in-monroeville-fall

FALL 2011 SERVING THE RESIDENTS OF MONROEVILLE AND PITCAIRN

Pitcairn Citizen of the Year Jim Fox

Monroeville Senior Citizens

Have a Wii Good Time.

Gateway StudentsReceive Honors

Back to

School

Thank you, Pittsburgh.

At UPMC Health Plan, we don’t set out to win awards. We simply focus on doing what’sright for our members. Like providing them with access to world-renowned UPMC doctorsand hospitals as well as outstanding community hospitals and physicians. Giving them thetools and programs they need to live a healthy lifestyle. And offering them a personal HealthCare Concierge and online chat capabilities to answer all of their questions. So when J.D.Power and Associates ranked us Highest in Member Satisfaction among Commercial HealthPlans in Pennsylvania, we don’t see it as adding another award to the trophy case. We see itas doing our jobs.To learn more visit upmchealthplan.com.

UPMC Health Plan received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Pennsylvania in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Member Health InsurancePlan StudySM. Study based on 33,039 total member responses, measuring 11 plans in the Pennsylvania-Delaware Region (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are

based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2010-January 2011. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

“Highest Member Satisfaction Among Commercial Health Plans in Pennsylvania”

While it might not be music to the kids’ ears, I love the sound of school buses inthe morning. It sounds like—education! I was actually one of those weird kids

who loved going to school. This edition of Monroeville Magazine features some news for those going back

to school in the Gateway School District, and a few items on some of the outstandingstudents in the district. One of my favorite subjects in school was history. We feature astory on the Monroeville Historical Society and some of the artifacts that have beendonated to the organization over the years. Speaking of history, recently the town had itsfirst Founders Day. We talked to some of the folks involved and include some of the

fascinating history of Pitcairn’s roots. Did you know that the founderof Fox’s Pizza Den is from Pitcairn. Well, he is and we profile Jim

Fox, who was Pitcairn’s Citizen of the Year. We also tell youhow folks at the Senior Citizens Center in Monroeville gettheir bowling on, using the Wii.

As always, we want to hear from you. What’s going onout there that we should be covering? What’s happening

in your schools, organizations, churches? What friend orfamily member deserves a profile? Please, drop me an

email at [email protected], it’s back to school time. So parents,

enjoy sending them out the door and onto the path of knowledge, and enjoy this edition of

Monroeville Magazine!

Welcome to the Fall issue of Monroeville magazine. As the summer windsdown, and the kids get ready to go back to school, I sincerely hope that you

and your family had some time to get away from it all and relax. It seems that thesedays, parents driving the family taxi, and kids with their sports/lessons/parties rarelyget a chance to enjoy the slow pace of an ever more elusive “lazy summer.”

Ask yours elf—when was the last time everyone ate together around a family table?When did everyone gather to play a board game? Does anyone remember boardgames? If your answer was “That one night that the power went out,” then you mightbe trapped in the 21st century jail of hyper-life. (I made that term up, but I can dothat—I’m the publisher.) I’m not an old guy, unless you ask my kids,but I think that life should be simpler. Moms, dads, brothers,sisters, should all try to spend some time with each other as afamily more than that one night when the power goes out.Family time is an important part of being a community.And every community should value quality time with theirfamilies—it’s how we teach our children values, etiquette,and more importantly, how to participate in a familystructure so they can pass on to their kids what youworked so hard to build. Recently, I saw a commercialwhere a father shut off the main power to the house sothat the family could enjoy dinner together and blamedthe outage on a thunderstorm. The Xboxes were dead. TheFacebook was closed. The kids came downstairs indisillusionment to ask what happened. While the commercial was pushing some tastydinner product, the message was more palatable—you have to make family time. Iwould take that message one step further—you have to make family time a priority. Ihope that it’s one of yours.

Have a great fall!

Monica L. HaynesEastern Regional Editor

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SPRING 2011IN Monroeville is a non-partisan communitypublication dedicated to representing,encouraging and promoting the Monroeville area and its comprising municipalities byfocusing on the talents and gifts of the peoplewho live and work here. Our goal is to providereaders with the most informative andprofessional regional publication in theCommonwealth of Pennsylvania.

PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard

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FALL 2011

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When hundreds gathered at the MonroevilleConvention Center July 9 for the Guns &Hoses boxing event, it was less about theboxing and more about trying to help someone in need.

That’s because proceeds from the annual eventbenefited Clairton Police Officer James Kuzak,who was shot in April while responding to a homeinvasion call in Clairton. The 39-year-old officerattended the event, which pits police officers,

firefighters and other boxing amateurs against eachother. Money raised during that evening also went toGive Kids The World, an organization that fulfills thewishes of children with life-threatening illnesses.

Some of the police and volunteer fire departmentsrepresented included Clairton, White Oak, Wilkins, andAmbridge among others. There were also boxersrepresenting the Allegheny County Police and City ofPittsburgh Police. The Allegheny County Sheriff’sDepartment officers were in attendance, as were officersfrom Mt. Lebanon and Monroeville. Other boxers camefrom various Police Athletic Leagues in the region andsome from as far away as Buffalo, N.Y. Also participatingwas Golden Gloves state champion John Doyle.

The event was organized by Jimmy Cvetic, a retiredAllegheny County p olice officer and longtime directorof the Western Pennsylvania Police Athletic League.

Beginning in January 2012, localearned income taxes will becollected under a new system that

will include mandatory tax withholding byemployers throughout Pennsylvania. Thechange in the local tax law brought byPennsylvania Act 32 will also increase on-line filing by both area employers andindividual taxpayers.

