29 minute read
Horses with Hope Animals Return
Horses with Hope Animals Return in May
Kristin Culp, Horses with Hope
In just a couple of months, the Horses with Hope animals will return to the historic barns and fields of Gilfillan Farm. In addition to the herd grazing the fields last year, this year will include a few new arrivals of the Halflinger breed. When driving or walking around Gilfillan Farm, look for their striking chestnut coat color and light mane.
The Haflinger is a small horse, standing just under 15 hands, with ancestors dating back to the Middle Ages in Austria and northern Italy, where farmers and villagers relied on them to access narrow mountain paths. Today’s Haflingers trace back to a stallion named Folie in 1874. From the late 1800s throughout the World Wars, Haflingers were bred and crossbred for variations in height and frame. Today’s Halflingers are primarily bred for leisure and recreation. Their calm nature and size make them a perfect fit for therapeutic riding.
One of the horses returning to Gilfillan Farm this year is Miracles, a six-yearold Haflinger gelding. Miracles 360 Foundation, a nonprofit providing support for therapeutic programs and families, provided funding to Horses with Hope for his purchase and gifted him the name Miracles. Horses with Hope is excited to bring Miracles into the program this year and knows he will be a favorite among participants.
In preparation for the start of therapeutic riding at the end of May, work is in progress to construct a covered round pen to provide protection from the elements and reduce the number of program cancellations due to weather. In addition to therapeutic riding, Horses with Hope will offer three weeks of summer camp this year. Visit https://www.horseswithhope. org/summercamp for more information.
Fundraising Opportunities
Save the dates and stay tuned for more information on upcoming Horses with Hope fundraising events. Attend the walk with Horses with Hope at The Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community 2022 on Saturday, May 7 at Heinz Field. Ladies, get your hats, and gents, get your ties ready for the Belmont Jewel on Saturday, June 11 at St. Clair Country Club, while you watch the Belmont Run for the Carnations, and enjoy a wonderful evening of cocktails, appetizers, dinner, games, and raffles. Then, on Sunday, November 13, get ready for raffles, bowling, and pizza at the annual Horses with Hope bowling fundraiser at the Meadows Lanes.
Volunteer Opportunities
Be a part of the Horses with Hope team this year as a volunteer. “I have been volunteering at Horses with Hope for more than ten years,” said Jackie Rutledge. “When I go there, I disconnect from all the stresses in my life and connect with the horses, riders, their families, and fellow volunteers. This program is therapeutic for everyone involved, including me; it is a place to heal. Since I’ve been volunteering, I’ve noticed that I have become calmer, more focused, and physically and emotionally better. Horses with Hope means the world to me. It is an amazing program and my happy place!”
Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age and are welcome in the areas of riding programs, grounds help, sensory garden, fundraising, community events, and more. Come by yourself, bring your family, or attend as a group to help make a difference at Horses with Hope. n
Rendering of a covered round pen Miracles
Volunteer Jackie
For more information on the Horses with Hope programs and volunteer opportunities, visit www.horseswithhope.org.
Rocky
Meet Rocky
A Haflinger at Horses with Hope
True to his breed personality, Rocky is full of character and charisma. Extremely intelligent, he easily adapts to change. While he may act like a grumpy old man in the pasture, Rocky is a huge fan of the attention that the kids give him. n
Welcome to Providence Point, a 62+ Life Plan Community designed especially for you—for the way you live now, with the added peace of mind you want for your future. We put wellness and exceptional healthcare* at the center of all we do, along with offering spacious residences and unparalleled amenities.
Pittsburgh’s Premier Retirement Community
*Providence Point Healthcare Residence was recently rated as one of the Best Nursing Homes in the USA by US News & World Report.
500 Providence Point Boulevard | Pittsburgh, PA 15243 | www.ProvidencePoint.org
PP Ad-USCSpring2022.indd 1 A Move at the Right Time Can Change Your Life
Marilyn Walsh, Baptist Homes Society
1/26/2022 1:48:37 PM
Years ago, retirement tended to signal “the beginning of the end.” That is no longer the case. Today’s older adult sees retirement as a time for reinvention, a time to discover new purpose, and a beginning to a whole new chapter in life. Retirees are seeking new opportunities to maintain their health, enjoy time with family, discover new purposes and meaning to life, and find peace of mind for their future care needs. Life plan communities (LPCs), like Providence Point in Scott Township, know this and offer residents a lifestyle that meets their needs.
