in bethel park

WINTER 2010 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Bethel Park Residents &The Meaning of "Chabadza"

Resolve to Keep Your Resolutions

The PerfectHostess Gift

2 Bethel Park

Welcome to our winter issue! At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for

taking that journey with us that was 2010. This year was one full of blessings for Community Magazines, as

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

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

Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what yousee in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write-in with your ideas and events are the ones who set ourtable of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to youand your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and youknow it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas toour editor at [email protected].

Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued supportwith Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you thatadvertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazinesare a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that by advertisingwith us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving thosewho read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed.

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

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

Wayne DollardPublisher

As the holiday season approaches, I hope you'll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy theinformation we have compiled for this edition of Bethel Park. Asalways, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some ofour most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in allthings “community.” As you are going through your busy days (andholiday parties) please don't forget to let us know about any person ororganization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired, by our readers!

The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the Bethel Park Community is amazing and awesome.

From all of us at In Community Magazines, we hope your holidaywill be filled with a good dose of peace and a little bit of joy, and thatyou're surrounded by the love and companionship of those who meanthe most to you.

Marybeth JeffriesManaging Editor

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

IN Bethel Park is a non-partisan community publicationdedicated to representing, encouraging and promotingthe Bethel Park area and its comprising municipalitiesby focusing on the talents and gifts of the people wholive and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with

the most informative and professional regionalpublication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Mark Berton [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Jamie [email protected]

WRITERS

Jonathan BarnesKelli McElhinnyPamela Palongue

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Bill IvinsCassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSusie Doak Tamara TylendaPati Ingold Tracey Wasilco

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca BaileyGaryyonphotography.comOne Way Street Productions

ADVERTISING SALES

Nicholas Buzzell David MitchellBrian Daley Tamara Myers

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

Beatriz Harrison Tara ReisJason Huffman Vincent SabatiniJessie Jones Michael Silvert

Connie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian McKee

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010.

CORRESPONDENCEAll inquiries, comments and press releases

should be directed to:IN Community Magazines

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

www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring Issue Deadline: January 28, 2011

WINTER 2010

4 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE Bethel Park

& ABDUCTIONBorn and raised in Bethel Park, the 2009 Bethel Park High

School graduate will be featured in a bit part in the upcoming film “I Am Number Four,” as a dead prom queen in a hauntedhouse. Later, she’ll be seen as a baseball fan in “Abduction.”

While she has theatre and modeling experience and has donea television commercial for Comcast, Eichelsbacher decided toanswer a couple of open casting calls to dabble in big-budget film.

“I’ve been doing acting a lot. So when I saw an open casting callfor “I Am Number Four” on the Internet, I went down and met thecasting director,” she said. “Two weeks later they wanted me to be in it.”

Eichelsbacher said that, while she loves theater, working in movies is very different andappeals to her love of chaos. “It’s so chaotic on a movie set. Everything’s going on at once,and I just love it,” she said.

“I Am Number Four” is a sci-fi thriller that was filmed in Pittsburgh, particularly at the FranklinRegional High School over the summer. Eichelsbacher said she was asked to play the dead promqueen, agreed to the part, and got all of the Hollywood treatment that she could ask for.


“Everything was really nice and I got to gothrough the make-up process. It was a prettycool movie experience,” she said. “It’s anonspeaking part, called a ‘featured extra’ role. I had to act dead. It’s not that I die, but I play adead prom queen for a haunted hayride.”

Eichelsbacher said that while she was initiallynervous to be on set with so many of Hollywood’sfinest, she quickly overcame her anxiety.

“I was so scared of being around all theseimportant people, but they were so nice to us.They’d talk to us like any other person. That’swhat made it so comfortable on the set,” she said.“They were really nice, down-to-earth people.They made me feel like I was one of them.”

Eichelsbacher said that one day, she aspiresto be a leading action female, taking roles likeMegan Fox in “Transformers,” or Angelina Joliein “Salt,” although she’s never auditioned foranything outside of Pittsburgh–yet.

Her experience with “Abduction” yieldedsimilar experiences.

“‘Abduction’ is starring Taylor Lautner,from ‘Twilight,’ and it’s about a high school boywho has to do a research paper on missingchildren,” she said. “He finds out that he was a

missing child. My part is another featured extra.I’m in the classroom with him, and that wasreally fun too.”

For now, Eichelsbacher is trying to expandher modeling portfolio and get back into printmodeling. Meanwhile, she’s attending classes atCommunity College of Allegheny County untilshe decides what career path is going to be theone for her. At the moment, she said she’sleaning towards psychology.

They say that once you’re bit by the actingbug, it’s hard to go back. Eichelsbacher said

that her love of the process and experienceswith her two feature films will always drive her toward more auditions.

“Ever since I was little, I always lovedmovies and performance. We’d make movies in the summer with my little video camera. Acouple of my family members were extras inmovies. It’s been a passion,” she said. “OnFriday nights, we’d go to the movies, and Itook dance and acting lessons. The best partabout it is you can be someone who’scompletely different than you.”


It’s Friday evening. I am sitting in DeLallo’s Restaurant. Who entersbut Tony Zimmer, owner of Bethel Park Printing and good guy. Afterexchanging some pleasantries, Tony tells me about a mutual friend whojust retired at age 57. “How’d he do that?” he asked. I sipped my Bacardiand coke and began to write this article.

In 2005, Ameriprise Financial commissioned the New RetirementMindscape® study, which examined how Americans ages 40 to 75 viewretirement. The study demonstrated that retirement tends to follow aseries of stages, each associated with its own emotions and needs.

Recently, Ameriprise revisited the stages of retirement with the NewRetirement Mindscape IISM study. While people still expect to enjoy— or are enjoying — retirement a great deal, the 2010 study foundconsumers are generally not as happy, hopeful or optimistic as theywere in 2005.What a difference a recession makes.Due to the economic slowdown over the last few years, it’s not surprisingthat people have grown increasingly concerned over their finances, with ameasurable increase in anxiety and doubt. In comparison to 2005:

• Fewer pre-retirees say they are hopeful about their retirement (73% vs. 78%).

• Retirees are not as happy (78% vs. 87%).• Retirees report they are less likely to be living their dreams in

retirement (43% vs. 50%).While the 2010 study showed that Americans continue to experience

retirement in a sequence of stages, the economy has had a substantialemotional impact on people and how they feel about their finances. Thishas caused changes to consumers’ journeys to and through retirement,which currently follows a series of six stages:Stage 1: Imagination (15 to six years prior to retirement) – Formingideas, setting goals, and saving money are part of this initial phase of theretirement journey. Respondents in the 2010 study feel less “hopeful”(71% vs. 81%) and “optimistic” (72% vs. 77%) about retirement than theydid in 2005, given the recession and the accompanying concerns about jobsecurity. Still, people in this stage continue to have generally positivefeelings with the majority reporting that they feel “happy” (84%) and“enthusiastic” (70%) about retirement.Stage 2: Hesitation (three to five years prior to retirement) – This newstage in the retirement journey emerged after the economic and emotionalupheaval of the recession. During this stage, people begin to visualizeretirement and question their preparedness. However, they also acceptthat retirement day is approaching and are more likely to be taking steps to prepare than in 2005 – significantly more have turned to a financialadvisor (54% vs. 33%) or have developed a written financial plan (50% vs.35%). This may explain why people in this stage also report feeling moreempowered than they did in 2005 (60% vs. 49%).Stage 3: Anticipation (two years prior to retirement) – The excitementbuilds as retirement gets nearer. While one-third (35%) report feelinganxiety, people in this stage are also the most likely to feel “on track” forretirement (77%). This may be because they are setting aside money intheir own savings/investments (83%) and working with a financial advisor

(54%). Yet, as they approach retirement day, they tend to be moreanxious than people in other stages and also more anxious than thosesurveyed in 2005 (35% vs. 23%).Stage 4: Realization (retirement day and one year following) – Whilethe first year of retirement was previously called “Liberation,” theoptimism and excitement that once accompanied this stage have beenmuted by the recession. People in this stage report enjoying retirementless in 2010, as only 45% said they are living their dream in retirementcompared to 65% who said so in 2005.Stage 5: Reorientation (two to 15 years after retirement) – After theinitial adjustment period, people redefine their expectations and plans. Atthis point, happiness tends to increase, as people feel more on track than inprior stages. They feel better prepared financially than in 2005, as more ofthem have set aside money for retirement (83% vs. 72%) and more areworking with a financial advisor (43% vs. 34%).Stage 5: Reconciliation (16 or more years after retirement) – Feelingsabout retirement shift during this later stage, as health concerns and a lossof social connections lead to a greater sense of emptiness. While the vastmajority of people in this stage continue to feel “happy” (80%), they areenjoying retirement significantly less than those in other stages.

