IN Seneca Valley

Erie Insurance and Ridge Insurance Have The

to customer serviceKey

eneca ValleyWINTER 2011 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

safety-driven

120 over 80. What’s it worth to U?

Reaching your goals is worth more than ever. It’s worth money. That’s because HealthyU offers fi nancial incentives for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Now when you do things like quit smoking, work with a health coach, or even get a fl u shot, we put money into your very own Health Incentive Account. Money that can be used to help pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and even surgery. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, talk to your employer or visit UPMCHealthyU.com.

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Seneca Valley | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

2 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Seneca Valley

IN Seneca Valley | WINTER 2011 |

INSIDE

ON THE COVER | Bill Ridge and the staff of Ridge Insurance have a lock on customer satisfaction - the Erie Insurance Rate Lock. Photo by Gary Yon.

W I N T E R 2 0 1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2011 UPMC

What’s Insidepage 2 UPMC St. Margaret Opens

Magee-Womens Imaging Center

page 3 When Your Body Talks ...Be Sure to Listen

page 4 Make a Date With Your DoctorThree Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5 Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

page 6 Taking on TouretteControlling a life in motion at Children’sHospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

page 7 Staying Active When The Weather Is FrightfulWhat’s Happening at UPMC St. Margaret

BundleUp,BabyRemember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands.

Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

IN Seneca Valley is a community publication dedicated to representing,encouraging and promoting the Seneca Valley area and its comprisingmunicipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who liveand work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative andprofessional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

37 5625

62

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Earned Income Taxes | 6

Seneca Valley School District | 8

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 25

Ridge Insurance Agency, Inc Holds the Key to Customer Satisfaction | 33

Harmony-Zelienople Community Band Hits High Note | 37

Groundbreaking Ceremony Held for Cranberry 9/11 Memorial | 56

Area Kids Rally to Help | 62

safety-drivenlearn more on page 40

FEATURES

Older Adults in Seneca Valley | 46

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Advanced Vein CenterAre Your Valves Working Properly? | 5

Northwest Savings BankLocal Loan Expert | 36

Mars National AdvisorsIt’s Time for the Talk...Caring for Your Parents | 42

Complete Chiropractic HealthStress and Your Health | 48

The Goddard SchoolGather ‘Round Our Table | 51

Beleza Plastic SurgeryThe Eyes Have It! | 58

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

R.W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology | 44

Sewickley Car Store | 61

eneca Valley

Hello and welcome to the winter issue of Seneca Valleymagazine. This year, the first snowfall of the season seemed to arrive

early, a few days before Halloween. We should have been carvingpumpkins, but instead my daughters were running through theliving room, begging to put up and decorate the Christmas tree.I’ll admit, it was hard to refuse.It may have been just a little more than an inch, but that early

snowfall was just what I needed to ignite my holiday fever. Afterbundling up to go outside to play, we came in and had the first hot cocoa ofthe season. I fought the urge to watch Christmas movies. Instead of running around towntaking care of the usual weekend tasks and errands, we stayed in and watched the snow,which was all the entertainment we needed.I am enjoying the change of season now, but come March I am certain I will be completely

disgusted by the sight of the last few flakes. Until then, especially through the holiday season,the snow is a welcome enhancement to the festive season before us – as long as it doesn’tprevent us from arriving safely to all of our holiday activities. And, this time of year, there areso many fun and festive things to do and see. Whatever you are celebrating this season, here’s hoping it is the best ever.

Happy Holidays,

Dana

Welcome to the Winter issue of Seneca Valley magazine.We all view winter differently – some see it as the holiday season,

some see it as the gloomy period when we put away the swim trunksand patio furniture. Others see it as their opportunity to break outthe skis and sleds and hit the slopes. No matter how you view it,winter is a time when we have to be the most diligent, despite ourmood about snow, or our preoccupation with playing in it, for thosewho need us the most – our seniors. While it’s hard enough for many ofthem to get around in good weather, the winter months can be a trial ofterror for the elderly. Who’s going to shovel the snow? How will I get groceries? Will I be homebefore it’s too dark for me to see the road well enough to drive? And for those who havetransitioned to assisted living facilities, the questions might be of an altogether different, butequally unsettling nature. Will anyone visit me for Christmas? Hanukkah? New Year’s? Theseare our mothers, fathers, friends and neighbors, and they don’t like to ask anything of us. Butthey need us just the same. I know the economy is bad, and I’m not saying go out and spendmoney you can’t afford, but going caroling with a church group, or visiting someone who hasno one is free to us all. Chances are, you’ll not only put a smile on their faces, you’ll be givingthem something money can’t buy – the feeling that someone cares.Have a joyous holiday and a happy New Year!

Wayne DollardPublisher

PUBLISHERWayne Dollard

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth [email protected]

REGIONAL EDITORS

Mark Berton [South and West][email protected]

Dana Black McGrath [North][email protected]

Monica L. Haynes [East][email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie [email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSharon Cobb Tamara TylendaSusie Doak

WRITERS

Heather Holtschlage Pamela PalongueLeigh Lyons Gina SalingerJoann Naser Judith Schardt

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Gary Yon GinographyKathleen Rudolph

PROOFREADER

Kelly Lotter

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

Derek Bayer Tamara MyersTom Poljak

ADVERTISING SALES

Bruce Burkley Aimee NicoliaBrian Daley Robert OjedaGina D’Alicandro Ralph PalaskiTina Dollard Annette PetroneKaren Fadzen Vincent SabatiniJulie Graff Jennifer SchaeferJason Huffman Michael SilvertLori Jeffries Karen TurkovichConnie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian McKee Nikki Capezio-WatsonGabriel Negri Sophia Williard

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all districthouseholds and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part withoutwritten permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011.

CORRESPONDENCEDirect all inquiries, comments and press releases to:

IN Community MagazinesAttn: Editorial603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray, PA 15317Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring content deadline: 4/10/12

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.


Please recycle this magazinewhen you arethrough enjoying it.


Spider veins are tiny red or purple dilated blood vessels that form whenveins become enlarged and swollenwith stagnant blood. Thoughsmaller than most varicose veins, spider veins are often darker and

more noticeable. This is because these veins are located just below thesurface of the skin. More common in women, spider veins may be triggered by pregnancy or

hormonal variations and sometimes result in itching, restless leg and minoraches and pains. Non-symptomatic spider veins may be found on the faceand chest as well as the legs. Although surface veins are mainly a cosmeticproblem, they can also be an indication of more serious vein disease deepbelow the surface.

Restless Leg SyndromePeople with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) may find it difficult to sit still,

and they may have trouble sleeping due to the urge to move their legs. RLSis commonly associated with the presence of spider veins.

Lose Spider Veins in a Flash with Intense Pulse Light TherapyAs you age, developing spider veins, age spots, and broken capillaries is

unfortunately part of the process. Just because they are natural does notmean that you are stuck with these unattractive discolorations on your face,chest and legs forever. One of the fastest and safest ways to get rid of spiderveins and similar discolorations is through the use of a revolutionary newtechnology called Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy. Large areas can betreated quickly and easily, with less damage. IPL targets spider veins anddiscolorations deep below the surface of the skin while leaving the outerlayer of the skin undamaged. An alternative to Pulsed Light is Sclerotherapy - injections of solutions

into your spider veins. Our doctors perform the procedure in-office andadminister a foaming solution with minimal discomfort. The solutionirritates the veins and causes them to collapse, hiding their appearance.

TreatmentSpider veins can be treated with injections, surgical removal and laser

surgery. You should discuss these treatments with our vein specialist todetermine the best choice for your personal situation after having a DopplerUltrasound at our ACR (American College of Radiology) accredited site.This is performed by a Registered Vascular Technician.

Want to learn more? Go to www.AdVeinCenter.com for more information and for

directions to our offices, visit our Locations page, or Call 724-987-3220.

This Industry Insight was written by Christina Teimouri, DPM.

EARNEDINCOMETAXES

By Amanda S.F. Hartle

For as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember they havesat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard.This small postcard asked you to list your wages, calculate

approximately 1 percent of your earnings and mail a check to your localearned income tax collector in your community municipal building.But in 2012, every taxpayer in Seneca Valley School District can cross

one more chore off their to-do list thanks to a new state mandate.Beginning Jan. 1, all employers who have work sites in the

commonwealth are required by Act 32 of 2008 to withhold all earnedincome taxes from every employee. And all employees have to do is makesure they have filled out a residency certification form.“The legislation affects every single municipality and school district in

Pennsylvania,” says Mitch Hoffman, local government policy manager atthe state Department of Community and Economic Development.“That in itself is huge. In addition, it also affects every single taxpayer

and every single business that operates in Pennsylvania.”

IN THE BEGINNINGEarned income taxes have been a fixture in Pennsylvania

since 1965.At the time, state lawmakers imposed the levy to allow

local entities such as school districts and municipalities to raisemore funds.“It provided an avenue for local taxing bodies to impose a

tax to help fund their operating costs, and it was only imposedon people who actually had earned income, not those whowere retired or were not working,” says Hoffman.Earned income tax is unique to Pennsylvania.

Neighboring states have similar structures in place, but theyare not identical.In theory, the tax is simple.Anyone who works in the state pays on average a 1

percent tax four times a year. Some townships, boroughs andschool districts tax a bit higher and some a bit lower.

And to pay their bill, an employer could withhold the tax from anemployee’s pay or the employees themselves could calculate their tax andsend it to their local earned income tax collector.But from the start, issues arose.Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of local municipalities in

the country, and at one point, there were up to 560 different earned incometax offices in the state, says Hoffman.“It was very fractured and very convoluted. There was no consistency in

collections, no consistency in annual returns and no consistency in transferof records from one tax collector to another.”

Confusion about where to send taxes also abounded for companiesthat are headquartered out of state but have a plethora of work sites andthousands of employees in Pennsylvania.

“Many of these companies did withhold the tax, but with so manydifferent collectors it was difficult for them to comply with all the

expectations,” says Hoffman. The cumbersome structure alsowas not attractive to new business endeavors as it created

one more regulation interested companies had tocomply with when they opened a site in Pennsylvania.Within decades, people started to question the

structure used to collect earned income tax.

A NEW WAYBy 2002, various organizations sought change and

restructuring. Their pleas were supported by a studycommissioned by the Pennsylvania Economy League amongother entities.The study found that millions of dollars across the state

were not being accounted for correctly and millions ofpotential tax dollars were not being collected at all. Theactual amount always remained uncertain, says Hoffman.“I talk to employers every day who have had work sites in

Pennsylvania for years and have never collected the tax. Weare not just dealing with Pennsylvania businesses though, thishits businesses across North America.”

For as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember they have sat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard.


Change was slow to come, but in 2008, state lawmakers passed Act 32 andits effects were so far reaching it gave local municipalities and school districtsthree years to implement its regulations.Under the new law, the burden related to the tax has shifted from

employees to their employers.Every employer in Pennsylvania is required to have each employee fill out

a one-page local earned income tax residency certification form by year’s end.On the form, employees list their address, municipality and county of

residence. This information matches to a municipality specific code ensuringthe tax dollars are automatically withheld and end up at the correct taxcollector.Throughout Pennsylvania, except in Allegheny County, earned income

tax collector positions were eliminated or altered astaxes will go to a county level tax collector chosenby a tax collection district made up ofrepresentatives from every municipalityand school district in the specificcounty.In Allegheny County, four

collection districts were chosento better serve the area’s uniquedemographics, says Hoffman.“The four collection districts are

separated by the rivers. Allegheny County isdifferent than anywhere else in the state due to its diversepopulations and number of corporations.”

GOING FORWARDIn addition to the more centralized structure, the law has other oversight

and accountability features.There are explicit time frames set out for the distribution of dollars as well

as training and certification for all tax officers. There also are penalties for latepayments and annual auditing, says Hoffman.“All of these are built in to guarantee the amount of monies being

collected are collected properly, remitted properly and distributed properly.”Filing returns also will be more uniform throughout the state.“Some local returns were several pages, some half a page and some had

none at all. Now there is a standard form for all of Pennsylvania and all the taxcollectors are required to use it. We now have consistency.”Cranberry Township Manager Jerry Andree expects the positive

outcomes predicted to come to fruition in time, although he feels thatCranberry and the other eight municipalities in Seneca Valley School Districtwere doing a thorough job of collection already.“(With) this required withholding, we reduce the frustration by the local

taxpayer on when and to whom to send their tax and (it) should improve theability of the taxing jurisdictions to collect the tax from all taxpayers thatshould be paying that tax.”The new law allows other municipalities to overcome inefficiencies

statewide that Seneca Valley communities already have combated,said Andree.“Cranberry Township and the other eight municipalities and the school

district overcame those inefficiencies over 10 years ago with all of usagreeing on one collector and one process. Our structure and approach inCranberry Township and the Seneca Valley School District was verystreamlined and effective. “Berkheimer Tax Administrator, Butler County’s tax collector, has been

handling Cranberry’s earned income tax collection needs for more than 20years.This familiarity lends itself to an expected increase in tax collection in

2012 whereas many other municipalities are keeping projections stagnant. In2012, Cranberry Township expects to collect $4.9 million - an increase of$150,000 from 2011.


Media NoticeAs part of an ongoing process to generategood news about our schools, the SenecaValley School District will be inviting themedia inside our classrooms to learn aboutour outstanding academic programs andevents. We will also publicize events andactivities via our Web site at www.svsd.net.Parents/Guardians who do not wish to havetheir child’s name, photograph or otherpersonal information to appear in any mediaor district publications, including but notlimited to, the Internet, newspapers,magazines, etc., must submit writtendocumentation to the appropriate buildingprincipal.

SENECA VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICTMission Statement:In collaboration with family andcommunity, the mission of the SenecaValley School District is to provide anacademically rigorous learning experiencein a progressive environment, emphasizingcivic responsibility and global awareness.

SENECA VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICTThe Seneca Valley School District pages arecompiled by the Seneca ValleyCommunications Department, LindaAndreassi, director.124 Seneca School Rd.Harmony, PA 16037724.452.6040Fax: 724.452.6105

For more information on Seneca ValleySchool District activities, athletics, events andmore, visit www.svsd.net.

Equal Opportunity EmployerThe Seneca Valley School District will not dis-criminate on the basis of race, color, nationalorigin, age, sex, disability or any other legallyprotected classification in the employment orin the administration of any of its educationalprograms and activities. Announcement of thispolicy is in accordance with state and federallaws, including Title IX of the EducationalAmendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and theAmericans with Disabilities Act of 1990. To inquire about, obtain a copy of or to file acomplaint relating to this policy, contact theSeneca Valley Human Resources Departmentat the address above. For more information,call 724.452.6040, ext. 1760.

8 Seneca Valley

Seneca Valley School District Proud of the Past...Committed to the Future

Dr. Tracy Vitale is keeping an extra pair ofshoes in her office these days.As the recently appointed

Superintendent of Schools, she is finding that thetime spent visiting students and staff and meetingregularly with community groups and localbusinesses has kept her on her feet, if not her toes.

“I have truly enjoyed meeting with ourschool community and appreciate the many wellwishes and great advice,” said Dr. Vitale. “It’sbeen an exciting time for me and I believe there isno greater calling than to be an educator. I see itas a vocation within which the extraordinarycommitment to change someone’s view orencourage new thinking is at the forefront ofwhat we do.”

By a unanimous vote of the school board, Dr.Vitale was appointed in late September to serveas the Superintendent of Schools, a promotionfrom her previous position as Seneca Valley’sAssistant Superintendent for Human Resourcesand Pupil Services. As the new Superintendent ofSchools, she replaces Dr. Donald J. Tylinski, whoretired on Sept. 28 after 36 years in education.

“With Dr. Tylinski’s emphasis on technology,Seneca Valley experienced its first renaissance,”Dr. Vitale said in reference to the vastimprovements made in technology that led to thedistrict being named a 2010 Pennsylvania SchoolBoard Association’s Excellence in Technologywinner. “I am excited to pick up where he left offand lead Seneca Valley into its secondrenaissance of change, learning and opportunity.”Dr. Vitale, a resident of Adams Township, has

served as an assistant superintendent for the pastfour years. Prior to that, she served for three yearsas principal of Seneca Valley Middle School.During her tenure there, the building wasrecognized for being a top-performing middleschool in the state as a 2006 Don Eichhorn“Schools To Watch” winner. She first came toSeneca Valley in 2002 as the assistant principal ofSeneca Valley Middle School. She also hasbuilding administrator experience in CoatesvilleArea School District in Coatesville, Pa. She beganher education career as an English teacher in 1993,spending time as an instructor in Purchase LineJunior-Senior High School in Commodore, Pa.;Shelby City Middle School in Shelby, N.C.; andElizabeth Forward High School in Elizabeth, Pa.