Resident Adeline Rennekamp likes to tell her story about moving to Providence Point. She reserved an apartment in Hamilton Tower two years ago, before the newest residential living tower at Providence Point was completed. While she waited, she began to get involved in the community and formed what she calls “a close-knit sorority with her soon-to-be neighbors.” What happened once they all moved in? These ladies were ready to enjoy their new lifestyle.
Rennekamp says “I never feel like I’m in a senior community. I feel like I am in a very active village that is constantly growing!” Dividing her time between golf, cornhole, bocce, or getting a few laps in the pool, Adeline is immersed in an inviting and interactive community that also offers peace and solitude when needed. “Single apartment living
gives me the perfect blend of privacy and social interaction. It’s my call,” she added. Adeline remains active in the larger community and is also quite the host, holding domino socials, card games, and movie nights. She refers to her move to Providence Point as “a fantastic investment.” “It’s security knowing there is something there, just in case you need it,” said Adeline. An insurance policy almost. “I suggest you come before you need it because there’s a lot of fun here,” she added. n
Adeline Rennekamp
See ad for Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community, on this page.
Gracious, Dedicated, Gifted
Spring is a glorious time of year. From darkness to increasing light and cold to warmth, the sun radiates to explode in bursts of color. The traditions and rituals of this season reflect rebirth and rejuvenation. After many snowy days and lingering frosty nights, daylight thaws the earth and encourages sleepy creatures to awaken. Springtime also inspires hopefulness. But, what if you arise only to find an absence of volunteer spirit and commitment?
Sadly, volunteerism has declined in recent years, and circumstances have indeed transformed the landscape of benevolence. But not for the Medallion honorees of St Lucy’s Auxiliary to the Blind. Eighteen Upper St. Clair Township high school seniors (17 from Upper St. Clair High School and one from Oakland Catholic) met the four-year challenge of 150+ volunteer hours. These young women symbolize compassion, self-discipline, and spiritual awareness. Each of their hours was decisive, a gift that fashionably stirs momentum within our community.
Speaking of fashion, an honoree chooses her presentation gown with that in mind. Did you know that since 2016, March 6
celebrates a most versatile, yet sophisticated, article of clothing— the dress? That year, couturier Ashley Lauren founded National Dress Day to pay homage to magical moments. Although frock styles constantly evolve, their beauty continues to enhance, most especially at gala celebrations. Ms. Lauren asserts, “To me, this day is about empowering women to celebrate femininity and cherish memories of wearing dresses. It’s the women and their stories behind the dresses that make this day so special. Dresses aren’t going to change the world, the women who wear them will.” Regardless of age, background, personality, or skill set, all teens have unique gifts to share and contribute during their young lives. This year, the honorees’ time and talents have enriched Friendship Village, Girl Alone we can do so little; Scouts of America, Horses with Hope, Janet together we can do so Hayes Dance, Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh Pride All Star Cheer, religious education, St. much.—Helen Keller John Capistran Faith Formation, Spencer Family YMCA, The Thomas Dance Studio, and USC Youth Cheer, among others. New additions for 2021 were Samaritan’s Purse, a nondenominational Christian organization that brings great joy to children worldwide via “Operation Shoebox.” To minimize hunger is an attempt to secure a healthier America, and the communal spirit at St. Winifred’s Food Pantry supports both traditional and virtual
Maya Burlingame Katherine Clark Talia Ivol Sydney Kirk Kathleen Kobeski Maggie Lowden
Briella Mammana Isabella Marasco Carmella McNally Quincy Pitcairn Sofia Putorti Emma Redlinger
The group of honorees who attend Upper St. Clair High School
food drives. And, finally, Beverly’s Birthdays spreads cheer 365 days a year for homeless children and families in need. It just goes to show that for every setback, there is an opposite, equal brighter side.
Behind each honoree is the overwhelming and noticeable encouragement from loving families, friends, educators, clerics, and the inclusive community of Upper St. Clair. Proceeds from the 58th Medallion Ball benefit the Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh.
