Upper St. Clair by IN Community Magazines

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

Say hello to the new face of

NORTHWOOD From credit to closing, buying a home has never been easier. Northwood Realty Services offers its customers an all-inclusive home buying experience. Since 1956, Northwood agents have been guiding home buyers through every step of the process. With Northwood, the home of your dreams is just one click away.

www.northwood.com

facebook.com/northwoodrealty

Nick Bova Passionate. Honest. Experienced. Northwood Real Estate Agent

Let Us Expand Your Space! 412.257.0160 â&#x20AC;˘ PRIME1BUILDERS.COM

New Homes Additions & Renovations Distinctive Kitchens & Baths Design/Build

MEMBER

Contents winter

features

â&#x20AC;˘

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

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

Donaldsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

SponSored Content

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

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

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

The faces of experience at

NORTHWOOD Energetic, approachable agents. Industry leading technology. Unique neighborhood offices. Innovative, easy-to-use website. All delivered with the same legendary service youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come to expect over the past 50 years.

Welcome to the New Face of Northwood.

Upper St. Clair Office 412-831-0100 1797 N. Highland Road â&#x20AC;˘ Pittsburgh, PA 15241 Ann Allsopp

w w w. n o r t h w o o d . c o m

Janet Caputo

Carri Czyzewski

412.303.0046

412.980.6025

412.526.5581

Mary Lou Enrietto

Dan Gillette

Therese Hoetzlein

412.885.8530

412.403.7071

412.606.4702

Marlene McNaughton

Kathi Messinger

412.537.7333

412.414.2199

Marilyn Mielnicki

Kris Price

Judi Scheidler

412.559.5661

412.654.8195

412.979.5056

Karena Allsopp

Bonnie Detwiler

Jeff Earley

412.298.6646

412.225.4553

Mark Gualazzi

Darlene Kruth

Bill Matyger

412.855.0065

412.874.0415

412.951.1005

Maria Poliacek

Diane Miller

Dennis Moorcroft

412.377.3422

412.759.0137

412.302.7022

Audrey & Frank Wadsworth

Claudia Wagner

Jim Wilhelm

Lyn Wood

412.303.3315

412.537.0154

412.498.0223

412.595.3037

412.983.5671

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.

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

SponSored Content

Health Care

SponSored Content

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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 individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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.

SponSored Content

Health Care

SponSored Content

juSt open

our new offi : ce at Suite 270 3928 Wash ing Road, McM ton urray.

Dr. Manning Treats “Shoulder to Fingertips”

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

SponSored Content

Business Spotlight

SponSored Content

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

30 M I N U T E S TO BE YOUR OWN BEAUTIFUL 5 WAYS TO YOUR FRESHEST HOLIDAY FACE — 20% OFF* Get the glow that makes you want to break out that little black dress — with one of our most popular 30-minute Med Spa treatments. Not sure which treatment is right for you? Our expert providers know all the tricks. Ask for a FREE skin consultation or a MEET & TREAT appointment. • • • • •

VIPeel™ BOTOX® Cosmetic Dermapen® Microdermabrasion Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

MT. LEBANON • SHADYSIDE • WEXFORD

SAVE 20% OFF ANY NEW TREATMENT. CALL 800-429-1151 AND MENTION INCOMMUNITY MAGAZINE. *Treatments may take longer than 30 minutes depending on personal consultation and patient needs. Offer valid for appointments scheduled by December 31, 2013. May not be combined with any other offer. Discount cannot be applied toward previously scheduled appointments. For existing patients: offer valid only on a new treatment. Not valid for cosmetic surgery or product purchases. C000668

44 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

SponSored Content

Business Spotlight

SponSored Content

Affordable Massage

for the masses

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

D TENDE SUPPL Y

Clopidogrel

C DRUG PROG

M RA

*Available only at the Latrobe, PA location

No Insurance Needed FREE SHIPPING to anywhere in PA 709 Ligonier Street Latrobe, PA 15650 724-539-4565 Our low extended generic program can help keep you out of the Part D â&#x20AC;&#x153;donut holeâ&#x20AC;?