Compared to 2005, people are also lessoptimistic (66% vs. 78%), and less hopeful(68% vs. 80%). Biggest Pre-retirement Concern: Health InsuranceThose in pre-retirement expect that healthinsurance will be the biggest concern inretirement. During the Hesitation stage, 46%cite health insurance concerns as the worstthing about retirement, more than double the second-most cited concern, loss of socialconnections. But health insurance concernsdrop dramatically once retired. By the timeretirees reach the Reconciliation stage, healthinsurance concerns are cited as the worst thingabout retirement by only 10% of respondents.A Seminal Moment in RetirementReadiness: The LayoffGiven the economic slowdown over the pastfew years, more people in 2010 reported acareer setback like a layoff. The number whocited this experience as the one event thatcaused them to think seriously about retirementalso rose to 9% from 4% in 2005 – a significantincrease. Other “trigger” events included asignificant birthday, followed by health issuesand the death of someone close to them.

The New Retirement Mindscape II studydemonstrates the complexities of the retirementplanning process, including how emotions canrise and fall based on people’s point in theretirement journey. However, it also deliverssome good news. It appears that the economicdownturn has encouraged many people to planmore proactively for retirement. By betterunderstanding the stages of retirement – andpreparing for them both emotionally andfinancially – consumers and the financialprofessionals who advise them can plan morediligently for this major milestone. The resultmay be a more fulfilling and confidentretirement throughout all its stages.


This was writtenby Dan Martin, Financial Advisorwith Ameriprise Financial(formerly American ExpressFinancial Advisors). Contact hisoffice in Bethel Park at412.831.6240 ext. 208 or by e-mail: [email protected].

The New Retirement Mindscape IISM and New Retirement Mindscape®studies were commissioned by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and conducted bytelephone by Harris Interactive in May 2010 and August 2005 among 2,007(2010) and 2,000 (2005) U.S. adults age 40-75. The sampling error for the 2010study is +/-2.5%. The 2005 study was conducted in conjunction with Age Waveand Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D.

This information is provided for informational purposes only. Theinformation is intended to be generic in nature and should not be applied orrelied upon in any particular situation without the advice of your tax, legaland/or your financial advisor. Neither Ameriprise Financial nor its advisors orrepresentatives provide tax or legal advice. The views expressed may not besuitable for every situation.

Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made availablethrough Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Someproducts and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients.


imbabwe seems an unlikely spot to have“great things happening,” since this African countryis facing a ruined economy, unemployment,disease, and hunger. Zimbabwe has the secondlowest per capita annual income – $324.

However, three members of Christ UnitedMethodist Church (CUMC) in Bethel Parkfelt great things werehappening at the UnitedMethodist Mission in Nyadire, Zimbabwe, wheretheir mission trips visited this summer. Theywere part of THE NYADIRE CONNECTION(TNC), a group of volunteers whose goal is tokeep the services and programs at Nyadire operational during these difficult times. TNC was organized after the first mission team returned from Nyadire in 2006. Nowthe group is committed to a long-term relationshipwith the mission, working as partners, through“chabadza,” a Shona word meaning to stop andhelp someone already at work.

Rev. R. Duane Thompson, senior pastor atChrist United Church, Mary Beth Zollars, andKeith Wilson journeyed the 8,400 miles fromPittsburgh to Nyadire, which is located two hoursfrom Harare, the capital. The mission is muchlike a college campus with a 240-bed hospital,nursing school, a school system for 1,200 students,a preschool through high school, an orphanage,a teachers’ college, church, and farm. Theseprograms serve a wide rural population. TNChelps to keep a doctor at the hospital, sendsmedications and medical supplies and containersof essential items, seeks sponsors for the orphanageand orphans in neighboring schools and ruralpastors, and performs needed services whenmission teams visit.

What is this thing called “chabadza?” Rev.Thompson defines the Shona word as“community spirit, doing what you can to helpsomeone.” He says, “For example, when afarmer goes out to his field he takes extra hoes,because he knows that friends and neighborsmay pass by and offer to help. They’ll stopwhat they’re doing, stop where they are goingand help. “Giving ‘chabadza’ means, I will giveyou my time; I wil l give you my attention; thisis good for all of us.”

He experienced many examples of chabadzaduring his three weeks in Nyadire. Oneexample took place when he was walking by

himself on a dirt road.Rev. Thompson recalled, “People walk

everywhere in Zimbabwe,since there are few cars and trucks, and many

people walk with large bundles on their heads,some with babies carried in blankets on theirbacks . But those who have cars or trucks willnot pass by a person who is walking. Theyalways stop and offer a ride. Trucks and vansthat were so full, another person seeminglycould not fit in, stopped and offered me a ride.They kept stopping, and I kept telling themthat I was just out for a walk.”

He and four other United Methodistministers from Pittsburgh District attended aPastors’ Conference with the rural pastors ofthe region. All approached the three-dayconference as partners, wanting to share howeach carried out ministry. They were able totalk about issues that face pastors everywhere– pastoral care, leadership, and preaching.TNC has a pastor sponsor program begun afew years ago when it was known that manyrural pastors were not being paid by their

congregations. The congregations simply didnot have money, most of them scrambling forfood for their own families. Rev. Thompsonlater remarked that many Zimbabwean pastorsdid not have “the basic resources from whichto preach or teach—no books, no commentaries,no Bible dictionaries, nothing to help themunderstand the Bible at a deeper level, nothingto fire the imagination.” One Zimbabweanpastor expressed her dilemma: “Would youbuy food for your fa mily or books?”

Another member of the mission team wasMary Beth Zollars, a German teacher atChartiers Valley High School. Many of hermission teammates remark that Mary Beth, “is really in her element” when she in Nyadire.Her month-long visit to the mission was herfifth trip there, having being “hooked after thatoriginal 2006 visit.” She felt a calling to helpwith the Home of Hope Orphanage (HOH)and h as since coordinated a sponsorshipprogram for the 25 orphans who live there.Sponsors pay $30 monthly to provide food,clothing, housing, medical care, and schoolfees for the children. They also correspondwith the child, send small gifts, and maintain arelationship. For HOH information, [email protected].

During a subsequent trip in 2007, anotherneed became apparent to Mary Beth: themany, many orphans in neighboring ruralschools. One fourth of Zimbabwean childrenare orphaned and live with extended family oron their own, sometimes caring for youngersiblings. Most have no means to pay school fees.

Over 200 children were identified and hadtheir photos taken in July 2007. They becamethe first to be sponsored for their school fees($60) and a backpack of school supplies. This

Home of Hope Outreach Children receivingbackpacks from sponsors

Mis indi

Kathy Surma cleaning teeth of Home of Hope child

Steve McPherson and Keith Wilsoninstalling water tank at Home of Hope

Pastors ConferenceRev. Thompson on left, first row

The August team had the grand finale fortheir work by taking 25 orphans from theHome of Hope, plus others and their caregivers,on an excursion to Imire Safari Park. For mostof the children, it was the first time away frommission, and it did not disappoint. Despitevery cold temperatures, all were able to takegame rides to see the 600 animals in the park,take part in environmental activities, and dov olunteer work. One does not easily forget theexcitement of seeing giraffes, zebras, antelopes,and hyenas up close. And the view from atopan elephant is both scary and exciting!

That excitement does not seem to dissipatefor those who experience a mission trip toNyadire. The volunteers go with all kinds ofthoughts about what they can bring and doand come away with what the GREAT folksthere have done f or them.

