IN Mars Area by IN Community Magazines

Overbrook Pointe offers new concept in senior living

Volant Mill Winery Brings a Taste of Tuscany to Mars Page 30

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Special Section: Education Top 5 Classroom Trends Page 17

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Contents fall

â&#x20AC;˘

2 013

features 17 Special Section: Education Top five classroom trends; jobs of the future; choosing the right college; paying for college.

30 Sip & Savor Volant Mill Winery brings a taste of Tuscany to Mars.

38 Historic House Enjoys New Life as Coffeehouse

Situated in one of the oldest buildings in the Mars area, Mars Brew House is booming.

40 Operation Spay Neuter Operation Spay Neuter, Inc. is dedicated to helping reduce the problem of unwanted pets by offering programs to spay and neuter animals.

42 Best Pets Mars residents share stories of man's best friend.

on the cover Pat Miller and Marketing Coordinator Gina Strasbaugh at Overbrook Pointe. Photos by Primetime Shots.

departments 4 6 10

From the Publisher IN the Loop IN Person

12 44 48

IN Events School News INCognito

Sponsored Content

Business Spotlight

Sponsored Content

Senior Living New Overbrook Pointe Community Will Offer Unique Living Options

ome people enjoy living in a country setting while others prefer the allure of the city. One of North Hills' newest communities will offer both — Overbrook Pointe, the area’s newest concept in retirement living. “We are located in Mars, which has a friendly, small-town charm with Cranberry just 10 minutes away,” explains Gina Strasbaugh, marketing coordinator at Overbrook Pointe. Residents will be surrounded by beautiful views from the wooded hillside which is occasionally disturbed by a stray turkey or deer. And all the apartments will have patios and balconies, making the outdoors just a step away. A scenic waterfall will provide the soundtrack of soothing water as it pours over the natural boulders with a garden terrace above. The terrace will be available for patio dining and outdoor grilling for everything from quiet dinners to lavish barbeques. The new location on Route 228, only a few miles from I-79 is near completion and in the final stages of construction and landscaping. Despite the beautiful surroundings, what makes this community so different is that the lifestyle will be determined by the residents themselves. This is a novel concept, but one that totally makes sense. With most retirement communities, activities are likely planned by a person who does not live at the site and is decades away from the age of the residents. In contrast, prospective Overbrook Pointe dwellers are asked to fill out a survey regarding their interests and activities and the schedule is determined by demand.

“We already know we have a large number of residents interested in gardening,” says Strasbaugh, who also adds that approximately half the apartments have been leased. Groups for walking, book clubs, bible study groups and volunteer opportunities will also be available. For residents who love the city, Overbrook Pointe will support and encourage trips to the symphony, theater, ballet, and sporting events as well as visits to historical sites and other points of interest as determined by the residents. Transportation will be arranged and a driver provided for these outings. The maintenance-free lifestyle will eliminate a lot of check-writing for residents. All utilities will be included in one monthly fee. Wifi will be available throughout the building’s common areas, including spacious lounges, located on every floor, which feature a big screen TV and fireplace for socializing. Overbrook Pointe’s monthly fee also includes light housekeeping and meals. The dining room is located in the building, eliminating the need to weather the elements. A plan called Flexible Dining Dollars allows individuals to eat prepared meals in the dining room, or take meal kits back to their apartment for cooking. There will also be a market at the site offering fresh produce, meats and cheeses for which the dining dollars can be used to prepare meals from scratch. Fitness was an important aspect in planning Overbrook Pointe with a Wellness Center that will be equipped with an Elliptical workout machine, treadmill, light weights, exercise bands and Silver Fitness Classes. Strasbaugh

adds that yoga classes, tai chi and other classes may be offered based on the needs of the residents. The entire complex will also be surrounded by a walking trail for those who enjoy taking their exercise outdoors. Besides the wonderful amenities, the apartment designs are very innovative. “After viewing several retirement communities, we realized that the rooms were small with a surplus of walls blocking sunlight,” explains Strasbaugh. “Our apartments are designed with open floor plans and large windows to let in lots of bright sunlight.” The floor plans range from one bedroom units to units offering two living spaces, including a den, and large units with fireplaces and outdoor decks. The mission-style structure features rich wood pillars, high ceilings and rooms decorated in soft greens, blues, yellows and creams. All apartments come with a walk-in shower, but each unit can be completely customized to the resident's mobility needs equipped with technology to extend independent living for as long as possible. When and if individuals need assisted living support or skilled nursing care, Lutheran SeniorLife can provide continuing care as needs change. Physical rehabilitation is also available at nearby St. John's Specialty Care Center. Overbrook Pointe offers abundant living for all the stages of life. For more information on living and financial options, please visit the website at LutheranSeniorLife.org, a nonprofit organization or call Gina Strasbaugh at 724.687.3372. Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 9

inPerson

Author Shellie Hipsky on her book,

Ordinary People, Extraordinary Planet My mission is to globally educate, entertain and inspire. Inside any ordinary person is an extraordinary gift. Every person has something to give this world.

ost women are pretty good at multitasking: juggling their jobs, homes and kids’ activities at the same time. But after speaking to Dr. Shellie Hipsky, Ed.D., you’ll find all that multitasking taken to the next level and beyond. Hipsky is a professor at Robert Morris University (RMU) and the author of Ordinary People, Extraordinary Planet, one of her five books. She also owns Learning Mountain MountainTop Technologies, Inc., is the talk show host of “Inspiring Lives with Dr. Shellie” and is a performer and a philanthropist. 10 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

Some of Hipsky’s recent honors include “Official Super Professors” recognition in 2012 by FacultyRow.com, and being named the 2013 Best Business Woman of the Year of Pittsburgh by the Women’s Small Business Association. With so many roles, it would be difficult to choose a favorite, but it’s easy for Hipsky. “My favorite title is ‘Mommy,’” said Hipsky, mother of two young children. “I was put on this earth to be a mom.” She resides in Mars with her family. “We’ve lived in Mars for about eight years and love it,” said Hipsky. “It is a fantastic

place to raise children and the community is so welcoming and so well-networked.” She also enjoys teaching at RMU. “I was formerly the principal at a school for children with emotional and developmental disabilities,” says Hipsky. “I bring that experience to teaching undergraduate and doctoral students who aspire to become teachers and principals. It is admirable that most of my students have full-time jobs outside of school and are so dedicated and hardworking.” Hipsky has also raised over $35,000 for the Homeless Children’s Education Fund, which provides tutors, computers and books for

