in-hampton

WINTER 2012 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Christmas hartwood

Acres Mansion

• Tavern Night at Depreciation Lands Museum• Santa Watch in Hampton Township• Health and Wellness Special Section

at

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S TA F F

Spring content deadline: 2/26/13

Have you or someone in your family ever experienced a miracle in your life?

A check arrives from an unexpected source, just as the house was about to be foreclosed upon? Someone was healed, despite all odds and predictions? Or maybe you were reunited with someone by circumstances that were far too phenomenal to be called coincidence...

If you have, we would love to hear your story and so would your friends and neighbors. Because at the end of the day, we could all use a little hope and encouragement. Miracles really do happen all the time!

Please mail your story to: IN Community MagazinesAttn. Pamela603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317

or you can email them to Pamela at:[email protected].

Photos are welcomed with submissions, but not required.

Miracles Happen Everyday...

At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking the journey with us that was 2012.

And while we’ve endured extremes of nature via the summer heat waves and Hurricane Sandy, as well as the onslaught of a presidential election that ate up any time available between our favorite shows, we still have much to be thankful for.

IN Community Magazines continues to grow, and for that we thank you, our readers and our advertisers.

Our readers help shape these magazines. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents.

We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at: [email protected].

I wish to thank our advertisers for your continued support of IN Community Magazines. By advertising with us, you are supporting your community by underwriting the cost of the editorial content that those who read these magazines enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed.

In this last issue before 2013, I urge our readers to support the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors.

I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2013 has to offer!

Enjoy your winter with the ones you love,Wayne Dollard, Publisher

2 724.942.0940 to advertise Hampton

Industry InsIghts

Splash Lagoon .................................. | 5

Positive StepsIt’s All about the Children .......................... | 19

State Farm .......................................... | 36

Vein Institute ..................................... | 44

busIness spotlIghts

Supercuts ........................................... | 8

European Wax Center ..................... | 14452143

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IN Hampton is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Hampton area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

IN Hampton | WINTER 2012 |

learn more on page 43

Cover photo by Kathy Rudolph

We Want to Cover You! Do you have an event coming up that you’d like to publicize? Do you have an event that you want us to cover? Let us know! • Go to www.incommunitymagazines.com/events and fill out the form. Events will be announced in the upcoming issue. If our deadlines don’t match yours, we may decide to send our photographers to cover the event for an upcoming issue. • We’re looking for fundraisers, charity drives, social functions, class reunions, church festivals, awards presentations and more! If you’re not sure you have an event worth featuring, give us a call at 724.942.0940 and we’ll help you out!

on the cover | A portrait of William Flinn, father of Mary Flinn Lawrence of Hartwood Mansion, hangs in the dining room amid the warmth of holiday decorations. See story on page 6.

INSIDE

communIty Interests

Deck the HallsDocents and Staff Decorate Hartwood Acres Mansion for the Holidays ......... | 6

Tavern Night at Depreciation Lands Museum ........................ | 10

Fall Festival Celebrates 18th Century Welsh Settlers ........... | 12

2012 Family House Polo Match .......................................................... | 15

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News ............................................ | 21

Santa Watch in Hampton Township .................................................. | 48

Features

Health and Wellness Special Section ............................................. | 32

Local Girl Scout Goes for the Gold ................................................ | 43

The Options Band Rocks for Teens with Autism ...................... | 45

Hampton | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

Top photo:Back row, left to right: Remy Prem and Emily Mehle with Central Elementary Dance Club.Bottom photo: Remy Prem at the 100 years of Girl Scouts Gold Award Luncheon at the Omi William Penn Hotel.

Starting an afterschool Dance Club at Central Elementary as her Gold Award Project for Girl Scouting seemed like a natural fit for 10th grader and 10-year Girl Scout Remy Prem.

“I’ve always loved to dance and have taken lessons for 12 years. I like working with children, so this seemed like the perfect opportunity to combine both,” she explains.

The Girl Scouts Gold Award is equivalent to the Boy Scouts Eagle Award in that it is the highest award that scouts can achieve.

“My goal was to facilitate a lifelong love of dance, promote an easy and fun way for children to stay fit, and encourage new friendships,” says Prem.

To her, obtaining the Gold Award seemed like a natural progression after earning her Bronze and Silver Awards. The project took approximately one year from start to finish and totaled about 140 hours of community service which included approval from the Girl Scouts Gold Award Committee and Central

Elementary School. Prem opened the Dance Club for first

through third graders for a 12-week period after school on Tuesdays from January through April, 2012. Jazz and ballet were taught to approximately 13 eager students with the help of assistant Emily Mehle. Clad in pink tutus, they performed two dances at a recital at Elmcroft Senior Center that brought joy and delight to many of the residents.

“Any time you want to come back, just let me know. The seniors really enjoyed it,” enthused Elmcroft’s activity director, Kathy McCarthy. Dance mom Jennifer Beyer added, “My daughter Julia really enjoyed herself and Remy did a wonderful job teaching the dance class! She was so patient and kind with the girls and I hope she does it again next year.”

Gold Award Project Advisor Dr. Amy Kern concluded, “Remy exceeded my expectations regarding her project. She was organized, dependable, and reliable. I know the girls really enjoyed her lessons and were excited about their final performance.”

The Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania celebrated the national organization’s 100th anniversary with a weekend of activities scheduled throughout downtown Pittsburgh, and Prem was one of a select group of Gold Award recipients invited to attend an honorary luncheon at the Omni William Penn Hotel on August 19. The luncheon concluded with the creation of a digital time capsule with award recipients noting their wishes for the future.

“My wish for the next 100 years of Girl Scouting is for everyone to be treated with kindness,” proclaims Prem.

Girl Scout Remy Prem Earns Girl Scouts Top Honor


INdustry Insight


Mary Flinn Lawrence (1887-1974) was a well-rounded philanthropist in all aspects of society, from the social to

the political, including her charitable work for the Home for Crippled Children, being a member of the Pennsylvania Woman Suffrage Association and volunteering for many other organizations. Most would agree that she would be pleased with the docents and staff who take great care decorating her former home, Hartwood Acres Mansion, for the holiday season.

Each year the holiday theme for each room is changed to keep things interesting for visitors who make it an annual holiday tradition to tour the mansion. Although the themes change, the decorators try to remain authentic to the time period that the Lawrence family lived in the mansion – 1929 to the1960s.

Barb Lamendola has been a Hartwood Acres Mansion decorator for approximately four years.

“We couldn’t do all that we do here without the help of the docents,” said Lamendola. “This was the first year that I decorated the Great Hall, and Erica Schnur, who is such a dedicated docent, helped me with the installation of the tree which took an entire day.”

Lamendola’s theme was “Christmas at Hartwood.” She also decorated Mrs. Lawrence’s bedroom this year.

“This year I had a deal with my daughter, Lauren,” said Lamendola, laughing. “I would decorate her wedding, which had a vintage theme, as long as I could take all of her decorations from the wedding to use in the Great Hall. We purchase some new decorations but reuse the decorations over and over, so I

am always looking for free things to use.” Donna Lee Hanna, staff member, and Sandy

Biles, docent, were responsible for decorating the Butler’s Pantry using a New Year’s Eve theme. They have worked as a decorating team for five years.

“Our favorite thing to do was the research,” said Hanna. “We wanted to know what a New

Year’s Eve celebration would be like in 1932 when the couple first moved into the mansion, before they had their boys and before Mr. Lawrence went off to the Second World War. We tried

to find foods that would be served at an English dinner, because the family had practiced so many English traditions here, and what music would be played for the dance.”

Carol Vivaldi has been a docent at the mansion for 16 years. She was responsible for decorating Mrs. Lawrence’s Morning Room and supplied many of the decorations, including a stunning Edwardian tea gown.

“I really enjoy doing the staging,” said Vivaldi. “If you have something at home that can help complete the theme, you bring it with you. The room that I enjoyed decorating the most was Mrs. Lawrence’s bedroom last year. I used roses, her favorite flower, and decorated the whole Christmas tree with them.”

Vivaldi was joined by her daughter, Renae Breskovich, who is also a docent and who decorated Mrs. Lawrence’s bathroom.

“Having enthusiasm and wanting to share that enthusiasm and get someone else excited is why I enjoy being a docent at Hartwood,” said Breskovich. “I recently led a group of Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops through the mansion and it was fun to get them interested in what it would take to build something like this.”

Docents and Staff

of Hartwood Acres Mansion“Deck Halls”

1. Barb Lamendola decorating the tree in the Great Hall

2. Carol Vivaldi, docent, decorated decorated Mrs. Lawrence’s morning room

3. Marliyn Lanz made the festive kissing ball4. Renae Breskovich, docent, decorated

Mrs. Lawrence’s bathroom5. Donna Lee Hanna and Sandy Biles, docent,

decorated the Butler’s Pantry

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Story and photos by

Kathy Rudolph


Hartwood Acres Mansion accepts donations of new and gently used beading, florals,

fabric and beautiful decorations. To learn more about how you can help or for more

information, visit the website at www.alleghenycounty.us/parks/hwfac.aspx.

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Cutting hair isn’t just a business for Supercuts

stylists, it’s also a way to give back to the customers they love and the community they call home.

Guests know that they can always count on superb service and a welcome smile when they visit the Hampton area Supercuts salon. Our expertly trained stylists offer a multitude of services including haircuts, waxing, blow-outs,

color and more.

As the owner of the Supercuts franchise in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Laurel Slaughter-Odelein has not only added over 350 jobs to the region through her stores, but she and her employees have also been supporting local schools,

sports teams, civil services and charities in those communities for more than 20 years.

“We support the communities we serve,” Slaughter-Odelein said. “Giving back is important to us because the communities have given us so much.”

Supercuts also invests in its employees

through extensive training programs and prides itself on hiring aspiring stylists graduating from local trade schools. “Pittsburgh is filled with talented people and we are thrilled to be able to hire vibrant employees, many of whom have recently graduated and are entering the work force for the first time,” Slaughter-Odelein said.

Supercuts hires only licensed stylists and mandates extensive education with two weeks of in-store training before stylists are sent to Supercuts’ own Hair Stylist Academy. Stylists attend an advanced training course conducted by the Supercuts Certified Trainer/Artistic Director. New stylists must pass the five-day, 40-hour course before they are able to actively work on the floor of the salon. After mastering this level, stylists will continue to undergo regular training to enable them to keep up with the latest styles and trends.

“We take what they’ve learned at school, provide additional and ongoing education, and look to retain these employees for many years,” Slaughter-Odelein said. This strategy is apparently working

because Supercuts was just rated one of the top places to work in 2012 by a Pittsburgh Post- Gazette survey.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a great place to work,” Slaughter-Odelein said. “Our employees are happy and that attitude is passed on to our guests. We not only offer a superior salon experience at an affordable price, but our locations are full of people who love and take pride in what they do and the community they serve.”

