Upper St. Clair

t i c s ! a t d n a B he annual festival of bands t t a s m r perfo r i a l St. C r e p Up

Special Section: Health & Wellness Page 31

USC Students Reach Out to Their Peers in the Dominican Republic Winter 2013 icmags.com

Page 62

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Contents winter

features

•

2 013

28 O Christmas Tree Choosing a live evergreen in Upper St. Clair.

31 Special Section: Health & Wellness How to live a healthier, happier, longer life.

50 Bats, Balls and Beatles Upper St. Clair resident relishes retirement with a few passions of his youth.

54 Pooch Parade Marches On Fifth Annual Pooch Parade supports the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania.

56 Kids Helping Kids USC students reach across the globe to help their peers in the Dominican Republic.

62 Three-Generation Family Teaches American Culture in Poland

Culture exchange program spans continents.

on the cover

18 20

66 Go for the Gold

Upper St. Clair figure skater Dana Loomis is making her mark on the ice.

Upper St. Clair puts on a show-stopping performance at the 19th annual festival of bands.

departments 4 From the Publisher 6 IN the Loop 10 IN Person

8 IN Events 1 72 INCognito

sponsored content

56

Business Spotlight

Industry Insights

27 Visions Remodeling and Home Repair: The Heart of Your Kitchen

45 Massage Envy: Affordable

12 Baculik Insurance Group: Facebook Follies: Will your Insurance Help if you Say the Wrong Thing?

35 Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists: Obesity

43 The Pilates Center of Pittsburgh: Maintaining the Integrity of Classical Pilates

16 The Goddard School: Childproofing your Home

47 Conservation Consultants: Is your Home the 85%?

Massage for the Masses

39 South Hills Orthopedic Surgery Associates: Dr. Manning Treats Shoulder to Fingertips

22 Julian Gray Associates: Not all Powers of Attorney are Created Equally

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

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 3

FROM THE

PUBLISHER PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Julie Talerico j.talerico@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] m.berton@icmags.com

At Seven Springs with my wife Lisa and our three sons.

Top-notch health care, education, banking and technology are what make Pittsburgh known, but our communities are what make us home.

Home – where you live, go to school, shop, work and play – is what IN Community Magazines is all about. Each quarter, we bring you the latest news and information about schools, businesses, nonprofits and the people who make them exceptional. We also bring you coverage of interesting events and articles about historical sites you may pass every day without even knowing. We like to surprise you with little-known facts about your community and profile intriguing people who’ve made their mark locally – and sometimes even globally.

One thing that makes our communities in western Pennsylvania special is the beautiful seasons. As autumn comes to an end and the snow begins to fall, we hope you take some time to enjoy the many winter activities our area has to offer and hit the slopes, sled ride, cross-country ski or ice skate at one of our many beautiful parks. Or simply build a snowman in the backyard!

The staff at IN Community Magazines wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Send Us Your Story Ideas!

To Advertise

We’d love to hear from you if you know someone in your community who is making a difference or has done something extraordinary. We’re also looking for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history or other news) within your community.

As the largest magazine publisher in Western Pennsylvania, IN Community Magazines are direct mailed to more than 518,000 households, reaching 1.15 million readers. If you'd like to partner with us, please contact our general sales manager, Tamara Myers, at sales@icmags.com.

If you have suggestions, email us at editors@icmags.com.

4 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@icmags.com OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti l.vighetti@icmags.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Debbie Mountain d.mountain@icmags.com DESIGN DIRECTOR Michael Miller m.miller@icmags.com DESIGNERS Cassie Brkich Jim Paladino Melissa St. Giles Anna Buzzelli Tamara Tylenda Sharon Cobb Jan McEvoy Contributing Writers Jonathan Barnes Leigh Lyons Jennifer Brozak Joanne Naser Earl Bugaile Melanie Paulick Tracy Fedkoe Melissa Rayworth Brenda Haines-Cosola Marilyn Wempa Elvira Hoff Mandie Zoller Heather Holtschlag Contributing Photographers Ginni Klein Kathleen Rudolph Evan Sanders Jennifer Steenson Primetime Shots Gary Zak GENERAL SALES MANAGER Tamara Myers t.myers@icmags.com SALES MANAGER Brian McKee b.mckee@icmags.com ADVERTISING SALES Sophia Alfaras Holly Hicks-Opperman Pamela Arder Aimee Nicolia Nikki Capezio-Watson Connie McDaniel Jennifer Dahlem Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Vincent Sabatini Julie Graff Michael Silvert Robin Guest RJ Vighetti ICM Printing Sales Manager Tom Poljak ©2013 by IN Community Magazines.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse of any part of this publication is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Direct all inquiries, letters to the editor and press releases to:

IN Community Magazines 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724.942.0940; Fax: 724.942.0968 icmags.com Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Recognizing the Dangers of Vascular Disease UPMC Mercy’s vascular surgeons say that, left untreated, this often silent disease can be disabling and even deadly.

You probably know that plaque and cholesterol buildup in blood vessels can lead to heart disease. But are you aware that these dangerous blockages can occur in arteries and veins throughout your body and cause serious problems?

Vascular disease is as common as cancer and heart disease, but often goes undetected.

“Early detection and treatment are critical,” says Donald Baril, MD, chief of vascular surgery at UPMC Mercy and an assistant professor of surgery. “Vascular disease is serious and can lead to disability, amputation, organ damage — and even death.”

Your risk for vascular disease increases if you smoke, are overweight, diabetic, over age 50, or have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

What is vascular disease?

Your vascular system is comprised of vessels that circulate blood throughout your body. Sometimes blood flow can be restricted by structural defects, such as weakened or thickened arterial walls.

Flow also can be blocked by obstructions caused by blood clots or fatty deposits (atherosclerosis).

Why is it dangerous?

Vascular disease can reduce life expectancy by causing heart attacks, strokes, ruptured blood vessels, blood clots, and kidney failure. Common conditions include: • Carotid artery disease: Narrowing of the arteries leading to the brain, which can lead to strokes.

• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): Narrowing of the arteries of the legs, which can lead to sores, painful walking, and amputation.

• Aortic abdominal aneurysm: An enlargement or bulge in the aorta — the body’s largest artery — that can lead to a lifethreatening rupture.

Don’t ignore leg pain The American Heart Association says painful muscle cramps in the hips, thighs, or calves while walking, climbing stairs, or exercising can be a symptom of PAD — as are foot or toe wounds that are slow to heal. If you’re experiencing symptoms in your legs, it is possible the arteries in your heart or neck could also be narrowing, setting you up for a possible heart attack or stroke. If you think you may have a problem, see a vascular specialist.

Why see a vascular surgeon?

At UPMC Mercy, vascular surgeons like Dr. Baril specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of circulatory disorders. They can provide a full evaluation and manage vascular conditions through diet, exercise, medicine, and interventional procedures.

For Dr. Baril, joining the UPMC Mercy staff was a homecoming.

He completed his fellowship in vascular and endovascular surgery at UPMC in 2009.

He earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University and completed his internship and residency in general surgery at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, NY. Dr. Baril, who is board-certified in general and vascular surgery, taught previously at the University of Massachusetts Medical School.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Baril or another UPMC Mercy vascular specialist, call 1-800-533 UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/FindADoc.

This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC

in the

Loop What’s news in Upper St. Clair

6 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

South Hills Children’s Choir to Perform

due course, the program will include four divisions: Preparatory Choir, Intermediate Choir, Concert Choir, and Youth Choir. For more information visit shcchoir.org.

Harmony Singers Present Holiday Concert

The Harmony Singers of Pittsburgh will present a holiday concert, “Comin’ Up Christmas Time,” under the direction of Cynthia G. Pratt on Friday, December 6, at 7:30 p.m. at the Brightwood Christian Church, 5044 West Library Avenue, Bethel Park.

The South Hills Children's Choir, under the direction of founder and artistic director Jennifer Nolan, will host its inaugural concert on Friday, December 6, at 7 p.m. at View Crest Presbyterian Church in Eighty Four, Pa. The choir is preparing choral pieces from all over the world to ring in the holiday season. Works by Dmitri Kabalevsky, John Rutter, Stephen Foster, Eric Thiman, and Doreen Rao will be featured along with holiday favorites from various traditions. Tickets are available for $5 at the door. Contact Jennifer Nolan at 724.949.0048 or director@shcchoir. org for further details. The mission of the South Hills Children's Choir is to provide quality music education with the goal of attaining the "highest level of artistic excellence in choral music performance.

SHCC endeavors to enrich the lives of youth from all religious, racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds. The program strives to foster the personal and social growth of its singers and to promote their sense of pride, discipline, and accomplishment."

The SHCC is committed to enriching the lives of children from all backgrounds and, as such, strives to represent the diversity of Southwestern Pennsylvania's youth. It embraces the ideals of musical excellence, beauty, goodness, and truth. The SHCC is a music performance and education program for children and youth that emphasizes the development of musical skills and understanding. Singing, as a powerful means of expression, is the major focus of the SHCC musical experience. The staff hopes this experience will form the foundation of a life-long relationship with music for the singers and their families. In

The concert will feature favorite carols, holiday music, and a sing-a-long.

Refreshments will be served following the concert.

The concert is free and open to the public.

A free-will offering to benefit the charitable and entertainment efforts of the Harmony Singers will be accepted. A basket raffle and holiday cookie sale will also take place.

The Harmony Singers are available to perform for civic, social, church, or business organizations. For information about the group or to reserve them for an event, call Bernie Komoroski at 412.381.7175 or visit www.harmonysingers.org.

The Outdoor Classroom Fall-Winter Events 2013 December Talk N’ Walk Series: Winter Birding Date: Sunday, December 8 Time: 8:00 - 10:00 AM Audience: Family-friendly event

Fee: $8 adults, $3 children under 12. 10% discount for three or more.

All birds do not fly south for the winter!

How can they survive Pittsburgh’s cold and snow? Learn the basics of bird survival and how to identify our winter feathered friends during this two-hour session. Become more familiar with the identifying marks and characteristics of various species visiting your feeder. Instruction will be followed by field work so please dress for the weather and bring your binoculars if you have them. Two Act 48 hours are available for educators.

Annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count Date: Saturday, December 14 Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Meeting Place: Boyce Mayview Picnic Pavilion Audience: Family friendly The Christmas Bird Count is a day when individuals can help scientists collect data on migrating and overwintering birds across the country and around the world. We’ll be birding from 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM followed by a chili dinner held by members of the

Quiet footsteps, muffled by the falling snow. Snowflakes sticking to your eyelashes as your eyes dart to the silhouetted trees.

An owl hooting in the distance. Is this an adventure novel? No, just our most popular event, the Moonstruck Hike! Bundle up and see if the reality matches the description.

Learn about the winter nocturnal world and be brave enough to spend an hour in the snowy woods. You can brag to your friends at work!

February Moonstruck: Full Moon Hike – Snow Moon

Date: Friday, February 14 Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM Audience: Family-friendly event Fee: $4 person Our ever-popular full moon hike will traverse the fields and forest as we await the appearance of the Snow Moon, as named by the first Americans. Dress warmly so you and your family can enjoy an adventurous night in the frosty woods. $4 per person.

Pittsburgh South Hills Birding Circle. All data collected will be given to the Audubon Society and will be included in an online annual birding report which is a compilation of all the data collected in the worldwide count. No birding experience required!

Stay for a few hours or all day; it’s up to you. For more information, contact Jessica at 412.838.0064 or Jessica@TheOutdoorClassroomPA.org.

Saturday Outdoor Hike: Tracking Date: Saturday, February 8 Time: 10:00 -11:00 AM Audience: Family friendly Fee: $4 person

Outdoor Classroom Winter Programs January Moonstruck: Full Moon Hike – Wolf Moon Date: Thursday, January 16 Time: 6:00 – 7:00 PM Audience: Family friendly event Fee: $4 person

Everyone is fascinated by seeing animals in the woods. You’ll increase your chances if you learn to look for signs of animals as you venture through the park. Use all of your senses to find their hidden habitats and what they leave behind!

Continued on page 8

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 7

in the

Loop

Winter Fun Day Date: Saturday, February 22 Time: 9:00 AM – Noon Audience: Girls in grades K-3 Fee: $15 student, adults free.

Walk the snow-covered trails of Boyce Mayview Park with your group and be some of the few who experience nature during the winter! Brownies will complete the Senses Try-It with a fun winter twist! Each scout will receive a Classroom participation patch.

Bring your own mug for a steamy treat!

Frosty Fun Day Date: Saturday, February 22 Time: 1:00 – 5:00 PM Audience: Girls in grades 4-8 Fee: $15 student, adults free.

Venture outdoors on the snow-covered paths of Boyce Mayview Park. Scout groups can earn the Frosty Fun Badge! Explore the sights and sounds of the wintery forest and meadows. Show off your winter fashion sense on the runway of our fashion show, make snow art and take part in a snowless snowball fight! Bring a mug for a steamy treat! Each scout will receive a Classroom participation patch.

March Moonstruck: Full Moon Hike – Worm Moon Date: Sunday, March 16 Time: 8:00 – 9:00 PM

8 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Audience: Family-friendly event Fee: $4 person The soil is still warming up, but the days are beginning to get a little longer! For the Native Americans this month was the Worm Moon. Can you guess why they gave it that name? Bring the whole family to participate in this one-hour adventure hike.

Talk N’ Walk Series: EcoHiking Date: Sunday, March 23 Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM Audience: Family-friendly event Fee: $8 adults, $3 children under 12.

