SPRING 2013
+ Spring Feature
Home Improvements page 34
From the Publisher Welcome to the Spring issue of Keystone Oaks 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.
Have a wonderful spring! Wayne Dollard, Publisher
we want to know
How did you get into
Gardening? Gardens are commonplace in Western Pennsylvania, but why?
Summer content deadline: 4/12/13
What’s the allure of gardening that prompted you to first turn the dirt? Was it a relative who helped you plant your first tulip bulb, or was it your spouse who first introduced you to succulent, vine-ripened homegrown tomatoes? 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.
INSIDE
IN Keystone Oaks is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Keystone Oaks 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.
IN Keystone Oaks Magazine | SPRING 2013
on the cover
27
Industry Insights
Manning Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Injury Treatment..................................... | 25
ON THE COVER ❘ South West Communities Federal Credit Union SEE PAGE 33
Hometown Pharmacy UPMC TODAY
Tips for Grandparents on Safe Medicine Storage................................................. | 27
Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Spring 2013
SPOTLIGHTS
South West Communities Federal Credit Union More Neighbor Than Bank .................... | 33
What’s Inside 2 3 4
When It’s More than Just Heartburn Hope and Healing A Healing Touch Food in a Glass
4
5
Clinical Trials Can Change Lives
6 7
Depression and Older Adults Comprehensive Care for Today’s Urology Patients
© 2013 UPMC
UPMC Today_Mercy_Spring_2013_v16.indd 1
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community interests
Keystone Oaks Brings on the Talent ...................................... | 4 Keystone Oaks High School Math Teacher Earns Prestigious Certification........................................................... | 13 Twenty-Two Keystone Oaks High School Students Inducted Into National Honor Society .................................. | 14 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News .................................... | 17 Features
Southwinds, Inc
Honored as 2012 Top-Rated Nonprofit....................................................... | 12
New Advanced Treatment for Skin Cancer ............................. | 16 Green Tree Announces Winners of Annual Holiday House Decorating Contest.......................... | 26 Tomosynthesis Offers Women Greater Detection of Breast Abnormalities ................................................................... | 30 Abusa and True Joy ............................................................................ | 31 Home Improvements .......................................................................... | 34 Dormont Elementary School Wins Prestigious Grant from Macy’s to Present “Yes, Virginia”.................................... | 40
Local Dancer Featured as
Sugar Plum Fairy see page
8
Community Interests
Keystone Oaks
Brings on the
talent
Keystone Oaks High School presented its 84th annual “Varieties� student talent show in the Michael A. Callara Auditorium.
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Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 5
Community Interests
Keystone Oaks Elementary Schools Receive Generous Gift from the Pittsburgh Penguins
T
hough the Pittsburgh Penguins’ season just started due to the NHL lockout, students at all three of Keystone Oaks’ elementary schools will be enjoying plenty of hockey this year thanks in part to a generous gift from the club. As part of the new PensFIT program, the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation recently donated more than 20 pieces of street hockey equipment to each school, including wood-handled sticks, helmets, goalie pads, balls, goals and storage bags. The school district was awarded the gear, which retails for more than $3,000, following an application process. “We implement a floor hockey program each winter as part of our curriculum,” Dormont Elementary physical education teacher Brad Bengele said. “The equipment the Penguins have donated will definitely add to that program and it will help keep our students safer as well.” The program is part of a three-year foundation initiative aiming to introduce the sport to children across the region and encourage physical activity. “Anything that motivates our students to be more active is a good thing from a
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physical education perspective,” said physical education teacher Jennifer Watenpool, who teaches at Dormont and Aiken elementary schools. “Our kids just love the Penguins and because this equipment is of such a high quality and it has the team’s logo all over it, that makes it even more appealing to our kids.” Watenpool said the school had a set of hockey equipment already, but the quality of the new pieces will only help. “We already had a fair amount of hockey equipment but any time you have the opportunity to add more high quality equipment, which can be very expensive, that’s a very good thing for our students.” said Watenpool. Myrtle Avenue Elementary was the first district school to test the equipment in class and physical education teacher Matt Paradise is most excited by the fact that there
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is enough equipment that the students can participate without having to share. “This equipment gives every student in all of our classes a chance to participate without waiting and it allows us teachers to offer bellto-bell instruction,” he said. “The students leave my class thinking they are the next Sid, Geno or Fleury.” ¿
Community Interests
Keystone Oaks School District Elementary Schools to Host Annual Kindergarten Registration In February the Keystone Oaks School District will again conduct its annual kindergarten registration for all district children who are eligible for kindergarten in August 2013. Children must be at least five years old before Sept. 1, 2013 to be eligible for admission during the 2013-2014 school year. To register, parents should bring their child’s health, dental and immunization records as well as the child’s proof of age. That may include a state-issued birth certificate, a notarized copy of a birth certificate, a passport, a baptismal certificate, or a copy of the record of baptism (notarized or duly certified and showing the date of birth as well as a notarized statement from the parents or another relative indicating the date of birth). Parents of newly enrolled students will also be asked to produce two proofs of residency which may include things like a deed, a lease, a current utility bill, a current property tax bill, a current credit card statement or a valid Pennsylvania’s driver’s license. Parents may also obtain registration materials online ahead of time at www.kosd.org under the New Student Registration tab.
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Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 7
RESIDENT Profile
Sugar Plum Fairy Local Dancer Featured as
in Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh’s Rendition of “The Nutcracker”
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Keystone Oaks
When Lacey was four,
her grandmother took her to see the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production in the city. She recalls that “…it was the most beautiful experience ever.”
