything from natural gas to propane to natural lump charcoal and
Mt. Lebanon
infrared burners, but I would say 90 percent of our kitchens are natural gas for convenience,” Morr said. “There are no empty propane tanks to haul around and refill, and it’s always available on demand.” If you’re thinking that an outdoor kitchen would weather poorly, you’re wrong. All outdoor kitchen appliances are made from surgical-grade stainless steel meant to be left outside year-round. There’s no rusting, and they carry lifetime warranties. Other components, such as counters and surfaces can be constructed from granite or tile. The sides of the islands are typically constructed of stone, stucco or bricks. The limit is the imagination of the customer. Morr said that homeowners typically don’t have to worry about their yards being too small for a little splash of luxury, either. “There’s no acreage issue, we can make any size and any shape of pool,” he said. “Certain smaller yards in communities where the homes are close together may present challenges, but we can make a custom pool work in virtually any situation.” For more information about Pool Designs and The Outdoor Kitchen Company, call 724.941.6882 or go to www.pooldesigns.net or www.theoutdoorkitchencompany.net.
Farmers Market
The Mt. Lebanon Uptown Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday through October from 8 a.m. to noon on Washington Road. Shoppers can find local produce, homemade bread, jams and jellies, and many other goodies.
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s you navigate the financial world, you’ll most likely deal with a wide array of investment choices, constantly changing tax laws, estate-planning issues and other areas. And then, to make things even more complex, you’ll have to consider your own risk tolerance, time horizon and individual goals. If you’re like most people, you don’t have the time and expertise to create, monitor and adjust your investment strategy by yourself, so you’ll need to get some help. But how can you choose a financial professional who is right for you? You’ll need to do some research, possibly by interviewing a few candidates. Here are a few questions you may want to ask:
Do you have experience working with people like me? Ideally,
you’d like to work with someone who has experience in helping people like you – that is, people with similar income and asset levels, family situations, goals and so on. The more familiar a financial professional is with people like you, the better that person will be at helping you identify the appropriate investment moves. Do you have a particular investment philosophy? Look for someone with a thoughtful, reasoned philosophy on investing. As a general rule, be suspicious of anyone promising you big, quick gains. The best financial professionals seek to help their clients achieve positive long-term results through disciplined, persistent and sensible investment moves. How often will you communicate with me? If you’re going to entrust your hard-earned financial resources with someone, you’ll
want that person to communicate with you regularly as to how you’re doing and what changes you may need to make. How often will you receive investment statements? How many times a year will you meet to review your progress? Can you have face-to-face consultations whenever you need them? These are the types of questions you’ll want to ask any prospective financial advisor. Will you be my primary contact? If you seek a one-on-one relationship with a financial professional, you’ll want that person to be your main contact, if not your exclusive one. You deserve the attention and expertise of a financial professional, so if you’re interviewing someone who seems as if he or she might try to "pass you along" to subordinates in the office, keep looking. What services do you offer? If you want your financial professional to help you create a unified investment strategy, you’ll also want that person to help you implement it – which means he or she needs access to a full range of investment and money management products and services. How are you paid? Financial professionals are compensated in any of a number of ways. They may work on a fee-only basis, with the fee either agreed upon in advance or based on the level of assets under management. And some financial professionals work in a combined fee-and-commission arrangement. From an investor’s point of view, one method of compensation may not be “better” than the others; nonetheless, it’s important for you to fully understand how your financial advisor will be paid. By doing your homework in advance, you can develop a solid relationship with a qualified financial professional – someone who will be with you far into the future.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
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Westmoreland Supply Participates in
PPG Pittsburgh Paints Dealer Designer Referral Program t happens to all of us – we stare at a wall of paint chips trying to remember what color our sofa is, or if the lights in our living room are incandescent or compact fluorescent. Thanks to PPG’s Dealer Designer Referral Program, you can leave the store with the one tool that you need the most – a professional Interior Designer. “We launched this program where designers get referrals directly from the paint store. A customer comes into the store and is either looking for paint, or browsing for color,” said Steve Shorthouse, Voice of Color Marketing Manager for PPG Pittsburgh Paints. “They’re someone who could use professional help in their home for color consultation. PPG teamed up with local, experienced designers and the paint stores. We provide the stores with a prescreened group of designers who can be tapped for consultation through our dedicated website: www.myvoiceofcolor.com/pittsburgh.” At the site, customers can preview the portfolios of 15 different Interior Designers to see whose work most reflects the customer’s style and personality. The customer can schedule an appointment right there with the designer they pick. They pay the designer a flat rate of $75 for a one hour session. In return, they get an hour of solid design advice at a greatly discounted rate, and a voucher for $50 off PPG Pittsburgh Paints. “The best part about this is that designers typically charge between $75 and $200 an hour. This is a great deal,” Shorthouse said. “The homeowner gets the help they need quickly and at a great price.” The program was originally a pilot program in Pittsburgh, but this March, recently rolled out to three other cities on the west coast. Shorthouse said that within the first year, customers scheduled 260 design consultations in the Pittsburgh market alone. Shorthouse also suggested that customers visit PPG’s www.voiceofcolor.com and enter the PPG Pittsburgh Paints section of the site to play the fun and informative Color Sense Game 2.0 that will allow them to answer a series of questions to come up with a custom palette of colors that match their personalities and demeanor.
