in-west-allegheny-fall

FALL 2012 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

S TA F F

Winter content deadline: 10/17/12

FROM THE PUBLISHER Welcome to the Fall issue of IN West Allegheny magazine!As I write this, we are having one of the ho�est summers on record, and it doesn’t look like

the record-breaking temperatures will end just because the leaves will be changing colors soon. So while this is the fall issue, I want to reiterate some summer tips from the health department to help you stay safe in the heat. �e last two points are probably the most critical because they deal with children and the elderly.

• Stay cool indoors, preferably in an air-conditioned environment. Fans don’t help much when temperatures are in the 90s. A cool bath or shower is a more e�ective way to cool o�, if you don’t have air conditioning. Be�er yet, visit someplace that does, such as a senior center, theater, mall or neighbor’s house.

• Drink plenty of �uids, at least eight cups a day, but avoid alcoholic or ca�einated drinks which actually cause you to lose more �uids. Avoid hot foods and heavy meals, which add heat to your body.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-��ing clothing. A wide-brimmed hat provides shade and helps keep the head cool. Sunscreen can prevent sunburn, which can a�ect your body’s ability to cool itself and also cause a loss of body �uids.

• Avoid strenuous physical activity, particularly during the ho�er part of the day.

• Never leave a child, or a pet, in a vehicle alone on a hot day. A child may become disoriented in just �ve minutes, unconscious in 10 and brain-damaged in 20.

• Use the buddy system and check on the elderly and the in�rm who do not have air conditioning and are less able to take care of themselves.

For senior citizens, local governments also establish cooling centers to help people to beat the heat. Contact your local municipality for the one nearest you before the temperatures top 90 again. As always, enjoy your fall, IN West Allegheny!

Wayne DollardPublisher

Some of the best stories we hear are how two people happened to get together. Some met in bars, some in supermarkets, others met in more unique circumstances. Send us your story of how you met your spouse. We’ll run the best ones in the next issue. Also include a photo of you and your spouse, how many years you’ve been married and when your anniversary is. Send your story to [email protected] or mail them to IN Community Magazines, 603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317. You can also fax us at 724.942.0968.

How did youmeet your spouse?

WE WANT TO KNOW:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Industry Insight was written by Theresa Schneider.

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

724-934-VEIN (8346)

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

IN West Allegheny | FALL 2012 |

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

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FEATURES

Classic CarsCar Buffs Abound in the Region .............. | 12

Back to School ............................... | 30

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

The Vein Institute ........................ | 2

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Steel City Airsoft ............................. | 25

Cover photo by Kathy Rudolph

ON THE COVER | �e West Allegheny Marching Band performed as Oakdale residents enjoyed diverse fun events with a carnival feel at the Oakdale Hose Company’s Annual Street Fair. See story on page 26.

COMMUNITY INTERESTS

West Allegheny School District News ..................................... | 4

Local Artists Showcased at PTI ................................................. | 9

Tenth Annual “Mr. West Allegheny” Pageant ....................... | 14

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News ..................................... | 17

Oakdale Hose Company’s Annual Street Fair ....................... | 26

FEATURES

An Evening Under ConstructionWestern Allegheny Community Library has Successful Fundraiser ........... | 32

Groundbreaking for Coraopolis CommissarySupporting our Military Personnel and Veterans ........................................ | 36

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

West Allegheny | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS

West Allegheny High School 2012 graduates Kristen Rohm and Josi Sinagoga, along with students Aubrey Leasure and Vishmayaa Saravanan placed among the top ten in the country at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference held June 29-July 2 in San Antonio, Texas.

Rohm and Sinagoga’s team took fourth place in the Marketing category. �e top 15 �nalists in this event reviewed a case study and presented their marketing solution to a panel of judges. �e team of Leasure and Saravanan received national recognition and took seventh place in the Business Ethics category.

�e awards were part of a comprehensive national competitive event program sponsored by FBLA that recognizes and rewards excellence in a broad range of business and career-related areas. For many students, the competitive events are the capstone activity of their academic careers. In addition to the competitions, students immersed themselves in educational workshops, visited an exhibit hall, and a�ended motivational keynotes on a broad range of business topics.

To qualify for the national event, the

marketing team of Dave Kline, Rohm, and Sinagoga took �rst place at the FBLA State Leadership Conference held at Hershey, Pennsylvania in

April. �e team of Leasure and Saravanan took second place in the Business Ethics category at the state conference. �is is the fourth consecutive year that someone from the West Allegheny High School FBLA Chapter has placed in the top ten at the national level. Pam Volakis and Julie McGough are the FBLA sta� advisors. Video Production teacher Mike Sha�er chaperoned the students to the national competition.

WEST ALLEGHENY GRADUATES AND STUDENTS RECOGNIZED AT FBLA NATIONAL CONFERENCE

and rewards excellence in a broad range of business and career-related areas. For many students, the competitive events are the capstone activity of their academic careers. In addition to the competitions, students immersed themselves in educational workshops, visited an exhibit hall, and a�ended motivational keynotes on a broad range of business

To qualify for the national event, the

Aubrey Leasure and Vishmayaa Saravanan, Josi Sinagoga, and Kristen Rohm.

4 724.942.0940 to advertise West Allegheny

�e West Allegheny Middle School team of Sai Bha�e, Sarah Behr, Yash Lahoti, and Garre� Powell took �rst place in the Teamwork category at the National Fluid Power Association (NFPA) Fluid Power Challenge sponsored by Wojanis Supply Company May 8 at the Community College of Allegheny County. Out of the ten schools participating, West Allegheny was the only �rst-year contender to win in a category. A total of 80 middle school students competed to solve a problem by designing and constructing a mechanism utilizing �uid power technology. Awards were also given for best design, best portfolio, and best overall solution.

�e competition actually began at a workshop in April where students received the assignment of developing and building a mechanism that used hydraulics and pneumatics to li� weighted objects and place them on a platform. Back in the classroom,

they worked during their lunch period for three weeks to design a prototype and create a manual. At the competition, they were required to build the device on

site using only the manual they wrote and give presentations before a panel of hydraulic professionals who

served as judges.According to NFPA, the program was designed to introduce

students and their teachers to the world of engineering and careers in �uid power. �e challenges are intended to encourage students to select more mathematics and science courses in their high school curricula as a basis for technology-based post-secondary studies.

fluidpowerpixWest Allegheny Middle School seventh graders Sarah Behr, Sai Bhatti, Garrett Powell, and Yash Lahoti won the Teamwork Championship trophy at the NFPA Fluid Power Challenge.

WEST ALLEGHENY WINS TOP TEAMWORK AWARDAT FLUID POWER CHALLENGE


West Allegheny high school seniors Vaughn-Shane Camarda and Casey Tague have been selected as West Allegheny’s 2012 SHASDA Student Performance Award winners. This award is designed to recognize improvement relative to expected performance. Areas of improvement used by administrators and staff in the evaluation process include attendance, grades, achievement test scores, academic subjects, and the practical and fine arts. These students were honored at the SHASDA (South Hills Area School Districts Association) Conference on April 28, 2012, at the Hilton Garden Inn, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.

Senior Vaughn-Shane Camarda has been a member of chorus and concert band for four years and a member of show choir and marching band for two years. He has performed in two fall plays and five musicals starting with the kids cast of Godspell. In his senior year, Vaughn-Shane had a letter to the editor published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and was selected to perform in the finale of the Gene Kelly Awards. He plans to attend C.C.A.C. then transfer to a four-year college to major in writing and performing. Vaughn-Shane is the son of Melinda McCullough of North Fayette Township and Mark Camarda of Beechview.

Senior Casey Tague enjoys exercising and has worked taking orders at Garden of Eating Pizza for two years. She plans to attend C.C.A.C. to major in massage therapy. Casey is the daughter of Joseph and Carol Tague of North Fayette Township.

Attending the SHASDA Awards Banquet were Dr. John S. DiSanti, superintendent; Debbie Mirich, board president; Joseph Tague, Casey Tague (SHASDA honoree), Carol Tague, Melinda Camarda, Vaughn-Shane Camarda (SHASDA honoree), Sophia Mooney, guidance counselor, and Chris Shattuck, high school assistant principal.

photo by shasdapix

West Allegheny Announces SHASDA AWArd Winners

West Allegheny High School business and computer technology teacher Pamela Volakis was honored by Microso� Corporation for her innovative use of technology in the classroom. She was selected as one of 44 educators currently from 15 states to showcase the creative ways she is integrating technology in and beyond the classroom at the Microso� Partners in Learning 2012 U.S. Forum. Taking place in Redmond, Washington, July 31 and August 1, this annual event connected and celebrated the nation’s top educators who engage students through technology. In all, Microso� selected a total of 100, who will compete for a chance to represent the United States at Microso�’s Global Forum this fall in Athens, Greece.

Volakis was selected for her project, titled MATH BINGO, where programming students designed a learning game using XNA Framework and Microso� Visual

C#. As gaming programmers, participants were required to collaborate with teachers and other students on the project. �e next step was to complete the

planning process, problem-solve, and implement the game. �e result was a usable end product that was bene�cial to other students.

For 18 years, Volakis has been teaching programming and business courses at West Allegheny High School. In addition to teaching, she is an advisor for FBLA and the technology facilitator

for the high school and has partnered with the University of Pi�sburgh in the College in High School program and Carnegie Mellon’s Robotics Department to test teaching programming with robots (FINCHES). Prior to teaching, Volakis was a programmer in the steel industry.

“I have a strong passion to teach students how to think critically and problem-solve, and being recognized by Microso� to be among the best in my �eld for inspiring my students to learn through technology is a motivational force to continue my e�orts,” said Volakis.

