SPRING 2012
pper S St. Clair COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
pper St. Clair
ALSO INSIDE:
USC BIDS FAREWELL TO THE OLD MAYVIEW BARN AND HOSPITAL CAMPUS
120 over 80.
What’s it worth to U?
Introducing HealthyU from UPMC Health Plan. Reaching your goals is worth more than ever. It’s worth money. That’s because HealthyU offers financial incentives for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Now when you do things like quit smoking, work with a health coach, or even get a flu shot, we put money into your very own Health Incentive Account. Money that can be used to help pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and even surgery. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, talk to your employer or visit UPMCHealthyU.com.
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 1
Patricia Arnold 412-496-7683
Karen Auffenberg 412-303-0046
Darlene Kruth 412-874-0415
Kris Freund Price 412-559-5661
Janet Caputo 412-980-6025
Dorina Manolache 412-254-3674
Mary Decort-Rhodes 412-759-9642
Jeff Earley 412-225-4553
Bill Matyger 412-951-1005
Judi Scheidler 412-654-8195
Dan Gillette 412-403-7071
Marlene McNaughton 412-537-7333 Bonnie Detwiler 412-298-6646
Emily Schwartz 412-512-3161
Eric Graziano 412-523-9234
Marilyn Mielnicki 412-377-3422
Patricia Sharpe 412-576-1251
Mimi Hobbs 412-983-8865
Diane Miller 412-759-0137
Darlene Turkall 412-308-6345
Therese Hoetzlein 412-606-4702
Dennis Moorcroft 412-302-7022
Lyn Wood 412-498-0223
Deborah Yu 412-606-8824
Upper St. Clair Office 1797 N. Highland Road / Pittsburgh, PA 15241
412.831.0100
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material that does not absorb moisture and through which vapor will not pass. After it snows, it is recommended that you check the roof to see where the snow has fallen. If you notice specific areas on the roof where the snow has melted, this may signal an area that needs to be insulated or where the insulation is damaged. When installing insulation in the attic, the best method is to install it from the eaves toward the INofUpper St.soClair is a non-partisan community to center the room as to leave more headroom when you needpublication to cut or fit thededicated insulation properly. If,representing, upon installing the insulation, youand discover that you need extra layer, you can simply encouraging promoting the an Upper St. Clair area andlayits blankets on top of the insulation already there. To reduce fire hazard, cover the panels with wallboard comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who or use fiberglass panels if you must install panels between the rafters in a ceiling that slopes. liveyou and here. Our goal is istothe provide readers with the most informative and Also,if usework cellulose insulation, which most common type of loose-fill insulation, be sureprofessional that it has beenregional treated with a fire retardant. publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Steel City Pharmacy...................... | 22 DINING OUT
Peters Place ..................................... | 53 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
The Circulatory Centers EVLA Brings Immediate Vein Relief..... | 24 The Goddard School Preventing Summer Learning Losses.. | 25 28
Healthy Pet Products Our Pets Can Thrive ............................ | 26
ON THE COVER | Dedication ceremony for the newly constructed Veterans Park in Upper St. Clair Township
Photos by Gary Yon
Case Handyman & Remodeling Home Checkups Detect Problems ..... | 32
FINAL MERCY_Layout 1 3/9/12 4:55 PM Page 1
SPRING 2012
Dr. Daniel Rairigh Sedation Dentistry ............................... | 44
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Southpointe Chiropractic Chronic Back Pain ................................ | 57
Let’s Get Physical
What can a daily dose of moderate physical activity do for you? Plenty! As you get older, regular exercise is a key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy. To learn more about the link between fitness and aging, turn to page 3.
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© 2012 UPMC
What’s Inside page 2
Need Quick, Convenient Care? Head to UPMC Mercy’s South Side Walk-in Clinic
page 3
Fit at Any Age
page 4
Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do Putting Ergonomics to Work for You
page 5
Brightening Lives With Light
45
page 6
A Walk to Remember
page 7
A Lasting Legacy of Caring
60
Bill Few Associates Your Employer’s Savings Plan .............. | 68 Beleza Plastic Surgery Redefining Your Waistline .................... | 71
COMMUNITY INTEREST
Gilfillan Park and Historic House ...................................... |
6
The Face of Hunger in Upper St. Clair .............................. |
8
Resident Zumba Fanatic Publishes Book ......................... | 14 An Era Gone By ...................................................................... | 16 Lifting the Weight of the World ......................................... | 30 USC Baseball & Softball ...................................................... | 36 USC Ministry Gives Resident Permanent Roots ............ | 38 A Day of Family Fun ............................................................... | 40 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................. | 45 Upper St. Clair Songwriter on the Right Track ............... | 54 Upper St. Clair Girls Basketball Finishes Strong ........... | 60 Ballerina Lives Out Every Little Girl’s Dream .................. | 64 Great Things are Happening at USC Tennis ..................... | 74 Home Improvement in Upper St. Clair.............................. | 82
Pediatric Alliance Making an Impact on Concussions ..... | 80
S TA F F PUBLISHER
Wayne Dollard
W
elcome to the Spring issue of Upper St. Clair Magazine! Hopefully, we are all enjoying the lengthening days as we forge on to summer. While spring usually brings more rain to the region than we normally get throughout the rest of the year, I’m glad we’ve had a few days of nice weather to get outside and remember what the snow covered up. We’ve grown once again over the winter, and have shifted some staff around to accommodate that growth. I want to point this out because you, the readers, give us many of the great story ideas that you see featured in these pages, and I want you to have the right point of contact so that your story can be heard. The editor for the south and west regions is Mark Berton (mark@ incommunitymagazines.com). Please forward your good news to Mark, and he’ll make sure it finds a place in the magazine. If you’re not sure whether you have a good story, give Mark a call at 724.942.0940 and ask! While our editors have realigned into better-organized zones, we Wayne Dollard still want everything in those zones to be 100 percent local to you. Publisher We also appreciate your feedback (good and bad) to let us know where we missed the mark and where we hit it out of the park. Lastly, it’s not too soon to start thinking about the rest of the year! I know we just got through the holidays, and are thawing out, but since we’re quarterly, we’re already looking ahead to fall and beyond. So if you have events planned and would like to promote them, call or email Mark. If you have an event coming up earlier, let us know so we can send our photographers and document the occasion! Here’s hoping that the start to your year has been a good one!
MANAGING EDITOR
Marybeth Jeffries m.jeffries@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS
Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com N O R T H Z O N E C O O R D I N AT O R
Pamela Palongue p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com S C H O O L & M U N I C I PA L C O N T E N T C O O R D I N AT O R
Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER
Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com A D P L A C E M E N T C O O R D I N AT O R
Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN
Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak
Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda
WRITERS
Heather Holtschlag Kathleen Rudolph Leigh Lyons Gina Salinger Dana Black McGrath Judith Schardt Joann Naser PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer
Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS
Derek Bayer Tom Poljak
W
hile IN Community Magazines is a non-partisan publication, we don’t live in a vacuum. This year is a presidential election year, and striving to keep readers engaged and active in the community is part of our mission statement. We’re not here to endorse anyone, but we are here to remind you that voting is a hard-earned right that we have as Americans. However, many people pass on that right, which is a shame. If you view your vote as insignificant, then you are not only forfeiting your right to be counted, but also your right to be heard. Voting isn’t just about numbers; it’s about opinions as well. Your vote lends your voice to a chorus that decides who should be making our foreign and domestic policies, budgeting for specific social programs and who sends our young people into conflicts around the globe. These are critical issues that everyday people have to live with. If your candidate loses, you didn’t lose. The margin of loss sends a strong message to the victor as to whether people agree with his/her views, or found them to be less appealing. To be part of that process is something that those before us fought for through marches, protests and even death. To sit it out casts aspersions on their efforts and memory. We may not wake up happy on Nov. 7, but we should all be happy that we participated on Nov. 6. The deadline for registering to vote is 30 days prior to the next primary or general election. For more information, go to www. alleghenycounty.us/elect/registration.aspx. See you at the polls! Mark Berton South and West Regional Editor
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Upper St. Clair
Tamara Myers
ADVERTISING SALES
Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graf Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri Aimee Nicolia
Robert Ojeda Ralph Palaski Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Williard
This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2012. CORRESPONDENCE
Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN COMMUNITY MAGAZINES
Attn: Editorial 603 E. McMurray Rd. Ph: 724.942.0940 McMurray, PA 15317 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com Summer content deadline: 5/4 Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
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T
he name of Gilfillan has figured prominently in the Upper St. Clair area since the 1760’s when Alexander Gilfillan settled in the area and began raising sheep, cattle and food crops. His son added to his empire by constructing more outbuildings on the farm and a house during the years of 1857 to 1868. Many historic farm homes in the Pittsburgh area have fallen into disrepair from neglect and have subsequently been leveled to make room for more modern housing, parking lots or shopping centers. But Upper St. Clair residents are fortunate that the Gilfillan house and farm were maintained by the family over the years before transferring the properties into the hands of the township and
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the local historical society to ensure that these treasures from the past will always be a part of our future. In 1976 the Township of Upper St. Clair purchased 60 acres of land from the Gillfillan family and proceeded to turn the acreage into a scenic park with hiking trails and areas for walking, jogging and even cross country skiing. The land encircles the house and outbuildings and is dotted with ancient beech, white ash and sassafrass trees. The park is located at Route 19 South and Orr Road. If one turns east on Orr Road, there is a small sign marking the area and a walking bridge leading to some of the trails. The Gilfillan House, which sits well off of 19, was inhabited by Margaret Gilfillan until 2001. Margaret, who lived
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The two-story painted red brick dwelling contains many artifacts from the period in which it was built and features two marble fireplaces and a slate roof.
6 724.942.0940 to advertise |
Upper St. Clair
>>
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For more information on the park, you may visit Upper St. Clair’s website at www.twpusc.org.
}
>> to be 100 years old, bequeathed the home and
15 surrounding acres to the Upper St. Clair Historical Society, along with a $1.8 million trust fund to maintain the property. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Homes due to its historical and architectural significance which exhibits both Greek Revival and Victorian styles. The Old Stagecoach Road from Washington to Pittsburgh runs right through the property itself. The two-story painted red brick dwelling contains many artifacts from the period in which it was built and features two marble fireplaces and a slate roof. The windows are accented with white shutters and a scarecrow bride and groom guard the field in front of the house. The outbuildings anchored by the home include a stagecoach house, a smokehouse and a stone springhouse, the oldest structure on the property. Unfortunately, the historic home is only open one day a year for viewing, on Upper St. Clair Community Day held in May. The historical society has sought re-zoning to build parking facilities for the property, but has been unsuccessful to this point. The park, however, is open year round for public use. In May 2011, the Upper St. Clair Parks and Recreation board met to form a Master Enhancement Plan for Gilfillan Park. Some of the possible future improvements to the park may include more flowers, more hiking trails and parking for visitors. PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARY YON
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
The Face of
Hunger
Upper St. Clair
T
BY PAMELA PALONGUE
ACCORDING TO A 2004 STUDY BY WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY OF ST. LOUIS, AT LEAST 42% OF AMERICANS WILL DEAL WITH FOOD INSECURITY AT SOME TIME DURING THEIR LIVES.
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Upper St. Clair
o many, hunger is someone else’s problem; a difficulty that will happen to someone else’s family. But according to a 2004 study by Washington University of St. Louis, at least 42% of Americans will deal with food insecurity at some time during their lives. It is interesting to note that this study was done four years prior to the beginning of the recession. It is hard to overestimate the importance of food to quality of life and overall health. Medical experts now tell us that the major factors in determining disease are DNA, exercise and nutrition. A person may be able to stay alive by eating cereal every day, but how healthy is a consistent diet of nothing but cereal? Unfortunately, the poor are many times forced to buy what is cheap without regard for nutritional value. Indeed, many people are lucky to have enough money to buy food at all. As people age, nutrition becomes even more important to sustaining life. For individuals with health problems such as diabetes or heart problems, good food is essential. To growing children, proper nutrition is vitally important for optimal learning in school and normal physical development. Unfortunately, many people in our area do not have enough food to eat, much less the financial resources to buy healthy, nutritious food. One common misconception is that people who are hungry are unemployed. Although this is sometimes the case, many individuals who work at full-time jobs do not have enough to eat. With employee benefits such as health care decreasing, many workers are faced with the choice of paying for their health care insurance and prescriptions – or food. Workers
have also accepted cutbacks in the number of hours worked or decreases in hourly wages in order to retain their jobs. This shortage in pay has to be made up in other areas and one way that individuals stretch their paycheck is by skipping meals, to the detriment of their health. According to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, since August of 2008, area food banks have been serving an average of 2,500 new households every month! This dramatic increase correlates directly to the economic hard times of the past few years. In Upper St. Clair approximately 6% of the population is food insecure. People in need in our area are served by the South Hills Interfaith Ministry Food Pantry, located at 5301 Park Avenue in Bethel Park. The food pantry is operated twice a month and serves over 1,000 families. It has seen the numbers increase substantially in the past three years which reflects a national trend of increasing numbers of people living at or below the poverty line in suburban areas. Though poverty is usually associated with the inner cities, widespread job loss has advanced hunger in outlying areas. In other situations, economic hardship can be the result of unforeseeable circumstances. “Susan” and “Bob” held good jobs and were raising their two children, living in an attractive cottage home. Although they were young and healthy, Susan suddenly fell ill and had to be hospitalized for several weeks. Insurance took care of the hospital bills; however the loss of Susan’s income left the family without enough money to pay for groceries. A long rehab process had to be completed before Susan would be able to return to work. For the first two weeks after her discharge, Bob had to stay home with Susan to care for her since she was unable to walk, cook a meal or bathe. This further depleted the family income. During this difficult time, Bob and Susan were able to receive enough groceries from the local food pantry to help sustain their family. The provisions from the food pantry were a great relief for Bob, who knew that at least his family would have enough to eat. As Susan recovered, they were slowly able to catch up on their bills and get their finances back on track. Luckily, their dependence on the food pantry was fairly short-lived. Many situations can cause a person or family to be in a position of need for food. Unexpected job loss and health problems as previously mentioned are just a couple of reasons that individuals may experience a food shortage. Many persons work in low-paying jobs with limited education and are unable to make ends meet even in stable times. Divorce often leaves mothers with small children in difficult financial situations, unable to provide for their
families, especially if child support is non-existent. The death of a spouse or other wage-earner in the household can deal a sharp economic blow to any family. Individuals who live with very little disposable income may find themselves with food insecurity if expensive car repairs are needed in order to maintain transportation to work. The causes of food insecurity are as numerous as the people dealing with the problem of hunger. If a family is fortunate enough to have enough to eat, there are important things that anyone can do to help those who are hungry.
IN UPPER ST. CLAIR APPROXIMATELY 6% OF THE POPULATION IS FOOD INSECURE. PEOPLE IN NEED IN OUR AREA ARE SERVED BY THE SOUTH HILLS INTERFAITH MINISTRY FOOD PANTRY. One of the most obvious ways is to donate money to your local food pantry. This enables the food bank to buy the nutritious foods that are needed, rather than having to cope with limited amounts of random food items. Although many businesses and corporations support the food banks, they could not survive without help from the general population at large. The support of individuals in the community is crucial. For some families, a donation of $25 or $50 may pose a hardship on their budget. But even with limited incomes, there are things that almost anyone can do to help. Some grocery stores offer shoppers the opportunity to make a contribution to the local food pantry at the check-out line. If every family who is able makes a donation of $1 each week when they shop for groceries, think of the money that could be generated to help feed the hungry! By donating a smaller amount more frequently, it is less painful than writing a check for $20 or more. A small donation of one dollar will most likely not be missed in the family budget, but will help make a big impact when combined with the dollars from other area households. Although monetary donations allow the food pantry the ability to buy food supplies to fill their particular needs, food donations are also helpful. Many times we buy things at the store with good intentions, but those items at the back of continued on next page
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
The Face of
Hunger
Upper St. Clair
continued from previous page
WHERE TAILS GO TO WAG!
the cupboard are just not being eaten. Chances are if you take a quick inventory of your pantry, there are a few items that could be donated to your local food bank. In particular need are high fiber cereals, rice, pasta, and canned beans such as kidney, black and navy which are an important source of protein. Peanut butter, canned tuna and salmon also supply much needed protein. Canned vegetables and fruits are always welcomed as well as fruit and vegetable juices, although they should be 100% juice so be sure to check the ingredients label before donating. Chili, stews and soups are also valuable items because they offer a quick and easy way to get several daily nutrients in one, convenient source. Glass containers cannot be accepted at local food banks because of possible breakage. And although many foods remain nutritious and palatable after they expire, some do not. Therefore, donated food items should not be expired. Another practically painless way to donate food is to take advantage of store specials. When your local grocery runs a special where two items may be purchased and the third one is free or a “two for the price of one” special, consider donating that extra can of carrots to the food pantry. If this is done weekly, the items will add up quickly and the surplus will help feed hungry families. Last of all, but in no way least, if individuals cannot afford even small sacrifices of money or groceries, time is another valuable commodity. Most food banks are operated entirely by volunteers. There are many different jobs to do which allow a person to be matched with a task that fits his/her own unique personality. Groceries must be organized and stocked on
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Upper St. Clair
the shelves and later packed into boxes for food pantry clients. Individuals are also needed to work directly with clients to determine eligibility and the distribution of food. Still other persons are needed for fundraising activities, food drive events and marketing duties. One of the best things about helping your local food pantry is that you are helping your neighbors. Oftentimes the hungry go unnoticed because hunger cannot be seen or felt by those around it. The person who is hungry could even be your neighbor, a co-worker or the waitress at your local coffee shop. If 42% of U.S. citizens will be visiting a food bank at some time in their lives, the hungry person may even be you or your family. Helping the food pantry to help others will build a stronger, healthier community for us all. Individuals needing assistance with food may contact the South Hills Interfaith Ministry Food Pantry at 412.854.9120, ext. 25, to schedule an appointment with Family Services Coordinator Christine Miles.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
TEACHER
Upper St. Clair
Mrs. Norma
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THE BIO:
High School Attended: Mt. Lebanon High School College Attended: Indiana University of Pennsylvania Degree Attained: Bachelor of Science in Education Graduate School Attended: University of Pittsburgh Graduate Degree Attained: Master of Science in Education
THE FACTS:
Currently Teaching at: Baker Elementary School in Upper St. Clair Current Subject Teaching: Fourth Grade Reading and Language Arts Team Members: Mrs. Petrarca, Mrs. McCarthy, Mr. Fee Favorite Subject to Teach Within Language Arts: Reading
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FUN FACTS:
Favorite School Activity: Baker Weekly Book Trivia. My class hasn’t won yet, but they’ve known the answer every week! Favorite Out-of-School Activity: I enjoy spending time with my family, going out to dinner with my friends, and shopping online or in the stores. It’s all good! Favorite Color: Purple Favorite Food: My mother’s homemade Italian sauce and meatballs OR my husband’s BBQ ribs. Favorite Season: Autumn. I love fall colors. Favorite Sport to Watch: Hockey Favorite Sport to Play: Well, I really don’t play a sport anymore, but I do enjoy working out with my trainer and fellow gym rats at Fitness Fanatics. One Thing Students Would be Surprised to Know: My students know me pretty well, and probably would not be surprised by much, except maybe that I really don’t always know what they are thinking. I’ve spent years trying to convince them that I know what they are going to say before they say it.
