IN Upper St. Clair by IN Community Magazines

Complete Family Care a satellite office of Claysville Family Practice

Comprehensive Friendly Progressive Special Care by Special People J a y M . Zie gle r, M.D. Fr e d e r i c k J . La nde nwitsch, M .D. J a n i n e K. Rihm la nd, M .D. J o h n D . Six , M.D. A b i ga i l Te m ple to n, M .D. El i z a b e th O shno ck , D.O. W i l m a D. Gro e the , CRN P

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4000 Waterdam Plaza, Suite 280 McMurray, PA 15317

724-260-0830 Call us today!

www.claysvillefamilypractice.com 2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

Contents Upper St. Clair | WINTER 2010 |

W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

43 Publisher’s Message FEATURES |

6 |

page 2

Falls Are No Laughing Matter

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make New UPMC Rehab Institute President

page 4

Be Happy and Healthy this Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills

By Dolores Y. Payne, M.A., CCC-A, Audiologist | 51 | | | | |

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS |

| ON THE COVER |

CS Kim | 25 LaValle Metabolic Institute | 51 Saint Louise de Marillac Church in Upper St Clair Known as the “Pilgrim Church” The Tabernacle, pictured on the cover, is located between the alter of Sacrifice in the Sanctuary and the alter in the Eucharistic Chapel. The mid-point at which the Tabernacle is located is said to be a “dignified place convenient to the pilgrim people.” The Tabernacle, symbolizes God’s presence in our midst. The original church was built in 1963, realizing the former land owners dream that a Catholic Church would be built on the land. Mrs. Walter Baldesberger owned the enormous Baldesberger estate that is now the site of St. Louise de Marillac Church. Eventually a much larger building was needed, so the original architect was brought back to design and build the new church. The new church was opened in 1981.

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it. Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Welcome to our winter issue! At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking that journey with us that was 2010. This year was one full of blessings for Community Magazines, as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, and with great success. For that, I would like to thank my staff. I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazine what it is—you, our readers, and our advertisers. Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support of Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed. So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know, and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2011 has to offer! Wayne Dollard Publisher As the holiday season approaches, I hope you’ll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of Upper St. Clair. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don’t forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the Upper St. Clair community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope your holiday will be filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you’re surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.

Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matters somehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you —TA Baron 4 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

pper St. Clair WINTER 2010 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. PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

www.incommunitymagazines.com 1 Spring Issue Deadline: Feb. 3, 2011

The Best Gifts for this Holiday Season: Health

and

Wellness

By Integrated Fitness, Written by Jim Crowell, with Josh Bobrowsky

his holiday season there will be many gifts, both big and small. Kids will yearn for toys or games while adults will wish for jewelry and electronics. However, few wish lists will include “weight loss” or “a healthier lifestyle.” Often thoughts of fitness are pushed back until New Year’s and then soon forgotten. How about this holiday season you give and ask for the gift that actually keeps on giving: health and wellness. You may ask, “how in the world can I tangibly give or receive health and wellness this year?” It isn’t about a big package or a pretty wrap job, it’s about real changes to your life. They will certainly beworth it! Here are ten tips to give you and your family the best chance to get into amazing shape: 1 Support Each Other and Provide a Positive Environment: Have you tried to lose weight without anybody’s support before? It’s extremely difficult. In today’s world of excess and dangerous processed food and beverages, it can be almost impossible to eat and workout properly without a support system. Speak to your spouse or your parents and get them on board so that they can help you remain positive throughout your health journey. If you are trying to help your children get healthier, be a great example for them to see everyday. 2 Set Real and Tangible Goals: How many times have you set a goal that had no discernable plan or ending? You need to set both short- and long-term goals but they need to be goals that you can know with exact certainty that you have accomplished. Rather than saying “I’m going to get in shape this year,” you should change your cue and say “By June I’m going to lose 20 pounds and 10% body fat.” Tangible goals will help you stay on track and motivate you during those difficult time periods. 3 Understand that Being Healthy is a Lifestyle, Not a Wish: If you want to make real changes, you need to take it seriously. It takes a combination of physical activity, nutrition, proper sleep, and stress management. Luckily those things don’t have to consume your life for you to be healthy, but you need to make positive changes in multiple areas of your life in order to see positive changes in your body and mind. 4 Focus on the Types of Food that You Eat, Rather than Calories: While cutting calories

can result in a short-term weight loss, eating healthy foods can result in sustained weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. Instead of eating a meal of holiday candy and then starving yourself, have one piece of candy and then supplement with some fresh fruit or nuts. The more nutrient rich foods that you can incorporate into your diet, the more you will shed unwanted pounds and keep your body from developing a debilitating disease. 5 Be Aware of How Your Body Feels: Too many people go through life unaware of how they actually feel. To understand wellness is to understand how your body and mind feel. Do you feel energetic? Do you feel happy? Do you feel motivated? If you do not know the answers to those questions, then you need to take a little time to yourself and understand what is feeling great and what isn’t. When you begin to learn how you feel, you will learn when you need to make changes in your diet and workout routines in order feel even better. 6 Mix up Your Workouts: How many times have you thought “I’m so bored with my workouts?” You need to make sure that you are staying excited about your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. One of the most effective ways to keep motivated during your workouts is to try new things. Instead of jumping on the elliptical machine everyday for four months, why not try rowing one day, biking the next, and hiking the next? Changing your exercises not only keeps your body guessing, which is great for getting more fit, but it also keeps your mind excited, which helps you get to the gym on those tough days. 7 Challenge Yourself and Your Results Will Emerge More Quickly: Your body responds positively when you introduce new things to your repertoire. That idea holds true with intensity as well. If you workout hard, you can build strength faster. That strength helps to speed up your metabolism, which helps cut body fat. As you lose body fat you will feel

more energetic during the day as well as in your workouts. This process is how you get the physical results that you want, while adding additional mental toughness that will help you during work, school or your daily routine. 8 Smile. It Makes It That Much More Worth It. It is a simple equation: When you enjoy what you are doing, you will want to do it more. There is no set equation to get in shape or be healthier, so hunt for a strategy that makes you happy. Maybe you like being outdoors and eating organic, healthful foods. If so, go for it. Maybe you like lifting heavy weights and eating a great deal of protein. If so, go for it. You don’t need to run 10 miles a day or eat one exact way to earn your health. When you find a strategy that you like, go ahead and implement it, then enjoy the ride. 9 Know That It Is All a Decision: Your health boils down to one thing: YOU. Are you willing to work for it? There is a reason why fad diets don’t stick around very long. They don’t work. Either your weight loss isn’t sustainable or dangerous side effects develop. You need to eat a bit better and take care of your body a bit better to get healthy. Once you have made the decision, and made it for real, you will gain the energy and the will power to achieve your goals. 10 Remember Why You Want to Be Healthy: There are difficult times during any journey, and this journey to better your health is no different. When you feel like you may lose your way, or when you don’t have the motivation you usually have, take a second and remember what you are working toward. When you get healthy and learn how amazingly your mind and your body can feel, you will want that feeling all of the time. It is worth it. Your motivation loss is only a temporary phenomenon. So wait it out and come out even better on the other side. The holidays are about family and happiness. There is no better time to begin to make these positive changes to your mind and your body. You should begin to feel more energetic, sleep better, look better, and work better. Whether you give the gift to somebody else or give it to yourself, remind yourself that it’s worth it, and so are you. Cheers!

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

St. Louise de Marillac School International Race for

or the third consecutive year, St. Louise de Marillac School has combined fundraising and healthy competition for the students to fuel one of the largest fundraisers the school has each year. The Race for Education was developed in 2002 as a new and exciting way to raise money for St. Louise School. Since that time, and with the addition of Strive Fit Family Fit Zone into the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physical education program, we have seen large gains not only in fundraising, but also with the overall health and wellness for the students. This event is a celebration of our students and our school, while at the same time our goal of raising $65,000 will help to cover the operating costs of St. Louise School. While raising the money for the school, the students were also held accountable for many different aspects of fitness over the five weeks leading up to Race Day. Along with the current PE teacher, Strive Family Fit Zone donated the time and expertise of their trainers to help condition and educate the students to prepare for their upcoming race and also how to live a healthy lifestyle outside of school. The students would train each week on different aspects of

6 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

Education 2010

fitness that included distance running, flexibility, strength training, sprinting and core work. Along with their daily training session during PE classes, the students were encouraged to track their activity level outside of school. Students were given points based on how long they participated in each activity and if they included other members of their family. Points were also awarded for maintaining a healthy diet. On Race Day, the course was setup throughout the St. Louise School grounds. Grades K-3 ran one lap which equaled approximately 1 mile and grades 4-8 ran two laps for a distance of approximately 2 miles. As part of our celebration of One Nation Under God, each grade was given a country to represent throughout the 5-week program. Learning about their country was incorporated into the student’s curriculum as well as representing their country on Race Day. Imagine over 450 students pouring out of the school building at 12:30 p.m., warming up to run the race themselves, and to cheer on their fellow schoolmates. The atmosphere was electric as the first wave of students took the starting line and stayed that way until the very end of the day. The celebration continued the next day at the awards celebration, where students and parents enjoyed congratulating everyone for a race well run! St. Louise would like to thank everyone who participated in this year’s St. Louise International Race for Education. With the help of many parents, volunteers, corporate sponsors, and individual donors, the race was a huge success and everyone who participated had great time. If you would like to contribute to this great fundraiser, please make your check payable to “St. Louise de Marillac School” or visit www.stlouiseschoolpa.org to donate online! Thank you!!!

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

I HAVE FAMILY THERE

f someone had asked Upper St. Clair resident Janet Elders and Kathy Surma why in the world would they want to go on another mission trip to Nyadire, Zimbabwe, their immediate answer would be, “I just have to go. I have family there.” What family? Janet’s story began in 2006 on the first volunteer in mission trip to the United Methodist Mission in Nyadire. When her team returned, they were so attached to the people, the group decided to organize into THE NYADIRE CONNECTION (TNC.) Their goal is to keep services and programs operational at the Nyadire mission in Zimbabwe during these difficult times of unemployment, disease, and economic and political chaos. The mission is much like a college campus with a 240-bed hospital, nursing school, school system for 1,200 students, preschool through high school, orphanage, teachers’ college, church, and farm. These programs serve a wide rural population. TNC helps to keep a doctor at the hospital; sends medications, medical supplies, and containers of essential items, seeks sponsors for the orphanage and orphans in neighboring schools and rural pastors, and performs needed services when mission teams visit.

word meaning “to stop and help someone already at work.” Another way of explaining the concept is “community spirit.” The 2006 team members noted there were no pharmaceuticals on the shelves in the hospital, the children of the Home of Hope Orphanage (HOH) needed everything, and the orphanage building and program begged for attention. Much of the hospital’s equipment (autoclave, x-ray, and ultrasound) needed repair, fuel was scarce, and the remote clinics were in poor condition. The team got the feeling of “chabadza” when they constructed separate rooms in the student nurses’ dormitory alongside the Nyadire tradesmen.

When Janet returned to Nyadire the following summer, the pharmacy shelves were filled, and a new doctor with a “top up” salary to ensure his stay was installed at the hospital, thanks to The Nyadire Connection. The doctor, Kasombo Tshiani, shared with Janet the first priority of his Material Management Plan – a secure storage room – and asked her to bring the Janet’s subsequent mission trips mirror how proposal back to Pittsburgh and TNC. The The Nyadire Connection has supported the proposed room in the hospital was vast. mission over these past five years. The work Janet recalls the only thing in the room at is based on the idea of “working as that time were mattresses on the floor when partners, through “chabadza,” a Shona men slept. The men worked by day to pay

8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

their hospital bills by making bricks. Janet was determined to see that storeroom become a reality. The Nyadire Connection considered the proposal and agreed that the pharmaceuticals sent to Nyadire twice a year needed proper storage. So did the ocean containers sent by TNC and Brothers’ Brother filled with hospital and medical supplies and equipment, tires, books, bicycles,

The primary task of the April 2010 mission team was to distribute the boxes and equipment from the TNC container now housed in the hospital storeroom to the various departments and programs on the mission. The project involved the work of many people with the help of wheelbarrows, oxcarts and vehicles. Forty-five reconditioned computers purchased from Goodwill Industries were transported to the schools and programs all

“The children are my best memory. I can’t stop thinking of them. I want to be part of their lives.” clothing, textbooks, batteries, early childhood materials, and other essentials. But it would take two years to complete the project.

over the mission. Five found their way to a room near the hospital that would become the Internet café. Team member Dave Sevick is an Apple consultant who volunteers his expertise at Goodwill Industries to reconditioned Apple computers. Dave was able to set up all the computers despite the fact the power was off 70% of the time. He trained three persons on the workings of the computers in the Internet café and developed a business plan for their use.