“Year a�er year, these educators continue to impress us with their high-quality lesson plans and their creative use of technology to engage and inspire students to learn,” said Andrew Ko, general manager, U.S. Partners in Learning, Microso�. “�ese educators are essential in ensuring that our students are armed with the 21st-century skills that are vital to compete in the globally competitive workforce. Microso�’s commitment to education is deeply rooted in empowering teachers in the U.S. and around the world with the resources to help them prepare our students to become strong future leaders.”

Last year, more than 250,000 applicants from more than 70 countries competed at national and regional events across the world to qualify for this worldwide competition.

WEST ALLEGHENY TEACHER CHOSEN AS FINALIST FOR MICROSOFT’S PARTNERS IN LEARNING U.S. FORUM

WEST ALLEGHENY SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS


�e West Allegheny High School 2012 senior class included 26 students designated as distinguished honor graduates – summa cum laude - for their outstanding academic performance:Row 1: Kayla McGoran, Morgan Brailey, Kristina Rosus, Josi Sinagoga, Julie Hanczar,

Amanda Gannon, Ashley Niznik, Erin Rodgers, Bri�any Eakin Row 2: Jocelin Teachout, Laura Victorelli, Ti�any Wiechelt, Amanda Holl, Carly Ujevich, Emily Murn, Barbara Lesko, Emily Pia, Kristen Rohm, Allison Gloor Row 3: Michael O’Donnell, David Kline, Joseph Mort, Trevor Williams,

Jared DiSanti, Jonathan Grebosky, and �omas Forse. �ese seniors had a 4.0 or higher grade point average and were among the top ten percent of the class. Josi Sinagoga represented these honorees at the commencement ceremony on June 1 by presenting the senior student address.

WEST ALLEGHENY HONORS 26 SENIORS FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, game consoles, cameras – electronic devices are a big part of American life. In fact, Americans own an average of 24 electronic products per household, according to the Consumer Electronics Association. With technology changing so rapidly and new “it” devices hitting the market every few months, a lot of those devices get discarded quickly. That adds up to a lot of potential e-waste.Some unused electronics just collect dust, but many get thrown away. The Environmental Protection Agency’s most recent report showed that nearly 1.8 million tons of e-waste was simply trashed.

Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to keep old electronics out of the waste stream.

DONATE. Donations give schools, nonprofits and lower-income families access to equipment they might not otherwise afford. Before donating, check with the organization to see what they need.

TRADE UP. If you are ready to upgrade to something new, ask your local electronics retailer if they have a program that lets you swap retired technology for store credit toward your purchase.

RECYCLE. Electronics in nonworking condition should be recycled. Check www.Earth911.com or www.e-stewards.org to find a recycling center near you. Many states have regulations about disposing and recycling electronics.

Learn more about your state’s laws at www.electronicstakeback.com. DON’T FORGET THE BATTERIES. Recycling your rechargeable

batteries is another easy step you can take. Retailers also recycle rechargeable batteries. Find out more at www.Call2Recycle.org.

What to do with your old electronics


On October 25, the Li�le Sisters will continue their celebration of 140 years of caring for the elderly poor in Pi�sburgh by serving up “A Heavenly Feast” Celebrity Chef Tasting. Eight priests from the Diocese of Pi�sburgh, who are celebrity chefs in their own right, will dazzle our guests with their culinary wizardry.

�e evening, hosted by Honorary Chair Bishop David Zubik, will take place at the newly renovated Cardinals’ Great Hall at the St. Paul Seminary. �e evening will include an o�ering of Wines from Cana and homemade Lemoncello, special recipes from our “chefs’” own collections, a unique assortment of live auction items, and the presentation of the St. Jeanne Jugan Medal to the Sisters long-time board chair and friend, James F. Will.

John Barso�i, owner of �e Common Plea, will lend his expertise from over 30 years as a restaurateur in Pi�sburgh and provide support to our “celebrity chefs” as they o�er their splendors to over 300 guests.

�is event will serve as the major fundraiser for the Li�le Sisters of the Poor as they pursue their mission of promoting the dignity of life for so many elderly poor in our region who otherwise would not know such security and love in their �nal years. With the generous support of our friends and benefactors, the Li�le Sisters of the Poor will continue their legacy of maintaining one of the top 39 nursing homes in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report.

Li�le Sisters of the Poor

Tickets are $150/person

For more information, please contact Kathleen Bowser at 412.307.1268

or [email protected].

LLLThe

are preparing to Celebrate their 140th Anniversary

with “A Heavenly Feast.”


By Kathy Rudolph

T he large, naturally lit space resembling a hip, art gallery was the perfect venue to view the

works of local artists from West Hills Art League (WHAL) at an opening reception at PTI. Guests mingled with artists and enjoyed refreshments as they viewed traditional and abstract paintings and drawings. �e WHAL exhibit proved that you don’t have to travel far to view or purchase original, �ne art.

Monthly events like the art exhibit are o�ered to the community at PTI. Since 1946, PTI, which is located in Oakdale, “has grown from a small, single discipline school to a two-year college o�ering more than 25 programs to 2,000 students,” according to the website.

“It is great to expose our students at PTI to the wonderful artwork and artists of WHAL,” said Ruth Delach, Vice President Institutional Advancement at PTI. “We also love to bring the community into PTI to view

West Hills Art League Displays Works of

Local Artists at PTI

1. Marianne Youngworth with her painting, Cynthia Gilberti, President of WHAL and Bill McFarland, First President of WHAL 2. Beth Hovanec, artist with her painting and drawing 3. Keith Jones, with his painting

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Continued on page 10


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the artwork and see what we are all about.”A volunteer organization, WHAL

provides speakers, demonstrations, networking, an artist’s market on the website and various opportunities for art exhibition. New members are always welcome. �ey meet on the third �ursday of every month from September to May from 7 to 9 pm at Sharon Presbyterian Church Community Center on Carnot Road in Moon Township.

Cynthia Gilberti is the President of WHAL.

“We have some wonderful artists,” said Gilberti. �ere is so much hidden talent

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Continued from page 9

44. Ruth Delach, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at PTI 5. Diana Harris with her painting 6. Laurie Watkins and Patty Calabrese, PTI staff members 7. Irene Ackerman with her painting 8. Nancy Sheppard, Director of Human Resources at PTI 9. Linda Headland with her painting 10. Marge Gardener with her painting 11. W. Korol Selley with her paintings


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in Moon Township and the surrounding areas and we’d love to have them join us. We are looking for anything that is artistic such as sculpture, photography and young artists with digital art experience.”

To learn more, visit WHAL’s website at www.westhillsart.org.

“You don’t have to be good in art, but you have to have a love of art,” said WHAL’s Treasurer Audra Zampogna. “�at is our mo�o.” 10

8


Car Buffs

in the Region

ABOUND

By Jonathan Barnesor some, the smell of car wax, the heat of the springtime sunshine and the strains of Fi�ies music take them back to their

younger days. In their minds, they go back to a time when having good weather and a great car for the a�ernoon — and the free time to enjoy it — were all that you needed for some fun.

Nostalgia lovers, dust o� the Turtle Wax car polish and break out the bu�er. It’s the time of year again when you can lower the convertible roof and go cruising, allowing the wind to blow through your hair, smelling the spring �owers and watching the gawkers staring at you as you roll past them in your classic car.

A�er all, what’s the sense of having an antique car or a classic muscle car if you can’t show it o� and allow others to enjoy it? Sharing the love of design, beauty and mechanics of a classic car or muscle car is part of the joy of collecting such vehicles. It also can be a quick cure for any lingering winter blues.

�e weather has warmed up—prematurely, in the eyes of some weather observers—but not too early for the many car bu�s in Western Pennsylvania who have been waiting for car cruise season to begin. Car cruises are an American tradition in which owners of classic and high-performance cars meet together in parking lots and other wide-open spaces to show o� their vehicles and to enjoy an a�ernoon or evening of fun with other car lovers. O�en these events include music or entertainment and food, and sometimes, they even have races.

Western Pennsylvania is home to many of these events, thanks to the many gearheads who live in the region. Here is a sampling of some of the many popular car cruises in the Pi�sburgh area:

Mineral Beach (in Finleyville) – �is popular event happens every Friday night starting the �rst Friday in May, and o�en includes motorcycles as well as cars. �is larger cruise usually includes several hundred cars.

Wendy’s (in Peters Township, along Rt. 19) – �is cruise is every Monday night beginning April 16, and is a smaller cruise that usually has about 50 to 100 cars.

McDonald’s (Meadowlands - Racetrack Road) – �is event is held every other Saturday, beginning May 5. It is a medium-sized cruise is sponsored by �e Washington Cruisers Car Club. www.washingtoncruisers.com

Wexford Star Lite CarCruise (Wexford) – Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise is held every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., starting May 25, through Labor Day. �is is one of the largest weekly cruises in the region, and usually has more than 1000 cars a�ending each week. �e Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise is free and is hosted and presented by North Way Christian Community. www.starlitecarcruise.com

Ultimate Car Cruise (Galleria at Pi�sburgh Mills)—Every Wednesday from

F


5 p.m. to 9 p.m., May 16 through October. �is cruise and many others can be found listed at their website. www.carcruises.com

Flashlight Drags (Waynesburg) – Features a car show, a car cruise, a vendor’s midway, music, food and more. �e idea behind this event sprang from the need for local hot rodders to have a place to legally and safely race each other. �e essence of the event is providing a safe environment in which to enjoy the excitement of street racing, with an equal measure of nostalgia—which is where the antique and classic cars displayed at the event make their greatest impact. www.�ashlightdrags.com

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix International Car Show (Schenley Park, Pi�sburgh) – Held every July and touted by international media including National Geographic magazine, the Vintage Grand Prix once hosted competitive races between racers in vintage cars around the park’s winding roads, but for years the entire event has been for show, and as always, still bene�ts charity. More than 2,000 cars, many of them very high-end, will be displayed at the event, in which all makes of car are welcome. Held annually since 1983, the Vintage Grand Prix has raised more than $2.75 million to bene�t autistic and developmentally

disabled people.All local car cruises are weather-dependent.

