in-north-allegheny-spring by IN Community Magazines

Spring 2010

orth Allegheny COMMUNITY

MAGAZINE

INSIDE

At NA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Music is All in the Family Plus

Driving Vacations

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NA High School Students Perform the Musical “Cats” Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it. Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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his magical gala for children benefited A Child's Place at Mercy. Sc o t t & Young guests enjoyed an evening filled with dancing alongside favorite holiday characters, a dazzling production of "A Candyland Christmas," a visit from the National Aviary's "Baby Penguin Sidney," face painting, balloon and caricature artists, crafting holiday art Av a P projects, decorating holiday cookies, and a delicious childAn g e friendly buffet. Held at the Westin Convention Center Hotel in Downtown Pittsburgh and attended by more than 600 children and adults, this spectacular affair has raised well over a half-million dollars over the past six years. A Child's Place at Mercy is a program of Pittsburgh Mercy Health System. This invaluable advocacy program serves children who are suspected victims of child abuse and/or neglect, as well as children in foster care. The program also provides training to law Me g h a n Ro d g e r s enforcement, educators, health care professionals and the community to better identify, report and put a stop to the victimization of children.

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Ch r i s t o p h e r B e n n e t t

ort h A lle g h e n y S p r in g

2010

IN North Allegheny is a non-partisan community magazine dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the people of Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, Marshall Township and the Town of McCandless 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. P U B L IS H E R Wayne Dollard AS S I S T AN T T O T H E P U B L I S H E R Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M AN AG I N G E D I T O R Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O FFI CE M AN AG E R Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com

G R AP H I C D E S I G N Susie Doak Bridget Michael Katelyn Ruffing Tamara Tylenda P H O T O G R AP H E R S Kathy Coates Marybeth Jeffries Mandy Kendall Elaine Petrakis Diane Setzenfand Carl Stillitano Garyonphotography.com

Summer 2008 W

E B D E V E L O P M E N T DS Multimedia

AD V E R T I S I N G S AL E S Renee Bennett Tina Dollard Rose Estes Linda Hall Brian McKee David Mitchell Tara Reis Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert Christina Stevens RJ Vighetti

elcome to the spring issue of IN North Allegheny Magazine. Spring is a season of hope, change and new beginnings. The harsh cold and freeze of winter gives way to the gentle thaw of a growing sun’s strengthening rays. For us at IN Community Magazine, spring is a time of new beginning as well. Our staff works diligently to plan out the entire year of features and news that will keep you informed and entertained. We have received numerous story ideas from you and have been putting them together for your friends and relatives to read and enjoy. You, our readers, continue to be the single most important “employee” of the magazine. Without your ideas, input and critique, this magazine would be a shell of the vibrant and lively magazine that it is. So keep all of those great story ideas coming in! Call 724.942.0940 with your story and we’ll be delighted to include it in an upcoming issue. Sincerely,

pring! even the sound of the word gets me brewing with excitement about the beautiful days which I know must be coming soon! Days spent in the garden, walking my boys to school or watching the days sun set just a bit later. With the beginning of each season, you can expect a little bit of good news from us. Our staff is hard at work following up on all of your phone calls and emails which let us know about things that are happening in the community. Whether it is a resident who is volunteering and making a difference, or your favorite organization hosting a fund raiser, please, keep me up to speed! You can email me at Marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. In this edition I want to introduce you to ernie & lisa Pontiere - both with the Choral Department at North Allegheny School District, I know you will be impressed with the work they are doing with the kids. If you had the chance to see the Spring Musical, “Cats,” you already know what I mean! enjoy!

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W R IT E R S Jonathan Barnes Christa Cardone Alyssa Choiniere Alisha Hipwell Kara Kessler Brittany Lingle Kelli McElhinny Sandy Trozzo Chris Weber

FrOM THe PuBlISHer

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Calling all IN NA Area Readers!

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Do you know someone in your school or neighborhood who is doing something positive to benefit our community? We’d like to know about it! Contact Marybeth Jeffries – North editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com with your suggestions!

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 Dedicated to the Fine Art of Living Within the Community

Hosting a Party Where to Have Your Party

by Marybeth Jeffries ave a reason to celebrate? How fabulous! Party planning may seem a little daunting, but with the right organization, you are on your way to a fun and entertaining time for you and your guests. The “how to” starts with a software program or a good oldfashioned notebook. For my purposes, I always rely on a software program that will list and locate all of my contacts for a guest list, required vendors, and a place to establish a timeline leading up to the party.

establish a Goal and Theme To make your party a success, you will need to establish what the goal for the party will be. Try to think about this in terms of who the guest of honor is and how to best make him or her happy. Generally, a theme for the party should be established. This will make your job so much easier! For a graduation party, you might want to plan the party around your graduate’s favorite activity. If those themes don’t work, then create one! I love island-themed parties; guests dress in their favorite resort wear and drink tropical drinks to the sounds of a steel drum band.

Timeline Once you have established a theme, get busy with a timeline. Figure out when you want to host your party and work backwards, noting when to order food, send invitations, and rSVP dates. Now you have some deadlines to work with and can keep your cool because you’re so organized.

Decide if You Need Help You’ll want to decide early in the process whether you will require help in the planning or execution of your party. For those who decide that they don’t want the work of planning their own party, a full-service event planner can handle all of the details including what foods to suggest, hiring service staff, coordination of rentals, and decorations to make your party special. Other planners may decide that all they need is one person to run your kitchen while you are attending to guests. Many times a family member or close friend will step in to take over the kitchen. You’ll want to enlist the help of family and friends, or hire an event planner as soon as possible.

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There are many places to host a great party. Most people choose their homes, and are able to set up their backyard, garage, or deck to accommodate their guests. There are other really great choices if you simply don’t have enough room to handle a large crowd. Check out local fire or church halls, hotels or parks located in your municipality. Hosting your party at home can be done easily with the right setup. Party rental houses can rent tables and chairs, a dance floor, as well as tents and lighting to create the perfect atmosphere. Also, it is always a good idea to have a rain plan. I always count on it raining in Southwestern Pennsylvania in late spring or early summer! If you get lucky, you’ll have a beautiful day and if it rains, you’l l be prepared with a tent to keep everyone dry!

Day of the Party Once the basic plan is in place, you can cut down on your “day of party” stress by taking care of the party preparation ahead of time. “Make-ahead” food items will cut down on your time away from guests, so try to give that some additional thought when planning your menu and drink selections. Most rental companies will deliver your party items the day before the party to give you time to set up. Arrange a beverage station where guests can help themselves to cans of soda or premade punches. A good caterer will help you choose foods that don’t require a lot of extra handling and will remain delicious throughout the party! Placing trash receptacles in places where guests can dispose of paper products will help cut down on your after-party cleanup. This gives you the time to meet all of your guests and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Once your party has started, you can enjoy spending time with your guests and seeing the results of all of your hard work. Party planning doesn’t have to be a chore. If you stay organized, you may actually enjoy the process.

Marybeth Jeffries has been planning corporate and social events for over 20 years. www.alleghenymedia-events.com

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When it Comes to Music by Sandy Trozzo rnie and lisa Pontiere took very different paths to their current professions. He got a degree in education, but spent 25 years touring the country as a performer with several musical groups, including The Four Coins and The lettermen. His background is in jazz and pop music. Her background is in classical music. She got a degree in vocal performance, with a certificate in education, but began teaching right away and performing on the side. Bur for the last 10 years, the husband/ wife team has been teaching choral music to high school students in North Allegheny, and working together on the school musical each year. Mr. Pontiere teaches at North Allegheny Senior High School, or NASH. Mrs. Pontiere teaches at North Allegheny Intermediate High School, or NAI. “It’s a good sharing. We do very similar things,” Mrs. Pontiere said. “We buy all of our music together,” her husband added. “We do all of our concerts together. Across the board, when we send letters to parents, it’s one letter. Once the kids get into ninth grade, the continuity doesn’t change.” Mr. Pontiere considers that continuity to be the NA choral program’s biggest strength – “next to the choral parents.” The two met at a choral competition when they were teaching in different school districts, and both started in North Allegheny at Ingomar Middle School. “When we got married, the school newspaper had a field day,” Mr. Pontiere said. The couple has two daughters: lizzie, 13, a cheerleader and choir member at Marshall Middle School, and lexie, 15, who is in the choir at NAI under her mother’s tutelage. Mrs. Pontiere said it was a little weird at first, but “I think it’s going better than we both thought.” Mr. Pontiere moved to the high school first and, for nine years, handled all four grades alone, including more than 380 students daily and seven different ensembles, he said. “When lisa came to NAI, I think that is when the program really took off,” he said. The two also collaborate on the spring musical. This year’s musical, “Cats,” was Mr. Pontiere’s 14th show and his wife’s fourth show. 8

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It's All In The Family “Cats” is getting more interesting by the rehearsal,” Mr. Pontiere said. “The music is difficult to sing and play. The students never stop moving or singing.” “Cats” is different than most musicals because there is no dialogue. “The music and costumes are over the top,” Mr. Pontiere said. The stage has hydraulics and scaffolding for the cats to climb. “I really, really think that we’ve got the cast to really, really hit a home run with this show,” he said. “When you have good kids that are willing to work, when you have a great directing team, when you have great parent support, along with administrative support, that’s a formula for success.” Alumnus Karen elliot is the parent coordinator, Sarah McGraw is stage director, Andrea ronk is the choreographer and Penny Miller helps Mrs. Pontiere with the vocals, while Mr. Pontiere works with the musicians in the pit. “everybody on this team was pretty much hand-picked, and everyone knew their jobs,” Mr. Pontiere said. “We try first to get staff. If we have to, we go out of the school district for help.” Most people probably don’t realize this, but the musical is not picked until after the auditions are complete, he said. “We listen to every kid sing, do monologue and dance one time. From there, we see what we have as far as talent, and then we try to place the shows that match the cast,” he said. Two or three shows are picked, then some students are called back for another audition. “As the callbacks come back, then we get the idea,” he added. “‘Cats’ wasn’t even on the short list” when the first auditions were held in September, Mr. Pontiere said.

“We buy all of our music together, we do all of our concerts together. Across the board, when we send letters to parents, it’s one letter. Once the kids get into ninth grade, the continuity doesn’t change.”

“The more you hear the kids, the more you see the kids, …then the show becomes clear,” he added. “I can’t sit here and say, `Next year, we’re going to do `Hello Dolly.’’ What if we don’t have a soprano?” The most challenging musical for them was “West Side Story.” Their favorites were “les Miserables” and last year’s show, “Beauty and the Beast.” North Allegheny’s musicals are for the students, staff and community, the Pontieres say. They don’t participate in the Kelly Awards or any external awards. “It’s a musical for the community, period,” he said, including an annual free performance for senior citizens in the school district. The senior citizens “get the humor,” Mrs. Pontiere said. “They are a great audience for these kids,” her husband added.

“My husband and I had lived in our home for 41 years. Once our children were grown, it was too large for us. We planned together to move to Vincentian Villa independent living community, and when he passed away I was so glad we’d made this decision together. The location is perfect for me – it’s right in the community where I live. And it’s sponsored by a name I know and trust.” – rose Marie Hogan, resident of Vincentian Villa

Planning for Future Health Care Needs Allows Seniors to enjoy Today Have you ever asked yourself these questions? Or thought about them for a parent or loved one?  Could I stay independent longer if all my living space were on one floor?  My family are scattered across the country, maybe if I didn’t have such a large house to take care of I would have more time to visit them?  What if I experienced some sort of traumatic accident, how would I ever begin to choose a nursing home to go to if I required that service?  Could I remain independent longer if I had a shower with a molded seat and grab bars instead of trying to step into and out of my tub?  I don’t want my family to have to worry about me; what can I do now to insure that they will not bear this burden?

a safe, secure continuing care Vincentian Villa is a new North Hills independent living community for ages 60+. Just off McKnight Road at Babcock Blvd, Vincentian Villa sits on 16 peaceful acres and offers 24 apartments and 40 patio homes – all brand new 2 bedroom, 2 bath units with integral garages and patios or balconies. Discover the security, peace of mind, and pleasant surroundings found at Vincentian Villa. Apartments and patio homes are still available, but filling fast. Call 412-364-6592 today to schedule a tour and learn more!