In October 2009, at the time when the TNC trips to Nyadire were being scheduled for 2010, Janet realized that the TNC container that left Pittsburgh in November 2009 would be in Nyadire by April 2010 - the time of the first mission trip in 2010. Janet exclaimed, “I just had to make one more trip. I had to see that storage room finished.” Think of the satisfaction and “chabadza” on Janet’s face when she viewed the hospital storeroom. It was now divided into seven units for categories of materials, including maintenance supplies, hospital supplies, nonperishable food, hospital equipment, and office supplies, etc. The whole system was locked with an attendant on duty.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

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Upper St. Clair

Photo by Joanna Fassinger

Many boxes of books were moved from the storage area to the Nyadire Community Library, unpacked, and cataloged. Half Price Books donated about 4,000 of these books, so shelving became a problem. The books were grouped into broad subject categories, and many had to be re-boxed and labeled in hopes of a future expansion of the library. Aaron Cannon of North Carolina and son of team leader, Sara Dickey, helped with yet another project – finishing the harvest of maize (and the staple food similar to corn) from the Home of Hope plot on the Nyadire farm. In an effort to be self-sustaining in food needs, the HOH administrator started planting maize and vegetables near the orphanage and on the larger plot on the underutilized mission farm. The HOH children are learning about gardening and also about tending goats, rabbits, and chickens whose pens are also on the HOH grounds. That HOH administrator, Emmanuel Chiimba, was hired as the administrator to manage the children, the caregivers, and the day-to-day operations of the orphanage during Janet’s 2007 mission trip. Also, by summer 2007, children of the HOH orphanage had sponsors who paid for the children’s upkeep, medical expenses, and school fees. During that visit. Emmanuel and others came to Mary Beth Zollars and Janet with another great need – the many orphans in neighboring schools who were not in school because they had no means to pay the school fees. Orphans in Zimbabwe, and one-fourth of the country’s children are orphans, are usually cared for by extended families or are on their own, and they even care for younger siblings. Realizing this need, Mary Beth and Janet took photos of the 200 most vulnerable orphans in hopes of obtaining sponsoring to pay school fees and provide a backpack of school supplies. This was the genesis of the Home of Hope Outreach School Sponsorship Program (HOHO) that many have generously supported. HOHO sponsors pay $60 to pay an orphan’s school fees for a year and send a backpack of school supplies. Five hundred orphans were photographed in five rural schools neighboring Nyadire identified during this summer, so the need for sponsors has increased. Education is important to Zimbabweans. The children ache to go to school, respect their teachers, and know that education is their only way to a better life. In better times, the literacy rate in the country was 90%. For more information about the HOHO program, contact Mary Beth Zollars at mbzollars@aol.com. 2010 team member, Kathy Surma, who is a retired dental hygienist, was literally and emotionally “grabbed by the children of the Home of Hope Orphanage.” She knew all 24

of the children and took every opportunity to spend one-onone time with them, playing cards, reading to them, holding them. Kathy used her dental expertise to organize and update the dental department (the mission does not have a dentist at this time) and to repair some dental equipment. Kathy prayed they could fix the compressor in time to clean the teeth of the HOH children, and her prayers were answered. Without whimper or protest, the children sat for the first time in the dental chair for their teeth cleaning, which speaks to the trust and relationship between Kathy and the children. Kathy also visited the neighboring rural schools and helped to take updated photos of the orphans who were hoping for a sponsor to allow them to attend school through the Home of Hope Outreach School Sponsorship Program (HOHO.) Now that the hospital storeroom project is completed, one could ask Janet Elders this question: “Why would you want to go back to Zimbabwe yet another time?” She will answer without hesitation: “I have family there. There’s Dr. Tshiani, the nurses who take care of us, cook for us, and make sure we are comfortable. There is Rev. Julius Tsiga, hospital chaplain, and his wife, Joyce, who is the matron of the hospital, and many more. They are my Nyadire family," says Kathy. “I can’t stop thinking of them. I want to be part of their lives.” For more information about The Nyadire Connection (TNC), visit www.nyadire.org

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

Good Tidings for the Greatest Generation

Older Adults in Upper St. Clair

Tax Planning for The New Year by Jamie Ward

mericans filing federal returns can expect year-end tax planning to be a bit more complicated this time around because we don’t know what the tax rates will be for 2011 just yet. The current rates, known as the “Bush tax cuts” from 2001, are due to expire on Dec 31 of this year. So when the new rates get passed, taxpayers won’t have a whole lot of time to plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vice president at Bill Few Associates says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared. “For this year,” says Marzina, “I think its very important that people be paying attention to what happens in the political spectrum in terms of tax rates for the new year and to make sure you have your advisers lined up so when rates are set, you don’t wait.” Each year, an individual is allowed to give a financial gift of up to $13,000 to any or as many individuals as they want to without being subject to a gift tax. If you give beyond this, you must fill out a gift tax return, which goes against the unified credit amount that they are allowed to give at their death. Right now, this is not determined. So you could give gifts of up to $13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not pay a tax on it. According to the IRS, You can’t deduct the value of gifts on your income tax return unless 12 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

they are left to a charitable organization. Federal estate taxes may have been repealed for 2010, but they are set to return on January 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% on estates valued at more than $1 million. In 2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax on estates in excess of $3.5 million, and all assets got a “step-up” in basis when someone died. This meant that no tax would have to be paid on appreciated assets like stock and real estate. But under new laws all assets inherited may be subject to the capital gains tax. If the current administration’s proposal to allow rates to expire and return to 2009’s rate, the “step-up” in basis will return. Another proposal is to have most of the current brackets stay but raise tax rates of the highest bracket, and taxes on dividends and capital gains jump from 15% to 20%. The Republican proposal is to extend current tax rates for a period of 2 years and cap dividends and capital gains at 15%. Marzina says that the question many people are asking is, if you have assets that have significant capital gains built in, should you accelerate taxes and sell those assets in 2010 to ensure 15% tax rate, instead of waiting for 2011 and having the rate jump to 20%? The problem here is that taxpayers won’t have a lot of time to make these decisions.

Upper St. Clair

According to Marzina, if the new tax laws are in place by Dec 1, there will only be a 30-day window to make any decisions this year. So the

best thing to do is make those decisions as quickly as possible. “Death and taxes are certain, and we certainly want to live longer and pay less in taxes. Taking advantage of presumably lower capital gains rates in 2010 as well as shifting IRA funds to a Roth by the end of this year will undoubtedly benefit some,” says Phil Henry of Henry Wealth Management. “As always, a client should ensure he/she is getting sound financial, tax- and estate-planning advice, and that the advisors work in concert.”

How to Prevent Injury this Winter

by Jamie Ward

SeniorAgencies Chabad of the South Hills 1701 McFarland Road Pittsburgh, PA 15216 www.chabadsh.com 412.341.1494

ith the winter months approaching, it’s time to put away the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the

jackets. It’s also time to start thinking about safety. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1

in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It’s the number one cause of injury related deaths. So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving to Florida is out of the question), it’s a good idea to review some tips on keeping yourself safe this winter: • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather. • Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways. • Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it.

Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh 345 Kane Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15243 412.278.1975, ext. 208 dgarfinkel@jccpgh.org www.jccpgh.org

local public transportation (buses, trolleys and rapidtransit lines). Participants must obtain identification cards, which are available free of charge, from participating transportation providers. Call 412.442.2000 for the location nearest to you.

ACCESS 65 Plus and ACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984 ACCESS is door-to-door, advance reservation, shared-ride transportation Transportation For provided throughout Port Older Adults Authority’s service area. There are several agencies It serves primarily senior that offer free or reduced citizens and persons with rate transportation services disabilities. There are no to individuals who qualify. restrictions on the purpose or number of trips which Medical Assistance may be taken by riders, Transportation Program except that riders are (MATP) required to share their 1.888.547.6287 vehicle with others Provides non-emergency traveling in the same medical transportation to direction and at the residents of Allegheny same time. County who have a valid Older Persons Transportation Transportation for medical appointments, grocery shopping, senior center activities and other needs throughout Allegheny County is available to adults 60 years of age and older who live in Allegheny County. Call SeniorLine at 412.350.5460.

• If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling. And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around your home are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. If needed, ask a family

Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Medical Assistance Card. Free Bus Pass for Senior Citizens The Port Authority allows Allegheny County residents, 65 years of age and older, to ride free on

Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults? We would be happy to post your contact information. Contact Marybeth@incommunity magazines.com with your center’s name and phone number.

member or neighbor to help you. Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

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Upper St. Clair

Academically Speaking what’s going on at

Our Lady of Grace School

A Foundation in Gospel Values, Service to the Community, and Academic Excellence. 1734 Bower Hill Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15243 • 412.279.6611 www.olgscott.net

Mark Your Calendar: January 24, 2011: Kindergarten Experience Day 2011 for families interested in kindergarten for the fall. January 30, 2011: Open House 1-3 p.m. for anyone interested in enrolling in pre-school or k-8. February 17, 2011: Registration Evening 7 p.m. Students learn about explorers during social studies using an interactive whiteboard.

Snack time enjoyed in the “Castle Room.”

March 3, 2011: Registration Evening 7 p.m. Tours: Thursday at 9:30 a.m. or by appointment Students in computer lab practice Excel spreadsheets.

Pre-school learns about pumpkins and how we grow.

5th graders learn firsthand how whales stay warm in cold water.

8th graders learn and construct molecules in the school’s science lab.

Students enjoy games of basketball and other instructional games during bi-weekly physical education classes in OLG’s full-size gym.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

n cardi exercisesKeeping the Most Important Muscle Fit

hen it comes to exercise, it’s hard to break through the hype and advertising ploys for the newest and best cardio machine or workout. However, the best cardio workout depends on engaging the heart through a multitude of levels and workloads, said Dan Griffin, general manager of Oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, who is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine, said people are becoming more educated when it comes to their cardio workout. “People understand you do not have to do long, slow distance exercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studies are showing now that low-intensity heart maintenance levels are just as efficient for calorie burn. Middle heart rates – the

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kind of exercises where you can talk to your neighbor, but can’t recite the Gettysburg Address – those work well also,” Griffin said. “The higher heart levels have a whole different physiological response and work on different parts of your body. Some who do a little bit of exercise in all three ranges lose weight quicker, and it doesn’t take more time. You take those 30-40 minutes you usually dedicate to your workout and break it up.” Griffin said there are new workout machines that take advantage of that data to help athletes meet those various heart ranges. “There always are machines that are the ‘hot machines.’ In the ‘80s and ‘90s, it was the stepper, and now it’s treadmills, ellipticals, and multi-angular training. With a treadmill, you’re in one plane, moving forward. With multi-angular and multi-plane machines you’re moving forward, and you’re also going left, right, forward and back,” Griffin said. “Another hot machine right now is the ArcTrainer, which is a cross between a stepper and an elliptical. With step training, few people can last long enough to make that work right, so the ArcTrainer is a favorite among tennis players and other athletes who come in.” In addition to specialized cardio machines, Griffin said circuit training still gives people a great workout. “Circuit training is still alive and well. We have trainers who take people through workouts that are as demanding as can be,” he said. “Unless you need bulk and heavy lifting, there’s a lot to be said for this functional training where you’re pushing sandbags and working out without stopping between sets. I’ve done it, and have gotten my heart rate from 130 up to 170, and it stays within that range within the whole half hour. The key though, is to do it in a circuit fashion. That way, you don’t have to stop between exercising.” Griffin said that because circuit training focuses on different muscle groups, the workouts typically are faster to get through. “Muscularly, you don’t need the rest because you’re working a diﬀerent muscle group each time,” he said. “ Cardio-wise, you may have to wait 30 seconds or so between sets, but you can definitely be fit by doing that.”

“...the best cardio workout depends on engaging the heart through a multitude of levels and workloads...”

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

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We are interested in highlighting your church! If you are a member of the clergy from this area and would like to contribute an inspirational message that all of our readers might enjoy, please contact Marybeth Jeffries, Managing Editor at marybeth@ incommunitymagazines.com for more information.

WORSHIP

A Restoration Church ...............................................724.941.3480

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.............................724.941.7467

Berean Fellowship Church ......................................412.220.4673

Peters Creek Baptist Church...................................412.833.6111

Beth-El Congregation of South Hills ......................412.561.1168

Ruthfred Lutheran Church .......................................412.835.7140

Bethel Presbyterian Church....................................412.835.0405

South Hills Assembly of God ...................................412.835.8900

Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church ...................412.561.5100

South Hills Bible Chapel...........................................724.941.8990

Bower Hill Community Church................................412.561.4114

South Hills Church of the Nazarene.......................412.831.6333

Center Presbyterian Church....................................724.941.9050

South Hills Community Baptist Church..................412.833.1313

Christ the King Church .............................................412.595.7181

Southminster Presbyterian Church........................412.343.8900

Christ Community Church of South Hills ...............412.519.4097

St. David's Anglican Church ...................................724.941.4060

Grace Fellowship Church ........................................412.334.3803

St. David's Anglican Church ...................................724.941.4060

Christ United Methodist Church .............................412.835.6621

St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church...............412.221.2277

Covenant Family Church ..........................................724.263.7147

St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church.................412.835.7800

Faith Lutheran Church..............................................412.835.4590

St. John Capistran Roman Catholic Church .........412.221.6275

First Church of Christ, Scientist ..............................412.561.1125

St. Louise DeMarillac Roman Catholic Church....412.833.1010

Good Shepherd Church............................................412.276.2446

St. Paul's Episcopal Church ....................................412.531.7153

Good Shepherd Church............................................724.941.9418

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church ...........412.833.0031

Holy Child Parish .......................................................412.221.5213

Temple Emmanuel.....................................................412.279.7600

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church .......................412.833.3355

Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills 412.561.6277

Hope Lutheran Church .............................................724.941.9441

Upper St. Clair Alliance Church..............................412.835.4775

Lebanon Presbyterian Church ................................412.466.7184

Westminster Presbyterian Church.........................412.835.6630

Mt. Lebanon Christian Church ................................412.531.8554 New Day Assembly of God......................................724.941.1661 New Song Community Church................................412.341.1293

If your place of worship was not on our list, please e-mail the information to marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com.