The municipalities and school districtsin this region selected KeystoneCollections Group to implement Act 32, acompany that will offer user-friendlyelectronic filing options to area residentsand businesses.

The IRS estimates that at least 87percent of taxpayers filed their Federaltaxes electronically for 2010. Now, theconvenience of electronic filing will finallybe available for local taxpayers inSoutheastern Allegheny County.

Keystone’s INTERNET e-File systemprovides a secure, user-friendly interface tofile and pay taxes on-line. Its web-basedBusiness Portal makes employer compliancewith mandatory filing an easy process.

“We are confident that this new servicewill be a huge help to a great number ofbusinesses and their employees in thearea,” said Rose Harr, Keystone’s Vice

President of Community Relations. “Weare continually looking for ways toimprove our level of service to taxpayers,and INTERNET filing is a giant leap inthat direction.”

Keystone scheduled employer trainingsessions across the region throughout Julyand August to teach business owners andpayroll administrators what the new lawrequires and how to file on-line. As part ofmandatory withholding, employers mustobtain residence jurisdiction informationfrom each employee on an officialCertificate of Residency. The employermust then provide the correct politicalsubdivision (PSD) code for eachemployee’s place of residence inaccordance with the coding scheduledeveloped by the Commonwealth.

“It is important for businesses to learnabout the new law and their withholdingrequirements as quickly as possible,” saidJoe Lazzaro, Keystone’s General Counsel.“Businesses that get ready now will makethe transition in January an easy process.”

Keystone’s websitewww.keystonecollects.com provides easylinks and instructions to the employers’Business Portal and to e-File. The systemwalks the taxpayer through the process,including creating a secure log-in.Businesses also have access to a specialEmployer Help Phone Line.

Tax preparers may use the system toassist their area resident clients, and manylocal accountants have already begun usingthe system.

Upon completion of the process, eachfiler receives a confirmation messageinforming that the tax return was e-Filed.

GOVERNMENTINFORMATIONBorough ManagerPatty LogoAvailable at the office:• Permit and inspection information• Park Building or Sugar Camp rental information

REPRESENTATIVESState SenatorJames Brewster412.380.2242

State Representative Joseph Markosek412.856.8284

ELECTED OFFICIALSMayor John McCreary412.372.6500

CouncilOrelio Vecchio, Council PresidentJohn Prucnal, Vice PresidentJohn BovaGeorge BurkhardtPat LorincPatsy PizzutoTom Wiater

BOROUGH MEETINGS7 p.m. in the Pitcairn Borough Council ChambersCouncil Agenda Workshop: Second TuesdayCouncil Business Meeting: Fourth Tuesday

PITCAIRN BOROUGH COMMUNITY EVENTSAdvertised on Pitcairn Community Station–Ch. 4: Easter Egg HuntHarvest Festival Spring/Fall Clean-UpCommunity DaySummer Lunch ProgramFireman’s Fair Summer Recreation ProgramOld Fashioned Christmas

6 Monroeville

BOROUGHOF Pitcairn

KEYSTONE IMPROVESLocal Tax System

“It is important forbusinesses to learnabout the new lawand their witholdingrequirements asquickly as possible.”

– Joe LazzaroKeystone’s General Counsel

Pitcairn native Jim Fox can recall the first time hefell in love – with pizza.

“I started making pizzas when I was 12 years old in1959 in a little pizza shop in Monroeville called OriginalHouse of Pizza,” the businessman recalled. “It wasalmost one of those love at first sight kind of things.”

Fox knew then that pizza was the one for him. Oh,he looked into other options, working a myriad ofjobs, including a stint at what was then Mellon Bank.But eventually, he returned to his first love. In 1971,he opened his first pizza shop on Broadway Avenue inPitcairn. “It just took off from day one,” he said. “Ithink what helped me out down there was being bornand raised in Pitcairn. I knew a lot of people.”

Today, there are 297 Fox’s Pizza Dens in 23 states,making about 10 million pizzas and 10 million sandwiches a year. The guy who started itall never forgot his roots in Pitcairn, nor the people who were so instrumental in helpingto make that first shop (which is still in operation) a success.

In June, Fox, founder and president of Fox’s Pizza Den Inc., was honored as Pitcairn’sCitizen of the Year by the Times Express for all the charitable work in which he’s involvedin Pitcairn and the surrounding area. Every community organization that’s ever doneanything in Pitcairn, Fox has probably had some kind of hand in it – whether it’s Camp Band Camp G, alumni organizations, the Lions Club, the Pitcairn Women’s Club, orPitcairn Community Day. “Pitcairn is an active little community for as small as it is,” Foxsaid. “They’ve always got something going.”

It was a capacity crowd at the dinner honoring Fox, who said it was nice to have hiswife, son and daughter-in-law recognized during the event.

Fox, who lives in Murrysville, also gives back as a motivational speaker, business leaderand mentor to young people and future entrepreneurs. “I’ve been working full time since Iwas 10 years old,” he said. “I did every damn job I could do in Pitcairn. That’s what I’vebeen able to instill in an awful lot of young people. I’ve literally helped hundreds of kidsget started in their own businesses, give them some focus.” One of the kids he’s extremelyproud of inspiring is his son, Jim Fox, Jr., who’s involved in the business. “I’ve likedwatching my son develop into the guy that he is.”

While admittedly not a very religious man, he said he believes that making a differencein the lives of young people and inspiring them to reach their full potential has alwaysbeen his calling. “I’m dumber than a box of rocks, so if I could do this and be successful, I

can sure teach you,” he chuckled. Not one to rest on his considerable

laurels, you can find Fox working in theoffice at his distribution center inMurrysville six days a week. Asked ifhe’d ever retire to some sunny tropicalparadise, he replied, “I’m aMonroeville/Pitcairn guy to the death.They’ll be burying me down atPierce’s Funeral Home. I have nointention of retiring.”


