IN Murrysville by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Franklin Regional

4th Annual Chili

Oktoberfest

Historical Society Preservation Awards safety-driven

Thank you, Pittsburgh. At UPMC Health Plan, we don’t set out to win awards. We simply focus on doing what’s right for our members. Like providing them with access to world-renowned UPMC doctors and hospitals as well as outstanding community hospitals and physicians. Giving them the tools and programs they need to live a healthy lifestyle. And offering them a personal Health Care Concierge and online chat capabilities to answer all of their questions. So when J.D. Power and Associates ranked us Highest in Member Satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania, we don’t see it as adding another award to the trophy case. We see it as doing our jobs.To learn more visit upmchealthplan.com.

“Highest Member Satisfaction Among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania” UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Member Health Insurance . Study based on 33,039 total member responses, measuring 11 plans in the Pennsylvania-Delaware Region (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are Plan StudySM based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2010-January 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

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Murrysville

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

INSIDE

IN Murrysville | WINTER 2011 |

FEATURES

Real Estate in Murrysville ............. | 34 Older Adults in Murrysville ........... | 38 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

The Advisors LLC Blahabhabahab .......................................... | 8 Zacharia and Brown ON THE COVER

Learning how to make decisions for long term care. ..................................... | 29

Franklin Regional Middle School students honor veterans

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Sotak Insurance Insurance is about more than cost. It's about service. ..................................... | 14

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Murrysville Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Art Show ..............................

A Letter from the Mayor ....................................................

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ...........

Chili Fest Winners .................................................................

Navajo Mission Trip ..............................................................

Historic Preservation Award Dinner ...............................

Dynamic Duo ...........................................................................

safetydriven learn more on page 7

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Welcome to the Winter issue of Murrysville magazine. I hope you and yours had a wonderful fall, that the kids transitioned back to school well, and that you had an opportunity to catch a few Steelers games along the way. We all view winter differently – some see it as the holiday season, some see it as the gloomy period when we put away the swim trunks and patio furniture. Others see it as their opportunity to break out the skis and sleds and hit the slopes. No matter how you view it, winter is a time when we have to be the most diligent, despite our mood about snow, or our preoccupation with playing in it, for those who need us the most – our seniors. While it’s hard enough for many of them to get around in good weather, the winter months can be a trial of terror for the elderly. Who’s going to shovel the snow? How will I get groceries? Will I be home before it’s too dark for me to see the road well enough to drive? And for those who have transitioned to assisted living facilities, the questions might be of an altogether different, but equally unsettling nature. Will anyone visit me for Christmas? Hanukkah? New Year’s? These are our mothers, fathers, friends and neighbors, and they don’t like to ask anything of us. But they need us just the same. I know the economy is bad, and I’m not saying go out and spend money you can’t afford, but going caroling with a church group, or visiting someone who has no one is free to us all. Chances are, you’ll not only put a smile on their faces, you’ll be giving them something money can’t buy – the feeling that someone cares. Have a joyous holiday and a happy New Year!

Wayne Dollard Publisher I agree with Andy Williams. It is the most wonderful time of the year. Welcome to the winter edition of Murrysville. This is is the season of hustle and bustle, Christmas carols, and most importantly good cheer. In this edition, you'll find out that Franklin Regional High School Marching Band has something to cheer about as it heads to Pasadena in Janurary for the Tournament of Roses Parade. It is also the season of giving, and we've got a feature on a Murrysville couple, Marcia and Don Sayres, who give of their time to help senior citizens. Some members of the Calvary Lutheran Church gave when they took a mission trip to a Navajo reservation, this past summer. They also received when they were recently visited by Albert Buck and his cousin William Johnson, two Native Americans involved in ministry on that reservation. The Westmoreland County Historical Society held its annual awards dinner to recognize those involved in keeping history and historical sites alive. We have that story in this edition, as well. Our spring edition is next and we'd love to hear from you regarding the people, places and events you'd like to see us cover. During this holiday season, we'd like to wish you peace and goodwill. And as always we hope you enjoy this edition of Murrysville.

Monica L. Haynes Eastern Regional Editor

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PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com REGIONAL EDITORS

Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Dana Black McGrath [North] d.mcgrath@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

WRITERS

Ashley Connor Heather Holtschlage Leigh Lyons Joann Naser

Pamela Palongue Gina Salinger Judith Schardt

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brad Lauer Kathleen Rudolph

Gary Yon

PROOFREADER

Kelly Lotter ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

Derek Bayer Tom Poljak

Tamara Myers

ADVERTISING SALES

Bruce Burkley Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graff Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri

Aimee Nicolia Robert Ojeda Ralph Palaski Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Williard

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 Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring content deadline: Feb. 24

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

The Murrysville Woman’s Club Annual

he Murrysville Woman’s Club held its annual Art Show on October 8 and 9 at the Murrysville Municipal Building. MWC member LaDorna Stephens, who organized and promoted the event, reported that approximately 75 people attended the show over the two days. Those in attendance were treated to 126 impressive entries of various types of artwork, including photographs, oil paintings, watercolor paintings, mixed media, acrylic paintings, pastels, colored pencil and collage. The entries were divided into three categories: experienced, amateur, and student artists, and judge Sue Pollins chose winners in each medium and age group. In the oil/acrylic category Linda Agate won first prize for her painting “Portofino, Italy.” Experienced artist Barbara Jewell took first place and the People’s Choice award for her watercolor entitled “Trail’s End.” Christopher Ruane secured a first place prize in photography for his piece “No Place Like Home.” In the dimensional/collage/pastel category Beth Larosa’s “Orchid” took first prize. Judith D. Johnson’s photo “Geyser Pools” secured the People’s Choice award for amateur artwork. In the student division, Michael Matthews, age 6, took first prize in the Sissel Bramham next to her 4- to 10-year-old age group for his painting of her grandson watercolor painting “Sunset on the Beach,” and Erica Silvestri, age 11, took first prize in the 11- to-18-year-old age group for her photo “Drip.” Halle Jakiela, age 8, won the People’s Choice award in the younger age group for her oil painting “Hummingbird On Hibiscus” and Lindsay Hill, age 17, won the People’s Choice award in the older age group for her mixed medium piece “The Model.” In addition to the art show, the MWC sponsors a Career Day at Franklin Regional Middle School, awards a scholarship to a non-traditional student, holds a fashion show, and participates in various fundraisers. The club also donates to many local charities including Meals on Wheels, fire departments, the Blackburn Center and local libraries.

