IN Sewickley Area by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Tuskegee Airmen Dedicate Memorial

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

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

WINTER 2011 PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com REGIONAL EDITORS

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

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

WRITERS

Heather Holtschlage Kelly Lotter Leigh Lyons Joann Naser

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

Pamela Palongue Gina Salinger Judith Schardt

Have a joyous holiday and happy New Year!

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brad Lauer Kathleen Rudolph

FROM THE EDITOR

PROOFREADER

Rachel Maize ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

Derek Bayer Tom Poljak

Tamara Myers

ADVERTISING SALES

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

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Gary Yon

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

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

Spring content deadline: 2/12/12

Dovetailing off what Wayne said above, he’s right. Through college, I worked one of my part-time jobs as a waiter at Asbury Heights. And while Asbury is known as one of the better “old folks homes” out there, the great quality of the facility and staff couldn’t make up for what many of the residents didn’t have – family. Oftentimes, a new resident would show up in the dining room and feel out of place. Much like high school cafeterias, the two shifts of dinner were comprised of residents who had been together for years. They sat in the same seats at the same tables day after day and even ate the same dinners often enough that you knew what they were going to order before they had the chance to order it. New residents either had to be compellingly outgoing to break into an established crowd, or, more often than not, had to find an open seat and make friends with whoever sat across from them. Sometimes it worked out, sometimes not. But the most heartbreaking sight was around the holidays, when families would show up that you never saw throughout the course of the year – even though they were always welcome for dinner. Many residents had to sit alone, watching those families celebrate the season. I can’t read minds and say they felt sad or envious. But I can say that if it were me, I would be both. I’m not blameless. I have a grandmother in a local “old folks home” that I think of more than I visit, but I'm trying to do better. When we look around this holiday season and see the gifts in the stores or Santa riding on the fire truck and entertaining children in the malls, most of us should be thankful that we have people on our lists to buy for and with whom we can expect to share time together. Others don’t have that luxury, and haven’t for some time. We can all make someone smile this winter, so why not try? Feliz Navidad,

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Mark Berton

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

INSIDE

IN Sewickley Area | WINTER 2011 |

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Stephen Price and Lt. Col. George Charleton, Jr. at the Tuskegee Airmen Memorial groundbreaking ceremony. Story on page 32.

At Home Senior Services ............... | 48 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Naked Grape Wine Services ......... | 25 Sewickley Car Store ....................... | 35 Energy Savers ................................... | 38 Valley Urological .............................. | 42 40

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Quaker Valley School District News ..............................

Avonworth ..............................................................................

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

Sewickley Borough ..............................................................

Sewickley Riding and Driving Party ...............................

Fourth Annual Bounty in the Barn ..................................

New Earned Income Tax Procedures Leave the Collecting to the Employers .....................................

Groundbreaking for Tuskegee Airmen Memorial ........

FEATURES

Honeymoon Travel Romance at a Price You Can Afford .................................................

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Caring Heights Community Care and Rehabilitation Center

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■ Individualized therapeutic and inter-disciplinary approach for return to community

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Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

QUAKER VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS

Mathematics Teacher Lauded for Excellence in Instruction

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⌺ ⌳ ⌿ ⍀

challenging his students to work to their potential. Mr. Sebastian also holds himself to a very high standard and he is truly invested in the accomplishments of his students. I have seen him reach students at all levels and never fails to believe that a student can learn and succeed in his classroom,” Andrew Surloﬀ, principal, said. Sebastian will receive a wall plaque an d invitation to a special Educational Leadership Alumni event; his name will be added to the perpetual plaque mounted in the Rackley Building on the University Park campus. Sebastian said, “I am pleased and honored with this award. I thank Dr. Clapper for the nomination but also for the opportunity to serve students and education through a career I

␭␲ ⌺⍀

The Pennsylvania School Study Council (PSSC) has named mathematics teacher Jeﬀrey Sebastian the recipient of the Walter J. DeLacy Award for Excellence in Instruction. Sebastian, who has taught for Quaker Valley High School for ten years, was selected for ongoing accomplishments both in and out of the classroom. Quaker Valley Superintendent, Dr. Joseph H. Clapper, nominated Sebastian. Mr. Sebastian started w ith Quaker Valley in 2001, earned a Silver Award by the Teacher Excellence Foundation in 2003, received the Milken Educator Award by the Milken Family Foundation in 2005 and earned his certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) in 2007. “Sebastian is very well liked and respected among his colleagues, his students, and our parents and community members. He has a reputat ion for setting high expectations and

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Empty Bowls Helps Fill Needs of the Hungry

Photo by Dr. Christy Clapper The Pennsylvania School Study Council awarded Jeff Sebastian the Walter J. DeLacy award for Excellence in Instruction on Saturday October 8, at the Nittany Lion Inn in State College, Pennsylvania. Pictured are Dr. David Monk, Dean of the College of Education, Pennsylvania State University, Mr. Jeff Sebastian, and Dr. Joseph H. Clapper, Superintendent of Quaker Valley Schools, who nominated Mr. Sebastian for the award.

scheduled for the same week. A meal of soup, an apple, bread, drink and cookies was provided along with a How many empty bowls does it take to fill the needs of the handmade bowl, given to hungry? Many organizations including school groups have persons donating $10. The hosted “Empty Bowls” dinners. The goal is to raise money for donor kept the bowl as a local food banks and pantries while reminding participants of reminder of the plight of the relentless needs of the hungry. During these economic the hungry. times, it has become nearly impossible to satiate the Soups were provided demand for food and funding. free of charge by local The students of the Quaker Valley School District restaurants. Much of the are seasoned service providers. At school, they learn other menu items and about helping others and participate in community service paper goods were projects starting in kindergarten. But perhaps this year more than donated or underwritten others, the students and staﬀ committed to their Empty Bowls Dinner by generous community with a renewed passion. members. “Everyone got involved,” Robin Russell, high school art teacher and The district Empty chairperson, explained. “Elementary students made bowls, members of the Bowls Dinner raised middle school Art Club* created bowls in addition to the ones we make at nearly $2000 and served the high school,” Russell said, adding that “the list goes on” as she named as an example of how it the AP Art Class and Key Club among the high school groups helped out. takes a village of concerned and generous businesses and The November event was held during parent-teacher citizens of all ages to “fill the bowls” of the hungry. ARTICLE AND conferences in the hopes that parents would stop for supper or *Art Club is an after school program funded by a S.T.E.A.M. grant PHOTO BY take out, depending on what fit their busy schedules as they from the Claude Worthington Benedum and The Grable foundations. MARTHA attended meetings with teachers. Interested parents were Art Club and Robotics Club are open to all interested middle school SMITH encouraged to bring canned goods for the food drive, which was students.

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QUAKER VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS love. I consider myself just one of an outstanding group of teaching professionals who comprise the Quaker Valley faculty.” PSSC, a partnership between Penn State University and member public schools and intermediate units, gives three awards annually for outstanding service to public education. In addition to recognizing instruction with the

Walter J. DeLacy Award, PSSC recognizes the contribution of administration and supervision with the William E. Caldwell Award and the importance of support for public education by an individual or group with the William S. Vincent Award. From the PSSC Website: Founded in 1947, the Pennsylvania School Study Council (PSSC) is

a partnership between Penn State and member school districts, intermediate units, and area vocational technical schools. PSSC is dedicated to improving public education in Pennsylvania by providing uptodate research information, professional development activities, and technical assistance that will enable its members to provide top quality educatio nal services to students.

Collaboration to Offer Unique Robotics Program to Students By Martha D. Smith and Megan Edwards During the 2011-2012 school year, Moon Area School District and Quaker Valley School District will collaborate to bring the SeaPerch Program to students. Students in both districts will have the opportunity to build and operate underwater robots through SeaPerch, a robotics program that aims to introduce students to engineering and other science-related fields. Quaker Valley and Moon Area are currently using a seed grant of kits and materials from SeaPerch to implement the program. The grant will cover the cost of student and teacher training. Quaker Valley technology education teacher Joseph Prosdecimo and Moon Area technology education teacher James Petrina will use the program in their after-school robotics clubs. At Quaker Valley High School, Otto Tancraitor will integrate SeaPerch into his concept physics classes with the help of Bob Harrah, high school technology education teacher. At Moon Area Middle School, technology education teacher Scott Hilpert will integrate the program into his classes with the help of gifted education teacher Tracey Spinelli. MASD and QVSD began working with SeaPerch this September when high school teachers completed training. After learning about the curriculum related to the program, teachers built underwater remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs). Upon finishing the two-day training period, the teachers tested their ROVs in MAHS’s pool with much success. The program currently meets the national learning outcomes for science. Among other subjects, the construction and testing of SeaPerch’s ROVs teaches students about propulsion, engineering design, electricity, and tool safety. SeaPerch is sponsored in part by the U.S. Oﬃce of Naval Research, an executive branch agency within the Department of Defense, and managed by the AUVSI Foundation, a non-profit organization that develops programs that teach students about the robotics industry. The SeaPerch program currently reaches out to students with the goal of informing the next generation of naval architects and marine, naval, and ocean engineers.

Technology Education teachers Derek Kaminski (Moon Area High School) and Bob Harrah (Quaker Valley High School) learn how to use the SeaPerch underwater robots during training at Moon High School’s pool.