Dr. Vitale earned her bachelor of science insecondary education in 1993 from DuquesneUniversity. She went on to earn her giftededucation certificate in 1999 and her master’s in

educational leadership in 2000 from CarlowCollege. In 2009, Dr. Vitale earned her doctorateof education from the University of Pittsburgh.

“It’s vital that Seneca Valley’s core values arecentered on a keystone that all children come firstin every decision that we make,” Dr. Vitale said.“Supporting that theory, the values I believe weshould be focused on are accountability, fiscalresponsibility, best practices and always strivingfor perfection. No one person, indeed no oneschool district can be perfect, but reaching forperfection means that we need to not only say weare providing academic excellence, but that welive it. There is no summit to quality education. Itis a never-ending journey and we all play a crucialpart in it.”

An expert in research-based hiring, Dr. Vitalerefined the employment process at Seneca Valleyfor professional and classified staff. A progressiveleader with a keen understanding of today’stechnology, Dr. Vitale, through her doctoralresearch, developed a model process for hiringteachers in Pennsylvania, and plans to use thisvisionary approach when serving asSuperintendent of Schools. “Dr. Vitale is a deeply dedicated, proven asset

to Seneca Valley, and has a long and laudablehistory with our district,” said Mr. Robert Hill, Jr.,board president. “During her time with us, shehas worked tirelessly with the board, Dr. Tylinski,and our staff, to achieve countless positive,measurable administrative and educationalaccomplishments that have helped Seneca Valleybecome the high quality educational institution itis today.”

Dr. Vitale Takes The HelmSchool board appoints Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Vitale meets with Haine Middle School studentsduring a recent career fair at the school.



K- 6 Happenings Across SV

‘It Takes a Village’More than 50 Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School parents andtheir children, teachers and support staff cleaned, weeded and plantedflowers to help beautify the school for the start of the 2011-12 year.Thank you!

Flat Stanley in the Big AppleHaine Elementary second grade teachers take part in a “FlatStanley” book reading project each year. As part of that effort,students create their own Flat Stanley to send to someonethey know in another state – or country - where they ask therecipient to feature the character at a landmark. This HaineFlat Stanley made the billboard in New York City’s TimesSquare! The “Friendship Crew” is Aimee Kaczmarek’s themefor her Haine Elementary classroom. Teachers have the goalof trying to get pictures of their students’ “Flat Stanleys” in all50 states, and they are well on their way.

EC Pink DayEvans City Middle School held Pink Dayrecently, raising more than $500 for theSusan G. Komen For the Cure foundation.Congratulations and great job!

A job well doneRowan Elementary students participated ina variety of outdoor fun in celebration of arecent successful fundraiser at the school. Making a Difference

Seneca Valley students show their support of theCaring Team during a recognition lunch held atHeinz Field on September 27. SV is proud to be apartner of The Caring Team. This organizations helpsto raise awareness of the needs of grieving childrenand to share stories of the hope and healing that manygrieving children and families have found through theCaring Place.

10 Seneca Valley


Weare pleased to announce that, basedon 2011 Pennsylvania System ofSchool Assessment (PSSA) results,

students in the Seneca Valley School Districthave demonstrated great gains in achievementoverall.The District was once again designated as

reaching or exceeding the targeted assessmentstandards and was given the status of meetingAdequate Yearly Progress (AYP) as establishedby No Child Left Behind.“We appreciate the continued support of all

invested groups, including staff, parents,business leaders and community members as weraise the bar for academic performance inSeneca Valley,” said Dr. Tracy Vitale,Superintendent of Schools. “We look forward tocontinued improvements in studentperformance.”The following are examples of the positive

changes seen in PSSAs for 2011:

Evans City Middle School – in an incrediblyimpressive showing – is listed as having thegreatest PSSA individual student growthimprovement over all of the other 1,389 middleschools in the Commonwealth, and not just forreading, but in math as well.Evans City, Haine, Rowan and

Connoquenessing Valley Elementary schools alldemonstrated growth in reading and math forboth third and fourth grade. Evans City, Haineand CVE all showed gains in reading and mathfor third grade. Rowan Elementary continued topull in high results for third grade across mathand reading. Haine Middle School sawconsiderable improvements in fifth and sixthgrades for reading.The secondary grades involved in taking the

PSSAs (grades 7, 8 and 11) also show onlyimprovements, no decreases, in both readingand math.

Two smaller groups (approximately 44students in each or 1.1 percent of the totalstudent population) did meet not meet therequired thresholds in two areas, and theyinclude 27 economically disadvantaged studentsin the Seneca Valley Senior High School formath and 21 special education students at EvansCity Elementary for reading.“We are aware of those students who are in

need of additional assistance and haveprocedures and supports in place to help themimprove,” said Dr. Vitale. “We fully expect thosegroups to achieve the targets this school year.”To view a detailed account of Seneca Valley’s

results, visit https://pvaas.sas.com/evaas/welcome.jsf and click on the blue “visit publicsite” banner.“I want to assure you that we don’t plan to

rest on our laurels after this latest round of PSSAtesting,” said Dr. Vitale. “In fact, I fully anticipatethat the gains will continue and hope our parentswill join us in supporting our efforts by makingsure students are rested and have had a healthybreakfast on the mornings of PSSA testing.”

Seneca Valley earns Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)

0

20

40

60

80

100

Seneca Valley State

Grade 3

Math

Reading

Grade 4

Math

Reading

Grade 5

Math

Reading

Grade 6

Math

Reading

Grade 7

Math

Reading

Grade 8

Math

Reading

Grade 11

Math

Reading

94.1%

84.5%

94.3%

84.9%89.6%

75.2%

87%

72.9%

85.3%

74.4%

84.5%

64.1%

94.3%

78%

86.6%

68.8%

83.3%77.9%

93.6%

73.5%

88.3%

75.2%

94.5%

81.9%

72.2%

69.6%

72.2%

67.2%



SV Students Recognizedby the National Merit®Scholarship Corporation

The National Merit ScholarshipCorporation (NMSC) has recentlyrecognized 11 Seneca Valley students

in the 2011 National Merit ScholarshipCompetition. The following two seniors havebeen named semifinalists:

Laura O. Byko Cara M. Lucas

The semifinalists now advance to thefinalist level of the competition and will learnof their status in spring 2012. Nine additionalseniors have earned commended status forplacing among the top five percent of morethan 1.5 million students in the 2011 NMSCprogram. Each of these students will receive aletter of commendation from the District andNMSC:

Rachel Agnello Mark E. Mosso Michelle E. Botyrius Ryan B. Nuzzo John P Kelleher JesseM. Prisby Josephine S. Krome Melainie N. Young Kelsey M. Mislan

The National Merit® Scholarship Program isan academic competition for recognition andscholarships that began in 1955. High schoolstudents enter the National Merit Program bytaking the Preliminary SAT/National MeritScholarship Qualifying Test(PSAT/NMSQT®)—a test which serves asan initial screen of approximately 1.5 millionentrants each year—and by meetingpublished program entry/participationrequirements.

2010-11 SAT Scores Writing Critical Rdng. Math

Seneca Valley 508 516 517 State Norms 492 501 516National Norms 489 497 514

The Pittsburgh Business Times (PBT) cameout with its Annual Guide to WesternPennsylvania Schools in May 2011, and SenecaValley continues to hold a Top 16 ranking (outof more than 100 western Pa. schools).

Over the last six years, the district jumped atotal of 27 spots; going from 43 to 16!!! Add tothat the implementation of the Seneca ValleyCyber & Arts, The Academy of Choice, andmajor improvements in curriculum, instruction

and technology over the past year, and you havewhat many, including our state leaders, arecalling “a premiere school district others arebeginning to notice.”

Seneca Valley is pleased to announce that arecord 23 students have earned AdvancedPlacement (AP) Scholar Awards in

recognition of their exceptional achievement onthe 2010 AP exams.The College Board’s AP Program provides

willing and academically prepared students withthe opportunity to take rigorous college-levelcourses while still in high school, and to earncollege credit, advanced placement, or both forsuccessful performance on the AP exams. About18 percent of the more than 1.9 million studentsworldwide who took AP exams performed at asufficiently high level to also earn an AP ScholarAward. On a scaled score of one to five, with fivebeing the highest, Seneca Valley not only had a(school) record number of students taking theexams, students averaged 4.13 on all examscombined.The College Board recognizes several levels

of achievement based on students’ performanceon AP exams. At Seneca Valley Senior HighSchool:• Twelve students qualified for a State APScholar Award by earning an average score ofthree or higher on a five-point scale on three ormore AP exams. These students includeMichelle Botyrius, Hannah Bredl, JordanCase, Matthew Graf, Cara Lucas, ChristyLucas, Sara Mantick, Ryan Nuzzo, CarmenRizzi, Krista Schweikle, Marla Shipton, andJulia Williams. Michelle, Cara, Christy andRyan are currently seniors while the others are2011 graduates of Seneca Valley.

• Five students qualified for the AP Scholar withHonor Award by earning an average score of

at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scoresof 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.These students are all members of the Class of2011 and include Simon Brown, AnthonyDeluca, Adam Dorko, Kaitlyn Livingstone,and Danielle McKinney.

• Six students qualified for the AP Scholar withDistinction Award by earning an average scoreof at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, andscores of 3 or higher on five or more of theseexams. These students are also 2011 graduatesof Seneca Valley and include Stephanie Bullis,Nicholas Cupelli, Susan Francino, Kim Kolor,Camaria Lehman, and Daniel Willard.

• One 2011 graduate, Susan Francino, was alsobestowed with the elite National AP Scholartitle as she earned an average score of 4 or highon all AP exams, and scores of four or higheron eight or more of these exams. In fact, sheearned a perfect five on all eight exams shetook through the AP Program. These examsinclude English language composition, Englishliterature composition, macro economics,micro economics, US history, calculus, biologyand Latin.Each AP exam is developed by a committee

of college and university faculty and AP teachers,ensuring that AP exams are aligned with the samehigh standards expected by college faculty atsome of the nation’s leading liberal arts andresearch institutions. Each year, the CollegeBoard helps more than seven million studentsprepare for a successful transition to collegethrough programs and services in collegereadiness and college success — including theSAT® and the Advanced Placement Program.

Record number of students earn AP Scholar Awards

2010-11 ACT Assessment Score(Grade 12)

Seneca Valley 23.6State 22.3National 21.1

Elite Ranking!

TEMnce, technology, engineering, math

science, technology, engineering, math

science, techSTEMSTEM

ng, math

ogy, engineering, math

science, technology, engineering, mathSTEMSTEMscience, technology, engin


12 Seneca Valley

Seneca Valley School District students andstaff are achieving big savings with energy-efficient behavior — and now those good

habits are earning national recognition.Seneca Valley School District has achieved a 19

percent cost savings totaling $817,659 in 36months since forming a strategic alliance withEnergy Education, a national energy conservationcompany, which presented Seneca Valley with anEnvironmental Excellence Award November 7.“Reaching this level of savings at this stage of

the program is a significant achievement. SenecaValley School District has done an excellent job ofimplementing Energy Education’s organizationalbehavior-based approach to energy conservationand maintaining productive efforts at all levels ofthe organization,” said Dr. William S. Spears,Chairman and Founder of Energy Education. “Iam extremely pleased to present Seneca ValleySchool District with our Environmental Excellence Award.”Dr. Vitale, Superintendent of Schools, said the success of the program

is two-fold in that “it serves as an excellent costavoidance program while at the same time actingas an example to our students that energyconservation is not only something we teach, but arule we live by.” A primary benefit of the Energy Education

program is that all costs come out of the existingutility budget, with savings projected to more thanpay for the program, as they have done for SenecaValley School District. Additional savings can beredirected to other parts of the budget. Theprogram delivers an environmental benefit from areduced carbon footprint. Energy not usedprevents the emission of carbon dioxide, sulfurdioxide and nitrogen oxides.According to EPA/EGrid figures, in the first 36

months of the program, Seneca Valley SchoolDistrict saved 44,360 MMBTU, the equivalent of5,445 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions

being prevented, 977 cars removed from the road, or 139,268 pine treesgrown for 10 years.

While many of today’s top politicalleaders are looking for ways to drivedown the unemployment rate and

boost the economy, many of our educationalleaders are looking at ways to better inform thepublic and fill the incredible void in the areas ofscience, technology, engineering and math(STEM).What’s the connection? According to the

National Research Council, if the U.S. couldsignificantly increase students’STEM skills, an estimated $100trillion would be added to the U.S.economy over the next 80 years.It’s an intriguing idea.To further discuss STEM and

the ways to encourage greaterstudent interest and participation,Seneca Valley hosted the District’sfirst STEM Summit on Thursday,Nov. 10, 2011, at the Seneca ValleySenior High School. Districtofficials welcomed more than adozen area engineers, technologyexperts and university professorsfrom many of the area’s largestcompanies, universities andorganizations in westernPennsylvania, including BASF

Chemical Co., Traco/Alcoa, TowerEngineering, Society of AutomotiveEngineers, Cranberry Township, MidwesternIntermediate Unit, Beaver ValleyIntermediate Unit, Slippery Rock University,and the University of Pittsburgh. Throughthis summit, the district has established acommittee to advise the district on programsand activities related to STEM initiatives.“As companies or universities with

significant interest in creating opportunitiesand experiences that will assist our students inSTEM-related fields, we value their input andwere excited about this important data-gathering event,” said Dr. Jeffrey Fuller,assistant superintendent.

Dr. Kenneth Borland, executive directorof the North West Pennsylvania STEMInitiative, led the summit and shared histhoughts on Seneca Valley’s current STEM

initiatives as they begin looking attheir next steps in the formation of aSTEM program.“The challenge is not to simply

increase the number of studentsgraduating with college degrees inthe STEM fields; it is to lift theoverall understanding of science,technology, engineering andmathematics among the rest of thepopulation as well,” Dr. Borlandsaid.To view Dr. Borland’s complete

presentation, please visit the STEMheadline on our homepage atwww.svsd.net. To learn more aboutSTEM, please visitwww.STEM101.org

SV takes first steps with STEM Summit

Area business leaders and educational organizations met at SenecaValley in November for a science, technology, engineering and math

(STEM) Summit.

Seneca Valley School District Setting the Pace for Environmental Excellence

s

h



October 22, the Seneca Valley Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps(JROTC), also known as the Raider Battalion, spent the day in a valuableleadership training opportunity that most likely taught them the value of the

Army motto, “This We’ll Defend.”Cadets spent the day rappelling from a 40-foot wall, ziplining down a 200-foot

cable and climbing and crossing a wire bridge 40 feet off the ground. The group wasfortunate to spend the day training with SlipperyRock University’s Senior ROTC Program in threedifferent areas, including tower training, leadersreaction course (LRC), and orienteering.In addition to the tower training, cadets

participated in the LRC, which developsteamwork and consists of overcoming simulatedcombat obstacles. During the orienteeringtraining, cadets are broken down into two- personteams, given a compass and five directions, and arerequired to navigate through the wooded trainingsite while locating the five points within a giventime. “The greatest obstacle the cadets must learnto overcome is fear,” said Command Sgt. Maj.Paul Massullo, Raider Battalion Army Instructor.“Fear of heights being the biggest. Once theyovercome that, it becomes difficult to get them offthe tower for other training.”

SV Out & About

Seneca Valley was pleased to host the 14th AnnualVeteran Recognition Night in tandem with the firsthome football game of the season. In addition to

receiving special parking and seating accommodations,active and retired military personnel were recognized fortheir years of service and sacrifice. In addition, inrecognition of the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11, veteransassisted the team in adhering special American flag decalsto the helmets of each football player. “On behalf of myselfand others who attended, I thank Seneca Valley for thewelcome, the gifts and the honors presented to us. Youcan be assured that everything was appreciated,” said Mr.Dean McMillen, U.S. Navy veteran.

SV JROTC joins SRU in training opportunity

Never Forgotten SV recognizes area veterans in annual event

14 Seneca Valley

Congratulations to the castand crew of the SenecaValley Middle School

Musical, “Guys & Dolls, Jr.” fortheir successful three-night run inmid-November.The play, based on the book

by Abe Burrows & Jo Swerlingwith music & lyrics by FrankLoesser, was directed by JenniferMitnick and Pamela McCarthywith sets by Andra Titus and thetheater arts class. Great job!