What is a CCrC? According to www.helpguide.org, a Continuing Care retirement Community, or CCrC, is a residential community for the remainder of one’s life, with a choice of services and living situations. Seniors can move between Independent living, Assisted living, and Nursing Home or rehabilitation Care and back again, based on changing needs at each point in time.

Could a CCrC be right for you?

Sometimes the first step to your future begins by taking a look at your life realistically, considering your immediate needs as well as planning for possible future needs, and making changes and adjustments to allow those transitions to happen as smoothly as possible. There are many different types of CCrCs available and many different payment structures based on services provided. Shop around, do your homework, ask questions, talk to friends, and investigate your options as you choose which CCrC setting may be right for you. But here’s a general idea of what to expect: • Coming to live at a CCrC allows you to be as independent as possible for as long as possible. The amenities included support your current independent lifestyle by providing access to medical/hospital services, shopping, family, church life, community activities and community more. • As needs change, you can continue to remain in your new i ndependent living home by adding individual services that allow you to age safely in your home. • If you are unable to return home, you have the security of knowing that you’ll receive the services you require from a organization you’ve selected in advance, whose reputation stands for not only quality of care, but also compassionate care. By moving to a CCrC like Vincentian Home’s independent living community, Vincentian Villa, you take the worry out of your future, allowing you to focus on the present. T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y Do n n a Se l l . Do n n a i s t h e Ma t h e in d e p e n d e n t c e n t i a n Ho m e , a m e n t Co m m u n i t 4 1 2 -3 6 4 -6 5 9 1 o r

Vincentian Villa is a project of Vincentian Home, a trusted name in quality living since 1924 10

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n a g e r a t Vi n liv in g c o m m Co n t i n u i n g y i n t h e No r d s e ll@ v c s .o

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The North Boroughs Rotary Club he North Boroughs Club has been very busy this year in their “Hands On” projects. At the beginning of this rotary Year, President Jena Silkwood had as one of her stated objectives that of more “Hands On” projects. North Boroughs rotary has maintained its tradition of Service Above Self and dedication to serving our local communities, while conducting more hands on projects. earlier this fall, North Boroughs rotary Club collected new and gently worn coats to assist the North Hills Community Outreach organization in its efforts to provide coats to the needy. In December, we donated Christmas gifts to children who are part of Holy Family Institute. Much like the Angle Tree tradition, the children made their Christmas wishes known to Santa and North Boroughs fulfilled those wishes. This made for a warm and welcoming holiday for many young people who need to know of the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. In the last week of December, North Boroughs again reached out to the young. On December 28, we donated student dictionaries to several schools in our Northern Area. Donations were made to all third graders at St. Teresa elementary School in Perrysville, St. Sebastian elementary School in ross Township, Assumption elementary School in Bellevue and St. Athanasius elementary in West View. A donation was also made to “Beginning with Books Center for early literacy” on Pittsburgh’s North Side. In 2010, North Boroughs has plans to collect food for the local Food Pantry and provide Back- to-School backpack to deserving youngsters in our area. For more information on becoming a member of the North Boroughs rotary contact www.rotarydistrict7300.org.

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Vacations on the Fly

Trips That Pack a Ton of Fun Into a Tank of Gas hen thinking about vacations, sometimes it’s easier to just get in the car and go, rather than spend hours comparison shopping through various mind-withering online sites. Fortunately, living in Western Pennsylvania makes it easy for us to get away for the weekend (or a few days more) without much hassle. The trick is looking at the map as if it’s your own little neighborhood, not some destination. We planned a few trips for you that are all based within a 100mile radius of Pittsburgh - as the crow flies, not as the car drives. Most of these trips are 250 miles or less and within three hours, give or take.

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Cleveland, Ohio – The bane of Steelers fans during the football season, this drivable city has amenities that definitely make it worth visiting. Boasting a world-class orchestra directed by Franz Welser-Most, the rock and roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Cleveland Botanical Gardens and the Cleveland Playhouse, there’s never a lack of things to do in this booming town. More than 1,000 restaurants mean that you’ll never be stuck for cuisine, either. If you are in town, be sure to check out Trattoria on the Hill, for thirdgeneration, authentic Italian cuisine after a night at Severance Hall. Erie, Pennsylvania – Ah, lake erie. Pennsylvania’s little oceanfront. lake erie is not only a beautiful seascape destination to one of the Great lakes, it’s also a great family funspot. From the historic Flagship Niagara and erie Maritime Museum to the lake erie Speedway, whether your tastes are a little edmund Fitzgerald or a little Carl edwards, erie is a place you’ll go back to again and again. literally one of the easiest places to get to – due north on I-79 – erie and its southern little brother, Conneaut, can give any family a full weekend of enjoyment year-round. Geneva, Ohio – Also known as “Geneva on the lake,” this quaint destination is a great weekend getaway option. More recreational in nature because of its lakefront location, Geneva also has a bevy of nightclubs, restaurants and more to keep the cabin-fever away. If the weather’s cooperative, you can plan on plenty of fishing, boating, swimming, camping, concerts and golf. The Wild Water Works offers more than 750 feet of waterslides for those looking for a serious soaking. look for the Mediaeval Fair in late July and August, and annual events at the abundant wineries throughout the region. Mansfield, Ohio – A perfect day trip into small-town America, Mansfield is home to an incongruous amount of interesting sights. From blueberry festivals to the Mansfield

Memorial Museum to the famous Carousel in the heart of town, Mansfield is a great family-oriented trip for all ages. One of the highlights for the technology and sci-fi fan in the family is elektro, the 7-foot-tall robot created by Westinghouse in 1937. This wonder of the time walked on command, had a 700-word vocabulary, and could discern between red and green light. elektro is on permanent display at the Mansfield Memorial Museum. Martin’s Ferry, Ohio – Founded in 1794, Martin’s Ferry is Ohio’s oldest settlement, and you can expect a lot of history in this destination, which is minutes from Oglebay Park. every June, Martin’s Ferry sponsors the All-American Soap Box Derby, the largest stock car division race in the u.S. Morgantown, West Virginia – Another destination rich in history, Morgantown is an eclectic blend of the past and the present. From its thriving cultural community to the Cheat river Watershed, with its annual festivals and riverfront events, the sky’s the limit in Morgantown. Highlights include the WV Bass Federation Tournament, the WV Wild and Wonderful MountainFest Motorcycle rally, and the Triple S HarleyDavidson Hoop Group Summer Jamfest. Moundsville, West Virginia – Just outside of Wheeling West Virginia is Moundsville, home to Grave Creek Mound, the largest conical burial mound in the united States. This structure dates back to 250 B.C. and houses a visitor’s center and museum onsite. Across the street is the West Virginia State Penitentiary, a Gothic prison that was shut down in 1995. Today, the prison is open to ghost hunts, prison tours and a special “Dungeon of Horrors” tour each year around Halloween. Burial mounds and haunted prisons – a definite one-two punch of history and adventure!

Somerset, Pennsylvania – Ski, ski, ski! But did you know there’s a lot to do in this town of antique shops and wineries when the snow’s gone? If you can think of it, you can do it in Somerset. From horseback riding and hiking to mini-golf and white water rafting, you can find it all within two hours of Pittsburgh. Home to Seven Springs and Hidden Valley ski resorts, Somerset is a popular winter destination, no doubt. But when trying to find a nice place to get away from it all in the mountains, put this one on your calendar and just go. Sandusky, Ohio – Missing that warm weather and water? Then surf over to Sandusky where we found Great Wolf lodge.(www.greatwolf.com) This indoor extravaganza of a water park is great for kids up to age 12 and their parents. They will love the water slides, giant fort and five separate pools filled with 200,000 gallons of water. You’ll love the fact that it’s always 87˚, very clean and when the kids get tired, they bunk down in their own sleeping area. This all suite resort got high marks for kid friendly fun. Butler County, PA – April is the perfect time to take a short trip up I-79 to Slippery rock where you can enjoy the Kaleidoscope Arts Festival from April 14-25. Dance and music ensembles, lectures, theatre productions and a children’s day feature nationally and internationally known artists. Be sure to allow time to explore the area’s unique shops, like the Birdwatcher’s Store, Native essence, Slippery rock Florist and Winfield Winery. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at a variety of eateries. To learn more about all you can see and do in the Slippery rock area, check out www.visitbutlercounty.com.

Living in Western Pennsylvania makes it easy for us to get away for the weekend (or a few days more) without much hassle. Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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s the remaining winter days dwindle and the weather mellows, green-thumbed folks itch to get out and do a bit of digging in the dirt. So even before buds shoot from vegetation that’s been asleep all winter, many folks don their boots and gloves to put spades into the soil, or take clippers to the shrubs. They should remember that completing yard maintenance tasks is just half of the work needed to have a fresh and vibrant yard. With yard maintenance, timing is everything, since completing yard chores at the proper times is almost as important as doing them, if you want to get the full benefit from the work. Doing certain tasks at the wrong times can do more harm than good. experts sometimes vary on when or how often they prefer to prune shrubs, mulch flowerbeds or re-seed lawns and do other common yard maintenance tasks performed in springtime. But most landscape pros agree that not completing yard maintenance tasks could haunt a homeowner when the weather is nice.

Greening lawns Proper lawn maintenance early in the year can help ensure that in the dog days of summer, family and friends will be barbecuing, playing and lounging on a soft green carpet of grass, rather than scuffing around on a ragged lawn riddled with brown spots and bare spots. Creating or maintaining a verdant lawn doesn’t have to be a difficult task, if you plan wisely. regular maintenance is necessary, though, because a lawn left unchecked can soon become a dandelion-clover-infested unsightly mess. So plan ahead, and stick to a schedule of yard maintenance that begins each year in the spring. Begin with the lawn care. 14 724.942.0940 t o

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Start the process by warding off crab grass through a treatment to inhibit the weed’s growth, said George Girty, owner of library-based George Girty landscape and Design. “Once crab grass is growing, you can’t kill it,” Girty said. “Put down a pre-emergent crab grass control in March or April… If you don’t do it, you’ll probably have to live with crab grass until you can apply the treatment in the fall.” Crab grass control comes in granular form and as a liquid. The treatment works to inhibit growth of the weed when it goes to seed at different times of the year. Cleaning out the dead stuff is key to maintaining an attractive yard, be it a tree, or shrub, but especially with a lawn. Marco Viglio, owner of Wilkins-based Viglio landscaping, likes to dethatch and re-seed his clients’ lawns in springtime in order to start the lawn’s growing season off strong. “De-thatching gets all the dead thatch out and then you seed right into the lawn. That new seed helps to thicken up the lawn,” Viglio said. When re-seeding a lawn, it is important to use the most appropriate seed. Viglio and Girty both recommend using the brand Penn State Mix because it is made for this climate and its soil, which has a heavy clay content, and also because the mix is resistant to dry seasons. William Dugan, owner of Finleyville-based Wm. “Dirt” Dugan landscaping, prefers a seed mix that is a three-way blend of Perennial rye, which is compatible with a lawn made up of mostly Kentucky Bluegrass, he said. Both types of seed mix are available at Home Depot and other garden stores. Southern grass seed varieties, such as Zoysia Grass, should be avoided when seeding or re-seeding a lawn, local experts agree. Zoysia Grass is drought-resistant, but it stays green for only about five months, browning out for the winter after the first frost. It also is an invasive species that is hard to contain once it is well-established. The best time to seed a lawn is from mid-April to mid-May. Soil temperatures at that time of year are warm enough to germinate seeds, and it’s not going to be too hot or too dry for seed growth. A good rule of thumb for applying seed for a new lawn is nine pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet. After seeding, cover the seed with mushroom manure, peat moss or straw, and water the lawn once or twice a day for up to two weeks. The idea is to keep it moist. After two weeks, water it every other day, and cut the grass once a week.

blooming s ummer Yard-lovers should not apply crab grass control if they plan to re-seed the lawn, because crab grass control will kill a lawn.