Morgan Carter with her 3rd place award winning artwork

Barbara Jewell with her 1st place award winning watercolor painting

Murrysville Woman's Club members Rose Cook, Glenna Heyl, LaDorna Stephens, Carita Anderson

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

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

In the photo: DAVE BERTONI / FITTER LEADER

y o u r e n e r g y p a rt n e r

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Murrysville

peoples–ga s.com

safety-driven Peoples Natural Gas is embarking on an extensive program to modernize our infrastructure. More than $100 million will be invested to replace pipelines throughout our 16 county service territory. In 2011 and 2012, this means replacing 40 miles of old cast-iron pipes wherever they exist. This year and next, Peoples Natural Gas is hiring 60 new pipeline workers. And, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to employ almost as many local contract workers. Last year, we brought back 200 jobs to the region. These are not temporary jobs, but family sustaining jobs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the type of jobs that generations build on. Through the end of 2012, you will see Peoples Natural Gas employees hard at work on this project. They will be working in the snow and sun to improve the infrastructure for our communities. Our goal is to replace all the cast iron pipe in our entire system. This is an extensive project and we will need your patience and understanding as we work to complete it. In 2010, Peoples Natural Gas was purchased from an out-of-state company. We are now a Western Pennsylvania managed company. All our management lives in the region. Our sole priority is serving our local communities. Our new company has refocused its total efforts right here. This pipeline replacement program is the first major construction initiative of Peoples Natural Gas and it has been made for your safety, and the need to modernize our infrastructure for the future.

Safety is the number one priority of Peoples Natural Gas. Every day, we strive to keep our customers, our employees and our communities safe. Here are 3 Sensible Words about Natural Gas to help keep you and your family safe. Natural gas leaks are rare. But they can happen. Your senses will alert you if a leak occurs. SIGHT Escaping gas affects the nutrients in soil, so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak. Dirt or water blowing up from the group may indicate a natural gas leak. SOUND Natural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high-pitched whistling noise. Noises will vary based on the line pressure. SMELL A strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air. Because the gas is odorless, a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten-egg smell that warns of its presence. Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell. If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring, leave the area immediately and notify Peoples Natural Gas by calling 1.800.400.4271.

y o u r e n e r g y p a rt n e r Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

Tips for Transitions: Make the Most of Your Retirement Account Options t's a fact: The average American holds nine different jobs before the age of 34.* It's also a fact that the decisions you make about how to manage retirement assets when changing jobs can have a direct impact on your future financial health. Case in point: "Cashing out" retirement plan assets before age 59Â˝ (55 in some cases) can expose your savings to immediate income taxes and a 10% IRS early withdrawal penalty. On the other hand, there are several different strategies that could preserve the full value of your assets while allowing you to maintain tax-deferred growth potential.

longer have that money earmarked for retirement in a taxadvantaged account. *Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. **Withdrawals will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates. Early withdrawals may trigger a 10% penalty tax. ***You will receive credit for the withholding when you file your next tax return. ÂŠ 2010 Standard & Poor's Financial Communications. All rights reserved.

Well Informed = Well Prepared Option #1: Leave the Money Where It Is If the vested portion of the account balance in your former employer's plan has exceeded $5,000, you can generally leave the money in that plan. Any money that remains in an old plan still belongs to you and still has the potential for tax-deferred growth.** However, you won't be able to make additional contributions to that account. Option #2: Transfer the Money to Your New Plan You may be able to roll over assets from an old plan to a new plan without triggering any penalty or immediate taxation. A primary benefit of this strategy is your ability to consolidate retirement assets into one account.** Option #3: Transfer the Money to a Rollover IRA To avoid incurring any taxation or penalties, you can enact a direct rollover from your previous plan to an individual retirement account (IRA).** If you opt for an indirect transfer, you will receive a distribution check from your previous plan equal to the amount of your balance minus an automatic 20% tax withholding. You then have 60 days to deposit the entire amount of your previous balance into an IRA which means you will need to make up the 20% withholding out of your own pocket.*** Option #4: Take the Cash Because of the income tax obligations and potential 10% penalty described above, this approach could take the biggest bite out of your assets. Not only will the value of your savings drop immediately, but also you'll no

the advisors insight

Are You Living the Life of Your Dreams? Is your dream to travel to distant lands, send your child to college, or to simply have the financial means for a comfortable retirement? We can help you identify your dreams, values and priorities and design a comprehensive plan that targets every aspect of your life goals. If you are already living the life of your dreams, we can help you plan ahead so that it may continue. If you are still on your journey, we can design a step-by-step roadmap to help you get to where you want to be. Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Independence Powered By LPL Financial

The Advisors, LLC Bryan C. Davis President 3875 Franklintowne Ct #130 Murrysville , PA 15668-1265 724 733 8564 fax 724 733 7333 office bryan.davis@lpl.com www.theadvisorsllc.com

