IN Mt. Lebanon

t. LebanonWINTER 2010 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Keep YourResolutions

The PerfectHostess Gift

WinterizingYour Car

InMtLebanon-Winter2010:09McKeesport_winter 11/24/10 2:13 PM Page C1


Publisher’s Message | 2

FEATURES | Mt. Lebanon Resident Keeping Skies Internationally Friendly | 6| Emmaus Answers the Question: Who Will Care for Our

Sons & Daughters | 8| The Story Behind the Shield | 11| A GreatThing Happened On MyTrip to Zimbabwe | 12| Winters is the PerfectTime for Outside Play | 22| Resolve to KeepYour ResolutionThisYear | 47

COMMUNITY INTEREST | Older Adults in Mt. Lebanon | 20| In Kids | 29| Houses of Worship | 60| Mt. Lebanon Public Library Events | 66

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | Social Media Marketing: A Web of Possibilities |

By Greg Uhrlen | 43| Home Again – GladTo Be Back in Mt. Lebanon |

By Andrew K. McMullin, Esquire & David K. McMullin, Esquire | 45| Be Prepared for Return of EstateTax |

By Tim Bywalski | 61| AreYour Ears Ringing? |

By DoloresY. Payne, M.A., CCC-A, Audiologist | 62

DINING OUT | Peters Place | 55

ON THE COVER | St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mt. LebanonThe Stained Glass windows at St. Paul’s is known as the “singing windows”because you can see the soft colors move across the church when the light shines in.The windows were made by The Hunt Stained Glass Studios, Inc., in Pittsburgh.

22

W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy,Healthy Winter

If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

33 75

Mt. Lebanon | WINTER 2010 |

Contents

29

Please recycle this magazinewhen you are through enjoying it.

Mt. Lebanon | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

InMtLebanon-Winter2010:09McKeesport_winter 11/24/10 2:13 PM Page 1

Welcome to our winter issue!

At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you fortaking that journey with us that was 2010.

This year was one full of blessings for IN Community Magazines, aswe’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout Western Pennsylvania.While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, andwith great success. For that, I would like to thank my staff.

I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazine whatit is—you, our readers, and our advertisers.

Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you seein your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mailor write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table ofcontents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and yourideas 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 [email protected].

Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued supportof IN Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you thatadvertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazinesare a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that byadvertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re

giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoyand look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can beentertained and informed.

So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a secondor third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazinebefore you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let themknow, and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not justtrying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and communitysponsors.

I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that2011 has to offer!

Wayne DollardPublisher

As the holiday season approaches, I hope you'll step away from thelist making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy theinformation we have compiled for this edition of Mt. Lebanon.As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community.

Some of our most interesting features focus on residents andtheir passion in all things “community.” As you are going throughyour busy days (and holiday parties) please don't forget to let usknow about any person or organization who you feel would beinteresting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas andare so inspired by our readers!

The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems toflow from the Mt. Lebanon community is amazing and awesome.

From all of us at In Community Magazines, we hope yourholiday will be filled with a good dose of of peace, a little bit of joyand surrounded by the love and companionship of those who meanthe most to you.

Marybeth JeffriesManaging Editor

Every piece of the universe, even the tiniest little snow crystal, matterssomehow. I have a place in the pattern, and so do you —TA Baron

I N M t. Lebanon is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing, encouraging

and promoting the Mt. Lebanon area and itscomprising municipalities by focusing on the talentsand gifts of the people who live and work here.Our goal is to provide readers with the most

informative and professional regional publicationin the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Mark [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

[email protected]

WRITERS

Jonathan BarnesKelli McElhinnyPamela Palongue

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Bill IvinsCassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSusie Doak TamaraTylendaPati Ingold TraceyWasilco

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca BaileyGaryyonphotography.comOneWay Street Productions

ADVERTISING SALES

Nicholas Buzzell David MitchellBrian Daley Tamara Myers

Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel NegriTina Dollard Robert OjedaRose Estes Annette Petrone

Beatriz Harrison Tara ReisJason Huffman Vincent SabatiniJessie Jones Michael Silvert

Connie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian McKee

This magazine is carrier route mailedto all district households and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in partwithout written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

C O R R E S P O N D E N C EAll inquiries, comments and press releases

should be directed to:I N C om m u ni ty M ag az i nes

Attn: Editorial603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray, PA 15317Ph: 724.942.0940Fax: 724.942.0968

www.incommunitymagazines.com

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Dear Editor:

Many thanks for your recent articles on the pending Mt. Lebanon High School construction project. It isespecially informative to see both viewpoints in this manner and allow citizens to glean the big picture. I haveseveral observations to share after reading both articles.

Mt. Lebanon has maintained a reputation as a top-rated school district for many generations. Past schoolboards and the previous generations of taxpayers have seen fit to honor that commitment by making difficultchoices to invest in needed renovations. In fact I would imagine many of my neighbors who are in opposition tothe current construction plans directly benefitted themselves, or their children directly benefitted, from theprevious high school renovation in the ‘70s.

In the same issue of your magazine on page 25, Josh Wetmore quotes homebuilder Jeff Costa as saying, “Theschool district, I believe, is the driving force of the real estate market.” I would respectfully suggest that theinvestment in our high school is as much an investment in maintaining our property values. Who will we sell ourhomes to if young families with children are no longer drawn to Mt. Lebanon’s excellent school district?

In Jake Hulk’s well written response he warns that not only will the current tax increases be painful “. . .homesthat are significantly under assessed will be in for a double surprise. In addition to the coming millage rate hikes,these properties will see their assessed values jump as well.” Has Mr. Hulk considered that those of us who areproperly assessed have been “overpaying” for years, carrying those not paying their fair share? I must admit littlesympathy for those under assessed properties who have not been paying their fair share for years. Instead they

should be grateful for recent homebuyers, assessed atfair market value, who have been making up whatthey should have been paying.

I moved to Mt. Lebanon in 1988 because of theschool district. While my remaining child in schoolwill never see a renovated building, I strongly supportthe District’s plan. I believe the school boardmeetings provided an extensive and fair process thatallowed open discussion and debate. I believe thefinal plan was a reasonable compromise that soughtto balance different opinions and community needs.I believe Mt. Lebanon’s multi-generationalcommitment to educational excellence should bepaid forward for the next generation. If not, I maysave hundreds on my tax bill today but will surely losethousands on my resale value tomorrow.

Marc Field

Letter to the Editor

Mt. Lebanon | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5



Mt. Lebanon residentkeeping skies internationally friendly

By Jonathan Barnes

ew to Pittsburgh in the early1970s, Lucinda Harshman and

her husband simply followed thetrolley lines and settled inPittsburgh’s South Hills, in Library.And she never really left. After sheand her husband found a home in Mt. Lebanon, Harshman became too comfortable to leaveher community.

When she first settled inPittsburgh, Harshman worked as aninternational service manager out ofJFK Airport in New York and herhusband worked as a lawyer indowntown Pittsburgh. They couldhave lived anywhere in the region,but Mt. Lebanon was a good fitbecause of its amenities, she said.

“Pittsburgh is a great place tobe and a great place to raise afamily,” Harshman said, noting thatafter she divorced, she made thedecision to stay in the communitybecause of its many appealingcharacteristics. “Mt. Lebanon has atown center and also a strong senseof community. The neighborhoodswere always real neighborhoods.”

People in Mt. Lebanon, likePittsburghers in general, are thetype who come together in a sharedgoal, said Harshman, a NewEngland native. She should know—through her job as director of AirService Development for thePittsburgh Airport Authority, she

recently helped to build theconsensus necessary amongcorporations and governmentofficials to get a new daily non-stopflight to Europe from the airport,after US Airways decreased itspresence at the terminal. Throughher work, she cooperates with theairlines to attract carriers and flightsto the airport. She also works toidentify various business markets tobe served, and tries to get newairlines to serve those markets, orworks with existing carriers at theairport to serve the markets.

Harshman likes her work andfeels fortunate to have it, especiallysince she is here in Pittsburgh.

“I feel like one of the luckiestpeople in the world, to be here andin this industry. Aviation is achanging industry, but what’simportant is protection of themarkets,” Harshman said. “If we canidentify the companies that need theservice, the airlines are moreinterested in serving those markets.”

Her work in protecting businessmarkets in the region led Harshmanto entice low-cost carriers toPittsburgh International Airport.She, like other regional leaders, alsosaw the need to bring anothernonstop international flight toPittsburgh after the airport was leftwithout that service. The situationcalled for a bit of problem-solving.

“We had to find an airline thathad a strong alliance to anotherinternational carrier,” Harshmanexplained. “Delta [Airlines] has astrong alliance with Air France.”

Pittsburgh stands out amongother non-hub airports because ofits offerings. Very few non-hubairports have direct internationalflights, Harshman said. And thoughthings changed at the airport as aresult of the loss of the US Airwayshub status, not all of the changesare unwelcome, she noted.

“We’re much morecompetitively priced than when US Air was a hub here. The average ticket price is much less

N


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Mt. Lebanon residentkeeping skies internationally friendly

than the national average,”Harshman said.

Randy Forister, senior vice president, Development,for the Pittsburgh AirportAuthority, waxed about his co-worker, whom he manages.His words were so kind thatafter reading his comments,Harshman might feel justified in asking for a raise.

“She’s on the cutting edgeof marketing in Pittsburgh—puther face on the cover,” Foristersaid. “She’s fantastic. She’s veryenergetic and passionate abouther work, and one of thehardest-working people I know.”

With the loss of a directinternational flight, Harshmanwas put in a tough position,Forister said. Her marketing ofthe region helped land thenonstop Delta flight to Paris, he noted.

“She’s very well-respectedin the industry. She’s just asocial, hardworking person.There’s no moss growing onLucinda,” Forister said.

And though she travelsthroughout the world for herjob, Harshman said she ishappy to be here. “I love all the places I go, but I’m alwaysproud to tell people this ishome,” she said.


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Emmaus Answers the Question:Who Will Care for Our

Sons and Daughters?by Pamela Palongue

hen Mt. Lebanon residents Ken and Lorraine Wagner recognized a need for

helping intellectually disabled adults, they began to meet with friends and neighbors to

formulate a plan of action. Those brave first steps led to the formation of the Emmaus Community ofPittsburgh in 1990.

The Wagners are themselves the parents of a daughterwith a disability. They wanted to bridge the gap in carefor intellectually disabled adults whose parents weredeceased or had become too elderly to care for them.

When the caregiver of a 37-year-old woman withDown Syndrome became critically ill, she had no oneto turn to for support and the meeting of her day-to-day needs. She became the first resident at Emmaus.A young woman named Karen Jacobsen, a newvolunteer with the fledgling organization, began toassume care of the displaced woman. Jacobsen isnow the executive director of Emmaus and theorganization has grown to a community of 15permanent residents as well as short-term respite carecenters. However, Jacobsen points out that the

waiting list to get into the communityis long. In Allegheny County

alone, there are almost 1,800people waiting for services.

The permanentresidents of theEmmaus Communityare housed inresidential settingswith housemateswho are alsodisabled. Theyfrequently live incommunities where

they have easy access togroceries, drug stores, doctors and otherbusinesses within walking distance. Many of the residents maintain jobs and are able to travel to their workplacevia buses or trains. Direct support

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Emmaus Answers the Question:Who Will Care for Our

Sons and Daughters?

specialists of Emmaus assist the residentswith menu planning, making doctor’sappointments, filling out forms and othermore difficult tasks.

Respite care centers offer a more temporarysolution for the intellectually disabled tocome and visit for a weekend or a few dayswhen caregivers are incapacitated by illnessor injury – or if they just need a rest. Thevisitors to the center are treated with tripsto the zoo, the movies, ballgames or otherfun activities based on what they enjoy.

In order to continue their work of assistingthe intellectually disabled and their families,Emmaus sponsors several fun eventsthroughout the year. The Emmaus KentuckyDerby Gala was held on May 1 at theOakmont Country Club, with all the ladiessporting their finest hats. Anotheropportunity to support the organization isby becoming a member of the EmmausBlack and Gold Club. For only $12 a month,individuals can participate in monthlydrawings to win tickets to their favoritePittsburgh sporting events or cash prizes.Emmaus also sponsors a golf outing, anddetails for the 15th Annual Emmaus GolfClassic will be announced on their website.

If you would like more information on theEmmaus Community of Pittsburgh or any oftheir events, you may visit their website atwww.emmauspgh.org or you may call theiradministrative offices at 412.381.0277.

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Although the Salvation Army may be one of theoldest and most recognizable charities, it may alsobe one of the most misunderstood. Very fewpeople actually have an accurate picture of theservices the organization provides.

Many people think of the Salvation Army asbeing as American as apple pie; however, it wasbegun in London in 1865 by a Methodistminister, William Booth. Booth saw that thevery people who needed help – the homeless,hungry and destitute – were paradoxically beingsnubbed by the people of the churches of his day.He decided to meet the people on the streets attheir need and founded a mission church wherethey could worship without fear of degradationand their basic necessities of life could beprovided. [e Salvation Army remains a Christiandenomination today, with thousands of churchesall over the world that reach out to people of allfaiths who are hungry.

[e Salvation Army in Pi`sburgh is currently]nalizing plans and accepting bids for a new facilitythat will be built adjacent to [e Devonshire of Mt.Lebanon, an assisted living facility. According to Maj.Sandra Jackson, Allegheny County Coordinator, thenew facility will have a 28,000-square-foot chapel forregular members of the Salvation Army Church toworship. [e chapel will seat up to 240 peopleand will replace the church on Boulevard of theAllies. [e facilities will also have a SeniorCenter equipped with a commercial kitchenand seating up to 144 for a drop-in typefacility catering to the elder population.Also planned is a high school-sizedgymnasium which will have regularhours established for communityuse and may be reserved byindividuals and organizationswith certain stipulations.Once work has begun on theproject, Jackson states thatthe building process isestimated to takebetween 9 to 12months, although a start date has not been set at this time.

[e facility will be staffed withMajors Tim and Janet Duperree whoare ministers in the Salvation Armywith over twenty years of service.Also on staff will be a caseworker tohelp families in need in the immediatearea with food, clothing and othernecessities. Says Jackson, “Especiallyin these economic times, morefamilies need our help.”

[e Salvation Army has not onlyexperienced an increase in the needfor their social services, but they are

also seeing many families for the]rst time, who have never had toask for help. According to

Virginia Knor, public relationsdirector for the Western PA

Division of the Salvation Army, “We have seen our rolls jump 25%

in the past year. [e basic services weprovide are the same everywhere, but the

delivery of them is adapted to the culture of the community in which we serve.”

[e Mt. Lebanon facility will not offer a homelessshelter or a drug and alcohol program. [ese

services however, will continue to be offered atother Pi`sburgh locations.

If you would like more information on the SalvationArmy and the services that are available, or to

contribute to their mission, you may visit their websiteat www.Salvationarmy-wpa.org.

The Story Behind the Shield

by Pamela Palongue



imbabwe seems an unlikely spot to have“great things happening,” since this Africancountry is facing a ruined economy,unemployment, disease, and hunger.

Zimbabwe has the second lowest per capitaannual income—$324.