For more information about The NyadireConnection (TNC) visit the website,www.nyadire.org.

summer, over 500 children from five ruralschools had up-to-date photos taken in thehopes sponsors will be found enabling them to go to school.

Rev. Thompson took photos of orphans at the schools. He recalls, “Education isabsolutely critical to the future of the children,critical to the nation. As I was taking pictures,there were these two 11-year-old girls whowere sitting by themselves, and we weren’ tsure they qualified for the program. Theystarted looking at me, and I started looking atthem, and I took their pictures, and they wouldsmile and giggle, just like 11-year-olds here,then ham it up. By the time we were finished, I said that I wanted to sponsor those two girls.I want to make sure that they can stay in school.You can’t save everybody but perhaps you cansave one or two.” For the Home of HopeOutreach School Sponsorship Program, e-mail [email protected].

Bethel Park resident Keith Wilson madehis first trip to Zimbabwe in July. Keith hasbeen involved with The Nyadire Connectionfor quite some time and is a sponsor of Lovemore,a promising young man at the Home of Hope.One of the goals of his mission team was tohold a Vacation Bible School. With the help of some of the Nyadire Primary School, theteam taught the children about the creativity in God’s plan that is found all around them.They also did crafts, played games, sang songs,and held a performance for parents/guardians.

The team also worked on several physicalimprovements that had been identified as“areas of concern.” Installing a new chain-linkfence around the Home of Hope garden, inwhich the children work to produce their ownfood, loomed as a large project, but removing

the old fence created its own problems. Brushhad grown all around the old fencing and theposts had to be dug out. The old fence was tobe used at part of the new system that wasdesperately needed to keep wandering cattlefrom trampling and eating the vegetables.Mary Beth and Kathy Surma spent manyhours removing brush, and when the old fencewas cleared, a nother problem presented itself:How to move this section to its new location?Emmanuel Chiimba, the administrator of theHome of Hope, called the children of theorphanage and presented the problem.Without comment or whimper, the childrenpositioned themselves along this long length of fence and dragged it to its new location.“Chabadza” in its purest form.

Emmanuel was Keith’s constant workerand remi nded him every day of the progressthey had made. Keith’s account on the finalday of his visit: “By 3 p.m. we still had so muchto finish by 5:30 when the sun would go down,that it seemed almost hopeless. And yetsomehow we did complete what needed to getdone. As we finished up, Emmanuel said,‘Keith, today we were winners.’ I agreed andsaid, ‘It was our best day ever.’ Emmanuelsaid, ‘Yes, our best da y ever.’

Another project that would help in day-to-day operation of the orphanage was theinstallation of a water tank reservoir. SteveMcPherson, a team member from Brookville,PA quickly earned the title of “MacGyver,”when it came to fixing things. Steve hookedup the tank to the water system, and Keithdid the installation work—a small projectwith a big impact as the orphanage wouldhave running water when the power was off, which was 50% of the time.

Missioin team at rural school signing up takingindivididual photos orphans in hopes of being sponsored

Children of Home of Hope Orphanage atop an elephant and helping in their garden



FITNESS PROGRAMBy Jamie Ward

Virginia Di Salvo: The instructor, the people, and all

the exercises are wonderful. We have fun as we tone our

bodies. I’ve made my legs strongand have not had to have a double knee replacement.

Mary Ann Zegler: My balance,flexibility and endurance have

improved dramatically in the past few years. I feel better at 72 than

I did at 50!

Independence. Self-esteem. Wellness. These are the basic principles for LifeSpan's CommunityServices Program, which is designed to give older adults access to a variety of services and resourcesthat promote friendships and general well-being.

LifeSpan has developed a fitness program designed for people over 50, with classes that focus specifically on balance, flexibility, strength, and vigor. The program consists of three classes: Activate & Invigorate, Gentle Restorative Movement, and Tai Chi. But don't be fooled—this isn't your ordinary “sit-and-be-fit” exercise class. Participants really break a sweat, utilizing everything from free weights and resistance bands to steps and chairs.

When asked what makes the class so special, participant Ralph Fertig says it's the instructor, Gurney Bolster, and her ability to provide a complete full-bodied workout at just the right pace. “Gurney never stops motivating and encouraging,” he says, “and she turns dreary daysof grunting and sweating into a most pleasant experience.”

Gurney Bolster has been teaching the program for a year and a half. She has been teaching danceand exercise for over 30 years, and since moving to Pittsburgh has been working with seniors throughLifeSpan Senior Services. Gurney holds a master's degree in dance/movement therapy, the Healthway'sAccreditation for Older Adult Fitness, and certificates in Laban Movement Analysis and body-mindcentering. As an adjunct faculty member in two university dance programs in Montreal, she taughtcourses in motor development, movement analysis, and somatic awareness.

Bolster says her background has helped her understand the body and fundamental movementprinciples. “I am well versed in a developmental approach to movement and understanding what oneis doing and why,” says Bolster. “I teach my students to pay attention to their bodies, to respect whatthey feel inside, and to honor a gradual but ever-changing learning process.”

Program participant Kay Menees says, “Gurney makes her class fun as well as educational byexplaining the benefits of each movement to our joints and muscles. I’ve never felt stronger orexperienced less back discomfort.”

The class has no age limit, but is geared toward seniors; therefore, special precautions must be taken. “My training in older adult fitness has influenced how I pace the class,” says Bolster. “Safety is assured by fostering an atmosphere of listening to one's own body, doing what one can, and not competing with others.” Participants are encouraged to keep a chair nearby for balance and to sit whenever necessary.

For more information or to sign up for any of the LifeSpan fitness classes,call the LifeSpan office at Bethel Park, 412.831.7111.


Winterizing Your Car Can Keep You Rolling Despite the Conditions

Slow You Down –

D O N ’ T L E T

A lot of people think that

getting ready for winter

simply means an annual

furnace check, turning off and

draining outside faucets, and

some shrink wrap over their

windows. However, if you don’t

winterize your vehicle, you may

be stuck in that comfy living

room waiting for a ride to

come pick you up.

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

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

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

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

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

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


For the third consecutive year, St. Louise deMarillac School has combined fundraising andhealthy competition for the students to fuel oneof the largest fundraisers the schoolhas each year. The Race for Educationwas developed in 2002 as a new andexciting way to raise money for St.Louise School. Since that time, andwith the addition of Strive Fit FamilyFit Zone into the school’s PhysicalEducation p rogram, they have seenlarge gains not only in fundraising, butalso with the overall health and wellnessfor the students. This event is acelebration of our students and ourschool, while at the same time our goalof raising $65,000 will help to cover theoperating costs of St. Louise School.

While raising the money for the school, thestudents were also held accountable for manydifferent aspects of fitness over the five weeksleading up to Race Day. Along with the currentP.E. teacher, Strive Family Fit Zone donated thetime and expertise of their trainers to helpcondition and educate the students to preparefor their upcoming race and also how to live ahealthy lifestyle outside of school. The studentswould train each week on different aspects offitness that included distance running, flexibility,

International Race for Education 2010

strength training, sprinting and core work. Alongwith their daily training session during P.E. classes,the students were encouraged to track their activity

level outside of school. Students were given pointsbased on how long they participated in each activityand if they included other members of their family.

Points were also awarded for maintaining a healthy diet. On Race Day, the course was set up throughout

the St. Louise School grounds. Grades K-3 ran onelap, which equaled approximately 1 mile, and grades4-8 ran two laps for a distance of approximately 2miles. As part of our celebration of One NationUnder God, each grade was given a country torepresent throughout the five-week program.Learning about their country was incorporated intothe student’s curriculum as well as representing theircountry on Race Day. Imagine over 450 students

pouring out of the school building at 12:30 p.m.,warming up to run the race themselves, and tocheer on their fellow schoolmates. The

atmosphere was electric as the first wave of students took the startingline and stayed that way until the veryend of the day. The celebrationcontinued the next day at the awardscelebration, where students andparents enjoyed congratulatingeveryone for a race well run!

St. Louise would like to thankeveryone who participated in thisyear’s St. Louise International racefor Education. With the help ofmany parents, volunteers, corporate

sponsors, and individual donors, the Race was a huge success, and everyone whoparticipated had great time.