THE SERIOUS:
Mrs. Swaney has been teaching for 33 years and says she is fortunate that all of her time has been spent in Upper St. Clair. She, like many other educators, remembers the moment in her education when she decided that she would like to become a
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Upper St. Clair
SPOTLIGHT
Swaney teacher. “When I was in ninth grade, at Jefferson Junior High School in Mt. Lebanon, I had an English teacher named Mrs. Santillo who instilled in me the power of reading, writing, and effective communication skills. I knew from that moment on that I wanted to be a teacher.” She also believes that while she is now educating the youth in her community, she is also constantly learning as well. “Every day I’m in the classroom is a learning experience. I have learned that I have the power to make the difference in a child’s life,” says Mrs. Swaney. “Teaching is often unfairly seen as an ideal job for those who like getting out of work early in the day and having long summers.” This couldn’t be farther from the truth, and Mrs. Swaney agrees. “You have to realize that this is not a 9 to 5 job with summers off. You have to be adaptable and flexible… and be ready to make a difference.” Teachers must teach content to their students in order to prepare them for moving on to the next grade level, for life, and for a future job; however, the teaching goes way beyond the academic content. Mrs. Swaney strongly believes that “teaching is more about how you pass that knowledge on to others in a way that they will remember for a lifetime. I have learned to develop strategies that are effective tools for students of all abilities.” In a time where individuality is praised, and rightfully so, tools effective for students with all abilities must be celebrated and cherished. Though Mrs. Swaney is now a veteran of the teaching circle in Upper St. Clair, the concept that teachers truly can make the difference in a student’s education and life is not lost on her. “I have learned that the more you can show students that you believe in them, the more they believe in themselves,” Mrs. Swaney notes. Perhaps the most important thought Mrs. Swaney shared was that she never takes for granted the fact that she has the ability to determine whether a child has a good day or a bad day. The parents of the students in her fourth grade class at Baker Elementary School can take heed and comfort in that.
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
A B UM
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book
“Colditz Chicas” Zumba Class from Westminster
Joyce received six rounds of chemotherapy in addition to taking other medications, one of which was Herceptin, a monoclonal antibody that shuts down the body’s ability to produce the HER 2 protein that causes cancer cells to divide Joyce, an Upper St. Clair resident, quickly. And although the biopsy had recently self-published a book called shown her lymph nodes to be enlarged, Dancing in the Rain, which chronicles her though normal, her doctor was convinced life and the lives of four women she met they had cancer as well. “My cancer was while participating in a Zumba Master so aggressive, there was no time to waste. It Class in Pittsburgh. Each of these women, and Joyce, have one thing in could have spread in the matter of a day,” she said. “But I considered my common: they are breast cancer survivors. treatments to be a gift. They were my chance to fight back, something my Joyce was diagnosed in 2008. “My husband had just been transferred dad never got.” to Chicago and we were in the process of selling our house in USC and Upon finishing the chemotherapy, Joyce took a month to rest and then buying a smaller one that would be more accommodating for my youngest researched and thought about the type of surgery she would need to face. son, who has muscular dystrophy,” she explained. “My other sons were in She opted for a mastectomy followed by reconstruction. school and I was keeping busy with their activities as well.” “My sons were phenomenal during my period of treatment,” Joyce noted. Joyce said she found a lump in her breast, but she had so many things “My son, James, was supposed to go play Junior A hockey but because of my going on in her life between her husband, moving and her children that diagnosis and his recovery of shoulder injury, he put everything aside to help she began to find every excuse not to see a doctor. take care of me and my son, Christian, who has muscular dystrophy. My son, When she finally went, her doctor sent her for a mammogram and then Ian, was in college, but called every day and sent text messages simply saying, for an ultrasound, when she got the news of the cancer. She was then ‘I love you.’ I can’t tell you how much I love my boys.” referred to a breast surgeon, who biopsied the lump and surrounding She then received the news she had been waiting for. The pathology lymph nodes. report indicated that she was cancer free. “That was really huge for me,” She received a call the next day directing her to have a PET/CT scan performed for further evaluation. The scan showed that she had aggressive she said. However, since there was no way of knowing for sure of lymph node involvement, she endured 28 radiation treatments over the period HER2 breast cancer, but because the biopsy and the scan were done so of about six weeks, which, she said, she “scheduled around her life.” close together, the doctors were not able to determine accurate lymph That life included her regular Zumba classes, which she began taking node involvement, as they were unable to determine if the lymph nodes prior to her diagnosis at Westminster Church. In fact, the only other were activated because of the biopsy or because of the cancer. person to know of Joyce’s diagnosis was her Zumba instructor, Debbie “This whole situation made me realize that every day is a gift,” Joyce Colditz, who, Joyce said, was an incredible source of said. “When you go to the doctor and ask if you are support. going to die, and they do not respond, it is a real “I was worried about her and felt that I needed to be wake-up call.” her support system,” Colditz said. “I was not just her Joyce’s strength and bravery did not stop upon fitness instructor, but her friend.” receiving the diagnosis, however. She had decided not About halfway through the radiation treatments, to tell her family members the diagnosis until after she Colditz asked if she could tell the rest of the class about began the chemotherapy treatments. Joyce’s cancer diagnosis. Joyce agreed. “I did not tell my family of my condition at first “It was quite an emotional time,” Joyce recalled. because it was something I really needed to do “The other women in the class began hugging me myself,” Joyce said. “I was so scared, but I had and thanking me. They said that I was validation recalled when my dad was suffering from aggressive “This whole situation that everything was going to be okay.” bone cancer. I woke up every day wondering if that made me realize that Joyce received further validation when she was was the day he was going to die. I did not want that every day is a gift.” asked by Maria McCallister, organizer of downtown situation for my family. I wanted to know that I Fran Joyce – Pittsburgh’s Zumba Master Class called “Groove for would be okay, so that when I did tell them, I did a Cure,” to be among the cancer survivors to dance not have to lie to them about my prognosis.”
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Upper St. Clair
Zumbathon 2011: (left to right) Maria McCallister, Susan Veitch, Cat Brennan, Fran Joyce, Lisa Sayers, Margie DiCello, and Debbie Colditz
Debbie Colditz and Fran Joyce
on stage at the event. The event donates a portion of its proceeds to the local Susan G. Komen Foundation. “I met four other amazing women with whom I would be dancing on stage and that is how Dancing in the Rain was born,” Joyce explained. “We became very close friends and received so much inspiration from each other that I decided to write this book that would tell each of their stories, with the hope that they would be just as inspirational to others who may be going through the same struggles.” The book, which features a cover designed in part by fellow Zumba classmate Cynthia Stanchak and her daughter, Aubrey, depicts how the women met and describes how their lives changed with their cancer diagnosis – how they felt, how their family and friends responded and what they are doing now. It illustrates how the women did not stop their lives because of the cancer and that they are now stronger than ever and cancer free. “One of the main messages of the book is that cancer does not have to be a death sentence,” Joyce said. “You can get through it with family, with friends and with humor.” Joyce is now two years out of treatment, something the doctors consider a milestone. “My doctors have always told me that if I remained cancer free for two years out of treatment, the odds of remaining cancer free would go up significantly.” Through the book and her experience with cancer, Joyce said that she has found her own voice. She found her strength and has learned to speak up for herself. And, she has an important message for other women dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis. “You have to be informed as a patient. What works for one patient may not work for another, so you have to research your options and make the decisions that are best for you.” But perhaps the best part about being labeled a “breast cancer survivor” is all of the things she gets to experience in her life. “I get to be around to see all of the wonderful accomplishments my sons have achieved, and that is pretty cool.” Dancing in the Rain is available for purchase on Amazon.com, on Kindle and paperback. Ten percent of the proceeds from the book are being donated to the Komen Foundation in Pittsburgh.
Fran with her sons Ian, James and Christian and her husband, Ian
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
BY TRACY FEDKOE
USC BIDS FAREWELL TO THE OLD MAYVIEW BARN AND HOSPITAL CAMPUS
he 22,000-square-foot barn that sits adjacent to the Upper St. Clair Community Recreation Center is hard to miss, but soon it will be when this last remaining structure on the Mayview farm is torn down. The decision on whether or not to preserve the barn was based mainly on budgetary considerations. Despite the efforts of the USC Citizens for Land Stewardship, it was determined after some research that renovating the structure would cost in the area of $5 million and the USC Board of Commissioners voted 5 to 1 to demolish the barn. The work will begin in the spring with future plans of expanding the recreation facilities there. The iconic red barn was one of three that were part of the 1,000-acre Mayview campus and institutional hospital run by the state. The barn was completed in 1917 and also served as a dairy producer for other state hospitals at that time. While most of the hospital complex and buildings were actually located in South Fayette, we all have driven by and most likely strain to remember the long history associated with Mayview. In its heyday, Mayview was functioning like a small self-sustained city, but one in which you may not have wanted to live. Built in 1893 on the former George Neal farm, the hospital originally opened as Marshalsea, run by the city of Pittsburgh after its almshouse on the Monongahela shores exceeded capacity. At that time, it was believed that the rural locale would result in healthier patients. The earliest tenants here were not just poverty-stricken, the facility also housed unwed pregnant mothers, orphans, and those suffering from tuberculosis or other medical ailments. In 1899, a new building to house the mentally insane was constructed and the institution began to increase its patient capacity. Having the name of the London debtor’s prison that once held Charles
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Upper St. Clair
Dickens’ father, Marshalsea became known as “a place of sorrow” and was renamed in 1916 as the Pittsburgh City Home and Hospital at Mayview, or just Mayview for short. The institution increased in size and demand and was able to serve the needs of more patients with a variety of conditions. The facility became almost a city of its own with a coal mine and power plant producing most of the heat and power from 1917 to 1956. Over 60% of the food was produced on the farm, which had three barns and several silos. Most of the work on the farm and in the mines was done by the patients themselves, for very little, if any, pay. There was also a canning facility to store food for the winter season. A railroad system transported people, food, and supplies throughout the 80 structures and nearly 1,000 acres of property at that time. Many doctors, as well as the medical and executive directors, lived on the campus on “doctor’s row.” At its peak in the 1940s, the hospital housed 4,200 patients with 450 staff. The state of Pennsylvania took over operation in 1941 and in 1947 an observation unit was created, which later became the forensic center that provided evaluation and treatment for individuals in the criminal justice system. In June 1967, patient and staff totals were estimated at 3,785 and 1,200. In 1982, the adolescent center was transferred from Woodville State Hospital and the Deaf Center moved there in 1984 after the closing of Dixmont State Hospital. With advances in the treatment for mental illness, a decline in patient enrollment in state hospitals began in the 1990s. Many of the unused buildings were closed and the adolescent center was shut down. The state made the decision to close Mayview in 2007 when only several buildings remained in active use on the 335 acres at Mayview and the costs for renovating would have been outrageous. At that time, there were approximately 225 patients with a staff of 502
bp.Northwood-Allsopp-Spr12_Layout 1 2/8/12 10:17 AM Page 1
and a total operating budget of $63 million. Between August 2007 and December 2008, 200 patients were moved to less restrictive, community-based settings and in November 2008, the 47 remaining forensic patients were moved to Torrance State Hospital. In the mid 1980s Upper St. Clair township purchased a portion of the land from the state and additional acreage in the 1990s, which is where the Community Recreation Center sits today. The property is close to 500 acres and there are designated active and passive recreation areas. About 13% of the property is zoned for active development and the rest remains preserved. In June of 2010, 265 acres containing the Mayview hospital campus in South Fayette were sold for $505,000 to Aloe Brothers, LLC of Duquesne Heights. The developer plans to create a “flex park” including light industrial and offices in a green development, keeping as much of the natural beauty of the land and wetlands as possible. They hope to be able to use the old railroad tracks for a walking trail and are working with Upper St. Clair and South Fayette townships to develop a public/private partnership agreement for use of the property. South Fayette has applied for a grant to assist with the purchase of some of the remaining property to extend Fairview Park. Prior to any new construction, demolition of all of the buildings, asbestos abatement, and reclaiming of the mines to eliminate subsidence and mine water drainage will have to be done. Demolition is expected to take about two years and three of the buildings have already been torn down with another expected to be finished in early spring. Aloe Brothers Project Manager Dennis Regan said they are working on the development of the master plan, but right now, “our focus is abatement, demolition, and safety.” While they represent an evolving history, the old decrepit barn and Mayview buildings are a symbol of a different era and philosophy in the treatment and care of those suffering from mental illness. The history of Mayview should be preserved , not for sake of history, or for the 100-year-old buildings and barn, but for what it taught those who were able to advance and improve medical treatment for patients today. The beautiful property on which Mayview once flourished will soon be reopened for the benefit of everyone in the surrounding communities. Construction is expected to begin sometime in 2014. “Our challenge and goal is to take this great setting and give it back to the community to provide an opportunity for economic development for the townships and companies and keep it as green as possible,” said Regan. Perhaps the greatest tribute to the history we are losing is to ensure the best use of the property to benefit the most people.