Mulching, Pruning & Fertilizing In spring, homeowners also should start to fertilize their lawns with a fertilizer of high potassium content, for healthy root development. This should be done in early May, Girty said. Girty and Viglio both recommend using the widely popular fertilizer Milorganite. It’s an organic fertilizer with a high potassium content (for root development), and a lot of nitrogen for good green color. Girty said it’s crucial to fertilize new lawns and lawns comprised of freshly installed sod. “They’ll check out without the help,” he said. In preparation for the bursts of seasonal color that happen in Spring, homeowners should pay attention to their flowerbeds, which may look bedraggled from winter. usually, Viglio edges flowerbeds for his clients in springtime. It’s one way that he works to clean up the contours of yards. He also mulches flowerbeds at that time, because his clients prefer that he do so and because spreading a fresh layer of mulch over the beds brings back the color in those beds and spruces up planting areas. Mulching also controls the weeds in the flowerbeds and helps to retain moisture. Standard mulch is double-shredded hardwood bark, and usually goes for $15-$25 per yard, picked up. Triple-shredded mulch runs $18$30 or more per yard. Dyed mulch costs even more, but since it is chunkier, it retains its color and can last two or three years. Dugan shies from the brighter-colored mulches. “Anything in the outdoors should be subtle,” he said. Trees and shrubs in the yard should be inspected for damage, with dead growth and “dieback” parts of the plant removed. roses, which are pruned in fall, also are pruned in spring because they usually have winter dieback. That pruning will ensure that the bush grows properly and looks good as it’s blooming. With rhododendrons, azaleas and other spring-blooming broadleaf perennial bushes, there is a six-week window after blooming during which these plants can be cut back. Pruning these bushes later will result in decreased blooms later in the yard, or worse yet—no blossoms at all. “You can’t see the flower buds, but you’re cutting them off,” Dugan said.

We carry a wide selection of FO U N T AI N S , S T AT U AR Y and a complete line of W AT E R G AR D E N I N G and P O N D S U P P L I E S . We also install, maintain and serv ice P O N D S , W AT E R FAL L S & FO U N T AI N S M enti o n th i s ad and g et 1 0 % o f f nex t purc h ase. Call or v isit us at 1615 Babcock Boulev ard • Pittsburgh, PA 15209

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S c h o la r - A

he North Allegheny Athletic Department promotes and recognizes our studentathletes whom distinguish themselves through outstanding classroom achievement. We believe in achieving success in the three “A’s” – Academics, Athletics and the Arts. We emphasize to our studentathletes that their athletic excellence begins with success in the classroom.

2008 – 2009 HIGHlIGHTS listed at right are just a few of the highlights of our Team ScholarAthlete Program:

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2008 – 2009 HIGHlIGHTS Total participation Total Student-Athletes (3.4 or higher) Number of students 4.0 or higher Number of students 3.7 or higher % of student-athletes (3.4 or higher) Overall GPA All-Academic Team Awards All-Scholar Team Awards

P r o g r a m High School

Middle School

Combined

1636 1146 455 330 70% 3.64 29 7

1326 807 352 205 61% 3.41 26 16

2962 1953 807 535 66% 3.54 55 23

78 of 91 high school teams qualified for one of the two team awards

2010 H o m

F o o t b a ll S c h e d u le North Allegheny High School will play the following home football games at Newman Stadium on the North Allegheny High School campus on the following dates in 2010: Frid Frid Frid H Frid Frid S

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ay , S eptem b er 3 S ay , S eptem b er 10 B ay , O c tob er 1 S all of Fam e R ec og n ition ay , O c tob er 8 K ay , O c tob er 2 2 S en ior N ig ht

tate Colleg e u tler en ec a V alley / H om ec om in g isk i Area haler Area

7 :0 0 P M 7 :3 0 P M 7 :3 0 P M 7 :3 0 P M 7 :3 0 P M

NA ’ s

S u p e r s t a r S e a s o n 2009- 2010

T he N orth Alleg hen y T ig ers w on the prestig iou s M an ag em en t S c ien c e Assoc iates ( M S A) S ports Challen g e Cu p. T his is a c om prehen sive sports aw ard for all hig h sc hools in the W . P . I . A. L . M S A rec og n iz es w in n ers in A, AA, AAA, an d Q u ad - A Fall/ W

in ter

c lassific ation s. N orth Alleg hen y has w on the Q u ad - A aw ard for six c on sec u tive y ears. S o far in the 2 0 0 9 - 2 0 10 season , the T ig ers have w on the follow in g sec tion c ham pion ships in the fall an d w in ter sports.

W . P . I . A. L . Cham pion s

Footb all B oy s’ Cross Cou n try G irls’ V olley b all G irls’ W ater P olo B oy s’ G olf B oy s’ W ater P olo G irls’ Field H oc k ey B oy s S w im m in g G irls’ T en n is G irls’ S w im m in g G irls’ Cross Cou n try G y m n astic s B oy s’ B ask etb all B oy s D ivin g V arsity W restlin g B oy s’ B ow lin g

P I AA B oy s’ Cross Cou n try R u n n er- U p B oy s’ W ater P olo 5 th P lac e

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Let’s Go Plant Shopping by Julie Barnes

trip to a garden center in the spring can easily turn into a shopping spree as the alluring colors of flowers draw us in after experiencing the grays of winter. But, savvy plant shopping should always involve more than just our initial sights. rather than buying impulsively, a keen attentiveness to plant quality will help you get the most for your money and increase your chances for success. First, remember that the nursery industry is actually a two tier operation. Almost all plants are produced by wholesalers who transport them into various retail outlets. These wholesalers are typically pros, who ship the best plants from their nurseries. As soon as the plants arrive in garden centers, the selections will be the finest, offering the best quality and the widest variety. Shopping early and quite often is important because the longer the plants linger around a garden center awaiting sale, the more their quality starts to decline. For this reason if you find retail nurseries that grow their own plants, patronize them whenever you can. Plants here are particularly well tended and the owners are knowledgeable about their product. Make sure the nursery or garden center you shop in is clean and has easy access to the plants. regard warning signs of neglect such as dead, wilted, weed infested, straggly, or stunted plants. Part of your education as a shopper is learning what to look at and think about as you consider various kinds of plants. A plant loaded with flowers is very tempting to buy. However, if you want to get the most for your money, choose a plant with lots of buds instead. A full blooming plant uses so much energy producing flowers that little is left for producing roots. Young plants must develop their roots and

leaves to become established in your garden. By choosing buds over blooms, the plants will look best for you and not for everyone else shopping in the garden center. Plants should be clearly identified so you know what they are and also include care requirements. Check for any unusual spots, discolored leaves, or signs of insects. The plant should fill out its container with uniform green growth. uneven development may often indicate that a plant was grown with inadequate light on one side. Next, observe the number of stems the plant has. A plant with numerous stems is more established and will grow much faster. The roots are another critical indicator of plant health. look for untangled healthy, white roots with some soil around them. Steer clear of any plant that has mushy, brown roots or insect activity in the soil. Annuals are always sold in the spring because of their fast growing, long lasting foliage. Cell packs contain plants most likely propagated by seed. Always make sure a plant is in each cell. larger, more vigorous plants are generally grown in 4-6 inch pots that were reproduced from cuttings. Choose compact plants that are no taller than three times the depth of the container for a good balance between tops and roots. When plants grow too tall in small pots, they become root bound, causing them to wilt quickly without constant watering. So, by visiting several garden centers in your area, you can see which ones offer the best variety and quality. When selections are made carefully, plants should thrive in the proper conditions. Further disappointment can always be prevented when you avoid mistreated or neglected plants.

Mark your calendars to try out your plant shopping skills:

The Ingomar Garden Club Plant Sale Saturday, May 8, 2010 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Corner of Ingomar Road and Rte 19 This is our annual Fund raiser for some great Mother’s Day plant shopping. Highlighting the sale are our “dig’um” perennials that are lovingly raised from plants grown in members’ gardens. We also offer a great 18

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selection of hanging baskets, herbs, and lots of unique annuals to surprise any Mom. Garden club members will gladly help with plant selections, or even offer their advice.

The Ingomar Garden Club always welcomes new members Contact: Irene rudy 412.487.2275 or Julie Barnes 412.367.2685 to learn more.

The Time to Feel Good About Your Money Is Now n life, the only thing that does not change is the fact that everything changes. When we graduate from college and enter the workforce, things like retirement, a decline in health, saving for the loss of a job or a spouse or a home, or preparing for an inheritance barely make it onto our field of vision; much less dominate our financial plans. That is, if we even consider a financial plan at that point in our lives. The future feels unlimited and eternal, with plenty of time to save and plan later.

“I never think of the future – it comes soon enough.” – Albert einstein Better late than never, perhaps, we at long last appreciate the value of solid financial planning, defined as the process of preparing for financial goals through saving, investing and insuring. Of course, financial planning yields the greatest reward when started early, but human nature being what it is, many of us put it off until later in life. Typically, in our

forties and fifties, we have reached our peak earnings years, but are dealing at the same time with many stressful issues involving career pressures and family demands. Today’s middle-aged population is also known as the “Sandwich Generation,” meaning that just as their children reach college age with the enormous financial demands that implies, they feel pulled emotionally and financially by the health and homecare needs of their parents. Trying to accommodate these demands while simultaneously planning for their own retirement future can take a severe strain on this group, if they have not taken the time and the counsel to make a proper financial plan. So how are people expected to feel good about their money under these circumstances? And when you add the volatile economic environment that has preoccupied the u.S. and most of the world

since late 2008, that question becomes even more relevant. The answer remains very simple and clear – committing to a financial plan with the help of qualified financial counselors who have successfully guided clients through similar market downturns. Founded in 1987, Bill Few Associates, Inc. is a financial planning firm comprised of professional, experienced financial consultants and investment analysts that serve more than 2,000 families. At Bill Few Associates, Inc. we do not represent any specific financial product or service. We are fee-based financial planners who help our clients with investments, insurance, estate issues, tax issues, and education planning. That means we are free to select from the best available resources in the financial industry to help clients meet their financial goals and objectives. “The best thing about the future is that it only comes one day at a time.” – Abraham lincoln The future will be here before we know it. Whether you are in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, or already retired, you can benefit from discussing financial planning with a Bill Few Associates, Inc. financial planner. We would encourage you to start a discussion with us if you have yet to start planning. If you already have a plan and the recent market turmoil has you concerned, give us an opportunity to give you a second opinion. use the days now to plan for the days to come, because they will come quicker than you think. The time to feel good about your money is today, tomorrow and always. And that feel-good feeling begins with a solid financial plan. We hope to hear from you soon and look forward to sharing more financial planning information with you through iN Community Magazines in upcoming issues. F o r m o r e in f o r m a t io n o r t o s p e a k w it h a B i l l F e w As s o c i a t e s ' f i n a n c i a l c o n s u l t a n t c a l l 4 1 2 .6 3 0 .6 0 0 0 o r v is it w w w .b illf e w .c o m .

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By Sandy Trozzo he northern suburbs may be experiencing tremendous growth, but there are still places where children and adults can learn horseman skills. Candy lane Acres in Franklin Park, Silver Crest equestrian in Middlesex Township and rockin’ Horse Stables, Zelienople, offer horse boarding and private lessons in various disciplines. Candy lane Acres is the oldest, and smallest, of the three. “We just started out with my horses and we kind of grew and grew. My dad built the original barn,” said Candy Stair. Candy lane Acres is 45 years old, but Stair’s mother, Marlene Hilderbrand, turned the farm into a business more than more than 20 years ago. The relatively small – 7.5 acres – farm offers english jumping and Western riding lessons, and is a popular spot for summer horse camps. The farm has thrived despite the suburban growth all around it. “Thank God we’re grandfathered in,” Stair said of the zoning around the farm. “I used to ride all around here as a kid. Now, it’s overgrown.” Stair operates the farm with her mother and daughters, Chelsie, 18, and Hayley, 15, who show quarter horses. “It’s really kind of unique because we’re all female. We try to do as much as we can ourselves.”

