in-upper-st-clair-summer by IN Community Magazines

SUMMER 2012

pper S St. Clair COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

pper St. Clair

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.

upmchealthyu.com

Upper St. Clair | Summer 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

Talk with Us About Joining our Professional Team! • Great Compensation Levels • Superb Working Environment • Outstanding Marketing Programs Whether Experienced or Considering a Real Estate Career, We Welcome the Opportunity to Speak with You! 2 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

INSIDE

lair pper St. C

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

AZIN ITY MAG

COMMUN

ER 2012

SUMM

ir pper St. Cla

IN Upper St. Clair | SUMMER 2012 |

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Swift Audiology Options of Hearing Aids ...................... | 53 The Hostess Helper Services at Parties and Celebrations ... | 56 Phillip Ritter Insurance Agency Coverage for What Matters Most ........ | 63 DINING OUT

DragonFire Domo Arigato, Dragon Fire Robata! .... | 17

Shelby’s Station Neighborhood Restaurant and Tavern ... | 44

FEATURE | 2012 Upper St. Clair Baseball Update

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Healthy Pet Products Tips for Safe Flea & Tick Control ......... | 30

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

Circulatory Centers Why are You Still Waiting? ................... | 54

What’s Inside 2 3 4

Bringing Mother and Child Together

Dr. Jay M. Feuer Bruxism ............................................... | 57

Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6 7

You Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss When Wounds Won’t Heal

UPMC222169_UPMC Today_Mercy_Summer_2012_Final_5.indd 1

64 5/11/12 1:52 PM

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Journey to Africa ................................................................... |

Summer Fun in Upper St. Clair .......................................... | 10 Row, Row, Row Your Boat .................................................... | 12 Teacher Spotlight: Mrs. Mary Muffly ................................ | 18 Wesley Spectrum Hosts Spring Gala ............................... | 20 A Worthy Role Model ............................................................ | 24 Tropical Forest India Exhibit Mural ................................... | 32 PTA Council President Forms Book Club ......................... | 38 Upper St. Clair Alum Releases Summer Movie ............. | 42 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................. | 45 2012 Upper St. Clair Baseball Update ............................. | 58 Real Estate in Upper St. Clair.............................................. | 70 Summer Happenings at USC Tennis .................................. | 80 Home Improvement Section ................................................ | 86

Southpointe Chiropractic Chiropractic Care for Pregnancy .......... | 61 Bill Few Associates Shaken..But Why Not Stirred? ............. | 68 Beleza Plastic Surgery The Eyes Have It.................................. | 77 Treasure Hunt Approaches Golden Anniversary ......... | 83 Case Handyman & Remodeling Outdoor Kitchens................................. | 88

STAF F PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

elcome to the summer issue of Upper St. Clair Magazine! This year, it seems summer started in early March. However, the warm days have given people a reason to get outside early and often. Bulbs are blooming earlier and joggers are out in force. So I hope you’ve had a chance to get out there and take advantage of the early summer, and while you’re at it, let us know what you’re up to. We try to feature as much local content as we can in each issue and hope that you enjoy that content. Now, we want to get even more local and ask you directly for your stories in each issue. These features don’t have to be about you or someone you know doing something extraordinary like climbing Mt. Everest or swimming the English Channel. We want to know what makes our readers tick. It could be that you’ve always wanted a classic Thunderbird and have been restoring one for the past few years. We’d like to see it, and I’m sure others would too. So let’s start off with that, since we’re coming into car cruise season. If you or someone you know has Wayne Dollard a pretty interesting restoration project going on in the garage, let us know! Email our editor, Mark Berton, at mark@incommunitymagazines.com or Publisher call us at 724.942.0940. We’ll be happy to hear your story and may even send one of our photographers out to capture your work for the next issue. Keep in mind that the project doesn’t necessarily need to be current—if you’ve been cruising in your restoration project for some time now, that’s OK, too. But we’d like to know what you did at the nuts-and-bolts level to get your baby roadworthy. If you’re just not sure one way or the other if you have a good story, call Mark and he’ll be happy to help you out! Looking forward to seeing some whitewalls and chrome in the fall issue!

REGIONAL EDITORS

Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] mark@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUNICIPAL CONTE N T COORDIN AT OR

Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

WRITERS

John Barrera Jonathan Barnes Jennifer Brozak Matt Fascetti Tracey Fedkoe Mike Ference Jacob Flannick Britt Fresa Heather Holtschlag

Aimee Nicolia Nick Keppler Chelsie Kozera Leigh Lyons Dana Black McGrath JoAnne Nasser Melanie Paulick Gina Sallinger Judith Schardt

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mark Fainstein Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer

Have a great summer!

Len Pancoast Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGE RS

Derek Bayer Tom Poljak

Do you have a classic car that you’ve restored? If so, we’d like to hear about it. Email your name and contact information to mark@incommunitymagazines.com.

Tamara Myers

ADVERTISING SALES

Sophia Alfaras Brian Daley Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graf Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri

Aimee Nicolia Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district household and businesses. households 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 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com Fall Content Deadline 7/27

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

4 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

Become a part of the best business park in Bridgeville, PA. Bursca Business Park provides a scenic working environment close to many amenities like, banks, restaurants, hotels and golf courses.

Leased and Managed by Burns & Scalo Real Estate Services, Inc.

OFFICE | FLEX | RETAIL | WAREHOUSE

sweet suites

call today. lease tomorrow.

KELLEY HOOVER 412.670.4248 khoover@burnsscalo.com 412.250.3000 | BurnsScalo.com

UPPER ST. CLAIR

GRADUATE

JOURNEY TO

AFRICA By Leigh Lyons

eing “green” is the cool thing to do in today’s world. People feverishly recycle, buy organic foods, donate their time to worthy charitable organizations, and raise money for countries devastated by horrific natural disasters. All in all, there are a lot of genuinely good people in this world, and in times of crisis, these people seem to rise to the occasion to do what they can to help a situation. Doing nothing to discredit these amazing acts of kindness and awareness to others, and for the environment, not too many people uproot their lives completely, including their jobs and lifestyle, to try and make this world a better, and more comprehensively functional place. Enter 26-year-old Upper St. Clair graduate Taryn Bird. Taryn resided in Upper St. Clair with her mom, dad, and two younger sisters (Kelsey and Brenna) until she graduated in 2002. It was evident to those around her that she was always a trend-setter who gained the respect of others. Taryn excelled in school, was captain of the high school soccer team, and also a member of the nationally recognized dance team while at Upper St. Clair High School. She was also the senior class president. With all of this on her plate, Taryn learned to prioritize and realize what really is important in life, and perhaps, she always knew that she eventually wanted to do something in this world that would make an impact on those who don’t have it as easy as most of the residents in Upper St. Clair. After majoring in Economics and Spanish at Penn State University, and graduating in 2007, Taryn moved to Washington, D.C. to take a job with the U.S. Chamber

6 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

of Commerce working on Latin American Affairs. While working at the Chamber of Commerce, she began to learn more about corporate social responsibility, and became more interested in how companies could be leveraged to solve social issues in the developing worlds. While her interest grew, Taryn then moved over to the corporate social responsibility arm of the Chamber of Commerce. She currently works at the Business Civil Leadership Center at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where her portfolio of work entails working with U.S. based multinationals on the international social and philanthropic investments. With that mouthful of corporate jargon, Taryn explains, “We promote the positive role of business in society.” More specifically, Taryn runs a program called the Global Corporate Citizenship Program. “My job entails working with U.S. based multinationals to promote their social investments in countries outside of the U.S., while also assisting in linking companies with nonprofit organizations, multilateral organizations, and other companies to help build the capacity of these programs,” Taryn said. Last year she also helped launch a program in Rio de Janeiro called the International Business Corps, where multiple companies such as Dow Chemical, HP, and IBM can work collectively together to build the capacity of non-profit organizations in strategic growth markets. They do this by leveraging their employee talent and international volunteer opportunities. Since Taryn has been working for this organization, she has had the opportunity

to travel fairly extensively. She has been to Kenya, South Africa, Haiti, Rio de Janeiro, Europe and all across the U.S. Perhaps her biggest journey is the one she is on now in Kigali, Rwanda. Taryn explains, “I chose to take a sabbatical from my current job at the Business Civic Leadership Center at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to retain more field experience. I particularly wanted to work with women on women’s economic empowerment in the retail sector.” Taryn credits her brave risk to take a sabbatical from her already inspiring job to the fact that she has been “most impressed with womencentric programs in countries outside of the United States.” These programs yield the highest return on investment because working with these women in developing countries not only empowers them, but also empowers their families, Taryn noted. “By providing a woman with a job and educating her on the importance of savings, you will also help to ensure that the family can pay school fees for their children, gain access to clean drinking water, and proper food for dry seasons,” Taryn explained. The basic idea was that Taryn preferred to work for an organization that gave a “hand up versus a hand out,” and that is how she found Indego Africa, in Kigali, Rwanda, the company she is currently working for until July 2012. With Indego Africa, Taryn will gain more experience working on non-traditional supply chain management. Indego Africa is a social enterprise that works with women cooperatives to bring their products to international brands in the United States such as Anthropologie, JCrew, Madewell and Nicole Miller. “Indego works with

10 women cooperatives in Kigali to facilitate supply chain management, as well as providing English and business training programs for the women,” Taryn detailed. She is very excited about the fact that patrons will be able to buy Indego bracelets at JCrew and Madewell starting in the spring of 2012. By being over in such a foreign land, Taryn has had to make a number of adjustments, but one of the most shocking things to her has been that the transition hasn’t been too extremely hard. She lives with six housemates from all over the world, ranging from Africa to Paris to Upper St. Clair. She gushes when speaking of her wonderful coworkers who she relies on not only in work, but also in everyday life. She loves going to the fresh markets to buy groceries where she enjoys the challenge or bargaining for her food, and embraces the challenge of cooking in Africa where you must buy groceries multiple times a week because there is no option of buying in bulk.

By putting a stellar career on hold to journey over to Africa to help aid the economic progress of women, and in turn their families, in Kigali, Rwanda, Taryn is helping in a way that most people cannot even fathom. She is strong in the opinion that, “More companies should be sourcing from organizations like Indego which are not just about trade facilitation, but also investment in the people who are actually making the products.” Taryn does believe that there are a lot of Americans in Rwanda doing great work already, and she surely can be considered one of the above. By helping the women in Kigali learn to become successful business entrepreneurs, Taryn is helping aid innumerable generations to come because once these women reinvest in their families, their children are able to gain a solid education and in turn be successful themselves. Not bad for a young woman taking a six-month sabbatical to journey to Africa.

“By providing a woman with a job and educating her on the importance of savings, you will also help to ensure that the family can pay school fees for their children, gain access to clean drinking water, and proper food for dry seasons” - TARYN Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

What Happens In Vegas Doesn’t Always By W.B. Fresa

DELICIOUS FRUIT DESIGN

in keepsake watering can

Same day pickup and delivery available 412-563-2425

412-489-6234

250 Mt. Lebanon Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15234

6506 Steubenville Pike Pittsburgh, PA 15205

EdibleArrangements.com EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS, the Fruit Basket Logo Design, and all other marks noted, are trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2012 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved. Available in a variety of sizes. Containers may vary. Delivery not available in all areas. Franchises available; call 1-888-727-4258 or visit eafranchise.com.

Look no further than a quick Google search to find interesting facts about Upper St. Clair. The township is 9.8 square miles in size, houses more than 19,000 residents and was ranked one of the 10 best places to live in the United States for 2009, according to U.S. News & World Report. Upper St. Clair also boasts an array of former and current residents with some impressive resume highlights, like former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chuck Noll, United States Congressman Tim Murphy and senior engineer of the observation wheel, Dan Schwarz. Never heard of Dan? Wondering what an observation wheel is? Keep reading.

The “High Roller” Dan Schwarz grew up in Mt. Lebanon and has lived in the area with his wife, Heather, and their daughter, Claire, for the past five years. While they had not outgrown their home, they decided a move was in order after doing a little online house hunting and finding their dream home in Brookside Farms. No sooner had they signed the papers when Dan got a new work assignment from his boss at American Bridge. On the heels of completing his former tunnel and transit project in downtown Pittsburgh—the one that transports commuters from the Golden Triangle, under the Allegheny River and drops them off on the North Shore—Dan wasn’t sure what to expect. “That tunnel project was a huge undertaking,” said Dan. “I spent a lot of time in the dark, under the streets of Pittsburgh. But my new assignment could not be more of a contrast. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and we’re really excited.” To say Dan’s new project is in contrast to his former one is no joke. This summer, after only spending about six months in Upper St. Clair, Dan, Heather and their

The High Roller will be an iconic, structurally striking ride that promises to redefine the Las Vegas skyline and the observation wheel ride experience.

A close-up of one of the 28 “pods” that will be on The High Roller, what will be the world’s largest observation wheel.

8 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

STAY IN VEGAS daughter, will move to Las Vegas while he leads the engineering and building of a new observation wheel called the “High Roller.” Much like the Ferris Wheels of old, this attraction will be the tallest and largest in the world. Once completed, the “High Roller” will be located behind the famed Flamingo Hotel, have 28 enclosed cabins around its circumference, hold 40 people per cabin and take 30 minutes to make a complete rotation. It will be 500 feet in diameter and stand 550 feet high, about 40 stories tall. “It was commissioned by Caesar’s Entertainment and American Bridge was their company of choice to bring it to fruition,” said Dan. “We have the expertise to build something of this magnitude and uniqueness and it’s sure to be a highlight in my career.”

Dan Schwarz with his wife, Heather, and their daughter, Claire.

East Meets West Meets East Again Heather and Dan are looking forward to Las Vegas but they are in love with their new neighborhood and home. “What’s so great about Brookside Farms is very few people leave,” said Heather. “It has such a familial feel because parents have raised their children here and now the children live just two and three houses away. There’s something comforting about that.” And as Dan and Heather describe their new house, it speaks volumes about how they relish its old soul. “Our house was built in 1935,” said Dan. “It’s lived in and we love everything about it, from the covered back porch to

the arched doorways and tiny nooks that come with houses of this era.” “I always knew I wanted to live in Pittsburgh even though I grew up in Spokane, Washington,” said Heather. “My parents are from here and we visited my grandparents during the summers. Once I started college, and met Dan, I knew this would be our home.” But the west beckons them soon and house hunting will begin again. “It is true, we don’t have a place to live yet in Vegas,” chimes Heather with a laugh. “I think it’s safe to say we won’t be finding anything with the charm of our new house.” However, she is quick to point out the pluses of a move to an arid region: no grass to mow, weeds to pull or mosquitos to swat. They are also ready to take full advantage of all the opportunities that come with living in the Northwest. “I’m very excited to see Hoover Dam and all of the natural sites surrounding Las Vegas. We also can’t wait to learn about new cultures, try the local cuisine and introduce Claire to some fun things she wouldn’t get to see otherwise.” But they will be back, with stories to tell of the places they visited, sites they saw and people they met. And there’s also that little thing called the “High Roller” to add to the resume. But the Schwarzs are quick to scoff at the unique situation they find themselves in today. “We don’t consider ourselves special in any way,” said Dan. “And, no one’s life follows a typical trajectory anymore,” added Heather. “We certainly don’t expect ours to, either. But it’s nice to try new things, and then steer back to what you know.” Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

r e m um

S U

Upper St. Clair

pper St. Clair residents are gearing up for their summer break, and many parents already have their planning caps on for what to do with the kids over the extended break from school called summer vacation. Luckily for them, Upper St. Clair offers a plethora of venues and activities for residents who are looking for a little summer fun. The township always offers a brochure with seasonal activities for residents to choose from if they are interested. It would be impossible to list, and review, all of the activities and classes offered, but some do tend to be a little more unique than others. Some of the more unique programs offered by Upper St. Clair for this upcoming summer include Family Art in the Park, Yoga for Children and Tweens, and a Walking Club for Adults. Family Art in the Park is a new program offered by the township that is held at Boyce Mayview Park. Residents can sign up to participate and may choose from cartooning, painting, sculpturing, and other types of artistry. Yoga for Children and Tweens is offered at the Boyce Mayview Recreation Center as well, and is for children in grades 3-6. The Walking Club for Adults allows adults an opportunity to meet some new friends, relax, and enjoy the summer weather and beautiful landscape in the area. In addition to some of the newer programs, like the ones mentioned above, the township has some old staples that keep interested residents involved year in and year out. One such staple in the summer for Upper St. Clair residents is the Summer Reading Program. The Upper St. Clair Library offers a Summer Reading Program where children can sign up and keep their brains sharp while also enjoying their summer break from school. Other reliable programs offered every summer by the

10 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

township include various sports camps and sports programs. No matter what sport your child may be interested in, the township has a program for him/ her. Whether your child wants to try out a new sport for the first time, or is a serious athlete looking to hone skills, a summer sports program through Upper St. Clair may be just the right choice. The Upper St. Clair Recreation Center at Boyce Mayview is a huge hit all year round now, boasting a state-of-the-art outdoor pool that doubles as children’s water park. Even if a residents are not members the Recreation Center, they may buy passes specifically for the pool to allow their children a fun-filled day in the sun. The pool boasts dozens of lifeguards that ensure the safety of the water-going children. Perhaps some of the most classic summer activities in Upper St. Clair though come from unstructured activities throughout the township. One of the staples of summer, no matter where you are located, is the traditional summer barbecue with friends and/or family. A great location for a summer barbecue is Baker Park. Baker Park has sheltered picnic tables, grills, and plenty of activities within the park to keep everyone satisfied. The tennis courts at Baker are available without making an appointment, and the sand volleyball court is also close by. The bocce ball court provides a quirky game that befits any summer barbecue. Baker Park also has basketball courts within walking distance for a nightly game. But if basketball is your sport of choice, residents can find lively nightly games down at the municipal basketball courts as well. The municipal basketball courts are a legendary setting, as some of the township’s best athletes have spent countless hours playing pick-up games on these courts. The setting can’t be beat, as oftentimes Little League baseball and softball games, and tournaments, are being played adjacent to the court. Residents with all skill levels can find a game that fits them, and the court has outdoor lighting

Fun BY LEIGH LYONS

for evening games. The basketball court at Wiltshire Park is also a popular venue for these games as well. Staying on the sports theme, Upper St. Clair offers excellent settings for summer spots. Residents can frequent the 3-hole golf course on McLaughlin Run Road for a quick game of golf in a beautiful setting. Right near the golf course, the tennis courts are available to residents who purchase tennis court permits. If a resident doesn’t wish to purchase a permit, there are other courts throughout the township that are free and don’t require a reservation. Between the Morton Field Complex, and Marmion Field, the township offers fields of green for those who prefer to kick the ball around or catch a Frisbee. Whether residents may be looking to catch a few rays at the pool, stay active with their sport of choice, or grill out with those who mean the most to them, Upper St. Clair again proves to be a one-of-a-kind community that residents are proud to call home sweet home… especially in the summer time.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

Row, Row, Row Your USC CREW TEAM 2012 ow, row, row your boat, gently down the… Allegheny River. Rowing down the Allegheny River is precisely what the Upper St. Clair crew team intends to do day in and day out in order to prepare themselves for upcoming competitions where they hope to not only qualify for Nationals, but also bring awareness to a relatively unknown sport in the community. Upper St. Clair Crew was founded in 1989 and has been becoming a more popular sport with each passing year. In 2010, Upper St. Clair sent its first boat to Nationals, and since then, the team has been hungry to expand on that lofty goal. Head Coach R.J. Pisani is a USC grad himself, and he competed with the crew team from 1993-1997. Novice Coach Hope Feldman and Women’s Coach Gordon Lubimir also play a large role in the development of these talented athletes. The historically popular sports, like football, basketball, and baseball, turn out incredibly talented and strong athletes year after year, but not just any athlete can compete with the crew team. Rowing is a full body sport, requiring excellent leg and core strength. It is one of the most rigorous cardiovascular sports whether the athletes are rowing in distance or sprint competitions. The athletes who choose to row have to be dedicated, with practices running for at least 2 hours a day, five days a week, and

often in less than ideal conditions. In the winter, the members of the Upper St. Clair Crew Team condition and weight train at the high school, but in the fall and spring, they are down at the TRRA Boathouse on the Allegheny River. The team usually participates in distance events in the fall, and transitions into sprint events in the spring. Most of the athletes on the USC crew team are described as sprint athletes who excel in the spring season. This year, the team hopes to send between one and three boats to Nationals. Six rowers on the men’s side will be back rowing this season after competing at Nationals last year. They will also have their coxswain back to steer the boat. For those unfamiliar with some of the technical jargon, a coxswain is a member of the boat that steers the boat, enforces the race strategy by determining and calling out the stroke rate, decides when to challenge other boats, and assists the crew in balancing the boat by noticing and correcting technique problems. When small, intricate movements by one athlete in the boat can completely disrupt the boat’s rhythm making it difficult to attain ideal progress, the coxswain, along with the other members of the boat, must adjust quickly to stay competitive in the race. The sport requires excellent timing and balance, often compelling the athletes to make minute-by-minute adjustments. But when all of the technical aspects of the sport are analyzed, it often comes down

mental strength and careful pacing required in the sport of rowing may The

be unmatched by any other sport, yet unfortunately, the sport remains relatively unknown in our region today.