Ann Allsopp
OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.135 FAX 412.885.1461 CELL 412.979.5056 EMAIL aallsopp@northwood.com
Karena Allsopp
OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.183 FAX 412.885.1461 CELL 412.916.3307 EMAIL kallsopp@northwood.com
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USC Preschool Program Gives Kids a
Head Start IN THE CLASSROOM T
here are two things that make one of the classes taught at Upper St. Clair High School unique: the teachers and the students. If you are over 4 years old, you are too old to be a student. And if you are not a high school student, you are not eligible to teach. This class is one of the most popular classes taught. It is so popular, in fact, there is a long waiting list to enroll. The USCHS Preschool program began in 1985, shortly after the high school received a grant to purchase the furnishings to outfit the room, such as the lockers, dramatic play equipment, storage and shelving and engages 3- and 4-year-old children in preschool concepts that are taught by the high school students, themselves. “The preschool is taught by high school students who are enrolled in Child Care and Development 1 and Child Care and Development 2, which are both year-long courses,” said Karen Momyer, USCHS Preschool director, who began teaching the classes in 1986. “The students study the major areas of development of preschool children, including physical, motor, intellectual, social and emotional, before the preschool begins in the fall. The students also learn how to guide children to appropriate behaviors and use positive guidance techniques.” Marissa Luxemburger is a high school senior and has been a teacher with the preschool program for two years. She is hoping to major in elementary/special education in college and pursue a master’s degree in speech pathology. “My favorite thing about teaching in the preschool program is watching the children’s faces light up when they learn something new or accomplish a task,” she said. “Knowing that I am helping young children is the biggest reward I could ever receive. This program has taught me so much, including helping me to decide which career path I want to pursue. I also have learned to teach in front of a class and how to create new and exciting activities to help the children learn and have fun at the same time. Each and every child has a special place in my heart.” The class is offered to students who are at least sophomores. The students can choose Child Care and Development 1 if it is their first year or Child Care and Development 2 for their second year when they are picking their classes for the year. Luxemburger advises anyone who is thinking about majoring in education or who just has a love of playing with young children to take the class, which has been one of her favorites for the past two years. “The main purpose of the course is to provide the preschool lab experience for the high school students,” Momyer said. “Students prepare bulletin boards, activities, and learning center materials, as well as read to the children. The students also do a great deal of observation to watch various developments in the children. Examples of types of observation include attention span, types of play, block play development, motor skills and language development.” The preschool program’s year is divided into two
semesters, just like that of a normal school year. The first semester runs from October to December, and the students learn concepts such as numbers, shapes, colors, the five senses, healthy eating, sports and exercise and how to take care of themselves by identifying body parts and proper dental habits. They also celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving. During the second semester, which runs from February to May, the children learn about the alphabet, tools, dinosaurs, cooking, opposites, feelings, space, families, animals and ocean life. They also learn about the springtime: bugs and insects, plant and animal life, Earth Day and recycling and the weather. They celebrate several holidays during the second semester, including Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Jean Lesogor’s 3-year-old daughter, Jocelyn, started the program in October, after she heard about the program from a friend a few years ago. Lesogor, who also knew that there was a long waiting list to be enrolled in the program, placed Jocelyn on the list when she was only 9 months old. “Jocelyn really enjoys the program and the attention that she gets from the older kids, with whom she has always enjoyed playing,” Lesogor said. “The program is a great fit for her. An added bonus is that it is a great way to find a babysitter. The past two sitters I have had were students of Mrs. Momyer.” Jill Manalo’s daughter, Mia, has participated in the program for the past two years and although the program was a change for her family, it has become a welcomed one. “My husband and I have seven children,” Manalo said. “The first four children attended a different preschool, and I was hesitant about switching to the high school program. I’ve been more than pleased, however, and both of my
girls loved having the high school teachers as well as Mrs. Momyer. I can’t say enough about how fantastic the program is and I would highly recommend it to any parent.” Another of Manalo’s daughters, Taylor, is a high school senior and was one of the teachers in the program during her junior year. “I love working with little kids and had heard great things about the class from previous students who had taken it,” she said. “I also was interested in a teaching career at the time, so this was a great way to get a taste of the teacher setting.” Although Taylor is now thinking of pursuing psychology, with a possible minor in education, she is grateful for the experience she had with the class and said that whatever career path she chooses, she is hopeful that it will be one that includes working with children. “I loved getting to know the kids the most, but I also enjoyed planning and organizing lessons, especially with all of the helpful ideas that Mrs. Momyer brought to the table,” Taylor said. “Overall, it was an amazing class, and I had a lot of fun while learning a lot every single day! The kids came Monday to Thursday, and Friday was always the day that we spent getting ready for our next week of classes. Spending time with the kids was always fun, but Fridays were a great time to reflect on different things that happened throughout the week and to prepare for the coming weeks.” The preschool program is not lacking in popularity, as–similar to Lesogor’s experience–Momyer said she has parents emailing her to have their children placed on the waiting list shortly after birth! “There are 12 children enrolled as 3-year-olds, and most return the following year as 4-yearolds,” Momyer explained. “The 3s class meets on Mondays and Wednesdays, and the 4s class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All classes run from 9:20 to 11:40 a.m.” The current yearly cost is only $50. Anyone interested in getting their child on the waiting list should email Momyer at kmomyer@uscsd.k12.pa.us. Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 19
ROTARYNEWS Rotary Club of Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park Inducts
Four New MeMbers
R
otarians Shari Leckenby, Janine Dillon, Tammy Barbosa and Clayton Kinlan were recently inducted into the Rotary Club of Upper St. Clair-Bethel Park. Shari was born in Eighty-four, Pa. and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in dietetics and nutrition. She is currently an insurance agent with Single Source Benefits on Mayview Road. She resides in Upper St. Clair with her husband, Keith, and their three children, Tim, Keith, and Lauren. Shari enjoys cooking, coaching cheerleading and teaching CCD at St. Louise De Marillac. Bethel Park resident Janine Dillon has been a successful full-time licensed realtor with Coldwell Banker’s South Hills office since 1996. Janine’s designations include consistent multi-million dollar producer, e-marketing and lead router e-team member, previews properties and certified new homes specialist. Janine is a member of the Realtors Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh and Amen Corner. She is a long-time supporter of Animal Friends, Make-a-Wish and the Alzheimer’s Association. Tammy Barbosa was born and raised in Punxsutawney, Pa. She holds an associate degree in business. Tammy has been in the insurance industry since 1993 and is licensed in property, casualty, life, fixed annuities, accident and health. She currently works for Nationwide as a sr. sales advocate/agent at a Nationwide On Your Side Corporate Center.
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Upper St. Clair
Pictured from left to right are Club President Brian Schill, Shari Leckenby, Janine Dillon, Tammy Barbosa and Clayton Kinlan.
This is a unique model in that agents are incentivized to find maximum discounts and contact customers proactively throughout the Nationwide experience. Tammy resides in Bridgeville, Pa. with her husband Nate. Not one to fly very far from the nest, Clayton was born and raised in Bethel Park and still resides there with his wife of 22 years, Kim, and their two daughters Rachel and Heather. After graduating from California University of Pennsylvania, he began his banking career. Currently a relationship banker at Brentwood Bank, Clayton enjoys his responsibilities of talking to businesses, non profits and individuals about the advantages available at Brentwood Bank for their deposit, financing and electronic banking needs. Community involvement has been a defining personality trait. For 12 years he was a member of the Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company earning the rank of captain. This was followed by being a member of the Ruthfred Lutheran Church Council. Currently, he is a member of the Board of Directors for the Bethel Park Girls Softball Association and sits on the board for the Pregnancy Resource Center of the South Hills.
ROTARYNEWS Club president Brian Schill (center) presents meeting plaque to store manager Carla Newbegin and Kings President/CEO Hartley King.
About the Rotary Club of Upper St Clair-Bethel Park
Kings Family Restaurant New Home for USC-BP
breAKFAsT roTArY CLub
T
he Rotary Club of Upper St Clair-Bethel Park (Breakfast) started off the new year with a new home – Kings Family Restaurant on McMurray Road. “We have enjoyed a 20-percent growth in our membership in the past 6 months and show no signs of stopping. In most respects this is good, but the sudden growth had caused parking and overcrowding issues at our previous location,” said President Brian Schill. “Kings store manager Carla Newbegin has been very accommodating in every aspect.”
Hartley King, founder, president and CEO, served as the inaugural speaker. Other speakers for the month include George Matta from Rivers Casino, Jake Sullivan from the Pittsburgh Power and Vince Gastgeb from Allegheny County Council. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 7 – 8 a.m. If anyone would like information regarding Rotary, please contact Brian at 412.833.6229, BLSchill@aol.com or check out the web site at www.clubrunner.ca/upperstclair.
The Rotary Club of Upper St Clair-Bethel Park is one of three area Rotary clubs in Upper St Clair and Bethel Park. The clubs are part of Rotary International, which has 1.2 million members worldwide who remain dedicated to volunteer community service, promoting high ethical standards in all vocations and furthering international peace. In addition to thousands of volunteer hours, each year Rotary contributes millions of dollars in humanitarian aid and relief around the globe, funds 1,200 international scholarships and provides cross-cultural exchanges for 7,000 young leaders. Through its flagship program PolioPlus, Rotary has contributed more than $600 million to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21
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Upper St. Clair
USC GRAD
TTakes Position at Firm DANA L. BACSI is an attorney in her firm’s Litigation Group. She has a broad civil litigation practice, including in the areas of commercial, product liability, personal injury, nursing home defense, and employment law. She is also experienced in insurance coverage disputes. Over the course of her career, Dana has represented various regional and national clients in mediations, arbitrations, nonjury and jury trials, as well as appellate court argument. She has also authored publications and presented on topics within her practice areas. Having graduated from the Upper St. Clair High School, Dana maintains active ties to the community. Post graduation, she attended the Pennsylvania State University, earning her B.A.,with distinction. She received her J.D. from Duquesne University School of Law. Dana is a member of the American, Pennsylvania, and Allegheny County Bar Associations. She currently serves on the ACBA’s Civil Litigation Section Council and as president of the Mt. Lebanon Montessori School and Academy’s Board of Directors.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 23
EVLA Minimally Invasive Procedure
Brings Immediate Vein Relief
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o you suffer from tired, achy legs with bulging varicose veins., Or maybe you just have clusters of unsightly, small purple veins that bother you and you wonder what can be done about them? Rest assured you are not alone in these concerns. Approximately 30% of American 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. Varicose veins can range from large, ugly, ropy veins to smaller clusters of superficial (close to the surface) purple veins. Many patients will experience pain, achiness, heaviness and swelling. If left untreated these varicose veins can lead to inflammation of the vein (phlebitis), skin discoloration of the lower legs, skin breakdown and ulcers can ultimately occur. Years ago patients ignored this problem or were told the condition was “cosmetic”. Many times, if they did seek treatment, the results were often disappointing, or they were left with disfiguring scars. Over the past several years, greater understanding of varicose veins has allowed for more effective treatments. The use of painless, noninvasive ultrasound to diagnose the problem and pinpoint the cause is the standard of care. Treatment for even the largest and most problematic veins can now
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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 office setting. Many times patients are anxious to receive treatment because they have previously heard an unpleasant story or known someone who had been subjected to previous treatment in years past that was much more invasive than what is available today. The majority of people are familiar with stories of past varicose vein treatments. Unfortunately, many are unfamiliar with the significant advances in treatment for varicose veins that allows for more effective and less invasive treatment. This minimally invasive, office-based care, 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 meet with the patient and offer a customized treatment plan based on each patient’s specific needs. At the Circulatory Centers treatment protocols often involve effective therapies such as; sclerotherapy or Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA). The physicians at the Circulatory Centers continually review the evolving literature and treatment standards so a contemporary and effective treatment plan can be individualized for every patient. Sclerotherapy, performed in one of our local offices, by an experienced provider, is often 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. Sclerotherapy is performed in a thirty minute office visit and involves no ‘down time.’ EVLA is also performed in the office by a physician. This procedure is often used to treat larger veins. A flexible laser fiber is inserted into the problem vein using ultrasound guidance. This procedure is done with local anesthesia and takes about forty minutes. The laser produces intense energy which causes the vein to close down. Patients return to their normal daily activities immediately. A support stocking is worn for several days after EVLA and patients are encouraged to walk to promote blood flow thru the remaining healthy veins. All this is done in the comfort and safety of our office through a 1/8 inch incision and little or no scaring! With the generally accepted knowledge of venous insufficiency and varicose veins, 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 varicose 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.
Preventing Summer Learning Losses during Early Childhood
A
s the school year comes to a close, it is only natural for kids to look forward to the leisurely nature of the summer season. The arrival of beach trips, pool parties and sleepovers, however, doesn't mean that children should depart completely from their daily routine. Keeping particular elements of a child's day consistent throughout the summer months keeps the brain focused and helps prevent learning losses during the summer. In addition, this can potentially ease the anxiety that often accompanies transitioning into a new classroom or school come fall. According to research conducted by the National Center for Summer Learning, which is based at the Johns Hopkins School of Education in Baltimore, Maryland, summer learning loss accounts for about twothirds of the difference in the likelihood of a student pursuing a college preparatory path in high school. As these findings indicate, keeping children's brains challenged throughout the summer is crucial, since the lack of learning that occurs during these months has both short-term and long-term consequences. And, brain growth is 90% complete by age 10 in most children. Keeping your child challenged in these early years can make a difference in the rest of his/her lives. Routine provides structure, which is often lacking during the summer months when children all too quickly become detached from the lessons they learned throughout the school year. Maintaining a schedule throughout the summer supports an environment that is less of a contrast to the classroom and provides a healthy balance between building skills, play and rest. Families can inc orporate the following habits into their child's day to encourage and maintain a routine throughout the summer season:
with their new summer schedules. The purpose is not to create rigidity but to provide a flexible structure that establishes a sense of purpose kids need to grow and mature. Finding a preschool/early childhood center that runs their program year round can be very beneficial in this regard. The very best early childhood centers also offer school readiness programs for elementary school students. If you are looking for such programs, make sure they are facilitated by degreed teachers as well as tailored to meet the specific needs of your child, whether it be concentrating on advanced or remedial material. It also can be helpful that the academic program/curriculum is intertwined throughout the center’s program, so the children readily accept the “summer challenge.” This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo. Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 825 East McMurray Rd. in Peters Township. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/Preschool/K programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschools.com or call 724.941.6464.
• Early to bed, early to rise: To the best extent possible, children should adhere to a regular bedtime each night and wake up at the same time each day. This will not only ensure proper rest but will establish a sense of discipline as well. • Clean up and get dressed: Upon waking up, it i s important that children brush their teeth, get dressed and perform any other hygienic tasks that they normally would before a school day. Allowing kids to stay in pajamas or dirty clothes longer than necessary can result in lazy behavior. • Make eating an event: Keeping a child on a consistent meal schedule is critical to maintaining a sharp body and mind. Establish specific times for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and sit with children at the table to encourage conversation while eating. • Take a rest: If a child partakes in a scheduled nap time while at school, then he or she should be allotted time at home for regular rest as well. Make this time consistent, perhaps after lunch, and have the child rest in the same place every day. • Perform daily chores: Asking a child to help around the house is an ideal way to get them involved in a daily routine. A morning chore and an afternoon chore can convey a sense of responsibility and supply a sense of rhythm to the day. In addition to providing consistency, routines can present children with security and comfort as they adjust to the changes that come along Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 25
Our pets can survive on anything but don’t we want them to thrive? H ave you ever scanned the ingredients in commercial dog food and asked yourself, are any of the ingredients in your pet’s food imported from China? Does the food contain cancer causing agents? Does the company have their own manufacturing plant or do they hire a company to make & process their food? Are the meats human grade or do they come from diseased, decaying or euthanized animals? These are just a few questions we should all consider when choosing a food for our beloved pets.
Do you truly think employees at grocery or “big box” stores have the knowledge base or care enough to answers these questions? Typically, the answer is no. However, if you walk into a locally owned specialty pet store, the answer is more than likely going to be YES! Employees who care, are concerned and take the time to educate us, the consumer, has endless advantages. Besides supporting local business (which is something we should all look to do), you’re going to get help from a knowledgeable and caring staff. I hope you’ll agree we could all use more of that these days!
The following is a basic guideline on what to look for in the ingredient panel and guaranteed analysis label on all pet foods.
Gary Yon Ensure that meat meal protein Bring in the sources are high on the ingredient list from ingredients list. Yes, meat meal We can help you decide your pets current bag of is what you want to see as long which food is best for your pet. food and we’ll help you as it is an identified meat source, However, one distinct advantage decide if it is the right such as chicken meal. The meal for my customers is you could choice for your furry is basically the meat with the walk into our store and blindly water already removed, which family member. choose a food, knowing that it’s ensures that it won’t reduce down healthy and safe for your pet, without anymore during the cooking process. ever having to ask questions or read one of (It takes 5 pounds of the animal meat to make our informational brochures. I will not carry a food one pound of the animal meal.) This simply means that I wouldn’t feed to my own, and my standards it has more weight in the ingredient panel, so it’s are very high. This is also something that sets us consequently a more nutritionally dense food for apart from the grocery and big box stores. your pet. One way a pet food company can make I also choose to sell foods that are made in the their foods look good is by putting chicken, as USA or Canada that also contain and use ingredients opposed to chicken meal, in as the first ingredient sourced from these countries as well. Our foods followed up by 3 or more carbohydrates. The contain no animal by-products, wheat, corn or carbohydrates end up outweighing the chicken – this is not good because you want your dog or cats soy, and are naturally preserved containing no artificial ingredients or “fillers”. Now isn’t that the primary source of calories coming from a quality way our pets would choose to eat!?! meat source, not carbohydrates. If chicken meal were the first ingredient that would be a different story. We highly recommend avoiding meat SOUTH HILLS: by-products because they can include chicken beaks, feet, bones, etc. Reputable manufacturers Crossgates Plaza will select ingredients that are processed to remove 1742 Washington Rd. such material because it is not digestible by most Upper St. Clair, PA. 15241 dogs and cats. However, as per AAFCO, animal (Next to Model Cleaners) by-products MUST contain the animals head, feet, and/or intestines. Look for foods that exclude corn, 412.831.3700 cornmeal, wheat and partial grains, due to concerns about potential allergens. Grains can be a long-term NORTH HILLS: source of energy and energy storage for dogs, but 9600 Perry Highway they can also be used as a cheap filler in order to boost the food’s protein percentage. Watch out! McCandless, PA 15237 Any grain you feed your dog should be used in 412.366.0700 whole form so that it supplies more fiber, vitamins and minerals. The best whole form grains for dogs Monday-Thurs: 9am - 8pm (when used in the proper percentages) are rolled Friday: 9am - 6pm oats, barley, quinoa, millet, and brown rice.
Saturday: 9am - 6pm Sunday: 11am - 4pm
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Veterans Park
DEDICATED A dedication ceremony was held on November 11 at the newly constructed Veterans Park in Upper St. Clair Township. The ceremony was held at the site which is located in the green space next to the Upper St. Clair Township Building, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road. Local celebrity Lanny Frattare emceed the short ceremony. The USC Veterans Park was built to honor service personnel and will be used by students to further their understanding of the our country’s military branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines and the National Guard. The plaza includes monuments to each branch of the service along with their history. PHOTOS BY MONICA HAYNES
COLLIER TOWN SQUARE 1597 Washington Pike Bridgeville, PA 15017 412.446.2777
VILLAGE SQUARE 2400 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 1510 412.833.5714
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
T
wo Upper St. Clair women recently underwent major life changes and gave new meaning to the common New Year’s resolution to lose weight and get in shape. Although these women took different paths on their weight loss journeys, their end results were the same: a happier, healthier self-image and a new take on life. “We met weekly for Bible study, prayer, support, and accountability, all centered around the goal of losing weight,” Livingston explained. “I also began making healthier food choices and exercising more, and found that this time was different from my previous attempts to lose weight. I was really committed and worked to put appropriate support in place so I could be successful in reaching my goals.” Livingston remembers receiving a tax refund that year, and instead of putting it toward dinners and treats, she hired a personal trainer who worked with her twice a week to help her achieve her fitness goals. At the end of the summer, Livingston had lost 18 pounds. And she wasn’t the only one. “The other members of the support group also lost weight, and we were so successful, we decided to continue the group into the fall and open it up to all interested church members,” Livingston noted. Livingston later realized that after her initial weight loss, she required additional help to continue reaching her goals, so she began working with a registered dietitian, who helped her tweak her diet and lose weight
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Upper St. Clair
after
Hilary Livingston
before
Rev. Hilary Livingston is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). She grew up in the South Hills and had wanted to lose weight ever since she was a teenager. “I made many unsuccessful attempts to lose weight throughout my life, but nothing ever seemed to click for me,” said Livingston, who does not disclose her heaviest weight, only to say that she was in NFL linebacker territory. “In the spring of 2008, I was chatting with some of the staff members at the church where I served as associate pastor. We all shared our collective frustration with our inability to lose weight, and we all had health problems that were exacerbated by our excess weight. Mostly, we just didn’t feel good about ourselves, and we decided as a group to make a change.” After that conversation, the staff decided to form a support group to help each other lose weight. At the same time, Livingston decided to try to start a wellness group at her church, and she and two staff members invited two church members to join them in a pilot wellness group that met over the summer.
after
before
more effectively. By the fall of 2009, Livingston lost 70 pounds. “I couldn’t believe it! I felt on top of the world!” Livingston exclaimed. “I began to fit into sizes I had not worn since high school, and people who had not seen me in a while didn’t even recognize me. “I felt different on the inside as well. I was no longer turning to food to medicate my problems. I started going out more and meeting more people, and I began to set better boundaries at work so I had time to continue improving my health.” Livingston became so inspired about all that she achieved, that she wanted to help others do the same. In 2010, she became a certified personal trainer by the American Council on Exercise and currently trains clients at the Westminster Recreation and Outreach Center (WROC) at Westminster Church. She offers individual and small group training and also offers seminars and classes on fitness topics. Livingston also is working on her Doctor of Ministry degree, and in particular, a research project involving the development of a spiritually based wellness program for South Hills residents. The program, called “Take Care of the Temple,” was born in the fall of 2011 and offered as a pilot program at Westminster Church. Thirteen people participated in the 40-day program, which began with a day-long retreat, after which participants were separated into small groups that fostered support and accountability. Each meeting focused on a different wellness theme that participants were encouraged to incorporate into their own lives. “Participants also were encouraged to develop their own wellness rhythm, a program that helps them incorporate healthy living habits and spiritual practices into their daily lives,” Livingston said. “The program received very positive feedback from the participants, and my hope is to offer the program again in 2012 through the WROC.” To learn more about the program, visit www.takecareofthetemple.com.