If you haven’t already experienced the full services Supercuts offers, please visit us soon. Supercuts has 30 Pittsburgh area locations; the nearest one to Hampton is located at 1736 William Flynn Highway, and is open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information on all of Supercuts locations and services visit www.supercuts.com , or to call ahead for faster service, call 412.487.5955. Walk-ins are always welcome!

serving you and your community

Shaler Stylists Mary Beth, Cathy, Samantha, Becky and Karly are ready to help you with your new look today.


We Want to KnoW:

How did you meet your spouse?

IT ALL STARTED WITH A BLIND DATE ON NEW YEAR’S EVE IN 1960. ED AND I WENT

TO A PARTY IN BEECHVIEW, ALONG WITH ANOTHER COuPLE WHO INTRODuCED uS. That fateful

night, Mother Nature emptied 10 inches

of snow on the area making the roads impassable. We were stranded!

Since we were unable to return

home, Ed took me to

his grandmother’s house who lived nearby. I arrived home the next morning on New Year’s Day at 10 a.m.

We were married a short 10 months later on November 17, 1966. We will celebrate our 51st anniversary this year. We have a wonderful daughter, Delores who is 49 and a son, Eric, who is 47.

We have had our ups and downs like everyone, but we are more in love than ever and pray that God will give us a few more good years together.

Sometimes a little snow can be a good thing.

Virginia Eighmy, married to Ed

Current issues of this magazine are also available online.

www.i

ncom

munit

ymag

azine

s.com


By Kathy Rudolph

Taverns were necessary in 18th century life, being the only available public meeting places or respite for hungry and tired

travelers. Libations, food and entertainment, and even political debates, greeted the residents or visitors.

Recently, Depreciation Lands Museum volunteers hosted 75 guests so they could experience this part of history. “Tavern Night” was held on one of those perfect end-of-summer evenings. It included outdoor seating among the trees and historical buildings of the museum with the musical backdrop of the talented Wayward Companions.

Eighteenth century reenactors served guests mugs of ale, authentic drinks including “Apple Pie,” which is made using moonshine, apple juice and cinnamon, or a “Shrub,” which is created with rum, local fruit juices and apple cider vinegar.

After the libations, guests easily imagined

themselves as hungry travelers and enjoyed a delicious tavern meal of roasted pork, chicken casserole, potato soup, Colonial style turnips, bean casserole, pies, gingerbread and oven baked pretzels.

Dancing, playing games and an opportunity to purchase a mug from ceramic artist Michael Flaherty were other activities. Guests could shop in the newly remodeled Talley Cavey Mercantile or just explore the museum. A working blacksmith shop, the Pine Creek Covenanter Church (built in 1837), and the Armstrong log house (built in 1803) were just some of the features. A replica school from 1885 and a wagon house that includes a Conestoga wagon are also located on the grounds.

Some of the proceeds will go toward the renovation of an annex building that is currently being made into a tavern with a

working kitchen. The museum is raffling off a painting titled “Washington at the Point -1753,”

by John Buxton, who is a well-known artist from Hampton specializing in historical 18th century paintings, as another way to raise funds. The drawing will be held November 22, 2013, the 260th anniversary of the event.

Daniel Connolly is president of the board of the Depreciation Lands Museum. He thanked everyone for supporting the all-volunteer, nonprofit museum that preserves local history.

“Our big goal for this year is to complete the tavern,” said Connolly. “Hopefully we will be able to do events like this

more than once a year. unfortunately, we were sold out and had to turn away around 40 people. It is hard to handle a crowd that is larger than this with the facilities that we have now, but once the commercial kitchen and the tavern are completed we will be able do it.”

To learn more about the raffle, upcoming events or other information, visit the museum’s website at www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/.

Allowing Guests to Travel Back in Time

“Tavern Night”

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1. Becky White 2. Nevin White 3. Marshall Truax 4. Daniel Connolly, president of the board of the Depreciation Museum 5. Mike Kijowski and Kristen Rilander 6. The Scheboth Family 7. Betsy Gahagan 8. Wayward Companions 9. Robbie Siebert1. 10. Bonnie Varley 11. Wayward Companions 12. Michael Flaherty with his pottery 13. Ken Gahagan and Kent Maier 14. Ron Benesh and Keith Parsons 15. Scott Vilsak and Curtis Scheboth

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For more pictures from this event, go to our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ICMagsWant us to cover your event? Let us know @ICMagazines


The Hydref Fall Festival included demonstrations of apples crushed in a cider press, wool dyed the natural hue of berries, and flowers and plants over a fire. Children were kept busy painting pumpkins and participating in a cake-walk contest. These are just some examples of the historical fun at the autumn festival hosted by the Depreciation Lands Museum.

Named Hydref, meaning “autumn” in Welsh, the festival serves as a tribute to some of the area’s early Welsh settlers. Costumed 18th century re-enactors provided guests with a glimpse into authentic, early-American life including living in a cabin, attending school, metalworking, weaving and much more. Music, food and vendors selling authentic wares – from clothing to crafts and jewelry – provided something for everyone’s interest.

Established in 1973, the Depreciation Lands Museum is just steps away from William Flynn Highway on South Pioneer Road and is a special place for families and history buffs to visit. According to the website, the museum “seeks to preserve and interpret the early years of European settlement in the Depreciation Lands.” The Depreciation Lands were the lands Pennsylvania set aside to pay American Revolution soldiers in 1783 since the dollar depreciated during the war. It includes land in parts of Butler, Beaver and Armstrong counties.

To learn more about the museum, please visit the website at www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org.

Fall Festival Celebrates 18th Century Welsh Settlers

This Page: 1. Keith Parsons 2. Abbie Minard and Robbie Siebert 3. Kelly Parsons 4. Susan Claus with kids 5. Marilyn Merbach of Rabbit Tree Farm 6. Cathy Cormack 7.Laura Kazimir and daughter, Sophie Jamrom 8. Tim Parsons 9. Tatum and her great-grandfather, Marshall Truax, and Laura Kazimir

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Current issues of this

magazine are also

available online.

www.incommunitymagazines.com


Business Spotlight


By Matthew J. Fascetti

The 29th Family House Polo Match was certainly one to be remembered. The day started ominously with several bursts of rain showers that put the whole day in jeopardy. However, the

event is held rain or shine, so guests, sponsors, advocates and friends banded together until the rain cleared for an enjoyable day.

Since 1983, Family House has provided an affordable “home away from home” for patients and their families seeking medical treatment for serious or life-threatening illnesses in Pittsburgh. The polo match is a major fundraiser for the organization, allowing the nonprofit to continue its important work.

This year’s event included many new activities for guests to enjoy, in addition to the exhibition polo match that is always held.

One of the newest components of the event was a silent auction tent. A large display of silent auction items drew large crowds of bidders. With over 106 items, the guests set a new high for a Family House auction at over $27,000 in funds raised. Drawing the highest bids were a one-week stay in a luxurious vacation home in the Outer Banks, a two-night stay at the Four Seasons Troon North Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz. (including airfare), and a one-week stay in a luxury home on Beaver Creek Mountain in Colorado.

Other firsts for the Family House Polo Match were new restaurants showcasing some delicious and unique food in the brunch tent. Offering unique menus were Meat and Potatoes, Bonnie and Clydes, Mediterrano and Club Marco. Each provided delectable

brunch food, from eggs Benedict to roasted red pepper and chicken farfalle, assorted breakfast pastries, lasagna and meatballs, and chocolate and hazelnut stuffed crepes.

Due to the weather and field conditions, the Virginia International Polo Club and Potomac Polo Club demonstrated polo plays rather than playing a complete match. The crowd

enjoyed this special exhibition and was still able to root for their favorite team. The time-honored running of the hounds, featuring the Saxonburg Hounds, and the traditional stomping of the divots were

enjoyed by all. Another first this year was the Pittsburgh Pirates

Pierogies Race prior to the match. Competing on stick horses, Jalapeno Hannah, Sauerkraut Saul and Oliver Onion were delivered to the field by the new compressed natural gas-fueled Family House shuttle. The shuttle made its debut at the event and is the result

of a generous grant from the EQT Foundation.The 2012 Family House Polo Match was rounded

out with two featured boutique partners, Larrimor’s, with displays of the newest Barbour line of outerwear, and Asbury

Hats. With each passing hour, the clouds lessened and the day turned into a wonderful celebration of friends and family, and ultimately a day that makes a difference. While fun was had by all, it really is the cause that can’t be forgotten.

2012 FAMILY HOUSE

a great success!POLO MATCH


Family House has four locations within close proximity of most Pittsburgh hospitals as well as grocery stores and restaurants. Each house is loaded with all the comforts of home, including television lounges, large communal kitchens, on-site laundry facilities, 24-hour security and much more.

If you are interested in donating, volunteering or booking a room at Family House, please visit www.familyhouse.org.


18 Hampton

Imagine living in a world where you cannot understand what is going on around you and you are unable to communicate your feelings of anxiousness and confusion. Many children who have been diagnosed

with Autism or other sensory processing disorders can feel this way to some degree. Let’s think about all the changes we make during the holiday season: decorations (lights, tree, etc.)shopping, cooking, family visits, and our many other family traditions. Many of these things can become overwhelming for a child with sensory integration problems, as they may not be able to communicate about or understand what is happening around them. If we think ahead and plan our days better, we may be able to keep our children calm and enjoy this holiday season.

Christmas is a very busy time of year with lists of things to do that never seems to end. This year let’s stop, take a breath, and think about the children. Here are some simple ways to help our sensory children feel less anxious during the holidays:

• Make a chart – this can include all of the changes that are going to happen such as putting up decorations, making cookies, family arrivals, etc. You can use words or a picture depending upon what is best for your child

• Make sure the children are involved – when it is time to hang up the decorations, let them have some control over where items are hung. This can help ease them into their new surroundings. Let them help you make some cookies so they can feel helpful, or while shopping, let them handle the list as this is the most important part

• Structured Play – many of the school aged children will have a long break during this holiday vacation. You can set aside specific times during the day to have some table time and make some crafts, do some drawings, make Christmas lists, etc. This will help the child still have the structure in their routine they are used to having

• Sensory Breaks – if you child is used to having those “sensory Breaks” make sure to take the time to implement them during busy days with family all around. For example, you can have the child pass out all of the presents, carrying them and running back and forth. This is a great opportunity to allow them to have a break while still interacting with family.

• What is Christmas – this is often a forgotten topic during the busy holiday seasons. Talk to your child and teach them what Christmas is about, so they can understand why all the changes are happening and why there is a tree in their home. (If a tree is too overwhelming for your child it is always an option to place the tree in a different room of the house the child may not be in often).