However, three young people from Mt.Lebanon felt “great things” WERE happeningat the Nyadire United Methodist Mission inNyadire, Zimbabwe, when they visited therethis summer on mission trips. They were partof THE NYADIRE CONNECTION (TNC), a group ofvolunteers whose goal is to keep the servicesand programs at Nyadire operational during thesedifficult times. TNC was organized after the firstmission team returned from Nyadire in 2006. Nowthe group is committed to a long-term relationshipwith the Nyadire mission, working as partners through“Chabadza.” This is a Shona word meaning to stopand help someone who is already at work.

Rev. Kimberly Greway, Ben Dempe, and MaddieGioffre journeyed the 8,400 miles from Pittsburgh to theMission in Nyadire, located two hours from Harare, thecapital. The mission is much like a college campuswith a 240-bed hospital, a nursing school, a school

system for 1,200students, a preschoolthrough high school, anorphanage, a teachers’college, a church, andfarm. These programsserve a wide ruralpopulation. TNC helps tokeep a doctor at the hospital, sends medications andmedical supplies, procures sponsors for the orphanage andorphans in neighboring schools and rural pastors, andperforms needed services when mission teams visit.

Kimberly, now head of Chaplaincy Services at theAllegheny County Jail and formerly the associate pastor atMt. Lebanon United Methodist Church, was returning toNyadire for her fifth mission trip. She had been a PeaceCorps volunteer in Zimbabwe for two years, knows theculture, loves the people, and speaks Shona, one of thenative languages.

Kimberly organized a three-day Pastors’ Conferencewith other United Methodist pastors from the Pittsburgharea on the team and the rural pastors of the Mutoko/Mudziarea. These pastors have been sponsored by people inWestern PA through TNC for several years after it becameknown they were not receiving salaries. Their congregationsdid not have the means to pay them.

The pastors came together to exchange informationabout what it meant to be in ministry, these two diversecultures united by a global denomination. They examinedsuch questions as “What is our calling?”, “How do I developleadership skills in myself and my congregates?”, and“What are the issues of being male and female pastorsdoing the work of God?”

Pastor Kim recounted, “Dorcas Kanyayi, one of theZimbabwean pastors, explained that, in Zimbabwe,churches have no problems accepting female clergy. Shesaid, ‘In Zimbabwe, we are pastors first and men andwomen second.’ What a wonderful example for us inWestern Pennsylvania! We have so much to learn from themand they from us. The conference gave us the opportunity toshare face to face.”

Ben Dempe, a junior at Allegheny College, majoring ineconomics with a focus on international studies, was thefirst TNC intern at Nyadire. He spent 10 weeks on the

Z

A GREAT THINGHAPPENED ON MY

TRIP TO ZIMBABWE

Mt. Lebanon | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1 31 2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE Mt. Lebanon


Mt. Lebanon | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 1 3

mission and lived with a Zimbabwean family. His internship had threegoals: 1) assist the newly created Internet Café and help with computerskills; 2) work with the administrator of the Home of Hope OutreachSchool Sponsorship Program, a program that finds sponsors fororphans in schools neighboring Nyadire to pay for school fees andbackpacks of school supplies; 3) design a micro-lending programoffering small loans to persons at a low interest rate.

The micro-lending project was quite a success, as many folks wholive on the mission wanted a “jump start” to augment their salary or to

have some income at all. Ben received 20 applications for loans. Heinterviewed all of them and visited their homesteads and made twoawards. One of $300 to Leticia Bhandira, a Nyadire Primary teacher,who would buy 100 day-old chicks to raise; the other, to SimonMukodoka, who works in the hospital laundry. His $350 would go tobuy a cow that would end up being food for a school or manyindividuals. These new entrepreneurs could repay the loan and havethe money to continue their business endeavors. Ben’s daily blog whilehe was in Zimbabwe reveals more details of the mission, thecountryside, the people, and the culture. To access go tohttp://www.nyadire.blogspot.com/

Mt. Lebanon senior, Maddie Gioffe traded the usual South Hills highschool summertime fun for a 30-hour flight (on four different planes) tobe part of this mission team. She found simple, but adequate livingarrangements with power availability at 50%, and running waterdependent on power, and lots of children. She and another teen teammember, Natalie Geer of St. Paul’s UMC in Glenshaw, and Ben, wereconstant playmates with the 24 children of the Home of Hope, and alsomade friends with high school students at Nyadire. They played andinvented games, wrestled with, read to, listened to, played FlashlightTag, held hands with, and walked with theyoung people of Nyadire.

In Maddie’s own words, “Going on the Julymission trip has changed so much for me! Ibelieve that I learned more from the peoplethere than they learned from me. One of myvery first memories was being woken up to theHome of Hope kids singing to Natalie and I atour window. We had just arrived the nightbefore, and there is nothing in the entire worldlike waking up to twenty-five singing, smilingchildren. I spent most of my time with theHome of Hope kids and the high schoolers,where I made life long friends! I have manypen pals now from just walking around the highschool grounds meeting so many new people.Our second night there, Natalie, Ben, and I wenton a walk to see one of Ben’s friends at thehigh school and on our way back we were

greeted by a bus-full of kids returning from a basketball game. In thedark, two girls came up to me and asked if I knew Emily Mihalko andErin Flaus. I was completely taken by surprise because those are twoof my good friends who I play soccer with! It turns out that my friendswere the these girls’ pen pals! It was truly amazing that I could makeconnections back home while I was in a completely new environment.I made some really good friends while I was there and had so manyeye-opening, wonderful experiences. It is three weeks of my life that I will never forget.”

One of the activities all of the team members took part in wasvisiting neighboring rural schools in order to meet and photograph theorphans who hope to be sponsored by The Home of Hope OutreachSchool Sponsorship program. Five schools were visited during thesummer, and over 500 orphans identified and photographed.Sponsorship involves $60 to cover the school fees for a year plus a backpack of school supplies. One fourth of Zimbabwean children are orphaned, many of whom live with extended families, on their own, or are caring for younger siblings. Most do not have the moneyfor school fees. For information on this program, contact Mary BethZollars, [email protected]. Maddie was struck by how hundreds of children patiently waited in the sun – waiting for a photo – wantingfor a chance.

Where the accommodations luxurious? NOWhere you pampered? NO Did you meet anyone interesting and exciting? YES, everyday Was it the same old, same old? NO Was it GREAT? YES, YES, YES

“hundreds of children patiently waited in the sun – waiting for a photo – wanting for a chance.”

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Academically Speakingwhat’s going on at O u r Lad y of G r ac e S c h ool

1 7 3 4 B o w e r H i l l R oad , P i tt s b u r g h , P A 1 5 2 4 3 • 4 1 2 . 2 7 9 . 6 6 1 1w w w .o l g s c ott.net

A Foundation in Gospel Values, Service to the Community, and Academic Excellence.

First graders give thanks to Godbefore snack time.

Students learn aboutexplorers during socialstudies using aninteractive whiteboard.

Students in computerlab practice Excelspreadsheets.

Students enjoygames of basketballand other instructional games during bi-weekly physical education classes inOLG’s full-size gym.

Snack time enjoyed inthe “Castle Room.” Pre-school learns

about pumpkins andhow we grow.

5th graders learn first-hand how whales staywarm in cold water.

8th graders learn andconstruct molecules inthe school’s science lab.

Mark Your Calendar:January 24, 2011: Kindergarten Experience Day 2011 for families interested in kindergarten for the fall.

January 30, 2011: Open House 1-3 p.m. for anyone interested in enrolling in pre-school or k-8.

February 17, 2011: Registration Evening 7p.m.

March 3, 2011: Registration Evening 7p.m.

Tours: Thursday at 9:30 a.m. or by appointment



When it comes to exercise, it’s hard to break through thehype and advertising ploys for the newest and best cardio

machine or workout.However, the best cardio workout depends on engaging the

heart through a multitude of levels and workloads, said DanGriffin, general manager of Oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, whois certified by the American College of Sports Medicine, saidpeople are becoming more educated when it comes to theircardio workout.

“People understand you do not have to do long, slowdistance exercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studiesare showing now that low-intensity heart maintenance levelsare just as efficient for calorie burn. Middle heart rates – the

cardiexercises-

�Keeping the Most Important Muscle Fit



cardi kind of exercises where you can talk to your neighbor, but can’trecite the Gettysburg Address – those work well also,” Griffinsaid. “The higher heart levels have a whole differentphysiological response and work on different parts of your body.Some who do a little bit of exercise in all three ranges loseweight quicker, and it doesn’t take more time. You take those30-40 minutes you usually dedicate to your workout and break it up.”

Griffin said there are new workout machines that takeadvantage of that data to help athletes meet those various heart ranges.

“There always are machines that are the ‘hot machines.’ In the‘80s and ‘90s, it was the stepper, and now it’s treadmills,ellipticals, and multi-angular training. With a treadmill, you’re inone plane, moving forward. With multi-angular and multi-planemachines you’re moving forward, and you’re also going left,right, forward and back,” Griffin said. “Another hot machineright now is the ArcTrainer, which is a cross between a stepperand an elliptical. With step training, few people can last longenough to make that work right, so the ArcTrainer is a favoriteamong tennis players and other athletes who come in.”

In addition to specialized cardio machines, Griffin said circuittraining still gives people a great workout. “Circuit training is stillalive and well. We have trainers who take people through workoutsthat are as demanding as can be,” he said. “Unless you need bulk andheavy li_ing, there’s a lot to be said for this functional training whereyou’re pushing sandbags and working out without stopping betweensets. I’ve done it, and have goèn my heart rate from 130 up to 170,and it stays within that range within the whole half hour. [e keythough, is to do it in a circuit fashion. That way, you don’t have tostop between exercising.”

Griffin said that becausecircuit training focuseson different musclegroups, theworkouts typicallyare faster to get through.

“Muscularly, youdon’t need the restbecause you’reworking a differentmuscle groupeach time,” he said. “Cardio-wise,you may haveto wait 30seconds or sobetween sets,but you cande]nitely be ]t bydoing that.”

exercises-�

“...the best cardioworkout depends on engaging theheart through a

multitude of levelsand workloads...”



Holidays to me bring more than giftgiving. Gatherings and holiday

celebrations are a time to bring familiestogether for laughter, love, and time to

reflect on the year. Life is full of many changesand the holiday season is time to be grateful for our

blessings, My family like yours will be celebrating at goodgatherings that include breakfast, lunch, and full course dinnerand holiday party. I suggest picking your menu that will allowyou to be healthy and happy. Good food can make yourcelebration that much more wholesome. When I have family and friends together it is a celebration to remember. I pick mymenu for what the season demands from hour dorus to desserts.Here is a list of helpful tips to be as organized as possible.

1. Create your guest list; know your budget2. Set a budget, do not exceed your budget.3. Create your menu:

Your guest will usually bring and appetizer or dessert. This will help relieve your Stress and keep you within budget.

4. Your shopping list: Itemize list for the menu you are serving. A good way to shop to save time and money, visit your local wholesale market.

5. Prep ahead: this is a great way to save time and energy. Simply the day before and place in the refrigerator. Then on the day of the gathering, present on your holiday platters.

6. Prep with family night. We all stand around the kitchen island, and each assigned a kitchen task. For example, your younger children can construct decorations, while older children can chop fruits and vegetables and other ingredients for your menu days in advance.

This is a great time to start new holiday traditions with yourfamily and friends. Through these economical times I try to addthese holidays’ tips to reduce stress and to add a special touch toyour celebration. I hope you are able to make this years holidaymuch more appetizing and comforting for all your family andfriends. Sometimes in life we are all wrapped up and busy witheverything around us that we miss one of the most preciousthings of all. Just getting together with our family and friends andjust saying “It’s good to have you here, I love spending time andmaking memories with you.

I’m so blessed to be surrounded by so many good people; I would like to thank all of my readers, friends, family and staff.Have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year.


Cooking with Penny

Penny Folino has been “in the kitchen” for over 25 years. Her newest restaurant, Penny’s Diner, is now open in Peters Township.

www.eatatpennysdiner.com

$3.00 offany two lunch entrees

$5.00 offany two dinner entrees

10% offany catering order.

Check out our menu www.eatatpennysdiner.com

Not good with any other promos or certificates.

Phone in atakeout order at724.942.0999

Hours: 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.

4080 Washington Road(across from PNC Bank)



Cooking with Penny

Penny Folino has been “in the kitchen” for over 25 years. Her newest restaurant, Penny’s Diner, is now open in Peters Township.

www.eatatpennysdiner.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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429WashingtonAvenue, Suite 5Bridgeville, PA 15017-2350

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Voted one of Pittsburgh's 25 Best Restaurants 2007, 2008, & 2009

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mericans filing federal returns canexpect year-end tax planning to be a

bit more complicated this time aroundbecause we don’t know what the tax rateswill be for 2011 just yet. The current rates,known as the “Bush tax cuts” from 2001,are due to expire on Dec 31 of this year.

So when the new rates get passed,taxpayers won’t have a whole lot of timeto plan. Jeff Marzina, executive vicepresident at Bill Few Associates, says that the best plan of action here is to be prepared.

“For this year," says Marzina, "I thinkit’s very important that people be payingattention to what happens in the politicalspectrum in terms of tax rates for the newyear and to make sure you have youradvisers lined up, so when rates are set,you don’t wait.”

Each year, an individual is allowed togive a financial gift of up to $13,000 toany or as many individuals as they want towithout being subject to a gift tax. If yougive beyond this, you must fill out a gifttax return, which goes against the unifiedcredit amount that they are allowed togive at their death—which right now isnot determined.

So you could give gifts of up to$13,000 to 15 grandchildren and not paya tax on it. According to the IRS, youcan’t deduct the value of gifts on yourincome tax return unless they are left to acharitable organization.

Federal estate taxes may have beenrepealed for 2010 but are set to return onJanuary 1, 2011, and will tax up to 55% onestates valued at more than $1 million. In2009 the rate only imposed a 45% tax onestates in excess of $3.5 million, and allassets got a “step-up” in basis whensomeone died. This meant that no taxwould have to be paid on appreciatedassets like stock and real estate. Butunder new laws, all assets inherited maybe subject to the capital gains tax.

If the current administration’sproposal to allow rates to expire andreturn to 2009’s rate, the “step-up” inbasis will return. Another proposal is tohave most of the current brackets stay butraise tax rates of the highest bracket, andtaxes on dividends and capital gains jumpfrom 15% to 20%. The Republicanproposal is to extend current tax rates fora period of two years and cap dividends and capital gains at 15%.

Marzina says that the question manypeople are asking is, if you have assetsthat have significant capital gains built in,should you accelerate taxes and sell thoseassets in 2010 to ensure 15% tax rate,instead of waiting for 2011 and having therate jump to 20%?

The problem here is that taxpayerswon’t have a lot of time to make thesedecisions. According to Marzina, if thenew tax laws are in place by Dec. 1, there will only be a 30-day window tomake any decisions this year. So the bestthing to do is make those decisions asquickly as possible.

G o o d T i d i n g s f o r t h e G r e a t e s tG e n e r a t i o n

b y J a m i e W a r d

Older Adults in Mt. Lebanon

ATax Planning for The New Year



ith the winter months approaching, it’s time to put away the golfclubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the jackets. It’s also

time to start thinking about safety. According to the National Instituteof Health, more than 1 in 3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and fallseach year. It’s the number one cause of injury related deaths.

So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if moving toFlorida is out of the question), it’s a good idea to review some tips onkeeping yourself safe this winter: • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get

a better grip with the ground. Leather- and plastic-soled shoes have the worst traction in winter weather.

