in-plum-fall by IN Community Magazines

COMMUNITY-DRIVEN

SUMMER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Plum High School

Class of 2011 Carpenter Log House Plum School District News PLUS Edgewater...Oakmont’s Newest River Development

Contents Plum | SUMMER 2011 |

S U M

E R

2011

H ealth and W ellness N ew s Y ou Can U se

Heart Health Is a Family Awair E v ery member of your family could hav e some degree of risk when it comes to dev eloping heart disease. L ook inside for ways to get your family heart healthy.

What’s Inside page 2

K eep in g Y our C ool in H ot W eather

17 page 3

T he G ood N ews Ab out H eart D isease F ive W ays to L ower Y our B lood Pressure

page 4

Y oun g Athletes an d S udden C ardiac D eath W hat P arents N eed to K now

page 5

T he D own side of F alls

Ex ercise: T oo Much of a G ood T hin g C an B e H armf ul

2 0 11 U P M C

page 6

C hoosin g the Rig ht D octor f or Y ou

page 7

F it F eet: S ummer F oot C are T ip s W hat’ s H ap p en in g at U PMC S t. Marg aret

Publisher’s Message | 2

Carpenter Log House | 3

Plum Area Community Events | 7

Peoples Natural Gas | Community-Driven | 8

Plum Borough School District News | 11

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 17

Edgewater...Oakmont’s Newest River Development | 35

FEATURES

On the Road to Recovery | 40

ON THE COVER

Plum Senior High School Commencement, Mr. Dennis E. Swogger, Jr., photographer

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

SUMMER 2011

Welcome to the Summer issue of Plum Magazine. Summer is so ripe with opportunities for communities to come together. There are Community Days, Fourth of July fireworks, church picnics, Little League baseball games, swimming at the local pool, summer reading activities at the local library, Farmers Markets. The list goes on and on. And some of those activities are listed in this edition. Summer’s also a great time for traveling, although, with gas prices the way they are, many of us won’t be going too far from home. That’s okay because there are some wonderful sites right in your own backyard. For example, we feature Plum’s historic Carpenter Log House. It’s a treasure trove of local history. We can all take pride in Plum School District’s Class of 2011. Commencement ceremonies were held recently, and class members have great plans for the future. We also include a wrap of the school year’s various activities and events. Yes, it’s finally summer! So let’s throw some burgers on the grill, find a shady tree, a lounge chair and a cold glass of lemonade and enjoy the sunshine!

IN Plum is a community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Plum Borough area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

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

Monica L. Haynes m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com STA F F P H OTO G R A P H E R

Jack Megaw j.megaw@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Cassie Brkich Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Garyyonphotography.com A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Hello. I’m Monica Haynes, the new Eastern Regional Editor for IN Community Magazines. I’m quite at home in the eastern suburbs because, well, that's where I live, too. I also have quite a bit of experience with suburban news coverage, having done it for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. I also was a magazine writer and entertainment columnist for the PG. Some of you I’ve had the opportunity to meet out and a bout as we’ve been working on stories for this edition of Plum. I look forward to getting out in the community even more, to meet the people, attend the events and see the sites and sounds that help make your community what it is. Plum Magazine is about community, YOUR community. We really can't do this without your input. We want to know what’s going on in your municipal governments, your schools, c hurches, libraries, civic organizations. We want to honor those members of your community who are serving in the armed forces, those who are serving others in the community, those who have fascinating hobbies or who have done something extraordinary. If there are things going on in your community or people in your community that we should know about, please email me at m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com. As you enjoy the warmth of the summer sun, I hope you enjoy this edition of Plum Magazine!

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

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

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

Fall content deadline: August 1 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Monica L. Haynes Eastern Regional Editor Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

2 724.942.0940 to advertise

Plum

Plum’s Famous

arpenter Log House

t's rare that anyone who’s lived in a historical home is around to tell you what it was like. However, that is the case with James Murry Stewart and Plum’s famous Carpenter Log House, which dates back to 1820.

Located on Pierson Run Road in what is now Boyce Park, the house was Stewart’s childhood home until the property was sold to Allegheny County in 1958 when Stewart was 16. He is a descendant of John Carpenter, who married Jane Murry, the daughter of Murrysville founder Jeremiah Murry. It was Jeremiah Murry who purchased the 100-acre property around 1800 and then gave it to his daughter and her new husband as a wedding gift. Since that time the Carpenter Family resided on that land until its sale to the county. Continued on next page

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Continued from page 3

The original 1½ story log home was built around 1820. The home that sits on the property now is a reconstructed log home built using logs from the original building, as well as logs from other structures in the area. The original log home was deconstructed and reassembled into a simple, one-level log cabin at Point State Park as part of the City of Pittsburgh's Bicentennial in 1958. Prior to that time, Stewart was living in the log home with his great aunt, Martha Carpenter; his sister, Louise Stewart and half-brother, Bob Yeager, his mother, Isabella Carpenter Stewart, and aunt Eleanor Carpenter Broome. “When I was there we had electric, before that they had oil lamps,” Stewart said. “I can't tell you what year they put electric in.” Neither does he remember the year his aunt put a furnace into the home, which before that was heated by burning

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Plum

wood in the fireplaces. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Which meant I had to cut the wood,â&#x20AC;? Stewart said. The property, which included chicken coops and a barn at one point, had been a dairy farm, and Stewart remembers his grandparents farming it. In 1979, the Allegheny Foothills Historical Society was formed to the restore the Carpenter Log House and preserve its legacy. Eleanor Carpenter Broome, who had also grown up in the home, spearheaded the effort of family and friends to have a log home rebuilt on the property. In 1988, just in time for the Plum Bicentennial, the project was completed. The reconstructed log house was built to the specifications of the first one and put on the original foundation. The porch that is part of the home now was built after the bicentennial. To make the home more accessible, a handicapped ramp that was added several years ago. Inside the home, which is decorated with some period furniture from the Carpenter family and other, are family photographs and other historic items in display cases. For more information about the Allegheny Foothills Historical Society, visit www.plumhistory.org

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

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Plum





Road in Plum, Sunday, July 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. DJ Ray, door prizes, 50/50 raffle, ruise on over to the car cruise at the American Legion Post 980, 7824 Saltsburg

hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill. Complete restaurant inside.

along Allegheny River Blvd. This year, the sale will be held in conjunction with a

akmont’s Annual Sidewalk Sale will be held Saturday, July 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

car cruise. For more information, contact the Oakmont Chamber of Commerce, 412.828.3238.

Wheels program in Verona. Meals are packed and ready to go at 11 a.m. and the iverview Community Action Corporation is seeking volunteers for its Meals on

delivery process takes about 1 hour. To sign up as a volunteer or for additional information, contact Lynn Verratti at 412.828.1062.

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

T h e e m p lo y e e s o f P e o p le s N a t u r a l G a s â&#x20AC;&#x201C; m o r e t h a n 6 5 0 s t r o n g â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a r e b r in g in g a n e w P e n n s y lv a n ia . W it h P e o p le s n o w to

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IN T H E P H O T O

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community-driven                                                

                                                   

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

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

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Plum

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 SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

Message from Dr. Naccarati

n behalf of all district employees, I extend our most sincere congratulations to the 2011 graduates. We share in the pride of their accomplishments and wish them the best of luck and abundant success! This is a very special time of the year in education. It is a time when educators can be proud of the difference they have and will make in the lives of young people. From kindergarten to our graduates, we are surrounded by incredible accomplishments and extraordinary achievements. I am very gratified by the dedication of our employees and the partnerships our district enjoys across the region. The commitment and successes of our employees speak of their talent and commitment to students. Our partnerships speak to the credibility that our district has established. As I write this article, the District is still in the midst of creating the budget for the next school year. We are, however, confident that no curtailment or elimination of programs will be necessary and we have added additional funds to support an increase in kindergarten enrollment if additional students are registered over the summer. The attrition of professional staff and the Early

Retirement Incentive Program, reductions in all Central Office, department and building budgets, eliminations of positions in Central Office and the Facilities Department, a discontinuation of selected services contracts and participation in selected professional organization, reduction of professional development expenditures, adjustment of support staff work assignments and Earned Income Tax cost reductions combined to greatly reduce the amount that will be necessary to use from our reserves to balance the budget. I am proud that we followed our guiding principles and based our decisions on the needs of our students. Inside this issue, you will find additional information relative to the 2011-12 budget revenues and expenditures for your review. As we move forward it is necessary to realize that we will continue to face economic challenges. However, it is important for us all to look at the accomplishments of the past year and use them as building blocks for future success. I wish you all a healthy, safe and happy summer. Sincerely, Dr. Lillian Naccarati

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

SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

20.0

3.0 2.2 5.0 3.7 1.0

52.0 13.5

Salaries for Instructional Staff, Administrators, Bus Drivers, Mechanics, Custodians, Paraprofessionals, Substitutes, Activity Sponsors, Coaches and Security Staffs l $ 27,412,0 Payroll Taxes, Employee Benefits, Pension Contributions, Retiree's Benefits, Tuition Reimbursement, Unemployment & Workers' Compensation Insurances l $ 10,638,419 Property & Income Tax Collections, Contracted Special Education Support Programs $ 1,616,300 Electricity, Water/Sewage, Repairs, Copier Service, BCMC Rental Fees $ 1,147,463 Tuition to Cyber Charter, Private, Vo-Tech, Approved Private Schools, Travel, Property & Liability Insurances, Advertisements l $ 2,675,437 General & Instructional Supplies - Classrooms, Custodial & Mnt., Diesel Fuel, Natural Gas, Communications, Books & Periodicals, Building Operations l $ 1,958,168 New & Replacement Equipment: for Classroom Instructional, Technology and Facilities Departments $ 55,391 Professional & Board Dues & Fees, Debt Payments on Bonds / Principal & InterestContigenci for General Expenditures, Relocation of Softball Field to HS, Diesel Fuel; Donations to Plum Public Library and Refunds for Tax Assessment Appeals l $ 7,194,947