Now in addition to our children with sensory processing disorders, let’s also consider our children who might be dealing with something different for them over the holidays such as a recent surgery, a

broken bone, or a hospital stay. Every effort should be made to include these children in holiday activities and encourage their independence and participation as well. It is often noted that a child who might have to be immobilized due to a broken bone can become a bit overwhelmed and maybe even slightly depressed as they cannot participate in their daily

activities and their traditions during the holiday season. It is important to encourage the same family outings using

various adaptations and encouraging movement which has been cleared by their physician. Just because a child may be non-weight bearing on their leg, does not mean they cannot get out and participate in the tree finding and cutting. It is important to plan ahead and allow children who have injuries to still be active by adapting the activity and modifying their participation. You can always talk to your child’s physician or physical therapist on ways to modify activities for optimal success and participation.

Every child is a diverse individual and may react to situations in different ways. It is important to think about what issues your child may have and understand ways to encourage participation and limit frustrations during the Holiday season, as this will be better for the child and the family.

Cheryl L. Haibach, PT, PCS

It’s All Children

About The

INdustry Insight


A Great Day for a Turkey Trot!A run around the lake at North Park with a few hundred of

your closest friends is always a good time. But when you add perfect running weather, a great cause, plus food and

drink, it becomes a super fun time!This year’s STICK WITH IT FITNESS Before-You-Eat-

A-Lot Turkey Trot benefiting Autism Speaks was just that. On Thanksgiving morning, racers of all ages started lining up at 8:00am at North Park’s Rose Barn for check in, coffee and bagels and to score their commemorative long-sleeve tee shirts.

Once the race organizers had the road marshals in place, and remembered to set up the race clock and snap the traditional group photo, the trotters were off! The Top Male Finisher, Will Loevner and Top Female Finisher, Paige Suvick crossed the finish line, 4.4 miles later, to the applause of enthusiastic cheerleaders.

As more racers finished, the crowd gathered for refreshments outside on the lawn…and some 3 hours later, many were still there.

Just as it has in previous years, the 12th Annual SWIF Turkey Trot was run for fun and charity, raising over $8,000 for the Pittsburgh Chapter of Autism Speaks. Event Coordinator, Sue Seiff said it was mainly due to the generosity of the event’s co-sponsors, who provided both monetary and in-kind support. “We raised 60% more than last year with the same amount of runners, thanks to the many businesses that came through for us.” Seiff said.

Seiff added, “This year, Dave Higginbotham Photography has posted more than 180 Turkey Trot photos on the STICK WITH IT FITNESS facebook page…be sure to check them out.”

Albert Eiler and his staff at SWIF want to thank the trotters for participating, the volunteers who helped out, and co-sponsors for their generosity!

The 13th Annual Turkey Trot will be November 28, 2013. Mark your calendars!


UPMC TODAYHealth and Wellness News You Can Use | Winter 2012-13

What’s Inside2 A Cut Above the Rest

3 Absent From Pain

4 Butt Out: New Reasons to Quit Smoking

Brittle Bones

5 Shedding More Than Pounds

6 Growing Up With Heart Disease

7 Welcoming New Physicians

What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

Stay Well This WinterSome people seem to sail through winter without a sniffle or a grumble. These simple steps may help you do the same: Spend some time in the fresh air, de-stress your holiday planning, wash your hands often, get plenty of sleep, and get a flu shot.

© 2012 UPMC

UPMC Today_Passavant_Winter_2012_Final.indd 1 10/19/12 3:35 PM

2 UPMC.com/Today

It was a typical summer day last August for Lauren Silver. But by nightfall, she began experiencing severe back pain. “It was so sharp, I decided to go to the emergency room,” says the 24-year-old tax accountant from Cranberry. “I was shocked to learn I had gallstones, because I never had any symptoms.”

A few weeks later, Lauren’s gallbladder was removed by M. Lance Weaver, MD, a general surgeon at UPMC Passavant specializing in robotic single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery. Dr. Weaver and his associates at Northern Area Surgical Associates–UPMC — James Valuska, MD, and Thomas Lheureau, MD — are among approximately 100 surgeons nationwide trained in this cutting-edge procedure.

From four incisions to one

To remove Lauren’s gallbladder, Dr. Weaver inserted the surgical instruments and a small camera into her abdomen through a single incision. Sitting at a special console that displays high-definition images, Dr. Weaver used controls to move the surgical instruments.

His hand, wrist, and finger movements were translated into precise, real-time surgical movements.

“This is technically a more difficult operation for the surgeon because instead of making four small incisions, we use only a single incision at the belly button where all the instruments are placed,” explains Dr. Weaver. “But the benefits are absolutely worth it.”

Dr. Weaver especially praises the greater visualization this procedure offers the surgeon. “It allows us to see in 3D — a kind of depth perception you don’t get in traditional laparoscopic surgery. It also enables us to be more precise, because the robot eliminates any trace of a hand movement.”

A better patient experience

Even more important are the benefits for patients. “Because we’re only making one small incision, patients typically have less pain, recover faster, and experience minimal scarring,” says Dr. Weaver.

Lauren’s surgery was completed in under an hour. She went home the same day and was ready to return to work a week later. “I’d highly recommend robotic surgery and felt fortunate that the new procedure was available,” she says. “In just a few days, I was back to living my life like it never happened.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Weaver or one of his associates at Northern Area Surgical Associates–UPMC, 9930 Grubbs Rd., Ste. 100, Wexford, call 866-633-1075.

A Cut Above the RestUPMC Passavant’s new single-incision robotic gallbladder surgery can offer patients faster recovery, less pain, and minimal scarring.

About GallstonesThey can be present for years, without any pain symptoms. Like Lauren, most of the 1.2 million Americans who had their gallbladder removed last year never knew they had gallstones.

Gallstones are hard deposits that can be as small as grains of sand or as large as golf balls. They form in the gallbladder, a small sac-like organ under the liver on the right side of the abdomen. Its job is to store the bile made by the liver, which helps the body digest fats.

Attacks often occur at night, and can last one to four hours. “Pain typically occurs in the right upper or middle upper belly, and can extend to the back and shoulders,” says Dr. Weaver. “If the pain is severe or accompanied by fever or chills, you should seek immediate medical care.”


1-800-533-UPMC 3

Anesthesia makes possible some of modern medicine’s greatest miracles. Can you imagine undergoing surgery without it?

The father of Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes is generally credited with bringing the term into popular use in 1846, though references to anesthesia can be traced back to 1741. The term is based on a Greek word meaning “lack of sensation.”

“Anesthesiology uses medicine to eliminate your ability to feel pain or other sensations,” explains John Williams, MD, the Peter and Eva Safar Professor and chair of the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Anesthesiology. “Your anesthesiol-ogist partners with your surgeon to manage your vital functions before, during, and after surgery. Everything from breathing, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, body temperature, blood clotting, and fluid loss is consistently monitored.”

A team of professionals

Anesthesiologists are physicians who complete four years of residency after finishing medical school. Their extensive preparation includes training in cardiology, critical care medicine,

internal medicine, pharmacology, and surgery. Many also pursue subspecialty training in such areas as pain medicine, and pediatric, cardiothoracic, or obstetric anesthesia.

In today’s complex surgical suites, anesthesiologists lead an entire team of skilled professionals, which can include a certified registered nurse anesthetist, resident physician, student nurse anesthetist, and anesthetist assistant. “It’s a true team effort, with each member playing a distinct role in delivering patient care,” says Dr. Williams.

Anesthesia’s role in health care extends far beyond the operating room. Anesthesiologists offer pain management in a variety of settings, enhancing the daily lives of patients with chronic diseases or complex medical conditions.

Getting to know you

For minor operations, you’ll typically meet your anesthesiologist at the hospital, shortly before surgery. For major surgeries, you will be asked to participate in a pre-surgery consultation. “With patients who live at a distance, we’re now using telemedicine to conduct pre-op visits,” says Dr. Williams. “It allows us to get to know you, address your questions and concerns, review options, and determine if any additional tests or consultations are needed.”

What to tell your anesthesiologist

Prior to surgery, you’ll be asked to provide information about yourself. “Be candid and comprehensive. What you share will be held in strict confidence,” advises Dr. Williams.

Be sure to include the following: • Previous reactions you or other family members have had to anesthesia • Any food, medicine, or latex allergies you have • Prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you take • Your use of alcohol or recreational drugs

Absent From PainMost of us think of anesthesiology as the medical specialty that “puts you to sleep,” but it’s really all about pain relief.

Did You Know?There are four basic categories of anesthesia:

Local: Numbs a small, specific part of your body

Regional: Numbs a larger area of your body, usually below the waist

Twilight: Sedates and provides pain relief

General: Renders you unconscious


1-800-533-UPMC 5

It’s well known that bariatric surgery can produce impressive weight loss. But there’s increasing evidence that it offers other health benefits, too. For example, a recent Swedish study showed weight-loss surgery can prevent diabetes among individuals who struggle with obesity.

That news came as no surprise to Anita Courcoulas, MD, professor of surgery and chief of the Section of Minimally Invasive Bariatric and General Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “It’s another study demonstrating the lasting impact of bariatric surgery on health improvement,” says Dr. Courcoulas. “The changes are real and durable.”

A life-altering surgery

According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, an estimated 72 million Americans are considered obese and nearly 200,000 undergo bariatric surgery annually.

UPMC is a leader nationally in bariatric surgery and in the number of bariatric procedures performed annually.

Dr. Courcoulas says bariatric surgery (including gastric bypass, gastric band, and gastric sleeve) can help reverse a variety of serious obesity-related health conditions, such as:

• Diabetes • High blood pressure • Sleep apnea • Heart disease • High cholesterol

Is bariatric surgery right for you?

Current national guidelines recommend bariatric surgery for patients who are 80 to 100 pounds overweight and with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40, or a BMI of 35 or more for those with one or more significant obesity-related health conditions.

Those guidelines may change, though. For example, at UPMC — one of the most highly funded centers of bariatric research in the country — Dr. Courcoulas is heading a study examining the impact of bariatric surgery on diabetic patients with lower BMIs (30–35).

She predicts more and more patients will seek out bariatric surgery for health reasons — not just weight reasons. “We’re just beginning to understand its full potential,” she says.

Shedding More Than PoundsBariatric surgery helps free patients from a range of life-threatening health problems.

Bariatric Surgery Centers at UPMCEach of UPMC’s four bariatric surgery centers has been named a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Our multidisciplinary approach to weight loss through both surgery and lifestyle changes is available at:

UPMC Hamot: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, and gastric sleeve. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Amjad Ali, MD, or Rodolfo Arreola, MD, call 814-877-6997.

UPMC Horizon: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Christopher Myers, MD, call 724-588-6660.

UPMC St. Margaret: Pittsburgh Bariatrics offers gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Joseph Colella, MD, or LeeAnn Peluso, MD, call 412-784-5900.

Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, revisional surgery, and clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Anita Courcoulas, MD, director, Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery; George Eid, MD; Giselle Hamad, MD; Carol McCloskey, MD; or Ramesh Ramanathan, MD, call 412-641-3632.

Each center offers free monthly information sessions. To learn more about bariatric surgery, or to find out if you’re a candidate, visit UPMC.com/bariatricsurgery.


4 UPMC.com/Today

Butt Out Despite dire health warnings, one out of five Americans still smokes. If you’re one of them, here are some new reasons to crush that butt.Before you light up your next cigarette, consider this: With every puff, you’re inhaling more than 7,000 chemicals.

Hundreds of them are poisonous, and about 70 can cause cancer. And no organ or tissue in the body is immune to this toxic cloud.

Most people know that cancer, heart disease, and lung disease are major health threats caused by smoking. But are you aware that smoking increases your risk of getting diabetes by 44 percent?

That’s just one of the not-so-obvious reasons to put that butt out. Here are five more.

1. See the difference. If you smoke, your risk of age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, doubles. Smokers also have double the risk of developing cataracts.

2. Heal better. Smoking weakens the body’s ability to heal from surgery, disease, broken bones, and even minor back strains.

3. Now hear this. Smokers are more likely to develop a hearing loss. Exposure to secondhand smoke also puts former smokers and nonsmokers at risk.

4. Stand tall. Smoking weakens bones and raises the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures in men and women.

5. Keep your head. If your mind is cloudy, smoking may be the culprit. It’s been linked to memory problems and poor reasoning skills in middle-aged smokers.

You’re not just hurting yourself

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that secondhand smoke kills about 50,000 people every year and sickens many more. Children who live with a smoker are especially susceptible to lung and breathing problems, and they run an increased risk of hearing loss as adolescents.

If you’re among the eight out of 10 smokers who want to quit, talk to your primary care doctor. To locate a doctor in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call toll-free 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Sources: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Journal of the American Medical Association.

Brittle Bones Osteoporosis is quickly becoming a national health care concern.It’s estimated that 10 million Americans now have osteoporosis and 34 million are at risk. Whether you’re young or old, male or female, chances are good that you — or someone you love — will be affected by the disease.

“In osteoporosis, your bones become thin and brittle, putting you at increased risk of a bone fracture,” says Susan Greenspan, MD, UPMC’s director of osteoporosis prevention and treatment. “In advanced stages, simple acts like lifting a baby or sneezing can lead to a fracture.”

Here are four facts everyone should know about osteoporosis:

1. Osteoporosis can appear at any age. But after the age of 50, one out of every two women — and one out of every four men — are likely to experience a fracture due to the disease. These breaks occur most often in the hip, wrist, and spine.

2. Osteoporosis is silent. It’s often diagnosed only after a fracture. Menopause, family and medical history, physical build, and your lifestyle and diet can increase your odds of the disease.

3. You can take proactive steps at any age to promote bone health. These include: eating foods rich in calcium, such as milk, cottage cheese, and calcium-enriched juices; exercising (weight-bearing exercise like walking); stopping smoking; and limiting alcohol use. If needed, consider taking a calcium supplement and vitamin D daily.

4. The good news is early detection is easy. If you’re 65 years of age or older, Dr. Greenspan recommends talking to your doctor about your risks. A simple bone mineral density test can assess your bone health.

To learn more about osteoporosis, talk to your primary care provider, or visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s website at nof.org.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan


1-800-533-UPMC 5

It’s well known that bariatric surgery can produce impressive weight loss. But there’s increasing evidence that it offers other health benefits, too. For example, a recent Swedish study showed weight-loss surgery can prevent diabetes among individuals who struggle with obesity.

That news came as no surprise to Anita Courcoulas, MD, professor of surgery and chief of the Section of Minimally Invasive Bariatric and General Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “It’s another study demonstrating the lasting impact of bariatric surgery on health improvement,” says Dr. Courcoulas. “The changes are real and durable.”

A life-altering surgery

According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, an estimated 72 million Americans are considered obese and nearly 200,000 undergo bariatric surgery annually.

UPMC is a leader nationally in bariatric surgery and in the number of bariatric procedures performed annually.

Dr. Courcoulas says bariatric surgery (including gastric bypass, gastric band, and gastric sleeve) can help reverse a variety of serious obesity-related health conditions, such as:

• Diabetes • High blood pressure • Sleep apnea • Heart disease • High cholesterol

Is bariatric surgery right for you?

Current national guidelines recommend bariatric surgery for patients who are 80 to 100 pounds overweight and with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40, or a BMI of 35 or more for those with one or more significant obesity-related health conditions.

Those guidelines may change, though. For example, at UPMC — one of the most highly funded centers of bariatric research in the country — Dr. Courcoulas is heading a study examining the impact of bariatric surgery on diabetic patients with lower BMIs (30–35).

She predicts more and more patients will seek out bariatric surgery for health reasons — not just weight reasons. “We’re just beginning to understand its full potential,” she says.

Shedding More Than PoundsBariatric surgery helps free patients from a range of life-threatening health problems.

Bariatric Surgery Centers at UPMCEach of UPMC’s four bariatric surgery centers has been named a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Our multidisciplinary approach to weight loss through both surgery and lifestyle changes is available at:

UPMC Hamot: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, and gastric sleeve. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Amjad Ali, MD, or Rodolfo Arreola, MD, call 814-877-6997.

UPMC Horizon: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Christopher Myers, MD, call 724-588-6660.

UPMC St. Margaret: Pittsburgh Bariatrics offers gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Joseph Colella, MD, or LeeAnn Peluso, MD, call 412-784-5900.

Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, revisional surgery, and clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Anita Courcoulas, MD, director, Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery; George Eid, MD; Giselle Hamad, MD; Carol McCloskey, MD; or Ramesh Ramanathan, MD, call 412-641-3632.

Each center offers free monthly information sessions. To learn more about bariatric surgery, or to find out if you’re a candidate, visit UPMC.com/bariatricsurgery.


6 UPMC.com/Today

Alexis Laney was only 14 months old when she underwent open heart surgery in Cleveland to repair a faulty valve. She had annual checkups until age 17, when her pediatric cardiologist referred her to an adult cardiologist. She scheduled sporadic checkups, but stopped going after giving birth to a son in 2005. “I felt fine,” says Alexis.

Now 27, the young wife and mother finally gave in to her family’s urging last year and saw a cardiologist near her home in Youngstown, Ohio. Although her EKG and echocardiogram were normal, he urged Alexis to see a specialist at the Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, saying, “I don’t know what to look for, but they will.”

Tests conducted by Stephen Cook, MD, director of the ACHD Center, found scar tissue blocking blood flow to her aorta — a serious condition putting her at risk of sudden death. “I was shocked. I could have collapsed and died,” Alexis says.

Lifelong expert care

Alexis is part of a growing population of adults born with heart defects who had lifesaving heart surgery as newborns and children. Thanks to advances in medicine and improved surgical techniques, “the number of adults with congenital heart diseases has outgrown the number of pediatric congenital heart disease patients,” says Dr. Cook.

The ACHD Center — a joint program of Children’s Hospital and UPMC Presbyterian — provides specialized transition support and care for patients with congenital heart disease.

“Despite surgery, patients can experience complications as adults, including arrhythmias, stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Our care and follow-up enables these young people — now in their prime — to lead long, productive lives,” Dr. Cook says.

A healthy outlook

Before her diagnosis, Alexis thought she was in great shape; she had lost 100 pounds, was running daily, and had completed a two-mile race. But her conditioning actually helped disguise her declining health. After undergoing surgery at Children’s last April to restore blood flow, she now realizes how much better she feels. This summer, she ran the race again.

“Last year, I was better conditioned, but I couldn’t breathe after the race. This year, I felt fantastic,” Alexis says. “I’m glad I went to Children’s. I’m more confident about exercising now. I know my heart can take it.”

Growing Up With Heart DiseaseChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC is responding to the special challenges facing adults born with congenital heart disease.

ACHD Center Fast FactsA single childhood surgery is seldom a permanent cure for patients born with a heart defect. The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center provides lifelong care and follow-up for patients with congenital heart disease who are:

• Ages 18 and up with conditions ranging from simple to severe

• Women of childbearing age needing pregnancy counseling or contraception

• Adolescents (13 to 17) who receive guidance, support, and care during their transition to adulthood

For more information, contact the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center at 412-692-5540 or email [email protected].


1-800-533-UPMC 7

Nduka M. Amankulor, MD Neurosurgery

Efthymios D. Avgerinos, MD Vascular Surgery

Janine Michelle Frank, MD Internal Medicine

Bethany Calaway Hahn, MD Gynecology

Samantha Leigh Kanarek, DO Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Nimish S. Naik, MD Nephrology

Corey Andrew Pacek, MD Orthopaedics

Leonard J. Polinski, MD Internal Medicine

Priya Prabhakar Saxena, MD Internal Medicine

Barbara M. Swenson, MD Neurology

Welcoming New Physicians

What’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

To schedule an appointment, or for more information about any of our physicians, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

These free events are offered by UPMC Passavant and the Passavant Hospital Foundation.

Food Busters – Debunking Common Food Myths

Tuesday, Nov. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

CCAC North Campus

Speakers: Caroline Claus, MS, RD, LDN, and Samantha Mendelowitz, RD, LDN, Nutrition Services, UPMC Passavant

Food and nutrition myths have been passed around for ages. Learn more about food myths that are old wives’ tales and not actual fact. Space is limited.

Please call 412-369-3701 to register for this free course #YEB-256-1450.

Healthy Living with Diabetes

Wednesday, Nov. 14, 12:30 p.m.

Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building

Speaker: Patrick McCarthy, RN, manager, Healthy Lifestyles Center and diabetic educator, UPMC Passavant

Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. One in three has diabetes but hasn’t been diagnosed. This informative session will cover the basics: what is diabetes, medicines available for treatment, and current recommendations for staying healthy with diabetes.

Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Sounds of the Season Holiday Music Concert

Legacy Music Series Friday, Nov. 30, 7 p.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village

The Passavant Hospital Foundation invites you to enjoy this special holiday program. Reservations suggested.

For more information, please call 412-367-6640.

Atrial Fibrillation: What It Means to You

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013, 12:30 p.m.

Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building

Speakers: UPMC Heart and Vascular Team

Atrial fibrillation is an irregular beating of the top chambers of the heart, which often results in rapid heart rates and can have significant implications such as a weakened heart muscle and risk for stroke. Learn the symptoms, causes, risks, and potential treatment options for atrial fibrillation.


Weight Loss and Weight Management

Tuesday, March 19, 2013, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

CCAC, North Campus

Speakers: UPMC Passavant Registered Dietitian

Attend this seminar to learn about weight loss and weight management to achieve a healthy, active lifestyle. Topics include healthy dieting, exercise, and behavior modification to help you lose weight safely and maintain the weight loss. Space is limited.