If you would like to contribute to this greatfundraiser, please make your check payable to “St. Louise de Marillac School” or visitwww.stlouiseschoolpa.org to donate online!

hen it comes to exercise, it’s hard tobreak through the hype and advertising

ploys for the newest and best cardio machine or workout.

However, the best cardio workout dependson engaging the heart through a multitude oflevels and workloads, said Dan Griffin, generalmanager of Oxford Athletic Club. Griffin, whois certified by the American College of SportsMedicine, said people are becoming more educated when it comes to their cardio workout.

“People understand you do not have to dolong, slow distance exercises, to be in the fat-burning zone. The studies are showing nowthat low-intensity heart maintenance levels arejust as efficient for calorie burn. Middle heartrates – the kind of exercises where you can talk

Keeping the Most Important Muscle Fitto your neighbor, but can’t recite the GettysburgAddress – those work well also,” Griffin said.“The higher heart levels have a whole differentphysiological response and work on differentparts of your body. Some who do a little bit ofexercise in all three ranges lose weight quicker,and it doesn’t take more time. You take those30-40 minutes you usually dedicate to yourworkout and break it up.”

Griffin said there are new workout machinesthat take advantage of that data to help athletesmeet those various heart ranges.

“There always are machines that are the ‘hotmachines.’ In the ‘80s and ‘90s, it was the stepper,and now it’s treadmills, ellipticals, and multi-angular training. With a treadmill, you’re inone plane, moving forward. With multi-angularand multi-plane machines you’re moving forward,and you’re also going left, right, forward andback,” Griffin said. “Another hot machine rightnow is the ArcTrainer, which is a cross betweena stepper and an elliptical. With step training,few people can last long enough to make thatwork right, so the ArcTrainer is a favorite amongtennis players and other athletes who come in.”

In addition to specialized cardio machines,Griffin said circuit training still gives people agreat workout.

“Circuit training is still alive and well. Wehave trainers who take people through workoutsthat are as demanding as can be,” he said.“Unless you need bulk and heavy lifting, there’sa lot to be said for this functional training whereyou’re pushing sandbags and working out withoutstopping between sets. I’ve done it, and havegotten my heart rate from 130 up to 170, andit stays within that range within the whole halfhour. The key though, is to do it in a circuitfashion. That way, you don’t have to stopbetween exercising.”



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Griffin said that because circuit training focuses on different musclegroups, the workouts typically are faster to get through.

“Muscularly, you don’t need the rest because you’re working a different muscle group each time,” he said. “Cardio-wise, you may have to wait 30 seconds or so between sets, but you can definitely be fit by doing that.”


Beginning today and continuing through December9, residents may donate international phone cards atSoldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum inOakland, Boyce, North, and South Park offices, and at the Office of the County Executive in Room 101 ofthe county courthouse.

“This drive is an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ tothe men and women who are protecting our freedomfar away from their families and friends,” said AlleghenyCounty Executive Dan Onorato. “I encourage everyoneto join in our effort to connect troops with their lovedones during the holidays.”

Allegheny County will also collect internationalphone cards in the lobby of the County Office Buildinglocated at 542 Forbes Avenue in Downtown Pittsburghfrom 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, November 5,Monday, November 8, and Tuesday, November 9.

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


This holiday season there will be many gifts both big and small.Kids will yearn for toys or games while adults will wish for jewelry and electronics. However, few wish lists will include“weight loss” or “a healthier lifestyle.” Often thoughts of fitness arepushed back until New Year’s and then soon forgotten. How aboutthis holiday season you give and ask for the gift that actually keepson giving: health and wellness. You may ask, “How in the worldcan I tangibly give or receive health and wellness this year?” It isn’tabout a big package or a pretty wrap job, it’s about real changes to yourlife. They will certainly be worth it! Here are 10 tips to give you andyour family the best chance to get into amazing shape.

• Support Each Other and Provide a Positive Environment:Have you tried to lose weight without anybody’s support before?It’s extremely difficult. In today’s world of excess and dangerousprocessed food and beverages, it can be almost impossible to eat and workout properly without a support system. Speak to yourspouse or your parents and get them on board so that they can helpyou remain positive throughout your health journey. If you aretrying to help your children, get healthier be a great example for them to see everyday.

• Set Real and Tangible Goals: How many times have you set a goal that had no discernable plan or ending? You need to setboth short- and long-term goals, but they need to be goals that youcan know with exact certainty that you have accomplished. Rather than saying “I’m going to get in shape this year,” you shouldchange your cue and say “By June, I’m going to lose 20 pounds and 10% body fat.” Tangible goals will help you stay on track and motivate you during those difficult time periods

• Understand that Being Healthy is a Lifestyle, Not a Wish:If you want to make real changes, you need to take it seriously. It takes a combination of physical activity, nutrition, proper sleep, and stress management. Luckily those things don’t have toconsume your life for you to be healthy, but you need to makepositive changes in multiple areas of your life in order to seepositive changes in your body and mind.

• Focus on the Types of Food That You Eat Rather ThanCalories: While cutting calories can result in a short-term weightloss, eating healthy foods can result in sustained weight loss and ahealthy lifestyle. Instead of eating a meal of holiday candy and thenstarving yourself, have one piece of candy and then supplementwith some fresh fruit or nuts. The more nutrient-rich foodsthat you can incorporate into your diet the more you will shedunwanted pounds and keep your body from developingdebilitating disease.

• Be Aware of How Your Body Feels:Too many people gothrough life unaware of how they actually feel. To understand wellnessis to understand how your body and mind feel. Do you feel energetic?Do you feel happy? Do you feel motivated? If you do not know theanswers to those questions, then you need to take a little time to yourselfand understand what is feeling great and what isn’t. When you beginto learn how you feel, you will learn when you need to make changes in your diet and workout routines in order feel even better.

The Best Gifts for this Holiday Season:

• Mix up Your Workouts: How many times have you thought“I’m so bored with my workouts”? You need to make sure that youare staying excited about your journey toward a healthier lifestyle.One of the most effective ways to keep motivated during yourworkouts is to try new things. Instead of jumping on the ellipticalmachine everyday for four months why not try rowing one day,biking the next, and hiking the next. Changing the exercises you donot only keeps your body guessing, which is great for getting more fit,but it also keeps your mind excited, which helps you get to the gymon those tough days.

• Challenge Yourself and Your Results Will Emerge MoreQuickly: Your body responds positively when you introduce newthings to your repertoire. That idea holds true with intensity aswell. If you workout hard, you can build strength faster. Thatstrength helps to speed up your metabolism, which helps cut bodyfat. As you lose body fat, you will feel more energetic during the dayas well as in your workouts. This process is how you get the physicalresults that you want, while adding additional mental toughness thatwill help you during work, school or your daily routine.

• Smile–It Makes It That Much More Worth It: It is a simpleequation. When you enjoy what you are doing, you will want to

do it more. There is no set equation to get in shape or be healthier,so hunt for a strategy that makes you happy. Maybe you like beingoutdoors and eating organic, healthful foods. If so, go for it.Maybe you like lifting heavy weights and eating a great deal o fprotein. If so, go for it. You don’t need to run 10 miles a day or eatOne exact way to earn your health. When you find a strategy thatyou like, go ahead and implement it, then enjoy the ride.

• Know That It Is All a Decision: Your health boils down toone thing: YOU. Are you willing to work for it? There is a reasonwhy fad diets don’t stick around very long. They don’t work.Either your weight l oss isn’t sustainable or dangerous side effectsdevelop. You need to eat a bit better and take care of your body abit better to get healthy. Once you have made the decision, andmade it for real, you will gain the energy and the will power toachieve your goals.

• Remember Why You Want to Be Healthy: There are difficulttimes during any journey, and this journey to better your health isno different. When you feel like you may lose your way, or whenyou don’t have the motivation you usually have, take a second andremember what you are working toward. When you get healthyand learn how amazingly your mind and your body can feel, youwill want that feeling all of the time. It is worth it, your motivationloss is only a temporary phenomena, so wait it out and come outeven better on the other side.