Quaker Valley and Moon Area’s goal is to develop competitions among its own students. Career Education Coordinator Marianne Cibulas was working on a grant to implement the program at Quaker Valley while working on a career symposium with MASD Curriculum Director Jeﬀ Zollars. Cibulas asked Zollars if Moon would be interested in collaborating on the SeaPerch program. Both districts are excited about the program and the learning experiences it can provide for students. Cibulas said, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to ‘hook’ kids with hands-on activities.” Zollars added, “We look forward to oﬀering this program to our students.” SeaPerch Executive Director and Sewickley native Susan Nelson helped initiate the program at MASD after starting it within the Quaker Valley School District. Currently, SeaPerch has trained over 2,000 teachers and taught over 26,000 students about underwater robotics. SeaPerch is the signature outreach program for the U.S. Navy.

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

QUAKER VALLEY SCHOOL NEWS

Reviewing the plans for the integrated arts wing of the Quaker Valley Middle School are (from left): Dr. Joseph Marrone, Director of Administrative Services; Superintendent Dr. Joseph H. Clapper; Senator John Pippy; David Pusateri, Facilities Committee Chair of the Quaker Valley School Board; Dr. Heidi Ondek, Assistant Superintendent; and Scott Smith, Construction Manager. Senator Pippy and his staff helped the district secure a $250,000 School Demonstration Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

QV officials, Senator Pippy celebrate Middle School construction Senator John Pippy was the guest of honor for a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Integrated Arts wing of the Quaker Valley Middle School On October 14. Due to pouring rain, the group set aside the shovels and reviewed some of architects’ drawings prior to taking a short tour of the building for a construction update. Scott Smith, construction manager led the group along with Dr. Joseph Marrone, Director of Administrative Services. Touring the facility with the Senator was Dr. Joseph Clapper, superintendent, David Pusateri, QV school board facilities committee chair, and Dr. Heidi Ondek, assistant superintendent. “Although our oﬃcial ribbon cutting is tentatively scheduled for next fall, we did not want to let any more time pass without

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acknowledging Senator Pippy and his staﬀ for their eﬀorts which helped us secure a School Demonstration Grant of $250,000 from The Pennsylvania Department of Education,” Clapper said. “During this time of tight budgets this is one example of how responsive and responsible government collaboration can have a positive impact on public schools and most importantly the education of our

young people.” The new addition will incorporate the former district oﬃce and auditorium portions of the building and be converted to instructional spaces that will be dedicated to instruction in fine arts and technology as well as the addition of a new auditorium for performances. The newly planned classroom and performance space is being designed specifically so students and teachers will have access to arts and technology activities during, before and after school. The Quaker Valley School District adv ocates for educational opportunities that further develop students’ creativity and innovation skills, essential to career training and 21st century success in the work place.

Used cars find new purpose in securing employment for low-income families The morning commute for Loretta, a single mother with three children who recently moved her family into her mother’s two-bedroom apartment, used to be a daunting task. Each day she and her children rode the bus, stopping at daycare before Loretta reached her full-time job downtown. Thanks to Community Auto, a program of North Hills Community Outreach that pairs used cars with low-income drivers, Loretta’s commute has become much more manageable, and she feels her independence has been restored. Community Auto accepts donations of used cars, has them repaired and serviced by local mechanics and then offers them for purchase at prices well below market value. Four months ago, Loretta was able to buy a minivan. “Your program is such a blessing to so many people,” Loretta writes. Donors receive the maximum tax deduction allowable for the donation, as well as assurance that their car is directly helping a local family in need. Buyers benefiting from the program must meet income eligibility guidelines and work at least 25 hours per week. Community Auto encourages Pennsylvanians to BE A DRIVING CHANGE by donating used vehicles. Learn more at

communityauto.org or call 724-443-8300.

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

•••••••••••••••••••••••• Avonworth news & events

Electra Actress Speaks with Avonworth Seniors By Kelly Rudzik

Avonworth AP English 12 students had the opportunity to speak with Catherine Eaton, star of Electra, currently playing at the Pittsburgh Public Theatre. The play is a Greek tale of a family torn apart by adultery, assassination, and revenge. Students had all seen the student matinee of Electra in early October. Eaton shared with students what it takes to become a part of the competitive acti ng industry and how she was selected to play the diﬃcult role of a leading lady such as Electra. “In the industry first impressions are key, because if you don’t look the role, you don’t get the chance to audition for the role,” said Eaton. “For Electra, the casting directors weren’t looking for someone pretty, they wanted someone raw and passionate,” added Eaton. Eaton also shared how she is able to tran sform from her every day, normal self into the vengeful, dramatic Electra. She detailed the steps she takes every day to prepare for an evening show. “I run my lines every morning, practice my major soliloquies, and vocal warm-ups – I also spend a lot of alone time getting ready mentally for the show,” she said. Rob Zellers, the Director of Education & Outreach for Pittsburgh Public Theatre, also joine d Eaton at Avonworth.

Actress,Catherine Eaton

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•••••••••••••••••••••••• 2011-2012 Elementary Student Council Elected The Avonworth elementary school held their student council elections September 16th. Candidates had an opportunity to voice their individual platforms. The student body appropriately voted for their candidates and teachers collected the ballots. The 2011-2012 elementary student council is as followed: President, Ava Kelly; Vice-President, Cade Hoke; Secretary, Emily Tyler; and Treasurer, L to Right: Treasurer, Tyler Bradley; VP, Cade Hoke; Sec., Emily Tyler; Tyler Bradley. and President, Ava Kelly

Author Siegfried Neukirch inscribes his book which he donated to the Avonworth library. Neukirch spoke with students about his time with Dr. Albert Schweitzer.

Neukirch, Author, Talks About

Helping Others By: Kelly Rudzik, Avonworth Senior Photos: Maggie Brizolli, Avonworth Junior Author Siegfried Neukirch spoke with Avonworth high school students about his new book on September 22. His book, titled My Journey to Albert Schweitzer: Across North, Central, and South America to Africa by Bicycle and the Return to Europe, is about his adventures encountered on his journey to Schweitzer’s hospital on the Belgian Congo. The visit was facilitated by Lyle Graber, and Neukirch was accompanied by Lawrence Claus, his editor. Neukirch became fascinated with Dr. Albert Schweitzer at the very young age of 15 because of Schweitzer’s willingness and passion to serve others. Schweitzer

acted on his urge to help other people by establishing a hospital on the Belgian Congo, something no other doctor wanted to do. “I learned to be a better person, by watching Dr. Schweitzer; he even volunteered to clean the hospital’s sewage system,” said Neukirch. “He was very responsible, patient, and led by example – no work was beneath him,” said Neukirch. In his book, Neukirch said Dr. Schwietzer’s message to students is: “Have life to go help other people, and other animals.” Neukirch is very avid about education, a passion both he and Schweitzer share. During his lecture, Neukirch said, “what you learn today, you will need much later,” and students

must “learn, learn, learn, as you can, while you are young.” When asked about the most diﬃcult part of writing a book, Neukirch chuckled and said the hardest part is the beginning. “It feels wonderful to achieve, working with Dr. Schweitzer was an opportunity of a lifetime and I have no regrets,” s aid Neukirch. Neukirch said he wrote the book because he could not contain all his happiness, and he hopes students will learn it is better to help others. Neukirch donated a signed copy of his book and it is available in the high school library. Kelly Rudzik

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

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INdustry Insight

“Show me the manner in which a nation cares for its dead and I will measure with the mathematical exactness the tender mercies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land and their loyalty to high ideals.”

William E. Gladstone, 19th Century Prime Minister of Great Britain.

COPELAND Funeral Home and Cremation Services R.D. Copeland LTD and INC. funeral homes, family owned and operated, is located in three communities – Coraopolis (since 1954), Moon Township (since 1969) and Sewickley (since 1998). Founder R.D. Copeland – born in 1920, graduate of Sewickley High School, U.S. Navy veteran, graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science – has provided us with a rich history and love for the community. Staﬀ members serve in the local fire department, attend local churches and have graduated area high schools and post-secondary schools. We are your neighbors and friends, and we support our community. ur funeral homes provide an atmosphere of caring – showing honor and respect to families and loved ones. We create meaningful ways to celebrate a life; our services have included collages, music, dvds, dove release, mili tary honors and gun volleys to honor those who have passed. Funerals and memorial services provide a way to say goodbye and to celebrate life. Having our friends and families gather to express their sympathy makes our loss real, but with the support of friend and family, our time of sadness and loss is made more bearable. ith our gentle guidance, we help you with choices, trying to

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INdustry Insight

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

INdustry Insight

WINTER 2011

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

BundleUp,Baby Remember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands. Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

What’s Inside

page 2

A Different Vein Providing care for patients unable to accept transfusions

page 3

When Your Body Talks ... Be Sure to Listen

page 4

Make a Date With Your Doctor Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

page 6

Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

page 7

Welcoming New Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

A Different Vein

The UPMC Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery offers special care for patients who are unable to accept blood transfusions There are many patients who choose bloodless medical treatment — medical care without blood transfusions or products — for religious or ethical reasons. However, a growing number are selecting it to reduce their risk of adverse reactions and bloodborne illnesses. The UPMC Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery was established to ensure that patients who are unable to accept transfusions, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, are identified early. “Most patients don’t Resources provided by the Center realize blood transfusions often for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery can be avoided are available for all patients including by following a those at UPMC Passavant, Mageefew simple steps Womens Hospital of UPMC, and before surgery.” throughout the UPMC network. — Perry Doebler Special wristbands are placed on all patients who choose not to have transfusions so that their wishes are clearly understood by medical staff and other care providers. Patients who decide against receiving a blood transfusion are educated by their doctors about the risks and benefits before any procedure is done. “Our paramount concern is to make sure the doctor is committed to respecting the patient’s decision,” says Perry Doebler, the center’s director. “We make sure the surgical team and nurses know ahead of time so they can be ready, and the patient doesn’t have to keep explaining things.”

