in-west-county

SPECIAL: Home Improvement in West County

West County SPRING 2013

The

R.S.Battles Farmhouse History comes alive in West County PLUS! Fairview School District Newsletter • Fairview Township Newsletter Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority Spring Schedule Girard Municipal Pages • Elk Creek Recreation

Region’s only trauma center

Award-winning cardiac care

Dedicated women’s hospital

On-site, specialized stroke team

The region’s largest network of family medicine providers

More than 220 specialists

World-class care. You can always count on it.

UPMC Hamot has been consistently listed among the nation’s high-performing health care providers by organizations like U.S. News & World Report and Truven Health Analytics. No other provider in the region can provide the level of care that UPMC Hamot delivers — from women’s health to orthopaedics to heart care.

Why would you choose to go anywhere else?

For more information, visit UPMCHamot.org.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

ovem Home Impr SPECIAL:

t County ent in Wes

IN West County is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Erie County 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.

2013 SPRING

INSIDE

IN West County | SPRING 2013 | PLUS! ict School Distr Fairview

Newsletter Township • Fairview Newsletter

15

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Circulatory Centers The Standard of Excellence in Vein Care

.... | 3

Saint Mary’s Home of Erie A Faith-based Retirement Community ....... | 49

ON THE COVER AND ABOVE

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History comes alive in West County’s Battles house.

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38

36

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Fairview School District Newsletter ..............................

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4

Fairview Parks and Recreation ........................................

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16

Fairview Township Municipal News ...............................

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Girard Township Municipal News ....................................

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Elk Creek Recreation and Leisure Board Schedule ...

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28

Foundation Helps Build Families .....................................

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30

The R.S. Battles Farmhouse ..............................................

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Robotic-assisted Surgery Available to Erie Patients

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34

Erie Native is Miss Pennsylvania ....................................

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Home Improvement in West County ..............................

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INPERSPECTIVE STAFF

Welcome to the spring issue of West County magazine.

I hope that you are as anxious as I am to get the cold and snow behind us and get busy planning projects around the house.

This issue is dedicated to home-improvement projects great and small. Some projects will give you curb appeal, some will increase your home’s value, and others are for the sheer enjoyment or luxury of it.

Regardless of your aims with your home, whether gutting the walls, or just planting the perfect tree in the yard, our homes are a source of pride for us, and not in a status sense. They are where we raise our families, where we feel safe, and where we invite our friends and loved ones for parties and fellowship.

Our homes are where our children play, and where oftentimes, we tend to sick loved ones. They are where we try hardest in life, and where the challenges of life hit us the most. Our homes bear witness to our triumphs as well as our sorrows, and they are as much a part of our personalities as what we choose to wear or adorn ourselves with.

So with so much importance placed on the walls that contain us, we hope that you can find at least one project within these pages to be fodder for your next project around the home.

REGION AL E DIT ORS

Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] mark@incommunitymagazines.com OF F ICE MAN AGE R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PL ACE MEN T COORDINATOR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUN ICIPAL CONT E N T COORDIN AT OR

Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DE SIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Jan McEvoy

Jonathan Barnes Jennifer Brozak Matt Fascetti Tracey Fedkoe Mike Ference Jacob Flannick Britt Fresa Elvira Hoff

?

How did you get into

Gardening

Gardens are commonplace in Western Pennsylvania, but why?

What’s the allure of gardening that prompted you to first turn the dirt? , Was it a relative who first helped you plant your first or was it your spouse who first introduced you to succulent, vine-ripened ? homegrown Let us know how you first got into gardening and send us some pictures of your garden as well!

Email your submissions to: mark@incommunitymagazines.com and please indicate which of our magazines you receive so we know where to place your story.

tulip bulb

tomatoes

Wayne Dollard

Mike Miller Joe Milne Mindy St. Giles Tamara Tylenda

W RIT ERS

Have a wonderful spring!

Wayne Dollard, Publisher

WE WANT TO KNOW:

PUBL ISHER

Heather Holtschlag Chelsie Kozera Leigh Lyons Dana Black McGrath Joanne Naser Melanie Paulick Gina Sallinger Judith Schardt

PHOT OGRAPHE RS

Mark Fainstein Ginni Klein Len Pancoast

Primetime Shots Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon

ADVE RT ISIN G SAL E S MAN AGE RS

Tamara Myers

Tom Poljak

ADVE RT ISIN G SAL E S

Sophia Alfaras Pamela Arder Brian Daley Julie Graff Jason Kalakos Peter Leben Connie McDaniel Brian McKee

Gabriel Negri Aimee Nicolia Vincent Sabatini Mark Seamans Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson

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 2013.

CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Summer content deadline: April 17

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

FAIRVIEW

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Superintendent’s Message

Fairview School District is proud to present our annual report card to our community. Our students have once again exceeded state and federal averages on standardized tests and have demonstrated excellence in and out of the classroom. It is with great pleasure that we highlight our annual accomplishments and showcase our innovative programs that contribute to our overall success.

Fairview School District recognizes that every student has his or her own learning style. Our teachers and support staff embrace the concept of differentiated instruction to meet the needs of our unique learners and understand that instruction must reach beyond the classroom. For that reason, the district has several programs in place that add additional supports to give all students the opportunity to succeed.

Fairview Elementary School (FES) has an outstanding Title I Reading program that offers students additional reading supports delivered by trained Reading Specialists.

Programs such as Tiger Club and The Build a Better Me Lab offer extra assistance in reading and math for our learners who need more individualized attention.

Fairview Middle School (FMS) recently introduced the Tiger Den to students. The Tiger Den is staffed by AmeriCorps members, who assist students in all subject areas before, during, and after school. This comfortable and inviting room also offers students the opportunity to work through social and emotional concerns with our trained guidance staff.

Fairview High School (FHS) boasts the award winning Refocus Room. This room offers a variety of services at FHS and is staffed by both a teacher and a behavior specialist. Many students take advantage of tutoring and counseling services, while others work on online courses and other credit recovery programs. AmeriCorps members and National Honor Society members also offer convenient before and after school tutoring opportunities for FHS students.

Fairview School District

Fairview School District is fortunate to have a supportive community, a dedicated support staff, outstanding educators, and motivated students.

It is the collective effort of all of these stakeholders that makes a Fairview education so rewarding.

Superintendent Erik Kincade

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West County

Fairview Celebrates Academic Excellence Under the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001, school districts are required to provide parents and community members with an overview of the performance of students on their state’s standardized test series. In Pennsylvania, this series is called the Pennsylvania System of School Asessment (PSSA) and it is administered in grades 3-8, and 11. The goal of NCLB is to have every student at the proficient level or above by the year 2014. Each year schools are expected to make Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) towards this goal.

Throughout this report you will find the 2011-2012 PSSA results and an overview of our district’s academic achievement, as well as information regarding test participation, attendance, and graduation rates. Because a single test cannot provide a fair picture of how well a district is performing, additional information about student performance on other standardized tests and overall achievement is also included.

Highlights of 2011-2012 Assessment Data

Out of 17 school districts in our region including schools in Erie, Crawford, and Warren counties, Fairview School District received the highest proficiency rates on the following assessments: • Grade 4 • Grade 5 • Grade 6 • Grade 7 • Grade 8 • Grade 11

Math & Reading Reading Math Reading Math, Reading & Writing Math, Reading, Science & Writing

Targets - A school’s AYP state goals or targets are the percentage of students that must meet or exceed scores at the proficient level in Mathematics and Reading. The PA state goals for this past school year (2011-12) were 78% for Mathematics and 81% for Reading.

For 2013, these goals increase to 89% in Mathematics and 91% in Reading. The target for 2014 is 100% in both Mathematics and Reading.

Subgroups - Schools need to meet AYP targets for Academic Performance and Test Participation in the grade levels used for calculations. Results for subgroups are used only when there are 40 or more students in the group. Thus, while NCLB defines 41 possible AYP targets to meet, most schools in Pennsylvania do not have enough students to make all of these indicators applicable. Fairview typically has the following subgroups represented: White, IEP – Special Education, and Economically Disadvantaged.

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

Fairview School District

NCLB Definitions

FAIRVIEW

SCHOOL DISTRICT

2011-2012 Performance

by All Students The following charts illustrate that Fairview students exceeded state minimum benchmarks in both math and reading.

State Math Target – 78% Proficient or Above State Reading Target – 81% Proficient or Above Grade 3 - 107 Students

Grade 4 - 127 Students

MATH

READING

All

88.7%

86.9%

ED

77.8%

72.2%

IEP

60.0%

60.0%

MATH

READING

All

96.0%

90.3%

ED

88.8%

65.4%

IEP

80.0%

66.7%

Grade 5 - 114 Students

Grade 6 - 107 Students

MATH

READING

All

85.1%

87.5%

ED

71.5%

IEP

40.0%

MATH

READING

All

94.4%

85.6%

76.2%

ED

78.6%

61.6%

46.7%

IEP

58.8%

70.5%

Fairview School District

Grade 7 - 118 Students

Grade 8 - 102 Students

MATH

READING

All

93.2%

95.8%

ED

82.6%

IEP

47.0%

MATH

READING

All

94.1%

98.0%

86.4%

ED

81.3%

93.8%

52.9%

IEP

55.6%

72.2%

ED (Economically Disadvantaged) – Students from families with an income level that meets eligibility requirements for free and reduced lunches

Grade 11 - 137 Students

IEP (Individualized Education Plan) – Students enrolled in special education programs

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West County

MATH

READING

All

77.3%

85.5%

ED

50.0%

72.2%

IEP

41.7%

33.3%

Attendance Rate

Qualifications of District Teaching Staff The Fairview School District is very fortunate to have highly qualified teachers.

School Year

2011-2012 Qualifications of District Teaching Staff Total Number of Teachers

111

% of Teachers who are PA Certified

The attendance goal is 90%, or any improvement from the previous year. Attendance applies to schools that do not have a high school graduating class, and the rate is based on the entire school.

Attendance Rate FMS

2011-2012

96.43%

Attendance Rate FES 96.63%

100%

# of Teachers with Emergency Credentials

0

% of Classes Taught by Non-Certified Teachers

0

% of Teachers who have a Master’s Equivalency, Master’s, or Doctorate Degree

82%

Average Teaching Experience (Years)

14.76

Overall Performance

2011 Graduation Rate The graduation rate measure has a goal of 85%, or a 10% reduction of the difference between the previous year’s graduation rate and 85%.

The graduation rate applies to schools that have a high school graduating class, and includes only students enrolled as members of that class. The graduation rate lags one year behind; therefore, the most current information available is for the Class of 2011.

School Year

Fairview School District outperforms the state performance averages in both math and reading.

2010-2011

Graduation Rate - FHS 97.33%

Fairview Vs. Pennsylvania 2011-2012 PSSA Results % Advanced and Proficient GRADE

FAIRVIEW

READING PA

FAIRVIEW

Fairview School District

MATH

PA

3

88.7%

80.0%

86.9%

74.1%

4

96.0%

82.6%

90.3%

72.1%

5

85.1%

73.3%

87.5%

65.0%

6

94.4%

77.2%

85.6%

68.5%

7

93.2%

80.1%

95.8%

76.0%

8

94.1%

76.4%

98.0%

79.8%

11

77.3%

60.0%

85.5%

67.8%

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

FAIRVIEW

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Writing & Science Performance At this time, writing and science test scores are not used to determine AYP. The results are reported statewide and schools use the data to guide instruction.

Fairview vs. Pennsylvania 2011-12 PSSA Science Results % Advanced + Proficient GRADE

FAIRVIEW

PENNSYLVANIA

4

96.8%

82.3%

8

83.5%

59.7%

11

72.4%

41.8%

Fairview vs. Pennsylvania 2011-12 PSSA Writing Results % Advanced + Proficient GRADE

FAIRVIEW

PENNSYLVANIA

5

73.1%

64.2%

8

91.9%

72.7%

11

93.7%

82.9%

2013 State Testing Schedule STANDARDIZED TEST

PSSA Math & Reading PSSA Writing PSSA Science

PARTICIPATING GRADES

TESTING WINDOW

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8

April 8-19

5 and 8

March 11-15

4 and 8

April 22-26

Keystone Exams

9, 10 and 11

May 13-24

Keystone Exams Makeups & Re-tests

9, 10 and 11

July 29-August 2

For additional information regarding this Report Card, visit our website: www.fairviewschools.org or contact Dr. Katy Wolfrom, Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment 474-2600 ext. 9-6215.

Warning Status – What Does It Mean?

Fairview School District

Schools that met all AYP measures or targets last year but did not meet all AYP measures this year are put on Warning status. FES did not meet the 81% target for Reading for its Economically Disadvantaged subgroup.