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lessons are given in the evenings and on weekends, and the students compete in shows, some of which are through the 4H clubs. They recently built a 75-foot-by-155-foot indoor arena, with a viewing room for parents to watch the action. The farm also leases horses to the students. “We supply the tack and everything. All they have to do is come and ride. It gives them extra riding time,” she said. “I have lot of mothers and sons, and mothers and sons and siblings who all ride together.” Candy lane also does programs with Franklin Park’s recreation department and operates nine summer horse camps. Silver Crest equestrian is the largest, and offers private lessons in dressage, three-day eventing and western riding. Dressage is basically horse training. That and three-day eventing are english disciplines, said Pam McCready, three-day eventing coach and riding instructor. Three-day eventing includes dressage as well as stadium and crosscountry jumping. McCready said Silver Crest has been in business for 10 years, but the 33-acre property has been a horse farm much longer. The farm has 54 horses on its property, some owned by the school and others boarded by customers. “We are very active in the horse show community. Our students do a lot of showing in three different regions and we’ve had students who have gone onto some national championships as well as local and regional,” McCready said. She said one of her favorite parts of her job is watching the students progress in skill. “I have students that I’ve had for 10 years and I started out with them when they were 7 or 8 and can barely ride,” she said. | IN No r t h Al l e g h e n y

She said she also enjoys those who just come out and ride once a week. “You get away from daily grind. There’s something very peaceful about being able to be out with the animals.” The newest horse farm in the area is rockin’ Horse Stables, Zelienople, which opened four years ago. Owner and head trainer Kimberly Giannamore said the property used to be a junkyard, and the land had to be reclaimed. “It wasn’t easy. They had big sales here. They had an auction to come out and pick up the old vehicles. Metal detectors were brought in to get all the junk out of the ground. It was definitely quite the sight,” she said. Giannamore originally started out near Sewickley. “We did what we could there. It was a hillside. The pastures were really tough to let horses out without worrying about them getting hurt,” she said. rockin’ Horse is 27 acres and contains five paddocks. “We advanced every year,” Giannamore said. “We try to put up new jumps. last year, we added a lunch pit. every year we try to add something for the boarders to look forward to.” The facility offers hunter and jumper training to children and adults. Jumper is a timed event. Hunter is “a little more laid back” and is based on performance. The farm also breeds horses with B Man’s Bid as stud. The horse is the son of Spectacular Bid, the horse that won the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness in 1979, only to lose the Belmont after he stepped on a paper clip in his stall the morning of the race. Spectacular Bid won more than $2 million during his career, Giannamore said. She is currently trying to train a 6-year-old wild stallion that was rescued. “I actually got a saddle on him, and lived through it.”

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Making The right Choice –

A Comfort Service n choosing the right company to install your next air conditioning unit, furnace or water heater, you have quite a few choices in the North Hills. A Comfort Service is quick to point out that while there a many options in plumbing, heating and air conditioning companies, make sure that you check out the the one you are hiring to make certain they are well qualified to do the job right and that they will be there when you need service. In business since 1988, Todd rhule and Frank Moran have been a residents of the North Hills Community all of their lives. “We are committed to this community and to providing excellent service.” A Comfort Service will arrive at your home on time, perform the needed work and leave your home the way it was when the technician arrived. Their number one priority is making sure that they have exceeded their customers’ expectation of providing the best service at the fairest price. Our company prides itself on its integrity and quality customer service. “We give a fair estimate and make certain the job is done right,” says rhule. If there is ever a problem, we will be here to make sure the issue is attended to in a quick and efficient manner. Our customers know that we stand by our work, and hold ourselves accountable for the equipment and service we provide. We will make sure you are comfortable in your home. Backed up by some of the best names in the business, A Comfort Service sells and services Trane and York furnace and air conditioners. All A Comfort Service employees are trained and continually educated in the newest and most up to date systems. Technicians are NATe certified to install your systems, and

plumbers are licensed by Allegheny County to perform the work needed. “If a water line needs to be repaired or something as simple as a shower head needs to be replaced, we have plumbers and the equipment to get the job done right. Our team of service technicians are mature, experienced and some of the best in the North Hills,” says rhule. located at 8600 Perry Highway, you can call A Comfort Service for all of your plumbing, heating and air conditioning needs at 412.366.8117, for 24 hour service or to schedule an appointment. For more information about the company, go to their website www.acomfortservice.com.

A Comfort’s number one priority is making sure that they have exceeded their customers’ expectation of providing the best service at the fairest price.

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Butler County, PA A Different Kind of Vacation icture green trees and beautiful buds. Springtime in Butler County is a time for defrosting and new life. The freshness of spring is wonderful reason to get out and dig in to Mother Nature! Travelers are now looking to get more out of their vacations – they want to get their hands dirty and maybe learn something while doing it. You’re invited you to do that in Butler County!

Wake up. A Butler County experience begins right when you wake up. Camping sites are available for anyone, from primitive tenting areas to cabins complete with amenities. And then there’s another choice – a farm stay. Butler County has traditional bed and breakfasts sprinkled across the area’s charming and quirky small towns. But there are also a few bed and breakfasts that will let you pitch some hay and get a glimpse of farm life. You can even befriend an adorable alpaca!

If youridea of getting out is hitting the greens, fear not! Butler County has plenty of golf courses. And with our Golf Trail Card, you can receive buy one get one green fees! Just go to www.VisitButlerCounty.com to sign up for free! Dig in. There are plenty of other activities you can dive into! ever tried extreme croquet? Do you know how to make wine or brew beer? How about blacksmithing or woodworking? You can do all of those in Butler County! You can also learn how to cook, pair wines with food, or all about teas and their history. There are about a dozen golf courses in the county and if you’ve never played, you can take lessons. Visit a museum or experience life on an 18th century farm. Create jewelry from attractive

beads; try your hand at glassblowing; test out toys; paint your own pottery… the list goes on. If you were wondering what there is to do in Butler County before reading this article, hopefully you’re aware now. Despite the lack of a typical tourist attraction, like a beach, mountains or theme park, Butler County holds a lot of small treasures. These treasures make the area perfect for a weekend getaway to escape from life’s pressures. Another (and possibly one of the most important) reasons a Butler County vacation is different, is that it’s affordable. Chances are you can make the trip on less than a tank of gas. And we urge you to do so! T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y t h e B u t l e r Co u n t y T o u r i s m & Co n v e n t i o n B u r e a u .

Chow down. From quaint cafés to fancy restaurants, there is a little bit of everything in the food department. eaters on a budget and those looking to splurge can both find an eatery to satisfy their needs. While chowing down, you can drink up, too. The county has three wineries and a microbrewery. Don’t forget one of the season’s most tempting options – fairs and festivals! A full calendar of events is available to give you the where and when; but believe us, there are plenty of chances to indulge in funnel cake and cheese fries. Get out. When there isn’t something on the calendar, we urge you to get out and explore the county’s wonderful green space. Go birding or hiking at Todd Nature reserve or along the North Country Trail; take a guided hike or participate in a nature program at Jennings environmental education Center; or go geocaching and biking along the ButlerFreeport Trail. last but not least, Moraine State Park (Pennsylvania’s #1 State Park) offers just about every outdoor activity imaginable: biking, birding, boating, disc golf, fishing, geocaching, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, swimming, wildlife watching and windsurfing. Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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Summer

Science

Camps! Do you know someone who is doing something good for the community?

Take a walk on the science side! Go on a science-filled adventure with Summer Science Camps at Carnegie Science Center!

M ay b e i t' s y o ur M o m â&#x20AC;&#x201D; do es sh e v o l unteer wi th a c h ari tab l e o rg ani z ati o n? H as y o ur c h i l d v o l unteered th ei r ti m e so m ewh ere? W e want to k no w ab o ut i t and h o no r th ei r c o m m i tm ent! E m ai l m ary b eth @ i nc o m m uni ty m ag az i nes. c o m wi th y o ur sto ry .

Unearth science mysteries, discover the binary brilliance of robots, fly high with roller coaster science, build a bridge, and more. For the full list of available camps, visit our website. Call 412.237.1637 to register!

CarnegieScienceCenter.org

(We love photos!)

One Allegheny Avenue | Across from Heinz Field | 412.237.3400

3 - 11 acre new esta estate est ate h homes omes secluded s eclu ecl uded l location ocati oca tion minutes t to o i-79 ranked north north alleghe #1 ranked allegheny ny sch schools ools

Most desirable new home community in all of southwestern Pennsylvania! call dori dori thaner thaner at at 412-585-2234 coppercreekinfo.net coppercreekinfo.net

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The Strength of UPMC’s Advanced Care Is Right Here Withqtheqadditionqofqadvancedqspecialtyqservicesqandqtechnology overqtheqpastqseveralqyears,qUPMCqPassavantqisqhurdlingqwell beyondqitsqhistoricalqroleqasqaqtraditionalqcommunityqhospital. We’veqbuiltqaqteamqthatqincludesqworld-renownedqphysicians; we’veqinvested inqclinicalqinnovationqandqresearchqthatqwill changeqtheqfaceqofqtomorrow’sqtreatments; qandqwe’veqtransformedqourqcampusqbyqaddingqaqnew,qseven-storyqpavilionqthat enhancesqourqcardiac,qspine,qandqcancerqcapabilities.qAsqaqresult, ourqpatientsqcanqnowqfindqtheqstrengthqofqUPMCqrightqhereqin theqpremierqhospitalqnorthqofqPittsburgh.

It adds up to strength you can count on: • Moreqthanq4 0 0 qopen-heartqsurgeriesqperformedqeachqyear • S pecializ edqtreatmentqforqpulmonaryqhypertensionqandq congestiveqheartqfailure • Oneqofqtheqregion’sqbusiestqspineqprograms,qwithqmoreq thanq1 ,0 0 0 qspineqproceduresqperformedqlastqyearqalone • Minimallyqinvasiveqspineqprocedures,qwhichqtypicallyqallow forqaqsmallerqincision,qshorterqhospitalqstay,qandqquickerq recoveryqtime • AqUPMCqCancerqCenterqon-siteqthatqhasqtripledqinqsiz e wsecondqlargestqnextqtoqHillmanqCancerqCenterx • Nineqsurgical,qfourqmedical,qandqtwoqradiationqoncologists on-site • S ixqnew,qhigh-techqoperatingqsuites,qcustom-designedqto provideqpatientsqwithqtheqhighestqlevelqofqcare

Specialized Emergency Care At UPMC Passavant, we realize that not all emergencies are the same. That’s why we’ve worked to reengineer our ED to feature three levels of emergency care: • Acute and critical care areas, designed specifically for patients needing more advanced care, have been built near the ambulance entrances, allowing our team of emergency experts to assess and treat our patients faster. • Our new "Fast Track" area provides triage, quick assessments, and discharges for patients needing minor treatment, such as stitches or an ankle wrap. • We’ve also added a designated area for critical heart patients and a new space for our stroke telemedicine program. For more information about the UPMC Passavant difference, please go to www.upmc.com/passavant.

www.UPMC.com/Today

We’ve transformed our campus by adding a new, seven-story pavilion that enhances our cardiac, spine, and cancer capabilities.

b u s in e s s

s p o t lig h t

Comfort and Technology are Top Priorities for King Orthodontics ing Orthodontics, a family business, has long roots in the North Hills. Wexford native Dr. earle King opened his practice on Perry Highway over 25 years ago. His son, Dr. Bryan King was raised in Wexford and attended St. Dr s . B r y a n K i n g a n d Ea r l e K i n g Alphonsus elementary and Quigley Catholic High School. Both Board Certified Orthodontists earned their DMD from The university of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Their goal of making patient comfort and technology top priorities shows from the minute you enter their office. The open treatment area in Wexford has a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. However, for adult patients who would prefer more privacy they offer private treatment rooms. The Downtown office resembles that of a boutique hotel with custom banquette seating in the waiting area and flat screen TVs in the private treatment rooms. “We know the lives of our patients and parents are very busy, and that is why we strive to provide an atmosphere that is calm, friendly, and always positive,” says Dr. earle. Specializing in orthodontic treatment for adults and children, King Orthodontics provides patients with a wide variety of options to choose from including traditional braces, Invisalign and Invisalign/teen. Their continued commitment to new technologies is just one of the reasons that King Orthodontics is the only elITe Provider of Invisalign and designated provider of Invisalign/teen in Western Pennsylvania. With over 1,400 cases, both completed and currently in treatment, King Orthodontics is also part of the Invisalign Century Club—an honor awarded to the nation’s top 100 providers. In fact, both doctors present on the topic of Invisalign at a national level. Dr. earle King has participated as the expert in the “Ask the expert” webinar, and Dr. Bryan King has presented at the Invisalign National Summit to over 1,000 of the country’s orthodontists. This unmatched experience allows the doctors at King Orthodontics to treat the most difficult cases, even those that were told Invisalign is not for them!