Apryl Loughlin
When Apryl Loughlin stepped on the scale one morning in 2008, she screamed. It read 272 pounds. “I decided to begin my weight loss journey right at that moment,” she explained. “I knew that I didn’t feel well. My blood pressure was elevated, and doing simple tasks made me tired and out of breath. I believe my defining moment was when I bent over to tie my shoes and I couldn’t breathe. That was it for me!” For Loughlin, gastric bypass surgery was the best option that worked for her. “It took a lot of thought and research before I decided to have the surgery,” Loughlin explained. “I weighed my options, most of which never worked in the past, and finally decided to go through with it. I spoke with continued on page 59
BY HEATHER HOLTSCHLAG Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
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Upper St. Clair
Cinderella Ball The 86th Annual
Article and photography by Kathy Rudolph
One of the Oldest Pittsburgh Charity Events and Debutante Balls in America
dman, Betsy Teti and Diane Wal Cinderella Ball Co-Chairs
T
wenty area young ladies dressed in their best white gowns and gloves were presented into society by their dads at the 86th Cinderella Ball hosted by the Cinderella Women’s Committee at the Omni William Penn. Besides looking beautiful and knowing just when to curtsy, which signals their entrance into society, the debutantes had to volunteer for 30 hours at Animal Friends, which was this year’s beneficiary of the ball. Each year, the Cinderella Women’s Committee chooses a Pittsburgharea civic and charitable organization to be the recipient. The ballroom looked like a scene from Disney’s “Cinderella” with its rich, purple hues, up lighting, ethereal flower arrangements by Bill Chisnell and, of course, Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage. The evening’s other festivities included a delicious dinner, musical entertainment by the Rick Purcell Big Band and Later After Dark featuring Sputzy. Caption for photo at top: The d ebutantes take a break with Joanne Moore of Animal Friends
Clara Moller of Upper St. Clair High School
To learn more about the Cinderella Ball, visit the website at cinderellaball.com Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
Junior Women’s Club Benefits South by Elissa Emmerling The Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club is all about “Good Work and Good Friends.” Lisa Sweeny, 3-year member and Public Relations Chairperson of the Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club, emphasizes that the non-profit is focused on many areas in the South Hills, not just Mt. Lebanon. It was started by two local women in the Peters Township Community. “We help contribute to causes that benefit women and childr en around areas in the South Hills, and we focus on furthering good things,” she said. “A large part of our members are not only from Mt. Lebanon but also from Peters Township, Bethel Park, and Upper St. Clair. The organization has been in existence for close to 50 years, since 1968, and they have around 100 members throughout many areas of the South Hills. We try to impact areas beyond Mt. Lebanon.” Th e Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club gives back to the community through “civic, philanthropic, and social activities that focus on improving the lives of women and children.” Sweeny explained, “Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club is compromised of a dynamic group of women accomplished in career, family, and community involvement.” With approximately 100 members, MLJWC invites women living in Mt. Lebanon and surrounding communities to join the club. Membership is open to women in the South Hills area who are committed to the goals of the organization. Membership is accepted at any
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Upper St. Clair
point during the year. Meetings occur on the 4th Monday of every month at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. They have a wide variety of presentation topics including educational aspects, self defense, and breast cancer awareness. Pros pective members may attend two general meetings and review the Club's Standing Rules, By-Laws, and Charitable By-Laws before considering membership in the organization. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m., but women can come early for appetizers, desserts, and drinks. New members are asked to: participate in Meals on Wheels twice a club year, purchase one ticket to the annual benefit, and help plan the May Mem ber Dinner. If they join May through January, annual dues are $50. Dues for new members who join January through April are $28. Special events occur throughout the year to help new members familiarize themselves with the club. Sweeny explained the expectations of a potential member in the organization. “One must have a combination of interests in social and charitable activities and be driven to help t he community; one must have the desire to do these things along with participating in social events.” There are certain club requirements and members must participate in various activities. The Mt. Lebanon Junior Women’s Club holds in various events throughout the year. Their goal is always to “further good things.” There are many small charitable events. For instance, this year they hosted a holiday s hopping and food market and helped support the Women’s Center and
Hills Women Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh. Members willingly donate their time to the organization to better their surrounding communities. The Women’s Club’s biggest annual event is the Gala which is taking place in Fairmont this year. It is a “Toast for the Cure” with a wine theme. Some proceeds from this benefit will go to help the Young Women’s Br east Cancer Awareness Foundation. There will be a silent auction and a luxury basket raffle. The host and emcee again this year is Andrew Stockey from WTAE. The organization also has an annual scholarship to support a Mt. Lebanon high school senior girl. The Women’s Club supports the Mt. Lebanon Library and the Mt. Lebanon Veterans Memorial which is being established now. For additional information incl uding membership please visit www.mljwc.com or contact Lisa Sweeny at lpsweeny@me.com.
To learn more about our summer science camps, visit us online or call 412.237.1637 today!
CarnegieScienceCenter.org Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
USC Baseball
Softball
B
&
ounding into the 2012 spring season, Upper St. Clair athletes have diamonds on their minds… the baseball and softball diamonds to be exact. The Upper St. Clair baseball team looks to improve upon last season’s third place section finish. Longtime coach Jerry Malarkey leads the Panther baseball team into the 2012 season. Coach Malarkey has seen his team’s work ethic this year and is excited about where this season could lead for his team. “The team has been working hard in the weight room since the end of November, and they have set good examples in work ethic, motivation and leadership in baseball,” said Coach Malarkey. He expects this year’s team to contend for the section title at the very least. Coach Malarkey explained, “I fully expect this team to contend for the section title, to be in the playoffs, and to be very competitive in those playoffs.” Being competitive in the W.P.I.A.L. playoffs is the longtime standard of Upper St. Clair baseball as the team looks to capture another W.P.I.A.L. title. The program’s lone W.P.I.A.L. gold came back in 1992. The first step in winning the section title means that the Panthers will face rivals Peters Township and Bethel Park. Both edged out the Panthers last year in section play, but the Panthers still managed a playoff run in 2011. They were defeated in the second round by eventual W.P.I.A.L. Champion Seneca Valley, who scored the gamewinning run on a walk-off single up the middle in the bottom of the seventh inning. Over the past two seasons, the Panthers have made it to the W.P.I.A.L. semifinals and quarterfinals, and are now looking to make the jump to the championship game this year. “Our record over the past few years doesn’t really represent the talent we’ve had on the team, and this year we’re setting our sights on the championship game,” senior second baseman Zack Tobias said. Zack and the rest of his strong senior class will look to lead the Panthers back to the Promised Land this year. All in all, there are 12 seniors this year, each looking to add to the team in their own way. “All of our senior players are leaders, each in his own way. Some are more vocal than others, but we all lead through example, dedication and commitment to baseball, and commitment to our team,” Zack said. Besides strong senior leadership, the Upper St. Clair baseball team also has seven starters returning from last year’s team. Middle infielders and fellow seniors Zack Tobias and Shane McMurtry will be defensive stalwarts for the Panther team. The team also returns senior catcher Alex Bell, senior pitcher/outfielder Steve Gannon, senior outfielder Troy Schoeppner, senior outfielder Max Pavlic, and senior third baseman Jack Elliott. Other returning seniors include third baseman/catcher Austin Stephen, and outfielders Adam Janoski and Joe Anderson. Pitcher Jake Melby will also be back on the mound this year for the Panthers.
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Upper St. Clair
Swinging for the Fences in
2012
Some of the seniors will also look to extend their baseball careers past Upper St. Clair and into college. Alex Bell will likely play baseball at St. Bonaventure, while Jack Elliott will play at Hampden Sydney. Mike Wilcox is still undecided, but is sure in the fact that he wants to play baseball wherever he goes. Troy Schoeppner will play at the University of Pennsylvania, and Zack Tobias will also be playing collegiate baseball, but he, like Mike Wilcox, is not sure where that will be yet. The motto of this year’s team looks to be a concept that both the coaching staff and team alike accept and embrace: teamwork. “We are a very team oriented group of kids this year, and not one single kid is placed on a pedestal. Everyone has a role on this team and we believe that if each of us does our jobs, then we will be successful,” Zack notes. Likewise, Coach Malarkey says, “This group is committed to making good choices in and out of baseball.” It seems as though their good decision-making has led this Panther baseball team into a position where the 2012 baseball season could be one to remember. With visibly outstanding work ethic throughout winter workouts, Coach Malarkey hopes that this year’s team will build upon the rich tradition of Upper St. Clair baseball. He hopes his team’s season will reflect all of the hard work, commitment, dedication and character that his team displays every day, both on and off the field. Much like their brother team, the Upper St. Clair softball team looks ahead to what they hope will be a successful 2012 campaign. This senior-led ball club boasts nine veterans who are looking to go toe to toe with section rivals Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon, and Baldwin this year. With nine experienced seniors, this team is not caught up on who the official captains will be this year, if any. “The team actually hasn’t had named captains for the past two years,” said senior and four year varsity player, Allison
BY LEIGH LYONS
Burner. The natural leaders, the seniors, will step up and guide the younger, more inexperienced, players and teach them the Lady Panther Softball way. The seniors, along with the rest of the team, are excited for the prospect of possibly going to another tournament out of state this year. Last season, the Lady Panthers went to a tournament in LaGrange, Ky. Senior shortstop Allison Burner said, “If we go to another tournament this year, we’d aim to make it to the championship game.” Since this is the largest group of seniors that the Upper St. Clair softball team has had in recent years, the seniors are determined to make an impact on a program that hasn’t won a W.P.I.A.L. championship since 1973. Some fresh young talent on the team will aid the seniors this year as well. Underclassmen Allie Hutton, Lyndsey Nagy, Karsen Rooney, and Jackie Ross will look to make their impact felt on the squad this year. While newcomers will look to add to the team, some seniors are already planning on their futures after Upper St. Clair. Senior Mary Kay Horn, who plays both catcher and third base for the Lady Panthers, will plan on playing college softball at Saint Vincent College next year. Likewise, senior first baseman Becca Stage will look to continue playing softball at Bethany College after her career is over at USC. The rest of the seniors, including Allison Burner, Mary Dudas, Rachel Hast, Karis Rooney, Stephanie Ross, Carly Sullivan, and Madison Yanosky, want to make the most of what’s left of their Upper St. Clair careers. The team will look to at least finish with a .500 record this season, especially when playing contentious section rivals Baldwin, Mt. Lebanon, and Bethel Park. With this team’s dedication, hard work, skill, and maybe a touch of luck, they just might be on the right track for the 2012 season.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37
USC Ministry Gives Resident
Roots
Permanent
D
onna Sherman moved to Pittsburgh in March 2010 from Jacksonville, FL, but by that time, moving had become almost a habit. “Before I was married, I moved five times in 10 years from to Georgia to Mississippi to South Carolina,” Sherman said. “Since I have been married, we have moved seven times in 25 years from South Carolina to Florida to Georgia and finally, to Pittsburgh.” Fortunately, Sherman had found comfort with people who had gone through similar situations. Through Westminster Presbyterian Church’s Just Moved Ministry, a national program offered by churches, seminaries, corporations and U.S. military installations around the world, women are prepared, encouraged and equipped to move on from the past, rebuild hope and embrace their new lives in their new homes. Sherman discovered
so much encouragement from the ministry that she went from a group member to a group facilitator, a position she currently serves. “The groups are relatively small, which makes it easy for the women to open up and find support,” Sherman said. “I have facilitated two groups to date; the first group had three members, and the second group had six members.” The 13-week biblical study program, which meets from January to April and from September to December during the year, is based on a book by Susan Miller called, After the Boxes are Unpacked: Moving On After Moving In. Miller, who moved 13 times during 18 years of marriage, started the ministry in 1995 and wrote the book out of a desire to help women cope with the losses and emotional struggles that often come as part of a move. The book offers helpful hints, true stories and insights from women who have moved and is
It is helpful to have other people who can help ease the transition. It helps to know that you are not alone.
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Upper St. Clair
designed to help ease the transition of moving. “The program, which began in 2007 at Westminster, is geared toward any woman who is going through the trauma of a move, as moving can cause women to experience tremendous grief for their past life of their old friends and their old house,” Sherman explained. “We read a couple chapters of the book each week and then get together to discuss what we have read and the various topics that surround moving, such as how to make a house a home, the positive aspects of moving; how to meet new people, and how moving affects children, marriages and families.” In addition to the group meetings, members have access to Just Moving information and tips for surviving a move on the ministry’s Facebook page and the website. “The goal at the end of the 13 weeks is for women to feel more rooted, be more comfortable in their new environment and to feel a sense of belonging,” Sherman said. “The stories that the women tell during our meetings help validate everyone’s feelings that what they are experiencing is normal. Additionally, the group offers other people to talk to, and maybe someone to call and have coffee with.” Janet Slater and her family moved from Toronto, Canada, to Upper St. Clair in August 2010. She had moved three times in the past 12
years, and was all too familiar with the emotions that go with a move. “Moving is not easy, and it was harder with this move than any other move we made,” Slater said. “I have learned that moving is a process that does not end when the boxes are unpacked. You have to give it and yourself time. Your family needs time, too!” Slater learned about the Just Moved Ministry when her husband’s co-worker brought in a weekly church bulletin from Westminster and pointed out the program to him. “It sounded like a good place not only to meet other women in the community, but women who were in the same situation as me, who had just moved. In addition, it sounded like a good place to learn more about the community itself.” As she progressed through the 13 weeks, Slater began to feel like these were people with whom she could commiserate. In the end, she felt better equipped to move into her new home and new neighborhood. “There are lots of issues associated with moving, including spiritual, financial and emotional,” Sherman explained. “It is helpful to have other people who can help ease the transition. It helps to know that you are not alone.”
The Just Moved Ministry is open to anyone, and the next session is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, September 14. The program cost is $12. For more information, call Donna Sherman at 724.260.5000 or visit the website at www.Wroc.westminster-church.org. Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39
+ Kids
F
+
=
Trucks
Royalty
amily fun, interactive exhibits and a carnival-like atmosphere are the themes of the Westminster Nursery School’s fifth
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FAMILY FUN!
annual fundraiser “Touch a Truck, Meet a Princess at Westminster Nursery School Family Fun Day.” The event—which is sponsored in part by Don’s Appliance—will be held on Saturday, May 5, 2012 from 12-4 p.m. in the Westminster Presbyterian Church parking lots. This exciting event will feature a section of service and construction vehicles for children to explore, princesses to meet and greet, a horse and carriage ride, climbing wall, train ride, games, food, music and much more! This year’s event will also feature Creation Stations where local businesses will showcase their goods and services in the form of interactive exhibits, so that families can create and take home
Upper St. Clair
A Day of
hand-made crafts, edibles, and other goods. In addition to the fun and games, event goers can take their chance at winning hundreds of dollars worth of valuable prizes via a Chinese auction and raffles including a Pittsburgh Family Fun Pack of tickets and memberships to local family-friendly establishments. “We were very pleased with the outcome of last year’s Family Fun Day, which was attended by over 900 participants,” said Marge Boyd, director of Westminster Nursery School. “As a result, we’ve extended the hours of this year’s event and added more attractions so that families can enjoy the afternoon and take advantage of the many activities we have arranged to ensure fun for all ages.” The event is open to the public and tickets are $5 per person (children two and under are free)
Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center
or $25 for a family. Tickets will be on sale at the Westminster Nursery School during operating hours beginning April 10, 2012. All families who purchase tickets in advance of the event will receive a coupon for each registered child, redeemable for a free kids’ meal from the South Hills Chick-Fil-A! Proceeds from the event will be used to directly fund student-related needs and projects outside the realm of the annual operating budget. These include a family scholarship fund, upgrades in classroom technology & equipment as well as other student enrichment. Westminster Nursery School is a non-profit, self-supporting community preschool that
has been providing quality, nationally accredited preschool education in the South Hills community for more than 50 years. Westminster Nursery School has been NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accredited since 1994. The accreditation process is a voluntary decision to comply with the guidelines which reflect standards of excellence for early childhood education set by NAEYC. Westminster’s Family Fun Day will be held on May 5, rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, activities will be moved indoors and signs will be posted to provide direction to designated areas of the church and school.