Photos courtesy of Dr. Shellie Hipsky

By Kathy Rudolph

On set with Roy Jaurez, Jr. from The Homeless By Choice Tour

local learning centers and homeless shelters. The proceeds were from charity galas where she and other performers from New York and Los Angeles entertained with cabaret-style musical theater and dance. “When I am passionate about something, I throw myself into it 100 percent,” says Hipsky. “My love of performing came from my mother, Libby Jacobs, who ran a theater. When they needed a kid on stage, they just put me out there. Those experiences help me when I do public speaking engagements or perform. Recently, I spoke at Pepperdine University to over 1,500 people and it was like talking to someone at home.” Hipsky’s book, Ordinary People, Extraordinary Planet, is based on interviews collected from Ray Leonard’s radio show about 12 people and their stories of overcoming adversity. One quarter of the profits from the book are donated to charity. She was chosen to write the book by Leonard after being a guest on his show. “I was being interviewed about my fourth book and was listening to other people’s inspirational stories,” said Hipsky. “Their stories were incredible and I wanted to get to know these people, find out what makes them tick and write about them. Every person overcame obstacles such as homelessness, domestic violence and anorexia. They saw a light at the end of the tunnel and now they help others.” Hipsky has volunteered since childhood. “I grew up with family members who did a lot of volunteering, particularly for people with HIV/AIDS,” said Hipsky. “My father, Dr. Jack Jacobs, was one of the first kidney nephrologists in Ohio to treat a patient with full-blown HIV/AIDS. I remember that conversation around the table when my dad told us that he was going to be treating them. He said that not much was known about the disease and that people he worked with were panicking and quitting their jobs. My mother took charge and said that we would help. We went to Micah House, a home for HIV/AIDS patients, and raked leaves, provided dinners and visited with them; whatever we could do to make a difference. This volunteering carried over into my adult life and is a common theme in my book, on my talk show and how I raise my kids. My daughter is already deeply affected when we volunteer together at homeless shelters.” Her talk show, “Inspiring Lives with Dr. Shellie,” was broadcast last fall on WPXI-PCNC. It featured the life stories of people who have “triumphed over personal obstacles and are now reaching out to make a positive difference in the lives of others.” “My personal mission is to globally educate, entertain and inspire,” says Hipsky. “I think that inside any ordinary person is an extraordinary gift. Every person has something to give this world.” ■ Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 11

inEVENTS

Batmann : The Musical

Mars Area High School students presented Batmann: The Musical, on July 12 in the school auditorium to a delighted audience. The musical comedy was written by the students themselves and was a spoof on the Batman comic books and movies. The production paid homage to the problem-plagued Spiderman currently on Broadway. The caped crusader, (Ryan McMahon) attempted to stop the villains of Gotham from destroying the city. With a little help from his sidekick Robin (Valerie Cesare) Batmann worked to bring down The Joker (Brandon Knochel) and the rogue's gallery of villains, including The Penguin (Mike Molinaro), The Riddler (Will Ashmore), Catwoman (Mathilda Savocchia). Other unsavory villains included, Bane ( Joel Glomb), Harley Quinn (Rachel Stetz) and Poison (Catherine Paletta). The proceeds of the event benefited the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Photos by Josh Schwoebel

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Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 13

inEVENTS Girl Scouts Build Butterfly Garden Trefoil Girl Scout Troop #20464 recently teamed up with several local sponsors to attract more butterflies to Adams Township Park by creating a Butterfly Garden to promote “personal energy” for residents who visit the green space. The girls planted foliage that provides nectar and areas for the butterflies to lay eggs to increase their numbers. A dedication ceremony was held in late May and the girls were presented with a Bronze Award, the highest designation a troop can receive in Girl Scouts. “The girls learned that cooperation and working together can go a long way in the completion of a goal,” says Troop Leader Earlene Martin. “They are very proud of their garden and worked hard to provide something nice for their community.”

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Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 15

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EDUCATION MARS AREA

fall

20 13

hen it comes to education, too much is never enough. And in a world where job competition is fierce, parents believe the more educated their child is, the better their chances of getting that rewarding, high-salaried position that will allow them to grow as a professional, support a family and pad their 401(k). But ask any high school junior what they plan on majoring in, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re almost guaranteed to be met with a blank stare.

Traditional college is a smart choice, but for today's students, other options are available that do not require a degree. The job market indicates an increasing demand for skilled trades, non-degreed and service professionals which is quickly outpacing those who can deliver it. In this special section, we take a look at college preparation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from choosing the right preschool to prepping for SATs, as well as some alternatives to college that promise a bright future without the need for a four-year degree. Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 17

MARS AREA

Jobs

of the

Future

hile a college degree does garner some credibility and an advantage in finding a well-paying job, there has been an increase in demand for people who have the right skills, and not necessarily a degree, in certain industries. According to a recent story featured in Forbes magazine, jobs of the future are comparably â&#x20AC;&#x153;lowskilled,â&#x20AC;? meaning they still require a lot of all-around intelligence to succeed, but not a degree. For example, carpentry has experienced a 56 percent growth, and medical secretaries have seen an increase of 41 percent in recent years. Other top jobs include web developers, which has a median salary of more than $75,000 a year and has risen in popularity among those who are self-taught or who have only a minimal amount of college training. In fact, the demand for people in this field is so great that companies do not view it as a disadvantage if the

person does not have a college degree, particularly the smaller start-up companies. Plumbers can make more than $46,000, a profession that is expected to grow 26 percent in the next few years. Paralegal assistants, electricians and industrial machine repairers are also professions that can expect an annual salary of more than $46,000. Administrative executive assistants could see a salary of more than $34,000. Bookkeepers and pest control specialists can earn more than $30,000, while receptionists and skin care specialists may be paid more than $25,000. A possible reason for this recent upward trend in jobs that do not require a college degree, may be that there is a heavier demand for people who offer actual services and specific skill sets. Caring for an aging population is one of the reasons that jobs like home health aides and personal care aides are at the top of the fastest growing jobs list compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, as reported

Some in-demand professions that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require a four-year degree.

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MARS AREA

Carpentry has experienced a growth of

by CareerCast.com. But right below these two occupations are biomedical engineers, which anticipates a 61 percent growth by 2020. Jobs such as brickmasons, blockmasons, stonemasons and tile and marble setters, expect to grow at least 60 percent by 2020. Veterinary technicians and technologists are expected to grow in demand by 52 percent. Reinforcing iron and rebar workers will increase by nearly 47 percent, physical therapy assistants by 46 percent, pipelayers and steamfitters by 45 percent, meeting and event planners by 44 percent and diagnostic medical sonographers by 43 percent. These fields all rank near the top of the list in popularity and expected job growth. According to Forbes, many of these types of jobs do not require a

56 percent

Biomedical engineering anticipates growth of

college education because a person could potentially learn more about them with onthe-job training as opposed to sitting in a college classroom. Many people who enter â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-degreedâ&#x20AC;? professions are self-taught and begin freelancing with a few clients. Through word-of-mouth, they are able to grow enough to launch their own business. For the most part, the trend remains that college graduates still stand to earn more in their lifetimes than non-graduates, as companies will continue to look for the bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree on a resume. However, there is a bright future for non-graduates with much potential if they have the desire and motivation to be successful.