What is Invisalign/teen? Invisalign/teen works the same as standard Invisalign but offers some additional features that make it very appealing to teen patients, and their parents! Invisalign/teen allows for the growth of teen’s permanent teeth (second molars, plus first and second bicuspids). So, as a parent, you can be assured that new, growing teeth won’t deter your teen’s orthodontic treatment in any way. Moreover, teens can start treatment even if all of his or her permanent teeth aren’t in. Also, you don’t have to worry if your teen loses an aligner. Invisalign will provide free replacements for up to six lost, individual aligners... just in case. You can learn more at: www.invisalign.com/teen. King Orthodontics truly is “the secret behind Pittsburgh’s most confident smiles.” In addition to Invisalign and Invisalign/teen, our doctors provide treatment for TMJ disorders, fit athletes with the new under Armor Mouth Guards, and use the In-Ovation bracket system. King Orthodontics is located at 11200 Perry Highway, Wexford and 951 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh. For more information about King Orthodontics or any of the products mentioned in this article, visit www.kingorthodontics.com. Or call our and set up a free consultation: Wexford: 724.935.5323 or Downtown: 412.246.0600.

What is Invisalign? Invisalign is a series of clear “aligners” that fit comfortably over your teeth so there is no need for brackets or wires. They are custom made and completely removable so they do not interfere with your lifestyle. How does Invisalign work? You wear each set of “aligners” for about 2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Your teeth will move gradually each week. You will only need to visit the office every 6-8 weeks! The average treatment time is 6-15 months and the average number of “aligners” is between 18 and 30.

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N OrTHlAND P uBlIC l IBrArY

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J im

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O’ B r i e n

ou're fortunate to have a library like this and it's very important for people to recognize the importance of our libraries," said Pittsburgh's noted sports author Jim O'Brien. Jim was the special guest speaker at Northland Public library Foundation's Valentine Fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 13. This was a fun evening that included a delicious buffet, a silent auction, activities for the kids, book read ings and signings, and storyboard interviews about the Bookmobile and tours. Funds raised at the event will help to maintain Bookmobile service. For information on how you can support our local library, call 412.366.8100 or visit the website at www.northlandlibrary.org.

J o e P r in c e & Ri t a Ma r t i n

T h e Ol i n g e r F a m i l y

Mi s s y &

K a t e Mi t c h e l l

Su e Du d e r s t a d t , J a n e Ho p e y , De n n i s & Ma r j o r i e O' K e e f e

T h e Co l b e r t -Le w i s F a m ily

Ed G r o s s m a n & Ro g e r K r e y

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WOrSHIP NeWS

easter – Fact or Hoax? by Dr. Kurt Bjorklund, Senior Pastor, Orchard Hill Church

aster is the time when Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This monumental event is either the greatest fact or the greatest hoax in history. As the greatest fact, it offers the Dr . K u r t B j o r k promise that God has overcome P a s t o r , Or c h a death and that His death accomplished divine forgiveness and eternal life for those who believe in Jesus. As the greatest hoax, it offers nothing. Based on their actions, the early followers of Jesus clearly believed the resurrection to be fact. In contrast, Charles Colson, chief counsel to President richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal, discusses the behavior of those involved in the Watergate cover-up: “After a few weeks, the natural instinct for self-preservation was so overwhelming that the conspirators, one by one, deserted their leader, and turned their heads on the power, prestige

lu rd

and privileges. The Watergate cover up reveals, I think, the true nature of humanity. If John Dean and the rest of us were so panic-stricken, not by the prospect of beatings and execution, but by political disgrace and a possible prison term, one can only speculate about the emotions of men like Jesus’ disciples. unlike the men in the White House, the disciples were powerless people, n d , Se n i o r abandoned by their leader, Hi l l Ch u r c h . homeless in a conquered land. Yet, they clung tenaciously to their offensive story that Jesus was alive.” It is not reasonable that the followers of Jesus would willingly go to their deaths to promote something they thought to be a lie. They believed in the resurrection and found it offered something of great significance. This does not make it true – but it makes it worth considering. People will quickly abandon a lie when they have a lot less to lose. Maybe this year you can answer the question for yourself – Is easter about a great fact or is it a great hoax?

W e w ou ld b e happy to post y ou r c hu rc hes c on tac t in form ation . P lease c on tac t m ary b eth@ in c om m u n ity m ag az in es. c om w ith y ou r n am e, phon e, ad d ress an d w eb site.

ree Rivers Quilters to Host Annual Quilt Show The Three Rivers Quilters will present their 2010 Quilt Show, April 15 - 17, at the IBEW Circuit Center and Ballroom at 5 Hot Metal Street on the South Side of Pittsburgh. Over 100 quilts will be displayed, quilting demos, Grannie’s Attic and many vendors with quilt related items. The show theme is the “Nine Patch” - a tribute to a simple yet versatile block design. For more information about the show and the Three Rivers Quilters Guild, please visit our website www.threeriversquilters.org or call Kathleen at 412.431.4722. Hours: Thurs., Apr 15th 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Fri., Apr 16th 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat., Apr 17th 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.. Cost: $7 per person. Special $5 admission on Thurs. from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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Mix and Mingle with the Steelers for

Mars Home for Youth Sherry Jo Matt & Tom Bott, Shellyn & Tom Shoenthal

ommittee person Sherry Jo Matt (with Tom Bott) hosted a lovely evening for friends of Mars Home for Youth. Guests were able to mingle with many from the Pittsburgh Steeler organization. Players generously signed sports merchandise of all kinds and chatted with guests. Chair person Monica Goodwin (with coach Harold) coordinated the players, who came out in support of a new sports court for Mars Home for Youth. Guests were treated to a sumptuous buffet, silent auction and live music. For more information on Mars Home for Youth or to make a donation, check out their web site at www.marshomeforyouth.org.

Tara Alston & David Johnson

Jeff Reed

LaMar Woodley, Kevin Kaminski & Luke Colella

Coach Ken Anderson with Kristie, Jeff & Laurie Waller

PeNNSYlVANIA eDuCATION SeCreTArY ANNOuNCeS

2011 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Semifinalists ducation Secretary Gerald l. Zahorchak today announced the 30 semifinalists who will vie for the prestigious title of 2011 Teacher of the Year. "Pennsylvania teachers represent some of the best educators in the nation," Zahorchak said. "We delight in the opportunity to honor these exemplary educators, who invest their time, hard work and energy to ensure that their students succeed." The instructor selected as Pennsylvania's Teacher of the Year will serve as a spokesperson for teachers across the state and have the unique opportunity to represent the best in the education field. Teachers were nominated by students, parents, colleagues or community members. A committee of former award recipients and past finalists select 30 semifinalists. From these 30 nominees the committee will chose 12 finalists. The winner will be announced in October at the annual Teacher of the Year celebration

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in Harrisburg and will be Pennsylvania's nominee for the National Teacher of the Year. The national winner will be named in the spring of 2011. Michelle Switala, a mathematics teacher at Pine-richland School District in Allegheny County, was named Pennsylvania's 2010 Teacher of the Year. Pennsylvania has participated in the Teacher of the Year program since 1965. The program is co-sponsored by the state Department of education and the Pennsylvania chapter of the National State Teacher of the Year. A list of the finalists for the 2011 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year follows:  Kathryn Kasten, Bethel Park School District  Dede rittman, North Allegheny School District  Mairi Cooper Thompson, Fox Chapel Area School District

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Congratulations to Dede Rittman, semifinalist in the 2011 Teacher of the Year competition for the State of Pennsylvania. Mrs. rittman is an english Teacher for the North Allegheny School District and teaches at NAI. She has been with the school district for 36 years. In addition to her teaching duties, she is also the Director of the NAI Talent Show.

Vincentian Villa Grand Opening

incentian Collaborative System celebrated the grand opening of Vincentian Villa, an independent living community and welcomed its first residents along with guests and well-wishers from the community. Vincentian Home Administrator Sister Anne Kull led the festivities which included a blessing by Father John rushofshy of St. Sebastian Parish and a dove release. To inquire about occupancy at Vincentian Villa, call 412.364.6592

J o a n n e An d i o r i o ( L) P r e s i d e n t & CEO Vi n c e n t i a n Co l l a b o r a t i v e Sy s t e m s a n d G u e s t Si s t e r An n e K u l l ( R) w i t h Vi n c e n t i a n Vi l l a Re s i d e n t

Ma n a g e r Do n n a Se l l w i t h Vi l l a Re s i d e n t

B r a d f o r d W o o d s S p r in g P r o d u c t io n “Hazardous to Your Health,” an original production presented by the residents of Bradford Woods through the Bradford Woods Couples Club, will take place beginning Thursday May 13 through Saturday May 15 at 8 p.m. in Fithian Fire Hall, located in the Bradford Woods Fire Hall on Wexford run road in Bradford Woods. This comedy/variety show features skits, singing and dancing. The first play was performed in 1961. The club has been staging a play every other year since 1962. Tickets are $10.00 and proceeds benefit local charities. The play has spanned the generations. There are current participants who grew up watching their parents perform in the play that are now following in their footsteps, as a new generation looks on… watching rehearsals from the back of a fire truck. For further information or tickets please call 724.933.4679.

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Are You Ready to Make a

Change?

re you suffering from recent injuries, accidents, or recurring pain? Are you tired of pain and discomfort returning? Are you looking for a longer term solution for your pain? As we all know, pain limits physical activity. When we set short term goals such as losing weight, we do this by dieting and exercising. However, two weeks into our program we develop that chronic recurring pain. Now mentally discouraged and having persistent pain we are back on the couch watching American Idol. When was the last time you strengthened the muscles between your shoulder blades or in your lower back? When is the last time you truly stretched out your lower back, your neck, or the muscles in the back of your legs? Most people have not done either in years. It is no surprise why people get tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, or lower back pain.

To perform normal activities there must be a proper amount of flexibility in the joints and muscles. Stretching can be done before and after exercise to prevent shortening of muscles and tendons. Stretching is best done slowly and it does not benefit your muscles to bounce during a stretch. The following is a guideline on how to properly stretch: 1. First take the muscle to a gentle pull. 2. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. 3. When the feeling of tension decreases the stretch can be taken further. 4. rest between stretches. Never try to gain too much range in one session. It takes several weeks to see results so be patient. 5. relax and breathe regularly during stretches.

Genesis Chiropractic, a state–of–the– art practice featuring advanced digital X–rays, electronic medical records, and dedicated personal attention to all your health care needs. Call for an appointment today!