10% discount for three or more.

This program is great for scouts and families to brush up on the Leave No Trace Ethics for hiking in the outdoors. What can you do to “leave only footprints” after a sojourn in the woods? Two hours Act 48 credit is available for teachers.

leaders representing municipalities within the Chartiers Creek Watershed present, along with members of the Army Corps of Engineers. The watershed encompasses tributaries Robinson Run, McLaughlin Run, Miller’s Run, Painters Run, and Campbells Run. Cecil Township was one of a number of local municipalities hit hard by persistent flooding last summer following severe thunderstorms and microburst rains. The flooding resulted in thousands of dollars in damage to many homes, businesses, community buildings, and public infrastructure like roads and sewer lines.

On the Calendar:

The Joy of Christmas Craft Show Saturday, November 23 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

St. Louise DeMarillac School & Parish Center 320 McMurray Road Upper St. Clair Admission and one ticket for Chinese auction: $2.

115 crafters, bake sale, candy sale Lunch available Sponsored by the DeMarillac Guild.

Murphy Organizes Flood-Prevention Meeting for Chartiers Creek Communities

State and community leaders, Army Corps to plan next steps

Congressman Tim Murphy participated in a meeting on flood prevention he organized among local municipalities and the Army Corps of Engineers. The meeting took place at the Cecil Township Municipal Building, with state and community

Participating municipalities included Bridgeville, Oakdale, North Fayette, South Fayette, Midway Borough, and Mount Pleasant. The Cecil Township roundtable followed a similar planning meeting held in McDonald Borough in September also organized by Murphy. Representatives of the Army Corps were on hand to discuss the process of requesting an official FloodDamage Reduction Study.

Following last summer’s devastating storms, Rep. Murphy visited affected areas to build consensus among local and federal stakeholders, mobilize resources, and help chart a path forward to prevent floodwaters from rising to emergency levels in the future.

At his request, officials from the Pittsburgh District of the Army Corps of Engineers accompanied him during on-site reviews in July 2013 to make recommendations to local officials on clearing debris from streams in order to reduce the likelihood of future flooding. At Murphy’s behest, some work is currently underway, such as dredging to remove sediment from the mouth

Sweet. Decadent. Delicious.

ENJOY THE FRESHEST FLAVORS OF AUTUMN

New ! of McLaughlin Run where it flows into Chartiers Creek in Bridgeville. The Chartiers Valley District Flood Control Authority will also remove the sediment buildup which helped to cause a July 10 flash flood that hit residents and businesses along McLaughlin Run. In addition, Rep. Murphy submitted an amendment to the Water Resources Reform and Development Act’s (WRRDA) reauthorization in October which would direct the Army Corps to work on improvements to creeks and tributaries within the watershed, such as dredging and shoaling as well as strengthening stream banks.

Concordia of the South Hills Hosts Annual Holiday Bazaar

Autumn Swizzle Bouquet

™

Order now for the holidays!

412-563-2425

250 Mt. Lebanon Blvd. | Pittsburgh, PA 15234

412-489-6234

6506 Steubenville Pike | Pittsburgh, PA 15205

EdibleArrangements.com Containers may vary. Delivery not available in all areas. EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS & Design and all other marks noted are trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2013 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved. ®

Yoga Builds…

PERFORMANCE – Dry land conditioning for swimmers FAMILIES – Class for the whole family

Concordia of the South Hills (CSH) will host a holiday bazaar featuring a variety of vendors, crafts, a basket auction and bake sale in the independent living social room on Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event is free and open to the community. Selections include jewelry, fashion accessories, ornaments, art work, and a returning favorite – the Holiday Bargain table.

All proceeds benefit the CSH Caring Fund to provide benevolent care to those served

by CSH and assist in providing qualityof-life improvements and activities for the residents.

For more information or directions, call Concordia of the South Hills at 412.278.1300. Visit Concordia online at concordia-southhills.org. ■

On Site:

Dormont • Bethel Park • Peters Township

For more info: Website: AtOmYogaPittsburgh.com Email: AtOmYogaPittsburgh@gmail.com Phone: 412.818.4151 Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 9

Angel of our Nature

By Mark Berton

My love for the property is simply the open space, which is rare in suburban communities.

I

t’s hard to imagine that across the street from the entrance to the Upper St. Clair Recreation Center was a strip mine. But that’s exactly what the Wingfield Pines Conservation area was in the 1940s.

Once the land was robbed of its ore and laid bare, it became a golf and swim club precariously constructed on the Chartiers Creek floodplain.

All of that changed in 2001, when the 80acre property was purchased by the Allegheny Land Trust with the help of a combination of government and charitable funding, and today, a 50-year plan exists to restore and revitalize the Wingfield Pines Conservation Area back to its once natural glory.

Along the way, many individuals have stepped up to help the cause, including Robert

10 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

MacLachlan, who has been crusading for Wingfield Pines since the beginning, when he put up for sale a tranche of French and Indian War paintings painted by Nat Youngblood, a WWII-era artist commissioned to do the paintings for MacLachlan’s father’s architectural firm. Valued at the time around $30,000, the paintings were to inject the last needed funding into the Land Trust’s push to buy Wingfield Pines.

For his more than a decade of dedication, MacLachlan was awarded the Watershed HERO award.

“Robert is a phenomenal volunteer who has dedicated time, money and energy into the success of Wingfield Pines and the Allegheny Land Trust,” said ALT Stewardship Director Emilie Rzotkiewicz. “As a past board member,

current volunteer and local citizen, he works tirelessly to make Wingfield Pines a wonderful place for all visitors.”

In addition to his work in helping the land trust acquire the site, MacLachlan also helped remove trash in Chartiers Creek, and often gives impromptu guided hikes to visitors at Wingfield Pines, enhancing their connection with the property.

“I’m grateful to have volunteered several weekly hours with Allegheny Land Trust since the inception of Wingfield Pines 12 years ago, a property vastly transformed through our shared ethic of respect and harmony with the land,” said MacLachlan.

MacLachlan was one of five awarded the Watershed HERO award for his long-time commitment toward the Wingfield Pines Abandoned Mine Drainage Passive Treatment

System. The award was granted by the Pennsylvania Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference Planning Committee and was awarded at the 15th anniversary state-wide Pennsylvania AMR Conference on August 8. Five Watershed Heroes were randomly chosen from nominations submitted across Pennsylvania. Winners received a $200 check to present to the watershed organization of their choice. MacLachlan chose to donate his check to Allegheny Land Trust for future land acquisition projects.

MacLachlan grew up in Bethel Park and practiced medicine in Arizona for most of his career. He and his wife moved back to Pittsburgh, Upper St. Clair in particular, for “the quality of life and the quality of the school district.” It was upon his return that he started volunteering with the conservancy, taking land steward courses and serving as a land steward for many of its western Pennsylvania properties.

“In 2000, Wingfield Pines was vacant, had a swimming pool half filled with water and mosquitoes, and an abandoned, vandalized clubhouse on the property,” MacLachlan said. “It piqued my interest. My love for the property is simply the open space, which is rare in suburban communities. I have the highest respect for the land trust and its entire staff for pushing this through, patiently, and for transforming the property.”

The 15th annual Pennsylvania AMR Conference was deemed a huge success by the Conference Planning Committee.

The conference was sponsored by the Susquehanna River Basin Commission and featured presentations on legislative issues facing Pennsylvania’s AMR community.

Allegheny Land Trust helps local people save local land. ALT’s mission is to serve as the lead land trust conserving and stewarding lands that support the scenic, recreational and environmental well-being of communities in Allegheny County and its environs. Since 1993, ALT has protected over 1,600 acres in 23 municipalities.

For more information, visit alleghenylandtrust.org to learn about all the work it does to protect and preserve our natural spaces.

If you’re looking for MacLachlan, you know where you can find him.

“I walk my dog near daily there, and enjoy seeing people coming up from all the surrounding communities: Bridgeville, Mt. Lebanon, South Fayette, Bethel, Peters, all for the nature,” he said. “There are joggers who prefer to run on the earth rather than pavement, and birdwatchers who monitor the returning water fowl and bird life. I’m very happy. It’s been very pleasing to see the rewards of working on this property.” ■

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Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 11

IndUStrY InSIGHt

Insurance

SponSored Content

Follies:

Will Your Insurance Help if You Say the Wrong Thing?

Social networking Web sites, such as MySpace, Facebook and LinkedIn, are growing increasingly popular with young people and adults alike. These sites allow people to reconnect with old friends and colleagues and to make new connections. However, as with most other Web sites, these sites allow the posting of communications that the posters may come to regret. These posts can cause hard feelings and may result in significant financial loss.

In the winter of 2009, a teenager from Oceanside, N.Y., sued Facebook, four of her high school classmates, and their parents for $3 million. The suit accused the four classmates of bullying and humiliating her in a forum on Facebook. They allegedly posted derogatory and false statements about her that were intended to hold her up to “public hatred, ridicule and disgrace.” Whether or not the allegations prove to be true, the teenagers and their parents need legal defense and possibly resources to pay judgments against them. They may look to their homeowner’s insurance policies to cover these costs, but will the policies respond?

Protect Your Lifestyle.

PERSONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE If you accidentally injure someone or damage someone’s property, a Personal Liability policy may help you protect what matters most to you.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PERSONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE, OR TO GET A FREE QUOTE, CALL ME TODAY.

Matthew Baculik Baculik Insurance Group, LLC 2862 Washington Road McMurray, PA 15317 Phone: (412) 228-5000 E-mail: baculim@nationwide.com

A standard policy will probably not cover this. The policy pays amounts for which the policyholder (the insured) is legally liable, plus the costs of legal defense, for bodily injury or property damage done to someone else. The policy defines bodily injury as meaning bodily harm, sickness or disease; it defines property damage as injury to, destruction of, or loss of use of physical property. Neither of these definitions includes saying or publishing something that injures another’s reputation or feelings. Consequently, the policy is unlikely to cover a post on Facebook. The girl from Oceanside did not allege that her classmates hurt her body, made her sick or passed her a disease; she accused them of making her life miserable. The policy does not cover that offense.

Insurance companies may offer special personal injury coverage that can be added to homeowner’s policies. This coverage pays for the insured’s liability for several offenses, including oral or written publication of material that violates someone’s privacy. If any of the Oceanside classmates’ parents have this coverage, their insurance may cover the claims.

Another potential source of coverage is a personal umbrella policy.

An umbrella provides additional insurance in situations where a loss has used up the amounts of liability insurance under homeowner’s or auto policies. It also covers some liability losses that those policies do not cover, such as personal injury losses. Umbrellas typically carry a deductible of $250 or $500. Suppose one of the parents in the Oceanside case does not have personal injury coverage on his homeowner’s policy, but he does have an umbrella. The umbrella will pay for his and his child’s defense and their shares of any judgment, minus the $250 deductible. If he does have the coverage on his homeowner’s policy, this policy will pay until its limits are exhausted, and the umbrella will pay the rest, up to its limit.

The costs of enhanced homeowner’s policies and personal umbrella policies will vary from one insurer to another. Also, the terms of umbrella policies vary among companies. An insurance agent can provide information on coverage options and prices.

Communicating online has become an ordinary part of life today.

Web sites like Facebook offer new and exciting ways to meet new people and to stay in touch with people all over the globe. However, they bring with them their own unique risks. Anyone using sites like these should be careful with what they and their children are saying, and they should make sure they have proper insurance backing them up.

This Industry Insight was written by Matthew J. Baculik.

Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Not all discounts are proactively detected or applied. Nationwide, Nationwide Insurance and the Nationwide framemark are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

ADP-3506 (10/10)

12 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Matthew J. Baculik is a local insurance professional with a Pennsylvania Property & Casualty and a Life Accident & Health Insurance license. Matthew resides in Upper St. Clair with his wife Nicole and their five children.

Unwrap the

Season !

Happy Holidays

Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center Route 19 & McMurray Roads donaldsonscrossroads.com

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 13

sharing the harvest If you’re a hunter but your freezer’s full, please consider donating your deer to Hunters Sharing the Harvest, a program that’s been helping to feed Pennsylvania’s hungry for more than 22 years.

The program is simple and rewarding – you go hunting, you arrange with your nearest participating processor to donate the deer (or elk, moose and caribou where applicable), and you make a tax-deductible $15 donation to help cover the cost of processing. All donations, whether monetary or deer meat, are recognized by a letter for your taxes and a window decal to let people know that your hunt helped feed the hungry.

From the processing plant, your deer meat will be butchered and distributed to area food banks and charities throughout the state. Your average-sized deer can provide up to 200 meals to help those in need. As a hunter, you probably already know that deer meat is an extremely healthy food source that’s low in cholesterol and saturated fat. It has more protein and fewer calories than other processed meats, and is on par with other meats for nutritional content such as vitamins and minerals. For more information, call 866.474.2141 or email info@sharedeer.org.