TOTAL - All Expenditures $ 53,194,223

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Plum

â?&#x2039; budget news Total Local Sources vs. State/Federal Subsidies as of May 18, 2011 $35,000,000 $30,000,000 $25,000,000 $20,000,000 $15,000,000 $10,000,000 $5,000,000 $0 20032004

20042005

20052006

20062007

20072008

20082009

20092010

20102011

20112012 Est.

1.42 State Revenue Sources $ 21,395,138

40.47

Federal Revenue Sources $ 750,845

58.10

Local Revenue Sources $ 30,715,295 Budgetary Reserve/Others $ 5,000

TOTAL - All Revenue Services $ 52,866,278

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

DISTRICT

Fifth

a D ...Leading The Way r e e r a C n i e Graders Participat

ifth grade students throughout the district participated in Career Day in their respective buildings. This annual event was sponsored by the Elementary Counselors. The goal is to expose the students to many different careers so that they can begin to identify their interests and hopefully make the connection between what they are learning in school and why what they learn is important to their future success. The students listened to presenters from fields and careers such as: U.S. Air Force, Architectural Project Management, Engineering, Educator of the Deaf, EMT, Family Physician, Funeral Director, Musician/Composer, Internal Revenue Agent, Limo Driver/Operating Engineer, Medical Lab Technician, Plumber, Police Officer, Registered Nurse, Transplant Coordinator, and Wildlife Rehabilitator. Fiftytwo speakers outlined their jobs for the students. Career Day proved to be very informative for everyone involved. It was interesting to listen to questions the students had for the presenters. It’s never too early to begin planning for the future. Thanks to the Guidance Counselors and the parents who volunteered to speak to students. Fifth graders should be commended for their good manners during the presentations.



 SCHOOL

What Was Your Favorite Part Of Career Day? ❋ “My favorite part about career day was that we got to know the experience of each career. We also got to learn and think about what we wanted to be when we grow up. It was also very fun.” ❋ “My favorite part of Career Day was seeing people from different backgrounds, and looking for occupations I could potentially do in the future.” ❋ “I liked seeing all the different jobs and what you needed to do to be able to get good at your job, and to get a higher level in the job.” ❋ “When we got to learn Sign Language from Mrs. Alverson.” ❋ “I really enjoyed the wonderful presentations of all the jobs.”

What Do You Feel You Learned From your Experiences Today? ❋ “I felt inspired.” ❋ “I learned that getting a job is very important. Also, I learned that there are many jobs and if I put hard work into it, I can become anything.” ❋ “I feel like I learned that there are tons of jobs out there and that school is important. Also, that I like a lot of jobs.” ❋ “I feel that I learned about diverse careers and what it takes to do those careers.” ❋ “Work for what you want.” ❋ “To never give up on your dreams.” ❋ “I learned that you can do anything you put your mind to, and do what you are best at for your job.” ❋ “That you need a good education to get a good job.” ❋ “I learned from Mr. Schultz that when you hear the word can’t, you can really do it. Don’t listen to the word can’t” ❋ “That every subject is important to learn.”

Adlai Stevenson Awarded Grant dlai Stevenson Elementary School has been awarded a Highmark Healthy High 5 School Challenge grant of $10,000 to implement the Fitness for Life Program that will provide students with enhanced nutrition education and fitness education. With rates of childhood obesity on the rise, this grant will support Plum Borough School District’s efforts to help students adopt healthy behaviors that will stay with them for a lifetime. The program will be an internally developed program at Adlai Elementary School and designed as a fun and functional training course to condition children at any fitness level. The program is multi-faceted and combines strength training, endurance, agility and biometric activities. The program is comprised of a number of components designed to focus on physical conditioning (1) Railyard Conditioning Course: agility, functional and core strength, cardiovascular conditioning, improved speed and balance (2) Strength through suspension training and medicine balls: portable body weight training tools designed to increase strength, flexibility, mobility, endurance, and core stability (3) Rock climbing: improves muscular endurance, body composition, and coordination. Children that focus on conditioning improve their physical fitness level. It is important to focus on lifetime fitness and teach kids how to exercise properly. Since 2007, the Highmark Foundation, through the Highmark Healthy High 5 School Challenge, has awarded more than $8 million to over 945 grants to schools in 49 counties across Pennsylvania for programs that provide nutrition education, enhance nutrition choices and increase opportunities for physical activity. “Physical activity and nutrition play a critical role in reducing childhood obesity,” said Yvonne Cook, president of the Highmark Foundation. "With this grant, Adlai Stevenson Elementary School will have additional resources available to educate students–and their parents–on simple lifestyle changes that can be made to improve the health and wellbeing of our children."

About Highmark Healthy High 5 Focused on children’s health promotion, Highmark Healthy High 5 is an initiative of the Highmark Foundation designed to improve the health of children and adolescents, ages 6-18 by providing them with the tools and practices needed to make informed decisions about living healthier lives. Through a five-year $100 million commitment launched in 2006, Highmark Healthy High 5 addresses five critical issues – nutrition, physical activity, grieving, self-esteem, and bullying prevention – by working with educators, parents and nonprofit leaders to reach children and adolescents at school, home and within their communities. More information can be found at www.highmarkhealthyhigh5.org or by calling 800.789.1726.

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15





SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

Fifth Grade Promotes Hard Work and Effort Fifth graders recently participated in an Egg Drop Challenge as a homework completion reward. The students were given a bag of materials and challenged to build a container for their egg. The goal was for the egg to survive a nine foot drop without any cracks. Each group created a unique “home” for their egg, and many were successful in protecting the egg as Below is a picture of students working together to protect their egg.

  Students Create 3-D Habitats After studying ecosystems and habitats, the fifth graders were encouraged to create a habit diorama that depicted a biome and the characteristics of that biome. Representing the 5th grade Science Habitat Diorama Projects, the winners are as follows: Miss Whitney’s room – 1st place Abbey Evans, Runner up – Emily Wash, Mrs. Russo’s room – 1st place – Dakota Sunday, Runner up – Connor Karkowsky.

Second and Third Graders Selected to Participate in EBK4 Through a grant from the American Dietetic Association and Giant Eagle, 2nd and 3rd grade students are participating in a health and nutrition program. The students and faculty report that lessons in nutrition have never been as delicious as they are this year! With the help of one of Giant Eagle’s registered dieticians, Lauren, and her assistants, the students are learning healthy eating habits. During this four week partnership, the children have had the opportunity to follow recipes and to make healthy foods right in the classroom. So far, children have prepared and sampled veggie kabobs, fruit slush delights, yogurt parfait, and orange Julia!

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Plum

S U M

E R

2011

H ealth and W ellness N ew s Y ou Can U se

Heart Health Is a Family Awair E v ery member of your family could hav e some degree of risk when it comes to dev eloping heart disease. L ook inside for ways to get your family heart healthy.

What’s Inside page 2

K eep in g Y our C ool in H ot W eather

page 3

T he G ood N ews Ab out H eart D isease F ive W ays to L ower Y our B lood Pressure

page 4

Y oun g Athletes an d S udden C ardiac D eath W hat P arents N eed to K now Ex ercise: T oo Much of a G ood T hin g C an B e H armf ul

0 1 1 UP

page 5

T he D own side of F alls

page 6

C hoosin g the Rig ht D octor f or Y ou

page 7

F it F eet: S ummer F oot C are T ip s W hat’ s H ap p en in g at U PMC S t. Marg aret

K eeping Y our C ool in H ot W eather W hether you’re ex ercising, lounging at the pool, or working outdoors in the heat, use caution and common sense to prev ent heat-related illnesses H e at s t rok e is a true medical emergency.

It’s a cool, bright summer morning, and you’re getting ready to tee off for an early round of golf. lthough the forecast calls for a hot and sunny day, you decide to walk the course. You’ve hauled your bag around for 1 “ holes in the past without being bothered by the heat, so there’s no reason to worry — or is there?

“The body is at risk of shutting down vital functions and for major cardiac issues,” warns Dr. N icholas. If you see these signs, call for emergency help immediately: • High body temperature -above 1 o3 degrees Fahrenheiti • Skin that feels hot and dry, but not sweaty

If you ignore high temperatures on a sunny summer day, outdoor fun can quickly become dangerous, so take care—

• Severe headache

H ow hot weather a" ects the b ody

• Muscle cramps or weakness

The body normally cools when sweat evaporates. O n hot, sunny, and humid days, the cooling process slows and your body temperature rises. If you don’t take proper precautions, it’s easy to get sick. “Heat exhaustion can come on rapidly,” explains zames N icholas, MD, medical director of Emergency Services at UPMC St. Margaret. “L eft untreated, heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke, which is a life-threatening situation.”

• Feeling confused, anxious, or disoriented • Seizures • Unconsciousness

t ecause heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most severe heat-induced illnesses, it’s important to act quickly.

While waiting for help to come, follow Dr. N icholas’ recommendations for treating heat exhaustion.

W ho’ s most at risk ?

Rules that can help you stay cool

• Profuse sweating

lthough anyone can suffer a heat-related illness at any time, some people are at higher risk, including:

“Prevention is the best treatment for heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” says Dr. N icholas. Drink plenty of water or other fluids before you head out into the heat, and stay hydrated throughout your activity. “Water and sports drinks are both good options,” adds Dr. N icholas. Stay away from alcoholic and caffeinated beverages; they won’t replace the fluids you lose through perspiration.

• N ausea and vomiting

• Infants and young children

• Feeling dizzy or light-headed

• People age q5 or older

• Pale, clammy skin

• Individuals with chronic medical issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure

O ther precautions Dr. N icholas recommends to help avoid heatrelated illnesses: • Dress in loose, light-colored clothing • Protect your skin outdoors with a wide-brimmed hat, and be sure to wear sunscreen -minimum SPF 1 5i • If you start to feel overheated, go indoors or to a shady area • Use common sense. O n a hot day, plan your exercise or other vigorous outdoor activities for the morning or evening when it is cooler.