Check the web sites for each cruise regularly to determine if a cruise will be held when foul weather could be imminent.

While each car cruise is unique in its location and the makeup of vehicles, owners, and a�ractions, every car bu� comes to the hobby by his or her own path. It could have started with a secret childhood yearning for a hotrod, or by catching a glimpse of something extraordinary in a shop window, seen totally by happenstance. Like a lover retelling the story of his romance, each classic car owner has a tale to tell about how he and his car were united.

All Chuck Schreiber of North Fayette wanted when he retired was a red convertible as benefaction for the 50 tough years of working as an engineer. In 2007, his desires would manifest as he retired from NES Equipment Company in Butler and treated himself to a red 1965 Chevy Corvair convertible.

The Corvair is the 70-year-old widower’s most prized possession and the envy of his two adult sons who live in Erie.

“I think they can’t hardly wait for me to die so they can get the car,” he said, laughing. “It really is a very nice car.”

Schreiber found the car in the classified ads and immediately jumped on the opportunity. It was well-kept with some recent body work and a new paint job.

But that didn’t stop the retired engineer from taking it a step further by installing a new suspension system and brake lines. He also had a Corvair guru in Stoneboro completely rebuild and reinstall the car’s flat-six piston engine before he personally replaced the convertible’s top.

The North Fayette man takes the ’65 Corvair out for a spin every chance he gets when the weather permits and said he hasn’t had to put the top up for rain since May as he diligently monitors the local weather.

Schreiber hits the local car cruise scene throughout the South Hills area two to three times a week. He frequents the popular hot rod gathering at Mineral Beach in Finleyville, the weekly cruise at Quaker Stake and Lube off Route 51 and the more intimate Slovene National Benefit Society’s cruise on Sundays.

“It’s not a show car or anything like that,” Schreiber said, “but it’s

a really nice classic driver. I’ve put most of my retired life into the car. I absolutely love it.”

1965 Chevy Corvair Convertible

Photos and text by Brady Ashe


By Kathy Rudolph

Six West Allegheny High School seniors, Dylan Bongiorni, Jared DiSanti, Nabeel Haque, Dave Kline, Levi Seifert and Evan Story, did their “best

to impress” at the 10th Annual Mr. West Allegheny Pageant held at West Allegheny High School Auditorium. Judges Doug Murdoch, Jessica Conforti, Jennifer Fox and Michelle Matoney rated the contestants in the categories of sports/casual wear, formal wear, and talent. �e awards included �rst place and “Mr. Congeniality.”

Senior members of the National Honor Society Michelle Bartha, Emily Murn, Ethan Schweinsberg, Laura Victorelli and Rebecca Will planned and executed the event with the help of Suzanne Lambert, West Allegheny High School biology teacher and the faculty sponsor for the National Honor Society. Some of their responsibilities included recruiting the prospective contestants, publicizing the event, obtaining an emcee, and convincing business sponsors to provide prizes and a crown for the winner, according to the school website.

“�is year, the National Honor Society has decided to donate the admissions from the pageant to the local Make-A-Wish Foundation,” said Lambert. “�e monies will go to a local person who is approved. I think that is special.”

�e contestants opened up the show with a hilarious dance performance to the latest pop hits that featured di�cult �ips and choreographed moves while wearing �uorescent workout wear from what looked to be the 1980s. �ey also graced the catwalk in formal fashions by MW Tux, “voguing” across the stage, accompanied by escorts in lovely gowns.

From interviews and talents displayed on a big screen, the contestants showcased their creative sides. One contestant impersonating a teacher/judge on the panel got big laughs from the crowd. �e audience also enjoyed the performance of Nabeel Haque, who starred in a short �lm about eating a brownie that gave him super powers.

All of the contestants deserved awards for e�ort, but Jared DiSanti won the 2012 title of “Mr. West Allegheny.” His poignant piano performance of Kermit the Frog’s “Rainbow Connection” with the help of his father, John S. DiSanti, West Allegheny School District superintendent, wowed the crowd. Levi Seifert was close behind, winning the “Mr. Congeniality” title.

Six West Allegheny High School Seniors Compete in 10th Annual “Mr. West Allegheny” Pageant

A night of Talent,Creativity & Fun


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W�P IT UPS

In the rush to get everyone o� to school, it’s

easy to fall into a food rut, serving the same things for breakfast, lunch and snacks. But with some inspiration and a li�le planning, going back to school can taste a whole lot be�er than it used to.

To make things even more fun, have the kids help with these recipes and ideas. Once they get the hang of it, they can experiment with new ingredients and do it themselves, taking one more thing o� your to-do list.BREAKFAST: Start the day o� with pizza — Breakfast Pizza, that is. �is recipe layers eggs, cheese, turkey bacon, hash browns, sour cream and guacamole on your favorite pita or �atbread. Kids can make it as hot or as mild as they like. It’s a great way to sneak in avocados’ 20 vitamins and minerals, and it will give them energy to get going on their busy day.LUNCH: Skip the same old sandwiches and liven up the lunchbox with these tasty creations. Try a Tortilla Wrap made with chicken, Wholly Salsa, Wholly Guacamole and a hint of lime juice. Experiment with di�erent kinds of tortillas, from whole wheat or sundried tomato, to spinach or jalapeño. For a full-of-�avor favorite, make a Mexican Turkey Torta. �in turkey slices get topped with a zesty black bean and corn relish, crisp le�uce and your favorite guacamole. To help keep all the delicious �avors inside the roll, hollow it out a bit so the other ingredients don’t fall out.AFTER SCHOOL SNACK: Whether they need something to hold them over until dinner or a quick bite on the way to practice, these Wrap It Ups will do the trick. Turkey, garlic and herb spread, Havarti cheese, guac, le�uce and tomato get wrapped up in a tortilla or �atbread, then sliced into bite-sized swirls of deliciousness. Make them ahead of time, then just slice when it’s time to enjoy.

Get more back to school inspiration — including quick-�x dinner recipes for busy school nights — at www.eatwholly.com.

BAN THE BORING LUNCHBOXKeep school lunches interesting — and healthier

— by including something nutritious to munch on. Guacamole and salsa are perfect for dipping into, and individually portioned packs of all natural Wholly Guacamole and Wholly Salsa are the perfect �t for a lunch box. Here are some “and” options to make lunch something fun to dip into:

Guacamole and… Zucchini sticksBaby carrotsWhole grain pretzelsSweet potato chips

Salsa and…Blue corn chipsSliced jicamaCucumber slicesBaked pita chips

things for breakfast, lunch and snacks. But with some inspiration and a li�le planning, going back to school can taste a whole lot be�er than it used to.

To make things even more fun, have the kids help with these recipes and ideas. Once they get the hang of it, they can experiment with new ingredients and do it themselves, taking one more thing o� your to-do list.

Start the day o� with pizza — Breakfast Pizza, that is. �is recipe layers eggs, cheese, turkey bacon, hash browns, sour cream and guacamole on your

Make Back to School Taste Be�er

W�P IT UPSYield: 1

1 �atbread (tortilla, wrap, lavash) 1 tablespoon garlic and herb �avored

spreadable cheese 2 tablespoons Wholly Guacamole classic avocado

1/4 cup shredded le�uce 1 small tomato, diced 2 to 3 slices Havarti cheese 2 to 3 slices turkey (optional) Spread the garlic and herb spreadable cheese on �atbread.

Spread guacamole on top.On one end of the �atbread, sprinkle a line of le�uce and diced tomatoes.

Layer cheese and sliced turkey beside le�uce and tomatoes, leaving at least two

inches of untopped bread at the other end.Starting from the le�uce/tomato end, roll up bread/tortilla, tucking in the

vegetables with the �rst roll and proceeding to the cheese/meat.

Stick in toothpicks to keep the roll rolled, and slice in two-inch thick spirals.


Make Back to School Taste Be�er

UPMC TODAYHealth and Wellness News You Can Use | Fall 2012

© 2012 UPMC

What’s Inside2 Elevating Cancer Surgery for Women to a New Level

3 Give Your Back a Break

Using Your Blood for Natural Healing

4 A Partnership of Hope and Transformation

6 Magee’s Newest Baby Is Two Stories Tall — and Ready for Guests

7 Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship

Get Ready for FallSoon the leaves will change color and fall to the ground — a welcome mat for cooler days, chilly nights, football games, hayrides, warm sweaters, and everything else that makes fall special.

UPMC222169_UPMC Today_Mercy_Fall_2012_Final.indd 1 7/26/12 5:46 PM

2 UPMC.com/Today

For women diagnosed with cervical, endometrial (uterine), and early ovarian cancer, the use of minimally invasive robotic surgery is offering impressive results. “The robotic surgical system is truly revolutionizing the way we operate on certain cancers,” says Alexander Olawaiye, MD, a gynecologic oncologist and director of robotic surgery at UPMC Mercy. Also certified to perform robotic surgery at UPMC Mercy is gynecologic oncologist Wayne Christopherson, MD.

Traditionally, women with gynecologic cancers faced a 12- to 14-inch open incision that often involved weeks of recovery. Laparoscopic surgery offered patients a less invasive option, but its stick-like instrument often limited a surgeon’s range of motion.

With today’s robotically assisted surgery, the robot becomes an extension of the surgeon’s hands, offering flexibility and a 360-degree range of motion that’s virtually impossible for humans to achieve. “We’re able to manipulate the tips of the surgical instrument at highly unusual angles,” says Dr. Olawaiye.

“That gives us critical access to very compact and limited areas of the body.”