Bridge to Hope Family Support Group

Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center, Cumberland Woods Village

The Bridge to Hope support group provides education and support to families touched by addiction. Anonymity respected. No registration necessary.

For more information, please call 412-367-6640.


6 UPMC.com/Today

Alexis Laney was only 14 months old when she underwent open heart surgery in Cleveland to repair a faulty valve. She had annual checkups until age 17, when her pediatric cardiologist referred her to an adult cardiologist. She scheduled sporadic checkups, but stopped going after giving birth to a son in 2005. “I felt fine,” says Alexis.

Now 27, the young wife and mother finally gave in to her family’s urging last year and saw a cardiologist near her home in Youngstown, Ohio. Although her EKG and echocardiogram were normal, he urged Alexis to see a specialist at the Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, saying, “I don’t know what to look for, but they will.”

Tests conducted by Stephen Cook, MD, director of the ACHD Center, found scar tissue blocking blood flow to her aorta — a serious condition putting her at risk of sudden death. “I was shocked. I could have collapsed and died,” Alexis says.

Lifelong expert care

Alexis is part of a growing population of adults born with heart defects who had lifesaving heart surgery as newborns and children. Thanks to advances in medicine and improved surgical techniques, “the number of adults with congenital heart diseases has outgrown the number of pediatric congenital heart disease patients,” says Dr. Cook.

The ACHD Center — a joint program of Children’s Hospital and UPMC Presbyterian — provides specialized transition support and care for patients with congenital heart disease.

“Despite surgery, patients can experience complications as adults, including arrhythmias, stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Our care and follow-up enables these young people — now in their prime — to lead long, productive lives,” Dr. Cook says.

A healthy outlook

Before her diagnosis, Alexis thought she was in great shape; she had lost 100 pounds, was running daily, and had completed a two-mile race. But her conditioning actually helped disguise her declining health. After undergoing surgery at Children’s last April to restore blood flow, she now realizes how much better she feels. This summer, she ran the race again.

“Last year, I was better conditioned, but I couldn’t breathe after the race. This year, I felt fantastic,” Alexis says. “I’m glad I went to Children’s. I’m more confident about exercising now. I know my heart can take it.”

Growing Up With Heart DiseaseChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC is responding to the special challenges facing adults born with congenital heart disease.

ACHD Center Fast FactsA single childhood surgery is seldom a permanent cure for patients born with a heart defect. The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center provides lifelong care and follow-up for patients with congenital heart disease who are:

• Ages 18 and up with conditions ranging from simple to severe

• Women of childbearing age needing pregnancy counseling or contraception

• Adolescents (13 to 17) who receive guidance, support, and care during their transition to adulthood

For more information, contact the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center at 412-692-5540 or email [email protected].


UPMC Passavant9100 Babcock Blvd.Pittsburgh, PA 15237

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC.

This publication is for information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment.Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC Passavant physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/Patient Careand we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’tmatter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

take time to take care of you

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

1261_UPMC_NB.Passavant.indd 1 10/12/12 5:10 PM


IN Community Magazines is seeking nominations for its Community Awards for Service Excellence (C.A.S.E)

We know that what makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort to help others. ICM would like to honor those special people, but we need your help.

IN Community Magazines’ C.A.S.E. Dinner will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 36 magazines.

Awardees will be selected in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year; Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger); Small non-profit of the Year (staff of 10 or less).

Awardees and those who nominated them will be honored at the awards dinner in Spring 2013. During the dinner an awardee from the Volunteer of the Year and Youth Volunteer of the Year categories will be selected to receive a donation for his or her chosen charity.

Name of nominee ____________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________________ Email: ___________________________________________

Category (circle one): Volunteer of the Year, Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger); Small non-profit (staff of 10 or less); Large non-profit (staff of 11 or more)

Which IN Community Magazine is this nomination for? ___________________________________________________________

Name of person submitting nomination ______________________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________

Why are you nominating this person or non-profit organization? (Please, submit a type written statement of no more than 600 words)Send nomination form and statement to: Monica Haynes, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317If you have any questions, please, contact Monica Haynes at 412-254-8704 or [email protected]. Deadline for nominations is 1/31/2013.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINES


Ballet Starsunderthe


ittsburgh Ballet Theatre took their performance outside with their

24th Annual Ballet under the Stars at Hartwood Acres.

The open air performance took place in late summer with visitors seated in picnic chairs and on blankets to enjoy a mixed repertoire by choreographers August Bournonville, Dwight Rhoden and George Balanchine, famed director and co-founder of the New York City Ballet.

In addition to the free performance, PBT also hosted a variety of family activities before the company took the stage, allowing children to experience ballet behind the scenes, along with a picnic dinner served in the PBT tent.

The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will be presenting Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker throughout the month of December at the Benedum Center. For more information on PBT, please visit the website www.pbt.org.

Ballet Starsunderthe

P

Protect Your Mobile Devices – and Your IdentityWHEN A PHONE OR TABLET GOES MISSING, SO DOES A LOT OF PERSONAL INFORMATION – AND THAT CAN LEAD TO IDENTITY THEFT.

The Federal Trade Commission estimates that as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year, and thieves can get personal information via your mobile device.

Here are two things you can do to help protect your identity:

Password protect your device. A recent study by Javelin Strategy and Research found that even though many smartphones are being used to handle sensitive financial information, only 33 percent of smartphone owners password-protect their devices. If your phone falls into the wrong hands, you could make it very easy for someone to access your personal information and steal your identity.

Consider getting extra protection. There are a growing number of tools available to help you monitor and protect your identity as well as restore your name and credit, should your identity get stolen. Specialty insurance programs offer alerts of any changes that could indicate someone else is using your information.

Taking time to protect your devices now can reduce your risk of falling victim to identity theft later.


Many people think of health and wellness as just diet and exercise. While those are two key components, there are many more factors that affect an individual’s overall vitality. Other areas of focus include dental and vision; specialties such as podiatry and audiology; preventive measures such as chiropractic visits and acupuncture/massage. Even feel-good procedures such as hair replacement and cosmetic surgery can boost a person’s demeanor and self-confidence. With all of these areas of wellness to consider, it can be a daunting task to pay for the treatments and procedures that enhance the quality of our lives. So how do we decide what to spend our health-care dollars on? Which procedures are the most effective and beneficial? The following is a review of what to consider when choosing a healthier lifestyle.

• Fitness •Exercise is the one thing most doctors stress when the subject of health and wellness is broached. Certainly there are other factors such as genetics, eating, smoking, drinking and medication that can play a significant role, but exercise is at the core of health and wellness. So what is the best way to stay fit? There is no perfect answer as it is different for each individual’s needs and desires. There are many ways an individual can exercise on his/her own such as walking, running, biking, hiking, at-home workout DVDs or weight training, just to name a few. Many Americans join gyms to help them stay fit. There are advantages to having a gym membership which include a wide array of

equipment, fellow members to help motivate you, professional trainers and a monthly monetary obligation that can help you

stay committed to your fitness goals..unfortunately, gym memberships are not covered by health insurance, so it is up to the individual to not only foot the bill but to select one that best suits our needs. Most gyms have monthly payments, but some also have yearly or bi-yearly options as well. Depending on the facility and the region you live in, the average gym membership can vary from $10 a month to $100 a month.

While gyms, fitness programs and personal trainers can be an excellent way to achieve cardiovascular health, just remember they are not the only way. If money is tight there are plenty of free alternatives that may work just as well for you.

• Acupuncture and Massage •

If you’ve ever been treated to a massage, you probably don’t need a list of advantages to persuade you to have one on a regular basis. Massage is the manipulating of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective

tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and

promote relaxation and well-being.Massage involves working and acting on the body

with pressure – structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving – tension, motion, or vibration, done manually or with mechanical aids. Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, skin, joints or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels, or organs of the gastrointestinal system. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, and feet. There are over 80 different recognized massage modalities. The most cited reasons for introducing massage as therapy have been client demand and perceived clinical effectiveness. Massage is usually only covered by insurance in very special circumstances, so be prepared to pay out of pocket for these services.According to www.mayoclinic.com, acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body. A key component of Traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force known as qi or chi, (pronounced CHEE), believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance. In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body’s natural painkillers and increase blood flow. Reasons for having an acupuncture procedure include chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, fibromyalgia, headaches, labor pain, low back pain, menstrual cramps, migraines, osteoarthritis, dental pain and tennis elbow. As with massage, acupuncture is generally not covered by insurance.

By Matt Fascetti


• Chiropractic Care •According to www.chiropractor.com, chiropractic care is a natural method of health care that focuses on correcting the causes of physical problems from subluxations or misalignments of the bones in the body, especially the spine. The field of chiropractic is considered holistic, improving people’s lives by optimizing the functioning of the nervous system. Every cell in the body is controlled by the nervous system, including taste, touch, smell, hormones, digestion and cardiovascular. Chiropractic does not just treat symptoms or problems, but allows for a healthy nervous system, so the body functions better.A healthy nervous system has the ability to resist disease and ill health. Chiropractic restores the body’s nervous system, thereby increasing its resistance to illnesses. Chiropractors are able to determine and remove blocks to the nervous system by locating subluxations or misaligned vertebrae and adjusting them. There is one issue that will arise with chiropractic care…visits are sometimes not covered by insurance. Although suggested by many health care practitioners, including primary care physicians, some insurance companies still consider chiropractors luxury visits in some instances. One session with a chiropractor can cost anywhere from $35-$100 depending on the region you live in, with additional fees for more complicated procedures. When it comes to chiropractic care, one must decide if the benefits outweigh the cost.

• Dental Work •Dental care is a vital aspect of health and wellness. Many people incorrectly believe that dental care is important for aesthetic reasons only, but this is far from the case. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there is a link between poor oral health and conditions such as endocarditis and cardiovascular disease, although researchers are not sure of the role that oral health plays in causing heart problems. Recent studies have also shown that women with periodontal disease are at three to five times greater

risk for delivering a preterm infant than those who are periodontally healthy. There may also be a link between oral health and diabetes, Alzheimer’s and certain immune

disorders. Whether you have a cracked tooth, a cavity, braces, dental implants or are needing a simple whitening or cleaning, dental care is a priority for most people. Because the costs of dental care keep increasing, some are choosing to cut out dentist visits all together. This is not recommended. However, if carrying dental insurance is not an option, then an individual should still stick to routine checkups. According to ehow.com, the national average cost for a regular cleaning can range anywhere from $50-130 depending on the region in which you live. Skipping these checkups and cleanings

can lead to more serious issues down the road that can cost thousands of dollars. In the meantime, as is the case with most health-related issues, prevention is the key. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss after every meal and you drastically increase your odds of having great oral health.