• Check for icy railings and avoid icy and uncleared sidewalks and walkways.

• Take your time to map out the best route to get wherever you are going, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when you feel you may need it.

• If you have to walk over an icy surface, bending your knees and taking slower steps can reduce the risk of falling.

And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areas around yourhome are salted and cleared. The Center for Disease Control andPrevention suggests using rock salt or another chemical de-icingcompound. If needed, ask a family member or neighbor to help you.

SeniorAgenciesb y J a m i e W a r d

Older Adults in Mt. Lebanon

W

How to PreventInjury this Winter

aby boomers and beyond will soon have a dedicated space in the Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

Recently the library was awarded a $4,000 grant, supported by theInstitute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, as administered by the Office ofCommonwealth Libraries. After completing a competitive applicationprocess, six libraries in Pennsylvania were awarded grants to create “Senior Spaces.”

In addition to the creation of a designated area, the funds will be utilized for programming and support services for the over-50 population. Also, a “Senior Spaces” Advisory Committee is being formed. The library is having a “Senior Spaces“ naming contest and the winning entry willreceive a special prize.

BSenior Spaces Grant


Chabad of the South Hills1701 McFarland RoadPittsburgh, PA 15216www.chabadsh.com412.341.1494

Jewish CommunityCenter of GreaterPittsburgh345 Kane Blvd.Pittsburgh, PA 15243412.278.1975, ext. [email protected]

Transportation For Older AdultsThere are several agenciesthat offer free or reducedrate transportation servicesto individuals who qualify.

Medical AssistanceTransportation Program(MATP)1.888.547.6287Provides non-emergency

medical transportation toresidents of AlleghenyCounty who have a validPennsylvania Departmentof Public Welfare MedicalAssistance Card.

Free Bus Pass for SeniorCitizensThe Port Authority allowsAllegheny Countyresidents, 65 years of ageand older, to ride free on

local public transportation(buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participantsmust obtain identificationcards, which are availablefree of charge, fromparticipating transportationproviders. Call412.442.2000 for thelocation nearest to you.

ACCESS 65 Plus andACCESS ADA Program 412.562.5353 or TDD 1.800.654.5984ACCESS is door-to-door,advance reservation,shared-ride transportationprovided throughout PortAuthority’s service area. It serves primarily seniorcitizens and persons withdisabilities. There are norestrictions on the purposeor number of trips whichmay be taken by riders,except that riders arerequired to share theirvehicle with others traveling in the samedirection and at the same time.

Older PersonsTransportationTransportation for medicalappointments, groceryshopping, senior centeractivities and other needsthroughout AlleghenyCounty is available toadults 60 years of age andolder who live in AlleghenyCounty. Call SeniorLine at412.350.5460.

Are you a nonprofit Senior Center serving the needs of our community’s older adults?

We would be happy to post your contactinformation. [email protected] with your center’s name andphone number.


f you’re looking for something to do this winter that doesn’t require loadingup an SUV full of ski equipment and a 40-minute drive to find some slopes,

you may want to look into the fast-paced and enjoyable sport of platform tennis.

Played outdoors on aluminum courts, platform tennis is a growing recreationalchoice for thousands of Americans each year. Once found only in country clubsettings, the American Platform Tennis Association has made great strides throughthe years to make the sport more accessible for the masses through public outreachand by setting up a grant program for local clubs to make improvements to existingfacilities or to build new ones.

The sport is similar to tennis in that there’s a court and a net, but that’s wherethe similarities end. Courts are fenced in and shots may be played off the fence.League play is designed for all ages and skill sets, so that everyone can enjoy thefun. Spectators gather with players between sets in small, indoor settings called“paddle huts,” which range in size from trailers to stand-alone buildings.

Racquets are similar to those used in racquetball, with holes drilled throughthem for aerodynamic advantage. Balls are made from a rubber-based materialwith a surface that keeps them from skidding off the court.

While the sport is played in the dead of winter, most courts have heatingsystems beneath them that keep them clear and free of snow and ice. Additionalmaintenance usually is provided by club staff or dedicated volunteers.

If you ask any platform tennis player what the appeal of the sport is for them,you almost always get the response that the sport is genuinely fun, andcamaraderie and new friendships are forged in the paddle huts.

For more information about platform tennis, check out the APTA website at www.platformtennis.org, or the Western Pennsylvania Platform TennisAssociation’s website at www.wppta.org.

P LA T F O R M T E N N I S C O U R T S

V E N U E # O F C O U R T S

Mt. Lebanon Twp 4

Valleybrook Country Club 2

St. Clair Country Club 4

Upper St. Clair Twp 2

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If you’re sitting around wondering what you’re going to do after the playoffs – assuming the Steelers continue their success with thereturn of Big Ben – you may want to consider getting a move on listing your home.

January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, said Lori Crandell, realtor and associate Broker with Coldwell Banker.

“January is definitely a good time to list a house. It’s the beginning of thespring market,” she said. “Especially after football season is over, people getbored and start looking at buying. I always tell people, if you’re going to listin the spring, shoot for January or early February because you’ll get a legup on the spring market before it gets saturated.”

While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, Crandell said youcan rest assured that your house will start getting online attention. The foottraffic you get will be from serious buyers, not people just browsing.

“The latest statistics that I saw said that 88 percent of buyers start out looking for a home online,” Crandell said. “So it’s really importantthat sellers go online themselves and look at the differences betweenbrokers. Realtor.com is a very good source and the most popularwebsite for consumers.”

Another aspect of winter selling is the weather itself. Crandell saidthat some people worry about how their home will show if there’s a footof snow on the ground, but if your house is attractive and inviting in thewinter, you know it’s going to look good when it’s 85 degrees and sunny.

“During the winter is when it’s probably going to look its worst.Sellers, if they have pictures from the spring and summer, should makethose photos available to the agent,” Crandell said. “If someone’s yardlooks good in the winter, it’s going to look good in the spring, but if wehave the snow that we had last year, it might hold someone back whocan’t make out if the yard is sloped or flat. That’s why sellers should bring out pictures of the yard in other seasons.”

Want toList YourHome?JANUARY IS THEPERFECT MONTHTO DO IT!

Other things that the winter provides advantages for include anopportunity for buyers to see how the furnace operates, whether thehome heats evenly, and whether or not it has any drafty areas you’ll need to address.

“There are some things you can’t tell in the winter, like airconditioning,” Crandell said. “You can’t tell if the air conditioning is working [when it’s] under 55 degrees, but that’s where a homewarranty comes in handy. At least you’re covered by a home warrantyand can get that rectified before it gets too hot.”

It’s the beginning of the spring market. While you may not see a lot of foot traffic right away, you can rest assured

that your house will start getting online attention.



It’s the kind of thing that can comein an instant like a lightning bolt, orsneak in over the course of weeks like apersistent fog. In any form, it’s unwelcome and costs U.S. businessesmillions of dollars in lost work and sickdays. It’s back pain, and while it’s not

totally understood, it’s totally realfor millions of Americans.

There are severalvarieties of back pain,each with their own

names based on thelocation on the spinefrom which theyseem to originate.One of the morecommon ones thatyou may haveheard about is

“lumbago,” or lowerback pain. The name

stems from the lumbarsection of the spine, andthe condition has fueled

an estimated $70billion industry in itself

in physician services, self-help remedies, ointments,

devices and more. America’sobsession with lumbar and its propersupport has led to seats with lumbaradjustments being standard in most

Many Causes, Few Cures

If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and

pains, most doctorsagree that compressesof warm, moist heat arethe best way to cope.

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way to cope. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also safe, solong as you take them as directed. Chiropractors and physical

therapists may be able to suggest a stretching regimen that couldalleviate some of the more common aches and pains associated

with the spine. In fact, more and more chiropractors haveintegrated techniques into patient visits other than the basicroutine adjustment.

You might be surprised to find that your first chiropractic visitmay include 15 minutes of massage therapy, where warm, moist heat

compresses are placed on your back, followed by 15 minutes ofTENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, which zingsand zaps your muscles with a pleasant tingling sensation.

While it all feels great, scientists are split as to whether any of it works for the long term. A study by the American Academy ofFamily Physicians came to the conclusion that while heat packs,deep heat, and massage are useful in the immediate relief ofsymptoms, long-term effectiveness is still in question, and the use

of TENS therapy has demonstrated no long-term effectiveness at all.

What the study did conclude is that unless the pain is the result of a deeper medical condition, like cancer or infection,

exercise and patient education are the best tools out therein helping the patient in the long term.

high-end vehicles. For those who drive economy cars, there are pillows,wedges, lattices of beads and vibrating heating pads that plug into your car’slighter socket, each proclaiming more relief than the next.

Despite the accoutrements that one can purchase, few provide totalrelief. That’s because the actual causes of run-of-the-mill, everyday back

pain are largely unknown. Many reasons for serious back pain are easilydiagnosed because they have a direct causal basis or present with other

symptoms such as weight loss, fever or incontinence. Someone in arecent car accident, for example, would know that their currentback pain is a result of the collision. However, it’s been postulatedthat back pain may also be the result of stress at work or at home,

reasons that would not show up in an MRI or X-ray.If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and pains, most

doctors agree that compresses of warm, moist heat are the best

Exercise and patient Exercise and patient education are the education are the

best tools out there in best tools out there in helping the patient helping the patient

in the long term.in the long term.




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W I N T E R 2 0 1 0on th

e go...

find these things hiding in this picture.

The holiday season is the perfect time to spread cheerand give back to those who are in need. There areplenty of places around you to do this.

Here are some fun ideas:

� Volunteer at a soup kitchen� Donate toys you don't want � Donate canned goods to the community food bank� Donate clothes you've outgrown� Visit a nursing home

Giving Backfor the Holidays!



RedSometimes things don’t endup the way you think theywill. Take a look at me. I’man AKC Red Beagle whowas originally going to be agreat hunting dog. But guess

what: I hate guns! So that neverpanned out and I ended up here.

However, being at Animal Friends is great. I’ve discoveredwhat I really love in life: toys! I love to play with toys andwith you, and I’m always up for more. I’m very gentle andcan even do well with children, as long as I’m supervised. I like going for rides in the car and I love to cuddle, too!

I like some dogs, so if you have one, my friends theAdoption Counselors would be happy to set up ameeting to see if we get along.

And good news for you humans: my adoption feeis sponsored! So you’ve got nothing to lose –come on down to Animal Friends and say hello tome, Red!

SophieSophie is a beautifuldomestic shorthaired catwho asks for so little. Shefound herself at AnimalFriends when her previousowner was no longer ableto care for her.

This gray and white beauty wouldprefer to go to a quiet household where she can be theonly cat. While quite affectionate with the people she haslearned to trust, she is shy around strangers and needstime to get used to new surroundings.

If you’re looking for a loving, quiet pet then Sophie couldbe your perfect match! Why not stop by Animal Friendsand talk to an Adoptions Counselor?

To learn more about theseadoptable pets, call Animal Friends at

412.847.7002 or visit us at 562 Camp HorneRoad, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Animal Friends is anon-profit companion animal resource centerserving the needs of pets and people since 1943.

For more information, visithttp://www.ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/.

Adopt a Pet

It’s the Holidays!Find each of these words in this puzzle.

Winter Weather Safety Tips� Have a snack before going outside. It willgive you energy and keep your body warmer.� Make sure to wear sunscreen on your face.The snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun'sultraviolet rays.� Dress in layers of clothes. Waterproof pantsand jackets will keep you dry and warm!� Never go sled riding alone. Always have aparent supervise.� When you’re playing outside, go inside everyonce in a while to warm up.� If you start to shiver or feel numb, goinside right away and tell an adult.



For a mouth-pleasing, brain-boosting after schoolsnack, try serving up some of this fun String Cheese“Slaw” with a tall glass of Omega-3 milk. It may just

turn chips into a snack of the past.

String Cheese “Slaw”Prep time: 15 Minutes

Servings: 6Crayon-sized string cheese cylinders can be sliced into“buttons” or stripped into “threads,” then added tosalads of all stripes. Here, the cheese strips are the mainingredient in a fun, carrot-flecked slaw.

6 Organic Valley Stringles String Cheese 11⁄2 cups carrot, cut into matchsticks or shredded 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (or parsley) 4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons olive oil

black pepper, freshly ground Pull threads of cheese off each string cheese stick (nottoo thin). Toss with carrots, cilantro or parsley, lemonjuice and olive oil. Add pepper to taste.

For more information and coupons, visit www.organicvalley.coop

kool kids cookHoliday JokesWhat do you sing at a snowman’s

birthday party?Freeze a jolly good fellow!

What goes ho-ho whoosh, ho-ho whoosh?

Santa caught in a revolving door!

What do snowmen eat for breakfast?Frosted flakes!

What goes “oh, oh, oh”?Santa walking backwards!

How does a snowman lose weight?He waits for the weather

to get warmer!

When does Christmas come beforeThanksgiving?In the dictionary!

What do you get when you cross asnowman with a vampire?

Frostbite!

Why is it always cold at Christmas?Because it’s in Decemberrrr!

What do you call an old snowman?Water!

What did one snowman say to theother snowman?

Can you smell carrot?

What do monkeys sing at Christmas?Jungle bells, jungle bells!

kidscraft

Pine Cone Christmas Tree

OrnamentYou'll need:

Dry Pine ConesGreen Glitter

GlueSequins

Paint the pine cone with glue. Before theglue dries, sprinkle with green glitter. Topwith a paper star. When it dries you can

glue on sequins or tinsel.



West Hills Symphonic BandThe West Hills Symphonic Band will present its four-concert season series at West Allegheny High School beginning this fall. Included among the band’s 60 members are several South Fayette High School band alumni. Diana Wells/clarinet. Ryan Wolf/ trumpet, PaulRolin/trumpet, Kelly Englert/flute, Ian Hughes/horn and PrincipalConductor/Music Director Clem Rolin are currently with theensemble. The WHSB was formed in 1967 and plays free concertsthroughout the year.

The 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 1 s eas on s chedul e i ncl udes :

Sunday December 12, 3 p.m. - Gala Holiday Concert featuring local choirs and festive favorites.

Sunday March 27, 3 p.m. - Spring Concert withMusic of the Masters and Broadway Gems

Sunday May 15, 3 p.m. - Swing into Summer with the Best of the Great American Songbook

The WHSB will once again performoutreach concerts for many other localevents. Last year’s outdoor venues includedconcerts at Hopewell, Paris (PA), Oakdale,Moon and North Fayette Townships.

If your civic, religious or privateorganization is interested in hosting anoutreach concert, contact PrincipalConductor/Music Director Clem Rolin at412.788.4713. Find out more info atWHSB.org.


W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 - 1 1


© 2010 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 Falls Are No Laughing Matter

page 3 The Difference a Number Can MakeNew UPMC Rehab Institute President

page 4 Be Happy and Healthy this WinterAre You Sad?Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5 New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6 When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7 UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills




West Hills Symphonic Band


W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 - 1 1


© 2010 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 Falls Are No Laughing Matter

page 3 The Difference a Number Can MakeNew UPMC Rehab Institute President

page 4 Be Happy and Healthy this WinterAre You Sad?Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5 New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6 When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7 UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills




2 www.UPMC.com/Today

Prat falls on TV sitcoms may make us chuckle, but in real life, they’redeadly serious. Falls are the leadinginjury-related reason people go to theemergency room. Each year, morethan a million Americans suffer a slip,trip, or fall injury, resulting in morethan 17,000 deaths.