Enhanced clarity and precision

With robotic surgery, surgeons also get a magnified, three- dimensional view of the inside of the body — up to 12 times what the human eye can see. “That enhanced vision allows us to navigate with far greater precision around delicate internal organs, nerves, and large blood vessels,” says Dr. Olawaiye. “We’re able to see and dissect tissue and lymph nodes more thoroughly, which allows us to do a better job of removing any cancerous growths.”

While surgeons applaud the robot’s surgical applications, patients appreciate the benefits it offers after surgery. “Because the incisions are small, there is less bleeding, less pain, and less risk of infection,” explains Dr. Olawaiye. “Most patients go home the day after surgery and return to their regular activities in a week or two.”

The most advanced surgical care for all types of cancers is available to patients at the UPMC CancerCenter at UPMC Mercy. To learn more about all the cancer services and treatments offered at UPMC Mercy, visit UPMCMercy.com and click Our Services.

How robotic surgery worksOnce you are put to sleep, your surgeon generally makes a series of small incisions (“ports”) in your abdomen. The number and size will vary based on your condition. A surgical cart is then attached to the ports, and specialized instruments are inserted into your body.

Your surgeon controls the movements of these instruments from a nearby consol, using controls to guide the surgery. Your surgeon is always in charge — the robot moves only as directed.

Typical benefits of robotic surgery for select gynecologic cancers• Smaller incisions • Less pain • Minimal scarring • Shorter hospital stays • Reduced blood loss • Faster recovery

Elevating Cancer Surgery for Women to a New LevelRobotic surgery is transforming the treatment of gynecologic cancers with minimally invasive techniques that o�er greater precision and promote faster healing.


1-800-533-UPMC 3

Give Your Back a Break Tips that can help you avoid back pain.Amazingly complex, remarkably strong, and incredibly flexible, your back is one of the most important parts of your body. Without it, you couldn’t stand up straight, walk on the beach, chase after the kids, or dance the night away.

Like most people, you probably take your back for granted — until it starts to hurt. “Eight out of 10 Americans will have back pain at some point in their lives,” says M. Melissa Moon, DO, a physician in the UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

So what’s causing all those achy backs? “Everyday habits like hunching over your computer, toting a heavy purse or backpack, or picking up a toddler are often to blame for the pain,” says Dr. Moon.

“And studies show that smokers have more back problems than non-smokers, which is another good reason to quit,” she adds.

To help keep your back healthy and strong, Dr. Moon also recommends the following:

Sit up straight. Use good posture when sitting or standing. That improves muscle tone and makes breathing easier.

Work out. Back and abdominal exercises strengthen the core muscles that support your back, while low-impact aerobics strengthens bones and improves blood flow to muscles.

Lose it. Being overweight puts added strain on your back muscles. Carrying weight around your midsection isn’t good for your heart either.

Think before lifting. Remember to keep your back straight and bend at the knees or hips when lifting something. Ask for help with a heavy load.

Pay attention. If you feel back pain during any activity, stop and rest. Your body may be trying to keep you from getting hurt.

Call the doctor. Most back pain can be relieved with self-care. However, Dr. Moon recommends that you see a doctor if:

• You have pain after a fall or injury. • You have weakness, pain, or numbness in one or both legs. • The pain is severe and doesn’t improve with medication and rest. • The pain is accompanied by trouble urinating, fever, or unintentional weight loss.

Learn more about building a healthy back at UPMC.com/Today.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Using Your Blood for Natural Healing Even after having surgery for a sports-related groin injury, recovery was slow for Megan Cortazzo, MD, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with UPMC. A fellow physician suggested platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy — and her results were so positive that she now offers the service to patients at UPMC.

What is PRP therapy?

PRP therapy is a type of regenerative injection therapy (RIT) that promotes the healing of injured or deteriorated tissue. “Platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate healing,” explains Dr. Cortazzo. “We draw a small quantity of the patient’s blood and spin it in a special centrifuge machine. The process extracts platelets, which we then inject at the point of injury or inflammation,” says Dr. Cortazzo.

Who should use PRP therapy?

“PRP therapy’s use by professional athletes has generated tremendous interest in the procedure,” says Dr. Cortazzo.

It also can be an effective alternative to surgery for patients with a wide range of conditions, she says, including:

• Chronic tennis elbow (tendinosis) • Mild to moderate rotator cuff tears • Chronic ankle sprains • Mild arthritis of the knee

For best results, Dr. Cortazzo recommends combining PRP therapy with physical therapy.

Is PRP therapy covered by insurance?

Because it is still in its infancy, medical insurance does not cover PRP therapy. “Although it’s a self-pay procedure, many patients feel it’s worthwhile because it can eliminate lost work time and the cost of a deductible for surgery,” explains Dr. Cortazzo. “Most of all, they want the relief from pain it offers.”

For more information about PRP, call UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at 412-692-4400, or go to UPMC.com/prp.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan


1-800-533-UPMC 3

Give Your Back a Break Tips that can help you avoid back pain.Amazingly complex, remarkably strong, and incredibly flexible, your back is one of the most important parts of your body. Without it, you couldn’t stand up straight, walk on the beach, chase after the kids, or dance the night away.

Like most people, you probably take your back for granted — until it starts to hurt. “Eight out of 10 Americans will have back pain at some point in their lives,” says M. Melissa Moon, DO, a physician in the UPMC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

So what’s causing all those achy backs? “Everyday habits like hunching over your computer, toting a heavy purse or backpack, or picking up a toddler are often to blame for the pain,” says Dr. Moon.

“And studies show that smokers have more back problems than non-smokers, which is another good reason to quit,” she adds.

To help keep your back healthy and strong, Dr. Moon also recommends the following:

Sit up straight. Use good posture when sitting or standing. That improves muscle tone and makes breathing easier.

Work out. Back and abdominal exercises strengthen the core muscles that support your back, while low-impact aerobics strengthens bones and improves blood flow to muscles.

Lose it. Being overweight puts added strain on your back muscles. Carrying weight around your midsection isn’t good for your heart either.

Think before lifting. Remember to keep your back straight and bend at the knees or hips when lifting something. Ask for help with a heavy load.

Pay attention. If you feel back pain during any activity, stop and rest. Your body may be trying to keep you from getting hurt.

Call the doctor. Most back pain can be relieved with self-care. However, Dr. Moon recommends that you see a doctor if:

• You have pain after a fall or injury. • You have weakness, pain, or numbness in one or both legs. • The pain is severe and doesn’t improve with medication and rest. • The pain is accompanied by trouble urinating, fever, or unintentional weight loss.

Learn more about building a healthy back at UPMC.com/Today.

Source: National Institutes of Health

Using Your Blood for Natural Healing Even after having surgery for a sports-related groin injury, recovery was slow for Megan Cortazzo, MD, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with UPMC. A fellow physician suggested platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy — and her results were so positive that she now offers the service to patients at UPMC.

What is PRP therapy?

PRP therapy is a type of regenerative injection therapy (RIT) that promotes the healing of injured or deteriorated tissue. “Platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate healing,” explains Dr. Cortazzo. “We draw a small quantity of the patient’s blood and spin it in a special centrifuge machine. The process extracts platelets, which we then inject at the point of injury or inflammation,” says Dr. Cortazzo.

Who should use PRP therapy?

“PRP therapy’s use by professional athletes has generated tremendous interest in the procedure,” says Dr. Cortazzo.

It also can be an effective alternative to surgery for patients with a wide range of conditions, she says, including:

• Chronic tennis elbow (tendinosis) • Mild to moderate rotator cuff tears • Chronic ankle sprains • Mild arthritis of the knee

For best results, Dr. Cortazzo recommends combining PRP therapy with physical therapy.

Is PRP therapy covered by insurance?

Because it is still in its infancy, medical insurance does not cover PRP therapy. “Although it’s a self-pay procedure, many patients feel it’s worthwhile because it can eliminate lost work time and the cost of a deductible for surgery,” explains Dr. Cortazzo. “Most of all, they want the relief from pain it offers.”

For more information about PRP, call UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at 412-692-4400, or go to UPMC.com/prp.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan


4 UPMC.com/Today

A Partnership of Hope and TransformationEvery year, the lives of 74,000 cancer patients and their families are transformed by the care, specialized services, and research of UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.

Applying good science, investing in smart technology, and putting patients first. That’s the philosophy driving the cutting-edge research and lifesaving care offered through UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI).

p UPMC is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as having one of the best cancer programs in the nation.

“We’re committed to being a leader in the fight against cancer today and tomorrow, with the patient always at the center of all we do,” says Nancy Davidson, MD, director of UPMC CancerCenter.

“From the groundbreaking research that takes place in our laboratories to our delivery of the latest cancer therapies in locations throughout the region, we’re at the frontline of cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment,” she says. “We also play a key role in inspiring and educating the next generation of bright young scientists and cancer specialists.”

A network like no other

UPMC CancerCenter is one of the nation’s largest integrated community networks of cancer physicians and health care specialists. Its more than 30 locations throughout western Pennsylvania and Ohio — including UPMC Mercy — bring outstanding cancer care close to home for many patients.

“One of the main strengths of the UPMC CancerCenter network is its ability to obtain virtually identical results wherever patients are treated,” says Peter Ellis, MD, director of the medical oncology network. “Our Clinical Pathways are evidence-based care standards that provide uniformity across the network.”

Three powerful pillars supported by 1,700 experts

“Through our quarter-century-long partnership, UPCI and UPMC CancerCenter have identified three pillars that enable us to achieve our common goals: clinical care, specialized care, and research,” says Stanley Marks, MD, chairman of UPMC CancerCenter.