The meat processors serving the region for 2013 are: County: Allegheny Kip's Deer Processing Padgelek, Paula 3 Saint John's Drive Carnegie, PA 15106 412.279.6527 County: Butler Bims Boloney Slater, Bim 145 Morris Road Petrolia , PA 16050 724.894.2569 McKruit's Custom Meat Cutting McKruit, Tracy 1011 Bear Creek Road Cabot, PA 16023 724.352.2988

Romes Meat & Deli Rome Sr., Ronald 312 Bonniebrook Road Butler , PA 16002 724.285.1236

Scott's Custom Deer Processing Mills, Scott 212 S. Main Street Albion, PA 16401 814.449.5335

TA Giger Deer Processing Giger, Tim 121 Kyle Road Valencia , PA 16059 724.898.2244

County: Washington Bobeck's Deer Processing Bobeck, Mary 139 Craig Road Monongahela , PA 15063 724.258.2298

County: Erie McDonald Meats, Inc. McDonald, Neeli 10445 Ridge Road Girard, PA 16417 814.774.3507 Pacileo's Great Lakes Deer Processing Pacileo, John 8890 Wattsburg Road Erie , PA 16509 814.825.3759

14 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St Clair

County: Westmoreland Custom Deer Processing Monteparte, Samuel J. 131 Flowers Road New Alexandria, PA 15670 724.668.8950 Espey's Meat Market Espey Jr., Joe 319 Espey Meat Market Lane Scottdale, PA 15683 724.887.3226

Lenik Deer Processing Lenik, Ron 204 Railroad Street Finleyville , PA 15332 724.348.7019

G. Karas Packing Karas, Sharon 606 Story Road Export , PA 15632 724.468.5811

Shuba's Processing Shuba, Steve 1116 Allison Hollow Rd-Shop Washington, PA 15301 724.255.4861

Hoffer's Ligonier Valley Packing Zimmerman, Denise 582 Darlington Road Ligonier , PA 15658 724.238.7112

Welcoming Seasons OB/GYN Pamela L. Kridgen, MD Ganya E. Alvarado-Reagans, MD Emily S. Lebovitz, MD Kristina D. Bishop, MD Amy S. Yester, MD ese outstanding and compassionate physicians have new office locations and a new name: Seasons OB/GYN. What hasn’t changed is the unique brand of care that has made them one of the region’s leading women’s health practices — a proven devotion to their patients through every season of their lives, and a true one-on-one partnership that ensures the best possible treatment.

Seasons OB/GYN new office locations are: Bloomfield - Mellon Pavilion 4815 Liberty Avenue, Suite 215 Pittsburgh, PA 15224 Cranberry - Trilogy Building 6998 Crider Road, Suite 120 Mars, PA 16046 McMurray - Waterdam Commons Office Park 161 Waterdam Road, Suite 220 McMurray, PA 15317 For an appointment please call

1.855.281.GYNE Visit SeasonsOBGYN.com

As always, new patients are welcome. Most major insurances accepted.

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Child Care

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Childproofng Your Home s a parent, you probably never stop worrying about your child. Is he or she A happy? Healthy? Safe? While you can’t control everything, there are steps that you can take in your home to help improve your child’s safety and well-being. Now that the winter weather is upon us and we will all be spending more time indoors, it is the perfect time to examine your house, specifically for the safety of small children.

Childproofing your home can be an overwhelming task. The most effective way to start is to evaluate your home, room by room, from your child’s perspective. If your child is crawling, get down on your hands and knees. Is your child toddling or walking? Get down to his or her level and check out the view. If you were crawling, toddling or walking where would you go? What looks tempting or interesting? What is within reach? Where could you climb? While not all accidents can be avoided, below are some general childproofing tips to help you get started. Remember to evaluate every area in your home for potential dangers.

Also keep in mind that childproofing is an ongoing process. As your child grows and develops (e.g., crawling, toddling, walking), you will need to reevaluate your childproofing efforts upon each milestone.

Furniture & Appliances k Secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls wherever possible. k Store heavy items on the bottoms of furniture such as bookshelves and cabinets so they are not top-heavy. k Keep furniture and/or office drawers closed when not in use – climbing children tend to use these as ladders. k Make sure heavy appliances, such as televisions and computers, are pushed back from the edges of furniture – bolt them to the wall if possible. k Cover pointed edges of furniture with guards or bumpers k In the kitchen, use a stove guard to prevent your child from touching the burners or pulling at hot pots. k Use plastic covers if the stove’s knobs are within your child’s reach.

k Always lock your oven or invest in a lock to prevent your child from opening the oven door.

Doors & Windows k Keep windows and doors closed and locked when not in use. k Use door knob covers. Be sure that these covers are sturdy enough not to break, but also allow doors to open quickly by an adult in case of emergency. k Use door stops or door holders on doors and hinges to keep little fingers safe. k Place marks or stickers on glass and sliding doors to make them visible. k Keep furniture away from windows. k If you have double-hung windows, open them from the top. k Never open low windows more than four inches. k Use window stops, to prevent windows from opening more than four inches.

Blinds, Curtains & Draperies k Keep your child’s crib or bed away from blinds, curtains or draperies. k Keep blind, curtain and drapery pull cords out of your child’s reach. k Cut or remove pull cords. k Replace pull cords with safety tassels. k Use inner cord stops. k Make sure that older blinds and drapery cords have tie-down devices to hold the cords tight. k When purchasing new window coverings ask for those with child safety features.

Bathroom k Keep the toilet seat down when not in use. k Install a toilet lid lock to prevent your child from lifting the lid. k Always unplug appliances such as curling irons and hair dryers after each use (and never keep anything plugged in near water). k Keep all medications and vitamins in a locked cabinet. k Keep razors, scissors, tweezers and other sharp bathroom objects in a high or locked cabinet. k Set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees or lower to help prevent burns from hot water. k Install anti-scald devices on faucets and showerheads. k Use a non-slip mat in the bathtub and on the floor next to the bathtub to prevent slips.

Cabinets, Closets & Drawers k Secure cabinets, closets and/or drawers with locks or child-proof latches. k Store sharp, potentially harmful objects and dangerous products in high cabinets, out of your child’s reach.

Stairways & Other Areas k At the top and bottom of stairs, use safety gates that screw in place; they are more secure than those that stay in place with pressure. k Use safety gates that children cannot dislodge, but that you can easily open and close so you will be less likely to leave them open. k Use safety gates to prevent your child’s curious exploration into dangerous areas around your home such as the kitchen, bathroom, pool and hot tub.

Electrical Outlets k Cover or replace all electrical outlets. k Plastic Outlet Protectors –These devices fit directly into the outlet holes to prevent the insertion of foreign objects. If using these protectors, make sure they are large enough not to be a choking hazard. k Tamper Resistant Outlet Covers – These outlets look just like regular outlets, but use a plastic shutter to prevent the insertion of foreign objects. k Tamper Resistant Outlet Face Covers – These receptacle covers have plates that slide over the outlet holes when not in use. Some require replacing the entire outlet cover; others install over the existing outlet face cover. k Use a power strip safety cover on all in-use power strips.

This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo.

Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 825 East McMurray Rd. in Peters Township. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/ Preschool/Kindergarten programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschools.com or call 724.941.6464.

16 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair Band Participates in Mt. Lebanon’s 19th Annual Festival of Bands For nearly 20 years, one of the region’s most popular band festivals has been the Mt. Lebanon Annual Festival of Bands, and this year, USC wowed the audience with its musical prowess. Hosting regional bands from all over the area, and special performances by Westminster College’s band and the Lebo drum and frontline, the festival was a night of music to ring in the fall.

PHOTOS BY Tony Piscitelli

18 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 19

Pittsburgh Dental and Aesthetic Center

Top Dentist in Pennsylvania Top Doctor Competition, Summer 2013

for demonstrated expertise, excellence, and care

DR. MARYAM A. CHIANI, PROSTHODONTIST COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL TREATMENT OF ALL AGES WITH SPECIALTY IN PROSTHETIC AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY

520 Washington Rd., Suite 100 • Mt. Lebanon, Pa 15228 www.Pittsburgh-dental.com drchiani@pittsburgh-dental.com Tel:412.341.0979 • Fax:412.341.0194 Prosthodontists receive three additional years of training beyond dental school to specialize in restoration and replacement of teeth. To learn more visit www.prosthodontics.org

Member American College of Prosthodontists

20 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 21

SeniorYour Living Planning Estate

IndUStrY InSIGHt IndUStrY InSIGHt

Not all Powers of attorney are

Created equally

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NH care is frequently used on a short term basis for patients rehabilitating from medical procedures such as knee or hip replacement. This short term setting is usually the first introduction that a person will encounter with a nursing home.

There are a variety of funding sources and planning options for people at all of the levels of care mentioned herein, and there are other options available beyond those discussed here. However, the important thing to remember in considering a move out of your home is that there are options for a variety of lifestyles and budgets. If you have not ever toured a community recently, you might be surprised at the “near home” feel of these communities and the great lengths the designers and staff have gone to in making the living experience one to look forward to, rather than avoid. Consider that many people end up in nursing homes as a last resort because they have not planned in advance to maintain a healthy lifestyle (and not just from a purely medical perspective) and by the time they (or their family members) realize that they truly need help, the options are much more limited.

Julian Gray and Frank Petrich are both Certified Elder Law Attorneys with over 55 years of combined elder law experience who practice in the Pittsburgh area at Julian Gray Associates. Send questions for consideration in this column to elderlawguys@grayelderlaw.com and visit their web site at www.grayelderlaw.com

Where do I go?

M any people confuse the identities of all the “players” when it comes to Estate Planning. Frequently, a person may comment that, “I am my mother’s Executor, so I am handling her financial affairs.” To which we respond: “Not while she’s still with us!” You see, it’s easy to confuse legal terms that refer to a relationship where one person acts on behalf of the other. One FOR MANY AGING ADULTS, A PRIMARY GOAL IS TO “AGE of the most common situations involves an “Agent” appointed by a IN PLACE”. WHILE THIS PHRASE CAN BE INTERPRETED IN “Principal” under a document known as a Power of Attorney. This MANY WAYS, THE USUAL THOUGHT IS TO REMAIN IN OUR document allows the Agent toHowever, stand in the shoesstaying of the Principal HOMES AS WE GROW OLD. for many, at home is to perform acts on behalf of the Principal in the event the Principal sometimes not practical, whether involuntary (a result of medical needsisor incapable performing acts fortoherself. finances), orofvoluntary (I just want get the heck out of my house and try Frequently a new lifestyle!). relationships utilizing a Power of Attorney exist between spouses,many parent and generically adult childuse as the wellterm as other adults who Unfortunately, people “nursing home” may or mayjust not be related.

The containing driving force behind using to describe about any building multiple beds that aisPower neither of Attorney is to provide inexpensive andone efficient to appoint a hotel nor a hospital.

Whilean nursing homes are optionway for elderly apeople surrogate decision without resorting to acare, cumbersome needing a signifimaker cant amount of daily medical there are a court proceeding. greatofattributes the varietyguardianship of other options available thatOne varyof in the type care (or noofcare) Power ofprice Attorney is in itsIn durability – a homes document whichreserved can be for provided, and lifestyle. fact, nursing are usually chronically people nearing the end theiryears lives. Th ere needed. is much more to signed andillheld in safekeeping forof many until When living before we get to that point! used properly, a Power of Attorney can be the most important estate Independent Living (IL): IL offers seniors the freedom of living in planning document. an apartment style ing. The type of IL unit can greatly one However, it issett important to remember thatvary Powers offrom Attorney community to another, such as a studio, one or two bedroom living unit. come in all shapes and sizes, with or without lots of bells and Many of these communities host a wide varietyand of amenities.

The “feel” whistles.

Some relate to general business tax decisions; others for each community is very diff erent, ranging from apartment building to long term care planning and asset protection measures; while to country Theprovide lifestyleshealth of residents as well,decision with many IL still othersclub. simply care vary surrogate making residents being able to still stay active while living in their new community. powers. It is important to realize that as we go through life and IL can be a verychange, sensible option is affparameters ordable compared to the cost of our situations so too that do the set forth in an maintaining one’s home. appropriate Power of Attorney that will actually work when called Personal Care Home (PC): This type of community was previously upon. Many clients have been informed that their Powers of referred to as “assisted living”. And, as the name suggests, residents in this Attorney do not address their particular needs, especially as they type of community are able to receive assistance with their activities of age, and sometimes it isstill toomaintaining late to prepare a new document daily living (ADL’s) while an independent lifestyleifinthe an Principal has diminished capacity.

In addition, Pennsylvania lawPC apartment- type setting (similar to IL units). The physical setting of the governing Power of Attorney seems be in constant flux.apartment So, if you home can vary greatly from a small hometostyle sett ing to a large don’t have a Power or it’s been a few years since you’ve structure with dozensof ofAttorney, units. reviewed current one,Contrary it mighttobe time to check under the Nursingyour Homes (NH): popular belief, most people hood just see if your other document needs a tune-up. who live into a community than their home do not reside in a nursing home. The usefulness and popularity of IL and PC communities has increased andPetrich NH care is reserved people with signifi cant Julian Graygreatly and Frank are both Certifiedfor Elder Law Attorneys with over 55 years of combinedor elder law experience thehour/day Pittsburgh care. physical, emotional mental conditionswho thatpractice requirein24 area at Gray Elder Law. Send questions for consideration in this column to Nursing homes (also known as skilled nursing facilities) have elderlawguys@grayelderlaw.com and visit the firm’s web site at registered www.grayelderlaw.com. nurses and a licensed physician to supervise each patient’s care.

Senior Living Options

22 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

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The periodic rain could not dampen the spirits of the students of St. Louise de Marillac School who ran in the 11th annual Race for Education.

The Race for Education is one of the school’s biggest fundraisers, designed to raise money through pledges from donors who sponsor each student who runs. Training for the race begins at the very start of the school year, with the students focusing on running and general conditioning, as well as nutrition and healthy eating habits. The Race for Education raises over $80,000 for the school.

The benefits of the Race for Education extend beyond fundraising.