The subgroup scored 69%. A total of 890 schools in Pennsylvania are in Warning status. As is true for all buildings in our district, the staff at FES is working diligently to ensure all students are successful on this year’s state tests and make AYP.

Provisions Overall, a school either meets or does not meet AYP. While it only takes one missed goal or target to Not Make AYP, there are several ways or provisions to meet AYP targets: • Confidence Interval • Growth Model • Safe Harbor • Appeal • Safe Harbor Confidence Interval

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West County

Advanced Placement

The SAT

Each year FHS students have the opportunity to experience college-level work while still in high school by enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) courses. During the 2011-2012 school year, over 200 FHS students enrolled in AP courses. Students may also choose to take the AP exam and if they score a 3 or better, they can earn college credit or advanced placement status at many colleges and universities.

The SAT Reasoning Test is the nation’s most widely used admissions test among colleges and universities. The SAT exam measures critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills. Each section is scored out of a possible 800 points for a combined total of 2,400 points. At Fairview, 125 students from the Class of 2012 took the SAT exam.

AP COuRSES OFFERED AT FHS

2011-2012 SAT SCORES

AP American History

AP Language

AP biology

AP Literature

AP Calculus I/II

AP Physics b

500

AP Chemistry

AP Psychology*

400

AP Environmental Science*

AP Spanish

AP European History

AP Statistics

AP u.S. Government & Politics*

AP French

* Offered via distance learning. Additionally, some AP courses are offered every other year.

RCI and Dual Enrollment Through Regional Choice Initiative (RCI), junior and senior students can enroll in Gannon University, Edinboro University, and Mercyhurst University courses offered at the Academy of Collegiate Excellence. Students receive college credits that can be transferred to almost all accredited colleges and universities. During the 2011-2012 school year, FHS students enrolled in 34 different courses offered through RCI or Dual Enrollment directly on campus.

600

521

501

MATH

FHS

502

491

CRITICAL READING

STATE

509 480

WRITING

The ACT The ACT is a national college admissions exam that consists of subject tests in English, mathematics, reading, and science. An optional writing test may also be taken. The highest possible score on the ACT is 36. ACT results are accepted by all four-year colleges and universities in the United States.

Twenty eight (28) students from the Class of 2012 took the ACT and their average score was 23.2.

Fairview School District

About Our Graduates An extremely high percentage of FHS graduates continue with post-secondary education.

AbOuT OuR GRADuATES YEAR

CLASS SIZE

% ATTENDING POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION

2009 2010 2011 2012

141 160 147 149

80% 89% 89% 89%

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

FAIRVIEW

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Keystones Replace PSSAs at the High School Level

Beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, the Keystone Exams are taking the place of the previously administered PSSA exams at the high school level.

The Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments designed to evaluate proficiency in academic content and will be used to determine Adequate Yearly Progress as mandated by NCLB. Beginning with the class of 2014, students must demonstrate proficiency on the Keystone Exams to graduate. Students will be offered multiple opportunities to take the Keystones throughout their high school careers.

All students currently in Grade 11 must participate in the Algebra I, Literature, and Biology Keystone Exams.

Additionally, students in any grade who are enrolled in a Keystone-related course must take that Keystone Exam. Tests were administered in December and January and will be administered again in May and over the summer.

The Keystones are not timed tests. Each Exam takes the typical student approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete. A copy of each student’s report for all Keystone Exams will be sent home to parents/ guardians and another copy will be kept on file at the school district. School-level reports will be used for curricular and planning purposes.

Mr. Mummert Awarded the Golden Apple Hali Carner, a Junior at FHS, and Payton Lundell, a Sophomore at FHS, were pleased to surprise and honor their teacher, Mr. Chad Mummert, with the Golden Apple award. Mr. Mummert serves as a Fairview music teacher and band director.

Fairview School District

The prestigious Golden Apple Award honors area educators who have made a positive impact upon the youth of our community. Through a partnership with WJET-TV and Edinboro University, the Golden Apple Award is presented each week throughout the school year. Students nominate teachers through an online application and 250 word essay.

Congratulations to Mr. Mummert.

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West County

AmeriCorps Members Dedicated to Serving in Fairview The Fairview School District has once again partnered with Keystone SMILES AmeriCorps to recruit volunteers to dedicate a year of service to the Fairview Community. AmeriCorps is a national program that empowers people of all ages to enhance the quality of their lives through learning and service. This year the district is pleased to have a total of seven (five adult and two youth) AmeriCorps members.

At FHS, Caryn Krahe coordinates Peer Tutoring and an Intergenerational Mentoring Program. Students in the National Honor Society volunteer their time as tutors. “With Peer Tutoring, we are trying to improve student’s study habits, organization skills, and test-taking strategies,” said Krahe. Through the Intergenerational Mentor Program, FHS students spend time at both FES and FMS interacting with younger students.

This program allows high school students an opportunity to be positive role models to younger students.

Brandon Maxwell works closely with Mr. Mummert and Ms. Rossetti with the rapidly growing instrumental music program. In addition to assisting with teaching group band lessons, he helps with the Music Department’s new after-school extra-curricular offerings. Mr. Maxwell also offers a lunch time tutoring program to students in Grades 3 and 4.

“We are thrilled that so many young people are willing to dedicate a year of service to the district,” said Dr. Katy Wolfrom, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. “The Keystone SMILES AmeriCorps Program provides a unique experience for both the AmeriCorps members and the Fairview Community.”

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

Fairview School District

This year two FHS students are serving as Youth Corps AmeriCorps members.

Seniors Jessica Brinling and Emily Myers committed to volunteering 300 hours of service to the District. Upon completion of their terms of service, both students will receive an AmeriCorps Scholarship.

Fairview is one of only two districts in NW PA that enjoys a Youth Corps Program.

“There are so many programs that our FMS AmeriCorps members support,” said Steve Ferringer, FMS Principal.

“With their help we are able to provide a structured after-school tutoring program, interventions for struggling students, and a summer camp.” AmeriCorps members Cassidy Wilson and Katie Fitzgibbon provide in-class support in technology-related classes and Grade 5 content courses and assist several FMS service groups. In addition, they work in the FMS Tiger Den with member Mitch Meighen (see article on page 15).

FAIRVIEW

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Title 1 Program Promotes Achievement

Title 1 is a federally-funded program that offers instructional support to students and parents. The FES Title 1 program provides additional Language Arts instruction to students who qualify when they have not achieved satisfactory progress in the classroom and/or on benchmark assessments.

Services are furnished through a Reading Specialist and nine literacy aides who work collaboratively with teachers to provide instruction for students in Kindergarten – Grade 4.

Title 1 opportunities include reading support within the regular Language Arts program, Leveled Literacy Intervention, Build a Better Me Lab, after-school tutoring, and summer skill work through Summer Bridge activities.

Parental involvement and education are key components of the Title 1 program. The collaboration between the student, teacher, and parent(s) is essential for student growth. Parents are informed of their child’s qualification for the program and weekly updates are sent home. Parents are notified when satisfactory progress is made and the student has graduated from the program. Recently, Title 1 students and their parents were invited to attend weekly workshops sponsored by FES and WQLN. Parents and students engaged in hands-on reading activities that they completed together. The WQLN F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S program, which was funded by a grant from the Fairview School Foundation, provided a valuable learning experience.

Tiger Club: Another Opportunity to Learn Fairview School District

Students in Grades 1 – 4 receive tutoring through the after-school program referred to as Tiger Club. Teachers work with small groups of students during one-hour sessions, two days a week at FES. Language Arts instruction is provided for students in Grades 1 – 4 and mathematics instruction for students in Grades 3 and 4. The average small group size is five to six students. This small teacher-to-student ratio (1:6) allows for individual attention and feedback.

Tiger Club gives students an opportunity to learn within a familiar setting. Lessons are structured to support skills taught during the week and to practice needed strategies. Tiger Club is one of the services provided through the federally-funded Title 1 program. The after-school tutoring program began in November and runs through the first week of May.

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West County

FES Students Find Success in Lab The administration and staff at FES are continually researching ways to improve the academic success of students. While there are many supports to help our learners achieve, some continue to struggle. The Build A Better Me Lab is a resource, unique to FES, designed to help struggling students.

The philosophy behind the Build A Better Me Lab is to strengthen a student’s academic skills through gross motor development, improve ocular development for better reading efficiency, and improve working memory.

Through carefully planned stations, students simultaneously engage in gross motor tasks and academic tasks such as rhyming, letter sounds,

sight words, and decodable words. With the collaboration of a local optometrist, FES integrated ocular development into the Build A Better Me Lab. These activities help improve eye efficiency; focusing on the text, fluently reading left to right, and smoothly transitioning to the next line of text.

The ability to listen to and retain information is crucial in the learning process. This is where the improvement of working memory aids a student’s ability to recall and retain information. Collectively, gross motor development, improved ocular development, and improved working memory enable our learners to succeed.

The goal of the Build A Better Me Lab is exactly that: to build a better learner. Pairing self-confidence and a positive attitude about school with interactive learning helps the students experience success at school.

Fairview School District West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

FAIRVIEW

SCHOOL DISTRICT

Through a collaborative partnership between the Fairview School District and the Sarah Reed Children’s Center, the Refocus Room at FHS was created in 2007 to provide students assistance in both the academic and behavioral arenas. The Refocus Room is facilitated and monitored by a mental health counselor, Kim Enterline, and Pennsylvania certified teacher, Joe Dombrowski.

FHS Refocus Room Enhances Student Success

In the Refocus Room, students are able to access e20/20, an online curriculum resource that offers the same content as they would receive in the regular classroom. The e20/20 curriculum is available to meet the needs of students who are currently outside the traditional classroom setting due to of a variety of academic and/or behavioral circumstances.

The Refocus Room staff provides assistance to students who have missed class and fallen behind in their work. The Refocus Room classroom provides a quiet atmosphere that is conducive for concentration whether it is for making up work, taking missed tests, or receiving personalized tutoring.

Fairview School District

In addition to the academic component, the Refocus Room program is designed to address students’ behavioral, social, and emotional needs through informal counseling in order to develop positive growth. Students who come to the Refocus Room are encouraged to evaluate their behavior, identify necessary life skills, and establish a plan for future academic and behavioral success. To date, nearly half of the FHS student body has utilized some aspect of the Refocus Room Program.

14

West County

FMS Tiger Den Provides Comfort and Support

From missing homework to dealing with friendship conflicts, students find comfort in the confines of the FMS Tiger Den. The circular tables, dry-erase wall, and oversized furniture provide the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing, yet functional, learning environment.

AmeriCorps member Mitch Meighen oversees the Tiger Den and assists students in this non-traditional setting. Specializing in mathematics, technology, and communications support, Mitch along with other AmeriCorps members provide direct and indirect instruction in conjunction with the regular classroom curriculum.

The Tiger Den also serves as an extension of the FMS Guidance Department. Emotional issues are addressed as well as skill building in the areas of organization and time-management. Several of the FMS service groups also utilize this unique space to meet and plan activities and events.

FMS is one of just seven schools across the country that has been awarded the Olweus Quality Assurance Certification.

To achieve this distinction schools must meet extremely high standards set by the Olweus Bullying Prevention Institute at Clemson University. Bullying is a serious issue and is not tolerated in any form in the Fairview School District.

Pictured L-R: Carrie Mummert - FMS Teacher, Karla Good-Windber Research Institute/Olweus Bullying Prevention Specialist, Justin Zona – FMS Assistant Principal, Cristen Smith - FMS Teacher, and Christina Costello - FMS Teacher

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

Fairview School District

Fairview Middle School Wins National Award

Fairview Parks and Recreation: Spring 2013 Programs READ AND SIGN THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY INDEMNIFICATION In applying for registration in the program and facility, the following agreements must be endorsed: (1) I agree on behalf of myself and in behalf of my minor children to release and discharge the Fairview School District, Fairview Township, Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority, its officers, representatives, and employees from any and all liability and claims arising out of or in any way connected with any program being operated by the Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority. The applicant hereby assumes all risks of injuries or damages to the person on behalf of myself and any minors to which I am a parent or guardian which might occur as a result of participation in the program of the Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority.

(2) I agree to abide by the regulations for operation of the facility used for the program, and regulations for the registered individual activity.

(3) I further hereby agree to indemnify and save harmless the Fairview School District, Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority, Fairview Township, its officers, representatives and employees, from any and all liability that may occur to myself or members of my immediate family in any Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority program. This indemnification is to include and is not necessarily

limited to any and all cost of litigation, medical expenses, judgment, or subrogation interests.