“It’s not always easy to see the ‘behind the scenes’ story of who we are and what we do. With these three pillars, we marshal the resources of nearly 250 medical, radiation, and surgical oncology physicians; more than 1,160 nurses, technicians, and staff; and 350 research and clinical faculty,” he explains. “Few organizations in the country can match the level of scientific and medical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and physical locations found here.”

Pillar I: Clinical Care

From the moment of diagnosis, UPMC CancerCenter’s network of nearly 100 medical oncologists links patients to a full range of treatments and services that include:

• Conventional chemotherapy • Targeted therapies • Stem cell transplants • Hormone therapy • Biological therapy • Perfusion therapy


1-800-533-UPMC 5

p Mark Sosinski, MD, a nationally recognized lung cancer specialist who joined the UPMC CancerCenter and UPCI team in 2011, says “This was a good fit for me and my research, but the strong leadership really stood out.”

The UPMC CancerCenter radiation oncology network includes 16 community-based radiation oncology centers and 10 dual radiation and medical oncology centers. Many of these sites offer innovative, advanced technology that allows for more precise tumor imaging and radiation treatment.

The surgical oncology network specializes in the surgical treatment of a wide variety of cancers, including many rare and difficult tumors. Its multidisciplinary team of physicians has attracted national attention for work in areas such as minimally invasive surgery, including robotic surgery; specialized procedures, such as the pancreatic Whipple; and regional perfusion therapy, which directs high concentrations of chemotherapy to the tumor site.

Pillar II: Specialized Care

For patients with challenging or late-stage cancers, UPMC’s Hillman Cancer Center is a beacon of hope and innovation. It is home to internationally regarded surgical, medical, and radiation oncology specialists who perform treatments and procedures unavailable elsewhere in the region. Hillman also has the area’s most advanced imaging technologies to detect cancer and monitor treatment.

Nationally ranked Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC features dedicated and comprehensive women’s cancer care, including breast, ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers.

For patients with hard-to-treat cancers, UPCI and UPMC CancerCenter offer disease-specific multidisciplinary clinics called Specialty Care Centers (SCC) designed to provide quick access to leading specialists. Many SCC reviews are done over the Internet, eliminating the need for long-distance travel.

Care for children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer is provided at the highly-ranked Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

Pillar III: Research

UPCI physicians and scientists are recognized leaders in molecular and medical oncology research. Their primary goal is to discover new ways to prevent, treat, and cure all types of cancer, particularly those with the lowest survival rates. Working hand-in-hand with UPMC CancerCenter, UPCI’s investigators strive to translate their research into actual treat-ment. More than 300 clinical trials now underway at UPCI give patients access to cutting-edge therapies long before they are broadly available.

The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) 12th most-funded cancer research institution, UPCI received more than $174 million in support in 2011. UPCI is also western Pennsylvania’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.

To learn more about UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.

Hillman Cancer Center Celebrates 10-Year AnniversaryWhen the Hillman Cancer Center opened its doors in 2002, it was hailed as an architectural gem — its spectacular, glass-block walled atrium serving as a symbolic link between research and patient care.

Today, Hillman Cancer Center is the treatment and research flagship of the growing UPMC CancerCenter network. A 350,000-square-foot comprehensive cancer center, Hillman is home to UPMC CancerCenter’s pre-eminent clinical care for patients and UPCI’s internationally recognized academic and research programs. Here, patients and their families have access to specialized cancer diagnosis, prevention, care, and treatment, including multidisciplinary outpatient stem cell transplant services.

Opening in January 2013, the new Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers will offer comprehensive diagnostic services, individually designed treatment plans, and long-term follow-up services to patients with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and other blood malig-nancies.

For more information, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.

Architectural rendering of the patient waiting area of the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers, currently under construction at Hillman Cancer Center. u


1-800-533-UPMC 5

p Mark Sosinski, MD, a nationally recognized lung cancer specialist who joined the UPMC CancerCenter and UPCI team in 2011, says “This was a good fit for me and my research, but the strong leadership really stood out.”

The UPMC CancerCenter radiation oncology network includes 16 community-based radiation oncology centers and 10 dual radiation and medical oncology centers. Many of these sites offer innovative, advanced technology that allows for more precise tumor imaging and radiation treatment.

The surgical oncology network specializes in the surgical treatment of a wide variety of cancers, including many rare and difficult tumors. Its multidisciplinary team of physicians has attracted national attention for work in areas such as minimally invasive surgery, including robotic surgery; specialized procedures, such as the pancreatic Whipple; and regional perfusion therapy, which directs high concentrations of chemotherapy to the tumor site.

Pillar II: Specialized Care

For patients with challenging or late-stage cancers, UPMC’s Hillman Cancer Center is a beacon of hope and innovation. It is home to internationally regarded surgical, medical, and radiation oncology specialists who perform treatments and procedures unavailable elsewhere in the region. Hillman also has the area’s most advanced imaging technologies to detect cancer and monitor treatment.

Nationally ranked Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC features dedicated and comprehensive women’s cancer care, including breast, ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers.

For patients with hard-to-treat cancers, UPCI and UPMC CancerCenter offer disease-specific multidisciplinary clinics called Specialty Care Centers (SCC) designed to provide quick access to leading specialists. Many SCC reviews are done over the Internet, eliminating the need for long-distance travel.

Care for children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer is provided at the highly-ranked Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC.

Pillar III: Research

UPCI physicians and scientists are recognized leaders in molecular and medical oncology research. Their primary goal is to discover new ways to prevent, treat, and cure all types of cancer, particularly those with the lowest survival rates. Working hand-in-hand with UPMC CancerCenter, UPCI’s investigators strive to translate their research into actual treat-ment. More than 300 clinical trials now underway at UPCI give patients access to cutting-edge therapies long before they are broadly available.

The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) 12th most-funded cancer research institution, UPCI received more than $174 million in support in 2011. UPCI is also western Pennsylvania’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.

To learn more about UPMC CancerCenter, Partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.

Hillman Cancer Center Celebrates 10-Year AnniversaryWhen the Hillman Cancer Center opened its doors in 2002, it was hailed as an architectural gem — its spectacular, glass-block walled atrium serving as a symbolic link between research and patient care.

Today, Hillman Cancer Center is the treatment and research flagship of the growing UPMC CancerCenter network. A 350,000-square-foot comprehensive cancer center, Hillman is home to UPMC CancerCenter’s pre-eminent clinical care for patients and UPCI’s internationally recognized academic and research programs. Here, patients and their families have access to specialized cancer diagnosis, prevention, care, and treatment, including multidisciplinary outpatient stem cell transplant services.

Opening in January 2013, the new Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers will offer comprehensive diagnostic services, individually designed treatment plans, and long-term follow-up services to patients with leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and other blood malig-nancies.

For more information, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.

Architectural rendering of the patient waiting area of the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers, currently under construction at Hillman Cancer Center. u


6 UPMC.com/Today

It’s no coincidence that the words hospital and hospitality share the same Latin root, hospes, which means to treat guests with kindness and care.

That spirit of welcome is immediately evident in the thoughtful design of two newly opened patient care units at Magee- Womens Hospital of UPMC — one of Magee’s major expansion projects during a century of providing medical service.

p The patient rooms are warm and spacious, with a comfortable sleep sofa to encourage overnight stays by a family member or close friend.

“We wanted Magee’s latest major construction to focus on our patients with the greatest medical needs: those requiring intensive care and women undergoing cancer treatment,” says Leslie C. Davis, hospital president. “We’re still among the leading deliverers of babies in the nation, but we also care for men and children, from infants to centenarians. The additional beds also allow us to expand our core obstetrical (OB) services to the units that relocated. Adding space for our OB patients was a primary reason for this expansion.”

Two floors were added to a three-story section of the hospital to create the new 14-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 28-bed Cancer Care Unit, more than doubling the number of critical care beds. Completed in record time, the new units increased the hospital’s overall bed capacity by 13 percent.

“Before starting the project, we sought the advice of former patients, as well as our doctors, nurses, and staff,” says Joseph Kelley, MD, director of both the Division of Gynecologic Oncology and the Gynecologic Cancer Program at Magee.

“Their ideas and suggestions helped us create a quiet, calming, and safe environment for patients and caregivers. Each patient room is filled with natural light and decorated in soothing earth tones, blending comfort with technology. That kind of setting is very important to healing.”

Emphasizing patient and family-centered care

Because studies confirm that the presence of loved ones promotes recovery, each patient room in the new unit features a comfortable sleeper sofa to encourage overnight stays. Family members also can order in-room meals for a modest fee, and all patient rooms have free Internet access and cable television.

“Every room has separate zoned areas for families and caregivers, minimizing disruption and reducing infection,” explains David Muigai, MD, medical director of Magee’s ICU. “Visitors comment on how quiet it is here, thanks to acoustical features to minimize sound. And the ICU rooms are designed to accommodate changes in a patient’s condition, eliminating the need to transfer patients as they continue to recover.”

Each floor also has a family lounge and a meditation room. They offer privacy when needed, and company when desired. Both floors also incorporate the latest technology and best practices in green building solutions to minimize environmental impact.

“We couldn’t be prouder of our newest addition,” says Dr. Kelley. “It reflects the kind of signature care and compassion Magee has delivered for more than 100 years.”

Several of Magee’s programs, including cancer care, are again ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News and World Report (2012-13). Learn more about Magee’s services for women and men at UPMC.com/Magee.

The meditation room on each floor provides patients and families with a private space that is peaceful and soothing. q

Magee’s Newest Baby Is Two Stories Tall — and Ready for GuestsNew state-of-the-art intensive care and cancer care units blend the latest in medical technology with the best in patient comfort.


Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship Whether you have a minor concern or a more serious medical issue, your primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense in getting well and staying well. If you don’t already have a PCP, it’s best to find the right one before you get sick.