61 percent

Physical therapy assistant jobs will increase by

46 percent

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 19

MARS AREA

Occupations with the most job growth, 2010 projected 2020 (Numbers in thousands) Employment 2010 National Employment Matrix Title and Code

2010

2020

Change, 2010-20 Number

Median Annual Wage, 2010

00-0000

Total, All Occupations

143,068.2

163,537.1

20,468.9

14.3

$33,840

29-1111

Registered Nurses *

2,737.4

3,449.3

711.9

26.0

64,690

41-2031

Retail Salespersons

4,261.6

4,968.4

706.8

16.6

20,670

31-1011

Home Health Aides

1,017.7

1,723.9

706.3

69.4

20,560

39-9021

Personal Care Aides

861.0

1,468.0

607.0

70.5

19,640

43-9061

Office Clerks, General

2,950.7

3,440.2

489.5

16.6

26,610

35-3021

Combined Food Preparation and Serving Workers, Including Fast Food

2,682.1

3,080.1

398.0

14.8

17,950

43-4051

Customer Service Representatives

2,187.3

2,525.6

338.4

15.5

30,460

53-3032

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

1,604.8

1,934.9

330.1

20.6

37,770

53-7062

Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand

2,068.2

2,387.3

319.1

15.4

23,460

25-1000

Postsecondary Teachers

1,756.0

2,061.7

305.7

17.4

45,690

31-1012

Nursing Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants

1,505.3

1,807.2

302.0

20.1

24,010

39-9011

Childcare Workers

1,282.3

1,544.3

262.0

20.4

19,300

43-3031

Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks

1,898.3

2,157.4

259.0

13.6

34,030

41-2011

Cashiers

3,362.6

3,612.8

250.2

7.4

18,500

25-2021

Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education

1,476.5

1,725.3

248.8

16.8

51,660

43-4171

Receptionists and Information Clerks

1,048.5

1,297.0

248.5

23.7

25,240

37-2011

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

2,310.4

2,556.8

246.4

10.7

22,210

37-3011

Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers

1,151.5

1,392.3

240.8

20.9

23,400

41-4012

Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products

1,430.0

1,653.4

223.4

15.6

52,440

47-2061

Construction Laborers

998.8

1,211.2

212.4

21.3

29,280

43-6013

Medical Secretaries

508.7

718.9

210.2

41.3

30,530

43-1011

First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers

1,424.4

1,627.8

203.4

14.3

47,460

47-2031

Carpenters

1,001.7

1,197.6

196.0

19.6

39,530

35-3031

Waiters and Waitresses

2,260.3

2,456.2

195.9

8.7

18,330

33-9032

Security Guards

1,035.7

1,230.7

195.0

18.8

23,920

25-9041

Teacher Assistants

1,288.3

1,479.3

191.1

14.8

23,220

13-2011

Accountants and Auditors

1,216.9

1,407.6

190.7

15.7

61,690

29-2061

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses

752.3

920.8

168.5

22.4

40,380

29-1060

Physicians and Surgeons

691.0

859.3

168.3

24.4

111,570

31-9092

Medical Assistants

527.6

690.4

162.9

30.9

28,860

Source: Employment Projections program, U.S. Department of Labor, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Child’s Education

Sponsored Content

Child Care Prep Tips

for Parents-to-Be

xpectant parents have a lot on their minds from shopping for playpens, to stocking up on diapers, to baby proofing the house. They also have to make a decision about child care. If both parents are going back to work after the baby’s arrival, one thing that must be added to the checklist is finding high-quality child care. Start Early The best time to begin researching child care providers for your infant is before your child is born. It might sound a little silly to begin your search so early, but there are a few good reasons to do so. Many families reserve their children’s spots early on, creating long waiting lists at many child care providers. A momto-be who waits until the last trimester may encounter some restriction in going out and

taking a tour, especially if she needs bed rest. The sooner you find a provider that you are comfortable with, the sooner you can relax and enjoy the time with your newborn. Location Another factor to consider is location. You may feel more comfortable having a child care provider close to home, but you’ll need to think about whether this creates problems with picking your child up on time after work due to traffic. You could also choose a location closer to your work, but this could create problems if you ever work from home. If you choose to breast feed, it is more practical to pick a location near your workplace, this way you may be able to go to your baby and nurse. Find out the designated area for breast feeding and if there is a quiet place where you can do this. A few other questions to ask is which parent will be primarily responsible for dropping off and picking up your child, or will you share that role. If you’re sharing the role perhaps you should find a child care provider that is centrally located. Health & Safety There is nothing more important than your child’s safety, and when it comes to health and safety there is no question too big or small. Find out if proper hand washing techniques are being

utilized. Go ahead and ask about diapering procedures, and whether the location is cleaned every day by a professional. Be clear about any illness policy that determines when children are too ill to attend. Take a tour and see for yourself if the environment is clean and inviting. With all of the concern over immunizations these days, it’s important to ask if the school requires a medical screen and updated immunizations in order to enroll a child, and if the teachers have to provide a medical screen as well. Director and Teacher Qualifications You’ll certainly want to find out if the school employs teachers with education and experience in Early Childhood Education. Don’t assume that the school requires ongoing teacher training and development, ask about their plans for ongoing professional development. Make sure to inquire whether teachers are required to have first aid/CPR training. It’s important to know if children are supervised by sight and sound at all times and if the group sizes are small. Smaller group sizes and low teacher-to-child ratios ensure better supervision and safety. These ratios vary from state to state, so inquire about regulations.

etting a third party opinion is not a bad idea either. You shouldn’t base your decision solely on that, but getting input from friends and family definitely helps in making a decision. To get a real sense of what the typical day is like at the child care provider, you should also make it a point to visit during hours of operation. Plan ahead by asking about other classrooms as well so that you can see the program that your child will attend as he/she grows.

This Industry Insight was written by Dina & Matt Speranza. They are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 8065 Rowan Road in Cranberry. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/Preschool/Kindergarten programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschool.com or call 724.778.9999.

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Choosing the Right College You made it. You got through grade school, succeeded in high school, and now the search begins… for the perfect college. You may already have your eye on a school, or you may be keeping your options open. Whatever your situation, there are some pointers to keep in mind when making your decision. To start, make a list of the colleges in which you are most interested. Divide the list into three categories: top choices, acceptable choices and sure-things. You also may want to add the reasons they interest you and the factors that make them unique. Seek out advice from those you trust – high school teachers, guidance counselors, friends and family members or school alumni – and ask why they favor a particular school. Also consider your educational goals and the field of study you would like to pursue. If one of your top choices does not offer that particular major, it may be safe to scratch it off your list. Another important component to consider is the social atmosphere and the type of housing accommodations the school has to offer. Do you want to attend a school where the students never sleep, or would you prefer to live in a quiet, non-party environment? Make sure the school that you choose will make you feel comfortable so you can succeed academically. Seek out printed information about the school. Directories, websites, maps and newsletters will help you navigate the campus and enable you to decide if this is where you want to spend the next four, or more, years. Lastly, talk to college representatives and staff on campus. Interview them about their likes and dislikes about the school, the academic and non-academic programs that the school offers and the types of financial aid that are available. Most importantly, make sure the school will meet your needs and help you to excel in whatever path you choose.