Securities are offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC

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Murrysville

FRANKLIN REGIONAL S C H O O L

D I S T R I C T

SuPERINTENDENT’S

Dr. P. Emery D’Arcangelo Superintendent Shelley Shaneyfelt Director of Instructional Services and Public Relations Dr. Charles Koren Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Jon C. Perry Director of Financial Services Linda Miller Assistant to the Director of Financial Services Frank J. Muto Supervisor of Technology Services Dennis Majewski Director of District Services Zachary Kessler Director of Athletics & Student Activities Richard E. Regelski, Jr. Director of Special Education Allan Mikach Director of Counseling Services Karen Cadwell School Board Secretary/ Executive Assistant to the Superintendent Ronald Suvak, Principal Senior High School Chris Kelly, Principal Middle School Tina Gillen, Principal Heritage Elementary Judith Morrison, Interim Principal Newlonsburg Elementary Tina Burns, Principal Sloan Elementary

MESSAGE

MISSION STATEMENT: We, the Franklin Regional School community, strive for excellence, learning, achievement, and citizenship in all we do.

t this time each school year, we are proud to publically share the academic accomplishments of our student scores on the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) as compared to the State results. The results of these assessments are outlined annually in a “District Report Card” on the District’s Website (www.franklinregional.k12.pa.us) and on the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) website (www.education.state.pa.us). The Federal No Child Left Behind Act requires States to determine annually whether schools and districts in Pennsylvania make Adequate Yearly Progress, also known as AYP. Students are identified as performing in one of four levels: advanced, proficient, basic and below basic. The goal is for all students to be proficient or advanced – meaning they have mastered Pennsylvania’s assessment anchor content standards at their grade level. Last year, the 2010-11 state targets for meeting AYP were 67% combined proficient and advanced percentage scores in math and 72% combined proficient and advanced percentage scores in reading. The Franklin Regional School District’s overall test scores were 89.4% advanced and proficient in math, and 87.7% advanced and proficient in reading. If a school district has a sub-group of forty (40) or more students in one grade span, that sub-group must also meet the same State target numbers. At the Senior High School, because the sub-group of students who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) did not achieve AYP; therefore, the Senior High School is on the State’s warning list for not meeting the target. Individual student PSSA scores have been provided to each respective school building and to individual families and are used to assist teachers in identifying students who may be in need of additional educational support. District scores, building level scores and grade level scores provide critical information that is used for curriculum and instructional improvements. The information on the following page indicates the percentage of students at Franklin Regional who have scored at the combined Advanced and Proficient levels on the 2010-2011 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) in comparison to Pennsylvania State (PSSA) Scores of other school districts. Continued on page 10

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

FRANKLIN REGIONAL S C H O O L

D I S T R I C T

SuPERINTENDENT’S

MESSAGE

Continued from page 9

FRANKLIN REGIONAL DISTRICT PSSA SCORES

PENNSYLVANIA STATE PSSA SCORES

We would like to “congratulate” the students and staff at Franklin Regional for achieving at a high level across our school district. We are extremely proud of our students and staff. Thank you for supporting Franklin Regional! Sincerely, Dr. P Emery D’Arcangelo Superintendent Franklin Regional School District

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Murrysville

FRANKLIN REGIONAL S C H O O L

D I S T R I C T

Franklin Regional

Parent Literacy Club “Encouraging Life Long Reading”

Funding provided through the United Way of Westmoreland County School Readiness Initiative and Franklin Regional School District

Spring 2012 The Parent Literacy Club Initiative is designed to encourage parents and caregivers to read to their children every day. The Literacy Club will meet for six weeks at Sloan Elementary School Library. The training sessions will be facilitated by school district teachers and readiness partner volunteers who are part of the School Readiness Initiative Team. These individuals have undergone training provided through the United Way. As part of the Literacy Club experience, each parent or caregiver receives a free, high quality children’s book at each club meeting to take home and read with their child. During the training, participants discuss the following: feelings, reading in the technology age, diversity, libraries, poetry and the connection between reading and writing. Throughout the training meeting sessions parents have the opportunity to share ideas and network with other parents in the school community. Ideas to incorporate reading into home routines with easy and fun activities are provided. Parents grow to understand that the joy found in books is more about the time shared between an adult and child, than the act of reading alone. The shared experience nurtures closeness, discovery, and one on one dialogue unique to storytelling. One of the wonderful features of the Literacy Club is the fact that a new hardcover book, guaranteed to be quality children’s literature, is provided for every participant each week of the training. In addition, a dry erase book and marker are also made available to encourage responding to the stories through writing. This reading-writing connection fosters skills such as comprehension and grammar development. We are also happy to be able to provide free childcare for each session to make it as easy as possible for

parents to participate in every Literacy Club training meeting. Best of all, there is no charge. The entire Literacy Club experience is provided free to parents living in the Franklin Regional School District. There will be a limited number of participants in the Parent Literacy Club in the spring of 2012. Parents of current Franklin Regional kindergarten students and children who are enrolled in preschools and will attend Franklin Regional kindergarten in 2012 -13 are eligible to participate. Registration information will be made available after January 1st and will be distributed at Kindergarten Orientation. The information will also be available on the district website. What do parents who are interested in participating need to do? ❋ Register early ❋ Commit to attending all sessions ❋ Read with their child EVERY DAY! Please contact Judy Morrison at 724.327.5456 extension 7613 or email jamorrison@franklinregional.k12.pa.us for more information.

What parents have said about Parent Literacy Clubs… “This made me take time each day to read to at least one of my children. I enjoy reading to them better and (it’s) not just something to do to make them sit down.” “I am reading now, too. My younger kids see me reading and then they want to read. I even see my husband reading to my little one.” “You made me feel bright. I didn’t think teaching my kids every day could be so much fun.”