Falls don’t have to be an inevitablepart of life. There are many proactive strategies you can take to prevent them from happening to you and others.

“Have you ever noticed that athletestend to be injured late in a game?That’s because they’re tired, distracted, or rushed,” says Gary P. Chimes, MD, PhD, Department of Physical Medicineand Rehabilitation, UPMC MercySouth Side Outpatient Center.“These same conditions are often at play during a fall. You may blame a fall on a slippery sidewalk or unstable chair, when the real underlying cause is entirely different.Knowing what causes a fall is key toaddressing the problem.”

Your “personal safety margin” diminishes when factors such as age,fatigue, body weakness, and chronicillness are added to the equation.

“Falls often point to other underlyinghealth issues. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of what yourbody is telling you,” says Dr. Chimes.

Three things you can doto avoid fallsExercise: Exercises that promotestrength, balance, and body coordination are especially importantto prevent falls. Dr. Chimes recommends the martial art of tai chi, especially for older adults.

See your doctor regularly:Schedule annual physical and eye examinations to uncover underlyingmedical problems that could lead to falls. Notify your doctor if you feel unstable or experienceproblems like dizziness due to medications.

Check your surroundings: Clutter-proof your home, especiallysteps. Make sure carpets andhandrails are secure. Use a non-skid mat in your bath. If youhave small children, use safety lockson windows and be sure cribs, infantswings, and other equipment areplaced securely. Older childrenshould always wear protective gearwhen biking, skiing, or skating.

Falls Are No Laughing MatterHere’s how you can help avoid them at any age

Treating a Fall

“If you’ve taken a fall and suspect a serious injury, such as a broken bone, severe cut, or concussion, seek immediate medical attention,” advises Lisa R. Blackrick, MD, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UPMC Mercy. The Level I TraumaCenter at UPMC Mercy is speciallyequipped to evaluate and treat seriousand complex injuries.

For less serious injuries such as asprain or pulled muscle, follow theRICE procedure, she says: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. “If yourpain worsens or does not diminishwithin two or three days, you shouldcontact your family doctor for what to do next.”

After a fall, many people — especiallyseniors — fear that it will happenagain. “The good news is that thereare many things that can be done tominimize the reoccurrence of falls, including physical therapy and exercise, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Blackrick. “The important thing is to maintain a dialogue with your health care provider.”

To learn more about fall-related injury treatment options at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-7865.

Quick Facts About Falls• Children under the age of five and seniors over the age of 70 have thegreatest fall rates.

• Among older adults, more than two-thirds of those who fall are likely to fall again within six months.

• The most severe falls among children are linked to baby walkers, windows, and play equipment.

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control

1-800-533-UPMC 3

New UPMC Rehab Institute PresidentHer position as the president of the UPMC RehabilitationInstitute may be new, but Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD, is a seasoned UPMC veteran. A physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, she began her career as a resident at the Hospitals of the University Heath Center of Pittsburgh (now UPMC). Today, as president of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, Dr. Reidy overseeswestern Pennsylvania’s largest provider of inpatient rehabilitation services.

The UPMC Rehabilitation Institute offers accredited, specialized care for patients after illness and injury, including stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, amputation, and multiple traumatic injuries. Services are provided in seven acute care hospitals throughout thearea: UPMC Mercy, UPMC Horizon, UPMC McKeesport,UPMC Montefiore, UPMC Northwest, UPMC Passavant,and UPMC St. Margaret.

During her career, Dr Reidy has seen dramatic changes in the way physicians deliver rehabilitation services. Shedescribes the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute as a “very different kind of institute”. Since inpatient rehabilitationservices are provided at seven locations, patients can remain close to home and under the care of their physician.“Having world-class care in their own neighborhood benefits patients and their families,” she adds.

As Americans live longer and healthier lives, the demandfor quality, convenient inpatient rehabilitation services will continue to increase. “Baby boomers are expected toregain functional ability, whether they are recovering fromsurgeries or injuries, or coping with chronic illnesses,” says Dr. Reidy. “We are committed to helping them getback to a full life.”

For more information on the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute.

Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD

See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call!

Many numbers are part of your dailylife, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressureThere’s a reason high blood pressure(hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damagesthe walls of your arteries, it also canwreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke.

When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal bloodpressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

99: Blood sugar levelIt’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of othermedical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugarlevel should be 99 milligrams perdeciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

200: Optimum cholesterolCholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substancemade by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which thencirculates through the blood stream.

To check your cholesterol levels, yourdoctor will ask you to fast before havingblood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, artery-clogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal.

You should aim for a total cholesterolnumber (HDL + LDL) under 200mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease.

For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.

Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

The Difference a Number Can MakeSee how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call



Prat falls on TV sitcoms may make us chuckle, but in real life, they’redeadly serious. Falls are the leadinginjury-related reason people go to theemergency room. Each year, morethan a million Americans suffer a slip,trip, or fall injury, resulting in morethan 17,000 deaths.

Falls don’t have to be an inevitablepart of life. There are many proactive strategies you can take to prevent them from happening to you and others.

“Have you ever noticed that athletestend to be injured late in a game?That’s because they’re tired, distracted, or rushed,” says Gary P. Chimes, MD, PhD, Department of Physical Medicineand Rehabilitation, UPMC MercySouth Side Outpatient Center.“These same conditions are often at play during a fall. You may blame a fall on a slippery sidewalk or unstable chair, when the real underlying cause is entirely different.Knowing what causes a fall is key toaddressing the problem.”

Your “personal safety margin” diminishes when factors such as age,fatigue, body weakness, and chronicillness are added to the equation.

“Falls often point to other underlyinghealth issues. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of what yourbody is telling you,” says Dr. Chimes.

Three things you can doto avoid fallsExercise: Exercises that promotestrength, balance, and body coordination are especially importantto prevent falls. Dr. Chimes recommends the martial art of tai chi, especially for older adults.

See your doctor regularly:Schedule annual physical and eye examinations to uncover underlyingmedical problems that could lead to falls. Notify your doctor if you feel unstable or experienceproblems like dizziness due to medications.

Check your surroundings: Clutter-proof your home, especiallysteps. Make sure carpets andhandrails are secure. Use a non-skid mat in your bath. If youhave small children, use safety lockson windows and be sure cribs, infantswings, and other equipment areplaced securely. Older childrenshould always wear protective gearwhen biking, skiing, or skating.

Falls Are No Laughing MatterHere’s how you can help avoid them at any age

Treating a Fall

“If you’ve taken a fall and suspect a serious injury, such as a broken bone, severe cut, or concussion, seek immediate medical attention,” advises Lisa R. Blackrick, MD, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UPMC Mercy. The Level I TraumaCenter at UPMC Mercy is speciallyequipped to evaluate and treat seriousand complex injuries.

For less serious injuries such as asprain or pulled muscle, follow theRICE procedure, she says: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. “If yourpain worsens or does not diminishwithin two or three days, you shouldcontact your family doctor for what to do next.”

After a fall, many people — especiallyseniors — fear that it will happenagain. “The good news is that thereare many things that can be done tominimize the reoccurrence of falls, including physical therapy and exercise, medication adjustments, and lifestyle changes,” says Dr. Blackrick. “The important thing is to maintain a dialogue with your health care provider.”

To learn more about fall-related injury treatment options at UPMC Mercy, call 412-232-7865.

Quick Facts About Falls• Children under the age of five and seniors over the age of 70 have thegreatest fall rates.

• Among older adults, more than two-thirds of those who fall are likely to fall again within six months.

• The most severe falls among children are linked to baby walkers, windows, and play equipment.

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control

1-800-533-UPMC 3

New UPMC Rehab Institute PresidentHer position as the president of the UPMC RehabilitationInstitute may be new, but Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD, is a seasoned UPMC veteran. A physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, she began her career as a resident at the Hospitals of the University Heath Center of Pittsburgh (now UPMC). Today, as president of the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, Dr. Reidy overseeswestern Pennsylvania’s largest provider of inpatient rehabilitation services.

The UPMC Rehabilitation Institute offers accredited, specialized care for patients after illness and injury, including stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, amputation, and multiple traumatic injuries. Services are provided in seven acute care hospitals throughout thearea: UPMC Mercy, UPMC Horizon, UPMC McKeesport,UPMC Montefiore, UPMC Northwest, UPMC Passavant,and UPMC St. Margaret.

During her career, Dr Reidy has seen dramatic changes in the way physicians deliver rehabilitation services. Shedescribes the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute as a “very different kind of institute”. Since inpatient rehabilitationservices are provided at seven locations, patients can remain close to home and under the care of their physician.“Having world-class care in their own neighborhood benefits patients and their families,” she adds.

As Americans live longer and healthier lives, the demandfor quality, convenient inpatient rehabilitation services will continue to increase. “Baby boomers are expected toregain functional ability, whether they are recovering fromsurgeries or injuries, or coping with chronic illnesses,” says Dr. Reidy. “We are committed to helping them getback to a full life.”

For more information on the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, visit UPMC.com/RehabInstitute.

Margaret (Peg) Reidy, MD

See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call!

Many numbers are part of your dailylife, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressureThere’s a reason high blood pressure(hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damagesthe walls of your arteries, it also canwreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke.

When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal bloodpressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

99: Blood sugar levelIt’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of othermedical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugarlevel should be 99 milligrams perdeciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

200: Optimum cholesterolCholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substancemade by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which thencirculates through the blood stream.

To check your cholesterol levels, yourdoctor will ask you to fast before havingblood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, artery-clogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal.

You should aim for a total cholesterolnumber (HDL + LDL) under 200mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease.

For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.

Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

The Difference a Number Can MakeSee how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call



Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand?You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with yourhealth and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Followthese suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles.

• Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warmwater is your best defense against germs. If soap and wateraren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product.

• Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available.

• Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skinAs the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months:

• Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently.

• Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors.

• Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping.

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exerciseDon’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

• Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group.

• Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend.

• With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

Did You Know?• People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition.• More women than men are diagnosed with SAD.• Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Be Happy and HealthyThis Winter

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, youmay be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring.

“Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease insunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman,MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute andClinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression.

In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience whatDr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains.

Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall.

If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severeenough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommendantidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy.

While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally,don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

1-800-533-UPMC 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Innovation at UPMC

Robotic technology revolutionizingWhipple surgeryWhen Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed aWhipple procedure, he started gettinghis affairs in order. He even consideredgoing without surgery. “It occurred tome that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith.

Although he left most of the worryingup to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize thesurgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine.

But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC CancerCenters to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology.

Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with thenurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says.* Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreassurgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among theworld’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si SurgicalSystem, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a seriesof small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified three-dimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy,robotic surgery equipment allows formore natural movements, includingwrist function, explains Dr. Zeh.

“It has a 360-degree range of motion,which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into placeswhere your hand can’t go.”

The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail andmanipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

Patients benefitThe two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for bloodtransfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner.

“We are pleased to be able to offer thisnew technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “Thedata shows that as a whole, patients whoundergo the robotic-assisted Whippleprocedure do as well as patients whohave the traditional open surgery.”

Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducingfear in patients. According to Dr. Moser,as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor becausethey are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery.

“We hope that by minimizing thetrauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone withpancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.”

For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any ofUPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments,call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure

• smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need

for transfusion• less pain • shorter hospital stays• faster recovery time and

start of treatment



Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand?You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with yourhealth and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Followthese suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles.

• Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warmwater is your best defense against germs. If soap and wateraren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product.

• Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available.

• Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skinAs the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months:

• Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently.

• Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors.

• Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping.

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exerciseDon’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.

• Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group.

• Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend.

• With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

Did You Know?• People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition.• More women than men are diagnosed with SAD.• Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Be Happy and HealthyThis Winter

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, youmay be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring.

“Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease insunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman,MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute andClinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression.

In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience whatDr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains.

Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall.

If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severeenough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommendantidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy.

While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally,don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

1-800-533-UPMC 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Innovation at UPMC

Robotic technology revolutionizingWhipple surgeryWhen Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed aWhipple procedure, he started gettinghis affairs in order. He even consideredgoing without surgery. “It occurred tome that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith.

Although he left most of the worryingup to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize thesurgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine.

But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC CancerCenters to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology.

Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with thenurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says.* Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreassurgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among theworld’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si SurgicalSystem, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a seriesof small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified three-dimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy,robotic surgery equipment allows formore natural movements, includingwrist function, explains Dr. Zeh.

“It has a 360-degree range of motion,which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into placeswhere your hand can’t go.”

The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail andmanipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

Patients benefitThe two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for bloodtransfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner.

“We are pleased to be able to offer thisnew technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “Thedata shows that as a whole, patients whoundergo the robotic-assisted Whippleprocedure do as well as patients whohave the traditional open surgery.”

Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducingfear in patients. According to Dr. Moser,as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor becausethey are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery.

“We hope that by minimizing thetrauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone withpancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.”

For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any ofUPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments,call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure

• smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need

for transfusion• less pain • shorter hospital stays• faster recovery time and

start of treatment



It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxedevening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm.

Thankfully, parents in the North Hills andSouth Hills now have convenient “after hours”access to the pediatric specialty care found atChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses.

“All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children

Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly thetypes of cases that the Children’s Express CareCenters are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti.

The Express Care Centers provide exclusivelypediatric-focused treatment in offices that arespecially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians,physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed.

“The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor.We also know how to interact with kids andtheir parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations

The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexfordand Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.

Children’s Express CareWexfordChildren’s North2599 Wexford Bayne RoadSewickley, PA 15143Phone: 724-933-3644Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

Children’s Express CareBethel ParkChildren’s South1300 Oxford DriveBethel Park, PA 15102Phone: 412-692-3145Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re ReadyChildren’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help

The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including:

• animal bites• bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma

attacks• colds, fevers, flu, and other viral

illnesses• cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions,

and splinters• ear, throat, and sinus infections• incisions and abscess drainage• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and

dehydration• rashes, poison ivy, and allergic

reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains,

strains, and dislocations• splinting • cyst removalThe Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests,urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

If necessary, children with more seriousconditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists.If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatriciansalong with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.

Benefits of the Express CareCenters include:• access to treatment when

your primary care physician is not available

• quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnessesand injuries for children and teens

• convenient locations• free parking• no appointments needed• referrals for further

evaluation and treatment• access to lab tests and

diagnostic imaging

1-800-533-UPMC 7

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills, located just off Route 19 in Bethel Park, has become a convenient choice for arearesidents. With MRI and more breast imaging services now available, the South Hills center is even better prepared to provide for your imaging needs.

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills offers the following services on-site:

Radiology

•MRI

• general x-ray

Magee-Womens Imaging Services

• digital mammography

• ultrasound

• DXA bone density testing

UPMC Cardiovascular Institute

• nuclear medicine

• echocardiography

• peripheral ultrasound

• vascular studies

“We recently added MRI, digital mammography, and on-site breast biopsy, to give South Hills residents more services right in their neighborhood,” says Lori Collins, director of imaging services at UPMC Mercy. “With our advanced, state-of-the-art technology, our staff can provide fast, high quality images,” she adds.