SVMS Performs ‘Guys & Dolls, Jr.’



The Westminster Honor Choir consists of 80 singers from a four-county area (Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, Mercer), and 16 of the 2011choir was made up of students from Seneca Valley alone.

This year, the honor choir took part in a concert held in November atWestminster College. Congratulations to:

Soprano I Tenor IHayley Hoss- Chair 3-Grade 9 David Osorno- Chair 6- Grade 9Abbie Kalnas-Chair 4-Grade 12 Ellie DiLeva – Alternate – Grade 11

Soprano II Tenor IIElicia Gibson-Chair 4 -Grade 12 Nick Traverso- Chair 1- Grade 12Beth Holl- Chair 3- Grade 11 Josh Baktay-Chair 2- Grade 10Kristin Carmella- Chair 5- Grade 11 Lance Hahn – Chair 4 – Grade 9Sara Buggy- Chair 6- Grade 12 Charlie Schade- Alternate- Grade 12

Alto I Bass I Jamie Walters-Chair 4 - Grade 11 Ben Paget- Chair 1 -Grade 12Kacey Faix – Chair 7 – Grade 11 Matt Sweikowski-Chair 2-Grade 12

Alto 2 Bass IIJulianna Hritz- Chair 2- Grade 12 Kurt Branby-Chair 8- Grade 12

Jazz quartetjams at SHSSenior high school

instrumental and vocal artstudents were treated to a performance by the Troy Roberts Nu-Jive Jazz Quartet today. Troy Roberts is one of the up-coming jazzgiants who fuses elements of jazz, rock, fusion, and blues into hismusic. In addition to performing for students, he and his band helda Q & A session after school. This high energy, highly talentedworld renown group can be visited at www.troyroberts.com.

‘Beauty and the Beast’Seneca Valley is proud to announce this year’s

selection of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” for the all-school musical. You will be transported to the heart ofprovincial life in a lovely French town. When Mauricebecomes lost in the woods on the way to the fair, he seeksshelter in an old castle, but the master of the castle is ahorrible beast that takes him captive. Maurice’s daughter,Belle, must then give up her freedom to save his life.Belle’s taming of the unfortunate Beast and his ultimatetransformation back into a handsome prince hasenthralled Broadway audiences for over 13 years. Theproduction will run at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 24-25, and March2- 3, 2012, and at 2 p.m. on Feb. 26, in the intermediatehigh school auditorium. Tickets for this family friendlyshow will go on sale in January. Please check the district’swebsite for a link to purchase tickets in early January.Tickets will go fast so plan ahead so you don’t miss thissure to be sold out event!

16 SV students earn honor choir designation

Musical Arts


16 Seneca Valley

Pledging to Rachel’s ChallengeStudents at Seneca Valley Intermediate High School werenoticeably moved when the nationally known Rachel’sChallenge visited the school this past October. Rachel Scott wasthe first person killed at Columbine High School on April 20,1999. Her acts of kindness and compassion coupled with thecontents of her six diaries were the foundation for this incrediblyinspiring school program. Powerful video/audio footage ofRachel’s life and the Columbine tragedy held studentsspellbound during the presentation, motivating them to beaware of the way they treat others. The assembly was followedby a separate, interactive 90 minute training session involvingboth adult and student leaders that shows both how to sustainthe momentum created by the program. The assembly createsthe “want to” or desire for positive change. The training sessionteaches the “how to” and ensures that the positive impact willcontinue. Students have signed a Rachel’s Challenge Banner andhave it proudly on display as you enter the school’s cafeteria.

Secondary Campus

‘Out of this world’Seneca Valley’s Homecoming week was held inearly October with a host of activities that were,as the theme of this year’s event aptly pointedout, “Out of this World.” In addition to thegame and the homecoming dances, members of the senior class werehonored to be a part of the 2011-12 court. They are, pictured from top left:Lauren Campitelli, Kelly Cundiff, Julianna Hritz, Kelly Kress, Kailey Lucci,Morgan Midkiff, Kylie Rapso, Mary Rekuc, Audrey Semel, and DelaneyStengel. From bottom left: Gabriel Edwards, Tyler Gilbert, Conner Gillooly,Kylan Hill, Brady Marburger, Max McCloskey, Tim Pecora, Mason Pynos,Colin Staudt, and Troy Witt. Congratulations to Audrey Semel for beingnamed the queen, and Colin Staudt for being named the king.

Carving out some funThe family and consumer science for healthy living class

recently spent time carving pumpkins with the Lifeskills andGerman exchange students at Seneca Valley IntermediateHigh School. They cleaned and roasted the seeds andcuttings to make pumpkin scones, pudding and dip. What agreat way to make use of the whole pumpkin - and what agreat experience for all.

Through the supportof community/parentdonations and staffvolunteers, the SenecaValley Middle SchoolAnnual Pajama Ramaevent was once again asuccess. The eventprovides seventh gradegirls the opportunityto interact (in theirjammies!) in a positive way with each other, their school and community.It is a night about fun, trying new things and, most importantly, makingnew friends. The evening started with representatives from the senior highschool Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) group speakingto the girls about their memories of middle school, friendships andmaking positive choices as young adolescents. Stations with variousactivities were available for girls to visit throughout the night. This year’sactivities included dodgeball, volleyball, karaoke, face painting, photomagnet frame-making, ankle bracelet-making and self-defense. There wasalso a concluding dance in the cafeteria under the disco ball. The entirenight is aimed at showing the participants that they can have fun withoutusing drugs or alcohol, making friendships within their grade level andwith staff as well as getting comfortable in their new school.



Kick it!At press time, two Seneca Valleystudents, who are also brothers, hadjust been notified that their scores inthe regional NFL Punt, Pass & KickCompetition put them in therunning for the state title. Theywere invited to compete for thattitle during halftime of the Dec. 4Steelers game against theCincinnati Bengals. Chris Hart, aHaine Middle School sixthgrader, and Brian Hart, a Rowanfourth grader, were to competeagainst other regional winners to see how far they can kicka football. As winners, they would represent the Steelers during the national Punt,Pass & Kick competition held during the AFC Championship game.

Other Seneca Valley students who placedin the regional competition include:Age 6-7 Groups:Luke Lawson - Rowan - 2nd PlaceDanielle Popistle – Rowan - 2nd PlaceDillon Gallagher – Haine - 4th Place

Age 8-9 Groups:Brian Hart – Rowan – 1st PlaceLauren Servello - Rowan - 3rd PlaceAnna Palmieri - Rowan - 4th Place

Age 10-11 Groups:Brooke Lawson - Rowan - 3rd Place

Age 12-13 Groups:Chris Hart – Haine Middle School – 1st PlaceBella DeFabbo - Evans City Middle School - 2nd Place

Age 14-15 Groups:Alicia Hart – Intermediate High School - 2nd Place

Smooth SailingConnoquenessing Valley Elementary (CVE) held its Olweusanti-bullying kick-off program at the building earlier this fall.DeeAnn Graham, principal, said this year’s theme is “CVFriendship, and it includes a forecast of calm seas and smoothsailing.” The week-long kick-off ended with grade levelmeetings and announcing the winners of the paintings, whichwere created and donated by George Williams, a Seneca ValleyMiddle School art teacher.

Haine MiddleSchool studentsmade and sold 700“hungry bowls” lastMay as part of afundraiser to helpThe Gleaners FoodBank in CranberryTownship. NoeleReynolds, artteacher, recentlyinformed us that,thanks to this effort,they were able todonate $3,360 to thefood bank. Gleaners was able to use the money to purchase fresh produce forall their food bank clients.

Front, from left: Lauren Servello,Danielle Pospistle and Anna Palmieri.

Back, from left: Brian Hart, LukeLawson and Cory Lindey.

Chris and Brian Hart

“Linked Together” is a participatory art project/temporaryinstallation that senior high school completed as a project thatcombined the CARE Program and the art forms classes.Students, during a CARE activity, were asked to write down apositive experience they had while at Seneca Valley and roll itinto a newspaper tube. These tubes were assembled by JasonShorr’s art forms classes into individual structures. They werepainted and hung close together to appear as a single form.The work resembles steel girders used in the substructure of abuilding or DNA strands in the human body. Seneca Valleycolors were used to further connect the piece to the schooland students while the black is found in other linear designs inthe recent school addition.

SHS Student Connections

18 Seneca Valley


SV on YouTube The Seneca Valley School

District has a variety of YouTubevideos on everything from our technologyofferings to anti-bullying programs. You can alsohear first-hand from Dr. Tracy Vitale,Superintendent of Schools, about her plans for thedistrict. View it all here at: http://www.youtube.com/user/SenecaValleySD.

Invest in School Spirit Looking for casual weekend clothing options?

Want to show your school spirit? Be sure to visitthe Seneca Valley Pride Store for lots of warm andcozy Raider options to keep you warm this winter.Proceeds from the store benefit Raider Athletics.The pride store is linked from the Seneca Valleyhome page and athletics, or you can go directly tothe page by clicking onwww.senecavalleypridestore.com.

SVC&A – The Academy of Choice Seneca Valley Cyber & Arts, The Academy of

Choice, provides students with a world-classvirtual and/or performing arts education,individualized instruction and support by certifiedand highly qualified members of the Seneca Valleyteaching staff. Benefits include flexibility ofscheduling, traveling and exploring career options! We’re excited to introduce a strings program

and ballet classes to our performing arts school forthe 2011-12 school year. A special thank you goesto Murrysville resident Michelle Jankosky fordonating a baby grand piano to our performingarts program.Learn more about SVC&A or enroll today!

Call us at 724.452.6040, ext. 1015 or visit usonline at www.svsd.net.

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter Do you like social networking? Are you a

registered user of Facebook orTwitter? Then join us! Our Twitter Link:

http://twitter.com/#!/search/Seneca_Valley Our Facebook Link:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Seneca-Valley-School-District-Official-District-Site/133105866727178 You can expect to find regular updates on

school information, activities and studentaccomplishments. We also use Facebook to postschool delays and cancellations.

Online PhotosHaine Middle School held its Annual

Exploratory Career Fair in November with morethan 40 professional presenters attending.Students were able to choose four presentationsfrom 16 different career clusters. Some examples:a chef, engineer, music recording artist, journalist,FBI agent, attorney, car service and sales person,and information systems manager. The kidsenjoyed learning about various professions andwere keeping a journal. They’re even starting towork on their own resumes. Great job to the HMSstaff for organizing the event. To view morephotos of the event and others like it all over thedistrict, visit the district website at: www.svsd.netand click on the school of your choosing at the topleft side of the screen.

Online Results· The Seneca Valley Academic Games Teamhas been competing in a number of regionalcompetitions as students vie for a position onthe national qualifying team. The AcademicGames National Competition will be held in

Oglebay, W. Va., on April 27, 2012. To keepcurrent with all of the Academic Games results,visit their website under the Activities/Clubssection of the district website at www.svsd.net

· On November 9, the 9-12 Library Clubhosted the 6th Annual Interscholastic ReadingCompetition. Teams of students from Beth-Center, South Butler, Laurel, Mohawk, OilCity, Purchase Line and Seneca Valleycompeted against each other to determine whowould win the coveted winner’s plaque andvictor’s T-shirts, not to mention bragging rightsand free books. A tie for first place betweenBeth Center’s “A-Team” and the Mohawk“Warriors” resulted in a sudden death bonusround with Beth Center winning by one point.It was an exciting evening. For a look at theevening’s events, and complete list of results,check out the video on the IHS Librarian’shome page.http://senecavalley.schoolwires.net/20592011220235990/blank/browse.asp?A=383&BMDRN=2000&BCOB=0&C=60569

Community LinksSeneca Valley feels fortunate to have so many

partners working with us in this educationalendeavor. For example, Cranberry Townshipgenerously donated supplies and use of theirequipment and personnel in helping to repurposethe yard at Rowan Elementary School. Once themodular classrooms were removed in latesummer, the lawn was greatly in need of repair.Cranberry Township stepped in to assist andremoved concrete piers, applied topsoil, seeded,and cleaned out the catch basin. Their assistancewas very much appreciated by the Rowancommunity, as well as the entire district. To visitthe Cranberry Township Website and othermunicipal sites, be sure to visit the links pagefound under “Community” on our website atwww.svsd.net.

Diversity CommitteeCommittee members are looking forward to

another school year filled with exciting diversityinitiatives. Below is a list of diversity meetings -new members are always welcome! For moreinformation or to join, call (724) 452-6040, ext.1760, or visit the diversity committee link undersite shortcuts at www.svsd.net.

What’s Online?



Kara Moyer, a 2011 Seneca Valley Graduate, joinedJeannie Orend, a senior high school health andphysical education teacher, in running the Columbus

Ruckus Race on August 27, with both of them coming out as winners. The Ruckus course is four miles long and made up of

more than 20 obstacles, with lots of mud, according to Ms.Orend. She and Ms. Moyer finished first and third,respectively, during the preliminary heat, qualifying them torun in the championship race, which was made up of the topten percent of racers from the preliminaries. In thechampionship race, Ms. Orend finished second and Ms.Moyer put on a huge burst and sprint at the end to passanother woman to finish third overall. There wereapproximately 300 women in the competition.“I’d say we did pretty well,” Ms. Orend said. “I was happy

to run a race and do so well with a former student of mine. I’dsay we represented Seneca Valley pretty well! We hope to domore obstacle and muddier races together in the future.”

Mr. Robert J. Hill, Jr., PresidentServing fourth term, expiration in 2015Represents Cranberry Twp. West III,Region 3324 Green Fields CourtCranberry Township PA 16066724-772-5669

Mr. Eric GordonServing first term, expiration in 2013Represents Cranberry Twp. East III & West V, Region 5318 Brookston DriveCranberry Township PA 16066912-227-2896

Mr. Eric DiTullioServing first term, expiration in 2013Represents Lancaster & ForwardTownships, Region 8112 Victory TerraceHarmony PA 16037724-452-0905

Ms. Kelly KoperaServing first term, expiration in 2015Represents Evans City & Seven Fieldsboroughs, Region 7110 Pattison StreetEvans City PA 16033724-538-5617

Ms. Jeanette LahmServing first term, expiration in 2013Represents Cranberry Twp. East I & II,Region 122 Burke RoadCranberry Township PA 16066724-742-5116

Rev. Reid MoonServing first term, expiration in 2015Represents Zelienople Borough, Region 6442 South Main StreetZelienople PA 16063724-816-2035

Mr. James NickelServing first term, expiration in 2015Represents Cranberry Twp. West I & II,Region 2223 Whispering Oaks DriveCranberry Township PA 16066724-452-1325

Mr. Jason G. WehrleServing second term, expiration in 2013Represents Cranberry Twp. West IV & WestVI, Region 4402 Karen CourtCranberry Township PA 16066724-779-2074

Mr. James WelshServing first term, expiration in 2013Represents Callery & Harmony boroughsand Jackson Twp., Region 9350 Prospect RoadEvans City PA 16033724-538-5251

alumni news

In other alumni news:

• Michael Doerfler, SV Class of 2001, is amember of the Cranberry Lions Club andrecently earned the Melvin Jones Award.For his efforts, $1,000 has been donated inMichael’s name to Lions’ International.Congratulations!

• Gary Flavion, SV Class of 2008, is a senioroffensive lineman for the Washington &Jefferson College football team and wasrecently named first team All-Presidents’Athletic Conference. Great job!

To submit alumni news, simply email theinformation to Linda Andreassi, SenecaValley communications director [email protected]. To view moreinformation on alumni, visitwww.alumniclass.com/senecavalley

After the Ruckus.

Before the Ruckus.

2011 SV grad hits the muddy trail with health and physical education instructor

2011 SENECA VALLEY BOARD OF SCHOOLDIRECTORS


20 Seneca Valley

Congratulations to the following staff members for theiroutstanding work:

• Sean VanScoyoc, information technologydirector, has been named a finalist in Tech &Learning magazine’s 24th Annual Leader of the YearContest. Sean will be featured in the December issueof this national publication - nearly 100,000 printcirculation - for his efforts.