A N N O U N C E M E N T S Bower Hill Community Church in Mt. Lebanon is pleased to announce the appointment of its new pastor, Brian Snyder. “Our goal was to find a pastor who could complement our strengths, lead meaningful worship, provide a relevant education program for children and adults; and have a commitment to mission and service locally, nationally and globally,” says Rick Jacobs, head of the Pastor Nominating Committee. Pastor Snyder completed his master’s of divinity in 2005 and will finish his doctorate of ministry degree in preaching in 2012. Besides preaching, Snyder is looking forward to another part of his new job. “I am eager to begin building relationships with members of Bower Hill as well as the surrounding community,” he says. “I am optimistic that this is a church where my family will be comfortable–a place we can call home for a long time to come.”

Vatican Splendors: A Journey Through Faith and Art The Heinz History Center is one of only three venues in North America to host Vatican Splendors: A Journey Through Faith and Art. The 10,000-square-foot exhibition displays more than 270 rare objects, illustrating 2,000 years of art, history, and culture. Highlights of the exhibition include original works by Michelangelo, a reliquary containing the remains of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, and a bronze cast of the hand of Pope John Paul II. The History Center also worked closely with Bishop David Zubik and the Diocese of Pittsburgh to exhibit 70 rarely seen regional artifacts on loan from churches, the history centers archives and the Andy Warhol Museum. The exhibit will be featured through January 9, 2011. For more information, visit www.heinzhistorycenter.org or www.vaticansplendors.com. *Bust of an Angel *mosaic from about 1304 A.D., by Giotto di Bondone. Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

f you’re looking for something to do this winter that doesn’t require loading up an SUV full of ski equipment and a 40-minute drive to find some slopes, you may want to look into the fast-paced and enjoyable sport of platform tennis. Played outdoors on aluminum courts, platform tennis is a growing recreational choice for thousands of Americans each year. Once found only in country club settings, the American Platform Tennis Association has made great strides through the years to make the sport more accessible for the masses through public outreach and by setting up a grant program for local clubs to make improvements to existing facilities or to build new ones. The sport is similar to tennis in that there’s a court and a net, but that’s where the similarities end. Courts are fenced in and shots may be played off the fence. League play is designed for all ages and skill sets, so that everyone can enjoy the fun. Spectators gather with players between sets in small, indoor settings called “paddle huts,” which range in size from trailers to stand-alone buildings. Racquets are similar to those used in racquetball, with holes drilled through them for aerodynamic advantage. Balls are made from a rubber-based material with a surface that keeps them from skidding off the court. While the sport is played in the dead of winter, most courts have heating systems beneath them that keep them clear and free of snow and ice. Additional maintenance usually is provided by club staff or dedicated volunteers. If you ask any platform tennis player what the appeal of the sport is for them, you almost always get the response that the sport is genuinely fun, and camaraderie and new friendships are forged in the paddle huts. For more information about platform tennis, check out the APTA website at www.platformtennis.org, or the Western Pennsylvania Platform Tennis Association’s website at www.wppta.org. PLATFORM TENNIS COURTS VENUE

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Area’s Largest Do Jang Big on History and Tradition hen you walk into CS Kim Karate in Peters Township, you’re not just walking into a “do jang,” you’re walking into history. Instructor Dean Kelly, a sixth-degree blackbelt who teaches for Grandmaster Kim at the facility, has competed in hundreds of championships around the globe and was the 2008 Martial Artist of the Year. He’s been studying under Kim for nearly 30 years and said that teaching Kim’s style of Tand Soo Do traditional Korean karate - gives him a great pleasure. “We have been in Peters since 1990, and CS Kim Karate has been in Pittsburgh since 1974,” Kelly said. “We have students from age 5 to age 70. They come to us for a number of reasons because the martial arts offer so many benefits. From stress relief, to building confidence and discipline to self defense and having an all-around good feeling about oneself, karate appeals to a number of people for a number of reasons.” Not only that, but it’s a family oriented activity that all members of the family can enjoy. Kelly has been training with his two sons, Dean, Jr., and Jeremy David, since they were both 4 years old. Today, they both are karate masters. The “master” designation applies to all black belts who are forth degree or better. “Teaching my sons has

given me the opportunity to spend quality time with them as they do something that’s healthy and enjoyable for us all,” Kelly said. “I’ve been able to teach them teamwork and to keep a positive

attitude through karate. And it’s not just my children who have benefited. I think children get more from the art when their family is involved and we have many, many families with us that share that belief and are learning karate with their children. The beauty of it is, you don’t have to be young to start, or agile. You just need an open mind and the ability to try.” Kim not only founded the franchise, but he is a major player in the world of martial arts, appearing on the covers of more than 20 major martial arts magazines. He was the Korean heavyweight Champion in the first World Karate Championships in Japan in 1970. In 1988, he was voted into the All-American Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and is the founder and president of International Tang Soo Do Federation. Kelly is a technical advisor for the International Tang Soo Do Federation as well. With this position, he not only has the responsibility of teaching his students here at the McMurray location, but is responsible for teaching other karate masters throughout the world. “My greatest reward is seeing the progression of a student from a white belt to whatever their own individual goal may be, and helping them achieve those goals,” Kelly said. Classes are geared for students of all levels, and there is even a cardio-karate class that dispenses with belts and testing and works on fitness only. The only requirements are workout clothes, bare feet and a desire to sweat.

For more information regarding CS Kim Karate, go to: www.cskimkarate.com. Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

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those who drive economy cars, there are pillows, wedges, lattices of beads and vibrating heating pads that plug into your car’s lighter socket, each proclaiming more relief than the next. Despite the accoutrements that one can purchase, few provide total relief. That’s because the actual causes of run-of-the-mill, everyday back pain are largely unknown. Many reasons for serious back pain are easily diagnosed because they have a direct causal basis or present with other symptoms such as weight loss, fever or incontinence. Someone in a recent car accident, for example, would know that their current back pain is a result of the collision. However, it’s been postulated that back pain may also be the result of stress at work or at home, reasons that would not show up in an MRI or X-ray. If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and pains, most doctors agree that compresses of warm, moist heat are the best

Exercise and patient ed uca t ion are t he bes t tools out there in helping the patient in the long term. way to cope. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also safe, so long as you take them as directed. Chiropractors and physical therapists may be able to suggest a stretching regimen that could alleviate some of the more common aches and pains associated with the spine. In fact, more and more chiropractors have integrated techniques into patient visits other than the basic routine adjustment. You might be surprised to find that your first chiropractic visit may include 15 minutes of massage therapy, where warm, moist heat compresses are placed on your back, followed by 15 minutes of TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, which zings and zaps your muscles with a pleasant tingling sensation. While it all feels great, scientists are split as to whether any of it works for the long term. A study by the American Academy of Family Physicians came to the conclusion that while heat packs, deep heat, and massage are useful in the immediate relief of symptoms, long-term effectiveness is still in question, and the use of TENS therapy has demonstrated no long-term effectiveness at all. What the study did conclude is that unless the pain is the result of a deeper medical condition, like cancer or infection, exercise and patient education are the best tools out there in helping the patient in the long term.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

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Volunteering brings more j o y t h an i m a g i n e d .

ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day. And he’s got the stories to prove it. “When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach. “I used to be really active, and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains, “but my eyes became gradually worse, and now I don’t see.” Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week and both enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company. “Carol is really good; she leads me so I don’t traipse anywhere I shouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh. Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During their mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives and share advice. “It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient, but he’s really doing more for me than I do for him. I get so much out of it, and I come home feeling great.” Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw an opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that gives her meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says of her experience with Mr. If you think you are Ochs and other seniors she drives to doctors’ appointments. “Who needs antipaying too much for your depressants?” she jokes but quickly takes a prescription, CALL US! serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.” 300 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. PHONE: 412.344.6700 www.lebanonshoppharmacy.com Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior Pittsburgh, PA 15234 FAX: 412.344.5223 www.mtlebanonpharmacy.com is looking for volunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little as an hour a • FREE DELIVERY % month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help with grocery shopping, home safety • Weekly Flu & Zostavax (Shingles) any one time purchase checks or snow shoveling and yard work, Clinics with a Registered Nurse Not Valid For Tobacco Products or Prescription Copays thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods Expires Jan. 31, 2011 • Medicare Accredited Supplier could use some assistance. In addition to $ • Diabetic Supplies & Medical individual volunteers like Carol, families and Equipment groups are also welcome. any purchase of $25 or more To learn more or become a volunteer, • Free Blood Pressuer Screenings Not Valid For Tobacco Products or Prescription Copays visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or Expires Jan. 31, 2011 • Full Line of Health & Beauty Aids call 412.307.0071. % • Easy Online Prescription Refilling “It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochs volunteers. “I can’t say enough about it.” • Rx Blister Packing Available any holiday merchandise & candy Given enough time and his penchant for Not Valid For Tobacco Products or Prescription Copays Tom Riley, RPh and Bill Riley, RPh, owners Expires Jan. 31, 2011 storytelling, though, he probably could.

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Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Are Your Ears Ringing??? An estimated 50 million Americans are affected with tinnitus, a “ringing” in the ears when there is nothing actually “ringing” in the surrounding environment. Some common causes of tinnitus are exposure to loud sounds, ear infections, aging, excessive ear wax, high blood pressure and sensory nerve disorders. Even some activities can cause tinnitus such as smoking, drinking alcohol or caffeine, and taking excessive amounts of aspirin or antibiotics. If you think you have tinnitus, you should be evaluated to determine the best options available for managing it. Success in dealing with tinnitus can be greatly enhanced by the patient working together with a professional experienced in tinnitus management, and if there are no specific medical issues involved, there are several options. In many cases, the individual experiencing tinnitus also has a hearing loss. The use of a hearing aid to amplify sounds and speech can help cover up the tinnitus and make it less distracting. Some hearing aids

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have the ability to generate a soft masking sound while amplifying speech. However, the real breakthrough today comes from advanced hearing instruments that make use of fractal technology and offer a harmonic sound program called ZEN (by Widex) which generates soothing sounds and shows great promise as a sound therapy tool by relaxing the wearer and distracting attention away from the tinnitus.

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This sound program is in a hearing aid which also has many features to help the wearer hear better in noise, hear soft and distance speech, hear music, hear on the phone and in restaurants, etc. So today millions of people of all ages who experience tinnitus have a very new innovative option for dealing with that annoying “ringing” in their ears. This Industry Insight was submitted by Dolores Y. Payne, M.A., CCC-A, Audiologist. Dolores is the owner of Allegheny Hearing Instruments, 800 Jonnet Building, Monroeville, PA 15146 Telephone her at 412.373.1151. Her other location is conveniently located in the South Hills at Manor Oak Village, 1910 Cochran Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15220 412.343.1320.

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W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

page 2

Falls Are No Laughing Matter

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make New UPMC Rehab Institute President

page 4

Be Happy and Healthy this Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills

Falls Are No Laughing Matter Here’s how you can help avoid them at any age Prat falls on TV sitcoms may make us chuckle, but in real life, they’re deadly serious. Falls are the leading injury-related reason people go to the emergency room. Each year, more than a million Americans suffer a slip, trip, or fall injury, resulting in more than 17,000 deaths. Falls don’t have to be an inevitable part of life. There are many proactive strategies you can take to prevent them from happening to you and others. “Have you ever noticed that athletes tend to be injured late in a game? That’s because they’re tired, distracted, or rushed,” says Gary P. Chimes, MD, PhD, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, UPMC Mercy South Side Outpatient Center. “These same conditions are often at play during a fall. You may blame a fall on a slippery sidewalk or unstable chair, when the real underlying cause is entirely different. Knowing what causes a fall is key to addressing the problem.” Your “personal safety margin” diminishes when factors such as age, fatigue, body weakness, and chronic illness are added to the equation.

“Falls often point to other underlying health issues. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of what your body is telling you,” says Dr. Chimes.