PITCAIRN DIRECTORYPolice/Fire Emergency 911

Police Non-Emergency412.856.1111

Pitcairn Police Department 412.372.6505Chief: Dennis Hockenberry 412.372.6505

Fire Non-Emergency Pitcairn Hose No. 1: 412.372.7040Chief – Henry Farally

Pitcairn Hose No. 2: 412.856.5630 Chief – Brian Spudy

Ambulance Pitcairn Ambulance 412.856.6432

Gateway School District 412.372.5300

Tax Collector Sally DiRobbio 412.372.3009

Wage Tax Collector EIT Collector 412.856.1045

Borough EngineerEADS 412.754.0801

Borough SolicitorBruce Dice and Associates 412.733.3080

MagistrateJeffery Herbst 412.372.1125

Animal Control Triangle Pet 412.771.7387

Trash Nickolich Sanitation 412.233.8666

UtilitiesWilkinsburg Penn Joint Water 412.243.6200Equitable Gas Company 412.395.3050ALCOSAN Sewage 412.766.6696Verizon Telephone 800.660.2215

Pitcairn Borough Electric/Cable Department Pitcairn Power 582 Sixth Street, Pitcairn, PA 15140412.372.6500 Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday

Monthly bills include electric usage, cable, andgarbage. Bills are sent out approximately the15th of each month, and are due the fifth ofeach month. There is a drop off box on the frontdoor of the Borough building for payments afteroffice hours.

Trash Days: Trash may be put out after 6 p.m. onthe day before collection.

CITIZENYEARPITCAIRN

OFTHE

BOROUGHOFPitcairnThis year is the 50th anniversary of Pitcairn's

purchase of Sugar Camp Park. Why not celebratewith an event of your own at the multipurpose

recreational facility on Wall Avenue.Amenities include two picnic pavilions, full kitchen,

restrooms, basketball court, playground with swings, anda recreational field for outdoor sports. Ample parking isavailable, and electricity is provided at the pavilion.

As the summer winds down, Sugar Camp Park is theperfect place, for a good-bye-to summer gathering, a back-to-school party, family reunion or just chillaxing.

Residents in need of an indoor facility, need look nofurther than the Pitcairn Park Building, on Broadway.This space is suited for meetings, large parties, nearly anyevent, ranging from 150 to 200 people. Like Sugar Camp,the Park Building has a full kitchen, restrooms, and ampleparking. It also has air conditioning, which is always niceduring those dog days of summer. You can also have yourevent listed on the outdoor marquee.

Facilities Rental

For more information about renting apark pavilion at Sugar Camp or thefacilities at Pitcairn Park Building,please visit the borough's website atwww.pitcairnborough.us or call theborough offices at 412-372-6500.

8 Monroeville

Chinese food is such a staple of the American diningexperience that it is easy to become complacent andaccept mediocrity.

A visit to the China Palace in Monroeville’s Jonnet Plaza,however, is the perfect way to get your taste buds out of thedoldrums. Owner George Zhu prides himself on servingauthentic dishes using only the highest quality ingredients.You can taste the difference. For example, even those whoare not fans of Chinese menu must-haves like General Tso’sChicken will become converts after tasting the dish the way the China Palace prepares it.The chicken is tender, the breading is perfect—not too much—and the sauce is flavorful withoutbeing overpowering. The freshness of the seafood is quite evident in the Emerald Shrimp &Scallops, which has tender scallops and jumbo shrimp sautéed with crisp vegetables in a delectablewhite sauce.

A diner really can’t go wrong with any dish he or she might select at the China Palace because itis truly a place where you get to have it your way. “We cook to order,” Zhu said. “We do WeightWatchers cooking, low sodium, no MSG cooking.” Indeed, there’s a full Weight Watchers menuwhere food is steamed and prepared with less oil. Those who need their food gluten-free can have itthat way, too. Lovers of Thai food have a myriad of choices, including lemongrass soup with achoice of shrimp or chicken, a choice of green, red or pineapple curry dishes, Chicken Satay, andPad Thai Noodles, just to name a few of the items on the menu. But if you don’t see something onthe restaurant’s menu, just ask, Zhu said.

Some of the more popular items are: perennial favorite chicken with broccoli, Hunan Chickenand Hunan Shrimp, and Royal Delight, which consists of fresh jumbo shrimp, chicken and beefsautéed with mixed vegetables in the chef’s special brown sauce.

While the China Palace’s décor provides a sleek, modern yetrelaxing dining atmosphere, the large flat-screen TV behind the bar(which is stocked full of domestic and imported brews) also makesthe restaurant an ideal spot to catch a Steelers game. But if you’dlike to have your own gathering, the China Palace has a privateroom that can be used for parties or business meetings. If you can’tmake it to the China Palace, the restaurant will come to you—within a three-mile radius and having a minimum takeout order of$15. The China Palace provides catering services as well so there’sreally no excuse not to have some delicious, authentic Chinese foodat your next event.

Once you’ve tasted the China Palace’s offerings, it will becomeyour new place for Chinese cuisine.

China Palace is located at 4059 William Penn Highway inthe Jonnet Plaza. It’s open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., andSunday, 12:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Phone number: 412.373.7423.No reservation is necessary unless you are bringing alarge party. For the restaurant’s full menu, visitwww.chinapalacemonroeville.com.


China Palace –


hen Monroeville resident Art Green, a retiredengineer and quality improvement consultant forWestinghouse, began his own consulting firm, he

didn’t even know about SCORE, an organization of retiredand working professionals who volunteer to help burgeoningbusinesses.