12 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

Boa BY L

EIG

HL YO N

to something that is common in most sports: teamwork. Much like the offensive line making their push to inch back their opponents to allow their running back to score a 1-yard touchdown, the members of the Upper St. Clair crew team must synchronize their rows flawlessly. Much like a basketball team that must trust their coach and/or leader on the court to decide the most opportune timing to implement a full court press to optimize defensive pressure, the members in the boat must trust their coxswain to instruct them to make minute adjustments in order to close the gap between them and their nearest competitor. The mental strength and careful pacing required in the sport of rowing may be unmatched by any other sport, yet unfortunately, the sport remains relatively unknown in our region today. The best way to gain the attention of mainstream sports fans is by winning, and if the USC men’s crew team maintains the path that they have been on the past few years, they should be bringing an awful lot of attention to not only their team, but to the sport of rowing in general. With talented and experienced rowers like Captain Paul VanRyzin, Paul Austin, Frank Perryman, Brent Murphy, Roger Hatfull, Adam Puccetti, and coxswain Eli Garfinkel, 2012 should be an exciting and successful year for the program once again. Much like the men’s team, the women’s team is striving to send a boat to Nationals this year as well. Seniors Claire Kylander and Liz Altherr have been rowing for four years, and they provide an excellent example to younger, more inexperienced athletes on such things as technique and knowledge of the sport. Underclassmen such as junior Helena Zatawski are eager to contribute to the team this year. Zatawski is an excellent athlete who will help make a highly competitive women’s boat. There are also a number of sophomores who will continue to develop their technique and strength, which will help round out a winning boat. With 38 kids on the USC crew team, it looks like the team will not be in short supply of excellent athletes who are yearning to get their chance in one of the top boats in order to compete for a spot at Nationals. This bodes extremely well not only for coaches R.J. Pisano, Hope Feldman, and Gordon Lubimir for 2012 and years to come, but for the emerging sport of rowing in general.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

A Trip of a By Heather Holtschlag

oyce Middle School sixth grader Olivia Brauer may not yet know who nominated her to serve as a student ambassador on a trip to western Canada this summer, but that didn’t diminish her excitement. “I am a little bit nervous about going because I will be gone for 12 days, but for the most part, I am really excited!” she said. “It feels really good to have been picked, especially knowing that I was picked out of many applicants. It was definitely a new experience having gone through the interview process.” According to Olivia’s mom, Brandy Brauer, students need to have been nominated for the trip by someone – a teacher, coach, former ambassador families – to be eligible to go. “We are not sure how she was nominated. We received a letter in the mail asking us to attend an informational meeting, and after we decided that it was something we wanted to pursue for Olivia, she had to go through the process of being selected.” The selection process itself was a challenge and required letters of recommendation from her teachers and Girl Scout leader, as well as having to pass an interview. “Olivia had never interviewed for anything, but we told her to just be herself, and it worked!” Olivia will be traveling with 40 fifth and sixth graders, all of whom are from western Pennsylvania. The chaperones all are teachers who volunteer to go on these trips with the students. “Everyone is very, very organized and safe,” Brandy said. “As parents, we actually have the ability to track the group’s whereabouts on our phones. And although the students are encouraged to call home periodically, we have been warned that they are frequently having so much fun that they forget to call!” The trip will include several educational opportunities after the students arrive in Victoria and tour castles and Parliament. They will take a ferry to Vancouver Island, where they will participate in a whale-watching tour and travel to the National Fir Forest and work on an eco-preservation project. They also will have the opportunity to interact and take care of grey wolf pups and drive onto the Columbia Icefield and walk on the Athabasca Glacier. In addition, the students will spend time with the First Nations People and learn from the culture, visit and help on a real archaeology dig and meet and help marine biologists. They also will get to play at Calgary Olympic Park. “It makes me feel confident and proud of myself to know that I achieved an opportunity like this,” Olivia said. “I am hoping to make a lot of new friends and create great memories on this trip to Canada. The one thing I am looking forward to most is spending the night with the Pikani Indian Tribe. We will get to build our own teepees and eat real buffalo meat.” Olivia said that she also is looking forward to the other planned activities as well, including whale watching in the San Juan Islands, visiting Victoria’s Parliament and speaking with members of the Canadian government, and climbing Monkido, which she described as an amazing climbing course. 14 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

“I was initially ‘wowed’ by the idea of letting her go,” Brandy said. “She has been to nearby summer camps, but never for so long, and nor was there a plane involved! I was – and still am – nervous about letting her go, but I know she is the kind of girl who is responsible and who will adapt to any situation with grace, and she is the perfect person for this type of experience. Seeing that this trip is so much more than just a sight-seeing vacation, how could I not want her to go? Every event and activity is such a great hands-on educational opportunity and will be something she will never forget. She also promised us that she would help raise the money, with which she has been doing a great job, and just one more reason why we are very proud of her.” One of the ways Olivia earned money for the trip was to plan, coordinate and host Parent’s Night Out events, whereby parents could drop off their kids during a scheduled timeframe and then enjoy some time by themselves. Olivia, her mom and several volunteers watched the kids and provided them with toys and activities as well as snacks. The money she raised was the result of donations she received from the parents. Beyond the thrill of going on the trip, hosted by People to People Ambassador Programs, which offers educational travel opportunities for students in grades five through 12 and boasts more than 500,000 alumni, some older high school students receive school credit for going. Although that credit is not available for Olivia’s grade, this trip—as well as any future trips she may take as a student ambassador—can pay off later, such as during college interviews.

“One of the veteran ambassadors spoke at one of our meetings and told the kids that she went on a few trips in high school and was repeatedly asked about it during college interviews, so I think just having this world experience benefits any child greatly,” Brandy said.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

Upper St. Clair Resident

Publishes First Novel O

WHERE TAILS GO TO WAG! • DOGGY DAYCARE • OVERNIGHT BOARDING • GROOMING SALON • RETAIL STORE • OBEDIENCE TRAINING 2858 Banksville Road Pittsburgh, PA 15216 412-364-7867 FAX: 412-774-1575

wag@thedogstop.net

WWW.THEDOGSTOP.NET Watch great videos of the pups at play at Facebook.com/thedogstoppittsburgh

16 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

ne summer night in 2011, Leigh Lyons had an idea, a vision, to be more apropos, which she couldn’t escape: What if she had psychic powers, and what if her best friend had suddenly disappeared without a trace? Before long, Lyons began exploring this idea in a familiar way – writing. Within one week, she had written her own book. “For whatever reason, I kept thinking about what would happen if I did have psychic powers and my best friend suddenly vanished,” Lyons explains. “I loved to write and had tried writing novels before, so I figured, why not take the idea to the computer?” Fascinated by the paranormal and high school TV shows, Lyons decided to conjoin the psychic angle with an often momentous high school experience: prom. One hundred-fifty pages later, The Connection was born, a story about a teenage girl who learns of her clairvoyant abilities just in time to try to solve her best friend’s mysterious disappearance. While writing a book is one thing, publishing it is another. “The response from people who had read my book was overwhelming, but I knew how daunting it would be to try to find an agent and a publisher,” Lyons says. So she put the novel aside. One November day, however, her luck would change. Searching for jobs, Lyons fortuitously happened upon a new, small publishing house, Charles Towne

Publishing, which offered young adult submissions. “I noticed that they were looking for young adult submissions, so I called to get more information, and before I knew it, I was invited to send my manuscript in for review,” Lyons explains. “The next day the publisher didn’t just like it; he agreed to publish it!” By April The Connection was released on Amazon.com, where it is still available. Though Lyons attributes much of her success to luck, she hopes her story will kindle the inspiration for many young writers who have always wanted to write but have been, perhaps, too intimidated by the process and the acute skepticism that often accompanies dreams of publication. “You’ll never know what can happen unless you try,” Lyons says. Leigh Lyons, who writes under the pen name L.A. Lyons, lives in Upper St. Clair and currently works as an attorney for Neighborhood Attorneys, LLC.

“You’ll never know what can happen unless you try.”

Domo Arigato, Dragon Fire Robata!

ragon Fire Japanese Steakhouse, Sushi Bar and Robatayaki is the next generation of Japanese cuisine in the South Hills with the region’s first ever Robatayaki grill. So what is a Robatayaki and what makes it such a dining experience? The Robatayaki’s origins date back to 1600 in Japan and is a traditional form of informal dining based around the Robata grill. Diners sit around the Robata with fresh ingredients in front of them. Chefs skewer meats, poultry, seafood and vegetables and grill them in front of your eyes before plating them for an amazing presentation. At Dragon Fire, patrons can position themselves around a horseshoe-shaped table, with the Robata on one side and the sushi bar on the other. Sushi Chef Jing Fu Wu has more than 35 years of experience running a successful Sushi house in Philadelphia. His mix of traditional sushi and innovative, new rolls, such as the Green Dragon Roll – tuna, salmon, yellowtail, cucumber, shiso and jalapeno with an avocado exterior - is second to none. Behind the sushi bar and Robata, several traditional hibachi grill tables are positioned in Dragon Fire for patrons who want the total hibachi experience featuring everything from spatula juggling, culinary acrobatics, dancing flames and smoking onion volcanoes. Regardless of where your taste buds take you in Dragon Fire, you will not be disappointed. The hibachi presentations and skilled chefs serve full-course, quality dishes en masse, perfect for large families and groups of friends. On the sushi side, Dragon Fire’s two sushi chefs created some of the most beautiful rolls and presentations that we’ve seen to date, all of it catch of the day fresh, with each piece melting in your mouth with hints of ginger and the sting of wasabi. But since we’ve never encountered the Robata grill before, we spent the majority of our time there to see what makes these meals extra special. It turns out that the Robata grill requires the ever-watchful eye of its chefs. Japanese binchotan charcoal maintains an even, hot flame, but this grill is not a set-it-and-forget-it cooking appliance. In addition to skewering up fresh, choice cuts of meat, the chefs have to monitor temperatures, stoke the coals, and add more coals The Galleria Mall as the night goes on. 1500 Washington Road The charcoal Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228 412.892.8815 burns at

a very high temperature and quickly sears in the juices and flavors of the steaks, seafood or vegetables being cooked on it. Executive Chef Joe Scalise creates a variety of handmade sauces to complement the items from the Robata. Patrons can expect their order to take a few minutes longer coming from the Robata, but the brief wait is definitely worth it. Starting off with the Robata chicken lettuce wraps, we discovered that watching the chef prepare our meal in front of us is mesmerizing. The chicken is skewered up and placed on the grill. The chef turns the skewer for even cooking, all the while basting it with a ginger infused soy Thai chili sauce. It’s then plated with the chicken cut into bite-sized pieces nestled into crisp lettuce beds, covered with toasted almonds, green onion garnish and served with additional sauce for dipping. More succulent chicken cannot be found than this. From the caramelized sauce on the chicken to its moist center, each bite was a divine combination of sweetness, with a hint of heat. Moving on to the main course, the Salmon Yakatori is something not to be missed. Cross-skewered and kissed by Robata flames, the chef cooks a hefty-sized salmon fillet and finishes it off with a ponzu glaze. “What’s a ponzu glaze?” you might ask. The question has a mouthwatering answer. A ponzu glaze is a spicy, citrusy concoction of soy sauce, Thai chilies, lemon, lime, orange, ginger, garlic and rice wine vinegar, and made for a heavenly dish, bursting with flavors. Dragon Fire uses sustainably-raised salmon, and is constantly trying to source as many seafood choices as possible from the Marine Stewardship Council certified suppliers, which means they are an ecoconscious establishment. But perhaps the best thing about Dragon Fire is that the items from the Robata are available a la carte and can be mixed and matched to put together a filling meal, or shared as small plates by a group. Dragon Fire is one of the best new restaurants to hit the South Hills in a long time. Be sure not to miss it! For full menus and information, go to www.dragonfiresteakhouse.com.

Hours: Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday 12-8 p.m. dragonfiresteakhouse.com Inquire about catering and special events at DragonFire via Megan@dragonfiresteakhouse.com

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

TEACHER

Upper St. Clair

Mrs. Mary

THE BIO:

High School Attended: Lyons High School, NY. We are the Lyons Lions… hear us roar! College Attended: Bucknell University Degree Attained: Bachelor of Arts in English with a Teaching Certification Graduate School Attended: University of Pittsburgh Graduate Degree Attained: Master’s in Education with a Reading Specialist Certification

THE FACTS:

Currently Teaching at: Fort Couch Middle School (for the past 7 years); Upper St. Clair High School (for the previous 28 years) Current Subject Teaching: Communication Arts (7th and 8th graders) Team Members: “Expressive Arts Team is awesome!”- Mrs. Muffly; Ed Brewer, IT; Josh Criswell, Art; Tom Hunsberger, Music; Cathy Loughran, FACS Favorite Subject to Teach Within Communication Arts: Literary works such as Hamlet, Crime & Punishment, To Kill a Mockingbird, Great Expectations, Romeo & Juliet and Oedipus Rex. Favorite Book To Teach: All of the above Favorite Book To Read: That’s a hard decision among Cutting for Stone, Kite Runner, Elegance of a Hedgehog, Forgotten Garden, Racing in the Rain, and recently one of my former students, Lynn Gilardi, published Matching Wits with Venus, blending the modern world with mythology. Favorite Quote: “We read to know we’re not alone.”- C.S. Lewis

FUN FACTS:

Favorite School Activity: It’s a draw between 8th grade Persuasive Commercials where the students employ all of the rhetorical elements and persuasive strategies vs. 7th grade Informative Speeches where

18 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

SPoTlIGHT

Muffly they pick topics of interest to them that they must research. I learn from them! Favorite Out-of-School Activity: Shakespeare Monologue competition at the Pittsburgh Public Theater (PPT). We have placed consistently for the past 7 years. Favorite Color: Pink Favorite Food: Soft shell crab… in season Favorite Sport to Watch: NCAA basketball—I’m a junkie, March is my favorite month!

THe SeRiOuS:

As Mrs. Muffly winds down her teaching career that has spanned over 35 years, she has had some time to reflect upon the career that has meant so very much to her students throughout four decades. Mrs. Muffly’s choice to become a teacher was obvious, so much so that she cannot even remember ever wanting to become anything but. “I broke my mother’s heart when I wouldn’t attend law school, but I always wanted to teach,” she recalls. She remembers “playing school” when she was young with a little student and teacher desk to facilitate her creative play. “There weren’t as many options for women back when I grew up, and some of my classmates were some of the first girls to enter the engineering field.” While Mrs. Muffly stayed true to her childhood dream by graduating from high school and moving on to major in English at respected Bucknell University, she credits a cooperating teacher as having quite an impact on her life. “I had a great cooperating teacher who was the head of the English Department at lewisburg High School when I was a student at Bucknell. Her husband was a professor of religion at Bucknell at the time as well,” Mrs. Muffly said. Many years later, her mentor visited Upper St. Clair High School with a search committee looking for a new superintendent of lewisburg School District. Upper St. Clair’s Dr. Eichhorn ultimately earned the job in lewisburg. The woman who has graced the Upper St. Clair School District hallways for so many years with her unyielding smile and warm personality is in the process of transitioning to her life beyond teaching. She has seen both of her sons, Evan and Matt, grow up and graduate from Upper St. Clair schools, and has taught thousands of other students during her time. For someone who has put in countless hours directed toward the educational advancement of others, Mrs. Muffly admits that her teaching career has most definitely been “a labor of love.” Since 1976, she has taught 16 different courses and approximately 8,000 students. “As a professional, I have always given 110 percent. I have loved the students and my colleagues. I have loved the technological advances. I have loved watching my students flourish, and sometimes become my colleagues. But it is time to

pass the torch,” she confesses. one such student is now the 8th grade language arts teacher at Fort Couch and has become Mrs. Muffly’s mentee, Mr. Eric Magliocca. Mr. Magliocca was fortunate to have Mrs. Muffly as an AP English teacher while he was in high school. “I cannot think of a tougher endeavor than to find a teacher as sanguine, knowledgeable, and relentlessly benevolent as Mrs. Muffly. With every day I have worked with her, I have been amazed by her incomparable desire to help students and maintain a positive learning environment for all of her colleagues. Her refulgent, inimitable personality will be sorely missed at Fort Couch when she retires,” Mr. Magliocca poignantly noted. With Mrs. Muffly’s retirement, she will experience some welldeserved free time in the upcoming months. She jokes that she will be happy not to have to put mascara on by 6:30 in the morning every morning, but she is serious in the fact that she will use her free time to enjoy the finer things in life. “I shall pore over the paper with a cup of coffee, read more books for fun, garden, and enjoy my son Evan who lives here in Pittsburgh,” Mrs. Muffly said. “Eventually, I shall travel and learn about new parts of the world,” she divulges, her commitment to learning seemingly never ceasing. She is also very excited to spend more time and have fun with her husband, Tim. “We have both worked our entire careers for the same institutions which is loyal, but very rare today.” As the proverbial torch is in mid-pass from a teacher like Mrs. Muffly who has given so much of her life for so long to a younger teacher like her mentee, Mr. Magliocca, who is still in the beginning phases of the journey that is teaching, she leaves everyone with two quotes that have come to define her personality as a respected English teacher in the community. Using Shakespeare’s words, she said, “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” Shakespeare’s eloquent words were not to be outdone by her jovial and free-spirited self when she added, “School’s out forever!” Thank you, Alice Cooper.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

gala

Wesley Spectrum Hosts

spring

to Continue Its Mission to Help Children Lead Their Best Possible Lives

BY KATHY RUDOLPH

he green and floral paradise of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in the gray of early spring was the perfect treat for gardeners and nature lovers at the Wesley Spectrum Spring Gala, sponsored by UPMC and other local corporations and businesses. Guests strolled through aisles of beautiful nature mixed with original art pieces while sipping cocktails, sampling hors d’oeuvres and listening to live jazz by Trinity Jazz Orchestra. Over 100 silent auction items also added fun to the evening and the second annual Dan Findley Award was presented to an exemplary Wesley Spectrum staff member. The proceeds from the event went to the children and families that Wesley Spectrum serves, including those at Wesley Spectrum Autism Services located on Erhardt Drive. Offering unique school, mental health, and family programs across western Pennsylvania, the nonprofit organization “provides a diverse

20 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

range of autism, education, behavioral health, and family support” according to its website. Phipps was the perfect choice for the gala. “Just as Phipps showcases the glorious transformation of nature, Wesley Spectrum works to transform our community through programs and services grounded in our unique expertise in autism, behavioral health, education and family support,” said Wesley Spectrum’s Chief Executive Officer Douglas Muetzel. Fundraising events are essential for nonprofits that improve the quality of children’s lives in these times of economic instability. “There are two reasons that a fundraiser like this is so important for Wesley,” said Mr. Muetzel. “The first is that we want to get the word out that there is an organization like Wesley Spectrum that serves over 4,000 kids and families each year. The second is you don’t have to listen too long to hear the

governor’s speech on the state budget and what is happening at the federal level. That has a serious impact on our funding so this allows us to raise funds that not necessarily are for daily operations but allow us to do the value add that we want to do for those people that we are privileged to serve.” Some of the autistic services that the Penn Hills location provides include behavioral health rehabilitation services, creative arts, inclusionary summer therapeutic activities program, autism outpatient mental health services and “Wonder Kids” social skills groups. TO LEARN MORE or how you can help, please visit Wesley Spectrum’s website at WWW.WESLEYSPECTRUM.ORG.

Rick Ubinger, Wesley Spectrum Foundation Board Treasurer and wife, Lori

Randi Hill, Dan Findley Award Nominee and Ellen Hill

Peggy and Norman Mitry, President and CEO of Heritage Valley Health System

Anne Weaver, W.S. Chief Program Officer holding clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handmade jewelry to be auctioned

Nancy Davidson, of Merck (Sponsor), Dawn Nowry, Mark Davidson and Julie Smith

Mari and Kevin Abbott, Laura Maines

Megan Liska, Nicole Gannon, Jan Davis, W.S. Employees and Volunteers

Deirdre Spenser of Duquesne Light (Sponsor), and Belva Salik

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

For nearly 30 years, South Hills Junior Orchestra has been providing an opportunity for youth to play in a symphony orchestra. Founded in 1983 by Paul and Donna Fox, the nonprofit orchestra has enriched the lives of hundreds of children and their families. What compels children and teens to give up their Saturday mornings and attend an orchestra practice? Of course there is the music and the thrill of being part of something beautiful, but SHJO is a musical family beyond the school community. The orchestra is unique because it unites players from all over southwestern Pennsylvania. Close and lasting friendships are formed every season by musicians and their families. The directors work patiently with all of the musicians to create a common goal and a bond of trust that takes the orchestra to a higher level.

22 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

Seeks New Members Consider a visit to give this experience a try. The orchestra meets Saturday mornings from 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Upper St. Clair High School Band Room and performs three times per year. Students are welcome to sit in and play in a rehearsal. SHJO accepts children of all ages who have two years of school or one year of private instruction. There are no auditions to join.

If you want to know more about the orchestra you can visit the website at www.shjo.org. We would love to meet you!