• Jason Woolslare, intermediate high school art teacher, completedthe Teacher Institute of Contemporary Art and AP art training at theSchool of the Art Institute of Chicago. This labor intensive, two-weekprogram is held in the heart of downtown Chicago, at one of the mostprestigious art schools in the world. Mr. Woolslare was one of only 25high school art teachers in the nation to complete the program andthe only teacher from Pennsylvania. He also facilitated and completed“The Windows of Hope/Broken Windows” project in the HillDistrict neighborhood of Pittsburgh this past summer, working withapproximately 100 at-risk youth from the Hill District to create 250murals on plywood that are going to be installed on abandonedhomes and buildings in the Hill District.

• During the summer months, at Gallery Simm, the Associated Artistsof Pittsburgh presented a juried Myths and Fables show. Jason Shorr,senior high school art teacher, and Mary Mason, Rowan andEvans City Elementary art teacher, were part of the 33 who wereselected from the 85 who submitted to have artwork chosen to beexhibited in the show. Fellow art teachers joined Ms. Mason, secondfrom left, in a show of support at the event. They are, Amy Humes,Evans City Middle School art teacher, far left; Kathy Bischak, retiredEvans City Middle School art teacher, second from right; and ClareTorso, CVE art teacher, far right. Mrs. Masons jewelry piece, “TheGreen Man,” received the Jurors Award.

• Gerald Miller, special education director, completed the 2010-11Pennsylvania Fellowship Program for Special Education Leaders. Mr. Miller participated in the rigorous year-long program thatextended his wealth of knowledge in special education, therebyensuring the success for all students with individualized educationprograms (IEPs).

• DeeAnn Graham, principal at Connoquenessing ValleyElementary School, was invited, along with Maralee Walter,second grade teacher and parent, and Lisa Salak,paraprofessional and parent, to present the school’s successfulOlweus Bullying Prevention Program at the fall Pennsylvania SchoolBoard Association’s Educational Excellence Fair in Hershey. Alsoplaying a key role in preparing for the presentation was Scott Rupik,third grade teacher and parent. Congratulations to all for your hardwork and great representation!

We would like to welcome the pictured Seneca Valley teacherswho joined the staff this year. They include front row, from left:Brittany Story, Yvette Martin and Susie Wanamaker. Second row, from left: Karen Hicks and Rebecca Funyak. Third row, from left: Mark Smith, Patricia McNeill andShannon Zolkowski.

Name Droppers



Due to several retirements within theadministrative team, a number ofbuilding and central office personnel

changes have taken place. Several are faces youknow and others are new. Meet them in theirnew roles:

Ms. Kyra BobakAt the regular board

meeting on Monday, Oct. 10,2011 members of the SenecaValley School Boardpromoted Ms. Kyra Bobak,Haine Elementary principal, tothe role of human resources

and pupil services director for the district.Ms. Bobak replaces Dr. Tracy Vitale, who was

recently promoted to the role of superintendent.Ms. Bobak, who has been with Seneca Valleysince 2006, has done so as an administrator forHaine, first as the assistant principal and thenprincipal. Her work with the Olweus BullyingPrevention Program earned Haine Elementarythe elite designation of being one of only threeschools in the nation to earn the 2011 OlweusQuality Assurance Award.Speaking of Olweus and the continued and

numerous student and staff achievements atHaine, Dr. Tracy Vitale, superintendent said“Ms. Bobak has clearly demonstrated her abilitiesand skills in both human resources and pupilservices. I look forward to working with her inthis capacity and having her lead the humanresources department.”In addition to working at Seneca Valley, Ms.

Bobak has administration and elementaryteaching experience in the Wilkinsburg SchoolDistrict and as a first grade teacher in the ClarkCounty School District in Las Vegas, Nev.A member of several professional

associations, Ms. Bobak has experiencespearheading professional developmentopportunities for teachers and substitutes inSeneca Valley. She earned her bachelor’s ofscience in elementary education/early childhoodfrom Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Sheearned her principal certification and master’s inadministrative and policy studies from theUniversity of Pittsburgh.

Ms. Michelle EllisAlso on Oct. 10, 2011, Ms.

Michelle Ellis was promotedby the Seneca Valley SchoolBoard from assistant principalto principal at Haine

Elementary School to replace Kyra Bobak, whowas promoted to human resources and pupilservices director.Ms. Ellis has been serving as assistant principal

at Haine Elementary since 2007. Additionally, shehas previous experience as an assistant principal atSeneca Valley Senior High School. Prior to herrole in building administration, Ms. Ellis was anEnglish and speech teacher for Seneca ValleyIntermediate High School. She also hasexperience as an English and speech teacher atRiverside High School.Ms. Ellis earned her bachelor’s in secondary

communication education from Slippery RockUniversity. She earned her principal certificationand master’s in public policy and managementfrom Carnegie Mellon University.In addition to athletic coaching experience,

Ms. Ellis has extensive involvement with theelementary side of the Seneca Valley Cyber &Arts Program and has served on a variety ofdistrict teams, including the diversity, data,guidance curriculum and report cardcommittees, just to name a few.

Ms. Mandy ToyAt the regular board

meeting on Monday, Nov. 14,2011, members of the SenecaValley School Boardappointed Ms. Mandy Toy, afifth grade learning supportteacher at Haine Middle

School, to the role of assistant principal for HaineElementary and Middle Schools.Ms. Toy replaces Ms. Michelle Ellis, who was

recently promoted to the role of HaineElementary School principal.Ms. Toy, who has been with Seneca Valley

since 2006, has been providing instruction andsupport to fifth grade learning support studentsin both the pull-out and the inclusion settings. Inaddition to teaching, Ms. Toy participates on avariety of committees, writes curriculum for theelementary cyber courses, and has assisted inplanning and executing exploratory days such ascareer fair and cultural day.Ms. Toy earned her bachelor’s in elementary

education and special education from SlipperyRock University and her master’s of science ineducational administration from the Universityof Scranton.

Mr. James PearsonEarlier this fall, members of

the Seneca Valley SchoolBoard approved the hiring ofJim Pearson to serve as theDistrict’s transportationdirector.Mr. Pearson replaces

Kevin Prady, who retired from Seneca Valleyafter 21.5 years in the position.Mr. Pearson, of Wexford, comes to Seneca

Valley from the Deer Lakes School District,where he was serving as the assistant principal ofDeer Lakes Middle School for the past threeyears. Prior to that, he served as assistantprincipal of Hampton Middle School inHampton Township School District. He also hasexperience as the dean of students for HamptonHigh School.Additionally, Mr. Pearson has sales,

marketing and broadcasting experience as he hasa bachelor of arts in communication arts radioand television. He earned his grades 7-12teaching certification in English andcommunications from Robert Morris University,and his masters of educational administrationfrom the University of Massachusetts. Mr.Pearson earned his principal certification fromSlippery Rock and Clarion Universities.

Mr. Robert CookOn January 17, 2011,

Robert Cook was hired toserve as the Buildings,Grounds and SecurityDirector.Members of the Seneca

Valley School Board approvedhis hiring to replace Ronald Lamneck, whoretired after nearly two decades with SenecaValley.Mr. Cook, of Grove City, comes to Seneca

Valley from Burt Hill, where he was serving as aconstruction administrator for the past fouryears. Prior to that, he worked as a roofingcontractor for PennRo Associates LLC inValencia. He also has years of managementexperience with Foreman Architects & Engineersand Education Management.Additionally, Mr. Cook has architectural

draftsman experience and training as he holds anassociate degree in architectural technology fromTriangle Tech. In additional to being a LEEDaccredited professional, Mr. Cook is aPennsylvania certified asbestos buildinginspector.

22 Seneca Valley22 Seneca Valley

Girls’ VolleyballThe team started the season ranked as the fourth ranked team in thePIAA Coaches Poll. They earned the section championship plaque andwent on to win the WPIAL crown and qualify for the PIAA StateChampionship Tournament. The team succeeded in the statetournament to the semifinals and finished the year as the third rankedteam in the state. This year marks the second time in three years that thegirls’ volleyball team has earned a berth in the PIAA semifinal match.

Girls’ SoccerThe team posted an overall record of 16-2-2 and earned the WPIAL AAASection 2 Title. They entered the WPIAL Championship Tournamentas the second seed and were successful through the quarterfinals. • All-section athletes:Kailey Lucci, Misha Demchuk, Alex Bilka, Raegan Dobbins, Morgan Williams

• All-WPIAL athletes:Morgan Williams, Raegan Dobbins

Boys’ SoccerThe team earned the WPIAL Section 2 AAAChampionship with a record of 8-2. The teamsucceeded to the semifinals of the WPIALChampionship Tournament for the second time in three years. In addition to the success of the team,Junior Ryan Vilella earned a place on the PennsylvaniaAll-State Team.

Seneca Valley fall teams keep the playoff momentum going

2011 fall sports wrap up: Cross CountryThe boys’ Cross Country team finished sixth in the WPIAL. The teamnarrowly missed qualifying for the team championship by 36 seconds. Thegirls’ cross country team also placed sixth at the WPIAL Championshipsthis season.

Football• The varsity football team posted their second winning season in the pastthree years. They earned third place in the Northern Seven Conferenceand entered the WPIAL Championship Tournament as the ninth seed.The team succeeded to the quarter final round of the tournament forthe first time since 2002. As of press time, Seneca Valley was hosting theconference all-star selection meeting and hoping to place several youngmen on that prestigious list.

• The Seneca Valley 9th Grade Football Team concluded the 2011season by becoming the first team in school history to have both anundefeated section record and undefeated season. The team ended theseason with an 8-0 record and comprises of 53 players. The coachespictured here, from left, are Luke Kuffer, standing, and Jason Bell,kneeling. On the right side, standing is coach Barry Murray and kneelingis head coach Michael Henry.

Boys’ GolfThe boy’s golf team posted a winning season of 8-6.

Seneca Valley |Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

SPORTS BRIEFS

40 FinestZach Herrmann and Chad Albertreceived accolades from thePennsylvania Volleyball Coaches bybeing named to Pennsylvania’sFinest 40 List for 2011. The listconsists of the top 40 volleyballplayers in the state, which is votedon by the coaches. Zach is now

attending Baldwin-Wallace College as a sports management major, andcontinues to play volleyball. Chad is currently a senior at Seneca Valley.

Scholarship News• Cate Seman, senior volleyball player, signed herletter of intent to the University of Rhode Island. • Matt Smith, senior baseball pitcher, signed hisletter of intent to attend Georgetown University. • Abigail Palmer and Samantha Potter signedletters of intent for rowing teams at the Universityof Alabama and the University of Washington,respectively.

Coaching News• Coach Don Holl was recently selected as the winner of the SteelersHigh School Coach of the Week for the Raiders’ Week 10 victory overPenn Hills. The Steelers Coach of the Week Program recognizes thehard work and dedication devoted both on and off the field. Coach Hollwas recognized for this honor during the two-minute warning of the firsthalf of the Dec. 4 Steelers Game. He was also featured on the MikeTomlin show, Steelers.com, and the USAFootball website,www.usafootball.com. Additionally, the Raiders’ football programreceived a $1,000 donation from the NFL, a Steelers Coach of the Weekcap, and a framed certificate signed byCoach Tomlin and NFLCommissioner Roger Goodell.

• Congratulations to Seneca Valley Boys Soccer Coach George Williams.On September 6, 2011, Coach Williams posted his 150th career victoryas the head coach at Seneca Valley. The victory came during the thirdgame of the season which saw the Raiders defeat the Warriors of Penn-Trafford 3-0.

School board members recently voted topurchase a new scoreboard for the SenecaValley Senior High School Gymnasium,

and were pleased to do so with financial helpfrom local groups. Mr. Greg Caprara, athletic director for the

district, reported to the board that a coalitionof groups, led by Venture Engineering,donated funding to support the purchase ofthe new scoreboard. Venture donated $7,500and the boys’ and girls’ basketball boosterseach donated $3,000. Caprara outlined the need by noting that

the current equipment is original to thebuilding which opened in 1994. He furtheradded that the equipment is now old enoughthat several parts are no longer manufacturedby the company, leading to an annual budgetexpense of $1,200 per year for repairs. “Thetechnology in the new equipment will reducethis annul budgeted expense and provide forreliable operations for years to come,” he said.The district will spend approximately

$6,000 on their portion of the $19,430project. The funds for this will be taken fromthe facility improvement fund which is fueled

with activity fees and not by tax dollars. “Thefacility fund is used to provide improvementsbased on fees paid by those who use theathletic facilities of the district,” Caprara said.“The employment of user fees helps to keeptax dollars channeled toward the educationalprocess.”According to the vendor, Institutional

Specialties, Inc. of Pittsburgh, the newscoreboard should arrive around Nov. 20. Thenew equipment is expected to be operationalfor the start of the winter sports season onFriday, Dec. 4.

Scoreboard donations help SV Athletics


What’s Insidepage 2 A Different Vein

Providing care for patients unable toaccept transfusions

page 3 When Your Body Talks ...Be Sure to Listen

page 4 Make a Date With Your DoctorThree Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5 Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

page 6 Taking on TouretteControlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

page 7 Welcoming New PhysiciansWhat’s Happening at UPMC Passavant

W I N T E R 2 0 1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2011 UPMC

BundleUp,BabyRemember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands.

Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

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A Di(erent VeinThere are many patients who choose bloodless medical treatment — medical care without blood transfusions or products — for religious or ethical reasons. However, a growingnumber are selecting it to reduce their risk of adverse reactionsand bloodborne illnesses.

The UPMC Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery was established to ensure that patients who are unable to accept

transfusions, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, are identified early. Resources provided by the Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery are available for all patients includingthose at UPMC Passavant, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, andthroughout the UPMC network.

Special wristbands are placed on all patients who choose not to have transfusions so that their wishesare clearly understood by medical staff and other care providers.Patients who decide against receiving a blood transfusion are educated by their doctors about the risks and benefits before anyprocedure is done.

“Our paramount concern is to make sure the doctor is committed to respecting the patient’s decision,” says Perry Doebler, the center’s director. “We make sure the surgical team and nurses know ahead of time so they can be ready, and the patient doesn’t have to keep explaining things.”

Advance planningPlanning is key to successful bloodless medicine and surgery.Careful blood management can boost the patient’s blood countbefore surgery and minimize blood loss. Minimally invasive surgery, special surgical tools, medications, and other techniquescan help reduce or even stop bleeding. Doctors also can captureblood lost during surgery, clean it, and reinfuse it into the patient.Mr. Doebler says most patients don’t realize blood transfusionsoften can be avoided with a few simple steps before surgery. For example, one in four surgical patients is anemic, but doctorscan recommend iron therapy, vitamins, or medication to stimulateblood production. Doctors also may tell surgical patients to discontinue certain pain relievers, herbs, and supplements thatmay interfere with blood clotting and cause more bleeding.“Being proactive and planning ahead are important for everyone. There are things a patient can control,” he says.

To learn moreIf you cannot accept blood transfusions, or may be planning for surgery and want to learn more about blood management, visit www.bloodlesscenter.com, or call the Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery at 1-877-674-7111.

The UPMC Center for Bloodless Medicine and Surgery o#ers special care for patients who are unable to accept blood transfusions

Blood Management BenefitsAccording to Mr. Doebler, reducing or avoiding blood transfusions has many potential benefits, including lessening the patient’s exposure to viruses and other bloodborne diseases, and even helping toshorten the hospital stay. It also helps preserve the blood supply for other patients.

Is bloodless medicine a good option for you?Your doctor is the best source of information when itcomes to deciding to choose bloodless medicine. Some questions you may want to ask:

1. What is my current blood count?2. How can I increase my blood count?3. Should I stop any medications or supplements?4. Will I need a blood transfusion during surgery?5. What risks are involved with blood transfusions?6. What are the risks if I decline a transfusion?7. What can my doctor do to minimize my need

for a transfusion?

Pre-op tips • Know your blood count. The normal

hemoglobin range for males is 14-18 g/dL and for females is 12-16 g/dL.

• Be honest. Tell your doctor about all of the medications and herbal supplements you take.

• Ask questions. Understand your risks and options.• Communicate. Make sure your bloodless

medicine preferences are known.

“Most patients don’t realize blood

transfusions often can be avoided by following a

few simple steps before surgery.”

— Perry Doebler

1-800-533-UPMC 3

Being attuned to changes in your body can help in the early detection andtreatment of cancer and other serious medical problems

Is your body trying to tell you something important? It can bean excellent communicator — if you pay careful attention to its symptoms.

There are numerous warning symptoms for cancer, many of which also can point to other serious medical conditions.

That’s why you should call yourprimary care physician (PCP) if you have any unusual or persistent symptoms lastinglonger than two or three weeks,says Edward Chu, MD, chief ofthe Division of Hematology/Oncology at UPMC and deputydirector of the University ofPittsburgh Cancer Institute.