The SATs – Preparation is the Buzz Word You know there is no way around it. If you want to go to college, you must do well on the dreaded SAT test. This single event can lead to many sleepless nights and bouts of nervous anxiety. But if you head into the testing center armed with a few special tips, you may score well ahead of the game. For starters, begin preparing and studying for the test months in advance. Find practice tests or study guides online and upon completion of these practice exams, study the results. Find out why you scored wrong on a particular question and look at what you did right. Perhaps the best way to aid in preparation is to take challenging courses in high school. Take plenty of math and science courses and make sure that your reading comprehension and writing skills are in order. Develop a plan to study for the SATs for an allotted amount of time each day. Seek out the aid of a specialized tutoring service, such as the SAT tutoring offered at Huntington, which may not only help you with your studying, but may increase your confidence and calm your nerves. If you decide to take the test twice, learn from your experience the first time. Research the questions you got wrong on the first test and learn why you got them wrong. As the day of test approaches, do something relaxing the night before, such as reading a book and getting a good night’s sleep. Wake up early enough to eat a nutritious breakfast and plan to arrive at the testing center early. Finally, be sure you are prepared with the right materials – a valid ID for access to the testing center and several number 2 pencils. With preparation, you will find that the test-taking anxiety you initially felt, will be replaced with confidence and satisfaction.

SAT

Paying for College You have your heart set on going to college. Now you need to pay for it. Planning ahead will not only help you save money, but may save you time, as well. First, plan ahead. Simply depositing a minimal amount of money into a savings account years ahead of college will pay off big when the bills for tuition and books start to come. There are a couple of easy methods for saving. The first is to write yourself a check each month that automatically goes into your college account. Or, simply have a part of your paycheck directly deposited into the account. Also, know that you do not have to save for the entire four years of school. There are options like financial aid, grants and loans available that can help to cover expenses and minimize the economic impact on your wallet. Consider investing in a prepaid tuition program, which enables you to prepay for tomorrow’s college tuition at today’s costs. Or, choose a 529 college savings plan, which has no guarantee of earnings, but can be used at any college, for any expense, and has specific tax advantages. Websites such as SavingforCollege.com, offer valuable resources for planning and maximizing your college tuition and other expenses. Most states have a website that contains information about prepaid tuition programs or 529 college savings plans. If you are beginning to save more than five years from the college entrance date, consider investing in mutual funds through a professional fund manager. If you have less than five years before entering college, consider other options such as savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates of deposit. With a little planning and some smart budgeting, paying for college is an attainable goal.

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 23

MARS AREA

Top Education Trends O

ne thing is for sure; school is not what it used to be. No longer are college students expected to sit for long periods of time in one classroom, listening to one professor while feverishly taking notes. Today, students have a wide array of schooling options, study tools and reference materials that make it easier to get the grade. Among these latest trends are:

Social Media: Social media has given students access to a whole new way of communicating and learning. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classrooms, professors are blogging, maintaining Twitter and Facebook accounts and even communicating with students through these mediums. Students also have access to YouTube and may even be required to produce and post videos as a part of their learning curriculum. Students may find it helpful to use social media techniques to find employment since many sites, such as LinkedIn, give job seekers the venue to create resumes and profiles that are searchable by potential employers. Graduates can also begin networking with professionals in their desired field.

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Online Learning: No longer is traveling to a school building and sitting at a desk beside 25 other students part of school requirements. Students who want to pursue chosen fields of study can learn from home and study at their own pace laptop style. In fact, according to the Bacon Survey Research Group, the number of students enrolled in at least one online course increased for the ninth straight year. The study reports that the number of students taking online courses has surpassed six million and nearly one-third of all students in higher education are taking at least one online course. Some universities such as the University of CaliforniaBerkeley, Johns Hopkins University and Stanford, even offer free online

courses, a trend that is expected to continue in coming years.

Massive Open Online Course: Massive open online course, or MOOC, is a relatively new way for students to learn. MOOC is a course that is offered exclusively online to provide large interactive participation and open access through the Internet. MOOCs offer all of the traditional types of course materials, but also provide interactive user forums that help build communities among students and teachers and teaching assistants. These free courses only require the use of a computer and an Internet connection. As an extra incentive, there is some discussion about awarding official college credits to students who take these courses,

MARS AREA

which continue to grow in popularity around the globe, as they are offered in nearly 200 countries in 44 different languages and have more than 4,500 testing centers.

BetterJobMarket: Students graduating now may enter a better job market than students from previous years. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, companies expect to hire 9 percent more 2012 graduates than in 2011. And, students who have studied in the STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) have even greater odds of landing a job.

Game-BasedLearning: While still a new concept for both students and teachers alike, game-based learning, or GBL, is a method of learning that is growing in popularity and has proven to be an effective method of teaching. These games are designed

exclusively to provide educational value to students in any type of educational environment. They are designed to teach students about certain subjects, reinforce growth and development, encourage the development of new skills, or understand an event that took place in history. GBL methods include boards, cards and video games and incorporate methods like learning simulations with both serious games and video games into the classroom. In addition, this method

offers both gameplay and subject matter so that students can easily remember what they have learned and get ready to apply it in the real world. Although this method is still in its infancy, it is expected to expand in growth in the coming years. The way we learn is changing and it is broadening our horizons, our skills and our possibilities.

The number of students taking online courses has surpassed

six million

and nearly one-third of all students in higher education are taking at least one online course.

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 25

Turn Your CommuniTY inTo a Career something

fresh for everyone

Overbrooke Poi offers new con nte in senior living cept

see page 14

Headline

Page 34

Headline

Page 47

Special Section: Education Page 23

Fall 2013 icmags.com

School!