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

A Role Model 412.221.2248 724.745.7422 www.colemanmitchell.com info@colemanmitchell.com

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE 7 DAYS A WEEK ON ALL BRANDS

CARRIER CERTIFIED FACTORY AUTHORIZED DEALER

MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF ALL MAJOR BRANDS

COOL CASH

REBATE UP TO

$1,100 ON SELECTED CARRIER SYSTEMS

March 1 to June 30, 2012 24 724.942.0940 to advertise |

PA6846 Upper St. Clair

oday’s world often touts celebrities and professional athletes as role models for children to admire and look up to. Oftentimes, these adults, albeit talented, are not worthy of such a celebrated position as role model. But every now and then an athlete comes around who is successful and entertaining, but equally as smart and hard working, enabling parents to approve of their child’s pick of role model. Upper St. Clair is proud that a former student-athlete named Sean Lee falls into the latter description above. Sean Lee wakes up early every morning and prepares for his upcoming workweek. He arrives to work early, as he likes to over prepare, and oftentimes, he

stays at work late. He makes sure to care for, both his body and mind to guarantee that he gives himself the very best chance at performing well on the job, therefore solidifying his job, and helping out his team. Sean’s position just happens to be playing linebacker for the National Football League’s Dallas Cowboys. “Preparation is a way to build confidence,” Sean believes, which explains why he is often seen as one of the most dedicated and hard working individuals on any team that he is a part of. But his maturity and athleticism that has led him to the NFL did not happen overnight; they were developed many years ago in the township of Upper St. Clair. Sean Lee was anything but the typical athlete. He excelled in every sport he participated in, and even at the high school level, Sean was seen as one of the top athletes in both basketball and football. He helped lead his basketball team to a Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (W.P.I.A.L.) championship his senior year, which was the first since 1996 for the boys basketball program. He stood out to many fans of the game for his tenacity and leadership, along with his skill and athleticism in both sports. During his senior football season, Sean racked up 1,240 yards rushing, and scored 21 touchdowns on the offensive side of the ball. Defensively, Sean dominated with 95 tackles and four interceptions while playing safety for the

S BY LEIGH LYON Panthers, helping his team go 11-1 in his final year at Upper St. Clair. After graduating from Upper St. Clair in 2005, Sean decided to pursue his football career at Penn State University under storied head coach Joe Paterno. Penn State is often called “Linebacker U” for producing quality linebackers that become solid NFL prospects and players. “Linebacker U” certainly didn’t disappoint with regard to Sean Lee, but it can’t take all the credit for what Sean has become; most of that goes to the young man himself. While at Penn State, Sean worked his way through the ranks to become a starting linebacker for the program. He was named the 2007 Alamo Bowl Defensive MVP. He was also named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week three times during his career. But his career at Penn State was far from a cakewalk. Sean suffered a major injury in April of 2008, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL injury is one well known to athletes, and people cringe upon hearing of the serious injury, but Sean wasn’t about to let that setback thwart his career. His Nittany Lion teammates selected him as team captain that year, even though he had to take a medical redshirt for the 2008 season in order to rehabilitate his knee. Sean chose to serve as an undergraduate assistant coach and was present for every practice, team event, and game throughout the season. He even wore a headset on the sidelines during games. Not many undergraduate athletes have the ability and presence of mind to be able to talk shop with some of the best collegiate football minds, but that’s just what Sean

Lee did. His football IQ is far beyond his years, and seeing the game from the perspective of a coach undoubtedly only furthered his aptitude of the game. After his vigorous rehab, Sean was back on the field for the 2009 season with his Penn State teammates again electing him as team captain. He graduated from Penn State in 2010 with one goal in mind: making it to the NFL. “Growing up watching the Steelers, I always dreamed of playing professional football, but I just worked on working hard in high school to become a better player, and I always tried to be the best teammate I could be,” Sean remembered. It wasn’t until the end of his junior year in college that Sean admitted he truly started realizing that he had a shot at playing at the next level. Sean was selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the 55th overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft. But being selected to an NFL team was just the beginning of the professional process for Sean. He then had to prove himself all over again, like he did countless times before at every level of football throughout his life. Sean went into his professional career with the attitude that he had so many times before, that he wasn’t going to let anyone tell him that he couldn’t play at that level. He still believes in the idea that, “Whatever your goals may be, attack them every day with an extreme sense of urgency. Don’t allow anybody to tell you that you can’t do something, or that you can’t play at

a certain level,” Sean preached. So, he prepared tirelessly, studied every aspect of his playbook and of the organization, and put forth his very best effort every time he stepped onto the field. For his efforts, Sean was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week and Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week in 2010 for his game against the Indianapolis Colts. He earned his first two interceptions of his NFL career against one of the best quarterbacks that the game has ever seen in Peyton Manning. “When I intercepted the pass from Peyton Manning all I could think about was trying to get into the end zone. I was into the game, and at the end of that play is when I separated my shoulder, so I was taken into the locker room immediately,” Sean recalled. Once he was removed from the field and the current situation, he was able to process what he had just done. He had just intercepted a great quarterback that he looked up to as a young athlete, and, more importantly to Sean, he was able to put points on the board for his team. Once his shoulder was taken care of by the medical staff, Sean was back out on the field in no time, and any and all thoughts of his first interception were suppressed as all he could think of was getting back out on the field and producing for his team. Later that game, Sean intercepted another pass in overtime that set his team up for the game-winning field goal. By the start of the 2011 season, Sean Lee was the starting inside linebacker of the Dallas Cowboys with a new defensive coordinator in Rob Ryan. Sean’s diligence paid off immediately that season, as he intercepted the New York Jets’ Mark Sanchez for the third interception of his NFL career. He also tallied another key interception for his team in the second game of the year against Washington continued on next page

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Win This Nerf Pocket Camcorder! You can be the star and the director of your own movies with this camera, so we’d like you to send us your SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER MOVIE POSTER featuring YOU! Your design is only limited by your imagination! You can draw your poster, make a collage, or make something on the computer!

HOW TO ENTER Entries should be on unfolded 8.5”x 11” white paper and mailed to: Nerf Contest • IN Community Magazines • 603 East McMurray Road • McMurray, PA 15317 Digital entries should be emailed to: mark@incommunitymagazines.com. Digital images should be high-resolution images for reproduction (files larger than 1MB in size). Include with your submission: Name, age, and headshot of the entrant, parental signature, and phone number where we can notify you if you’ve won. Entrants are limited to children between the ages of 6 and 12.

CONTEST DEADLINE IS JULY 6. No entries will be returned. Entries should not include any graphics or concepts of existing movie posters. All entries should be PG in nature. The winning entry, as well as the 1st and 2nd runners-up, will be featured in the fall issues of IN Community Magazines.

26 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

A Role Model

continued from previous page

Redskins QB Rex Grossman, a game in which he also recovered a crucial fumble, helping his team to an 18-16 comeback victory. During the first two weeks of the 2011 season, Sean had a team-leading 36 tackles with two interceptions, two fumble recoveries, a tackle for a loss, and three pass breakups. He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month, the first Cowboys player in franchise history to earn the award. Sean continued to generate key plays for his team throughout the 2011 season, and became only the second linebacker to have intercepted both Tom Brady and Peyton Manning in the same season. He did have a hiccup in the seventh game of the season when the Cowboys played the Philadelphia Eagles. Sean unfortunately dislocated his wrist when it banged off Michael Vick’s helmet, but Sean didn’t let that injury keep him out for long, as he never does. The Dallas Cowboys finished 8-8

and failed to make it to the playoffs, which disappointed the members of the organization and countless fans, including those in Pittsburgh, who take a slight break from their die-hard Steelers to root for the Cowboys, or Sean at least. However, like the rest of the athletes on the Dallas Cowboys, Sean Lee is looking forward to the 2012 season. “I think the key for us will be to be more focused and more consistent as a defense. Last year, we didn’t always make good plays in the fourth quarter and we lost a few close games. Everybody has to look at themselves and try to improve individually and learn the defense better so that we can be better prepared,” he said. It all comes down to preparation with Sean, and heading into the 2012 season, Dallas fans can rest assured that their starting inside linebacker will be nothing if not prepared. And he hasn’t forgotten that little boy from Upper St. Clair who had dreams

so big they seamed almost impossible to accomplish. And to other young athletes who aspire to someday be in the position that Sean is fortunate enough to be in today, he said, “A lot of people told me that I couldn’t play at a certain level, but I just kept working hard and getting better each year. In high school, don’t worry about what scouts are at your game, or who is watching, just worry about your team, and what role you can play to help the team succeed.” Sean said. It is that type of team-first, work hard, prepare diligently attitude that has put Sean in a position to succeed at the highest level with the Dallas Cowboys. Those are also the same qualities that parents, including his own, can be proud of when young athletes proclaim that their role model is Sean Lee of the Dallas Cowboys.

South Hills Jewelers “Clark Building Prices in the South Hills” SINCE 1982

1 Carat Engagement Rings Starting at $99 per month With Approved Credit Certified Diamonds GIA, AGS and EGL

Highest Cash Buyers Of Gold, Diamonds & Estate Jewelry!

412-833-1588

www.southhillsjewelers.com

SOUTH REGION

$1495

$4900

Ring Resizing

Chain Repair Or Soldering

Jewelry Insurance Appraisal

$3495 $1495

some exclusions apply

per item • with this coupon

some exclusions apply

$14 per tip

Prong Retipping some exclusions apply

with photo

$561

Watch Battery Replacement while you wait some exclusions apply

up one size

Down

FREE

Ear Piercing with purchase of starter earrings

$2195

Not valid with other offers or prior services.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

511 MILLERS RUN ROAD, BRIDGEVILLE, PA 15064

(Across the street from South Fayette Municipal Building)

CATERING/FUNDRAISING

412.292.8156

Available 7 days a week.

1st Gear

$49.95

2nd Gear

$84.95

3rd Gear

$89.95

4th Gear

$109.95

5th Gear

$129.95

• 5 lbs Pork/Chicken • 3 lbs Cole Slaw • 2 Bottles of Sauce

• 5 lbs Pork/Chicken • 2 Racks Baby Back Ribs • 3 lbs Cole Slaw • 2 Bottles of Sauce

• 3 Racks Baby Back Ribs • 40 Grilled Chicken Wings • 5 lbs Pork/Chicken • 3 lbs Cole Slaw • 3 Bottles of Sauce

• 5 lbs Pork/Chicken • 40 Grilled Chicken Wings • 3 lbs Cole Slaw • 2 Bottles of Sauce • 4 Racks Baby Back Ribs • 40 Grilled Chicken Wings • 3 lbs Cole Slaw • 3 Bottles of Sauce • Party packs feed 10-14 guests • Only 24 Hours Notice Needed • Prices for Pick Up Only • Delivery Available for Additional Charge

Now serving Ice Cream 7 days a week Check out our web site for more great ideas for your summer BBQ @ www.roadsideribs.com 28 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

teenager’s years are said to be “the best years of your life,” but they also are fraught with the uncertainty and naiveté that goes along with being young. The intensity of feelings of a young person can seem overwhelming and sometimes can lead the teen to make mistakes, such as who to date, or even how to break up with the person she has been dating. On Aug. 15, 2007, the day after her 16th birthday, Demi Brae Cuccia was killed by her former boyfriend, John Mullarkey, after she’d broken off the relationship. In June 2009, Mullarkey was convicted of first degree murder and given life in prison without parole. To many people, two young lives were wasted because of this tragedy, which might have been avoided.

“These kids don’t know how to deal with these emotions. We’re trying to build awareness, so these kids know they have some place to turn.” To avoid such terrible losses in the future, the Pittsburghbased Ladies Hospital Aid Society recently began an educational outreach effort called the Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Campaign, which has been giving presentations at local high schools. One of the messages of the group is that a teen should never break up with a boyfriend or girlfriend alone, said co-chair Jodi Amos, of Upper St. Clair. Dr. Gary Cuccia, Demi’s father, gives a talk and presents a video at the schools the campaign visits. The presentation is emotional, Amos said. “It’s very hard for an adult or parent to hear his presentation. It shows a normal kid [Mullarkey]… who got too possessive and controlling, and couldn’t handle the rejection, and killed her. The kid was not a derelict—there were no signs he was

Teen Dating Program Informs of

Dangers

By Jonathan Barnes capable of murder,” Amos said. “These kids don’t know how to control these emotions.” The thrust of the educational effort is partly to provide guidance to students in dealing with dating issues. It’s also getting kids to recognize the warning signs of dating abuse. Students are directed to national hotlines and websites where professionals can help them with these issues and emotions. Thus far, the campaign has visited West Allegheny, Upper St. Clair, and CAPA. In April, the effort will visit Moon and West Mifflin high schools, and later this year, it will make a trip to Mt. Lebanon High School. Some of the people involved in the campaign have been a bit surprised by the level of interest in the subject that students displayed. “When we went to CAPA, we were not prepared for these kids to ask so many questions… Our goal is get into a dozen schools, and get a corporate sponsor and concentrate on these dozen schools,” Amos said. With the help of one or a few corporate sponsors, LHAS and the campaign’s co-chairs, Jodi Amos and Carrie Conboy, hope to pay for the cost of campaign t-shirts to give to students in each of the schools. Organizers would like the students to wear the shirts at times in February especially, which is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. The campaign’s volunteers are hoping to get $50,000 to $100,000 in funding. Amos said that teen dating violence is a serious issue that must be addressed to save lives. “These kids don’t know how to deal with these emotions. We’re trying to build awareness, so these kids know they have some place to turn,” she said. “It’s a growing epidemic. One of three teens will face verbal, physical, or sexual abuse.”

For Formore moreinformation informationononthe theTeen TeenDating Dating Violence Awareness Prevention Campaign, Violence Awareness Prevention Campaign, visit visitthe theLadies LadiesHospital HospitalAid AidSociety Societywebsite website, atathttp://lhas.net. http://lhas.net.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Tips for Safe Flea & Tick Control N

ow that the weather has finally broken it’s time for us and our pets to get out and enjoy it. Unfortunately this also means the beginning of flea & tick season! I’ve already pulled a tick off of Meg and I'm sure many of you can say the same. That being said, I'm going to offer you some tips that will hopefully prevent fleas and ticks or at least minimize the chance of an infestation. Believe it or not, the healthier your pet is the less likely fleas/ticks will “latch” on. I know I sound like a broken record but it is of utmost importance to feed an “all natural” pet food. Pet food made and sourced in the USA with no chemical preservatives, by-products, food coloring or partial grains can and will have a preventative effect when it comes to flea & tick invasions. Check our website or www.petsumerreport.com to see if your food qualifies.

pets immune system, just like it does for us! When dealing with preventative measures for ticks, we want to use black walnut hulls. You can find this in capsule form at most health food stores. We’ve been telling all of our customers about this all winter, so if you’re just getting started allow 6-8 weeks of use for it to build up in the bloodstream and be effective. Another preventative method is the use of diatomaceous earth. This is a talcum like powder made up of fossilized remains of unicellular plants that can be added to your vacuum bag, floors and even pet bedding. It’s lethal to insects. Beneficial nematodes can also be sprinkled or sprayed throughout your yard. Nematodes are microscopic worms that eat flea larvae. This will help keep the population down in your yard.

Another preventative & natural thing we can do is add a small amount of garlic or garlic powder There are several essential oil sprays to your DOGS, not cats, food daily. I know some of you are saying, “But, and wipes that can be used on your I thought garlic was toxic?” This is pets before going out that repel Did you know true, but only in very high doses. fleas and ticks. These sprays are that the healthier Garlic gets into the bloodstream comprised of essential oils such your pet is the less and the fleas don't like the taste as lemongrass, pine cedar, likely that fleas bergamot and citronella just to of it. This will also improve your mention a few. These sprays and ticks will and wipes are effective and safe ‘latch’ on? for any pet that spends a good bit of time outside.

the chemical over their entire body. They work by disrupting the central nervous system of infesting insect. Am I making your skin crawl yet? I urge you to use chemical flea treatments as minimally as possible and consider all of the above mentioned natural tips. If you have any other questions/concerns stop by and see us as we carry most of these products at our store along with the healthiest pet food! Remember prevention is the best medicine so let’s do what we know is right for our best furry friends!

Buying a flea comb and grooming your dog at least once a week can alert you to fleas before they get out of control. More frequent vacuuming and washing of your pets bedding this time of year can also be helpful in the prevention of an outbreak.

Gary Yon

30 724.942.0940 to advertise |

If you already have an infestation of fleas it is nearly impossible to get rid of them naturally. So, if and when this happens, I recommend the flea/tick topical treatments that your vets sell. However, the goal is always to use these products as minimally as possible, which is why prevention is so important. These topical flea/tick treatments are chemical insecticides that we are putting directly on our pets skin. Their natural oils in their skin spread

www.healthypetproducts.net

Upper St. Clair

SOUTH HILLS: Crossgates Plaza 1742 Washington Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA. 15241 (Next to Model Cleaners)

412.831.3700

NORTH HILLS: 9600 Perry Highway McCandless, PA 15237

412.366.0700

Monday-Thurs: 9am - 8pm Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm Sunday: 11am - 4pm

Find us on

LANAP

LASER

“It’s Like Lasik for your Gums”

PERIODONTAL THERAPY Gregory S. Peterson D.M.D St. Clair Building 1725 Washington Road Suite 600 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 412.833.3944 gregorypetersondental.com

Free In-Home Estimates • Fully Insured • Over 24 Years Experience • Financing Available

In House Consultation • Expert Design and Installation

AL ST

Granite/Quartz Counter Tops

KITCHENS • GAME ROOMS • PORCHES • ROOFING SOFFIT & FASCIA • BATHROOMS • ADDITIONS • PATIOS • DECKS WINDOWS • SIDING • GUTTERS • GARAGE DOORS LA TIO

INKS RE

and

Distributors of

G DELIN

3X WINNER

WE DO OUR OWN WORK! PA0A6H1C372

412-653-0850 724-776-0805

Visit our NEW SHOWROOM

1100 Wilhelm Ave. in South Hills

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Creation Tropical Forest India Exhibit Mural is His

Phipps Conservatory employees Jordyn Melino and Ben Dunigan were on a threeweek trip to India to research plants and plant communities when they came upon a creation that surprised them both. Looking up in awe at a ceiling in Madurii Palace in southern India, the two American visitors knew they had to bring some of the splendor of the ceiling mural back to Pittsburgh and incorporate it into the Tropical Forest India exhibit. “We definitely knew we wanted to recreate that when we got back,” said Melino, exhibit coordinator for Phipps Conservatory. “The motif is floral and plant designs. We thought it would be a good tie-in.” Melino snapped a photo of the palace ceiling. Sometime later, she was referred to artist Francis Cleetus by Shubha Mullick, a former director of the Hindu Jain Temple in Monroeville. Cleetus had done some work at the temple in the past, helping out with some artwork for a festival. Many months after taking the photo of the palace ceiling, Melino gave a copy of the photo to Cleetus, of Upper St. Clair. He was tasked with creating a mural on three 5-foot by 5-foot ceiling panels for the entrance of the Tropical Forest India exhibit.

32 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Cleetus, 45, who is an artist and self-employed advertising director, knew just what to do. A native of southern India, he has lived in Hong Kong and moved to the U.S. a dozen years ago. He was familiar with the grand palace, which was built by King Phirumalai Nayak in 1636. Cleetus had been to the palace, which is in the region where he was raised. The connection to his background was easy to make, though labor intensive. The panels he painted are inspired by the palace’s ceiling mural, Cleetus said. “I would call it like a twodimensional chandelier. If you stand beneath the mural it’s almost three-dimensional, with the center of the mural being the lowest point,” he said. Creation of the ceiling panels took about two months. Phipps Conservatory delivered the panels to Cleetus at his home, where he painted them on the floor of his basement. Actually, the rest of the family also pitched in on the work. “The hardest part was getting the design in place, because it’s on plywood. My wife and daughters filled in the colors,” Cleetus said. The work at Phipps came to Cleetus because of a project he’d done with the Monroeville Hindu Jain Temple. Though he is a practicing Catholic, Cleetus’s wife, Maneesha, is Hindu, and their daughters Ananya and Antara go to church and temple. “There’s a certain peace you get from being at church,” Cleetus said. So maybe it’s not surprising that he was happy to be part of the Monroeville temple’s Goddess Durga Festival, for which he created a 12-foot-tall sculpture of Goddess Durga’s face. The artist and his family have lived in Upper St. Clair for 4½ years. They were drawn to the suburb partly because of its strong school system. “It’s a nice neighborhood, we like it here,” he said. Pittsburgh, too, is a favorite place

Upper St. Clair

By Jonathan Barnes

of Cleetus. His appreciation for the region is reflected partly through his cartoon strip, “It’s Geek to Me,” which soon will be appearing in TEQ Magazine. “The fictitious company in the cartoon I created is located in Pittsburgh, because it’s all about Pittsburgh… The city has a mix of both left and right brain, with the sports and the universities. It’s a really exciting place to be,” he said. The cartoon has gained a following of more than 1,400 fans from around the world, on Blogspot, Facebook and Twitter. The cartoon also has an iPhone and iPad app for it, and many more cartoon-related items for sale. Real people in his life inspired the comic, Cleetus said. The cartoon’s characters work at Paradox Software, a fictional company created from people he’s known in his professional life. He has been a creative director for advertising and marketing agencies, including Marc USA in Pittsburgh, and has worked on campaigns for the Pennsylvania Lottery, Rite Aid, Mohawk Flooring, Bryant Heating and Cooling and many other companies. Now a one-man full-service ad agency, Cleetus has a full-time client that never lets him rest: himself. He plugged his cartoon to the editor of Pittsburgh Technology Council’s well-regarded publication, TEQ Magazine. “I’ve been waiting for 15 years for a cartoon like this one,” the council’s Jonathan Kersting said to Cleetus. Even with the growing success of “It’s Geek to Me,” Cleetus is still glowing a bit from the opportunity to be a part of the Phipps exhibit.

He received the contract for the work two days before Christmas, he said, and working with the people there was a great experience. “They were fabulous to work with. They knew exactly what they wanted and allowed me [to handle] colors and execution,” Cleetus said. The ceiling panels have been viewable in the Tropical Forest India exhibit since February. The exhibit will be open to the public through 2014. The exhibit explores India’s rich biodiversity, and much more. It features Ayurvedic healing

gardens, waterfalls, lush greenery, a field research station and a temple façade on Special Events Hall. The idea behind the new Tropical Forest India exhibit is interpretation of the living landscape. The focus is to recreate a world in which vibrant colors and exotic plants and animals still grow side by side with ancient cultures. For more information on the Tropical Forest India exhibit, go to: phipps. conservatory.org/exhibits-and-events. Francis Cleetus’s cartoon “It’s Geek to Me” can be viewed at: geek-2-me.com. For more information on Cleetus’s other work and professional services he provides, visit: franciscleetus.com.

“I would call it like a twodimensional chandelier. If you stand beneath the mural it’s almost three-dimensional, with the center of the mural being the lowest point”

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

2012

Summer top

Blockbusters by leigh lyons

Self-labeled movie geeks: prepare yourself for what is going to be a monumental summer of waiting in ridiculously long lines outside of the movie theater, at midnight, next to someone a little too old to be dressed up as his favorite comic book hero waiting to pounce into a seat once inside the theater’s walls. The summer of 2012 will produce heavy hitters that are sure to live up to the title of “blockbuster.” The top five titles that most cinema-goers are looking forward to have to be “The Avengers,” “The Dark Knight Rises,” “Men in Black III,” “The Amazing Spider-Man,” and “Skyfall.” The comic movies seem to be in full force still, as their faithful following craves sequels and reboots alike. Upper St. Clair residents will also be interested in seeing a film coming out this summer called “Perks of Being a Wallflower,” which is a movie based on the novel by Stephen Chbosky, an Upper St. Clair graduate. Look for the movie to be released on September 21 starring Emma Watson and Logan Lerman.

THE AVENGERS RELEASE DATE: DIRECTED BY:

May 4 Joss Whedon

FEATURING:

Robert Downey, Jr. as Iron Man, Chris Evans as Captain America, Scarlett Johansson as the Black Widow, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury.

THE PLOT:

Nick Fury heads up the international agency, called S.H.I.E.L.D., to assemble a starstudded team of super heroes. The group forms the infamous Avengers and they battle to help save Earth from Loki and his army of evildoers.

MEN IN BLACK III RELEASE DATE: DIRECTED BY: FEATURING: THE PLOT:

34 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

May 25 Barry Sonnenfeld Will Smith reprising his role as Agent J, Tommy Lee Jones as Agent K, and Josh Brolin as the young Agent K Agent J travels back in time to the 1960s to see Men in Black’s early years. Agent J attempts to stop an alien from assassinating his partner in crime, Agent K, and therefore, changing history.

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN RELEASE DATE: DIRECTED BY:

July 3 Marc Webb

FEATURING:

Andrew Garfield as Peter Parker/ Spider-Man, Emma Stone as Gwen Stacy, Martin Sheen as Ben Parker, Rhys Ifans as Dr. Curt Connors, Sally Field as May Parker, and Dennis Leary as George Stacy.