That is certainly no longer the case.Green was named 2011 Western Pennsylvania District SBA

SCORE Volunteer of the Year recently at a luncheon inPittsburgh held in conjunction with a celebration of NationalSmall Business Week.

“I’m very honored,” Green said in an interview withMonroeville Magazine. “I have a lot of great peers who do

the same thing I do.” He said there are between 10,000 and13,000 SCORE counselors across the country like himself. Theone-on-one counseling that they provide is free.

Green, who holds a degree in mathematics from St. VincentCollege, a degree in electrical engineering from what is nowCarnegie Mellon University and a master’s in business from theUniversity of Pittsburgh, has traveled the globe in his positionwith Westinghouse focusing on improving productivity andquality. Prior to that job, he worked in the company’sengineering department building control systems to automatesteel mills and power plants.

After 34 years, Green retired and started his own consultingbusiness. “When I became the sole owner of my business, I wasthe consultant and the marketer and the accountant and I


probably did a lot of things wrong.” Still, after a SCORE member told him about the organization

during a golf game, Green joined the Pittsburgh Chapter in 2005.“It’s been a great experience and I even have an office – which isPanera Bread restaurant in Monroeville,” he said jokingly.

Green has about 30 clients that he works with to help themdetermine if they’re prepared to start a business. He also helpsexisting businesses with whatever issues they might have. Whilehe does meet clients at Panera Bread, he likes getting out of his“office” when dealing with already established businesses. “I’drather go to the business so I can see hands-on what thechallenges are,” Green said. For example, he helped a smallcleaning business develop a better inventory system.

“Here you have a retired executive who for many monthslent his productivity and inventory expertise to a smallbusiness,” said Western Pennsylvania SBA District directorCarl Knoblock. “It’s a win-win situation for the counselor, thebusiness and the community.”

In addition to his business counseling duties, Green is also co-chair for Pittsburgh SCORE’s monthly Small Business Basicsworkshops, where guest speakers include business planners,Certified Public Accountants, marketing experts, lawyers, etc.

“It’s intended to help either people who want to beentrepreneurs or people who have an existing business andneed help.” The workshops are held one Saturday each monthand the cost to attend is $45, which covers the cost of the venue,a continental breakfast and handouts. Green said the workshopsget very high marks from attendees, according to evaluationforms they fill out. “Ninety-nine of our 100 respondents say theworkshop is worth their time,” he added.

Green said he always tells his clients not to consider theirinitial session the only session. They can come back for follow-up assistance if they so desire. “I also have a tickler file where Iwill call people who I have not heard from,” he said.

A 72-year-old father of three and grandfather of eight,Green said that despite his volunteer duties with SCORE, hestill finds time to attend his grandchildren’s ball games andplay a little golf.


13th Kids’ & Teens’ Korner Art Show

WINNERSKids’ KornerFirst Place Grace HansmondSecond Place Rose BuzzieThird Place Gordon Wallace Baiza

Honorable MentionSamantha AnkerSondaya BeyAllison Swaney

TEENS’ KORNERFirst Place Joy PedrowSecond Place Valerie PascoThird Place Sarah Sheldon

Honorable MentionChris CampbellRachel Rosenstein Nazokat Tukhtamurodovo

People’s Choice AwardSelected by voters at the weeklong art showRachel Rosenstein

It was a rewarding day for everyone who attended theMonroeville Arts Council's Kids' & Teens' Korner Art ShowAwards Ceremony at Monroeville Mall on Saturday, May 7. Not

only did the participants and parents enjoy the day, but IsabelleRoss and Vera Perry, who chaired the show, received many nicecomments for their work. Parents, students, and teachers realizedthe considerable time and effort it took to organize this show fromthe solicitation of art work at Gateway Schools, gathering theentries, hanging the art on screens so the public could enjoy thechildren’s talents, manning the welcome table during the week-long

show, and arranging for judging. The children’s smiles gave the chairpersons and MAC volunteers

more rewards when the participants saw ribbons attached to theirentries. The chairpersons made sure that not only the winnersreceived ribbons, but everyone who entered received a participant’sribbon. The winners shared in monetary awards provided by agenerous donation by Monroeville’s Bondi Lincoln Mercurydealership, which has sponsored the show for 13 years. GrettaSeversen, Gateway Middle School art teacher, had the pleasure ofannouncing the winners and giving out the prizes.

Monroeville Arts Council’s Kids’& Teens’ Korner

ART SHOWby Marilyn K. Wempa

MAC President Marilyn Wempa with Art Show Chairs Isabelle Ross and Vera Perry

to the winnersof the 13th Kids’ & Teens’ Korner Art Show!Congratulations


<< First Place Teens’ Winner and Gateway senior, Joy Pedrow,with her self-portrait of a bull fight reflected in her glasses.

Kids’ & Teens’ Korner Art Show Winners - NazokatTukhtamurodovo, Grace Hansmann, Samantha Anker,

and Rosie Buzzie with Joy Pedrow in rear. >>

Samantha Anker drew“Jesus Rises from the

Dead” station of the cross. >>

Eva Martino, right, showed her sister, Lily Harvey,her pretty cardinal entry.

Chair Isabelle Ross giving Gordon Baiza his ThirdPlace Award for his painting “Happiness.”

People’s Choice painting was entered by RachelRosenstein, a Gateway High School junior. Award wasdetermined by votes of visitors to the weeklong show.

<< Ava McCaffrey was proud of her painting“A Wolf Lost in the Woods.”