(412) 847-0066

At Genesis C hiropractic you will receive the most complete functional evaluation you will ever experience. We will discover Genesis Chiropractic Presorted STANDARD the cause of your pain and treat the immediate discomfort. Perry Medical Center U.S. Postage During your functional evaluation we will show you where your PAID 9066 Perry Highway PostcardMania muscles are tight, tender, overactive, or deconditioned. The 33756 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 doctors will customize a treatment plan to decrease your pain Phone: (412) 847-0066 while rehabilitating the area causing your pain. Through rehabilitation, stretching, and strength training we can prevent this pain from reoccurring and improve your quality of life. Genesis Medical Practices Include: Drs. Bentz and Cook, your Genesis Chiropractors, specialize Behm Family Practice in the treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of your Bentz & Grob Family Practice musculo-skeletal system (your spine and your joints) and the Heck & Polinski Medical Associates effects these disorders have on the function of your nervous Heyl Family Practice system and general health. Treatment at Genesis Koman Family Practice Chiropractic consists of a consultation and detailed history, a Love & Scheri Family Practice comprehensive examination, digital X-rays (if indicated), Northern Area Family Medicine therapy, and manual adjustments. Call 412.847.0066 today to Schogel & Fardo Family Medicine schedule an appointment. Singh & Dayalan Medical Associates William S. Zillweger Medical Practice T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y Dr . J e f f r e y B e n t z a n d Dr . Ma t t h e w Co o k .

Dr. Jeffrey W. Bentz Dr. Matthew G. Cook Chiropractor Chiropractor www.genesismedical.org “WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR PHYSICIANS” 3 8

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Dr . B e n t z i s a U n iv e r s it y , a n No r t h Hi l l Hi g p r a c t i c . Dr s . t iv e p r o c e d u r

g r a d u a t e o f No r t h Al l e g h e n y d P a l m e r Co l l e g e o f Ch i r o p r a h Sc h o o l , Du q u e s n e U n i v e r s B e n t z a n d Co o k a r e b o a r d c e e s a n d m e m b e rs o f th e P e n n

Hi g h Sc h o o l , P c t i c . Dr . Co o k it y , a n d P a lm e r r t if ie d in c h ir o p s y l v a n i a Ch i r o p

e n n s y is a g r Co l l e g r a c t ic r a c t ic

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i a St a t e a te o f f Ch i r o a d ju n c o c ia t io n .

S P R I N G

inner is... W l a d Me

Hey kids- swing

by the library to check out the new Caldec ott Medal Winner! The Caldecott M edal was named in hono r of nineteenth century English illus Randolph Caldec trator ott. It is awarded annual ly by the Association for Libr to Children, a di ary Service vision of the American Librar y Association, to the artis distinguished Am t of the most erican picture book for childre n.

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The 2010 Caldecott Medal winner is The Lion & the Mouse, illustrated and written by Jerry Pinkney (Little, Brown and Company Books for Young Readers). The screech of an owl, the squeak of a mouse and the roar of a lion transport readers to the Serengeti plains for this virtually wordless retelling of Aesop’s classic fable. In glowing colors, Pinkney’s textured watercolor illustrations masterfully portray the relationship between two very unlikely friends.

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                                      

    

     1. 2 . 3 . 4. 5 .

L ab rad or R etriever G erm an S hephard G old en R etriever B ox er B u lld og

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     Oi n k m

    B e c a u s e

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R o b in a t e o r m s !

a ll t h e

     B e c a u s e

h e

s w

e p t in !

    T h e

e n t

o u t s id e !

 

J im

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incentian Collaborative System hosted their Valentine's Dinner Dance at the lovely leMont restaurant on Saturday, Feb. 13. After enjoying a fabulous dinner and silent auction, guests spent the evening dancing amidst a backdrop of glistening city lights. Proceeds from this event benefitted Marian Manor in the South Hills and Vincentian de Marillac in Stanton Heights.

J o a n La l l y

An n Ci p r i a n i , B o n n i e St a l e y &

Ro s s G r e e n , Si s t e r Ma r y T r a u p m a n , Ma u r e e n Co y n e & Ra y m o n d Sc h u t z m a n

Su s a n Le w a n d o w s k i

Da n &

Na n c y W h a l e n

F ra n k &

Ma g g i e Ma r o u s , Ma u r e e n La l l y -G r e e n , Al B i g l a n , J i m La l l y & B a r b a r a B i g l a n

Ma e F i s h e r

J o d y & Ed W a l t e r , J o An n e An d i o r i o

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FacingOurFears and As any resident of the North Hills of Pittsburgh will tell you, there has been a longstanding, deep-seated fear of crossing the river to venture into other areas of Pittsburgh. Rumors of people entering the tunnel never to return, have only served to heighten the fear. Many people subscribe to the theory that, If you can t get it in the North Hills, you probably didn t need it anyway. After all, no one knows those people over there anyway and they may have strange and exotic habits. Highways with unfamiliar numbers such as 51 and 376 may only lead to trouble and being lost in construction detours for days. But as we modern Pittsburghers now know, your car will not drop off the edge of the earth by crossing into the unknown zone. Science has proven this. And many well-respected people have made the journey and lived to share their experiences with others. So if there is a great new restaurant you ve been dying to try or a museum you ve always wanted to visit, don t despair. You too can successfully travel to the other side and return home safely, sometimes even on the same day.

Step 1

If you want to navigate the Golden Triangle, you must first begin by taking all of your street maps, driving experience and knowledge of standard traffic patterns and throw them away. That’s right. This will be hard at first, but you must overcome that obsessive desire to use logic when finding your way. This will only frustrate you and further alienate you from the locals. Once you have decided where you would like to go, do not waste time searching for a direct route on a major thoroughfare as there will likely not be one available. You MUST ask locals for directions once across the river. This is never a problem as Pittsburghers are friendly and more than willing to share with you their “special shortcut.” However, make sure that you are asking only one local at a time. If you are asking 10 different people, you will likely get 10 different sets of directions due to the myriad of ways to get lost on the way to your destination. Pick an individual who looks patient and sympathetic and then follow his directions to the letter. Do not listen to any other directions as they will not apply once you have begun your journey.

Step3 Understanding the different types of turns and how to complete them is essential in city driving and especially in unfamiliar areas. There are three basic turns which you must be familiar with and able to execute safely. First, there is the regular turn. This could best be described as a simple 90-degree angle turn to the left or right. Second, there is a “soft turn” or what is also commonly referred to as bearing or veering. It is imperative to veer properly. This is more of a 45-degree angle turn you will complete while there are several hundred cars behind you waiting for you to decide which of the seven different streets you will veer onto.

*Important Tip — If you make a wrong turn, turn around and go back at once! Do NOT under any circumstances attempt to make the block assuming you will end up back where you started. If you attempt this you w *Important Tip — Avoid Mapquest and automated directionmost likely end up in finder devices. Many Pittsburgh streets have not been Ohio or West Virginia discovered yet by the general public and therefore are not (see my subsequent listed on Mapquest. GPS systems will likely have you article, How to Get driving into parking lots or off bridges. Some GPS systems in Pittsburgh have been known to malfunction due to damage inflicted by the direct use of hammers on the The proper way to ask for directions cannot be bodily harm), by writing it emphasized enough. Unless you have successfully down the first time. NEVER completed a Dale Carnegie course, please have pen question the directions the person is giving you. and paper in hand. There will likely be 10 to 20 turns for If you should find that you have inadvertently offended getting to a destination only a couple of miles away. one of the locals, just use the code phrase “Go It will be very annoying for your direction-giver if they Steelers!” and all transgressions will likely be forgiven. have to start all over again, repeating all the *Important Tip — Many times your directionturns and landmarks. giver In this way, you will not know the exact street names and may can avoid give you important landmarks instead, such a exasperated beer distributorships or bars. If there are looks (and bars or beer stores nearby, a wine and spiri

Step2

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CrossingThatRiver by Jonathan Barnes

Step3 continued The third turn is called a “hard right” or a “hard left.” This is a very sharp turn that is generally illegal in any other part of the United States and most foreign countries. Do not be alarmed! It is perfectly legal across the river and socially acceptable to perform it anytime and anywhere the need arises. At first, it will feel awkward and strange, as though you are violating some sort of traffic law. That's perfectly normal. After a few hours of watching the locals skillfully maneuver their vehicles in a “U- turn” while simultaneously honking the horn and shouting, you will feel quite comfortable.

Step5 Dealing with road construction. As with any major city, road construction is to be expected. An orange ‘detour’ sign will clearly mark the turn you are to make off of the main road. After that, you're pretty much on your own. Refer to Step 2 (asking directions).

Step6

*Important Tip — Generally the honking of a horn on a car is used as a warning device for other drivers. In certain boroughs of Pittsburgh, however, it may be used to say hello, thanks, go ahead and pull out, you’re a jag-off, the light’s green stupid, or after any Steelers victory. The exact meaning of a particular honk will depend upon the situation and if it is accompanied by hand signals. (Hand signals

Stay the course and persevere. Do not give up!

Step7

If you give up, tell the family that you are going to make a phone call. Then, after exiting your car, discreetly call one of the very fast and efficient cab companies located in Pittsburgh and tell them you need a cab. Casually return to your car as if nothing is wrong and inform your family that you are not lost and that everything is perfectly normal. Then play ‘I spy’ for the next 20 minutes. After the cab arrives, tip him generously and furnish him with a loaf of bread. Ask him to lead you back to your home as he drops breadcrumbs along the way in case you are An important separated. This is also very beneficial for the part of driving environment as the birds will be in Pittsburgh able to eat the proper is being breadcrumbs. able to climb After steep hills in your vehicle. You arriving will notice as you are ascending the hill that your accelerator is pressed all the at your way to the floor of your car and yet your speedometer reads 5 mph. This is home (and perfectly normal. Once you have reached the top of the hill, you will notice a having seen most of rapid increase in speed as you apply your brake to the floor and the speedometer Pittsburgh), fix yourself a reads 104 mph. This will eventually level off once you have reached the bottom of big plate of pierogies, open a the hill. If you are driving a small four-cylinder vehicle that lacks the power to Rolling Rock and get some sleep. climb steep hills, you may overcome the difficulty by: a.) downshifting, b.) backing Tomorrow you can pick up a bus up and getting a running start, or c.) having your family push the car up the steep schedule and try again. incline. (Not recommended for families with children under the age of 5).

Step4

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Your Waistline

ave you ever wondered why in spite of exercising so much, that your abdominal area and waistline still look the same? This can be a very frustrating time for many women. There is a plastic surgery procedure that may be of interest to you. The waistline silhoutte loses its definition with age, pregnancy and weight fluctuations. I see a large number of patients in my practice that are looking to improve their waistline through plastic surgery. There are well know methods to achieve these goals through various types of liposuction and abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) procedures. until recently, liposuction and abdominoplasty were never performed together because of the potential problems that could result. Now, there is a new technique of lipoabdominoplasty, developed in Brazil at the turn of the century, which is a combination of the two procedures to produce a flat, sleek and much improved waistline. The lipoabdominoplasty procedure, as it is called, begins with liposuction of the entire abdomen. The skin below the belly

button is excised similarly to a classic abdominoplasty, but the lymphatic vessels are preserved to minimize postoperative swelling, promoting more a rapid recovery from surgery. limited unde rmining of the upper abdominal skin is performed, preserving the majority of the blood vessels and nerves, thus providing better blood flow and tissue oxygenation, which maximizes the healing potential. Muscle placation (tightening) is performed and the remaining abdominal skin is advanced down, and closed with multiple layers of absorbable suture. There are many advantages to this procedure vs.the traditional abdominoplasty. Since I started performing this method, I tell my patients: • It is more effective in reshaping the waistline than a regular tummy tuck. Because the fat is removed prior to the tightening of the waistline, allowing me to reshape the waistline with ease. • It has a very low rate of fluid (seroma)