Advance planning Planning is key to successful bloodless medicine and surgery. Careful blood management can boost the patient’s blood count before surgery and minimize blood loss. Minimally invasive surgery, special surgical tools, medications, and other techniques can help reduce or even stop bleeding. Doctors also can capture blood lost during surgery, clean it, and reinfuse it into the patient. Mr. Doebler says most patients don’t realize blood transfusions often can be avoided with a few simple steps before surgery. For example, one in four surgical patients is anemic, but doctors can recommend iron therapy, vitamins, or medication to stimulate blood production. Doctors also may tell surgical patients to discontinue certain pain relievers, herbs, and supplements that may interfere with blood clotting and cause more bleeding. “Being proactive and planning ahead are important for everyone. There are things a patient can control,” he says.

To learn more If you cannot accept blood transfusions, or may be planning for surgery and want to learn more about blood management, visit www.bloodlesscenter.com, or call the Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery at 1-877-674-7111.

UPMC.com/Today

Blood Management Benefits According to Mr. Doebler, reducing or avoiding blood transfusions has many potential benefits, including lessening the patient’s exposure to viruses and other bloodborne diseases, and even helping to shorten the hospital stay. It also helps preserve the blood supply for other patients.

Is bloodless medicine a good option for you? Your doctor is the best source of information when it comes to deciding to choose bloodless medicine. Some questions you may want to ask: 1. What is my current blood count? 2. How can I increase my blood count? 3. Should I stop any medications or supplements? 4. Will I need a blood transfusion during surgery? 5. What risks are involved with blood transfusions? 6. What are the risks if I decline a transfusion? 7. What can my doctor do to minimize my need for a transfusion?

Pre-op tips • Know your blood count. The normal hemoglobin range for males is 14-18 g/dL and for females is 12-16 g/dL. • Be honest. Tell your doctor about all of the medications and herbal supplements you take. • Ask questions. Understand your risks and options. • Communicate. Make sure your bloodless medicine preferences are known.

When Your BodyTalks…

Be Sure toListen Being attuned to changes in your body can help in the early detection and treatment of cancer and other serious medical problems Is your body trying to tell you something important? It can be an excellent communicator — if you pay careful attention to its symptoms. There are numerous warning symptoms for cancer, many of which also can point to other serious medical conditions. That’s why you should call your primary care physician (PCP) if you have any unusual or persistent symptoms lasting longer than two or three weeks, says Edward Chu, MD, chief of the Division of Hematology/ Oncology at UPMC and deputy director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. “The vast majority of patients will get a clean bill of health from their doctor,” says Dr. Chu. “But when it comes to cancer, time is often of the essence. Early detection can help keep cancer from spreading, allow for faster treatment, and improve your chances for recovery.”

Symptoms that reveal Most of us know to be on the lookout for such important cancer warning signs as a sore that does not heal; a thickening or lump in the breast, or other parts of the body; blood in the stool or urine; or changes in the size or color of a mole.

Dr. Chu says it’s also important to be aware of more generalized body changes (also known as constitutional symptoms) that can compromise your physical performance and overall well-being. By getting to know what’s typical for your own body, you’ll be better able to recognize unfamiliar changes when they occur. They can include: • Extreme tiredness (fatigue) • Unexplained weight loss (typically 10 pounds or more) or loss of appetite • Changes in how food tastes • Fever and chills • Night sweats • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing “These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer,” he emphasizes. “But if they linger or worsen, it’s important for your doctor to rule out — or treat — possible problems.” If you are interested in locating a PCP or specialist in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Did You Know? The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), based at the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, is the only National Cancer Institutedesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania. Learn more about UPCI and its partnership with UPMC Cancer Centers at UPCI.UPMC.edu.

Cancer Screenings: Are they right for you? Another important tool in the early detection of cancer is screenings. “When combined with regular checkups with your family doctor or specialist, screenings like mammograms, PAP smears, and colorectal exams have proven to be invaluable in the fight against cancer,” notes Theodore L. Crandall, MD, of UPMC Cancer Centers at UPMC Passavant. “Your personal and family medical history, risk factors, age, and other considerations will help your physician recommend the right tests — and frequency — for you.” To learn more about the program and services of UPMC Cancer Centers at UPMC Passavant, visit UPMCPassavant.com.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Make a Date With Your Doctor You take your car to the mechanic for an annual inspection to be sure it’s running properly. So why aren’t you giving your body the same kind of attention? When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to the doctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, and avoid disease and disability. That’s why scheduling a physical is the one New Year’s resolution you should keep. According to primary care physicians (PCPs) at UPMC Passavant, an annual exam is the perfect time to talk about illness prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and any screenings. That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on making changes to improve your health. Building an ongoing relationship with a PCP also means peace of mind. PCPs at UPMC Passavant say there’s real value to being seen by someone who knows you and your health history — someone you trust to guide you through an illness or emergency.

Your exam checklist How can you make the most of your annual exam? Here are four things to do before you see the doctor:

1. Make a list of all medications you are taking Include all prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.

2. Update your family history Your family history can provide important clues about your risk for certain diseases, including diabetes, some cancers, and heart disease.

3. Ask about health screenings Screenings can be important tools in preventing some illnesses and diseases. Get a list of recommended screenings and talk about them with your doctor.

4. Make a list of questions or health concerns Asking questions and sharing your concerns about health issues helps your doctor improve your care. One final piece of advice: Be honest. Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something. What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis or prescribe the best treatment plan.

UPMC.com/Today

Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat Winter is the season for sniffles, scratchy throats, and earaches — often all at once! And with good reason: our ears, nose, and throat all are connected and affect each other greatly. Otolaryngologists (also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors or ENTs) are physicians who specialize in caring for this complex, interrelated system. Test your ENT knowledge with this quick quiz:

Who gets earaches more often — children or adults? Nearly every child experiences at least one ear infection between infancy and the age of five — something weary parents know firsthand. Because children have shorter, straighter Eustachian tubes (which connect the nose to the ears), it’s easier for bacteria to migrate into their ears.

Why are you more likely to get a nosebleed in winter? The same heated indoor air that makes your home cozy in winter also can dehydrate the inside of your nose. It can become crusted or cracked, or can even bleed. A dry nose makes you more susceptible to germs, so exercise good nose care. Lightly coat the inside with petroleum jelly. Overthe-counter saline mists and sprays (not decongestants) also are helpful.

Will antibiotics cure laryngitis? Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections that make the vocal cords swell — so antibiotics are ineffective. Your best course of action? Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and cut back on talking. Straining your voice when you have acute laryngitis can damage your vocal cords. Source: American Society of Otolaryngology

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals How technology is working to transform the quality of your care during hospitalization If you ever have to be hospitalized, you’ll certainly want to be cared for at a place that delivers quality health care using the latest technology available. That’s precisely what patients find when they are admitted to a UPMC hospital. “UPMC’s vision of quality is for every patient to receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way — every time,” says Tami Minnier, RN, and chief quality officer for UPMC. “Technology lets us serve patients more efficiently and accurately. Most of all, we’re able to give patients greater control of their health care.” Here are just two of the ways UPMC hospitals are delivering on that goal.

SmartRoom® technology brings it all to you Launched three years ago by UPMC in partnership with IBM, SmartRoom is an impressive technology. First used at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Montefiore, it is gradually being introduced in other UPMC hospitals. All patient rooms at the new UPMC East will be equipped with SmartRoom technology. SmartRoom brings all essential data related to your care to your bedside. Its computerized software programs give caregivers fingertip access to all the information essential to your care — from your electronic medical records to the tests you’ll need that day.

The SmartRoom concept simplifies workflow and makes documentation of your care faster and easier. Each room has two screens: one for your caregivers, and another for you to access email, entertainment, and a vast library of patient education videos and information.

The right meds at the right time “It is our goal to make the hospitalization and discharge experience as stress-free as possible for our patients and their families,” says Jacqueline Dailey, UPMC’s vice president for Solutions for Medical Science, Research, and Patient Centered Accountable Care. “Not surprisingly, by the time patients leave the hospital, they’re often confused and overwhelmed by changes in their medications and how to take them.” “We begin when you’re admitted with an electronic assessment of your current medications and how they’re being taken,” explains Ms. Dailey. “As medications are adjusted or eliminated during your stay, this information is instantly available to all your physicians — from your family doctor to the specialists caring for you. That’s especially important if you transition from one level of care to another, such as intensive to acute care.” An added layer of safety: both a pharmacist and the nurse administering the medications verify any new medication orders from your doctors. Throughout your stay, you’ll receive comprehensive instructions on your medications. “We know that people learn in different ways, so this information will be shared multiple times and in multiple ways,” notes Ms. Dailey. “We also urge patients to contact their doctors for help with any questions they may have on their return home.”