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

FRANKLIN REGIONAL S C H O O L

D I S T R I C T

Franklin Regional Marching Band Heads to Pasadena

hen Franklin Regional High School’s marching band director Kevin Pollock found out his students were marching in the 123rd Tournament of Roses Parade, he knew getting his band members to Pasadena, Calif., was only one of many challenges he faced. Insuring that the 197 band members’ equipment made the 2,142 mile journey was another. But then an international retail corporation interceded saving the band up to $20,000. Walmart will be hauling every band member's instruments, equipment, uniforms and luggage, as well as halftime show props, across the country for free. “We are very lucky. It doesn’t get any better than this,” Pollock said. The effort to bring Walmart on board was started by local Walmart employee Lorin Stewart. He heard Pollock during a radio interview where he stated the band was looking for a truck. Stewart took his request to his supervisors at Walmart in Delmont after learning Pollock believed Walmart had previously hauled band equipment to the Tournament of Roses Parade. “He took that one piece of information back and got the ball rolling. He was very persistent.” Soon, Pollock was headed to a meeting with Walmart staff. “I went expecting I would have to sell them on the idea, but they were five steps ahead of me. They already had made all the arrangements.”

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Those arrangements included a full-sized moving truck and two drivers, who had driven North Carolina Central University’s marching band equipment to California for a prior Tournament of Roses Parade. “They know what they are doing and where they need to go. Finding someone who was willing to do this was one thing and getting them up to speed with logistics was another. Now we don’t need to do that.” The large truck, which the company previously used to move relocating employees’ belongings in the past, also has room for students’ luggage and the half time show set the band needs for its field show being done in conjunction with the parade at Pasadena City College. And if there is any confusion about what the truck is hauling and where it is headed, passing drivers only need to read the side of the vehicle. “They are going to be wrapping the truck in our special parade logo and also including a message congratulating us on our achievement. I couldn’t be happier,” said Pollock. Frankin Regional will be one of only 15 bands selected from around the globe to participate in the Tournament of Roses. The parade will be broadcast locally on WTAE and on cable channels HGTV and The Hallmark Channel at 11 a.m. on January 2.

FRANKLIN REGIONAL S C H O O L

D I S T R I C T

“Although memories are powerful, as a country we have an obligation to remember the strife and toil of our veterans. Why? Because remembering honors the dead, encourages the living, and helps us as a nation to move forward. Although memories can bring us pain, they are important if we are to remember our past and move forward. Remembering honors fallen soldiers, supports the soldiers out there now, and helps us as a nation face our future.” – Excerpt from Veterans Day Program at Franklin Regional Middle School

very year since 1994, students at Franklin Regional Middle School have remembered, honored and celebrated our nation’s veterans including those from Export, Delmont and Murrysville with a set of performances. This year, the event was held on Nov. 10. “Some of the students recite original poems that they write, there’s some musical performances... the history of Veterans Day, some experiences veterans might have had,” says Bruce Palmiscno, an arts teacher at Franklin Regional, who works with three other teachers to put the program together. The other teachers are Denise McMullan, Camille MacRae and Brandi Crissman. “It’s not only from the vets’ perspective, but also those who were left behind. We do a lot of things with remembrance,” Paliscimo said of the performances. The veterans who attend are seated in the first few rows of the middle school theater, and are also invited to have lunch with the seventh grade students. Student ambassadors give the veterans a tour of the school. “[The veterans] come back year after year. It’s

a lot of the same veterans, and they really look forward to it,” Palmiscno said. This year, in addition to daytime performances for the veterans and their fellow sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students, there was also an evening performance for parents. “They were amazed that we could put such a show together,” Palmiscno said about the parents. “It means a lot to our veterans and it means a lot to our kids too.” The first year of the program, the focus was on Vietnam veterans. The following year, it was women in World War II. “At that time they specifically mentioned local veterans and those killed during their service,” said Palmiscno, who’s been with the district for 14 years. “One year, two vets attended the program who had not seen each other in 40 years.” While the program may no longer focus on specific local veterans, it always includes the “Star Spangled Banner,” the Pledge of Allegiance, the Presidential Proclamation for Veterans Day, and the playing of taps. Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

Franklin Regional High School celebrated its Homecoming Weekend 2011 with a traditional bonfire on Thursday, September 29. The 2011 Homecoming Court was honored during Friday night's football game.

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Murrysville

A LETTER from the MAYOR M U N I C I PA L I T Y

O F

M U R R Y S V I L L E

Murrysville Proudly Recycles M

urrysville knows that landfills are expensive and necessary and not to be overused. The best answer towards saving our environment is to "Promote Recycling". It doesn't take a lot of work, but the results are really rewarding. We, your Municipal Staff, have done our best to make it easy for you to recycle. Every other week our collector "Allied Waste" picks up your recyclables at the public access to your property. You only need to separate "Trash and Garbage" into a separate bag or container from recyclables. All recyclables can be co-mingled in one container. The only exception is corrugated cardboard as noted below. Here is a complete list of items to be recycled: • Plastic Nos. 1 through 7 (check the number inside the triangle, located on the bottom of the plastic item) • Aluminum Cans (Please rinse out cans) • Steel and bi-metal cans (Please rinse out cans) • Glass (clear, amber, and green) • Chipboard (pasta and cereal boxes, tissue boxes, paper towel rolls, etc.) • Junk mail • Magazines/Catalogs • Paperback books • Hardcover books (hardcover must be removed) • Office Paper, Shredded Paper • Phone Books • Newspapers and Newspaper inserts • Corrugated Cardboard (Boxes must be flattened and broken down to 3' x 3' size or smaller. If the cardboard is any larger than 3' x 3', it will not fit into the recycling truck. If possible, please bundle the cardboard with string, twine, or tape; otherwise, stack neatly next to the recycling bin.) • Clean pizza box tops. That's right, we recycle phone books, magazines, even shiny ad papers. But, to be even more helpful, here is a list of items that could be questionable. These items are not to be placed in the recycling containers: • Wax-coated paper products e.g. milk cartons • Aluminum pie plates and foil • Plastic toys • Dishes, pots, and pans

• • • • • •

Window or sheet glass Wrapping paper Styrofoam Fluorescent Light Tubes and CFL bulbs Scrap metal Tires