THE PLOT:

This Spider-Man feature won’t have the faces that have been familiar to Spider-Man movie fans over the years, as this cast is completely rebooted. Peter Parker will find a clue that might help him figure out what happened to his parents when they disappeared when he was a young boy. His path leads him to face off against Dr. Curt Connors, who was his dad’s former partner.

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES RELEASE DATE: DIRECTED BY: FEATURING:

THE PLOT:

July 20 Christopher Nolan Christian Bale as Batman, Anne Hathaway as Catwoman, Joseph Gordon-Levitt as John Blake, and Gary Oldman as Jim Gordon, Morgan Freeman as Lucius Fox, Liam Neeson as Ra’s Al Ghul, and Tom Hardy as Bane. The Dark Knight Rises is a film that takes place eight years after the events of The Dark Knight. Tom Hardy plays the terrorist Bane, who arrives in Gotham City wreaking total havoc on the city and the police force. The events force Bruce Wayne/Batman to take action after he took the fall for District Attorney Harvey Dent’s past crimes. This film offers a special treat to residents of the area due to a large portion of the filming taking place in and around Pittsburgh, including the opening scene of the Gotham Knights football team featuring members of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Mayor Luke Ravenstahl.

SKYFALL RELEASE DATE:

November 9

DIRECTED BY:

Sam Mendes

FEATURING: THE PLOT:

Daniel Craig as James Bond, Javier Bardem as Silva, Dame Judi Dench as M, and Ralph Fiennes. James Bond is back in this fast paced thriller where his loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must use his agent skills to track down and neutralize the threat. Destroying the immense threat will come at a price for Bond though, a very personal one, which will make him choose between job and personal life, at a very high cost.

e ur old Hallowe n costume and a fr o y b ie ra h So g it back and enjoy w at is going to be an n d, and s iting summer filled with blockbusters . exc Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Science vs. Religion Westminster Presbyterian Opens Series with Templeton Foundation Grant

BY EARL BUGAILE

he existence of an afterlife and the entire question of creation and God has been debated and argued for thousands of years. The advances of science, information gained about the universe through the Hubble telescope, and the ability to extend life through medical advancements have resulted in renewed interest in cosmology and the writings of Charles Darwin on evolution, and others, including the more contemporary Stephen Hawking, whose recent book, The Grand Design, argues that invoking God is not necessary to explain the origins of the universe and that the “Big Bang” is a consequence of the laws of physics alone. It was with the purpose of exploring science and religion, more specifically Christianity, that Westminster Presbyterian Church applied for and received a grant from the Templeton Foundation to conduct a series of seminars and lectures on how science and religion can coexist. Westminster Presbyterian was one of 36 churches in the United States to receive a grant from the Templeton Foundation’s Scientists in Congregations program, and one of three in Pennsylvania. The decision to apply for the grant seemed a logical choice, according to Dr. Jim Gilchrist, pastor and head of staff at the 1,800-member. It represents an extension of studies he had led within the church over the past several summers. One of those attending the sessions was Dr. Carolyn Berdanier, a new church member and professor emerita of nutrition and cell biology from the University of Georgia. Now living in the community, Berdanier has published 17 books of faith and Darwin in the genetics of the 21st century. “Westminster has lots of thoughtful

36 724.942.0940 to advertise |

and well educated people who are professionals in a lot of fields,” Gilchrist said. “Many of them take seriously intellectual questions as well as spiritual matters. There are all kinds of questions that come up where science challenges religious beliefs.” In the application for the Templeton Grant, Gilchrist said that the credibility of Christianity is strained in a time when authors and scientists offer “challenges that a great many church members feel unprepared to address. Those of us with strong backgrounds in science, theology, and history know that there is no inherent conflict between science and Christian faith and, on the contrary, a deeper understanding of science can have the opposite effect in enriching our awareness and devotion to God.” Gilchrist said young people in particular have been perplexed by the discoveries in science and cosmology and it challenges their belief in God and faith. “With so much information that is now available, people assume in a lot of ways science kind of supersedes religion,” Gilchrist said. “Some will say, ‘How can you believe in evolution if you’re a Christian, and if you do believe in evolution, how can you take Genesis seriously?’ Others will say that with the ability to take an MRI of the brain, you can explain so-called spiritual experiences.’” In its description of the grant program, the California-based Scientists in Congregations organization said the grants up to $30,000 would be awarded to “start a healthy dialogue” between pastors and scientists and between science and congregations. Too often science is an “unsafe” topic in our congregational lives, and yet science confronts us every day. “We want to build a bridge for wider intellectual discussions and

Upper St. Clair

“With so much information that is now available, people assume in a lot of ways science kind of supersedes religion,” - GILCHRIST

Custom Window Treatments engagement within congregations,” Scientists in Congregations contends. The first of the sessions began at Westminster in April, with a seminar led by Dr. Ron ColeTurner, professor of theology from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary on what it means to be human in light of 100,000 years of evolution. Kitty Ferguson, an internationally known scientific author who recently published a biography on Stephen Hawking on cosmology and Christian faith, also presented a lecture. Other speakers in the series included Pulitzer Prize winning author Edward Larson, who presented a lecture on the social and legal contexts of American debates over evolution and creation. Dr. Berdanier is a scheduled speaker in June on faith and Darwin in the genetics of the 21st century. Dr. Karl Gilberson, a physicist and author of several books on science and religion, will also lecture in June on whether there really is a necessary conflict between science and religion. Gilchrist says the series of lectures will ultimately lead to other things, including the development of a curriculum that can be used in other churches in the discussion of science and religion. “We’d ultimately like to write a book that the general public might find as a useful introduction to these topics at an accessible level,” he said. “There are a lot of books about science and religion, but they either tend to be focused on a particular topic, or tend to be heavier than the average person wants to wade into. We want to do something that is broad, but accessible to the general public, [and] deals with the issues of science and faith with integrity.”

724-222-5522 or 724-678-4145 Ask for Dan or Diane

Serving Greater Pittsburgh Area INDOOR SHUTTERS AVAILABLE Hunter Douglas Celebration of Light Spring Savings Event April 3 – June 17, 2012 Free Estimates Free Installation

BUY 1 Luminette® Privacy Sheer or Modern Drapery 2 Pirouette® Window Shadings 2 Silhouette® Window Shadings 2 Duette® Architella® Top-Down/Bottom-Up Honeycomb Shades 1 Duette Honeycomb Shade with Duolite™ Design Options

SAVE PLUS 100

$100 off each additional unit

100 100

$50 off each additional unit $50 off each additional unit

100

$50 off each additional unit

$ $ $ $

Free Lite Rise® with Silhouette

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

PTA Council President Forms

BOOK by Melanie O. Paulick

ook clubs do not just take place in living rooms anymore. Under the direction of Council President Rachel Lowden, the Parent-Teacher Association of Upper St. Clair started its own book club this past year. A former teacher and school principal, Mrs. Lowden has long held the conviction that if there was a particular issue that one needed to learn more about, the next step to take was simple: read about it! During the time that she was a principal, she began a professional reading group that focused on writing with children and parent engagement. She liked the results so much that she wanted to try it again in Upper St. Clair. Mrs. Lowden’s goal was to discuss four books within the school year. In the fall, the group gathered together to discuss Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder by Richard Louv. Lowden was captivated by the sentence that made the author want to write this book: a fourth-grader reported that [he liked] “to play indoors better ‘cause that’s where all the electrical outlets are.” During this book discussion, the group talked about how the lack of nature in the lives of children is linked to the growing trends of childhood obesity, childhood depression, and the inability to focus. Parents found themselves taking a fresh look at how they were raised, and how that has changed. But this book club is not just for the adults. Mrs. Lowden also wanted the children of the school district to become involved. To meaningfully connect with her choice for the adults, she chose The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling for all of

“What a community comes together around says so much about [it]. Reading good literature together can only make us stronger.” –RACHEL LOWDEN, Council President

38 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

CLUB the youth of Upper St. Clair, grades kindergarten through 12th. On October 20, 2011, a book club was held for the children, and older student volunteers read out loud to the entire group. On October 27th, children returned to the library to watch the movie version of the story in their pajamas. The final event for the children and their families was supposed to take place outdoors at the Boyce Mayview Park, but unfortunately the weather did not cooperate. The second book that the PTA book club discussed was The Raising of a President: The Mothers and Fathers of our Nation’s Leaders by Doug Wead. The February meeting was nicely attended and sparked a lot of interest in the community’s Leadership Academy. The entire group (adults and children) first watched a video of the 2011 Leadership Academy and a discussion about the book followed. Finally, for the third segment of that evening, the youth rejoined the adults and performed demonstrations about what they learned at the Leadership Academy and shared their own reflections about their experience. For their own part, the children read stories about the lives of two of our country’s finest leaders, Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. Mrs. Lowden is eager to engage the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts for the next book discussion, which has yet to be scheduled. She is interested in highlighting the importance of the arts and arts education for everyone. Although a career in the arts is certainly not possible for all students, Rachel believes that everyone should nonetheless have an appreciation for art and the making of different kinds of art. To go along with this idea, she hopes to have the youth create and display a type of “community mosaic.” Currently, the three elementary schools in Upper St. Clair are partnered with schools in Wilkinsburg to assist with organization and to share and donate resources. Mrs. Lowden speculates how powerful it would be to have these two communities connected in an even greater way – through books. As for why the community of Upper St. Clair should take note of the PTA book club, Mrs. Lowden responds that, “what a community comes together around says so much about [it]. Reading good literature together can only make us stronger.”

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

Dancing Into omething happened recently to Upper St. Clair resident Leslie Ackerman and her 14-year-old daughter, Payton, that caused her to take a good, hard look at herself—literally. Leslie and Payton recently found national fame by appearing on Lifetime TV’s hit reality show “Dance Moms,” a Pittsburgh-based show that profiles young dancers and their moms, the owner of the dance studio, Abby Lee Miller, and of course, all of the drama that goes along with being one mother in a group of several who only want to see their daughters front and center on the stage. “I got the call when I was in Los Angeles with my 18-year-old daughter, Taylor, who just moved there to pursue a career as a dancer,” Leslie said. “The show’s producers wanted to meet with me to talk about Payton and me joining the show. Going on next to no sleep, I somehow found the energy to catch the redeye flight home the next day to meet with everyone.” It turned out that, while filming the show at the dance studio, which is located in Penn Hills, the producers had the chance to watch Payton dance and observe Leslie’s self-proclaimed forward and completely honest personality and thought that they would fit right into the show’s storyline. “The producers appreciated my personality type and then watched Payton dance and fell in love with her,” Leslie explained. “That’s how it started. However, Abby has always had an issue with Payton because of her height and the fact that she is much taller than the rest of the girls. Abby had a hard time accepting Payton, who, on the show, filled in for Brooke, who left the dance studio to pursue cheerleading.” Perhaps it was the episode when Abby began to pick on Payton, causing Payton to fire back and defend herself, that launched the Ackermans into the spotlight. Or, maybe it’s Leslie’s persistence at standing up for her daughter when Abby comes down hard on Payton. Whatever the reason, Leslie and Payton were shown in several episodes this year, and have the possibility of doing more next season. For Leslie, however, this opportunity that her husband, Greg, was excited about in the beginning may not be filled with many happy endings.

“The producers appreciated my personality type and then watched Payton dance and fell in love with her.” - Leslie Ackerman

COLLIER TOWN SQUARE 1597 Washington Pike Bridgeville, PA 15017 412.446.2777

40 724.942.0940 to advertise |

VILLAGE SQUARE 2400 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 1510 412.833.5714

Upper St. Clair

“The saying, ‘Be careful what you wish for’ definitely applies to this situation,” Leslie explained. “The way that I am portrayed on the show is not all of me. The show is edited and viewers often do not get to see both sides of the story. We have, however, made some great contacts and met some amazing people along the way, so in that regard, I am glad to have had the experience. Seeing myself on television, however,

ame

By Heather Holtschlag

is not as great. I realized how confrontational I was and have made a conscious effort to change that about me.” Payton, who is a freshman at Upper St. Clair High School, began dancing at Miller’s dance studio, a studio once owned by Miller’s mother and father, about four years ago. Taylor also danced at the studio. And although Miller is known for her aggressive, in-your-face personality, she does have some good reason for being so popular. “The bottom line is that she produces great dancers, and although at times I have to desensitize Payton from some of the things Abby says, she is a dance teacher who can help Payton achieve her goals of dancing in New York, on Broadway,” Leslie said. “She is like a boot camp sergeant, which is good, but when she crosses the line, I feel the need to call her on it. Despite that, Abby does have a soft side, and is very down to earth. She is sensitive and complimentary on the girls’ progression as dancers. She is very intelligent and knows what the industry wants.” The rest of the Ackerman family, which includes husband, Greg, with whom she owns Luma Restaurant in Mt. Lebanon, and son, Connor, also are big supporters of Leslie and Payton’s achievements, although according to Leslie, Greg was more excited when the opportunity first presented itself. “Now that our episodes are airing, he is a bit more quiet and doesn’t talk about it much partly because he thought the show made us look bad. In the end, he hopes that Payton and I can redeem ourselves from the way we are sometimes portrayed.” Payton, on the other hand, had a great time with the show. “I have always wanted to do the show since it first began airing,” she said. “And after we were originally told that we would not be a fit, they came back and wanted us.” Payton said the one aspect of her life that she notices has changed the most is when people recognize her, she is able to compare how it was to be a ‘normal’ 14-yearold girl to becoming a 14-year-old girl who played a part in a national television sensation. On the show, Payton said she and Maddie were good friends, as were she and Brooke, who she felt she could really relate to because they were the same age. “All of the girls on the show are very close. We support each other and stand up for each other.” As for the national publicity she has received, Payton said that her favorite part of it all is going online and reading all of the positive things people say about her and when she receives compliments about her dancing. “Some of my closest friends love the show and give me a lot of support, and then there are some people who I was never friends with before the show and who now want to be friends with me,” Payton acknowledged. “And then there are those

people who don’t watch the show and just don’t get it. All of this has taught me who to listen to and who to ignore.” Regardless of whether she and her mother will return to the show next season, Payton said she has loved the experience and everything she has learned from it and will definitely continue dancing at Miller’s studio. “I like that Abby pushes us and teaches us to be more mature and proper.” Perhaps above everything, Leslie said that it helps to have a great sense of humor. “If I didn’t laugh, I would either cry or be tossing and turning all night.”

Payton and Leslie Ackerm an Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

UPPER ST. CLAIR ALUM

Releases Summer

VIE

BY LEIGH LYONS

he summer of 2012 marks an exciting time period for Upper St. Clair graduate Stephen Chbosky. His highly popular book, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, was adapted into a movie, which will be released on September 21. Chbosky graduated from Upper St. Clair High School in 1988 and began his journey to become one of his generation’s most admired writers. After Upper St. Clair, Stephen Chbosky went to the University of Southern California to study screenwriting. He graduated from the storied program in 1992. Only two years after his graduation, Chbosky was said to be working on a completely different piece of work when he wrote, “I guess that’s just one of the perks of being a wallflower.” After he wrote that line, he realized that somewhere within those 12 words he had discovered the character he had long been searching for. After a few years, Chbosky began researching and writing what eventually became The Perks of Being a Wallflower. The book was published on February 1, 1999, by MTV Books. The story is narrated by a highly intelligent, yet severely complicated, high school student who goes by the alias of “Charlie.” The unique style and format of the novel lends well to countless types of readers, and although the novel deals with complex and mature issues, the relatively universal theme of awkward adolescence shines through and allows readers to identify with Charlie. Charlie is the perpetual wallflower who prefers observing others to living life himself, but the young man

42 724.942.0940 to advertise |

falls into an unusual crowd who slowly pulls him out of his unconventional shell. The story is told through a series of letters from Charlie to an unidentified person, and toward the end of the novel, a shocking detail about Charlie’s life is revealed which helps explain his endearing but troubled life. But through it all, it is a coming-of-age novel that displays the other side of adolescence that is, more frequently than not, often covered up in favor of the glorified popular teenage experience. The movie adaptation of the novel will provide Upper St. Clair residents with a thrill outside of the pride that they have for the author. Chbosky played a major role in the film adaptation as he was pegged by John Malkovich to write the screen adaptation and help in directing the movie. Chbosky brought the making of the movie to the Pittsburgh area as well. Many scenes were even filmed in the township of Upper St. Clair with current residents being able to be involved either through lending their houses to the film or, in some cases, being extras in the movie. Young standout actors such as Logan Lerman and Emma Watson lead the cast. Many will remember Lerman from “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief,”

Upper St. Clair

and nearly everyone will remember Watson from her extremely popular role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter movies. The cast and crew frequently noted in local newspapers throughout filming how much they enjoyed the city of Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas. Emma Watson even commented on the thrill of acting out a notable scene from Chbosky’s novel where she stands in the back of a pickup truck while the truck speeds through the tunnels emerging to dramatically see the iconic downtown Pittsburgh landscape glowing with bright lights and endless bridges. And while Peters Township High School was used as the setting for the narrator’s high school, many other areas throughout Upper St. Clair and nearby townships were frequently used throughout the movie. The movie could serve as a breakout role for both Lerman and Watson as they try to distinguish themselves from previous childish roles, but one thing that doesn’t need to be

Many scenes were even filmed in the township of Upper St. Clair with current residents being able to be involved either through lending their houses to the film or, in some cases, being extras in the movie.

distinguished further is the fact that Upper St. Clair graduate Stephen Chbosky is seen as one of the most established and well-respected writers of his generation. Just one year after Perks of Being a Wallflower was published, it was already MTV Booksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; best selling title ever. The anticipation is high for the September release date of the movie, and Upper St. Clair residents can boast that the brilliantly written novel, and screenplay, was done by one of their own, Stephen Chbosky.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

Shelby’s

STATION

A Neighborhood Restaurant and Tavern with a Surprising Menu

hen you’ve been a shot and a beer bar for nearly a century, it’s hard to change your image. But Michele Owens is doing just that with Shelby’s Station. “People familiar with the place say, ‘That’s a great bar.’ But I want them to say, ‘That’s a great restaurant and a great bar,’” Owens said. “I want them to come in and take note of our appearance and cleanliness and great menu.” Owens does have a point. The building that is now Shelby’s Station burned to the ground in 2005, and was totally rebuilt. Owens opened Shelby’s Station in August of 2011, but brought more than a decade of experience with her. Formerly the owner of Mariani’s in South Fayette—a revered Italian restaurant that fell victim to the 2004 flooding of Hurricane Ivan—Owens brings all of the Mariani flavor to Shelby’s Station. “It’s my food. It’s the same meat sauce. The same wedding soup that was rated number one by the Post-Gazette. It’s the same chili that wins awards at cook-offs year after year,” she said. And the rest of the menu at Shelby’s Station is impressive as well. Yes, it has tavern favorites: pizza, hoagies, burgers and wings—each with their own unique “Shelby’s Station” take. But Shelby’s Station also offers more substantial and complex dishes as well from homemade ravioli (cheese-filled, or veal and spinach-filled), to chicken marsala, to their signature “Harlot Pasta,” which is a hot and spicy pasta dish covered in sautéed onions, banana peppers, green and red peppers, hot sausage and grilled, marinated chicken. 44 724.942.0940 to advertise |

All of this is prepared by Shelby’s Station’s courteous and friendly staff, each with their own strengths in the kitchen. “I have one person who excels in making pizzas, another who is an amazing baker,” Owens said. “They’re all exceptional at what they do, and that shows when their food is plated and served.” As for the basics, Shelby’s Station excels in the details. The Philly Steak Hoagie isn’t a few ounces of chipped beef. It’s a mouthwatering, bursting sandwich of thick steak and vegetables, marinated in Owens’ special blend of herbs and spices. The wings are whole chicken wings, not just the half wings found elsewhere, and can be made seasoned, or covered in buffalo, spicy BBQ, gold BBQ, sweet Thai chili, garlic parmesan, or Shelby’s Station’s own garlic chipotle pesto. “Everything we do is made to order and served fresh,” she said. “These are recipes that have taken me more than a decade to perfect, and we’re still inventing new ones, like the ‘Sinfully Shelby’s dessert, which is a fresh tortilla shell stuffed with cookie dough, deep fried, drizzled in hot fudge and sprinkled with powdered sugar.” If cookie dough’s not for you, Sinfully Shelby’s #2 substitutes Reese’s Cups for the

Upper St. Clair

cookie dough, or you can ask about the secret dessert of the month and be surprised. If you don’t have the time for a sit-down dinner, Shelby’s Station offers takeout and catering services. It has a tailgate special and portable build-a-pasta bar that can come to your Steelers party or graduation celebration. Other customer favorites include the Wednesday and Saturday karaoke, which is guaranteed to get you singing and is fun for the whole family, and Ladies Night on Thursdays with “Name That Tune” trivia games. Shelby’s Station is open daily from 11:30 a.m. with most lunch specials around $7.95, and daily dinner specials. Daily happy hour is from 5 to 7 p.m. every day with ½-off appetizers and $1-off all drinks.

SHELBY’S STATION is located at 820 McLaughlin Run Road in Bridgeville, with ample rear parking. For more information on daily specials, or take-out, call 412.319.7938, or go to www.shelbysstationbridgeville.com online.

UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

What’s Inside 2

Bringing Mother and Child Together

3 4

Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6 7

Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss When Wounds Won’t Heal

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

Bringing Mother and Child Together UPMC Mercy’s newborn nursery programs foster bonding between mothers and their infants.

The bond between a mother and child is a wonder to behold. At UPMC Mercy, new mothers — and dads, too — can depend on a team of health care professionals to guide them through the process of bonding with and caring for their newborns.

The benefits of breastfeeding UPMC Mercy has three certified lactation specialists on staff, including a neonatal nurse practitioner, who provide in-hospital and outpatient support to mothers. “We see every woman who plans to nurse immediately after delivery, since breastfeeding begins within the first hour after birth,” explains UPMC Mercy lactation specialist Sarah Krivonik, RN. “Whether you’re a firsttime mother or have breastfed before, every baby is different. We help mothers identify the best solutions for their circumstances — whether it’s how to handle triplets or care for a pre-term baby who can’t breastfeed right away.” More and more women are discovering the health benefits of breastfeeding. Often described as “liquid gold,” a mother’s milk is filled with rich nutrients and vitamins. “Newborns who breastfeed have a greater resistance to infection and allergies, fewer ear infections, and are less likely to experience childhood obesity,” says UPMC Mercy’s Cheryl DiNardo, CRNP, a neonatal nurse practitioner and certified lactation specialist. “For mothers, breastfeeding promotes faster weight loss, less bleeding, and reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer.”