(4) I acknowledge that passes and registrations may not be loaned or transferred; the permit and privileges associated with it are not transferable and will be lifted, if presented by any other person than the one to whom issued. We will consider your application for registration as acceptance of the above items. THE SIGNATURE OF PARENT, GUARDIAN OR ADULT PARTICIPANT INDICATES ACCEPTANCE OF THIS WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION. The waiver and release of liability must be signed before participation by adult participants or by a parent or guardian on behalf of minors. The Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority, Fairview Township and its Supervisors and the Fairview School District assume no liability for injuries that may be suffered as a result of participation in these activities as well as and including transportation to and from any class or program.

If you have read, signed and agree to the waiver and release of liability, fill out the registration form to include all necessary information (name, address, telephone number, class, etc.).

MAKE YOUR CHECK OR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO: THE FAIRVIEW PARKS AND RECREATION AUTHORITY and mail to 7471 McCray Rd, Fairview, PA 16415

REGISTRATION AND WAIVER FORM - FILL OUT COMPLETELY PARTICIPANT NAME

AGE

ACTIVITY

T-SHIRT/JERSEY SIZE S__ M__ L__ XLG__ Youth or Adult

GUARDIAN

HOME PHONE

SESSION

LEVEL

CHECK #

TOTAL

E-MAIL

ADDRESS

WORK HOME

CITY, STATE, ZIP

CELL PHONE

I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE WAIVER/RELEASE FORM

SIGNATURE

16

West County

TIME

DATE

FEE

Fairview Parks and Recreation: Spring 2013 Programs

ACTIVITIES for CHILDREN SPRING LEARN TO SWIM PROGRAM AMERICAN RED CROSS CERTIFIED LESSONS

All programs are available to Fairview residents and non-residents alike.

Class sizes are limited and spaces will only be reserved with payment. No checks will be accepted at the pool. The FPRA DOES NOT MAIL CONFIRMATIONS for class enrollments.

Please assume you are enrolled for the class you paid for unless otherwise notified.

FOR INFORMATION ON CLASS AVAILABILITY, CALL THE FPRA OFFICE AT 814-474-5077.

The Fairview Parks & Recreation Authority reserves our American Red Cross swim classes to Fairview residents up until one week prior to the start of any Session. After that registrations will be taken on a first come first serve basis until full. Thank you for your understanding.

Fee for all levels is $40.00 per Session.

Session A

Session B

Session C

Days: Monday thru Thursday Dates: April 2 thru 29

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Dates: April 2 thru 25

Days: Monday & Wednesday Dates: April 3 thru 29

Session D

Session E

Session F

Days: Monday thru Thursday Dates: May 1 thru 30 (No class May 2 & 27)

Days: Monday & Wednesday May 1 thru 29 (No class May 27)

Days: Tuesday & Thursday Dates: May 7 thru 30

PARENT WITH TODDLER (ages 1 to 3 years) A water orientation class that will teach a parent how to work safely and effectively work with a young child in the water. Skillappropriate water activities will be included.

Time Date

Choose between 5:45-6:00 p.m.

OR 6:00-6:15 p.m.

Choose from Sessions A or D

PRESCHOOL (ages 3 and up) Designed for the child to develop a comfort level in the water as well as a readiness for learning how to swim. Children will also receive an introduction into the basic swimming skills.

Time Date

6:15-6:45 p.m.

Choose from Sessions B, C, E & F

LEVEL 1 Designed for children just beginning swim lessons who may be uncomfortable in the water.

Time Date

6:45-7:15 p.m.

Choose from Sessions B, C, E & F

LEVEL 2 Prerequisite: Level 1 with no fear of the water.

Gives students success with fundamental skills.

Time Date

7:15-7:45 p.m.

Choose from Sessions B, C, E & F

LEVEL 3 Prerequisite: Level 2 or equivalent. Builds on the skills in Level 2 by providing additional guided practice.

Time Date

7:45-8:15 p.m.

Choose from Sessions C & E

LEVEL 4 Prerequisite: Level 3 or equivalent. Develops confidence in the strokes learned and improves other aquatic skills.

Time Date

8:15-8:45 p.m.

Choose from Sessions C & E

The Fairview Parks & Recreation Authority Board of Directors meets the second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Fairview Township building.

The public is welcome to attend & encouraged to bring new program ideas that will benefit the community.

This program guide & registration form are also available at www.fairviewtownship.com.

You can call 814-474-5077 or email parks-rec@fairviewtownship.com.

Office hours are M-F from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

All Rec. Authority programs will be cancelled if there is no school or if school closes early at the Fairview School District.

The Fairview Parks & Rec. Authority is currently looking for an active volunteer to serve as a member of the board. Any Fairview resident with questions or an interest in being on the board should attend a board meeting.

PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS $10.00 for ½ hour for private $15.00 for ½ hour for semi-private Call Kathy Iszkula at 814-474-7439 to schedule lessons.

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Fairview Parks and Recreation: Spring 2013 Programs

ACTIVITIES for CHILDREN AMERICAN RED CROSS WATER SAFETY CERTIFICATION This course teaches participants the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. The course content and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries. Must meet these American Red Cross prerequisites: Minimum age of 15, can swim 300 yards continuously as well as swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke, surface dive 7-10 feet, retrieve a 10 lb. object, return to the surface, swim 20 yards back to the starting point with the object and exit the water without using a ladder or steps within 1 minute, 40 seconds. Class is limited to first 16 paid participants.

Fee $200.00 Site: Fairview High School Pool Times: (Exact Times TBA) Days Sunday, March 17, Monday, March 18 , Tuesday, March 19 , Thursday, March 21 , Saturday, March 23, Sunday, March 24

FAIRVIEW FINS SWIM CLUB This is a conditioning and technique focused team that will cover technique training for all four competitive strokes: Freestyle (front-crawl), Backstroke (back-crawl), Breaststroke and Butterfly.

Skill testing will be held from 6:00-7:00 Monday, March 4 FOR NEW SWIMMERS ONLY! No FINS practice March 18, 21, 25 thru April 1 & May 27.

GRADES K-4 GRADES 5-12 Fee Days Date & Time

$135.00 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday March 6 thru 22 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Fee Days Date & Time

Monday thru Thursday April 2 thru May 30 from 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Days Date & Time

AND

$175.00 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday March 6 thru 22 from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

AND

Days Date & Time

Monday thru Thursday April 2 thru May 30 from 3:00-4:30 p.m.

LITTLE DRIBBLERS BASKETBALL

LITTLE TIKE SOCCER

Fee Site Day Date Time Ages Coach

Fee Site Day Date Time Ages

$40.00 per player Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium Thursday April 18 thru May 23 5:45 - 6:30 p.m.

5, 6 & 7 Aaron Garrity, FES Teacher

This program will focus on basic basketball skills. A variety of different drills, activities and games will be age appropriate. The correct fundamentals will be taught while incorporating learning skills such as listening, confidence, cooperation and following directions.

Please bring a basketball to the gym! A minimum of 8 children needed to hold the program and 20 maximum allowed in either time slot. Please call the FPRA office at 814-474-5077 to confirm availability.

KIDS FUN NIGHT OUT

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Fee

$40.00 per child Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium Tuesday April 2 thru May 21 5:45-6:45 p.m.

4 & 5 year olds

OR

Time Ages Coach

6:45-7:45 p.m.

6, 7 & 8 year olds Lauren Opalka

This program will focus on basic soccer instruction & rules followed by mini games. Please wear shin guards and bring ball.

A minimum of 8 children needed to hold the program and 20 maximum allowed in either time slot. Please call the FPRA office at 814-474-5077 to confirm availability.

$15.00 per person/ $10.00 for each additional family member Site Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium Day Friday Time 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Date March 8, 22, April 5, 19, May 3, 17 & 24 Ages Open for ages 5 and up Instructor Aaron Garrity, FES Teacher

Kids Fun Night is a fun-filled evening that allows your child to interact with their peers. There will be plenty of age appropriate games, contests, and activities to keep the interest of all involved. Parents enjoy a Friday night kid free! Pizza and drinks will be served. You may pay when you attend.

AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS FUN Registration & payment must be sent to the Recreation Office, NOT TO THE SCHOOL. Thank you.

Fee Site Day Time Ages Dates

$30.00 per child Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium & outdoors if weather permits Monday thru Thursday 3:30-4:30 p.m.

CUBS (Grades K-2) Session 1- March 4 thru 7 Session 2- April 8 thru 11 Session 3- May 6 thru 9

OR Ages Dates

TIGERS (Grades 3 & 4) Session 4- March 11 thru 14 Session 5- April 15 thru 18 Session 6- May 13 thru 16 Instructor Aaron Garrity, FES Teacher

An after school intramural sports program that enables your child to be active while having fun with their peers. A focus will be to teach the correct fundamentals and skills in a variety of different sports and activities. The skill work, sports, and activities are geared toward being age appropriate. Learning skills such as listening, confidence, cooperation, following directions and team work will also be focused on throughout each session. All sessions are different… they include activities and games to keep the children active and having fun. A snack and drink will be provided right after school before all gym activities begin. A minimum of 8 students are needed to hold the program.

GIRLS & BOYS LACROSSE Fee Site Days Time Date Ages

To be announced and must be paid by March 7, 2013 Fairview Middle School Football Field Monday thru Thursday & Saturday TBA March 4 thru May 31 Boys and Girls in 5th thru 8th Grade

Both teams are US Lacrosse affiliated club teams. The boys team (split between 7-8 grade and 5-6 grade) will play in the local Middle School Lacrosse League and the girls (split between 7-8 grade and 5-6 grade) will play regional tournament games with some local games. Players will be responsible for their own transportation. Each player must have required equipment. Boys need stick, helmet, shoulder pads, gloves, lacrosse arm pads, mouth guard and cleats and girls require stick, goggles, mouth guard and cleats. Teams will practice Saturdays inside with sticks through February.

For more information on the boys team email Pat Timon at pjtimon@msn.com. For information on the girls team, email Matt Parini at mattparini@gmail.com. Please include your jersey size and EMAIL ADDRESS on registration form!

Registration forms must be completed and turned in prior to participation.

GIRLS MINI LEAGUE BASKETBALL Fee Site Day Dates Ages Coach

$36.00 (includes free t-shirt) Fairview Middle School Gymnasium Saturday March 9 thru May 18 (no basketball March 30) Grades 3 & 4 from 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.

Grades 5 & 6 from 11:45 – 1:30 p.m.

Lance Brown, FHS Varsity Coach

Fairview mini league is a way for young athletes to learn the game of basketball in a fun filled environment. Players will learn the basic fundamentals of basketball including passing, shooting, ball handling, and pivoting. They will also see a lot of playing time. The ideals of good sportsmanship will be consistently reinforced.

Please include t-shirt size on registration form!

BOYS 7th & 8th GRADE BASEBALL CLUB TEAM Fee Site Day Time Date

To Be Determined Fairview High School Gymnasium & Fairview High School Baseball Fields Sunday 1:00-5:00 p.m.

March 3 thru April 28 (No program March 31)

This is a developmental league where the games are 5 innings long with modified rules in some areas to allow for better individual player development.

After tryouts, practices and games will be held on Sundays.

There will also be some evening practices during the week outdoors as the weather improves.

Registration/ waiver forms are necessary for tryouts however registration fees are only due after you make the team.

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Fairview Parks and Recreation: Spring 2013 Programs

ACTIVITIES for CHILDREN (cont.)

GIRLS 5 & 6 GRADE SOCCER

BOYS 5 & 6 GRADE SOCCER Fee Site

Day Time Date Coach

Fee Site

$60.00 per player Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium thru March 21 Fairview Middle School Soccer Fields April thru May Monday thru Thursday 4:30-5:45 p.m.

March 4 thru May 30 (No soccer March 25 thru April 1 & May 27) Jim Hrinda

Day

Date

Practice will be indoors thru March 21 or weather permitting, then outdoors on the middle school soccer fields thru the end of the season. Players will be responsible for their own transportation to and from games. Registration/waiver forms and fees must be received by the first practice. Please include t-shirt size on registration form!

BOYS 7th & 8th GRADE SOCCER Fee Site

Day

Date Coach

!

NEW

$100.00 per player Fairview Middle School Gymnasium thru March 18 Fairview Middle School Soccer Fields April & May Practice: Mondays in March from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. and 3:30-5:50 p.m. in April & May Games: Tuesday & Thursday in April & May March 4 thru May 30 (No soccer March 25 thru April 1 and May 27) Jamin Bookhamer

The Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority is partnering with the coaches at Fairview High School to maintain a competitive middle school league. This league will better prepare participants for future high school-level play by giving them the repetition and instruction they need. If numbers permit for two teams both a Middle School Varsity and a JV team will be created. The players’ placement will be dependent on experience and ability. This is similar to sports at the high school level. The JV teams will be developmental to better help prepare players to be on the Varsity teams. Once the teams are formed, they are not permanent.