T he holidays are about family and happiness. There is nobetter time to begin to make these positive changes to your mindand your body. You should begin to feel more energetic, sleepbetter, look better, and work better. Whether you give the gift tosomebody else or give it to yourself, remind yourself that it’s worthit and so are you. Cheers!

By Jim Crowell, with Josh Bobrowsky

By Integrated Fitness


The Allegheny County Parks Department opened the North Parkand South Park ice rinks on Thursday, November 4. The 2010-2011 iceskating season will run through mid-March 2011.

The Parks Department will once again offer both free and paidskating lessons throughout the season to residents ages five and older.See the attached schedule for a complete list of operating hours, lessontimes, admission fees, rink rental fees, and skate rental fees.

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

For additional information, call the North Park Ice Rink at724.935.1280 or the South Park Ice Rink at 412.833.1499.

2011 Family, Senior and Individual pool pass certificates and2011 Senior golf certificates are available as holiday gifts. Call412.350.2468 for details.

November 4, 2010 – Mid-March 2011 Weather & Conditions PermittingNorth Park Rink: 724.935.1280 South Park Rink: 412.833.1499

DAYTIMESESSIONS

Saturday & Sunday: 11a.m.-4p.m.

AFTERNOONSESSIONS

Wednesday & Friday: 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m.Saturday & Sunday: 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

EVENINGSESSIONS

Tuesday–Thursday: 7:30 p.m.-9p.m.Friday & Saturday: 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m.Sunday: 7:30 p.m.-9p.m.

HOLIDAYS Christmas Eve: Noon-6 p.m.New Year’s Eve: Noon-6 p.m.New Year’s Day: Noon-6 p.m.

CLOSED Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, & Christmas Day

PRICES Youth (0-17): $3.00 | Adults (18-59): $5.00Seniors (60 & older): $3.00Senior Season Pass: $25.00

Have a story idea? Charity Event? Public Service Announcement? Send your suggestions to: [email protected]


When choosing a facility, it is important to consider your uniqueneeds, preferences and desires. You or your loved one’s physicalfunctioning, mental capacity, personal interests, financial circumstancesand social supports all affect what setting and services are mostappropriate. Begin by researching what facilities are available in yourcommunity. Contact your local government agency/access center orprofessional association for a list, or look through your local telephonedirectory under health care services, nurses, etc.

FINDING THE RIGHT HOME FOR YOUR LOVE ONES.

This Industry Insight was written by Meadowcrest Nursing Center. For more information, call 412.854.5500.

LOCATION AND ATMOSPHERE• Is the facility conveniently located? Look for a center with close proximity

to family and friends, as well as hospital(s) and personal physician(s). • Is the building clean, inviting and well-maintained? • Is the atmosphere welcoming, with friendly, courteous staff? • Do caregivers show respect and concern for residents and family members? • Is there a common area for socializing, arts and crafts, and other activities?

Special areas for private visits? • What group and individual activities and programs are available? • Are religious services held on the premises? • What are meals like? Ask about dining procedures and policies on special

dining or menu requests. • What about safety and security features? Are there handrails in the

hallways; grab bars in the bathrooms; hallways wide enough for twowheelchairs; smoke detectors and sprinklers; alarm systems?

ROOMS• View a typical room, and ask how roommates are selected if applicable. • How is privacy respected? • How are valuable items stored or secured?

• What opportunities do residents have for personalizing the rooms? • Are private telephone lines and TVs provided?

INDIVIDUALIZED CARE• Are care plans developed with residents and families? • What specialty care programs are provided? • Is the facility ready for specific conditions, such as

Alzheimer’s and terminal illnesses? • How are prescriptions handled? • What medical professionals are available nearby

(dentists, optometrists, etc.)?

RESIDENT RIGHTS• Does the facility have a policy on individual rights, and a commitment

statement dedicated to providing the best care and atmosphere for residents? • Are restraining devices used? When and why? • Certification and Education• Is the facility an accredited health care facility? • Is the facility a current member of professional associations? • Is the latest government survey report available for review? • Does the facility have a quality improvement and assurance program? • Are staff education programs in place?

When touring, understand that every facility has a unique culture andsurroundings. It is important to determine whether the environment is right for you or your family member.


The holidays are known as a time for family gatherings, catching upwith relatives, and sometimes even the occasional family conflict. Likedrama at the holiday dinner table, in many ways your health — for betteror for worse — is influenced by your family. This year, why not start aconversation that benefits everyone? Gather your family health history.

Why it’s importantFamily history of disease is an important part of understanding your

risk for developing a number of serious diseases, including type 2diabetes. Diabetes is a serious disease that, if left untreated, can lead toserious health problems including blindness, loss of limb, kidney failure,heart disease, and early death. In fact, most people with type 2 diabeteshave a family member — such as a mother, father, brother, or sister —with the disease. The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP)encourages all families to gather their family health history this holidayseason and help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in future generations.

By knowing your family health history, sharing it with your healthcare team, and taking important steps such as maintaining a healthyweight or losing a small amount of weight if you are overweight, makinghealthy food choices, and being physically active, you can prevent ordelay type 2 diabetes (as well as other serious diseases) and help ensurethat you will be enjoying holiday family gatherings for years to come.

Four questions you should ask The answers to these key questions could help you prevent type 2

diabetes in your future. 1. Does anyone in the family have type 2 diabetes? Who has type 2diabetes?2. Has anyone in the family been told they might get diabetes?3. Has anyone in the family been told they need to lower their weight or increase their physical activity to prevent type 2 diabetes? 4. Did your mother get diabetes when she was pregnant? This is alsoknown as gestational diabetes (GDM).

If the answer to any of these is “yes”, or you have a mother, father,brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes, you may be at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Talk to your doctor and visitwww.YourDiabetesInfo.org to learn more about managing your risk and preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes.

Your history affects your child’s futureWhile you’re gathering your family’s history, you need to take your

own into consideration as well.

Gestational diabetes mellitus, or GDM, is a type of diabetes thatoccurs during pregnancy and affects about 7 percent of all U.S.pregnancies — or about 200,000 pregnancies each year. If you hadgestational diabetes when you were pregnant, you and your child have a lifelong risk for getting diabetes.• Women with a history of gestational diabetes have a 40 to 60 percentchance of developing diabetes in the 5 to 10 years after delivery.• The children of pregnancies where the mother had gestationaldiabetes are also at increased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes. • Women who have had gestational diabetes should be tested fordiabetes six to 12 weeks after their baby is born, and at least every three


Type 2 Diabetes Risk FactorsIn addition to family history and gestational diabetes, there are other

factors that increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. If one or more of the following items apply to you, be sure to talk

with your health care team about your risk for developing type 2diabetes and whether you should be tested. • I am 45 years of age or older. • I have been told by my doctor to lose weight.• My family background is African American, Hispanic/Latino, AmericanIndian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander. • I have been told that my blood glucose (blood sugar) levels are higherthan normal. • My blood pressure is 140/90 or higher, or I have been told that I havehigh blood pressure. • My cholesterol (lipid) levels are not normal. My HDL cholesterol(“good” cholesterol) is less than 35 or my triglyceride level is higher than 250.• I am physically active less than three times a week. • I have been told that I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). • The skin around my neck or in my armpits appears dirty no matter howmuch I scrub it. The skin appears dark, thick, and velvety. • I have been told that I have blood vessel problems affecting my heart,brain, or legs.

Cook potatoes in microwave on HIGHsetting for 10 to 11 minutes or until forktender. Meanwhile, place a largenonstick skillet over medium-high heatuntil hot. Sprinkle cumin and paprikaevenly over pork chops and seasonlightly with salt and pepper if desired.Cook pork chops 4 minutes on each sideor until barely pink in center. In smallbowl, stir together topping ingredientsuntil well blended. Cut potatoes in halflengthwise, fluff with a fork, and spoonequal amounts topping mixture on eachhalf. Serve with quartered orangesalongside.

LOOK AT YOUR FAMILY’S PAST TO PREVENTTYPE 2 DIABETES IN YOUR FUTURE

years after that. Mothers should let their child’s doctor know that theyhad gestational diabetes. • Women with a history of gestational diabetes can lower their risk fordeveloping diabetes by making an effort to reach and maintain a healthyweight, making healthy food choices, and being active for at least 30minutes, five days a week. Keeping a healthy lifestyle helps mother andchild lower their risk for getting diabetes in the future.