“The vast majority of patientswill get a clean bill of health

from their doctor,” says Dr. Chu. “But when it comes to cancer, time is often of the essence. Early detection can help keep cancer from spreading, allow for faster treatment, and improve your chances for recovery.”

Symptoms that revealMost of us know to be on the lookout for such important cancer warning signs as a sore that does not heal; a thickening or lump in the breast, or other parts of the body; blood in the stool or urine; or changes in the size or color of a mole.

Dr. Chu says it’s also important to be aware of more generalizedbody changes (also known as constitutional symptoms) that cancompromise your physical performance and overall well-being.By getting to know what’s typical for your own body, you’ll bebetter able to recognize unfamiliar changes when they occur.They can include:• Extreme tiredness (fatigue)• Unexplained weight loss (typically 10 pounds or more) or loss of appetite

• Changes in how food tastes• Fever and chills• Night sweats• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

“These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer,” he emphasizes. “But if they linger or worsen, it’s important for your doctor to rule out — or treat — possible problems.”

If you are interested in locating a PCP or specialist in your area,visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

When Your BodyTalks…BeSure toListen

Did You Know?The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute(UPCI), based at the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania. Learn more about UPCI and its partnership with UPMC Cancer Centers at UPCI.UPMC.edu.

Cancer Screenings: Are they right for you?Another important tool in the early detection of cancer is screenings. “When combinedwith regular checkups with your family doctor or specialist, screenings like mammograms,PAP smears, and colorectal exams have proven to be invaluable in the fight against cancer,”notes Theodore L. Crandall, MD, of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant. “Your personal and family medical history, risk factors, age, and other considerations will helpyour physician recommend the right tests — and frequency — for you.”

To learn more about the program and services of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant, visit UPMCPassavant.com.

4 UPMC.com/Today

Make a Date With Your DoctorYou take your car to the mechanic for an annual inspection to be sure it’s running properly. So why aren’t you giving yourbody the same kind of attention?

When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to thedoctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, andavoid disease and disability. That’s why scheduling a physical is the one New Year’s resolution you should keep.

According to primary care physicians(PCPs) at UPMC Passavant, an annual exam is the perfect time totalk about illness prevention, healthylifestyle choices, and any screenings.That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on

making changes to improve your health.

Building an ongoing relationship with a PCP also means peaceof mind. PCPs at UPMC Passavant say there’s real value to being seen by someone who knows you and your health history — someone you trust to guide you through an illness or emergency.

Your exam checklistHow can you make the most of your annual exam? Here arefour things to do before you see the doctor:

1. Make a list of all medications you are takingInclude all prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins,and supplements that you currently take, how often you takethem, and why.

2. Update your family historyYour family history can provide important clues about your riskfor certain diseases, including diabetes, some cancers, andheart disease.

3. Ask about health screeningsScreenings can be important tools in preventing some illnesses and diseases. Get a list of recommended screeningsand talk about them with your doctor.

4. Make a list of questions or health concernsAsking questions and sharing your concerns about health issues helps your doctor improve your care.

One final piece of advice: Be honest. Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something. What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis or prescribe the best treatment plan.

Winter is the season for sniffles, scratchy throats, and earaches — often all at once!And with good reason: our ears, nose, and throat all are connected and affect each other greatly. Otolaryngologists(also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors or ENTs) are physicians who specialize in caring for this complex, interrelated system. Test your ENT knowledge with this quick quiz:

Who gets earaches more often — children or adults?Nearly every child experiences at leastone ear infection between infancy and the age of five — something weary parents know firsthand. Becausechildren have shorter, straighter Eustachian tubes (which connect the nose to the ears), it’s easier for bacteria to migrate into their ears.

Why are you more likely to get a nosebleed in winter?The same heated indoor air that makesyour home cozy in winter also can dehydrate the inside of your nose. It can become crusted or cracked, or can even bleed. A dry nose makesyou more susceptible to germs, so exercise good nose care. Lightly coatthe inside with petroleum jelly. Over-the-counter saline mists and sprays (not decongestants) also are helpful.

Will antibiotics cure laryngitis? Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections that make the vocal cords swell — so antibiotics are ineffective. Your best course of action? Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and cut back on talking. Straining your voice when you have acute laryngitis can damage your vocal cords.

Source: American Society of Otolaryngology

Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

1-800-533-UPMC 5

If you ever have to be hospitalized, you’ll certainly want to be cared for at a place that delivers quality health care using the latest technology available. That’s precisely what patients find when they are admitted to a UPMC hospital.

“UPMC’s vision of quality is for every patient to receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way — every time,” says Tami Minnier, RN, and chief quality officer forUPMC. “Technology lets us serve patients more efficiently and accurately. Most of all, we’re able to give patients greater control of their health care.”

Here are just two of the ways UPMC hospitals are delivering on that goal.

SmartRoom® technology brings it all to youLaunched three years ago by UPMC in partnership with IBM, SmartRoom is an impressive technology. First used at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Montefiore, it is gradually being introduced in other UPMC hospitals. All patient rooms at the new UPMC East will be equipped with SmartRoom technology.

SmartRoom brings all essential data related to your care to your bedside. Its computerizedsoftware programsgive caregivers fingertip access toall the informationessential to yourcare — from yourelectronic medicalrecords to the tests you’ll need that day.

The SmartRoom concept simplifies workflow and makes documentation of your care faster and easier. Each room hastwo screens: one for your caregivers, and another for you to access email, entertainment, and a vast library of patient education videosand information.

The right medsat the right time“It is our goal to make the hospitalizationand discharge experience asstress-free as possible for ourpatients and theirfamilies,” saysJacqueline Dailey,UPMC’s vicepresident for Solutions forMedical Science, Research, and Patient Centered AccountableCare. “Not surprisingly, by the time patients leave the hospital,they’re often confused and overwhelmed by changes in theirmedications and how to take them.”

“We begin when you’re admitted with an electronic assessmentof your current medications and how they’re being taken,” explains Ms. Dailey. “As medications are adjusted or eliminatedduring your stay, this information is instantly available to allyour physicians — from your family doctor to the specialistscaring for you. That’s especially important if you transition from one level of care to another, such as intensive to acutecare.” An added layer of safety: both a pharmacist and the nurse administering the medications verify any new medicationorders from your doctors.

Throughout your stay, you’ll receive comprehensive instructions on your medications. “We know that people learn in different ways, so this information will be shared multiple times and in multiple ways,” notes Ms. Dailey. “We also urge patients to contact their doctors for help with any questions they may have on their return home.”

How technology is working to transform the quality of your care during hospitalization

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

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Seven Barnishin was just 11, playing withaction figures alone in his Pitcairn home,when the tics began — involuntary armflicks, head jerks, and sounds. “I freaked. It seemed like something else was controlling me,” he says.

Tom and Amy Barnishin first thoughttheir son’s behavior was linked to the startof the school year and peer pressure.When symptoms grew worse, and othertics emerged, their doctor sent Seven to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC where he was officially diagnosedwith Tourette syndrome (TS) in January2009. “We were blindsided,” says Amy.

Diagnosing Tourette syndromeTS is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 100 people, says Keith Coffman, MD, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Tourette SyndromeClinic, part of the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital. Most cases are diagnosed between ages 3 and 12; the majority are boys.

The main symptoms are sudden, repetitive, uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics, including throat-clearing, sniffing, blinking, gestures, and head jerking. For a true TS diagnosis, tics must start before age 18, include twoor more motor tics and at least one vocaltic, and last at least one year. Tics peak at the onset of puberty. Approximately 60 percent of children outgrow the tics, or the tics become so subtle only that person knows when they occur.

Coping with Tourette “People with TS cannot control their tics.They experience a sensation that makesthem feel like they have to move — like having to sneeze,” Dr. Coffman says.

The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner children can benefit. Movements can interfere with school work. Children with TS often are bullied, teased, or viewed as being disruptive.

That’s especially difficult for adolescentswho want to fit in. Tics, such as throatclearing, turning, or shaking, also can cause pain.

At the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, patients have access to a trio of experts:two pediatric neurologists with training in neurodevelopmental disorders, and an adult neurologist trained in movement disorders who provides transitional care for older teens.

Be in the know about TS Treatment varies.While there’s no cure,medication sometimes helps control tics.Psychologists can teach habit reversal and relaxation techniques to help patientscope with stress and reduce symptoms. But the most important treatment is education, says Dr. Coffman. “That includes educating families, educators, and the general public about TS.”

“Knowledge is power. I’d be unnerved if I didn’t know what it was,” adds Seven,now age 14. Although he cycled through almost every tic, the movements and sounds have subsided with treatment.

The Barnishins credit the team at Children’s for helping them understand TS, guiding them through treatment options, and providing support.

“Children’s gave us answers and helped us gain control over an uncontrollable situation. Instead of being spectators, wewere part of the process. That helped lower Seven’s anxiety, which helped ease the tics,” says Tom.

To learn more about the Tourette Syndrome Clinic and the Movement Disorders Clinic at Children’s Hospital, visit chp.edu, choose Neurology as theservice, then click the Clinics and Services button on the left.

Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

Other TS facts include:• TS patients have the same IQ range as the general population.

• People in every walk of life, includingprofessional musicians, athletes, authors, and scientists, have TS.

• Less than 15 percent of TS patientsswear or use inappropriate expressions.

Did You Know?

Taking on Tourette

An estimated 200,000 Americans haveTS, but misconceptions still surround the disorder.

For example, TS is not an emotional or behavioral condition. It is an inheritedneurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormalities in the brain.

1-800-533-UPMC 7

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

Fnu Abhishek, MDHospitalist Medicine

Aneel Kumar Bole, MDHospitalist Medicine

Asheesh Bothra, MDHospitalist Medicine

Ralph A. Capone, MDInternal Medicine

Timothy J. Chips, DMDHead and Neck Surgery

Megan H. Cortazzo, MDOrthopaedics

Pavan Devulapally, MDHospitalist Medicine

Christopher R. Dobbelstein, MDPsychiatry

Christopher J. Friend, MDImaging Services

Kenneth N. Gold, MDRheumatology

Razvan N. Gramatovici, MDRadiation Oncology

Denise M. Hall-Burton, MDAnesthesiology

Sulwen He, MD, PhDNephrology

John W. Ingle, MDOtolaryngology

James J. Jaber, MD, PhDOtolaryngology

Michael C. Jones, MDImaging Services

Charles J. Lin, MDAnesthesiology

Rohan D. Naik, MDHospitalist Medicine

Khoa N. Nguyen, MDAnesthesiology

Jeffrey S. Nicklas, MDAnesthesiology

Kristin M. Ondecko-Ligda, MDAnesthesiology

Jennifer L. Rogers, MDEmergency Medicine

Abir A. Senz, DOInternal Medicine

Toni Sicenica, MDPulmonary/Critical Care

Erin K. Snell, MDRheumatology

Kristen A. Stephen, MDDermatology

Guillermo Linares Tapia, MDNeurology

Haibin Wang, MD, PhDAnesthesiology

Jeremy B. Wingard, MDOphthalmology

Aaron J. Wyse, MDImaging Services

What’s Happeningat UPMC PassavantThese free events are offered by UPMC Passavant and the Passavant Hospital Foundation Diabetes Education Series Monday, Dec. 12, 2011 Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011 1 to 3:30 p.m.UPMC Passavant–McCandlessAsk at the Information Desk for class location.

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2011 Thursday, Dec. 15, 2011 6 to 8:30 p.m.UPMC Passavant–CranberryClasses are held in the 2nd floorconference room.

Learn what diabetes is, whatmedicines are availablefor treatments, and currentrecommendations for stayinghealthy with diabetes. Pleasecall 412-367-6640 for moreinformation.

Heart-Healthy Living ... Good Choices to Live By Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012 12:30 p.m.Senior Center, Cranberry TownshipMunicipal Building Speakers: UPMC Heart and Vascular Team Heart disease is America’s leading killer. More women than men die each year fromheart disease, but few womenreally understand how the heart and vascular system work. Learn what you can do to maintain a heart-healthylifestyle and diet. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Colorectal Cancer… What You Need to Know! Wednesday, Mar. 21, 201212:30 p.m.Senior Center, Cranberry TownshipMunicipal Building Speaker: Ved Kaushik, MD Prevention, detection, and advancements in treatment options related to colorectal cancer will be discussed at this seminar. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Weight Management & Safe Weight Loss for Seniors Wednesday, Apr. 18, 201212:30 p.m.Senior Center, Cranberry TownshipMunicipal Building Speaker: Registered dietitian,UPMC Passavant Your body is absolutely unique.To lose weight and keep it off,you need to know about a varietyof factors that will improve yourhealth, thus allowing you to loseweight and maintain the weightloss. Please call 412-367-6640 to register.

Autism Through the Lifespan Thursday, Apr. 19, 20128:30 a.m. Passavant Hospital FoundationConference Center Legacy Theatre This daylong event will includepresentations and breakout sessions. Topics will appeal to families, educators, andproviders dealing with autism. CEUs will be available.Registration is required. For more information, visit PassavantHospitalFoundation.org.

Bridge to Hope —Family Support Group Wednesdays7 p.m.Passavant Hospital FoundationConference CenterConference Room #1Cumberland Woods VillageDrug and alcohol addiction and its accompanying tragedieshave touched countless Americans from all walks of life and from all backgrounds.The Bridge to Hope provides education and support to such affected families. Pleasecall 412-367-6640 for more information.

Legacy Music SeriesUPMC Passavant-McCandless Passavant Hospital Foundation is seeking talented musicianswho want to help lift people’sspirits and volunteer their time to give the gift of music. Inquiries are now being acceptedfor upcoming dates. Please call 412-367-6640 for more information.

For more informationabout classes at UPMC Passavant andaffiliated outpatientcenters, call UPMCPhysician Referral at 1-800-533-UPMC(8762).

UPMC Passavant9100 Babcock Blvd.Pittsburgh, PA 15237

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

This publication is for 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 Passavant on Facebook.


At Ridge Insurance Agency, Inc., ownerWilliam L. (Bill) Ridge, principal agent,has the lock on great customer service –

ERIE Rate LockSM.With ERIE Rate LockSM, auto policy holders

may lock in their rate, indefinitely. The newprogram started just a few months ago.“With ERIE Rate LockSM, once applied, the

premium is locked in indefinitely,” Bill explains.That rate will remain until one of three thingschanges: you add or remove a vehicle, add orremove a driver, or change primary residence.And, with this program, there are no

surcharges for accidents. “Even if you had a$10,000 accident, there would be no surchargeto your policy,” Bill explains.Customers have the option to choose rate

lock to protect their premium rate indefinitely.By offering programs like ERIE Rate LockSM,

with a focus on customer service, RidgeInsurance Agency, Inc has built a reputation forcustomer satisfaction – as shown by thetestimonials from actual customers listed here.Erie Insurance is just one of the several fine

insurance companies represented by RidgeInsurance, an independent agency with officeslocated in Cranberry Twp., in Piazza Plaza.There the Ridge Insurance Agency, Inc

currently serves the insurance needs of over4,000 policy holders consisting of individualsand families as well as businesses. The agency offers a wide range of products

in the personal lines, commercial lines as wellas life and health insurance. Bill is licensed inPennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia andMaryland. He and his staff are eager to serveyou and your insurance needs.To learn more or set up an appointment,

call 724.772.8880 , [email protected] or visit thewebsite at www.ridgeagency.com.

Ridge InsuranceAgency, Inc

I would highly recommend Bill Ridgewith Erie Insurance. He was able to

save us $1,800 a year on our car andhome owners insurance.

Thanks Bill!

The Truxells, Coraopolis, PAClient since 2011

Bill has always been more interestedin helping you identify WHAT you

need, rather than just selling aproduct that may or may not be

right for you.

Carol Resnick, Sewickley, PAClient since 2001

Bill always looks for the best

combination of products to give his customers the complete

coverage required at the mostcompetitive price.

Tom Minnock, Cranberry Twp. , PAClient since 2009

Bill is always prompt and apleasure to do business with.

That’s why I have stuck with himfor 18 years!

Bill Schaudt, Creative Construction,Cranberry Twp., PAClient since 1993

Testimonials

holds the to customer satisfaction

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ERIE Rate LockSM does not guarantee continued insurancecoverage. Insured must meet applicable underwriting guidelines.Premium may change if you make a policy change. Patent Pending.