Our Health & Wellness Partners

Kevin Slogick is an Agent with State Farm insurance in the Hampton Township area located in Allison Park. Prior to opening his office at State Farm he spent his prior seven years as a risk consultant with a global consulting company. Along with his risk consultant background he also uses his MBA education to help his clients insure their client’s assets and finances are protected.

Kevin SlogickState Farm Insurance

412.487.6711

Are you or a loved one struggling with substance abuse? Do you need help coping with issues like depression, excessive anger, anxiety or grief? Holy Family Institute offers individual and family mental health counsel-ing and SHORES substance abuse counseling at a variety of locations throughout Allegheny County. Third party insurance is accepted or fees are based on a sliding scale. Call now and take the first step toward a more healthy and happy life today!

Holy Family Institute

412.766.4030

The audiologists of Metropolitan ENT are committed to providing you with the highest quality services for your hearing healthcare needs. Each audiologist holds a masters or doctoral degree in audiology, and are board certified and licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. We work as part of a medical team and have advanced training in preventive, diagnostic and non-medical care of hearing prob-lems. We believe educating you and your family is a critical component of improving your hearing.

Metropolitan ENT

724.940.5755


• Podiatry •Podiatry is the specialty devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the foot. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, most people log an amazing

75,000 miles on their feet by the time they reach age 50. Regular foot care can ensure that your feet are up to the task. With proper

detection and intervention, most foot and ankle problems can be lessened or prevented.Many people are unaware of the many issues that can affect

feet. Arthritis, Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), peripheral neuropathy, common injuries (sprains, strains and fractures), Haglund’s

Deformity (bony enlargement of the back of the heel bone), heel pain and tendinitis can all create mobility problems for individuals. There are various skin disorders including athlete’s foot, corns and calluses, psoriasis, skin cancer of the feet, as well as toe joint and nerve disorders such as bunions, hammer toes and neuromas to consider. Individuals may also suffer from ingrown toenails.Some basic but effective foot care tips include, washing your feet daily, making sure to rinse off all soap and water especially between the toes and trimming nails straight across and not overly short to avoid cutting or digging at corners. Over the counter medications are not recommended for removing corns or calluses. A qualified podiatrist should be consulted for treatment and removal. Wear clean socks or stockings changed daily and make sure that they are not too tight. Always wear properly fitting shoes. If you do suffer a foot ailment, there are various ways to treat them. Prescription,

custom orthotics, which are specially-made devices, are designed to support and comfort your feet and may correct the problem. For more severe issues, surgery may be needed in cases when pain or deformity persists.

• Vision Care •Many of us take our vision for granted. But we would certainly be completely lost without it, so it is essential we take good care of our eyes with regular exams and wearing glasses or contacts, if needed.According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 75% of adults need some sort of vision correction. Although drugstores sell non-prescription glasses for reading, which means anyone can buy them without seeing an eye doctor for an exam, there is no substitute for a professional vision exam by an eye doctor, with a customized prescription for glasses or corrective lenses. Approximately 30% of the American population is near-sighted and must use glasses for activities such as driving and schoolwork. About 60% of Americans are far-sighted meaning that they have trouble reading or sewing without glasses, but can focus well at a distance. The majority of young people who wear glasses are near-sighted. As people age, they are more likely to need vision correction for far-sightedness. About 25% of people who wear glasses to see distances will end up needing reading glasses or bifocals as they get older. The recommendations for the frequency of vision exams varies somewhat, but generally individuals are advised to have an eye exam somewhere between one to four years, depending upon their age group.

• Audiology •Audiology is the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and management of hearing loss and balance disorders in adults and children. It is an important component to health and wellness, yet it tends to be ignored unless there is a noticeable problem. Individuals should get their hearing checked yearly to ensure that everything is as it should be.An audiologist, commonly called an ear doctor, prescribes and fits hearing aids, assists in cochlear implant programs, performs ear or hearing related surgical monitoring, designs hearing conservation programs and provides newborn screening programs to test hearing levels. Audiologists may also provide hearing rehabilitation such as auditory training, speech reading and listening skills improvement.What many people don’t realize is that almost all types of hearing loss are treatable by an audiologist. No one should ever feel there is no hope with hearing loss. Some hearing related problems include occupational; earwax blockage; hearing loss related to aging; acoustic neuroma, a noncancerous tumor on the hearing nerve; Meniere’s Disease, a serious tumor on the nerve ending; ringing in the ears; and fluid on the ear. Most hearing-related procedures and tests will be covered by most insurance companies.

• Family Medicine •According to the American Academy of Family Medicine (AAFP), family practice is health care for the individual and family that integrates the biological, clinical and behavioral sciences. The scope of family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes and every organ system of the body. Common services provided in family medicine include bone density screenings, EKGs, hospital care, immunizations and flu shots, lab services, minor surgery

Health & Wellness


(warts, lesions, stitches), newborn health, gynecology and obstetrics, school and sports physicals and preventative visits.

Family Medicine physicians work closely with patients to prevent disease and offer them a long and healthy life. Healthy lifestyle, exercise and weight control are often points that are stressed to all members of the family. For those with a personal history of chronic disease, specific

measures are taken to ensure that they are being monitored and that their disease is being managed effectively. This is usually

achieved with regular health maintenance exams and by keeping up with what is going on in their lives.

The main focus and advantage of family medicine is the very personal and intimate care that is normally received. The attending physician almost becomes a member of the family.Another particular benefit of family medicine is that it concentrates on education as well. Everyone in the family should understand what good healthy living is and all the ins and outs of how to achieve health goals. This is done with open discussions with your physician.Insurance does not usually cover cosmetic surgery, so it is a rather expensive, completely out of pocket expense. For example, a liposuction can cost around $10,000. The only kind of cosmetic surgery that is generally covered by insurance are those that may interfere with someone’s overall health and wellness.Good health is not just a linear concept of adhering to a rigid routine for everyone. Each individual is different and their personality, lifestyle and priorities must be taken into account.


Everyone hopes to enjoy good health for a very long time. When the end does come, do we trust that medical decisions will reflect our values? One of the greatest gifts we can give our children and trusted friends is a living will that provides guid-ance for end-of-life decisions. Attorney Carolyn Spicer Russ will help you create a living will with personalized instruction for that critical, inevitable time.

Law Offices of Carolyn Spicer Russ

412.492.8975

Speech, language and swallowing therapy are provided by Rehabilitation Specialists in a home like setting in Bellevue and Allison Park. Whether you are an adult with a speech and language disorder (as a result of a stroke, vocal cord problem, accident) or have a child who is having difficulty acquiring speech, language or swallowing skills their private practice is the place to be. The practice is owned and operated by Kathleen R. Helfrich-Miller, Ph. D. CCC.

Rehabilitation Specialists

412.761.6062


W ith record-low interest rates, rock-bottom home prices and no house of their own to sell, many young adults are well-positioned

to purchase their first home. If you’re ready to become a homeowner, watch out for these common first-time-buyer mistakes.

1. Not getting a preapproval. Before you start your home search, meet with a lender or mortgage broker to determine how much money you are qualified to borrow. Having a preapproval letter in-hand offers peace-of-mind to you, the seller and your real estate agent.

2. Overestimating what you can afford. Sit down with a financial planner and go through your income, expenses, and investments. You may discover that you aren’t comfortable spending what your lender believes you can afford.

3. underestimating the costs of homeownership. The expenses of owning a home go beyond your monthly mortgage payment. As a

homeowner, you’ll be responsible for costs landlords usually cover, including property taxes, insurance, association dues, utilities, maintenance and repairs.

4. Failing to think long-term. Cosmetic details that you can change should not discourage you from buying a home. Whether you’re planning to sell the house in a few years or make it your forever home, finding a home in the right neighborhood or one with a new furnace may outweigh drawbacks such as a slightly outdated kitchen or bath.

5. Spending all of your money. Avoid draining your savings to purchase a home or offering the maximum amount you’re qualified to borrow. You want to have money left over to cover unexpected expenses that could arise after you buy.

6. Forgoing an inspection. Before celebrating the fact you’ve found a home you love, hire a professional home inspector to find any problems that could impact your decision to buy.

7. Forgetting the contingency clause. Your contract should include a clause that allows you to back out if your loan falls through, the home doesn’t appraise at its sale price or you lose your job.

Real estate agents can be helpful resources for first-time buyers. Review these tips for hiring a real estate agent before you start house hunting. And schedule time to talk with your State Farm® agent to learn more about the home buying process.

Navigating the home-buying maze and avoiding first-time-buyer mistakes

INdustry Insight



The world’s leader in comfortable, healthy waxing uses strip-less Comfort Wax™ made with 100% natural beeswax. The no-alcohol formula is designed to produce the Ultimate Wax Experience by cleansing, protecting, wax-ing and rejuvenating the skin. European Wax Center carries a proprietary line of products for body, face, and eyebrows which blend an-tioxidants, vitamins, and soothing aloe to calm the skin. They nourish and moisturize skin while protecting it from bumps and blemishes.Located at 4868 McKnight Road.

European Wax Center412.364.9299

• Cosmetic Surgery •Cosmetic surgery is very popular in the united States these days. In fact, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Americans spent a staggering $10.7 billion on cosmetic surgery in 2010.According to www.cosmeticsurgery.com, the most popular cosmetic procedures include liposuction, breast augmentation, BOTOX®, eyelid surgery, thermage, facelift, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck and buttocks implants.While cosmetic surgery is generally a safe procedure, when it does go bad, results can be disastrous. The key is to research your doctor thoroughly, making sure he/she has extensive experience and many references from satisfied patients.Insurance does not usually cover cosmetic surgery, so it is a rather expensive, completely out of pocket expense. For example, a liposuction can cost around $10,000. The only kind of cosmetic surgery that is generally covered by insurance is for conditions that may interfere with someone’s overall health and wellness.Good health is not just a linear concept of adhering to a rigid routine for everyone. Each individual is different, and his/her personality, lifestyle and priorities must be taken into account.

Children’s Community Pediatrics

412.262.2415

North Way Counseling Services, 12121 Perry Highway, Wexford, was established in 2002. They provide professional, masters-level counseling to those seeking a Biblically-based approach and effective Christian-based resources for all phases of life. Services include individual and family-oriented treat-ment. Prayer is an essential component and remains at the heart of North Way Counseling Services. For an assessment interview, please call 724-935-0680. Slide fee scale. For ad-ditional information, visit www.northway.org.

North Way Counseling Services

724.935.0680

Health & Wellness

Children’s Dermatology Services & Acne Treat-ment Center provides diagnostic and thera-peutic dermatological services for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. Our Acne Treatment Center is the only facility of its kind in the region, and our board-certified pe-diatric dermatologists are specially trained in the medical conditions of the skin. Our office located at 11279 Perry Highway, Suite 108, Wexford, Pa. For more information, call 724-933-9190 or visit www.chp.edu/dermatology.