Imaging services, especially for children, are now available at the new Children’s Express Care center, located in the samebuilding as UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills.

“When a child needs an x-ray, it’s reassuring for parents that it can be done nearby instead of driving to another location,” adds Ms. Collins. (Read more about the Children’s Express Care Centerand its hours of operation on page 6.)

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills participates in most insurance plans. The center also offers comfortable and private waiting rooms and testing areas, as well as free parking and valet service.

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills1300 Oxford DriveBethel Park, PA 15102

Radiology Services (x-ray and MRI)Phone: 412-851-8740

Hours for x-rays Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. Same-day appointments available.

Hours for MRI Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Same-day appointments available.

Magee-Womens Imaging ServicesPhone: 412-833-9000

Hours Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

UPMC Cardiovascular InstitutePhone: 412-347-3240

Hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about all imaging services at UPMC, visitwww.UPMC.com/Imaging.

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills



It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxedevening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm.

Thankfully, parents in the North Hills andSouth Hills now have convenient “after hours”access to the pediatric specialty care found atChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses.

“All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children

Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly thetypes of cases that the Children’s Express CareCenters are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti.

The Express Care Centers provide exclusivelypediatric-focused treatment in offices that arespecially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians,physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed.

“The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor.We also know how to interact with kids andtheir parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations

The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexfordand Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.

Children’s Express CareWexfordChildren’s North2599 Wexford Bayne RoadSewickley, PA 15143Phone: 724-933-3644Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

Children’s Express CareBethel ParkChildren’s South1300 Oxford DriveBethel Park, PA 15102Phone: 412-692-3145Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m.No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re ReadyChildren’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help

The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including:

• animal bites• bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma

attacks• colds, fevers, flu, and other viral

illnesses• cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions,

and splinters• ear, throat, and sinus infections• incisions and abscess drainage• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and

dehydration• rashes, poison ivy, and allergic

reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains,

strains, and dislocations• splinting • cyst removalThe Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests,urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

If necessary, children with more seriousconditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists.If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatriciansalong with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.

Benefits of the Express CareCenters include:• access to treatment when

your primary care physician is not available

• quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnessesand injuries for children and teens

• convenient locations• free parking• no appointments needed• referrals for further

evaluation and treatment• access to lab tests and

diagnostic imaging

1-800-533-UPMC 7

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills, located just off Route 19 in Bethel Park, has become a convenient choice for arearesidents. With MRI and more breast imaging services now available, the South Hills center is even better prepared to provide for your imaging needs.

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills offers the following services on-site:

Radiology

•MRI

• general x-ray

Magee-Womens Imaging Services

• digital mammography

• ultrasound

• DXA bone density testing

UPMC Cardiovascular Institute

• nuclear medicine

• echocardiography

• peripheral ultrasound

• vascular studies

“We recently added MRI, digital mammography, and on-site breast biopsy, to give South Hills residents more services right in their neighborhood,” says Lori Collins, director of imaging services at UPMC Mercy. “With our advanced, state-of-the-art technology, our staff can provide fast, high quality images,” she adds.

Imaging services, especially for children, are now available at the new Children’s Express Care center, located in the samebuilding as UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills.

“When a child needs an x-ray, it’s reassuring for parents that it can be done nearby instead of driving to another location,” adds Ms. Collins. (Read more about the Children’s Express Care Centerand its hours of operation on page 6.)

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills participates in most insurance plans. The center also offers comfortable and private waiting rooms and testing areas, as well as free parking and valet service.

UPMC Imaging Services of South Hills1300 Oxford DriveBethel Park, PA 15102

Radiology Services (x-ray and MRI)Phone: 412-851-8740

Hours for x-rays Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. Same-day appointments available.

Hours for MRI Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m to 4 p.m. Same-day appointments available.

Magee-Womens Imaging ServicesPhone: 412-833-9000

Hours Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

UPMC Cardiovascular InstitutePhone: 412-347-3240

Hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about all imaging services at UPMC, visitwww.UPMC.com/Imaging.

UPMC Offers Expanded Imaging Services in South Hills


UPMC Mercy1400 Locust St.Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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

This publication is for informational 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.

Time to Take Care of YouHolidays 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 Mercy physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases evenoffer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare,and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.



UPMC Mercy1400 Locust St.Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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

This publication is for informational 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.

Time to Take Care of YouHolidays 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 Mercy physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases evenoffer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare,and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

“Clark Building Prices in the South Hills” SINCE 1982

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re you a business owner or stakeholder looking to gain a bountifuladvantage over the competition locally, nationally, or even globally?

Then, it is time to take an in-depth look at your Internet marketing strategies.

Many believe that once a website is built, customers will follow.Unfortunately, this is not the case. Successful Internet marketingrequires a strategically developed and creatively executed campaign likethose that we develop with our clients.

Similar to a traditional marketing campaign, Internet marketing isevolving, and one of the hottest tactics to expand your business online isSocial Media Marketing.

The goal of Social Media Marketing is to allow your customers, whocan ultimately be your greatest asset, to spread the word about all of thegreat products and services that you offer. By engaging your customersand encouraging them to act as ambassadors on behalf of your business,referrals can become plentiful.

Most business owners are familiar with popular social media websites:Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Few, however, are using them totheir full potential.

FacebookWith more than 500 million members, Facebook is the most popular

social media website in the world. Half of its “members” log in daily,and, according to the November 2010 issue of Glamour magazine, morethan a third of womenm who use social media check Facebook beforethey even brush their teeth in the morning!

So, how can you use Facebook to do more than catch up with your friends?

While your business probably won’t reach the almost 16 millionsubscribers Starbucks has attracted to its Facebook fan page, with eachmember having an average of 130 friends who view their “wall” of postsand activities, your reach becomes exponential. For example, if yourbusiness is able to attract 50 people who “like” your fan page, youraverage Facebook audience could reach up to 6,500 of their friends,colleagues, and family members.

We recommend posting often (at least three times per week) on your Facebook fan page, provided the message is fresh and interesting.Facebook is also a great place to offer discount coupons, special offers, and direct links to your business website. A well-designed,interactive Facebook page can attract customers you may have neverconsidered as prospects.

YouTubeA global audience watches more than 2 billion videos every day on

YouTube. With high-definition (HD) video cameras costing as littleas $100, and digital video recorders (DVR) allowing the averageconsumer to speed through traditional commercial campaigns,businesses have come to realize that YouTube can be used for muchmore than sharing family memories.

We do caution you to keep your videos professional, utilizing thefull functionality of your camera and production software packages.But, as long as you ensure that your video is a quality production, there

is no reasonnot to havefun with it!Better yet,encourage yourcustomers to getinvolved byposting their ownvideos about your productson your very own YouTube channel.

Some of the silliest business-related videos everuploaded to YouTube are also among the mostpopular. In fact, they can spread just like a computervirus. For example, Proctor and Gamble recently made ahuge splash on YouTube with their Old Spice commercials.Filming 87 quick commercial spots the first day alone, the infamousvideos have “gone viral” with celebrities across the globe responding tothe commercials on various social media networks. Sesame Street evenfilmed a vignette featuring Grover paying tribute to the Old Spice tagline“smell like a man (monster).”

LinkedInLinkedIn, a professional network with more than 80 million

members, describes its service as “a networking tool that helps youdiscover inside connections to recommended job candidates, industryexperts, and business partners.” The site boasts that an Irish start-upcompany raised $230,000 in venture capital in just eight days throughquality LinkedIn connections.

While businesses can use LinkedIn to create a homepage describingall the products and services that they offer, we encourage you to lookbeyond the surface of a LinkedIn business profile like that start-upcompany did, and realize that the true business potential is in theconnections.

The strength of LinkedIn can be found in the ability to solicitcustomer feedback through surveys and discussion groups, and enablecustomers to get “real” opinions about products or services,communicate with an industry expert, or provide peer recommendationsthat can add credibility to your product or service.

If you’d like to include one or more of these Social Media Marketingtactics in your campaign, Farmer SEO can help. Mention the ad on thispage and we will offer you a 10% discount off of any of our SEO andInternet Marketing Services.

This I nd u s tr y I ns i g h t was written and submitted by Greg Uhrlen,President of Farmer SEO, Inc., an Internet Marketing company.Greg has over 20 years of technology experience with compa-nies such as General Motors, Westinghouse and MetropolitanLife. Farmer SEO specializes in Internet Marketing servicesincluding Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social MediaMarketing (SMM), Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Campaign Management,and Web Design Services. Greg can be reached by phone at 1.877.474.2573, via e-mail at [email protected] or through theFarmer SEO website www.farmerseo.com.

Social Media Marketing: A Web of Possibilities!

A




The JDRF Kids Walk program presented by Panera Breadis a great way to educate students on type 1 diabetes. The goals of the program are to teach students aboutdiabetes and raise money for type 1 research. Eachschool receives 10% of what is raised to be used as theschool chooses.

Our partner Panera Bread will provide the students withincentive prizes! Panera Bread will provide mini bagels forall of the students on walk day. The top student fundraiserin the school will receive a $50 Panera Bread gift card,and the top overall student fundraiser will win the grandprize- an all expense paid vacation for four to Jamaica!

Students can also participate in our poster contest anddraw their interpretation of “A World Without Diabetes.”The winner as determined by the school will receive a $50 Panera Bread gift card and will be entered into thegrand-prize drawing to win a $500 US Savings Bond.

JDRF’s mission is to find a cure for diabetes and itscomplications through the support of research. Theorganization was founded in 1970 and is the world’slargest charitable funder of type 1 diabetes research.

Contact the Western Pennsylvania Chapter to scheduleyour Kids Walk today! Call 412.471.1414 x7.

The JDRF Kids Walk programpresented by Panera Bread


hen my wife and I relocated back to Mt. Lebanon from Philadelphia two years ago, we were

excited to be “home.” It felt like we never left.Like others who grew up in Pittsburgh, my wife and I had the

opportunity to buy the house that I was raised in from my parents andwe jumped at it. While it feels a little surreal at times, raising our two kidsin the same house I was once a kid in, being in our house brings backgreat memories for me.

When I take my son and daughter for walks to the library or go out todinner with my wife on Washington Road, I reminisce on some of thegreat times I had as a child growing up in Mt. Lebanon - watching movieswith my friends at the Dennis Theatre to playing soccer for the Mt.Lebanon Soccer Association in the fall.

I also remember my first job - working at the Wendy’s on Mt.Lebanon Boulevard making minimum wage, which at that time wasslightly less than $4.00 per hour. What a great job that was.

I’ve had many interesting jobs throughout my career - LegislativeAssistant for a State Representative, Researcher for a Public Policythink-tank, On-Air Radio Personality and Private Banking Officer.Now as a lawyer, I think I have finally have found my calling.

As a lawyer, I get to work with clients who are scared, nervous,angry or sad. Emotions run high when you are being sued or areplanning to sue someone. Something just didn’t go as planned andnow they are seeking my help to solve the problem. It is veryrewarding solving someone’s problems.

Our firm prides itself on providing quality legal advice and excellentcustomer service to our clients. All phone calls are returned by the endof the day and the attorneys in our firm will meet at a location that isconvenient to you, such as your office or home.

Our law firm helps our clients deal with a variety of matters:

E states, T rusts and W ills o Setting up a Living Trust to transfer assets for tax planning

purposes;o Handling the estate of a deceased relative; oro Preparing wills for a newly married couple.

Litigationo Representing a business in the collection of delinquent customer

accounts; o Defending a small business owner from a disgruntled former

employee; oro Representing a young teenage driver in her first DUI case.

B usiness T ransactionso Negotiating and documenting the sale of a local business;o Reviewing contracts for a new start up business; oro Drafting a client’s employee handbook.

P ersonal I nj uryo Settling with an insurance carrier for an injury caused to an elderly

woman by a careless driver; oro Bring suit on behalf of an employee who was injured on the job

Real E stateo Working with a client to finance the

purchase of investment rental property; or

o Assisting a client with negotiating lease terms for commercial office space.

Should you ever need legal counsel, we hope you will choose our firmto represent you.

Please be safe this holiday season!

The attorneys and staff at McMullin & McMullin, LLC wish you andyour family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

This I nd u s tr y I ns i g h t was written by Andrew K. McMullin.Andrew K. McMullin is a Partner in the law firm of McMullin & McMullin, LLC where he practices in the areas of family law, bankruptcy, litigation, corporate transactions and real estate. Andrew is also a licensed titleinsurance agent and Realtor. He can be reached by email:[email protected] or phone: 412.471.3011.

H ome Again Glad to Be Back In Mt. Lebanon


W

Changing the way you think about your Attorney

Bankruptcy Litigation Real Estate

Wills, Estates and Trusts

Family Issues Business Planning

McMullin & McMullin, LLC Attorneys At Law

564 Forbes Avenue, Suite 1007, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Phone: 412-471-3011 Fax: 412-471-2599

www.McMullinandMcMullin.com

We Make House Calls!



AN EN TREPREN EUR ON TH E M O V E -F EA TURIN G JOE RUF F AL O’ S

DESIGN IMAGE SAL O NA special place where “the customer” is Number One!

After many years with a successful corporate career in Pittsburgh,Joe Ruffalo finally achieved his life-long dream of owning a hairsalon in Upper St. Clair. According to Mr. Ruffalo, “Acquiring theDesign Image Salon was a great opportunity to fulfill my life-longgoal of owning and operating my own salon. The salon is alwayshumming with interesting people, and everyone is always laughing...This is such a fun place! For me, it’s been a chance of a lifetime!”

Since many of Joe’s clients knew him from a well-known salon nearSouth Hills Village, coming into Design Image is like “coming home”for many of his friends and customers. Design Image is a full-service salon for women and men, with seven stylists and twomanicurists. Special services include wedding parties, proms andspecial occasion “Up-Do’s”, along with expert cutting, trend-settingstyling, and fabulous color and highlighting techniques. Joe willgladly “go the extra mile” for customers by offering valet parking,fresh coffee and light refreshments. New customers are alwayswelcome to stop in just to say hello and have coffee.

Design Image, located in the Pinebridge Commons at the far end of the main level, is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Joe and his staff will cheerfully accommodate special requests and eveninghours to meet the needs of their customers. For an appointment and more information, call 412.257.4001. Design Image... a greatplace to brighten your day!PINEBRIDGE COMMONS, SUITE 110

1580 MCLAUGHLIN RUN ROAD, UPPER SAINT CLAIR, PA 15241

Tues. Wed. Thurs.9:00 to 8:00

Fri. & Sat.9:00 to 5:00

412-257-4001

. Shampoo, Cut and Style. Color, Condition and Hi-lights. Perms: Partial and Root. Wedding, Prom, Up Do (Special Styles). Blow Dry & Style. Waxing: Eyebrow, Lip . Manicures, Pedicures and Acrylics

Salon Services For Women and Men

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season and Heartfelt Thanks for your Patronage.

Mary Eve KearnsSells in Mt. Lebanon“A NEW HOME FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON”

Mary Eve KearnsAssociate Broker

Contact Mary Eve at:Office: 724.941.8800 x239Cell: 412.889.7244email: [email protected]

15 BEADLING ROAD 757 FRUITHURST DRIVE

726 SCOTT ROAD 445 SLEEPY HOLLOWROAD


Whether it’s to get fit, stop a habit, travelmore, or reduce stress, experts say that while ittakes time to develop a habit or behavior, theexpectation of changing that developed habitover night are basically unrealistic.