Players can work their way up or if they aren’t showing the dedication needed, they may be moved down.

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$60.00 per player Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium thru end of March Fairview Middle School Soccer Fields April & May Practice: Tuesdays in March from 7:00-9:00 p.m., in April & May from 3:00-4:30 p.m.

Games: Monday and Wednesday April & May from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

March 5 thru May 30 (No soccer March 26 & May 27)

The 5th and 6th grade girls outdoor soccer program is an opportunity for those interested to learn more about the game and improve their individual skills. The outdoor season will consist of both practice sessions and game opportunities on a weekly basis. The practice sessions will incorporate technical skills practice focusing on passing, receiving and dribbling.

The players will also be introduced to tactical team topics at an age appropriate level. Please include t-shirt size on registration form!

GIRLS 7th & 8th GRADE SOCCER Fee Site

Day

Date Coach

!

NEW

$100.00 per player Fairview Middle School Gymnasium thru March 20 Fairview Middle School Soccer Fields April & May Practice: Wednesdays in March from 5:00-7:00 p.m. and 3:30-5:30 p.m. in April & May Games: Tuesday & Thursday in April & May March 4 thru May 30 (No soccer March 25 thru April 1 and May 27) Lyndsay Violi

The Fairview Parks and Recreation Authority is partnering with the coaches at Fairview High School to maintain a competitive middle school league. This league will better prepare participants for future high school-level play by giving them the repetition and instruction they need. If numbers permit for two teams both a Middle School Varsity and a JV team will be created. The players’ placement will be dependent on experience and ability. This is similar to sports at the high school level. The JV teams will be developmental to better help prepare players to be on the Varsity teams. Once the teams are formed, they are not permanent. Players can work their way up or if they aren’t showing the dedication needed, they may be moved down.

ACTIVITIES for ADULTS ADULT SOCCER

ZUMBA

Fee Site Day Time Date Ages

Fee Site Day Time Date

$3.00 per night Fairview Middle School Gymnasium Monday 7:30-10:00 p.m.

March 4 thru May 20 (No class March 25 & April 1) 16 & over

Play pick up games and get some exercise with competitive fun.

Signed waivers are a must. Walk-ins encouraged.

ADULT MASTER’S SWIM Fee Site Day Time Date Instructor

$6.00 per night Fairview High School Pool Tuesday 7:45-9:00 p.m.

March 5 thru May 28 (No swim March 26) Melanie Reade

Gain speed and get time in the water with this competitive focused program. This is not a “learn to swim” program and is not for beginners.

MEN’S OPEN BASKETBALL Fee Site Day Time Date Ages

$3.00 per night Fairview Middle School Gymnasium Wednesday 7:00-10:00 p.m.

March 6 thru May 29 (No basketball March 27) 30 and over

Play pick up games and get some exercise with competitive fun.

Signed waivers are a must. Walk-ins encouraged.

6 ON 6 CO-ED RECREATIONAL VOLLEYBALL Fee Site Day Time Date AND Time Date

$90.00 per 6-man team with 2 subs Fairview Middle School Gymnasium Thursday 7:00-10:00 p.m.

March 7 thru May 2

$30.00 for Session 1, $40.00 each for Sessions 3 & 5 Fairview Middle School Cafeteria Monday & Wednesday 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Session 1 - March 4 thru 20 Session 3 - April 3 thru 29 (No class April 24) Session 5 - May 1 thru 29 (No class May 13 & 27)

AND/OR Fee Site Day Time Date

$30.00 for Session 2, $40.00 each for Sessions 4 & 6 Fairview Middle School Cafeteria Tuesday & Thursday 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Session 2 - March 5 thru 19 Session 4 - April 2 thru 30 (No class April 25) Session 6 - May 2 thru 30 (No class May 16 & 21) Instructor Lisa Sayers, Certified Zumba Instructor

Zumba fuses hypnotic musical rhythms and tantalizing moves to create a dynamic workout system designed to be FUN and EASY TO DO! The routines feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat. Zumba is designed for all fitness levels and ages-male and female. All participants are encouraged to wear comfortable workout shoes and clothing.

Bring a small towel and water. Recommended for ages 13 and up.

INDOOR WALKING Fee OR Site Days Time Date

$5.00 per pass for entire session $1.00 per person per night Fairview Middle School Hallways Monday thru Thursday 6:00–8:00 p.m.

March 4 thru May 23 (No walking March 25 thru April 1)

Join our walking club in the hallways of the middle school.

Walk for either time or distance. Please sign in nightly.

Passes must be purchased on site.

6:00-10:00 p.m.

May 9 thru May 30

Teams may have a maximum of 6 players on the court at any one time. There must be at least 4 players, 2 men and 2 women, on the court at all times. Team registrations must be received

by March 7 and include one contact person with phone number and address. Will accept the first 8 team entrants. For more information call Mark at 814-474-3235.

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ACTIVITIES for CHILDREN and ADULTS BELLY DANCE

KNIT & CROCHET

Fee Site Day Time Session 1 Session 2 Ages

Fee Site Day Time Date Ages

$30.00 per Session Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium Friday 3:30-4:15 p.m.

Moms & Teens – April 5 thru 26 Mommy & Me – May 10 thru 31 Moms & Teens: Ages 11 to adult Mommy & Me: Walking kids ages 2 to 10.

Children must be accompanied by their respective adult/caregiver.

Instructor Carla Fleming of Lake Erie Belly Dance

!

NEW

Belly Dance makes joyful creative movement time for kids and adults, while learning an exciting ancient dance form and fitness tool. Classes focus on FUN while maintaining a foundation of posture and technique through stretches, drills, and mini choreographies that get you dancing right away. Laugh, move, and groove to uplifting belly dance music and play with sample props such as scarves, fancy fans, and finger cymbals. Dress comfortably as for any exercise/dance class. Hip scarves available for lend. Instructor Carla Fleming is certified in both ATS and SSSBD, and is the founder/director of Lake Erie Belly Dance (LEBD) and The Fleming School of the Arts (FSA).

She travels the tri-state area headlining workshops and shows with LEBD and as a solo artist/musician. For more information visit www.TheFlemingSchool.com.

OPEN RECREATIONAL SWIM Family Pass Individual Pass 55/Plus Pass Per person Time Day Date

$75.00 $30.00 $27.00 $3.00 7:45-9:00 p.m.

Thursday April 4 thru May 30

Bathing caps required for shoulder length hair, no cutoffs or T-shirts. Pool users must be 10 years of age and able to swim one length of pool, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Walk-ins encouraged, you must sign in every day, payment due at every class and exact change is appreciated!

Please be respectful of School property and do not throw and/or leave items in/around the pool.

YOUTH & ADULT SOCCER Fee Site Time Day Date Ages

$3.00 per night Fairview Elementary School Gymnasium 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Thursday March 7 thru May 30 (No soccer March 28) 14 & over with parent participation and/or supervision

Play pick up games and get some exercise with competitive fun.

Signed waivers are a must. Walk-ins encouraged.

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$40.00 Fairview Presbyterian Church Adult Lounge Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon April 4 thru May 23 Will accept students from age 9 to adult.

Please call the FPRA office for details.

Instructor Florence Elliott

This class covers basic stitches and extra techniques for all levels of knitting and crochet. If you already knit and/or crochet but need help with patterns we do that, too. Come ready to relax, learn, and have fun. We will complete a project of your choice.

Material list can be found at www.fairviewtownship.com under Program Schedule. Maximum 20 people.

CHAIR CANING & SEAT WEAVING Fee Site Day Time Date Ages Instructor

$40.00 + $15.00 material fee Fairview Presbyterian Church Adult Lounge Thursday 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon April 4 thru May 23 16 and up Charles Elliott

This course will advance your skills in seat weaving, and chair caning. We can help you select a pattern for your chair seat, solve furniture restoration problems, and add special touches to your seat weaving projects. Bring your project and work under the guidance of fellow weavers and the teacher.

Maximum 10 people.

HOOPNOTICA (Level 1) Fee Site Day Time Date

$40.00 per Session Fairview Middle School Cafeteria Wednesday 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Session 1- March 6 thru April 3 (No class March 27) Session 2- April 10 thru May 1 Session 3- May 8 thru 29 Ages 13 and up Instructor Casandra Bardsley, Certified Hoopnotica Level 1 Instructor

What was made popular by Wham-O (remember the Hula Hoop?) has transitioned into a non-impact, fat-burning workout that strengthens your core and calms your mind. The stress of the day begins to melt away as you lose the ability to focus on anything other than keeping the hoop up! In doing so, you are strengthening your core and burning up to 600 calories per hour.

The class requires an “Adult Size” hoop. If you have your own hoop, bring it! If not, hoops will be available for rent at $2 per class or purchase for $35 (cash/check only). Recommended clothing: cotton workout pants/tops are suggested (hoop does not “cling” well to synthetic fibers). Bring your own water. Must have at least 3 participants to hold the class.

HAND QUILTING Fee Site Day Time Date Ages

$40.00 Fairview Presbyterian Church Adult Lounge Thursday 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

April 4 thru May 23 Will accept students from age 9 to adult.

Please call the FPRA office for details.

Instructor Florence Elliott

Get a historical view of quilting. These are “hands-on” hand quilted projects. Explore the history of hand quilting and move into creating a quilted project of your own choosing from: a table runner, placemats, wall hanging or lap quilt. Maximum 20 people.

AMERICAN HERITAGE BASKETS Fee Site Day Time Date Ages Instructor

$40.00 + $15.00 material fee Fairview Presbyterian Church Adult Lounge Thursday 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

April 4 thru May 23 16 and up Charles Elliott

Start with a small basket to practice some basic basket-making skills. We will then move to hand weave a variety of baskets, all of which have a rich heritage in American history.

Maximum 10 people.

EVENTS AT PLEASANT RIDGE PARK

CLASSES AT AVONIA BEACH PARK MOSAIC MIRROR WORKSHOP Fee Site Day Time Date Ages Instructor

$125.00 Avonia Beach Park Wednesday 5:30-9:30 p.m.

May 15 & 29 13 & Up Cheryl Johnson

!

NEW

Mosaic is an art form using small pieces of pottery, glass, or found objects to create a design or image on practically any surface. After the first class you will leave with all the supplies, tools, and knowledge you need to finish your project at home to the point of grouting. You will leave the second class with a completed mosaic framed mirror, and an addiction to an incredibly fun form of artistic expression! No experience is needed! Feel free to bring any personal items you wish to incorporate into the frame, and any food or beverages to enjoy during the evening. A minimum of five students needed to hold the class and a maximum of 8. Class will be held inside the Brugger house. For questions call Cheryl at 814-882-3610.

YOGA-BEGINNER & BEYOND Fee Site Day Time Date Instructor

$50.00 Avonia Beach Park Thursday 8:30-9:30 a.m.

May 2 thru 30 Cathleen Norris, RYT, CYT

Whether you are new to yoga or have a practice, come and enjoy the beauty and sounds of nature and Lake Erie.

Enjoy your morning by beginning with a gentle yoga class designed for mixed levels. Please bring a yoga mat and water. Class will be held inside the Brugger house if bad weather permits. A minimum of four students are needed to hold the class.

TAI CHI ON THE LAKE

The Fairview Parks & Recreation Authority would like to say “THANK YOU” to all who attended our Winter Fun Day on Sunday, January 27. The break in the cold and snow helped the event be a success by drawing over 350 people to sled ride, cross country ski, make S’mores, and ride the horse drawn carriages. The “Marshmallow Guess” had 1,776 pieces in the jar and Daniel T. from Girard won with a guess of 1750. Congratulations!

Fee Site Time Day Dates Instructor

$50.00 Avonia Beach Park 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Thursday May 2 thru 30 Amy Eisenberg

Enjoy learning the Yang Long Form of Tai Chi: a series of slow, graceful movements developed in China to promote relaxation, increase flexibility, improve balance and enhance overall good health. Beginners are encouraged to attend. A minimum of five students are needed to hold the class. Class will be held inside the Brugger house if bad weather permits.

In cases of financial hardship, scholarship applications are available upon request.

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

Municipality News

Municipal News

LST Tax - The Local Service Tax paid by all employees making over $12,000 was increased for those who work in Fairview to $52 annually. This increase was voted on to support our Volunteer Fire Departments.