WeihnachtsmarktReturns to

Shoppers, crafters and holidaymerry-makers converged upon the19th annual Historic Harmony

Weihnachtsmarkt – a traditionalGerman Christmas Market.The holiday tradition, whichcelebrates Harmony’s Germanheritage, was held Nov. 13-14 and

featured a variety of vendors andartisans, along with live music,traditional German foods, Germanimports, an antiques show and sale,and horse-drawn wagon rides. Visitors

had the opportunity to visit the many specialtyshops around town, enjoy the festiveatmosphere, and stop by the HarmonyMuseum. Proceeds from the event benefitHistoric Harmony, Inc.


Historic Harmony

Photos by Ginography

Local Loan Experts:Manager Matt Irvinand Cranberry Township’sNorthwest Savings Bank

If you want to borrow money, look no further than Northwest Savings Bank in Cranberry Township — an experienced, local bank with expert lenders.

Northwest stands out from the competition more than ever before, helping overcome uncertainty in the current lending market by making it easy to get the loans you need.

“While other banks seem to be � nding it more and more challenging to help customers get the loans they need, Northwest is actively lending,” said Cranberry Township Manager, Matt Irvin. “Our low rates and fees make it easy to do what you need to do and purchase the things you want.”

For more than 115 years, Northwest Savings Bank has been there for the communities it serves with local decision making, quick turnaround, and competitive rates.

Whether you are looking for a Mortgage, Home Equity Loan, Home Equity Line of Credit, or a personal loan, Northwest can lend you the money you need with fast approvals and monthly payments to � t your budget.

Northwest Savings Bank provides a wide range of retail lending services, including Mortgages with fast, free pre-approvals so you can qualify before you buy; Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit to use your home to pay for the things you need; and Personal Loans for other necessities, such as purchasing a car, consolidating debt, or paying for educational or medical expenses.

“� is fall, we’re o� ering a number of great rates on our Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit,” said Irvin. “With no closing costs or fees for Home Equity Loans and the ability to get a free � xed-rate lock-in on a Home Equity Line of Credit, Northwest’s o� ers are hard to beat.”

Along with competitive rates, Northwest customers also enjoy convenient services such as Online Banking and Bill Pay, eStatementsplus, Mobile Banking, GO! Rewards Check Cards, and 43,000+ service charge free ATM locations.

Northwest Savings Bank also boasts exceptional customer service. It was awarded “Highest Customer Satisfaction with Retail Banking in the Mid-Atlantic Region, Two Years in a Row” by J.D. Power and Associates in 2010 and 2011.

Northwest is a local bank, making local decisions, committed to the communities it serves – and there are a lot of them, with 169 Northwest oª ces across four states.

Stop into the Cranberry Township o� ce at 1688 Route 228 and ask for Matt Irvin to learn about the best in class products and services Northwest o� ers for you and your business.

Local Loan Experts:

and Cranberry Township’s

Northwest stands out from the competition more than ever

Manager, Matt Irvin. “Our low rates and fees make it easy to do

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2


by Dana Black McGrath

he Harmony-Zelienople Community Band’s annual concert, set forSunday, April 1, is the high note of the season for many bandmembers, who span multiple generations and miles.

Director Sue Van Arsdale, who is the band director for grades four,five and six at both Evans City Middle School and ConnoquenessingValley Elementary School, founded the band in 1999.The program started as an outreach to adults – an adult

education course offered through the Seneca Valley School Districtin an effort to get adults who once played an instrument back intomusic.“I wanted them to get their instruments out of the closet, blow off

the dust and make music again,” says Van Arsdale.In its first year, 22 members joined the band. Last year, 95 members

performed at the band’s 13th concert.“We have grown by leaps and bounds,” says Van Arsdale. Members

come not just from the local community, but as far as WestmorelandCounty, Mercer, Pittsburgh and Butler. “We have a really great group ofpeople.”Another aspect that makes the organization unique is that children of

band members are permitted to join, so there are members as young as fifthgrade who are playing alongside senior citizens and making music together.Members exhibit a wide range of ability levels, from beginners to retired

band directors.“There is a unique camaraderie. Everyone really supports each other and

helps each other,” says Van Arsdale.She attributes a large part of the program’s success to the schedule, which

requires just a 10-week commitment each year.“Everyone’s time is so valuable now,” she says. “One of the ways to deal

with that is to not require a year-round commitment.”The band’s season begins in January and runs through April, and offers a

good way to get through the winter doldrums. After that 10-week period,members’ commitment is over. That, she says, makes the band very appealing.This year, rehearsals will begin on the last Thursday in January, and will

be conducted every Thursday until April 1.

There is one addition to the band’s schedule this year. The group hasbeen invited to perform as part of the Mercer County Summer ConcertSeries on July 13.

“My goal is to get people to make music again, to revisit a good oldmemory for a short period of time and then put it away until next year,”says Van Arsdale.During that time, the band prepares for its annual concert, which

runs about 90 minutes long and is held at Seneca Valley IntermediateHigh School. Van Arsdale prepares a program with something foreveryone – some standard marches, some Broadway show tunes,works from new composers and a special feature performance in the

middle of the concert.Last season, the Greater Harmony Chorus (a chapter of the Sweet

Adelines) performed. Previous featured performers have included asoloist from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Slippery RockUniversity Percussion Ensemble.“We like to highlight what others are doing,” she says, “and it gives us a

chance to rest.”This year about 1,000 attended the concert. Admission is free, but the

band does accept donations.Despite the fact that the band is comprised of volunteers of all ages, all

the sections are balanced and everything that is needed is represented, VanArsdale says. “We have been really blessed with awesome instrumentation.”Those who are interested in joining need not worry about their ability

level – or lack thereof.“My first comment is, ‘You are here to have fun. Do not fear. Play the

notes you can play and maybe you might learn to play a few more.’” says VanArsdale.The band experience has inspired members to rediscover their love

of music.Van Arsdale reports that one member had not played his trumpet in

nearly 50 years and, after joining the band, started to take private lessons.Another member, who had not played an instrument previously, came to aconcert and was so inspired that she decided to take flute lessons and joinedthe band a year later.For more information about the band or membership, visit

www.hzband.org or email Van Arsdale at [email protected].


Seneca Valley North SoccerIt was opening day for

Seneca Valley North SoccerAssociation’s Fall 2011 season. The

association welcomes boys and girls ages 4 to 18 years old to play in both fall and

spring seasons. The organization, which hasapproximately 600 players, is part of the state soccerassociation PA West and serves participants from the

Zelienople, Harmony, Evans City, Cranberry andsurrounding communities. There is an in-house programfor younger players and a sunday travel program forolder participants. All games and practices were heldat Seneca Valley High School lower athletic fields.For more information about the association and

how to participate in the upcoming springseason, visit the website atwww.svnorthsoccer.org.

Scores Another


Successful SeasonPhotos by Ginography



T.W. Phillips Gas and Oil Co. is now Peoples TWP. Peoples TWP was acquired by Steel River

Infrastructure Fund in May 2011 and was renamed to reflect its affiliation with Peoples Natural Gas. Peoples Natural Gas is also owned by Steel River Infrastructure Fund.

While our name has changed, the natural gas you depend on will not be disrupted in any way. You can still count on us for safe, reliable service.

You will also see Peoples TWP playing an active role in our communities. We have renewed our commitment to the communities where our customers, and our employees, live and work. From volunteering with social service organizations to supporting community events, Peoples TWP is committed to our region.

T.W. Phillips is now Peoples TWP. New name. Renewed commitment. Still Local.

Safety is the number one priority of Peoples TWP. Every day, we strive to keep our customers, our employees and our communitiessafe. Here are 3 Sensible Words about Natural Gas to help keep you and your family safe.

Natural gas leaks are rare. But they can happen. Your senses will alert you if a leak occurs.

SIGHTEscaping gas affects the nutrients in soil, so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak. Dirt or water blowing up from the group may indicate a natural gas leak.

SOUNDNatural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high-pitchedwhistling noise. Noises will vary based on the line pressure.

SMELLA strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air. Because the gas is odorless, a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten-egg smell that warns of its presence. Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell.

If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring, leave the area immediately and notify Peoples TWP by calling1.800.222.5101.

your energy partner peoples–gas .com

I J

safety-driven

Whether the change comes dramatically or slowly over time sothat you barely notice it, there will come a time when you’ll needto take on a larger role in the care of a parent or an older relative.

These new responsibilities will most likely raise some unfamiliar issues.Being informed before someone is in need is often the best strategy. So inthe time it takes to have a cup of coffee, consider having ‘The Talk’ – aboutcaring for your parents.Many people find the most uncomfortable change to face is having

someone you’ve always depended upon now depending upon you. Attimes, you may disagree about how to handle the new situation. And yourparent or relative’s need for independence may conflict with your need toensure their safety and comfort. Consider the following situations:• You’ve just finished a phone conversation with your 70-year-oldmother, who sounds depressed and confused. When you asked ifthere was anything wrong, she said “No.” She lives 500 miles away.

• Your mother died last year. When you and your family arrived atyour father’s house for a holiday visit, you were shocked to see how

thin he had become. There was little food to be found, and the houseneeded a sound cleaning.

• After trying without success to reach your aunt by phone for threedays, you finally contact a neighbor. He tells you your aunt is in thehospital after being taken by ambulance after a serious fall. You areyour aunt’s only living relative.

Any one of these scenarios suggests that it may be time to seekadditional support and care for that aging person. When you start to notice changes in your parent or relative’s behavior

or health, it’s only natural to look for a quick solution. However, if thesituation is not yet an emergency, it is a good time to gather informationand identify the key problems. By getting involved before a crisisdevelops, you and your relative will be able to explore more care options.You will also have the time to understand what your relative needs andwants. You can also begin identifying resources that are available toaddress a wide range of issues. An important note: make sure to involvethe rest of the family! Their understanding and support can be crucialthroughout the process.Although it can be uncomfortable, it’s important to talk with an older

relative about your concerns. Just think of how hard it would be if you werein the older person’s place. He or she may be afraid of losing independenceor may be coping with the loss of friends or a spouse. Also, decreasingabilities and growing dependence on others may be causing feelings offrustration. Here are some ideas for discussing these sensitive issues withyour relative:LISTEN to your relative at least as much as you talk.Be POSITIVE, and keep suggestions constructive.RECOGNIZE that your relative still needs to make his or her owndecisions if possible.Set aside a QUIET place to talk, during the BEST TIME OF DAY foryour relative.Caring for elders or helping to manage their finances can be a

complicated process, and few of us are trained for it. Fortunately, you canturn to your investment professional to rely on their resources regardingmany legal, tax, insurance, and health care related areas. For more detailed information, including a free Guidebook to Caring

for Aging Parents, or to start planning now, call or email us today…It’sTime for the Talk – about caring for your parents!

*Securities and advisory services offered through Financial Network InvestmentCorporation, a registered broker/dealer and member SIPC. Financial Network is not anaffiliate of Mars National Bank or Mars National Advisors.Mutual Funds, annuities and other investments available through Financial NetworkInvestment Corporation are not insured by the FDIC, NCUSIF or any federal governmentagency, are not deposits, or obligations of nor guaranteed by Mars National Bank or MarsNational Advisors, or any other affiliated entity. Investments are subject to investment risksincluding loss of principal invested.

It’s Time for

Call or email today to set up your ‘talk’ or to requestthe free DVD...either way, there is no obligation.Contact Karen M. Bostick, Mars National Advisors,724.776.3898 or [email protected]

©2011 Mars National AdvisorsSecurities are offered through Financial Network Investment Corp., a registered broker/dealer and member of the SIPC. FinancialNetwork Investment Corp. is not an affiliate of Mars National Bank.Mutual funds, annuities and other investments available through Financial Network Investment Corp. are not insured by the FDIC,NCUSIF or any federal government agency, are not deposits, or obligations of nor guaranteed by Mars National Bank, or any otheraffiliated entity. Investments are subject to investment risks including loss of principal invested.

the Talk...

It’s time.You can’t avoid it any longer. You’re at the point inlife when you need to face the facts and have ‘the Talk’. It’s

time to discuss your financial plan for retirement.

Money concerns can be frightening, especially in uncertaineconomic times. In fact, they’re easy to ignore...but as time

passes, the issues only become more pressing.

If you’re ready to get serious about your financial future, contactus to receive a free copy of “Retirement Talk” a 5 minute video

that starts the conversation about retirement planning.

This Industry Insight was written by Karen M. Bostick, Vice President,Investment Advisor Representative*Mars National Advisors211 Scharberry LaneMars, PA [email protected] (Office)

It’s Time for the Talk...

Caring for Your Parents


724-934-VEIN (8346)

Should I Have My Veins Evaluated?Q & A WITH A VEIN SPECIALIST:While finishing charts atthe end of my day, I took a few moments to listen to my staffanswer questions for a patient on the phone. The questionsasked were very important as were the answers that were given.Here are some examples:

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

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

Why should I see a board- certified phlebologist to evaluate my varicose veinsWhen it comes to any aspect of your health care, it is

important to be proactive in the choice and research of whowill become medically responsible for your evaluation andtreatment. Though venous disease is not always a visibleailment, it can be a serious health problem leading to moreserious issues, so choosing a specialist, or board certifiedphlebologist for your venous care is a wise decision.Board certification in phlebology identifies a physician who

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

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

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

I had a free screening at ahealth fair and was told thatI don’t have venous disease,but I still have aching, painand discoloration at the ankles.What should I do?While free screenings can be

informative, remember that thisis just a brief glance into apatient’s venous system. Acomplete venous exam andvenous mapping by a board-certified phlebologist is best todetermine if a patient has venousdisease.Since a proper venous ultrasound

is such an integral part of thisevaluation, the American College ofPhlebology has set requirements for it that include thefollowing:• A venous ultrasound should be ordered by a physician.• A lower extremity ultrasound should study the entire leg, fromankle to groin. Failure to identify and treat all sources of refluxmay result in outright treatment failure.

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

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

If I have had an evaluation elsewhere, can I still be evaluated in your office?Of course. A free evaluation is commonly ‘ free’ because

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

You don’t have to live withpainful varicose and spider veins.


R.W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology

Hearing loss happens to all of us as a natural side-effect of aging.However, some people are born with a loss, or can acquiresignificant hearing loss as a result of their job or hobbies.

At R. W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology, no matter what thesource of your hearing loss, restoring your hearing is their first priority.“We do on-site hearing evaluations and we’re looking in the

person’s ears using a video otoscope,” said Robert Petruso. “Thepatient can see what we see. They can see wax build up or perforationof the eardrum or anything unusual.”R. W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology also has an on-site sound

booth, where patients can be immersed in absolute silence whilehearing tests are conducted. Results are processed and explained topatients thoroughly, so that they can understand exactly what’s going

on with their particular loss. Hearing aids, if necessary, are alsoexplained and demonstrated for patients. R. W. Petruso Hearing andAudiology can actually program the results of your hearing test into acomputer and model how the hearing aid will improve your hearingloss as well.“Hearing loss crosses a whole spectrum of patients from children

through seniors,” Petruso said. “We do testing for children where theremight be concern for speech development and hearing loss. We also doannual hearing testing for Head Start programs. We also do OSHAindustrial testing. We’ll do evaluations for the employees and reportour findings to their employers.”While the baby-boomer generation approaches retirement age,

their concept of hearing aids might be the large, squeaky, clunkydevices worn by their parents and grandparents. Not so of today’sdevices, Petruso said.“A lot of the manufacturers have aggressive feedback cancellers in

their hearing aids. When they sense feedback, the hearing aiddiminishes it. They’re virtually feedback free,” he said. “A lot have atelephone circuit to hear better on the telephone. They monitor andcontrol background noise and have features that help patients betterunderstand speech. They still have behind the ear models, but they aremuch smaller and sleeker. The standard models fit in the ear canal andare barely noticeable. What’s more, they are more lightweight andcomfortable and don’t require as much power, which means lessbattery changing.”R. W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology has been a family business

for more than 38 years. In addition to Robert, his wife, Arlene has beenin the audiology business for 25 years. Their son, Robert, II, is a doctorof audiology and has been practicing for 22 years, and, incidentally,wears hearing aids himself. Their other children, Travis and Rachealalso are in the family business, with Racheal managing the Meadvilleoffice for more than 13 years.Robert said that whether or not hearing aids are covered by

insurance depends on the carrier, so people are encourages to checkinto their plans.“I would say for the younger population, and anybody that’s not

retired, generally it’s not covered with insurance,” he said. “Some of theMedicare HMOs do have some coverage for hearing aids. Some of thebigger companies might have coverage for hearing aids as well.”Regardless, R. W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology will ensure that youfind the best hearing aid at a cost that you can accommodate.R. W. Petruso Hearing and Audiology has 9 locations in

Northwestern Pennsylvania. To find an office location near you or toschedule your appointment, please call 1-800-475-9192 or visit ourwebsite at www.petrusohearing.com.