For a free tip sheet on gestational diabetes, including steps to reducethe risk of developing diabetes, call the National Diabetes EducationProgram (NDEP) at 1.888.693.NDEP or visit its website atwww.YourDiabetesInfo.org.

Cumin Pork and Sweet Potatoes with Spiced Butter Serves 4

Losing weight by makinghealthy food choices is one way to help reduce the risk ofdeveloping type 2 diabetes.Serve your family a quick andhealthy dish like this as yougather around the holidaydinner table.

Copyright © 2010 American Diabetes Association. From 15-Minute Diabetic Meals. Reprinted withpermission from The American Diabetes Association. To order this book, call 1-800-232-6733 ororder online at http://store.diabetes.org. Main Image: Photo courtesy of Getty ImagesRecipe Image: Photo courtesy of Burwell and Burwell Photography10267_UF All materials courtesy of: National Diabetes Education Prog ram

2 8-ounce sweet potatoes, pierced in several areas with fork

1/2 teaspoon ground cuminPaprika to taste

4 4-ounce boneless pork cutlets,trimmed of fat

Topping2 tablespoons reduced-fat margarine

2 tablespoons packed dark brownsugar

1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest1/4 teaspoon vanilla, butter,

and nut flavoring1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

4 small oranges, quartered

Nutritional Information: Calories 335, Calo ries from Fat 90, Total Fat 10.0 g,Saturated Fat 3.4 g, Trans Fat 0.0 g, Cholesterol 60 mg, Sodium 125 mg, Total Carbohydrate 37 g, Dietary Fiber 5 g, Sugars 22 g, Protein 24 g


Zerona fat burning laser treatments are now available at AlleghenyPhysical Medicine, PC. Zerona has recently been featured on severalpopular TV shows such as “Rachel Ray,” ABC’s “Nightline,” CBS’s“The Early Show,” and “The Doctors.” Used in over 650 doctor'soffices nationwide, the low-level laser system is FDA approved as abody contouring device and is designed to eliminate inches off specificbody areas. Zerona has been clinically proven to target fat cells causingtheir immediate collapse there by significantly reducing body volume.There is absolutely no pain, bruising, downtime, needles or surgery.Clinical trials showed no side effects.

Typically, a patient requires six treatments over the period of acouple of weeks. During treatments, patients are asked to lie for 20minutes each, face up and then face down. The laser is placed over thepatient and beams of moving light are focused on the areas beingtreated. Patients feel nothing during treatments and can resume theirnormal activities immediately.

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2011 Registration Information Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011 | 9-12 noonSaturday, Jan. 29, 2011 | 9-12 noonIndependence Middle School Cafeteria

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Hurry! Time is running out.

CASH IN ON THE $1500 TAX CREDITBEFORE ITS GONE!

It’s the kind of thing that can come in an instant like alightning bolt, or sneak in over the course of weeks like a per-sistent fog. In any form, it’s unwelcome and costs U.S. busi-nesses millions of dollars in lost work and sick days. It’s backpain, and while it’s not totally understood, it’s totally real formillions of Americans.

There are several varieties of back pain, each with theirown names based on the location on the spine from whichthey seem to originate. One of the more common ones that

you may have heard about is “lumbago,” or lower back pain.The name stems from the lumbar section of the spine, and thecondition has fueled an estimated $70 billion industry in itself

in physician services, self-help remedies, ointments, devices andmore. America’s obsession with lumbar and its proper support has

led to seats with lumbar adjustments being standard in most high-end vehicles. For those who drive economy cars, there are pillows,

wedges, lattices of beads and vibrating heating pads that plug intoyour car’s lighter socket, each proclaiming more relief than the next.

Despite the accoutrements that one can purchase, few provide total relief.That’s because the actual causes of run-of-the-mill, everyday back pain are large-ly unknown. Many reasons for serious back pain are easily diagnosed becausethey have a direct causal basis or present with other symptoms such as weightloss, fever or incontinence. Someone in a recent car accident, for example, wouldknow that their current back pain is a result of the collision. However, it’sbeen postulated that back pain may also be the result of stress at work or athome, reasons that would not show up in an MRI or X-ray.

If you’re just dealing with day-to-day aches and pains, most doctors agreethat compresses of warm, moist heat are the best way to cope. Over the counterpain relievers are also safe, so long as you take them as directed. Chiropractorsand physical therapists may be able to suggest a stretching regimen that couldalleviate some of the more common aches and pains associated with the spine.

Many Causes, Few Cures

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

most doctors agree that compresses of warm, moist heat

are the best way to cope.



In fact, more and more chiropractors have integrated techniquesinto patient visits other than the basic routine adjustment.

You might be surprised to find that your first chiropracticvisit may include 15 minutes of massage therapy, where warm,

moist heat compresses are placed on your back, followedby 15 minutes of TENS, or transcutaneous electricalnerve stimulation, which zings and zaps your muscleswith a pleasant tingling sensation.

While it all feels great, scientists are split as to whether anyof it works for the long term. A study by the American

Academy of Family Physicians came to the conclusion thatwhile heat packs, deep heat, and massage are useful in theimmediate relief of symptoms, long-term effectiveness is still inquestion, and the use of TENS therapy has demonstrated nolong term effectiveness at all.

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

tion, exercise and patient education are the best tools outthere in helping the patient in the long-term.

Exe r ci se an d pat i en tExe r ci se an d pat i e nte du cat i on ar e t h ee du cat i on ar e t h e

be st tool s ou t t h er ebe st t ool s ou t t h er ein h e lpin g th e pat i en tin h e lpin g th e pat i e nt

in t he lon g-t er m .in t h e lon g-t er m .


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

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

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

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

Each year, an individual is allowed togive a financial gift of up to $13,000 toany or as many individuals as they want towithout being subject to a gift tax. If yougive beyond this, you must fill o ut a gifttax return, which goes against the unifiedcredit amount that they are allowed togive at their death. Right now, this is not determined.

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

Federal estate taxes may have beenrepealed for 2010, but they are set toreturn on January 1, 2011, and will tax upto 55% on estates valued at more than $1million. In 2009 the rate only imposed a45% tax on estates in excess of $3.5 million,and all assets got a “step-up” in basis whensomeone died. This meant that no taxwould have to be paid on appreciated assetslike stock and real estate. But under newlaws all assets inherited may be subject tothe capital gains tax.

If the current administration'sproposal to allow rates to expire andreturn to 2009's rate, the “step-up” inbasis will return. Another proposal is tohave most of the current brackets stay but raise tax rates of the highest bracket,and taxes on dividends and capital gainsjump from 15% to 20%. The Republicanproposal is to extend current tax rates fora period of 2 years and cap dividends andcapital gains at 15%.

Marzina says that the question manypeople are asking is, if you have assetsthat have significant capital gains built in,

should you accelerate taxes and sell thoseassets in 2010 to ensure 15% tax rate,instead of waiting for 2011 and having the rate jump to 20%?

The problem here is that taxpayerswont have a lot of time to make thesedecisions. According to Marzina, if thenew tax laws are in place by Dec 1, there will only be a 30-day window tomake any decisions this year. So the bestthing to do is make those decisions asquickly as possible.

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

b y J a m i e W a r d

Older Adults in Bethel Park


Bethel Park SeniorCommunity Center5151 Park Ave. (in BP)412.831.7111

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

Medical AssistanceTransportation Program(MATP)1.888.547.6287Provides non-emergencymedical transportation toresidents of AlleghenyCounty who have a validPennsylvania Departmentof Public Welfare MedicalAssistance Card.

Free Bus Pass for SeniorCitizensThe Port Authority allowsAllegheny County

residents, 65 years of ageand older, to ride free onlocal public transportation(buses, trolleys and rapid-transit lines). Participantsmust obtain identificationcards, which are availablefree of charge, fromparticipating transportationproviders. Call412.442.2000 for thelocation nearest to you.