2013 Budget- Fairview passed a balanced budget holding the line on property tax with the last bump of a tenth of a mill in 2005. The Township approved a no increase tax millage adjustment for the reassessment, from .95 mills to .75 mills, which calculates at slightly less than equal on the average adjustment. The Budget is posted on our website. Also, the Township and School District have passed an agreement to work together on projects to save tax dollars for Fairview Township.

The close working relationship between the Township and School District creates an uncommon yet beneficial attribute for our community.

SALDO - The Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance amendments will be on the agenda for approval at our March 7th meeting, 7 p.m. at the Township Municipal Building.

New Employee - Fairview Supervisors have interviewed and agreed to hire a new assistant planning/zoning officer. His name is Nathan Miller and we welcome him to our full-time staff.

Nate has spent two summers with us as an intern while attending Edinboro University. We look forward to utilizing his GIS abilities and strong work ethic.

Municipal Projects

Sewer & Water

American Legion Park. Finally a force main sewer line will be constructed from the Legion going east to an existing connection at NW Savings Bank along Chestnut Street.

Route 20 Water Line Extension – A 12” water main will be constructed this spring starting at Franklin Rd and going west to Pleasant Ridge Manor. The need for sprinkler installation at this Erie County facility was the main driver behind this project. This will be about a mile of pipe installation.

Interconnect – Fairview Water Authority has two water districts. One is supplied by authority water wells and the other purchases water from Erie via Millcreek. The two systems stand alone but with concern of lower water tables recently, the Authority is planning a connection to be made on Route 20 across from the Fairview Volunteer Fire Department.

Route 20 Sewer Line Extension – Pleasant Ridge Manor and PHB Inc. have requested sewer service. A lift station will be built across from Pleasant Ridge Manor with force main sewer line constructed going east along Route 20 to Linda Ave. From there gravity sewer line will be constructed, crossing under Trout Run, to a new lift station at the

Bridges

Sewer and Water Rates – The Authority works very hard to manage their operations to provide top service at a low cost. We enjoy some of the lowest rates in the State of Pennsylvania. The Authority will be mailing the new rates to their customers soon.

Platz Rd Bridge - We received from PennDOT a traffic study report with a cost to benefit ratio on replacing the bridge. The ratio from the study, including future traffic, was very low and PennDOT is not planning on replacing the bridge over I-90. You can contact your State Legislators to voice your concerns. The Township will also be contacting them.

Route 98 Bridge - PennDOT will be replacing the bridge over I-90 and there are construction plans here at the Township for viewing. This will be a two year project with a 6-8 week closure of Route 98 in the second year. The bridge will be replaced one half at a time with traffic being managed in a number of different scenarios. This project will start in 2014.

Millfair Rd Bridge - PennDOT will be constructing a widened two lane bridge over the railroad tracks on Millfair Rd as part of the airport expansion project.

Millfair is now a state road from Route 5 south to West 38th Street. We are thankful for this provision of a new safe and unhindered railroad crossing.

Tentative start date is 2015.

Goodban Bridge - This is a small township bridge over Goodban Run that has deficiencies that need to be addressed. Fairview is looking into comparison costs of repair versus replacement.

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4th of July – IN WESt CouNty

This is a unique, once in a lifetime event for everyone to experience. Every 50 years we rediscover our local heritage surrounding the construction of Commodore Perry’s fleet and great navel battle to secure the freedom and independence that we all enjoy today.

The West County celebration will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a 2 hour Millcreek Parade on West 12th Street.

Fairview events will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 7050 West Ridge Road (Automation Devices Property). Local bands are scheduled to play during the afternoon. Activities for children include face painting, Big Kev’s Bouncers, jugglers and magicians, with additional events yet to be scheduled. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from community organizations and local vendors.

Evening activities will be hosted by the Girard High School from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. with the spectacular West County Fireworks display starting at 9:45 p.m. The football stadium and grounds will be available for parking or shuttle service may be provided from local community event locations. Zambelli Fireworks Company will simultaneously coordinate a county wide aerial display with three other areas in Erie City on the Bay Front Park, Eastern Erie County at Mercyhurst - Northeast, and Southern Erie County at the Waterford Fair Grounds.

This fantastic schedule of events would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, community partners and the Perry 200 Commemoration Commission.

Those wanting to be part of this memorable events may contact the West County Coordinator, Janet Kuhns at 814-474-3029 or Jeannie Miller at 814-774-5703. Sponsorships and donations will be published in the West County Journal.

Donation Levels as follow: PATRIOT DONOR up to $99.00 BRONZE DONOR $100.00 to $499.00 SILVER DONOR $500.00 to $999.00 GOLD DONOR $1,000.00 to $4,999.00 COMMODORE $5,000.00+ Please visit the Perry 200 website at www.perry200.com for details on the next 8 months of events presently scheduled to the September 7th Grand Finale.

Learn more about our local heritage and Oliver Hazard Perry through the following books: “Battle of Lake Erie” by Captain Walter Rybka, “War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie” by Cornell Green – recommended for school age students, and “After the Glory” by David Frew through the Jefferson Education Society, 3207 State Street, Erie PA 16508 Ph: (814) 459-8000.

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Girard Township

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Happy Gardening!

The Girard-Lake City Chamber of Commerce is the voice of the Girard-Lake City community, both business and social. As such, our organization leads the effort to promote economic growth while providing the leadership for business and community development.

We are always looking for new members as well as new ideas to make our area great. Our volunteer Board of Directors work to promote andCserve all businesses; we offer free advertising on our website to members as well as After Hours networking events.

C Check out our website www.girardlakecity.org for more information.

West County

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building in ! ! each ! town ! for indoor ! ! display. ! ! In !November, ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! is decorated greenery with a large bow and hung in many ! ! ! ! ! public ! ! !!buildings ! ! ! ! in! Girard ! ! ! and! Lake City for the Christmas ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! holiday.

EVGC also! sponsors the “Garden of the Month” for ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! and ! a commercial ! ! ! a resident business in the Girard/Lake ! ! ! !

City! area.

A! flag is placed in! their garden for the month for ! ! ! ! !

Members of the EVGC hanging to see. ! ! on the ! Girard !Borough ! all !the !passers-by ! ! ! ! ! ! greenery ! ! by ! ! ! building.! Photo! provided ! !! ! are! just! some!!of! !the ! activities ! ! the Elk Valley These fun ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

Candy Felege.!

Garden Club participates in. Anyone interested in joining ! ! ! ! ! can call Janet! Nelson at (814) 833-6123 or Mary Butler ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! (814) ! !774-9357. ! ! at ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

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Club to serve! the Girard ! Elk Valley ! ! Garden ! ! !was established ! ! in! 1929 ! ! ! and Lake ! City area.

The membership averages thirty members from ages 35 to 92!

Club members work ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! with! Girard High School Honor Roll students to clean up Wells Park in the spring and ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! spread mulch ! ! in the ! flower ! beds. ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

In May, the EVGC hosts an annual plant sale of perennials from the member’s own ! ! as well ! as ! annual ! ! plants ! ! local ! ! ! from ! nurseries. ! ! This ! ! ! year ! !a garden ! ! ! gardens, past !! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! “flea !! market” ! was added with container plants, painted ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! with ! ! ! ! ! garden ! ! ! !!!birdhouses and chairs potted plants, items, ! ! ! ! ! ! !! feeders Garden in June, ! ! ! ! !for sale. ! ! During ! ! Pennsylvania ! ! ! ! ! Week ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! plants ! ! ! are given ! !to the ! Post ! ! and ! !Borough ! ! container Office ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

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Girard School District Foundation Remember the good old days with school dances in the RAUHS (the old Girard High School) gym and your favorite band playing on stage… when the boys lined up on one wall and the girls were on the other… when your shoes had to be left at the door because they weren’t allowed on the gym floor so the hall was filled with shoes? The Girard School District Foundation is holding a CABIN FEVER COMMUNITY SOCK HOP on Saturday, February 23, 2013.

The Cabin Fever Community Sock Hop, reminiscent of those “good old days,” will be held from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Rice Avenue Middle School. Alumni and community members are encouraged to attend. We will dance in the gym and gather in the cafeteria to sit and visit with friends old and new. Even more fun is that we are reaching out to those old bands that played their high school dances in Girard and asking them to dust off their guitars, keyboards, drums, and vocals to re-organize and play some of their favorite songs for us. Del Freedline is coordinating the bands for this event.

Please contact him at Great Lakes Driftwood, 145 Main St in Girard at 814-774-8717 to register your band to play. We would love to have 5 or 6 bands each play for 20 – 30 minutes some of their favorite old songs. If you are missing members of your band and still want to play, let him know and he will hook you up with other Girard alumni who are in that same position. Tickets are $3.00 in advance at Great Lakes Driftwood, Girard Pharmacy, or the Girard School District Administration Office and will be $5.00 at the door. We hope to see the Girard community turn out to shake off those winter blues.

The Girard School District (GSD) Foundation is a non-profit organization formed to award grants for innovative education opportunities otherwise not funded. Additionally, the GSD Foundation is able to provide for funding, development and future growth of student scholarships.

Funds generated from both events will be used for these purposes.

p o H k SSaotcurdayy, 23 ar u r b e F

Girard Township Ordinance Code Book Now Online Back in 2004, Girard Township contracted with General Code to get our ordinances codified. We are happy to report that after much hard work by the Supervisors, Planning Commission and staff this is finally complete!

Anyone looking for information on ordinances/regulations in the Township can now go online to www.girardtownship.com, follow the link that says “Township Ordinances” and do a search. Residents can also come to the Township office to view the book and have copies made for $.25 per side.

This has been a very tedious task and we are very excited to be able to provide this information to our residents!

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

ELK CREEK RECREATION & LEISURE BOARD The Elk Creek Recreation and Leisure Board is comprised of appointed members from the municipalities of Girard Township, Girard Borough and Lake City Borough as well as members from the Girard School District and one Member at Large. A paid Director is in charge of running the programs. The focus of the Board is to coordinate and facilitate programs for youth as well as adults in the area to participate in. These programs include a wide variety such as basketball leagues, soccer leagues, dance, gymnastics, swimming lessons and swim teams, as well as special events such as Cabin Fever and National Night Out. The Elk Creek Recreation and Leisure Board meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Girard Borough Building at 7 p.m. and can be contacted at (814) 774-3519.

LIFEGUARDING—Must be 15 years

OPEN SWIM

Cost: Site: Day: Time: Dates: Sign Ups:

Cost: $2/Child $3/Adult Site: GHS Pool Day: Saturdays Time: 4-6 p.m.

Dates: January 5-April 27, 2013 All children must be accompanied by an adult

$185 Recertification $140 GHS Pool/Library Saturdays 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

March 2-23, 2013 GHS Cafeteria 6-7 p.m.

Feb 20, 2013

*(CPR INCLUDED-SEE DATES BELOW) *ALL STUDENTS MUST TAKE*

WALKING PROGRAM

Instructor: Emma Jones

Cost: Site: Day: Time: Dates:

WSI—Must be 16 years Cost: Site: Day: Time: Dates: Sign Ups:

$185 GHS Pool/Library Saturdays 12:00-3:00 p.m.

March 2-April 13, 2013 GHS Cafeteria 6-7 p.m.

Feb 20, 2013

*(CPR INCLUDED-SEE DATES BELOW) *OPTIONAL*

Purpose is to train instructor candidates to teach courses & presentations in the ARC Swimming and Water Safety programs.

Instructor: Emma Jones

Cost: Site: Day: Time: Dates: Sign Ups:

$40 GHS Pool/Library Saturday 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

March 16, 2013 GHS Cafeteria 6 7 p.m.

Feb 20, 2013 Instructor: Emma Jones

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CABIN FEVER SWIM LESSONS *Minimum age is 6 Months* Cost: $45/Child Site: GHS Pool Day: Tuesdays & Thursdays Time: 5:30-8:00 p.m.

(1/2 Hr Lessons; times depends on level)

Dates: Sign Ups:

CPR

West County

$.50/Walker EVES Hallway Tuesdays & Wednesdays 6-8 p.m.

Nov 6, 2012March 27, 2013

April 16-May 9, 2013 GHS Cafeteria 6-7 p.m.

April 10, 2013 Swim Coordinator: Becca Turner

POOL PARTIES Cost:

$100-Residents* $120-Non-Residents* *Plus $30 deposit Site: GHS Pool Dates: September 2012-May 2013 Call to check availability

**FREE ADMISSION** Site: Girard High School When: Sunday, February 24, 2013 Time: 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Face painting, movie, crafters, sled riding (BYO), free swimming, children’s crafts, finger painting, dodge ball tournament, horse-drawn wagon ride (1-3 p.m.) AND MUCH MORE!