“Right now Pitcairn is going through a rough time,” saidDoug Crothers, one of the Founders Day organizers. “Wewanted to open up the town and give the non-profits a chanceto do something and bring people from out of town in to seewe’re not as bad as they think we are.”

The idea for a Founders Day came from a brainstormingsession among members of thePitcairn Business Association,the Pitcairn Historica l Societyand the Pitcairn CommunityRenaissance. They thenenlisted the aid of other groupsincluding the Pitcairn Women’sClub and the Rainbow Girls.The day kicked off with apancake breakfast sponsored bythe Women’s Club, andincluded a Burger Blastsponsored by PitcairnCommunity Renaissance, localcrafters, food vendors andother local community organizations.

“We felt it was fairly successful,” Crothers said. “We talkedto outside vendors and most of them were happy witheverything and said they’d like to come back next year.”

What was also part of the Founders Day was a display bythe Pitcairn Historical Society that included a video and oldphotographs depicting a much different time in the life of thetown named after railroad superintendent Robert Pitcairn, whowas instrumental in securing land in 1874 for expansion of thePennsylvania Railroad in what was then part of PattonTownship. However, before becoming part of PattonTownship, the area was known as McGinnisville, named for

John McGinnis, who in 1835 owned what is the core ofmodern day Pitcairn.

The area’s first documented land owner was AeneasMcKay, a member of the British colonial government who in1769 purchased a 300-acre tract of land north of Turtle Creek.It later was dubbed “Dirty Camp” after Colonel Henry

Bouquet and his troops cameupon an encampment left inshambles by some hastilyretreating Indians. The nearbycreek was called Dirty CampRun. At one point, it was calledDog Town because the firstthree or four homeowners inthe area also owned aninordinate number of dogs,according to Harry Fells, a pastpresident of the PitcairnHistorical Society. In 1894,after having been part of PattonTownship (the precursor to

Monroeville) and a stint as Wallurbia, the Turtle Creek Valleytown officially became known as Pitcairn. Robert Pitcairnagreed to lend his name to the town as long as there were nobars within its limits, Fells said.

“The biggest thing for our town was the railroad,” Fells said.“There were houses built by the railr oad and there were otherhouses built from the railroad.” During its heyday in the 1940s,the rail yard was a constant hub of activity, with its eastboundand westbound humps sending rail cars to the appropriateengines. Pitcairn also had its own train station and Fells recallsriding trains from Pitcairn to Greensburg. While about 100trains a day come through Pitcairn now, there is no longer a

When Pitcairn held its inaugural Founders Day in June, it was a chance forthose who live in the borough—and those who don’t—to get out into the town,socialize, and find out about some of the community organizations that are proudto call Pitcairn home. It was also an opportunity to learn the fascinating history of

the place that once laid claim to being the largest rail yard in the world.


–Doug Crothers

Founders Day organizer

station. “To some degree we did prettygood for a while,” Fells said. “But we’restruggling now compared to what the townhad been like.”

At one point the town had a semi-probaseball team owned by the railroadcompany called the Railroaders. “Theyplayed the Homestead Grays one time andJosh Gibson smacked a home run,” Fellssaid. The building on which that ball landedis still standing, he added. It’s ac onsignment shop.

“Some of those guys could have playedprofessional ball,” Fells explained. “Therailroad company said, ‘If you play ball forus, we’ll give you easy jobs.’” So the playersworked easy jobs during the off-season andonly played baseball during baseball season.

Fells’ personal roots run deep inPitcairn. His mother’s family came to thearea in 1903; his father’s family came in1927. His grandfather was the principal ofPitcairn High School. That schooleventually became Pitcairn Elementary,which closed at the end of last school year.

As for Founders Day, plans are in theworks to hold another one next year. Noneof us had ever done this before so we neverhad any experience in it,” Crothers said.“Next year we'll know what we're doing andwe'll advertise, definitely, more than we didthis year.”

Pitcairn Boroand Lions

CommunityBulletin Board

Pitcairn Community

Renaissance Burger Blast

HistoricalSocietyExhibit


While the Wii Bowling League atthe Monroeville Senior CitizenCenter does deprive

participants of the chance to wear thoseoh-so-stylish, multicolor bowling shoes, it

does give them a marvelousopportunity for fitness and

friendship.“I enjoy the people,”

said Ann Biharry, who onthis particular Wii leagueThursday was filling in forher husband, Ed, whousually keeps score but wasabsent this day. “It alsokeeps me active. It’ssomething I can still do. Ihave arthritis. I could neverlift those big [bowling] balls,but I can do this.”

Wii Bowling got its start atthe center more than threeyears ago when Home Instead

Senior Care donated a Wiigaming system. “We

started out with 12 to 15people [bowling] and

since then we have hadover 25 people,” saidTara Gresock, the

center’s director. The game has become sopopular the center had to purchase asecond gaming system.

“It’s not only physical activity for them;it’s also become a social gathering,”Gresock said. “We have all different levelsof physical fitness with it. Some peopleuse walkers; some are in wheelchairs. It

really gives everybody an opportunity atphysical activity. The season consists of 12weeks during which each participant’sscores are kept. The top three scorersadvance to the playoffs.

“The prizes are usually gift certificatesto restaurants, nothing big, but it makesyou feel good, I think,” said Biharry. “I’venever won one but my husband has.”

Eighty-year-old Orita Wood’s firstexposure to the Wii gaming system was

playing with her grandchildren. Shehas been Wii bowling since the

league started. “It’s just a fun thing to do.Win or lose, you still have fun,” she said.Marg Bluhm, 79, agrees. She’s been Wiibowling for two years. “I like to visit withthe other members. It gets you out of thehouse. I’ve made some great friends.”