(generic Fosamax)

Omeprazole

Pantoprazole

(generic Prilosec) 20mg ONLY

(generic Protonix)

}

ERI

Alendronate

(generic Plavix)

37 for

70 for

6 months

12 months 6 MONTHS

Atorvastatin

Simvastatin

(generic Lipitor) (generic Zocor)

Escitalopram $ 65 (generic Lexapro)

12 MONTHS

140

109

Visit our web site for a list of eligible generics

www.latrobepharmacy.com

Generics you can afford, delivered to your door. Available ONLY at the Latrobe, PA location

FREE SHIPPING!

Not affiliated with other Medicine Shoppes.

46 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 47

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.

Salon La te Da and Spa 412.343.0171 salonlateda.com Welcome to Salon La te Da and Spa, the only place for all of your beauty needs. Whether you're looking for a new haircut and color, a beautiful wedding updo for you and your bridal party, or a relaxing day at the spa, our talented stylists will take your vision and make it a reality. Stop and see us today for an unforgettable experience!

Gregory S Peterson D.M.D 412.833.3944 Our dental practice is located in Upper St. Clair near the South Hills Village Mall. Our newly designed office combines a calm atmosphere for our patients with modern laser technology. Our team will make you feel comfortable in our cheerful atmosphere. Our team will take the time to listen to your concerns and explain procedures. We are family oriented and offer a wide range of services to your entire family.

Justin Petrolla, M.D.; Jose Ramirez-Del Toro, M.D. The Orthopedic Group 412.276.7022 www.theorthopedicgroup.com Offering cutting-edge non-surgical rehabilitation, Drs. Justin Petrolla and Jose Ramirez-Del Toro are both members of The Orthopedic Group, 10 orthopedic specialists with offices in three counties. Our physicians treat orthopedic conditions from head to toe. Drs. Petrolla and Ramirez specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, providing non-surgical treatment options for sports and work injuries, postconcussive care, arthritic conditions and spine pain. Pittsburgh Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Inc. 1.888.826.0950 pghaudiology.com Pittsburgh Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Inc. specializes in hearing assessment, hearing rehabilitation and hearing aids. We are an independent private practice working with over 10 hearing aid manufacturers, providing the highest quality of care to our patients. Dr. Laura Di Pasquale-Gregory, Au.D. and Dr. Lori A. Howard, Au.D., are both Board Certified Doctors of Audiology and offer a complete hearing health care plan to each patient. Academy of Podiatry 412.831.1515

Conservation Consultants, Inc. 412.773/7163 www.ccicenter.org

The Little Gym 724-941-0100 www.tlgpittsburgh-southhillspa.com

Many homeowners are unaware of the critical problems adversely impacting the quality of life in the areas of health, safety, and comfort. The professionals at CCI can help you understand all of these issues through a Home Energy & Safety Audit. The audit is a review of your home and its systems and their effects on your daily life.

The best way to encourage children is with a smile! The Little Gym is non-competitive, and Serious Fun, which means children are encouraged to strive for their personal best. We teach children ages 4 months to 12 years to learn Gymnastics, Sports Skill Development, Karate, Dance and Parent Child classes. Please come see Miss Amy, along with Miss Erin, Miss Julie and the rest of their amazing team today!

Advanced Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation 724.225.8657 advancedorthopaedics.net

HEAT 855.254.4328 www.heat-images.com

The Medicine Shoppe 724.539.4565 latrobepharmacy.com

Advanced Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation is a group of nine expert orthopaedic surgeons who offer comprehensive diagnostic, surgical and post-operative care to patients who are currently experiencing joint discomfort and other musculoskeletal conditions. With five locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and the physicianowned specialty hospital in Washington, Pa., our doctors are readily available to assist you with any of your orthopaedic needs.