1-800-533-UPMC

Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC That’s especially difficult for adolescents who want to fit in. Tics, such as throat clearing, turning, or shaking, also can cause pain.

Seven Barnishin was just 11, playing with action figures alone in his Pitcairn home, when the tics began — involuntary arm flicks, head jerks, and sounds. “I freaked. It seemed like something else was controlling me,” he says.

At the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, patients have access to a trio of experts: two pediatric neurologists with training in neurodevelopmental disorders, and an adult neurologist trained in movement disorders who provides transitional care for older teens.

Tom and Amy Barnishin first thought their son’s behavior was linked to the start of the school year and peer pressure. When symptoms grew worse, and other tics emerged, their doctor sent Seven to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC where he was officially diagnosed with Tourette syndrome (TS) in January 2009. “We were blindsided,” says Amy.

Be in the know about TS Treatment varies.While there’s no cure, medication sometimes helps control tics. Psychologists can teach habit reversal and relaxation techniques to help patients cope with stress and reduce symptoms. But the most important treatment is education, says Dr. Coffman. “That includes educating families, educators, and the general public about TS.”

Diagnosing Tourette syndrome TS is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 100 people, says Keith Coffman, MD, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, part of the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital. Most cases are diagnosed between ages 3 and 12; the majority are boys. The main symptoms are sudden, repetitive, uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics, including throatclearing, sniffing, blinking, gestures, and head jerking. For a true TS diagnosis, tics must start before age 18, include two or more motor tics and at least one vocal tic, and last at least one year. Tics peak at the onset of puberty. Approximately 60 percent of children outgrow the tics, or the tics become so subtle only that person knows when they occur.

Did You Know? An estimated 200,000 Americans have TS, but misconceptions still surround the disorder. For example, TS is not an emotional or behavioral condition. It is an inherited neurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormalities in the brain.

UPMC.com/Today

Coping with Tourette “People with TS cannot control their tics. They experience a sensation that makes them feel like they have to move — like having to sneeze,” Dr. Coffman says. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner children can benefit. Movements can interfere with school work. Children with TS often are bullied, teased, or viewed as being disruptive.

Other TS facts include: • TS patients have the same IQ range as the general population. • People in every walk of life, including professional musicians, athletes, authors, and scientists, have TS. • Less than 15 percent of TS patients swear or use inappropriate expressions.

“Knowledge is power. I’d be unnerved if I didn’t know what it was,” adds Seven, now age 14. Although he cycled through almost every tic, the movements and sounds have subsided with treatment. The Barnishins credit the team at Children’s for helping them understand TS, guiding them through treatment options, and providing support. “Children’s gave us answers and helped us gain control over an uncontrollable situation. Instead of being spectators, we were part of the process. That helped lower Seven’s anxiety, which helped ease the tics,” says Tom. To learn more about the Tourette Syndrome Clinic and the Movement Disorders Clinic at Children’s Hospital, visit chp.edu, choose Neurology as the service, then click the Clinics and Services button on the left.

Welcoming New Physicians To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Fnu Abhishek, MD Hospitalist Medicine Aneel Kumar Bole, MD Hospitalist Medicine Asheesh Bothra, MD Hospitalist Medicine Ralph A. Capone, MD Internal Medicine Timothy J. Chips, DMD Head and Neck Surgery Megan H. Cortazzo, MD Orthopaedics Pavan Devulapally, MD Hospitalist Medicine Christopher R. Dobbelstein, MD Psychiatry

Christopher J. Friend, MD Imaging Services Kenneth N. Gold, MD Rheumatology Razvan N. Gramatovici, MD Radiation Oncology Denise M. Hall-Burton, MD Anesthesiology Sulwen He, MD, PhD Nephrology John W. Ingle, MD Otolaryngology James J. Jaber, MD, PhD Otolaryngology Michael C. Jones, MD Imaging Services

Charles J. Lin, MD Anesthesiology Rohan D. Naik, MD Hospitalist Medicine Khoa N. Nguyen, MD Anesthesiology Jeffrey S. Nicklas, MD Anesthesiology Kristin M. Ondecko-Ligda, MD Anesthesiology Jennifer L. Rogers, MD Emergency Medicine Abir A. Senz, DO Internal Medicine Toni Sicenica, MD Pulmonary/Critical Care

Erin K. Snell, MD Rheumatology Kristen A. Stephen, MD Dermatology Guillermo Linares Tapia, MD Neurology Haibin Wang, MD, PhD Anesthesiology Jeremy B. Wingard, MD Ophthalmology Aaron J. Wyse, MD Imaging Services

What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant These free events are offered by UPMC Passavant and the Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Music Series: Holiday Performance Friday, Dec. 2, 2011 7:30 p.m. Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre Cumberland Woods Village The Passavant Hospital Foundation staff invites you to join them and enjoy “Sounds of the Season,” a special musical program at the Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre. Reservations suggested. Please call 412-367-6640. Diabetes Education Series Monday, Dec. 12, 2011 Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011 1 to 3:30 p.m. UPMC Passavant–McCandless Ask at the Information Desk for class location. Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2011 Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011 6 to 8:30 p.m. UPMC Passavant–Cranberry Classes are held in the 2nd floor conference room. Learn what diabetes is, what medicines are available for treatments, and current recommendations for staying healthy with diabetes. Please call 412-367-6640 for more information.

Heart-Healthy Living ... Good Choices to Live By Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speakers: UPMC Heart and Vascular Team Heart disease is America’s leading killer. More women than men die each year from heart disease, but few women really understand how the heart and vascular system work. Learn what you can do to maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle and diet. Please call 412-367-6640 to register. Colorectal Cancer… What You Need to Know! Wednesday, Mar. 21, 2012 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Ved Kaushik, MD Prevention, detection, and advancements in treatment options related to colorectal cancer will be discussed at this seminar. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Weight Management & Safe Weight Loss for Seniors Wednesday, Apr. 18, 2012 12:30 p.m. Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building Speaker: Registered dietitian, UPMC Passavant Your body is absolutely unique. To lose weight and keep it off, you need to know about a variety of factors that will improve your health, thus allowing you to lose weight and maintain the weight loss. Please call 412-367-6640 to register. Autism Through the Lifespan Thursday, Apr. 19, 2012 8:30 a.m. Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center Legacy Theatre This daylong event will include presentations and breakout sessions. Topics will appeal to families, educators, and providers dealing with autism. CEUs will be available. Registration is required. For more information, visit PassavantHospitalFoundation.org.

Bridge to Hope — Family Support Group Wednesdays 7 p.m. Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center Conference Room #1 Cumberland Woods Village Drug and alcohol addiction and its accompanying tragedies have touched countless Americans from all walks of life and from all backgrounds. The Bridge to Hope provides education and support to such affected families. Please call 412-367-6640 for more information. Legacy Music Series UPMC Passavant-McCandless Passavant Hospital Foundation is seeking talented musicians who want to help lift people’s spirits and volunteer their time to give the gift of music. Inquiries are now being accepted for upcoming dates. Please call 412-367-6640 for more information.

For more information about classes at UPMC Passavant and affiliated outpatient centers, call UPMC Physician Referral at 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

1-800-533-UPMC

UPMC Passavant 9100 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physicianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

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Business Spotlight

The Naked Grape Enoteca certainly gives refuge to those yearning for a place to escape the hustle and bustle, explore unique wines and even enjoy those wines in the comfort of their own home as well. The concept of an Enoteca is new to the Pittsburgh area, but one well known in Italy where such ‘wine repositories’ are readily available in practically every neighborhood. Owners, Ryta Mirisciotti and David Jungling are no strangers to the concept of the Enoteca from their visits to Italy, and are excited to bring this new business to Sewickley and the surrounding Pittsburgh areas. Owners of the former Naked Grape Wine Bistro where guests enjoyed many choices from their extensive wine list to accompany their meals, the couple decided to return to the roots of their passion…wine. The focus of the Naked Grape Enoteca is squarely placed on wine, offering samplings regularly but also focusing on opportunities to learn more about wine in an atmosphere comfortable to both wine novices and experts alike. They meet your palate where it is and take it where you want it to be. Popular wine events such as wine flight nights, wine classes and wine dinners afford their guests a variety of options to explore the many facets of wine and wine and food pairing in their Cal-Ital style tasting room in Sewickley. They also offer wine clubs for those wishing to dig deeper into the world of wine. The Naked Grape Enoteca offers domestic and international wines that have never before been sold in PA, so clients can not only enjoy their favorite wine regions, but the novelty of sipping something new! Guests popping in during normal business hours can also enjoy “Lite Bites” of antipasti, crostini and other small bites while sampling wines from many wine regions with the opportunity to purchase any wines they like for enjoyment at home. The wines offered at the Naked Grape Enoteca are different than those offered in your local PLCB store, offering guests additional options to the products available on the local store shelves. While PA State Law prohibits guests from purchasing wine to carry out the door, the wines ordered can be picked up at the Enoteca or delivered directly to the purchaser. The emphasis here is on unique wines, knowledgeable staff, fun wine experiences and

great service to guests. Friends of the Naked Grape know they can enjoy the extensive wine knowledge of Philip Real, who has worked in wine shops in California and ran the Prelude Wine Bar in the Renaissance Pittsburgh. In addition to serving as a destination for great wines, The Naked Grape Enoteca is also available for private, holiday or corporate events and oﬀers a selection of great wine gifts guaranteed to please the most discriminating wine lover. Elizabeth Smith is the Naked Grape Enoteca’s manager and Event Coordinator who specializes in making the planning of any event easy and enjoyable for the host, while providing great attention to detail. An added benefit to those booking private events is the opportunity to prepurchase wines to be used for the event at pricing that does not include the standard restaurant industry mark-up and can be paired well with the event menu. Other services provided by the Naked Grape Enoteca include wine training (for professionals who entertain clients or

those in the hospitality industry), wine consulting & personal tastings. You can check out the growing wine list and find out about Grape Events by logging on to www.nakedgrape.net and Facebook. The Enoteca is open Wednesday & Thursday from 5pm-9pm and Friday and Saturday from 4pm-9pm. For more information, call 412.741.6420.