Gloria Taylor, who uses a walker to getaround, has been Wii bowling for aboutthree years. “It’s easy on my limbs,” saidthe 81-year-old. “I used to do bowling in aleague, but I can’t do it anymore. This isnice. It’s nice for socializing.”

Jack Novak, 79, is in his first year of Wiibowling and still trying to get the hang ofthings. “It wouldn’t be so bad if I knew whatI was doing,” he said. “I’m terrible at it.”

Bob Phillips and his friend Mary K.Dodds have been Wii bowling since itstarted at the center. “I like the friendship,socializing, trying to beat your own score,”Dodds said.

Another group of friends who’ve beenbowling from the start are Anne Geisler,56; Patricia Pickett, 68; and Mid Praksti,76. “I enjoy the camaraderie…a group ofus go to lunch every week,” Pickett said,adding that Wii Bowling is easier thanhaving to lift a heavy bowling ball. Praksti,a widow, said it’s also a good reason to getout of the house. “It keeps us moving,”Geisler said. “The people are all really nice;everyone gets along well,” Praksti said.

Senior WiiBowling League


“I enjoy thecamaraderie�agroup of us go tolunch every week.” Patricia Pickett, 68

“Dancing with the Stars” is one of the most popular shows on televisionand with good reason. The participants appear to be having a better timethan the audience and the music is always so uplifting and fun. The healthbenefits of dancing are obvious, as many celebrities on the show have meltedaway several clothing sizes while in competition. But is dancing safe forsenior adults?

According to some recent studies, dancing is not only safe but verybeneficial for the mature adult. Flexibility and muscle tone increase withrepeated dance moves. And remembering the sequence of the dance stepsmay help decrease dementia. According to the Albert Einstein College ofMedicine, the mental challenge of remembering a dance routine has beencredited for a more alert mentation. In fact, learning in general helps to keepthe memory fit, so learning new steps and moves combine the advantages ofphysical and mental fitness.

Physically, older dancers have shown improvements in increased rangeof motion, balance and gait. Those with good balance and a steady gait areless likely to become victims of fall injuries. The movement of dance alsoincreases respirations and heart rate for a good cardiovascular workout thatis not overly taxing or jarring on the joints. Coordination also is increased in

those who dance regularly. The Mayo Clinic notes that exercise helps lessenthe symptoms of depression by releasing endorphins which improve aperson’s mood.

The social aspect of dancing is very important to overall mental attitudeand health as well. Human touch is essential to the development of a child.Several well-known cases of children deprived of touch in abusive situationsdo not develop normally either physically or psychologically. Touch is alsovery important to the health of adults as well. According to the AssociatedBodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), touch helps to lower theblood pressure, boosts the immune system and decreases stress levels.

Just aboutMost any kind of dance encompasses the most importantas pects of dancing that are beneficial to one’s health. Ballroom, squaredancing, polka, and ethnic styles such as Greek dancing or Irish Step allinvolve an increase in heart rate, coordinated movements, memory of stepsand social interaction. Find a style that works for you and start enjoying thebenefits of dance. You’re never too old to learn a few new moves.

*It is always advisable to check with your physician before beginning anynew physical activity or exercise.

in MONROEVILLE


in MONROEVILLE

Chances are, if you’re over the age of 40 and have troublesleeping, one of your sage friends has informed you that after acertain age, you don’t need as much sleep. Not true, says the

National Sleep Foundation. Our body’s need for sleep remains prettymuch constant throughout the life cycle. Sleep is the way our bodiesrepair themselves. When our respiratory, cardiovascular, mental andphysical sys tems shut down for the night with minimal activity, ourbodies are busy at work repairing the damage done by stress,inflammation and toxins that have invaded during daylight hours. If theheart rate or mental functions are still engaged in activity, the bodycannot wholly devote itself to repair. Over time this can contribute toheart disease, diabetes and other ailments.

What does change as we age a re our sleep patterns. It may takelonger to fall asleep or you may have noticed that you have troublestaying asleep. About 44% of older Americans have some form orinsomnia. Much of the time it can be attributed to medicationswhich either interrupt sleep or prevent deep sleep known as REM. Ifinsomnia is caused by medication, it is well worth a trip to the doctorto discuss other alternative medications.

Another contributor to loss of sleep as we age is snoring.Snoring is more prevalent in those who are overweight andunfortunately aging is often accompanied by weight gain. Losingweight may help alleviate some of the interruption of snoring.Loud snoring should be evaluated by a doctor since it may be asign of a condition called sleep apnea. This is where the

individual actually stops breathing for brief intervals, (usually afew seconds). In addition to preventing deep, healthy sleep itcan also be potentially fatal.

Acid reflux may also be the cause of sleepless nights. Thestrong digestive acid from the stomach flows back into the throatcausing a burning sensation and awakening. This condition alsowarrants a trip to the doctor to rule out more serious conditions.While there are medications available to neutralize the stomachacid, the condition is also helped by eating earlier in the evening,giving the body more time to digest the food. Also, drinking morewater will aid in digestion as well.

If none of these problems seem to be the cause of sleeplessness,exercise or other physical activity may help you to enjoy a moresound sleep. Also avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the later eveninghours will allow your body to relax before bedtime. More sedentaryactivities for an hour or so before bedtime such as reading a book,will also calm you down prior to sleep. Watching suspenseful actionpictures or sporting events may raise your level ofalertness so that more time is required to fall asleep.

If you find that none of the suggestions ortreatments prescribed by your doctor work, a visit toa sleep disorder clinic may be in order. Sleep isimportant to your overall health and well-being.