Thermography is a medical imaging tool that has been FDA-approved as an adjunct to other diagnostic tests since the early ‘80s. Locally, HE@T, Health Enhancing Thermography, offers radiationfree, painless screening. It takes only 15 minutes and can detect disease and dysfunction by way of identifying thermal abnormalities and patterns present in the body, as well as subtle physiologic changes that accompany pathology.

At The Medicine Shoppe in Latrobe we are now offering our extended generic discount program where you can get a six-month supply of certain generics for as low as $37 or a one-year supply for $70. We offer free shipping to your door anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania; in addition, this program offers many new generics that are discounted through us and better priced than the big box chains. Call today!

The Academy of Podiatry, with offices in Bethel Park, McKeesport and Banksville, provides complete foot and ankle care. Since 1997, our friendly and knowledgeable staff offer the best treatment options possible. Dr John Snyder D.P.M. and Dr. Jason Hughes D.P.M. are highly skilled professionals with extensive backgrounds in education, memberships and hospital privileges. All procedures are performed at our state-of-theart medical facilities, and we offer conservative and surgical treatments.

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.” ■

Soap alchemy

Natural, Hand Crafted Soap Company Simplify Your Body Care Routine

$10 OFF

Natural Soaps Body Creams Sugar Scrubs Lip Balms Soy Candles/Tarts Gifts and More

Your purchase of $50 or More!

Valid at our Beaver Valley Mall location (next to Victoria’s Secret) -orby calling 724-498-4049 Expires 3/31/2014

USC

Thank You for Supporting a locally owned and operated business!

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!” ■

Over 50 Shops & Restaurants !

-The Plaza atRobinson Town Centre

Kirkland’s HomeGoods Marshalls TJ Maxx Value City Furniture Joann Fabrics Famous Footwear Guitar Center US Post Office PA Wine & Spirits Ichiban Starbucks IKEA DSW Petland

Route 60- Robinson Twp robinsontowncentre.com

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 ›

58 724.942.0940 to advertise | Upper St. Clair

LOCAL SERVICE THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

FRONT ROW: Joann Cusumano Sciulli, Michael Sciulli, Rosann Cusumano Elinsky BACK ROW: Gena Bradburn, Connie Wichelmann, Gail Hagerty, Teresa Rider, Tonya Piscitelli

At Cusumano Insurance, we work with you to identify the insurance coverage and price options that work best for you. As an Independent Insurance Agent, we believe it’s important to partner with companies which deliver outstanding service and support. 178 Clairton Boulevard (Rt. 51) • Pittsburgh, PA 15236 • 412-6 55-4432 Fax: 412-6 53-4430 • contactus@cusumanoinsurance.com • www.cusumanoinsurance.com PROUDLY REPRESENTING:

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 59

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!

Real Estate Agents Who Make a Real DiďŹ&#x20AC;erence!

Terry Abbott

Barbara Baker

Lynn Banbury

Frank Conroy & Florine Kelly

Bob Dini

Liz Hoyson

Brian & Karen Cummings

Carlos Eiriz

Karen Frank

Wayne Freund

Lori Maffeo

Bobbie Mikita

Michele Schocker Donna Snefsky & Ruth Weigers

Vanessa Swanberg

Judy Ward

Kathy Hallberg

Tony Mete, Manager

Three is deďŹ nitely not a crowd!

Once again, Prudential Real Estate network ranked highest for customer satisfaction in three of the four segments included in J.D. Power's 2013 Home Buyer/Home Seller Satisfaction Study.

Call our award-winning Route 19 South agents! Prudential Real Estate received the highest numerical score among full service real estate firms for first-time and repeat home buyers and first-time home sellers in the proprietary J.D. Power 2013 Home Buyer/Seller StudySM. Study based on 4,371 total evaluations measuring 5 firms and measures opinions of individuals who bought and sold a home in the past 12 months. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed April-June 2013. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

Preferred Realty

412.833.7700

An independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Not affiliated with Prudential. Prudential marks used under license.

Upper St. Clair | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 61

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)