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Sewickley Area Communities

COMMUNITIES Borough of Sewickley Ohio Township 601 Thorn Street 1719 Roosevelt Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.741.4015 412.364.6321 Aleppo Township 100 North Drive Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.7062

Haysville Borough 36 South Avenue Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.5038

Bell Acres Borough 1151 Campmeeting Rd Sewickley, PA 15143-8325 412.741.5448

Kilbuck Township 343 Eicher Road Pittsburgh, PA 15202 412.761.3945

Ben Avon Borough 7101 Church Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15202 412.766.7704

Leet Township 198 Ambridge Avenue Fair Oaks, PA 15003 724.266.2280

Ben Avon Heights Borough 9 Penhurst Road Pittsburgh, PA 15202 412.766.1561

Leetsdale Borough 373 Beaver Street Leetsdale, PA 15056 724.266.4820

Borough of Emsworth 171 Center Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15202 412.7 61.1161

Glen Osborne Borough P.O. Box 97 Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.2778

Edgeworth Borough 301 Beaver Road Edgeworth, PA 15143 412.741.2866

The Borough of Sewickley Heights 238 Country Club Road Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.5119

Glenfield Borough 198 E. Beaver Street Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.8566

Sewickley Hills Borough 349 Magee Road Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.4892

POLICE DEPARTMENTS In case of emergency call 911 Sewickley Borough Police Department 601 Thorn Street Sewickley, PA 15143 Emergency calls: 911 Non Emergency: 412.473.3056 Serving: Sewickley Borough Osborne Borough

Cochran House Fire Company 601 Thorn street Sewickley PA 15143 412.749.2553

Bell Acres Police Department 1153 Campmeeting Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Emergency: 911 Non Emergency: 412.741.3010

Aleppo Township Fire Department 131 Weber Road Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.3473

Edgeworth Borough Police Department 301 Beaver Road Sewickley, PA 15143 412.741.9400 Kilbuc k Township Police Department 343 Eicher Road Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.761.5075 Leet Township Police Department 198 Ambridge Avenue Ambridge, PA 15003 724.266.6141 Leetsdale Police Department 373 Beaver Street Leetsdale, PA 15056 724.226.1397 Ohio Township Police Department 126 Lenzner Court Sewickley, PA 15143 412.364.4338 Serving: Ohio Township Sewickley Hills Borough Emsworth Borough Neville Township Ben Avon Boroug h Aleppo Township Ben Avon Heights Borough Kilbuck Township

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FIRE COMPANIES

Big Sewickley Creek Volunteer Fire Company 1850 Big Sewickley Creek Road Bell Acres, PA 15143 Ben Avon Volunteer Fire Company 7219 Church Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15202 412.761.7566 Edgeworth Volunteer Fire Company 301 Beaver Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Emsworth Volunteer Fire Company 171 Center Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15202 412.766.3055 Ohio Township Volunteer Fire Company 1520 Roosevelt Road Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412.366.2545 Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Company 190 Ambridge Avenue Fair Oaks, PA 15003 724.266.6133 Leetsdale Fire Department 136 Broad Street Leetsdale, PA 15056 724.266.4820

New Earned Income Tax Procedures Leave the Collecting to Employers BY AMANDA S.F. HARTLE

or as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember they have sat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard. This small postcard asked you to list your wages, calculate approximately 1 percent of your earnings and mail a check to your local earned income tax collector in your community municipal building. But in 2012, all Findlay, North Fayette and Robinson townships and Oakdale Borough taxpayers can cross one more chore of their to-do list thanks to a new, state mandate. Beginning Jan. 1, all employers who have work sites in the commonwealth are required by Act 32 of 2008 to withhold all earned income taxes from every employee. And all employees have to do is make sure they have filed out a residency certification form. “The legislation aﬀects every single municipality and school district in Pennsylvania,” says Mitch Hoﬀman, local government policy manager at the state Department of Community and Economic Development. “That in itself is huge. In addition, it

also aﬀects every single taxpayer and every single business that operates in Pennsylvania.”

In the Beginning Earned income taxes have been a fixture in Pennsylvania since 1965. At the time, state lawmakers imposed the levy to allow local entities such as school districts and municipalities to raise more funds. “It provided an avenue for local taxing bodies to impose a tax to help fund their operating costs, and it was only imposed on people who actually had earned income not those who were retired or were not working,” says Hoffman. Earned income tax is unique to Pennsylvania. Neighboring states have a similar structures in place, but they are not identical. In theory, the tax is simple. Anyone who works in the state pays on average a 1 percent tax four times a year. Some townships, boroughs and school districts tax a bit higher and some a bit lower. And to pay their bill, an employer could withhold the tax from an employee’s pay or the employee themselves could calculate their tax and send it to their local earned income tax collector. But from the start, issues arose. Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of local municipalities in the country, and at one point, there were up to 560 different earned income tax offices in the state, says Hoffman. “It was very fractured and very convoluted. There was no consistency in collections. No consistency in annual returns and no

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

Continued from page 27 consistency in transfer of records from one tax collector to another.” Confusion about where to send taxes also abounded for companies that are headquartered out of state but have a plethora of work sites and thousands of employees in Pennsylvania. “Many of these companies did withhold the tax, but with so many different collectors it was difficult for them to comply with all the expectations,” says Hoffman. The cumbersome structure also was not attractive to new businesses endeavors as it created one more regulation interested companies had to comply with when they opened a site in Pennsylvania. Within decades, people started to question the structure used to collect earned income tax.

A New Way By 2002, various organizations sought change and restructuring. Their pleas were supported by a study commissioned by the Pennsylvania Economy League among other entities. The study found that millions of dollars across the state were not being accounted for correctly and millions of potential tax dollars were not being collected at all. The actual amount always remained uncertain, says Hoﬀman. “I talk to employers every day who have had work sites in Pennsylvania for years and have never collected the tax. We are not just dealing with Pennsylvania businesses though, this hits businesses across North America.” Change was slow to come, but in 2008, state lawmakers passed Act 32 and its eﬀects were so far reaching it gave local municipalities and school districts three years to implement its regulations. Under the new law, the burden related to the tax has shifted from employees to their employers. Every employer in Pennsylvania is required to have each employee fill out a one page local earned income tax residency certification form by year’s end. On the form, employees list their address, municipality and county of residence. This information matches to a municipality specific code ensuring the tax dollars are automatically withheld and end up at the correct tax collector. Throughout Pennsylvania except in Allegheny County, earned income tax collector positions were eliminated or altered as taxes will go to a county level tax collector chosen by a tax collection district made up of representatives from every

28 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Sewickley

municipality and school district in the specific county. In Allegheny County, four collection districts were chosen to better serve the area’s unique demographics, says Hoﬀman. “The four collection districts are separated by the rivers. Allegheny County is diﬀerent than anywhere else in the state due to its diverse populations and number of corporations.”

Going Forward In addition to the more centralized structure, the law has other oversight and accountability features. There are explicit time frames set out for the distribution of dollars as well as training and certification for all tax oﬃcers. There also are penalties for late payments and annual auditing, says Hoﬀman. “All of these are built in to guarantee the amount of monies being collected are collected properly, remitted properly and distributed properly.” Filing returns also will be more uniform throughout the state. “Some local returns were several pages, some half a page and some had none at all. Now there is a standard form for all of Pennsylvania and all the tax collectors are required to use it. We now have consistency.” But despite all the positive accolades predicted, Findlay Township Manager Gary Klingman feels it’s too early to know what will occur. “We are going to stay pretty attuned to it. Next year will be a test year. Hopefully, it will just get better from there.” Due to uncertainty, he has budgeted his revenues from the tax for 2012 as $585,500 - the same as 2011. He also plans to have the township’s tax collector continue to track down delinquent taxpayers and their nearly $100,000 in taxes as they have done in the past rather than turning that duty over to Jordan Tax Service, Allegheny County’s southwest region tax collector. In Oakdale Borough, Kelly Rohbeck, borough secretary, believes that after some growing pains, the change will be good for her borough. Oakdale sees $125,000 in earned income taxes and between $10,000 and $15,000 additional in delinquent payments. “I think I am doing a good job, but there is always the unknown. We hope to get the same amount if not more. Unfortunately there is always some people who fall between the cracks, especially renters or teenagers who get part-time jobs.”