Treating a Fall

Exercise: Exercises that promote strength, balance, and body coordination are especially important to prevent falls. Dr. Chimes recommends the martial art of tai chi, especially for older adults.

“If you’ve taken a fall and suspect a serious injury, such as a broken bone, severe cut, or concussion, seek immediate medical attention,” advises Lisa R. Blackrick, MD, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UPMC Mercy. The Level I Trauma Center at UPMC Mercy is specially equipped to evaluate and treat serious and complex injuries.

See your doctor regularly: Schedule annual physical and eye examinations to uncover underlying medical problems that could lead to falls. Notify your doctor if you feel unstable or experience problems like dizziness due to medications.

For less serious injuries such as a sprain or pulled muscle, follow the RICE procedure, she says: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. “If your pain worsens or does not diminish within two or three days, you should contact your family doctor for what to do next.”

Check your surroundings: Clutter-proof your home, especially steps. Make sure carpets and handrails are secure. Use a non-skid mat in your bath. If you have small children, use safety locks on windows and be sure cribs, infant swings, and other equipment are placed securely. Older children should always wear protective gear when biking, skiing, or skating.

After a fall, many people — especially seniors — fear that it will happen again. “The good news is that there are many things that can be done to minimize the reoccurrence of falls, including physical therapy and exercise, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Blackrick. “The important thing is to maintain a dialogue with your health care provider.”

Three things you can do to avoid falls

To learn more about fall-related injury treatment options at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-7865.

Quick Facts About Falls • Children under the age of five and seniors over the age of 70 have the greatest fall rates.

• Among older adults, more than two-thirds of those who fall are likely to fall again within six months.

www.UPMC.com/Today

• The most severe falls among children are linked to baby walkers, windows, and play equipment. Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control

The Difference See a Number Can Make how your numbers stack up for See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call peace of mind — or a wake-up call! Many numbers are part of your daily life, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressure There’s a reason high blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damages the walls of your arteries, it also can wreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke. When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal blood pressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

99: Blood sugar level It’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of other medical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugar level should be 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

200: Optimum cholesterol Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which then circulates through the blood stream. To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will ask you to fast before having blood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, arteryclogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal. You should aim for a total cholesterol number (HDL + LDL) under 200 mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease. Your doctor can help you learn and manage these numbers. To schedule an appointment with one of our primary care physicians, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

New UPMC Rehab Institute President Her position as the president of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute may be new, but Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD, is a seasoned UPMC veteran. A physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, she began her career as a resident at the Hospitals of the University Heath Center of Pittsburgh (now UPMC). Today, as president of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, Dr. Reidy oversees western Pennsylvania’s largest provider of inpatient rehabilitation services.

Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD

The UPMC Rehabilitation Institute offers accredited, specialized care for patients after illness and injury, including stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, amputation, and multiple traumatic injuries. Services are provided in seven acute care hospitals throughout the area: UPMC Mercy, UPMC Horizon, UPMC McKeesport, UPMC Montefiore, UPMC Northwest, UPMC Passavant, and UPMC St. Margaret.

During her career, Dr Reidy has seen dramatic changes in the way physicians deliver rehabilitation services. She describes the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute as a “very different kind of institute”. Since inpatient rehabilitation services are provided at seven locations, patients can remain close to home and under the care of their physician. “Having world-class care in their own neighborhood benefits patients and their families,” she adds. As Americans live longer and healthier lives, the demand for quality, convenient inpatient rehabilitation services will continue to increase. “Baby boomers are expected to regain functional ability, whether they are recovering from surgeries or injuries, or coping with chronic illnesses,” says Dr. Reidy. “We are committed to helping them get back to a full life.” For more information on the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand? You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with your health and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Follow these suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles. • Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warm water is your best defense against germs. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product. • Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available. • Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skin As the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months: • Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently. • Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors. • Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping. • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exercise Don’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. • Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group. • Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend. • With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring. “Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease in sunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman, MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression. In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience what Dr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains. Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall. If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommend antidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy. While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally, don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

Did You Know? • People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition. • More women than men are diagnosed with SAD. • Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Innovation at UPMC

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients Robotic technology revolutionizing Whipple surgery When Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed a Whipple procedure, he started getting his affairs in order. He even considered going without surgery. “It occurred to me that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith. Although he left most of the worrying up to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize the surgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine. But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC Cancer Centers to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology. Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with the nurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says. * Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreas surgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among the world’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure • smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need for transfusion • less pain • shorter hospital stays • faster recovery time and start of treatment

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a series of small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified threedimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy, robotic surgery equipment allows for more natural movements, including wrist function, explains Dr. Zeh. “It has a 360-degree range of motion, which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into places where your hand can’t go.” The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail and manipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

Patients benefit The two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for blood transfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner. “We are pleased to be able to offer this new technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “The data shows that as a whole, patients who undergo the robotic-assisted Whipple procedure do as well as patients who have the traditional open surgery.” Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing fear in patients. According to Dr. Moser, as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor because they are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery. “We hope that by minimizing the trauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone with pancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.” For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any of UPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments, call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

1-800-533-UPMC

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready Children’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxed evening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm. Thankfully, parents in the North Hills and South Hills now have convenient “after hours” access to the pediatric specialty care found at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses. “All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly the types of cases that the Children’s Express Care Centers are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti. The Express Care Centers provide exclusively pediatric-focused treatment in offices that are specially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed. “The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor. We also know how to interact with kids and their parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexford and Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including: • animal bites • bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks • colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses • cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters • ear, throat, and sinus infections • incisions and abscess drainage • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration • rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations • splinting • cyst removal The Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests, urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

If necessary, children with more serious conditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists. If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatricians along with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.

Children’s Express Care Wexford Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Phone: 724-933-3644 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome. Children’s Express Care Bethel Park Children’s South 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Phone: 412-692-3145 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

Benefits of the Express Care Centers include: • access to treatment when your primary care physician is not available • quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries for children and teens • convenient locations • free parking • no appointments needed • referrals for further evaluation and treatment • access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills, located just off Route 19 in Bethel Park, has become a convenient choice for area residents. With MRI and more breast imaging services now available, the South Hills center is even better prepared to provide for your imaging needs. UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills offers the following services on-site: Radiology • MRI • general x-ray Magee-Womens Imaging Services • digital mammography • ultrasound • DXA bone density testing UPMC Cardiovascular Institute • nuclear medicine • echocardiography • peripheral ultrasound • vascular studies

“We recently added MRI, digital mammography, and on-site breast biopsy, to give South Hills residents more services right in their neighborhood,” says Lori Collins, director of imaging services at UPMC Mercy. “With our advanced, state-of-the-art technology, our staff can provide fast, high quality images,” she adds. Imaging services, especially for children, are now available at the new Children’s Express Care center, located in the same building as UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills. “When a child needs an x-ray, it’s reassuring for parents that it can be done nearby instead of driving to another location,” adds Ms. Collins. (Read more about the Children’s Express Care Center and its hours of operation on page 6.) UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills participates in most insurance plans. The center also offers comfortable and private waiting rooms and testing areas, as well as free parking and valet service.

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Radiology Services (x-ray and MRI) Phone: 412-851-8740 Hours for x-rays Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. Same-day appointments available. Hours for MRI Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Same-day appointments available.

Magee-Womens Imaging Services Phone: 412-833-9000 Hours Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

UPMC Cardiovascular Institute Phone: 412-347-3240 Hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about all imaging services at UPMC, visit www.UPMC.com/Imaging.

1-800-533-UPMC

UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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

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Time to Take Care of You Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC Mercy physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments. Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

AN ENTREPRENEUR ON THE MOVE FEATURING JOE RUFFALO’S DESIGN IMAGE SALON A special place where “the customer” is Number One!

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season and Heartfelt Thanks for your Patronage.

Tues. Wed. Thurs. 9:00 to 8:00

Fri. & Sat.

Since many of Joe’s clients knew him from a well-known salon near South Hills Village, coming into Design Image is like “coming home” for many of his friends and customers. Design Image is a fullservice salon for women and men, with seven stylists and two manicurists. Special services include wedding parties, proms and special occasion “Up-Do’s,” along with expert cutting, trend-setting styling, and fabulous color and highlighting techniques. Joe will gladly “go the extra mile” for customers by offering valet parking, fresh coffee and light refreshments. New customers are always welcome to stop in just to say hello and have coffee.

9:00 to 5:00

Salon Services For Women and Men

.. Shampoo, Cut and Style Condition and Hi-lights .. Color, Perms: Partial and Root Prom, Up Do (Special Styles) . Wedding, Blow Dry & Style .. Waxing: Eyebrow, Lip Manicures, Pedicures and Acrylics

412-257-4001 PINEBRIDGE COMMONS, SUITE 110 1580 MCLAUGHLIN RUN ROAD, UPPER SAINT CLAIR, PA 15241

Upper

St.

After many years with a successful corporate career in Pittsburgh, Joe Ruffalo finally achieved his life-long dream of owning a hair salon in Upper St. Clair. According to Mr. Ruffalo, “Acquiring the Design Image Salon was a great opportunity to fulfill my life-long goal of owning and operating my own salon. The salon is always humming with interesting people, and everyone is always laughing. This is such a fun place! For me, it’s been a chance of a lifetime!”

Clair

Design Image, located in the Pinebridge Commons at the far end of the main level, is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Joe and his staff will cheerfully accommodate special requests and evening hours to meet the needs of their customers. For an appointment and more information, call 412.257.4001. Design Image... a great place to brighten your day!

Library 1820 McLaughlin Run Rd. Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.835.5540 www.twpusc.org/library

Building Weekends Kids can come to the library to explore with Legos, foam and wooden blocks, and Lincoln Logs. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children during their building time. Who: Kids of all ages Dates: December 11/12, January 15/16, February 19/20, March 19/20 When: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Sat.) 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Sun.)

Library Hours Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Celebrate the Winter Holidays!

Celebrate the New Year!

Create decorations for the Holidays at the library. Parents are strongly encouraged to accompany their children during the crafting time.

Create decorations for the New Year at the Library. Parents are strongly encouraged to accompany their children during the crafting time.

Who: Kids of all ages Dates: Saturday, December 18 – Thursday, December 23 When: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Sat.) 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Sun.) 9:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. (Monday – Thursday)

Who: Kids of all ages Dates: Monday, December 27 – Thursday December 30 When: 9:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Where: Children’s Library

The Library’s second annual Cabin Fever day will be held on Saturday, February 5 from 2 – 3:30 p.m. Participants will enjoy fun and games for all ages. Come to the library for board games, Bingo, creative projects and refreshments. Registration begins Monday, January 24. Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

Cooking with Penny

Phone in a takeout order at 724.942.0999

4080 Washington Road (across from PNC Bank)

Check out our menu www.eatatpennysdiner.com

Hours: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.

$3.00 off

any two lunch entrees

$5.00 off

any two dinner entrees

10% off

any catering order. Not good with any other promos or certificates.

Holidays to me bring more than gift giving. Gatherings and holiday celebrations are a time to bring families together for laughter, love, and time to reflect on the year. Life is full of many changes and the holiday season is time to be grateful for our blessings, My family like yours will be celebrating at good gatherings that include breakfast, lunch, and full course dinner and holiday party. I suggest picking your menu that will allow you to be healthy and happy. Good food can make your celebration that much more wholesome. When I have family and friends together it is a celebration to remember. I pick my menu for what the season demands from hour dorus to desserts. Here is a list of helpful tips to be as organized as possible. 1. Create your guest list; know your budget 2. Set a budget, do not exceed your budget. 3. Create your menu: Your guest will usually bring and appetizer or dessert. This will help relieve your Stress and keep you within budget. 4. Your shopping list: Itemize list for the menu you are serving. A good way to shop to save time and money, visit your local wholesale market. 5. Prep ahead: this is a great way to save time and energy. Simply cook it the day before and place in the refrigerator. Then on the day of the gathering, present on your holiday platters. 6. Prep with family night. We all stand around the kitchen island, and are each assigned a kitchen task. For example, your younger children can construct decorations, while older children can chop fruits and vegetables and other ingredients for your menu days in advance.

This is a great time to start new holiday traditions with your family and friends. Through these economical times I try to add these holiday tips to reduce stress and to add a special touch to your celebration. I hope you are able to make this year’s holiday much more appetizing and comforting for all your family and friends. Sometimes in life we are all wrapped up and busy with everything around us that we miss one of the most precious things of all. Just getting together with our family and friends and just saying “It’s good to have you here. I love spending time and making memories with you.” I’m so blessed to be surrounded by so many good people. I would like to thank all of my readers, friends, family and staff. Have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year.