F
or many young girls, going to see “The Nutcracker” for the very first time is a rite of passage. It is a passage into a magical world, one in which form, grace and beauty are praised. It is an enchanted world: a place where a story and the imagination can play with the music of Tchaikovsky. Undeniably, the most alluring character of the entire ballet is the Sugar Plum Fairy. The audience waits for the moment when she enters the stage during the second act. She is the prima ballerina; she is in command of the evening. All eyes are on her. This is the role that all young girls dream of dancing when they begin learning ballet. For three students at the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh, dreams were realized when they each got to dance the coveted role at the company’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker.” Lacey Gigliotti of Castle Shannon, Caroline Wilde of Bethel Park and Emily Carskadden of Mt. Lebanon each danced the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy at Independence Middle School Theater in Bethel Park on December 7, 8, and 9, 2012. Both Emily and Lacey began dancing at the age of three and Caroline started when she was six. All have studied ballet at the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh since its opening in 2006. Lindsay and Steven Piper, directors of the ballet academy, have been instrumental in teaching the girls proper technique and form, as well as pushing them to excel athletically. At the academy, Lacey, Caroline and Emily became the dancers that they are today. In addition to the excellent dance instruction
that they received on a daily basis, Caroline recalls some remarkable dance teachers who guided students through summer intensives and master classes. They include Allison DeBona of the CW’s “Breaking Pointe” and Stephen Hanna and Jock Soto, principal dancers for the New York City Ballet. “These teachers were memorable to me,” Caroline comments, “because their careers are so amazing…and I felt that if I correctly used what they taught me, I could successfully start my own career.” All three girls have vivid memories of seeing “The Nutcracker” when they were young. When Emily was three years old, she went to see her cousin perform in the ballet and was instantly captivated. She remembers “…the magic of the performance: the gorgeous costumes, stunning backdrops and beautiful dancers.” When Lacey was four, her grandmother took her to see the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s production in the city. She recalls that “…it was the most beautiful experience ever. I remember the dancers twirling in the falling snowflakes, the ever-growing Christmas tree, the battle scene between the mice and the Nutcracker, and, of course, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. I stood up to watch their every move. ”It was then that Lacey knew that her life would never be the same. She thinks back to “one moment that will always be my favorite memory: when the Cavalier offers his hand to the Sugar Plum at the start of the Grande Pas [de deux]. I can honestly say that is the moment I fell in love with ballet, and started dreaming that I would someday get to wear the glistening tutu and have a hand extended to me.” Emily was also
smitten by the magic of the Sugar Plum Fairy. “When [she] performed, I was mesmerized. It was then that I decided that I wanted to start dancing.” It seems that seeing the Sugar Plum Fairy perform once is all it takes to inspire a future generation of dancers. And the Sugar Plum is, indeed, iconic. Emily concurs: “… [she] is the prima ballerina. The ballerina that little girls recognize. The ballerina that inspires.” And so, Lacey, Caroline and Emily fell in love with ballet. As the years went by, the girls performed a variety of roles in the annual winter performance of The Nutcracker. Since entering the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh’s high school program, Lacey has danced the lead Spanish and Mirliton roles, the Dew Drop Fairy and the Demi-soloist in the Waltz of the Flowers. Caroline loves to perform the Marzipan lead, Dew Drop and Snow Queen. Emily has danced a large variety of roles as well, and is so well-versed in the various characters, in fact, that she challenges anyone to “play a random piece of music from “The Nutcracker” and [she] will be able to dance the choreography for that part!” This year, it was their turn to be the Sugar Plum Fairy. “Being chosen to perform the Sugar Plum Fairy,” explains Caroline, “means that you have put in enough time and energy to be personally chosen to perform the legendary and difficult role.” Thinking back to how she was feeling during those tense moments before she went on stage, Lacey recalls that she was “running over the choreography in my mind, reminding myself to breathe, thinking how thankful I am to have parents who support me…and I prayed.” Contiuned on next page
Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 9
RESIDENT Profile
Lacey explains that there are so many challenges for this dancer, including solo work, partnering, lead work with the rest of the cast, and working with the youngest dancers. There was one moment on stage, however, that immediately calmed her and brought her confidence and assurance. During the second act, a group of the youngest dancers ran on tip-toe to give the Sugar Plum Fairy her wand. For Lacey, “the smiles on their precious faces took away any nervousness I had. It reminded me of how far I had come.” Emily felt like a celebrity walking from the dressing room to the stage on her performance night. “…I was stopped constantly to take photos with the younger students. It took me an extra five minutes to…get to the stage!” For the most part, Emily felt calm leading up to her performance, except for one moment before the show when her partner, who had been having back and ankle problems for a while, told her he wasn’t feeling so well. “I tried to hold myself together,” explains
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Emily, “but I think by that point, I had been [feeling the] stress for so long that I had a bit of a meltdown.” What abated her stress? Having her friends backstage supporting her and telling her that she was going to be great. Also, one of the instructors from the ballet academy, Lindy Mandradjieff, made a point to hug Emily and tell her that she was going to be amazing. “I don’t think she realizes how much that meant to me,” recalls Emily, “but I felt so much better afterwards.” Aside from the beautiful costume and the pretty face, perhaps the main reason that the Sugar Plum Fairy is so highly regarded is the level of technique one must master in order to dance that role. Lacey explains that there are so many challenges for this dancer, including solo work, partnering, lead work with the rest of the cast, and working with the
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youngest dancers. Also, she explains that “the turn sequences have to be timed and spaced so carefully; the choreography is very intricate and specific to that role, not the standard combinations [from class].” Furthermore, incredible stamina is required to perform for the length of time that the Sugar Plum Fairy is on stage. Finally, everyone who performs this role has the pressure of dancing just as well or better than the previous fairies. While Lacey, Caroline and Emily have different plans for the future, each of them can’t imagine life without dance. Lacey hopes to make a career out of dancing, although she has not decided what route she would like to take. She is currently looking into college dance programs as well as graduate programs with professional companies. Caroline would like to join a ballet company or Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s graduate program. One of Emily’s prerequisites for any college or university that she will attend is that it must have some sort of ballet program – whether that is a ballet major, minor, or student-run ballet company. She comments that “…I have been dancing for so many years - I can’t just stop dancing completely after high school. Ballet has been a part of me for as long as I can remember…to give it up now would definitely leave a gaping hole in my life.” While balancing life as a high-school student with life as a dancer can be overwhelming at times, the girls have learned how to budget their time and manage their stress. It is never easy, however, to have to miss out on so many social and extra-curricular activities. But, ballet does and must take precedence over those things. When asked if they had any advice for the beginning dancer, Emily responds that “…the most important thing is to keep dancing, no matter how hard it is sometimes. You will have days when [you want to quit] because you are sick of missing events and friends, but with those days come [others] when you absolutely love dance and can’t wait for your classes each day.” Lacey adds that one should “remember to dance for the moment…enjoy every part, every class. The reason you dance should be because it is fun and that there is nothing in the world you would rather do.” ¿ For more information about the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh, visit: www.balletacademypgh.com.
Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 11
Southwinds, Inc. Honored as 2012 Top-Rated Nonprofit
New GreatNonprofits.org Award is Based on Positive Online Reviews
Southwinds, Inc. announced today that it has been honored with a prestigious 2012 Top-Rated Award by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews about nonprofit organizations. “We are excited to be named a Top-Rated 2012 Nonprofit,” says Julie Boyce-Kuna, director of development and marketing for Southwinds, Inc. The Top-Rated Nonprofit award was based on the large number of positive reviews that Southwinds, Inc. received – reviews written by volunteers, donors and clients. People posted their personal experience with the nonprofit. For example, one person wrote, “My entire family has been blessed and fortunate to meet many of these individuals at several events, and I take pride in knowing that they have positively impacted the lives of my children, as well as many, many other people in the community. Sometimes I feel they help us more than we have helped them. Southwinds is truly a wonderful organization.” Being on the Top-Rated list came at an important time of the year, as donors look for causes to support during the holiday season. “We are gratified by Southwinds, Inc. for its work,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. “It deserve to be discovered by more donors and volunteers who are looking for a great nonprofit to support.” Being on the Top-Rated list gives donors and volunteers more confidence that this is a credible organization. The reviews by volunteers, clients and other donors show the on-the-ground results of this nonprofit. This award is a form of recognition by the community. Southwinds, Inc. provides residency and a place to develop life skills for adults with intellectual and developmental challenges. Now serving 50 adults in 14 houses throughout the South Hills, Southwinds gives its clients the opportunity to lead normal lives. ¿
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Community Interests
Keystone Oaks High School Math Teacher Earns Prestigious Certification By Matthew J. Fascetti
S
ome people are born with an extra drive that many don’t have. Never content, these individuals always strive to succeed at whatever they do, usually going above and beyond the competition to achieve success. They can’t be satisfied unless they are challenging themselves…Kevin Gallagher is one of these people. After a grueling process that included 200 to 300 hours outside the classroom, Gallagher has earned National Board Certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Fewer than 100,000 teachers nationwide have earned the distinction; Gallagher is the first in the Keystone Oaks School District. National Board Certification is an advanced teaching credential that is valid for 10 years and is available nationwide to teachers working in kindergarten through 12th grade. To achieve the certification, a teacher must complete 10 voluntary assessments by other teachers, including four portfolio entries that feature teaching practice and six response exercises that assess content knowledge. To achieve National Board Certification, Gallagher had to earn a total weighted scaled score of at least 275, and he scored 298. The American Council on Education (ACE) now recognizes the National Board Certification process as comparable to graduate level coursework and will result in nine additional credits. The exam was 3 ½ hours and consisted of six parts: algebra, functions, geometry, calculus, discrete mathematics and data analysis and statistics. Gallagher completed three months of prep classes before taking the test in April. Unfortunately, the results did not come in until November…it was an agonizing wait. Gallagher loved the challenge the certification represented. “I have always enjoyed challenges and I love staying busy,” he said. “I am the VP of the union and the math curriculum leader in the district for grades 6-12. I also operate the scoreboard at junior high basketball games, and I announce the varsity games. I always like to push myself, and this certification offered quite a challenge. It was a grueling process. I am extremely pleased to do as well as I did because only one-third of the people who take the test pass the first time.” Gallagher is a native of Castle Shannon and a graduate of Keystone Oaks High School. He earned an undergraduate degree from Allegheny College and went on to earn a master’s degree in education. He has been a teacher for 16 years. He spent the first six years of his career at the middle school before moving up to the high school. “Not only do I want to continue to be better as a teacher, but I want my students to be better as well,” Gallagher stated. “That is one reason I wanted to go through the certification process. It is also why I regularly attend workshops and classes that I believe will make me a better teacher. The key is to take in all that you have learned and use it to improve what happens in the classroom on a daily basis.” The students who will be coming through the Keystone Oaks School District are in excellent hands. It is clear that as long as Gallagher is teaching math at Keystone Oaks, the students will receive excellent instruction, a plethora of knowledge and heartfelt mentoring from a passionate, dedicated educator. ¿
Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 13
Community Interests
Twenty-Two Keystone Oaks High School Students Inducted Into National Honor Society
In a ceremony held in the district’s Large Group Instruction (LGI) Room, Keystone Oaks High School inducted 22 students into the National Honor Society (NHS). Keystone Oaks’ 2012 NHS inductees included one senior, six juniors and 15 sophomores. Established in 1921, the NHS is a recognition program for American high school students who show achievement in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Students are selected for membership through an established school chapter in secondary public and accredited private schools by a five-member Faculty Council. Candidates must meet the chapter’s requirement for scholarship, service, leadership and character in order to be selected for membership. High School Principal Scott Hagy said that this year’s strong showing by so many district students is a reflection of their work ethic and the support they receive from their families. “The National Honor Society induction ceremony is second only to graduation in its importance to our district’s families,” said Hagy. “It is a perfect time to honor the students for all of the hard work they have put in and to recognize their families and their commitment to their children’s education.”
Senior
• Alexandra Ferrari
Juniors • Collin Azinger • Andrew Bigler • Darren Frederick • Klay Huebner • Nicholas Milkovich • Brandon Pollice
Sophomores • Joe Amadio • Kovid Bhayana • Brittany Bolla • Amber Bonnett • Brian Brosnan • Donald Daube • Amber Palmer • Emily Pelesky • Kobe Phillippi • Jessica Porter • Erica Ragan • Hannah Ranalli • Alyssa Simmons • Haley Tokich • Alaina Turocy
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Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 15
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Keystone Oaks
UPMC TODAY
Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Spring 2013
What’s Inside 2
When It’s More than Just Heartburn
3 4
Hope and Healing A Healing Touch Food in a Glass
5
Clinical Trials Can Change Lives
6 7
Depression and Older Adults Comprehensive Care for Today’s Urology Patients
© 2013 UPMC
When It’s More Than Just Heartburn UPMC Mercy offers comprehensive testing and minimally invasive surgery for complex problems of the esophagus.
Most of us can count on an antacid or two to tame a bad case of heartburn. But acid reflux, of which heartburn is a symptom, can lead to a far more uncomfortable and potentially dangerous condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Large hiatal hernia (also known as giant paraesophageal hernia) repair • Achalasia (a rare swallowing disorder) surgical therapy • Esophageal diverticulum repair and removal “Patients travel hundreds of miles, and most have had prior surgeries,” notes Dr. Awais. “Before and after operating, we use a quality of life test to measure a patient’s degree of reflux. We’ve learned that our patients typically experience better outcomes, less pain, and faster recovery times through our efforts. We also work with patients on long-term lifestyle changes to maintain their health.” Linette says her re-operation “saved my life. I feel like a new person.” She has lost weight and no longer takes medication for diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Testing is key A variety of tests are needed prior to any esophageal or gastric surgery. At UPMC Mercy, patients can get these tests done quickly and efficiently at one location, including: Endoscopy — Allows a doctor to use a thin, narrow tube with a camera and light to view the inside of the throat and stomach Motility testing — Identifies how well the muscles of the esophagus are functioning
Linette Johns of Upper Burrell first underwent surgery for GERD in 2000. But in recent years, severe heartburn and other symptoms reappeared. “I knew the success rate of a repeat surgery on the esophagus wasn’t good, so I was hesitant to have it done,” says Linette. “But my son, Jeff, who’s studying to be a doctor, told me that I could be at risk for esophageal cancer. That motivated me to take the next step.”
Tackling complicated cases In March 2012, Omar Awais, DO, chief of thoracic surgery at UPMC Mercy, performed the repeat surgery on Linette. Under his expertise, some of the region’s most complex, minimally invasive esophageal surgeries are taking place at UPMC Mercy, including: • Minimally invasive surgery to remove all or part of the esophagus to treat esophageal cancer • Repair of recurrent hiatal hernia • Repeat esophageal surgery
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UPMC.com/Today
Acid ph testing — Measures the amount of acid exposure into the esophagus Impedance testing — Measures the frequency and amount of gastric fluids (both acidic and non-acidic) entering the esophagus and larynx from the stomach
Are you at risk? “Certainly not everyone with GERD requires surgery. Most cases can be controlled through medical therapy, weight loss, modified diet, and medication,” says Dr. Awais. “But early detection and treatment of GERD is key because of its associated risk with esophageal cancer.” At greatest risk are men over the age of 50 who are obese and have suffered from heartburn three or more times a week for five years or longer. To learn more about UPMC Mercy’s programs to diagnose and treat complex problems of the esophagus, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).
Hope and Healing UPMC is leading the way with new treatment options for hepatitis C.