See, reading this listing makes the "Do and Don't Lists" of recycling much clearer, right? Now it is up to YOU! Please do not place recyclables in trash cans or large plastic trash bags, as the recycling driver will assume it is trash and not collect the recycling. The Municipality’s recycling bins should be used and are available for purchase at $12.00 per bin at the Municipal Building, 4100 Sardis Road, Murrysville, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. New residents to the Municipality receive one (1) free bin, if the previous owner did not leave one behind. In the next few months, Allied Waste will begin a Pilot Program for automated recycling, at no cost to the residents. A route of 500 to 600 homes will be selected and those residences will have their recycling collected by a truck that has an automated “arm” that will pick-up a special recycling container with wheels. Any residence selected to participate in the Pilot Program will receivethe special recycling container, along with instructions on how to recycle, delivered directly to their home. The yearly recycling schedule, as well as trash and other recycling information, is available on-line at www.murrysville.com or at the Municipal Building. Of course, you can always contact the Municipality’s Recycling Coordinator, Cherie Weber, at 724-327-2100, Ext. 130 or cweber@murrysvillegov.org with questions or concerns about trash and recycling. Murrysville’s businesses also recycle. They are especially great at breaking down cardboard containers. Murrysville today is a model for promoting the Gold Standard in recycling. YOU can be very proud, as I am, that Murrysville leads the region in waste-reducing collections. Congratulations! Now let's work ever harder to protect our precious environment even more. God Bless you and your families.

Robert J. Brooks Mayor Municipality of Murrysville

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

When it comes to purchasing insurance, it’s not about celebrity spokespeople or catchy phrases.

t’s about service, according to Chris Sotak. And he should know. The Sotak Insurance Agency has been located at 5618 William Penn Highway in Export for nearly 22 years, offering home, auto, life and business insurance through Erie Insurance. His son, Ryan, and wife, Christine, are part of the agency also. “I feel the level of service that my agency provides, along with superior products at a competitive price is what sets the Sotak Insurance Agency apart from other agencies,” Chris said. The Sotak Insurance Agency is fully-staffed with three licensed customer service representatives who provide a high level of expertise to their policyholders, as well as new applicants. Chris takes pride in the fact that if his clients have any questions regarding their insurance needs, they know that they can contact his agency to get a professional and knowledgeable response. He believes the industry is trending toward policyholders wanting to develop a relationship with an agency they feel they can trust to get excellent service and great coverage with a reputable insurance company. One of the misconceptions about the industry, Sotak said, is that cost is all that matters when it comes to purchasing insurance. “In my opinion, there can be a vast difference between insurance companies and agencies. The quality of service provided by both should be a factor when policyholders are deciding where to purchase their insurance. I think the personal attention you give to a policyholder in response to their questions and insurance needs is just as important as the cost of the insurance.” Another important aspect is knowing the community and the people who are in it. Sotak, who grew up in the Export area, said, “I have a very good working relationship and personal relationship with a lot of our policyholders. This is a customer service business, and we take that very seriously.” The Sotak Insurance Agency, 5618 William Penn Highway, Export, is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and evening hours by appointment. For more information, call 724.325.4710 or visit www.sotakinsurance.com/.

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Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Chili Cook-off

Nick Dorsch, Rob Hunter, Tony Pauly

Warms Up Fall

What could be better on a crisp autumn day than a cold beer and hot chili? Not a thing according the Murrysville area residents who attended the 4th Annual Chili Oktoberfest. For a mere $10 those who attended were treated to unlimited chili, beer provided by The Rivertowne Pour House, wine from a private donor, and they enjoyed football viewing on big screen TVs thanks to the Best Buy Geek Squad. After sampling each chili, attendees voted on their two favorite entries in both the hot and mild categories. The first place winners in both categories were awarded a $125 prize, and the second place winners received $75. This year the event featured a special award, the Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Chili, which was chosen by Mayor Robert J. Brooks. The winner of the Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice was Carly Greene. Kimberly Donahoue, Kylie Senge, Mayor Robert J. Brooks

Continued on page 28

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Neal Nichols, Captain Wayne Heckman, Acting Chief Dave Silvis

Ben Dorsch, Will Rogers

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

Chili Cook-off Continued from page 26

The Chili Oktoberfest is a joint effort between the Recreation Department of the Municipality of Murrysville and The Murrysville-Export Rotary Club. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chili Oktoberfest was a great success with nearly 300 people in attendance and over $3,000 raised for the Rotary Polio Foundation, the Rotaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Miracle Complex at Murrysville Community Park, and Murrysville Fire Departments.

Paul & Daneen Jugovic, PJ & Pete Dawes

The winners are: 1st place-HOT Brad Busse 2nd place-HOT Ben Dorsch, brother of Murrysville-Export Rotary Club member Nick Dorsch 1st place-MILD Jenny Wigton 2nd place-MILD Carly Greene

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The Huether Family

HOW TO MAKE THE RIGHT LONG TERM CARE DECISIONS

otable changes in our society have occurred within the last twenty years that have affected our longevity: advancements in modern medicine, healthy lifestyle changes and better exercise programs, to name a few. However, since people are living longer, new and difficult challenges are occurring. For many, their challenge is trying to find a way to pay for the cost of a long term care, skilled nursing facility. The average cost for this type of care is around $8,000 per month. If a family has no plan in place, there may be no estate left to pass along to the family. For example, a person diagnosed with Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who lives for 4 years in a long term care facility can go through more than $384,000 worth of their assets. What about the married couple where both spouses are in a nursing facility? The amount is double and the cost is now $768,000! The world has certainly changed, and with it, the role of Estate Planning. The changes are profound, so much so, that Estate Planning is no longer an accurate phrase. Estate Planning grew out of the 20th century system of taxation. Historically, Estate Planning attorneys worked with their clients to make certain that the clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wishes and desires would be fulfilled when they passed from this earth. The primary tool to pass along financial, real and tangible assets to a loved one was and still is the Last Will and Testament. In addition to keeping death taxes at a minimum, Estate Plans would often attempt to protect family members from themselves or others through the use of Trust Funds. It was always presumed that there would be an Estate to pass along. Today, for those who do not plan, they risk everything. A new form of legal work has developed over the past 15 years. It is called Elder Law. Many who are familiar with this category of legal representation consider it to be a group of attorneys who are able to help their clientele become eligible for Medicaid in order to pay for their long term care costs. Some Elder Law firms have developed their practices to become vastly more care-oriented. The new care-oriented segment of client service is referred to as Life Care Planning. Rather than the development of a plan to get someone in a nursing home onto Medicaid and face the risks of loss involved, a better plan is to keep people out of nursing homes altogether, when possible. In many cases, this can be accomplished simply by taking the time to do a thorough evaluation of each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s situation. Life Care Planning considers health care treatments, household or residence environment, and options regarding programs that would provide better care and quality of life. The