Officiating the presentation of the Joan of Arc medallion to the honorees was Bishop David Zubik of the Pittsburgh Catholic Diocese. A big thank you to Upper St. Clair Medallion Ball chairpersons Audrey Reilly and her daughters (both former Medallion honorees), Jessica and Megan Reilly. Their dedication and passion fashioned a stellar event. Committing endless hours, their teamwork and perseverance were appreciated. Other USC residents who played key roles in the ball this year were Maureen McDonough, emcee, and Pamela Barsotti, choreographer for the presentation and owner of Borelli Dance Gallery.
Honoree escorts, in alphabetical order, included Samuel Carson, William Closser III, Jack Crouthamel, Felipe Curi, Dimitri Geronimos, John Hernandez-Brown, Cole Jooste, Ian Kirk, Jack Lowden, Liborio Mammana, Connor O’Neill, Nicholas Moretti, Henry Rainone, Joseph Shoutz III, Kevin Stief, Tyson Swigart, and Griffin Tomsheck. n
Article courtesy of Mary Lynne Spazok. Since 1997, Mary Lynne has proudly showcased hundreds of stellar Medallion honorees throughout the pages of UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY. We thank her for her continued commitment to this endeavor. Photos graciously provided by Maxine McGough of Ron Richards Studio.
MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER
ATTENTION UPPER ST. CLAIR RESIDENTS SKATE at the MT. LEBANON RECREATION CENTER
Open Year Round with Something for Everyone
Learn-to-Skate Classes Beginner & Advanced Hockey Clinics Hockey Leagues Youth Developmental Middle School Varsity Adult Public Skating Summer Development Skating School Adult Skating & Instructional Programs Broomball Summer Camps
Call the Recreation Center at 412-561-4363 for times and rates Or visit us online at www.mtlebanon.org
On Stage with Jim and Lanny
Tune in to 15241 TODAY talk “On Stage with Jim and Lanny” to enjoy the half-hour broadcast that engages local celebrities and people with ties to USC. Through light-hearted, friendly conversations, the show is co-hosted by Jim Render and Lanny Frattare and aired on USC’s TV stations, Cable 7 or Verizon 42. The broadcast can also be viewed at any time using a computer or handheld device. Search YouTube for “Upper St. Clair Public Access Television” to choose the broadcast you’d like to watch, or visit USC Township’s website (www.twpusc.org) and click on USC Cable TV under the “Community” subhead to see the current program schedule. Links to all videos are also shared on Upper St. Clair School District’s athletic website (https://upperstclairathletics.com).
Highlights from our October 2021 interviews accompany this feature story. If you enjoy this broadcast, contact TODAY at usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us and voice your opinion. If you visit the online version of TODAY’s spring 2022 edition at www.twpusc.org/usctoday, you can access this page and click the live links to the interview(s) of your choice. n Enjoy an entertaining half-hour with
Pat and Nancy
McDonnell , owners of Atria’s and Juniper Grill restaurants. Blessed to be involved in the communities they serve, learn how they got into the restaurant business and about the history of the flagship Mt. Lebanon Atria’s store. Best of all, find out where their newest store is scheduled to open in early 2022. Mark Miller , USC’s Supervisor of Elementary Education since 2014 and principal of Eisenhower Elementary School
Nancy and Pat McDonnell since 2002, is at the helm of instruction for USC students K–4. Using the philosophy “If it were my child...” to understand and interact with all students and their families, he is great at what he does. In 2010, he was honored to be Pennsylvania’s National Distinguished Elementary School Principal.
Mark Miller
While a student at North Allegheny, Ben Edwards became involved with that school’s Speech & Debate (S&D) team, and he’s never
Ben Edwards looked back! Ben has taken USC’s S&D team from a mere six students to 175, now the second largest S&D team in Pennsylvania. A social studies teacher at USC High School and advancing the curriculum to include heightened civic engagement among students, Ben affirms that “education is never finished.”
YouTube links for all guests appearing on 15241 TODAY talk, “On Stage with Jim & Lanny” since initial airing in May 2019.