YOUTH INDOOR SOCCER Cost: Site: Day: Time: Dates: Sign Ups:

$20/Child EVES Gym Wednesdays 5:30-8:00 p.m.

March 27-May 15, 2013 February 27, 2013 @ GHS Cafeteria 6-7 p.m.

Basic soccer instruction followed by weekly games. Parents needed to coach!

we have the same priorities as you when it comes to 5TH & 6TH GRADE SOCCER Cost: Day: Time: Dates: Coaches:

$40/Child Tuesdays 3:00-5:00 p.m. (Practice) - TBA (Games) March-May 2013 Duane Dunn and Scott Jones

school work.

WEIGHT WATCHERS Site: Day: Time: Dates:

GHS Library Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. Weigh In 6:00 Traditional Meeting Sept 4, 2012-August 28, 2013

LONGS SCHOOL OF DANCE Cost: Site: Day: Time: Dates:

Contact Longs 833-7179 RAMS Cafeteria Thursdays See Below Sept 6, 2012-June 6, 2013

To learn more please contact John Arnold, Business Development Representative JArnold@MassaroCMS.com

Preschool Tap, Ballet & Tumbling

Age: 3-5 years

Time: 4-5 p.m.

Kindergarten, Tap, Ballet, & Tumbling

Age: 5-6 years

Time: 5-6 p.m.

Tap & Ballet

Age: 6-9 years

Time: 6-7 p.m.

Junior Jazz

Age: 6-9 years

Time: 7-8 p.m.

Instructor: Maria Nasca

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

A tragedy that turned into a life-giving miracle of hope gave Hillary and Bill Fenell what they had always wanted.

The young married couple who had been trying to have a We couldn’t afford to do it the first time, either. We borrowed child for about five years got their wish last May when they were money from my parents. So we understood how difficult it could chosen by the New Blossoms, New Life Foundation. Based out be to have the funds to do this.” of Edinboro, the foundation awards “I never dreamed it would turn into grants for costly fertility treatments. what it is today. I’m in awe of what it is The Fenells, who live in Harborcreek, today,” Kovski said. are expecting a baby in April. Hillary Now, the foundation receives up to18 Fenell said she’s amazed by the couple applications from couples a year. They try who started the foundation that helped to raise enough money to help them all, her have a child. “They took a tragedy but, if they can’t, they hold the applications. and turned it into something great for “We never say, ‘no.’ We’re trying to help somebody else,” she said. everybody that tries,” she said. “It just keeps Christopher and Renea Kovski started snowballing.” the foundation six years ago in memory Hillary and Bill Fenell didn’t get chosen Christopher and Renea Kovski started the New of their daughter, Maggie, who drowned the first time they applied. All couples have Blossoms, New Life Foundation after their in a pond, along with her playmate, to meet specific criteria to be eligible, like daughter, Maggie, drowned in a pond. They have helped dozens of couples have babies and on May 30, 2007. The Kovskis went the length of their marriage, income limits, believe that their daughter lives on through through three in vitro fertilization etc. Five other couples were chosen that every new birth. procedures in order to have Maggie, so year, she said. “I didn’t have my hopes up they understand the difficulties and because there were so many people heartbreak that couples face who try (applying) and I was one of the younger so hard to have children. ones,” Hillary Fenell said.

Hillary Fenell said it’s amazing that The couple filled out another application “a little girl had such an impact.” the next year. They had volunteered for a Renea Kovski said that keeping foundation fund-raiser in April 2012. In Maggie at the heart of the work of the May, they were invited to what they foundation is important. And she’s thought was a brunch for volunteers. surprised how the foundation has Instead, they were told, “Welcome to the grown. They have helped 32 couples family,” meaning they had been chosen. have babies so far.

“It really was overwhelming. You inKovski said that when Maggie died, stantly broke out into a sweat. I cried. We they received money in condolence took photos,” Hillary Fenell recalled. “It cards. She and her husband didn’t took two years, but we got it.” want to keep the money, she said.

Kovski said it’s very important to her “We wanted to help other couples to that the couples feel part of a big family.

Hillary and Bill Fenell are expecting a child in April after getting help from the New Blossoms, know the joy that Maggie had brought “I consider all these babies my babies.

New Life Foundation which provided the to us. We thought we’d help one They are part of my family. I have (photo) funding for in vitro fertilization. The couple has been giving back by helping with fund raising couple a year–help pay for infertility albums of these babies. The other day for the foundation. treatments and help them have a child.

I got to meet our newest set of twins.

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It just really warms my heart. I really feel that there’s a little T piece of Maggie in every baby that’s born. We feel like they’re part of our family. We love to watch them grow,” Kovski said.

During the dark days following their child’s death, Kovski said she had no purpose to go on living.

“I don’t know that I would have survived without (the foundation). It gave me something to focus on. I had no purpose. I knew I couldn’t have more children. I didn’t have a job at the time. My focus was to be a mom. When she passed away, I have no reason to be here anymore. The foundation saved my life,” Kovski said.

But, she admits she struggled when the first babies through the foundation were born. “This is part of Maggie,” she explained.

Hillary Fenell said she feels obligated to the foundation so welcomes the chance to help by doing fund-raisers. She was co-chairman of a golf outing in August and helped at a summer downtown Erie block party that benefitted the foundation. She said the fertilization and implantation procedures cost about $13,000. “They’re doing something so unselfish,” she said.

Hillary Fenell said that IVF is life consuming and an ordeal.

She and her husband made several trips to out of state for countless injections on a very strict schedule. She said they didn’t even inform their families of the rigorous routine.

“Your life pretty much revolves around it. It’s high anxiety,” she said. “There’s a lot more to it than I thought,” Bill Fenell said.

Two fertilized eggs were implanted and the couple hoped they would have twins. “It was disappointing hearing we were having only one,” but she’s grateful for the child she is going to have.

Hillary Fenell said she called Kovski right away to tell her.

“She was thrilled.”

The Fenell’s child will know about Maggie, she said.

“I’m already thinking about how I would incorporate Maggie into everything. I know I will tell my child, ‘You wouldn’t be here without that precious little girl.’”

Kovski, who runs the foundation out of her home, said that fund raising is the hardest part, although the Erie area community has been very supportive. They also cover Crawford and Warren counties.

“The more recipients we get, the more support we have.

It just keeps growing. We don’t have to go out and try to get more support like other foundations. Ours grows on its own.

Individual support is huge.”

The Kovskis had a son, Mitchell, through the help of a surrogate mother. “I think between the foundation and Mitchell, it gave me that purpose that I thought I didn’t have again.” She said she doesn’t think of it as hard work. “This is Maggie doing her magic. I just follow her lead.”

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CALL 724.942.0940 West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

The

R.S.Battles Farmhouse History comes alive in West County The R.S. Battles Farmhouse (also known as the Yellow House) is located at 436 Walnut Street in Girard. This historical site consists of fifty acres of farmland, eighty acres of woods and hiking trails and another historical house: the Charlotte Elizabeth Battles Memorial Museum.

The complex seeks to interpret the past 180 years of agricultural life in Erie County.

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Special events and workshops are presented on the premises of the R. S. Battles Farmhouse throughout the year. Visitors can learn how to churn butter, bake bread, weave or spin yarn, quilt, weave baskets, press flowers, help out with the laundry and countless other farm chores or games.

Visitors may explore the property by trail. Walking paths meander through the complex’s woodland, and are a great way for museum guests to enjoy the scenery. There are currently discussions regarding the expansion of the Yellow House trail to reach Main Street in Girard.

The trail currently starts at the Yellow House and circles around the field behind the museum. The expansion would connect the loop to Myrtle Street which is a dead end road off of Main Street. Walkers could then walk Main Street to Walnut and back to the Yellow House where they might have parked. The distance would be about 1.5 miles. The folks involved in the conversations are Girard Township, Girard Borough, Erie County Historical Society, Mercyhurst University, and community members of Girard and Lake City.

For visitor information, call (814) 454-1813.

The map below shows the trail expansion plans, shown in blue.

All photos provided by Candy Felege.

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Robotic-assisted Surgery Available to Patients “Some days, I was bawling because the pain hurt so badly.”

There were days when Melissa Mulson, 34, was in so much pain that she wasn’t able to get off of the couch. She was prescribed narcotics for her pelvic-related pain, but the medicine would not ease Melissa’s discomfort.

After finding a cyst in March 2012, Sarah Warner, MD, of the OB/GYN Associates of Erie, tried to shrink the cyst with various medications. After unsuccessful attempts to relieve the pain, Dr. Warner knew surgery was the answer.

In October 2012, Melissa was scheduled for a hysterectomy at UPMC Hamot due to pelvic pain related to endometriosis, a gynecological medical condition in which tissue from the lining of the uterus appears and grows outside the uterine wall.

Dr. Warner explained surgery options and why Melissa was an excellent candidate for the minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery. She told Melissa that due to her abundant scar tissue and adhesive disease throughout her abdomen, the surgery could be complex and risky. Robotic-assisted surgery allows the

surgeon to complete the procedure in a 3-D view and gives more intraoperative leverage.

This minimally invasive procedure allows for the surgeon to cut incisions less than an inch in diameter, while operating the machine with more accuracy, precision, and control. The smaller incisions, versus one large incision, typically will reduce the patient’s pain, cause less blood loss, and enable a faster recovery.

Melissa’s mother, Nancy, had a hysterectomy a couple years prior due to continuous bleeding, which was not robotic-assisted, and stated, “It took me weeks to fully recover.”

Melissa and Nancy were astonished by how quickly Melissa recovered. After resting on the couch for three days post-surgery, Melissa was walking around the house and shopping at local stores. She was given a prescription for pain medication after the surgery, but she didn’t have a need to fill it.

“I have much more energy now. I’m moving faster and no longer have any pelvic-related pain.”

Interested in learning more about robotic-assisted surgery?

Here is a list of UPMC Hamot physicians who specialize in gynecological robotic-assisted surgery: Sarah Achenbach, MD Andrea Jeffress, MD Jennifer Stull, DO Sarah Warner, MD OB/GYN Associates of Erie 100 Peach Street Erie, PA 16507 814-459-1851 34

West County

Timothy Weibel, MD Bayside Ob/Gyn Infertility 104 East 2nd Street Erie, PA 16507 814-456-2229

Lisa Semple, DO Presque Isle Women’s Health 5035 Peach Street Erie, PA 16509 814-877-3940

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West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Certain people just seem like they are born to Winning Miss Pennsylvania allowed Colao to succeed. You can tell from an early age that there is represent the state at the Miss America pageant something special about them, and their future is held in Las Vegas. The schedule of the pageant was extremely bright. Growing up, Jordyn Colao was one grueling. Colao arrived in Las Vegas on January 2nd of these people. where they had 11 long days of rehearsals and press Colao is a high achiever that was always motivated interviews. Despite not being selected as one of the to succeed. She graduated from McDowell High top 15 girls, Colao was proud of her performance.

School in 2008 at the top of her class. While in high “It was a great experience,” she said. “I really fought school she was active in honors’ college, cheerleading, for it and did my best. I felt I was very consistent dance team, peer mediation, peer tutoring and served across the board in every category.” Colao also shot as Vice-President of her class. Colao went on to Penn down one pageant myth about the girls not getting State University where she graduated in May 2012 along with other. “We were all great friends. It even Magna Cum Laude. While at Penn State she was a got to the point where, even though everyone is member of the Tapestry competitive and Dance Company and eager to win, we all had the opportunity began to feel bad that to travel to New York we had to compete City to train with the against such good renowned Steps Dance friends,” Colao stated.

Studio on Broadway.

She said that she She also helped raise was inspired by the over $20,000 for THON, other girls because

By Matthew J. Fascetti a dance marathon they are very strong benefiting pediatric women that are cancer. Colao has been dancing since age 3. She has driven, well-spoken and eager to better themselves. spent a lot of her time competing in national and Colao has five more months to reign as Miss world championships in Chicago, Baltimore, Pennsylvania and she plans to make the most of it.

Virginia Beach and Orlando. Colao has performed at She wants to continue to promote her platform multiple NBA games and has won national and world “Heart to Heart” - cardiovascular disease prevention, championships in cheerleading and dance. which is inspired by losing three grandparents to While at Penn State, Colao decided to compete in heart disease. Colao wants to visit as many schools the Miss Laurel Highlands pageant. She originally as possible and talk to young people, raise money decided to enter the pageant in the hopes of winning for Pennsylvania and continue to work with the scholarship money, what she didn’t realize was she American Heart Association. She wants to be a role was going to end up falling in love with pageant model for young people through both her words competition. She ended up winning the crown of and her actions.