For additional information, please visit:
www.wnsfundraiser.org Westminster Nursery School
412.835.2906 2040 Washington Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 Contact: Christine Tobin 412.835.4250 ctobin01@gmail.com
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That ! Giant Eagle Hibachi Japan Lifestyle Health
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TJ Maxx Pat’s Hallmark GNC
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Josephine Wig The Little Gym Radio Shack
Leone’s Animal Supply Super Cuts Rita’s Italian Ice
One Price Dry Cleaner Get Go US Post Office
Peck Travel Five Below Chalkboard
Eye Candy EB Games UPS
Italian Village Pizza
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Route 19 & McMurray Roads donaldsonscrossroads.com
Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 41
Alberta Modern Hair Offers Exceptional Styles for All Ages with Teen Salon
A
year ago, Alberta Modern Teen had just opened its doors as a new concept that owner Larry Alberta wanted to try out. Today, Alberta Modern Teen has proven to be more than a concept – it’s become a way of life among its customers and its stylists. “I wanted to develop that salon into a training facility for young stylists. As they progressed, they would move into our main salon,” Alberta said. “For our teen clients, they like to come in in groups. It’s become a place where it’s more than just about hair. They hang out together, they play music. It’s a nice space with a great sound system. It’s about having more fun while getting your hair cut, without sacrificing the quality of those cuts and color.” Away from the salon, Alberta’s clients are more ambassadors than customers. The salon grows by word of mouth and with the help of “House Models,” who apply for the privilege of wearing one of the salon’s styles. Once selected, the salon does their hair for free, and they in turn wear the look to school and promote the salon. “They can be from any school district around, and it’s been a great way to get our look into the schools,” Alberta said. The same strategy works with feather extensions and Flyties – ties to tie back long hair that can also be worn as wrist wear. 42 724.942.0940 to advertise |
House Models were given samples to wear to school and the results have been amazing. But while Alberta doesn’t have any problems with getting clients, getting talented individuals to tend to those clients has proven a harder get. “I’ve always been about education. I train our stylists personally. We go to the beauty schools, I’ll give a seminar, and then we’ll scout around,” he said. “I look for the ones that will come to the salon and follow up on my training. We’re always looking for that one or two each time we go, that will fit into our culture.” It’s a more difficult task than it sounds because Alberta’s not just looking for technical proficiency; he’s looking for students with a passion for hair. “There are very few that do have that passion any more, but they are there. You just have to find them,” he said. “I’m not looking for someone to work for us for a short time. I’m looking for someone who’s going to be around, work their way up to Alberta Modern Hair and be with us for the long haul.” That philosophy of education and personal growth has guided Alberta throughout his career. Never content with the status quo, Larry refined his skills along the way, and throughout his career, continued his professional education, staying current on trends,
Upper St. Clair
techniques and methods. During the 80s, Larry attended the Sassoon Academy in Toronto, and continued his training in New York City, Rome, Venice and Florence. In 1998, Larry and his sister, Debi Mace, opened the Alberta Mace Salon in Peters Township, Pennsylvania. Larry continued to train with Sebastian International in Los Angeles and recently completed the strictly business seminar, learning the latest in salon management and business trends in the industry. Located at 733 Washington Road, Alberta Modern Hair and Alberta Teen share adjacent storefronts, but that’s about all. Alberta Modern Hair bills itself as “sophisticated and urbane,” while Alberta Modern Teen is “chic and carefree.” Alberta Modern Hair is now offering junior stylist pricing, thanks to Alberta Modern Teen’s stylists as well. “People can make appointments with the girls on the teen side for the teen price while the kids are in school during the week,” Alberta said. “That price structure is the $29 haircut.” For more information on Alberta Modern Hair or Alberta Modern Teen’s hair care services, including treatments, highlighting , deep conditioning, school dance styles, or onsite birthday parties, call 412.343.4200, or go to www.albertamodernhair.com.
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 43
Sedation Dentistry O ften times a trip to the dentist can be overwhelming and lead to avoidance of routine care. Approximately 30% of dental patients avoid dental care due to fear. Unfortunately, this can lead to a small problem growing into a larger problem, requiring even more treatment. So what is the fearful patient to do? It is best to avoid desperation being the driving force for finally receiving care. Fortunately there is a great option for patients who have put off dental care due to fear. Sedation Dentistry is a safe treatment method that allows many patients to receive the dental care they have been avoiding. Sedation Dentistry is a type of treatment where sedatives are given to the patient to induce relaxation so dental work can be comfortably completed. There are various types of dental sedation ranging from very light sedation to deep sedation (general anesthesia). These can be achieved using oral sedatives, muscular injection, inhalation, and intravenously (IV). 80% of patients can be comfortably and safely treated with mild
sedation. This is not true “sleep dentistry,” which is typically done in a hospital. For severely phobic patients, “sleep dentistry” may be the only option. With mild sedation, patients may be so relaxed that they drift to sleep during the dental treatment, but they are not being “put to sleep.” Even with mild sedation, it is important that the dental office monitor sedated patients throughout the entire procedure with state of the art equipment to ensure the safest possible treatment. This mild sedation can often be done with a combinational of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedative medication. With this technique, the majority of patients are so relaxed that they can comfortably undergo most dental procedures. The patient simply takes a pill the night before and another pill an hour prior to treatment while relaxing comfortably in the dental chair listening to music or watching television. Most patients are thrilled with how well the treatment goes and would gladly go through the procedure again.
Benefits: • very safe • fearful patients can get the care they need • elective cosmetic procedures can be comfortably done • more work can be completed in fewer visits • little to no memory of the procedure Often patients who have been neglecting treatment feel overwhelmed with where to start. The most important thing is to move toward a healthier smile. The first step is to schedule a consult with the sedation dentist to address your concerns and review your medical history and current medications. After this review, the dentist will recommend the necessary X-rays and do a complete examination to develop a treatment plan to prioritize and phase the treatment to suit the patient’s individual needs and achieve their desired result. Finally, the dentist will determine the level of sedation you will require to have the treatment comfortably completed. Sedation Dentistry can be a great and safe option for patients to achieve the beautiful and healthy smiles they deserve. By taking the process one step at a time the fears can be overcome and patients can finally reach optimum oral health.
This Industry Insight was written by Dr. Daniel Rairigh. Dr. Daniel Rairigh practices at Advanced Dental Solutions of Pittsburgh on Fort Couch Road. He received his degree from West Virginia University School of Dentistry. Dr. Rairigh is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry. He is trained in Sedation Dentistry by DOCS Education. He is also a certified Invisalign provider and is certified in MDI placement. Dr. Rairigh is also an accomplished artist who has won numerous awards for his artwork. You can learn more about Dr. Rairigh or send him an email if you have article suggestions at www.pittsburghissmiling.com.
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SPRING 2012
Health and Wellness News You Can Use
Let’s Get Physical
What can a daily dose of moderate physical activity do for you? Plenty! As you get older, regular exercise is a key to staying strong, energetic, and healthy. To learn more about the link between fitness and aging, turn to page 3.
© 2012 UPMC
What’s Inside page 2
Need Quick, Convenient Care? Head to UPMC Mercy’s South Side Walk-in Clinic
page 3
Fit at Any Age
page 4
Surviving Allergies: What You Can Do Putting Ergonomics to Work for You
page 5
Brightening Lives With Light
page 6
A Walk to Remember
page 7
A Lasting Legacy of Caring
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45
Need Quick, Convenient Care?
Head to UPMC Mercy’s South SideWalk-in Clinic Open days, evenings, and weekends, it’s the solution of choice for busy patients As a single, working mother of two, Joanne Krapp feels fortunate to have the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic available close by. She doesn’t have a car, but the clinic is just a 10-minute bus ride from her Carrick home. “It’s so convenient. You don’t need an appointment, and you’re in and out in no time,” says Joanne. “They treat you like you’re the first patient of the day, no matter what time you go.” Joanne first went to the clinic two years ago when she woke up with a burning rash all over her body. Diagnosed with multiple skin allergies — including sensitivity to various metals — she now takes precautions but periodically experiences allergic reactions. She’s been to the clinic for treatment about a half dozen times in two years.
A board-certified physician is on site at all times, along with nurses and other highly trained staff. Patients of all ages are accepted at the clinic, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free and plentiful.
A neighbor you can count on Kelly Sassaman, administrator of UPMC Mercy’s South Side Outpatient Center, says the clinic provides x-rays, sutures, blood work and screening, physical exams, and vaccinations, plus immediate care for such conditions as: • Colds and flu • Sore throats and earaches • Minor cuts and scrapes • Minor broken bones • Sprains and strains The clinic also serves as a primary care provider. Staff can refer patients to specialists, and they can provide a fast track to emergency services at UPMC Mercy, a Level 1 trauma center, she adds.
“I’m often treated by the same people when I go there. For someone like me who has a fear of hospitals, that’s important because it makes me feel very comfortable,” she says.
“We’re not an emergency room, but we handle many conditions,” explains Ms. Sassaman. “We’re meeting the needs of the community. Our neighbors don’t have to cross the river, deal with traffic or parking, or wait in an emergency room for treatment of minor injuries or illness. We can do that here.”
The Walk-in Clinic, located on the second floor of the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center at 2000 Mary St., is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
Joanne hopes she won’t have to return for treatment anytime soon. “But, if I do, I know I’ll be in good hands,” she says.
Quality care in a comfortable setting
Pain Management and More In addition to the Walk-in Primary Care Clinic, the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center offers a comprehensive range of outpatient services. The convenient, one-stop location also provides everyday care ranging from EKGs and laboratory work to same-day surgery, as well as pain management services. At the center’s Pain Clinic, specialists work with patients to diagnose the source of chronic pain, and then reduce it using interventional treatments. Specially trained surgeons perform procedures, including injections and radiofrequency ablation.
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“We provide excellent care, and it’s so convenient for our patients. Most people are treated within a half hour,” says Jacqueline Belton, director of the Pain Clinic. The Pain Clinic, located on the ground floor of the outpatient center, is open weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. To learn more about the UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center and all the services available, visit UPMC.com and click on Hospitals and Facilities.
Fit atAnyAge Comedian George Burns — who lived to be 100 — often advised his audience to “Look to the future, because that’s where you’ll spend the rest of your life.” Vonda Wright, MD — a practicing orthopaedic surgeon at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine and a nationally recognized author of several books on active aging and fitness — thinks that’s sound advice. “Nothing is more natural than aging,” she says. “Adults over 40 today are redefining what it means to age. They’re looking ahead — and doing what it takes to stay fit and vital. “With just 30 minutes of daily exercise, you can minimize your risk for 35 common illnesses — including high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes,” says Dr. Wright, who also directs the center’s Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA®), which focuses on maximizing the performance of both elite and recreational athletes over age 40.
Staying fit as you age “As we enter our 40s and 50s, we’re just starting to hit our stride, with the potential for many years of wonderful living ahead of us. A well-balanced exercise plan is a key to maintaining that quality of life as we grow older,” she maintains.
Many say that 50 is the new 30 as today’s mature adults enjoy more active, fitter, and healthier lives than any other generation.
“There’s no age or activity level to prevent any older adult from being active,” explains Dr. Wright. In fact, studies of 90-year-old men doing resistance training on a daily basis showed improvements in their strength and functioning.
Getting started
Starting — and sticking with — a fitness plan initially can be hard, says Dr. Wright. “The first step is to make exercise a part of your daily routine. Schedule it on your calendar, like an appointment,” she advises. “Don’t be a weekend warrior. Instead, try to maintain a moderate activity level throughout the week, and increase your exercise level gradually to reduce your chance of overuse or injury.” She tells her patients to FACE the future with a balanced, total body workout designed to achieve maximum benefits while avoiding injury:
F — Flexibility with daily stretching exercises A — Aerobic cardiovascular exercises every other day, using interval-style training Carry a load (or strength train) to build and maintain muscles in your arms, C — legs, and core (stomach, back, and abdomen) E — Equilibrium and balance through simple exercises like standing on one foot “Whenever possible, mix up activities like running, swimming, cycling, or rowing,” encourages Dr. Wright. “Cross training helps promote total fitness while reducing the chance for injury. Most of all, take that first step!” To learn more about UPMC’s PRIMA program for mature athletes, call 412-432-3651 or visit UPMC.com/SportsMedicine. You’ll find PRIMA listed under Performance in the Our Services section.
Should you see a doctor first? You’re 50 years old and a pack-a-day smoker. You also have high blood pressure, and you haven’t exercised since Ronald Reagan was president. Should you see your doctor before hitting the local gym? “Regular exercise is the best gift you can give yourself. But it’s important to use common sense when getting started,” says Lance Brunton, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC Mercy who sees patients at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine. If you’re in generally good health and starting off with light to moderate physical activity, an extensive medical workup probably isn’t necessary. “But if you’ve been diagnosed with any medical condition, have been sedentary for some time, or are at risk for potential heart problems, it’s essential to talk to your doctor,” advises Dr. Brunton. “Working together, you and your doctor can create the right exercise plan based on your age, physical condition, family history, and other key factors.” If you’re over the age of 40, visit UPMC.com/Today to take the American College of Sports Medicine’s Physical Activity Readiness Self-Exam.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 |1-800-533-UPMC incommunitymagazines.com 47
3
Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
Surviving Allergies:
What You Can Do If you dread the approach of spring and the arrival of allergy season, here are a few ways to reduce your sniffling, sneezing, and itchy eyes
What to do If you take medication to control your symptoms, start treatment early — before your seasonal allergies flare up, says BJ Ferguson, MD, director of the Division of Sino-Nasal Disorders and Allergy at UPMC, and a professor of otolaryngology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. In western Pennsylvania, tree pollen starts flying around by the end of February or in early March, when it warms up enough for trees to begin budding.
Medications to take Dr. Ferguson recommends starting with an over-thecounter (OTC) medication, preferably a non-sedating antihistamine. She cautions that some products can be sedating or even result in extreme drowsiness that can impair driving. Be sure to read the accompanying instructions or ask your pharmacist about side effects. OTC decongestants can relieve nasal congestion but should only be used on a short-term basis, Dr. Ferguson says. Decongestants can cause significant side effects, such as insomnia, agitation, heart palpitations, and a rise in blood pressure. A saline nasal wash also can help relieve congestion.
When to see a doctor “If you are getting no relief and it is impairing your quality of life, you should see a doctor about more effective alternatives and testing,” says Dr. Ferguson. • A doctor can prescribe medications that can provide effective relief from chronic congestion. • Allergy testing can determine precisely what you are or aren’t allergic to. A new sublingual immunotherapy administered under the tongue is just as effective as allergy shots, and with fewer side effects, says Dr. Ferguson. • Your doctor also can determine if your nasal blockage is caused by inflammation or nasal polyps, a deviated septum, enlarged adenoids, or an infection.
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Putting Ergonomics to Work for You At home and on the job, ergonomics can help you avoid injury and discomfort — and even increase your productivity The goal of ergonomics is to make our places of work as safe, comfortable, and efficient as possible. But let’s not limit its uses to our day jobs! According to the physical therapists at UPMC Mercy, many of the aches and pains people experience can be attributed to ergonomic issues like poor posture, excessive repetitive movement, or improper lifting techniques. They advise applying basic ergonomic principles at work, home, or play to help avoid injury and perform at your best. • Use the right equipment. Make sure the tool fits the job and your body, whether you’re sitting at a desk, vacuuming, riding a bike, or swinging a golf club. • Work at the right height for you. A too-low computer chair or a too-high kitchen counter can wreak havoc on your neck, back, and shoulders. • Avoid contact stress. Wear gloves or use tools designed to reduce pressure on soft tissue to avoid blisters and other skin damage. • Keep items within easy reach. Extend your arms out on each side. Picture an imaginary arc in front of you from left to right. Place the tools or supplies you use most often within that area. • Avoid repetitive movements and working long periods in one position. Alternate tasks and change your body position regularly. Stretch every 20 to 30 minutes. Visit UPMC.com/Today where you can find more ergonomic tips to use at work and at home.
Brightening Lives with Light
Light therapy is proving to be an effective treatment for bipolar depression and other mood disorders Michele Twyman of Penn Hills always dreaded the approach of winter and the holidays. As the days shortened, she grew increasingly tired, sleepy, and depressed. All she wanted to do was crawl into bed — and stay there. “I didn’t enjoy anything — from decorating to shopping. I never felt like celebrating,” says Ms. Twyman, who has a bipolar disorder and has battled depression for more than 30 years. But last Christmas was different. For the first time in years, she decorated, shopped, and made wreaths and centerpieces. “I enjoy the holidays again. I realize now how much I missed being happy about life’s little things,” she says.
New treatment shows bright promise
People with bipolar depression are especially sensitive to changes in outdoor ambient light and the seasons, she explains. The onset of fall and winter can trigger symptoms similar to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), including fatigue, sluggishness, daytime sleepiness, carb cravings, loss of interest, and inability to experience pleasure. Individuals with bipolar depression also may have suicidal thoughts.