42 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

Penny Folino has been “in the kitchen” for over 25 years. Her newest restaurant, Penny’s Diner, is now open in Peters Township. www.eatatpennysdiner.com

W I N T E R

2 0 1 0

Giving Back

for the

Holidays!

he holiday season is the perfect time to spread cheer and give back to those who are in need. There are plenty of places around you to do this. Here are some fun ideas: & Volunteer at a soup kitchen & Donate toys you don't want & Donate canned goods to the community food bank & Donate clothes you've outgrown & Visit a nursing home

on the go...

find these things hiding in this picture.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

Adopt a Pet Red

Sometimes things don’t end up the way you think they will. Take a look at me. I’m an AKC Red Beagle who was originally going to be a great hunting dog. But guess what: I hate guns! So that never panned out and I ended up here.

However, being at Animal Friends is great. I’ve discovered what I really love in life: toys! I love to play with toys and with you, and I’m always up for more. I’m very gentle and can even do well with children, as long as I’m supervised. I like going for rides in the car and I love to cuddle, too!

I like some dogs, so if you have one, my friends the Adoption Counselors would be happy to set up a meeting to see if we get along.

And good news for you humans: my adoption fee is sponsored! So you’ve got nothing to lose – come on down to Animal Friends and say hello to me, Red! To learn more about these adoptable pets, call Animal Friends at 412.847.7002 or visit us at 562 Camp Horne Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Animal Friends is a non-profit companion animal resource center serving the needs of pets and people since 1943. For more information, visit http://www.ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/.

Winter Weather Safety Tips

@ Have a snack before going outside. It will give you energy and keep your body warmer. @ Make sure to wear sunscreen on your face. The snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun's ultraviolet rays. @ Dress in layers of clothes. Waterproof pants and jackets will keep you dry and warm! @ Never go sled riding alone. Always have a parent supervise. @ When you’re playing outside, go inside every once in a while to warm up. @ If you start to shiver or feel numb, go inside right away and tell an adult. 44 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

Sophie

Sophie is a beautiful domestic shorthaired cat who asks for so little. She found herself at Animal Friends when her previous owner was no longer able to care for her.

This gray and white beauty would prefer to go to a quiet household where she can be the only cat. While quite affectionate with the people she has learned to trust, she is shy around strangers and needs time to get used to new surroundings. If you’re looking for a loving, quiet pet then Sophie could be your perfect match! Why not stop by Animal Friends and talk to an Adoptions Counselor?

It ’s the Holidays! Find each of these words in this puzzle.

Holiday Jokes What do you sing at a snowman’s birthday party? Freeze a jolly good fellow!

kool kids cook

What goes ho-ho whoosh, ho-ho whoosh? Santa caught in a revolving door!

What do snowmen eat for breakfast? Frosted flakes! What goes “oh, oh, oh”? Santa walking backwards!

How does a snowman lose weight? He waits for the weather to get warmer!

When does Christmas come before Thanksgiving? In the dictionary! What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? Frostbite! Why is it always cold at Christmas? Because it’s in Decemberrrr! What do you call an old snowman? Water! What did one snowman say to the other snowman? Can you smell carrot?

String Cheese “Slaw”

Prep time: 15 Minutes Servings: 6 Crayon-sized string cheese cylinders can be sliced into “buttons” or stripped into “threads,” then added to salads of all stripes. Here, the cheese strips are the main ingredient in a fun, carrot-flecked slaw. 6 Organic Valley Stringles String Cheese 1 1⁄2 cups carrot, cut into matchsticks or shredded 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (or parsley) 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons olive oil black pepper, freshly ground Pull threads of cheese off each string cheese stick (not too thin). Toss with carrots, cilantro or parsley, lemon juice and olive oil. Add pepper to taste. For more information and coupons, visit www.organicvalley.coop

Pine Cone Christmas Tree Ornament You'll need: Dry Pine Cones Green Glitter Glue Sequins

Paint the pine cone with glue. Before the glue dries, sprinkle with green glitter. Top with a paper star. When it dries you can glue on sequins or tinsel.

kids craft

What do monkeys sing at Christmas? Jungle bells, jungle bells!

or a mouth-pleasing, brain-boosting after school snack, try serving up some of this fun String Cheese “Slaw” with a tall glass of Omega-3 milk. It may just turn chips into a snack of the past.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

Wild Rosemary Bistro Cioppino “fish stew”

Shrimp, Littleneck Clams, P.E.I. mussels, striped bass, chilean sea bass in a tomato saffron broth. This is quite a healthy dish. INGREDIENTS 4 shallots 4 cloves garlic 2T. olive oil Pinch saffron 4C. peeled – chopped tomatoes 4C. fish stock 1/2C. white wine Fresh basil

Chef: Gloria Fortunato

METHOD Sautee – minced shallot, garlic & saffron in olive oil ADD – tomatoes, fish stock & white wine Simmer – let develop. Correct seasoning with salt/pepper Finish with basil Cooking time – 1 hour

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Upper St. Clair

Wild Rosemary is a small intimate Bistro. Italian - Mediterranean inspired menu using the freshest in-season ingredients. Menu changes every two weeks. We are BYOB. Reservations strongly suggested as we have 7 tables with a total of 28 seats in this cozy space. Tuesday - Saturday. Dinner. 5 p.m. until 10 p.m.

Academy of Podiatry introduces “The Foot Store” Located in Bethel Park, The Foot Store offers brand name shoes, diabetic socks, insoles and heel cups. The store features top brands like New Balance, Saucony, Birkenstock, Hush Puppies, Clarks, Propet, Dr. Comfort and Aetrex.

Medicare’s Diabetic Shoe Program Studies have shown that 25% of persons with diabetes develop foot problems related to the disease, and that up to 15% of persons with diabetes develop foot ulcers. Medicare has covered certain therapeutic shoes, inserts and modifications for diabetic persons who meet qualifying requirements. Let us help you to see what’s covered. We know that each person has different needs when it comes to footwear. The Foot Store strives to provide adults of any age with quality shoes that are a perfect fit for their feet. Drs. John Snyder and Jason Hughes invite you to stop in today for your FREE foot scan to evaluate the size, width and pressure areas of your foot. We are located at 5851 Library Rd. (Rt. 88) Bethel Park and are open six days a week. Phone 412.831.3719, or visit our website at www.aoppa.com.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

South Hills Country Club hosted

Police Appreciation Day on Monday, September 13, to honor and thank

the officers that work every day, in

our community, to keep our streets

and homes safe. Officers were

treated to a continental breakfast

that, of course, included donuts and coffee, a sunny day on the golf

course, and dinner that evening.

Frank Rende, Joe Reiff, John Stofesky

Fallen but not Forgotten Michael Crawshaw Paul G. Richey Matt Marks, Julie Beck, Ron Pardini, Brian Nicholas, Jerry Michak

Tim Veith, Joe Rongaus

Donna Tatko, Terry Sands

Jeanne Pruni, Whitney Wallander, Linda Boyle

Bernie Sestili, Ron Hughes, John DeBasi, Mike Crespy 48 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair

T ips for T r a ve lin g w it h You r Ch ild re n • Buckle up a toy bin right next to the children so they can help themselves – books, links, stuffed animals and puppets. • Have your child help you pack a picnic lunch or snack and then serve it to everyone. • A blanket can make a quick play space in any lobby, airport, etc.

Preschool to Kindergarten (36 months+ old)

Traveling with the family is fun, but it's important to be prepared. Here are some tips and advice for parents to consider before they travel with their young ones.

Infant to One Year Old • Plan for an active stretch. A rest stop break or a playground – let them walk or toddle for twenty or so minutes before climbing back in the car. • Fun: music, mobiles, bubbles and books. • Pre-measure formula into bottles and carry a room temperature bottle of water to mix on the go. • Be prepared for a mess – snacks, diapers, spit-up, etc. – small trash bag, wipes, hand sanitizer (for the adults), spare water, tissues, bib and a blanket. • Even if you are traveling by plane, a car seat can double as a feeding chair or nap location. Call ahead for a crib to be added to your hotel room. • Be prepared and do not overload yourself. If time allows, buy what you can when you get to your destination.

• “I Spy” a blue car, a white truck and other objects you can see while moving. • Laptop desk for drawing with paper and crayons. • Car-Ride Checklist – make a picture itinerary of landmarks you will see along the way. • Ask your child to keep score – gas prices, mileage or count out toll money. • Play “I’m thinking of an animal.” Provide age-appropriate hints to help your child guess a particular animal. • If you’re using a hotel babysitter: 1. Check the sitter’s credentials, including criminal and/or child abuse clearances. 2. Check the room and the equipment in the room. 3. Carry your phone and check your phone service when you arrive at your destination. Traveling with children can be fun and rewarding. Your children will gain experience with safety items (seat belt usage, “stranger danger”, etc.) as well as learn things best remembered through direct involvement (toll booths, driving courtesies, rest areas, airport security, etc.). We hope these tips are useful as you prepare for your next trip!!

First Steps (12 to 18 months old) • Many of the Infant travel tips apply here. • Use “links” to keep toys within your child’s reach. • Even in the cool weather, crack a window for fresh air. Stale air may make your little one grumpy. Remove heavy jackets and shoes for comfort. • Fun: Music, books, stuffed animal, play mirror and foam shapes that will “stick” to the car seat. In an airplane – purchase headphones for music and rest it on your child’s shoulders instead of over their ears. • Have some active playtime just before leaving and plan for frequent stops. In an airplane, let children walk down the aisle periodically at their own pace. • Airports can be a bustling place. This may be the one time you check your luggage at the curb. This way you can focus on your little one’s needs without the hassle of luggage in tow.

Toddler and Get Set (18 to 36 months old) • Many of the First Steps travel tips apply here. • Play window games – count the silos, trucks or red lights. • Attach a mirror to the front passenger visor so you can see and interact with your toddler without having to spin around. This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo. Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 825 East McMurray Rd. in Peters Township. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/Preschool/K programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschools.com or call 724.941.6464.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 49

Need a last minute gift for a teacher or neighbor? We love the idea of creating something from your kitchen (and your heart). This cookie mix can be layered in mason jars and labeled with a recipe card that you hand write or create on your computer. Tie a ribbon around the center and add a gift tag and Viola! Your creativity has once again saved you! The kids loved helping me put these together! – Marybeth

Oatmeal Raisin Spice Cookie Mix One quart size mason jar 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup raisins 2 cups rolled oats ¾ cup packed brown sugar ½ cup white sugar

1. Mix together flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, and salt and set aside. 2. Layer ingredients in the following order into a one-quart, wide-mouth canning jar: flour mixture, raisins, rolled oats, brown sugar, and white sugar. It will be a tight fit, so make sure you firmly pack down each layer before adding the next layer. Cover the top of the jar with holiday fabric edged with pinking shears and glue it on the lid or tie a bow around the top of the jar to secure it. Attach a recipe card tag with the following instructions: Oatmeal Raisin Spice Cookies (for recipe card) 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. Empty jar of cookie mix into large mixing bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly mix. 3. Mix in ¾ cup butter or margarine, softened. Stir in one slightly beaten egg and one teaspoon of vanilla. Mix until completely blended. You will need to finish mixing with your hands. Shape into balls the size of walnuts. Place on cookie sheets 2 inches apart. 4. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes in preheated oven, or until edges are lightly browned. Cool five minutes on cookie sheet. Transfer cookies to wire racks.

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b u s i n e s s

hen Jacalyn Thomas and her husband visited the LaValle Metabolic Institute in Cincinnati, they never dreamed of becoming their partners. But it was the expertise of founder James LaValle and his staff coupled with her husband’s dramatic weight loss that sold them on the idea. ”We are very excited about helping people establish a healthy weight and maintaining it for the rest of their lives. And while there are multitudes of diet programs available, we have personally experienced a proven process which has been in use for over 15 years. We begin with a very thorough questionnaire and consultation, extensive blood work and supplements to manage healthy eating habits. Our program is physician supervised and if need be, the doctor will prescribe hormones to assist in the burning of body fat. By balancing one’s metabolism the body begins to efficiently use stored fat, thus becoming healthy as well as thinner. We call this the Metabolic Code Fast Forward Program.” After inviting the Cincinnati team of doctors to visit here they too became enthused about a Peters Twp location. “They loved the area. (Jim LaValle was actually born in Pgh.) and have been back several times to assist in our start-up process. We even took them to a Steelers/Bengals game and unfortunately, we lost!” “ That didn’t deter us,” Thomas said, laughing. “We are truly that excited about this venture.” The Thomases own The Enhancement Center at 3075 Washington Road in McMurray, which houses Spa in the Hollow, Dr. Dennis Courtney, M.D., N. D. and Enhanced Fitness. “Having an M.D. who is also an homeopathic doctor in-house provides us with the medical expertise we need to help our patients achieve their weight loss goals. Since exercise is a vital part of any weight loss program we were glad that our fitness center was already established. We offer yoga, spinning classes and personal training, and of course, there’s nothing better after a workout than a good massage with a sauna.” Weight gain doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a cumulative process that can be triggered when certain things in the body get out of balance. Your metabolism is the sum total of all the biochemical processes going on in the body (thyroid, pancreas, etc.) which create your current and future health profile. With supervised management the Lavalle Metabolic Individualized Care Plan can work for anyone. For more information, or for a consultation, call 724.969.6906. LaValle Metabolic Institute is located on the lower level of 3075 Washington Road in McMurray.