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l e k y c i ew

2012

Calendar of Events

Spring Gallery Walk

Fall Gallery Walk

FRIDAY, APRIL 27, 2012 5:00 P.M. UNTIL 9:00 P.M. — and — SATURDAY, APRIL 28, 2012 10:00 P.M. UNTIL 5:00 P.M.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012 5:00 P.M. UNTIL 9:00 P.M. — and — SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2012 10:00 P.M. UNTIL 5:00 P.M.

SPONSORED BY THE SEWICKLEY VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

May Mart

Halloween Parade

SATURDAY, MAY 12, 2012 9:00 A.M. UNTIL 1:00 P.M.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2012 10:00 A.M.

SPONSORED BY THE SEWICKLEY CIVIC GARDEN COUNCIL

SPONSORED BY QUAKER VALLEY ROTARY & THE BOROUGH OF SEWICKLEY

Memorial Day Parade MONDAY, MAY 28, 2012 10:00 A.M.

Jaguar Car Show

Trick or Treating in Sewickley WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2012 6:00 P.M. UNTIL 8:00 P.M.

Light Up Night

SATURDAY, AUGUST 11, 2012 9:00 A.M. UNTIL 5:00 P.M. Sponsored by the Jaguar Club

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2012 5:00 P.M.

Harvest Festival

Santa Parade

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2012 10:00 A.M. UNTIL 5:00 P.M. Sponsored by Quaker Valley Rotary Club & Kiwanis Club of Sewickley

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2012 10:30 A.M.

rmation about Sewickley, v o f n i e r o isit For m b o y r e l o k u g c i h . w o rg and www.se www.exploresewickley.com. Sewickley Borough now has public access television (PEG-TV) available on Comcast 765 and Verizon Channel 38 providing news, community events and up-to-date information for our residents. 30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Sewickley

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

“It has been great witnessing today’s groundbreaking. This is for all of the valiant men that overcame adversity with their tenacity and spirit.” —Sewickley Mayor, Brian Jeﬀe

GROUNDBREAKING for Tuskegee Airmen Memorial At Sewickley Cemetery Western Pennsylvania Tuskegee Airmen Honored For Their Courageous Service in World War ll By Kathy Rudolph

roundbreaking for a powerful, mixed media monument to honor the more than 84 Tuskegee Airmen; bombardiers, pilots, navigators and support staﬀ from the Western Pennsylvania Area who fought for our country in World War ll took place at Sewickley Cemetery. “Sewickley was chosen for the memorial because it is a midpoint in the memorial project’s definition of the Western Pennsylvania region ,” said Regis Bobonis, Sr., Senior Project Manager of the Tuskegee Memorial Project of Greater Pittsburgh. “The Northern boundary is Erie and the Southern is London, WV which was the birthplace of Col. George Spanky Roberts, one of the Tuskegee combat pilots who graduated high school at the age of 15 with an IQ of genius. Seven Tuskegee Airmen came from Sewickley; five became pilots and four saw combat in N orth Africa and Italy.” Honored Veterans participating in the groundbreaking featured Tuskegee Airman, Lt. Harry

Lanauze, Honorary Tuskegee Airman, Retired Sr. Master Sergeant Timothy McCray and Buﬀalo Soldier, Lt. Col. George Charleton, Jr. Senator Jason Altmire, County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Sewickley Mayor, Brian Jeﬀe were also present to pay tribute. “It’s long overdue,” said Lt. Harry Lanauze, a M cKeesport physician. “The Tuskegee Airmen were one of the first to break the outstanding prejudices. We were a big, brotherly group of black personnel that stuck together.” The history of the Tuskegee Airmen goes back to 1940 when African Americans were not given the same rights and opportunities in the U.S. Armed Forces based on their race and were only able to perform labor and support positions. After an experiment by the U.S. Armed Forces that debunked this falsehood, the military chose Tuskegee Institute in Alabama to train African American pilots. Known as the “Tuskegee Airmen,” they went on to fight in World War ll and not only succeeded in helping to win the war but

1. Senator Jason Altmire, Stephen Price, President of Pittsburgh Black Vietnam Era Veterans 2. The Tuskegee Airman Memorial 3. Terry Bradford, Project Spokesperson, Lt. Col. George Charleton, Jr. 4. Regis Bobonis, Sr., Senior Project Manager of the Tuskegee Memorial Project of Greater Pittsburgh, Lt. Harry Lanauze, Tuskegee Airman 5. Sewickley Mayor Brian F. Jeffe

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assisted in full integration of the U.S. Armed Forces. “We are excited about the project,” said Mayor Jeﬀe, when asked about the memorial. “It has been great witnessing today’s groundbreaking. This is for all of the valiant men that overcame adversity with their tenacity and spirit. It is a historic marker that will last forever.” The peaceful setting of Sewickley Cemetery and home to the memorial will include two granite 7 ft. by 3 ft. ebony granite towers that will display all of the Tuskegee Airmen’s names. It will also contain a 10 ft. by 8 ½ ft. white monument with the striking focal point of a 7 ft. by 5 ft. reproduction of an original painting depicting a P-51 warplane, piloted by a

Continued on page 34

To find out how you can help or to learn more about the Tuskegee Memorial, please visit their website at www.tuskegeememorialpittsburgh.org.

Retired Air Force Senior Master Sergent Timothy McCray, Honary Tuskegee Airman

5 Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

“I wanted to capture the spirit, victories and defeats of The Tuskegee Airmen and the insurmountable challenges that they faced.” —Artist, Ray Simon

6 Continued from page 33 Tuskegee Airman, shooting down an enemy aircraft on the Austrian border. The original painting was unveiled by the artist, Ray Simon at the groundbreaking. “I wanted to capture the spirit, victories and defeats of The Tuskegee Airmen and the insurmountable challenges that they faced,” said Simon. “Something that will continue to tell a story long after we’re gone.” The construction of the memorial will continu e on March 7th, which is the anniversary of the graduation of the first five pilots in the Tuskegee program. $178,000 is still needed of the $250,000 budget before the work can begin.

6. Ray Simon with his painting 7. Terry Bradford 8. Stephen Price and Lt. Col. George Charleton, Jr. 9. Lt. Harry Lanauze, Tuskegee Airman and Retired Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Timothy McCray

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Business Spotlight

— SEWICKLEY CAR STORE —

A Family Business with its

Pedal

to the

or more than 35 years, the Sewickley Car Store has followed the same philosophy – grow one car sale at a time. And with franchises like Porsche, Audi and Alfa Romeo, the early years saw some of the world’s finest horsepower roll off the lot next to the iconic Sewickley Bridge. KC Kowalyk is the second generation of the Sewickley Car Store, and while he never anticipated his contributions to the family business to be more than a year, he said a family business has a way of, well, keeping the family together. “I was supposed to be here for a year and now it’s been 11 years,” Kowalyk said. His parents, Bob and Paulette Nikel started the Sewickley Car store back in 1976. By 1986, the dealership acquired the BMW line, further contributing to the luxury lines already offered. However, Alfa Romeo discontinued their American sales in 1990, retreating to their native Italy, but the Sewickley Car Store remained a powerhouse in sales despite the loss, even in the ups and downs of the economy. “When we started out, we were in one small, 7,000-square-foot building. Today, we have 60,000-square-feet under roof,” Kowalyk said. “We’ve gone from 18 employees to 94, and we’ve always been involved in motor sports since the day we opened with the SCCA and the local Porsche Club. We didn’t really change too much other than continue to expand, which is great based on the economy.” In fact, the Sewickley Car Store is moving a volume of 100 to 120 new and pre-owned cars each month, Kowalyk said, and they service all three brands in their 34-lift, 29-technician garages. And while there have been debates as to whether the Sewickley Car Store

Metal

should move to other markets, such as Wexford, their deep Sewickley history always wins out. “We’ve been a family here for 35 years. We’ve been in the same location for 35 years,” Kowalyk said. “Bob married my mom when I was six. In 1990, Joe Scarfone became Bob’s minority partner, and we lost him in August of last year. But through all of this, we’ve always been a family, and a family business in the heart of Sewickley. Our personality and organization are better suited to Sewickley. The borough’s been good to us, the city of Pittsburgh has been good to us. We’re not moving away from that.” Perhaps it’s that loyalty to place that keeps the Sewickley Car Store’s inventory rolling off the lot every day, that and their personalized service. “We’ve always been a one-car-at-a-time type of organization,” Kowalyk said. “The person in front of you is the most important person, and that shows. We’ve grown that into being a high 60’s almost 70 percent referral business. Our clients appreciate our to them, and when you’re treated KC Kowalyk dedication right, you always tell a friend.” For more information on the Sewickley Car Store, go to www.sewickleycars.net, or call 1.888.835.8563.

“Our personality and organization are better suited to Sewickley. The borough’s been good to us, the city of Pittsburgh has been good to us.”