Decades after receiving a childhood blood transfusion, Chris Sosinski was shocked to learn he had the hepatitis C virus, which had led to cirrhosis and the prospect of a liver transplant. Today, Chris remains hepatitis C negative, thanks to a new direct-acting antiviral therapy he received at the UPMC Center for Liver Diseases last year. Months after ending treatment in October, his viral load remains at zero. “That means it’s gone,” says Chris, 49, of Jeannette. “No more medicine and — if I take care of myself — no transplant.”
Baby boomers beware Chris is one of a growing number of baby boomers diagnosed with hepatitis C, a problem so serious that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that everyone born between 1945 and 1965 be tested for the virus. The CDC estimates that more than 75 percent of the nation’s 3 million adults currently living with hepatitis C are baby boomers — and most don’t know they’re infected. “Hepatitis C is a silent disease; most people have no symptoms,” says Kapil Chopra, MD, director, UPMC Center for Liver Diseases. “But if diagnosed early, it can be cured or managed successfully before it can develop into cirrhosis or liver cancer.”
A new era of treatment Thankfully for Chris and other hepatitis C patients, two drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 ushered in a new era of treatment, delivering improved cure rates and shorter treatment time for the most prevalent — and hardest to treat — strain of the virus. Playing a critical role was the UPMC Center for Liver Diseases, where specialists have been at the forefront in the evaluation and clinical trials of promising new therapies.
Hundreds of UPMC patients took part in groundbreaking clinical trials for those new drugs. (Turn to page 5 to learn about other clinical trials and how they are affecting patients’ lives.) Today, even more are participating in clinical trials of new therapies at UPMC with the potential for even better results in fighting chronic hepatitis C infections. “These are exciting times. Over the next few years, we expect to have several new options that will eradicate the hepatitis C virus in most patients without side effects,” says Dr. Chopra. “It’s a new era of treatment and hope for our patients.”
A leading resource for complex care Treating and managing hepatitis C can be complex for both patients and health care providers. In the tri-state area, UPMC is the leading provider of comprehensive and advanced specialty care for patients with the virus. “Our multidisciplinary specialists are involved in researching and evaluating new treatments. They bring a unique perspective for managing these complex therapies,” explains Dr. Chopra. These specialists work together to assess patients, select appropriate antiviral therapies, educate patients, monitor for adverse effects and drug interactions, and provide support for patients and family members. “They are familiar with the latest, cutting-edge therapies and developing new ones,” adds Dr. Chopra. For those patients who don’t respond to treatment and are experiencing liver failure, the program also provides seamless transition to UPMC’s internationally renowned transplant program. To read about the risk factors for hepatitis C and what you can do, visit UPMC.com/Today. For more information about treatments for hepatitis C, contact the UPMC Center for Liver Diseases at 1-800-447-1651.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan
A Healing Touch There are ways to relieve pain and nausea through alternative medicine. A growing number of patients are adding acupuncture and other alternative therapies to their medical care.
“You don’t have to be a believer for it to work,” says Betty Liu, MD, a physician and acupuncture specialist at the UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “I’ve seen dramatic reductions in pain and nausea — some instantaneous, some after multiple sessions.”
Who uses it? Patients frequently turn to acupuncture and other therapies to control pain, including arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, migraines, and spasms, or to ease nausea due to pregnancy or chemotherapy. Integrating these therapies with conventional medicine can help patients find relief more quickly, or continue making progress toward their goals.
What are some treatments? Acupuncture, one of the most popular therapies, uses thin needles to stimulate various points around the body. “We’re not certain how it works, but we know it releases endorphins, which act like opiates to relieve pain,” Dr. Liu says. Massage therapy uses acupressure and deep tissue massage to increase blood flow to an injured area and release endorphins.
What is alternative medicine? If you visit an acupuncturist or chiropractor, you’re seeking treatment in the field of complementary and alternative medicine — an increasingly mainstream tool for doctors.
Chiropractic medicine adjusts the spine through manipulation to put the body into better alignment. For more information about alternative treatments, visit UPMC.com/Today.
Food in a Glass Choosing the best milk option for you. Are you lingering longer in the dairy aisle, pondering your ever-increasing options? Should you reach for your usual skim milk — or be adventurous and try rice, almond, or soy? Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD, UPMC’s director of sports nutrition, says making the right choice is this simple: “Essentially, milk is food in a glass. Choose the drink that offers the best nutrition for your needs.” Not all milk and dairy alternatives are equal: read labels carefully, comparing the fat and carbohydrate contents. “For example, to reduce soy milk’s ‘beanie’ taste, sugar is added,” explains Ms. Bonci. “That can jump the carbohydrate count from 12 to 24 grams.” Look beyond just calories, too: milk is rich in protein, calcium, and minerals. “An 8-ounce serving of milk has 8 grams of protein, compared to 6 grams for soy milk and just 1 gram for almond and rice milk,” she adds. Unless a food allergy is present, the best choice for most of us is cow’s milk. “For children under two, select whole milk,” says Ms. Bonci. “Otherwise, reach for 1 percent or skim milk — both offer a lower saturated fat content and higher calcium. Enhanced or ‘super’ skim milk features a richer texture many people prefer.” And if you’re debating about organic versus regular milk, Ms. Bonci advises that your pocketbook be your guide. “There’s no nutritional difference between the two,” she says.
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UPMC.com/Today
Clinical Trials Can Change Lives Bringing patients, physicians, and researchers together to change the future of medicine.
Research opens the door for new possibilities in patient care. But long before a drug, medical device, treatment, or surgical procedure becomes widely available, it must first be proven safe and effective.
therapy from a patient’s own fat tissue,” explains Dr. Rubin. “By harnessing the body’s own regenerative capabilities, we’re applying new technologies and scientific advancements to restore both form and function in patients.” For more information, visit UPMC.com/restore or call 412-864-2587. Solutions for out-of-control blood pressure. Of the 67 million Americans with high blood pressure, more than half fail to keep it under control. Many have difficulty battling the disease despite taking three or more medications, a condition known as treatment-resistant hypertension. As part of the body’s sympathetic nervous system, our kidneys play an important role in regulating long-term blood pressure. In most patients with hypertension, the sympathetic nervous system is overactive, thereby increasing blood pressure and causing heart, kidney, and blood vessel damage.