School and Township News Page 29 Special Section: Education

Page 7

Fall 2013 icmags.com

Special Section: Education Page 6

School News Page 16

26 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

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aekwondo is the most exciting and dynamic martial art in the world and ATA Martial Arts has been teaching it to the residents of Cranberry and Mars for 23 years. Owners Brian and Michelle Shipton have a combined 60 years of experience in martial arts, and teaching remains their number one passion. Combined with their staff of highly skilled and motivated instructors, Cranberry ATA has won the American Taekwondo Association's “School of the Year” award eleven times. It is no wonder the academy has been so successful! The benefits of studying the martial arts, combined with a fun and challenging class structure make ATA Martial Arts a great discipline for both children and adults. Tiny Tigers, ages 4 – 6, develops coordination while learning to focus and follow directions. Kicking, punching and blocking a variety of targets is a great way for children to develop their motor skills. Some drills are executed with partners teaching young children valuable attributes such as courtesy, respect and self-control. The martial arts skills they learn create a strong foundation for the more advanced techniques they will acquire as Karate Kids on their way to becoming Black Belts. Karate Kids, ages 7 – 12, improves muscular strength, flexibility and agility while practicing high kicks, spin kicks and jump kicks which makes Taekwondo so popular. Training with weapons, sparring with partners and breaking boards increases focus and concentration. Learning combinations

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of movements dramatically increases a child’s memorization skills. Programs such as the Kidz’n Power child safety training and the ATA Defender bully prevention program keep children safe and free from bullies. As Karate Kids work hard to accomplish their goals, their confidence level increases, thereby improving performance at school and in other activities. Many teens and adults enjoy the total body workout along with learning effective self-defense techniques. A state-of-the-art training facility, nationally certified black belt instructors and curriculum from the country’s largest and most professional martial arts organizations all come together to create the ultimate martial arts training experience. A four-week introductory program and beginner classes for all ages make it easy to get started. Come experience the art of Taekwondo and see why many consider Cranberry ATA Martial Arts to be the best martial arts training facility in the area.

ATA Martial Arts Rt. 228 Cranberry 724.776.5425 CranberryATA.com Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 27

MARS AREA

EDUCATIONDIRECTORY

Finding the Right Preschool Dina and Matt Speranza are the owners of The Goddard School located in Cranberry Township. The Goddard School provides the foundation to encourage each child’s lifelong love of learning. In our warm, loving atmosphere, caring teachers support the healthy development of children from six weeks to six-years-old. Our year-round program offers families the choice of either a half or full-day schedule. The Goddard School 724/778-9999 • GoddardSchool.com

Our school program provides comprehensive special education and therapy services individually designed to meet the needs of children ages 3-8 with special needs. Community locations (North Hills, Strip District, Baldwin and Murrysville) offer small class sizes and low staff to student ratio. Full day program provided with on-site therapy staff and Assistive Technology services. Disability awareness and inclusion education is provided through preschool integration opportunities. Easter Seals Western and Central Pennsylvania Linda Lanham Zeszutek School 412/281-7244 x 269 • www.eastersealswcpenna.org

Cranberry ATA Martial Arts’ goal is to provide a state-of-the-art training facility, a comprehensive martial arts curriculum, and highly skilled and motivated instructors. Cranberry ATA is the only location (out of 1200 nationwide) to win ATA's prestigious "School of the Year" award ten consecutive years in a row. Come experience why Cranberry ATA is considered one of the finest martial arts schools in the country.

The Regional Learning Alliance is the Greater Pittsburgh area’s premier Conference and Learning Center and the nation’s largest collaborative campus. We offer over 30 degree programs from 10 of the region’s preeminent educational institutions. The LEED certified green building, located in Cranberry Woods Office Park, offers adult learners the best of a traditional college campus, with the modern amenities of a first-class executive training center.

Cranberry ATA Martial Arts 724/776-5425 • www.cranberryata.com

Regional Learning Alliance 724/741-1000 • www.theRLA.org

Opening on Troy Hill in the Fall of 2013, Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School provides a superb and competitive program in every facet of the Catholic secondary education with its foundational hallmarks of academic excellence and faith formation. The new campus is currently under construction and will open in Cranberry Township on Route 228 in the Fall of 2014. Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School 412/321-4823 x127 • www.cwnchs.org

28 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

Deciding on a preschool for your child is an important decision requiring a lot of thought and research. You want your child’s first experience in school to be a positive one filled with happy memories. There are several factors to keep in mind as you make your decision. Among the first, should be the location of the school. Do you want something that is close to home or close to work? How far are you willing to drive? Another consideration is the school’s reputation. Do you have any friends who send their children to the school or who know any of the staff? Talk to them while doing your research and don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. The Child Care Aware hotline, 1.800.424.2246, can give you the number of a local childcare referral agency, which can provide you with the names of preschools in the area. Before calling the school, make a list of all of the questions that are important to you, such as teacher to student ratio, the staff’s credentials, what types of activities the kids engage in and what is the level of progression from year to year. Also, be sure to ask if the school is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a sign that the school is trustworthy and reliable. If you are allowed to visit the school, take a tour and perhaps observe the class where your child would be attending. During this visit, observe how the teachers interact with the kids, their demeanor toward each other and their overall personality. Finally, observe the children themselves. If they are happy in their surroundings and you feel comfortable, it just may be the perfect school for your child!

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Early Intervention

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Can Early Intervention Help? I

t happens to most parents out there. Sometimes, it’s at the park. Sometimes, it’s in the car pool lane. And, sometimes, it’s even at a holiday, family dinner. It’s that nagging question… why isn’t MY kid doing that? You may encounter those children who seem to be doing more than your own toddler. There’s the little girl who speaks in full sentences, and the little boy who can climb to the top of the jungle gym at age two. These gifted children can make parents feel like their children are behind in some developmental areas. Well, have no fear! Early Intervention may help your child and family if you have some concerns about your own child’s development. Early Intervention is an entitlement program through the federal government so any child who meets eligibility requirements is entitled to receive the service in their natural environment free of charge to families. It is available in every county in Pennsylvania and provides services to children from birth to age three. These services are provided in the home, day care or community with a parent or caregiver on days and times convenient to the family. The focus is on the family’s routines and concerns.

Pediatric Therapy Professionals, Inc. (PTP) was started over ten years ago with an emphasis on providing quality treatment, intervention, and support. PTP offers a wide range of services, including Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Therapy. Not only are we a provider in Butler County, but we also offer services in seven other counties throughout Western PA. Our therapists and teachers are certified with a multitude of talents and work well with the team and family. Many families who have received our services have often referred others to PTP. For more information about PTP, check us out on Facebook or go to www.pedtp.com. On the website under Other Resources, there is a Frequently Asked Questions section. It can help to guide you through the Early Intervention process. If you have any addition questions about Early Intervention or the services that Pediatric Therapy Professionals, Inc. provides, please feel free to contact Brooke Dorsch, Director of Community Outreach, at bdorsch@pedtp.com or 724.422.0278.