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

INdustry Insight

EVLA

Minimally Invasive Procedure

Brings Immediate Vein Relief

ave you ever looked at your legs and noticed those large bulging unsightly veins and wondered if they are the cause of your tired and achy legs? Or maybe you just have clusters of small purple veins and wondered what can be done about them? You are not alone. About one in three adults has signs and symptoms of varicose veins. Varicose veins are essentially superficial veins that have lost the ability to effectively transport blood back to the heart. They can range from large ugly ropy veins to smaller clusters of superficial (close to the surface) purple veins that if traumatized will bleed or bruise. Many patients will experience pain, achiness, and swelling. Frequently, their legs will feel heavy and tired. If left untreated these v aricose veins can lead to inflammation of the vein (phlebitis), skin discoloration of the lower legs and in worse cases, skin breakdown and ulcers can occur. Years ago patients either ignored this problem or if they did seek medical/surgical help the results were often disappointing, or they were left with large

disfiguring scars. Today, we know much more about this medical problem and the diagnosis and treatment is far superior to that of years gone by. The use of painless, noninvasive ultrasound to diagnose the problem and pinpoint the cause is standard of care. Treatment for even the largest and most problematic veins can take less than an hour, require little or no anesthesia, and allow patients to return to their normal activities immediately. All this done in the safety and comfort of an o ffice setting. Sounds unbelievable given the stories we have all heard about the treatment of varicose veins in the past. This is standard of care for the physicians at the Circulatory Centers. All new patients are initially evaluated at a no cost, no obligation consultation. A state of the art ultrasound evaluation is performed in our ICAVL accredited vascular lab to diagnose any venous problems. The Circulatory Center staff members will then offer a customized treatment plan based on each patient’s specific needs. At the Circulatory Centers only “Gold Standard” treatment protocols like sclerotherapy or Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) are utilized. Sclerotherapy, performed in one of our many conveniently located offices by an experienced provider is used to treat smaller veins. During this visit a small amount of medication is injected into the target vein which causes it to collapse. The body then reabsorbs this vein over the course of several weeks. A support stocking is worn for a brief period to help compress the veins and allow for them to collapse naturally. This is a thirty minute office visit and involves no ‘down time.’ EVLA, which is also performed in one of our regional offices , is used to treat large vein problems. A very fine laser fiber is inserted into the problem vein. Once activated the laser energy seals the vein closed. This procedure done under local anesthesia takes about forty five minutes with patients returning to their normal daily activities immediately. A support stocking is also worn after EVLA and patients are encouraged to walk to promote blood flow thru the remaining healthy veins. All done in the comfort and safety of our office with little or no scaring! Believe it or not, 95% of our procedures are covered by insurance. At the Circulatory Center each patient is assigned a Patient Account Representative who will help them navigate the often confusing sea of insurance regulations and billing. So what do you have to lose? Only those ugly painful va ricose veins. This Industry Insight was written by Louis Certo, M.D., F.A.C.S. Medical Director of Circulatory Centers A graduate of St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Dr. Certo earned his medical degree from the University of Rome in Italy. After completing a five-year residency in General Surgery. Dr. Certo is Board Certified and Recertified in General Surgery. For the past ten years he has devoted most of his practice to venous surgery and has been associated with Circulatory Centers since 1997. Dr.Certo is a current member of the American College of Phlebology.

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n o o m y e n Ho

Romance at a price you can afford

hen it comes to making travel plans, there’s probably no trip that will be more meaningful to you than your honeymoon. Making memories that last a lifetime at this special time in your life shouldn’t be done on a whim. It takes forethought and planning to make a honeymoon a romantic getaway. Anything less, could leave you high, dry, and searching for alternatives that may cause your first bout of marita l stress. The best way to start is by setting a budget. Once you’ve determined how much you can aﬀord, you will know if New Zealand, Hawaii or Florida is in your future –and all three have spectacular beaches, resorts and amenities for you to enjoy. If you’re not a surf and sun couple, we can certainly help you find the right package for you.

The Celebrity Treatment

If money is no object, first, we congratulate you on your good fortune! The destinations open to you include Hawaii, the South Pacific and the French Riviera. Luxurious resorts such as the Mauna Lani Hotel in Kona, Hawaii, the Aman Resort in Bali, and the Hotel Cipriani and Palazza Vendramin in Venice are common names known for their over-the-top service and movie-set grandeur. Trips such as these can easily start in the $10,000 range and escalate in price from there. However, for those who can aﬀord it, there’s no price tag to be placed on the memories you’ll bring back with you and the experiences you have at these resorts.

Four Seasons on Nevi or Sandy Lane in Barbados are a few that come to mind. While not all-inclusive, you will still find great sunsets, gourmet cuisine and beachfront property you won’t find anywhere else.

The Popular Honeymoon

In the $3,000 to $5,000 range, honeymooners can find all-inclusive, luxury resorts in the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera Maya. Sandals has numerous resorts in the region, with private beaches, pristine water, and myriad activities to keep you busy when you’re ready to pick up your beach towel and find the nightlife.

The Affordable Honeymoon

If you’re willing to plan around sales and travel around the resorts’ oﬀ-peak seasons, you can still find your perfect honeymoon on the beaches of Mexico while keeping some money in the bank for your first mortgage. Having a travel agent can help you navigate the resorts and figure out how to save money the most. With their help, you can still find many four- and five-star resorts at aﬀordable rates, as well as While we may not all have $10,000 or more to spend on a reasonable airf are to those destinations. Your travel agent has up-tohoneymoon, most couples will splurge on this trip more than any the-minute rates and dates the world over, not just on the beachfront, other future vacation because of the gift money from so call them if you’re considering Europe, mountain retreats or a trip the wedding, and the fact that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime to the Big Apple. celebration. So if you’re in the $5,000 to Chances are, they’ll be $10,000 range, you’re worth their weight in still going to find great om aspirin when it comes To Book your own Cust and resorts in Hawaii to the headaches you’ll n, tio ca Va and the Caribbean. The Honeymoon or avoid, and your s, Meridian Club in Turks and ed Travel Ne ur yo of y an honeymoon will be a r fo Caicos, Peter Island in the at el av trip you’ll want to take Tr rs ve Ri e British Virgin Islands, and the call Thre again and again. go to

The Upscale

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Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

Business Spotlight

Energy Savers, Inc: Serving Customers for

30 Years

ased in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, Energy Savers, Inc., has consulted with countless commercial and residential customers on ways to maximize savings on utility costs and to reduce and control energy budgets. ESI leverages its 30 years of experience to help customers avoid the pitfalls of deregulation, wade through all of the complexities, and choose the right energy suppliers. ESI is a family-ownedenergy consulting business that was started in 1982, working with real estate owners and managers to reduce energy consumption by utilizing building automation and energy management systems. As deregulation evolved in the 1980’s, ESI became a pioneer in the initial process of ‘transporting’ gas from a supplier other than the utility to a customer in order to save them money. Today, ESI works as a trusted energy advisor to multiple communities in not only saving money on municipal buildings and street lights, but also in passing on the savings to residents through a Residential Electricity Program. Let ESI help keep your money in the bank by being your local connection to the many energy providers available. ESI has negotiated the lowest fixed rate and has made it available to your community through its Residential Electricity Program. The confusion and hassle of comparing many suppliers for the best rate has been eliminated. ESI provides consulting and analysis to each client ensuring

Natalie Abel is Vice President of Business Development at Energy Savers, Inc. a familyowned and operated business. You may contact Natalie at 412-364-6468 ext . 15 or info@energysaversinc.com for more information on programs available to commercial business owners.

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maximum cost savings and suggests the following checklist when shopping for energy: ■ Make sure the rate is ‘all-inclusive’ ■ Know the full terms of the agreement, including renewal and early termination ■ Ensure budget stability can be maintained over the term of the agreement ■ Read the fine print and perform research on the supplier For more information about ESI’s residential or commercial energy solutions, visit the website at www.EnergySaversInc.com or call 412.364.6468.