At UPMC, clinical trials are the bridge between research and the future of modern medicine. As one of the nation’s top-ranked health care systems, UPMC annually directs or participates in hundreds of groundbreaking clinical trials in virtually every medical specialty. Some are offered only at UPMC, while others are part of national and even international trials. Each is carefully monitored and measured by expert UPMC physicians who are leaders in their fields. For a patients whose illness has no cure or no longer responds to current treatment, UPMC’s clinical trials offer potentially life-saving medical breakthroughs. Other patients enroll in clinical trials with the hope of finding a better or more costeffective treatment. The following three UPMC trials currently are seeking qualified patient volunteers: Healing soldiers disfigured in battle. A flash of light, the sound of an explosion … and a soldier’s life is forever changed by a traumatic facial injury. But thanks to two government-funded clinical trials, efforts are under way at UPMC to improve the lives of wounded soldiers through facial reconstruction using the person’s own tissue. The study is enrolling military and civilian patients with visible deformities of the head or face following trauma, applying minimally invasive therapy to restore a more normal appearance. These trials are led by J. Peter Rubin, MD, director of UPMC’s Center for Innovation in Restorative Medicine and an expert in adult stem cells derived from fat. “We’re using stem cell
John Schindler, MD, an interventional cardiologist with UPMC’s Heart and Vascular Institute, is participating in an industryfunded clinical trial in which a device is placed in an artery leading to the kidney. “This therapy uses a catheter to deliver low radiofrequency energy to destroy or disable the renal nerves,” says Dr. Schindler. “If effective, this device could be a valuable alternative to medications for patients with resistant hypertension.” For more information, contact Lisa Baxendell, RN, at 412-802-8672. Eliminating blood clots. In 2013, nearly a quarter-million adults will be diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in which blood clots form mainly in a deep vein in the leg. DVT can result in persistent leg pain and swelling; if the clot breaks loose and moves to the lungs, a potentially deadly pulmonary embolism can occur. Conventional treatment involves blood thinners and wearing compression hosiery. “We want to dissolve the clot to eliminate its consequences,” says Rabih Chaer, MD, a UPMC vascular surgeon. Dr. Chaer is participating in a national, multidisciplinary clinical trial to determine if DVT patients would benefit from a more aggressive treatment involving the use of an image-guided catheter to dissolve the clot. “In vascular surgery, our work is technology driven; medical devices are constantly changing,” says Dr. Chaer. “By testing innovative devices, we offer our patients new opportunities to alleviate or resolve their illness.” For more information, contact Susan Tamburro at 412-623-8452. For a complete list of clinical trials now available, please visit UPMC.com/Today. To learn more about the benefits of clinical trials in patient care, please turn to page 3 and read about UPMC’s advancements in the treatment of hepatitis C.
1-800-533-UPMC
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Depression and Older Adults While it may be common, it’s important to know that depression is not a normal part of aging.
Its services include: • Preventive services, evaluation, and consultation • Treatment through therapy and/or medication • Participation in innovative research studies • Educational support • Referrals for assistance
Research studies benefit patients today and tomorrow Among the center’s current research studies are efforts to improve sleep patterns, lower stress levels, promote brain health, and reduce pain as a way of preventing depression among adults age 60 and older. These include: RECALL: A study about reducing stress among seniors experiencing mild memory, language, or judgment loss RAPID: A study for adults with osteoarthritis knee pain More than 6.5 million Americans over age 65 experience latelife depression that can last for months and even years. But many older adults and their caretakers don’t seek treatment because they think depression is inevitable as we age. Its symptoms — irritability, social isolation, poor sleep, loss of appetite, and memory loss — also are easily mistaken as signs of other illnesses. “Depression erodes our quality of life, our productivity, and our ability to have fulfilling relationships,” explains Charles Reynolds III, MD, director, Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh. He also is director of the Center of Excellence in Late Life Depression Prevention and Treatment Research at the University of Pittsburgh. The center is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). “Untreated, late-life depression puts older adults at risk for significant declines in their mental and physical health. It can be so debilitating that it threatens their ability to live independently,” he notes. “But the right professional help and medications can be life changing for these individuals.”
A wide range of support The center offers expertise in the detection, prevention, and treatment of depression, stress, complicated bereavement, or bipolar disorders in older adults. Through its research focus, all visits and medications are provided at no cost.
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UPMC.com/Today
Addressing Pain and Depression Together (ADAPT): A study for adults living with both depression and back pain Healing Emotions After Loss (HEAL): A study for adults ages 18 to 95 who are experiencing prolonged or acute grief lasting six months or more over the loss of a loved one
One of the nation’s leading programs of its kind The Center of Excellence in Late Life Depression Prevention and Treatment Research is located in the Oakland area of Pittsburgh at both the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health and Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. It is one of only three centers of excellence in geriatric psychiatry funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and the John A. Hartford Foundation. To learn more about the center’s services or to participate in one of its current research programs, call 412-246-6006 or visit latelifedepression.org.
Comprehensive Care for Today’s Urology Patients From medication to radiation to surgical robotic technology, the new UPMC Mercy urology center offers tailored, cutting-edge care for patients.
Whether you need medical care for bladder cancer, an enlarged prostate, urinary tract infection, or sexual dysfunction, UPMC Mercy offers comprehensive care to treat the special urological health needs of both men and women.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy — A highly specialized, minimally invasive keyhole procedure to remove large kidney stones by using high frequency sound waves to break them down and a vacuum to quickly remove fragments.
“Our urologists are experts in caring for even the most complicated and difficult cases,” says Ronald Benoit, MD, a urologic surgeon and director of the UPMC Mercy urology center, where he leads a team of highly trained specialists in general urology, urologic oncology, reconstructive surgery, and kidney stone removal.
To schedule an appointment with a urologist at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-5850.
As a Center of Excellence in Urologic Care, UPMC Mercy features a skilled multidisciplinary team of urologists trained in treating patients who have disorders and diseases of the kidneys, bladder, or prostate.
The latest in diagnosis and treatment techniques According to Dr. Benoit, the hospital’s urology specialists use advanced technologies, medical equipment, and treatments — including minimally invasive surgical technology and robotic surgery — aimed at reducing postoperative pain, recovery time, and side effects. “Robotic urology uses endoscopic techniques, so patients have smaller incisions and a faster recovery time,” says Dr. Benoit. This technology is ideal for complex and delicate urologic surgeries, such as a prostatectomy, where doctors must operate in a tightly confined area surrounded by nerves affecting urinary control and sexual function. Special procedures at UPMC Mercy’s urology center include: Robotic-assisted prostatectomy — A minimally invasive, nerve-sparing procedure for prostate cancer that preserves potency and urinary control. Laparoscopic nephrectomy — A minimally invasive procedure that allows all or part of the kidney to be removed through a keyhole procedure instead of a large open incision. Prostate brachytherapy (seed implants) — An effective treatment for patients with prostate cancer where seed implants are used to deliver a high dose of radiation to the tumor while reducing the risk of complications to surrounding tissue. UPMC Mercy is the only Pittsburgh hospital using Cesium-131, a newer compound that does not remain in the body as long as traditional treatments, resulting in faster resolution of side effects.
Leaders in urologic care As a Center of Excellence in Urologic Care, UPMC Mercy has recently recruited several prominent experts — all of whom earned medical degrees at the University of Pittsburgh, including: Mang Chen, MD, a reconstructive urology specialist, completed a fellowship in urologic trauma and reconstruction at the Detroit Medical Center. Michelle Jo Semins, MD, a kidney stone specialist, completed her residency in urology at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, where she also underwent special training in endourology, a minimally invasive technique to treat kidney stones. Tatum Tarin, MD, a urologic oncology specialist, completed his residency in urology at Stanford University Medical Center and a urologic oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York.
1-800-533-UPMC
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UPMC Mercy
1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219
UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.