• Fast heartbeat and fast breathing

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Warning signs of h e at e x h au s t i on include:

• Weakness • Decreased or dark-colored urine • Headache “If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, act immediately,” says Dr. N icholas. Move the person to a cool, shady spot to rest. L oosen and remove any unnecessary clothing. Mist the body with cool water, or apply a wet cloth to the skin while fanning. Most importantly, never leave the person unattended. If the symptoms of heat exhaustion last more than a few minutes or get worse, seek emergency treatment.

• People who are overweight • People who take certain medications, such as those for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation Source: Centers for Disease Control and P revention

T o learn more ab out heat ex haustion and heat strok e, visit w w w .U P M C .com/ T oday.

T he G ood N ew s Ab out H eart D isease T ake charge of your heart through health screenings and heart-healthy lifestyle changes While you can’t change your genes and your family history of heart disease, you can control other risk factors by eating a healthy diet, exercising, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. Some changes, like quitting smoking, can have an immediate impact.

H e art di s e as e i s t h e n at i on ’ s l e adi n g cau s e of de at h f or bot h m e n an d w om e n . Every 25 seconds, someone experiences a coronary event; every minute, it claims a life. The good news? You can take steps to reduce your risk of heart disease through routine screening and lifestyle changes — even if you’ve already had a heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Gulati recommends regular health screenings that tell you your numbers and whether you need to take action. For example, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can damage your heart and blood vessels, but you wouldn’t know you have these conditions without testing for them.

“Heart disease is a disease we can do something about. In most instances, it is preventable,” says Daniel Edmundowicz, MD, associate professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh, and director of preventive cardiology at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute.

EKGs, ultrasound, and CT scans can sometimes detect atherosclerosis or coronary heart disease, adding useful information to the traditional risk assessment. UPMC’s Heart and Vasular Institute has the region’s only low-radiation electron beam coronary CT scanner. It looks specifically for calcium in the coronary arteries, a marker of the cholesterol accumulation that can cause sudden heart attacks.

“Screening absolutely saves lives. We can help people change the outcome once we know their risk factor levels,” Dr. Edmundowicz says. H eart- H ealthy Resources at U PMC S t. Marg aret Vijay K. Gulati, MD, assistant professor of medicine and cardiologist at UPMC St. Margaret, says the more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing heart disease.

Risk f actors that can’t b e chan g ed • Family history of heart disease, carotid artery disease, or peripheral artery disease • Age ( 6 5 and older) • Gender ( men have a greater risk of heart attack)

Risk f actors that can b e chan g ed • • • • •

Smoking High b lood pressure High cholesterol levels O b esity P hysical inactivity

“The bottom line is: Knowing your risk helps you and your doctor intelligently lower your risk,” says Dr. Gulati.

F ive W ays to L ower Y our B lood Pressure High b lood pressure puts you at risk for heart attack, stroke, and other serious diseases. Follow these recommendations from Dr. Gulati to take charge of this “ silent killer” : • I n crease p hysical activity. Aim for at least 3 0 minutes each day ( most days) of b risk walking, b ike riding, or other aerob ic activity that you enj oy. • Mon itor your sodium. L imit your sodium intake to less than two grams ( 2 , 0 0 0 mg) a day. B eware of “ hidden” sodium in processed foods, including canned soup, lunch meats, froz en dinners, and crackers. • Eat healthy. Follow a lower-fat diet that’ s rich in fruits, vegetab les, and low-fat dairy foods. • C on trol your stress. Take 1 5 minutes each day to decompress and focus on yourself. L isten to music, read, pray, or meditate. • D on ’ t smok e! N icotine has a direct ewect on your b lood vessels as well as your lungs. It causes your heart to b eat faster, and raises your b lood pressure. • T ak e your medicin e. If medicine is needed to control your b lood pressure, make sure you take it as prescrib ed b y your doctor.

K n ow your n umb ers

B ecome heart smart

Aim for these vital numb ers to k eep your tick er in good w ork ing condition:

Take time to educate yourself ab out heart disease and the treatments availab le. The U P M C Heart and V ascular web site is a one-stop source of information ab out cardiac conditions, as well as U P M C’ s full spectrum of cardiovascular services from routine screenings to advanced cardiac care. B e sure to check it out at www.U PMC .com/ H eartan dV ascular.

Monit or

T arg et L evels

Cholesterol

less than 2 0

Blood P ressure

b elow 1 2 0 / 8 0

BMI

1 8 .5–

, body mass index

mg/ dL

2 4 .9

Ask your doctor If you have q uestions or concerns ab out your heart health, call your physician to schedule an appointment.

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Health Tips from U P M C Health P lan

Y uo n g A t hle t e s a n d uS d d e n Ca r d ia c D e a t h

W hat Paren ts N eed to K n ow Is your child among the three to five million young people in the United States who play organized sports each year6 If so, you know that a pre-participation physical examination can help identify young athletes who may be at risk for an injury or illness that could req uire additional medical evaluation. R ecently, identifying young athletes who may be at risk of sudden cardiac death has become a hot topic among sports medicine professionals, focusing the attention of parents on the need for better cardiovascular screening of young athletes. “Sudden cardiac death -SCDi in young athletes is extremely rare,” says V ivekanand Allada, MD, clinical director of pediatric cardiology at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and professor of pediatrics. “In fact, it’s a one in a million risk.” According to Dr. Allada, sudden death in young athletes is most often due to heart problems, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy -an abnormal thickening of the hearti. Other causes include congenital coronary anomalies, arrhythmia -which can be caused by a blow to the chesti, and Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that can weaken the aorta and lead to a tear or rupture. “Unfortunately, there’s no perfect test to find a needle in a haystack,” says Dr. Allada. However, parents can take steps to uncover risk factors that may req uire more testing or a consultation with a pediatric cardiologist. The AHA recommends that young athletes undergo a screening medical history to check specifically for: • • •

Chest pain, palpitations, or fainting during exercise -red flags that req uire immediate attentioni A history of a heart murmur or hypertension Family history of coronary disease, sudden death, or Marfan syndrome

Children with any of these risk factors or an abnormal physical exam should see a pediatric cardiologist, who is specially trained to look for cardiac problems in children and teens, Dr. Allada says. Further testing might include an E0 G, echocardiogram, and stress test. He offers these tips to parents: • Don’t let your child play through chest pain. Pain can be a warning sign. • Teach your child to avoid energy drinks that have high levels of caffeine. Such drinks can make the heart race and cause cardiac arrhythmias. They are particularly dangerous for athletes with undiagnosed cardiac problems.

T o learn more ab out caring for your child’ s heart, visit w w w .chp.edu, then click on C hild H ealth A- Z . T o schedule an appointment w ith a C hildren’ s- a! liated physician, call 4 1 2 - 6 9 2 - P E D S ( 7 3 3 7 ) .

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MC.

com/T oday

E x ercise:

T oo M uch of a G ood T hing C an B e H armful Regular exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy life. M any of us, however, still struggle to fi t even a moderate amount of exercise into our schedules. B ut there are plenty of people who are getting too much exercise. If some exercise is good, they think more will b e b etter. N ot true. In fact, excessive exercise can lead to a host of physical issues, including inj uries, the loss of lean muscle mass, a weakened immune system, sleep prob lems, irritab ility, and depression. A study in the American J ournal of Cardiology suggests that too much vigorous exercise also can increase the risk of heart prob lems.

Are you ex ercisin g too much? Experts say that if your workouts suddenly seem more div cult than usual and you aren’ t making progress, you may b e overexercising. O ther troub le signs include: • Insomnia • Aches or pain in muscles and/ or j oints • Fatigue • Feeling unmotivated and lacking energy • Increased susceptib ility to colds, sore throats, and other illnesses If you’ re experiencing any of these signs, see your doctor to fi nd out if something else is causing the prob lem.

J ust startin g an ex ercise p rog ram? Congratulations on taking an important step to improve your health. Here are a few tips to help your b ody adj ust to a new routine: • Create a reasonab le exercise program b ased on attainab le goals. • Exercise in moderation. • B egin slowly and b uild up gradually to avoid inj uries. • Cut b ack the volume and intensity of your workouts at the fi rst sign of inj ury. • L isten to your b ody. When it needs a rest, give it a rest. Sources: American College of Sports M edicine, American Heart Association

U P M C Spotlight

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

T hree thing

s you can do to p reven t f alls

Ex ercise! Exercises such as tai chi or other relaxation exercises that improve balanc e and coordination can help lower your chances of falling and make you feel stronger. S ee your doctor regula rly. Annual physical and eye examinations can uncover underlying medical prob lems that can lead to falls. See your doctor if you feel unstab le or diz z y, p ossibly d ue to medications. Tell your doctor if you fall; a medical evaluation can help. Mak e your home saf er. Seventy-fi ve percent of all falls occur at home. To help make your home fall-proof: • I mprove lighting. As you get older, you need b righter lights to see well. Us e night lights in your b edroom, hall, and bat hroom. • R emove small throw rugs. Tack down all carpets and area rugs so they are fi rmly fastened to the fl oor. • R emove things you can trip over. Clear bo oks, clothes, and shoes from stairs and places you walk. K eep cords and wires near walls. • Us e handrails. Install grab bar s near toilets, and bot h inside and outside your tub and shower. Always use the handrail when using the stairs. • St ore items w ithin easy reach. Don’t store things too high or too low. Avoid using stepladders or step stools. Mos t of all, think bef ore you reach. • W ear shoes w ith non- sk id, non- friction soles. Avoid going b arefoot or wearing only socks or loose-fi tting slippers.

L eading the W ork in F alls P revention Dr. St ephanie Studenski received the 2 0 10 N ational Award for Falls P revention Research and will be honor ed as the grand champion at the third annual Celeb rating Senior Champions benefi t dinner and auction Thursday, N ov. 3, 2 0 1 1 . For more information about the event, sponsored b y U P MC Senior Services, the Aging Institute, and the Division of Geriatric Med icine of the Uni versity of P ittsb urgh, c all P eggy V anHorn, bene volent care advocate, at 4 12 -6 2 2 -9 2 3 9 .