A trusted partner in your good health

“It’s important to have a relationship with a PCP you trust and are comfortable with, even when you feel great,” says Jorge Lindenbaum, MD, an internal medicine specialist with Lindenbaum Perryman and Associates-UPMC and medical director of the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic. By getting to know you and your health history, your PCP can provide you with the best care possible.

Someone to watch over you

Research indicates that people who have an ongoing relationship with a PCP are healthier than those without one. “Personalized care leads to patient trust, and that is vitally important in the doctor-patient relationship,” says Dr. Lindenbaum. Patients who trust their doctors are shown to have improved outcomes, such as better control of their diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

If you need advanced care, your PCP is the most effective and efficient link to medical specialists, or advanced services or treatments. “For patients and their families, having a PCP to coordinate their care with specialists and other providers is a huge relief,” adds Dr. Lindenbaum.

Since early detection can minimize the impact of many illnesses, your PCP will recommend screenings, including annual physicals, Pap tests, breast examinations and mammograms; prostate screenings, and colonoscopies. “Without a PCP, you might ignore important health maintenance issues,” he says.

Finding Dr. Right

A PCP can be a family medicine physician, internal medicine specialist, pediatrician, or obstetrician/gynecologist. With so many types of PCPs, how do you choose?

For many adults, internal medicine specialists or family practitioners are their PCP of choice. These physicians are equipped to deal with all kinds of health problems, whether simple or complex. “The benefit of having access to high- quality, comprehensive care at one convenient location is something patients really appreciate,” says Dr. Lindenbaum.

Two new physicians recently joined Lindenbaum Perryman and Associates-UPMC and are accepting new patients.

Kelly Chaney, DO, an internal medicine specialist, earned her medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisberg, W.Va., and completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC Mercy. John Wohar, DO, also completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC Mercy. He received his medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pa.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaney, Dr. Wohar, or any UPMC physician, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

1-800-533-UPMC 7

Did You Know?Back-to-school and sports physicals as well as vaccinations for children of all ages are available at the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic, located at 2000 Mary St. Appointments aren’t needed, and parking is free and plentiful.

Clinic hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, call 412-488-5705.


Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship Whether you have a minor concern or a more serious medical issue, your primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense in getting well and staying well. If you don’t already have a PCP, it’s best to find the right one before you get sick.

A trusted partner in your good health

“It’s important to have a relationship with a PCP you trust and are comfortable with, even when you feel great,” says Jorge Lindenbaum, MD, an internal medicine specialist with Lindenbaum Perryman and Associates-UPMC and medical director of the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic. By getting to know you and your health history, your PCP can provide you with the best care possible.

Someone to watch over you

Research indicates that people who have an ongoing relationship with a PCP are healthier than those without one. “Personalized care leads to patient trust, and that is vitally important in the doctor-patient relationship,” says Dr. Lindenbaum. Patients who trust their doctors are shown to have improved outcomes, such as better control of their diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

If you need advanced care, your PCP is the most effective and efficient link to medical specialists, or advanced services or treatments. “For patients and their families, having a PCP to coordinate their care with specialists and other providers is a huge relief,” adds Dr. Lindenbaum.

Since early detection can minimize the impact of many illnesses, your PCP will recommend screenings, including annual physicals, Pap tests, breast examinations and mammograms; prostate screenings, and colonoscopies. “Without a PCP, you might ignore important health maintenance issues,” he says.

Finding Dr. Right

A PCP can be a family medicine physician, internal medicine specialist, pediatrician, or obstetrician/gynecologist. With so many types of PCPs, how do you choose?

For many adults, internal medicine specialists or family practitioners are their PCP of choice. These physicians are equipped to deal with all kinds of health problems, whether simple or complex. “The benefit of having access to high- quality, comprehensive care at one convenient location is something patients really appreciate,” says Dr. Lindenbaum.

Two new physicians recently joined Lindenbaum Perryman and Associates-UPMC and are accepting new patients.

Kelly Chaney, DO, an internal medicine specialist, earned her medical degree from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisberg, W.Va., and completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC Mercy. John Wohar, DO, also completed a residency in internal medicine at UPMC Mercy. He received his medical degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pa.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaney, Dr. Wohar, or any UPMC physician, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

1-800-533-UPMC 7

Did You Know?Back-to-school and sports physicals as well as vaccinations for children of all ages are available at the UPMC Mercy South Side Walk-in Primary Care Clinic, located at 2000 Mary St. Appointments aren’t needed, and parking is free and plentiful.

Clinic hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, call 412-488-5705.


UPMC Mercy1400 Locust St.Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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

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

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy.

UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services forwomen are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care.

UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more.From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, thesuperb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician toprovide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providingpeace of mind when you need it most.

To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment,call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.


OAKDALE HOSE COMPANY’S

ANNUAL STREET FAIR

Week of Entertainment and Fun Supports Company Mission To Keep Residents Safe

By Kathy Rudolph

The charming, business district of Oakdale was the perfect se�ing for a street fair with an old-fashioned, carnival feel that

provided neighbors of all ages with many diverse and fun events and was courtesy of the Oakdale Hose Company.

�e week of entertainment ran the gamut from the “Hogs for Hoses Annual Bike Run” to a parade featuring area volunteer �re departments and the West Allegheny Marching Band. A patio �lled with food booths and a beer garden was the perfect place to watch live, area bands at the stage across the street, including �e HEDGG

Band, Mans�eld 5, Justin Fabus Band and many others. Games and a bounce house were fun for families and ra�es kept it exciting and provided a great opportunity to give back to the company.

�e street fair bene��ed the volunteer �re department’s operating fund, including equipment, insurance, building costs and


other fees. �e event took about three months to plan and two weeks to set-up. �e company has 30 members with 16 of those that answer �re calls.

Bill Hartman, Jr. is the chief of Oakdale Hose Company.

“It’s great to have the community come together at the street fair and it also really helps us,” said Chief Hartman. “We are a 100% volunteer company and receive no funding from the borough, so every cent that we raise

goes towards the �re department.”Other ways of fundraising include a

monthly bingo that is held at the Oakdale Community Center for six months out of the year. �e company also welcomes

donations and volunteers to help organize fundraising events or answer �re calls. More information

can be found on the company’s website at oakdalehosecompany.org.


F riends and neighbors came out to honor those who have given their best in service to our country at the Oakdale Memorial Day parade. �e town resembled a movie set, with

American �ags swagged across storefronts and vibrant �owers planted everywhere, as the enthusiastic crowd waved �ags when the parade passed by on Main Street.

Oakdale Celebrates Memorial Day

Parade to Pays Tribute to Those Who Have Served Our Country

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�e celebration included veterans leading the parade, followed by the mayor of Oakdale, Paul Hennemuth, the Boy Scouts, Daisies, Oakdale Youth League and other community groups. �e West Allegheny High School Band provided great music and Oakdale and other local volunteer �re departments showed o� their �re and rescue vehicles.

Once the parade progressed to the war memorial, there was a ceremony that included Bill Gamble as master of ceremonies, a reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance and a poignant rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner” sung by Shane Trealor, an 11-year-old West Allegheny talent who performs regionally and nationally.

Refreshments followed at the Community Center, ending a morning of tribute to all who have given service to our country.

To learn more about Oakdale’s upcoming events, visit the borough website at www.oakdaleborough.com.

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The Fall is not just a time of changing leaves and cooler temperatures, it’s a time when the dormant diesel engines of the school buses fire up, SAT applications and college inquiry letters are sent, and students return to college campuses across the nation.

In the United States, education is a $900 billion a year business, and that investment, either by the federal and state government, parents and students themselves via student loans, is a testament as to how important learning is to making a name for yourself in the world.

Fortunately, for individuals and the economy as a whole, everyone is different and educational opportunities abound for people no matter what their interests or aptitudes.

★ College: College remains one of the most traditional avenues for graduated high school students to pursue. Colleges can be public or private and offer two-year or four-year degrees. While post-secondary education is not a requirement for securing work, those who obtain a college degree can expect estimated lifetime earnings of $2.1 million, according to the US Census Bureau. A master’s degree boosts that to $2.5 million, a professional degree averages $4.4 million, and a doctoral degree $3.4 million. High

school graduates are estimated to earn just $1.2 million over the course of their lifetime, according to the same report.

★ Trade Schools and Vocational Careers: While vocational training can start in high school, thanks to regional vocational/technical centers that serve school districts, post-high school programs can take graduates from apprentices to masters of their field. What’s more, vocational programs aren’t like they used to be in the latter half of the 20th Century. Today’s vocational schools still cover trades such as carpentry, plumbing and stonemasonry, but they also excel in specialty fields such as computer networking, HVAC, and robotics.

★ Online Learning: Online learning is a relatively new form of degree program using the power of the Internet to bring students and schools together. Also known as E-learning or distance education, online programs have brought some big names into the fold as Harvard

and MIT recently joined forces, offering a variety of free, online courses. Online education typically costs less than bricks and mortar schools. ★ Financing Education: No matter where

you end up after high school, chances are you’re going to need to take out a few loans

to make your goals attainable. Student loans come in a variety of forms ranging from federal to private. Scholarships often are attainable

for eligible students, and are nice to have, but realistic students


shouldn’t expect to garner enough scholarship money to cover their entire academic career. Programs such as the Federal Stafford Loan can offset up to $23,000 of tuition, which can be increased to $46,000 if parents do not qualify for the Parent PLUS program. The downside to student loans is that you will be graduating with substantial debt to pay down. The upside, however, is that student loan interest rates are generally low, tax deductible and the loans themselves can be deferred until you are in a position to make payments on them, such as the time necessary for you to find a job.

★ Benefits of tutoring services: One of the keys to acquiring scholarships is good grades. While that’s totally on the student to achieve, there are many services available that can help that student put in the extra effort to make the grade. From SAT preparation centers to study centers that cover a broader range of curricula, these investments are well worth the cost if the result is several thousand dollars coming off your tuition bill because you got a 4.0 versus a 3.8 GPA.