THE SLEEP CONNECTION

BY PAMELA PALONGUE


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FA L L 2 0 1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

© 2011 UPMC

For residents of eastern communities

What’s Insidepage 2 Beating Cancer Close to Home

page 3 Use Your Head to Stop Strokes

page 4 Healthy Eating for Busy FamiliesAchoo! Don’t Get the Flu

page 5 A Matter of ChoiceMagee’s Fibroid Treatment Center helpswomen determine the right solutionfor themselves

page 6 A New Level of Pinpoint Accuracy That’s Patient Friendly

page 7 Committed to Building a Better Community

Fall is forFamilies Take advantage of the cooler days toenjoy time outdoors with your family.

22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Monroeville2 www.UPMC.com/Today

Mary Lou Perla never anticipated her cancer diagnosis. Now inher early 70s, the Murrysville, Pa., resident always took care ofherself and exercised regularly, doing Zumba or aerobics, andhitting the treadmill.

After undergoing surgery late last year, Mary Lou beganchemotherapy for liver cancer and the malignant lymph nodesfound in her chest. Thankfully, treatment was available just 15 minutes away in a brand new facility: the UPMC CancerCenter at UPMC East, Oxford Drive.

“It’s the greatest thing for me to have my chemo treatmentsclose to my home,” says Mary Lou. “It’s such a relief not tohave the extra pressure of traveling into Pittsburgh or askingfriends for a ride.”

The new 7,000-square-foot facility, which opened last December, offers area patients cancer care and treatment inone location. The center provides access to a full range ofhematology and medical oncology services, includingchemotherapy, injections, lab work, and clinical trials. Free, designated parking is provided for patients.

“We’re pleased to offer quality services and cutting-edge cancertreatment at one location here in the community. It’s muchmore efficient, more personal, and easier on our patients —particularly when they’re not feeling well,” says Dhaval Mehta,MD, a medical oncologist and the center’s full-time physician.

In addition to Dr. Mehta, five other medical oncologists take turns seeing patients at the new facility. With five examrooms, nine chemo chairs, and a lab waiting area, the center can accommodate up to 100 patients daily.

All these special features make her treatment more manageable,says Mary Lou, who drives herself to the center once or twiceweekly for chemotherapy, hydration treatments, and lab work.

“This facility is the greatest thing for me. It’s very comfortableand private, and the time goes by very quickly,” says Mary Lou.“When you have a facility like this close to home, with peoplewho care about you, it gives you added strength. It makes mefeel so much better.”

The UPMC Cancer Centers offer some of the most advancedcancer detection and treatment options including TrueBeam™,one of the latest radiation technologies available today. Turn topage 6 to learn more about the TrueBeam™ system.

Beating Cancer Close to HomeNew UPMC Cancer Center location o"ers convenient option for Monroeville-area patients

UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC East, Oxford DriveLocation 400 Oxford Drive

First Floor, Suite 102Monroeville, PA 15146

Hours Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Specialties HematologyMedical Oncology

Services Biological Therapy AdministrationChemotherapy AdministrationClinical Trial Screening and EnrollmentExperimental Drug TreatmentsFinancial CounselingNutritional CounselingSymptom/Side E,ects ManagementSupport Groups and Counseling

Features Five Exam RoomsNine Chemo Chairs (heated, with individual TV monitors)Lab Waiting AreaFree, designated parking for cancer center patients

Monroeville | Fall 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 231-800-533-UPMC 3

Use Your Head to Stop StrokesBe smart about your heart — and stroke treatment — to protect your brain

The myths about stroke are numerous. Among the most popular — and perhaps one of the most dangerous — is that stroke is something that happens only to older adults.

In fact, a recent report by the AmericanStroke Association showed a sharp rise instroke hospitalizations among men andwomen ages 15 to 44, while rates declinedby 25 percent among older adults.

“The biggest mistake people make is thinking it won’t happen to them,” saysTudor Jovin, MD, director of the UPMCStroke Institute. “Strokes can happen toanyone, at any age,” he says.

Lowering your risk is the best way to avoid the life-changing impact astroke can have on you and your family. When a stroke does occur, fast action is critical to minimize damage. The window of opportunity for the most successful stroke treatment is just three hours after onset.

Prevention: What you can do“Heart disease increases your chances of having a stroke, so it’s importantto control the risk factors,” says Lawrence Wechsler, MD, chair of the Department of Neurology at UPMC.

While you can’t do anything about your age, family history, or ethnicity(African-Americans have a higher incidence of stroke), you can controlhigh blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking.

“You’re at risk any time your blood pressure or cholesterol are up. It’s far better to prevent a stroke than to deal with the consequences,” Dr. Wechsler says.

Treatment: Time lost is brain lostEvery minute after the start of a stroke means greater risk of permanent damage or death. One of the best treatments for ischemic strokes — where a clot blocks blood flow to the brain — is the quick administrationof the clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA). While UPMC doctors have had success beyond three hours with a special procedure to retrieve the blockage or dissolve it with drugs administered directly into the clot, time is critical.

For patients experiencing a hemorrhagic stroke caused by bleeding in the brain, fast action is needed to repair the leaking blood vessel.

Call 911If you suspect someone has suffered a stroke, call for emergency medicalhelp immediately so treatment can begin without delay.

Specialized stroke centers — such as UPMC’s Stroke Institute at UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Shadyside, UPMC St. Margaret, andUPMC Mercy — have experts available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to diagnose and treat patients. The UPMC Stroke TelemedicineProgram also uses technology to provide fast treatment to patients at other UPMC hospitals throughout western Pennsylvania.