BUSINESS SPOTL IGHT

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IN SenecaValley

n the popular 1990s TV series “The Golden Girls,” Dorothy always had a secret weapon she used to coerce her mother into cooperating with her. Dorothy would periodically threaten her with the

ominous warning, “Shady Pines is getting your room ready as we speak…” But nowadays, only around 7% of

people over age 75 live in nursing homes, according to census figures, and there are more choices than ever for different lifestylesand levels of care.

There are as many as 20 different types of senior care facilities,and before looking at any new living arrangement, it’s important tohave a basic idea of what the different levels are to avoid feelingoverwhelmed with choices. The following are some of the mostpopular living arrangements for seniors of today.

One favorite for mature adults is the active adult community,sometimes referred to as a retirement community or independentliving. These dwellings are usually homes or condos with individualsliving independently and owning their own home, but in a groupingor housing plan with other seniors. Many times these communitieswill offer a clubhouse and have planned social and cultural activities

and limited transportation. They may also provide housekeeping and communal meals for a monthly fee. They are probably best suited to individuals who are active and able to assume total care for themselves, but desire social interaction with others in their own age group.

Assisted living facilities usually allow individuals to have theprivacy of their own apartment or home, while offering dailyassistance with bathing and dressing. Some communities may also help with administering medications. This is an attractive option for many seniors because residents may be able to bathe and dress themselves initially, but as health and mobility decline the help becomes readily available without having to make a change in living arrangements. Communal dining may also be anoption for an added fee. Residents rent their apartment or home and may pay one ‘all inclusive’ fee for services or may be charged ‘a la carte’ for each additional service needed. This is a good choicefor any mature adult who is currently ambulatory, but who may have concerns about future mobility problems or perhaps has thebeginning of mobility issues.

Another increasingly popular option for mature adults is home

By Pamela Palongue

O L D E R A D U L T S I N S E N E C A V A L L E Y

Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your living arrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect of discussing this major life change can be a formidable one.

Most experts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlier rather than later.


health care which allows individuals to remain in their homes whilereceiving professional assistance with bathing, dressing and meal preparation. The care may also extend to medical needs such as the administration of medications and the ongoingmanagement of blood pressure or diabetes. Medicare and Medicaidmay provide financial assistance in some cases, but there are several eligibility requirements which must be met. This is a particularly good option for individuals who areemotionally attached to their residence and do not have a strongneed for social interaction with other seniors.

Rehabilitation facilities are primarily a temporary option for those recuperating from injury or illness. Rehab helps theindividual recover and provides adaptive techniques for preparing the patient to return to independent living. While theperson may not function at the previous level, the goal of rehab is to enhance the patient’s quality of life by improving mobility,speech and self-care.

Though people seldom look forward to going to a nursingfacility, skilled nursing homes provide 24-hour care for individualswith serious illness, injury or mental decline. The good news is that there have been several improvements in the quality of care received in nursing facilities since the Omnibus BudgetReconciliation Act of 1987. Nurse aides now have more training,and each resident must be fully evaluated upon admission so that anindividual care plan can be established. Meals are planned by a dietician to ensure proper nutrition, and many nursingfacilities now include regular exercise as a part of their managedcare for residents.

Whether you are a mature adult facing changes in your livingarrangements or the child of an aging parent, the prospect ofdiscussing this major life change can be a formidable one. Mostexperts agree that it is best to broach the subject earlier rather than later. Try to discuss the different options with aging parentsand find out which ones appeal to them. Certain conditions such as serious dementia may prevent a meaningful discussion of thesetopics later. By talking about the choices now, your loved one canweigh in on the decision and help you decide based on personalpreferences. The topic is also easier to discuss when it seems a long way off, rather than inevitable in the near future. The olderperson will also have more time to make decisions, rather thanhastily settling on a new home.

When beginning the discussion, always reassure your loved onethat you want him/her to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. Ask questions rather than offering advice. Thiswill help your parent to feel more in control of the conversation.

Try not to force any decisions with only one discussion. Giveyour loved one a chance to digest the idea and to form somethoughts on the subject. Suggest the possibility of a visit to anindependent or assisted living community. Many parents who areinitially reluctant to even discuss moving become excited about the prospect of making a change when they are able to see firsthandthe positive social aspects and activities offered at assisted livingfacilities.

Finally, enlist the help of one of your parent’s friends already in independent or assisted living as an advocate. Oftentimesparents may feel that their children are “ganging up” on them if theyare confronted by several siblings telling them what they should do.However, an individual in their own age group who has made the adjustment and is happy is the best advocate.

For more information on finding a home for your loved one,you may want to consult www.aplaceformom.com, a free elder carereferral service. For more tips about speaking with your parents orservices available for your loved one, visit the Area Agency on Agingwebsite at www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa.aspx.


SymptomsThe most common symptoms naturally

include headache, backache and

fatigue as well as cardiovascular

disorders (high blood pressure,

arteriosclerosis, etc.) digestive

problems (ulcers, colitis, etc.) and

sleeping difficulties.

Traffic Jams. Paying Bills. Deadlines. Pesky neighbors. These unpleasant orchallenging situations create stress in our lives. So why is it some people deal withthese stress situations better than others? The answer is complex and includes many

factors from genetics to weather conditions, but an interesting study in The Journal ofManipulative and Physiological Therapeutics indicates that there is a relationship betweenchiropractic and the effect it can have on dealing with stress situations in your life. Thisstudy revealed that nearly one in three patients viewed their lives as moderately to severelystressful, and more than 50% felt that stress had a moderate to severe impact on their healthproblems. Additionally, 71% of the patients indicated that it would be helpful if theirchiropractor offered advice to help them cope with these stressful situations.Communicating with your chiropractor about dealing with stress is the starting point, andyou might be surprised to find that your chiropractor is full of sound advice on ways to

effectively deal with stress in your life. Mostpeople know that improving nerve and spinalfunction has a dramatic impact on improvingemotional, mental and physical function.Getting the most out of your chiropractic caremay include talking to your chiropractor abouteffective strategies to deal with the stress in yourlife, so be sure to inform your chiropractor aboutyour personal situation so your Doctor ofChiropractic can help you improve your healthand wellness at maximum levels. TREATMENTChiropractic involves touch; this factor alonesets the stage for release of muscular tension.Your chiropractor administers one or a series ofmanipulations (“adjustments”) to the spine andsurrounding musculature. The adjustments mayhelp the fatigue or stress by removing nerveirritation, releasing muscular tension andimproving blood circulation. To see ifchiropractic may be able to help you call724.779.0001 today for a complimentaryconsultation.

Source: JMPT, July/August 1999 (originally published inthe PCD Chiropractic Newsletter)

and Your Health

This Industry Insight was written by Drs. Gina Agostinoand Anthony Manes.

Complete Chiropractic Health is located at 2625 Rochester Rd. in Cranberry Twp. The practice isowned by Dr. Gina Agostino and Dr. Anthony Manes.The doctors may be reached at 724.779.0001. Formore information, visitwww.completechiropractichealth.com.


by Dana Black McGrath

Girl Scouts in Cranberry Township are always on the move, but for thenext few months, they are going to be

extra busy.The national Girl Scouts of America

organization will celebrate its 100th anniversaryin March. Each service unit was asked to dosomething to celebrate the landmarkanniversary. Locally, troop leaders startedtossing around ideas and decided that the areatroops would take on one service project everyday for 100 days, explains coordinator AllisonBeresnyak, who also is a Brownie troop co-leader and recruiter for the organization.But, they also decided to take the effort one

step further and blog about it, so everyone couldread about the daily projects and see pictures ofthe results of the troops’ efforts.The initiative started on Dec. 4 and will run

through March 12, the actual date of the GirlScouts’ 100th anniversary.“I said, ‘I think we can do this,’” says

Beresnyak. “We do service projects all the time.”But the trick with this initiative was to

coordinate the scheduling of those projects sothat there would be one happening each day, sheexplains. For example, December is aparticularly busy month for service projects –there are 30 to 40 projects scheduled – but theyneeded to be scheduled on different days tomake sure all the days in that month werecovered.One of the service projects conducted in the

month of December was the Mittens & MoreDrive. A tree at the Cranberry CommunityCenter was decorated with ornaments, andsupporters were asked to take an ornamentfrom the tree, and in exchange leave a set ofmittens or gloves to be donated to the needy.They also conducted a Mr. Rogers’ SweaterDrive to collect new and gently used sweaters,jackets and sweatshirts that were donated toThe Lighthouse Foundation, in partnershipwith Fountain Park Church.All of the Girl Scout troops in Cranberry are

participating in the 100 Days of Caring project,and each troop was asked to do two to threeprojects. That is not unusual, Beresnyakexplains. Each would probably be conducting

that many service projectsduring that time frameanyway, but there has beencareful scheduling so thatone project falls each dayduring the 100-daycampaign.Beresnyak will be

managing the blog for thecampaign as well. Whilethe original intention wasto post about the projectson the day they occurred,there may be a few-daydelay to allow the troopleaders to gather andsubmit their informationand photos.Plans also are in the

works for an All-GirlScouts project, one inwhich all of thecommunity’s troopswould participate, that isscheduled for March 11.“We are asking community

organizations and non-profits to submitrequests for help,” Beresnyak says.There are nearly 400 Girl Scouts inthe area, so the organization isseeking a large-scale project thatwould require the work of manyhands to complete. She explainsthat the scouts range in age fromkindergarten through 12th grade,so it may be difficult to find aproject that is a fit for all ages.They also are taking

suggestions for the smaller,daily service projects. Formore information, tosubmit a project idea or seea list of service projects,email at [email protected].

Girls Scouts Launch

to Celebrate 100 Years




For most parents, getting the family to the dinner table—and keeping them there—takes some creativity. Hereare a few secrets to help your little ones (and bigger

ones) stay put, eat something other than mac-n-cheese andeven look forward to family meals together.

Cut yourself some slack. The goal is to keep your familymealtime a positive, happy experience. Think about loweringyour expectations for what a “sit-down” meal with little onesand bigger ones means. Real life can be hectic—balancingwork, soccer, piano lessons, play dates—and getting thewhole family to the table at the same time can be sochallenging that many families just give up. Most of usbelieve that family dinner is important—we simply lack thepatience, energy or tools to pull it off. And then we feel guilty.

Why not make dinnertime fun instead of a chore? Includean unexpected ingredient such as purple carrots or star fruit,serve the kids’ juice in fancy glasses—or enjoy pancakes,eggs and OJ instead of your usual dinner fare. Have a picnic:pack up a basket, spread out a blanket on the living roomfloor, move a couple potted plants over and enjoy dinner in“the park.” Is your fridge full of leftovers? Dish them up, putout some soft taco shells and let your family enjoy makingtheir own “wacky wrap” creations.

Make it a group effort and give everyone a responsibility.Your spouse could get the salad together while yourdaughter sets the table. Let your youngest supervise from hisbooster seat while your son takes the drink orders. Your 10-year-old can feed the baby while you get the rest of dinner onthe table. This is the perfect opportunity to provide yourchildren with a valuable sense of involvement. Ask your familyfor their own ideas and allow them to choose the side dishesfor the week. Remember that while some of their requestsmay be a bit off the wall, they are (generally) do-able.

Start a tradition of “Family Happy Hour.” Before you startpreparing dinner, serve healthy appetizers such as choppedveggies with hummus or baked whole grain tortilla chipswith mango salsa while listening to a fun playlist. Thesehealthy options take the edge off their hunger, and you mayfind your children happier and more willing to try new foodswhen you do sit down together.

Dinner is not your only option. Sometimes the demandsof real life can get in the way of this important commitment—so, we need to be flexible. Family mealtime is aboutconnecting with your family—if dinner is impossible, why notconnect over lunch or a snack? And, take advantage of someshortcut ideas. On the weekend, why not prepare a fewmeals in advance so that everything is ready to be heatedwhen you get home from a long day at work? Learn to makesome compromises—crock pots can be wonderful, and notevery meal needs to be Coq au vin!

Family dinner is a good idea. “Mealtime is often the onlytime in the whole day when everybody’s in the same roomhaving a conversation,” says William Doherty, Ph.D., authorof The Intentional Family (Addison Wesley Longman, 1997),“so it’s where the family’s culture gets created.” Familydinner helps demonstrate to our children that they areimportant enough for us to spend this valuable time with.And we often hear experts say that consistent familymealtime improves nutrition, table manners, communicationskills, family relationships and bonding.

This Industry Insight was written by Dina & Matt Speranza.

They are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at8065 Rowan Road in Cranberry. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/Preschool/Kprograms. For more information, visitwww.goddardschools.com or call 724-778-9999.

Steelers fans adorned in theirbest black and gold came out to support Children’s

Hospital’s Free Care Fund and enjoyan outdoor party and Steelers game at The Cabana Bar at The Oxford Club.The event was hosted by Howard HannaReal Estate Services in Cranberry andincluded a Steelers ticket auction, a James Harrison autographed football, a signed Ben Roethlisberger jersey and more. A Cornhole tournament,delicious food and libations and D.J.Digital Dick kept the party moving.

The event was part of HowardHanna’s ‘Chow Chow’ fundraisingcampaign now in its 23rd year.Approximately 130 Howard Hanna

offices raise money for the Children’s FreeCare Fund in their area from Septemberto December. Last year, Howard Hannaraised more than $568,763 in their officesacross Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York andWest Virginia. The money raised in eachregion is donated to that region’schildren’s hospital.

“This is our second year of hosting the Cabana Bash and the people that have attendedhave been very generous,” said Yvonne Guthrie, Howard Hanna vice president andmanager of the Cranberry office. “We thought it would be a great idea to startearly with our Children’s Free Care fundraising with the

first away game.

Michelle Shannon, General Manger of The Cabana Bar and Staff

HOWARD HANNA CRANBERRY OFFICE THROWS

Second AnnualSteelers Cabana Bashto Benefit Children’s Free Care Fund

D.J. Digital Dick

Yvonne Guthrie, Vice Pre

sident and

Manager of The Howard H

anna

Real Estate Office in C

ranberry

Marsha Gruber


by Kathy Rudolph

The idea for this came from our ‘brainchild,’ Janet Yasko, and Marsha Gruber.”

The event included a poignant prayer for the 10thanniversary of 9/11 victims and law enforcement and for the recovery of patients in children’s hospitals everywhere.

“We thank Howard Hanna and everyone here for theirgenerosity to the patients and their families from Children’sHospital of Pittsburgh,” said Kristen Crusan, developmentcoordinator, and corporate campaigns.

According to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, “$31million worth of free care went to children in the Pittsburghregion last year.” The Fund “helps families that can’t afford carebecause of a loss of insurance, a child having a chronic illness or the cost of care exceeds what insurance will pay.” No child is ever turned away.

“The fund also allows us to provide extras for the patientsso that they can enjoy their childhood while in the hospital,”said Ms. Crusan. “Examples include providing video games so patients can play with family or friends or hosting a Prom,”said Ms. Crusan.

To learn more about Howard Hanna in Cranberry, pleasevisit www.howardhanna.com/cranberry.

To find out about upcoming events at the Cabana Bar, go to thecabanabar.com. Finally, to make a donation to theChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Free Care Fund, please visit

www.givetochildrens.org.