How and why it works
“There are few effective treatments for bipolar depression. That’s why we’re exploring novel approaches such as light therapy.” — Dorothy Sit, MD
Ms. Twyman credits her new outlook to an artificial light box provided by Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic (WPIC) of UPMC. Every afternoon, she sits in bright light for about a half hour while reading or planning appointments and activities. It took just a few weeks to feel the effects. She now wakes up feeling more rested and relaxed. She’s also better able to care for her 95-year-old father. “There are few effective treatments for bipolar depression. That’s why we’re exploring novel approaches such as light therapy,” says Dorothy Sit, MD, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, and a researcher at WPIC who is leading an ongoing study in the use of light therapy for treatment of bipolar depression. “Most patients feel better within two weeks of starting it, and continue to improve for up to eight weeks.” According to Dr. Sit, treatment is inexpensive and effective. Patients with seasonal depression require 30 to 60 minutes of daily light therapy while patients with non-seasonal depression need 45 to 60 minutes.
Light therapy replaces lost sunlight exposure and resets the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythms — important for everyone’s general health, mood, and thinking. That’s why light therapy also can help patients with jet lag, shift workers, and people with sleep disorders.
While light therapy is generally safe, patients with bipolar depression also must be on a mood stabilizer or they’ll be at risk for manic episodes, says Dr. Sit. Other possible side effects include headaches, eyestrain, irritation, agitation, and insomnia. These symptoms normally disappear following adjustments in the time and length of treatment.
Light therapy tips • Check with your doctor or mental health professional to see if light therapy is a good option for you. • Follow your doctor’s advice concerning any special precautions you need to take. • Use light therapy only with guidance from your doctor or mental health provider to minimize possible side effects and maximize benefits. Visit UPMC.com/Today for more information on bipolar depression and the light therapy study. To participate in the study, call 1-800-436-2461. For information on light boxes, visit the Center for Environmental Therapeutics website at cet.org.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 49
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AWalk to Remember UPMC Rehabilitation Institute helps make a seemingly impossible wedding dream come true
Megan Dow was an athletic, carefree 27-year-old with so much to look forward to — from her upcoming wedding to a new house and barn. But a freak ATV accident on Memorial Day 2010 changed her life in an instant, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. It took a week for Megan to realize her broken neck and back wouldn’t be a quick fix and another six months to acknowledge that her paralysis might have permanent effects. Despite the diagnosis, the Negley, Ohio, resident was determined to walk down the aisle on her wedding day 16 months later. “What means more to a girl than walking down the aisle at her wedding?” asks Megan, who became engaged just weeks before the accident.
Regaining the life she lost Initially, she couldn’t sit up without help and wore braces to support her back, neck, and legs. “I went from doing everything to not being able to brush my teeth; from being able to throw a bale of hay to not being able to pick up a gallon of milk,” Megan says. An avid outdoorswoman, Megan longed to return to her activities, including horseback riding, camping, volunteering as a 4H Club adviser, and working as an interior designer. “I absolutely loved the life I had before the accident. I had to work to bring these things back into my life,” she says.
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At the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute’s spinal cord injury unit at UPMC Mercy, Megan’s team of specialists put her to work four hours a day, six days a week in an intensive rehabilitation program. Luckily, she had use of her quadriceps, which allowed her to walk with the help of braces and a walker. Slowly, she relearned everyday skills like dressing herself and walking. She also learned new skills, such as transferring to a shower chair from her wheelchair, and did exercises to build her strength. Megan vowed she’d walk without the walker by that Christmas (a goal she met by Thanksgiving) and down the aisle without a cane. A few weeks before her wedding, Megan donned her gown and practiced walking in the gym with her physical therapist.
Walking happily into the future On her wedding day — Oct. 1, 2011 — Megan did walk down the aisle. Among the guests were her UPMC doctor, physical therapist, and occupational therapist. “They’re a huge part of my life and the reason I’m where I am today. They had to be there!” exclaims Megan. “I’m so grateful to everyone at the Rehabilitation Institute. They gave me the tools I needed, and they encouraged and steered me in the right direction.”
Megan and Eric Dow walked down the aisle after exchanging marriage vows on Oct. 1, 2011.
Megan and her husband Eric honeymooned in Cancún, Mexico, where they snorkeled, swam, kayaked, and even explored some ancient ruins. Today, while she still uses a wheelchair and cane, Megan is thankful she can walk up to two hours with just leg braces. She’s also driving again, riding horses, camping, and doing other activities. “It was a miracle. I’m so grateful I can still do what I used to do — I just do them differently,” Megan says. To learn more about UPMC Rehabilitation Institute and its services, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute. You’ll also find a link to Megan’s story and those of other patients who’ve benefited from the institute’s specialized care.
A Lasting Legacy of Caring It was 165 years ago that a small band of Irish nuns pioneered the ministry of Catholic health care in Pittsburgh — a spirit of compassionate care that is alive today at UPMC Mercy Catholic health care has a long and rich tradition in the United States, providing care to medically underserved, diverse, and poor communities. In Pittsburgh, that tradition took shape in the work of seven Sisters of Mercy who first came from Ireland in 1843 to care for the poor and sick. In 1847, those remarkable women built the Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh, the first Catholic hospital in Pittsburgh. Today, at UPMC Mercy — the last Catholic hospital in Pittsburgh — their legacy of giving reverent, compassionate care of the highest quality to all patients is flourishing. To Sisters of Mercy, their fourth vow — caring for the poor, sick, and uneducated — is as sacred as the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. “Scripture provides the model we follow,” explains Phyllis Grasser, vice president of mission effectiveness and spiritual care at UPMC Mercy. “The healing ministry of Christ included a commitment to the poor and vulnerable.”
Securing our mission and identity When the Sisters of Mercy began seeking a partner to help secure the hospital’s future, preserving its faith-based mission of care was of vital concern. In 2008, Mercy Hospital merged with UPMC under an agreement that assured that the hospital would retain its Catholic identity and ethics. That agreement was one of the first of its kind in the United States between a Catholic hospital and a secular health system, and has since become a model for others. Partnering with UPMC also put the struggling hospital on solid financial ground and enabled it to upgrade facilities and bring in new specialized programs and advanced technologies, says Ms. Grasser. UPMC Mercy will continue to provide the best and most advanced medical care to the region’s underserved and most vulnerable populations.
“The executive team is very supportive of the mission, and they’ve encouraged us to strengthen UPMC Mercy’s Catholic tradition,” adds Ms. Grasser.
The mission in action Mercy has always been respected for the important role it has played in the lives of people throughout western Pennsylvania. For nearly 170 years, people have trusted the sisters to care for them with respect, regardless of social status or ability to pay. That has not changed, says Ms. Grasser. Since merging with UPMC, the hospital’s charity care has doubled. While some sisters remain actively involved at UPMC Mercy, the staff is comprised mainly of lay people. Although the lay staff come from a variety of religious traditions, they have a deep understanding of and commitment to the hospital’s faith-based mission. With the support and encouragement of the sisters and the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Ms. Grasser is helping to build a generation of lay leaders to carry Mercy’s mission and values into the future. To do that, she and her staff regularly host lay leadership training programs, as well as seminars for all employees that focus on the hospital’s Catholic identity. “The qualities of trust, teamwork, forgiveness, and generosity are at the core of who we are and what we do as people and as care providers,” explains Ms. Grasser. “They bind us to each other and to our patients.” “The mission, vision, and values of Mercy have not changed. Providing quality medical care with respect and reverence for all people is our responsibility — and our legacy,” says Ms. Grasser.
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UPMC Mercy
1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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Community Open House April 19 5 to 7 p.m.
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D I N I N G
O U T
Peters Place
Serving Up Excellence for Nearly 30 Years
S
ometimes a restaurant has been around for so long, it becomes an institution, and that’s exactly what happened in the case of Peters Place. Started by brothers Bill and Mike Peters more than 25 years ago, Peters Place is a destination restaurant known for its fresh, unique recipes and calm, warm atmosphere. “We’ve always offered good food at a reasonable price,” said Mike Peters. “That’s why we’re still here. We make all our food from scratch with no canned or frozen desserts.” The restaurant’s menu is so good, Peters Place has carved out a niche as the place to go for wedding receptions. “We do more than 50 weddings a year and can hold anywhere from 30 to 300 people in our banquet rooms,” Peters said. “Our wedding packages start at $29.95 per person and include a complete dinner, 4-hour open bar, champagne toasts and custom wedding cake.” If you have your own hall, Peters Place does offsite catering as well. But for everyday lunch and dinner, you can’t go wrong at Peters Place. Open seven days a week at 11 a.m., patrons can get a typical lunch entrée for around $8, and a dinner entrée for around $18. Menu items range from their famous Orange Glazed Salmon, Virginia Spots, Seafood Bisque and Chocolate Mousse Pie, to seasonal favorites such as wintertime Maple Glazed Salmon, Pretzel Crusted Trout, Black and Blue Scallops, and Chicken Ravioli Asiago. “We also do daily specials,” Peters said. “We typically have six lunch specials and six dinner specials every day.” We had the opportunity to sample the Orange Glazed Salmon, which arrived at the table a feast to the eyes as well as the palate. Visually, the pink salmon covered in a thick layer of orange marmalade, was served with a side of fresh, crisp green beans and a strawberry garnish. The salmon was moist, supple and perfectly done. The glaze complemented the salmon and the
green beans for a savory, fruity mix that recalls the fresh bounties of the fall farmers’ markets. To say our chocolate mousse was decadent would be cliché, but very apropos. Fluffy and thick at the same time, the mousse was sweet, but not too sweet, and covered with a blanket of whipped cream streaming with chocolate sauce. This is a dessert that merits a trip to Peters Place on its own. Peters Place and their experienced chefs never hesitate to take on a challenge. So if you like your meal prepared a certain way, just ask and they’ll do their best to accommodate your needs and flavors to your liking. No challenge is too great for their more than 70 years of combined culinary experience. Peters Place is conveniently located at 1199 Washington Pike, just off the I-79 exit before the Great Southern Shopping Center. With plenty of on-site parking, you and your party will never want for a space. The kitchen closes at 9 p.m. weeknights, 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8 p.m. on Sundays. Peters Place also does off-site catering for showers, anniversaries, corporate events and more. For more information, go to www.Petersplacerestaurant.net, where you can view banquet room design plans, wedding menus and more. Or you can call 412.221.5000 to make reservations, although they are not required. Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 53
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U
On The
pper St. Clair graduate Emily Summers is a 19-year-old singer/songwriter at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn., and she firmly believes that she is where she is in life today because she’s on the right track… no pun intended. Emily is a sophomore majoring in songwriting at the legendary Nashville school. Belmont University has graduated well-known artists such as Grammy Awardwinning Steven Curtis Chapman, American Idol finalist Kimberly Locke, and country music stars Brad Paisley and Lee Ann Womack. It is arguably one of the best schools in the country for a student looking to continue studying music and eventually making a career in music as well. But Belmont also appealed to Emily for a different reason. Belmont University is the largest Christian university in Tennessee, and Emily’s faith is monumentally important to her, and her study of music. It’s hard to believe that the young woman that now performs at such legendary Nashville venues as the Curb Café, the Curb Events Center, Hotel Indigo, the Listening Room, and Bongo Java, was the same girl that stole her older brother’s guitar in order to start putting together her own songs. Emily said, “My dad bought my older brother a used acoustic Alvarez guitar for his birthday which he never learned to play. I had been writing poems since I was about nine, and wanted to learn the guitar, so I may have stolen it and taught myself how to play. Then my poems turned into songs and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.” Emily found time in high school to keep writing even though her schedule was jam-packed. She enjoyed singing in the top a cappella choir at Upper St. Clair for two years, the Chanteclairs, and she also participated in all of the school musicals, and the marching band. Emily also kept busy by being the vice president of the Thespian Society and taking numerous AP and IB classes at USC. With a rigorous academic schedule, plus the choir, marching band, and musicals, Emily believes that her best writing came in the late hours at night that slowly faded into morning. “It wasn’t hard
“My mom has always kept me on the right track my whole life, and she has shown me what it is like to
unconditionally.” 54 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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love
EMILY SUMMERS
Songwriter
Right
Track BY LEIGH LYONS
for me to keep writing during high school, especially since high school stress and drama provide so much inspiration,” Emily recounts. “I did most of my writing in the wee hours of the morning, because my days were so busy.” Now at Belmont University, Emily’s school day continues to keep her busy. Her typical day consists of attending classes, which range in subject from the business of music such as publishing and copyright law, to management and recording technology, and of course, songwriting. A big plus of being in the Nashville area is that in any free time that Emily may procure, she is able to catch some of her favorite bands that perform in the area. After class though, Emily likes to attend Bible study, worship service, or meetings for the gospel choir that she directs at Belmont. Her faith still plays a large part in her everyday life, but also in her music. “My most important goal is my commitment to living a life not for myself, but for Christ. I believe that I am on the right track with my music,” Emily said. She cites her role models as being her mother and her old pastor Eric, and his wife Tara. “My mom has always kept me on the right track my whole life, and she has shown me what it is like to love unconditionally,” Emily said. “Eric and Tara have grown my faith as well as my passion and talent for music more than anyone else, and I hope one day to be able to pour that wisdom and passion back out onto others.” After she finishes her studies at Belmont, Emily wants to continue her music career and hopes to be signed by Sparrow Records as a singer/songwriter. Sparrow Records is a Christian label under the EMI group that is based out of Nashville. Through her music, she wants to be able to positively affect others like her role models have done for her. She admires the careers of those in her industry as well, such as John Mayer, Sara Bareilles, Bethany Dillon, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Sara Groves. Emily desires to be remembered as a person that “exemplified the joy of worship and the love of Christ to everyone” she came into contact with. Between her faith, her lyrical talents, her singing ability, and her loving role models, Emily Summers is confident that she remains “on the right track.”
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The Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella & Swan Lake Camps include a daily ballet class and craft related to the camp theme. For further information, please call 412-343-9333, or visit our website at www.balletacademypgh.com.
An Educated Consumer’s Guide to
Chronic Back Pain
C
hronic low back pain has become one of the most common and costly conditions affecting Americans today. The incidence of chronic back pain rose from 3.9% of the U.S. population in 1992 to 10.2% in 2006, and continues to rise as the general population becomes older and more obese. Health care costs related to treating chronic low back pain have also skyrocketed. Increased awareness of the consequences of untreated back pain has contributed to increased treatment for this condition. A 2008 study in the journal Spine revealed that those who suffer from chronic back pain have an 88% greater risk of coronary heart disease and can expect to live almost 3 years less than those who do not. A 2010 study linked chronic spinal pain with degeneration of brain function including impairment in memory and language skills. For understandable reasons, research into the most efficacious treatment for chronic back pain had been a priority for health care professions. Numerous options are available for treating chronic low back pain, but few have shown long term benefits. The most common and accepted intervention for treatment is the usage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These drugs have the advantage of being cheap and readily available over the counter. As with most medications side effects are possible. More powerful prescription grade anti-inflammatory medications have shown to be more effective at treating pain, but have a greater likelihood of other effects. Other prescription medications such as muscle relaxants and narcotic pain medication have generally poor results with chronic low back pain along with numerous side effects. Surgical intervention for chronic back pain without neurological deficit has shown little promise and should be avoided unless as a last resort in most cases. Many insurers, such as UPMC in the Pittsburgh region, have accepted policies of not reimbursing for back surgery until interventions such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, and medication have been attempted and proven to be ineffective in managing pain and improving function. In most cases surgery for chronic low back pain will only last a short time and may even progress the pain process in the long term. Although less convenient than medication, the most effective treatment for chronic low back pain due to recent research is the use of spinal manipulation and exercise. According to a literature review on
medical research conducted in 2008 the greatest evidence for treating chronic back pain lies in the use of spinal manipulation. The use of exercise in conjunction with manipulation was shown to speed and improve outcomes and minimize episodes of reoccurrence. In addition a 2010 study in the journal Clinical Rehab demonstrated that spinal manipulation best controlled pain, but that exercise was best to minimize reoccurrence. Choosing how to treat chronic low back pain can be difficult. However, doing nothing can be a serious mistake. Evidence suggests that your first course of action should be finding a practitioner skilled in manipulation, and one that can teach you how to manage your condition with exercise. This likely will give you the best chance to treat the pain and regain your life.
Evidence suggests that your first course of action should be finding a practitioner skilled in manipulation, and one that can teach you how to manage your condition with exercise. Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 57
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continued from page 31
the doctor, and he was very supportive of my decision to do it.” After surgery, Loughlin decided that for Christmas, she wanted a gym membership. When she started going, she did the usual cardio and weight training workouts, but quickly realized she needed something more. “The workouts I was doing weren’t what I needed,” she said. “I didn’t have a clue what I was doing, so I looked into personal training. I began working with a trainer, but only for a short while, as he left the company. Before he left, though, he referred me to another trainer, Reena Hamade, with whom I have seen tremendous results.” Loughlin said that one day during a workout, Hamade told her that she had a surprise for Loughlin. Loughlin was going to start boxing. “We went into a little private room, and she showed me some basic moves with the punching bag, which I absolutely loved! Results came soon after we started, both physically and mentally. It has since become my most favorite way to exercise, and let me tell you, it is work!”
Loughlin is not only feeling more physically fit, but she is healthier, too. “Prior to surgery, I had high blood pressure and sleep apnea, which I no longer have.” At a current weight of 180 pounds, Loughlin said she realizes that being built with a larger frame than other women her size may prohibit her from meeting the expected weight for her height, but she also acknowledged that she would look very unhealthy at 150 pounds. “I love the way I look and feel since the surgery and beginning my exercise program with Reena,” Apryl said. “The best advice I can give someone in my situation is to be totally sure that this is what you want to do. It is not easy, and gastric bypass surgery should be used as a ‘tool,’ not a cure. Life changes drastically, for the better, but it is still an uphill battle. Learning what your body can handle and how it reacts to the food that you loved so much is very difficult, but remember that it is up to you and what you do with it. Also, be sure you have a support system in place, because you will need it. No excuses…just do it!”