The enthusiasm, excitement and camaraderie that Race Day creates are equally important. Each classroom is assigned a country and a color. These international teams, dressed in their individual colors, parade onto the course cheering wildly for themselves and all the other teams. Parents and friends line the race route and urge on the students during each heat of the race.

As they run in this race that plays such an important role in supporting their school, the desire and determination to succeed are evident on the faces of even the youngest of runners.

Ultimately, the Race for Education is all about the students whose hard work contributes to the continued success of their school!

INTERNATIONAL RACE FOR EDUCATION St. Louise de Marillac educates over 500 students in grades K-8. To schedule a tour, please call the school office at 412.835.0600.

Photo courtesy of Lee Photography Group (leephotogroup.zenfolio.com).

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Your Home

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The heart of your kitchen From bold steel to rustic charm your kitchen sink is the epicenter of life in your kitchen

K

itchen remodeling is one of the top home improvement projects for resale value and homeowner satisfaction, and since replacing the countertop is usually involved, the kitchen sink is normally replaced as well. There are many more choices today than in previous years, and some interesting new materials are available.

We will review some of the options here.

method – the drain outlet of the in-sink disposer (or the P-trap) needs to be higher than where the drain pipe enters the wall. If the combination of deeper sink and undermounting causes these drain outlets to be at or below the level of the drain pipe entering the wall, proper drain operation will not occur. In this case, the drain pipe in the wall may need to be lowered, which can be a significant project.

Installation Type – Undermount, Overmount (Drop-In), Farmhouse. Most existing kitchens have overmount (drop-in) sinks, but the clear trend today is toward undermount sinks. In a drop-in, the sink is installed from the top of the countertop, with the cutout being smaller than the sink flange. Thus the installed sink has a lip that extends over the countertop. In contrast, an undermount sink is attached from underneath the countertop, with the walls of the sink being almost directly under the cutout. This provides a sleek, clean look, with no overlapping top flange that can trap dirt at the edge. Food and other debris can simply be wiped directly into the sink.

Undermount sinks are available in several types of materials.

A farmhouse sink is one that is usually very wide, and is mounted such that the front wall of the sink is exposed – this front wall may extend to or slightly beyond the front edge of the base cabinet. So the countertop cutout is U-shaped, with the front open. Fans of farmhouse sinks point to their rustic, traditional look, as well as the large size and depth in many cases. A variety of materials are available for this style as well.

Bowl Sizes, Configurations. There are many more choices than the traditional equal bowl, double bowl sink today. Double bowl sinks with one bowl larger than the other (in 60/40 or 80/20 configurations), large single bowl sinks, and many other different configurations are available.

As you can see, there are many choices and options in kitchen sinks today. Weigh all of the factors and your personal preferences to find one that will provide you lasting enjoyment.

Materials – Stainless Steel, Granite/Quartz Composite, Others. Stainless steel remains the most popular kitchen sink material, as it combines low cost, classic look, and high durability. Look for a minimum of 18 or 16 gauge stainless steel – a higher number is too thin, and is prone to denting.

Granite and quartz composite sinks have become more popular as of late. These sinks are made from crushed granite or quartz mixed with a resin, and are available in many colors. These sinks have proven to also be very durable and attractive. They are heavier and more expensive than stainless steel sinks.

Other less popular materials include cast iron (covered with an enamel finish), copper, fire clay, brass, and concrete.

Depth. Sink depth has been increasing in recent years, as deeper bowls are seen as desirable. A depth of 6-8 inches is common today, while depths of 8-10 inches are not at all uncommon. One issue to be aware of with deeper sinks – especially when using an undermount This Industry Insight was written by David Neff.

David Neff is managing partner of Visions Remodeling & Home Repair, a South Hills based company specializing in all aspects of home remodeling and repair services.

Visions Remodeling and Home Repair is located at 2544 Washington Road, Canonsburg, PA 15317. 724.745.9888 or visit www.visionsremodel.com

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 27

O Christmas Tree

Choosing a live evergreen tree in Upper St. Clair

By Matthew J. Fascetti

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year, and choosing a real Christmas tree is a season highlight for many families. Whether you make the trek to a tree farm to cut down your own, or head to your neighborhood tree lot, the smell of fresh pine in your home signals the beginning of the holiday season.

Your tree selection is often the result of personal preference and budget, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Perhaps the most popular type of tree is the Fraser Fir. It has one-inch needles that are silvery-green and soft to the touch.

Because there is space between the branches, the Fraser is easier to decorate and the firm branches hold heavier ornaments.

Also very popular is the Noble Fir, with a deep green color, soft needles and well-shaped, sturdy branches.

Other varieties include the Colorado Blue Spruce, known for its blue foliage and pyramidal shape with strong limbs that can hold heavy ornaments. The Grand Fir has glossy dark green foliage and is soft to the touch, however it may not hold heavier ornaments. The Balsam Fir is a wonderful dark-green color with airy, flexible branches and a pleasant fragrance. The branches are not as sturdy so it’s not the best choice for heavy decorating.

Find it here...

e The Home Depot 4000 Oxford Center

28 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

The White Fir has a pleasing natural shape and aroma and good needle retention. The Eastern White Pine is known for making garlands, wreaths and centerpieces due to its long, feathery-soft needles. Though it’s a beautiful tree, the branches can be a bit too flexible to use as a Christmas tree. Finally, the Douglas Fir makes a visually appealing tree with soft, shiny green needles and wonderful aroma.

If you purchase your tree at a lot, keep in mind some pre-cut Christmas trees may have been cut weeks earlier. Try to buy your tree early to extend its freshness. Check the tree for brown needles and perform a “drop test.” Raise the tree a few inches off the ground and then firmly place the tree trunk on the ground. If green needles drop, it could indicate the tree may have been cut for some time.

Once you take your tree home, make a straight cut at the bottom of the trunk, removing about one inch. This will improve the tree’s ability to absorb water. Place the tree in a container that holds at least one gallon of water and add more as needed.

The base of the trunk should always be in water which will help sustain the beauty of the tree for as long as possible.

e Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse 5775 Baptist Road

e Simmons Farm 170 Simmons Road

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Home Safe Home More home fires occur during the winter months than any other time of the year.

The best way to practice fire safety is to prevent one from happening.

• Be sure all indoor and outdoor lights bear the label of an independent testing laboratory.

• Throw away sets of lights with cracked or frayed cords, or loose or damaged sockets.

• Don’t overload electrical outlets or run extension cords under carpets, across doorways, or near heaters.

• Home candle fires peak in December so consider using battery-operated or electric flameless candles and fragrance warmers.

Every year, more than 2,500 people die and nearly 13,000 are injured in home fires. Yet many people aren’t aware of the potential fire hazards that exist in their own homes. The kitchen stove, a burning candle, or festive holiday lights are among the common household items that can turn dangerous very quickly. “Accidental burns are a leading cause of household injuries,” says Michelle Fontana, RN, MSN, manager, Trauma and Burn Services at UPMC Mercy.

Taking a few precautions around your home can greatly reduce the risk of fires. These tips from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) can help keep your home safe this winter.

Staying safe and warm Home heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fires during the winter months.

“When it’s cold, many people use fireplaces and space heaters for additional warmth,” says Ms. Fontana. If used improperly, these heat sources increase the possibility of a fire occurring. Some safety measures to take:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, and test them monthly to be sure they are working properly.

• Have furnaces, heating equipment, and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.

• Give space heaters space. Keep anything that can burn, like clothing, furniture, or bedding, at least three feet from any heat source.

• Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms or other areas where they may come in contact with water.

• Never use the oven or stovetop to heat your home.

Holiday hazards to avoid From Halloween through the New Year, many of us go all out decorating our homes with indoor and outdoor lighting, candles, and other seasonal items. Before you plug in and light up for the holidays, here are a few safety precautions in follow:

For more than 45 years, the UPMC Mercy Trauma and Burn Center has been a leader in providing comprehensive, quality care for burn victims of all ages. The hospital offers a number of burn injury prevention and education programs, including Learn Not to Burn and “Back to School,” a school reintroduction program for pediatric burn survivors.

To learn more about our burn and trauma services, visit UPMCMercy.com.

An Asset to Our Community The Ladies Hospital Aid Society (LHAS) has played an integral role in western Pennsylvania for more than 115 years, donating more than $15 million to help meet the needs of thousands of patients, their families, health care professionals, and staff.

This year, the LHAS will be donating proceeds from their annual charity gala to the UPMC Mercy Trauma and Burn Center. This will help fund the center’s LHAS Enchanted Forest, a special place for pediatric patients to participate in therapeutic activities and help them to heal.

This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC

Great Ways to Live a Healthier, Happier, Longer Life in Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair Health & Wellness Section

By Michele Thompson

Though finding the fountain of youth (or miracle product) is unlikely, you can embrace the following ways to feel and look younger. Gleaned from age-defying experts this list is a must-keep for your desk or refrigerator for reference.

So turn the page — hack into the havoc that aging can wreak on your body! ››

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 31

H e a l t h & W e l l n e s s / Upper St. Clair

Health & Fitness Exercise to live longer.

Upper St. Clair has many walking and biking trails to help you stay fit. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), regular exercise helps control blood pressure, body weight and cholesterol levels, and reduces the risks of hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke. Not to mention you will look and feel better!

Warm up and cool down. Regardless of the types of exercises you do, warming your muscles up in preparation of work as well as cooling down with slow rhythmic stretches is key to avoiding injury, reducing soreness, and speeding up your recovery.

Commit to daily fitness. Getting out there and staying active translates into better health and well-being — both physically and mentally.

Focus on total fitness. ACE recommends aerobics and muscular conditioning along with exercises to stretch your body and promote good posture.

Year-round exercise. Don’t ditch your fitness routine because of inclement weather. Try new activities, such as snowshoeing, swimming at an indoor pool, or fitness classes at your local fitness or senior housing facility.

Join a health club. Be social and get fit. This one’s worth its weight in sheer motivation points.

Stop smoking. Nuff said.

Go green. Eat organic, use eco-friendly products and practice green living to protect your health as well as the environment.

Take supplements. Don’t mega-dose, just take a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.

Get aerobic. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends getting moderate aerobic activity 30 minutes per day, five days per week or 20 minutes of vigorous cardiovascular activity, three days per week.

Break it up. Instead of 20 or 30 minutes of exercise, break up your cardio into 10-minute segments throughout the day.

Make working out fun. Getting out of the house and traveling to interesting places where you can walk around is one of the best ways to get exercise without even trying, and you get to enjoy the sightseeing, too.

Put a set of dumbbells by your television set — and use them!

Pump it up. Margaret Richardson, author of Body Electric, says one pound of fat burns three calories a day while one pound of muscle burns 30-plus.

Challenge yourself. To counteract age-related muscle loss, do exercises with progressively challenging resistance.

“The WROC offers quality and affordable fitness classes in a family environment where we want people to feel comfortable and not intimidated,” said Kathy Long, Director of the WROC.

32 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

See page 36 ››

Get back to it!

Visit the Sports Medicine and Spine Center.

Jose Ramirez-Del Toro, M.D. and Justin Petrolla, M.D. specialize in non operative treatment options for sports and work injuries, arthritic conditions and spine pain.

Cutting-edge non-surgical rehabilitation Diagnostic and therapeutic treatments Advanced interventional pain procedures Patient-centered care

1145 Bower Hill Road Suite 301 412-276-7022 theorthopedicgroup.com Members of The Orthopedic Group

Dr. Ramirez-Del Toro and Dr. Petrolla

Scott L. Baron, M.D.; Thomas F. Brockmeyer, M.D., Ph.D.; William T. DeCarbo, D.P.M.; Mark Hofbauer, D.P.M.; Alexander Kandabarow, M.D.; Richard Mitchell, M.D.; Ari E. Pressman, M.D.; and Daniel Stewart, M.D. MM/CL-IC/8-13

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 33

34 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

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OBESITY!

re you or a loved one affected by obesity? Are you looking for help?

Your answer could be right here in your own community. At Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists along with Hope Bariatrics, Dr. Tunc Aksehirli is here to answer your questions and help you control the biggest fight of your life – your weight.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a medical condition that is associated with having excess body fat. If your body weight is more than 20% higher than it should be, you are considered obese. Morbid obesity is when you are more than 100 pounds over your ideal weight. The standard used to measure body weight is the Body Mass Index (BMI). The BMI is a statistical measurement derived from your height and weight.

How can obesity be unhealthy for you?

Most people who are obese suffer from many common medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, sleep apnea, heartburn and arthritis to name a few. Large medical studies have also suggested a two-fold increase in endometrial and breast cancers in those who are morbidly obese, a decrease in life expectancy of 10-15 years, as well as a 50 to 100% higher rate of death from all causes.

Does losing weight help to lessen these medical problems and risk of death?

The good news is that losing weight is very effective in controlling or eliminating many obesity-related illnesses. Here are some examples of how weight loss can improve your health: Type II Diabetes 82-96% resolved Hypertension 62-70% resolved Obstructive Sleep Apnea 74-98% resolved Heartburn 72-95% resolved Risk of Mortality (Death) 89% decreased in a 5-year period Quality of Life 95% improved

Which avenue of weight loss is right for a person who is morbidly obese?

The best way to find out is to first make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss your obesity and health issues. A referral to our bariatric program may be the next best step to evaluate all the medical and surgical options that best suit your individual needs. Find out more at www.jeffersonsurgical.net or www.hopebariatrics.com.