Von Campanella
https://youtu.be/CU5YyXoD098
Tim O’Malley
https://youtu.be/ejK6cEYmu1c
Todd Flynn
https://youtu.be/Xg8kEDIlH_4
Tony Accamando
https://youtu.be/B-BozbJsorU
Steve Blass
https://youtu.be/pKKv9mRVvD0
Rich Donnelly
https://youtu.be/KhVI966lXbY
Ryan Huzjak
https://youtu.be/r3bqoqSX8t0
District Magistrate Judge Ron Arnoni
https://youtu.be/Ww26b7urEj0
Sean Casey
https://youtu.be/dNMhjUIFcU0
Pat Palazzolo
https://youtu.be/ybvc1TvqNRo
Rep. Natalie Mihalek
https://youtu.be/ZpUDhOHIJZU
Mike White
https://youtu.be/-PtaGOvi8-U
Missie Berteotti
https://youtu.be/hYaaxJahkSg
Suzie McConnell-Serio
https://youtu.be/UprS_N5k8DA
The Honorable D. Michael Fisher
https://youtu.be/aVe494h7qMc
Mark Gentile
https://youtu.be/2UXcjaTRe3M
Matt Serakowski
https://youtu.be/jhDCYNylGpk
Kevin Orie
https://youtu.be/pzUdmiVPboE
Dr. Kevin Deitrick
https://youtu.be/gL-g1QL25X0
John Steigerwald
https://youtu.be/eQH5nkhdIAs
Kent Tekulve
https://youtu.be/0VnxUJsCMpo
Josh Helmrich
https://youtu.be/2PjeSToh1_8
John Sakoian
https://youtu.be/43QS20Sekfw
Dr. Timothy Wagner
https://youtu.be/WNINtJIkBbw
John Banaszak
https://youtu.be/gbKXSs2Spy0
Craig Wolfley
https://youtu.be/24tbtSWGNJQ
Jim O’Brien
https://youtu.be/XK9JIk2oHRY
Don Rebel
https://youtu.be/5Mj_QUkM-HM
COVID-19 discussion with Jim and Lanny
https://youtu.be/7o-RRK2RIQE
Doug Whaley
https://youtu.be/RF3a9p_s_sI
Jim Render (part 1)
https://youtu.be/nOIIBgOwkkc
Jim Render (part 2)