★ Private Schools: Private Schools: If a student needs more a�ention or one-on-one help from teachers, private schools might be a good option. According to the National Association of Independent Schools, the average cost of private school tuition tends to be around $17,441.

★ Benefits of Preschools: When it comes to early cognitive development, researchers have found that that children who attend preschool tend to show higher intelligence quotients than those who do not, according to Early Childhood Research and Practice (ECRP). Although sending your child to preschool can help them academically, it also improves their early social skills. Preschool is the time when children become aware of sharing and learning how to interact with one another. The classroom gives the young students a friendly, safe environment that allows them to grow and prepare for the later education in kindergarten and Grade School. Children who attend preschool are usually between 3-5 years old.

No matter what your path in life may be, being prepared academically for that path is the key to future success.

Our Back to School PARTNERS

Parkway West Career and Technology

Center offers students the opportunity to

prepare for immediate employment and

the ability to earn advanced placement

credits at many community colleges,

technical schools, colleges and/or

universities. Students from 12 sending

districts can attend half-day sessions

at no cost. Benefits for students include

the ability to earn industry certifications,

membership in nationally recognized

organizations, and co-operative education.

Go to www.parkwaywest.org for more

information!

Parkway West CTC412.923.1772


O n August 10 the Western Allegheny Community Library hosted a

sophisticated evening of wine tasting, dinner, music, auctions and glimpses of the new library for a crowd of more than 220 library supporters at An Evening…Under Construction. �rough ticket sales, auction bids and donations, the library raised approximately $24,000. Money raised will go to building renovations for the new facility.

�e space, under construction, was adorned with the colors of the new library logo, green and purple, and sparkled with Christmas lights. �e silent and Chinese auctions which held items such as vacations, notebooks, televisions, jewelry, and sports memorabilia were wildly popular. Music was provided by the local band the RPGs. �e MC for the evening, West Allegheny High School Football coach Bob Palko, joked that even though he might be a football coach he does actually read a lot of books (just about football.) Coach Palko passed the mic to Board of Trustees president Pam Perry who gave a teary thank you to all who a�ended and spoke of the Board’s dream for our new space and presented thank you plaques to the three supporting communities. All who a�ended enjoyed the full bu�et dinner and desserts as well as wine for the evening provided by Kavic and Volant Mill Wineries.

�ere is a critical need for a new

library in our community—one that meets the demands of today’s changing society and the residents of these communities realize this and came out with overwhelming support of the event. Our library

serves the patrons not only with books but with computers to search for jobs, perform research for term papers; space for tutors to meet with students; as well as countless other functions. �e new facility boasts three times more space and will o�er ample space for programming and collection space. Plans include upgrades that will create a state-of-the-art library – your imaginarium.

I n May, the Library purchased a 14,500 square foot facility, located at 181 Bateman Road. �e new facility provides an increase of more than 10,000

square feet from the 4,000 square foot space in which the Library is currently housed. “It has taken us quite literally years to bring the dream of a new library to fruition,” said Perry. “�is larger facility will provide the space, independence and accessibility we so desperately need to provide services

WESTERN ALLEGHENY COMMUNITY

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to our library patrons.” However, this is not the end of the dream; it is only the beginning. �e

space, formerly an old o�ce building, is segmented into small o�ces and needs a lot of renovations to open it into a space

that can properly serve this community. �e money for the renovations is hoped to be raised by the board over the

next year. �e down payment for the building was funded

with support from North Faye�e and Findlay townships. �e previous owner of the building,

DMC Imperial Associates, LLC, decreased the cost with a gi� of $13,000. �e total cost of the project renovations is expected to reach over $800,000. �e Library plans to raise the needed funds through a community campaign

that kicked o� with A Special Evening Under Construction. �is special fundraising event was modeled a�er the Library’s successful wine tasting events, but was hosted in the new facility while it is still being renovated.

T he operations of the Western Allegheny Community Library are funded in part through ongoing support from the three communities it serves – Findlay, North Faye�e

and Oakdale. In 1988, four friends met to discuss the formation of a library in their community and the Western Area Friends to Establish a Library (W.A.F.E.L.) was born. �eir plans came to fruition when the Library was o�cially established in 1990 with 2,400 square feet and a collection of 3,400 books in its current location in the North Faye�e township Community Center. Over the last 20 years the Library has grown its collection to 43,000 items housed in 4,000 square feet. Using every bit of available space, the books are stacked both vertically and laterally on top of the vertical shelves. New books are placed in piles on the �oor until space can be made to get them into circulation. In the children’s section, children struggle to reach books on shelves that are over six feet high. With no private space available, tutoring and meetings must take place in public areas. Only very limited technology is available for Library patrons.

�e Western Allegheny Community Library Board of Directors will use this new facility to bring the Library up to date with technology and current trends in library services. �e goal is to make it one of the best and most frequently visited community service organizations in the area. Ideas on the drawing board for the new facility include a co�ee shop, meeting rooms including rentable program space with a kitchene�e, a media center, laptop and desktop computers, self- checkout, outdoor space, child appropriate facility and furnishings in the children’s area, and a specialized story time space. �e �nal plan is still under development and will depend on available funding. In these planning stages, the Board is focused on not just content and collections but perhaps more importantly, people and interactions. With this new facility, the Western Allegheny Community Library is hoping to create opportunities for people to come and experience life…to truly let their imaginations grow!

T he mission of the Western Allegheny Community Library is to provide the resources that bring the world to our community. �e library is designed as an imaginarium

for the Findlay, North Faye�e and Oakdale communities – a place devoted to the imagination. Open seven days a week with programs, materials and events for children, middle grades, teens and adults, the Western Allegheny Community Library is a welcoming place where people want to be and ideas come alive. For more information call 724.695.8150 or visit our website at www.westernalleghenylibrary.org.

space, formerly an old o�ce building, is segmented into small o�ces and needs a lot of renovations to open it into a space

that can properly serve this community. �e money for the renovations is hoped to be raised by the board over the

next year.

with support from North Faye�e and Findlay townships. �e previous owner of the building,

DMC Imperial Associates, LLC, decreased the cost with a gi� of $13,000. �e total cost of the project renovations is expected to reach


PARKWAY WEST CTC

As our nation’s labor market slowly recovers from the current economic downturn, the importance of postsecondary education and

technical skills training grows more prevalent each day for young people seeking employment in the cu�hroat workforce.

Derek D’Amore, a West Allegheny High School senior and student at Parkway West Career and Technology Center, is one of millions of high school students who spend half their schooldays at vocational training centers honing their labor skills. Like most career �elds, the demand for employment far outweighs the amount of quality jobs available and the competition is sti�.

But D’Amore, 18, stepped out of the ominous shadow cast by the millions of anxious cra�speople this summer when he placed �rst in a statewide collision repair competition through SkillsUSA, a national partnership of students, teachers and industry professionals

which works to ensure America has a skilled workforce. �e 90-minute competition required its 19 participants to showcase their ability and knowledge of four di�erent types of sheet metal repair on a Toyota fender.

“When I heard the third and second

place winners, I didn’t think I placed,” D’Amore said. “But when they announced that I won, my teacher and I made eye contact and I jumped so high my head felt like it was two inches from the ceiling.”

�e state champion quali�ed for the

competition a�er winning an in-house Parkview contest and district competition consecutively. �e state victory earned him a bid for a similar national contest where he placed 10th out of 42 contestants.

D’Amore is fond of the SkillsUSA program because of the skills taught and hands-on experience a�orded to him that’s applicable to the workplace. �e WAHS senior currently moonlights at the Woltz and Wind Ford auto body shop in Heidelberg.

“Without the knowledge and support of my [SkillsUSA] sponsors at Parkview, I de�nitely wouldn’t be quali�ed to do all the collision repair and auto body work I do at my job,” the 18-year-old said.

�rough SkillsUSA at Parkview, D’Amore has sharpened his skills by helping paint three police cars, completely restoring a jeep, installing a custom body kit on a 2003 BMW M3 and repainting a Scion TC with a two-tone black and orange custom �nish.

Aside from the tangible skills acquired through the program, D’Amore said its instilled in him the importance of time management under deadlines and time constraints as well as how to e�ciently work with clients and coworkers. SkillsUSA is also an e�ective networking tool and has paved the way for several opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to the high school student.

His �rst-place victory in the state competition earned him a full-ride scholarship to Ohio Technical College and, not even halfway through his senior year, he’s received numerous job o�ers including one from his current employer which has o�ered him a full-time sta� position.

“Skills has kind of opened up this whole other world for me and I’m really grateful for that,” D’Amore said. “It seems like something new opens up for me at every competition. It’s crazy.”

D’Amore, who plays o�ensive line and inside linebacker for the WAHS football team, plans on competing in the SkillsUSA competitions again this year. He anticipates he will once again win the state competition and hopes he’ll be able to draw on last year’s experience to place higher at the national level.

“I know what I did right and what I did wrong this year,” he said. “I know what to do to win it’s just a ma�er of going out and executing.”

Pictured �om le� to right, �ont row: SkillsUSA Advisor/Business Technology Instructor, Lisa Love, Sea�le Buhite, and Rachel Zolkiewicz.Pictured �om le� to right, back row: David Ball, Derek D’Amore, James Latimer, SkillsUSA Advisor/Auto Body Repair Instructor, Todd Kie�er

D’Amore places first in a statewide collision repair competition

Derek D’Amore

Five Finish in NationalCompetition Top 10

Parkway West Career and Technology Center students were among those representing the state of Pennsylvania in the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Kansas City, Missouri June 24-27. The students qualified for the national competition by placing first in their events in April at the state-wide competition in Hershey, PA.