accumulation or bleeding. • less chance of numbness due to the preservation of the nerves around the belly button area. • The scar is shorter than a regular abdominoplasty scar. • Quicker postoperative recovery time, less chance of healing problems after the surgery, especially in smokers. • less swelling, bruising and pain; early ambulation and return to the normal activities of daily living. Who would be a good candidate for this procedure? Those individuals who are considered to be in otherwise good health, who exercise regularly, but are discouraged with the unchanged appearance of their waistline.This surgery is very helpful to women who are older with slight obesity or women who have had multiple pregnancies, thus stretching their skin. Patients who need to lose a significant amount of weight may benefit from postponing surgery. Women planning future pregnancies should also wait. Another contraindication for surgery may be scarring from a previous abdominal surgery. Seeing your plastic surgeon for an initial consultation is the only way to determine if you are a good candidate for this particular surgery. Although thousands of abdominoplasties are performed every year, it is very important that you seek a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. This surgeon has been extensively trained in body contouring and is a safe choice for this surgery. But, remember, every surgery carries with it risks-----that is WHY a qualified Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is so imperative. I always tell all of my patients that any surgical procedure is not a substitution for a healthy lifestyle, including routine exercise and a balanced diet. One's silhoutte can be restored and rejuvenated with this surgery, but the maintenance of this improved shape with exercise and diet will be essential to the long term satisfaction from this procedure. T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y An n a W o o t e n , MD. Dr . W o o t e n , t h e f o u n d e r o f B e l e z a P l a s t i c Su r g e r y , i s B o a r d Ce r t i f i e d b y t h e Am e r i c a n B o a r d o f P l a s t i c Su r g e r y a n d i s a m e m b e r o f t h e Am e r i c a n So c i e t y o f P l a s t i c Su r g e o n s . Sh e c o m p l e t e d h e r G e n e r a l a n d P l a s t i c Su r g e r y Re s i d e n c y a n d F e l l o w s h i p a t o n e o f t h e l e a d i n g P l a s t i c Su r g e r y T r a i n i n g P r o g r a m s i n t h e Co u n t r y , t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f P i t t s b u r g h Me d i c a l Ce n t e r . He r u n i q u e a n d e x t e n s i v e e d u c a t i o n a n d t r a i n i n g b r in g s a s p e c ia l p e r s p e c t iv e t o t h e d is c ip lin e a n d a r t o f Ae s t h e t i c P l a s t i c a n d Re c o n s t r u c t i v e Su r g e r y .

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 WOODSIDe’S GrIlle lAMB SKeWerS 1 lb. ground lamb 6 cloves garlic, minced 2 tsp. dried oregano 2 tsp. kosher salt ½ tsp. fresh ground black pepper 1 bunch flat leaf parsley 2 large eggs ½ cup bread crumbs 1 fresh lemon 8 wooden skewers s oaked in water In a large mixing bowl mix lamb, eggs, and bread crumbs. Once combined, add garlic, salt & pepper, ¾ minced parsley, and dried oregano. Hint (take a small amount of mixture and form a ½ oz. patty, cook through and taste for final seasoning.) Wrap 2 oz. of the lamb mixture around the water soaked skewers and let stand for 1 hour in the refrigerator. When ready to cook brush with extra virgin olive oil and char grill to desired doneness. We prefer medium rare 135 degrees. Squeeze fresh lemon over the skewers and garnish with the reserved parsley.

WOODSIDe’S GrIlle

1600 Stone Mansion Drive Franklin Park PA 15143 724.934.3000 Monday-Friday Lunch 11:45 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday Dinner 4:30 - 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday 4:30 - 11 p.m. Closed Sunday

Things to check when Time Out doesn’t work By Dr. Joanne Dixon, Ph.D. Director of Clinical Services Pace School Programs

1. Be sure you are not warning your child more than once before sending him or her to time out. Warnings only teach your child that they can misbehave at least once (or more) before you will use time out. repeated warnings only make things worse, not better. 2. Adults who are responsible for disciplining their child at home should be using the time out procedure. You should agree when and for what behaviors to send your child to time out. You will want sitters, visiting friends, and relatives to read and discuss time out guidelines and watch you use it. 3. To maximize the effectiveness of time out, you must make the rest of the day (time in) pleasant for your child. let your child know when they are well-behaved rather than taking good behavior for granted. Most children would prefer to have you put them in time out than ignore them completely. Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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Newly Formed

Chamber of Commerce

Celebrates!

hamber members, friends and staff members of the newly formed Chamber of Commerce gathered recently to celebrate the merger of the Cranberry Township Chamber and the North Pittsburgh Chamber. Guests were treated to live entertainment, a fabulous buffet, and raffles. Newly named executive director Susan Balla welcomed guests of the newly merged organization that will boast over 1,000 businesses.

Susan Balla, Scott Crum & Debbie Crum

Bill & Angela Guesman, Gail & Steve Carpenter

Carol & Jerry Walkins

Cranberry Twp. Manager Jerry Andree & Jan

Roy & Sherry Murray, Jeff & Becky Morella, Kerry & Chet Zombeck

Over 50 Shops & Restaurants

Kim & Bob McClure

Guitar Center

Sally Beauty

Once Upon A Child

Golden Nails

Family Christian Books

Deb

Tuxedo Junction

Hobby Town

Manpasand Spice Clearview

Petland DSW Shoes

GNC Phillip Pelusi Pearle Vision Justice Bath & Bodyworks T.J. Maxx

Marshalls AAA Cost Cutters Papermart Stride Rite Vital Signs

Ichiban Catherines US Post Office Wine & Spirits Oreck Floor Care

Ya Fei JoAnn Fabrics Starbucks Famous Footwear

L.S.Jewelers

Value City Furniture

Verizon Wireless

IKEA

Sally Beauty

Toys R Us

And so much more

Robinson Town Centre robinsonto wncentre.com See ou ourr new online coupons Park Manor Blvd, Robinson Township, Township, PA

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No one sees women like we do. Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC leads the way in state-of-the-art imaging for women. At our convenient Women’s Imaging North location in Wexford, you’ll find comprehensive women’s imaging services close to home. The new ultrasound and digital mammography equipment at Women’s Imaging North provides quality imaging services in a comfortable community setting. We offer diagnostic mammography and bone density testing. Also, breast, abdominal, thyroid, and ob-gyn ultrasound exams are offered at this location. Every service provides the quality you expect from Magee, nationally ranked for gynecologic care. Our expertly trained caregivers and technologists work closely with your primary care physician to integrate your imaging results into a seamless plan of care. For comprehensive and convenient imaging services, look no further than Women’s Imaging North from Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. No one sees women like we do. Our office is located at 9000 Brooktree Road, Suite 402, in Wexford. To learn more about the full range of women’s imaging services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-649-4077 or 412-641-4700, or visit magee.upmc.com.

Canine Influenza – What Do I Need to Know?

anine influenza is a newly emerging, highly contagious infectious disease caused by “flu” virus. In fact, unless a dog has already had the illness and recovered, virtually every dog exposed to the virus will become infected. This is because the virus is relatively new, and dogs have no natural immunity to it. About 80% of dogs who show signs of influenza will have mild case with symptoms that include a low-grade fever, nasal discharge, lack of energy, loss of appetite, and a cough that can last for up to a month. In the other 20%, more severe signs will occur such as high fever and pneumonia. A small number of dogs infected with the virus have died from complications.

Canine flu can spread the same way that human flu spreads through direct contact, through the air such as a cough or sneeze, and via contaminated surfaces. There is currently no specific treatment for canine influenza. As with all viral illnesses, the disease must run its course. recently, a new canine influenza vaccine has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the severity of influenza and the length of the illness. The initial vaccination requires 2 doses, 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. If your dog is presently being vaccinated for kennel cough, it is a likely candidate for Canine Influenza Vaccine. Many boarding and day care facilities are requiring this vaccination this summer. Your veterinarian can advise you whether this new vaccine should be added to your dog’s vaccination J a m e s B . K r e w a t c h , VMD schedule. B r a d f o r d Hi l l s Ve t e r i n a r y Ho s p i t a l , P e t Ho t e l , a n d P e t Sa l o n Co n v e n i e n t l y l o c a t e d b e t w e e n W e x f o r d a n d Cr a n b e r r y 7 2 4 .9 3 5 .5 8 2 7 • w w w .b h v h .n e t AAHA Ce r t i f i e d Ho s p i t a l • G o l d La b e l Ce r t i f i e d K e n n e l • Ce r t i f i e d Ma s t e r G r o o m e r

D o y o u k n o w s o m e o n e w h o is s e r v in g in t h e a r m e d f o r c e s f r o m t h e N A a r e a ? W e w o u ld lik e t o h o n o r t h e ir c o m m it m e n t b y f e a t u r in g t h e m in N A M a g a z in e . Please forward your name, the soldier’s name and where they are serving, along with a photo to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com

H el p us rec o g ni z e th ese f i ne m en and wo m en! 48

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3rD ANNuAl

An Evening for Autism A

J o y Ma n e s i o t i s &

Sh a r o n Vo l p e

group of North Allegheny teachers and staff members hosted their 3rd Annual "An evening for Autism" on Friday, Feb 5. recognizing that the number of children with autism continually increases within their schools, these caring teachers and staffers organized the event to raise money for research, with all proceeds benefitting Autism Speaks. There is no cure for the disorder or even a known cause, but 1 in 1 50 children born today will be diagnosed with autism. Despite the start of one of the largest snowstorms in our area's history, the evening was a great success!

Na t h a n &

Ra c h e l T e n g o w s k i

Su s a n Hi m r o d & K e rry W e rn e r

P a u l F a i l l a , J i l l Sp a k , Li s a F a i l l a , J o e l l e K e a t s , Cu r t K r a s i k & Ma r y b e t h Ma h o n e y

Sh a r o n T a y l o r &

J o n i P e rry & Da n a B a c h m a n

P h i l Ra b i n o w i t z

Ni c o l e &

Se a n Ca r t e r

B r ia n F r it z , J e f f & Le e An n a Mc K i b b e n

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Question and Answer with a Vein Specialist

hen people at my son’s school, at parties or even at sporting events find out that I specialize in venous disease I often find myself being flooded with a variety of questions. There is a reoccurring theme to these questions so I thought it might be helpful to answer a few.

Do I have to have bulging veins like I see in pictures to get my legs evaluated? No, since most veins lie deep to the skin surface, vein disorders are not always visible to the naked eye. A physical examination teamed with a diagnostic ultrasound should be used to determine the condition of the veins. The ultrasound examination gives us a real time and detailed view of the patients’ varicose vein system. Patients are often surprised to see how extensive and complicated their varicose veins are. What are some symptoms of venous disease? Not everyone has visible symptoms of venous disease. For some patients, their only indicator is the aching they have in their leg or legs. For other patients, in time, their varicose veins can become enlarged and in some cases, quite

prominent. They can be seen in some individuals as ropey or raised lumps in the thighs, legs, calves and ankles. Other symptoms of venous disease include pain, aching, fatigue, heaviness, cramping, throbbing, itching, burning and swelling. Symptoms of venous disease may worsen with standing or walking for prolonged periods. Many patients state that after shopping at Walmart or Costco their legs are “killing them”. Severe venous disease can compromise the nutrition of the skin and lead to eczema, inflammation or even ulceration. Who suffers from venous disease? I often hear that patients think that the pain, aching and swelling of their legs is just a part of “getting older” because they remember their mother or father having the same complaints. Although age is not a determining factor, heredity is the number one contributing factor in venous disease, followed by gender, with women being more likely to suffer from venous disease than men. Who should I talk to about my complaints? I will often use the analogy “when your car is making a funny noise, you would take it to your

mechanic, not your hair dresser.” As with any medical condition you should have your complaints evaluated by a physician. I advise patients to see a physician who specializes in venous disease, known as a phlebologist. Phlebology is recognized by the American Medical Association and is the field of medicine that focuses on veins. A board certified phlebologist should determine if you have venous disease, determine severity if disease is present and develop a treatment plan. As with many medical conditions there is a spectrum of disease as well as treatment options. Therefore, it is important to seek the help of a specialist who is well rounded in their knowledge of the entire field of phlebology as opposed to just one treatment option. What are the health implications of venous disease? Implications widely vary, based on the patient and the extent of disease. Varicose veins can cause a range of unsightly nuisances to medical problems including leg and foot ulcers, spontaneous bleeding, superficial thrombophlebitis (clots in the veins causing painful inflammation) and even deep vein thrombosis which is potentially life-threatening. Does insurance cover the treatments? When a patient comes for the evaluation of their complaints, their visit is covered, just as if they were going to their primary care physician for an office visit. If a patient has a co-pay, deductible or co-insurance that would, as in any doctors visit, be applicable. If a patient’s insurance requires a referral for a specialist then that would be required for their visit to the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh, because I am a general surgeon. T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y Li s a K a y Sa l s e r . T e rr G e n B o a Ve i n 7 2 4

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a n c e R. K r y s i n s k i , MD e r a l Su r g e o n r d Ce r t i f i e d P h l e b o l o g i s t In s t i t u t e o f P i t t s b u r g h . 9 3 4 . VEIN ( 8 3 4 6 )

NA History Museum

A Labor of Love by Sandy Trozzo

ou couldn’t blame Joe Bullick for feeling a bit like a nomad. His North Allegheny History Museum has bounced among four different NA schools, and went into storage for two of its 13-year history. During the last six years at McKnight elementary School, it bounced from classroom to classroom as the school population grew and the rooms were needed for students. Now, however, the memorabilia has a permanent home in a seldom-used wing of McKnight. Its grand opening coincided with McCandless Day in September. “The district realized the advantage of having a permanent site,” Mr. Bullick said. The idea for the museum came from his son, Steve, a teacher in Mt. lebanon and a history major. “My son approached me one day and said, `Dad, you ought to do a history of this school district,’” he said. “NA’s unique because it encompasses seven municipalities…and they all reek with history.” Only six items in the massive collection are on loan from others; the rest belong to Mr. Bullick.