https://youtu.be/ONKuiw1TM0k
Jerry Malarkey
https://youtu.be/tJyGqy3Tdr4
Jim Leyland
https://youtu.be/aVqcF-I3X2w
Lanny Frattare
https://youtu.be/SnvisCEZ_iw
Jerry Berteotti
https://youtu.be/NZRicIWJJUM
Grant Jackson
https://youtu.be/EwxCXr15vnA
Eddie Johnston
https://youtu.be/s7uj6rqhxpw
Gene Steratore
https://youtu.be/EIw3H_EhdVk
Dr. Terry Kushner
https://youtu.be/9OKsyxmaHGU
Dr. John Rozzo
https://youtu.be/wpuY2bbBWOY
Dave Schraven
https://youtu.be/223PIpYnsg8
Danny Holzer
https://youtu.be/AtaiTuczUSA
USC Chiefs of Police Bryson and Wharton
https://youtu.be/7yivWEvSoFk
Amy Scheuneman
https://youtu.be/2cJMnp5gwyo
John Steigerwald
https://youtu.be/eQH5nkhdIAs
Kevin Orie
https://youtu.be/pzUdmiVPboE
Joe David
https://youtu.be/mWzZ8pxHRUk
Matt Serakowski and Dr. John Rozzo
https://youtu.be/2JNLZ0YG3sU
The Mascaro brothers
https://youtu.be/hG3ErlCWP5M
Pete Serio
https://youtu.be/SEL7M1Yopss
Joe DeMar
https://youtu.be/1cEnysm9ClY
Coaches round table
https://youtu.be/eMihR7JKhuk
Gordon Mathews
https://youtu.be/vW7sq5nyUhg
Amy Pfender
https://youtu.be/Y4S57ANjsZM
Sports broadcasters
https://youtu.be/QYxyx3-Q_Z4
Dr. Jack Failla
https://youtu.be/hUg3qTXKwNs
Josh Matheny
https://youtu.be/od0r6sKstY0
Pam Dillie
https://youtu.be/VhNwGVaPuwQ
Chris Gmiter
https://youtu.be/PLnIH1xbYaA
Mel Blount
https://youtu.be/6Opkgg6qMpU
Mike Junko
https://youtu.be/chZzMZ0SvzU
Pat and Nancy McDonnell
https://youtu.be/z_VyO6yPcL0
Mark Miller
https://youtu.be/Dj939uDwFVg
Ben Edwards
https://youtu.be/Dv1IrO6TNcs
Calabro Tire & Auto Service
(412) 221-4300
www.calabrotire.com
1476 Bower Hill Rd.
Family Owned Since 1941
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1 Safe refers to wet braking when tires are new and worn to 3/32”. All tires eventually wear out and should be replaced. Based on internal wet braking tests from 50 MPH using new tires and tires buffed to 3/32” in tire size 235/55R18 on a 2020 Toyota RAV4 against the Continental® CrossContact™ LX25 and the Goodyear® Assurance® WeatherReady®; and in size 215/55R17 on a 2019 Toyota Camry against the Bridgestone® Turanza™ QuietTrack™ tire and the Continental® PureContact™ LS tire; using the MICHELIN® CrossClimate®2 tire. Actual on-road results may vary. 2 Based on third-party snow traction tests using ASTM Test Method F1805-12, using tires buffed to 3/32” remaining tread depth. When compared to Standard Reference Test Tire (SRTT), in size 235/55R18 the MICHELIN® CrossClimate®2 tire scored 93 compared against the Continental® CrossContact™ LX25 tire, which scored 63, and the Goodyear® Assurance®
WeatherReady® tire, which scored 65; and when compared to SRTT, in size 215/55R17 the MICHELIN® CrossClimate®2 tire scored 90 when compared against the Bridgestone® Turanza™
QuietTrack™, which scored 62, and the Continental® PureContact™ LS, which scored 59. Actual on-road results may vary.
Copyright © 2020 Michelin North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Riley Moorhead Upper St. Clair, Freshman
Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm; Sat. 8am - noon
New Chief at Tri-Community South EMS
Tri-Community South EMS selected Chris Matek as its new EMS chief. Chris started his first day in this role last October after the retirement of past director Nora Helfrich.
Chris has been in emergency services for more than 35 years as a paramedic and firefighter. His career started in Harlem and New York City before he moved west to the Chicago Fire Department, and later to Minnesota.
“Throughout my career, I have been involved in several areas of public safety, from municipal, hospital, and Chris Matek fire-based EMS, to local and federal service with the Department of Natural Resources,” he said. “Along with teaching both EMS and fire programs, I was in Minnesota’s inaugural class of community paramedics (CP), and have been involved as a CP at the local and state level for more than a decade.”
Chris said he and his family are looking forward to getting to know Pittsburgh’s South Hills community. “People here have been very friendly and genuine. I really appreciate that,” said Chris. n
412-257-2000 dance@thomasdance.com
111 washington avenue bridgeville, pa 15017
The World Has Changed. The Risk of Colorectal Cancer Has Not.
Jennifer Harvey, Southwest Gastroenterology Associates
A colorectal cancer screening can save your life. Screenings dropped an estimated 90% with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline in testing has put thousands of people at risk for a missed diagnosis or delayed treatment for a disease that can be prevented. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and the American Cancer Society recently recommended adults without a family history of colon cancer begin screening at age 45, since young onset is prevailing. Most insurance companies now cover this recommendation.
Knowing the facts will help in prevention. On average, one in 23 men and one in 25 women are at risk for colorectal cancer over the course of their lives. It is the third most diagnosed cancer in the U.S. With a screening, early detection is achievable.
Southwest Gastroenterology Associates’ primary goal is to help patients improve their overall digestive health. Its doctors are available to handle all your GI needs, as well as preventative procedures, including colorectal cancer screenings.