Promoting snuggling with a purpose “Every year, we welcome more than 1,700 babies into the world,” says Chris D’Amico, CRNP, UPMC Mercy’s obstetrics/ gynecology administrator. “A big part of our mission is to bring families together during those critical early days through one-on-one support.”

Practicing togetherness After giving birth, mothers can have their newborns at their bedside in one of UPMC Mercy’s private postpartum rooms. “With our in-room option, a mother can learn her baby’s responses and cues for feeding,” says Lora Mastracci, MSN, interim unit director for UPMC Mercy’s Family Maternity Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). “This experience allows fathers to be involved from the beginning, from helping with baths and diaper changes, to comforting and holding the baby.” In-room care also gives nursing staff the opportunity to get to know mothers and their needs in greater detail, and connect them to important community resources on their return home.

2 46

UPMC.com/Today 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

“Physical contact is an essential part of the bonding process,” says Diane Bear, RN, a lactation consultant with UPMC Mercy’s Women’s Health Services. “We work closely with mothers and fathers to encourage early and ongoing skin-to-skin contact with their babies.” Using a technique called “kangaroo care,” babies are held in an upright position on their parent’s bare chest (much like a kangaroo carries its young). It is especially beneficial for premature babies, and it’s also believed to help stimulate milk production for mothers who are breastfeeding. To learn more about these and other programs offered by UPMC Mercy’s Family Maternity Services, visit UPMCMercy.com.

Exhausted and Sleepy? At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, doctors can diagnose and treat sleep apnea, often with surprisingly fast results.

Overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure, diabetes, and an irregular heartbeat, Robert Guthrie underwent a sleep study at UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center to evaluate his pulmonary function and suitability for gastric bypass surgery. He was shocked to discover he had sleep apnea so severe he actually stopped breathing 147 times per hour. Affecting 12 million Americans, sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep. Untreated, it can cause serious health problems and lead to deadly accidents due to exhaustion. “I was totally clueless. It was serendipity that took me to a sleep expert, and it probably saved my life,” says Robert, 65, who immediately began using a nighttime breathing apparatus known as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Within a week, he was sleeping soundly for the first time in six years. “It was life changing,” says the Hopwood, Pa., resident. “I feel 20 years younger.” Most people don’t know they have obstructive sleep apnea, usually caused when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep. People with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly. With each interruption, the drop in oxygen levels prompts the brain to send a surge of adrenaline to kick-start breathing, which also leads to a spike in blood pressure. “This can happen 600 times a night. It’s a burden on the cardiovascular system and affects the quality of sleep,” says Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD, medical director of the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center. According to Dr. Strollo, if you snore loudly, wake up exhausted despite a “good night’s sleep,” or feel tired or sleepy during the day, you should talk to your primary care physician. Since sleep apnea cannot be detected while you’re awake, your doctor may ask you to participate in an overnight sleep study.

At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, patients stay in a private bedroom where a sleep technician applies sensors that measure breathing, heart rate, brain activity, and other body functions during sleep. A team of specialists diagnose sleep apnea by looking at the test results and reviewing medical history. Treatment options may include a CPAP machine like Robert uses, which blows air through a special mask worn over the nose. “I wasn’t wild about wearing the mask. But staying on it was a no-brainer — it’s worth it for a good night’s sleep.” says Robert. For information about the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center, visit UPMC.com and click Our Services for an alphabetical listing of departments and services.

Other health consequences of sleep apnea According to Ryan Soose, MD, an otolaryngologist and sleep medicine specialist at UPMC Mercy, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, weight gain, memory problems, and daytime sleepiness. “Loud snoring is a very common feature of sleep apnea and often the most bothersome symptom for patients and other family members,” notes Dr. Soose. “Successful treatment of snoring and sleep apnea can improve quality of life as well as reduce health risks. A variety of medical and surgical treatment options are available, and the treatment plan can be customized to each individual patient.” For more information about UPMC Mercy’s sleep services or to schedule a sleep study, call UPMC Mercy Sleep Center at 412-232-7409.

3 Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 1-800-533-UPMC | incommunitymagazines.com 47

Pamper the Skin You’re In Your skin is a multitasking marvel. Soft, pliable, and strong, it protects your organs, regulates body temperature, detects and fights off infection, and even repairs itself.

Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

But most of us take our hard-working skin for granted. A little TLC will help keep it healthy and looking good from the inside out.

They’re more common — and easier to treat — than you think.

Keep it clean Daily cleansing can take a toll on your skin, so be gentle. Take shorter baths or showers using warm water, choose a mild cleanser, pat or blot skin dry, and apply a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type.

Eat, drink, and be healthy Feed your skin from the inside for a healthy glow on the outside. Experts recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Drinking plenty of water keeps skin hydrated.

Get moving Regular exercise promotes circulation that energizes skin cells and carries away waste products. It also promotes the restful sleep that’s needed to rejuvenate skin.

Be sun smart Small amounts of daily sun exposure add up, so protect skin from the sun’s rays whenever you’re outdoors — even in wintertime. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and apply it liberally and often. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants provide even more protection.

Check it out Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers occur on parts of the body exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and hands. Mohs micrographic surgery has proven to be an effective treatment for most skin cancers. This type of surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible and is often used to remove skin cancer on the face. Regularly checking your own skin can help find cancers early, when they are easier to treat. You’ll find the American Cancer Society’s skin self-examination guide and other sun safety tips at cancer.org. Sources: American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

448

UPMC.com/Today

724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

They can be tiny or bulging, painless or throbbing. But nearly half of us can expect to get spider or varicose veins, especially after age 50. “The good news is that many techniques now make vein treatments more safe, comfortable, and effective,” says Ellen D. Dillavou, MD, a vascular surgeon at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.

What new treatments are available? Among the newest is the injection of polidocanol for the treatment of spider veins. “It’s a cosmetic procedure that works much better than saline to collapse surface veins,” says Dr. Dillavou. “Spider veins do reoccur, though, so expect to do ‘touch ups’ periodically.” Injections also are used for larger veins and may replace older procedures like a “vein stripping.” For treating varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation (a minimally invasive procedure in which radiofrequency energy seals the vein closed) is a popular treatment among her patients, says Dr. Dillavou, “because it’s comfortable and effective.”

Are varicose veins dangerous? “Varicose and spider veins typically don’t pose a health risk, but they can point to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI),” says Gus Abu-Hamad, MD, a vascular surgeon at UPMC Mercy. “It’s a visual cue that blood may not be optimally flowing to and from the feet and legs to the heart, which can lead to more serious problems.” Other CVI symptoms include painful, tired, restless, achy, itchy, or swollen legs or ankles. In more advanced cases, skin changes and ulcers can develop. “The problem becomes more difficult to treat as it advances, so it’s important to always share your symptoms with your doctor,” says Dr. Abu-Hamad. To learn more about all the vascular services at UPMC Mercy, visit UPMCMercy.com.

Your Health Care Goes Mobile It’s now easy to manage your medical records or schedule a doctor’s appointment by phone — because HealthTrak has an app for that.

Need to keep track of your elderly parents’ appointments and test results? Want instant access to your children’s immunization records? Run out of medicine while traveling and need a refill? Have a follow-up question for your doctor after office hours? All are available with a click of your mouse — and most with a tap on your iPhone®, iPad®, or Android™ — via UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that allows patients, and approved family members, to receive and manage information about their health. Recent upgrades include a new mobile HealthTrak application that provides patients with secure access anytime and anywhere.

HealthTrak also provides patients with automatic access to certain test results, including x-rays, lab, and pathology tests, with links they can use to help interpret information. This makes it easier for patients to keep track of their cholesterol, blood pressure, sugar levels, and other important health numbers, adds Dr. Shevchik. UPMC hopes to add cardiology test results in the near future. Also on the horizon are plans to use photos to identify some skin conditions or diseases.

“We’re giving people what they want — even when they’re on the go. It’s a convenient, safe, and free way to manage their own health,” says G. Daniel Martich, MD, UPMC chief medical information officer.

Going mobile is fast and easy To access HealthTrak data using a mobile device, you must first secure a HealthTrak account through UPMCHealthTrak.com. You should then download the free “MyChart app” from the App Store, iTunes Store, or Google Play (formerly Android Market). The mobile app provides access to everything except eVisits, or online doctor visits. According to Dr. Martich, more than 100,000 patients have signed up for HealthTrak — and nearly 6,000 are mobile app users. Grant Shevchik, MD, a family physician and geriatrician who is medical director of HealthTrak, says online medical care is “the future.” He predicts an explosion of users once word spreads about the overall convenience and newest features — including access for authorized family members. Adults juggling the health care of their children and aging parents can use the “proxy access” feature to keep track of health records and appointments, refill prescriptions, communicate with doctors, and ask billing questions. Parents especially appreciate having instant access to a child’s immunization record when they need it, says Dr. Shevchik. Approved caregivers find eVisit, the online doctor visit service, very useful for the diagnosis of common, non-urgent ailments in their elderly relatives. “HealthTrak gives people immediate accessibility. And that accessibility is improving health care by encouraging patients to accept responsibility for their health,” says Dr. Shevchik.

Sign up today! Easy, direct signup for HealthTrak is available online by going to UPMCHealthTrak.com and clicking “Sign up now” under New User. Follow the steps to complete an online application and answer personal questions designed to ensure that you, and not another person, are creating the account. If you have difficulties, email healthtrak@upmc.edu or call the UPMC HealthTrak Support Line at 1-866-884-8579.

5 Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 1-800-533-UPMC | incommunitymagazines.com 49

Talent + Imagination + Learning =

Events You Won’t Want to Miss UPMC Senior Communities’ year-long calendar of entertainment, movies, and educational seminars aims to enrich the lives of seniors — and delight the public, too.

What do Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners, a Meryl Streep movie, and acupuncture have in common? All are among UPMC Senior Communities’ upcoming 2012 Legacy Lineup. “We’re committed to providing residents at all our senior communities with activities that will capture their interests, generate conversation, and stimulate their minds,” says Nanci Case, vice president for sales, marketing, and activities for UPMC Senior Communities. “Through The Legacy Lineup and other programs, we’re bringing seniors — and people of all ages — together to relax, laugh, and learn together.” Open to the public, The Legacy Lineup programs are offered at UPMC Passavant Hospital Foundation’s Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Senior Communities’ independent living facility located on the UPMC Passavant campus. “You can attend a Legacy Lineup event every week of the month, with many events offered at no charge,” says Greta Ceranic, marketing director for Cumberland Woods Village. The Legacy Theatre is part of a state-of-the-art conference center and 247-seat amphitheatre funded through a generous $16.5 million grant by the Passavant Hospital Foundation. One of the Foundation’s primary goals is public education and outreach. UPMC physicians, nurses, and other medical staff members also use the facility for professional development training. “And funds raised through The Legacy Lineup support UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund,” adds Ms. Case, “providing financial assistance and other support services to residents in need at all 17 UPMC retirement communities.”

6 50

UPMC.com/Today 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Productions showcase local and national talent “Each month, The Legacy Lineup features at least one major production featuring a band, soloist, or performance troupe,” says Ms. Ceranic. “Earlier this year, the Tamburitzans appeared to a sell-out crowd. Later this year, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand impersonators will perform with a full orchestra.” The 2012 lineup also includes the Jaggerz and the Fabulous Hubcaps, as well as a major holiday production in December. Because seating is limited, advance tickets are recommended. Group discounts and ticket packages are available.

Spend Mondays at the movies From cinematic classics like Citizen Kane to recent blockbusters like Iron Lady with Meryl Streep, seniors can enjoy free matinee movies every Monday at 2 p.m. at the Legacy Theatre.

Explore your interests at learning seminars On alternating Tuesdays at 11 a.m., The Legacy Lineup offers educational programming that covers a wide range of subjects, from tips on aging, caregiver support, health and nutrition, history, and local topics of interest. The seminars are free and open to the public, but advance reservations are requested. For the full 2012 calendar of activities, or to make reservations, call 412-635-8080 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

To learn about the independent living, personal care, assisted living, and skilled nursing options offered by UPMC Senior Communities, call 1-800-324-5523 to schedule a tour. Locations include Allison Park, Cranberry, Fox Chapel, Greensburg, Lawrenceville, McCandless, Monroeville, Penn Hills, Scott Township, and Washington, Pa.

Upper St. Clair

When Wounds Won’t Heal If you’re at risk, a simple cut or blister can quickly escalate into a major health problem.

Simple blisters, calluses, cuts, and scrapes usually heal quickly. But some wounds can take months to heal — posing a major health threat requiring special treatment to avoid serious infection, amputation, and even death. Dane Wukich, MD, an orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon, and medical director of UPMC Wound Healing Services at UPMC Mercy, says chronic wounds are often ignored. “We see 3,000 new cases each year of serious, non-healing wounds that can become life-threatening and possibly lead to amputations,” says Dr. Wukich. “Within 24 hours, a simple callous can turn deadly.”

“Individuals with neuropathy are at risk. They get a callous or blister and walk on it all day, not realizing they have a wound until they see blood on their sock,” says Dr. Wukich. “Once a wound occurs, their risk of infection goes up significantly. And once they have an infection, the risk of amputation increases astronomically.” Poor circulation due to diabetes or vascular disease also slows healing, he explains. Patients who are bedridden or confined to a wheelchair are at risk of developing pressure wounds from lying or sitting in one position too long.

Prevention and treatment Preventing wounds and complications is key, says Dr. Wukich. “Patients with non-healing wounds have a worse survival rate than patients with breast cancer, melanoma, and prostate cancer. That’s how serious it is,” he says bluntly. Lowering and controlling sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can improve circulation and reduce complications. Checking daily for wounds and acting quickly to treat and heal ulcers can reduce the risk of severe infection and amputation. For a wound to heal properly, it must be kept clean. Dead tissue must be removed through a weekly cleaning to prevent the spread of infection. In addition, skin around a wound must be kept moist, and doctors may prescribe walking boots and casts to reduce direct weight on the wound.

Are you at risk? People with diabetes and vascular disease are especially vulnerable to slow healing and chronic wounds. Diabetic patients often have neuropathy, which causes them to lose sensation in their feet. Because they don’t feel pain, sores go unnoticed and can become ulcerated.

At UPMC Mercy, a multidisciplinary team of infectious disease physicians and orthopaedic, vascular, and plastic surgeons work together to treat wounds and help prevent amputations. Advanced wound therapy may include the use of regenerative skin products, vascular, plastic, or reconstructive foot surgery. Amputation is used as a last resort to save a life, says Dr. Wukich. For more information about UPMC Mercy’s Wound Healing Services, visit UPMC.com/MercyWoundHealing.

Foot Care Tips If you have diabetes or vascular disease, inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, redness, swelling, or foul odor. If you can’t bend over, use a plastic mirror to check the bottoms of your feet, or ask a family member to help. Make sure your doctor inspects your feet at every visit.

7 Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 1-800-533-UPMC | incommunitymagazines.com 51

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 information 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.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com. 52 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

business spotlight

Swift Audiology Helps You Navigate the Options of Hearing Aids, and also provides lifetime care. ith more than 25 years of expertise when it comes to hearing improvement, Swift Audiology’s Debra Swift admits that the world of hearing aids can be an enormous, confusing sea of choices for those with hearing impairment. However, that same expertise allows her to help her clients cut through the confusion to get to a personalized solution that’s convenient, calibrated, customized and affordable. “A lot of people think that buying a hearing aid is like buying a computer,” she said. “But once they have that computer, can they program it for future improvements to accommodate changes in their hearing? Can they maintain it and keep it functioning like the day it was new? We counsel our clients right off the bat about their hearing aids, how to develop good practices in order to maintain them at home, as well as providing free in office service, cleanings and replacement of parts as needed. Hearing is a brain function. The ears are the pathway and that pathway becomes damaged due to noise, aging, illnesses, ototoxic medications, or even hereditary factors. Almost 95% of hearing loss is sensorineural (nerve loss) and hearing aids are needed to make up for the damaged hair cells (nerve). Hearing aids get the missing information to the brain, so that the brain can cognitively process speech and the sounds of the world that keep us acclimated and in communication with people! This is called aural rehabilitation and it is a process that takes time. Studies posted in the Archives of Neurology have linked hearing loss to Alzheimer’s/dementia. For every 10% of hearing loss that goes untreated over a prolonged period of time, the risk for developing dementia is increased by 20%. We have certainly seen the relationship

Leslie Dunst Debra Swift, B.C.-H.I.S. MS.-CCCA Original Founder/President Senior Audiologist 25 yr. +

between hearing loss and dementia for years in our practice. How can we remember what we don’t hear or understand clearly? The brain slows cognitively and it takes extra effort to understand conversations, which is not only tiring but also frustrating, embarrassing and impacts the person’s self-confidence and sense of wellbeing, according to a National Council on Aging study. This study has shown that untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation and depression as well. Wearing hearing aids daily reverses these effects and maintains cognitive processing. “We set realistic expectations in our counseling when we’re fitting a patient. They know what to expect. They know the brain will adjust. In the first month, they come in for several visits during this acclimation period,” Swift said. “People with hearing aids, when set properly, have benefit, but it’s not overwhelming. Adjustments are made at future visits to provide normal hearing as the patient acclimates.” With Swift’s maintenance and counseling plan, which includes lifetime cleanings and free batteries every four months during free walkin clinics, patients can not only hear again at optimal levels, they can also go about their lives not worrying that their investments in their hearing will not be wasted. “Not having the extended services that we offer, is one of the reasons why so many hearing aids end up in the drawer after a time period,” Swift said. “A good provider will set you up on a program to cover all of these things on an ongoing basis. Then you have value and benefit for the cost. Is it better to buy a hearing aid for $1,000 that ends up in a drawer, with no service, or to pay a little more with bundled services, batteries, and warranties that provide everything you need for the life of the aids to hear well and extends the life of the aids? If a patient needs that

price range, we have aids that include bundled services with them. We explain the differences and you make an educated choice. There are many options, and you’re never stuck with your choice, if it isn't satisfactory.” Swift Audiology has helped patients continue to hear well for the past 25 years. With free trials, 45 day NO RISK returns and 90 days to trade to another type or technology - these benefits make Swift Audiology stand out. Experience does matter when choosing a professional. Choose a local practice that you can trust, to help you find your most beneficial and functional hearing aids. Call Swift Audiology today at 724.942.4700 or 724.222.9010 for a no cost, no obligation hearing screening and demonstration.

Janelle Kisiday Dr. of Audiology

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 53

Why are still waiting?

YOU I

n the more than 30 years I have spent treating patients with varicose veins, I can’t tell you how often a patient has remarked, “I guess I just waited too long to treat my legs.” My answer is always, “Well, what’s important is that you are here now.” What I sometimes think is, “Yes, you probably did wait too long.” As most of us realize, ignoring a problem never really makes it go away, and as a physician, I know that a small problem is always easier to treat than a larger problem. This couldn’t be more true when it comes to treating those painful bulging varicose veins. In all of my years of practice, I have never seen such rapid advances in the diagnosis and treatment of a medical problem as in the field of phlebology (the study of veins).

At Circulatory Centers, diagnosing the problem is as simple as having a painless ultrasound done in our office’s accredited ICAVL vascular lab. Once the problem is identified, an individual treatment plan is offered. Long gone are the days of painful vein strippings done in an operating room under general anesthesia with the resulting lifelong disfiguring scars and a week-long stay in the hospital spent recuperating. This is now replaced by a safe 30-minute endovenous ablation procedure done in our office by the most experienced providers found anywhere. You could come in on your lunch hour and still go out to enjoy dinner or a movie that very same evening! And here’s the kicker, 95 % of procedures are covered by most insurance companies. Due to these dramatic advances in the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins—and the even more dramatic and fantastic results—a number of physicians have recently flooded this field calling themselves “vein experts,” proudly displaying a certificate to prove it. What patients should really consider when choosing a provider is their experience. Titles are one thing, but it is hard to trump experience. At Circulatory Centers, we have over eighty years of combined experience in Western Pennsylvania. Ask anyone in this area who has had their veins treated, and nine out of ten times Circulatory Centers will come to mind. We have been dedicated to vein treatment for more than 30 years and our results have been better than ever, with patients seeing better clearing of their leg veins, better resolution of their symptoms and fewer recurrences of their veins than ever before. So, why are YOU still waiting?

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.

54 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

View Our Online Portfolio Read Local Testimonials Schedule Free Consultation

PAHIC No. 007528

B.E.A.R.’s New ...Exciting!

“Great Performance”

The Very Best

Quality H Selection H Price

SKILLED INSTALLATIONS

UNMATCHED DISCOUNTS

SAFETY ENGINEERED

Visit our terrific DISPLAY VILLAGE

HEADQUARTERS

Fully Tempered Glass Backboards LTD. LIFETIME WARRANTY H Pro-Flex®Extra Heavy-Duty Breakaway Rim H Height Adjustment System

“The Playground Pros”

, ty

BASKETBALL

bearofpa.com

e the Saf ubl e Do

Jump Into

FUN!

724-443-4441 • 800-232-7140 Our 20th Year

155 Route 228 W • Valencia 16059

((DoubleBounce)) Bounce Trampoline!

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 55

Providing Services at Parties and

Celebrations

nyone who has ever thrown a party understands the relief and joy when all goes well. In fact, most of us strive to make our guests feel welcome and hope that they have a great time. From graduation parties to baby showers to dinner parties, we’re all working toward the same goal. We want our guests to feel welcome and to enjoy the party! But there are plenty of us who don’t have a chance to enjoy the party ourselves, simply because we are taking care of everyone else. There’s the serving of the food and drinks, and the distractions of where the cups are located. Even minor things, like picking up and disposing of the trash, can keep you from enjoying the party itself.