options are many and require a host of skills and resources to identify and appropriate the best options for a particular situation. For this reason, many Elder Law firms, who provide Life Care Planning, employ full-time Elder Care Coordinators, usually a registered nurse or a social worker who has extensive long-term care and geriatrics experience. Far too many people, the vast majority I would say, have made crucial long term care decisions for themselves, or for a loved one, with little or no information. The stress level is high and the person stuck making these crucial decisions simply wants the pain of the stress to go away. They end up making uninformed, usually faulty decisions. What you need is the advice, guidance and counsel of a skilled and experienced team of professionals who know and understand your care issues, and the programs, benefits, and options available to you. If you have a loved one whose condition is slowly getting worse, there is help available. As people continue to live longer, Elder Law attorneys, who provide Life Care Planning, are offering a complete range of support to the elderly and their caregivers. From estate planning with tax minimization to care coordination and advocacy, families are turning to these firms to help get the highest level of care for their loved one, achieve peace of mind for themselves and help to protect their life savings for the future. About the Writer Carl B. Zacharia is an attorney licensed in Pennsylvania and Florida. He is a partner with the elder law firm of Zacharia & Brown, PC. Zacharia & Brown is one of the oldest, most established elder law firms in Western Pennsylvania. Their practice includes life care planning for seniors, elder law, Medicaid, public benefits eligibility, asset protection, care review and advocacy, and estate & incapacity planning and administration. Contact information: www.PittsburghElderLaw.com, 412.751.5670, 4500 Walnut Street McKeesport, PA 15132.

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

• Navajo • by Ashley Connor

ictional stories about life on the Navajo Reservation in Shiprock, New Mexico led to a real life mission trip to the Southwest for 11 members of the Calvary Lutheran Church in Murrysville. The trip, led by church member Jamie Theim and paid for through a $7,000 grant from Concordia Lutheran Ministries, took place in July, and was sparked by her interest in novels written by author Tony Hillerman about life on the reservation. Her desire to do missionary work with the Navajo was further fueled by her correspondence with Pastor Kopaska, founder of Native American Ministries, who along with his wife Diane, has been ministering to Native Americans for more than 20 years. Through this ministry they’ve worked with tribes including the Navajo, Chippewa, Crow, Sioux, Apaches and several others. Pastor Kopaska also visited Calvary Lutheran two months ago to to meet the congregation and talk about his ministry. “I had a really good time,” said Theim regarding her trip to the reservation. “Despite cultural barriers everyone is the same. We have the same wants and needs.” While at the reservation, the members of Calvary Lutheran Church and First Wash Assembly of God, a church on the reservation, joined together and held a vacation bible school. One of the church elders from Calvary Lutheran who attended the trip was Bob Kemper. He retired a year ago, and said he wanted to do something different. “Things had to work out on the fly, God blessed us and everything went well,” he said.

Albert Buck, a visitor from a Navajo reservation in Shiprock, New Mexico, shows members of Calvary Lutheran Church in Murrysville how to make fry bread. 30 724.942.0940 to advertise |

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On a Saturday morning in October, two men from the reservation, Albert Buck and his cousin, Wilbert Johnson, returned the favor by visiting Calvary Lutheran. They came to share their story with church members, and to make fry bread, a Native American staple. The bread was to be part of a dinner planned for later that evening, following a presentation by the two visitors. Johnson said he was excited to come to Murrysville to see the people who came to visit them. “All I want is to be a blessing to my church,” said Johnson who does a lot of missionary work alongside his cousin. Buck did all of the cooking Saturday and shared with everyone his technique for making fry bread and the various ways it can be served. The kitchen was alive with laughter, as Calvary Lutheran members seemed to enjoy cooking with their guests. Buck said he almost didn’t make it to Murrysville because his van was stolen. “I was a little devastated, but I talked to friends and family, who said it’s nothing but the devil’s work and God will provide,” he said. The van is used for a lot of the missionary work that he does on the reservation and it was a big loss for him, he said. Theim said that she is currently working on applying for another grant so Calvary Lutheran can purchase a new van so Buck and his church can continue its missionary work. She also said Calvary Lutheran wants to stock the van with school supplies for the children. Theim’s daughter, Rachel, was among the six Calvary Lutheran youth who took the mission trip. She aspires to be a teacher, and thought that her participation would be a beneficial experience. “It was great,” Rachel said. “I still talk to some of the kids from the reservation, and I enjoyed learning with kids in a different culture.”