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Choosing the Right Doctor for Y ou T aking the time to fin d “Dr . Rig ht” is one of the most important inv estments you can make. We’ve all heard about the importance of the doctor/ patient relationship, often described as the cornerstone of quality medical care. “In fact, the stronger that relationship, the better your chances of receiving the right care at the right time in the right way,” says Tami Minnier, vice president of UPMC’s Donald J . Wolff, J r. Center for Q uality Improvement and Innovation. “At UPMC, our goal is to help you develop a long-term partnership in which your doctor is your number one health care champion.” According to a po1o survey by the Robert Wood J ohnson Foundation, most of us are very satisfied with our physicians. It usually takes something major — like moving to a new area, changing medical insurance, or being diagnosed with a serious condition — to prompt us to look for a new doctor. “If you’re in the process of changing doctors, there are some exciting new options to consider,” says Ms. Minnier. “For example, UPMC’s x ealth Plan is working with a growing number of primary care physicians to implement patient-centered medical homes in their practices.” In this medical model, your family doctor becomes the hub for all your care by linking you to a collaborative team of medical professionals — from physician assistants to specialists.

Medical homes are designed to ensure that you receive appropriate and comprehensive care over your entire lifetime, including preventive health care, treatment for acute or chronic illness, and assistance with end-of-life care. Studies show that medical homes are resulting in improved care, access, and communication between patients and their “medical team” — as well as improved quality, safety, and cost of care.

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

D etermin e what’ s imp ortan t to you “Finding the ‘ right’ doctor often involves personal preferences apart from a physician’s skills or qualifications,” says Ms. Minnier. “For example, are you more comfortable with a doctor of your gender? Is a primary care physician right for you, or do you have a medical condition that requires treatment by a specialist? And if easy access is a concern, do you need a doctor located close to your home or workplace? ”

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

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

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

V erif y your doctor’ s in suran ce p lan s an d hosp ital a" liation s “Most practices accept a variety of insurance plans, but be sure yours is among them,” advises Ms. Minnier. “And should you ever require hospitaliz ation or special tests, it’s important that your doctor be affiliated with a hospital you know and trust.”

C all f or an ap p oin tmen t “Bring a written set of questions covering your concerns and expectations. When your visit is over, evaluate the experience,” suggests Ms. Minnier. “Was it easy to get an appointment? Were you treated with respect by both the doctor and the staff? If your answers are positive, you’re on the right path to a doctor/ patient relationship characteriz ed by quality care, compassion, and open communication.” F or more information, or to schedule an appointment w ith a U P M C - a! liated physician, visit w w w .U P M C .com/ F indAD octor, or call 1 - 8 0 0 - 5 3 3 - U P M C ( 8 7 6 2 ) .

F it F eet: Summer Foot Care Tips Think twice before kicking off your shoes this summer. Baring your tootsies is the biggest mistake people make, leaving you at risk for puncture wounds, sunburn, and infection — especially dangerous for diabetics who lack normal protective sensation. Alex Kline, MD, orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC St. Margaret, offers these tips for healthy summer feet: D on’ t go b arefoot. It leaves feet vulnerable to cuts, scrapes, bruises, puncture wounds, skin issues, and nail injuries. “Flip-flops are better than nothing but they provide no support, which can lead to ankle sprains, tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis,” says Dr. Kline. Wear water shoes when you are at the beach or lake.

D on’ t forget the sunscreen. Feet can get sunburned just like the rest of your body. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Reapply frequently if you’re at the beach, in and out of the water, or sweating. Change yo ur sock s — and shoes. Feet sweat more during the summer, which makes you more prone to athlete’s foot, fungal infections, and smelly feet. Avoid moisture accumulation by changing into clean, dry socks several times a day. Change your shoes, too. W ear shoes with good support. It’s great to be active, but avoid injury by wearing the right shoe with good support. “If you’re a runner, avid walker, play tennis or another sport, be sure to choose an athletic shoe that fits your activity,” advises Dr. Kline.

B eware of lock er rooms, pub lic showers, and swimming pools. Public places are a common source of fungi and bacteria that can lead to foot infections. Always wear sandals or water shoes.

W hat’ s H ap p en in g at U P M C St. M argaret Classes

Events

C O PD Education an d S up p ort 4 12 -7 84 -5 7 6 4

Alive & W ell Presen tation s UP MC St. Mar garet physicians and health professionals speak on a variety of health-related topics at community lib raries. For upcoming dates, locations, and topics, vi sit www.UP MCSt Mar garet. com.

Ins ulin Pump C lass 1-8634 -5 2 2 7 L ook Go od, F eel B etter 1-802 2 7 -2 34 5 Mana gin 1-86-

g Y our D iab etes 34 -5 2 2 7

Support Groups Alz heimer’ s S up p ort Gr oup 4 12 -7 84 -5 054 B ariatric S up p ort Gr oup 4 21 -7 84 -5 09

Amp utee W alk in g S chool Free, one- day clinic to help individuals with leg amputations improve performance. S ponsored by the U P MC R ehabilitation Institute For upcoming dates, vi sit www.UP MCSt Mar garet. com.

Dia b etes S up p ort Gr oup 4 12 -7 84 -4 19 4

F or m or e inf or m atio n abo ut or c all Com m unit y R elations

B ariatric I n f ormation S ession s M ondays, J une 6 and 2 0; J uly 1 1 and 1 8 6 to 8 p.m . U P MC S t. Margaret C onference R ooms A, B , and C

For more information or to register, call 4 1 2 -7 8 4 -4 0 7 7 .

For more information or to register, call 4 1 2 -7 8 4 -5 90 0 .

S mok in g C essation Prog ram Eight-week program for those who are serious ab out q uitting. U P MC S t. Margaret C onference C enter

U PMC S t. Marg aret B lood D rive Thursday, J uly 2 1 7 a.m . to 3 p.m . U P MC S t. Margaret D ining R ooms A and B

V olun teer O p p ortun ities For information ab out volunteer opportunities at UP M C St. M argaret, call V olunteer Services at 4 1 2 -7 8 4 -4 0 8 1 .

For more information or to register, call 4 1 2 -7 8 4 -504 3 .

an y of t hes e clas s es or s pou r at 412-784-5160, or go t o w

t gr oups , c all the umn erb ni di c at ed, . UPMCS tM ar gar et. c om .

1-80-53

-UP

U PMC S t. Marg aret 8 51 F reeport Road P ittsbur gh, P A 15 2 15

UPMC Today is publi shed quar terly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events availab le at U P M C. This pub lication is for informational purposes only and should not b e taken as medical advice or replace a physician’ s medical assessment. Alw ays consult fi rst with your physician about anything related to your personal health. To receive additional copies of this publi cation, call 4 1 2 -7 84

-5 1 60

Follow U P M C on Faceb ook.

Even the smallest discovery is important. Doctors rely on quality images to make accurate diagnoses and treatment decisions for their patients. UPMC is a leader in creating and adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance medical imaging and improve patient care. In fact, some of the most innovative advances in the field of radiology have happened in our hospitals, such as the invention of PET/CT a combined technology that can help to detect cancer in its earliest stages. And our state-of-the-art computer system allows imaging scans to be quickly accessed and viewed by physicians across our network  with just the click of a mouse. Our advanced technology and expert radiologists can make a real difference in your care. Whether you need an x-ray or advanced radiology testing, trust UPMC Imaging Services at St. Margaret. To schedule an appointment, call 1-866-331-9800, or for more information, visit www.UPMC.com/Imaging.

Ongoing Opportunities @ Oblock

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 SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

Accolades for AEO Academic Achievers Three hundred and fifty A.E. Oblock students were recognized for academic excellence at the Academic Awards Night and Honors Breakfasts in May. At the Academic Awards Night on May 25, 83 seventh graders and 42 eighth graders were honored for achieving a 4.0 GPA; also on this night, 12 students received special awards for elective areas and the prestigious American Legion Awards were presented to the 8th grade girl and 8th grade boy who best exemplify the qualities of leadership and citizenship. The faculty greeting was delivered by retiring math teacher Ed Grachen, and musical entertainment during the dessert social was provided by the AEO Strings Group, under the direction of Mr. Robert Kalanja. High school senior Sara Townsend delivered the alumni address. Members of the 8th Grade Select Chorus, directed by Ms. Jen Little, also provided entertainment. At the Honors Breakfasts, 110 seventh graders and 115 eighth graders were recognized for achieving grade point averages between 3.4 and 3.9. Under the direction of guidance counselors Nicole Kociela and Joe Miller, both events were planned and orchestrated by more than 28 teacher volunteers. These events recognize and honor Oblock students who have worked all year to achieve academic success. The theme of the events was “Education is not preparation for life; Education is life itself.” - John Dewey

Challenge-24 GATE Competition Eighth grader Nathan Turchick recently participated with the GATE program in the Challenge-24 competition at Jefferson Municipal under the direction of Teresa Yosi, junior high math teacher, and Karen Ramsey, Adlai elementary teacher. Challenge-24 is a competition where students string a series of four numbers together using any of the four basic mathematical operations to make the number 24. The problems range from easy to medium to hard and the fastest individual wins the card. Nathan finished 5th place out of 20 students in the grades 7-8 bracket. Congratulations, Nathan!