Studies have shown that little over 10percent of those engaging in New Year’sresolutions actually follow through with theirgoals. Success in achieving those goals stemsfrom taking baby steps, or realistic approachesto achievement.

Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness atRobinson Towne Center, said burnout is amajor factor in people not following throughwith their workout routines.

“Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control yourmotivation and enthusiasm so you don’tburnout after only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporate minor modifications into your workout every four weeks. Overhaulyou’re entire workout program every two tothree months.”

Hardt also said that figuring out wherecardio exercise belongs in their routine also is

a factor that can help them to avoid burnout.

“Most people thinkthat starting out withcardio is good becauseit helps to warm upmuscles before weighttraining. Other peoplefeel starting out withcardio may cause toomuch fatigue, whichcould lower yourworkout intensity and make lifting withproper form moredifficult,” she said.“Truthfully, there isno right or wrong answer. Different people willneed to rotate their routine differently. Thebest advice is to pay attention to your fitnessgoals. If you are focused a bit more onendurance try to do your cardio first whenyou’ll have the most energy. On the otherhand, if your goal is to pack on muscle mass

work the weights firstbefore cardio.”

Pursuing a healthierlifestyle is always a goodidea, and while manypeople make it their NewYear’s resolution to get backin shape, experts agree thatany health program shouldbe focused on progressive,attainable and realisticgoals. However, it’s also a great idea not tooverindulge during theholidays in the first place.

Gaining 10 pounds afterpartying for a month,grazing cookies at the office

and having extra desserts at grandma’s, is a loteasier than doing 30 minutes at the gymeveryday for two weeks to negate those calories.While it’s a cliché, moderation is still the key toa balanced lifestyle, and you’ll be doing yourselfa favor bypassing that cookie tray or secondglass of wine in the first place.

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those engaging in New Year’sresolutions actuallyfollow through with their goals.”

Resolve to Keep YourResolutionsThis Year

Before the last notes of“Auld Lang Syne” fade and the last mouth horn goessilent, chances are you’ll besuckered into making anotherNew Year’s Resolution that will also fade as fast.



Do bus iness wi th people who do bus iness M t . L e b a n o n C h ap t e r

BNI is the largest business networking organization in the world. We offer members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and most importantly, business referrals. BNI was founded in 1985. The organization has over 5,500 chapters throughout every populated continent of the world. Last year alone, BNI generated 6.2 million referrals resulting in $2.6 billion worth of business for its members. In Western Pennsylvania, over 700 members participate in 31 chapters covering 20 counties.

Tony RanalliBUL LDOG Of f i ce P r oduct s , I nc.

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Rose Marie SpadaroMary Kay Cos m eti cs

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Jo Ann HallN or th St ar Co m m uni cat i ons , I nc.

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Cami DelPrincePay ro l l 1

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100 Emerson Lane, Suite 1507Bridgeville, PA 15017

412.220.0600

Linda BarnicottLinda Barnicott Li m i ted Edi ti on

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888.PITT.ART888.748.8278

Michael S. HornickCol dw el l B anker R eal Es tate

S er v i ces“Expose your property to

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412.344.0500

Dennis E. Piper, CEODEP T ec hnol ogi es , I nc.

Computer, printer, network, Web,sales and service specialists.www.deptechnologies.com

412.922.8824

Alan ScheimerDor m ont A ppl i ance C enter s

“Discover the DormontDifference”

www.dormontappliance.com412.531.9700

Theresa BayerSchafer Int er i or s

“Furniture, Design, Fine Art, Lightingand Accessories”

320 Castle Shannon Blvd.Mt. Lebanon, PA 15234

[email protected]

Eddie & Sandy Grimes“Imprinted pens for as low as

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550 Mayer StreetBridgeville, PA 15017

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Mt . L e b a n o n C h ap t e r

BNI is the largest business networking organization in the world. We offer members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and most importantly, business referrals. BNI was founded in 1985. The organization has over 5,500 chapters throughout every populated continent of the world. Last year alone, BNI generated 6.2 million referrals resulting in $2.6 billion worth of business for its members. In Western Pennsylvania, over 700 members participate in 31 chapters covering 20 counties.

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The Allegheny County Parks Department today announced that the North Park and South Park ice rinks will open on Thursday, November 4, weather and conditions permitting. The 2010-2011 ice skating season will run through mid-March 2011.

The Parks Department will once again offer both free and paid skating lessonsthroughout the season to residents ages five and older.

The North Park and South Park ice rinks offer gift certificates, and the rinks are available to rent for special occasions.

For additional information, call the North Park Ice Rink at 724.935.1280 or the South Park Ice Rink at 412.833.1499.

2011 Family, Senior and Individual pool pass certificates and 2011 Senior Golf Certificates are available as holiday gifts. Call 412.350.2468 for details.



Winterizing your vehicle isn’t nearly as hard as it may sound. In fact, thanks to the moderate climate of western Pennsylvania, and the expediency of our regional public works professionals, there’s little if anything for us to do to prep our cars for

winter weather. But there are some things that are just good sense.

• Consider changing to thinner oil for the winter. The regular oil you use in the summer canget thicker in the cold of winter, leading to longer start-up times until your engine is properlylubricated. If you aren’t the type who changes your oil on your own, ask your local mechanicabout changing viscosity for the winter months.

• Check the basics! If you don’t do anything else, make sure you cover the basics. Make sureyour windshield wiper fluid is full with a fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures, and carry anextra gallon in the trunk. When the Pittsburgh slush flies, it’s easy to go through a full container ofwiper fluid. Make sure your tires are inflated properly and that you have enough tread on them. A rule of thumb for minimal thread is to stick a penny in your treads with Lincoln’s head down. If the rubber doesn’t meet his hairline, your tread’s too low. Some people switch to snow tires for the winter, which is never a bad idea. Make sure your spare is inflated properly and that youhave a roadside assistance kit. Emergency blankets can easily fit in glove boxes, as do flashlights,ice scrapers and extra gloves.

• If you don’t have jumper cables, get some! Most car batteries lose charge due to cold temperature. Carrying jumpers not only increases the chances that you’ll find a good Samaritanto jump a charge off of, you can also be the good Samaritan who helps others who may be in distress.

Winter driving poses a multitude of challenges, but if you cover these basics, you’ll eliminate a good bit of them. You can't, however, eliminate bad driving, so be alert and keep an eye out for others on the road this time of year.

D O N ’ T L E T

W i nter i z i ng Y ou r C ar C an K eep Y ou R ol l i ng D es p i te th e C ond i ti onsA lot of people think that getting ready for winter simply means an annual furnace check, turning off and draining outside faucets, and some shrink wrap over their windows. However, if you don’t winterize

your vehicle, you may be stuck in that comfy living room waiting for a ride to come pick you up.

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Have a Heart-to-HeartHoliday

Recipe

Family FeaturesThe holidays are known as a time for family gatherings, catching up with relatives, and sometimes even the occasional family conflict. Like drama at the holiday dinner table, in many ways your health — for better or for worse — is influenced by your family. This year,why not start a conversation that benefits everyone? Gather your family health history.

Wh y it’s impo rtantFamily history of disease is an important part of understandingyour risk for developing a number of serious diseases, includingtype 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a serious disease that, if left untreated,can lead to serious health problems including blindness, loss oflimb, kidney failure, heart disease, and early death. In fact, mostpeople with type 2 diabetes have a family member — such as amother, father, brother, or sister — with the disease.

By knowing your family health history, sharing it with yourhealth care team, and taking important steps such as maintaininga healthy weight or losing a small amount of weight if you areoverweight, making healthy food choices, and being physicallyactive, you can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes (as well as otherserious diseases) and help ensure that you will be enjoying holiday family gatherings for years to come.

F our q uestions you should ask The answers to these key questions could help you prevent type 2 diabetes in your future:

• Does anyone in the family have type 2 diabetes?

• Has anyone in the family been told they might get diabetes?

• Has anyone in the family been told they need to lower their weight or increase their physical activity to prevent type 2 diabetes?

• Did your mother get diabetes when she was pregnant? This is also known as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

If the answer to any of theseis “yes,” or you have a mother,father, brother, or sister withtype 2 diabetes, you may beat an increased risk fordeveloping type 2 diabetes.Talk to your doctor and visitwww.YourDiabetesInfo.orgto learn more aboutmanaging your risk andpreventing or delaying type 2 diabetes.



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totally unleashed. This fiercely energetic program is inspired bymartial arts and draws from a wide array of disciplines such askarate, boxing, taekwondo, tai chi and muay thai. Supported by

driving music and powerful role model instructors, you strike, punch,kick and kata your way through calories to superior cardio fitness.

BODYPUMPBODYPUMP™ is the original barbell class that strengthens yourentire body. This 60-minute workout challenges all your major

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Claire

VatzAnnual

Honoree at Speech Language Conference

Congratulations to Claire Santagati Vatz, the2010 honoree of the SouthwesternPennsylvania Speech, Language and HearingAssociation. Vatz, a pioneer of private practicein Speech-Language Pathology, practices inPittsburgh. Board-certified by the AmericanSpeech-Language and Hearing Association,and holding a teaching certificate as a teacherof the speech and hearing impaired in thestates of Pennsylvania and New York, she isalso a licensed speech-language pathologistin the state of Pennsylvania.


Onorato Launches SeventhAnnual Phone Card Drive

for Overseas TroopsPanera Bread joins County effort for

second year with special offers


Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato has launched theCounty’s seventh annual phone card drive for U.S. troops whoare stationed overseas. Through December 9, residents maydonate international phone cards at Soldiers & SailorsMemorial Hall & Museum in Oakland, at the Boyce, North andSouth park offices, and at the Office of the County Executivein Room 101 of the County Courthouse.

“This drive is an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to the menand women who are protecting our freedom far away fromtheir families and friends,” said Onorato. “I encourageeveryone to join in our effort to connect troops with theirloved ones during the holidays.”

During Light Up Night in Downtown Pittsburgh onNovember 19, Panera Bread sold cookies with all proceedsgoing toward the purchase of international phone cards foroverseas troops.

On December 9, anyone who makes a $5 donation at oneof the 26 Panera Bread Cafes in the Pittsburgh region willreceive a free “You Pick Two” voucher. All proceeds from thedonations will be used to purchase additional internationalphone cards.

International phone cards may also be mailed to theAllegheny County Special Events Office, 515B County OfficeBuilding, 542 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, throughDecember 9.

All donated and purchased phone cards will be distributedamong the 171st Air Refueling Wing, 911th Airlift Wing, and316th Regional Readiness Command.

“It’s important that we remember the sacrifices that menand women in the armed services make for our freedom,” said Allegheny County Veterans Services Director Ronald Conley. “We have been very successful in previous years, and we hope to build upon that success.”

This is the seventh year that Allegheny County has sponsored the phone card drive for troops. With Panera’s help last year, the 2009 drive netted more than 245,000 phone-card minutes. The total number of minutes collected over six years is more than 345,000.

For additional information regarding the phone card drive for troops, call 412.350.5929.

Peters PlaceServing Up Excellence for Nearly

30 Years




ometimes a restaurant has been around for solong, it becomes an institution, and that’s exactly whathappened in the case of Peters Place.

Started by brothers Bill and Mike Peters more than25 years ago, Peters Place is a destination restaurantknown for its fresh, unique recipes and calm, warmatmosphere.

“We’ve always offered good food at a reasonable price,”said Mike Peters. “That’s why we’re still here. We make all ourfood from scratch with no canned or frozen desserts.”

The restaurant’s menu is so good, Peters Place has carved out aniche as the place to go for wedding receptions.

“We do more than 50 weddings a year and can hold anywherefrom 30 to 300 people in our banquet rooms,” Peters said. “Ourwedding packages start at $29.95 per person and include acomplete dinner, 4-hour open bar, champagne toasts and customwedding cake.”

If you have your own hall, Peters Place does offsite catering as well.

But for everyday lunch and dinner, you can’t go wrong at PetersPlace. Open seven days a week at 11 a.m., patrons can get a typicallunch entrée for around $8, and a dinner entrée for around $18.Menu items range from their famous Orange Glazed Salmon,Virginia Spots, Seafood Bisque and Chocolate Mousse Pie, toseasonal favorites such as this Winter’s Maple Glazed Salmon,Pretzel Crusted Trout, Black and Blue Scallops, and ChickenRavioli Asiago.

“We also do daily specials,” Peters said. “We typically have sixlunch specials and six dinner specials every day.”

We had the opportunity to sample the Orange Glazed Salmon,which arrived at the table a feast to the eyes as wellas the palate.

Visually, the pink salmon covered in a thicklayer of orange marmalade, was served with a sideof fresh, crisp green beans and a strawberry garnish.The salmon was moist, supple and perfectly done.The glaze complimented the salmon and the greenbeans, for a savory, fruity mix that recalls the freshbounties of the fall farmers’ markets.

To say our chocolate mousse was decadentwould be cliché, but very apropos. Fluffy and thickat the same time, the mousse was sweet, but nottoo sweet, and covered with a blanket of whipped

cream streaming with chocolate sauce. This is a dessert that meritsa trip to Peters Place on its own.

What’s more, Peters Place and their experienced chefs neverhesitate to take on a challenge. So if you like your meal prepared acertain way, just ask and they’ll do their best to accommodate yourneeds and flavors to your liking. No challenge is too great for theirmore than 70 years of combined culinary experience.

Peters place is conveniently located at 1199 Washington Pike,just off the I-79 exit before the Great Southern Shopping Center.With plenty of on-site parking, you and your party will never want for a space. The kitchen closes at 9 p.m. weeknights, 10 p.m.on Friday and Saturdays and 8 p.m. on Sundays. Peters Place also does off-site catering for showers, anniversaries, corporateevents and more.

For more information, go to www.Petersplacerestaurant.net,where you can view banquet room design plans, wedding menusand more. Or you can call 412.221.5000 to make reservations,although they are not required.

S

Peters PlaceServing Up Excellence for Nearly

30 Years




Real Estate Mortgage Title Insurance

Howard Hanna Real Estateand Mortgage Services412.833.3600 ext. 244

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Hard Work andDeterminationBring Positive

Results

Hard Work andDeterminationBring Positive

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Janet HenslerRealtor®, SRES


ccording to Carol Diethorn, Kenneth Ochs was a bit of a daredevil in his day. Andhe’s got the stories to prove it.

“When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs, whomshe spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, aninitiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with Family Services ofWestern Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach.

“I used to be really active, and I was a tennis pro for a long time,” Mr. Ochs explains,“but my eyes became gradually worse, and now I don’t see.”

Carol accompanies Mr. Ochs on walks through South Park once or twice a week andboth enjoy not only the exercise, but also the company. “Carol is really good; she leads meso I don’t traipse anywhere I shouldn’t be,” he says with a laugh.

Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. During their mile-long walks, theyexchange stories of their lives and share advice.

“It’s funny,” Carol confides, “he thinks he’s the care recipient, but he’s really doingmore for me than I do for him. I get so much out of it, and I come home feeling great.”

Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol saw an opportunity tovolunteer as a way to do something that givesher meaning. “It really puts perspective onthings,” she says of her experience with Mr.Ochs and other seniors she drives to doctors’appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokes but quickly takes aserious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.”

Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senioris looking for volunteers in every corner ofAllegheny County, from as little as an hour amonth to routine weekly visits. Whether it’shelp with grocery shopping, home safetychecks or snow shoveling and yard work,thousands of seniors in our neighborhoodscould use some assistance. In addition toindividual volunteers like Carol, families andgroups are also welcome.

To learn more or become a volunteer,visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org or call 412.307.0071.

“It’s a fine organization,” Mr. Ochsvolunteers. “I can’t say enough about it.” Given enough time and his penchant forstorytelling, though, he probably could.

Volunteering brings more joy than imagined.

A


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Picture Perfect – Gettinga perfect holiday picture does nothave to involve a three-hour photoshoot with an expensivephotographer. Oftentimes the bestholiday shots are the candid, everydayones shot at home. For professional-looking DIY images, use natural light(if indoors, shoot near a window), getup close, and have the subjectsinvolved in a favorite activity. Laugh,have fun, and shoot away. Even if theshots aren’t perfect, use photo editingsoftware – sometimes just simplychanging the image to black andwhite or cropping out unwantedparts can transform the image.

Let Your Child Be the Artist – Instead of uploading afavorite photo for holiday cards,simply scan a child’s favorite drawingand quickly upload to a photo greeting cardsite. This is an especially cute idea forclassroom or grandparent holiday cards.

Collage Card – Instead ofspending hours deciding which photo tofeature for the holiday card, just chooseseveral photos taken throughout the yearthat highlight favorite adventures andmemories. Visit a favorite online card storeand select one of the many templatesavailable.

Keep It Simple – Scour thecrafting and dollar stores where there are avariety of inexpensive products to makehandmade cards. Use blank cards andembellish with just one or two items – anymore and it can be daunting, especially ifmore than 50 cards need to be made. Forinstance, punch out polka dots in festiveholiday papers using a circle punch andadhere them to the card front in a random,whimsical pattern. Or, run a piece ofgrosgrain ribbon across the front of card andadhere a glittered embellishment or button.

Use a Kit – For those who lack thecreative bug or are really strapped for time,use pre-assembled DIY holiday card kits.Cardstore.com has embellished card kitsthat combine the time-saving elements ofdigital photo cards with the personal, hand-crafted touch of dimensional accents. Orderthe photo cards online. Once they arrive,decorate the cards with the providedcoordinating stamps, gems, and glitter glue.Tips and creative inspiration included andno extra trip to the craft store needed!

Source: Cardstore.com

By following these tips, you can create easy, thoughtful andmeaningful holiday cards that share the festive joys of the season.

Easy Ideas for CreatingCustom, MemorableHoliday CardsEven with the popularity of using e-mail, social media, and texting to communicate with friends and family,holiday cards continue to be a time-honored tradition. In fact, according to a survey from holiday cards andthank you cards retailer Cardstore.com, 43 percent of Americans prefer a greeting card from a loved one insteadof $10, and 63 percent think sending a special occasion greeting through a social network is inappropriate.

While survey results show most people prefer to receive holiday cards, people mistakenly think that creatingthese custom cards is time consuming. Thanks to technology, new products, and online greeting card sites, thisisn’t necessarily the case. By following the tips below, creating custom, personalized holiday cards can be easy,fun, and inexpensive.



By following these tips, you can create easy, thoughtful andmeaningful holiday cards that share the festive joys of the season.5 8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE Mt. Lebanon Mt. Lebanon | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5 9

Upcoming EventsThe 7th Annual Holiday House Tour to BenefitMake-A-WishSaturday, December 11, 2010, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.412.344.0500

The Fourth Annual Symphony of Food – Chefs’Showcase Dinner sponsored by WOMEN ofSouthwestern PA, Inc.Friday, January 28, 2011, 6 p.m., 724.941.4598

Casual PartiesGifts of food and beverage are always welcome. In a pinch, your host can set out yourcookies or drinks if supplies run low. Just check with your hostess to make sure theyare serving alcohol before you decide on the Cabernet or Riesling.

Formal PartiesFor parties that are more formal in nature, a gift of chocolates or bottle of champagnemakes a wonderful and thoughtful gift. Flowers are a great option if you have themarranged in a vase before you arrive or delivered the day before the party. Your hostesswill be so grateful not to have to stop and tend to your gift while trying to welcome herguests!

Something More Personal?Scented candles, lotions or a CD of your host’s favorite type of music make great gifts.A homemade jar of jam, or muffins wrapped in a cellophane bag and tied with ribbonwill be something your hostess will truly appreciate. For someone who loves thekitchen, soap and lotion caddies for the kitchen sink or beautiful kitchen towels are memorable gifts that won’t go unnoticed. Last fall, I received a basket of tomatoesfrom my friend’s Peter’s Township garden, and I was so thrilled! Always remember toplace a small note with your gift. The next day, your host won’t be scratching her headwondering who was so thoughtful to remember her with that lovely gift!

When attending a party, I always try to remember to take a hostess gift.Hostess gifts are really just a small gesture – something to thank yourhost for being so welcoming. But, what to bring? It depends on howwell you know your hostess and how formal the party.


H O U S E S O F W O R S H I P

Does your

church have

some news?

Let us know!

Contact

Marybeth@

incommunity

magazines.

com

A N N O U N C E M E N T S

Beth-El Congregation of South Hills ............................................................. 412.561.1168Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church .......................................................... 412.561.5100Bower Hill Community Church....................................................................... 412.561.4114First Church of Christ, Scientist ..................................................................... 412.561.1125Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church .............................................................. 412.833.3355Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church .......................................................................... 412.561.8113Mt. Lebanon Christian Church ....................................................................... 412.531.8554Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran ........................................................................ 412.563.0300 Mt. Lebanon United Methodist ...................................................................... 412.531.7131 Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church ................................................... 412.531.3387 Our Lady of Grace ............................................................................................ 412.279.7070 Our Savior Lutheran......................................................................................... 412.561.1211 Southminster Presbyterian............................................................................. 412.343.8900 St. Anne’s Church............................................................................................. 412.531.5965 St. Bernard Church .......................................................................................... 412.561.3300 St. Paul’s Episcopal Church............................................................................ 412.531.7153 St. Thomas More.............................................................................................. 412.833.0031 St. Winifred’s Church....................................................................................... 412.344.5010 Sunset Hills United Presbyterian Church..................................................... 412.561.6261 Temple Emanuel of South Hills ...................................................................... 412.279.7600 The Chabad of the South Hills........................................................................ 412.344.2424Unitarian Universalist Church of South Hills ............................................... 412.561.6277

If your place of worship was not on our list, please e-mail the information to [email protected].

We are interested inhighlighting yourchurch!If you are a member of the clergyfrom this area and would like tocontribute an inspirational messagethat all of our readers might enjoy,please contact Marybeth Jeffries,Managing Editor at [email protected] formore information.


Bower Hill Comunity Church in Mt Lebanon is pleased to announce theappointment of its new pastor, Brian Snyder.

“Our goal was to find a pastor who could complement our strengths, meaningfulworship, a relevant education program for children and adults and commitment tomission and service locally, nationally and globally,” says Rick Jacobs, head of thePastor Nominating Committee. Pastor Snyder completed his master of divinity in2005 and will finish his doctorate of ministry degree in preaching in 2012.

Besides preaching, Snyder is looking forward to another part of his new job. “Iam eager to begin building realtionships with members of Bower Hill as well as thesurrounding community,” he says. “I am optimistic that this is a church where myfamily will be comfortable, a place we can call home for a long time to come.”

*Bust of an Angel *mosaic from about 1304 A.D., by Giotto di Bondone.

The Heinz History Center is one of only three venues in North America to host VaticanSplendors: A Journey Through Faith and Art . The 10,000-square-foot exhibition displaysmore than 270 rare objects, illustrating 2,000 years of art, history, and culture. Highlightsof the exhibition include original works by Michelangelo, a reliquary containing theremains of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, and a bronze cast of the hand of Pope John Paul II.

The History Center also worked closely with Bishop David Zubik and the Diocese ofPittsburgh to exhibit 70 rarely seen regional artifacts on loan from churches, the historycenters archives and the Andy Warhol Museum.

The exhibit will be featured through January 9, 2011.

For more information, visit www.heinzhistorycenter.org or www.vaticansplendors.com.

Vatican Splendors: A Journey Through Faith and Art


here’s never really a bad time to do estate planning. But in themonths ahead, you may have an extra incentive to look at yourestate plans. Why? Because changes are coming to estate tax laws — so you’ll want to be ready.

Change is nothing new in the world of estate taxes, which havebeen in a state of flux for years. As the law now stands, there is nofederal estate tax in 2010. Then, in 2011, the estate tax is scheduledto return, with an exemption amount of $1 million and a top rate of55 percent. Yet, these figures are highly likely to change; ultimately,we may see a return to what existed in 2009: a $3.5 million or $5million exemption and a top rate of 45 percent.

Of course, your susceptibility to the estate tax will depend on thesize of your estate. But no matter what your level of assets, you’llwant to have your estate plans in order. First of all, you almostcertainly need a will. You’ll also need to make sure you’ve namedthe proper beneficiaries in all your legal documents.

Now, let’s return to the estate tax issue. Specifically, how can youhelp reduce any potential estate tax burden your heirs may face?Here are some ideas to consider:

Ta ke Adva ntage of Your E xem pt ions. You and yourspouse each receive an exemption from the federalestate tax. As mentioned above, this exemption could beanywhere from $1 million to $5 million, starting in2011. To maximize these exemptions, you may want tocreate a credit shelter trust. In a nutshell, here’s how itworks: When you die, you fund a credit shelter trustwith assets equal in value to your available exemption; if you have other assets, you can leave them to yourspouse, free of estate taxes. Your surviving spouse candraw income from the trust’s assets while he or she isalive. Upon his or her death, the trust disperses theassets to your children or other beneficiaries, takingadvantage of your original estate tax exemption. Your spouse’s estate will also disperse assets tobeneficiaries, using his or her exemption to reduce oravoid estate taxes.

Us e Life I nsurance. If you owned a $1 million dollarlife insurance policy, and it was subject to an estate taxrate of 55 percent, your beneficiaries would receive adeath benefit of just $450,000. But if you established anirrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) with a newinsurance policy, the trust would own the policy anddistribute the proceeds to the beneficiaries you’ve

chosen. By using an ILIT, you’d keep the life insurance out of yourtaxable estate.

G ive generously. You can give up to $13,000 per year to as manyindividuals as you like without incurring gift taxes. And the moreyou give, the lower your taxable estate. You can also reduce yourestate by making gifts to charitable organizations.Keep in mind that estate planning can be complex. You will need towork with your legal and tax advisors before establishing any typeof trust or other estate-planning mechanism. And with the loomingreturn of the estate tax, there’s no time like the present to getstarted.

Edward Jones, its associates and financial advisors are not estateplanners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. Please consult yourattorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your particular situation.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local EdwardJones Financial Advisor.

T


BePrepa

red for Return of Estate Tax



An estimated 50 million Americans are affected with tinnitus, a “ringing” in the earswhen there is nothing actually “ringing” in the surrounding environment. Some commoncauses of tinnitus are exposure to loud sounds,ear infections, aging, excessive ear wax, highblood pressure and sensory nerve disorders. Even some activities can cause tinnitus such as smoking, drinking alcohol or caffeine, and taking excessive amounts of aspirin or antibiotics.

If you think you have tinnitus, you should be evaluated to determine the best options available for managing it. Success in dealing with tinnitus can be greatly enhanced by thepatient working together with a professionalexperienced in tinnitus management, and if there are no specific medical issues involved,there are several options.

In many cases, the individual experiencing tinnitus also has a hearing loss.The use of a hearing aid to amplify sounds and speech can help cover up the tinnitus and make it less distracting. Some hearing aids

have the ability to generate a soft masking sound while amplifying speech. However, the real breakthrough today comes from advancedhearing instruments that make use of fractal technology and offer a harmonic sound programcalled ZEN (by Widex) which generates soothingsounds and shows great promise as a sound therapy tool by relaxing the wearer and distracting attention away from the tinnitus.

This sound program is in a hearing aid whichalso has many features to help the wearer hearbetter in noise, hear soft and distance speech,hear music, hear on the phone and in restaurants,etc. So today millions of people of all ages who experience tinnitus have a very new innovativeoption for dealing with that annoying “ringing” in their ears.

This Industry Insight was submitted by Dolores Y. Payne, M.A.,CCC-A, Audiologist.Dolores is the owner of Allegheny HearingInstruments, Manor Oak

Village, 1910 Cochran Road, Pittsburgh, PA15220. 412.343.1320. Telephone her at 412.373.1151.Her other location is conveniently located at 800 Jonnet Building, Monroeville, PA 15146

Are Your Ears Ringing???

Hearing aid tinnitus management programs are available in all sizes and models of hearing aids and can be accessed by the wearer with a push of a button.



M ount Lebanon Ju nior W omen’s C lubAnnounces 2 011 M ajo r Gr ant Benefic iary

Mount Lebanon Junior Women’s Club (MLJWC) is proud to announce its 2011 major grant beneficiary: Reading Is FUNdamental® (RIF) Pittsburgh. RIF Pittsburgh aims toprovide children with the resources, motivation, andopportunities to develop a life-long love of reading. RIFPittsburgh provides over 60,000 books and motivational readingactivities to more than 20,000 of the community’s most at-riskchildren.

“We all understand the importance of literacy in young children’slives,” says Katie Graybill, MLJWC President. “We’re proud tosupport RIF Pittsburgh and the parents and children who will benefitfrom our grant.”

According to The National Center for Education Statistics, almosttwo-thirds of low-income families do not own any books for theirchildren. RIF Pittsburgh focuses on providing these families withbooks for their children so they can incorporate reading into theirlives. RIF Pittsburgh develops programs in economically-disadvantaged schools, community centers, and after-school programsto help each child learn to read, understand the importance of literacy,and achieve success in the future. To learn more about RIF Pittsburgh,visit www.rifpittsburgh.org.

“We are very excited to be chosen as MLJWC’s 2011 beneficiary,”says Florri Ladov, executive director of RIF Pittsburgh. “This supportwill help us improve and expand our programming to those in needand increase the visibility of RIF Pittsburgh in the westernPennsylvania region.”

MLJWC plans to hold its benefit gala on Saturday, March 5, 2011.Proceeds from this annual event will benefit RIF Pittsburgh who willuse the funds to strengthen current programming, increase the

number of books provided at their current locations, and help themexpand into new schools and afterschool programs. Specific detailsabout this event will be provided at a later date.

Over the past 43 years, MLJWC has donated more than $500,000to local Pittsburgh-area charities and organizations through variousfundraising efforts including an annual charity benefit event thatfocuses on an organization that assists women and/or children as itsprimary beneficiary. MLJWC is a civic, philanthropic, and socialorganization founded in 1968 by ten civic-minded young women.Located in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, it is a 501(c)(3) non-profitorganization with an annual membership of approximately 80 womenfrom the South Hills area. General meetings are held the fourthThursday of every month (September–November and January-May)at 7 p.m., St. Paul's Church, 1066 Washington Road. To learn moreabout MLJWC, visit www.mljwc.com.