To achieve better outcomes, it is important to practice early detection. Remember, tomorrow will not wait. n
The Community Foundation of Upper St. Clair kicked off 2022 with a fresh outlook, and a committed and renewed energy to perpetuate the ideals of its visionary founders. So many things have changed since 1993 when CFUSC was formed to support opportunities that were not funded by tax dollars. Areas of focus have shifted over the years along with growth in the community. Since 2019, CFUSC has been analyzing everything about the
Gordon Mathews and Gary Giallonardo organization, from its By-Laws to its logo, from paper to electronic media, and how to address the impact of so much change over time. In 2021, the Trustees conducted a legal review to bring the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws into compliance with current government regulations for charitable 501(c)(3) organizations, examined finances, the awarding of grants, and streamlining operations. The Board is now engaged in strategic planning to sustain the Foundation as we look ahead to the next 30 years. President Gordon Mathews and Trustee Gary Giallonardo recently launched a brainstorming session with the Board to highlight a vision with a future-forward focus, to recharge the mission of CFUSC and to assess the current needs of the community. While the Board is excited with this “inside out” process and ongoing strengthening of the organization, CFUSC is always here to bring engagement and enrichment to the community, and to support unique projects. Consider becoming a Volunteer or a Trustee. Applications are available at https://www.cfusc.org/trustee-application. Submit a grant application, which can be found at https://www.cfusc.org/grants. Most importantly, contact any Trustee to ask about your Community Foundation and how you can become part of the synergy. CFUSC brainstorms in a hybrid session
2022 Board of Trustees
Gordon Mathews, President - gmathews@cfusc.org Justin Schmidt, Vice president - jschmidt@cfusc.org Jennifer Dempsey, Secretary - jdempsey@cfusc.org Bruce Nelson, Treasurer - bnelson@cfusc.org Paul Fox, Communications pfox@cfusc.org Gary Giallonardo - ggiallonardo@cfusc.org Theresa Kish - tkish@cfusc.org Danielle Pirain - dpirain@cfusc.org Adina Schiffman - aschiffman@cfusc.org Ryan Scureman - rscureman@cfusc.org
Blankets Are Back and Even Better Than Before!
These ever-popular Community Foundation Panther Blankets are available again. They are still that amazing silky plush, that is washable and warm, and now they have double-sided art work. They are beyond comparison, and when the supply ran out we just had to order more to meet the demand. Blankets can be ordered through the CFUSC website. Tax is included in the purchase price and every blanket will be delivered to you personally by a smiling member of the Board of Trustees.
Cozy Up With Books
Multipurpose Room Go to https://twpusc.libcal.com/event/8597838
“A single mother’s personal, unflinching look at America’s class divide, a description of the tightrope many families walk just to get by, and a reminder of the dignity of all work.” -President Barack Obama
Know of a resident to profile? Send information to: Editor, UPPER ST. CLAIR TODAY, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 or usctoday@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
Summer Rothrock founded Leo and Lynn Jewelry in 2019, with a mission to create high quality, handmade jewelry to celebrate the magic of every day. Each piece of jewelry is designed and made in her home studio in Upper St. Clair. Her passion for casual jewelry comes from the belief that women deserve to have every day jewelry that works as hard as they do: jewelry that is lightweight, easy to wear, and made with high quality
Summer Rothrock nickel-free metals. Summer has been making jewelry since she was a child, and started her entrepreneurial journey with a friendship bracelet stand in her front yard. Her grandfather was her best customer. Family is important to Summer and her small business. Her two children and husband, Michael, often help with packaging orders, local deliveries, and pop up events. Being able to involve her family in her small business drives Summer to keep growing her business and support the dreams of fellow women-owned small businesses. Summer sources her materials from women-owned small businesses, and loves the relationships she’s built through entrepreneurship.
Summer designs jewelry that is classic with a touch of sparkle. She hand mixes and pours her resin designs and often uses glitter, glass shards, dried flowers, or gemstone chunks in her resin designs to create texture and a truly unique design.
Leo and Lynn Jewelry features classic collection designs that are available all year and limited edition seasonal collections available in small batches. The limited collections are launched regularly and often sell out quickly.
Summer wants her customers to feel like their jewelry was made by their friend—because it was! Each piece of jewelry is made with love and a commitment to celebrating the magic of your every day.
Executor Services LLC (ES) was founded to support executors and executrixes navigate the complicated and stressful environments of estates. Founder Chuck O’Neill has firsthand experience of being an executor, and that experience led him to create Executor Services, with the intent of helping executors deal with the complex and time-consuming duties that are required. The average executor will spend in excess of 600 hours administering an estate. Managing an estate requires knowledge, as well as experience dealing with estate attorneys, insurance, financial planners, banks, real estate agents, contractors, appraisers, and more.
ES’s team of professionals can dramatically reduce the overall effort required by executors to administer an estate by managing, guiding, and executing the executor’s day-to-day tasks, as well as maintain formal record keeping with efficiency and timeliness. ES’s goal is to take on the business aspects of the estate, allowing the executor to use his time to deal with the emotional and stressful situations that can occur due to the loss of a loved one. In addition to preforming tasks, ES will also provide a level of security and identity theft protections, which are essential components of today’s technological world. ES’s team of professionals offer a wide range of experiences and skills essential to addressing all the various aspects of an estate.