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Care that women can believe in as strongly as their Catholic faith.
UPMC Mercy provides a full range of women’s health services rooted in the Catholic tradition. From prenatal education, to menopause diagnosis and treatment, to complete oncological care, and much more, UPMC Mercy strives to ensure the comfort of patients in body, mind, and spirit. This holistic approach is the foundation of more than 150 years of women’s health services. To learn more about UPMC Mercy OB/GYN services, or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/Mercy.
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.
Industry Insights
Injury Treatment (P.R.I.C.E)
W
ith the New Year upon us, many people will take to the gym for their new year’s resolution of getting healthier and losing weight. Along the way, however, many people may unfortunately experience some type of injury. Whether it is a traumatic injury or an overuse injury the initial treatment should always include P.R.I.C.E., explains Patrick Manning, Physical Therapist and Certified Athletic Trainer for Manning Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine. Many of the injuries we see in the clinic are the direct result of doing too much too soon, explains Manning. When you start an exercise program it is best to gradually increase your training frequency and intensity. When an injury does occur, one of the most common questions I get asked is “what should I do?” For the first 48-72 hours I tell my patients to follow the PRICE protocol. P.R.I.C.E. is an acronym for Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. The PRICE method is a simple 5 step protocol used to minimize the effects of injury. The sooner the PRICE protocol is implemented the better. The goal is to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation to the injured area, and to prevent further injury, points out Manning. Following these principles can help to accelerate the healing process thereby reducing the amount of time required for rehabilitation. PROTECTION The first principle is protection. The purpose of protection is to avoid further injury to the involved area. The type of protection varies depending on the injured area, but may include a brace or ace wrap for an ankle or knee injury, an immobilizer for a knee injury, a splint for a wrist or elbow injury, and a sling for a shoulder injury. Crutches are also a form of protection by taking the weight and pressure off a hip, knee or ankle injury. REST Rest is the second component of the PRICE protocol. The purpose of rest is to allow the injured area to heal naturally. Pain should be your guide in determining the amount of activity you do following an injury. Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. If you experience pain while doing activities, then you are aggravating the condition and you should stop and rest. In many cases rest is the best medicine for many overuse injuries.
This Industry Insight was written by Patrick Manning, M.P.T., A.T.C. Manning Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine is a privately owned practice, with locations in Castle Shannon and Green Tree. They employ licensed Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, and Certified Athletic Trainers. For more information visit www.ManningPhysicalTherapy.net or call 412.819.0991, or 412.875.6218.
ICE Ice is another component of the PRICE protocol. Ice helps to reduce pain and swelling. Ice can be used in many forms, including crushed ice, ice pack, or frozen gel packs. A bag of frozen peas or corn also works great. Make sure to apply a warm wet wash cloth to the skin prior to application to prevent any injury to the skin. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time and then removed. This can be repeated every 1-2 hours. COMPRESSION Wrapping an injured area with an ace wrap compresses the tissue which helps to decrease swelling. Always apply an ace wrap starting at the lower part of the limb and wrap in a direction towards your trunk, i.e. to wrap your knee you would start below your knee and wrap towards your hip. Compression ace wraps should be applied immediately following an injury and should be rewrapped every 4 hours. Never sleep with an ace wrap on. You can also use compression with your ice treatment. Just simply secure the ice with an ace bandage. ELEVATION The last component of the PRICE protocol is elevation. Elevation is important post injury to reduce the amount of blood flow to the injured area. Lying or resting with the injured joint above the level of the heart will also reduce swelling. This enables gravity to assist with lymphatic drainage (decrease in swelling). Don’t take a wait and see approach. If you are still experiencing significant symptoms after a few days of following the PRICE protocol, I would seek prompt medical attention, explains Manning.
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FEATURE
Green Tree Announces Winners of
Annual Holiday House Decorating Contest 2
1
3
Winners were chosen under three different themes, and each winner received a $100 gift card for their efforts.
1) Martha Stewart Award Tasteful decorating Pocono Drive 2) Griswold Award Sheer volume of lights Rhodes Avenue 3) Sparkle Award Unique theme Greentree Road
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Industry Insights
tips for
grandparents on Safe Medicine Storage You love your grandchildren and would do anything for them, but did you know these startling facts? According to the National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE): • Annually, more than 60,000 children – or roughly four school busloads of children per day–age five or younger are treated in emergency departments for accidental ingestion of household medicines. • Nearly 1 out of every 4 grandparents say they store prescription medicines in easy-access places; • 18 percent keep over-the-counter medicines in easily accessible spots.
This INdustry Insight was written by Lynette Tomasetti, Director of Business Development for Hometown Pharmacy, which has 5 retail locations in the Pittsburgh area. For more information about RxMap, please call the pharmacy at 412.539.1331.
The Council recommends that you take the following precautions to help keep them safe: 1. Keep all medicines and vitamins up and away and out of sight in a high cabinet or other place inaccessible to your grandchildren. 2. Keep purses, bags, or coats that have medicines or vitamins in them out of their reach and sight. 3. Remember to never leave medicines or vitamins out on a table, countertop, or bedside table where your grandchildren could reach them – always make sure the caps are locked and put them away every time they are used. 4. Set a daily reminder to take your medicines and vitamins on your refrigerator or a location you check on a daily basis, since they will be safely stored up and away and out of sight. 5. Program the national Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, along with other emergency contact number into your home and cell phone, so they are available in case of an emergency.