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

The Westmoreland County Historical Society’s Arthur St. Clair

Historic Preservation Award Dinner

he Westmoreland County Historical Society’s Arthur St. Clair Historic Preservation Award Dinner has grown from a small luncheon affair to the organization’s signature event. Now in its 12th year, the awards “came about because of the Westmoreland County Historical Society’s efforts to be involved in all of the county – not just in the capital of the county,” said the society’s executive director Lisa Hays. “We wanted to reach out to the neighboring communities in all areas of the county and pat them on the back for the efforts they’re making.” The award is named for Arthur St. Clair, an important figure in the founding of Westmoreland County. It is awarded annually to individuals, organizations, businesses or educational institutions “that have made significant contributions to the preservation of our historic places, documents, records or stories, and by doing so are keeping alive Westmoreland County’s rich history and heritage for future generations,” according to the society’s website. This year, the society is honoring: Keith Pealstrom for renovating two historic structures in Irwin – Covenant Hall, Irwin Center for the Performing Arts and The Pealstrom Place, which is

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the former Westmoreland City Public School built in 1914; The Export Centennial Committee, chaired by K. Melanie Litz, for celebrating Export’s coal mining history and cultural heritage in a well-received two-day event in August; and the Unity Chapel Committee for preserving and maintaining the Unity Chapel and the surrounding area. “We ask people from the community to nominate worthy projects from their community that we don’t know about,” Hays said. Nominations are solicited through the society’s website, press releases and letters sent out to all the local historical societies. A small selection committee from within the society’s board of directors wades through the nominations. “It’s gratifying to us to see the multiple worthy nominations,” Hays said. “They tend to sort themselves out into what’s really outstanding and what’s really good.” The number of awards presented each year varies. “I think everybody likes history; some people just don’t know it,” Hays said, adding that history is really just stories. “And those stories are told through places and artifacts and it’s important that we preserve those things.”

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

REAL ESTATE

MuRRYSVILLE

Make Your Home

Cleaner & Greener inding ways to go green in the home does more than help the planet. It helps your home’s environment, as well. According to the u.S. Environmental Protection Agency, levels of indoor air pollution can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. These pollutants — as well as chemicals found in many products today — can irritate allergy and asthma sufferers. “More people than ever are looking to make natural changes in their home to help improve their family’s environmental health,” said Dr. Shannon Thyne, Associate Professor of Pediatrics at uCSF and Medical Director of the Pediatric Asthma and Allergy Clinic at San Francisco General Hospital. “It only takes a few extra steps to make a home healthier, cleaner and greener.”

FAmIly FeATUReS

To that end, the maker of Green Works® products, HGTV personality and green living expert Carter Oosterhouse, and Lowe’s have teamed up to showcase ways to give your family a cleaner, greener home. “Whether you could use help enhancing the look of your child’s playroom, or you’re looking for ways to reduce chemicals and their fumes and residues in your kitchen, there are simple steps you can take to make your home environment healthier, while still keeping it stylish and beautiful,” said Oosterhouse. While every home is different, here are some ways to make any home naturally beautiful and healthier. Paint A fresh coat of paint is a great, low-cost way to bring new life to a room. But that new paint smell comes from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which derive from vapors released from toxic compounds. use non-VOC paint to create an inviting, comfortable and beautiful room. Check the back of the paint can for VOC levels — those with fewer than 150 grams per liter are often labeled “low-VOC” or “noVOC.” ■ Buy only the amount of paint you’ll need for the project. If you wind up with leftover paint, store it safely or dispose of it according to local municipal regulations. ■ Open windows while painting and use fans to vent fumes. ■ When sanding or removing old paint, wear a dust mask or respirator to prevent particle inhalation. Keep the area well ventilated.

What does it mean to be natural? The Natural Products Association (NPA) recently developed the Natural Standard for Home Care Products, making it easier than ever to tell what makes a product natural. Here are the NPA’s core criteria: n Natural: Ingredients that are at least 95 percent natural (excluding water) in addition to appropriate manufacturing processes. n Responsible: No animal testing during the development process. n Safer chemistry: Avoid ingredients from the NPA’s list of prohibited ingredients. n Sustainable: Use biodegradable ingredients with environmentally sustainable packaging whenever possible. For more about which Green Works® products are NPA certified natural products, visit www.greenworkscleaners.com. 34 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Murrysville

remax howland full page

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

REAL ESTATE

Cleaning products It used to be that buying a natural cleaning product meant paying more money for worse performance. No longer. Natural cleaning products can provide great performance without leaving behind harsh chemical fumes or residues. Plus, they are increasingly cost effective. Green Works naturally derived cleaners offer a variety of products for the whole house, including naturally derived laundry detergent and bathroom cleaners that are priced very competitively. Flooring Carpets trap dirt, dust and other allergens. If possible, remove wall-to-wall carpeting and replace it with natural wood flooring, such as sustainable bamboo or cork flooring. ■ Sweep and vacuum floors regularly to control dust. ■ Wet mop with a microfiber mop to remove dust and dirt more efficiently. ■ Clean up spills right away. If the carpets and rugs must stay, vacuum frequently, using a vacuum cleaner with an allergen-trapping HePA filter. Change the filter regularly to keep it working efficiently. Furniture & Window Coverings Curtains and upholstery can trap dust, dust mites and pollen.

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MuRRYSVILLE

■ Blinds are a good, contemporary-looking alternative to drapes, but must be dusted occasionally. ■ Vacuum upholstered furniture — under the cushions, too. Appliances Upgrading to a more efficient washer and dryer can provide lifetime water and energy savings. ■ Run only full loads. Full loads use energy and water more efficiently than smaller loads. Adjust the water levels according to the load. ■ Wash in cold water. most of the energy used to wash clothes comes from heating the water. Only the most stubborn stains really need hot or warm water. For more tips on getting a cleaner, greener home, visit www.greenworks.com, and watch Oosterhouse’s “Green It yourself” web series at the Green Works Facebook page, www.facebook.com/greenworks.

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Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

OLDER ADULT S IN MURRYSVILLE Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your living arrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing this major life change can be a formidable one. Most experts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlier rather than later.