Miss Laurel Highlands. She followed up this victory After her reign as 2012 Miss Pennsylvania comes by competing for Miss Pennsylvania, in which she to a close, Colao would like to go to graduate school in finished as Second Runner up as well as the winner the fall to study to be a physician’s assistant. One day of the preliminary talent and swimsuit award and she would love to get married and have a family of the Miss America Academic Award. The next year her own. One thing is certain; whatever future goals she competed for and won the title of Miss Freedom Colao sets she will undoubtedly meet them. The sky Forge which allowed her to compete for and win the is the limit for this driven and focused young lady. prestigious title of Miss Pennsylvania 2012 in only her second year of competition.

Erie Native Represents Pennsylvania in Miss America Pageant

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West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

SPECIAL SECTION

IN WEST COUNTY

If you have a home, you know how challenging it is to maintain it. Roofs leak, landscapes need weeding, and kitchens and baths need facelis. If you’re handy, you can get by with your own sweat equity. However, most people don’t have the skills, let alone the time, to tackle major household projects – many of which will require you spending more time at the office just to be able to tackle the price tags such projects come with. Here, we try to cover it all for you – from financing your project to enjoying it when it’s complete.

Building a home addition can be a good alternative to buying a new home or building a house from scratch. Besides saving money, it can be a means of investing in your home and customizing your home to serve your family’s specific needs and desires. But additions also bring up potential problems that may not make them the best option for everyone.

An addition can drastically change the way a house looks from the road or yard. An addition that isn’t well planned can look like it doesn’t belong or doesn’t match the rest of the house in terms of style or overall shape. Planning an addition carefully with a skilled architect is the best way to ensure that the house looks as good, or even better, than it did before the addition.

An architect should be able to produce sketches that give a sense of how the finished addition will look. To minimize the appearance of an addition, homeowners can usually choose to build onto the back of the existing house, thereby hiding the new construction from the road.

Depending on the size of an addition and the construction schedule, it may take weeks or months before an addition is completed. Bad weather can cause unanticipated delays, and working with an unreliable contractor can prolong the process even further. If a homeowner can’t afford to be patient during the planning and construction process, moving 38

West County

into a new, larger home may be a better option.

An addition can be a good investment, helping to increase the value of a home. Using a home equity line of credit or getting a new mortgage that includes money to pay for the addition can be a wise financial decision, especially when interest rates are low. However, if the expected value of an addition – which a homeowner can estimate by studying the sale prices of nearby homes with similar characteristics – is less than its cost, it may be a poor investment.

An addition is likely to raise the value of a home. After the addition is completed, a new assessment will raise property taxes. Prior to adding on, homeowners should estimate the value of their home with the addition and compute a new annual tax liability based on current tax rates.

Building an addition is an ideal time to invest in energy-efficient fixtures and construction. Windows that prevent hot or cool air from escaping and low-energyconsuming appliances can minimize the cost of an addition by reducing energy bills and its environmental impact.

Remodeling your bathroom is another popular way to jazz up your home as well as build equity. In some cases, not only is remodeling the bathroom an aesthetic choice but a functional choice as well. Giving your bathroom a boost

doesn’t always have to require a boatload of cash or space – just a little planning and creativity before you get started.

Refresh your bath’s look with a wow-worthy makeover that improves its style and function. Perhaps you have an old toilet that you want to replace with a high-efficiency model that will lower your water bill. Or perhaps the old tile is falling off your shower and you need to replace it. Whatever your situation is, there are many options to choose from, including do-it-yourself options.

One popular and inexpensive option is to have a theme for your bathroom. Examples could be a Disney theme for a child’s bathroom, or perhaps a beach theme. This can be accomplished by painting the walls, adding a wall border and by well-placed décor. Some larger and more costly bathroom updates include new flooring, new sink and vanity and a new bathtub or shower. These improvements will get even costlier if you paid someone to do it for you.

Decks on the rear or side of homes have become extremely popular in the United States. Used for entertaining or just relaxing, decks come in all shapes, sizes, designs and material.

The most popular, and least expensive, deck material is treated wood. It is durable, however it will need to be painted or stained yearly or every other year depending continued on page 40

This Spring, grow your business with IN Community Magazines

g

CALL 724.942.0940 West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN WEST COUNTY

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on your climate. Composite decking products are building materials manufactured using a mixture of plastic and wood fiber.

Composite decking materials are very popular because they require less maintenance than wood and often use recycled materials. Composite decking is easy to install and is guaranteed with a 20-year warranty against rotting, splitting, splintering or termite damage. However, composite decking can be very costly.

Vinyl decking made from Cellular PVC is a great choice for decking because it is essentially resistant to stains, mold, insects and fading. PVC material is low maintenance and is a sustainable building material.

But like composite, it can get costly.

Powder coated aluminum decking can be used to create a watertight floor for your deck.

This unique material will never splinter, rot or rust. LockDry Aluminum decking is cool to the touch and is available in five colors. Aluminum decking is strong and lightweight.

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The LockDry system can be used to create a dry space to use under your deck on rainy days.

Decks can built right on the ground, or be elevated high in the air, depending on the design of your home. If you are building a deck yourself it is very important to check all local building codes and follow all of the guidelines very closely to ensure the safety and long-term durability of your deck.

Bringing your family together is often difficult. A family game room is a fantastic way to upgrade your home and bring the family together. Whether you have an unfinished basement, an unused attic room or an empty garage, you can transform it into a fantastic oasis where your family can spend countless enjoyable hours. There are many aspects to making your game room remodel a success. First you should talk to a Design/ Build contractor about water access, waste lines and additional electricity needs. The contractor can also offer advice on any changes that might be necessary to update the space, whether it be additional insulation for a garage or attic room or waterproofing for a basement room.

Water access could also be an important aspect if you plan to have a bar or sink area. A Design/Build contractor can offer advice on what needs to be done to make the area completely usable. You might also want to speak with the contractor about creating an additional half bathroom for guests and family members to use when you’re entertaining.

Electricity for lighting and appliances is also incredibly important. If you are updating an unused area of your home, the current electric wiring may not be able to handle the additional demands of a game room. The Design/Build contractor can guide you through what will need to be updated and how much it will cost.

If finances are an issue there are definitely still projects you can complete yourself including painting, laying carpet, adding shelves or simply updating the décor.

Gone are the days when it was frowned upon to bring work home. Today a home is not a home unless it has a home office. Whether you are turning an extra bedroom into a workspace with store-bought furniture or constructing a full-scale two-level library and office, home offices are a regular part of what makes a house a home in 2012.

Making the space your own is essential to effective use of a home office. Create a space that makes you more productive and relaxed at the same time and that is a winning combination. A desk is an essential part of continued on page 42

PARTNERS

Our Home Improvement

Concrete Services Corporation 3000 Blair Road, Fairview, PA • (814) 474-4777 www.cscerie.com

Concrete Services offers a variety of products for all home projects inside and out. We locally manufacture quality ready mixed concrete and offer a full range of concrete colors, sealers, stains and stamps to help your ideas come to life. Our pumps and conveyor trucks are available for hard to reach places.

Concrete is a green, energy efficient product that can be colored and placed anywhere for a lifetime of enjoyment!

Bath Fitter 2125 Filmore Avenue, Erie, PA • (814) 864-2284 bathfitter.com Why spend your weekends renovating your bathroom when you’d rather be doing something you enjoy? Leave the work to BATH FITTER of Erie, where we provide customized bathroom remodeling products and services and can complete your bathroom transformation in just one day! We go beyond quick bathtub refinishing fixes. Isn't it time you had the beautiful bathroom you deserve? Bath Fitter - providing bathroom remodeling products and services since 1984.

J. Thomas Tree Service

This issue is also available online

325 Crescent Drive Erie, PA 16505 • (814) 882-5111 www.jthomastreeservice.com

Healthy, well-maintained trees, not only enhance a home’s beauty, but also can add up to 20 percent of the home’s value.

So it’s crucial to hire a trained and certified tree care professional for maintenance or safe removal of your trees. J. Thomas Tree Service has the skill and experience to make your trees and property look their best and we’re ready to go “Out On A Limb For You!”

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West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 41

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN WEST COUNTY

most offices. Choose one that meets your needs. If all you need is a work top to use your laptop from, consider a computer cart and save the space for a comfortable chair or small sofa. If you are in the market for a larger desk, consider office furniture resellers. They sell executive-grade used furniture for a fraction of the cost.

Bookcases or other storage can be a nice addition. Not only can they store books, but they are also great places to display awards or showcase your favorite collection of knicknacks or memorabilia.

Decide whether you prefer furniture pieces or built-ins.

Antique shops have great deals on beautiful bookcases, and most local cabinet shops can design and install custom built-ins. If you have a closet in your office, visit your local home center for a plethora of storage and organizing options.

A comfortable chair or two is a necessity. Choose long-lasting fabrics and sturdy frames. Go with classic styles that won’t end up as next year’s garage sale item. Test out the chair before you buy it. Desk chairs especially need to provide good support and be comfortable.

We live in a society of over-indulgence. Nothing shows this like the home theater. So many popular home magazines have a page dedicated to converting your basement into a home theater, or something similar. The HGTV website has 16 home theater features alone. But how doable is the home theater in reality? First, you need a fairly large space, either a big family room or a basement. Second, you need to budget for all the furnishings including, of course, the stars of the show: home theater equipment – a bigscreen TV, DVD player and speakers – and comfy seating.

Also very popular for home theaters is floor and aisle lighting similar to real movie theaters, and perhaps even an oldfashioned popcorn maker.

Frankly, home theaters are generally for those with deep pockets because there really is no way to make a home theater cheaply. Still thinking of taking the plunge? The home improvement website Home Time has a really useful feature on home theater planning. It covers everything you’ll need to consider, like the space you’ll need and even suggested room layouts, to maximize your viewing pleasure.

Kitchens are the most popular room in the house to

remodel. Many people consider the kitchen to be the center of the home and its most important component. Another reason it is so popular to remodel is there are so many things in the kitchen that can be remodeled…. cabinets, cabinet hardware, countertops, floor, appliances, lighting, walls and sinks.

There is very little right or wrong when it comes to remodeling your kitchen; it comes down to personal taste.

There are so many choices when it comes to style, design and type of material for every component of your kitchen.

When remodeling there is much to consider: cost, what is your goal, what is your situation (pets or small children could help decide what type of flooring to use, for example) and what is the cost vs. equity value of the remodel.

If finances are an issue and you are not the handiest individual, there are still many simple and easy things you can do to add pizzazz and value to your kitchen. For example, you can paint your cabinets and add new handles rather than buying new cabinets. Adding a stylish splashguard behind your stove and sink is easy to do and adds great appeal.

Painting the walls can also make a huge difference in your kitchen, as can changing the light fixture.

If done well, landscaping can completely change the character and perception of a home. Landscaping encompasses anything on the outside of the home including grass cutting, plants, flowers, rock, mulch, borders, vegetable gardens and more.

Beyond the aesthetics, landscaping can be beneficial to a property if designed properly. Solar heat absorbed through windows and roofs can increase cooling costs, and incorporating shade from landscaping elements can help reduce this solar heat gain. Shading and evapotranspiration (the process by which a plant actively moves and releases water vapor) from trees can reduce surrounding air temperatures as much as 9°F (5°C). Because cool air settles near the ground, air temperatures directly under trees can be as much as 25°F (14°C) cooler than air temperatures above nearby blacktop.

Using shade effectively requires you to know the size, shape, and location of the moving shadow that your shading device casts. Also, homes in cool regions may never overheat and may not require shading. Therefore, you need to know what landscape shade strategies will work best in your regional climate and your microclimate.

Also, if you can determine how much water your plants actually need, then you won’t overwater them and waste water. It is important to not only understand a plant’s particular watering requirements, but also evapotranspiration. continued on page 44

42

West County

PARTNERS

Our Home Improvement

Nerthling’s Heating and Air Conditioning 1606 Lehigh Street, Erie, PA 16509 • (814) 838-3600 www.nerthlings.com

Nerthling’s Heating and Air Conditioning is a family owned business serving Erie and surrounding communities for more than 60 years. Their team is committed to exceeding the expectations of their valued customers with a focus on 100% satisfaction. Nerthling’s provides residential and light commercial installation, repair and service. Visit their new location at 1606 Lehigh Street, call 814.838.3600, find them on Facebook or online at www.nerthlings.com.

Montagna Concrete Construction, LLC 4172 West Ridge Road, Erie, PA • (814) 835-4555 www.montagnaconcrete.com

Montagna Concrete Construction has been serving Erie County for over 20 years. We specialize in residential and commercial concrete construction. We handle standard and decorative concrete including stamped concrete, colored concrete and exposed aggregate concrete. Owner, Dennis Montagna oversees every project and makes sure that only quality products and their great service provide customers with the best work possible. All jobs are completed efficiently and without hassle to you or your home.