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

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

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

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

Senior Agenciesb y J a m i e W a r d

Older Adults in Bethel Park

ith the winter months approaching, it's time to put away the golf clubs and short sleeve shirts and break out the

jackets. It's also time to start thinking about safety.According to the National Institute of Health, more than 1 in

3 Americans over the age of 65 slips and falls each year. It's thenumber one cause of injury related deaths.

So with snow and ice just around the corner (and if movingto Florida is out of the question), it's a good idea to review sometips on keeping yourself safe this winter. • Buy shoes with a non-skid sole or with good traction to get

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

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

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

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

And as always, safety begins at home. Make sure the areasaround your home are salted and cleared. The Center forDisease Control and Prevention suggests using rock salt oranother chemical de-icing compound. If needed, as a familymember or neighbor to help you.


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When Mike Bock found out that a co-worker in his neighborhoodneeded a helping hand, he did what neighbors do and answered the call.

“Basically, it originated from the ice storm we got earlier in theyear,” Bock said. “Her gutters were hanging down and she didn’thave the means to fix it, or the help to do it.”

Bock rounded up about a dozen neighbors, gathered donations, and together, they set to work.

“We did some windows, painted doors, garage doors, got the gutters fixed and put a glass window in the basement,” Bock said.“Everybody was pitching in to give as much time as possible. If you ask people, they’ll help out. We were fortunate to get some who werereceptive to volunteering.”

The group did all the work in the course of one day, Bock said. “Everybody brought his or her talent to the table,” he said. “We

had one guy who basically had machinery so we could straighten outthe walkways. There was some heavy equipment involved as well to putwater drainage in there, so the basement never got flooded again. Wehad people there that did some home repair before, so it worked out.”

Bock said that in addition to helping out someone in need, the group got the satisfaction of bonding as neighbors.

“Of course people wouldn’t do it if they didn’t feel it didn’t benefit the neighborhood,” he said. “The pure friendship you have in a neighborhood, it obligates you do something.”

As another heating season begins, the Allegheny County HealthDepartment is joining with the Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County to remind residents about the dangerof carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that is the by-product of incomplete combustion of a fuel. Hundreds die each yearnationwide from accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, but most deathscould be prevented through greater awareness and education.

Thirty-one accidental poisonings were reported countywide during lastyear’s heating season, October 1 through May 31. Twenty-four poisonings,including three deaths, were associated with heating systems or vehiclesleft running in enclosed spaces.

Common sources of carbon monoxide are a malfunctioning or incorrectlyvented furnace, hot water heater, space heater, fireplace, cooking stove orother type of fuel-burning equipment.

Misusing a charcoal grill or a cooking stove to warm a house and leaving a car, van or truck running in an attached or integral garage are other possiblecarbon monoxide sources.

To prevent carbon monoxide problems, furnaces and fireplaces shouldbe cleaned and inspected before each heating season. Carbon monoxidehome alarms can help as well, but are not foolproof and no substitute forregular furnace maintenance.

Carbon monoxide poisoning may include any of the following symptoms:headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, loss of hearing,blurry vision, vomiting, disorientation, seizures, loss of consciousness,coma, respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.

Everyone is at risk, but individuals with health problems such as heartor lung diseases, the elderly, infants, children and pregnant women areespecially vulnerable.

Anyone who experiences symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoningshould leave the premises and immediately call 911.

The Carbon Monoxide Awareness Coalition (C-MAC) is offering afree brochure entitled “What You Should Know To Protect YourFamily From Carbon Monoxide.”The brochure is available throughthe Allegheny County Health Department by calling 412-687-ACHD orvisiting its web site at www.achd.net.

C-MAC is a voluntary community service group that includes emergency,fire and health officials, natural gas utilities; instrument testing companies;and heating contractors.

Poorly Maintained or Malfunctioning Heating Systems Are Often to Blame

TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING


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

“When you’re 91, you’ve got all kinds of stories to tell,” Carol says of Mr. Ochs,whom she spends time with every week as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to aSenior, an initiative of United Way of Allegheny County in cooperation with FamilyServices of Western Pennsylvania and North Hills Community Outreach.

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

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

Laughter seems to be a regular part of their routine. Duringtheir mile-long walks, they exchange stories of their lives andshare advice.

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

Currently unemployed and looking for a new job, Carol sawan opportunity to volunteer as a way to do something that givesher meaning. “It really puts perspective on things,” she says ofher experience with Mr. Ochs and other seniors she drives todoctors’ appointments. “Who needs anti-depressants?” she jokesbut quickly takes a serious turn, “It brings a lot of joy in my life.”

Right now, Open Your Heart to a Senior is looking forvolunteers in every corner of Allegheny County, from as little asan hour a month to routine weekly visits. Whether it’s help withgrocery shopping, home safety checks or snow shoveling andyard work, thousands of seniors in our neighborhoods could usesome assistance. In addition to individual volunteers like Carol,families and groups are also welcome.

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

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


When attending a party, I always try to remember to take a hostess gift. Hostess gifts are really just a small

gesture – something to thank your host for being so welcoming.But, what to bring? It depends on how well you know yourhostess and how formal the party.

Gifts of food and beverage are always welcome. In a pinch,

your host can set out your cookies ordrinks if supplies run low. Just check withyour hostess to make sure they are servingalcohol before you decide on the Cabernetor Riesling.

For parties that are more formal in nature,a gift of chocolates or

bottle of champagne are wonderful andthoughtful gifts. Flowers are a great optionif you have them arranged in a vase beforeyou arrive or delivered the day before theparty. Your hostess will be so grateful notto have to stop and tend to your gift whiletrying to welcome her guests!

Scented candles, lotions or a CD of your host’s favorite type of music

make great gifts. A homemade jar of jam, ormuffins wrapped in a cellophane bag and tiedwith ribbon will be something your hostess willtruly appreciate. For someone who loves thekitchen, soap and lotion caddies for the kitchensink or beautiful kitchen towels are memorablegifts that won’t go unnoticed. Last fall, Ireceived a basket of tomatoes from my friend’sPeters Township garden and was so thrilled!Always remember to place a small note withyour gift. The next day, you host won’t bescratching her head wondering who was sothoughtful to remember her with that lovely gift!


When people hear that someone is getting braces, immediately images of“metal mouth” come to mind. This treatment is most commonly associatedwith teenagers and at one time may have lead to embarrassment andinsecurity. However, today braces are so widely accepted during the schoolage years that children are sometimes eager to begin orthodontic treatment.It is refreshing to see this shift in acceptance among teenagers.

What about the adults who have crooked, crowded, uneven, or spacedsmiles? There are adults who may have missed the opportunity to straightentheir teeth when they were younger and are now looking at their options.The work place can be as unforgiving as high schools once were. However,this shouldn't limit adults from the opportunity to have a straighter, moreattractive smile. There are currently a few options for adults to have theirteeth straightened. The traditional method of metal braces and wires over atreatment time of a couple years is still a great option for a straigher smile. For some patients teeth this may be the only real option. Many people do,however, fall into a category that can benefit from Invisalign or "Short TermOrthodontics." Almost everyone has heard of Invisalign and it is a greattreatment option for patients with mild crowding and moderate spacingHowever, there are limitations in tooth movement for more severecases. Short-Term Orthodontics can provide an alternative to traditionalbraces and Invisalign. All three options have their benefits and limitationsthat should be explored before making a decision.

6 month smiles is a cosmetic short-term orthodontic option that usesclear brackets and tooth colored wires. The average treatment time is sixmonths. The technique works by focusing treatment on the patient'sprimary concern. The faster treatment times are accomplished by treatingonly the teeth you see when you smile, not by increasing the forces on theteeth. 6 Month Smiles does not make major changes to the alignment of the back teeth as traditional braces can. Fortunately, most adults’ primarycosmetic concerns do not involve the back teeth. The treatment comfort iscomparable to traditional braces. With 6 Month Smiles, your smile can bestraighter and more symmetrical in 5-8 months. Whitening is also includedwith treatment. Another benefit of 6 Month Smiles is that it is typically amore economical choice due to shorter treatment times and lower cost.