Paul Massimino and Brian Horner are following their 23-year dream of owning their own restaurant. This past November, their long-lasting dream became a reality when they opened All American Bistro.
A hidden gem at Pinebridge Commons in Upper St. Clair, the restaurant strives to create an old school menu with a new school twist. The bistro offers something for everyone. Want something quick for lunch? Need a new regular spot for dinner and relaxing? Need a place to host your private event? Need catering? All American Bistro can be all of that and more!
Visit www.leolynnjewelry.com for a current jewelry selection.
Located in Upper St. Clair at 37 McMurray Road, visit www.executorservices.com for more information or to book a consultation.
Call 412-319-7748 or visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AllAmericanBistroLLC.
Happenings!
Free Tax Assistance by VITA
Location: The Bible Chapel, 300 Gallery Drive, McMurray; enter door #2 Directions: Five miles south of South Hills Village on Washington Road, right at the light onto Gallery Drive, 0.4 miles to VITA site. Dates/Times: Mondays–Thursday, 8 a.m.–2 p.m., now through April 7. First come, first served; no appointments. What to bring: 2020 tax return; ID for yourself and spouse, if applicable; Social Security number(s) and birthdate(s) for yourself, spouse, and any dependents; all W-2 and 1099 tax documents (including Social Security 1099); 1095 health care statements; and property tax receipts. Both spouses must sign joint returns. Must wear a mask. Federal, state, local taxes, and property tax/rent rebate forms will be prepared. Questions? Call the IRS at 800-829-1040 or search “VITA” online at www.irs.gov. Do not contact The Bible Chapel.
Orchid Show
The Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania (OSWP) 2022 show, The Joy of Orchids, is on Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20 at The Crowne Plaza Hotel on Fort Couch Road. Admission is $5.
Visitors will be inspired by the beautifully-crafted displays of blooming orchids. Expert orchid growers will be onsite to provide information about growing orchids. The show includes orchid vendors, free educational seminars, silent auction and raffles, and a repotting table, where attendees can bring their own orchids for some expert repotting by OSWP members.
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. In the United States, colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths when men and women are combined, causing more than 50,000 deaths annually.
For Mark A. Cedar, D.O., chief of Gastroenterology at St. Clair Health, increasing awareness is tied directly to how common the disease is and the rising risk factors for younger patients.
“Thirty percent of men and 20% of women will develop adenomas or precancerous polyps in their lifetime. Because we’ve been doing colorectal screening exams for average risk patients age 50 and older for the last couple of decades, the overall deaths for men and women have been dropping. But, the overall death rate for the population under age 50 has been increasing two percent annually,” says Dr. Cedar. “And an even more glaring number that people need to know is this: the incidence of colorectal cancer for patients between the ages of 40 and 49 has increased 15% since 2002.”
Good news has arrived, as experts like Dr. Cedar continue to find more colorectal cancers in younger patients. The American Cancer Society’s newest guidelines recommend colorectal screenings beginning at age 45, and most insurance carriers began covering colonoscopies for patients age 45 and older beginning in January of this year.
Some symptoms of colorectal cancer that Dr. Cedar urges you not to ignore include: • Unexplained or unintentional weight loss • Changes in bowel habits • Blood in the stool • Bloating • Anemia
It’s important to note that younger patients may not present with the same symptoms as a patient of a more advanced age, and with younger patients, abdominal pain is one of the presenting symptoms that Dr. Cedar is keeping a close eye on. “Ranging from intermittent to severe and acute, it’s not necessarily a constant pain. One of the reasons this is important is because we’re finding more left-sided colon cancer and rectal cancer in patients under age 50. When your stool gets to the left side of your colon on its way down into the rectum, if a mass has formed then it’s going to cause a blockage or partial obstruction, so more younger patients are experiencing the resulting associated pain around their bowel movements. And this can present without weight loss or anemia that we more typically see in older patients,” he says.
While any and all symptoms should be taken very seriously and lead directly to scheduling your colonoscopy, Dr. Cedar is adamant about getting checked long before symptoms present. “Most of the patients that we find advanced, precancerous polyps in—or even colorectal cancer—have no symptoms at all,” he says.