The team of James Latimer, graduate of the Sto-Rox school distrct, plus David Ball and Rachel Zolkiewicz, both graduates of the Montour school district, placed 4th in the Entrepreneurship team competition for the second year in a row! James and David will be majoring in business at Robert Morris University in the fall, while Rachel will major in business at the Community College of Allegheny County.

Seattle Buhite, from the West Allegheny school district, placed 5th in the Health Occupations Portfolio event. Seattle recently graduated and will be attending CCAC this fall to become a registered nurse.

Derek D’Amore placed 10th in the Collision Repair Technology competition. Derek is a senior and a varsity football player at West Allegheny High School and knows that a career in the automotive industry is in his future.

James, David, Rachel, Seattle, and Derek are examples of students who have truly benefitted from their decision to enroll in a career and technical education program at Parkway West CTC. Their experiences competing at the state and national level have provided them with a perspective on excellence that will be a positive influence on them for the rest of their lives. Congratulations to them for their achievements and commitment to their chosen fields of study!

SkillsUSA is a national nonprofit student organization that serves students enrolled in career and technical education programs nationwide.


PARKWAY WEST CTC

Congrats to Derek D’Amore (le�) from Auto Body Repair/West Allegheny for being awarded $10,000 for placing 1st, and to Jesse Stra�on (right) from Auto Body Repair/Moon Area for being awarded $6,000 for placing 2nd during the State SkillsUSA competition! �e scholarship money was awarded by Automotive Training Center.

Automotive Training Center awards scholarship money


By Kathy RudolphTough economic times have hit most

Americans hard. But for a service member that is transitioning to civilian life, a young, military family surviving on a small income or a disabled veteran with limited resources, saving 30% on a week’s worth of groceries can mean everything. A groundbreaking ceremony for Coraopolis Commissary is helping to make this a reality for

active and retired military personnel and their families within a hundred mile radius from its location to other areas in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia.

Replacing the C.E. Kelly SF Commissary in Oakdale, the Coraopolis Commissary will be will be adjacent to the 316th US Army Reserve in Moon Township, at the intersection of University Boulevard and Business 376, by the old Pi�sburgh International Airport. �e

43,000 square foot store will cost $15 million dollars and will be completed in the Fall of 2013.

�e commissary will house produce, meat, grocery departments, an international delicatessen and bakery, ready-made foods and will carry over 18,000 items sold at cost plus a 5% surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. Its location will also be convenient for military personnel and veterans traveling to shop from West Virginia and Ohio.

Many responsible for the commissary participated and gave speeches at the groundbreaking ceremony included Maj. Gen. William D. Razz Wa�, Commanding General, 99th RSC, U.S. Senator Robert Casey, U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy, U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire, U.S. Congressman Mark Critz, U.S. Congressman Mike Doyle, Rich Fitzgerald, Allegheny County Chief Executive and Joseph Jeu, Director and Chief Executive O�cer, Defense Commissary Agency.

“�is will be a great facility for all of our

military, active and reserve, families and retirees,” said Maj. Gen. William D. Razz Wa�. “It is no secret that our service members today shoulder the burden of protecting our nation on a daily basis, yet their paid compensation is not always the same as their civilian counterparts. To compensate for this di�erence we have services and facilities such as the commissary and PX to assist them in stretching their dollars. Our service members rely on these bene�ts so they can make ends meet and we owe it to them to make sure these are readily available.”

Planning for the commissary came a�er the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission (B�C) announced in 2005 that it was closing the Charles E. Kelly Support Facility in Oakdale. �e past and present congressional delegation fought in bipartisanship for six years to keep the facility open, get approval by �e Department of Defense, and secure the funds needed to build the new commissary, which �nally came to fruition in 2011.

“Members of the military make enormous sacri�ces on behalf of our country,” said Congressman Murphy, of the 18th district, which includes Moon Township, where the commissary is being built. “But hunger should not be one of them. Nearly $88 million dollars in food stamps are redeemed at commissaries last year. People in the military rely on these a�ordable groceries to make ends meet and some of these folks have fallen on hard times. Some military households are ge�ing by on

$27,000 dollars a year and that 30% savings on groceries goes a long way towards keeping children and families fed. �ey are an integral part of this military compensation system.”

�e commissary will be operated by �e Defense Commissary Agency, which

Groundbreaking for Coraopolis Commissary:

Supporting our MilitaryPersonnel and Veterans

Mr. Rich Fitzgerald, Allegheny County Chief Executive

U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy

Mr. Joseph Jeu, Director and Chief Executive

U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire

U.S. Congressman Mark Critz

Maj. Gen. William D. Razz Waff, Commanding General, 99th RSC

U.S. Senator Robert Casey

U.S. Congressman Mike Doyle


Supporting our MilitaryPersonnel and Veterans

Bryan Peterson and Captain Troy Luster

Carmen Cook, helped free Dachau, the first Nazi death camp, and Roxanne Buckelsis headquartered at Fort Lee, VA. More

information can be found on the website at www.commissaries.com.

“�is event today is a testament to perseverance and dedication that our men and women in the military have been doing for generations,” said Senator Bob Casey. “�is groundbreaking today speaks volumes about that kind of commitment and perseverance. When we think of ways to express our gratitude to our military, it is very di�cult to achieve that. It is rare when we can take a step which will give meaning to that gratitude. �is is one of those days.”


SEDATION DENTISTRYDo you wish you could achieve theperfect smile in a calm, comfortable,and soothing atmosphere?

Sedation dentistry is used to provide arelaxing and anxiety-free experience forpatients too afraid to go to the dentist andreceive necessary routine dental care. Theterm “dental phobic” is all too common andpotentially compromises the health of apatient’s mouth and smile. If you fall intothis category, don’t worry you are not alone.

Sedation is a process used to establisha relaxed, easy and calm state throughthe use of different techniques. Sedativedrugs (tranquillizers, depressants,anti-anxiety medications, nitrous oxide,etc.) can be administered in a variety ofways. In the past, intravenous (IV) sedationwas given by injection into the bloodvessels of the hand or arm. This was mainlyused to sedate a dental patient.

IV sedation is both safe and effectivewhen administered by a trainedprofessional. Today, however, sedationdentistry has progressed to be even morebeneficial to provide a relaxing experience.Patients have alternatives to the traditionaltreatment options of inhalation (nitrousoxide or “laughing gas”) and IVs, suchas those offering a “no needle” (meaning,no injection) approach that many peoplefind more pleasing.

Anti-Anxiety Premedication Dentistry isnow the most utilized technique usedin the United States to alleviate a patient’sfear. The technique is easy and requiresno needles. These medications create acomfortable experience and many patientsdo not remember the visit. Anti-AnxietyPremedication maintains a level ofconsciousness in the patient for safetyand a patient’s well being.

Regardless of the type of sedation dentistryyou receive, it is important to havea responsible friend/relative transport youto the procedure. It is mandatory forthe friend/relative to drive you home afterthe procedure is complete.

Sedation dentistry addresses some of thefears that keep people from going to thedentist on a regular basis. Patients are morelikely to receive recommended routine careafter receiving sedation treatment and theyare less likely to neglect their oral health.

One of the major benefits of sedationdentistry is that people often feel like theirdental procedure lasts only a few minutes,when in fact it might take hours to perform.Therefore, complex dental procedures suchas total reconstructive treatment thatnormally require numerous visits can oftenbe performed in a single visit.

If you are afraid to change the appearanceof your teeth because you are anxiousabout undergoing long or complex dentalprocedures, sedation dentistry can makeyou feel comfortable and remove theapprehension to achieve the perfect smile.

Troop 248’s Haunted Cabin

Promises to Be Fun For All Ages

Once again Boy Scout Troop 248 of Oakdale

is proud to bring to you its Annual Haunted Cabin for 4 nights only: October 24, 25, 26 & 27 7 to 9 p.m. each night at 248 Clinton Avenue, Oakdale.

The Haunted Cabin grounds will cover almost a full acre of “haunting” for your pleasure. Come meet the ghosties and ghoulies, the three-legged beasties, and all the critters that call the cabin home. Cross the “Covered Bridge,” brave the “Creek Critters,” make your way through the “Maze,” pick the correct door for the maze OR venture the additional Maze, wander the “Grizzly Mansion,” and visit the “Barracuda Cove.” Make your way through the “Dead Man’s Pass” and through the “Grave Yard.” See “What’s Cooking” inside the cabin and visit the critter’s and creepy things around all corners of the cabin. You may even meet “The Cabin Witch” along your journey.

Cost for the “Haunted Cabin” is $5/person. Scouts and other Youth groups that attend as a “Group” will receive a discount of $3/person.

Make arrangements for scout groups/youth groups for specific nights & times by calling for VIP reservations @ 724.693.0549.

Parking is limited: overflow parking is 1/4 block from the cabin. Refreshment stand available.

Fun and Frights for all ages. Brave the cabin if you dare!

Troop 248’s Troop 248’s

Once again Boy Scout Troop 248 of Oakdale


More than 75 residents broke out their rods and tackle boxes to participate in the 15th Annual Findlay Township Youth

Fishing Derby at Leopold Lake. In preparation for the event, the lake was stocked several days ahead of time with trout and cat�sh. Residents competed to catch the largest and most �sh that they could. Winners of the event won rods, reels, tackle boxes and tickets to sporting events.

Findlay Township Holds 15th Annual Youth Fishing Derby at Leopold Lake


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

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

IN Community Magazines’ C.A.S.E. Dinner will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 36 magazines. Awardees will be selected in the following categories:

Volunteer of the Year; Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger); Small non-profit of the Year (staff of 10 or less); Large non-profit of the Year (staff of 11 or more).

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

Name of nominee ____________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________________ Email: ___________________________________________

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

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