Janet Yasko and Kristen Crusan, Children'sHospital of Pittsburgh development coordinator,corporate campaigns


PLACES OF WORSHIPCalvin Presbyterian Church . . . . .724.452.7560Camp Run Presbyterian Church .724.368.8446Christ Bible Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.776.2780Christian Community Church of Mars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.625.3230

Church of God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.538.9841Congregation B’Nai Abraham . . . . .724.287.5806Cranberry Baptist Church . . . . . . . . .724.776.3110Cranberry Community United . . . . .724.776.5310Cranberry Reformed Presbyterian Fellowship . . . . . . . .724.443.0892

Crestview United Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . .724.538.8559

Crossroads Community Church . . .724.776.6763 CrossWay Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.898.4600Discovery Christian Church . . . . . . .724.779.1010 Dutilh United Methodist Church . . .724.776.1094English Evangelical Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 724.452.8110

Faith Full Gospel Church . . . . . . . . .724.452.5864First Baptist Church of Evans City . .724.538.8341First Baptist Church of Zelienople . .724.452.9290First Bible Baptist Church . . . . . . . .724.452.7915Focus Community Church . . . . . . . .724.612.4411Fountain Park Church . . . . . . . . . . . .724.779.2003Good Samaritan Church of the Brethren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.776.5508

Gospel Fellowship Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . . . .724.898.3322

Grace Church of Harmony . . . . . . . .724.452.7270Grace Community Church . . . . . . . .724.779.7997Harmony-Zelienople United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.452.7670

Hope Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . .724.776.3141Mars Alliance Church . . . . . . . . . . . .724.776.9400Mars Campus of Dutilh UMC . . . . .724.625.1488Mars United Presbyterian Church . .724.625.1365New Life Anglican Church . . . . . . . .724.614.7746New Life Presbyterian Church . . . . .724.744.4760Oak Grove Lutheran Church . . . . . .724.774.6410Oak Hill Alliance Church . . . . . . . . . .724.776.4350Old Union Presbyterian Church . . .724.538.8672 Park Presbyterian Church . . . . . . . . .724.452.9570Plains Presbyterian Church & Cranberry Nursery School . . . . . . .724.538.8785

Seaman Memorial Lutheran Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.452.3594

St. Ferdinand Catholic Church . . . . .724.776.2888St. Gregory Catholic Church . . . . . . 724.452.7245St. John (Burry’s) Church . . . . . . . .724.452.6941St. John Lutheran Church . . . . . . . .724.865.2490St. John’s United Church of Christ 724.538.8124St. Kilian Catholic Parish . . . . . . . . .724.625.1665St. John Lutheran Church . . . . . . . .724.865.2490St. Mathias Catholic Church . . . . . .724.538.8237 St. Paul Lutheran . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .724.452.8832St. Peter’s Lutheran Church . . . . . . .724.535.5810 St. Peter’s Reformed Church . . . . . .724.452.8120 Valencia Presbyterian Church . . . . .724.625.2002Valencia United Methodist Church . . . . . . . . . . .724.625.2330

Victory Family Church . . . . . . . . . . .724.453.6200Westminster Presbyterian Church . .724.538.8188Woodland Valley Church . . . . . . . . .724.625.4500Zelienople Church of Christ . . . . . . .724.452.5332Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church .724.452.8886



Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction.It would seem reasonable that withmillions of sperm and only one eggthat the majority of infertility problemswould lie with the female. Not true,according to the National Library ofMedicine which tracks nationalstatistics kept by fertility clinics.Difficulties with fertility are evenlysplit, with the source of fertilityproblems being linked to the maleone third of the time and the femalealso having difficulties one third ofthe time. The final third is a mixtureof situations where both parties haveinfertility issues and those cases where the cause is indeterminate.

The good news is that there is hopefor males who wish to start a family.Director of Male ReproductiveMedicine Surgery at UPMC, Thomas Jaffe, MD, an urologist,offers a hopeful perspective formales experiencing difficulties withreproductive issues. “Because of manytechnologies and treatments, manymen who previously had no hopeof fathering a child now have treatmentoptions that can be [effective.]”

One important advancement inreproductive research is a relativelynew diagnostic test called theDAZ test. The DAZ test detectsa genetic mutation in the Ychromosome for sperm production.

This test is ordered when spermproduction is unusually low. Anotherimportant factor in analyzing the quality of the sperm is its motility or movement. Generally, sperm with greater motility are able to more easily fertilize an egg.

One common problem among menwith fertility issues is type 1 or juvenileonset diabetes. Individuals withdiabetes may experience what’s called retrograde ejaculation. Simplyput, this is when the bladder stays open with ejaculatory fluids washingback into the bladder rather than exiting the body as with normal functioning. “This problem can betreated with Sudafed which helps the bladder to stay closed during ejaculation,” explains Dr. Jaffe.Retrograde ejaculation can also be a problem with spinal cord injuries,nerve damage or certain medicationsthat contain alpha blockers such as high blood pressure medications.

Another problem Dr. Jaffe sees amonghis patients are men who have little tono sperm production. “Even with nosperm, we have found that thesemen still produce limited numbersof sperm within the tissues of thetesticles.” This sperm can be extractedfrom the tissue and remains viableto fertilize an egg.

One of the most common problemsassociated with male infertility iswhen an enlargement of a vein in the scrotum forms. These veins are specially equipped with one-wayvalves which insure that blood flows upward. When these veins becomecompressed, they crush the gonadalvein and heat and toxins build up in the scrotum inhibiting healthy spermproduction. The vein can be surgicallyrepaired however to promote normalfunction with increased sperm production and better quality withsperm motility increased.

Finally, male cancer patients mayexperience fertility problems due tochemotherapy and radiation treatments.“Ideally ,we [harvest] sperm priorto treatment. We work with thePittsburgh Cryobank to store thesperm until needed,” explains Dr. Jaffe.

Although no treatment is an absoluteguarantee, male infertility can oftentimes be overcome with the right evaluation and treatment.

For more information about Dr. Ja�eand treatment of male infertility, call 412.692.4100.



special groundbreaking ceremony was held at the Route 19 fire station for theCranberry Township’s 9/11 memorial on Sunday, Sept. 11, the 10thanniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The 9/11 memorial is a project initiated by members of the CranberryTownship Volunteer Fire Company, who worked to secure a piece of structuralsteel from the former World Trade Center. The monument will incorporatethe piece from Ground Zero within its design.That event marked the beginning of the fundraising campaign for the

memorial. Now, the fire company is focusing on fundraising efforts,according to Bruce Hezlep, president of the Cranberry TownshipVolunteer Fire Company. He says donations are starting to come in, buta bit slower than he anticipated.“If every resident of the township gave a dollar, we would be more

than well on our way to raising the funds we need,” Hezlep says.He admits that because the company is taxpayer supported

through the township and does not need to raise its own operatingfunds, fundraising is a challenge for them. So the company hasturned to Bruce Mazzoni, council member and treasurer of theCranberry Township Community Chest, for help. CTCCalready has awarded the fire company a $10,000 grant as seedmoney for the project.The group also helped them to connect with local

company HRG, which donated its expertise to therenderings and concepts for the township’s ScoutingCentennial Plaza project, and offered to do the samefor the 9/11 memorial. Efforts to construct a memorial to the first

responders of 9/11 have been ongoing for a few years. Two years ago the fire company became

aware of an opportunity to acquire a piece ofstructural steel from Ground Zero. FirefighterJeff Berneburg initiated the lengthyapplication process, and a 9/11 MemorialCommittee was formed. There were many

conditions attached to receiving the piece of building, including that thereceiving entity could not profit from it in any way. Last April, the fire department received word that it was approved to

receive a piece of the structural steel salvaged from Ground Zero – a hugestructural support beam weighing 832 pounds and measuring roughly 8 feetby 3 feet.Until the day the beam was picked up at a hanger at JFK airport, no one had

any idea about how big the piece of steel would be and what it would look like, sodesign concepts couldn’t be developed in advance.Those who are interested in making a contribution to the project may contact

Hezlep at [email protected].

eneca Valley

ADVERTISE HERE!

[email protected]


Have you ever seen someone and saidthose are the most beautiful, hypnoticeyes I have ever seen? A person’s eyes are

the focal point of their facial features and are oftenfocused on by others during conversations or firstmeetings. For that reason, patients are veryconcerned about how their eyes appear to others.In this day and age with everyone wanting to lookas lovely as they can, aesthetic eyelid surgery, orblepharoplasty, can be beneficial to men andwomen at any age.How do I know if I need eyelid surgery? This

is a common question that men and women alikeask me as well as themselves. Here is a goodchecklist reference for you.1. Bags and dark circles under the eyes2. Lower eyelid droopiness3. Excessive and loose skin hanging down fromthe upper eyelids, sometimes evenobstructing vision

4. A puffiness to the upper eyelids, making theeyes appear tired

5. Excess skin and fine crepe paper type wrinklesof the lower eyelids

Eyelid surgery canusually correct theseproblems, but sometimesother treatments may alsoneed to be considered.What we commonly refer toas “crow’s feet” lines may besmoothed out with Botox,Dysport, Xeomin, Chemical Peels or LaserResurfacing. Dark circles under the eyes that arecaused by dark pigmentation may be treated withHyaluonic Acid fillers, fat injections or sometimeschemical peeling. Often, if drooping upper eyelidsis combined with sagging of the brows, anendoscopic brow lift may be the answer. When patients come in for a consultation for

this type of surgery, I usually have them look in themirror and tell me EXACTLY what they want tosee improved. This will allow me to understandtheir expectations and determine whether they canbe realistically achieved.Patients should always come to their

appointment ready to discuss their medical history.Especially important conditions with eye surgery

are high blood pressure, diabetes and thyroidproblems. Allergies are also something I need toknow before performing this surgery.

Eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatientprocedure, which means the patient can go homeafter their operation and time in the recoveryroom. With upper eyelid surgery, or UpperBlepharoplasty, the incision is generally hidden inthe natural fold of the eyelid. With lower eyelidsurgery, or Lower Blepharoplasty, the incision isusually hidden just below the lower lash line. Aswith other surgeries, I will advise you to stopsmoking. The amount of recovery time varies among

individuals. The first few days after surgery, youshould rest quietly with your head elevated.Remember not to take aspirin or any anti -inflammatory medications. These products tend tothin your blood, which can increase bruising andswelling with surgery. Bruising usually disappearswithin 7-10 days. Straining, bending and liftingshould be avoided during the early post- operativeperiod. But, in most cases, you will be able toresume most of your normal activities within 10days or less. After you have aesthetic eyelid surgery, people

may remark about how rested you look or thinkyou have recently returned from a vacation. Whenyou have eyelid surgery, the healing is a gradualprocess. Because of this, you will need to wait atleast a few weeks to get an accurate picture of yourresults. Incisions will fade over several months,usually becoming barely visible. The results of thistype of surgery are ordinarily long lasting.Removing fat from your eyelids, which is whattypically causes the bags and puffiness, ispermanent. Patients are normally delighted withtheir results and feel that they look much youngerand refreshed. In today’s world, patients want to look the very

best that they can, not only for themselves, but forthe workplace. People are working later into theirlives and want to have an edge in the competitivemarketplace. In summary, eye surgery is not justfor reasons of vanity, but can also aid in securingnew jobs or advancing to that promotion.

The Have It!




Lexi, Kayli & Josh Tomasovic, ChloeSommers, Joslyn Korcok, Liam, Emma &

Heather AllisonMickaila & Morgan Bartlett

Ashley Hare

Little Miss Horse TradingDays, Sophie Stumm

Amanda & Hunter Curtin,Sam Kline

Carolyn, Chuck, Cole & Jackson Skillman

he falling flakes failed to frighten away the fun as the annualHalloween parade stepped through downtown Zelienople.The huge, fluffy, white chunks of snow falling from the sky may

have led one to mistake this for a Christmas parade, but it wasn’t.The annual Zelienople Halloween Parade, sponsored by the

Zelienople Lions Club, marched on despite nearly an inch of snowthat fell during an early first snowfall of the season. Held onSaturday, Oct. 29, the parade and its costumed characters, floats,bands and other participants marched on despite the coldtemperatures and slippery snow.


a Frighteningly Fun Time in Cranberry

Cranberry Township’s Parks andRecreation Department hosted“Spookapalooza” just a few days

before Halloween.Held at the Lions Shelter in the

Community Park on Oct. 29, the eventfeatured story telling by “Witch Hazel,”along with other fun activities forchildren 1 to 8 years old, includingcrafts, games and refreshments.A pumpkin hunt rounded out the fun-

filled afternoon.


Grace Merten, Naomi Dutko

Mary and Drew Long, Cooper Burchan, Jason Palmero, Lucy and Eva Alejandro, Keira Colella

Molly Bell

Erica, Scott & Elliott Gilbertson

“Witch Hazel” & Breanna Kolozie

Karen Russell as “Witch Hazel”

Michelle & Annabelle Pawlowlcz


A Family Business with its

tothe

“Our personality and organizationare better suited to Sewickley. Theborough’s beengood to us, the cityof Pittsburgh hasbeen good to us.”

KC Kowalyk


hen most kids weretrying to fit in their finalfun days of summer

before the school year began, AleahMeek was busy raising money tohelp a young boy who wasstruggling to overcome seriousmedical complications.Her mother, Lori Meek, explains

that a friend’s nephew was apatient at The Children’s Institute,and Aleah took it upon herself tocoordinate a lemonade/artwork/

Twizzler stand to help raise moneyfor the young boy and his family.The young patient, just 7 years

old, already had undergonemultiple surgeries throughout hisyoung life and had recentlyexperienced a setback that causedhim to lose most of his grossmotor skills. “I have my kids involved so they

realize how fortunate they are,”says the proud mother.On Aug. 27, the day of the

fundraiser, Aleah joined forceswith her two brothers and a fewneighbors who helped to bringitems for people to buy. The youngcrew gave all of the money thatwas donated to the boy’s family.Together they raised more than$280.“I am so proud of these kids

and their hearts to do a fundraiserfor this little boy and his family,”says Lori Meek.They delivered the donations

and gifts on Sept. 11. Since then,Lori Meek reports that shereceived a text from the boy’smother that he had anothersurgery and is learning to walk andcan now feed himself. He isexpected to return home later thismonth.“I think what is amazing is the

attitude this little guy has. He washappy and cracking jokes when wemet him, really amazing to see.”


25TH ANNUAL

Apicturesque ‘end of summer’ weekend was thebackdrop for honoring German heritage at acelebration in a charming, small town. Hosted by

the Oktoberfest volunteers and local business sponsors,Evans City’s 25th Annual Oktoberfest was packed withthree days of family fun for all ages. A parade, ‘All YouCan Eat Breakfast,’ hosted by The Evans City VolunteerFire Department, Middle School Band Concert andSenior Drum Circle were just some of the features thattook you back to a simpler time.“My grandfather, R. Paul Wingard, started

Oktoberfest 25 years ago,” said Pamela Volz, one of thecommittee members. “He wanted to promote businessin Evans City and bring the community together. Thegreat thing is that it is a safe, family event with freeadmission, parking and many free activities. Wecouldn’t do it without the help of our sponsors and TheEvans City Volunteer Fire Department.” A ‘Little Miss and Mr. Oktoberfest’ Contest, Kid’s

Tractor Pull, Patches the Clown and rides kept the kidsentertained. Community vendorsincluding The Evans City Lions Club,The Rotary of Evans City andCranberry Mobile Fire Houseinformed and educated the residents.Craft and food vendors and musicalentertainment including TheTamarack Lake Cloggers and MichaelChristopher Band kept the crowdmoving.“Evans City is a ‘hometown’ town

and there are not many left like it,” saidMs. Volz, when asked why she and hercommittee and sponsors continue hergrandfather’s legacy. “It was important tohim to keep Evans City on the map and ifit was important to him, then it should be important tohis grandchildren.” To learn more about Evans City Borough and

upcoming events, please visit www.evans-city.com.

by Kathy Rudolph Pam Volz, Evans City Oktoberfest Organizer

Evans City Oktoberfest

Kelly Kopera, Evans City Lions ClubPresident and Members

Bill Westerman, Evans City Rotary Club President and Lee Dwyer,District Governor-Elect of Rotary International,

Betty Lambert of the Resurrection Band

Rick Reifenstein

Kathy McDonald of The WhiteBarn and Family

The Tamarack Lake Cloggers


The Business Association of Zelienople-Harmony Area Chamber of Commerceonce again hosted its widely popular

Country Fall Festival.Winding through the streets of historic

Harmony and Zelienople, the two-day event washeld Oct. 8 and 9, and welcomed visitors to thecommunity offering live music, food, historicalperspectives, crafts, antiques and more.The Zelienople Main St. Park was home to

arts, crafts and entertainment, as well as aFarmers’ Market, homemade foods, and historicencampments. Sidewalk sales throughout thebusiness district, children’s activities and specialperformances at The Strand Theater also werepart of the festivities. Other events included atractor cruise, a chili cook-off, tours of PassavantHouse and Buhl House, and antique car show,and even special flights from the ZelienopleMunicipal Airport.

Funat the Country Fall Festival


BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Do you have story ideas for IN Seneca Valley Magazine? Email your events and ideas to Dana Black McGrath, North Region Editor, [email protected]

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