I
“We encourage homeowners to play the game and find out what their personal color scheme is prior to meeting with the designer,” Shorthouse said. “By answering the questions, they can easily get color selections that are right for them and are unique PPG Pittsburgh Paints offerings.” Westmoreland Supply Paint and Decorating Centers has 12 convenient locations to serve you no matter where you live in the Pittsburgh region. To find the Westmoreland Supply Paint and Decorating Center nearest you, go to www.westmorelandsupply.com.
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 75
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We are interested in highlighting your church! If you are a member of the clergy from this area and would like to contribute an inspirational message that all of our readers might enjoy, please contact Marybeth Jeffries, Managing Editor at marybeth@ incommunitymagazines.com for more information.
OF
WORSHIP
Beth-El Congregation of South Hills ..................... 412.561.1168 Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church .................. 412.561.5100 Bower Hill Community Church............................... 412.561.4114 First Church of Christ, Scientist ............................. 412.561.1125 Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church ...................... 412.833.3355 Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church .................................. 412.561.8113 Mt. Lebanon Christian Church ............................... 412.531.8554 Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran ................................ 412.563.0300 Mt. Lebanon United Methodist .............................. 412.531.7131 Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church ........... 412.531.3387 Our Lady of Grace .................................................... 412.279.7070 Our Savior Lutheran................................................. 412.561.1211 Southminster Presbyterian..................................... 412.343.8900 St. Anne’s Church..................................................... 412.531.5965 St. Bernard Church .................................................. 412.561.3300 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.................................... 412.531.7153 St. Thomas More...................................................... 412.833.0031 St. Winifred’s Church............................................... 412.344.5010 Sunset Hills United Presbyterian Church............. 412.561.6261 Temple Emanuel of South Hills .............................. 412.279.7600 The Chabad of the South Hills................................ 412.344.2424 Unitarian Universalist Church of South Hills ....... 412.561.6277
Mt. Lebanon | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 77
This isn’t your father’s Cain’s Saloon and Restaurant anymore. When Cain’s originally opened its doors in Dormont in 1982, you were more apt to find college students drinking in the bar, shooting darts and listening to loud music. Today’s Cain’s is more about families, young couples and working people looking for a fresh, homemade meal at a reasonable price. Having 18 large screen, HDTVs doesn’t hurt either! Cain’s Saloon and Restaurant, located at 3239 West Liberty Avenue, was purchased by Joey DeMarco two years ago. As a young man, he visited the original Cain’s often and said he has some great memories of the place. After purchasing the restaurant, DeMarco virtually renovated the entire place – including a new kitchen, dining room, bathrooms and bar. The second floor will be renovated next year to include an outdoor patio and space for entertainment, such as a band or karaoke machine, depending on what the customers would like to see. Cain’s employs two full-time chefs that make all of the menu items from scratch. Soups, chili, sauces and other items are made fresh daily.
Even DeMarco’s mother gets in on the action by adding special ingredients to recipes and making a delicious German potato salad. Cain’s has a wide range of menu options available including appetizers, steak, seafood, chicken, sandwiches, salads, and hamburgers. There’s also a full kids menu and daily dessert specials. The fish sandwich – called the “codfather” – was recently named the best fish sandwich in Pittsburgh by the readers of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Not only can customers order off the menu any day of the week but Cain’s also offers daily dining specials such as: • Monday – All you can eat crab legs for $25 per person • Tuesday – Taco Tuesdays featuring $1 tacos and other Tex-Mex specials • Wednesday – 25 cent wing night • Thursday – Prime rib dinner for $12.99 • Friday – Half-price appetizers and drink specials during happy hour, 5-7 p.m. • Saturday – Seafood and steak specials • Sunday – All-day peel and eat shrimp specials Cain’s offers express lunches for $4.99 on the weekdays for those customers looking for a quick but quality lunch. The “pick-two” items available with the express lunch include half of a sandwich with homemade soups, chili or various salads. DeMarco said the express lunches are very popular with the employees from nearby businesses along West Liberty Avenue. New to Cain’s menu is breakfast, which is served on Saturday and Sunday mornings and include a variety of omelets and other egg dishes, griddle items such as pancakes, waffles, and french toast, breakfast quesadillas and burritos, and plenty of meat, bread and potato sides. The breakfast specialty, however, is the Bloody Mary bar, which is available on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Various vodkas, bloody mary mixes, juices, and spices are all available and customers can make their own or give their special order to the bartender. “The breakfast menu, and especially the Bloody Mary bar, goes over very well on Steeler Sundays,” DeMarco said. Customers who go to Cain’s to watch a Steeler game – or any other sporting event – not only have 18 different TVs but 33 different kinds of craft-microbrews on tap and over 50 brands of bottled of beer to choose from. In fact, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette named Cain’s the best place to watch a sporting event in the South Hills. Next time you’re in the Dormont – Mt. Lebanon area, check out Cain’s for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Or better yet, make a special trip to the eatery and bon appétite! Cain’s Saloon and Restaurant 3239 West Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15216 412.561.7444 www.cainssaloon.com Hours: Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. (kitchen open until 1 a.m.); Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.
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