By Pamela Palongue

n the popular 1990s TV series “The Golden Girls,” Dorothy always had a secret weapon she used to coerce her mother into cooperating with her. Dorothy would periodically threaten her with the ominous warning, “Shady Pines is getting your room ready as we speak…” But nowadays, only around 7% of people over age 75 live in nursing homes, according to census figures, and there are more choices than ever for different lifestyles

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and levels of care. There are as many as 20 different types of senior care facilities, and before looking at any new living arrangement, it’s important to have a basic idea of what the different levels are to avoid feeling overwhelmed with choices. The following are some of the most popular living arrangements for seniors of today. One favorite for mature adults is the active adult community, sometimes referred to as a retirement community or independent living. These dwellings are usually homes or condos with individuals living independently and owning their own home, but in a grouping or housing plan with other seniors. Many times these communities will offer a clubhouse and have planned social and cultural activities and limited transportation. They may also provide housekeeping and communal meals for a monthly fee. They are probably best suited to individuals who are active and able to assume total care for themselves, but desire social interaction with others in their own age group. Assisted living facilities usually allow individuals to have the privacy of their own apartment or home, while offering daily assistance with bathing and dressing. Some communities may also help with administering medications. This is an attractive option for many seniors because residents may be able to bathe and dress

themselves initially, but as health and mobility decline the help becomes readily available without having to make a change in living arrangements. Communal dining may also be an option for an added fee. Residents rent their apartment or home and may pay one ‘all inclusive’ fee for services or may be charged ‘a la carte’ for each additional service needed. This is a good choice for any mature adult who is currently ambulatory, but who may have concerns about future mobility problems or perhaps has the beginning of mobility issues. Another increasingly popular option for mature adults is home health care which allows individuals to remain in their homes while receiving professional assistance with bathing, dressing and meal preparation. The care may also extend to medical needs such as the administration of medications and the ongoing management of blood pressure or diabetes. Medicare and Medicaid may provide financial assistance in some cases, but there are several eligibility requirements which must be met. This is a particularly good option for individuals who are emotionally attached to their residence and do not have a strong need for social interaction with other seniors. Rehabilitation facilities are primarily a temporary option for those recuperating from injury or illness. Rehab helps the individual recover and provides adaptive techniques for preparing the patient to return to independent living. While the person may not function at the previous level, the goal of rehab is to enhance the patient’s quality of life by improving mobility, speech and self-care. Though people seldom look forward to going to a nursing facility, skilled nursing homes provide 24-hour care for individuals with serious illness, injury or mental decline. The good news is that there have been several improvements in the quality of care received in nursing facilities since the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987. Nurse aides now have more training, and each resident must be fully evaluated upon admission so that an individual care plan can be established. Meals are planned by a dietician to ensure proper nutrition, and many nursing facilities now include regular exercise as a part of their managed care for residents. Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your living arrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing this major life change can be a formidable one. Most experts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlier rather than later. Try to discuss the different options with aging parents and find out which ones appeal to them. Certain conditions such as serious dementia may prevent a meaningful discussion of these topics later. By talking about the choices now, your loved one can weigh in on the decision and help you decide based on personal preferences. The topic is also easier to discuss when it seems a long way off, rather than inevitable in the near future. The older person will also have more time to make decisions, rather than hastily settling on a new home. For more information on finding a home for your loved one, you may want to consult www.aplaceformom.com, a free elder care referral service. For more tips about speaking with your parents or services available for your loved one, visit the Area Agency on Aging website at www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa.aspx.

Murrysville | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

here are a number of to be done, in dynamic duos; howaddition to ever, one would be driving seniors hard pressed to beat the volto appointunteer dynamism of Don and ments – a Marcia Sayre of Murrysville. service that his This husband and wife wife provides team are volunteers with also. The couForbes Trail Faith in Action, an ple work organization that provides companionship together handling volunteer work for and assistance for Murrysville, Delmont Forbes Trail Faith in Action, but they also and Export residents who are 60 years of work separately. age and older. The organization offers “I enjoy taking people to places and escort and transportation service, minor getting to know where they’re from,” said repairs and “handyman” service, yard Marcia Sayre, who grew up in Export. work, caregiver relief, companionship, and “It’s sad because some of them don’t referrals. have any family anymore in the area or “They’re always there when you need maybe their children work and can’t take them. They’re just a phone call away,” said them to doctor appointments. She recalls Phyllis Morgan, program director of Forbes one woman who had to go to the doctor’s Trail Faith in Action. “The seniors love them office, but ended up being sent to the because in addition to being there for them, hospital. “I stayed with her until she got they treat the seniors with respect.” up to her room because she didn’t have The Sayres learned of Forbes Trail Faith anyone to stay with her.” in Action through their church, First United The Sayres, who’ve lived in a number Methodist Church in Murrysville. The of places including Minnesota, church’s pastor and another church memWashington state and Iowa before movber were on the organization’s steering ing to this area, said they have always committee. Marcia Sayre, in helping to plan been involved in charitable work includa luncheon at the church for seniors, inviting working with the Lions Club and their ed Morgan to speak. “We were really inter- church. They’ve also taken mission trips. ested in becoming involved from there on,” Both are retirees. He worked for Marcia Sayre said. “We have such a need Westinghouse and Cutler Hammer, and in that area.” she worked for a credential verification Don Sayre’s first task through the organi- service. “It makes you feel good inside zation was no small feat. He got a request that you were able to help someone that a woman needed a ramp built outside else,” Marcia Sayre said. her home because She lauded Morgan the steps had and the Faith in Action become unmanageoffice staff. “Phyllis and The seniors able. It turned into a Bonnie are absolutely because in bigger project than wonderful in the office. he could handle They’re the main conaddition to being alone, so he pulled tact for everybody and there for them, they it’s in a few more men just great working treat the seniors with from his church. with them.” “Including a couple For Morgan, the of members of the feeling is mutual. family that live there, “They’re really a dediit was probably a total of five people [who cated couple,” she said. “They’re really worked on the ramp],” Don Sayre said. He dedicated to the community. Nothing usually does the handiwork that may need seems to be too much or too little.”

them

love

respect

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