“Somebody would call me up and say, `Joe, I have a wind-up Victrola. Would you like to have it?’” he said. “I started collecting stuff, and it just mushroomed.” The curator describes his collection as “a flea market of history,” containing all sorts of old items he has collected over the years. One corner has old military uniforms. There are old newspaper stories, all laminated. A Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph from April 2, 1936, shows “our flood in pictures.” There are old photographs of NA sports teams and the “Dips” at West View Park, old toys and old sports equipment. One room is set up like a library, with old yearbooks and other books. A farm area shows a push lawn mower and cider maker. One room is made up like a kitchen and parlor from the 1800s, including a coal-burning stove, ice box, sewing machine, a coal miner’s lunch bucket and the wind-up Victrola. Mr. Bullick’s favorite items are a 1954 jukebox and an old pinball machine. Both still work, and the jukebox is stocked with music from the 1950s. The jukebox and pinball machine are also popular with the classes that tour the museum. “They are fascinated with the old baseball equipment…and the girls are fascinated with the old baby dolls,” Mr. Bullick said. “And the entertainment. They don’t even know what a record player is.” Most of the classes at McKnight have toured the museum over the years it has been in the building. Mr. Bullick has also been invited with his traveling exhibits to give presentations at Ingomar and Hosack elementaries. Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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Mr. Bullick is the official historian of the North Allegheny School District. He is a retired custodian supervisor in the district. He also grew up in the school district, attending Ingomar elementary School. At the time, there was no high school, so students attended other high schools in the region. Mr. Bullick went to West View High School, while others attended Ambridge, Mars and Perry. North Allegheny High School was built on an old coal farm, and dedicated in 1954 with Jonas Salk as speaker. Mr. Bullick said a group that was the first seventh-graders at the school recently toured the museum. Because many of the residents of the North Allegheny School District moved from somewhere else, the museum also contains history books from the surrounding school districts and municipalities, he said. “We want to bring groups in. We’re inviting senior citizen groups in,” he said. “I prefer that to the traveling show. They can see everything they want to see.” The museum has its own entrance, behind the McKnight cafeteria, and is not accessible from the school. It is open by appointment only. For an appointment, email Mr. Bullick at jbullick@northallegheny.org. “It’s been a labor of love,” he said.

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Mr. Bullick’s favorite items are a 1954 jukebox and an old pinball machine. Both still work, and the jukebox is stocked with music from the 1950s. m

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Preventing Summer Learning Losses During Early Childhood s the school year comes to a close, it is only natural for kids to look forward to the leisurely nature of the summer season. The arrival of beach trips, pool parties and sleepovers, however, doesn’t mean that children should depart completely from their daily routine. Keeping particular elements of a child’s day consistent throughou t the summer months keeps the brain focused and helps prevent learning losses during the summer. In addition, this can potentially ease the anxiety that often accompanies transitioning into a new classroom or school come fall. According to research conducted by the National Center for Summer learning, which is based at the Johns Hopkins School of education in Baltimore, Maryland, summer learning loss accounts for about two-thirds of the difference in the likelihood of a student pursuing a college preparatory path in high school. As these findings indicate, keeping children’s brains challenged throughout the summer is crucial, since the lack of learning that occurs during these months has both short-term and long-term consequences. And, brain growth is 90% complete by age 10 in most children. Keeping your child challenged in these early years can make a difference in the rest of his/her lives. routine provides structure, which is often lacking during the summer months when children all too quickly become detached from

the lessons they learned throughout the school year. Maintaining a schedule throughout the summer supports an environment that is less of a contrast to the classroom and provides a healthy balance between building skills, play and rest. Families can incorporate the following habits into their child’s day to encourage and maintain a routine throughout the summer season: • early to bed, early to rise: To the best extent possible, children should adhere to a regular bedtime each night and wake up at the same time each day. This will not only ensure proper rest but will establish a sense of discipline as well. • Clean up and get dressed: upon waking up, it is important that children brush their teeth, get dressed and perform any other hygienic tasks that they normally would before a school day. Allowing kids to stay in pajamas or dirty clothes longer than necessary can result in lazy behavior. • Make eating an event: Keeping a child on a consistent meal schedule is critical to maintaining a sharp body and mind. establish specific times for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and sit with children at the table to encourage conversation while eating. • Take a rest: If a child partakes in a scheduled nap time while at school, then he or she should be allotted time at home for regular rest as well. Make this time consistent, perhaps after lunch, and have the child rest in the same place everyday. • Perform daily chores: Asking a child to help around the house is an ideal way to get them involved in a daily routine. A morning chore and an afternoon chore can convey a sense of responsibility and supply a sense of rhythm to the day. In addition to providing consistency, routines can present children with security and comfort as they adjust to the changes that come along with their new summer schedules. The purpose is not to create rigidity but to provide a flexible structure that establishes a sense of purpose kids need to grow and mature. Finding a preschool/early childhood center that runs their program year round can be very beneficial in this regard. The very best early childhood centers now even offer summer tutoring for elementary school students. If you are looking for such programs, make sure they are tailored to meet the specific needs of your child, whether it is concentrating on advanced or remedial material. It also can be helpful that the tutoring is intertwined throughout the center’s program, so the children readily accept the “summer challenge.”

T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y Ma r k & J e n n i f e r Re b s t o c k . P r io Re b p a n 3 0 0 W e 7 2 4 Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

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Cumberland Woods Village to Give North Hills a New Senior Community This Summer

y the end of summer, uPMC Passavant’s campus will have one of the most accessible and unique Senior Communities in the region. Cumberland Woods Village is a convergence of class and convenience, giving residents 28 different styles of apartments, and views of the surrounding countryside that extend all the way to downtown Pittsburgh. residents can anticipate the amenities of a fine hotel, with two restaurants, a beauty salon, a fitness center and activities room. A separate building called “The lodge” will have two conference rooms and a theatre for movies and theatrical performances. uPMC officials anticipate opening the theater to be open to the public for its events when applicable. An independent living facility, Cumberland Woods is within walking distance of uPMC Passavant, an advanced care center that provides highly specialized medical and surgical treatment. For more information, contact uPMC’s Greta Ceranic at 412.915.4085.

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Roofing, Vinyl Siding, Soffit & Fascia, Gutters

A Gift from the United Jewish Federation, Agency for Jewish Learning, Community Day School and Jewish Community Center

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I kept my hands to myself and got all my work done!

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Pace School Programs teach children with emotional disorders and autism to break through social and emotional barriers to school success.

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" D P NC J O B U J P O P S V O J P O G P S T P NF D P NNP O Q V S Q P T F

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Locations: 116 Browns Hill Rd. Valencia, PA 16059 724-903-0083 Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0

2432 Greensburg Pike Pittsburgh, PA 15221 412-244-1900 | IN No r t h Al l e g h e n y

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Who is ComForcare? ComForcare Senior Services is a Non-Medical In-Home Care Company. ComForcare is owned by David and Mary Jo Dietrich of Franklin Park, David has a PhD in business, and brings with him 20 years of experience working in privately held consulting firms specializing in family businesses. Mary Jo has a Bachelors degree in Nursing with over 10 years of hands on nursing experience working in hospital setting. Mary Jo runs the daily operations and understands the struggles families face when they are in need of care for their loved one. Today people are very busy with their work, families, and lives so looking after and taking care of a loved one can be complicated and sometimes overwhelming. It may be that a family member has been showing signs of confusion during the day, recovering from surgery, needs reminders with medication, or just to have a friendly caregiver around to make sure activities of daily living go a little smoother. We opened our North-west office in 2007 to help folks when they are faced with these issues. ComForcare has a comprehensive range of non-medical in-home care services that have helped hundreds of people recover and prosper in the comfort of their own homes.

Home Care Service Nurse Owned & Nurse Operated

• Transportation & Errands • Chore Services & Light Housekeeping 5 6 724.942.0940 t o

What qualifications do caregivers need to work for ComForcare? We hire and staff Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Home Health Aides, and Companions. Caregivers with experience in working in the field and that have a passion for helping seniors. Our 10 step hiring process includes a physical drug test and criminal background investigation. All caregivers are insured and bonded by ComForcare. What should I expect a Caregiver to do? We help with chores around the house, bathing & grooming, safety and supervision, medication reminders, light house keeping, companionship, meal preparations, exercise, transportation to doctor visits, and social events. The goal is to help keep seniors active mentally and physically. Do you have training? Our caregivers are highly trained with knowledge of the aging process. education to all staff is delivered by a register Nurse and they are trained by the Alzheimer’s Association, along with quarterly in-service meetings. How do you pay for ComForcare services? We work with long Term care insurance companies, Veterans assistance program, State funded programs, and private pay. We promote “aging in place” in the comfort of home. No matter where clients call home we can be there. Give ComForcare a call today, our sofa visits are free, and the advice could be priceless......

• Bathing, Grooming & Hygiene • Meal Preparation

How does your service work? No matter what your age, there are times when we all need a little help with the activities of daily living. Surgery, injury, illness and challenges created by disabilities can make it tough to take care of yourself or your loved ones, and that’s where we can help, for as short or long of time as you need. ComForcare has a minimum requirement of 3 hours per day and can accommodate around the clock care as well, we have a nurse come in to help assess the client and family needs and then design care options. Our ultimate goal is to help promote independence in the comfort of home with the assistance of a home health aide or caregiver.

Mary Jo Dietrich, RN Owner

Promoting Aging in Place

NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE SERVICES 614 Fifth Ave • Coraopolis

412.604.0410 a d v e r t i s e

| IN No r t h Al l e g h e n y

T h i s Industry Insight w a s w r i t t e n b y Ma r y J o Di e t r i c h , RN-B SN. Co m F o r c a r e Se n Ma r y J o Di e t r i c h 4 1 2 .6 0 4 .0 4 1 0 Ma r y J o @ Co m F o w w w .s e n io r h o m

i o r Se r v i c e s , RN-B SN rc a re .c o m e c a r e p itt s b u r g h .c o m

“My doctor told me I can treat my fibroids without a hysterectomy.” — Tanya, age 43

Heavy Periods? Pelvic Pain? Frequent Urination? Constipation/Bloating? You might have uterine fibroids Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow on or in the muscles of the uterus (womb). At least 25 percent of women in the U.S. have fibroids. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a safe, non-surgical procedure for treating uterine fibroids and providing symptom relief.

• No surgery • No general anesthesia • Overnight stay • Covered by most insurance plans

For more information contact:

866-241-7215

    

iN Community Magazines 453 Valley Brook Road | Suite 300 McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com

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ort h A lle g h e n y