So, you may be asking, “How do I get Early Intervention Services? We might need those!” In Butler County, the first step is to call the Center for Community Resources at 724.431.3748 to set up an initial intake. In other counties, the number is 1.800.CONNECT. A service coordinator will come to your home to hear any concerns you may have about your child’s development. Next, an evaluation team will come to evaluate the child in all areas of development; Social-Emotional, Cognitive, Adaptive, Communication, Gross and Fine Motor Skills. They will also screen your child for Vision and Hearing. As the child’s parent, you will be interviewed about any health or medical issues. Once the evaluation is completed, the child must demonstrate a qualifying delay in one or more areas of development. Also, children are eligible if they have a diagnosis with a high likelihood of delay. If your child qualifies for services, this is when you will be offered a choice of providers. Pediatric Therapy Professionals, Inc. is one of your choices in Butler County. This Industry Insight was written by Brooke Dorsch, Director of Community Outreach for Pediatric Therapy Professionals, Inc. bdorsch@pedtp.com 724.422.0278

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 29

Sip

A cluster of Chambourcin grapes in Pennsylvania. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Eckinger, Executive Director of the PA Wine Assoc.

&Savor

Volant Mill Winery brings a taste of Tuscany to Mars. 30 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

By Kathy Rudolph

Bryan Rhodes

Just as viewing new art can be inspiring, tasting a vin de garde from a local vintner can provide a pleasantly surprising taste experience. “In 30 years, Pennsylvania wineries have increased from 27 to 123,” says Jennifer Eckinger, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Winery Association. “They have grown exponentially. Wine making is a convergence of art and science and wineries in Pennsylvania are continually looking to produce the highest quality of wine.” One of these local wineries is Volant Mill Winery, located at 535 Adams Shoppes in Mars. The father and son team of Gary and Bryan Rhodes opened their first winery in 2004 in the borough of Volant, a picturesque town known for the Volant Mill. With over 56 years in the winemaking business, Gary knew a thing or two about wine. “I have taken wine courses all over the country, but it was at a course at Cornell University where I received the best advice,” notes Rhodes. “The instructor explained that you can create what you think is the most fantastic wine in the world, but until someone is willing to pay [money] for it, it is worthless. I always say that my favorite wine is the one that is paid for and on its way out the door!” The winery’s success relies on Rhodes’ careful sampling of each of the wines, checking for quality and consistency. “I have always tried to make good wines and have spent 56 years sipping wine,” says Rhodes. “After that long, you just know when it’s right.” A wide selection for every palate is offered at Volant Mill Winery, including Mars Red, playfully named for the area.

continued on page 33.. Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 31

From chardonnay to merlot, it all comes down to personal taste. “I used to teach a wine appreciation class and I always spoke about the primary principals about liking wine,” says Rhodes. “But it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks. If you like it, that’s what’s most important.” Bryan Rhodes also enjoys being in the wine business. “It’s a job that I love and work seven days a week at,” says Rhodes. “No two days are the same. One day you are bottling wine and next day you are helping customers. Usually, everyone that comes into the winery is in a good mood because they are not buying appliances, or hardware. They’re coming in to buy wine.” “The goal of wineries in Pennsylvania is to make the wine enjoyable and approachable. They [wineries] are looking to make sure that their customers are drinking what they like,” explains Eckinger. “Plan a day and go with friends, an open mind and of course, a designated driver! Ask questions and learn. The people behind the counters at the wineries are trained winemakers or intimately involved in the winemaking process. They like to share information about their product, so you enjoy that experience.” Tasting wine doesn’t have to be a long, drawn out process and you don’t need to be a professional sommelier in order to visit a winery. That being said, the following tips will give you the best experience when sampling wines.

Basic Wine Tasting by Pennsylvania Wine Association

1. Pour wine into a clean, clear glass. Hold the glass by the stem.

Wine making is a convergence of art and science and wineries in Pennsylvania are continually looking to produce the highest quality of wine.

2. View the glass against a white

background or light to observe the wine's color and clarity.

3. Swirl wine glass for a few

seconds to let wine "breathe" and bring out the aromas.

4. Sniff wine. 5. Sip wine. Roll the wine gently

in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing.

6. Consider your impressions of

the wine. Feel free to ask the host about his or her impressions of the wine and its characteristics.

7. Repeat with the same wine

or different wine. If desired, skip steps two through four.

8. Ask questions. To learn more about the Pennsylvania Wine Association, please visit the website at pennsylvaniawine.com. To find out more about Volant Mill Winery, you may visit volantmillwinery.com.

32 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

Mike, Kathy and Joe enjoy wine tasting at Volant Mill Winery.

Pam Cromwell

Gary Rhodes uses a hydrometer to test the sugar in the wine.

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 33

Grapes in full bloom by Mark Chien, courtesy of Jennifer Eckinger Executive Director of the PA Wine Assoc.

Gary Rhodes samples all of the wine to make sure of its quality.

34 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

“I have always tried to make good wines and have spent 56 years sipping wine,” says Rhodes. “After that long, you just know when it’s right.”

...continued from page 29

It is described as “smooth, oak-aged and dry with a complex and aromatic flavor.” Cocoa Vino has a “tantalizing aroma of rich dark chocolates” for the chocoholic and Edelweiss, is a “crisp, fruity wine." Volant Mill Winery is one of the few wineries in the area that grow Edelweiss grapes which Rhodes planted from cuttings given to him by a friend. Many of the grapes for the wines are also grown at the Rhodes’ vineyard in Fredonia, Pennsylvania.

Autumn grape leaf in Pennsylvania. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Eckinger Executive Director of the PA Wine Assoc.

“I am a fruit-forward winemaker and in everything I [produce] you will taste the fruit and the grapes,” proclaims Rhodes. Some of his fruit wines include apple, blackberry, raspberry, pear and elderberry. “To me, I want to taste what wine is made of,” he adds.

The mental process which customers go through when selecting a wine could provide tons of interesting data for sociologists. Rhodes explains, “Many people will say that the dryer wines are the way to go, but a large percentage of what we sell are the sweeter ones.” ■

Pointe Overbrookw concept offers ne living in senior

Brings a ill Winery ars28 Volant M Tuscany to MPag e of e st Ta ion at uc n: Ed io ct Se l ends Specia sroom Tr Page 15 Top 5 Clas 3 Fall 201 .com icmags

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 35

Historic House Enjoys New Life as Coffeehouse

hen folks visit the Mars Brew House, they probably notice the warm, inviting front porch which spans the entire front of the building and the beautiful arched doorway leading to the cafe area. What patrons may not know is that the brew house is situated in one of the oldest buildings in the Mars area. “According to Butler County records, our building is one of the oldest buildings in Mars,” says Brad Price, owner of the year-old establishment. “It was erected in 1896 and is older than the local hardware store building, the SusieQ’s building and the doctor’s office next door. 38 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