To set up an appointment/inquire about the Bariatric Surgery Program through Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists/Hope Bariatrics, please contact Patricia Patton, RN, Bariatric Nurse Specialist at 412.267.6260. For a surgical consultation at Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists, please call 412.469.7110.

Article submitted by Tunc Aksehirli, M.D., Fellowship trained Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon, American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, American College of Surgeons.

Main Office 1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 170 Jefferson Hills, pA 15025 Bethel Park 1000 Higbee drive, Suite 102 Bethel park, pA 15102

charlerOi 1200 McKean Avenue, Suite 107 Charleroi, pA 15022

BrentwOOD 3720 Brownsville road pittsburgh, pA 15227

Peters tOwnshiP 455 Valleybrook road, Suite 300 McMurray, pA 15317

Is it possible to lose weight on my own with diet?

Unfortunately, the answer is very hard to predict. Many of the conditions associated with obesity make it very difficult to lose weight with conventional diet plans. The body will crave food with insulin spikes and most people, after they lose the weight, will gain it all back. The odds are that many of you reading this article may have already experienced that.

How does a person go about losing weight to help live better and longer?

There are three recommended treatment options for obesity, depending on the individual’s BMI: 1. Lifestyle Modification (for BMI > 25) These include changes to your diet, behavior, and physical activity.

2. Pharmacotherapy (for BMI > 30) These include medications for individuals dealing with medical issues as a result of their obesity.

3. Bariatric Surgery (for BMI > 35 with other medical conditions or BMI > 40 with no other medical conditions).

What types of bariatric surgeries are offered?

Bariatric surgery, also called metabolic surgery, is often indicated for patients who are morbidly obese. We offer three types of minimally invasive surgeries, and we would discuss which surgical option would be best suited for you based on your criteria.

Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass

Adjustable Lap Band

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Upper Bethel St. Clair Park | | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 29 35

H e a l t h & W e l l n e s s / Upper St. Clair

Cognitive Boosters Music therapy. Music can regulate mood, decrease aggression and depression, improve sleep, and, because old songs are stored in memory, even create new brain cells.

Brain food. Keep your mind sharp by eating salmon, nuts, olive oil, soy, meat, eggs, dairy, leafy greens, beans, oatmeal, and dark skinned fruits.

P

Train your brain Working a daily crossword, Sudoku puzzle or another brain teasing game can help improve your mental fitness.

Oral Health & Hearing Brush and floss your teeth. According to research in chronic inflammation caused by periodontal disease has been linked to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.

Turn it down. According to the House Ear Institute, noiseinduced hearing loss is a leading cause of permanent hearing loss that can be prevented by turning down the volume on your TV, radio, or headsets to a level that you can comfortably hear.

P Practice healthy sleeping habits.

Not getting enough nightly rest puts you at risk for accidents, depression and other illnesses, and it decreases your quality of life.

36 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Posture Avoid sitting cross-legged. Pain management specialists at New York Chiropractic warn that crossing your legs puts excessive stress on your knees, hips and low back.

Sit up straight. When you slouch or strain to look at the screen, these patterns stick and posture learns these positions.

Listen to your body. See a chiropractor, physical therapist or post-rehabilitation specialist for postural exercises to reduce pain and risk of injury.

Stretch. Stretching your neck and chest can prevent short and tightened muscles that can lead to injury. A simple stretch involves bending your head to your shoulder, holding it there and slowly bringing it back to the mid line and then switch sides.

Belly button to spine. Not only will this exercise help you stand taller, it will take five pounds off your waistline!

Head up. Instead of scrunching your head to your shoulder to hold the phone, get a headset and avoid injury to your neck and shoulders.

Eat Healthy Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Holistic guru Dr. Andrew Weil recommends eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and minimal processed foods to reduce inflammation in your body.

Eat all natural. Avoid high-calorie foods full of sugar, fat and artificial ingredients and concentrate on eating high-nutrient, high-flavor foods such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

Eat many small meals. Eat something every three hours to keep your metabolism high and your blood sugar and insulin levels steady.

Don’t skip breakfast. The easiest meal to skip but the most important. Eat something small, even if you aren’t hungry.

Read labels. Opt for products with at least three grams of fiber, low sugars and no hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.

Eat less and live longer. Maoshing Ni, author of Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to be 100, suggests the “three-quarters rule,” essentially not eating any more after you feel three-quarters full.

Drink tea. Ni recommends daily tea because tea is a proven preventive and treatment for hardening of the arteries and has potent antioxidant powers.

Slim down with soup. People who eat soup before a meal reduce the total number of calories they consume.

Sink your teeth into superfoods. Experts say superfoods can help ward off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, cholesterol, bad moods, high blood pressure, and improve digestion, skin, hair, nails, bones and teeth. Superfoods recommended by WebMD.com are beans, blueberries, broccoli, oats, oranges, pumpkin, salmon, soy, spinach, green and black tea, tomatoes, turkey, walnuts, and yogurt.

Eat more healthy fats. According to University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, healthy fats to include in your diet are monounsaturated fats, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and some plant foods as well as polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3s found in fatty fish and omega-6s found in nuts.

Eat and drink coconut. The type of saturated fat in coconuts does not contribute to heart disease and it is rich in lauric acid, which boosts your immune system.

Avoid bad fats. Bad fats include saturated fats, which are primarily derived from animal products, and trans fats, which are used in commercial fried foods, margarines, and baked goods like cookies and crackers.

Spice it up. Dr. Wendy Bazilian, author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients, recommends high-antioxidant spices and herbs such as cinnamon, ginger, curry, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and red pepper.

Drink up. Drinking water throughout the day can decrease your urges for sweets, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, minimize pain associated with arthritis, migraines, and colitis, hydrate your skin, and help with your digestion.

Limit your alcohol intake to one or two drinks per day. According to the Centers for Disease Control, too much alcohol can increase your risk for developing various diseases and physiological and social problems.

Sideline the soda. The phosphoric acid in carbonated beverages, particularly colas, can put you at risk for osteoporosis.

Drink red wine. Red wine is renowned for its many health benefits, primarily for the heart.

However, new research from the Institute of Food suggests that wine may also protect you from potentially fatal food-borne pathogens, such as E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and H. pylori.

Marinate your meat.

Research from the Food Safety Consortium recommends marinades with rosemary, thyme, peppers, allspice, oregano, basil, garlic, and onion to cut down on carcinogens.

See page 38 ››

P Eat a variety Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, and omega-3 fats better ensures you get all the nutrients your body needs.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 37

H e a l t h & W e l l n e s s / Upper St. Clair

Stress Control Smile. Smiling lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and the stress hormone cortisol.

Aromatherapy. Essential oils improve your mood, reduce stress and even improve your memory. Try lavender, lemongrass, cinnamon or cedarwood.

Let nature take your stress away.

Yoga. The Mayo Clinic recommends practicing yoga to reduce stress and anxiety.

Get kneaded. Research from the Touch Research Institute indicates that regular massage lowers heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety levels, depression, hostility, and the stress hormone cortisol.

See a therapist. Mental health professionals can help you deal with stress.

Begin with breathing. The first thing you ever did for yourself was breathe. And consciously focusing on your breath remains the epitome of self-care throughout your entire life.

P Humor your stress Laughing improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, releases tension, and improves your immune system.

Get Fit In Upper St. Clair Here are just some of the fitness classes available:

South Park Ice Skating Rink

Buffalo Dr., South Park; 412.833.1499 alleghenycounty.us Free Learn-to-Skate Lessons for individuals, five-years-old and up, will be offered in January, 2014. Registration and other information are available on the website.

Locke’s Personal Fitness, Inc.

88 Ft. Couch Road, Suite 102, Pgh.; 412.835.5411 Pittsburgh, PA 15241. lockespersonalfitness.com “The personal trainers at Locke’s Personal Fitness are experienced experts at getting people in shape through exercise and nutrition.”

Visit the website or call for more information about dropping in for a yoga or zumba class for just $10.

United Senior Citizens of Upper St. Clair

1770 McLaughlin Run Rd., Pgh.; 412.221.1099, ext. 603, twpusc.org Affordable fitness and fun activities with other seniors! The program is held for the Township’s senior citizens. Retired residents, age 55 and older, are eligible for membership in the program, which is sponsored by the USTC Department of Recreation and Leisure Services. Call or visit the website for more information.

38 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

The Westminster Recreation and Outreach Center (WROC)

2040 Washington Rd., Pgh., 412.835.6630x200 wroc.westminster-church.org The WROC’s mission is to “reach out to people for Jesus Christ and develop their faith through recreational activities and Christian fellowship.” The WROC’s fitness programs feature aerobics, athletics, strength, conditioning and balance and yoga. A Barre Workout class is a new addition to the program! For more information call or visit the website.

Reprinted with the permission from SeniorsForLife.com

Being outdoors with green plants, fresh air and the sounds of nature is a proven stress buster.

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Dr. Manning Treats “Shoulder to Fingertips”

W

hen Christopher M. Manning entered medical school, he knew he wanted to go into the field of surgery.

“Surgery is very ‘hands-on’ and it demands an intricate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology,” he said. “Results are often instantaneous. Truly, there is no more drastic way to affect a cure for an ailing patient.”

And he figured he would enjoy orthopaedic surgery, “because in addition to being required to have comfort in operating on all areas of the body, from the spine to the fingers and toes, orthopaedic surgery lends itself to physicians who have a feel for engineering, biomechanics, and even carpentry.”

Then, when he finished his years of orthopaedic residency at UPMC, he decided to focus on the hands. “The hand is such a complex part of the body,” he said. “Surgeries of the hand are very delicate, requiring a level of comfort with treating disorders of nerves, arteries, tendons, and bones. It’s very precise and rather elegant.”

So Dr. Manning now focuses his practice on ailments that affect the hands and upper extremities. Common problems treated are carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger fingers, fractures and ligament tears, arthritis, tennis elbow, bicep tendon tears, and shoulder ailments such as torn rotator cuffs or arthritis.

“So basically if it’s in the shoulder down to the fingertips, I take care of it.”

According to Dr. Manning, the treatment for these injuries can be as simple as teaching patients what type of range of motion or strengthening exercises to do and what type of activities to avoid.

Hand and upper extremity problems are often treated with different kinds of splinting, cortisone injections and therapy. Most problems can be treated well non-operatively, but surgeries are available to those who don’t respond to conservative treatments.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Dr. Manning’s job is when he is able to treat a patient for different problems as they may occur over time, allowing him to establish a nice relationship with his patients. He added, “Unfortunately, patients who get one hand problem, such as carpal tunnel, are often predisposed to develop other problems such as arthritis or trigger fingers, or even rotator cuff problems. I worried that a career in orthopaedics would mean that I would not really get to know patients as well as, say, a family doctor. But I found that is far from true.”

Dr. Manning said he treats all ages, especially people in their 70s, 80s and 90s. “These folks are more active than ever and are

working out and staying fit. I think because of that, I’m seeing many more patients with muscular-skeletal problems—things that otherwise wouldn’t bother them if they hadn’t been so healthy and active. It’s a good problem (for them) to have.”

Dr. Christopher Manning is a partner of South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, P.C., and practices with Derrick J. Fluhme, M.D., Brett C. Perricelli, M.D., and Damon B. Combs, D.P.M. For more information, call South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates at 412.283.0260. There are offices in Bethel Park and McMurray.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 39

H e a l t h & W e l l n e s s / Upper St. Clair

Fighting

Childhood Obesity One Child at a Time

By Heather Holtschlag

Imagine – for the first time in four generations, a child’s life expectancy may not match his/her parents. One in 10 American children is obese, and between 16 to 25 percent of children are overweight. Children average a weight of about nine pounds heavier today when compared to the 1960s, and the average teenager’s weight has increased by 12 to 16 pounds, according to government statistics. Beyond the issue of just being overweight is the risk factors associated with obesity, including heart disease, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Fit-Trix Fit Kidz, located in Bethel Park, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is devoted to the prevention of childhood obesity in the western Pennsylvania region. The purpose of Fit-Trix Fit Kidz is to educate children and parents on the importance of achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight by adopting increased physical activity and healthy eating.

“We promote fitness, proper nutritional habits and self-esteem in a fun, positive and safe environment,” said Lynn Ross, owner of FitTrix Fit Kidz. “Our 45-minute program provides a full body workout regardless of fitness ability. We focus on cardio, hydraulic and resistance training with kid-friendly equipment, including BOSU balls, punching bags and agility ladders.”

Fit-Trix Fit Kidz also encourages small lifestyle changes that may provide immediate health benefits for children, such as lower blood cholesterol levels, increased independence and productivity and reduced demands for health care services. And, staff members are committed to disseminating these healthy lifestyle messages to children of 40 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

all ages, regardless of their ethnicity or socioeconomic status.

Ross said that the main purpose of Fit-Trix Fit Kidz is to teach kids that fitness can be fun, so that they can develop a healthy lifestyle to maintain throughout their entire lives. The staff members do this by providing a fun and safe environment where they teach healthy behaviors to children at young ages, hoping that by doing so, the children will carry their good habits well into adulthood.

“At Fit-Trix Fit Kidz, we believe that exercise and proper nutrition are the pinnacles of preventing obesity in children and adolescents,” Ross explained. “We differ from other gyms in that we work by appointment, which helps make the children we see to remain accountable to their fitness goals and gives the staff the opportunity to work with and get to know each child on an individual basis.”

According to Ross, there are a number of benefits that can have an impact on children as they begin an exercise program.

These include an improved body mass index (BMI), an increase in self-esteem, a boost in athletic performance, increased flexibility and endurance, and an increase in lung capacity and fat burning through cardio exercise.