That’s where “The Hostess Helper” comes in. Owner Shelley Enz is in business to ensure that all guests are happy, and that YOU have the chance to enjoy your guests too! As Shelley states, “We’re in business to ensure that our customers have no worries at their party. They get to enjoy their party too.” Shelley has been in the hostess business for more than 22 years, helping with countless parties over the years. She takes pride in her work and quickly points out that “every party is different.” She has been hostess at all types of parties including graduation, Bar Mitzvah, bridal, holiday, and dinner parties. If you need assistance, Shelley will be there. She recently described a Halloween party that

she worked this year. “Although I never did that type of party before,” she said, “I love talking to people and making them happy, so it really didn’t matter what type of party it was.” Perhaps that is why party hosts and hostesses call her back multiple times throughout the year. “We simply follow the instructions of the host/hostess and ensure that everything runs smoothly,” she said. “That and, of course, make sure everyone has a great time!” Individuals may think that this service is an extravagance, but are surprised at how reasonably priced it is. Typically two to three individuals assist Shelley and help with the party and services, including preparation, serving, clean-up and everything in between. While Shelley has recommended

many caterers over the years, she has no preference who you use. Caterers are happy that Shelley recommends them and she certainly knows many in the business. The caterers simply hand off to Shelley and her team, and they take it from there. And if you want to cook the food yourself for the party, Shelley will help you. She has prepared party trays, baked the hors d’oeuvres, made salads and put the pies in the oven. While she is not the cook, she certainly knows her way around a kitchen, if that is what you are looking for. Have one conversation with Shelley, and you can quickly tell what a “people person” she is. Perhaps that is what makes customers continue to call her for their party needs.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING NG FOR ASSISTANCE WITH AN UPCOMING NG PARTY OR CELEBRATION, CALL SHELLEY ELLEY ENZ AT 412.889.7254 OR 412.831.9969. 56 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

FEUER ILLUSTRATION

Bruxism C

lenching and grinding of the teeth, or bruxism, is a fairly common problem that many people are reluctant to treat, or of which they are altogether unaware. Usually occurring at night, it can certainly be elusive, but the long term effects can have permanent consequences. However, with the help of a dental professional, bruxism can be diagnosed, treated and most existing damage corrected. Tooth on too th contact may seem like a natural and therefore harmless occurrence; after all, the jaw muscles' main function is to open and close our mouths repeatedly, whether our friends and family like it or not! But on a daily basis, the occlusal surfaces (used for biting and chewing) actually make relatively little contact with each other. In fact, when the jaw is relaxed, the upper and lower teeth rest about two to three millimeters apart and don't usually come into direct contact for more than a minute or so every day, mostly when swallowing. Even while chewing, the teeth are slightly separated by food. Just one night of severe bruxism can be the equivalent of a lifetime of normal wear and tear on the teeth, and the extra contact can cause a number of problems. Many common symptoms can seem sporadic, s uch as occasional jaw pain near the ear, headaches, tooth sensitivity or muscle spasms. Other problems can be permanent and/or visible, but their onset so gradual that many fail to notice them in their early stages, such as the wearing down of teeth, the cracking and fracturing of enamel, receding gums, etc. Often the first symptom to be noticed, the jaw pain caused by bruxism is a result of giving yo ur jaw muscles too much of a workout at night. Constantly clenching can cause muscle spasms, strain, fatigue and even headaches. The extra force exerted on the temperomandibular joint (TMJ) can also cause pain, popping, clicking and damage that can lead to chronic TMJ problems, such as temperomandibular disorder (TMD). Tooth sensitivity to touch, hot and cold can be a result of the loss of protectiv e enamel by wearing it away. Abfraction is a lesser known term for the cracking of enamel at the gum line. Repeated pressure on a tooth can cause it to flex slightly, and the strong but brittle outer layer of enamel can eventually break away. This can leave the softer, yellower dentin exposed, which is aesthetically unpleasing and decreases a tooth's resistance to damage and decay. Severe bruxism, o r even moderate bruxism over many years, can wear down the occlusal surfaces of teeth enough to reduce their vertical dimension. This is called attrition and can make front teeth appear flat or square. It can also cause the lower jaw to move closer to the upper jaw when swallowing and chewing, which contributes to an older appearance with a sunken jaw and deeper wrinkles in the skin around the mouth. How can bruxism be treated? For many, clenching and grinding are unintentional manifestations of stress, and in some cases just relieving the source of that stress is enough to stop bruxism. For others, intervention may be necessary in the form of a custom night guard or other appliance. A custom night guard can maintain enough distance between the upper and lower teeth to keep the jaw muscles at re rest and protect the teeth from the wear and tear of grinding. A more advanced type of mouth guard will allow only the two lower front teeth to be in contact with the mouth guard, this will prevent the person from clenching. If bruxism has gone unchecked for long enough, the damage to the teeth can be repaired. For example, teeth that have lost protective enamel on the occlusal surfaces may be treated with crowns, and the significant loss of vertical dimension can often only be restored with crowns. Such

treatments can be expensive, and some may be considered cosmetic and will not be covered by insurance plans. If a patient has jaw pain or tooth sensitivity, or their spouse has heard the sounds of their teeth grinding at night, it should be assessed by a dental professional as soon as possible. A good dentist will keep an eye out for the telltale signs of bruxism by locating wear facets, recognizing the symptoms of joint damage and assessing incidences of abfraction and enamel loss. Early treatment is the key to avoiding pain, long term damage and costly treatments. This Industry Insight was written by Dr. Jay Feuer. Jay Feuer D.D.S., M.A.G.D. is a family dentist practicing at 3035 Washington Road in McMurray, PA. Call the office at 724.941.2200 for more information or visit his website at www.drfeuer.com.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 57

BASEBALL 2012 Upper St. Clair

A couple of big section games await them, but the Panthers will undoubtedly be ready for the challenge.

58 724.942.0940 to advertise |

here could be worse ways to start a long baseball season than being 10-2, but the Upper St. Clair baseball team is not resting on their laurels just yet. In fact, they don’t plan on resting at all. The boys, along with their coaches, look to continue to work hard day in and day out as they trudge their way, often in less than ideal conditions, through the 2012 Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (W.P.I.A.L.) season. The team has compiled a 5-1-0 record in section play thus far, winning key games again rivals Peters Township, Pine-Richland, and most recently, Mt. Lebanon. The Panthers suffered a tough loss though on March 13 when they battled Bethel Park. The Black Hawks were able to emerge victorious, but only by the slightest of margins. Bethel Park defeated Upper St. Clair 6-5. The Panthers will look to continue to rely on their upperclassmen for leadership and support on the team. With seven returning starters from last year’s team, the boys remember the heartbreak they suffered at

Upper St. Clair

the end of last year’s season. The juniors and seniors experienced the battle that is high school baseball season last year when the team finished 13-7 overall and advanced to the W.P.I.A.L. Quarterfinals. Senior second baseman Zach Tobias expressed his, along with his teammates’, desire to compete game in and game out in order to put them in the best position to win a W.P.I.A.L. title this year after ending their 2011 season so close to the championship game. The Panthers lost to eventual champion Seneca Valley on a walk-off single in the bottom of the seventh inning. The team has wanted to use that feeling to stave off any midseason slumps, and so far, they have done well. There is still plenty of time for anything to happen in the 2012 baseball season, and that’s just how the Panthers like it. The team, led by veteran varsity coach Jerry Malarkey, looks to methodically play each and every inning like it is their last. They will encounter many of their rivals in the second half of the season again, included Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon and Peters Township to complete their season. The bats have been primed and have been producing big numbers for the Panthers this season. So far, the Panthers have

e t a Upd beaten Canon McMillan 11-1, Baldwin 13-2, and McKeesport 12-0. They have also handled Peters Township 5-0 in their first meeting of the season. But the Panthers will need to keep their bats connecting, and their defense solid, if they want to continue on their way to their ultimate goal: the W.P.I.A.L. championship game. They have put in the hard work, starting back in November spending countless hours in the high school gym and weight room, every exhaustive sprint and heavy lift pushing them to the championship level that they so desperately want to reach. Coach Malarkey and his team have put themselves in a prime position. And now that the foundation has been solidly set for the 2012 season, the Upper St. Clair Panthers will look to finish out the second half of their season as they have done in the first half. A couple of big section games await them, but the Panthers will

undoubtedly be ready for the challenge, and they can only hope that all of their prior preparation and game experience will continue to take them down the right path.

The

photos by Primetime Shots Photography

med

n pri e e b e v a h bats

ducing o r p n e e b and have for the s r e big numbthis season. Panthers

ONS BY LEIGH LY Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 59

WE BUY SILVER & GOLD

USC 7th Grader Honored by County Health Department for

Science Fair Project

Any & All Silver & Gold Items 10KT • 14KT • 18KT 30% MORE FOR YOUR SILVER & GOLD

incentive does not apply to the purchase of coins

Cash Buyer On Hand 1037 Waterdam Plaza Drive • McMurray, PA 15317

724.941.0234

he Allegheny County Health Department honored three students with awards for outstanding projects at the 73rd annual Pittsburgh Regional

Science and Engineering Fair held in March at the Carnegie Science Center. Aditi Chattopadhyay, a seventh-grader at Fort Couch Middle School, was honored with an award for outstanding project. Chattopadhyay’s project, “Reckoning the Effectiveness of the Flu Vaccine,” was submitted in the

Summer Ballet Programs and Camps Sleeping Beauty Camp, ages 3-5, $30 July 9, 11 & 13; 4-5pm

Public Health Category of the fair. Her abstract reads: “Influenza is caused by an RNA virus, which frequently evolves into different strains by constantly changing its nucleotides. Every year the World Health Organization

Cinderella Camp, ages 3-5, $30 August 6, 8 & 10; 10-11am OR 12-1pm

recommends vaccine strains by guessing the next year’s

Swan Lake Camp, ages 5-8, $40 July 10, 12, 17 & 19; 4-5pm

effectiveness varies yearly. This project will analyze the

Ballerina Camp, ages 5-9, $70 July 2-13 OR July 16-28 (M, W & F); 1-2pm Summer Intensive, ages 8 & up July 2-28 (M-Sat.); 9:15-1pm 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. 60 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

virus strains. As the vaccine is developed by prediction, its past 10 years’ flu vaccines’ effectiveness. The H protein sequences from vaccines and circulating virus strains will be compared to find the vaccine efficacy. A correlation graph will be generated by plotting the percent sequence identity against the number of people hospitalized with flu symptoms, and will be used to estimate the effectiveness of the current (2011) flu vaccine.”

Chiropractic Care for PREGNANCY

ore than 50% of women experience back pain during pregnancy. The good news is that most of these women can get relief safely and effectively from the back pain with the use of chiropractic manipulation. One of the largest growing patient demographic groups in chiropractic offices are pregnant women who have become sold on the idea of an effective pain treatment that does not involve drugs that may harm the unborn baby. Recent research supports not only the efficacy of this treatment, but also demonstrates its safety. Two primary biomechanical changes during pregnancy predispose women to pain. Within a few months of conception, the growing fetus will cause a womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s center of gravity to shift forward. This increases the curvature of the lower back resulting in increasing stress on the vertebral discs and posterior joints of the low back. This problem is encountered by a gradual weakening of the abdominal muscles as they stretch to accommodate the increasing size of the baby.

and has experience. In addition, try to find someone with exercise expertise. Lastly, find a chiropractor who will communicate with your OB/GYN and family physician to coordinate your care.

This INDUSTRY INSIGHT was written by Marcella and Tyson Swigart. Tyson Swigart, DC, CCSP, CSCS, has been the owner and founder of Southpointe Chiropractic and Fitness since 1999. He is a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and the University of Maryland. In addition to his experience as a physician, Dr. Swigart is an exercise physiologist, former college professor, and former collegiate strength and conditioning coach. He has worked extensively with athletes of all ages and levels of competitive sports. Dr. Swigart and his wife Marcella reside in Upper St. Clair with their four children.

Combining chiropractic care with exercises designed specifically for pregnancy can help control pain and improve outcomes. The bio-mechanical changes of the pregnancy are accentuated by hormones that help to loosen the ligaments attached to the pelvic bone, as well as other areas of the body. These natural changes need to occur to provide adequate space for the baby to travel through the birth canal. However loose and lax joints combine with weakened and fatigued muscles to provide a perfect recipe for lumbago (low back pain). Many women are unnecessarily concerned about the safety of their unborn child while receiving chiropractic treatment. Although normal amounts of caution must be exercised, manipulation of pregnant women has been demonstrated to be safe and effective. In fact, chiropractic treatment during pregnancy is often made easier by the same hormones that make joints loose and lax. In addition, there is a growing body of evidence that routine chiropractic care during pregnancy may improve the comfort levels of women during birth and decrease labor time. Combining chiropractic care with exercises designed specifically for pregnancy can help control pain and improve outcomes. Many episodes of pain can be helped first with chiropractic manipulation, then controlled through stretches and exercises at home. Most chiropractors will utilize a combination of these interventions to assist during the course of treatment. Finding the right chiropractor for your pregnancy is important. Choose someone who is comfortable working with pregnant women Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 61

idgeville half page INCOM:Layout 1

2/6/12

1:36 PM

Page 1

“Quality, Selection and Service That Fits Your Lifestyle”

(412) 221-7313 www.bridgevilleappliance.com 62 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

*Offer Valid January 1–June 30, 2012. See store for complete details and qualified models. Only valid atparticipating Jenn-Air Brand retailers. Customer will receive an instant credit at the register for the retail price of the free appliance model(s) when qualified product is purchased. All products must be purchased on a single order/receipt. Offer only valid in the U.S.A. No substitutions allowed. ARV of dishwasher, $1,199. ARV of ventilation system, $2,085. ARV of under counter refrigeration appliance, $1,784. Retailer alone determines the actual resale price. ®Registered trademark/™Trademark of Jenn-Air, U.S.A. ©2011. All rights reserved. To learn more about the entire Jenn-Air Brand line, please visit JennAir.com. NCP-12546.

PHILLIP RITTER INSURANCE AGENCY

Offering Coverage for What Matters Most to You

hillip Ritter may be new to the insurance business, but he is passionate and has the desire to grow his business. He realizes that he can only do this by putting his Customers first. So when Farmers started its push into Pennsylvania, he looked into the plans and decided that, based on the quality of the products that he saw, he was going to start his own agency selling Farmers’ services. “Farmers is new to Pennsylvania, and we’re really coming in with very competitive rates,” Ritter said. “The average person is going to be looking at home and automotive coverage, but we’re so much more than that. We offer life, business, specialty, workers compensation, and a whole host of other coverages.” Farmers offer clients the advantage of a multi-line discount, so if your home and auto are with the company, you can expect to see a discount savings on each policy. “If you keep all of your policies with me, you earn a benefit,” Ritter said. “And that benefit isn’t just in dollars saved, it’s in having someone who knows you managing your case.” Ritter said that he isn’t just looking to sell policies; he’s looking to build relationships with his clients.

place convenient to them. “I’m very flexible,” he said. “I am happy to meet my clients in their homes, at work or wherever is best for them. Going over policies can be stressful for some people, so meeting them somewhere where they feel comfortable and relaxed is important to me.” If you are interested in setting up a consultation with Phillip to see all that Farmers has to offer, you can call him at 412.200.6376, or email him at pritter@farmersagent.com. To browse all of the insurance offerings Farmers has, go to www.farmersagent.com/pritter.

“Farmers takes the consultative approach to insurance. They want their agents to take the time to meet with people, learn about their situations, and offer something that fits our clients best.“ “I’m comfortable talking with people about insurance, but I don’t want them to see me as just a salesperson,” he said. “My clients can call upon me and rely on me, and really welcome me into their family. After all, you need insurance when times get tough. You don’t want some stranger handling your case through those tough times.” Ritter said that Farmers’ business model helped him make the decision to join the fold. “Farmers takes the consultative approach to insurance. They want their agents to take the time to meet with people, learn about their situations, and offer something that fits our clients best,” he said. “We avoid generic, blanket policies for our clients, and never have someone throw their hard-earned money at something that doesn’t benefit them.” While Ritter is currently working out of the Farmers corporate center in Robinson, he’s focusing on setting up a permanent office of his own in the Greentree area by early fall. That setup works out for him just fine because Phillip prefers meeting clients at a time and Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 63

BY TRACY FEDKOE

Precious Cargo on Board

Animal Rescue Flight Team Transports Pets to New Homes

A Pilot Brad Childs flying over Ohio at 4,000 feet with rescue dog Charlie close by

Pilots Brad Childs and Pete Leachmann of the eyetique Animal Rescue Flight Team

Pilots Rob McMaster and Brad Childs on the tarmac

64 724.942.0940 to advertise |

pilot who got his license to overcome his fear of flying and a mission he took doing a favor for a friend led to a remarkable venture focused on helping animals. The eyetique Animal Rescue Flight Team was founded six years ago by Brad Childs, an Upper St. Clair resident and firefighter on the board with a day job as vice president of eyetique. It all started with Monte, a 90-pound bulldog puppy who was extra cargo that Childs didn’t anticipate on a flight. “I could feel him breathing on my neck and asked my co-pilot ‘Is this dog about to bite me?’” said Childs. When Monte broke free of his harness and jumped on his lap, the plane took a very scary nosedive. The co-pilot took over the controls and pulled the plane up, but Monte refused to budge. All he wanted was to be close to someone. By the end of the flight Childs was “in love with the dog” and wanted to keep him. But standing on the tarmac was a family with children anxiously awaiting Monte’s arrival to welcome him into their “furever” home. Monte already had a promising future. But Childs realized there were many more pets suffering in bad conditions, often destined for the worst, so he started his own mission to help as many as possible. Childs and his team of co-pilots, Rob McMaster of Finleyville and Pete Leachmann of Pittsburgh, have flown hundreds of animals, saving them from bad situations and delivering them to new homes and places where they can live a happy, healthy, and full life. The majority of animals they have flown were dogs, but they occasionally fly cats and have also transported two ducks. “If we can fit it, we will fly it,” said Childs. The number of animals in need is growing every day. There are two national groups that the eyetique Animal Flight Rescue Team relies on to hear about rescue missions—Animal Rescue Flights and Pilots N Paws. These national nonprofit organizations coordinate and promote

Upper St. Clair

the rescue, shelter, and transportation of animals in need through their networks of volunteers throughout the country who find ways to make the very difficult seemingly possible. One remarkable story from March of 2012 involved Roger Calvert of Florida who came to Pittsburgh for a checkup and received devastating news. He had one week to live and one wish during that time—to say goodbye to his beloved Labrador Retriever Bailey. The problem was that Bailey was in Florida and Calvert wasn’t able to leave Pittsburgh. Dozens of volunteers responded to the Pilots N Paws call for help and within 24 hours Bailey landed in Pittsburgh. Childs and his team were the third part of a three-leg flight, following Rob Takacs of Savannah, Ga., and John Lee of Marietta, Ohio, who were able to take off within an hour of the message post. “The family would like to thank everyone, not only the pilots that flew Bailey home, but to the family of Pilots N Paws and the rescue volunteers along the way that were willing to step in on a moment’s notice should Bailey be grounded on her journey,” wrote Liz Bondarek, transport coordinator for Pilots N Paws on the site’s message board. Bailey’s transport made national news and warmed hearts all over the country, but the eyetique Animal Rescue Flight Team wants to do more. Currently, the cost to move one dog is fairly high and all of the expenses of flying are paid for by Childs, McMasters, and Leachmann as they don’t charge any fees to either party for the transport. “I’m lucky enough to be in a position to do this. Eyetique, my family, and the fire department have been really supportive,” said Childs. They are in the process of taking the organization to the next step in applying for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Obtaining official non-profit status will allow them to accept donations and donors to receive a tax deduction. After they become a 501(c)(3), they are hoping to raise enough money in the next year or so to buy a larger plane. While fuel-

“You have to remove the emotion, or I would end up with 200 dogs.” -BRAD CHILDS, CHILDS, Founder of eyetique Animal Rescue Flight Team

efficient, Childs’ current plane is a single-engine Piper Warrior that can fly up to 130 mph. Its drawback is that it can’t hold much weight, only an average of about 4 medium-sized dogs with a pilot and co-pilot. A lighter, twinengine plane with a heavy payload to hold up to 2,000 lbs. of animals and food would make the trips more efficient, and save more animals in the long run. Their hope for the future is that people and companies will donate and they can run more trips taking food to shelters and return delivering more pets to new, happy homes. The food drives are coordinated through the 10 eyetique locations throughout the Pittsburgh area, which serve as convenient dropoff spots and receive many donations. The team also transports supplies to aid victims of natural disasters. “The key ingredient is the overwhelming support on the ground. That’s where the magic happens and everybody steps up,” said Childs. He shared another amazing success story of a family who adopted two puppies when they were found chained up and abandoned. One needed emergency surgery and was flown to Philadelphia and the quick response of the flight team saved its life. Another happy ending—and these are just a few of the stories the group can tell. “You have to remove the emotion, or I would end up with 200 dogs,” said Childs, whose favorite things are animals and flying. “I want to do something good and I believe in this. There’s nothing like the feeling of taking off and landing, knowing you’ve got such Puppy in flight for emergency surgery. precious cargo.”

MORE INFORMATION on the eyetique Animal Rescue Flight Team can be found on the eyetique Facebook page, and national information at www.pilotsnpaws.org or www.animalrescueflights.org. Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 65

75 McMurray Road Pittsburgh, PA 15241 A family owned business since 1970

Mention this ad and receive $10 off any service over $100 (active military $20 off)

www.chuckscompleteautoservice.com

412-831-2510

We are a full service automotive and light truck repair and maintenance facility serving the South Hills area with consistent, honest, reliable and friendly service. Chuck's Complete Auto Service is in business to service and repair your vehicle and we will do everything possible to make you feel welcome, comfortable and satisfied with your service experience. Hours: Mon - Thur 8am to 6:30pm, Fri 8am to 6pm, Sat 8am to 3pm

We support:

with my kids at the beach BECAUSE I DESERVE HEALTHY ATTRACTIVE LEGS. 95% of all procedures are covered by insurance with little to no out-of-pocket expense. Visit our convenient South Hills office located on 180 Fort Couch Road, Suite 425.

Call today for your FREE consultation! 800.426.9601 | veinhealth.com

*WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT* Sobers-Qtr_Layout 1 9/13/11 1:28 PM Page 1

Sobers Construction CUSTOM STONE & CONCRETE WORK

412-881-8919

66 724.942.0940 to advertise |

i will play

Upper St. Clair

The vascular experts doctors recommend most.

metro quarter page ad:Layout 1

1/9/12

9:52 AM

Page 1

POETRY Upper St. Clair POETRY Upper St. Clair POETRY Upper St. Clair POETRY Upper St. Clair POETRY Upper St.

Threaded Petals

by Lorraine Pollock, 10th grade

Your thin strands Come close to breaking, And your color fades at times. You are always coiled tight, Avoiding every pair of shears.

deep, rosy red, Bloodier than any war. No matter, I can sew with both. I drag you over hills and valleys, As a trail to follow home. I try to bend and weave you, To fit the small hole in a needle, Though you stay stubborn and strong.