“In fact, there is a baseboard in the upstairs, green-painted room that was signed by all of the builders who were involved in the construction of the house back in 1896. They signed the baseboard, detailing where they had purchased the lumber for the construction project and each craftsman’s role, all the way down to the individual nail carrier, which we assume was likely a grandson from the family lineage provided on this baseboard relic. From what we were able to determine, there were three generations from the Jordan family, originating from Mars, who were involved in this building’s construction. Believe it or not, from the dates posted on this baseboard, they constructed the entire house in just four months!” Restoring an old house can bring its challenges, like maintaining the building’s integrity, dealing with time constraints and costly repairs. “The renovation project [for] this building took a lot longer than the four months in which they built the house; just ask the residents of Mars who watched its slow transformation!” says Price. “It was painstaking and mostly involved patching, painting, insulating and tiling, but it was also very much a labor of love. We had to widen doorways, for example, to accommodate our handicapped guests [and they] had not been altered since its 1896 construction. We also chose to expand the

Photos courtesy of Frank Gutowski

By Kathy Rudolph

front porch laterally to connect the two front doorways, which offers some outdoor seating overlooking our patio area. “I think that tasty food and coffee combined with a most inviting atmosphere make a great coffee house,” says Price. “Most folks need to take a break from their very fast-paced lives on occasion. We all need those few minutes alone, sometimes to recharge our batteries, or at other times, just a quiet place to enjoy a private lunch with a friend to discuss all the latest happenings in our world.” Live entertainment is also sometimes offered at the Mars Brew House. “Many folks enjoy live acoustic music performances, however, they do not wish to go to a bar establishment necessarily, or travel to a theater venue in downtown Pittsburgh in order to do so,” explains Price. “We offer our customers varied acoustic music performances on most Saturdays, free of charge. If the [temperature is] above 50 degrees these performances take place out on our front porch, otherwise they [are] in our main dining room near the fireplace. Many of our local artists have semi-professional careers in music and play at ticketed venues throughout the region.” Price, who previously worked in the banking business, clearly enjoys the social aspects of his new role as a barista extraordinaire. “This year has been an amazing experience thus far!” he says. “I think if I had to describe what I have enjoyed the most about launching the Mars Brew House over the last year, it has been getting to know our customers, my fellow business owners in downtown Mars and some of the local suppliers we work with. Our customers literally come in all ages, shapes and sizes through our front door every day. For instance, I would have never imagined how much I would learn about our clientele and their respective lives from serving them on a daily basis. That ongoing relationship-building has been both a pleasant experience and a rather unexpected surprise from the beginning of this project up until now.” According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the first coffee café is said to have opened in 1550 in Constantinople. Over hundreds of years, coffeehouses have sprung up all over the globe, evolving into welcoming, social venues that have promoted good conversation and local talent, while offering a delicious cup of coffee. The coffeehouse culture is alive and well at 502 Pittsburgh Street in Mars. And because of it, an historic old home is enjoying new life as well. To learn more about Mars Brew House, visit the website at www.marsbrewhouse.com. ■

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 39

40 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

Photos courtesy Animal Friends

ounded in 2006, the nonprofit Operation Spay Neuter, Inc. is dedicated to helping reduce the problem of unwanted pets by offering programs to spay and neuter animals. It is able to accomplish this by partnering with local veterinarians to provide medical care for pets. For those individuals who are economically disadvantaged, care can be provided at a reduced cost, based upon the person’s income. The group provides a mobile unit to spay and neuter cats twice a month. The sterilizing process for dogs is performed at various veterinarian offices around Butler County. “We just want to help reduce the problem of pet overpopulation which leads to so many unwanted animals,” explains Cathy Brickner, board vice president of Operation Spay Neuter. “If we can control the animal population, it’s a winwin situation for everyone.” According to GoodNewsforPets.com, the average dog litter is somewhere between four and six, and the average number of kittens is three to five. With each litter quickly multiplying the need for homes, pets are sometimes dropped at houses, abandoned or worse yet, may wind up at shelters that cannot care for them long term. No innocent pet should ever have to endure the hardship of being unwanted. In addition to the spaying and neutering procedures, the mobile unit and veterinarians

can administer shots for rabies and distemper and treat dogs and cats for fleas and heartworms. This makes treatment for pets much more convenient, especially for pet owners who do not have access to transportation. Feral cats which are either born in the wild or have been abandoned are considered free-roaming animals. They have reverted from domestic to wild behaviors in order to survive and are difficult for humans to handle because of their natural or acquired fear of human contact. “We have been able to treat many of the feral cats in the area and this population is [largely] under control,” says Brickner. After the cats are treated, they are released back into the wild, since most of them would not be suitable as pets. The mobile spay and neuter unit operates from March through October. Volunteers are needed to work at the clinics, filling out paperwork, observing pets after surgery and occasionally feeding them. The group also sets up tables at various locations in the area and distributes information on the care of animals and also sells pet products to help support the work of the organization. Volunteers are needed for this important work as well. If you would like more information on the organization, please visit the website at www.OperationSpayNeuter.org, or call 724/287-SPAY (7729). ■

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 41

t s e B s t e P M

y husband, Greg and I were happily married on July 16, 2011 on a beach in Ocean City, Maryland, surrounded by family and friends. We only had a six month engagement before our wedding, so the early part of 2011 was extremely busy making all of the necessary long-distance plans for the destination wedding weekend. It was the most amazing experience of our lives and one that we will cherish forever. A close second to our wedding was the special occasion surrounding the adoption of our wonderful rescue dog, Brandy. By the end of August of that same year, Greg and I were ready for another adventure - getting a pet was a great idea! Greg very diligently checked petfinder.com regularly for about six months before he found the picture below. One look into those eyes and we knew we had to give her a forever home in our home in Seven Fields, PA. We drove to St. Clairsville, OH to pick up the then six-yearold Brandy on August 28, 2011. It was such a special time for us. You never forget all of the moments, big and small, of your first year of marriage. Becoming a first-time dog owner for me was such a gift! I never realized how much joy a pet could bring into your home, until Greg and I adopted Brandy. That was almost two years ago. Since then Brandy has traveled with us to visit family and friends, made some wonderful friends of her own in our neighborhood and has become the official "spokesdog" for our small business - a natural pet treat business. We began to make homemade treats for Brandy shortly after we rescued her. For these reasons and many others, Brandy is the best pet in the world! â&#x2013;

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Our thanks to Christine Galket for submitting her story.

42 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

Brandy

The Best Pet!

A Cat Named Templeton Peck

ith a name like Templeton Peck, it's easy to see why Jim and Bev Lubbert's cat does not realize he is a cat. He shakes and wags his tail like a dog and contrary to normal cat behavior, he comes when he is called. But perhaps the best quality that Templeton (aka Boy) offers, is his unconditional love. He is always at the door to greet Jim and Bev when they arrive home. And for that reason and about a million others, they feel their cat is the best pet in the world. â&#x2013;

â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Our thanks to the Lubberts for submitting their story.