7th and 8th Grade Select Choirs The new additions to the choral program at A.E. Oblock Junior High have been very busy and successful this year. The 7th and 8th Grade Select Choirs, under the direction of Ms. Jenifer Little, practice both in class and after school. According to Ms. Little, the new groups are honors programs for students who show talent and an interest in singing. In addition to performing in their seasonal concerts, the 8th grade group has also performed at Adlai Elementary School, during Activity Period for AEO friends, and at the 6th grade orientation. The 7th grade group has also performed at the December concert and during Activity Period, and is also busy rehearsing for the final May 19 Concert which will feature the 7th and 8th grade choruses in addition to the select choirs. The select groups perform in the style of Glee and are choreographed by Plum High School senior, Alexandra Zegar. According to Ms. Little, “The group has exceeded my expectations. Their dedication and willingness to perform with choreography is remarkable!” Members of the 8th grade select choir are Rachael Adamski, Brian Albert, Laura Allston, Samantha Brown, Jordan Cioppa, Kyra Crawford, Brianne DeGore, Nicholas Figurelli, William Fuhrer, Kathryn Hagood, Grant Imbarlina, Matthew Innes, Deanna Liberatore, Emily Matisko, Amanda Mayo, Allison Mazur, Camryn McCabe, Jack Murray, Samantha Nieser, Anthony Pavia, Claudia Peterman, Morgan Predmore, Andrew Reynolds, Anna Ridley, Rebecca Rieger, Maura Rusch, Rachel Satira, Nicholas Satovich, Abigail Sebunia, Logan Smith, Jordan Thomas, and Kiersten Torma. Seventh grade chorus members include James Alverson, Kayla Anderson, Deana Bellante, Adriana Bernatskaya, Ryan Binkley, Melissa Braun, Emma Burgman, Angela Campbell, Nicolette Casarcia, Madison Cheripka, Ryan Connelly, Ashley Counmahan, Alexandra Coyle, Lisa Divittorio, Ramsy Donatelli, Madison Gestrich, Candace Graham, Bryanna Holby, Amanda Kiefer, Rebecca Lee, Natalie Marco, Madison Mercurio, Alexander Pogue, John Shipley, Michael Simboli, Daniel Smih, Haley Stefancis, Jacob Susalla, Alexander Tejchman, Rachel Valotta, and Taylor Williams.

GATE Art C ompetition

A.E. Oblock Ju nior High GAT E students rece the 2011 Art Ex ntly competed po held at Gat in eway Middle grader Victor School. Sevent ia Michaels w h on second plac for her individu e in the compe al artwork. Th titio e Art Expo, w “Pop Art,” co hich had a them n nsisted of an e of individual art dents brough competition w t personal artw here stuork they crea theme, an artw ted based on ork created on the site as a team of pop artwor , and identific k. Based on a ation co mbination of po three activities ints from the , awards were given in two ca and as a team tegories: indivi in both the high dual school and m groups. Seven iddle school ag school distric e ts competed in high school ca middle school tegories, totalin and g 60 students year for this ar . This was the t competition, third and the third peted. AEO’s year Oblock ha team, sponso s comred by art teac Durick, includ her Mrs. Aman ed Thomas Bla da skovich, Victor Monstrola, Em ia Michaels, ily Oehling, an Tori d Rachel Wes the team for th t. Congratulatio eir outstandin ns to g performance !

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

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 SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

READING Hall of Fame There was cause for celebration in the library on April 22 when 8th grader Heather Stemmerich broke last year’s record by becoming the 206th member of the Reading Hall of Fame. Ironically, Heather was also the 206th member last year, reaching the Hall of Fame on the last day of school! By the end of April, nearly 220 students, almost 35% of the student body, have made it into the Reading Hall of Fame this year with another 136 at the All Star level trying to reach the top. An additional 212 students are in the Varsity level and 64 in the JV Readers levels. Students have until the end of the school year to become Hall of Fame members. In order to earn the 126 points required for entrance into the prestigious Hall of Fame, students must read and pass Accelerated Reader tests on an average of 25-30 junior high level books. Students earning 10-25 points are JV readers, those who earn 26-75 are Varsity Readers, and 76125 points earns a student a spot as an All-Star Reader. Another milestone in reading was reached in April when 34 students made it into the 300-Point Club; last year only five students had earned 300 points by the end of the year! New members for April include Nicholas Carlisano, Kelsey Evans, Allyson Donnelly, Natalie Marco, Daniel Allman, Candace Graham, Nickolas Palmer, Jessica Lloyd, and Stevanakelly Dolence. Seventh grader Noah Coulson has achieved the most points of all students with 1418.6; an additional three students made it into the 500-Point Club in April: Ericson Litzinger, Kim Schwartz, and Nicholas Comer.

Plum Senior Awarded One of Two State-wide Scholarships for Future Educators or the second year in a row, a member of Plum High School’s Future Educators Association won one of the state-wide Lucy Valero Memorial Scholarship. Alyssa Pazman won this award this year, given to two seniors across Pennsylvania who are active in FEA and plan to major in education in college. Alyssa is Plum’s FEA president, and will be studying early childhood education with a minor in math next year at Slippery Rock University. Last year, Sara McCarthy won the award, and is currently studying at Pitt. Later this month, Plum’s FEA organization will be awarding its local scholarships to two of its active seniors. Also, members of the high school FEA program, and other students interested in pursuing careers in education, took part in a presentation by Student-PSEA members as part of their “Outreach to Teach” program on Friday, April 8. The presentation was very informational and valuable.

on i t i et p m Safe Driving Co hirty students

from eleven area high schools recently participated in a safe driving workshop at the Pittsburgh Technical Institute in North Fayette. The “Safe Driving Competition, sponsored by various police departments and state and county agencies, has up to three students from each school compete on written, perceptual and driving exams. Plum High School student Brandon Dargay took 3rd place in the competition and will be awarded a $250 scholarship. He may also qualify to go on to Camp Hill for a $9,000 scholarship.

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Plum

Cyber School at Plum Borough School District Plum High Students Perfect Personal Finances he National Financial Capability Challenge is an awards program designed to increase the financial knowledge and capability of high school aged youth across the United States so they can take control over their financial futures. It challenges high school teachers and other educators to teach the basics of personal finance to their students, and rewards students, educators, schools, and states for their participation and their success. Educators and top-scoring students will receive award certificates, and schools and states with the highest participation rates will earn special distinction. The following Plum Senior High students scored in the top 20 percent of students nationwide:

Caleb Anderson Steven Burks Cassandra Cerchiaro Matthew Collins Katie Crystaloski Corey Deloach Matt Dombrowski Raymond Duerr Greg End Adam Hand Joseph Hayward Cliff Kennedy Abby Kidd Christoffer Krieg Joshua Loebig

Anna Mazur Caitlyn McDade Robert McKnight Robert Meyers Sean Osborn Kevin Parkins Rachel Pattock Sean Rhoades (perfect score) Thomas Rudzinski Eric Theiss Michael Tuite Andrew Walters Ricky Wittman Aaron Woods Anthony Zummo

everal years ago, Plum Borough School District administrators determined that certain students within the district needed an alternative to our traditional classroom education system Administrators used this as an opportunity to create an online cyber school that would be a viable alternative to a traditional classroom as well as help the district compete with cyber charter schools. As a school district on the cutting edge of instructional technology, Plum Borough School District has worked diligently to develop the Plum Borough Virtual Learning Academy. Plum Borough teachers have contributed their expertise and commitment to the program to ensure each Virtual Learning Academy student is studying the same engaging and challenging curriculum as traditional classroom students. Course offerings include everything from standard subjects and foreign languages to electives, such as Computer Applications, Marketing, and College Writing. The Plum Borough Cyber School Coordinator supplies each Virtual Learning Academy student with a complete cyber school package that includes a laptop computer, printer/scanner, software, textbooks, workbooks, and other necessary materials. Each student also receives an in-depth orientation so they can begin their online studies as quickly and easily as possible. Every day, over thirty Plum Borough students login to their Virtual Learning Academy homeroom to receive daily instructions and learning goals from their virtual homeroom teachers. During this time, the homeroom teachers confirm that each student is staying on track with his or her coursework and recommends targeted instructions to each student in order to help then ensure maximum success. Throughout the day, Plum Borough Virtual Learning Academy students also attend online classes taught by highly qualified Pennsylvania certified teachers for each subject area. While in class, these students receive oneon-one instruction and help with coursework. Students also have live tutors available from 2 p.m. to 1 a.m. every day. After their full school day, Virtual Learning Academy students are encouraged to participate in Plum Boroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive extracurricular activity offerings. As a result, students are able to maintain a flexible schedule while still remaining a part of the school community. Plum Borough School District looks forward to continued achievement in the 2011-2012 school year!

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

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 SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

❊



Sunny and Mild with a Chance of Snow in Holiday Park?!?

n order to prepare our students as they grow up in the digital age, Plum elementary teachers continue to incorporate more technology into the classroom. As part of the weather unit in the second grade science curriculum, Mrs. Karkowsky’s second grade students from Holiday Park Elementary School created a chroma-key weather broadcast video. Students were required to select and conduct research on a weather topic. Next they had to write and practice speaking a script about their topic. Using the same concepts used by television stations when presenting the weather, students were then recorded in front of a blank green screen. Because the students were recorded in front of a green screen, they were able to use Windows Movie Maker to import the video clips that correlated to their topic from Discovery Education into the broadcast video. Individual clips were compiled to complete the 12 minute broadcast. Students gained valuable knowledge about the weather and green/blue screening by engaging the use of technology. It is our expectation that we will see continued improvement and success in student achievement through the use of technology in the classroom.

Nicole Allison in front of Installation

Marissa Homer & Nick Moorehead

Alena Surace

Preschool artist, Jacob Stewart

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Plum

       

Mrs. Pieper and Students

     

On Thursday, May 5, Plum High School students celebrated their creations with all concert bands performing on stage in the auditorium, photography students lined the art hall with mounted photos, technology education students had a corner power point presentation, family & consumer sciences students displayed their authentic looking fake food and healthy foods posters, and art students unveiled their works throughout the art wing. Even the preschoolers, showed hands-down how creative the students of Plum are. One corner of Mrs. Pieper’s art room was transformed into an island retreat.

Art Show Wall of Photos

Mrs. Piepers room

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

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Plum

Plum Prom was held Friday, May 13 at the Omni William Penn in Downtown Pittsburgh. The theme was â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Night To Remember.â&#x20AC;?