INdustry Insight

Leaving a Legacy n a few days I will be heading to Arlington National Cemetery for the burial of my father. As a decorated war hero he will be buried with full military honors, including a horse drawn caisson, flag folding ceremony and given all the pomp and circumstance you can have at a military funeral. Immediately following his death there was a state of shock (he was only 69). As reality sunk in I started to re-li ve our most memorable times and then racked my brain for the memories buried deep in the grey matter. Now three months later (Arlington has a waiting list) I find myself contemplating his legacy. How is it that he will be remembered? Is it in the way he would have wanted? I suspect this progression, from memories to legacy, is normal for most grieving relatives. As you read this memo do you feel confident that you will be remembered the way you’d like? Do you have a plan in place to make sure of it? At first glance this may seem trite, but most people have some values they wish to pass on to the next generation(s). These values may be “soft” (can’t be quantified), such as a solid work ethic or love of the arts, or they may “hard” so that numbers may be put to them. For example, perhaps you value a proper e ducation more than anything else in this world. Is there anything you can do to ensure you pass this value on to your children or your children’s children? Of course! That is, after all, what financial planning is all about. We can put a number on that and fund it. Perhaps you will help start a 529 plan for your grandchildren during your lifetime or “govern from the grave” with a trust. Trusts can be wonde rful planning tools that allow you to dictate almost any value you want. These customizable instruments allow you to craft language to meet almost any goal. The flexibility of a trust is a catch-22. You can’t just grab one oﬀ the shelf. You will need to consult a qualified estate attorney to ensure proper drafting. Recently our firm lost a client and friend. He had a terminal disease and saw the end coming. Du ring the last months of his life, he used trusts to pass on his desired values (while inhibiting others) to his teenage children. He gave the trustee power to pay out to his kids for several things – a down payment on a home, funds for a reasonable wedding, payments for tuition, etc. Payments for

Hutchison Whitehead, LLC 375 Southpointe Blvd, Suite 330 Canonsburg, PA 15317

724.873.8755 www.hwwealth.com

expensive cars, “toys” and excessive living expenses BELOW IS A LIST OF were not made available. GOALS/VALUES TO Eventually full payment from the trust happens at GET YOU THINKING: the age of 35 for the Security children. At this point, our client thought, “if they Work Ethic don’t get it by then they never will.” What a Education wonderful gift to give his children – not only Arts financial security, but a Family guide to help them as they mature the way that he Entrepreneurship would if he were here. You will leave a legacy Charity whether you plan to or not. For many a strong legacy will be evident without planning due solely to the way you lived your life. But no legacy will be as strong as the one lived with vigor and planned with purpose.

Working with Hutchison Whitehead you can expect: • Fee-only registered investment advisor - no commissions ever • Completely independent - our allegiance lies with our clients • Full access to firm partners and decision makers • Goal and evidence based investment philosophy • Holistic view of finances Contact us for a free review of your portfolio and financial plan.

J. Michael Whitehead, CFA, CFP®, Principal This industry insight was written by J. Michael Whitehead. Michael Whitehead, CFA, CFP® is a principal of Hutchison Whitehead, LLC, an independent fee-only wealth manager based in Southpointe. He enjoys working with established individuals from all walks of life to ensure the application, benefit and enjoyment of their wealth is consistent with their aspirations and values.

375 Southpointe Blvd., Suite 330 Canonsburg, PA 15317 www.hwwealth.com 724.873.8755

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

‫ﱾﱽﱼﱻ‬

Riding and Driving Party photos by Gary Yon

Annual Ride and Drive Raises Money for Sewickley Heights History Center Sewickley Heights has always been noted for its equestrian lifestyle and wonderful traditions. In the early 1900s it was the Riding & Driving Party, held the day before the annual horse show, that captivated everyone's interest. In the spirit of this tradition, the Sewickley Heights History Center hosted the Riding & Driving Party as an annual benefit. Held rain or shine on the 4th Saturday in September, the benefit features a dazzling display of antique automobiles, horses, and carriages, combined with cocktails, dinner, and a band. Equestrian Exhibitions include a traditional display of jumping and dressage, as well as a mock hunt provided by the Sewickley Hunt and Hounds. Supporting the Riding & Driving Party helps to maintain the admission-free Museum and contributes to the costs of adding new exhibits, lectures, and films, as well as to the expenses related to the popular Family Fun Days and Fall Festivals. For more information, go to www.sewickleyheightshistory.org.

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Eyes

INdustry Insight

The

ave you ever seen someone and said those are the most beautiful, hypnotic eyes I have ever seen? A person’s eyes are the focal point of their facial features and are often focused on by others during conversations or first meetings. For that reason, patients are very concerned about how their eyes appear to others. In this day and age with everyone wanting to look as lovely as they can, aesthetic eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can be beneficial to men and women at any age. How do I know if I need eyelid surgery? This is a common question that men and women alike ask me as well as themselves. Here is a good checklist reference for you. 1. Bags and dark circles under the eyes 2. Lower eyelid droopiness 3. Excessive and loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids, sometimes even obstructing vision 4. A puffiness to the upper eyelids, making the eyes appear tired 5. Excess skin and fine crepe paper type wrinkles of the lower eyelids Eyelid surgery can usually correct these problems, but sometimes other treatments may also need to be considered. What we commonly refer to as “crow’s feet” lines may be smoothed out with Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Chemical Peels or Laser Resurfacing. Dark circles under the eyes that are caused by dark pigmentation may be treated with Hyaluonic Acid fillers, fat injections or sometimes chemical peeling. Often, if drooping upper eyelids is combined with sagging of the brows, an endoscopic brow lift may be the answer. When patients come in for a consultation for this type of surgery, I usually have them look in the mirror and tell me EXACTLY what they want to see improved. This will allow me to understand their expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved. Patients should always come to their appointment ready to discuss their medical history. Especially important conditions with eye surgery are high blood pressure, diabetes and thyroid problems. Allergies are also something I need to know before performing this surgery. Eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, which means the patient can go home after their operation and time in the recovery room. With upper eyelid surgery, or Upper Blepharoplasty, the incision is generally hidden in the natural fold of the eyelid. With lower eyelid surgery, or Lower Blepharoplasty, the incision is usually hidden just below the lower lash line. As

Have It!

with other surgeries, I will advise you to stop smoking. The amount of recovery time varies among individuals. The first few days after surgery, you should rest quietly with your head elevated. Remember not to take aspirin or any anti -inflammatory medications. These products tend to thin your blood, which can increase bruising and swelling with surgery. Bruising usually disappears within 7-10 days. Straining, bending and lifting should be avoided during the early post- operative period. But, in most cases, you will be able to resume most of your normal activities within 10 days or less. After you have aesthetic eyelid surgery, people may remark about how rested you look or think you have recently returned from a vacation. When you have eyelid surgery, the healing is a gradual process. Because of this, you will need to wait at least a few weeks to get an accurate picture of your

results. Incisions will fade over several months, usually becoming barely visible. The results of this type of surgery are ordinarily long lasting. Removing fat from your eyelids, which is what typically causes the bags and puffiness, is permanent. Patients are normally delighted with their results and feel that they look much younger and refreshed. In today’s world, patients want to look the very best that they can, not only for themselves, but for the workplace. People are working later into their lives and want to have an edge in the competitive marketplace. In summary, eye surgery is not just for reasons of vanity, but can also aid in securing new jobs or advancing to that promotion.

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

photos by Gary Yon

Allegheny Land Trust Celebrates Fall at the Fourth Annual Bounty in the Barn The Fourth Annual Bounty in the Barn, to benefit the Allegheny Land Trust, brought together fine food, drinks and entertainment for a good cause. The harvest celebration featured a catered feast of wines and local organic foods. Musical entertainment was provided by the NewLanders, and the event was graciously hosted by Jodie and Bill Welge at their historic barn in Sewickley Heights. Pr oceeds benefited Allegheny Land Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local conservation eďŹ&#x20AC;orts. For more information, go to www.alleghenylandtrust.org.

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Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. It would seem reasonable that with millions of sperm and only one egg that the majority of infertility problems would lie with the female. Not true, according to the National Library of Medicine which tracks national statistics kept by fertility clinics. Difficulties with fertility are evenly split, with the source of fertility problems being linked to the male one third of the time and the female also having difficulties one third of the time. The final third is a mixture of situations where both parties have infertility issues and those cases where the cause is indeterminate. The good news is that there is hope for males who wish to start a family. Director of Male Reproductive Medicine Surgery at UPMC, Thomas Jaffe, MD, an urologist, offers a hopeful perspective for males experiencing difficulties with reproductive issues. “Because of many technologies and treatments, many men who previously had no hope of fathering a child now have treatment options that can be [effective.]” One important advancement in reproductive research is a relatively new diagnostic test called the DAZ test. The DAZ test detects a genetic mutation in the Y chromosome for sperm production.

This test is ordered when sperm production is unusually low. Another important factor in analyzing the quality of the sperm is its motility or movement. Generally, sperm with greater motility are able to more easily fertilize an egg. One common problem among men with fertility issues is type 1 or juvenile onset diabetes. Individuals with diabetes may experience what’s called retrograde ejaculation. Simply put, this is when the bladder stays open with ejaculatory fluids washing back into the bladder rather than exiting the body as with normal functioning. “This problem can be treated with Sudafed which helps the bladder to stay closed during ejaculation,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Retrograde ejaculation can also be a problem with spinal cord injuries, nerve damage or certain medications that contain alpha blockers such as high blood pressure medications. Another problem Dr. Jaffe sees among his patients are men who have little to no sperm production. “Even with no sperm, we have found that these men still produce limited numbers of sperm within the tissues of the testicles.” This sperm can be extracted from the tissue and remains viable to fertilize an egg.

One of the most common problems associated with male infertility is when an enlargement of a vein in the scrotum forms. These veins are specially equipped with one-way valves which insure that blood flows upward. When these veins become compressed, they crush the gonadal vein and heat and toxins build up in the scrotum inhibiting healthy sperm production. The vein can be surgically repaired however to promote normal function with increased sperm production and better quality with sperm motility increased. Finally, male cancer patients may experience fertility problems due to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “Ideally ,we [harvest] sperm prior to treatment. We work with the Pittsburgh Cryobank to store the sperm until needed,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Although no treatment is an absolute guarantee, male infertility can often times be overcome with the right evaluation and treatment. For more information about Dr. Jaffe and treatment of male infertility, call 412.692.4100.

Sewickley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

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