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 59
Upper St. Clair Girls
FINISHES FINI SHE THEIR By Leigh Lyons
T
he Upper St. Clair girls basketball team played their final game of the 2012 season on Tuesday, February 28. The Lady Panthers’ season came to a close when they lost to the Mt. Lebanon Lady Blue Devils in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (W.P.I.A.L.) semi-final round at Chartiers Valley. Mt. Lebanon defeated U.S.C. 49-33. In a season where Upper St. Clair wasn’t able to bring home a W.P.I.A.L. Championship, a semi-final loss to the back-to-back-to-back PIAA State Champions, Mt. Lebanon, isn’t a dishonorable way to exit. The Upper St. Clair girls basketball program is one of the strongest
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Upper St. Clair
girls programs in Western Pennsylvania. The Panthers have won a total of six W.P.I.A.L. championships with the most recent being back in 2008. The Panthers hit another milestone in their impressive program this year as well, as longtime coach Ernie Koontz garnered his 500th victory while at Upper St. Clair. Coach Koontz has been in charge of the program for 27 years. After finishing a modest fourth in their incredibly difficult section that includes Mt. Lebanon, Baldwin and Bethel Park, the Panthers made a heart-felt run at the W.P.I.A.L. title by defeating both Gateway and Hempfield in the playoffs. Although the Panthers were a young team, they seemed to peak at the right time this season. U.S.C. surprised the Gateway Gators in the first round by hitting 22 of 27 free throws throughout the game, and holding Division I Baylor recruit Destiny Brown
Basketball
SEASON
STRONG to a modest game. Constance Raftis helped spark U.S.C. to a quick start and gave them a 12-point halftime lead that they never relinquished, beating the Gators 55-53 in a thriller. Raftis finished the game with a team-high 11 points for the Lady Panthers. Next up, the 14th-ranked Panthers stunned the sixthranked Hempfield Spartans 44-42 in another action packed game, and then made their way into the W.P.I.A.L. semi-finals to play rival Mt. Lebanon. Mt. Lebanon came into the game the obvious favorite, being ranked #2 in the W.P.I.A.L. entering
the playoffs, and being the State Champions from the past three years; however, Upper St. Clair gave Mt. Lebanon more than their money’s worth in the semifinal matchup. After the first quarter of the game, Mt. Lebanon was ahead 11-8, and Upper St. Clair was on pace with their rival. Mt. Lebanon put together a 9-0 run to start the second quarter as they pulled away from their opponent. Upper St. Clair snapped the scoreless streak with a bucket by Jordan Serio, but it didn’t stop the bleeding. Mt. Lebanon went on to have a 16-2 run, but U.S.C. kept fighting back with scores from Madison Serio and Rachel Mazzie, which enabled them to crawl back to finish up the half with a score of 26-14 with Mt. Lebanon in the lead. But U.S.C. had two quarters to play for the rest of their season, and they were determined to give it all they had. continued on next page
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 61
Reverse the ravages of time.
Upper St. Clair Girls Basketball FINISHES THEIR SEASON STRONG continued from previous page
BEFORE AFTER
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The third quarter was all Upper St. Clair, as they battled back to within two points and proved their worthiness of being in the semi-final game. The third quarter finished with a score of Mt. Lebanon-33, Upper St. Clair-31. The Panthers used stifling defense in their comeback, and forced the Blue Devils to take outside shots that weren’t falling as easily as they had earlier in the game. Unfortunately for the Lady Panthers, the fourth quarter proved to be one for Mt. Lebanon, as the Panthers were only able to score one field goal in the final quarter. That one came from Jordan Serio with six minutes left to play in the game. She finished the game with 13 points while her sister, Madison, garnered eight. Constance Raftis scored six The Lady Panthers boasted points, both coming from three-pointers. Mt. Lebanon moved on to the an unbelievably young championship to face perennial power Oakland Catholic, and while Upper St. team for a program Clair’s 2012 season may be over, the future certainly looks bright. The Lady Panthers that made it to the boasted an unbelievably young team for a program that made it to the W.P.I.A.L. W.P.I.A.L. semi-finals. semi-finals. Next year, the Panthers will
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w w w. d u q . e d u / n u r s i n g
be returning all five of their starters. Juniors Jordan Serio and Natalie Condo will be returning next year as the senior leaders of this Lady Panthers team. Forward Elayna Kaylor, a two-year starter who was only a sophomore this year, will be back in the paint for U.S.C. next year, and she will look to use her athleticism and game experience to help the team to another successful season. Constance Raftis will be another experienced game player coming back, and will also only be a junior next year as well. Lastly, freshman standout Madison Serio will be back for her sophomore season next year with a year of starting varsity already under her belt. The future sure does look bright for the Upper St. Clair Lady Panthers, so bright in fact that the light may even have a semblance of gold flickered in there for the 2013 season‌ the talent and experience will surely be there; the only thing left will be for the Lady Panthers to reach out and grab it. PHOTOS BY ADAM PISCITELLI BeanCounters_Bean Counters 3/6/12 1:26 PM Page 1
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 63
USC Ballerina Lives Out
Little Every
G
o to any dance studio across the United States and take witness of the common childhood dream of becoming a ballerina as millions of little girls tiptoe around in fluffy pink tutus and replica tiaras. It’s hard to imagine any of these young girls ever fulfilling such a lofty dream, but one former Upper St. Clair resident is doing just that on the big stage in New York City. Emily Kikta is only 19 years old, but she is a professional ballerina for the New York City Ballet. Emily grew up in Upper St. Clair and attended Upper St. Clair High School for her freshman year before deciding to make her move to New York. Emily’s journey through ballet started long before her jump to New York though, as she started dancing when she was only two years old. She took dance classes at The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts where her mother, Patti, taught, and still teaches ballet to this day. At first, she participated in all forms of dance, enjoying jazz, tap, ballet, gymnastics, and even hip-hop. The young ballerina didn’t discriminate when it came to the types of dance that she
64 724.942.0940 to advertise |
Upper St. Clair
enjoyed as a youngster, but she knew at a very young age that she wanted to try to dance professionally someday. Once Emily was in high school, she split her day into halves. In the morning, Emily attended Upper St. Clair to take academic classes, and then left at noon to take ballet at the Ballet Academy in Pittsburgh. She also continued her dance studies at The Thomas Studio of Performing Arts as well. After her freshman year at USC, Emily decided to make the move to New York City permanently. She had already spent two previous summers there attending the School of American Ballet’s summer program, and at the age of 15, she moved into the school’s dormitory and prepared to finish out high school in New York. Emily’s high school experience may seem alien to most readers, but it was all part of a process and opportunity that led her to where she is now. “We all went to high school in the morning a few blocks away from where we lived, took ballet classes during the day, and then did homework in the evenings,” Emily said. After two years of this type of program, Emily graduated from the Professional Children’s School, which is a private
BY LEIGH LYONS
Girl’s Dream high school for young artists and professionals in New York. After two years at the school, Emily was then able to concentrate completely on her dance. She made the transition from student to professional look easy. “During the fall of my third year at the school, I was asked to join the New York City Ballet along with another friend of mine,” Emily recounts. The School of American Ballet trains the dancers in her company, but there is never a guarantee that someone will be accepted into the company. While Emily was in her third year, the ballet master of the company, Peter Martins, started teaching and watching her class. In October of 2010 Mr. Martins asked Emily to become an apprentice with the company and thus her journey continued on. Now at the ripe old age of 19, Emily is a professional ballerina on the world’s brightest stage. Her day is never the same, ranging from all day rehearsals, to taking classes with her company, to actual performances. In January of 2012, Emily was performing two Balanchine ballets entitled “Who Cares?” and “Union Jack,” and she was also working in a collaborative ballet by Peter Martins and Paul McCartney, called “Ocean’s Kingdom.” Whatever the week, whatever the performance, Emily’s days as a professional ballerina are action packed doing something that she truly loves and enjoys. She has also embraced the city life of being in New York City. “I just love New York,” Emily boasts. “As crazy and as busy as New York is, I love that there is always something to do.” While she has already accomplished such a lofty goal at such a young age that most others cannot
“I’m still rather new to the company so I hope to have a successful future here where I have a great deal of opportunities to dance all sorts of ballets.”
–EMILY KIKTA
even fathom, Emily shies away when asked about her future. “I’m still rather new to the company so I hope to have a successful future here where I have a great deal of opportunities to dance all sorts of ballets,” she said. While she is having that opportunity to perform a variety of ballets right now, Emily is also attending Fordham University part time to garner some college credit in order to prepare for her future after ballet. She’s not quite sure what type of career she wants to have after she has hung up her ballet shoes, but she is smart enough to prepare, even though she has a lot of time before that day actually comes. For now, Emily is content on living out her childhood dream of being a professional ballerina. All of her hard work and sacrifice has paid off thus far, and the opportunities that ballet has presented her are not lost on the talented young lady. The talented young lady who started off in a children’s ballet class at a local dance studio complete with fluffy, pink tutus and flashy tiaras.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 65
Upper St. Clair Library 1820 McLaughlin Run Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.835.5540
HOURS
Monday - Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sundays 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Summer Sundays (Memorial Day - Labor Day) Outside book return available 24 hours a day.
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Upper St. Clair
Upper St. Clair Library Programs MARCH – MAY
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS STORY WEEKEND ABOUT FAMILIES Join us for a story weekend about families.
Who: Families with kids ages 2-7 What: Come and go parent-directed activities including crafts and story retelling. When: Saturday, March 17 from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 18 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Where: Children’s Storyroom
LIBRARY EXPLORERS: EXPLORE THE EARTH AND SKY!
(Children who are currently in kindergarten) This spring we’ll explore the earth and sky! Using books and hands-on activities, your kindergartener will become an expert on a variety of topics about our physical world. Each week a different part of the earth and sky will be investigated including: worms, seeds, gravity, our planet, the sun, and the solar system. Registration begins on Wednesday, March 7. Dates: March 27 through May 1 Times: Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. Location: Children’s Library
SCIENCE & MATH IN THE LIBRARY
(Children 5 years and older who are not yet in first grade) In this six week class, we’ll be exploring simple science and math concepts through books and hands-on activities. Each week a different concept will be explored including: Shapes, Measurement, Money, Sorting, and Building. This class will have a limited enrollment but it will be repeated beginning in the fall. Children attending this class must be at least 5 years old. Registration begins Wednesday, March 7. Dates: March 28 through May 2 Times: Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. or 1:45 p.m. Location: Children’s Library
BOOKTREK: SUPER SCIENCE
(Kids in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades) This spring we’ll be having fun with science! Using books and hands-on activities we’ll explore the science behind pressure, temperature, plants, water, balloons and bubbles. Registration begins Monday, March 7. Dates: March 27/28 through May 1/2 Times: Tuesdays or Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. Location: Children’s Story Room
SENSORY-BASED STORYTIME FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
(Families with kids 4 years of age and older) These fun and interactive programs are designed to meet the needs of children with special needs. They will be taught by Denise Naumann, therapeutic recreation specialist. Registration begins on Monday, March 7. Dates: March 28 through April 25 Time: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Location: Children’s Story Room
Visit the library for the latest news on storytimes and other special events!
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 67
$
I M P O R TA N C E O F Participating in your Employer’s
Savings Plan T
raditional pension plans are becoming the extinct dinosaurs of retirement savings. In the past, offering a retirement pension promised committed employees a guaranteed income stream throughout their retirement years and often for those of the spouse. Few companies offer a traditional pension plan due to the cost and responsibility of the company to fund the plan. Many of these old types of plans are underfunded and in jeopardy today. The onus is now on employees to save for their own retirement. Many companies offer participation in 401(k)s, 403(b)s and profit sharing plans, which provide the tools and benefit to do this. There are significant advantages of participating in your company’s retirement plan. Contributions are made before federal income taxes are withheld. If you contribute $100 per pay to your 401(k) the deduction from your paycheck will be less than $100 (even though $100 goes to your account) because no money is being withheld for federal income taxes. This allows participants to get more bang for their buck. Every dollar invested goes to work for you immediately. If the same $100 were filtered through your paycheck, it would leave only $80 - $90 after federal taxes to be invested. That puts your savings down 10% 20% or more right from the start. Pre-tax contributions reduce your current taxable income. If you earn $100,000 in a given year and invest $10,000 in your 401(k), you just reduced your total earned income for that year to $90,000. In fact, the IRS just recently announced that participants may sock away up to $17,000 in 2012 plus an additional $5,500 for those reaching age 50. If you are at least 50 years old and in the 28% marginal income tax bracket, you can save a whopping $6,300 in current taxes.
68 724.942.0940 to advertise |
Earnings grow tax-deferred. Earnings are not taxed as income or gains in the year they are earned. Rather, withdraws are fully taxable as income (since none of the contributions or earnings have been taxed to the employee during the saving years) in the year they are withdrawn. Many participants will likely be in a lower marginal tax bracket in retirement further making this a more tax-advantaged way of saving. If you are fortunate enough to have a company that matches your contribution, you are getting free money regardless of the amount of the match. That means you get paid additional money to pay yourself! Keep in mind you should still contribute even if your company does not match contributions. Investments come directly from your paycheck so they seem relatively painless after a few contributions. It’s amazing how most people adjust to their new deposit amount when contributing to a company plan. It becomes just another payment that you don’t even notice. For that same reason, it’s a good idea to increase
Upper St. Clair
$
your contributions regularly—typically each time you get a pay raise. If your employer gives you 3% COLA increase, keep 1% for yourself and add the remaining 2% to your contributions. Before you know it, you will have begun to feather a nice retirement nest. Lastly, by investing in a 401(k) regularly through payroll contributions, you are systematically dollar-cost-averaging. That means your same contribution will buy more shares when the prices are down and less shares when prices are higher. This overtime will allow you to lower your average cost per share of investment. Market corrections such as the most recent one in the third quarter last year, create great buying opportunities in your 401(k). $ This Industry Insight was written by ReShelle Barrett, CFP©. For more information, please call her at 412.630.6000.
$ Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 69
The Prudential Advantage Ranked “Highest in Satisfaction for Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms”
“A house is a home when it shelters the body and comforts the soul”
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Upper St. Clair
Join our real estate team at Prudential Preferred Realty. Call Mona Colicchie at 412-833-7700.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 71
Upper St. Clair Outreach Club
BY LEIGH LYONS
he Outreach Club at Upper St. Clair High School may be one of the newer student clubs, but they are doing big things, especially for those in the community that may need it the most. The Outreach Club was started in December of 2010 by then-student Rob McCurrie, and his brothers. Rob has moved on and graduated from Upper St. Clair High School, but what he started back in 2010 is living on and still helping people around the community. Rob McCurrie and club advisor Mr. Kevin Coffman initiated the club, which works with Operation Safety Net and is affiliated with Mercy Hospital to help provide home furniture and equipment for individuals who were formerly homeless. Operation Safety Net’s mission is to provide homes to individuals in the Pittsburgh area with access to housing in various neighborhoods throughout the city. The organization actively seeks out candidates for housing, and then after a screening process, it seeks to place these individuals in apartments and provide them with the support they need to become independent.
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McCurrie and his brothers started out collecting furniture and donating it to the program, but they wanted to expand their efforts by garnering a wider community audience to help. Mr. Coffman said, “The resources and visibility of the school district offered the perfect opportunity for Rob to solicit furniture donations from a larger group of people. In addition, students make very good furniture movers!” Mr. Coffman, who is in his sixth year of teaching various mathematic classes at Upper St. Clair, also contributes as a JV soccer coach, JV tennis coach, and is the Ski Club sponsor. Now that the Outreach Club is an organized club at the high school and has a committed, dedicated sponsor in Mr. Coffman, the club looks to take on more opportunities to solicit and deliver furniture in the future. Once the furniture to be donated is located, the Outreach Club will procure the furniture and deliver it to the location that Operation Safety Net desires. “The most common needs of the clients are beds, mattresses, bedding, dressers, couches, chairs, small kitchen
“The club has no officers, just students who are looking to make a difference in their city.” tables with chairs, kitchen appliances, pots and pans, dishes, kitchen utensils and silverware, shower curtains, bath towels, and any other common household item that users could require on a regular basis,” said Mr. Coffman. In its relatively young lifetime, the Outreach Club has delivered donated furniture to individuals in need in the downtown Pittsburgh area, Mt. Oliver, McKees Rocks, Lawrenceville, and many other neighborhoods. There are never a set number of students that participate in the Outreach Club, but Mr. Coffman, and the original founder’s mother, Mrs. Barbara McCurrie, recruit students on an asneeded basis when projects arise. “The club has no officers, just students who are looking to make a difference in their city,” Mr. Coffman noted. He says that they are always looking for interested students to help out with the club, because the more students that are involved, the greater good they can do as a whole. “Many people don’t realize the great need that exists locally, and becoming involved in the Outreach Club is a great
MR. KEVIN COFFMAN, Upper St. Clair Outreach Club Advisor way to share extra furniture that would normally be thrown away by some, but can be used for others who are very grateful to receive it,” Mr. Coffman said. These hard working and dedicated students are making a difference in their city, and with Mr. Coffman’s help, they plan on making a difference for a long time to come. If you are interested in donating any furniture or items to the Outreach Club, please find the club’s official page through Mr. Coffman’s Upper St. Clair School District teacher page at www.uscsd.k12.pa.us.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 73
Great Things
are happening at
T
hanks to the efforts of Marcy Bruce, our 10 and under program is taking off and welcomed its first official play day on Jan. 28. The event, organized by Megan Foster, was wildly successful having over 40 kids participate. There was an abundance of smiles and laughter as the kids played tennis, enjoyed arts and crafts, ate pizza and in the end, everyone left with a prize in hand. USC head tennis pro Jan Irwin observed the event and stated “It was so exciting to see children rallying back and forth over the net to each other. This could never have been done on the big court with the yellow balls.” She added “The kids are having much more success at a younger age.” Irwin thanks Kelly Cunningham of the USTA as she has been instrumental in providing equipment, prizes and moral support for the program. Our kids had great results in the Glen Creek 10 and under tournament in December. Elizabeth Kulikowski, age 9, won the tournament on orange ball, and Jake Paterson, 7, placed 2nd in orange ball. For more information, or to enroll your child, call 412.831.2630. Call to find out when the next USC play day is too!