Hometown Pharmacy also offers a safe way to store your medication: RxMap® is a special packaging system that puts all your vitamins, supplements and medications in one place and separates them by day and dosage. Each dose is sealed into a perforated pill cup that can remain in the medication card or can be taken out for travel purposes. Make sure to keep this pill card away from children as well and store them in a place that is inaccessible to your loved “little ones”. Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 27
FEATURE
Gaelic Football Growing in Pittsburgh Area and Across the United States By Matthew J. Fascetti
When Mt. Lebanon resident John Young was a 17-year old boy he left Ireland with a group and participated in an eight month study program at Duquesne University. He didn’t know what to expect in Pittsburgh, but he soon fell in love with it, in part because of the city’s rich Irish culture. He returned to Ireland at the end of the program to finish school. Ten months later, he won a lifetime visa and returned to Pittsburgh for good. Shortly after coming back, Young began playing on the Pittsburgh Gaelic football team. So what is Gaelic football you might ask? According to the Pittsburgh Gaelic Athletic Association, Gaelic football can be described as a mixture of soccer and rugby, although it pre-dates both of those games. It is a field game which originated in Ireland in the 14th century and is the most popular sport in Ireland in terms of attendance. Gaelic football has spread throughout the world, especially in North America where the North American County Board (NACB) of the Gaelic Athletic Association was formed to promote the sports of hurling, Gaelic football, and camogie. Gaelic football is played on a field approximately 135 yards long and 90 yards wide. The goalposts are the same
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shape as on a rugby field, with the crossbar lower than a rugby one and slightly higher than a soccer one. The ball used in Gaelic football is round and slightly smaller and harder than a soccer ball. It can be carried in the hand for a distance of four steps and can be kicked or “hand-passed” (a striking motion with the hand or fist) to a teammate. After every four steps the ball must be either bounced (similar to a basketball dribble) or “solo-ed”, an action of dropping the ball onto the foot and kicking it back into the hand. You may not bounce the ball twice in a row. To score, you put the ball over the crossbar by foot or hand/fist for one point or under the crossbar and into the net (similar to a soccer goal) by foot (or hand/fist in certain circumstances) for a goal. The goal is defended by a goalie and worth three points when scored. The scoring of a Gaelic game is posted as follows: the number of goals scored by a team is posted first and the number of points scored by that same team is posted second. So a score of 3-11 would be the American equivalent to 20 ((3x3)+11). A final score of 4-8 to 1-15 would be the American equivalent to 20-18. In North America, each team consists of 13 players, lining out as follows: one goalkeeper, two full-backs, three half-backs, two midfielders, three half-forwards and two full-forwards. A game is played over two
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30-minute halves. The Pittsburgh men’s Gaelic football team has 35 players. They play their games at Founders Field and practice at Bishop Canevin. The team travels around the country to play other teams; playing between 14 and 16 games a year. After playing for nearly 20 years, Young is now coach of the team, along with John Connolly. He is also chairman of the association. Young owes a lot to the Gaelic football league; he even met his wife Marie through the league. “Marie is from Ireland and she was living there at the time,” he explains. “She came to visit her brother, who was playing on the Pittsburgh team with me, and we met and the rest is history. She loves it here now as well.” Marie plays on the Gaelic football’s ladies team, which has approximately 25 players. The Pittsburgh team is a two-time national champion, having won the title in San Francisco two years ago and again in Philadelphia last season. The team is approximately 50% American and 50% Irish. They are the first and only nonall Irish team in league history to win a championship. The team, along with the Pittsburgh Gaelic Athletic Association, is active in all things Irish across the city, including marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The team is able to operate through
sponsorships and year-long fundraising efforts. Anyone is eligible to be a part of the Gaelic football league either as a player or a volunteer; they are always looking for new people who are enthusiastic about learning the game. For more information, or to get involved, please visit www.pittsburghgaa.com or call John Young at 412.452.1040.
Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 29
30 724.942.0940 to advertise |
Keystone Oaks
FEATURE
Abusa and
True Joy
A
busa is the Chichewa word for pastor. The Chichewa language is widely used in the African nation of Malawi where my brother-inlaw and sister-in-law serve as missionaries. On my desk sits a handmade sculpture of an abusa given as a gift from them. The little authentic piece is precious to me because it is a constant reminder of the sacrifice so many of God’s people make and how very blessed I am to pastor where the Lord has placed me. It is important we do not forget the Lord’s favor. It is what energizes the ministries of countless believers serving in the hard places of the world. So many with so little do so much because they feel so blessed. Should we who have more than most not have a greater sense of His favor? Last November I had the privilege of teaching indigenous pastors in Esteli, Nicaragua for one week. It is the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. The conspicuous poverty was overshadowed by the abundant joy of the people. As an American living in Pittsburgh the contrast was striking. Most of us likely have more stuff stored in our basement than the majority of Nicaraguans will own in a lifetime. Still, we often find genuine joy elusive. For many of us, joy is determined by our circumstance, ability to accumulate or both. Some readers may have already lost the joy they felt this past Christmas Day. Feelings of satisfaction can fade as the newness of holiday gifts withers. It is not supposed to be this way. What we learn from those with few material blessings who possess true happiness is that joy is more about decision than acquisition. Some of the most satisfied people you and I know have little this world offers. This is counterintuitive in a culture where fulfillment is often measured by the speed of our cell phone or zeros on our paycheck. King Solomon writes about the pointlessness of material gain as a source of joy. “Thus I considered all my activities which my hands had done and the labor which I had exerted, and behold all was
vanity and striving after wind and there was no profit under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 2:11) He continues, “So I hated life, for the work which had been done under the sun was grievous to me; . . . .” (2:17) The king’s soul searching finally leads him to what he believes is the key to inner peace. “The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.” (12:13-14) I like how The Message expresses it, “The last and final word is this: Fear God. Do what he tells you. And that’s it. Eventually God will bring everything that we do out into the open and judge it according to its hidden intent, whether it’s good or evil.” Your reading this article means the prophets
were wrong who speculated that the Mayan calendar rightly predicted the end of the world this past December 22. It also means we each have a decision. Choose to “do what God tells you” and know real satisfaction or to journey down culture’s dead-end path to happiness. ¿ Many true blessings, Rev. Dr. Kim Grueser, pastor Pittsburgh Baptist Church
Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 31
Stretch your TAX refund dolla rs If you get a tax refund, what will you do with it? This year, 50 percent of Americans receiving a tax refund say they plan to spend the extra money on bills or other household expenses, as opposed to vacations (15 percent), leisure activities (8 percent) or gifts (4 percent), according to a recent poll. The survey also noted that 78 percent of Americans receiving their refund will be “smarter” about how they spend it, with 55 percent pledging they are more likely to use refund dollars on practical “needs” instead of “wants.” Use the following tips to help stretch your tax refund dollars. Set up an emergency fund Putting away 6 to 12 months of expenses can
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really help if you find your home equity line of credit has been reduced, or if unexpected medical fees arise. Seek out classes to boost budgeting skills Taking a budget or finance class at a community college or neighborhood center can help boost the financial planning skills that you currently have or help you learn new techniques. Open a 529 college savings plan According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the cost of a college education continues to rise every year. Since 1999, prices for undergraduate tuition, room and board at public institutions rose 37 percent,
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and prices at private institutions rose 25 percent, after adjustment for inflation. Planning early and setting aside money for college now is the most important thing you can do for your children’s collegiate success. Research the best deals on monthly expenses There are expenses you will incur each month, such as food, transportation and cell phone costs, which are easy to re-evaluate and cut – as long as you do the right research. For example, buying in bulk, investing in a bus pass or choosing an efficient, flexible prepaid wireless provider will help you save money each year. Always shop for the best deals. ¿
Business Spotlight
T
South West Communities Federal Credit Union More Neighbor Than Bank
rust is one of the most important things you need to have when it comes to your money, and at South West Communities Federal Credit Union, trust is in no short supply. South West Communities Federal Credit Union was established in 1939 as the Union Electric Steel Federal Credit Union, which served company employees exclusively. In 2000, the credit union reorganized, opening up membership to residents of the Carlynton School District under the name UES Federal Credit Union. This past September, the decision was made to open membership up to even more of the community so that more people can enjoy the advantages, rates and services South West Communities Federal Credit Union has to offer. Today, if you reside, work, worship, attend school in, or do business in Crafton, Carnegie, Rosslyn Farms, Bridgeville, Heidelberg, Collier, Scott, Castle Shannon, Dormont, Green Tree, Robinson, Kennedy Township, Ingram, Thornburg, Pennsbury, Stowe, McKees Rocks or Mt. Lebanon, South West Communities Federal Credit Union is there for you. Membership with South West Communities means members can enjoy higher dividends than banks, lower loan
rates than banks, low or no fees, and more personalized service. Members also can enjoy the same conveniences that banks offer such as online banking, mobile banking, free bill pay services, free checking accounts, specialized checking accounts, CDs, Christmas and vacation clubs, traditional and Roth IRAs, health savings accounts, and more. They offer the same great auto loans, home equity loans, personal loans and credit cards to suit your needs at rates that can’t be found in retail banks. And, once you’re
Membership with South West Communities means members can enjoy higher dividends than banks, lower loan rates than banks, low or no fees, and more personalized service.