Budding knots keep me From unraveling you, And seeing the true spool underneath. I pull and tug and beg and plead, But still you do not budge. You can be crisp, blinding gold, More vibrant than the sun. You can be

Your thorns sometimes break my skin, An accidental drop of blood. You stay oblivious like a sprinkler. I keep trying to pluck you,

Undercover Juliet I’m writing a letter I know I’ll never send Because I think somehow I’ll find him just around the bend. “Where are you Romeo? I may never know I hope someday you’ll finally show. Until then my love will wait Until the day foreseen by fate.” “Where are you Romeo? How will I know it’s you? It’s hard to tell when the love is so new.” I’ll try to figure out who he might be But at this point it’s not quite easy to see. My love could be him, whom I tell everything to Or maybe the boy that makes me laugh when I’m blue. Both of those boys I love a ton But THE boy is three boys rolled into one The one I love dearly, the one I can’t stand And the one whom I need to be

by Kelley Stehura, 9th grade

holding my hand. “So where are you Romeo? Where could you be? Could you be standing right in front of me?” Although right now I can’t be quite sure I think I might know whom I adore. It’s the boy who has always been my good friend Neither of us wishing our friendship to end. I’ve known him for all these many long years And we each know the other will always lend their ears. “Where are you Romeo? I just need to know. I’ll fight through a hurricane, sleet, hail, or snow. I’ll run through the rain just to give you a kiss But for right now I want you to remember just this I’m coming for you soon, don’t you ever fret Love, your undercover Juliet.”

My “Song of Myself” I rejoice in my strengths, I rejoice in my sins, for I know they rejoice in me. I come into being, a simple seed planted, still. The water glorifies me, the water glorifies me. For every snow storm that hides me, for every wind that knocks me down, I weep, knowing. Each day will bring differences, the sun can still shine, or so I’ve been told. I fear what I do not know, I fear being alone. How easy it is to get lost in this place. Am I forgotten to them? Will I be forgotten to you? You who hears me, understands me, are me. For who has not felt that cold wind blow, and who has not seen the death of belief? Why do we go on? Or do we? Do I? I must. It is my nature, nature am I. I know I have meaning, a purpose to grow. Though seas roar with great might and mountains tower with

by Taylor Manalo, 12th grade

great height, I sprout with great subtlety. Great subtlety. Great quiet. I am not unnoticed because I grow greatness. Because I am great. Each leaf I grow, I turn over. Each droplet of water I absorb, I pass on to the Earth. Each ray I capture, I shine once more. And I know that I will not be forgotten to you. You are here with me too. You are great, all are great. But great in a way so unique. You are not special like me, and I am not special like you. There is no competition, only a reward for living. That reward will be given one day. Given to me, given to you. Through my final breaths, when I am wilting and frail, I will still be me, full of promises to you. Let me make one now, to last us forever. I promise to be. Me.

And keep you for myself. Your leaves flutter in the wind With your roots firmly planted And your petals tightly closed. As you sit through storms of rain, I wish to be your umbrella. Surrounded by delicate yard gnomes, Flashy pink flamingos, And bright pool floaties, It is no surprise you do not want A hopeless little weed like me.

Baaing of the Sheep by Gaibo Yan, 11th grade

Through the heavy mist and incessant rain I hear distant echo time and time again The drifting chant of the multitude, droning in monotone The mindless baaing of the flock, reciting a hollow poem I glance down at my watch the hands of clock have shown Human routine stays the same, history is wrought in stone The voices urge me to conform, but I am not a clone Yet despite my individuality, I secretly hope I am not alone The incoherent whispers slowly draw me closer Entrancing voices continue to pull at my shoulder The air around me tightens, drowning me in hopelessness The confines of the world surround me, I cannot cope with this Mechanically, my legs push me through the misty pasture The bleating noise compels me to trot a little faster Finally I break through the clearing, the sun has risen A herd of sheep milling about, ambling past the horizon Drops of rain pounding the ground, the baaing intensifies Words of my father in my head, it’s a matter of time he says The clock is the ultimate test, everything comes to an end So many souls live with regrets, never able to make amends I see a lamb blindly chasing the greener grass Losing sight of the beautiful meadow it already has Craving after the green becomes its sole purpose The freedom it once sought now seems so worthless Society tells us pure joy can be purchased We are successful only if we make Forbes List It’s a veneer of gold that conceals the world’s ills The truth is outshined by gleaming chrome wheels These lies are sapping at our own wills While we continue struggling to pay our phone bills Living a mundane life until our youth is gone Silky rays of sunset creeping upon the dawn The once lush verdure fades into brown The cycle repeats, a merry go round Slowly, we turn into a flock of sheep Going through life in a trance of sleep

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 67

Shaken...But Why Not Stirred T

he economic downturn has most late Baby Boomers and Generation Xers feeling shaky about financial security and their plans for the future. Late Baby Boomer parents, in their late 40s and early 50s, are facing major financial obligations for maturing, but not yet selfsufficient children—college and post-graduate tuitions, weddings, even helping children purchase a home. They may also be reconsidering if they will be able to achieve their own personal goals and timelines for retirement. For Generation Xers, between the ages of 33 and 46, the economic downturn is negatively affecting their ability to save money as they must accept delayed promotions or salary increases or even face loss of employment. Generation X entered the workforce during a strong economy. They began building their lives and increasing their standard of living. Many began working while paying off student loans. They purchased homes and started families. Now, they are dealing with how to pay bills and plan for the future with less income or income potential. If you are in your 30s, 40s or 50s, the last few years of economic flux has probably shaken your confidence in your ability to financially shape your life. You feel shaken, but you need to be stirred. For you, the time to get stirred up about solid financial planning is now—the sooner the better! Life never proceeds in a straight line—there are always obstacles and turns along the way, and

68 724.942.0940 to advertise |

adjustments need to be made to stay on course. Even though our economy is facing many domestic and global quakes, we believe that the U.S. is in a classic business cycle and will recover, but now is the time to prepare. If you already have a financial plan, take time to evaluate if it is still working for you. If you do not have a plan, start by considering what is important to you in life. What are your short and long-term objectives? Write them down. Next, start compiling and organizing your financial information—income, expenses, debt and other liabilities, insurance, IRA and investments, and your will. Increase your knowledge of how to budget, save and invest. While your life is busy with work and family, it is important that you take time to understand the basics of how to maintain and grow your net worth. If you do not have time to study on your own, you may benefit by seeking the advice of a qualified financial advisor who has successfully guided clients through similar processes and market downturns. Professional financial advisors can help you assess your current situation, identify your goals, and formulate a long-term savings and investment strategy that positions you to benefit when the market recovers. At Bill Few Associates, we have been helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals for more than 25 years, and through similar market cycles. Our expertise is financial planning and investing, but we are also experts in customizing plans to fit each Upper St. Clair

client’s life. We do not represent any specific financial product or service. We are fee-based financial planners who help clients with investments, insurance, estate issues, tax issues, and education

planning. That means we are free to select from the best available resources in the financial industry to help clients meet their financial goals. We invite you to call us for a

consultation.

This INDUSTRY INSIGHT is provided by Bill Few Associates. For more information or to speak with a Bill Few Associates financial consultant, call 412.630.6000 or visit www.billfew.com. OUR LOCATIONS: 740 Washington Road, Suite 100 Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228

107 Mt. Nebo Pointe, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 69

REAL ESTATE IN UPPER ST. CLAIR

How to Choose a H

Real Estate Agent

t’s no secret that this is the time of year when more and more “for sale” signs start to dot neighborhood streets. Whether you are planning to buy or sell a home, build a new one or renovate a century-old one, upsize or downsize, chances are you will be looking for a real estate agent to help guide you through the process. Choosing the right professional to represent you is an important decision, one

70 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

that could end up saving you money or adding to your bottom line. You need a seasoned professional to best represent your interests. But, when it comes to selecting an agent, one should realize that not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) website explains that: “The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of NAR and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.” The organization is the nation’s largest trade association, representing 1.1 million members—including NAR’s institutes, societies and councils—involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. This is an important consideration when choosing an agent, whether you are a buyer or a seller. No matter which side of the real estate transaction you find yourself on, an agent can ensure that your interests are best represented. “I believe when a consumer hires any type of professional, it is always prudent to review his resume and check references. The same holds true for a real estate agent,” said Karen Berberick, GRI, associate broker-manager for Northwood Realty Services. “How many homes did

the agents sell in the past year? Do they have references from their past customers? What type of written marketing plan will they follow to help sell the property? Does the marketing plan encompass different types of media to include the internet, print media, television, etc.? What is a business relationship agreement and when should it be signed? There are many facets to a successful relationship between a real estate professional and the consumer.” If you are planning to sell a property, a seller’s agent is obliged to get the best deal for the seller. He/she is permitted to give potential buyers only material facts about the listing. Loyalty is to the seller, not the potential buyer. On the other hand, if you find yourself in the market for a new home, a buyer’s agent is obligated to secure the best deal possible for the buyer. He/she is permitted to pass on any information obtained about the property or seller to his/her buying client. According to the website Realtor.com, the following are some questions you should ask during your selection process when interviewing potential agents: • Is he/she a REALTOR®? • Does the agent have an active real estate license in good standing? To find this information, you can check with your state’s governing agency. • Does the agent belong to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and/or a reliable online home buyer’s search service? Multiple Listing Services are cooperative information networks of REALTORS® that provide descriptions of most of the houses for sale in a particular region.

• What real estate designations does the agent hold? • Which party is he or she representing: you or the seller? This discussion is supposed to occur early on, at “first serious contact” with you. The agent should discuss your state’s particular definitions of agency, so you’ll know where you stand. • In exchange for your commitment, how will the agent help you accomplish your goals? Show you homes that meet your requirements and provide you with a list of the properties he or she is showing you? “When choosing a real estate professional, compatibility is often the key to a successful relationship,” said Mona Colicchie of Prudential Preferred Realty. “Some typical questions you might want to ask could be: What is your availability? How successful have you been in this price range or geographic area? How do you integrate technology into your marketing plan? Will I be communicating with you directly or do you have a staff? How often can I expect communication and feedback from you? Tell me of an instance where your skill in negotiating resulted in top price for your client?” Colicchie also said that some realtors specialize in some areas. “Often, realtors will discover that they enjoy or have been more successful with a particular niche,” she said. “That specialty could be working with investors, builders, seniors, the luxury home market, foreclosures, or first-time home buyers. In most instances, an agent who specializes has developed a high level of proficiency in that area and loves what they do.”

• Is real estate the person’s full-time career?

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 71

REAL ESTATE IN UPPER ST. CLAIR

By Dana Black McGrath

t used to be that a first-floor laundry or home office was among some of the hottest home construction trends. Now that those are a standard more than a luxury, new home trends are emerging that reflect our changing needs as our lifestyle, culture and economy change with the times. In February, jurors for the National Association of Home Builders’ annual “Best in American Living Awards” identified several home design trends that are expected to last throughout the rest of the decade. Through that competition, which honored more than 80 single-family homes, apartments and condominiums as well as remodeling projects and subdivisions, several themes emerged among the honorees. Themes noted by the competition judges include a trend toward classic yet contemporary designs that blend modern and traditional elements to create timeless, elegant spaces with interiors that are light and simple instead of

72 724.942.0940 to advertise |

ornate and heavy. Outdoor living spaces are another design essential for all regions, not just for single-family homes but also for multi-family properties. In our region, many have embraced this trend by enhancing their outdoor space with comfortable outdoor furnishings and even outdoor kitchens. Consideration of cost-effectiveness in building is another new trend. For instance, many new homes are rectangular because they are less expensive to build, innovative designs are cost-effective and efficient, and the trend is moving away from multiple odd roof lines that create unnecessary interior volumes; these are examples of ways to reduce construction and system costs for homeowners, according to the judges. These principles can be seen in many of the new construction developments around the Pittsburgh region. Another trend seen during the competition is the elimination of the formal living room in favor of a flexible space or den that is adjacent to the

Upper St. Clair

kitchen and family room. Many who build new homes opt for only one “formal” room – instead of a formal living room and separate dining room, they choose one or the other, or choose to use that space as an office or toy room instead. Accommodations for multigenerational living have emerged as a result of a downturned economy and other cultural factors – a trend also noted by the judges. Young adults remain with their parents or older retirees choose to move in with their adult children; both scenarios are frequently seen in our region, especially with the high population of senior citizens. Examples of this trend include homes equipped with two master suites, often with one of the suites situated on the ground floor. Kitchens, long known to be the heart of the home and one of the most important design elements of any house, are also being impacted by new trends. The judges noted that many designers are coming up with creative storage solutions to allow windows above the countertops rather than cabinets, thus keeping the kitchens light and bright. Green design concepts are finding their way into more and more new homes to save energy and reduce home operating costs. Home construction and renovation projects embrace improvements such as energy-efficient appliances, use of recycled building products, solar elements, more efficient windows and even site considerations that take advantage of natural sunlight and shade for heating and cooling.

By Dana Black McGrath

hether you are an empty nester looking to simplify your lifestyle or a homeowner struggling to make a high monthly mortgage payment, downsizing your home may be the right solution for you.

There may be many advantages to homeowners who choose to scale back.

For senior citizens, there are many advantages to letting go of the responsibilities of maintaining the family home. Moving to a senior living community, condominium or patio home often means an association will handle most of the drudgery that comes with home ownership, such as grass cutting, snow removal and exterior maintenance. Inside, there usually are more up-to-date amenities that make daily life a bit easier, and less square footage which means less housecleaning. Downsizing also is an appealing option for those looking to save money by reducing their monthly mortgage payments. With the struggling economy, many find that this is a necessity more than a preference as homeowners face the challenges of loss or reduction of salary. Whatever your circumstance or reason for downsizing, there is still the consideration of scaling back what you take with you into your smaller home. Letting go of family and personal treasures is not an easy task, but right-sizing your belongings to fit your new space is an essential part of the process. The National Association of Senior Move Managers, a nonprofit organization that facilitates the physical and emotional aspects of relocation for older adults, offers the following tips for downsizing and de-stressing your move, suggestions that also may be applied to others who are starting the downsizing process:

10.

Start early – end happy: Begin by focusing on typical problem areas such as the attic, basement, garage, closets and file cabinets.

Get generous: Now is the time to make arrangements to gift some of your belongings to special people in your life, charities and churches.

8. 7.

Save your memories: Consider ways to preserve family photos and stories.

Use it up – don’t move it out: Plan to use as many canned goods, frozen foods and paper products as you can before moving.

Recycle the toxins: Put together a box or two of household, yard and automotive cleaning products as well as paint which are considered to be hazardous.

Don’t lose touch: Create a list of people, places and utilities/services that need to be notified of your change of address.

Plan your space ahead of time: A floor plan will help you determine the pieces of furniture that will fit into your new home.

Pack a survival bag: Put together a bag for moving day including things such as personal need items, kitchen essentials, basic tools, cleaning supplies and payment for the mover.

Ask for help: Don’t be too proud or independent-minded to ask for help. And don’t wait until the last minute to do the asking.

New looks for books: Books take up lots of space and are heavy to move. Consider donations to libraries or sales to used bookstores.

Finally, once you accomplish your downsizing goal, you may find yourself faced with the question of what to do with the profits of the sale of your home. If you don’t already have one, it may be time to seek the services of a qualified financial advisor to help you determine how to best make your money work for you. Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 73

412.670.5496 crescentbathsandkitchens.com 412.782.3300

Dare to Dream...

A Quality Home

a Great Neighborhood

“Creating a home with the lifestyles of the clients in mind gives home buyers not just a house, but a vacation, making every turn into the driveway a peaceful retreat from the world” – Jeff Costa

www.premierdrywallservices.com 412.833.8131

74 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

www.cardellolighting.com 724.745.1541 / 724.742.9777

Visit our website and take our Costa HomeBuilders New Life™ Questionnaire

412.751.3388 www.84lumber.com / 724.938.6102

osta Homebuilders is a fourth generation, family-owned construction company based in Pittsburgh, PA. At Costa Homebuilders, our goal is simple: Provide our customers with the most positive experience possible throughout the building process. We are one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading building companies, and our clients receive the finest product at the greatest value possible.

Elegance Mastered

www.belskyltd@comcast.net 412.670.3471 / 412.760.9131 Adam Joe

Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go directly to our website.

Legendary Quality

Positive feedback and customer referrals have helped Costa Homebuilders achieve its solid reputation. We have built our reputation by making the process as worry-free as possible, and by using only the finest quality materials and craftsmanship.

Personal Design

Showroom: 600 Hayden Boulevard (Rt. 51), Elizabeth, PA 15037

www.CostaHomebuilders.com 412.384.8170

www.monriversupply.com 412.382.7178

Timeless Beauty

412.849.8225 www.pella.com Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com Matt Guido â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 724.448.5876

The Prudential Advantage Ranked “Highest in Satisfaction for Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms” Terry Abbott

Frank Conroy Florine Kelly

“Where we love is home, home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts.”

Lynn Banbury

Barbara Baker

Karen Coyle

Brian Colella

Brian & Karen Cummings Kristen Davoren

Bob Dini

Karen Frank

Wayne Freund

Maryellen Haddock

Kathy Hallberg

Liz Hoyson

Lori Maffeo

Elva Marotta

Bobbie Mikita

JoAnn Robb

Margaret Scharold

Michelle Schocker Ruth Weigers

Lu Ann Stewart

Judy Ward

Alison Wasler

– Oliver Wendell Holmes

Contact an agent above or visit

PrudentialPreferredRealty.com Discover how Prudential Preferred Realty’s exceptional knowledge, innovative marketing strategies, state-of-the-art technology and commitment to service can make buying a new home or selling your current home faster and easier.

412.833.7700 • Rt. 19 South 76 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

Join our real estate team at Prudential Preferred Realty. Call Mona Colicchie at 412-833-7700.

Eyes

The

ave you ever seen someone and said those are the most beautiful, hypnotic eyes I have ever seen? A person’s eyes are the focal point of their facial features and are often focused on by others during conversations or first meetings. For that reason, patients are very concerned about how their eyes appear to others. In this day and age with everyone wanting to look as lovely as they can, aesthetic eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can be beneficial to men and women at any age. How do I know if I need eyelid surgery? This is a common question that men and women alike ask me as well as themselves. Here is a good checklist reference for you. 1. Bags and dark circles under the eyes 2. Lower eyelid droopiness 3. Excessive and loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids, sometimes even obstructing vision

Have It!

4. A puffiness to the upper eyelids, making the eyes appear tired 5. Excess skin and fine crepe paper type wrinkles of the lower eyelids Eyelid surgery can usually correct these problems, but sometimes other treatments may also need to be considered. What we commonly refer to as “crow’s feet” lines may be smoothed out with Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Chemical Peels or Laser Resurfacing. Dark circles under the eyes that are caused by dark pigmentation may be treated with Hyaluonic Acid fillers, fat injections or sometimes chemical peeling. Often, if drooping upper eyelids is combined with sagging of the brows, an endoscopic brow lift may be the answer. When patients come in for a consultation for this type of surgery, I usually have them look in the mirror and tell me EXACTLY what they want to see improved. This will allow me to understand

their expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved. Patients should always come to their appointment ready to discuss their medical history. Especially important conditions with eye surgery are high blood pressure, diabetes and thyroid problems. Allergies are also something I need to know before performing this surgery. Eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, which means the patient can go home after their operation and time in the recovery room. With upper eyelid surgery, or Upper Blepharoplasty, the incision is generally hidden in the natural fold of the eyelid. With lower eyelid surgery, or Lower Blepharoplasty, the incision is usually hidden just below the lower lash line. As with other surgeries, I will advise you to stop smoking. The amount of recovery time varies among individuals. The first few days after surgery, you should rest quietly with your head elevated. Remember not to take aspirin or any anti inflammatory medications. These products tend to thin your blood, which can increase bruising and swelling with surgery. Bruising usually disappears within 7-10 days. Straining, bending and lifting should be avoided during the early post- operative period. But, in most cases, you will be able to resume most of your normal activities within 10 days or less. After you have aesthetic eyelid surgery, people may remark about how rested you look or think you have recently returned from a vacation. When you have eyelid surgery, the healing is a gradual process. Because of this, you will need to wait at least a few weeks to get an accurate picture of your results. Incisions will fade over several months, usually becoming barely visible. The results of this type of surgery are ordinarily long lasting. Removing fat from your eyelids, which is what typically causes the bags and puffiness, is permanent. Patients are normally delighted with their results and feel that they look much younger and refreshed. In today’s world, patients want to look the very best that they can, not only for themselves, but for the workplace. People are working later into their lives and want to have an edge in the competitive marketplace. In summary, eye surgery is not just for reasons of vanity, but can also aid in securing new jobs or advancing to that promotion.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 77

ANNIE’S Calling all hardcore

TRAIL RUNNERS! BY CHELSIE KOZERA Lace up your sneakers, fill up your water bottles, crank up the volume on your iPod because it’s racing season. Pittsburgh has plenty of road races to satisfy runners of all different levels: fun runs, 5Ks, 10Ks, and marathons. But some of the Steel City’s most long-winded athletes will be in Upper St. Clair July 14 for Annie’s Run. The 10th annual six-hour trail run begins at 6 a.m. on the Gilfillan Trail (across from Westminster Presbyterian Church) and ends at noon in the same location. Runners can choose to go for the whole six hours or join the race for any distance, as long as their legs can motor through. The race usually draws 30 to 40 participants each year and the top three men and women with the most mileage receive fruit pies for their effort. The record for men is 45 miles in six hours and for women it’s 40 miles. How far can you go?

78 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

RUN The entry fee for this ultra-run is a whopping $1 for members of Greater Pittsburgh Road Runners and $2 for nonmembers. Sam Bertenthal, an avid ultra-runner and race director, organizes this memorial run for his wife— Annie Humphreys—who was a running enthusiast for many years but lost her life to breast cancer three years ago. Annie’s Run is not for athletes wanting T-shirts, trophies, or medals; instead, it’s a day with you, the trail, and other passionate runners. For more information about Annie’s Run un in am at 412.854.5494. Upper St. Clair contact Sam

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 79

SUMMER happenings at

JACK GLOSS

Jack Gloss, 75, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Gloss has taught tennis to children in the district for 50 years. Jan Irwin, owner and Head Tennis Professional at USCTDP, credits Jack for her career start at teaching tennis 36 years ago. “Jack’s love for the game and for each child he taught was so evident. I could tell how rewarding teaching was for Jack. It inspired me to pursue the same

80 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

AUGIE GAROFOLI

USCTDP, Inc. was well represented at the Annual Allegheny Mountain District (AMD) Tennis Awards banquet.

philosophy. Thank you, Jack, for all the years of kind and sincere service. Looking forward to many more.” Augie Garofoli was named High School Coach of the Year. Augie is the Mt. Lebanon Boys Tennis Coach. Last year his team won the WPIAL title and went on to the State Championships. Augie also is the Section Representative on the WPIAL Steering Committee. He has been a valued employee at USCTDP since 1994. He teaches tennis full time and also is our tennis program coordinator. The Komer family received the Family of the Year award. Vida, Sara and Anna all actively participate in instruction at USCTDP. Sara and Vida Komer are both starters on the Peters Township Girls High School team. This team won the State Championship last year. All three are ranked players in Middle States and play in national tournaments. Also, congratulations to Olivia Warner—Ranked #1 in Girls 12’s and Under and Carly Campagna ranked #2 in Girls 14’s and Under. Both received the AMD awards.