The reasons for choosing not to put off your preventative colorectal screening exam are abundant. “The sooner that we can diagnose and find these colorectal polyps, the better,” Dr. Cedar says. “Number one: they’re less likely to turn into colon or rectal cancer. Number two: colorectal cancers are generally slow-growing to some extent, but they tend to snowball in both size and abnormal cell growth, so it’s best to find them before they have that opportunity. Number three: if I find precancerous polyps—and even some small colorectal cancers—during your exam, then I am often able to remove them endoscopically during your colonoscopy,” Dr. Cedar says.
Achieving that kind of positive outcome is an obvious benefit for concerned pa tients. And urging you to be proactive about preventative screening stems from how big of a difference even six months can mean when it comes to your treatment options and their respective outcomes. “Many patients have decided to defer their preventative screening exams during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we’re seeing the consequences of advanced polyps and cancers that we would likely have been able to resect,” says Dr. Cedar. “I can’t emphasize strongly enough how important it is to remain aggressive with listening to your body for any new symptoms, as well as following the recommended preventative screening guidelines during these challenging times.”
“Better results upfront generally equate to less invasive treatment needed down the road. Coming in on time may even reduce your need for chemotherapy and radiation. When a mass is smaller and less advanced, it also gives our surgeons a better chance of removing it laparoscopically instead of requiring an open surgery—meaning a smaller incision, faster recovery, lower morbidity, and a lower chance of death.” n
Sleuths Wanted!
Mark A. Cedar, D.O.
For more information or to schedule your annual colonoscopy with Dr. Cedar, call 412-232-8104. See ads for St. Clair Health on pages 3 and 47.
Sleuths are needed to help solve the mystery of Upper St. Clair Township’s flag. What started as a simple question about how the flag came to be has turned into a quest to discover its origin.
If you can help answer the question and have any knowledge to share, contact Rachel Carlson, president of the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair, at president@hsusc.org. n
USC Township flag
Spring 2022
Advanced Surgical Hospital ......................................................................7 Affordable Decks & Additions ................................................................. 65 * Angelo Associates .................................................................................. 64 Arbor Tree Specialists, Inc. ...................................................................... 64 Ardolino’s ..................................................................................................9 * Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty, Rt. 19 South .. 2 * Brookside Lumber .................................................................................. 69
Burn Bootcamp–McMurray .......................................................................9 * Calabro Tire & Auto Service .................................................................... 79 * Coldwell Banker Realty–Lynn Dempsey ................................................. 67 * Coldwell Banker Realty–South Hills Office ....................Outside back cover * Cupelli & Cupelli, Drs. ............................................................................ 39 Davey Tree and Lawn Care ...................................................................... 67 * Extended Day Services ........................................................................... 77 Fitness Fanatics ...................................................................................... 14
Friendship Village of South Hills ..............................................................7 Generator Supercenter of Pittsburgh ..................................................... 64 * Howard Hanna–Diane Horvath .................................................................9 * Howard Hanna–USC Office .............................................Inside front cover J&A South Park, LLC Heating-Cooling-Plumbing-Electric ....................... 69 * Keller Williams–Sandy and Marshall Goldstein ..................................... 20 * Kerr Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ....................................................... 25 Lewis Music Studio ................................................................................ 14
Louis Anthony Jewelers ......................................................................... 12 * Manalo, Larry E., DMD ........................................................................... 25 McQueen Building Co. ............................................ Front cover, 10, 11, 68 Mister Sewer .......................................................................................... 66 Mt. Lebanon Awning .............................................................................. 65 * Mt. Lebanon Recreation Center ............................................................. 77 * Pinebridge Commons Associates ........................................................... 25 Pittsburgh Opera .................................................................................... 15 Porchlight Home Staging ...................................................................... 68 * Providence Point, a Baptist Homes Society community ......................... 75 * Rusmur Floors ................................................................. Inside back cover * St. Clair Health ....................................................................................3, 47 Schultz Builders Landscaping and Construction .................................... 65 * Scott Bros. Windows and Doors ............................................................. 67 * Sesame Inn ............................................................................................ 15
South Hills Endoscopy Center ...................................................................1 Southwest Gastroenterology Associates ...................................................5 * State Farm Insurance–Cindy Brophy ...................................................... 69 * Thomas Dance Studio ............................................................................ 79 * Troy Orthodontics ................................................................................... 25 * Washington Health System ................................................................... 19 * Wellington Real Estate–Patty Thomas & Rebecca Lutz ........................... 17 Welter, Julie, Realtor® ............................................................................ 19
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