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Tournament Players Some of our players had great success this winter in tournament play. • Mike Santa Lucia placed second in L5 Boys 18s in Allentown. • Caleb Troy placed third in L5, Boys 18’s in Allentown. • Chris Gladden won Level 6 Boys 14’s in Erie. • Dom Damico won Level 7 Boys 16’s at Club for Life. • Connor Bruce placed third in Boys 12’s at the YMCA. • Mike Russell placed second in Boys 18’s at Glen Creek. • Sara Komer won doubles and singles at L5 Girls 16’s in Erie, placed 3rd in singles Girls L5 16’s and won doubles in Clark Summit, and won L5 Girls 18’s singles in PA • Anna Komer had a 4 and 1 record at L4 Girls 12’s in PA. • Sam Amos won L7 Girls 16’s at the YMCA • Morgan Parisi made it to semi-finals L7 Girls 16’s YMCA We want to congratulate all our players who participate in the USTA Tournaments at any level. Tournaments test our skills and give us an opportunity to learn and gain confidence. Cardio Tennis – Another Way to Play the Game Cardio tennis is a great way to get the ultimate workout and have fun doing it. There is a proper warm-up and cool-down. The cardio
USC TENNIS Development Program portion is about 30 percent drills and 70 percent games. All of this is to upbeat, cardio-specific music. Now that the new cardiotennis.com site has been launched, we are now offering the cardio tennis invitation system. In addition to signing up for our traditional cardio tennis classes, the cardio tennis invitation system allows you to just sign up for 1 class at a time with no long-term commitment. We are adding classes weekly. You can view all of our classes by visiting cardiotennis.com and searching for Upper St. Clair Tennis Development Program. All of our classes are open to the public, but let us know that you are interested in taking one of our cardio classes and providing us with your ability level. Email cardio tennis director Marcy Bruce (marcyb93@me.com) or call 412.398.6066.
USCTDP has a program for you! We teach all ages at every level, offering junior clinics, adult clinics, men’s match play, junior traveling team, cardio tennis, 10 and under tennis mandated by USTA, junior round robins, junior world team tennis and private lessons all taught by certified pros. We would love for you to join our team! Call 412.831.2630 or email tennis@usctdp.com. Watch for our new, exciting website coming soon!
Alison Riske Back in Town It was awesome to have Alison Riske back in town over Christmas. Some of our players had the thrill of training with Ali. Coaches Jan Irwin and Chris Canady were excited to work with Ali and were impressed how well their players handled hitting with a true tennis professional. Ali left Pittsburgh and was off to Australia for the Australian Open. She won three matches to qualify for the Open, and lost first round to U. Radwanska in three sets. She currently is ranked 120 in the world. We want to wish her great success for 2012.
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 75
BY LEIGH LYONS
T
he idea is simple when you think about it. Just run faster than the person next to you. While the concept may be simple, the journey most certainly is not. This year, the Upper St. Clair Track and Field team will look to run faster, throw farther, and jump higher than the rest of the competition. Upper St. Clair Track and Field coach Mr. Petrick believes that this year could be the year where individual success translates into overall team success as well. “For the past four years, we have always had talented individuals, but not much team success,” Mr. Petrick said. He and his fellow coaches came up with a plan metro quarter page ad:Layout 1
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prior to the 2011 season where they made small changes to the program to stress the importance of operating as a team. “We focused on accountability for all of the athletes, and we challenged them to contribute to the team by performing in multiple events and stepping outside of their comfort zones,” explained Mr. Petrick. In a sport such as track and field, talented athletes can get caught up in specializing in one event, typically the event they are strongest in. This may be a detriment to the overall team score, though, because these same athletes may also be strong in other events but never give it a fair try. Mr. Petrick relays that, “the kids responded and we enjoyed our best season last year as a team in over four years. I can’t tell you how proud it made us.” With last year’s success in the books, this year’s team looks to build upon the hard work of both the coaching staff and the student athletes. A great number of spring track athletes also participate in winter track, which enables them
to enhance skills and endurance for the upcoming spring season. Being that Upper St. Clair’s section for track and field is one of the toughest, the Panthers will look to use the edge of preparation and teamwork that winter track will lend toward the spring season. The running events consist of 11 races. The sprints are the 100-meter, the 200-meter, and the 400-meter. The distance events include the 800-meter run, and the 2-mile run. There are three relay events, which consist of the 4x100-meter run, the 4x400-meter run, and the 4x800-meter run. Finally, there are three hurdle events consisting of the 100-meter hurdles, the 300-meter hurdles, and the intermediate hurdles. Mr. Petrick knows his group of runners this year is ready for the challenge that rivals Mt. Lebanon and Baldwin will present. “We have an enthusiastic group of runners that enjoy being chalCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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lenged. We also have a lot of senior leadership on both the boys’ and girls’ sides, and we are looking for them to set the tone for the rest of the kids,” Mr. Petrick said. Besides the senior leadership on the team this year, the Panthers will also return some incredibly talented underclassmen as well. On the girls’ side, Madison Veglia and Carley Bogan will both look to make a big impact. Bogan, a two-sport star, uses her exceptional speed on the soccer field and the track alike. Veglia is also one of the fastest runners on the team, and she was the team MVP last year as a freshman. For the distance events, the girls will have Betsy Erlanger, Angelica Lucas and Leah Griffith striding it out to put some points on the board for the team. For the boys, sprinters Carleton Gibson, Ryan Boyd, Luke Boyd, Sam Boyd, and Gabe Boyd will look to run away from the competition. In distance, Austin Wilding and Conor Klutch will add endurance and experience. Austin Wilding competed in the W.P.I.A.L. Championships last year, and Coach Petrick believes that he will be even better this upcoming year as well. Track events are just one element in the land of track and field, though. Field events make up a major component of the spring sport. The field events consist of two categories, the jumps and the throws. For throwing,
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“We really turned a corner last year, and we are hoping to build on those individual and team successes for this year, and for the future.” MR. PETRICK
Upper St. Clair Track and Field Coach
the events include the shot put, the javelin, and the discus. The jumps are the high jump, the long jump, and the triple jump. And last, but certainly not least, there is the pole vault. The field coaching staff encourages all of the athletes to throw all three events. This year’s top thrower is senior Natalia Watzlaf, another two-sport athlete. Natalia’s top event is the javelin, which she has been throwing for quite a few years now. “I actually started throwing when I was younger and qualified for the Junior National Championships, and then got back into it last year,” said Natalia. Natalia and the rest of the throwers are eager to begin their 2012 season. Leading the way for fellow jumpers this year is Bess Lynch. Lynch will guide other jumpers and hope to show them ways to rack up wins for the team. The top pole-vaulters this year will be Sam Christman and Erica Chuong. Mr. Petrick is confident in his athletes as both individuals and as a team this year. The athletes and the coaching staff are excited to see what will come in 2012 as they look to expand on the program that Mr. Petrick has established at Upper St. Clair. “We really turned a corner last year, and we are hoping to build on those individual and team successes for this year, and for the future,” said Mr. Petrick.
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 79
Making an on
“ImPACT”
CONCUSSIONS
T
he diagnosis and management of concussions is one of the hottest topics in pediatrics and sports medicine. Some studies show that up to 50% of athletes experience concussion symptoms, yet only 10% report these symptoms. Often, symptoms are vague, difficult to describe, and in some cases minimized by the athlete to hasten return to play, making the sideline diagnosis of a concussion more difficult. However, accurate diagnosis is paramount to treatment and recovery. CT scans and MRI scans of the brain are not typically able to detect the subtle changes that are thought to happen to the brain when a concussion occurs. Additionally, symptoms may not be noticed until 2 or even 3 days after the injury, making a quick diagnosis more difficult. However, until a concussion fully resolves, the patient is significantly more vulnerable to a more serious and prolonged concussion if subsequent trauma, even something very minor, is sustained. Some of the most common symptoms of a concussion are headache, feeling “slowed down,” difficulty concentrating, dizziness, “fogginess,” fatigue, light sensitivity, blurred vision, memory difficulties and balance problems. Over 90% of patients with concussions do not lose consciousness, and loss of consciousness does not predict severity or length of recovery period. One of the best diagnostic tools today is a computerized battery of neuropsychological tests called ImPACT (Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing), a test developed in Pittsburgh at the UPMC Center for Sports Medicine. Since its inception it has become the standard of care to better diagnose and manage concussions. This test is a 30-minute computerized test taken on a computer in a physician’s office, athletic trainer’s office, or at a certified concussion management center. This test can reveal impairment in any of the subtle categories that are often affected by a concussion, like spatial awareness, short-term memory and reaction time. ALL ATHLETES, regardless of level of play, should receive a baseline ImPACT test (i.e. a test done prior to the occurrence of an injury). It is now mandatory in most high schools for athletes to take this test prior to the start of the season. However, we recommend any child 11 and older have a baseline test done, even if they are not involved in sports. Concussions can happen during outside play, in physical education class, and even at home. Many pediatricians offer baseline ImPACT testing for a minimal fee. A baseline test allows the doctor to compare test performance before and after a concussion, helping him/her to better diagnose and manage the concussion. If a suspected concussion occurs, it is critical to remove the athlete from the game or practice. If symptoms are severe, a trainer may recommend a visit to the emergency department. If not, the athlete should rest, hydrate, and contact a physician for further recommendations. He/she should not attend school or any further athletic events until seen by a physician. Physical rest is often recommended, followed by a gradual progression through increasing levels of non-contact physical exertion. This is usually supervised by the athletic trainer at the school along with the guidance of the physician involved. Kimberly M. Pezzone, M.D., Shareholder, Pediatric Alliance, St. Clair Division is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University, earned her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh and completed her pediatric training at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Dr. Pezzone is board certified in pediatrics and has completed ImPACT training and certification in conjunction with the UPMC Concussion Center. Dr. Pezzone and her husband, Dr. Michael Pezzone, have four sons and in her spare time she is very involved in her children’s various baseball and soccer activities.
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Based on the level of cognitive impairment, school attendance may be restricted. The school environment can exacerbate symptoms. Concussion often causes memory deficits, difficulty in concentration and multi-tasking. If the student does return to school, it is often necessary to have academic accommodations until symptoms resolve completely (i.e. reduced homework load, delayed academic tests, avoidance of note taking or computer usage). A trained physician or neuropsychologist can help decide which accommodations are appropriate. Concussion recovery happens when all of the following have occurred: the patient is symptom free with rest and return to school, symptom free with non-contact exertion, and normalization of scores on ImPACT testing. A concussion can be frightening and frustrating for anyone to experience. However, with the proper treatment, almost 80% of concussions symptoms will fully resolve within 3 weeks. For the remaining 20%, specialized therapy at a concussion management center can assist in a full recovery and return to school and athletic participation.
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Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 81
HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION
By Heather Holtschlag
Curb appeal is not necessarily something that most people will able to define in precise terms, but they will know it when they see it. Simply put, it is about making your front yard and the front of your house stand out and look better than the rest. For example, driving through the Westminster Plan right off of Route 19, if people like what they see on the outside, including potential buyers, the chances are good that they will want to see what the house looks like on the inside. But what can you do to make your house stand apart? To begin, play up
your home’s doorway, one of the first areas people see when looking at your house, with color, a clean door free of nicks and clean metal fixtures. Consider adding a wreath or some other type of door decoration. Low-voltage landscape lighting, particularly accent lighting displayed in nearby trees or throughout other outdoor fixtures, can not only enhance a yard’s appearance, but provide a pathway of lighted safety for visitors. Potted colorful flowers can provide instant curb appeal and can be purchased already assembled at a local garden center, or you may choose to buy
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an empty container to fill with all of your favorite flowers on your own. On a similar note, window boxes can be filled with your favorite flowers to match the rest of your yard’s color scheme. Consider adding some fixtures like birdbaths and wind chimes to add visual appeal to a yard, and a water fountain can sound heavenly on a warm summer day, but be sure to place them on level ground for optimum enjoyment. Shutters and trim work not only add texture and ventilation to a home, but provide added security as well says KP Builders of Pittsburgh. To achieve the best curb appeal,
paint the shutters in a color that coordinates with the outside of your house and the rest of your yard. In addition, new garden beds are always a welcome sight. Consider planting new gardens in spots that will be most pleasing to the eye, such as along the driveway and in front of the house. Adams Landscape services offers tree trimming and mulching to freshen up the whole yard. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Create a visual picture with your home. You’ll see the difference and so will your prospective buyers.
Add shutters or accent trim Shutters and trim add a welcoming layer of beauty to your home’s exterior. Shutters also control light and ventilation, and provide additional security. Exterior shutters can be made of wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass. New composite materials make trim details durable and low maintenance.
Replace old hardware House numbers, the entry door lockset, a wall-mounted mailbox, and an overhead light fixture are all elements that can add style and interest to your home’s exterior. If they’re out of date, your home may not be conveying the aesthetic you think it is. These elements add the most appeal when they function collectively, rather than as mix-and-match pieces. Oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits more contemporary residences.
Add outdoor art Give your yard a little spunk by adding weather-resistant artwork. Choose pieces that complement your home’s natural palette and exterior elements. Birdbaths, metal cutouts, sculptures, and wind chimes are good choices for outdoor art. Water sculptures not only function as yard art, but the burbling sounds soothe and make hot days feel cooler. Place fountains on level ground in optimum hearing and sight vantage points.
Install window boxes Window boxes offer a fast, easy way to bring color and charm to your home exterior. Choose boxes made from copper or iron for a traditional look, or painted wood for a cottage feel. Mix and match flowers and plants to suit your lighting conditions and color scheme.
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www.TODDSASPHALT.com Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 83
HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION By Heather Holtschlag
M
ore than half of the energy used in the average Upper St Clair home goes toward heating and cooling, and if your house is not properly insulated, much of that expense can go to waste. Insulation, particularly when installed in an area such as the attic, requires less work from the air conditioning and furnace systems, translating in less expense and fewer repairs. There are a number of things to note to properly install attic insulation, the first of which is called R-value. R-value measures the effectiveness of types of insulation; the higher anf insulation’s R-value, the more effective it is. The recommended R-values for walls and floors in a mild climate is R-11; for ceilings and attics, it is R-19. In moderate climates, R-values should be a minimum of R-19 for walls and floors and R-30 for ceilings and attics. And, in cold climates, like Upper St Clair, R-values for walls and floors should be R-19 and R-38 to R-49 for ceilings and attics. If you use your attic as living space, it is a good idea to install insulation on the walls and ceiling. If it is not used, you should still insulate, and the empty space will provide ample room for installation. If your attic is being insulated for the first time, it should include a vapor barrier, which is any material that does not absorb moisture and through which vapor will not pass. After it snows, it is recommended that you check the roof to see where the snow has fallen, says B.Guyaux, Jr Roofing Inc in Scott Township. If you notice specific areas on the roof where the snow has melted, this may signal an area that needs insulated or where the insulation is damaged. When installing insulation in the attic, the best method is to install it from the eaves toward the center of the room so as to leave more headroom when you need to cut or fit the insulation properly. If, upon installing the insulation, you discover that you need an extra layer, you can simply lay blankets on top of the insulation already there. To reduce fire hazard, cover the panels with wallboard use fiberglass panels if you must install panels between the rafters in a ceiling that slopes. Also, if you use cellulose insulation, which is the most common type of loose fill insulation, be sure that it has been treated with a fire retardant. There are plenty of qualified insulation specialists in the Upper St. Clair community.
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Small Updates Pay Off By Heather Holtschlag
BIG for Home Values
If you are thinking of selling your home or just making some updates to your current living space, you don’t necessarily need to think big expense and lots of work. Small fixes can increase your home’s value for a big payoff. Home sales in Upper St. Clair are starting off strong in 2012. Changing your property to meet the demands of buyers is worth the effort says Northwood Realty Services of Upper St. Clair. For starters, maintain a regular cleaning schedule. This serves a dual purpose of not just keeping your house tidy and neat, especially for visitors, but will help keep your maintenance issues in check, as you will notice relatively early on if something is in need of a fix, thus avoiding costly repairs. Keep your house looking fresh by adding some new paint. When selecting a color, remember that neutrals appeal to a wide variety of people, and if you are selling your home, a neutral color is easy to paint over, should the new owners choose a different color. Consider consulting a professional real estate agent or a home inspector. Each can walk through your home and pay close attention to its detail and alert you to areas that require improvement or repair. If repairs are necessary, make them in a timely manner so as to prevent the problem from getting worse. Buyers tend to favor bathrooms and kitchens, so it could be especially beneficial to keep these rooms clean and updated. Consult a real estate agent if you need ideas for updating. If these rooms are small, consider rearranging the furniture to make them look bigger. Also, keep the appliances clean and in working order, even if you are not planning to
include them in the sale of the house. Spend some time in the yard. Remember that curb appeal is a person’s first impression of your overall house, so maintain a yard free of debris and color coordinate your gardens to match the house. Installing modern light switches and power outlets can help your lighting system look newer than it is. Also, consider installing dimmer switches, which are a favorite among potential buyers. Show off the bright sides of your house by increasing the wattage in your light bulbs. Finally, keep your house clutter-free by cleaning up after yourself and making sure your children do the same. In addition, keep your carpets clean by vacuuming regularly and administering deep cleaning treatments. Buyers have quite a few choices as they drive through the beautiful streets of Upper St. Clair. Make your home stand out in the crowd!
Upper St. Clair | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 85
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