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 43

Mars Freshman Honored Mars Area freshman Rachel Honchorek will compete in the Pan American Open 2013 International Tae Kwon Do Championship, to be held Sept. 20-22 in Queretaro, Mexico. This is her first international competition and she will compete in the Cadet 12-14 Female Black Belt Division as a member of the TMF Team from Miami, Fla. The team is led by Grandmaster Frank Loureda of Master Frank’s Tae Kwon Do Academy. Honchorek, is a third degree black belt at ZANG Tae Kwon Do in Wexford. Good luck Rachel!

New Board Member Mars Area School Board voted 5-0 to appoint Steve Boggs to fill the remainder of the term of Board member H. Ross McConnell, who died on May 27. Boggs, a self-employed contractor and owner of Boggs Construction, previously served for 16 years on Valencia Borough Council. He is a graduate of North Allegheny and grew up in the Town of McCandless, before moving to the Mars Area community. He and his wife Lori, a Mars Area School District secretary, live in Valencia. The couple’s two children, Casey and Chris, are graduates of Mars Area High School. Boggs’ term will expire in December 2013, however, he is expected to fill a separate two-year seat on the board, pending the results of the November general election. A special election will be held concurrent with the general election to fill the two-year position vacated Boggs. Candidates for the position will be named by their respective parties and will appear on the November ballot.

ARS AREA

MA RS ARE A SC H OOL DI STR IC T News

For more information, please call 724/625-1518.

School’s Efforts Recognized by State Commission The Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC) recognized Mars Area Centennial School sixth-graders' support of the Glade Run Lake Conservancy’s efforts to restore the 52-acre lake. The lake was was drained after its dam was declared unsafe. “The PFBC understands the environmental and economic impacts the lake has on the anglers and boaters, wildlife and local community, and appreciates the attention [the school is] drawing to this valuable resource,” says John A. Arway PFBC executive director. The school collected over $1,200 to benefit the conservancy as part of a “Save Glade Run Lake Project” fund-raiser. Sixthgraders created piggy banks using recyclable

44 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

materials and collected money to support the cause. The students tallied donations in their mathematics classes and presented the funds to Glade Run Lake Conservancy at its Town Hall Meeting. As part of the project, students learned about the history, environmental concerns and conservation efforts surrounding Glade Run Lake in their science and social studies classes. In language arts classes, the students wrote persuasive letters to Gov. Tom Corbett asking for government support in restoring the lake. For more information on the Glade Run Lake restoration, please visit the website at GladeRunLakeConservancy.org.

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Mars Grad in Professional Theater Production Mars Area graduate Michelle Flynn appeared in the musical, Tuning In, which premiered Aug. 8-10, at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall in Akron, Ohio. Flynn, daughter of Daniel and Phyllis Flynn of Adams Township, is a musical theater studies major at Kent State University. She graduated from Mars Area High School in 2011. Tuning In, presented by Razzmatazz Productions, chronicled the tussles and triumphs of a nostalgic radio station in an Ohio retirement community. The show was directed and choreographed by George Pinney, Emmy Award winner and Tony Award nominee, and Terry LaBolt, Broadway conductor.

Mars Area Teacher Wins Red Apple Award

"Teaching is a commitment to children, to make them successful in the world,” says Kennedy. “My mission is to empower my students to reach their absolute potential – intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically.”

ARS AREA

MA RS ARE A SC H OOL DI STR IC T News

Jennifer Kennedy, an instrumental music teacher at Mars Area Centennial School, was selected to receive a 2013 Red Apple Education Award.

At Mars Area Centennial School, Kennedy directs the school's Sixth Grade Band, which performed the National Anthem at a Pittsburgh Pirates game in May. Kennedy also directs the school's Jazz Band and is a sponsor of Mars Area Centennial School's Instrumental Club, Running Club and Spanish Club. She leads the school's “Academic Support” program, which offers large group tutoring after school. Kennedy began her career with Mars Area School District in 2004 as an instrumental music teacher and marching band director with Mars Area High School. The Red Apple Education Award is presented to one outstanding teacher, professor or instructor from each of Butler County's seven school districts, Butler County Area Vocational-Technical School, Butler County Community College and Slippery Rock University.

46 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

Business Directory

Mars Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 47

inCOGNITO

Did you know?

A Planet, Some Stars and a Few Comedians By Jonathan Barnes

48 724/942-0940 to advertise | Mars Area

ars Borough, the tiny ½-square mile town that even these days feels close to rural, periodically gets some local or national media attention due to its unique planetary name. It doesn’t hurt that townies have embraced the name’s quirkiness by keeping a replica flying saucer spaceship grounded in the downtown for all to see, nor that the place was home base for filming on two movies and at least one TV commercial for salad dressing claiming to be “out of this world.” Simply put, even some of the stars have visited Mars. The borough was a prominent filming site for the 1988 comedic drama movie The Prince of Pennsylvania, though the movie might not ring a bell for many people. Mars really got its name up in Hollywood’s lights when the borough was part of the 1996 comedy Kingpin. The movie, which starred Bill Murray and Woody Harrelson, filmed at the Mars Beer Distributor and elsewhere locally for some of its footage. One of the reasons the filmmakers chose the borough was because of its unique bowling alley— Mars Lanes, which was called Lancaster Lanes in the movie. Ruth Geller, who along with her husband Gary owns Mars Lanes, remembers the gridlock created for those around the town during the 1995 filming there. The police shut down Rt. 228 and Mars-Valencia Road (where the bowling alley is located) several times, stopping traffic for shooting for 10 minutes or more at a time. Lots of drivers were furious and some locals were less than thrilled. “Unless you were involved in the movie, the filming was a pain in the neck,” Geller says.

Scouts for the movie had chosen the bowling alley to shoot film scenes over several days because of its unique décor. Built in 1959 as a retro-style 1950s/1960sera bowling alley, the 10-lane spot has aged well. It still looks practically new and was almost too well-kept for the Kingpin filmmakers, Keller explains. At the time of the filming, the place was owned by John and Jeanne Utz, who later sold it to their managers, the Kellers. The Kellers were caretakers for the 10 old wooden lanes they’d known pretty much all their lives. Graduates of the Mars High School Class of 1973, the Kellers got a kick out of the film being shot at their workplace. And Ruth even appears very briefly – for about three seconds – in the film. However, accommodating the film crew was no simple task, she says. Lots of logistics had to be worked out and some bowlers in local leagues had to forego their time at the lanes to make way for the filming. Some leagues nonetheless were accommodated, since it was September and thus prime bowling season and plans had already been established. During one day of filming, bowling league members had to park their cars along nearby roads, rather than in the parking lot of the bowling alley. Having newer cars would have ruined the feel of the movie, according to the directors. The impression may have soured some would-be moviegoers even before they could see the movie in the theater. Kingpin is, in the opinion of some, the sort of film that requires an acquired taste. “You either love that movie or you hate it,” Keller notes. ■

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