Three words can describe Vitamin Gallery Owner, Vinnie Goyal: Knowledgeable, caring and ethical; He is passionate about people, especially his customers and genuinely wants to help them. Coming to this country in 1970, Vinnie pursued graduate work at Duquesne and then spent 15 years in public service. In 1995, he opened a GNC in North Huntingdon and has been in the supplement and healthcare field for 17 years.

Vitamin Gallery • 412.784.6679


Health & Wellness• Pediatrics •

Arguably, pediatric medicine is one of the most important areas of medical practice because it involves our children. This branch of medicine deals with the care of infants, children and adolescents. The ages treated usually range from birth to 18 years. According to www.news-medical.net, pediatrics differs from adult medicine in many aspects. The obvious body size differences are paralleled by maturational changes. The smaller body of an infant or neonate is substantially different physiologically from that of an adult. Congenital defects, genetic variance and developmental issues are areas of greater concern for pediatricians. Treating a child is not like treating a miniature adult. A major difference between pediatrics and adult medicine is that children are minors, and in most jurisdictions, cannot make decisions for themselves. The issues of guardianship, privacy, legal responsibility and informed consent must always be considered in every pediatric procedure. In a sense, pediatricians often have to treat the parents and sometimes the family, rather than just the child. Adolescents are in their own legal class, having rights to their own health care decisions in certain circumstances.Pediatrics is a fairly new practice, only becoming a specialty in the mid-19th century. Today it is one of the biggest medical specialties in the united States, mainly because individuals tend to care more for their children than they do themselves and are therefore more likely to seek regular and consistent medical care for their children.

• Geriatrics •Geriatric medicine is quite unique because it usually deals with health issues related to age such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and more. Despite these challenges, geriatric wellness is better than it has ever been before. People are living longer and taking better care of themselves.Retirement goals for the senior citizen of today differ widely from the objectives of retirees in years past. Today’s senior has a desire to not only stay healthy and prevent disease, but is passionate about living an active lifestyle. Exercise has been shown to increase longevity and quality of life.According to livestrong.com, the five categories of fitness include aerobic fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, body composition and flexibility. For the geriatric exercise participant, balance also plays a huge role in the development of a wellness program. For example, working on strength and balance to prevent falls is important, but in reality a trip, slip or fall will eventually happen. Exercises that build bone density and joint integrity along with flexibility are important to prevent fractures and other injuries.The American College of Sports Medicine exercise guidelines for men and women 65 and older includes cardiovascular exercise at a moderate pace for 30 minutes, five days a week to improve aerobic fitness. It is also recommended that older adults engage in strength training two days per week. It is also suggested that flexibility exercises be added at least two days per week. The bottom line is, today’s world offers better opportunities than ever before for seniors to live and be healthy for many years to come.


Daryl Klingensmith Receives Eagle Scout Award

Local scout, Daryl Klingensmith of Troop 195 of decided to help out a local museum for his Eagle scout project. He built 18 wooden benches which will be used at the Depreciation Lands Museum, with the help of volunteers from his Boy Scout Troop which is sponsored by St. Catherine of Sweden Church.

His fund raising for the project included the organization of a bake sale, which enabled him to buy the needed materials for the benches.

In order to earn the Boy Scout’s highest honor, he was required to achieve goals in the areas of leadership, community service, and outdoor skills. He held four leadership positions, including, Den Chief, Historian, Quarter Master and Senior Patrol Leader. Scouting endeavors to help youth in character development, citizenship training and personal fitness.

In addition to Klingensmith’s leadership positions, he completed 32 merit badges and was inducted into the Order of the Arrow on July 8, 2007.

An Eagle Court of Honor was held on June 18, 2012 at St. Catherine of Sweden Church, where several dignitaries attended, including the Honorable Philip A. Ignelzi, Huey Dietrich of the u.S. Submarine Vets, Ernie Simmons of the u.S. Marine Corps and Jamie uber, a local attorney who addressed the assemblage.

Klingensmith is the son of Donna and Bill Klingensmith of Hampton Township. The 17-year old is a senior at Hampton High School and plays percussion in

the high school marching band. Klingensmith is also a council member of the St. Catherine of Sweden Youth Group. He plans to attend college to become an optometrist after graduation.


It could have been the spooky grandeur of the Great Hall with its dark oak paneling, the Renaissance-style plaster ceiling, or the massive fireplace with carved wooden lions on the mantelpiece looking very hungry. Maybe it was the period furnishings that were left exactly as they were in the 1930s, as if the ghosts of John and Mary Flinn Lawrence were going to walk in at any moment for tea after a horse ride. Perhaps the spooky stories masterfully told by Barbara Haley and guests having their palms read by the great fortune teller Petrushka Tuscka did it. Regardless, the spooky, mysterious atmosphere created by the Hartwood Acres Mansion was the perfect venue for “The Haunted Hat Tea and Tour.”

Besides the entertainment, the event included over 56 guests wearing creative, one-of-a-kind witch or Halloween-inspired hats with a prize going to the most unique. There was a delicious tea full of sweet and

savory flavors by “A Fare to Remember” and a wonderful tour of the mansion.

Alice Franz organized the event with the help of a dedicated team of Hartwood docents who helped to prepare the tea and serve the guests.

“The docents do such a wonderful job of helping at the teas that we host,” said Franz, who has volunteered and worked at the museum for over 11 years. “I also enjoy meeting the friendly people who come; they never cease to amaze me with the hats that they wear. Every year is a little different when we have the Haunted Hat Tea. Last year the hats were horrific; there is nothing like eyeballs staring up at you when you are talking! The year before, the hats were beautiful works of art.”

Hartwood Acres, originally the private estate of John and Mary Flinn Lawrence, became part of Allegheny County Parks in 1969. The 629 acres located in Hampton and Indiana townships include the mansion with 31 rooms, public gardens, stables, riding trails, a gate lodge, an outdoor stage and amphitheater for the public to enjoy. Touring the mansion is like a walk back in time into the lives of the Lawrence family. Their home represents the way the leisure class of the early 20th century lived, including decoration, furnishings, personal family photographs and memorabilia.

There are events year-round at Hartwood Acres for the entire family. To learn more, visit the website at www.alleghenycounty.us/parks/hwfac

From Witchy to Wizardly: Halloween Lovers don

Hats at Tea and Tour

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1. Ann Carlson and Gail Gagnon2. Carol Vivaldi, Docent3. Erica Schnur, Docent4. Annamarie and Jim Bangert5. Barb Israel, Docent6. Alice Franz, Tea Organizer7. Jan Thompson, Docent8. Lea Hartwood, Docent9. Linda Evans


10. Sandy Biles, Docent11. Sue Stewart and Ginny Grimes 12. Barbara Haley told ghost stories13. Donna Rozeck14. Petrushka Tuscka

(Renae Breskovich), fortune teller


Allison Park Churchwww.allisonparkchurch.com412.487.7220

Bakerstown Alliance Churchbakerstownalliance.blogspot.com724.443.7040

Calvary Baptist Churchwww.friendsatcbc.org412.487.2130

Memorial Park Evangelical Presbyterian Churchwww.memorialparkchurch.org412.364.9492

Nativity Lutheran Churchwww.nativitylutheranchurc..org412.487.1071

Parkwood United Presbyterian Churchwww.parkwoodchurch.org412.486.9220

St Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedralwww.stalexandernevsky.org412.366.4647

St Catherine of Sweden Churchwww.stcatherineofsweden.org412.486.6001

St Richard Churchwww.saintrich.org724.444.1971

St Ursula Church: Religious Edwww.stursula.com412.486.3374

Would you like to list your Hampton Township church in this directory? Please contact Megan

at [email protected] with your church name, website address

and phone number.

Worship in

Hampton


By Heather HoltschlagNorth Hills High School Senior, Emily

Huwe recently went for the gold – and got it.Emily recently received top honors from

the Girl Scouts, the Gold Award, which is the highest award in Girl Scouting and recognizes girls who have demonstrated leadership, effort and impact in their communities.

“I felt that it was a big honor to receive the Gold Award,” said Emily, who is a member of Girl Scout Troop 1295 from the West/Perry Area. “It was a lot of work, but well worth the time and effort. It made me have a sense of accomplishment to be able to complete my Gold Award.”

To receive the Girl Scout Gold Award, a girl scout must complete an 80-hour, community-based project that addresses the root cause of an issue that the girl is passionate about. As part of this project, the girl must create a substantial change and demonstrate leadership through education and guiding others.

In addition, she must meet some prerequisites, including having earned the Girl Scout Silver Award and the completion of Journeys, or a series of community projects that are compiled into a book. Emily not only had already earned the Silver Award, but the Bronze Award as well.

For Emily’s community project, she put her interest in gardening to work and planted a garden at Kearns Spirituality Center, a retreat ministry sponsored by the Sisters of Divine Providence located near La Roche College. She got the idea from her mom’s supervisor at the Sisters of Divine Providence, who suggested that flowers be planted to enhance the surroundings.

“She designed the garden from scratch, dug it out, planted it and led a team through all of the work that was involved,” said her mom, Peggy Huwe, who also served as one of Emily’s

troop leaders.But when that project

was over, Emily wanted to keep going. So, she started a garden club comprised of third and fourth grade students from Providence Heights Alpha School. The club met once a week for six weeks, during which the students learned about gardening and even got to plant a bulb in Emily’s garden.

“I felt really good about myself because I knew I was helping others,” Emily said. “The idea for the Garden Club came about after my garden project was done because I knew I wanted to do something more. And, I thought that it might interest someone in wanting to continue maintaining the garden

and keeping the club going.”Emily funded her project, for

which she had to submit a project proposal to the Girl Scout Council and then begin work once approved, through the donations of local businesses and her efforts during the annual Girl Scout Cookie Sale.

As a grand finale to her project, Emily partnered with Sister Agnes Raible from the Sisters of Divine Providence and hosted a garden party as a way of thanking everyone who had helped her.

As a result of receiving the Gold Award, Emily has received much special recognition from the community and several government agencies, including a certificate from President Barack Obama. There also are several colleges that offer scholarships for completing the award,

and should Emily choose to enter the military, she would enter one rank higher because of the award.

“As one of her troop leaders, I’m very proud of all of her hard work and dedication to Girl Scouting for the past 12 years,” Peggy said. “As her mom, her father and I are very proud of all that she has accomplished. She has always put forth great effort in helping others, and her Gold Award project was a reflection of what she has learned in Girl Scouts since she started. She has grown into a great young woman.

“The Girl Scout mission is based on building girls of courage, confidence and character, and who make the world a better place. I believe that is what Emily has become.”