USC TENNIS Development Program • LOOK for upcoming events and programming on our NEW WEBSITE: www.usctdp.com • Junior Tennis Camps and Champs High Performance • Match Play and Conditioning • Tennis Whizz and USCTDP Provide the Perfect Start! • Visit www.tenniswhizz.com

Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center

The USCTDP is delighted to announce it has become the latest venue for Tennis Whizz, a global Preschool Tennis Program where children and parents get on court and play together. “We are really excited to bring Tennis Whizz to our facility!” says Janice Irwin (Tennis Director). “It’s a great opportunity to get young kids and their parents on court having fun and getting active!” Described as a Fundamental Motor Skills Program delivered through Tennis, children learn the skills of running, jumping, throwing, catching and much more alongside the start of the basics of tennis. The fun “Adventure Story Approach,” which themes every lesson, even includes some “Set for School” skills helping with basic numeracy, literacy and reasoning.

Tennis Whizz Programs are being launched all across the globe in 2012. At USCTDP sessions are now being offered in the summer. For more information contact the office. • New TRX CARDIO TENNIS – visit www.trxtraining.com or go to our website for the links. • Cardio Tennis adults and juniors – visit www.cardiotennis.com or go to our website for the links. • 10 and under program – visit www.10andundertennis.com or go to our website for the links. • 10 and under Play Days – visit www.usctdp.com. • USTA Junior Sanctioned tournament at USC Tennis Facility July 30 – August 2, 2012. Boys and Girls Singles 12’s, 14’s, 16’s and 18’s.

We Have

That ! Giant Eagle Hibachi Japan Lifestyle Health

K Louise Hunan Inn Love Nails

TJ Maxx Pat’s Hallmark GNC

Anytime Fitness Tuesday Morning Green with Ivy

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

Peck Travel

PA Wine & Spirits

Route 19 & McMurray Roads donaldsonscrossroads.com

Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 81

NO joke

Just seriously good car insurance.

Building on your vision, exceeding every expectation. New Homes Additions & Renovations Distinctive Kitchens & Baths Planning & Design www.prime1builders.com 412.257.0160

MEMBER

Pa. Reg #345

82 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

earing its 50th year in business is Treasure Hunt, one of our region’s most reputable buyers and sellers of gold, silver, and rare coins. With gold prices near all-time highs, people are realizing that there has never been a better time to sell their unwanted or outdated jewelry. The modus operandi of its founder was, and continues through his son to be, honesty, integrity, and exceptional customer service. It is this philosophy that has steered Treasure Hunt to its leadership role in the gold buying industry. Treasure Hunt has always been a family business. With the help of his wife, Barbara Rotheram Meredith, John Robert Meredith founded Coins Inc. in 1963 as a dealer in rare coins and precious metals. It all started with one leased department in Gimbels Department Store, which then grew into six. When Gimbels closed in 1986, Mr. Meredith moved the business to Kaufmann’s Department Store with great success. Following John Robert Meredith’s passing in 1995, his son John Rotheram Meredith purchased the company and moved the base of operations to suburban Mount Lebanon under the name Treasure Hunt. With the assistance of his sister, vice president Jeannette Meredith Dodd, Meredith expanded from the South Hills into Cranberry, Monroeville, Irwin, Allison Park, Latrobe, Belle Vernon, Indiana, and most recently McKnight Road in Ross Township. Each branch is staffed and managed by family and close friends. In 2002, an ounce of gold was worth less than $300. Now, ten years later, that same

Treasure Hunt Approaches Golden Anniversary By Rob Benhart & Elisa Merrell Kobistek

ounce of gold is worth over $1,600. It is a very opportune time to liquidate your precious metals, but sellers should beware of companies that offer coupons, or other gimmicks to get you in the door. Treasure Hunt is in the practice of offering the highest possible amount right from the start, no need to negotiate. John Meredith says, “Our happiest customers are the people who have shopped around, then come to Treasure Hunt. Our high payouts are oftentimes shocking next to the offers of our competitors. It is our slogan because we truly do hear it every day: ‘You really do pay the most!’” By now many people are aware of Treasure Hunt's reputation for paying the highest prices for gold and silver, but the retail side of the business is nothing to overlook! True to its roots, Treasure Hunt devotes an entire section to its vast offerings of rare United States coins and currency. The South Hills location also offers an extensive jewelry selection composed by gemologist Debbie DeChicchis, featuring a beautiful array of gold, silver, and platinum studded with diamonds and other gemstones. The jewelry boasts some of the most beautiful pieces of estate jewelry you have ever seen, as well as gorgeous new and designer pieces. All of the estate jewelry has been professionally cleaned, polished, and inspected by a master bench jeweler, and their special order process is a simple one. Their knowledgeable and patient staff recognizes that jewelry purchases are often a very big decision, especially when it comes to bridal and engagement rings, and they will take the time to help find that perfect piece at an incredible price! This truly is a unique shopping experience - unparalleled by any other! Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 83

South Hills Keystone Chorus

Dr. Lori A. Howard Board Certified Doctor of Audiology

Dr. Laura Di Pasquale-Gregory Board Certified Doctor of Audiology

Pittsburgh Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Inc. Doctors of Audiology

• Doctors of Audiology • Over 10 Major Hearing Aid Brands • Advanced Digital Technology • Risk-Free Trial Periods • LIFETIME FREE BATTERIES*

• Interest-Free Financing • Senior Citizen Discounts • Repair & Service All Makes • Approved Insurance Providers • LIFETIME FREE CLEANINGS *Some exclusions may apply.

Mt. Lebanon Office

Hill Medical Bldg. 412.279.2181 Bower 1145 Bower Hill Rd. www.pghaudiology.com

Suite 102

5 Convenient Locations

Serving Pittsburgh for Over 60 Years! Most Insurances Accepted

84 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

Stays I

t had been nearly 40 years since Keith Apelgren had sung in a group of organized singers. In 1974, he had been a part of the Medical School Chorus—a co-ed group of singers at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Medical School—and ever since, he had always wanted to sing publicly again. Within the last year, the retired general surgeon decided it was time; he had to dust off the pipes and croon again, and so he started looking for groups to join. After moving to Upper Saint Clair several months ago, Apelgren began searching online for barbershop quartet groups, and found there were six of them in the Pittsburgh region. He thought the South Hills Keystone Chorus would be a good fit for him because of its long history and proximity to his home, so he emailed the group and never heard back from them. Then he called them and got in contact with the group’s president, Stan Kleja, who gave him a ride to a SHKC rehearsal. After attending some rehearsals as a visiting singer, six months ago Apelgren, 64, decided to join the South Hills Keystone Chorus. A South Hills tradition since it was founded in 1958, SHKC has 26 members, many of whom are retired men. The youngest member of the noncompetitive singing group is 22-year-old Washington & Jefferson College voice major student Brandon Rauch, whom Apelgren sings next to. “He’s good,” Apelgren said of Rauch. “I have to stay on top of it, standing next to him.” While barbershop quartet might seem like a specialized style of singing, anyone, regardless of singing skill or an inability to read musical notes, can join the group. Members need not come from the

Tune

By Jonathan Barnes

South Hills either, though most of them do. “You don’t need a great voice or know how to read music. You don’t even have to sing in tune—but don’t sing too loud, if you don’t,” Apelgren said. Apelgren said he is an example of a singer who missed many of the notes when he started with the chorus—as much as 40 percent of the notes—but he has learned from more skilled singers in the group how to carry a tune better. Now, he misses just 15 percent of the notes sung in the a capella singing group. Anyone can pick it up, he said. “If you sing with the group long enough, you’re going to sing in tune. Most people can learn to sing in tune,” said Apelgren, who is chairman of SHKC’s Public Relations committee. South Hills Keystone Chorus rehearses weekly from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. or so on Tuesdays at Hamilton Presbyterian Church, along Hamilton Road in Bethel Park. Rehearsals start with a group practice of all of the members singing songs they will be performing. Next, the group breaks for refreshments like cookies and coffee, followed possibly by a brief business meeting during which upcoming performances and other matters are discussed. Finally, quartets of men stand up in front of the group and sing different barbershop arrangements, and are cheered on by their friends. Dues for South Hills Keystone Chorus, which is part of the national Barbershop Harmony Society, are $140 per year. Most of the fee goes to cover the singer’s membership in the national society. The benefits are enjoyed immediately by any member, as he experiences the joy of singing with others in rehearsals and performances at nursing homes, art galleries, as singing Valentines on Valentine’s Day, and elsewhere. Apelgren said he enjoys the group because of the feeling he gets from it. “It makes me feel good. Somebody said, ‘When was the last time you saw somebody who was mad singing?’ Singing raises your spirits,” Apelgren said. The Barbershop Harmony Society’s international convention will be held in Pittsburgh in 2014. Of the group’s 20,000 members, many of whom sing in competitive barbershop groups, about 3,000 are expected to attend the gathering. South Hills Keystone Chorus is one of 57 chapters in the society’s Johnny Appleseed District, which includes groups from Ohio, parts of West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania, and one from Kentucky. SHKC’s members wear gold shirts, black ties and black pants in keeping with Pittsburgh sports protocol. The group is the Rome Apple division of the Johnny Appleseed District. Joining the group is as simple as showing an interest and getting involved. South Hills Keystone Chorus has a visitors program, wherein visitors who show up for rehearsal are given a visitor’s book of tunes and are helped by members to determine which singing part—tenor, lead, baritone or bass—is best for them. A visitor can come to four or six practices and decide whether he wants to join, though there is no

pressure from members for him to do so. Those who are interested in possibly joining SHKC can simply attend one of the group’s rehearsals. Or, a prospective member can contact Apelgren or Kleja, who will give him a ride to rehearsal if the would-be member lives in the South Hills.

For more information or to join South Hills Keystone Chorus, call Stan Kleja at 412.220.8108, call Keith Apelgren at 517.290.7721 or email him at apelgrenk@gmail.com.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 85

HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION

he front porch may rank near the bottom on the list of favorite rooms that people mention when talking about their homes, but it ranks near the top in terms of importance. Considered a home’s “welcome mat,” the front porch offers a home’s first – and oftentimes only – impression to family, friends, and passersby. The friendlier it looks, the more appealing the home. So how can you dress up your front porch so that it contributes to the charm of your neighborhood, or, if a front porch is still just a dream, how can you add to your house but stay within budget? If your goal is to add a front porch onto your home, you may first want to take a good look at the front of your home and plan a porch that matches your home’s style. Think about whether you want the porch area to be a simple transition into your home, or whether you want to create an entirely new living space. Also, determine how much space you will have to dedicate to a front porch area. If it’s a small, transitional area, you may not be able to give the area a complete overhaul, but rather enhance the space that is already there with

86 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

charming accents. When it comes time to decorate the front porch, consider what room the porch leads to within the house. If it leads to a traditional living or dining room, for example, you likely will not want to decorate the porch in a tropical theme. Also, choose a type of paint for the front door that contains a high gloss and a color that will be noticeable. Consider changing the hardware as well. Go for house numbers that appear strong and bold, which could give your entire exterior a new look, and add a door knocker for a touch of elegance. Before adding furniture to a roomier porch, make sure to attend to the paint on the sides and floor. Repair any paint that is peeling and add a fresh coat to the sides and floor first. And when adding the furniture, look for a piece such as a loveseat that can hold two people, and an ottoman that can double as storage space. The largest piece of furniture should face outward, with smaller pieces surrounding it. Artwork that is made to handle the elements of the outdoors can add attention and attractiveness if hung above the sitting area, and look for rugs and pillows that can finish off

By Heather Holtschlag

the space. Blinds or curtains can help prevent sun damage to the furniture and artwork, and can be of aid when people are sitting there. One final note to keep in mind when designing and decorating your porch is to decorate for the seasons. Add pumpkin dĂŠcor during Halloween or floral accents during the spring and summer. A harvest wreath in the fall and an evergreen wreath in the winter also can add to the beauty of the season.

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 87

OUTDOOR KITCHENS What to Think About when Considering an Outdoor Addition:

Q. We would like to create an outdoor

kitchen area behind our house. What is the first step in creating an outdoor kitchen? Are these worth the money in our cold weather climate?

A. Americans are spending more than

ever on outdoor living spaces. This trend is certainly true here locally. As is the case indoors, the outdoor kitchen is usually the central hub of your outdoor living space. An “outdoor kitchen” is usually defined as containing at least one good quality cooking appliance like a grill, some countertop space and a sink. Planning and design are critical. Consider the following:

1. Start with a master plan:

I recommend hiring a professional landscape designer to develop an overall

“master plan” of your backyard. While you may not construct all improvements at once, the master plan allows you to phase in projects as your budget allows. The designer will know how to orient the outdoor kitchen in relation to other outdoor features like decks, landscaping, firepits and water features.

2. Location:

Many factors need to be considered. How much privacy do you want? How far do you want to walk from the main house to the outdoor kitchen? Consider the amount of sun and shade. You don’t want your family and guests blinded by the setting sun. Also, plan for how to deal with wind direction and the effect on ventilation and smoke from the grill. Remember that most local governmental agencies require you to secure a building permit for an outdoor kitchen.

3. Cold temperature challenges:

An outdoor kitchen presents some challenges. Provisions for winterizing the kitchen must be thought of during the design phase. Plumbing drains can freeze during the winter and supply lines need to be drained. Most appliance manufacturers are now introducing appliances that are UL-rated for outdoor use. Propane powered patio heaters or electric infrared heaters can comfortably extend your time outside through the winter.

This Industry Insight was written by Jeff Morris, owner and CEO of Case Handyman & Remodeling, located at 2335 Washington Rd. in Canonsburg, PA. Case offers a variety of home repair services, from full-house remodeling to simple handyman jobs. For more information, visit www.caseremodeling.com or call 724.745.9888.

88 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION

By Heather Holtschlag

hether your house is older and had a library already constructed when you moved in or you have plans to construct the library of your dreams in your new home, one thing is for sure: home libraries are no longer just a room of the past.

Liven up the room a bit with a touch of decoration. Adding uniquely handcrafted books and various other items, as well as some colorful paint, can make an otherwise dull-looking room look warm and inviting and encourage individuals to sit and relax with one of their books.

When planning new construction of a library, it is important to plan ahead and determine what the purpose of the room will be and what items, beyond books, would be displayed. There are several different library styles to choose from, depending on the overall appeal of the room.

Mixing these two styles also can create an interesting room. If choosing this option, be sure to separate the rare collectibles from the items that do not hold much worth in value, using separate pieces of furniture to display each type of item.

A library that is to be used for simple display purposes only often contains unique, rare and first-edition books and artifacts to showcase. These are items that are primarily only for display purposes and not actually used for anything, as such items are irreplaceable. Because of the valuable possessions contained in this room, it should also include some type of security measures to protect the displays. And, because of the rarity of the books, this type of library may be best suited for people who already own the books, as it will be hard to find them to purchase.

Take time to consider the room that you will use as the library and where that room is located in the house. A room with lots of light and windows can be inviting, but also can wreak havoc on the books. The basement, on the other hand, may be at risk for flooding which could be problematic for storage.

to alphabetize the books, or go by the Dewey Decimal System whereby each category of books is assigned a number. The furniture that will be housed in the library can range from freestanding bookshelves to built-in, or recessed, bookshelves that run from floor to ceiling, or glass cases. Depending on the height of the shelves and the growing number of books you plan to maintain, a wall ladder may serve a useful purpose as well. Coffee tables, framed pictures and desks might also go well in the library and will create opportunities to store other items. Large comfortable sofas and pillows can serve as the invitation to come and browse and sit with a book.

In addition, determine a classification system for the books so that you will be able to easily find what you are looking for. You may choose

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 89

HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION

By Heather Holtschlag

ome women are notorious for taking up space—closet space, kitchen space and bedroom space can overflow with shoes, clothes, jewelry and general knick knacks. And, especially if the woman’s space is spread throughout the entire house, her man might just need one room to call his own: a “Man Cave.” The idea of a Man Cave is definitely not a new one, and may have been referred to by different names, such as “The Boys Club,” a “Mantuary,” or a retreat. The concept has been around for years and

has been marked by random surges in popularity, the most recent being just a few years ago when TV shows such as “Man Caves” began appearing. Although the purpose of a Man Cave has changed from its initial appearance hundreds of years ago, the basic concept remains the same: a place for men to go to escape the routine domesticities of everyday life. A Man Cave can be any room in the house—the garage, an attic or even an extra bedroom—designed and decorated to a man’s tastes, and can incorporate

Persian & Oriental Rug Gallery has been helping to make homes, offices and businesses more beautiful for 36 years. The gallery offers rugs from Persia, Pakistan, India and China, although the majority of the floor coverings are from Persia. Owner, Iraj Chiani was at one time the only oriental rug outlet in the South Hills area. Although there are other stores now, Chiani’s rugs are of superior quality and design. “He offers one of widest selection of rugs in the Pittsburgh area,” he explains. Located at 91 Central Square, the rug gallery occupies the upstairs space with the popular restaurant Bistro 19 located downstairs. Chiani hopes to find a downstairs location soon, but is committed to remaining in Mt. Lebanon. The Persian & Oriental Rug Gallery is open Monday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and other times by appointment. For more information, please call the gallery at 412.563.1212.

90 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

a specific theme such as sports, cars or guitars and other musical instruments. In some homes, the purpose of a Man Cave may be to provide some space to the man where he can relax and unwind and feel more at home in a house that often consists of female-driven décor and accessories. In other houses, a Man Cave might be a place where a sign is hung that states “No Girls Allowed,” or a place where he can hang out with his buddies and not feel like he needs to impress anyone. Studies have shown that when a man has a place to call his own within the home, there is increased marital harmony and decreased marital stress. Because these rooms are designed to meet each man’s own personal taste, every Man Cave is different. He may choose to stock his room with nice furniture, a big screen television, a bar or even game accessories such as a pool table, pinball machine, or dart board. Other popular must-haves are billiard lights over the pool table and a free-standing beer tap in place of a fully stocked bar. If price is no object, the man may want to get the best of everything – from quality made bar stools and bar to the finest glassware. He may even choose to adorn the walls with various video games or hang guitars. He can display his team spirit by hanging wall decals of his favorite team’s logo throughout the room, or even on the pool table, a set of cues, or glassware. In addition, he can buy pillows, rugs, lamps and other furniture to match, making his Man Cave the perfect place to watch the game. Any room, no matter the size or shape, can be transformed into the Man Cave of his dreams. All it takes is a bit of thought and creativity…and maybe a favorite football game.

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

Make this Home Yours!

Located within a short distance from Clair Park, this 3 bedroom 2 and half bath stone ranch is an absolute move-in ready gem. Enjoy an open floor plan including hardwood floors, sharply styled kitchen and cathedral ceiling room perfect for use as den, family room or art studio. Fully finished basement provides additional entertaining space. Please contact us for more information!

Uniquely Designed Gas Firepits, Simply Beautiful Patio Furniture,

Here to Stay and Made to Last!

w w w . f I r e p a t I o . c o m

South Hills 1651 McFarland Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15216 412-343-5157

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 91

Business Directory

gaussa law ad:Layout 1

1/27/12

92 724.942.0940 to advertise |

12:00 PM

Upper St. Clair

Page 1

Business Directory www.specialty-woodworking.com

Specialty Woodworking Custom Built-Ins â&#x20AC;˘ Entertainment Centers Home and Office...If You Can Dream It, We Can Build It. 5338 Enterprise Blvd. Bethel Park, PA 15102

412-831-5658

Fax: 412-831-5657

Tony Silvester Master Craftsman

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 93

Business Directory Voice and Piano Lessons

ages five and up

Elissa Winkler, Director Now offering: musical theater classes!

For Elementary, Middle and High School

R Reeggiisstteerr ffoorr SSuum mm meerr aanndd FFaalll 22001122!!

w w w m m for more information, visit w ww ww w...bbbeeettthhheeelllpppaaarrrkkkm muuusssiiiccc...cccooom m Less than a mile from McMurray and Clifton Roads

412.370.1423

elissawinkler@gmail.com

Moving?

We can help you find your perfect place. Let us help you and help the homeless.

Todd Shields Business: (724) 941-1024 Cell: (724) 344-9018 Email: toddsasphalt@comcast.net

132 Lake Colony Drive Venetia, Pennsylvania 15367

www.TODDSASPHALT.com

Do you rely on public transportation?

Yes

19%

73% 7%

94 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 95

SPECIAL VALUES

OFFERING A LARGE SELECTION OF WIGS & HAIR PIECES FOR FASHION, FUN, THINNING HAIR OR MEDICAL HAIR LOSS WIG SERVICES

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

• PERSONALIZED WIG SERVICES • SPECIALIZED CUTTING • INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION • SERVICING ALL WIGS AND HAIR PIECES NO ALTERATIONS ON SALE ITEMS

96 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Upper St. Clair

SALE ALL WIGS & HAIRPIECES

WIG SALON UP TO 75% OFF WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

CALL FOR APPT

SPECIAL VALUES U

HAIR DESIGN

Community Magazines

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PITTSbURGh, PA PERMIT NO. 887

FULL PAGE HOUSE_Layout 1 2/3/12 12:42 PM Page 1 603 East McMurray Road McMurray I PA I 15317 724.942.0940 www.incommunitymagazines.com

| IN BEDFORD COUNTY |

IN Community Magazines:

UPPER ST. CLAIR |

With ads starting at less than direct mail remains the single

per household, local businesses agree that most cost-effective method of advertising.

Find out how our 36 direct-mailed, community-sponsored, quarterly magazines can grow your business.

724.942.0940