“Strength conditioning also will increase a child’s bone density and improve tendon and ligament strength,” Ross noted.

For more information about Fit-Trix Fit Kidz, call 412.831.1200, stop by the facility located at 4941 Library Road in Bethel Park, or visit the website at www.fittrix.org.

Even he needs you to get back to it.

TheOrthopedicGroup.com 1145 Bower Hill Road | 412-276-7022

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 41

Surgery of the Future

is Now

A relatively new approach to gynecological surgery is revolutionizing the standard of care in obstetrics and gynecology. daVinci is a technology that enhances a surgeon’s capabilities while offering patients the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, such as less surgical trauma, smaller incisions and a faster recovery time.

“DaVinci is like an extension of the surgeon’s hands,” said Shannon McGranahan, MD, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at St. Clair. “It can mimic the natural movements of my hand while causing less bleeding, less pain and fewer complications than traditional surgery.”

Gynecological procedures being performed with daVinci include hysterectomies, which is the most common utilization; complicated hysterectomies; pelvic pain present with endometriosis; and myomectomies, or removal of fibroids. daVinci also is being used across many other disciplines as well, including urology, colorectal surgery and thoracic surgery.

“In the past, surgery such as hysterectomy would require an extended recovery period of several weeks or more, which is a large reason why many women procrastinated with their care. The long recovery interfered with their daily responsibilities,” Dr. McGranahan said. “Surgery performed with daVinci, however, usually requires only one overnight stay in the hospital, and the woman can return to work in about one to two weeks.”

A common patient misconception, however, is that daVinci is a programmed robot that will be performing the surgery. “That’s simply not true,” Dr. McGranahan noted. “Board-certified surgeons are still managing and performing the operation.

DaVinci is there to enhance their capabilities.”

42 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

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pilates

Maintaining the Integrity of Classical

There are a lot of places that can teach you Pilates, but there’s only one place that teaches the entire process from start to finish to its students so that they can truly benefit from the popular, low-stress exercises invented

by Joseph Pilates back in 1926. The Pilates Center of Pittsburgh has been doing this since 2006. What’s more is that its program is so thorough, many of the region’s Pilates instructors got their start on the floor mats of the Pilates Center.

“Our program is as unique as the clientele we serve. From the introductory experience all the way down to how we build and progress clients,” said Lesley Davenport, owner and instructor. “I made the choice when I opened the studio to go the classical route because when it’s done well and thoroughly, it does heal the body. It self-corrects a myriad of things. It’s a corrective form of exercise.”

Joseph Pilates first conceived of his method of exercises to help soldiers rehabilitate themselves after WWI. Coming to New York by invitation to train a boxer, he and his wife began working with people of all ages and abilities to help them condition their bodies, minds, and spirits. The Classical Method along with the Art of Teaching utilized at the Pilates Center of Pittsburgh takes each client through that journey of education and strengthening that has been in use for more than 90 years.

Because of that classical approach, class sizes at the Pilates Center of

Pittsburgh are small – clients begin learning on their own and then transfer to small groups when ready, 10 people maximum in a mat class, two to six people in an apparatus class.

“We offer various session types to accommodate the financial and schedule needs of our clients,” says Davenport. “To keep the integrity of their training, all of our sessions and class types follow an integrated progression of the Method. Our clients simply learn Pilates and do Pilates.” In fact, the Pilates Center of Pittsburgh not only teaches exercises, it assesses a client’s total capacity and aptitude to ensure that results are successful.

“We take stock of all those elements and we make sure we address each of them to ensure nobody is getting overwhelmed,” Davenport said. “We go above and beyond to make sure we place the clients with the trainers best suited to meet their needs so they can enjoy their workout on every level.

“Our staff has been created from individuals who fall in love with Pilates, have strong personal practices, and want to further their training. This led us to develop our teacher training program. We offer a fully comprehensive teacher training process here that’s one of the best in the country. We have partners in New York that help facilitate that, and as far as our teachers go, the proof is in the pudding.”

1665 Washington road, Suite 6 pittsburgh, pA 15228

“Contrology is complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.” - Joe Pilates

For more information on the pilates Center of pittsburgh, call 412.851.1280, or go to thepilatescenterofpittsburgh. com for an online studio tour, instructor bios, and current studio specials.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 43

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Affordable Massage

for the masses

H

ollywood hasn’t been friendly to the massage, where it’s nearly always portrayed as a luxury for the Wall Street executive or the powerful pantsuit-wearing workaholic woman who sends her kids to private schools.

The reality is that the healthy benefits of massage are available to everyone and Massage Envy is helping to spread the word.

A longtime staple of the McMurray community, Massage Envy recently opened a new location for South Hills residents in the heart of Mt. Lebanon’s Washington Road business district.

For owners, and South Hills residents, Nicole Gelzheiser and Dawn Albert, opening in Mt. Lebanon was a natural progression into a market that is demonstrating that it’s concerned about making healthier lifestyle choices.

“People in the South Hills are intelligent and innovative, and they’re concerned about their well-being,” Gelzheiser said. “You can now find a Fresh Market and hot yoga studios in the South Hills, so the demand is here. Massage is another excellent way to help people reduce stress and alleviate pain, and the studies are there to back that up.”

In fact, massage improves posture, circulation, lowers blood pressure and strengthens the immune system. Gelzheiser maintains that one hour of massage is equivalent for most people to six hours of sleep.

The new Massage Envy concept is that of a spa, where the convenience goes beyond the treatment rooms. The facility is open seven days a week and the fee structure is membership-based, not by the hour, so no matter when you’re stressed or sore, Massage Envy will be welcoming you with open arms.

Massage Envy offers Swedish massage, deep tissue, myofascial, sports massage that includes stretches, prenatal massage and deep muscle therapy where warm towels are applied with heated oil to penetrate deep into muscle tissues. Additionally, hot stone massages and aromatherapy are offered as massage options. Hot stone therapy has Native American origins and penetrates deeply into the tissues by using the stone as a tool to work the stress from the tissues. An aromatherapy massage has seven different kinds of essential oils, each with a specific benefit, including lavender for calming frayed nerves.

All massage therapists are licensed and certified, and Massage Envy will match you with the therapist best suited to your lifestyle, whether you run marathons or simply run to catch the bus.

In keeping with the spa theme, Massage Envy also offers facials, where clients are encouraged to undergo an on-site skin analysis that will customize treatment to your specific skin type. Facials offered include anti-aging, acne-clearing, sensitive skin and environmental shield. All utilize exclusively formulated, internationally recognized Murad products. Your experience can also be augmented with any of Massage Envy’s enhancements, such as deep muscle therapy, hot stone therapy, sugar foot scrubs and aromatherapy. Murad’s full line is offered for purchase, so you can luxuriate at home as well.

“Everything we do is customized to suit the needs of the client,” Gelzheiser said.

Massage envy is located at 680 Washington road, but your membership is good at all Massage envy locations nationwide, so you can get your massage on the go. For more information call 412.531.1100, or go to massageenvy.com.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 45

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Protect Young Athletes The risks of sports-related traumatic brain injuries among professional athletes is making national headlines.

However, prevention should begin at childhood, especially among those involved in contact sports.

Each year, approximately 300,000 people in the United States experience sports-related concussions.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury most often caused by a sudden bump or blow to the head or other parts of the body. It also can be caused by a fall. As a result of the sudden impact, the brain moves around in the skull causing chemical changes. These changes make the brain more sensitive to stress and other injuries until it fully recovers. In addition, the immature brain of a young athlete is known to take longer to recover.

Most people who have experienced a concussion realize that something is wrong, however, the symptoms can be tricky, so those around the injured person must pay close attention for the warning signs. This is especially apparent among football players who are conditioned to being knocked down and getting back up again, only to realize later that they’ve been hurt.

Many athletic directors for public schools require that athletes who participate in “high-risk” sports must have a baseline neurocognitive test before their first contact football practice, within the first week of cheerleading or before the first game for other sports.

symptoms of a concussion Difficulty concentrating Difficulty completing tasks Changes in behavior Worsening headache Persistent double vision Excessive drowsiness Stroke-like symptoms

Although treatment for concussions is individualized almost all physicians recommend physical and mental rest immediately after the injury. This includes no texting, video games, TV, reading or physical activity. It’s also important to understand that medications will mask the pain and do not heal the brain. In fact, anti-inflammatory medications can be dangerous because they increase the risk of bleeding.

However, there are situations where medications are warranted.

It is paramount to have an evaluation and obtain clearance by a physician experienced in diagnosing and treating concussions before returning to sports activities.

Source: UCF Pegasus Health/UCF College of Medicine

health &Wellness DIRECTORY Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists 412.469.7110 www.jeffersonsurgical.net

The Pilates Center of Pittsburgh 412.851.1280 thepilatescenterofpittsburgh.com

Valleybrook Family Dental 724.942.8982 www.valleybrookdental.com

With over 150 years of combined surgical experience in the fields of General Surgery, Breast Care, Bariatric Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Colorectal Surgery and Screening, Capsule Endoscopy, Advanced Laparoscopic and Minimally Invasive Surgery, Wound Care, and Emergency Surgical Care, Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists is one of the premier general surgery practices in the Pittsburgh region located conveniently in the South Hills Suburbs.

At The Pilates Center of Pittsburgh we are committed to serving the greater Pittsburgh area with a cutting edge Pilates program that marries the wisdom and power of classical Pilates with the art of teaching. We believe that Pilates is a conduit for personal empowerment.

We serve others by giving accurate information to our clients about their bodies and teach how to use them with clarity and confidence

Valleybrook Family Dental offers advanced dental care for the entire family. Practicing in a state-of-the-art, fully digital facility, Dr. Joseph Gurecka specializes in all phases of cosmetic dentistry including implants, veneers, advanced whitening, and laser gum therapy. IV sedation is available in our office. Visit our website www. valleybrookdental.com for more information on all of the services we have to offer your family.

48 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

health &Wellness DIRECTORY The Skin Center 1.800.429.1151 Theskincentermd.com

The Orthopedic Institute Monongahela Valley Hospital (MVH) 724.258.1218

Recognized as one of the top cosmetic surgery medical spas in the country and the largest in the region, The Skin Center Medical Spa is the premier destination for facial rejuvenation, body contouring and the treatment of vein disorders. All surgical and nonsurgical treatments are performed with precise artistry and compassionate care; under the direction of our founding medical director and board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dominic Brandy, MD.

Changing joint replacement surgery as we know it, MVH’s Orthopedic Institute offers patients less discomfort, quicker recovery times, greater satisfaction and measurable results. Our team of health care professionals provides superior personalized care, helping patients return to their best. MVH is one of only 550 facilities nationwide designated a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement®, recognizing facilities that deliver high quality and low cost.

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Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 49

Bats, Balls Beatles And

Upper St. Clair resident relishes retirement with a few passions of his youth.

By Earl Bugaile

Like most kids who grew up in the 1950s, Dr. Robert Green developed a passion for baseball.

He doesn’t quite remember the 1956 World Series, where Don Larson pitched a perfect game for the New York Yankees against the Brooklyn Dodgers, but at eight years old, he knew “it was something very special and exciting. It was my earliest baseball memory.”

The following year, Dr. Green, whose family was living in Buffalo, N.Y., remembers the Milwaukee Braves taking the World Series in seven games against the Yankees. ›

50 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St Clair

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 51

“My mother was from Milwaukee and was a huge Braves fan,” he recalls. “It really caught my interest, and by 1958, I was a big fan of baseball.”

Never really a fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Dr. Green moved to Pittsburgh in 1975 to begin his residency at what is now UPMC Presbyterian. As a diehard baseball fan, he became a season ticket holder for the Pirates shortly after his arrival, and remained one ever since, enjoying a World Series win in 1979, and suffering through 20 losing seasons before the Pirates breakout year last season.

Dr. Green even spent a few seasons assisting the Pirates medical staff in the team’s training room and clubhouse. It not only brought him up close and personal with many of the Pirates’ great players, but it also helped him become a virtual walking encyclopedia about all things baseball and a collector of baseballs, uniforms, gloves and

52 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St Clair

baseball memorabilia.

At age 63, and retired from his regular family practice, the Upper St. Clair resident and his wife Joan, now have a home that is a virtual museum of baseball history. Perhaps the most amazing piece is a baseball signed by Babe Ruth, a gift given to him by his father.

“When I was about 10, my father came home and handed me this ball and told me to not throw it around and to save it,” Dr. Green said. “I always kept it with me through college and during my residency, and Joan found it one day and bought a protective case to store it.”

The ball had been personalized and signed

by Ruth for the son one of his father’s cousins shortly before Ruth’s death in 1948. Dr. Green’s father was given the ball after the son died in 1960. Because the ball is personalized, its value isn’t as high on the market, but is still the cornerstone of Dr. Green’s collection.

Other autographed baseballs in Dr. Green’s collection include those signed by Tris Speaker, Ty Cobb, Rogers Hornsby and George Sisler, as well as those signed by World Series teams and Hall of Fame inductees. Some were purchased by Dr. Green at auctions and memorabilia shows, and some were given to him by players.

Dr. Green has also amassed a collection of vintage baseball gloves and some 50 vintage uniforms either given to him by players over the years or acquired on his own. He also uses his knowledge of baseball and parts of his collection of memorabilia to teach a five-week course on baseball lore and history at Carnegie Mellon University.