6 Month smiles is not a replacement for traditional braces, but rather an alternative that can provide a more symmetrical and pleasing smile foradults who are not interested in the time, costs, or cosmetics of traditionalbraces. Children are still best treated by traditional comprehensiveorthodontics, but it is nice for adults to have one more option for astraighter smile. Dr. Rairigh is a certified Invisalign and 6 Month Smilesprovider. Learn more at PittsburghIsSmiling.com or 6MonthSmiles.com.

Straighter in 6 Months

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

at them in tranquil adoration. My own memories are also quite happy.But after comparing notes, I have slowly come to realize that my entirefamily is quite possibly out of their spruce tree. So, for an inside look athow a dysfunctional family spends its Christmas, please read on…

Immediately after Thanksgiving, a disturbing lunar phase wouldalways begin at our house. My otherwise fairly normal, career-orientedmother would begin to clean our house in anticipation of my grandpar-ents’ arrival for Christmas. Not the normal tidying up one might do for afamily visit. No, this was more like a murder had been committed at ourhouse and my mother’s cleaning was the frantic attempts of the killer toremove every shred of DNA evidence. My mother would methodicallybegin to disinfect every object in our house, including the dogs. Noteven my toys, which were thoroughly soaked in bleach, were spared,resulting in my Malibu Barbie turning into a white-haired old lady inneed of a sunbed. I have never been sure why my mother was so intimi-dated by her mother-in-law, but she apparently lived in fear that the frail,gray-haired woman would somehow drag a stepladder into the kitchenand, risking hip fracture, stand on the top rung to inspect for dust abovethe cabinets.

My father’s style of celebrating the holidays was the polar opposite of aBrady Bunch Christmas. Less than enthused about stimulating the econo-my through gift-giving, he wasn’t terribly fond of the Christmas tree either.So in their new house, he ingeniously designed a special closet where afully decorated Christmas tree on rollers could be wheeled out Dec. 1 andneatly rolled back into the closet on Dec. 26. Surely, he must be at leastpartially responsible for my quirky and oftentimes odd behavior.

December 18 my grandparents would arrive. My grandfather wouldwheel into the driveway, screeching tires, and jump out of their Buickproudly announcing, “Made it in 6 hours and 15 minutes,” the goalbeing to shave minutes off of last year’s time. My grandmother, stillwhite-lipped from the G-forces, would peel herself off the car seat and

wobble in, complainingthat my grandfather haddriven 85 mph all the way.

On Christmas Day,my mother, who doesnot cook but is highlyskilled at thawingand microwav-ing, morphedinto BettyCrocker,attempting suchcomplex dishes asgreen-bean-casse-role and con-gealed salad.Unfortunately withthe pressure of theday, she would usuallycharcoalize the green-beancasserole. (I’m not sure ifcharcoalize is a word, but Ireally like it.)

One holiday, my thoughtful grandfather shocked the entire village bycrossing gender lines and washing dishes. Unfortunately, while dishwashing,his dentures flew into the garbage disposal as if sucked out of his mouthby an unseen evil force. He quickly turned off the disposal and pulledout a set of mangled dentures. Silently, he turned the switch back on andthrew the dentures back into the garbage disposal. I miss him.

Maybe we are all a little dysfunctional in one way or another. With theholidays, it’s easy for anyone to get a little neurotic. So, in between cursingthe bakery for selling the last Boston crème pie and that mad dash for the lastparking space at the mall, just keep saying under your breath, “Peace. And on earth, good will toward mankind.” Happy holidays.



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Send along a photo, their name and where they serve to [email protected].

ATTENTION MILITARY FAMILIESDo you know of someone from the Bethel Park area who is serving in the armed forces? We would love to highlight their commitment to our country!


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

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

Studies have shown that little over 10 percentof those engaging in New Year’s resolutionsactually follow through with their goals. Successin achieving those goals stems from taking babysteps, or realistic approaches to achievement.

Denise Hardt, owner of Anytime Fitness atRobinson Towne Center, said burnout is a majorfactor in people not following through with theirworkout routines.

“Everyone should start a workout program in moderation,” Hardt said. “Control yourmotivation and enthusiasm so you don’t burnoutafter only a few weeks of exercise, and incorporateminor modifications into your workout everyfour weeks. Overhaul you’re entire workoutprogram every two to three months.”

Hardt also said that figuring out where cardioexercise belongs in their routine also is a factorthat can help them to avoid burnout.

“Most people think that starting out withcardio is good because it helps to warm up musclesbefore weight training. Other people feel startingout with cardio may cause too much fatigue,which could lower your workout intensity andmake lifting with proper form more difficult,” shesaid. “Truthfully, there is no right or wronganswer. Different people will need to rotate theirroutine differently. The best advice is to pay

attention to your fitness goals. If you are focuseda bit more on endurance try to do your cardiofirst when you’ll have the most energy. On theother hand, if your goal is to pack on muscle

mass work the weights first before cardio.”Pursuing a healthier lifestyle is always a good

idea, and while many people make it their NewYear’s resolution to get back in shape, expertsagree that any health program should be focusedon progressive, attainable and realistic goals.However it’s also a great idea not to overindulgeduring the holidays in the first place.

Gaining 10 pounds after partying for amonth, grazing cookies at the office and havingextra desserts at grandma’s, is a lot easier thandoing 30 minutes at the gym everyday for twoweeks to negate those calories. While it's a clichemoderation is still the key to a balanced lifestyleand you’ll be doing yourself a favor bypassingthat cookie tray or second glass of wine in thefirst place.

“Studies have shown that little over 10 percent of those

engaging in New Year’sresolutions actually followthrough with their goals.”

VOLUNTEER TAX

Your volunteer experience is ashort-term commitment (3+hoursper week from January-April), convenient (our six free tax sitesare located across AlleghenyCounty and close to where youlive and work), and easy toschedule (daytime, evening, andweekend hours are available).

If you have experience preparing yourown tax returns, we need you! Learnmore about the Free Tax Campaign at www.pghfreetaxes.org.

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REAL ESTATEIN Bethel Park

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

January is the perfect time to get your house ready for sale, said LoriCrandell, Realtor and Associate Broker with Coldwell Banker.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

that your house will start getting online attention.

HOME S FOR THE HOLID AYS

A L L S O L D I N B E T H E L PA R K

Real Estate Mortgage Title Insurance

Email: [email protected]

Do you know someone who is

do i ng somethi ng good for t he communi ty?

Maybe it's your Mom—does she volunteer with a charitable organization? Has your child volunteered their time somewhere? We want to knowabout it and honor their commitment!

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A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN BELONG

PLATFORM TENNIS COURTS

VENUE # OF COURTS

Mt. Lebanon Twp 4

Valleybrook Country Club 2

St. Clair Country Club 4

Upper St. Clair Twp 2

If you’re looking for something to do this winter that doesn’trequire loading up an SUV full of ski equipment and a 40-minutedrive to find some slopes, you may want to look into the fast-pacedand enjoyable sport of platform tennis.

Played outdoors on aluminum courts, platform tennis is agrowing recreational choice for thousands of Americans each year.Once found only in country club settings, the American PlatformTennis Association has made great strides through the years tomake the sport more accessible for the masses through publicoutreach and by setting up a grant program for local clubs to makeimprovements to existing facilities or to build new ones.

The sport is similar to tennis in that there’s a court and a net, but that’s where the similarities end. Courts are fenced in and shotsmay be played off the fence.

League play is designed for all ages and skill sets, so that everyonecan enjoy the fun. Spectators gather with players between sets insmall, indoor settings called “paddle huts,” which range in sizefrom trailers to stand-alone buildings.

Racquets are similar to those used in racquetball, with holesdrilled through them for aerodynamic advantage. Balls are madefrom a rubber-based material with a surface that keeps them fromskidding off the court.

While the sport is played in the dead of winter, most courts haveheating systems beneath them that keep them clear and free of snow and ice. Additional maintenance usually is provided by clubstaff or dedicated volunteers.

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

For more information about platform tennis, check out the APTAwebsite at www.platformtennis.org, or the Western PennsylvaniaPlatform Tennis Association’s website at www.wppta.org.

The sport is similar to tennis in that there’s a court and a net, but that’s where the similarities end.

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