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

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 SCHOOL DISTRICT

...Leading The Way

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Plum

Plum Senior High School Commencement Class of 2011 Wednesday, June 8, 2011, 7 p.m. Class Officers of 2011 Kevin Schaefer, President Jeanette Schollaert, Vice-President Nicole Allison, Secretary

 of  Post Graduate Adamski, Ben Allison, Nicole Alva, Salma Amorose, Jenifer

CCAC Boyce Campus Washington & Jefferson College CCAC Boyce Campus University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Anderson, Alicai University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Anderson, Kelci Employment Bachorski, Andrea University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Bailey, Joseph Slippery Rock University Bailey, Marisa CCAC Boyce Campus Bailey, Natalee Ohio University Baker, Ian United States Air Force Baker, Ryan Penn State University, New Kensington Balistreri, Michael CCAC Boyce Campus Barbour, Lindsey Penn State University, Main Basa, Shastitej Temple University Baumann, Christopher Employment Beasley, Brittany University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Beatty, Hope Robert Morris University Becker, Gerogia Penn State University, New Kensington Bell, Amanda Forbes Road CTC Bergamasco, Chelsea Indiana University of PA Bernazzoli, Conor CCAC Boyce Campus Betts, Jay-cee CCAC Boyce Campus Bisceglia, Ciara California University of PA Bittinger, Brian CCAC Boyce Campus Blauch, Rebecca Penn State University, Behrend Bonura, Michael CCAC Boyce Campus Boozer, Jeremy Youngstown State University Bowman, Joy CCAC Boyce Campus Boyer, Karen CCAC Boyce Campus Brenner, Courtney CCAC Boyce Campus Brown, Michael Anthony CCAC Boyce Campus Brozek, Nicholas Employment Burkhouse, Brittany University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Burks, Steven CCAC Boyce Campus Burnett, Nikki University of Pittsburgh, Main Butler, Madison Penn State University, Main Calligan, Cheryl CCAC Boyce Campus Campeau, Alexandra Clarion University Caroccia, Chelsey WCCC Caroccia, Michael WCCC Carter, Anthony CCAC Boyce Campus Cenci, Cody Robert Morris University Cerra, Amber Kent State University Cessna, Blake CCAC Boyce Campus Chianese, Nicole Slippery Rock University Chobanian, Alexis CCAC Boyce Campus Chorba, Daniel Triangle Tech Churchel, Tyler CCAC Boyce Campus Cicolini, Nicholas CCAC Boyce Campus Collins, Alyssa University of Pittsburgh, Main Conte, Amanda Chatham University Cooper, Ashley Undecided

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Coreno, Pasqualina Corneils, Dana Covol, Aubri Creighan, Jonathan Creighan, Justin Crowe, Jessica Damratoski, Lianna Dargay, Brandon Darrall, Emily Daugherty, Melissa

Dawson, Matthew Deemer, Lindsay Deffenbaugh, Jordan Della Sala, Angela DeLuca, Perry Dern, Shannon Desiderato, Alexandra DiDiano, Frank Dilonardo, Anthony Domke, Casslyn Dorazio, Brittany Dowdell, Allison Dubaich, Marissa Duerr, Raymond Duli, Christopher Eazor, Haley Edge, Daryl Elsasser, Chelsea End, Gregory Ervig, Dustin Essick, Regis Fabyanic, Tori Faigen, Rayna Ferguson, Taylor Ferragonio, Anna Ferragonio, Louis Finke, Jessica Fontana, Mason Fox, Shannon Franklin, Tyler Fuher, Andrew Fultz, Alaina Gaffur, Justin Galanis, Tyler Garrity, Ryan Geibel, Nicole Geist, Kayla Gerasimou, George Getsy, Chelsea Ging, Sean Graham, Danielle Greico, Marissa Griffin, India Griffiths, Samuel Hadisapoetro, Melati

CCAC Boyce Campus Point Park University Robert Morris University Penn State University, New Kensington Virginia Tech Forbes Road CTC West Penn Hospital School of Nursing University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown CCAC Boyce Campus Penn State University, New Kensington CCAC Boyce Campus Marietta College LaRoche College Clarion University CCAC Boyce Campus Duquesne University CCAC Boyce Campus West Virginia University University of Pennsylvania CCAC Boyce Campus Point Park University Indiana University of PA Robert Morris University Finger Lakes Community College CCAC Boyce Campus CCAC Boyce Campus CCAC Boyce Campus St. Francis University Penn State University, Main Art Institute of Pittsburgh Art Institute of Pittsburgh Point Park University Mission Community College Clarion University California University of PA Carnegie Mellon University LaRoche College St. Margarets School of Nursing Undecided Employment University of Pittsburgh, Main Robert Morris University University of Pittsburgh, Main Slippery Rock University Undecided Sanford-Brown Institute Vet Tech Institute Undecided California University of PA Penn State University, Main University of Pittsburgh, Main University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Undecided Slippery Rock University Duquesne University

Hagood, Alexander Haines, Christopher Hanus, Benjamin Harbison, Megan Harold, Megan Hauze, Matthew Hayward, Joseph Hemmerle, Sarah Hill, Adam Hixson, Thomas Hoener, Melissa Hohman, Zachary Hollinger, Bradley Howard, Reginald Hoy, Trevor Hursen, Erika Hydock, Kira Illar, Molly Jack, Kaitlin Jacob, James James, Lauren Jaroudi, Judith Jobes, Kimm Joergensen, Mette Johnston, Rachel Jolly, Sarah Kaczor, Amanda Kaufman, Athena Keller, James Kichty, William Kidd, Abby Kienzl, Steven Kisic, Everett Klasterka, Katelyn Knight, Ronald Koshinsky, Jordan Kosnik, Zala Kotvas, Ava

Kozak, Ryan Krancic, Patrick Krantz, Anthony Krause, Adam Kruszka, Kenneth Kuhn, Brittany Kumar, Vandana Kunert, Ashley Laboon, Margo LaCava, Julian Lacey, Kaitlyn Lackey, Kathleen Lalchan, Melina Lamorte, Samantha Laufer, Evan Lecocq, Rebekah Lees, Jonathan Leflore, John

Indiana University of PA CCAC Boyce Campus Junior A Hockey Clarion University CCAC Boyce Campus Slippery Rock University CCAC Boyce Campus Penn State University, Main Indiana University of PA Penn State University, Altoona Indiana University of PA Employment Wyotech Edinboro University CCAC Boyce Campus Allegheny College Penn State University, Main Undecided Robert Morris University California University of PA Undecided CCAC Boyce Campus CCAC Boyce Campus Foreign Exchange Penn State University, Main Penn State University, Main Undecided Allegheny College CCAC Boyce Campus West Virginia University University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg Penn State University, New Kensington CCAC Boyce Campus University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Employment CCAC Boyce Campus Foreign Exchange Case Western Reserve University Norwich University CCAC Boyce Campus Undecided CCAC Boyce Campus Indiana University of PA California University of PA Purdue University Indiana University of PA California University of PA CCAC Boyce Campus Chatham University CCAC Boyce Campus Brigham Young University CCAC Boyce Campus CCAC Boyce Campus Southeastern University University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Employment

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

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SCHOOL DISTRICT

 of  Post Graduate

...Leading The Way

Lennex, Beth Lentz, Nicole Leonzio, Nicholas Lester, Stephen Leszczynski, John Lettrich, Alexandra Lichty, Danielle Johnstown Lloyd, Ashley LoAlbo, Joshua Loebig, Joshua Lott, Kassandra Lubatti, Michael Lubatti, Niko Luft, Beth Maddy, Marissa Mains, Nichole Malik, Nelma Malik, Zanub Manning, Anthony Marco, Nicholas Marcus, Nicole Marshall, Allison Marshall, David Martin, Adrian Martin, Dylan Maseth, Alexander Massaro, Timothy Matthews, Jared Mazzenga, Anthony McAndrew, Devin McBride, McKenzie McCallum, Tyler McCarrick, Karley McDade, Maria McDonald, William McGuire, Mallory McKinney, Ryan McKinzie, Lauren McKnight, Robert Meade, Bruan Menzies, Andrew Messenger, Kurt Metzgar, Kelsie Michael A. Brown Miller, Derek Miller, Jessica Milne, Aaron Mock, Alex Mock, Keith Molitierno, Vincent Montgomery, Amanda Myers, Cory Navari, Amanda Neace, Amanda Novak, Shelby Novotny, Michael

CCAC Boyce Campus Clarion University Robert Morris University Penn State University, Behrend Slippery Rock University Florida Institute of Technology University of Pittsburgh, Slippery Rock University Penn State University, Altoona University of Pittsburgh, Main CCAC Boyce Campus CCAC Boyce Campus Job Core Penn State University, Altoona CCAC Boyce Campus University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Drexel University Duquesne University Seton Hill University University of Pittsburgh, Honors College West Virginia University University of Northern Colorado Indiana University of PA CCAC Boyce Campus Gannon University United States Air Force Employment Grove City College Penn State University, Behrend University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Undecided University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown CCAC Boyce Campus Employment CCAC Boyce Campus Point Park University Clarion University Bella Capelli Beauty Academy Grove City College CCAC Boyce Campus University of Pittsburgh, Main CCAC Boyce Campus Point Park University Employment CCAC Boyce Campus Clarion University CCAC Boyce Campus University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Pittsburgh Technical Institute Forbes Road CTC Bethany College Point Park University Washington & Jefferson College LaRoche College University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown

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Plum

O'Block, William Odom, Bobby

Indiana University of PA Penn State University, New Kensington Ofstun, Adam University of Pittsburgh, Main Ohinata, Erika Foreign Exchange Oliveri, Shelby Undecided O'Malley, Evan California University of PA Orbin, David Duquesne University Palmieri, Joseph Penn State University, Main Pastucha, Jason CCAC Boyce Campus Pastucha, Justin CCAC Boyce Campus Pataky, Adam Penn State University, Altoona Pattock, Rachel Kentucky Horseshoeing School Paul, Ian University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Pavia, Vincent CCAC Boyce Campus Payne, Katelyn CCAC Boyce Campus Pazman, Alyssa Slippery Rock University Pekny, Julianne Penn State University, Schreyer Honors College Pepper, Alyssa CCAC Boyce Campus Pivik, Alysa Washington & Jefferson College Plance, Megan Indiana University of PA Platt, Wesley CCAC Boyce Campus Podvasnik, Cory Wheeling Jesuit University Polishen, Derek Penn State University Polliard, Andrew CCAC Boyce Campus Poprocky, Rachel Carlow University Porter, Jesse CCAC Boyce Campus Priatko, Emily CCAC Boyce Campus Pronio, Angelian Penn State University, Main Puskar, Eli Penn State University, Main Rebel, Kristin CCAC Boyce Campus Reed, Kevin Penn State University, Altoona Reynolds, Alex CCAC Boyce Campus Rhoades, Sean University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg Roberts, Yurie Employment Rochez, Christopher Employment Rosko, Katherine Pennsylvania State University Rozewicz, Megan United States Air Force Ruan, Lunaris Carnegie Mellon University Rubash, Joshua CCAC Boyce Campus Ruggieri, Sara California University of PA Russo, Antonette Indiana University of PA Sablofski, Erica Robert Morris University Sakolsky, Cory California University of PA Sankey, Colton Penn State University, Behrend Sarkozi, Benjamin CCAC Boyce Campus Schaefer, Kevin Carnegie Mellon University Schmeck, Emily Indiana University of PA Schmitt, Joshua ITT Tech Schollaert, Jeannette Chatham University Sciullo, Maddie CCAC Boyce Campus Seanor, Christina Indiana University of PA Sekerka, Robert Waynesburg University Serakowski, Zachary Triangle Tech Serrao, Kristen Indiana University of PA Shafer, Zach CCAC Boyce Campus Sheldon, Drew University of Pittsburgh, Main Siciliano, Victoria Sanford-Brown Institute



Siefers, Sean Smail, Sean Smith, Cody

Universal Technical Institute CCAC Boyce Campus University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Stankiewicz, Nicholas CCAC Boyce Campus Stanziana, Courtney Employment CCAC Boyce Campus Stape, Caleb Starr, David Westminster College Stasko, Dana Slippery Rock University Stawski, Sarah CCAC Boyce Campus Stone, Pierce Universal Technical Institute Stover, Edward University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Stuecklen, Gigi CCAC Boyce Campus Sula, Jessica Indiana University of PA Sundin, Travis Undecided Sundo, Kacie CCAC Boyce Campus Suprano, Christian University of Mount Union Susalla, Steve CCAC Boyce Campus Sweeny, Elizabeth University of Missouri Tabin, Sarah Slippery Rock University Tavella, Maria University of Pittsburgh, Main Taylor, Erika CCAC Boyce Campus Terrell, Jarred Indiana University of PA Thomas, Kevin Employment Thompson, Bobbie Jo Penn State University, New Kensington Tobias, Lacie Augusta State University Tomasits, Dana Carlow University, School of Nursing Tommarello, Joseph Robert Morris University Townsend, Sara Allegheny College Toy, Austin Employment Trenz, Megan Baylor University Tumminello, Beverly WCCC Tyler, Carole CCAC Boyce Campus Udanis, Jacob Allegheny College Vensel, Jennifer Employment Ventrice, Swhannon CCAC Boyce Campus Vesely, Brandon Penn State University, Main Walkup, Marissa Carlow University Walton, Travis University of Pittsburgh, Johnstown Weale, Brianna Robert Morris University Ohio University Weaver, Max Weifenbaugh, Mark Duquesne University Weis, William Employment Weitzman, Daniel University of Pittsburgh, Main Wellington, Demetrius CCAC Boyce Campus Westerlund, Rachel St. Vincent College Whanger, Justine CCAC Boyce Campus White, Leah Indiana University of PA Wilshire, Adrianna Concordia University, Chicago Wright, Laney WCCC Wrigt, Janie Indiana University of PA Yankovitch, Michelle Empire Beauty School Yocca, Cody Undecided Yushinski, Gerald CCAC Boyce Campus Zacher, Thomas University of Pittsburgh, Main Zanotelli, Michaela CCAC Boyce Campus Zebert, Taylor CCAC Boyce Campus Zegar, Alexandra Point Park University Zerjav, Alena Clarion University Zgibor, Jennifer University of Pittsburgh, Main



Building the Future by Restoring a Community N o o n e can q uestio n the allure o f O ak m o n t – p ed estrian cf rien d ly streets, sm all to w n charm , an d a b ustlin g b usin ess d istrict w here sho p o w n ers ro utin ely w av e to custo m ers as they w alk d o w n the street an d call them b y n am e. W hile there has alw ays b een a sm atterin g o f n ew d ev elo p m en t in O ak m o n t o v er the years, there hasn ’ t b een a p ro j ect o f the scale, q uality an d co m m itm en t to an o v erall g ran d v isio n un til n o w . I t’ s n o w o n d er that R ichard K acin , B ruce y o rn a, an d B rett M alk y, are b uild in g the area’ s n ew est n ew co m m un ity – E d g ew ater – w ithin to this q uain t riv er to w n . e K acin n am e has b een syn o n ym o us w ith q uality f o r d ecad es an d M alk y’ s rm has b een w o rk in g to b rin g the reg io n so m e o f the m o st ex citin g n ew co m m un ities f o r o v er 1 5 years. “ E d g ew ater w ill b e o n e o f n est n ew n eig hb o rho o d s in o ur reg io n , ” said K acin . “ I n the truest sen se, E d g ew ater w ill b e the b est that o ur reg io n has to o L er. L ess im p o rtan t than w hat’ s d iL eren t ab o ut E d g ew ater is w hat’ s the sam e: w e’ v e d ev elo p ed an architectural style f ro m O ak m o n t itself , w e’ v e ex ten d ed the street g rid f ro m the m un icip ality o v er in to E d g ew ater, b ut w e’ v e b ro ug ht a co m m itm en t to co n structio n q uality, p erf o rm an ce an d techn o lo g y that m ak es these ho m es an d this n eig hb o rho o d seco n d to n o n e. ” F o r M alk y, w ho g rew up in O ak m o n t, a d ev elo p m en t o f this calib er is a so urce o f p erso n al p rid e.

“ Y o u hav e a p lace that really is o n e o f the p rettiest to w n s in the co un try. ere’ s so m uch that’ s alread y rig ht ab o ut O ak m o n t, ” M alk y said . “ W hat E d g ew ater, in its sim p lest f o rm , in ten d s to d o is b e the b est n ew n eig hb o rho o d in O ak m o n t. ” e cen ter o f the p lan in v o lv es a histo ric lyn chp in o f the co m m un ity that w as a rem in d er o f a challen g ed p ast– the E d g ew ater Steel F acility, f o rm erly o n e o f the area’ s larg est em p lo yers. “ at p lace w as o p en ed , shut d o w n an d there w ere three o r f o ur attem p ts to try to sav e it, ” y o rn a said . “ N o w it’ s b ein g reb o rn an d rein teg rated in to the v ery f ab ric o f O ak m o n t. W e’ re n o t f o rcin g a n ew p ro j ect o n that site. W e’ re literally ex ten d in g O ak m o n t, o v erlayin g the g rid that alread y ex ists o v er that site, an d w e’ re ad d in g so m e thin g s that w e ho p e w ill m ak e O ak m o n t b etter. ” W hat the d ev elo p ers also are d o in g that w ill b en e t the en tire co m m un ity is p reserv in g the riv erf ro n t, rather than p riv atiz e it. “ at sho uld b e a p ub lic p ro p erty an d return ed to the co m m un ity as a p ub lic asset f o rev er, ” K acin said . “ So m e o f the m o st in terestin g resp o n ses w e’ v e g o tten are f ro m n eig hb o rs, w ho w ere elated w hen the p lan t cam e d o w n . ey said , ‘ W e’ v e liv ed here f o r i 0 years an d hav e n ev er seen sun lig ht f all o n o ur ho m e. ’ ” I n ad d itio n to the raz in g o f the f acto ry, the en tire site has b een g rad ed an d ro ad w ays, street lig hts an d street trees hav e b een in stalled f o r P hase O n e. e d ev elo p ers ex p ect p eo p le to b eg in m o v in g in to the h4 0 cho m e d ev elo p m en t in J uly.

P rices w ill ran g e f ro m the R h4 7 , 0 0 0 to R l 0 0 , 0 0 0 , an d in clud e T o w n H o m es, M an o r F lat y o n d o m in ium s, y o urtyard H o m es, y o ttag e H o m es, P aired y o ttag e H o m es, an d P ark H o m es. e list o f m an uf acturers co n trib utin g to the p ro j ect, all k n o w n f o r their q uality an d e cien cy, in clud e: An d ersen , y arrier, H earth T echn o lo g ies, J am es H ard ie, K o hler an d W hirlp o o l, to n am e a f ew . “ R esp o n se to o ur n ew co m m un ity has b een un b eliev ab le” , said J aso n y o rn a, head o f Sales at E d g ew ater. “ W e’ v e so ld h5 ho m es in P hase O n e in the f ew w eek s sin ce the g ran d o p en in g o f o ur I n f o rm atio n y en ter o n the site. ” W hat they n d w hen they tak e o w n ership o f their n ew ho m es at E d g ew ater w ill b e L E E D ccerti ed , g reen d esig n , trad itio n al n eig hb o rho o d s w ith architecturally an d aesthetically d iv erse d esig n s b ased o n ex istin g O ak m o n t ho m es. I t w ill b e a n eig hb o rho o d w here resid en ts can stro ll to the co rn er sto re f o r a q uart o f m ilk , w alk to a n earb y m o v ie theater, o r sp en d a laz y aK ern o o n at the p ark o r the riv er w alk . “ O ak m o n t is a p lace p eo p le alread y lo v e, b ut n ew ho usin g o n such a scale hasn ’ t ex isted in O ak m o n t f o r a lo n g , lo n g tim e, ” M alk y said . “ O ur ap p ro ach is authen tic architecture. P eo p le w ill say E d g ew ater lo o k s lik e it’ s b een there f o rev er an d that’ s w hat m ak es this n eig hb o rho o d d iL eren t. I t w ill seam lessly b len d w ith the p lace that’ s alread y there. ”