a member, your membership is good with South West Communities Federal Credit Union in case you would ever move out of the service area. Unlike banks, your membership deposit entitles you to have your voice heard directly. You have a say in who runs South West by voting for its board of directors, which is made up entirely of volunteers. With six employees in its main location, you will be known by your name, not a number, and you can rest assured that your Member Service Representative has your best interests in mind. Even the employees are all living within the scope of South West Communities Federal Credit Union’s service area, which makes them more like neighbors than other banks with big names and branches. By the time of printing this magazine, South West Communities will have accomplished the opening of a second small office branch in McKees Rocks, which will offer the same great services and rates. For more information on South West Communities Federal Credit Union, or to open a membership account today, go to 213 Pine Street, Carnegie, call at 412-276-5379, or go to the website at www.swcfcu.org to get current rates.
Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 33
Home
Improvements In Keystone Oaks Area If you have a home, you know how challenging it is to maintain it. Roofs leak, landscapes need weeding, and kitchens and baths need facelifts. 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 34 724.942.0940 to advertise |
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during the planning and construction process, moving 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-energy-consuming 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 highefficiency 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-ityourself 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 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. The LockDry system can be
used to create a dry space to use under your deck on rainy days. Decks can be 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. Contiuned on next page ›
Our Home Improvement Partners Whether you own a newly built home or a 40-year-old fixer-upper, there’s always a project to do. South West Communities FCU SouthWest has home equity loans for projects from Communities Federal Credit Union painting a bedroom to adding an in-law suite. Using your home’s equity can be a smart move. It’s your house; let South West Communities help to make it your home. South West Communities Federal Credit Union 412-276-5379 • www.swcfcu.org
We specialize in fabricating granite counter tops for all jobs, whether it is for kitchen, New Choice Home Deco Island, vanity or decks. We provide the best price because we import our granite slabs directly and do our own fabrication onsite with no middleman markups. You will find that we are dedicated to our customers, and your satisfaction is our primary goal. We will be happy to assist you with choosing colors and provide you with information about granite countertop fabrication. New Choice Home Deco 412-567-0596 • www.newchoicepit.com
Price Light Electric is a fully-licensed/insured commercial and electrical contractor that will repair, replace or service anything with wires. Services include, but aren’t limited to: service panel upgrades, knob-and-tube wiring upgrades, interior/exterior residential lighting design, old and new construction, total rewires, computer/telephone/fiber optic network cabling and testing, low-voltage wiring, control wiring, fire alarm system installation and repair, and consulting. Call for a free estimate. Price Light Electric 412-977-2236 • pricelight@verizon.net
Whether it’s building your dream home or making a livable space come alive. Prime 1 Builders, Inc. excels in single home residential projects. From sustainable and energy efficient home design to custom renovations, we work to exceed your expectations and stay within your budget. Let Dan Meade and his team of craftsmen, make your dream home become a reality. Call us today to discuss your project. Prime 1 Builders, Inc. 412-257-0161 • www.prime1builders.com Keystone Oaks | Spring 2013 | incommunitymagazines.com 35
Home Improvements In Keystone Oaks Area 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.
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 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 nicknacks or memorabilia. Decide whether
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 2013.
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 big-screen 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 old-fashioned popcorn maker.
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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.
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.
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. 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 is no Contiuned on next page ›
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Home Improvements In Keystone Oaks Area 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 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
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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 weatherresistant, 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 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 newand-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 variable-rate 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).
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
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 in your money for a fixed time – usually at least six or 12 months. If you withdraw your funds before then, you pay penalties and lose the interest.
• Replacing entry door with steel door (102%)
Open a Home Equity Line of Credit
• Minor kitchen remodel (73%)
What it’s good for: Long-term projects that can be paid off over five or fewer years.
• Vinyl siding replacement (72%)
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.
• Garage door replacement (84%) • Adding a wood deck (73%)
• 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%)
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.
• Garage addition (59%) The data includes national and regional averages on over 20 common home improvement projects ranging from kitchens and baths to roofs and decks. Data for both midrange and upscale projects is provided on: • Average cost of project. • Added resale value. • Percentage of investment recouped. • Change from last year’s report. The above numbers assume you’re hiring out the labor on the project. If it’s a do-it-yourself project, and you do a good job, the rate of return on your investment will be higher. Unless you plan on doing the work yourself, or not doing the project makes your house undesirable or unsellable, most home improvement projects will return less from your investment than you put in, so you might want to consider staying in your home a while to enjoy the results of your improved home!
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FEATURE
Dormont Elementary School Wins Prestigious Grant from Macy’s to Present “Yes, Virginia”
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n celebration of the fifth anniversary of the Macy’s holiday “Believe” campaign, the retailer brought the beloved “Yes, Virginia” animated special to life on school stages across the country! “Yes, Virginia The Musical” is based on a true story and tells the heartwarming tale of 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon, who wrote a letter to the New York Sun newspaper in 1897, inquiring about the existence of Santa Claus. Dormont Elementary School of the Keystone Oaks School District was one of 100 schools across the country to receive a local grant from Macy’s to assist with production costs, and welcomed the holiday season with a special performance of “Yes, Virginia The Musical.” During a time of financial setbacks for many educational arts programs, Macy’s has made the script and score for “Yes, Virginia
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The Musical” available royalty free to all schools and has created a free, digital toolkit at yesvirginiamusical.com. Macy’s also introduced a school grant opportunity to help schools stage productions of “Yes, Virginia The Musical” and awarded a total of $100,000 for 100 schools across the country. Dormont Elementary was one of the recipients of a $1,000 Macy’s grant. “We were thrilled to provide “Yes, Virginia The Musical” royalty free to schools across the country this holiday season,” said Bill Schermerhorn, vice president/ creative director for Macy’s Parade & Entertainment Group. “In a time when funding is often cut for creative programs, Macy’s wanted to support art and music as another extension of our Believe campaign, created to inspire goodwill and generosity
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during the holiday season and beyond.” “Yes, Virginia The Musical” is an exciting new addition to Macy’s beloved “Believe” campaign, which supports Make-A-Wish®. The “Believe” program encourages children of all ages to drop their stamped letters to Santa at the red Santa Mail letterbox at their local Macy’s. For every letter received, Macy’s donates $1, up to $1 million, to Make-A-Wish, helping to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. First-year music teacher Rob Naser applied for the grant and directed the program. However, Naser explains, this was far from a one-man show. “We are all very grateful for Macy’s help in putting on this production and we are very excited to start our own tradition of bringing the stage to life and giving our students an opportunity to share their talents with the community.” ¿
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