In addition, Dr. Green collects music memorabilia and has an enviable collection of photos and autographs from The Beatles, especially from drummer Ringo Starr. Dr. Green began to learn the drums at 12 and has studied with Dal DaPra. He’s also played classic rock and blues with several area bands and admits he is always open for a “gig” with other musicians. He says his biggest thrills have been playing at his daughter Rachel’s wedding, at “Whiskey a Go-Go” in Los Angeles and at a drum camp in Cleveland, which attracted world-famous drummers and teachers from around the world. It was also where he met world-famous drummer Peter Erskine.

Dr. Green is also actively supporting and promoting Joan’s painting and her collection of art, and looks forward to finding time to travel together. Dr. Green and Joan are parents of a son, Daniel, who while in high school, followed his father’s passion for baseball, and served as the Pittsburgh Pirates’ batboy through his high school graduation.

Today, Daniel works for the Democratic party in Harrisburg.

The Greens' daughter, Rachel, is a journalist who lives with her husband and son in Washington, D.C. “For now I want to continue teaching (medical students and baseball history), Dr. Green says. “Of course I want to go as far as I can on drums, but I really envision traveling now.” ■

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www.SoapAlchemy.com Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 53

Fifth Annual Pooch Parade supports the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania

By Mandie Zoller

On Sunday, October 27, 175 Upper St. Clair residents and their friends and family joined together for the 5th annual Pooch Parade supporting the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania. The event featured a one-mile fun walk on a paved trail beginning at the Dog Park at South Park.

All registered participants received morning refreshments, a tote bag of goodies, a long-sleeve t-shirt, and a bandana for their dog. Walkers without dogs and even virtual walkers were all encouraged and welcomed to participate.

The Pooch Parade featured a costume contest with prizes for best dog and best dog/ owner combo costumes, as well as prizes for top individual and team fundraisers. Community members across Upper St. Clair donated items for 15 raffle gift baskets and silent auctions, including Steelers tickets and a Myrtle Beach vacation. A variety of local vendors also participated by providing information and products of interest to dog lovers, including the “Ask-the-Vet” booth hosted by Dr. Marina 54 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Siegert of Bethel Park Animal Clinic. This year, eyeglasses donations were accepted and donated to the Upper St. Clair Lions Club.

In its fifth year, the Pooch Parade continues to grow in its success, thanks to two Upper St. Clair residents who started the event.

How the Pooch Parade Got its Start While on a Caribbean cruise, Upper St. Clair resident Arlene Weintraub started experiencing extreme bouts of heat that weren’t from the warm Caribbean sun. Later that evening, Arlene told her husband, David, she started seeing double. That is when they both knew something wasn’t right. After returning home, Arlene started her frequent visits to doctors and specialists, each trying to diagnose her symptoms of a drooping eyelid and double vision. From January to June, Arlene received several misdiagnoses, until one doctor finally determined the cause: Myasthenia Gravis.

“It’s a difficult disease to diagnose. When I was in nursing school, our professors told us to ‘skip the page’ on MG because it is so

uncommon,” Arlene explained.

According to the Myasthenia Gravis organization’s website, Myasthenia Gravis (pronounced My-as-theen-ee-a Grav-us) comes from the Greek and Latin words meaning "grave muscular weakness." The most common form of MG is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder, characterized by fluctuating weakness of the voluntary muscle groups. The prevalence of MG in the United States is estimated to be about 20/100,000 population. However, MG is probably underdiagnosed and the prevalence may be higher.

Myasthenia Gravis occurs in all races, both genders, and at any age. MG is not thought to be directly inherited nor is it contagious. With little change in treatment within the past 30 years, MG is a terminal disease.

“It’s a limiting disease because our muscles help us chew, swallow, smile, breathe and blink.

But each day I get up and go swimming, or do other things to keep my mind busy.” With her diagnosis, Arlene decided to overcome her disease and live every day to its fullest.

Photo Credits: PhotographsByDanelle.Com

Pooch Parade Marches On

“I don’t look back, I only look forward,” she said when telling her stories of travel across the world. Arlene also donates her time as a member of the board of directors for the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western Pennsylvania.

In 2008, David and Arlene invited their dog-loving friends to celebrate David’s birthday and instead of gifts, David requested his friends make a donation to the Myasthenia Gravis Association (MGA). The birthday celebration for David turned out to be such a huge success, they decided to continue the tradition, raising funds every year around his birthday for MGA. The Weintraubs, 45-year residents of Upper St. Clair, were overcome by the amount of support this year from community members and businesses.

“It’s such a wonderful place to live. To see such a positive response from the community is overwhelming," says Arlene. All proceeds from the Pooch Parade benefit MGA, providing free services for MG patients and their families. Last year, MGA’s staff provided more than 13,000 units of outreach, education and advocacy to MG patients and their families, serving 475 patients face-to-face in its clinic and hundreds more via phone, email and U.S. mail.

Maree Gallagher is the executive director at MGA and has worked with David and Arlene for the past two years on the Pooch Parade and has watched it grow tremendously over the years. This year, approximately $6,400 was raised for MGA through the Pooch Parade alone. Annually, MGA holds about four special fundraising events: the Pooch Parade in the fall, the Sports Memorabilia Auction (April 6 at the Club at Nevillewood) in the spring, the Butterfly of Hope Campaign during MG Awareness Month ( June), and an awareness month dinner. The Sports Memorabilia Auction is MGA’s biggest fundraiser, usually raising over $10,000.

The MGA organization is “small, but powerful.” It stretches every dollar that is donated for the maximum benefit of its patients and live by the motto “Myasthenia Gravis – It’s hard to say and hard to spell and even harder to deal with, but MGA is here to help!” ■

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For more information, please visit mgawpa.org. This year’s event also had outstanding participation from the entire Upper St. Clair community with many organizations and individuals donating their time, talent and monetary donations.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 55

Kids Helping Kids I USC students reach across the globe to help their peers in the Dominican Republic

By Mandie Zoller

56 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

magine having to sleep on a cold dirt floor at night, not having clean, running water to drink and lacking a solid pair of shoes to walk around in your community. Students at Upper St. Clair don’t need to imagine it, because they’ve seen it in real life. Kids Helping Kids is a club at Upper St. Clair high school whose mission is to help kids who don’t have the means to help themselves. All students are invited to participate in the Kids Helping Kids program that raises funds and collects donations to give to youth in the Dominican Republic. The program has grown significantly since its start, and is working toward making a bigger impact not only in the Dominican Republic, but also right here in the Pittsburgh area.

“There are so many ways to help out in the Dominican Republic, and there are also kids right in our area who need our help,” said Thomas Yochum, a teacher at Upper St. Clair and sponsor of the Kids Helping Kids program.

“What keeps me coming back year after year are the 20 or so lives we change every year, and that’s not counting those we help overseas. ››

“I have learned to never take for granted what you have in life and that everything you do to help, no matter how small, can make difference in someone’s life.”

– Haylee Gans

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 57

Seven Days with

Kids Helping Kids "The students in our organization are confronted with families with dirt floors, no clean water, living conditions we deem uninhabitable. Our program has a residual effect on these students, and most of “Sometimes them make volunteerism part doing something of their lives.” small for someone Each year, members of the Kids can have a large Helping Kids club participate in comimpact on someone munity fundraisers, school fundraiselse’s life.” ing events, local community work – Noah Schuler as well as the trip to the Dominican Republic. Students donate their time around their local community as well by serving at soup kitchens, canning, People to People and the Caring Place. Although students are able to join the program at any time throughout high school, the coveted senior year is when students get to pack up their bags and head to the Dominican Republic for one week in January. Putting in four years of donating time and energy to the cause, they are eager to visit the villages they worked so hard to support. While in the Dominican Republic, students go to schools to teach lessons and visit orphanages and Haitian refugee villages to deliver clothes and shoes. Students also assist in painting, laying cement and playing soccer with the young kids of the village. This year, they will build a sustainable outdoor playground using recycled materials including tires, scrap metal and plastics for the community’s children.

Kids Helping Kids not only depends on students and teachers for help, it also encourages the community to get involved. By donating time, talent or even treasured monetary donations or goods, the community can greatly contribute to the mission in the Dominican Republic. The Pittsburgh Riverhounds donated soccer balls and jerseys to the children of the villages during the members' last visit, really hitting home with the children of the village and their love of the game.

Local doctors and contractors also donate their time to chaperone the trip, providing their services to the villages in need. Doctors often pull infected teeth and do medical exams for young children and their families. Contractors offer their expertise in laying the groundwork for homes, playgrounds and other spaces in the village.

“The program teaches kids to be selfless, caring, responsible, productive human beings who can make a difference in the world,” Kate Speer, a Spanish teacher at Upper St. Clair High School said. Students throughout the program learn about the importance of volunteering their time for others, teaching them leadership skills through their service projects.

Next page ›

DAY 1 Holding "Welcome" signs, drivers with two vans picked up 16 students, 3 teachers and 2 doctors at the airport in Puerto Plata. After loading the vehicles, the group set out on the 3.5-hour drive to the ranch in Los Quemados, Bonao. Filled with excitement, the group carried in all their luggage and donations while trying to avoid a short rain. After finding their rooms and eating a hearty supper, they sorted the donations and headed to bed for a busy day tomorrow.

DAY 2 With some roosters crowing, the outreach group awoke to a pancake breakfast cooked by the master chef and owner, Marshall. A small group walked to the neighboring colmado to buy a sack of rice and beans which another group of students transferred into smaller bags for distribution.

With donations packed, most of the students and staff set out on an hour walk down the side road to the city of Bonao. The group passed by impoverished homes and handed out donations of rice/beans and clothing. The group continued their tour of Bonao visiting a pineapple field, the Cultural Center, a shop that makes ceramics, a local cafe and more.

A group of four students and the two doctors joined Dominican doctors at a refugee shelter in the town of Piedra Blanca. The gymnasium-sized shelter housed around 50 families and the children were eager to see their "gringo" guests. The medical doctor examined those with ailments and the dentist battled rotting teeth along with his helpers.

The two groups met again at the ranch for some relaxation and supper and ended the day with group reflection on their first day.

DAY 3 Another group awoke and began packing donations for the day's activities. Many attended Mass at the local church. Everyone met together to walk the dirt roads, past pastures and great mountain views to the town of Chispero. The neighbors had gathered for a local baseball game which made a nice crowd for the medical and dental clinic. Everyone joined together for a short, fun game of baseball too.

With everyone served and donations handed out, the outreach group continued hiking past where the road ended to the mountain trail to El Chorro. This trail passes over the river 14 times and has a refreshing break at a waterfall. By the time the Next page ›

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group returned to the ranch, they were ready to be refreshed again in the pool and showers.

DAY 4

“One thing that really surprised me was how happy they were despite how little they had,” said student Matt Barone regarding his experience in the Dominican Republic. “I consider myself a happy person, but I don’t consider myself any happier than they are and they have so much less than I do.”

Constance Raftis, a USC senior, shares the role of president of the group with Jordan Selep and Christa White. Raftis said she has been with the group for her entire high school career.

“I started my freshman year because I was interested in helping the children in the Dominican Republic," she said.

“High school students can directly get involved by attending weekly meetings on Tuesday after school. Middle school or elementary school kids can get involved by donating toys or summer clothes.”

This year, Kids Helping Kids will be traveling to Santiago, Dominican Republic, leaving January 17, 2014 and returning a week later. While there, they will be painting buildings, cementing homes, building a playground and soccer goals, giving toys and clothing to families and playing with the children.

“This program teaches kids to appreciate and be grateful for all that we have here in Upper St. Clair,” Raftis said. “The first thing I noticed when I went to the DR was that these children had one-room homes and only a few homes were cemented and had no electricity, no electronics and minimal clothing. Yet, they were just as happy, if not happier, than children here in the U.S. This program shows us the importance of helping and giving unconditional love to others. The Dominicans helped me more than I could ever help them.”

KHK has a fundraising storefront online at twenty-onesports. com/khk.aspx where it sells USC apparel. People can buy t-shirts, socks, shorts, jackets, baseball gloves, collared shirts, or more, or they can donate items instead. ■ The Kids Helping Kids program benefits youth who are less fortunate than us, but, in turn, changes the lives of every student who participates in the program. To join the program or donate now, contact the Upper St. Clair High School office. If anyone has any questions or would like to donate clothing, toys, sports equipment, etc., please contact me at raftisc@uscstudents.org or Kate Speer at kspeer@uscsd.k12.pa.us.

60 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Everyone loaded into vehicles and headed to the city of Bonao. Four helpers joined the doctors for a clinic in an impoverished part of the city. Adults and children lined up for medicine and dental work in the heat. The other half of the group compiled donations to hand out to students at Bisisas la Juna. They had a great time playing with the school kids and watching some classes.

In the early afternoon, everyone returned back to the ranch for lunch and to set out on a hike to the waterfall. With local kids accompanying and picking fresh fruit along the trail, everyone was ready to relax and have fun jumping into the fresh water from the waterfalls.

DAY 5 Volunteering in the mountains means conquering challenges. The group packed supplies for the day long hike known as Killer Trail. After driving 20 minutes up hills and around curves, the group was dropped off to start on a descent to the river below. The hike up the next mountainside proved a challenge but at the top was a mountain home which meant the steepest climb was over. Hiking through more forest, fruit trees, streams and great views, the group stopped for a rest and lunch at a clear spot with another mountain home.

Eventually the group reached the small mountain town of La Seba and saw a new school being built and handed out some more donations. Everyone was ready to relax, have supper, play games and hang around the pool table with some local teenagers after surviving Killer Trail.