LaValle Metabolic Instit ute Bring s New Weight Loss System to Peter s

s p o t l i g h t

Dick and Jackie Thomas, owners, LMI/Pgh

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 51

Resolve to Keep Your

Resolutions This Year

efore the last notes of “Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last mouth horn goes silent, chances are you’ll be suckered into making another New Year’s Resolution that will also fade as fast.

Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travel more, or reduce stress, experts say that while it takes time to develop a habit or behavior, the expectation of changing that developed habit over night are basically unrealistic. Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals. Success in achieving those goals stems from taking baby steps, or realistic approaches to achievement. Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness at Robinson Towne Center, said burnout is a major factor in people not following through with their workout routines. “Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control your motivation and enthusiasm so you don’t burnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaul you’re entire workout program every two to three months.” Hardt also said that figuring out where cardio exercise belongs in their routine also is 52 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’s resolutions actually follow through with their goals.”

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout. “Most people think that starting out with cardio is good because it helps to warm up muscles before weight training. Other people feel starting out with cardio may cause too much fatigue, which could lower your workout intensity and make lifting with proper form more difficult,” she said. “Truthfully, there is no right or wrong answer. Different people will need to rotate their routine differently. The best advice is to pay attention to your fitness goals. If you are focused a bit more on endurance try to do your cardio first when you’ll have the most energy. On the other hand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass

Upper St. Clair

work the weights first before cardio.” Pursuing a healthier lifestyle is always a good idea, and while many people make it their New Year’s resolution to get back in shape, experts agree that any health program should be focused on progressive, attainable and realistic goals. However, it’s also a great idea not to overindulge during the holidays in the first place. Gaining 10 pounds after partying for a month, grazing cookies at the office and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a lot easier than doing 30 minutes at the gym everyday for two weeks to negate those calories. While it’s a cliché, moderation is still the key to a balanced lifestyle, and you’ll be doing yourself a favor bypassing that cookie tray or second glass of wine in the first place.

If you need more space in your house but have a limited budget for home remodeling, consider converting a garage into living space. You can usually add 200 to 400 square feet, depending on the size of the garage. You can even save a bundle compared to an addition because a garage already has walls, a floor, a roof, and electrical wiring. Depending on where the garage is in your house, you can convert to suit just about any need your family has. Many homeowners use the garage for an extension of the kitchen or to add a bathroom. Family rooms and playrooms are other popular choices. If your garage isn’t near the house’s main living area, it might be good for adding a home office, fitness room, or extra bedroom. If you have a relative or nanny living with you, it can be made into an apartment with its own entrance. Below are some things to consider before starting a garage conversion: First Steps: First assess the garage space and think about what you can do with it. Think about cracks in the floor or other issues that would need to be fixed before you start. Set up a budget and then look for a designer. Your designer doesn’t have to be an architect, but even if you’re doing the work yourself, you’re better off consulting with someone who has experience with garage conversions. Garage Door: This can be the biggest challenge. If you remove the garage door, you will have a large empty space to fill. Some homeowners put in sliding doors, French doors, or a large bay window. You can also frame the empty space and install standard size doors or windows. Floor: Most garages have concrete floors, which are generally cold and ugly. Many garage floors are also sloped so that water will run out of the garage door, so check to see if your floor is level before you start your conversion. You can use the concrete as a subfloor and put hardwood, tile, or carpeting above it. If the garage floor is lower than the floors in the rest of the house, you may want to elevate the entire floor.

E G A GAR ONS SI R E V CON DD A N CA E L B A LI V E R MO O T E C SPA E M O H R U O Y Heating and Cooling: Although your garage has walls, they aren’t insulated, so the first step is to add insulation before putting up drywall. Then see if you can extend your existing HVAC into the new space. If not, you can add a separate system to the converted garage. Aesthetics: Think about how you can make the renovated garage blend in to the rest of the house. You want it to be pleasing from the outside and inside, especially in the space where the garage door used to be. If the interior is dark, use light colored paints and carpeting to make the space feel lighter and larger.

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.

Plumbing: If you are adding a kitchen or bathroom, you will need to figure out how to run pipes into the new room. You can cut into the existing floor or elevate the floor for the entire room. It’s best to consult a plumber during the planning phase to avoid any nasty surprises. Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 53

DON’T LET

Winter Slow You Down –

Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions A lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize your vehicle, you may be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to come pick you up.

interizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for winter weather. But there are some things that are just good sense. • Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer can get thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start-up times until your engine is properly lubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanic about changing viscosity for the winter months. • Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry an extra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container of wiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that you have a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights, ice scrapers and extra gloves. • If you don’t have jumper cables, get some! Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritan to jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress. Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. You can't, however, eliminate bad driving, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.

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–W – – – – – –PennDOTReminds ––– ith snow already forecast for some areas of Pennsylvania, PennDOT reminds drivers to slow down and give snow plows a wide berth to do their jobs. “Winter weather is returning and drivers need to remember that they have to adjust: you simply cannot drive as fast and you have to be prepared to deal with changing conditions and perhaps delays in your travel plans,” said Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E. About 5,400 PennDOT employees will work hard to keep Pennsylvania roads passable during winter weather. PennDOT reminds motorists that roadways such as interstates and expressways will be its primary focus and at times, the department may redirect equipment to these routes during significant winter events. During these heavier storms, motorists may encounter deeper accumulations on lesstraveled routes and they should adjust their driving for those conditions. PennDOT has budgeted more than $216 million for winter operations this year, about the same amount it spent last winter during a season that saw several recordbreaking snowstorms. As part of its normal truck replacement, PennDOT expects over the course of the winter to take delivery on 171 new trucks to replace older ones in its fleet of more than 2,100. Some of the improvements appearing on this year’s replacement trucks include bright red chevron patterns on the tailgates and the traditional rotating lights have been replaced by bright, flashing Light Emitting Diode lighting. Also, to make sure that the chevron pattern is fully visible, PennDOT has moved the salt “pre-wetting” tank between the truck’s cab and body. The pre-wetting tank stores brine that is sprayed onto salt before it’s distributed on the road. Pre-wetting helps salt work faster and at lower temperatures. Also, because the tank is now larger, an operator can spend more time treating roads between refills. “Fleet readiness is a critical part of ensuring public safety. Replacing our wornout trucks allows us to invest in the newest technologies to better serve Pennsylvania motorists,” Biehler said. “It also allows us to spend more time clearing roads and less time fixing our trucks when they are needed most.” Last winter, PennDOT used about 994,000 tons of salt on state roads. So far

this year, about 641,000 tons of salt are available and the department will continue to take salt deliveries throughout the winter. PennDOT has agreements with more than 700 municipalities for them to clear state roads within their jurisdictions. The department also rents approximately 400 trucks and operators to assist with snow removal as needed. Motorists are reminded that during winter weather events, the department’s primary goal is to keep roads passable, not completely free of ice and snow. PennDOT will continue to treat roadways throughout the storm until after precipitation stops and roads are clear. Drivers must slow down and lengthen their following distance when traveling on snowy or icy roads. Last winter, there were 370 crashes resulting in three fatalities and 215 injuries on snowy, slushy or ice-covered roadways where aggressive driving behaviors – such as speeding or making careless lane changes –led to the crash. When preparing for snowy travel, motorists can check road conditions on more than 2,900 miles of state roads by calling 511 or visiting www.511PA.com. 511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, average traffic speeds on urban interstates and access to more than 500 traffic cameras. The 511 site also provides easy-to-use, color-coded winter road conditions for all interstates and other routes covered in the 511 reporting network. New this winter, PennDOT has added a 511 Twitter feed so users can subscribe to any or all of the 511 regions or choose to receive 511 alerts statewide. Drivers are responsible for making sure their vehicles are ready for safe winter travel. Motorists are encouraged to have a mechanic they trust check their vehicle’s belts, hoses, battery and brakes. Drivers should also check that the heater and defroster work properly and that the wipers don’t streak. Motorists should also check their tires for proper inflation and sufficient tread depth. A quick way to check tread depth is to insert a penny in the tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the entire head, your tires are worn and will not be able to pull your vehicle through winter.

Motorists to Adjust Habits, Prepare for Winter Driving

Visit 511PA.com to Check Road Conditions before Leaving Home In addition, drivers who live in an area prone to heavy snow may want to consider using dedicated snow tires or carrying a set of tire chains. At a minimum, all-season tires should be at least mud and snow rated. The last step to equip your vehicle for winter is to pack an emergency kit that includes items such as non-perishable food, water, first-aid supplies, warm clothes, a blanket and small snow shovel. Motorists should tailor their kit to any specific need they or their family may have. Items such as baby supplies, extra medication, pet supplies, a spare cell phone or even children’s games could be included.

–––––––––– Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 55

The Retirement Experience: Men vs. Women Do men and women see things differently? At least on the topic of retirement, the answer may be yes. A recent study commissioned by Ameriprise Financial reveals that gender may play a significant role in how we feel about and prepare for this major life event. According to findings from the New Retirement Mindscape IISM study, women tend to have a more positive outlook towards retirement, while men are more likely to feel financially ready for it. The study also found that the recession has impacted men and women differently, a fact that may account for dissimilarities in the way they plan and prepare for retirement. For those in a couple, these differences could cause some major bumps on the road to a shared retirement. Financial pitfalls and stress on your relationship are just two of the potential fallouts you and your spouse or partner could encounter if you fail to communicate effectively about your plans and goals for retirement. The Findings: Understanding the Gender Split In 2005, Ameriprise Financial commissioned the New Retirement Mindscape® study, which examined how Americans ages 40-75 view retirement. Five years later, prompted by the seismic shift in the economy, Ameriprise revisited this research to discover how the retirement landscape has changed for U.S. consumers. Findings from the New Retirement Mindscape II study demonstrate that men and women continue to approach retirement differently, and that the recession may have actually made the contrast starker. If you tend to feel more excited about retirement than your spouse or partner (or vice versa) you’re not alone. In 2010, pre-retired women are much more likely than men to feel “enthusiastic” about retirement (74% vs. 65%). They’re also more likely to feel “excited with anticipation” about the day they retire than men (53% vs. 38%). Meanwhile, among retired men, fewer express that they “enjoy retirement a great deal” in 2010 (56%) than they did in 2005 (67%), while the percentage basically has held steady for retired women (57% in 2005 vs. 56% in 2010). Why the gender enthusiasm gap? If you’ve read the newspaper recently, you might guess one possible reason: men have been hit harder by the recession. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, men account for nearly two-thirds of the jobs lost between late 2007 and December 20091. With such lopsided economic fallout, it’s perhaps no wonder that men report feeling less excited about retirement than women. There’s the old joke about men being reluctant to stop and ask for directions. In fact, when it comes to financial planning, this may hold true. Despite having been hit harder by the recession, men in general are less inclined to seek guidance from a financial advisor. Both genders are more likely to work with a financial advisor in 2010 than they were in 2005; however, women do so at a higher rate (46% vs. 38%). What’s more, it appears that men and women may be planning for a different type of retirement. More pre-retired men expect to work— either part-time or full-time—in retirement than pre-retired women (38% vs. 27%). Meanwhile, pre-retired women appear to place importance on being able to volunteer (31% vs. 22%) and spend time with family (77% vs. 68%) during retirement.

Time to Talk Retirement The study’s findings paint a complicated picture for anyone who’s planning to retire with a spouse or partner. What if you’re planning to retire next year and your mate wants to keep working for another decade? What if you envision a retirement filled with travel and your spouse or partner wants to stay close to home? What happens if you disagree about whether or not you can even afford to retire? To avoid any unfortunate surprises as you approach or enter into retirement, open up the lines of communication with your spouse or partner about their hopes, fears and level of preparedness for retirement as early as possible. Discussing how you want to spend retirement is not only important from an emotional aspect, but also a financial one. Establishing your goals for the future will help you determine how much money you need to save in order to fund them. A financial advisor can assist you with writing a financial plan that weaves together your financial objectives and your partner’s. In addition to providing a roadmap to your financial future, it can be an opportunity to learn how he or she envisions retirement. The process may be eye-opening. 1Bureau of Labor Statistics, Household Data Seasonally Adjusted

Averages, Q2, 2010.

Barbara J. Wallis is licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents only in the states of PA, FLA, ME, OH, and AZ. The New Retirement Mindscape IISM and New Retirement Mindscape® studies were commissioned by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and conducted by telephone by Harris Interactive in May 2010 and August 2005 among 2,007 (2010) and 2,000 (2005) U.S. adults age 40-75. The sampling error for the 2010 study is +/-2.5%. The 2005 study was conducted in conjunction with Age Wave and Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D.