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

 Unparelleled

at Edgewater

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Every home in the United States is built to the minimum standards of a building code. That code addresses standards for safety, livability, and energy efficiency. The developer of Edgewater has developed its own home performance standards to ensure that every home within its communities achieves the highest level of quality in the region, making these homes measurably better than typical code-compliant homes. Rather than default to the minimum industry standards, Edgewater is committed to offering homeowners the opportunity to own a high performance home, using proven technologies and best practice construction techniques to deliver a better home. The home performance standards for Edgewater were created in partnership with IBACOS (Integrated Building and Construction Solutions), a leading national research and development firm for the housing industry, and a strategic partner with EQA Landmark Communities for more than 13 years. The Edgewater Home Performance Standards address the following criteria for construction quality and performance: 1. Energy – Improve the energy efficiency of the home to at least 30% better than energy code in order to reduce utility bills and ensure optimum occupant comfort. 2. Indoor Environmental Quality – Provide homeowners with better indoor air quality and a more comfortable living environment through the use of fresh air ventilation systems, high efficiency air filtration and less toxic building materials. 3. Building Durability – Build the home to last longer while minimizing the need for routine maintenance by using best practices in home construction to control the movement of water, moisture vapor and air through the home. 4. Materials & Resources – Reduce the environmental impact of the home by using sustainable building materials and efficient construction techniques. By building homes to these quality standards, Edgewater is offering homeowners the benefits of improved comfort, healthier living environments, and the peace of mind of knowing that their new home at Edgewater is the best home in the region. In addition, every home is built to an architectural standard and guideline at Edgewater overseen by the founding architect and town architect, Brad Shapiro with Shapiro & Company Architects, Inc. Brad assures that every home in Edgewater beautifully integrates with the surrounding homes to enhance the unique sense of place established by Edgewater’s pedestrian-friendly master plan, community amenities, and neighborhood streetscape with sidewalks, street trees, street lights and generous front porches. And finally, a fundamental part of assuring the highest quality homes is partnering with industry leaders to assure that the best products are used in the construction of homes at Edgewater. Every home at Edgewater will have a high efficient, custom designed window from Andersen Windows. All exterior cladding materials will be long-lasting, durable products such as the factory finished James Hardie fiber cement siding with Colorplus Technology, natural stone or Cultured Stone®, or quality brick materials. And in addition to 10 foot ceiling as standard in every home at Edgewater, all homes will benefit from two of the best product manufacturers in the industry who will be providing the appliances and plumbing fixtures for every home, namely Whirlpool Corporation and Kohler.

Vision

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COTTAGES

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Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

Building the Future by Restoring a Community

F iv e D ecad es o f E x cellen ce G o I n to E v ery H o m eW e B uild

KACIN Comp anies

DEVELOPERS/CONSTRUCTORS

Sinc e the early 19l0s, A. R ichard K acin has b een de v elo p in g up scale reside n tial p ro p erties in the P ittsbu rg h reg io n . K Ay I N has bu ilt and is de v elo p in g mo re than 1, 50 ho mes and co ndo m in ium co m p lex es in W estmo reland and Alleg hen y you n ties, incl ud in g : • Mu r r ys vi l l e c F air O ak s M ano r, Alliso n F arm s, L inde n w o o d • Pi t t s b u rg h ( Sq uirrel H ill) c Sum me rset at F rick P ark • Gr e e n s b u rg c Sou th M eado w V illas • Pi n e Tow n s hi p c P ine Ri d g e M ano r • Ed g e w a t e r c H isto ric O ak mo n t

At K Ay I N , w e’ v e alw ays b een de d icated to ou r clien ts, and to m ain tain in g the hig hest ethical stand ards in the ho mebu ild in g ind ustry. is co m m itme n t to clien t lo yalty and p rof essio n al in teg rity is ex em p li ed b y Ri chard Ka cin and B ruce yo rn a, v ice p reside n t of K acin yo m p an ies, each serv ed term s as p resid en t of the B uilde rs Asso ciatio n of M etro p o litan P ittsbu rg h, and of the H o mebu ilde rs Asso ciatio n of W estmo reland y ou n ty. Ri chard and B ruce rem ain activ e in thos e o rg an iza tio n s and serv e o n the b o ards of m an y co m m un ity g rou p s throu g hou t W estmo reland you n ty. E d g ew ater O c e 41hc 51c

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y all J aso n , o ur E d g ew ater sp ecialist at

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n t

4 1 h. 8 7 7 . 1 0 5 5

Plum | Summer 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

Robert Friedlander, MD, left, and Michael Horowitz, MD, discuss treatment options with a patient who has an unruptured aneurysm.

On the

ROAD By Mark Berton

Ashly Hunt

UPMC neurosurgery patient making strides after suffering a near fatal brain hemorrhage.

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When you think of someone who has suwered a stroke, common images arise: paralysis on one side of the b ody and div culty with speech and coordination. While stroke can occur at any age, most people associate strokes with older people. So if you’ re an athletic 2 4 -year-old with no history of b rain inj ury, on the b each at O cean City, M aryland during the Fourth of J uly holiday with stroke-like symptoms, denial is a natural response. And for Ashly Hunt, she denied her symptoms until the moment she was loaded into a helicopter. “ I rememb er thinking I wanted water. I am a huge runner. I ran b efore this and thought I was dehydrated, ” she said. “ It literally took the life-fl ight to b elieve that I wasn’ t dehydrated. When it’ s happening to you you’ re not thinking the worst. ” Within a matter of hours, what she thought was a simple headache evolved and rob b ed her of her sight and ab ility to speak. She also had troub le moving her arms and hands. Emergency responders decided to life-fl ight her to the nearest hospital in B altimore, where she was diagnosed with a b rain stem hemorrhage. B lood from the hemorrhage was pooling in an area that connects her b rain to her spinal cord, causing her to lose movement on her right side, and creating a maj or dilemma for the neurosurgeons b ecause they b elieved the site was too risky to treat with surgery. Soon after the diagnosis, Ashly entered a rehab ilitation program in her hometown of J ohnstown, P a. , to help her regain movement of the extremities that were awected b y the hemorrhage. However, after several weeks in rehab ilitation and slight improvements in her vision and speech, Ashly’ s overall condition b egan to worsen. Ashly still maintained her hearing, b ut what she heard going on around her, she didn’ t like. U ntil she met Rob ert Friedlander, M D, at U P M C.

“I’m pretty close to 100 percent now. My hand and foot are the last things I’m waiting for to come back. I’m writing again. It’s like a 3-year-old, but I am. I’m going to be 100 percent.” Ashly Hunt

From left to right, Brian J ankowitz, MD, Paul G ardner, MD, Daniel W echt, MD, and L . Dade L unsford, MD, discuss a complex neurov ascular case.

Dr. Friedlander was called after Ashly’ s family doctor consulted with a neurosurgeon at The J ohns Hopkins U niversity, who recommended that Dr. Friedlander manage this complex situation. Within four hours of the initial consultation, Ashly was in an amb ulance headed for P ittsb urgh where, she said, she met the doctor who made all the diwerence. “ I couldn’ t speak and had a hard time seeing, b ut my b rain was processing everything. All of the other doctors were talking ab ove me and not looking at me, not doing anything with me even though I understood them all, ” she said. “ U ntil I went to Dr. Friedlander and he worked with me through my condition to give him the answers he needed. He never came ow as pompous. He’ s the most caring person I’ ve dealt with to this day. ” Ashly’ s hemorrhage was caused b y an underlying condition called a cavernous malformation, which is an ab normal, b erry-like patch of b lood vessels located inside her b rain stem. B ecause the b rain stem is deeply situated within the b ase of the b rain and controls important functions such as movement, sensation, b reathing, and instructing the heart to b eat, surgery to remove the malformation was extremely risky. However, if left untreated, the malformed vessels could again b leed and result in additional critical neurologic damage or even death. Dr. Friedlander and the neurosurgeons at U P M C faced the challenging task of removing the malformation without causing further complications. U sing advanced b rain imaging technology known as High Defi nition Fib er Tracking, pioneered at the U niversity of P ittsb urgh, Dr. Friedlander was ab le to view the detailed wiring of Ashly’ s b rain fi b ers to determine the b est way to execute the surgery with as little damage to her b rain as possib le. In order to ob tain appropriate access to the b rain stem, Dr. Friedlander turned to Dr. B arry Hirsch, a skull b ase EN T surgeon at U P M C. U sing a special microscope and image guidance device, Dr. Friedlander approached the b rain stem and was ab le to completely remove the cavernous malformation.

After surgery, Ashly’ s vision and speech b egan to improve. She also could move her right hand, which had b een paralyz ed. She improved daily, making strides with her b alance, speech, movements, and other functions, and credits her improvement to her strict discipline in following her doctors’ recommendations and her physical therapy program. “ If I could say one thing to inspire anyone going through this it’ s that you can’ t j ust sit there. It b ecomes your j ob , ” she said. “ I’ ve seen a lot of people who have had strokes. Y ou can’ t j ust sit down and think you’ ll get b etter. Y ou have to follow the therapy and give your b ody time. ” While she’ s b een living with her parents in J ohnstown during her recovery, Ashly is looking forward to getting b ack to her life in B altimore. “ I’ m pretty close to 1 0 0 percent now. M y hand and foot are the last things I’ m waiting for to come b ack, ” she said. “ I’ m writing again. It’ s like a 3 -year-old, b ut I am. I’ m going to b e 1 0 0 percent. ” Her road to recovery has b een long. Approaching the anniversary of her ordeal, she and her family are thankful to Dr. Friedlander and everyone on the U P M C staw who helped her through this challenging time. She maintains a b log at ashlystatus. com, where family and friends post updates on her condition. “ I’ ll never forget, Dr. Friedlander said to me, ‘ We’ re a team. I’ ll do my part as long as you do yours, ’ ” she said. “ That’ s b ig in my mind. That made an impact. ” For more information, please call the U P M C Department of N eurological Surgery at 1 -8 6 6 -9 7 9 -1 3 3 6 or visit U P M C. com/ nv. This patient’ s treatment and results may not b e representative of all similar cases.

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