DAY 6 The last day of volunteering was full of activities with children. The first stop at the orphanage Hogar de Ninas gave time to play and give donations to girls of all ages. The doctor and dentist were kept busy with the 30 girls living there. The group also spent time at another school in a refugee neighborhood and had open space to play with the kids and hand out donations. That afternoon, the group also donated a wheelchair to a girl who had gone many years without being able to walk. They also had a small merengue lesson from some local kids.

DAY 7 The final day at the ranch was a busy morning with some final medical and dental check-ups and donation deliveries. It was a great experience!

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ke craft frames Polish students ma zines ga ma from American

By Tracy Fedkoe

Family Teaches American Culture in Poland Culture exchange program spans continents

62 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

The internet and electronic communication have made it easy for many families to locate and correspond with distant relatives from other countries.

One family in the South Hills decided to go the extra mile (literally) and took a trip focused on giving back to the place of their heritage by teaching a two-week program on English and American culture to students in Poland.

Virginia Fisfis is a retired school teacher and former school board member, so education has always been a big part of her life. Over the years, she has found a unique way to continue her passion for teaching and combine it with her pride in her family’s Polish roots.

It all started when Fisfis visited Russia with her husband over 20 years ago and knew her aunt was writing to the relatives in the village where her maternal grandparents were from.

The village, or gmina in Polish, of Grodzisko Dolne is located in the Southeastern region of Poland with a population of about 2000.

Elena Marzina Mary Lou Simkins (left) Adam eating (center) with Karolina and and Pol dinner at their home in

Fisfis wanted to visit there on her next trip and started taking Polish lessons at the community college. There, she met a teacher who encouraged her to join the American Educators for Poland program. She traveled to Poland with the group at least 10 times beginning in 1996 to different areas and helped teach English and American culture to students. “It was a great way to learn about the culture, while you were immersed in it,” Fisfis said. The program was based on English as a Second Language (ESL) curriculum and

Polish students at

ay party

the American birthd

adapted over the years to what the students needed.

Fisfis did make it to visit her second cousin Adam and his wife Ania in Grodzisko Dolne a few times when in Poland. Ania is an English teacher in the village and approached Fisfis with a “crazy idea” to bring the American educational program to her town. The village is primarily an agrarian culture with the nearest city about 45 minutes away. There’s not a lot of opportunity for jobs for young people. Fisfis thought it would be the perfect place for the program she had taught in other areas, so she worked with Ania to develop their own course content based on what had been done in the past. “They were so warm. We just made instant connections,” said Fisfis.

Since it was the town where her family had originated, Fisfis invited her American family members to join her on this volunteer trip. Her sister, Mary Lou Simkins from Baldwin Township, her niece, Ann Glasgow, from Upper St. Clair, and granddaughter Elena Marzina (16) from Mt. Lebanon decided to make the trip of a lifetime to teach, learn, and get to know the culture and traditions of their native country of Poland.

They set off for a mid-July trip this year and visited Krakow briefly before arriving at the home of Ania and Adam where they stayed for two weeks while they conducted the English program at the local school. The house was one of the family’s original homes in the village that had been recently renovated to add a second floor. Adam and Ania have four children, including two girls, Karolina (18) and Maria (14), as well as an older son who was working in England and another son who is eight. The girls attended the “school” every day with their American relatives. Karolina, who was fluent in English, helped translate during the classes with some additional older students.

The two-week program had 40 students in the age range of 14-16.

This age group would be similar to the upper middle school grades in the U.S. because Polish children don’t start school until age seven.

Schools in Poland include English in their curriculum, but most of the students in the class were not at the level of conversational fluency yet.

The main goal of the program was to expose the students to native speakers and get them to the next level of speaking English through hearing and engaging in conversations about American culture. The Next page › Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 63

Elena in Krakow

king jewelry ›

Polish students ma

subjects they presented included information about topics such as geography, a bit of history and government, and customs such as marriage, greetings, body language, and more. The variety of topics kept the students engaged as they were interested to compare their own traditions to American ones. The program included many hands-on learning experiences where students could interact with the teachers and each other in English. In Poland, it’s not common to celebrate birthdays as we do, so they made cards and planned a full birthday party complete with cake, candles, and typical party games such as Pinthe-tail-on-the-donkey and Hot Potato.

One of the classes focused on arts and crafts, specifically jewelry making. Ann Glasgow is a jewelry designer who works and sells her products at Koolkat Designs in Mt. Lebanon. She shipped many supplies including tools, wire, beads, and more to Poland ahead of time so they had enough materials to make different types of bracelets, necklaces, and earrings the students could keep. The class went over really well, even with the boys. “The Polish students were very artistic and creative,” said Fisfis.

Each day would end by 1 p.m. with a recreational activity, which all of the students really enjoyed. Indoor activities included bingo and board games where they practiced the important skills of reading directions as well as communicating in a group. Outdoor games were mostly based on sports, because there aren’t many organized sports in Poland with the exception of soccer, handball, and basketball. The Americans chose to introduce them to baseball and football and sent all of the 64 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St Clair

necessary equipment in advance. “They picked up on it very quickly and some of them were really good,” said Elena, who helped teach and organize the games based on her experience playing multiple competitive sports in Mt. Lebanon.

The success of the program could be measured by excellent attendance and the smiles on the faces of students as they listened and talked. They were reluctant to try speaking at first because they didn’t want to make a mistake and were reserved by nature, but by the end of two weeks, every student could carry on a brief conversation and felt comfortable with their expressions.

The Polish students did more than just learning in the classes, they also taught the Americans about the Polish culture. Elena in particular got to experience the culture directly from teens her age as she was included in social activities with Karolina. “I learned more from them outside of the school program. It was great to be able to interact with my peers and see how people my age live,” she said. She found that the teens in Poland liked American music and TV shows and movies so they picked up on quite a lot of language from there. There were many additional similarities such as the clothing they wore, which included denim and colored jeans, hoodies, t-shirts, and shorts. Most of the teens also had cell phones and computers in their homes. The local school has WiFi access as well so the Polish students will have the opportunity to practice reading English and learn more about the American culture online. One of the main differences was that the Polish teens rode their bikes everywhere because they don’t drive until they are 18.

Much of the group's free time was spent preparing and eating meals. Everyone on the trip loved the food because everything was fresh and homemade.

Most of the homes in the gmina had their own garden and fresh vegetables were picked every day and eaten right away. Most also had chickens and other animals. Three meals per day consisted of breakfast in the morning, dinner in the mid afternoon, and supper in the evening around 8 p.m. or later. Typical meals included sausages, meats, cheese, and fresh vegetables. Homemade pierogies were also a favorite and were stuffed with different things such as potatoes, sauerkraut and cheese.

At the close of the program, a representative from the local government came and presented gifts to thank the Americans for coming, teaching, and volunteering their time. What they didn’t realize was that they were family. “My maternal grandparents came from this region.

They made sacrifices that I have benefitted from and this is my way of paying them back,” said Fisfis.

The students wrote letters to all four of the teachers in English and thanked them for everything “because we spent really fantastic time with you and never experienced such exciting lessons”. The heartfelt sentiment they expressed in nearly proper English let them know they were successful in every way. Even if they don’t continue teaching in Grodzisko Dolne, the family's experience will last forever. Three generations from the U.S. and three generations from Poland will be bound together by sharing this experience on a level that only family can appreciate. ■

Time for our area VolunTeers

to Shine!

Seeking nominationS for 2014

Community awardS for ServiCe exCellenCe (C.a.S.e.)

What makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort in order to help others. At IN Community Magazines, we would like to honor these special people who have made a positive impact in their community and whose philanthropic leadership sets an inspiring example for us all.

2013 Master of Ceremony

Andrew Stockey WTAE Channel 4

IN Community Magazines' second annual C.A.S.E. Awards will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 35 magazines.

Awardees will be selected in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger) Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more)

SponSored by

Awardees will be honored at an awards dinner in Spring 2014.

PlEAsE fIll ouT foRM bEloW AND sEND IN youR NoMINATIoN

Name of Nominee_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Category (check one)

❍ Volunteer of the Year ❍ Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger ) ❍ Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) ❍ Large Nonprofit of the Year ( staff of 11 or more) Which community is this nomination for?___________________________________________________________________________ Name of person submitting nomination_____________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Why are you nominating this person or nonprofit organization? Please submit a typewritten statement of no more than 600 words.

Send nomination form and statement to: Wayne Dollard, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317.

If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Mountain at 724.942.0940.

Deadline for nominations is February 1, 2014.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 65

Dana Loomis, 11, has her eye on the Olympics some day.

She recently competed at Skate Pittsburgh and took first place in both the free skate and spins competition, second place in compulsories and fifth in jumps.

By Mark Berton

A

s the temperatures fall and snowflakes begin to fill the air, ice rinks will become the place to be for skaters of every level — some of whom skate for the pure joy of it, others for the exercise and those who practice with Olympic ambitions.

Dana Loomis of Upper St. Clair is a young figure skater who dreams of one day competing in the Olympics. The 11-year-old recently competed in Skate Pittsburgh in September, which drew figure skaters from several states.

At the end of the day, she finished in first place in both the free skate and spins competition, second in the compulsories and fifth in jumps.

Loomis and her family moved to Upper St. Clair three years ago from Cincinnati. She began figure skating at age five and now devotes four days a week to practicing.

66 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Many local skaters, including Loomis, are members of the Pittsburgh Figure Skating Club, which includes younger, competitive skaters as well as adults who enjoy skating purely for exercise and enjoyment. Organized in 1923, the club is one of the oldest in the U.S. and is a member of the United States Figure Skating Association. The organization encourages all forms of figure skating, including singles, pairs, ice dancing and synchronized skating.

On November 22, Loomis will appear with several other skaters in the Theater on Ice holiday presentation by the Pittsburgh Figure Skating Club in conjunction with the Robert Morris University Island Sports Center. The show will be a family-friendly theme and feature some of the area's best skaters.

For more information on the upcoming holiday show or the sport of figure skating, visit PittsburghFSC.com. ■

“I enjoy the challenges of skating and the fact that it is a unique sport,” says Loomis.

“Not everyone gets to be a figure skater... I also enjoy spending time with my friends who skate and my coaches.”

Loomis has a team of coaches who include Beth Sutton, Rachel McCarthy and Elena Valova. Valova, originally from Russia, competed in the Olympics twice, and won the gold in 1984 in pairs skating and the silver in 1988.

Loomis is able to consistently land her double salchow jump and is currently working on other double jumps.

Many skaters will never reach the level of difficulty that Loomis has achieved at 11, but even beginning skaters can glean health benefits from ice skating and particularly figure skating.

It's a low-impact aerobic activity and is a great cardio workout.

Figure skating alternates between strenuous jumps and spins and the easier activity of gliding.

This change-up helps increase endurance. Most think ice skating increases muscle tone and leg strength, but it’s also great for abdominal and lower back muscles as well. Skating helps improve balance and coordination and many of the moves performed in figure skating require flexibility, another important fitness marker.

There are great mental benefits to skating too, as concentration shifts from stressful thoughts to maintaining balance and performing a choreographed routine.

Not everyone gets to be a figure skater...

I also enjoy spending time with my friends who skate and my coaches.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 67

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Please contact our General Sales Manager, Tamara Myers, at t.myers@icmags.com for more information.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 71

inCOGNITO

Did you know?

“Be vewy, vewy quiet…They’re hunting wabbits…”

By Mark Berton

72 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

W

hen parents and grandparents reminisce about the “Good Ol’ Days,” they paint a world similar to Mayberry on The Andy Griffith Show. Children never seem to get the details of the story, which go from a memory in a snow globe to pulp fiction reality. Yet, back then, something as simple as rabbit hunting would end up an annual farce pitting housewives against hunters and upping the calls to local police.

Part of the problem was the rural nature of communities such as Upper St. Clair in the 1940s as well as hunter carelessness. News reports claim homeowners knew it was rabbit season by the sound of gunfire echoing through their backyards followed by the scattered tacking of shotgun pellets against their homes and windows. Concerned about the safety of children playing outside, parents who were home during the hunting hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. turned to the police, who were dispatched to deal with the nuisance. And it wasn’t just Upper St. Clair. Areas that are much more densely populated today, such as Green Tree, Baldwin and Bethel Park, all had to deal with the threat of hunters falling out of the woods behind their homes, chasing rabbits that tried to make a run for it through the backyard swing sets. News reports indicated that more than 25 calls came into police dispatch on day one of rabbit season 1945, with no arrests.

Laws in effect at the time stipulated that less than 150 yards from any residence is off limits unless the hunter had permission from the homeowner. The penalty for violating that was $25 – which would equal $324.68 in 2013, adjusted for inflation. ■

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one-on-one consultations to discuss general senior health and nutrition needs, or offer more specialized advice pertaining to specific conditions or treatment regimens.

It’s always a good idea to periodically speak with a pharmacist about prescriptions. Our Pharmacists offer free consultations during which they can check for possible drug interactions and side effects, and to determine if generic alternatives are available. Bring in any expired medications as well — they can safely dispose of them. This is also a good opportunity to make sure the senior under your care is registered in ePharmacy — an automatic prescription refill service that helps to ensure continuity of care.

• Offer to run errands or deliver meals, especially on cold days, or when road conditions are poor.

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Just a few simple considerations like these can make a huge difference in the life an independent senior this winter. For more information, about making life easier for seniors, search “seniors” for related articles at GiantEagle.com.

Following are a few more ideas about how you can help seniors weather the coldest months:

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