I can help you reach your milestones This information is provided for informational purposes only. The information is intended genericthe in naturemile-pebbles and should not be applied or relied upon in any andto beall particular situation without the advice of your tax, legal and/or your financial

advisor. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors or representatives provide I will take theThe time toexpressed listen to you understand tax or legal advice. views may notand be suitable for every situation. your dreams, then find the appropriate financial Brokerage, investment andhelp financial are made available through solutions that can youadvisory reach services your individual Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and goals.may Because every dream is personal, needs services not be available in all jurisdictions or to alland clients. a personal plan. © 2010 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

To start a conversation, call me at (412) 854-6104. Wallis and Associates This Industry Insight was A financial advisory practice provided by Barbara J. Wallis, CFP®,ofMSM. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Barbara FINANCIAL J. Wallis, PLANNER™ CFP®, MSM CERTIFIED 2581 Washington Rd Ste 225 Practitioner Upper St Clair, PA 15241 Financial Advisor (412) 854-6103 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. ameripriseadvisors.com/barbara.j.wallis 2581 Washington Rd Ste 225 Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.854.6103

MORE WITHIN REACH 56 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Upper St. Clair Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made

The Allegheny County Parks Department opened the North Park and South Park ice rinks on Thursday, November 4. The 2010-2011 ice skating season will run through mid-March 2011. The Parks Department will once again offer both free and paid skating lessons throughout the season to residents ages five and older. The North Park and South Park ice rinks offer gift certificates, and the rinks are available to rent for special occasions. For additional information, call the North Park Ice Rink at 724.935.1280 or the South Park Ice Rink at 412.833.1499. 2011 Family, Senior and Individual pool pass certificates and 2011 Senior Golf certificates are available as holiday gifts. Call 412.350.2468 for details.

REAL ESTATE IN Upper St. Clair

The Karen Marshall Group

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#1 Team in Sales

Metropolitan Pittsburgh, Washington, Greene County 38+ million in 2009

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Upper St. Clair - Forestbrook Estates • Clairbrook Homes, Master Builder • Executive Level Lots Starting At $150,000 • Private Cul-De-Sac Location • Your Plans or Ours • 3000 Square Foot Minimum • Deed Restrictions & Covenants

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Karen Marshall 412.831.3800 x126 karenmarshall@realtor.com / www.thekarenmarshallgroup.com

Ann Allsopp

Karena Allsopp

OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.135 OFFICE 412.885.8530 Ext.183 FAX 412.885.1461 FAX 412.885.1461 CELL 412.979.5056 CELL 412.916.3307 EMAIL aallsopp@northwood.com EMAIL kallsopp@northwood.com

Pleasant Hills Office • 5301 Clairton Blvd. • Suite C • Pittsburgh, PA 15236

www.northwood.com

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 57

Housing Headlines Don’t Apply to Pittsburgh REAL ESTATE IN Upper St. Clair

f you’ve been reading about the housing bubble and burst in the past year, you may be terrified to buy or sell a home, but Realtors can assure you – what happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas. “Buyers are listening to the national media instead of paying attention to our local market, said Gretchen Herron, Manager and Associate Broker with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services South Hills Office. “Our market never took the wild swings in value that some other parts of the country did, like Florida, Nevada, and Arizona to name a few.” Herron said the reason why Pittsburgh escaped the collapse is because the market retained its stability. “In Pittsburgh, nothing goes up fast and nothing drops quickly,” Herron said. “It’s one of the good areas of the country because the houses never went through that appreciation that they did in the rest of the country. In some of those cases, the houses appreciated in value before they even closed the sale. Then the market fell and they had too many of those scenarios to handle. Here, we’re averaging a selling profit

Real Estate Mortgage Title Insurance

Real Estate Service

Janet Hensler Realtor®, SRES

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of 2 percent over last year. We’re selling houses, but they have to be priced right and ready to go.” Herron said that rather than worrying about the national market, they should be worrying about their front door appeal, because that’s really what’s going to make or break their home sale. “You have only one time to make a first impression. That is very important. When somebody is coming in, maybe from out of town, they may only have a day or two to look at houses,” she said. “It’s the front door, the curb appeal. The home needs to be warm and inviting. Anything, like cigarette odors, can put off a potential buyer. Sellers should test their front door. It may be the greatest house, but if buyers don’t get past the front door, it’s going to sit for a long time.” Herron said this is especially important because the spring selling season begins in January. “A lot of people come out after the holidays. They start looking for the spring and they find that house. If you’re ready by mid-January or February, you will have a step up,” she said.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 59

c o n n e c te d

“It’s all about keeping

to the latest technology, to market trends and to my community.” Angela Mize Top 5% of Prudential Preferred Realty’s South Hills Agents

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MAUREEN CAVANAUGH YEAR AFTER YEAR HOME AFTER HOME!! I LIVE HERE WORK HERE SELL HERE!! • National Sales Excellence Awardee

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f you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with the return of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on listing your home. January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, said Lori Crandell, realtor and associate Broker with Coldwell Banker. National Excellence “JanuarySales is definitely a goodAwardee time to list a house. It’s the beginning of the spring market,” she said. “Especially after football season is over, people Champion's Club get bored and start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to list in the spring, shoot for January or early February because you’ll get a Andron Awardee leg up on the spring market before it gets saturated.” Buyer andnotSeller WhileAgent you may see a Agent lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foot Residential traffic you getRelocation will be fromSpecialist serious buyers, not people just browsing. “The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start Thirty Year Upper St. Clair Resident out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really important that sellers goListing online themselves and look at the differences between Consistent and Sales Leader brokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popular website for consumers.” Year after year, home after home Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell said the proof is in worry the performance. that some people about how their home will show if there’s a foot is my ofYour snowsatisfaction on the ground, butgoal!!! if your house is attractive and inviting in the winter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny. “During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst. Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should make those photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yard looks good in the winter, it’s going to look good in the spring, but if we

have the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back who can’t make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out pictures of the yard in other seasons.” Other things that the winter provides advantages for include an opportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether the home heats evenly, and whether or not it has any

It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. drafty areas you’ll need to address. “There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like air conditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a home warranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warranty and can get that rectified before it gets too hot.”

Diane Horvath, GRI, CRS

For Sale in Upper St. Clair

Let my experience work for you. Top Producer Member of Top 1% off Realtors Nationwide Listing and Sales Leader Relocation Specialist Free Comparative Home Analysis Office: 412.833.3600 ext. 218 Cell: 412.491.6984 Howard Hanna - USC Office 180 Fort Couch Road Upper St Clair, PA 15241

Contact Maureen at: Real R eal EEstate state Mortgage Mortgage TTitle itle Insu Insurance rance Office: 412.833.3600 x226 Main: 412.496.3364 dhorvath@howardhanna.com email: mcavanaugh@howardhanna.com

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Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 61

Upper

St.

Clair

School

Upper St. Clair High School

1825 McLaughlin Run Rd., Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.833.1600 ext. 2236 Principal, Dr. Michael Ghilani Assistant Principal, Mr. Louis Angelo and Mr. Jace Palmer Director of High School Guidance/Counselor, Dr. William Rullo

Boyce Middle School

1500 Boyce Road Upper St. Clair, Pa 15241 412.833.1600 ext. 5000 Principal, Mrs. Karen Brown

Fort Couch Middle School

515 Fort Couch Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.833.1600 ext. 3000 Principal, Mr. Joseph DeMar Assistant Principal, Mr. John Rozzo

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District

Baker Elementary School

2300 Morton Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.833.1600 ext. 4000 Principal, Dr. Ruth Ann Matyuf

Eisenhower Elementary School

100 Warwick Drive Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.833.1600 ext. 8000 Principal, Mr. Mark Miller

Streams Elementary School

1560 Ashlawn Drive Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.833.1600 ext. 6000 Principal, Dr. Claire Miller

NEWS USCHS Students Chosen for Honors Choir

Administrative Offices 1820 McLaughlin Run Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 412.833.1600 Ext. 2202

www.uscsd.k12.pa.us ADMINISTRATION TEAM Superintendent: Dr. Patrick T. O'Toole Acting Assistant to the Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction/ Supervisor of Special Education: Dr. Sharon Suritsky Director of Operations, Community Relations & Special Projects: Dr. John Bornyas Director of Literacy, Assessment & Professional Development: Dr. Judith Bulazo Director of Business & Finance: Ms. Frosina Cordisco Director of Human Resources: Mr. James Lersch Director of Technology: Mr. Raymond Berrott Supervisor of Pupil Personnel: Ms. Eloise Stoehr Director of Transportation: Mr. W. Lee Schafer

The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) held its annual Honors Choir Festival in October. Seven Upper St. Clair High School choral students participated in the festival; Zach Beall, Luke Graci, Hannah Lane, Lisa Moore, Lily Olsakovsky, Dan Ryave, and Jonathan Wang. The event was held at Seton Hill University Performing Arts Center in Greensburg, PA.

NHRP Scholars The National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) announced its chosen scholars from the USCHS Class of 2011. Mario Arjona and Tatiana Bravo were chosen based on PSAT/NMSQT/PAA scores and their GPA. NHRP has been providing national recognition to almost 5,000 outstanding Hispanic high school seniors each year since 1983.

VARSITY SPORTS Upper St. Clair High School varsity sports had a great run. They finished the season with the following records and titles: Girls Cross Country 3-4 Betsy Erlanger placed 10th in WPIAL Individual Finals Boys Cross Country 1-4 Football 7-2 2nd in WPIAL Section; WPIAL Post Season Play Boys Golf 14-3 2nd in WPIAL Section; WPIAL Post Season Play Girls Golf 11-3 WPIAL Section Champions; 3rd in WPIAL Boys Soccer 14-2-1 2nd in WPIAL Section; WPIAL Post Season Play Girls Soccer 11-5-1 3rd in WPIAL Section; WPIAL Post Season Play Girls Tennis 12-3 2nd in WPIAL Section; WPIAL Post Season Play Girls Field Hockey 4-10-1 Girls Volleyball 13-1 WPIAL Section Champions; WPIAL Semi-Finalist

For school delays or cancellation, check www.uscsd.k12.pa.us or tune into Comcast Channel 19 and Verizon Channel 41 Winter Break starts on December 24. Classes resume on January 3rd.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 63

Recipe

Holiday Heart-to-Heart

Have a Family Features

The holidays are known as a time for family gatherings, catching up with relatives, and sometimes even the occasional family conflict. Like drama at the holiday dinner table, in many ways your health — for better or for worse — is influenced by your family. This year, why not start a conversation that benefits everyone? Gather your family health history. Why it’s important Family history of disease is an important part of understanding your risk for developing a number of serious diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a serious disease that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems including blindness, loss of limb, kidney failure, heart disease, and early death. In fact, most people with type 2 diabetes have a family member — such as a mother, father, brother, or sister — with the disease. By knowing your family health history, sharing it with your health care team, and taking important steps such as maintaining a healthy weight or losing a small amount of weight if you are overweight, making healthy food choices, and being physically active, you can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes (as well as other serious diseases) and help ensure that you will be enjoying holiday family gatherings for years to come. Four questions you should ask The answers to these key questions could help you prevent type 2 diabetes in your future: • • •

•

Does anyone in the family have type 2 diabetes? Has anyone in the family been told they might get diabetes? Has anyone in the family been told they need to lower their weight or increase their physical activity to prevent type 2 diabetes? Did your mother get diabetes when she was pregnant? This is also known as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

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If the answer to any of these is “yes,” or you have a mother, father, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes, you may be at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Talk to your doctor and visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org to learn more about managing your risk and preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes.