Through her involvement with Girl Scouts, Emily has had the opportunity to participate in many community

service projects, including camping, product sales, and trips to places like Savannah, Georgia, Chicago, Washington, DC and Niagara Falls.

“I enjoy helping out in the community, meeting new friends and having the opportunity to experience all of the different activities that are part of Girl Scouting,” Emily said. “Although it may seem like a huge amount of work, it is well worth it, and in the end, you will feel a great sense of accomplishment.”

In addition to Girl Scouts, Emily also is active with the school’s tennis team and the Caring Team.

Emily has plans to pursue a career in education and would like to attend La Roche. “That would give me a chance to maintain my garden because I would be so close,” she noted.

Local Girl Scout

As a result of receiving the Gold Award, Emily has received much special recognition from the community and several government agencies, including a certificate from President Barack Obama.

Goes Goldfor the


You don’t have to live withpainful varicose and spider veins.Should I Have My Veins Evaluated?Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST: While finishing charts atthe end of my day, I took a few moments to listen to my staffanswer questions for a patient on the phone. The questionsasked were very important as were the answers that were given.Here are some examples:

What is Phlebology?Phlebology is the branch of medicine that deals with veins

and the disease of veins. Two organizations dedicated to theadvancement of this field are The American College ofPhlebology and the American Venous Forum.

Why should I see a board- certified phlebologist to evaluate my varicose veins

When it comes to any aspect of your health care, it isimportant to be proactive in the choice and research of whowill become medically responsible for your evaluation andtreatment. Though venous disease is not always a visibleailment, it can be a serious health problem leading to moreserious issues, so choosing a specialist, or board certifiedphlebologist for your venous care is a wise decision.

Board certification in phlebology identifies a physician whohas taken the extra step of becoming specialized in thetreatment of venous disease. Not only is the physician often amember of organizations such as the American College ofPhlebology (ACP) and the American Venous Forum (AVF)but they have met additional requirements set by the certifyingboard. After meeting these requirements, he or she must thenpass a certifying exam allowing the physician to identify him orherself as board-certified.

Is membership the same as board certification?This question is particularly important as it defines the

specialty of a phlebologist. While a physician may be a memberof many different organizations, these organizations onlyrequire an interest in the field for joining. Thus membership isunlike board certification where qualification is determinedthrough training and testing. Here’s how the ACP defines itsboard certification: “The establishment of a Board CertificationExam brings recognition to both the field of phlebology andthose providers in the field who have the knowledge, skills andexperience to provide quality care to phlebology patients.”

I had a free screening at ahealth fair and was told thatI don't have venous disease,but I still have aching, painand discoloration at theankles. What should I do?

While free screenings can beinformative, remember that thisis just a brief glance into apatient's venous system. Acomplete venous exam andvenous mapping by a board-certified phlebologist is best todetermine if a patient has venousdisease.

Since a proper venousultrasound is such an integral part ofthis evaluation, the American Collegeof Phlebology has set requirements forit that include the following:• A venous ultrasound should be ordered by a physician.• A lower extremity ultrasound should study the entire leg, from

ankle to groin. Failure to identify and treat all sources of refluxmay result in outright treatment failure.

• Evaluation of the venous system should be performed with thepatient in the upright position. Sitting or lying down areinappropriate for the detection of reflux or the measurement ofvein diameters.

• A ve nous ultrasound should be performed by a trainedphysician or a registered vascular ultrasound technician (RVT)and then interpreted by a physician.

If I have had an evaluation elsewhere, can I still be evaluated in your office?

Of course. A free evaluation is commonly ‘ free’ becausepatients are often not meeting with a physician, a physicianassistant or a nurse practitioner, so this visit cannot be billed toinsurance. However, most insurances allow for a secondopinion. If you have any questions about the second opinionbeing covered, contact member services on the back of yourinsurance card.

This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider.

Terrance R. Krysinski, MDGeneral SurgeonBoard Certified PhlebologistVein Institute of Pittsburgh724.934.VEIN (8346)

724-934-VEIN (8346)

11 MARS WIN_proof 10/19/11 1:49 PM Page 27


When adults are asked to listen to a high school rock band perform, they may be caught making a mad dash to the store to buy some earplugs. But after listening to The Options, the stereotype goes right out the window. Like a complicated recipe that takes time and patience, their rich, complex sound combined with their well-choreographed guitar, bass and drums are complemented by strong vocals. One can quickly tell that this band eats, drinks and sleeps music.

“The four kids have different musical influences and you can hear that when they perform,” said Chris Leya, who is the father of band members Jake and Zack and also manages the band. “Jake and Matt wrote all of the songs on the new album, but they all show their musical influences. Jake likes classic rock, Zack is punk influenced, Matt likes classic and alternative rock and Shannon is influenced by pop. To see them all perform together is a nice blend.”

Describing themselves as an American rock band, the members include Shannon Drew, a freshman at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, on vocals; Matt Bauman, a senior at Hampton High School, on bass; Jake Leya, a senior at Hampton High School, on drums; and Zack Leya, a sophomore at Hampton High School on guitar. Gaining a solid following, they have performed at the

Three Rivers Regatta, Hartwood Acres, Hard Rock Cafe, iTwixie launch party, the Mattress Factory Art Museum Community Day, a Mario

The Options Band Rocks to Orchestrate a Life-Changing experience for Teens with Autism

The Options

Continued on page 46


Lemieux benefit hockey game and the Pittsburgh Marathon. Their first studio album, “Alright,” was released this past September.

Chris Leya is the owner of a software company and plays the drums with The Bad Bad Ants. He thought that the teen band deserved studio time after noticing their growth as musicians. They started the process of recording “Alright” in December of 2011 at Audible Images Studio in Pittsburgh.

“I am very proud every time that I see the band play,” said Leya, who is married to Hampton High School math teacher Amy Leya. “Being in a band myself, I know how hard it is to get to the point they are. They have so much fun and are so happy to be making this music. I thought that it was time to buy them some studio time because I was blown away at the music that they were creating.”

But what makes this band unique is not just their music, but their dedication to helping kids with autism. They are donating all of the proceeds from “Alright” to fund a scholarship to the Joey Travolta Film Camp in Pittsburgh for teens and young adults with autism from ages 13 to 25.

The film camp, now in its third year in Pittsburgh, is designed to help participants with autism to “develop self-esteem, self-confidence and

creativity through acting improvisation and digital filmmaking,” according to the website. The camp was founded in 2005 by Joey Travolta, John Travolta’s older brother, who is an actor, director and former special education teacher.

“It’s more than just a filmmaking camp,” Travolta says on the website. “We create a safe environment to communicate, collaborate and produce something to share. When our campers see the finished product at the red carpet screening, they have a sense of accomplishment as well as community. It gives them a voice.”

The Options’ philanthropic spirit to help kids with autism goes back to grade school when Jake and Zack wanted to honor their cousin, Tony, a Hampton teenager who has autism.

“Years ago my sons were in a band in grade school,” said Chris Leya. “I recorded their original songs in our basement and then they sold CDs during lunch and recess at school. At that time we donated profits to Autism Speaks in honor of Tony.”

Later, the idea to raise awareness using “Alright” came about last summer when The Options had a show at the Mattress Factory Art Museum in Pittsburgh.

“The woman at the Mattress Factory was telling me about an “Art for Autism” exhibit [the museum] sometimes has,” said Leya. “Shortly after, we were at my sister-in-law’s house for a party and I was admiring the artwork of my nephew, Tony.

Continued from page 45

Above: Art by Tony, Jake and Zack’s cousin, who has Autism.


He literally draws on everything and has art hanging everywhere. I snapped a bunch of pictures with my phone because I loved them. I then put these as a background video to one of the Options’ songs I love called ‘Here,’ which is on the new album.”

Shannon Drew, the band’s lead singer, showed her mother the video and she then showed it to her friend who has a son with autism. What resulted inspired the band to donate the proceeds from the album to the camp.

“Shannon’s mom showed the video to her friend who loved it,” said Leya. “Her friend’s son, Brendan, won a scholarship to the Joey Travolta Film Camp this past summer. Brendan is a good friend of Shannon and has been a loyal fan of The Options for years. From there, I started working with the camp’s director and talked it over with the band and we all thought this would be a wonderful idea. We always wanted to help and this seemed more personal.”

If you would like to purchase “Alright” by The Options, it is available at Brighton Music Center in the North Hills and on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. Information about upcoming shows can be found on the band’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/TheOptionsBand.

“The kids love making music,” said Leya. “We all thought how great it would be if through their art of music they were able to help fund a scholarship so that some other kid could express art through film.”

"The four kids have different

musical influences and you can

hear that when they perform...To

see them all perform together is

a nice blend."


According to Minnie Elfkin, Public Relations Coordinator for Santa Claus Operations

North America, the iconic Christmas figure will be keeping a dizzying schedule of public appearances this holiday season.

During the month of December, Mr. Claus will be visiting as many cities and towns across the U.S. as possible, including appearances in Hampton Township and Allison Park. Those wishing to consult Mr. Claus to make a particular gift request should check the shopping malls and local holiday parades. Mr. Claus also may be seen in the vicinity of 34th Street in New York City and any cold, mountainous region where reindeer may live.

In other news from the North Pole, Prancer has been placed on the injured reserve list, although he is expected to be healthy for the Christmas Eve event. A young reindeer named Techno is being called up from the farm team as a possible replacement if Prancer is unable to fly by Christmas. Elfkin stresses, “Presents WILL BE delivered on time and there will be no lapse in service regardless of personnel changes.” Elfkin also reminds homeowners to leave the damper open to provide easier access through the chimney. This season Mr. Claus is watching his cholesterol intake and low fat snacks are appreciated.

Elfkin also reports that the United Federation of Elves, (UFE), has been working on some exciting, new toys this season that should please any toddler or preschooler. Children are alerted to be on their best behavior, now that

Santa Claus has Skype capabilities.Although there have been many imposters,

there is still no official Santa Claus website at this time. Santa Claus cannot be liked on Facebook or followed

on Twitter due to the covert nature of his operations in the North Pole region. Those children wishing to write Mr. Claus should send all correspondence to

the usual address, Santa Claus, North Pole.All children in the

Hampton area are requested to go to bed no later than 10 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Santa Claus will be arriving in the township sometime between 2:23 and 2:24 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. In order to receive

a present from Santa, children should be sure to

pick up their toys and eat all of their vegetables.

In the meantime, keep a sharp eye toward the northern sky and watch for flying reindeer and twinkling lights.

The Santa Watch Continues in Hampton Township

by Pamela Palongue

To All a Merry Christmas

and to All a Goodnight.48 724.942.0940 to advertise Hampton

Business Directory

@Current issues of this magazine are also available online.www.incommunitymagazines.com

The Santa Watch Continues in Hampton Township

by Pamela Palongue

in-hampton

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