Manzi Services, Inc. 4172 West Ridge Road, Erie, PA • (814) 464-5000 www.manziservices.com

Manzi Services Inc. has provided premier full service landscape design and maintenance for over 20 years. As a leader in unique landscape design, high quality maintenance, patio and walkway design, retaining walls, and complete snow removal, we understand that your outdoor living space is an important part of your home. Our lead designer, with a Masters in Landscape Design, works with each client to create the perfect outdoor setting.

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 43

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN WEST COUNTY

GIVE G I V E US U S A DAY DAY A AND ND W WE’LL E’ L L GIVE G I V E YOU YO U

Evapotranspiration (Et) is the amount of water that is evaporated from the soil and transpired through the plant’s leaves. This amount of water needs to be replaced through watering. If you know your area’s Et rate, you can plan the amount of water to be replaced through irrigation. It’s best to water or irrigate your plants in the early morning when evaporation rates are low. This also provides plants with water before midday when the evaporation rate is the highest.

Lighting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to cast an enchanting spell on any outdoor space. It is also very effective for safety and security purposes.

Examples of exterior lighting include: torches, candles, lanterns, solar ground lighting, flood lights, lamp posts, landscape lighting and general light fixtures. For setting a mood the most popular lighting is candles or small lanterns. For security and safety purposes, it is critical to have flood light or lamp posts or ground solar lighting or all. A burglar is much more likely to enter a home without a lot of light on the outside illuminating the property.

With countless styles and options available, there are no right or wrong choices. The outdoor lighting a homeowner will choose will come down to budget and personal preference.

Many of us take pride in our homes, investing countless hours rearranging and remodeling the interior. But it can also be refreshing to step out of the confines of the inside and spend some time outside. It’s especially enjoyable during the spring, summer and fall months. When the weather is favorable, it’s difficult to miss out on a nice day outside.

But spending time outside doesn’t mean you have to forfeit your creature comforts. With a few small adjustments you can make your outdoor space comfortable and inviting. Turning a yard, patio, porch or other outdoor area into a functional living space can be a rewarding task, and will expand your living space to the outdoors. With the right setup, you can spend more time in the sunshine and fresh air, and host events al fresco for friends, family and neighbors.

Options for outdoor living include outdoor kitchens, dramatic lighting, fireplaces or fire pits, a water feature (like a fountain), outdoor living rooms, gazebos and pavilions. With so many options to choose from, for most people it will come down to price, climate where they live and available space in which to be creative.

Ponds can be a wonderful addition to your property’s outdoor continued on next page

44

West County

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experience. Surprisingly, they are not as difficult to build as one might think.

Before you start, call 811 or your local one-call center to have electric and gas lines marked so you know where to dig to steer clear of them. Then, when you map out the location of your pond, put it where it will be noticed – visible from a window, off a patio, or along a walkway – but away from the play areas of small children or pets.

Keep clear of major root systems or mature trees, which can block too much of the sunlight plants and fish need. You’ll also need to be within reach of a grounded exterior outlet so you can plug in a pump, an essential tool for keeping the water aerated; most pumps come with a maximum cord length of 25 feet, and extension cords are not recommended. You may need to bury the power cord a few inches down in PVC pipe to hide it.

Space permitting, you need at least 40 cubic feet for your pond – about 7 feet by 4 feet – to keep the water clean. An initial shallow terrace just inside the perimeter of the pond holds rocks that conceal the liner edge and keep it in place.

A second, deeper terrace supports plants that live in the water and help balance the pond’s ecosystem. As you dig, you must slope the sides of the pond so that if the water freezes, the ice will push up instead of against the liner. Even in warmer climates, small ponds can change temperature rapidly, so if you’re adding fish you’ll want a deeper pond that will maintain a more consistent temperature and accommodate the fish – 18 to 24 inches for goldfish and at least 3 feet for koi.

To maintain the consistent depth of the water, you need to line the pond. A thin layer of sand and old newspapers or burlap bags softens the jagged edges of rocks and roots. But over that you will need to put a waterproof skin. There are several types of flexible liners meant for small ponds – made from polypropylene and EPDM, among other materials. Look for one that’s weather-resistant, so it will stand up to UV rays and freezing temperatures. It should also be rated “fish-safe” if you plan to stock your pond and come continued on page 46 West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 45

HOME IMPROVEMENT IN WEST COUNTY

6351 West Lake Road U Erie, PA

with a warranty of 10 to 20 years so your pond will be watertight for many years to come.

Remodeling your home can generate tremendous equity for the future, as well as personal enjoyment in the present.

Remodeling projects come in all shapes, sizes and costs.

Projects can range from replacing flooring or a faucet, to installing new trim work or tile and replacing windows and doors. Remodeling can also take on the form of revamping or adding a bathroom, redoing a kitchen, overhauling your home’s exterior for improved curb appeal, or completing an addition to increase your home’s square footage and add valuable space. Big and small changes can both have an impact and will improve the way your home looks and functions, increasing its value and making it more enjoyable for you and your family.

The key to any remodeling job is to make sure it makes sense financially. Not all remodeling jobs are cost-effective.

For example, it is possible to pay $75,000 for a new addition, but an appraiser may be of the opinion that it only raised the value of your house by $50,000. It is very important that you do as much research as possible and talk to as many experienced professionals as possible so you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

Financing Remodeling Projects While home sales may be sluggish, home remodels are roaring. In the second quarter of 2011, Americans were expected to spend $132.8 billion on remodeling – up 12.8% over the previous year, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

And it’s no surprise that these projects aren’t cheap. In fact, the same studies report that 57% of home-remodeling projects cost at least $20,000.

Since saving your pennies in a pickle jar is probably not enough to update your master bathroom with a slate walk-in shower or add granite countertops to your kitchen, explore these options to finance your new-and-improved home.

Purchase a Variable-Rate CD What it’s good for: Projects that can wait until a fixed time in the future with a price tag you can pay by saving.

If you plan to pay for the kitchen of your dreams the old-fashioned way – by saving for it – consider a variablerate certificate of deposit. This savings vehicle is similar to a traditional savings account in that you can add money to it at any time (a fixed-rate CD does not allow additional deposits during the term of the CD).

In return for an interest rate that may go up or down, the interest rate often is slightly higher than a traditional CD when you buy it. You make a low minimum deposit and lock continued on next page 46

West County

A FRESH APPROACH FOR SHORT-TERM REHABILITATION After surgery or illness, it’s common to need some help to regain strength and range of motion for everyday living. You’ll want skilled therapists who understand your individual goals as well as a setting that offers privacy and independence.

That’s why more and more people are requesting the short-term rehabilitation neighborhood at Manchester Commons.

Rehabilitation Services Centered On You We’ve set aside a special section of our community to help you get back to home or work as quickly as possible. Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê

UÊ i` V>Ìi`ÊÌ iÀ>« ÃÌÃ UÊ viÃÌÞ i L>Ãi`ÊÌÀi>Ì i Ì UÊ iÜ ÞÊÀi Û>Ìi`ÊÀ Ã UÊ ` >Vi ÌÊÌ iÀ>«ÞÊ}Þ >Ã Õ UÊ-i«>À>ÌiÊ` }ÊÀ Ê> `Ê i Õ To learn more or to schedule your stay, contact Manchester Commons at 814-838-9191 or ManchesterAdmissions@PresbyHomes.com.

in your money for a fixed time – usually at least 6 or 12 months. If you withdraw your funds before then, you pay penalties and lose the interest.

Renovate your homeowners policy.

Open a Home Equity Line of Credit What it’s good for: Long-term projects that can be paid off over five or fewer years.

The beauty of using the equity in your home is that you write yourself checks from a line of credit and pay interest on only what you borrow. Plus, the interest is typically tax deductible.

While current low interest rates add to the allure, these credit lines can be tough to come by in this climate of lowered home values and tight credit. When interest rates rise, your home improvement project may become more expensive than you anticipated.

Michelle Toth, Agent Mic helle T oth, A gent oad Ridge Road 7388 W Rid ge R A 16415 FFairview, airview, P PA Bus:: 814-474-2661 Bus www.michelletoth.net www .michelletoth.net

Great insurance. Low rates.

Remodeling your home can increase its value. Protect it by taking a new look at your homeowners insurance policy.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL ME TODAY. ®

Refinance Your Home What it’s good for: Larger projects for a home you plan to live in for the long term.

A “cash-out” refinance allows you to refinance your mortgage for an amount that is larger than your current mortgage. You get the difference in a check – effectively rolling the sum into a newly financed 15- or 30-year mortgage.

This can be an attractive option, as mortgage rates have hovered at historic lows in recent years.

The downsides include closing fees that can be in the thousands of dollars. Plus, the threshold to qualify, including income and home-value requirements, can be high – both of which can pose a challenge in this economy.

0901136.1

State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL

Return on your Investment Thinking about adding a deck or revamping the kitchen so you can up the price of your home before you sell? You might want to crunch the 2010-11 Cost vs. Value numbers, compiled by Remodeling magazine, before you do.

Projects with highest return on investment • Replacing entry door with steel door (102%) • Garage door replacement (84%) • Adding a wood deck (73%) • Minor kitchen remodel (73%) • Vinyl siding replacement (72%) • Wood window replacement (72%) • Attic bedroom addition (72%) Project with lowest rate of return on investment • Home office remodel (46%) • Sunroom addition (49%) • Bathroom addition (53%) • Garage addition (59%)

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 47

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Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge A Faith-Based Retirement Community Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge is a faithbased Continuing Care Retirement Community that is nestled between tree lined views on a 34 acre campus located on the outskirts of West Millcreek. It is conveniently located on West Ridge Road in a pleasant residential neighborhood near shopping and Asbury Woods Nature Park.

The residents who call Asbury Ridge home enjoy many offerings that are available within the campus. From a continuum of available services, to a wide variety of amenities and events, Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge is truly a gem to those in Erie County.

The campus itself boasts 26 independent living homes called The Carriage Homes at Asbury Ridge (a few remain for construction), 74 private residential living/personal care apartments, a secured personal care area with 16 private rooms for those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s and 80 all-private nursing rooms.

A big draw to Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge is the short term rehabilitation. In fact... about 1/3 of the residents in nursing are short term admissions that receive their necessary physical, speech and/or occupational rehabilitation and then return to their home. Long term rehabilitation is also available when prescribed by a physician for those who need an extended stay in skilled nursing.

Perhaps the most fulfilling aspect residents embrace is the fact that Saint Mary’s is a Catholic organization. A beautiful Chapel is located within Asbury Ridge that offers regularly scheduled

The residents at Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge enjoy their own Annual Senior Prom each Spring. Now in its 9th year, the Senior Prom is planned and organized by the residents and Saint Mary’s Activities Department.

It includes live entertainment, an elegant four course dinner and plenty of music.

Pictured are Cecelia and Chuck Guagliardi who were the 2012 Prom Queen and King.

The Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge Chapel.

Aerial Shot of the Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge Campus.

Mass and monthly Ecumenical Services.

“Having the ability to attend Mass is something that I need in my life,” explained Patricia Goetz, Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge resident. “I love living in a Catholic Retirement Community. I not only feel secure living here, but I am able to fulfill my spiritual needs.”

The residents who live at Asbury Ridge take comfort in their ability to fulfill their spiritual needs while having a wide variety of services available, as needed, on the same campus.

This allows each person to achieve their highest level of independence while enjoying all the benefits of a retirement community.

Couples are able to easily see each other even if they are living within different areas of the campus. They are able to attend Mass together, dine together and enjoy each other’s company all while receiving the level of individualized service they need.

Saint Mary’s Home of Erie was founded in 1884 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Due to the local need and demand, Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge was opened in 2001 as a second Saint Mary’s location. Saint Mary’s East is located at 607 East 26th Street and Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge is located at 4855 West Ridge Road.

Saint Mary’s has a dedicated and passionate group of employees who devote themselves to the Mission of “Loving to Care.” Daily activities and programs are available to all residents that include community outings, concerts, movies, intergenerational activities, educational programs, art classes and prayer groups, just to name a few. A hair care area, putting green, exercise room, library, café, gift shop and outdoor exercise area round out the many amenities that are featured within the campus.

If you or a loved one would like more information about Saint Mary’s at Asbury Ridge or if you have questions about the benefits of Saint Mary’s Continuing Care Retirement Community, please call 814-836-5300 or visit Saint Mary’s online at www.stmaryshome.org.

West County | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 49

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