Understanding Our Molars

ack teeth, or molars, play an important role in our health, wellness and even our appearance. Yet many of us are likely to pay more time and attention to maintaining our front teeth, because they are readily visible to those whom we’d like to impress with a nice white smile. Understanding the true value of our molars and the consequences of living without them will encourage us to take better care of all of our teeth now and reap the benefits for a lifetime. Let us start with the form and function of our front teeth versus those in back. Our front teeth are called incisors and they are designed to cut and tear food as we bite off (hopefully not any more than) what we are about to chew. They are wide, relatively thin and their roots are single conical structures. Molars are blunt with broad, uneven surfaces. They have two, three or even four roots that anchor them tightly in our mouths. This is necessary for the forces they endure every day as they grind up our food into smaller pieces, making it easier for us to swallow and digest each bite. If we think about it, we notice that our first chewing motion with our molars is cautious. It’s an information gathering bite to determine the consistency of the food. Is it crunchy? Soft? Should it be chewed at all or allowed to melt in our mouths? Our tongue steps in then (the cheeks help, too) and pushes the food toward the molars, guiding it first to be chewed and then toward the throat to be swallowed. What would happen if we forced our thin, single-root incisors to chew all of our food? Incisors are not meant to occlude much, meaning the upper and lower front teeth aren’t built to withstand repeated edge-to-edge contact. In a normal resting position, the upper incisors rest just in front of the lower incisors. If we chewed all of our food with our incisors, we would notice very quickly that they are inefficient for breaking up food, and the wear and tear would damage the tooth and surrounding bone, causing the roots to become loose. The lack of molars would undeniably limit the variety of food in our diet, leading to any number of other nutrition-related problems. Sadly, this is very common in elderly patients who choose not to replace molars and to whom a balanced diet is so important. Molars also serve as space maintainers, horizontally and vertically. Horizontally, if we lose our molars, neighboring teeth will drift slowly into the vacant space and our front teeth will eventually spread, leaving noticeable gaps between them. Vertically, the space maintenance of molars contributes significantly to the shape of our face. Without molars, what’s to stop our lower jaw from bumping into our upper jaw? Gums bumping into gums might not sound uncomfortable, but consider the years that sunken cheekbones and a collapsed jaw (not to mention the wrinkles) will add to our appearance. This can be worsened by the gradual deterioration of our jaw bones that occurs without the boneanchoring roots of teeth. And don’t forget about our remaining front teeth. Think of door stops preventing door knobs from knocking holes in our walls. Allowing our incisors to clash into each other without the molars as vertical “stops” can damage the front teeth, and the pressure can cause them to become loose and fall out. Taking care of our natural molars is the best way to prevent their loss, and restoring damaged molars is always preferable to having them pulled or replaced. When the teeth we were born with are missing or cannot be

Artwork by Molly Feuer, feuerillustration.com

restored, there are many options for molar replacement. Ask your dentist about implants, crowns, bridges and dentures. These treatments can be used alone or combined in exciting new ways to provide stable, affordable and attractive results. Now that we’ve brushed up on the benefits of molars, let’s go brush and floss them some more, and be sure to visit our dentist regularly for complete oral care. We now know that taking good care of our back teeth allows us to maintain balanced nutrition, a youthful appearance, and yes, a beautiful smile that everyone can see. Leaving our molars out of sight and out of mind (or out of mouth!) can lead to many undesirable short and long term results.

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 our website at www.drfeuer.com.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 65

Social - Lite

Dedicated to the Fine Art of Living Within the Community by Marybeth Jeffries

The Perfect Hostess Gift hen attending a party, I always try to remember to take a hostess gift. Hostess gifts are really just a small gesture - something to thank your host for being so welcoming. But, what to bring? It depends on how well you know your hostess and how formal the party. Here are a few guidelines and suggestions: Casual Parties - gifts of food and beverage are always welcome. In a pinch, your host can set out your cookies or drinks if supplies run low. Just check with your hostess to make sure they are serving alcohol before you decide on the Cabernet or Riesling.

pper St. Clair Do you have an upcoming event? Please contact events@incommunitymagazines.com or call

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Formal Parties - For parties that are more formal in nature, a gift of chocolates or bottle of champagne are wonderful and thoughtful gestures. Flowers are a great option if you have them arranged in a vase before you arrive or delivered the day before the party. Your hostess will be so grateful not to have to stop and tend to your gift while trying to welcome her guests! Something More Personal? Scented candles, lotions or a CD filled with your hostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite type of music make great gifts. A homemade jar of jam or muffins wrapped in a cellophane bag and tied with ribbon will be something your hostess will truly appreciate. For someone who loves the kitchen, soap and lotion caddies for the kitchen sink or beautiful kitchen towels are memorable gifts that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go unnoticed. Last fall, I received a basket of tomatoes from my friends Fox Chapel Garden and was so thrilled! Always remember to place a small note with your gift. The next day, your host wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be scratching her head wondering who was so thoughtful to remember her with that lovely gift!

ood estate planning requires that you have a will and other documents (i.e. Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will, Life Insurance/Retirement Plan Beneficiary Designations) to ensure that your property passes to those individuals that you wish to receive the property. Because time seems to pass so quickly and personal situations can change just as fast, it is a good idea to have your will and other documents reviewed periodically and updated if needed. Some of the more common events that would likely require an update or revision to your will or other estate planning documents would be the birth of a child, divorce or marriage. Listed below in checklist fashion are some other reasons you may want to update or change your will or other estate planning documents. ➢ Change of Beneficiary. You may want to change or add a beneficiary of your estate or change the amount or type of property that beneficiary is to inherit. ➢ Change the Type of Property. Instead of naming someone to receive, for example, real estate, you may wish for that beneficiary to receive cash or other property instead. ➢ Change the Manner in Which a Beneficiary Receives Their Inheritance. Your intended beneficiary may have changed since the last update of your will or other documents. They may be experiencing physical or mental challenges which did not exist at the time the original documents were put in place. This could mean that the beneficiary now suffers from dementia or perhaps an alcohol or drug problem. If this were the case, you may want to consider having that beneficiary’s inheritance held in a trust for their benefit. ➢ You Have Been Recently Married or Divorced. The need for an update in your estate planning documents in this circumstance is obvious. Presumably you would want to include your new spouse and delete your old spouse from your will. ➢ You Have Added Children to Your Family Either Through Birth or Adoption or Grandchildren Have Been Added to Your Family by Birth or Adoption. In either case you would want to have your estate planning documents reviewed so that you can provide for these new additions to your family and address their potential interests in your estate.

➢ The Value of Your Estate Has Changed. As your estate either increases or decreases, you will want to review the relative interests of your beneficiaries in your estate. You may have assumed that all of your beneficiaries are to receive an equal share of your estate based on your current will, but if there has been a significant increase or decrease in value in a particular piece of property that is designated to one beneficiary, that beneficiary may very well end up with either a windfall, or a lesser interest in your estate based on the change of value of that particular piece of property. In addition, the exemption amounts from federal estate tax change over the next few years. Currently, there is a Two Million Dollars exemption from federal estate tax for a death occurring in 2008. That exemption from federal estate tax increases to Three and Half Million Dollars in the year 2009. In the year 2010, the federal estate tax is eliminated for one year. In 2011, the exemption amount from federal estate tax is reduced to One Million Dollars. Therefore, while you might think your estate is exempt from federal estate tax in the year 2009 based on the exemption amount for that year, you could very well end up in a federal estate tax payment situation should your death occur in 2011. It is very important that you estate planning documents take into account these future changes in the exemption amounts. ➢ The Health of One of Your Beneficiaries Has Changed. If one of your potential beneficiary’s health has deteriorated so that they are now in a nursing home or are not capable of handling an inheritance, it may be advisable to review your estate plan to see if a trust arrangement for that beneficiary would be appropriate. ➢ The Value of Your Business Has Changed Significantly. In many cases a business owner will want to transfer his interest in the family business to the child or children who are involved in the business and equalize the inheritance to the other children who are not involved in the business by passing other assets they own to those children in order to attempt to equalize the inheritance of the children. If the value of the business has increased dramatically, it may be difficult to equalize the inheritance given the amount of other assets in the estate.

➢ You Have Moved From Another State. Anytime you move from one state to another, it is always wise to have your current documents reviewed by a lawyer in the state to which you have moved. ➢ Ownership of Assets Have Changed. One very important point to remember is that joint ownership of an asset typically removes that asset from being controlled by your will. The joint owner will inherit your interest in that property, and the will would have no affect on that property. ➢ New Inheritance/Estate Tax Laws are Enacted. Anytime there is a revision to the estate or inheritance tax laws, you should look to have your will and other estate planning documents reviewed to see how those changes affect you. As stated above, the federal estate tax exemption amounts fluctuate from the current Two Million Dollars to a high of Three and a Half Million Dollars in 2009, to a low of One Million Dollars in 2011. It is

WHEN S HOUL D YO U UPDATE YO UR W IL L ?

anticipated that before 2011, Congress will enact another change to the estate tax laws most probably again changing those exemption amounts. Your will, and most other estate planning documents, are completely revocable and can be revised or amended at any time. The estate planning process is a fluid one and your estate planning documents need to change to reflect the changes taking place in your life. A periodic estate planning review utilizing this check list will ensure that your estate passes to your intended beneficiaries smoothly and with a minimum of aggravation. This Industry Insight was written by Thomas M. Butz. Mr. Butz is a partner in the law firm of Smith Butz, LLC and concentrates his practice in the areas of Estate and Trust Planning, Estate and Trust Administration, Asset Protection and Civil Litigation. Smith Butz, LLC is a full-service law firm located in Southpointe at 125 Technology Dr., Suite 202, Canonsburg, PA. 15317. For more information, call 724.745.5121 or visit www.smithbutzlaw.com.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 67

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Onorato Launches Seventh Annual Phone Card Drive for Overseas Troops Panera Bread joins County effort for second year with special offers

Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato has launched the County’s seventh annual phone card drive for U.S. troops who are stationed overseas. Through December 9, residents may donate international phone cards at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum in Oakland, at the Boyce, North and South park offices, and at the Office of the County Executive in Room 101 of the County Courthouse. “This drive is an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women who are protecting our freedom far away from their families and friends,” said Onorato. “I encourage everyone to join in our effort to connect troops with their loved ones during the holidays.” During Light Up Night in downtown Pittsburgh on November 19, Panera Bread sold cookies with all proceeds going toward the purchase of international phone cards for overseas troops. On December 9, anyone who makes a $5 donation at one of the 26 Panera Bread Cafes in the Pittsburgh region will receive a free “You Pick Two” voucher. All proceeds from the donations will be used to purchase additional international phone cards. International phone cards may also be mailed to the Allegheny County Special Events Office, 515B County Office Building, 542 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, through December 9. All donated and purchased phone cards will be distributed among the 171st Air Refueling Wing, 911th Airlift Wing, and 316th Regional Readiness Command. “It’s important that we remember the sacrifices that men and women in the armed services make for our freedom,” said Allegheny County Veterans Services Director Ronald Conley. “We have been very successful in previous years, and we hope to build upon that success.” This is the seventh year that Allegheny County has sponsored the phone card drive for troops. With Panera’s help last year, the 2009 drive netted more than 245,000 phone-card minutes. The total number of minutes collected over six years is more than 345,000. For additional information regarding the phone card drive for troops, call 412.350.5929.

ost childhood Christmas memories are of joyful occasions with precious family-bonding moments: mom and dad singing Christmas carols; children with happy, angelic faces gazing up at them in tranquil adoration. My own memories are also quite happy. But after comparing notes, I have slowly come to realize that my entire family is quite possibly out of their spruce tree. So, for an inside look at how a dysfunctional family spends its Christmas, please read on… Immediately after Thanksgiving, a disturbing lunar phase would always begin at our house. My otherwise fairly normal, career-oriented mother would begin to clean our house in anticipation of my grandparents’ arrival for Christmas. Not the normal tidying up one might do for a family visit. No, this was more like a murder had been committed at our house and my mother’s cleaning was the frantic attempts of the killer to remove every shred of DNA evidence. My mother would methodically begin to disinfect every object in our house, including the dogs. Not even my toys, which were thoroughly soaked in bleach, were spared, resulting in my Malibu Barbie turning into a white-haired old lady in need of a sunbed. I have never been sure why my mother was so intimidated by her motherin-law, but she apparently lived in fear that the frail, gray-haired woman would somehow drag a stepladder into the kitchen and, risking hip fracture, stand on the top rung to inspect for dust above the cabinets. My father’s style of celebrating the holidays was the polar opposite of a Brady Bunch Christmas. Less than enthused about stimulating the economy through gift-giving, he wasn’t terribly fond of the Christmas tree either. So in their new house, he ingeniously designed a special closet where a fully decorated Christmas tree on rollers could be wheeled out Dec. 1 and neatly rolled back into the closet on Dec. 26. Surely, he must be at least partially responsible for my quirky and oftentimes odd behavior. December 18 my grandparents would arrive. My grandfather would wheel into the driveway, screeching tires, and jump out of their Buick proudly announcing, “Made it in 6 hours and 15 minutes,” the goal being to shave minutes oﬀ of last year’s time. My grandmother, still white-lipped from the G-forces, would peel herself oﬀ the car seat and wobble in, complaining that my grandfather had driven 85 mph all the way.

On Christmas Day, my mother, who does not cook but is highly skilled at thawing and microwaving, morphed into Betty Crocker, giving, r Thanks ould e ft a ly e attempting such t Immedia g lunar phase w herwise in complex dishes b r u t . My ot a dis ur house ted mother o t a as green-beanin g n e always b mal, career-orie house in casserole and r r o u n o ly n a fair congealed salad. gin to cle randparents’ e b ld u o g w y . Unfortunately tion of m anticipa al for Christmas iv with the pressure r ar of the day, she would usually charcoalize the green-bean casserole. (I’m not sure if charcoalize is a word, but I really like it.) One holiday, my thoughtful grandfather shocked the entire village by crossing gender lines and washing dishes. Unfortunately, while dishwashing, his dentures flew into the garbage disposal as if sucked out of his mouth by an unseen evil force. He quickly turned oﬀ the disposal and pulled out a set of mangled dentures. Silently, he turned the switch back on and threw the dentures back into the garbage disposal. I miss him. Maybe we are all a little dysfunctional in one way or another. With the holidays, it’s easy for anyone to get a little neurotic. So, in between cursing the bakery for selling the last Boston crème pie and that mad dash for the last parking space at the mall, just keep saying under your breath, “Peace. And on earth, good will toward mankind.” Upper St. Clair | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 69

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