Back – Left to Right: Shelby Wherry, Membership Chair; Katie Graybill, President;Katie Parrish, Programs Chair; Natalie Willison, Corresponding Secretary; Jennifer Swango, Treasurer.Front – Left to Right: Michelle Tallman, Public Relations Chair; Nadeana Cook,Philanthropy Chair; Suzanne Hetz, Recording Secretary; Caroline Lascek, President-Elect. Not shown: Andrea Thompson, Parliamentarian

M t. Lebanon J unior W omen’s C lub 2010-2011 E xec utive Bo ard

An estimated 50 million Americans are affected with tinnitus, a “ringing” in the earswhen there is nothing actually “ringing” in the surrounding environment. Some commoncauses of tinnitus are exposure to loud sounds,ear infections, aging, excessive ear wax, highblood pressure and sensory nerve disorders. Even some activities can cause tinnitus such as smoking, drinking alcohol or caffeine, and taking excessive amounts of aspirin or antibiotics.

If you think you have tinnitus, you should be evaluated to determine the best options available for managing it. Success in dealing with tinnitus can be greatly enhanced by thepatient working together with a professionalexperienced in tinnitus management, and if there are no specific medical issues involved,there are several options.

In many cases, the individual experiencing tinnitus also has a hearing loss.The use of a hearing aid to amplify sounds and speech can help cover up the tinnitus and make it less distracting. Some hearing aids

have the ability to generate a soft masking sound while amplifying speech. However, the real breakthrough today comes from advancedhearing instruments that make use of fractal technology and offer a harmonic sound programcalled ZEN (by Widex) which generates soothingsounds and shows great promise as a sound therapy tool by relaxing the wearer and distracting attention away from the tinnitus.

This sound program is in a hearing aid whichalso has many features to help the wearer hearbetter in noise, hear soft and distance speech,hear music, hear on the phone and in restaurants,etc. So today millions of people of all ages who experience tinnitus have a very new innovativeoption for dealing with that annoying “ringing” in their ears.

This Industry Insight was submitted by Dolores Y. Payne, M.A.,CCC-A, Audiologist.Dolores is the owner of Allegheny HearingInstruments, Manor Oak

Village, 1910 Cochran Road, Pittsburgh, PA15220. 412.343.1320. Telephone her at 412.373.1151.Her other location is conveniently located at 800 Jonnet Building, Monroeville, PA 15146

Are Your Ears Ringing???

Hearing aid tinnitus management programs are available in all sizes and models of hearing aids and can be accessed by the wearer with a push of a button.



Mt. Lebanon Village held there 1stAnnual Fundraising Dinner at thenew Rivers Casino. Guests enjoyed a fabulous dinner and a silentauction. Award-winning Post Gazettecolumnist and author Brian O'Neillwas the guest speaker.

Established in 1999, Mt. LebanonVillage is a network of caringcommunity volunteers givingresidents of Mt. Lebanon, age 50 and older, the assistance needed to continue living in their homes and staying connected to the community.

For more information on this non-profit organization, visitwww.mtlebanonvillage.org.

Nancy Spangler & Mary Davis

Nancy Vintilla, Patrick Griffin,Martha Grunewald

Brian O’Neill

Natalie Gawronski, Lynn Mercurio,Mark Thompson, Andy Grab

Martin & Sorlee Chetlin

Roberta & Tom Stevenson

Betsey O’Neill, Dave Gallaway, Andy Herlich

Pat Gallaway, Karen Rossi,Ann Bateman, Denise Hodes



Do you know someone who is doingsomething good for the community?

Maybe it's your Mom—does she volunteer with a charitable organization?Has your child volunteered their time somewhere?

We want to know about it and honor their commitment! Email

[email protected] with your story.

(We love photos!)


Mt. Lebanon Public Library1 6 C as tl e S h annon B l v d .P i tts bu r g h , P A 1 5 2 2 84 1 2 . 5 3 1 . 1 9 1 2w w w . m tl ebanonl i br ar y .or gMonday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.Friday – Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.Sunday: CLOSED

Winter Events

THE CALENDAR OF EVENTSWEBSITE IS:

www .ev entkeeper .com /code/ev ents .cfm ? cur Or g=M TL EBBe advised that non-library events are also included

on the calendar. Some are simply organization meetings,but others may be of interest to the community.

LIBRARY CLOSED ~ DEC. 24 & 25 ~ JAN. 1HOL IDA Y HAN DICRAF TS!Saturday December 4, 11, 18, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.Stop in the Children’s Library the

first three Saturdays in Decemberand make a holiday or winter craft to take home. Crafting fun for theentire family! Contact Judy Sutton at 412.531.1913.

HOL IDA Y F OR THE BIRDSSaturday December 4, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. This program for school-age

children focuses on birds and their habitats through creative playand crafts. Pre-registration required. Please

call 412.341.2646 for furtherinformation and registration. Presented by the Mt. Lebanon

Nature Conservancy, in cooperationwith Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

DISCOVER EIN STEIN : A DISCOVER YSERIESFriday December 10, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Everybody equates E=mc2 withAlbert Einstein but how much do youreally know about the world’s mostfamous scientist? Join Dr. Cleon

Cornes for a six-week Discoveryseries on Einstein and learn moreabout this fascinating genius. For the past 100+ years Einstein’s

ideas and theories (special andgeneral relativity, quantummechanics, etc.) have been acreative force in physics and otherscientific fields. New Einstein papersmade available in 2006 and a recentbiography by Walter Isaacron showhow his scientific imaginationdeveloped from his rebelliouspersonality. In our discussions wewill focus on that complexrelationship. Cleon Cornes is a retired

psychiatrist who enjoys teachingcourses for the Osher LifelongLearning Institute at Carnegie Mellonand at Mt. Lebanon Public Library.Most of the courses have beenabout eccentric geniuses, andEinstein certainly was one.

N EW YEAR TW ISTFriday December 31, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.Bring in the New Year by making

some lucky New Year Pretzels totake home and bake. There will be songs and hats and more NewYear’s fun, too!

For children ages 4+ and theirfamilies.

CON SUMER HEAL TH RESOURCES ON THE IN TERN ET : A DISCOVER Y SERIESJanuary 10, 17, 24, 31 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Join Carolyn Lindberg in a four-

week course on consumer healthresources on the Internet. Thecourse will explore the websites ofleading hospitals, professionalassociations, and the government.Included topics are the currenthealth care system, Internet scams,medications and drug safety,environmental health, and how toselect a doctor. Carolyn Lindberg, M.L.S. Ph.D.

is a former medical records director,medical librarian, and teacher. Ms.Lindberg also teaches at the OsherLifelong Learning Institute atCarnegie Mellon University. This series is presented with the

support of the Institute of Museumand Library Services, under theprovisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, as administered


S C I EN C E F I C TI O N B O O K D I S C U S S I O N G R O U PWednesdays, January 26, February 23,March 23, 7 p.m.The science fiction book discussion group focuses onclassic, hard, and/or award winning science fictionbooks. The selections are:January 26 - Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur ClarkeFebruary 23 - The Gods Themselves by Isaac AssimovMarch 23- The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein

C H I N ES E C O N V ER S A TI O N G R O U P Begins Thursday, January 6 at 7 p.m.This group meets weekly to practice the art of Chineseconversation.

NEW ACTIVITIES!


VISITS:LIKE A MAN GON E M AD: A POETR Y READI N G BY SAMUEL HAZ OMonday December 6, 7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Join Samuel Hazo, the firststate poet for theCommonwealth ofPennsylvania, and founderand director of theInternational Poetry Forum.He is also McAnultyDistinguished Professor ofEnglish Emeritus atDuquesne University, wherehe taught for forty-threeyears. Dr. Hazo will read excerpts

from his newest work, Likea Man Gone Mad: Poems ina New Century. His bookwill be available for purchasethis evening.

RAIL S TO TRAI LS: A B I CYCL EJOURN EY W I TH B I LL K U TZER& DOUG ETTI N GE RWednesday January 12,7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Join Doug Ettinger and BillKutzer, casual bicyclists andMt. Lebanon residents whojourneyed from Pittsburgh toWashington D.C., along therails to trails. Doug and Billwill describe their eight-dayJuly 2010 adventure with tripphotos and share theirunique experiences. Doug and Bill will discuss

various ways you can makethe same trip. Thepresentation will include tipson pre-planning, resources, B & Bs, hotels, or camping,support groups, directions,and day trips to get you inshape. A question–and–answer session will follow.

THE BRADY STEW A R TCOL LECTION - RESCHEDUL EDWednesday January 26,7:30 p.m. Speaker Michael Stewartwill talk about and show thephotographs his grandfatherBrady Stewart and father,Brady Stewart, Jr., took ofPittsburgh from 1901 to1991. This program is incooperation with the Mt.Lebanon Public Library.

by the Office of Commonwealth Libraries.Advanced registration required.

SOCK MON KEY W ORKSHOPTuesday January 25 &February 1

Learn to make sockmonkeys for fun andphilanthropy! Sewingexperience helpful, but notnecessary. Presentationand instruction focused on middle and high schoolstudents, but ALL agesare welcome (undergrade 6 withaccompanying adult).Register for this 2- sessionworkshop at the AdultReference Desk or call

412.531.1912. Second session onFebruary 1 (7–8:30 p.m.). This workshopwill be repeated in April (TBA).

AN TIQU E AN D COL LECTIBL EIDEN TI F I CA TION HI STORI CAL GL ASS CL UB OF PI TTSBURGHSaturday January 29, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. The Historical Glass Club of Pittsburgh

will hold its 3rd annual antiques andcollectible identification event incooperation with Mt. Lebanon PublicLibrary. The club’s team of appraiserswill attempt to verbally identify all typesof antiques and collectibles, includingpottery, china, glass, toys, coins,furniture, primitives, and ephemera. If you wish to have your items

examined by the appraisers, pleasebring them to the lower level of thelibrary. Cost is $5.00 for two (2) antique

and collectible appraisals and includes one admission ticket to the club’s 36th Antique Show and Sale held inFebruary 2011.

PITTSBURGH F IL MMAK ERS SCREEN PL A Y BASI CSFebruary 9, 16, 23 & March 2, 9, 166:45 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. A six-week course on

Screenwriting, presented by Pittsburgh Filmmakers. Cost:$145.00 Advance registration required with

Pittsburgh Filmmakers. Forms availableat Mt. Lebanon Public Library. For details and further information,

visit www.pghfilmmakers.org/. Presented by Pittsburgh Filmmakers in cooperation with Mt. Lebanon Public Library.Contact Brady Lewis at 412.681.5449.

BREW S F OR A CHIL LY N I GHTSaturday February 26,6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Save the date! Food, brews, and fun!Sample 6-8 beers and about a dozenkinds of chili. Tickets go on saleMonday, January 3, 2011, at The BookCellar. $25 in advance, $30 at the door--attendance limited to 100. All proceedsbenefit Mt. Lebanon Public Library.

F OOD F EST @ THE M OVI ES!Mondays, March 14, 28, and April 11,6 p.m. Join Mt. Lebanon’s own Elaine Wertheimand guest chefs as they present aspring time feast of food and film.Culinary delights will complement thebest of the best food movies.


For more events and programs, check outwww.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=MTLEB



The Denis Theatre Foundation – proud newowners of the Denis Theatre!

It's official!The Denis Theatre Foundation now owns

the theater building located at 685 Washington Road in Mt. Lebanon.

Thanks to all who helped make this dream come true!

Now we are moving forward to raise $1.8M to renovate the building.

The “Day of Giving” results are in...

On October 13, the Denis TheatreFoundation participated in the Day ofGiving, a one day on-line fundraisingevent sponsored by The PittsburghFoundation. Donations made toparticipating non-profit organizations onthat day would qualify to receive aportion of a $500,000 matching pool.

We recently received the donationdetails, and are thrilled to announcethat the Denis Theatre Foundationreceived $25,095 in donations on thatday from 68 individual donors!

The Day of Giving generated over $2.8million in donations, well aboveexpectations. In order to make thematch even more significant, ThePittsburgh Foundation Board ofDirectors put another $60,000 into thepool, to bring the match amount up to20% match. Wow!

With the match we raised over $30,000from the 2010 Day of Giving!

THANK YOU SO MUCH to all whoparticipated!



Most childhood Christmas memories are of joyful occasions withprecious family-bonding moments: mom and dad singingChristmas carols; children with happy, angelic faces gazing up

at them in tranquil adoration. My own memories are also quite happy. Buta_er comparing notes, I have slowly come to realize that my entire familyis quite possibly out of their spruce tree. So, for an inside look at how adysfunctional family spends its Christmas, please read on…

Immediately a_er [anksgiving, a disturbing lunar phase would alwaysbegin at our house. My otherwise fairly normal, career-oriented motherwould begin to clean our house in anticipation of my grandparents’ arrivalfor Christmas. Not the normal tidying up one might do for a family visit.No, this was more like a murder had been commièd at our house and mymother’s cleaning was the frantic aèmpts of the killer to remove everyshred of DNA evidence. My mother would methodically begin todisinfect every object in our house, including the dogs. Not even my toys,which were thoroughly soaked in bleach, were spared, resulting in myMalibu Barbie turning into a white-haired old lady in need of a sunbed. Ihave never been sure why my mother was so intimidated by her mother-in-law, but she apparently lived in fear that the frail, gray-haired womanwould somehow drag a stepladder into the kitchen and, risking hipfracture, stand on the top rung to inspect for dust above the cabinets.

My father’s style of celebrating the holidays was the polar opposite of aBrady Bunch Christmas. Less than enthused about stimulating theeconomy through gi_-giving, he wasn’t terribly fond of the Christmas treeeither. So in their new house, he ingeniously designed a special closetwhere a fully decorated Christmas tree on rollers could be wheeled outDec. 1 and neatly rolled back into the closet on Dec. 26. Surely, he must beat least partially responsible for my quirky and o_entimes odd behavior.

December 18 my grandparents would arrive. My grandfather wouldwheel into the driveway, screeching tires, and jump out of their Buickproudly announcing, “Made it in 6 hours and 15 minutes,” the goal beingto shave minutes off of last year’s time. My grandmother, still white-lippedfrom the G-forces, would peel herself off the car seat and wobble in,complaining that my grandfather had driven 85 mph all the way.

On Christmas Day, mymother, who does notcook but is highlyskilled at thawing andmicrowaving,morphed into Be`y Crocker,aèmpting suchcomplex dishesas green-bean-casserole andcongealed salad.Unfortunatelywith the pressureof the day, shewould usuallycharcoalize thegreen-beancasserole. (I’m not sure ifcharcoalize is a word, but I really like it.)

One holiday, mythoughtful grandfathershocked the entire village by crossing gender lines and washing dishes.Unfortunately, while dishwashing, his dentures êw into the garbagedisposal as if sucked out of his mouth by an unseen evil force. He quicklyturned off the disposal and pulled out a set of mangled dentures. Silently,he turned the switch back on and threw the dentures back into thegarbage disposal. I miss him.

Maybe we are all a little dysfunctional in one way or another.With the holidays, it’s easy for anyone to get a little neurotic. So, inbetween cursing the bakery for selling the last Boston crème pie andthat mad dash for the last parking space at the mall, just keep sayingunder your breath, “Peace. And on earth, good will toward mankind.”

Immediately after Thanksgiving,

a disturbing lunar phase would

always begin at our house. My otherwise

fairly normal, career-oriented mother

would begin to clean our house in

anticipation of my grandparents’

arrival for Christmas.



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