Think FASTUse this simple acronym to help determinewhether you’re witnessing a stroke:

Face: Can the person smile (or does oneside of the face droop)?

Arms: Can the person raise both arms (or does one side drift downward)?

Speech: Can the person speak clearly or repeat a simple phrase?

Time: Call 911 immediately, if someone exhibits any of these warning signs!

Act FASTStrokes require immediate medical attention,so knowing the warning signs is crucial, says Dr. Wechsler. Stroke symptoms can includesudden onset of:

• Paralysis or weakness in the face or limbs,especially on one side of the body

• Problems with balance or walking

• Vision problems

• Slurred speech

• Confusion

• Problems speaking or understanding

• Severe headache

To learn more about stroke prevention andtreatment, visit www.UPMC.com/Today.

“You’re at risk any timeyour blood pressure orcholesterol are up. It’sfar better to prevent a

stroke than to deal withthe consequences.”— Lawrence Wechsler, MD


Healthy Eating for Busy FamiliesAmerica is getting fatter and Pennsylvania is helping to lead the way as one of the nation’s top 20 “most obese” states. Our busy lifestyles encourage unhealthy eating habits, like eating on the run and high-fat/high-sugar snacking. But with a little effort,you can gradually transform your family’s diet from “fat” to “fit”!

Start your day off rightBreakfast is the most important meal of the day. Kids who eatbreakfast — especially those packed with “brain food” like protein, vitamin C, and omega 3 — are more alert and focused in school; adults have more energy and concentrate better. • Is cereal your family’s

breakfast of choice? Look forlow-sugar, high-fiber optionsand top with fresh fruit and low-fat milk (1% or fat-free).

• Get your creative juices flowingwith easy-to-make fruit and yogurt smoothies.

• Crunched for time? Grab a hard-boiled egg and toast, or top an apple or banana with peanut butter for a tasty “breakfast to go.”

Think smart when it comes to fast-food lunchesNo time to pack your own lunch? Use these healthy strategieswhen dining out:• Say no to fried, sautéed, or creamy foods. Opt for roasted,

grilled, broiled, steamed, or baked meals.• Beware of add-ons (like mayo, butter, and salad dressing)

that quickly increase calorie counts.• Replace sodas with water or fat-free or 1% milk. Even diet

sodas can be bad for you!• Go online for the nutrition information on your favorite

meal. Don’t just focus on calories: look at factors like fat and sodium content.

Make dinner a family affairEating together as a family offers countless benefits — including serving more balanced, nutritious meals and the chance for parents to serve as “healthy eating” role models.• Talk to your children about portion control, with fruits

and vegetables comprising half of every plate.• Reduce the amount of meat your family eats by gradually

introducing healthy alternatives into your meals, like fish, whole grains, and beans.

• Look for seasonal produce that is grown locally. In the fall, that means vegetables like pumpkins and squash, and fruits like apples and pears.

Interested in learning more about nutritious eating? Check out the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new guidelines at www.choosemyplate.gov.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Achoo!Don’t Get the FluUnpredictable. That’s the best way to describe flu season, which officially begins in late October and winds down in May.Winter is prime flu season, but it can peak as early as Octoberor as late as April.

It’s impossible to know what the 2011-12 flu season has in storefor us. What we do know is that the flu is a highly contagiousrespiratory illness that can cause mild to severe reactions, and it can even be fatal. Every year, more than 200,000 people inthe United States are hospitalized with the flu. The best way toprotect yourself and your family is to get vaccinated every year.

Who is at risk?Even healthy children and adults can become very sick from theflu and spread it to family and friends. You can pass on the flubefore even knowing you are sick!

Who should get the flu vaccine?The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendthat everyone over the age of six months gets vaccinated. Those at higher risk for serious complications from the flu include:

• People age 65 and older

• Children younger than five, but especially children younger than two

• People with health conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, as well as kidney, liver, and neurological disorders

• Pregnant women

Others who should get a flu shot:• Health care workers

• Residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities, as well as family and friends who have contact with a resident

• Caregivers of young children, especially infants under six months who are at the highest risk of flu-related complications

What is the best time to get vaccinated?The sooner you get a flu shot, the sooner you’ll be protected.However, experts agree: it’s never too late.

If you have questions about getting a flu shot, talk to your doctor. To locate a physician in your area, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention


Do You Have UFTs?John Fisch, MD, a gynecologist with Womancare Associates inMonroeville, says that uterine fibroid tumors can be as small as a pin or the size of a grapefruit. “It’s not clear why fibroids occur, although family history seems to play a role,” he explains. “They’realso seen more frequently among African-American women.”

He advises that women be alert to these early symptoms:• Heavy bleeding • A sense of pelvic pressure• Pain during intercourse

“Symptoms usually appear in the late 30s and 40s, and they oftencan be controlled through birth control pills or other medication,”says Dr. Fisch, “but others require more aggressive treatment, suchas surgery or uterine fibroid embolization.” For most women, thesymptoms of fibroids significantly diminish during menopause.

It’s important to know that other conditions can cause symptomssimilar to those of UFTs. That’s why it’s vital to have regular checkups, and keep an open line of communication with your gynecologist or family doctor.

For more information, visit www.UPMCEast.com

A Matter of ChoiceMagee’s Fibroid Treatment Center helps women determine the right solution for themselves

Robin Eberle of Butler, Pa., never had a problem with her periods. But when this mother of five hit her mid-40s, her periods became heavier and lastedlonger. “There were times I couldn’t evenleave the house,” she recalls.

Her gynecologist prescribed an ultrasound,then an MRI. Based on those results, he diagnosed Robin with uterine fibroid tumors (UFTs) and referred her to the Fibroid Treatment Center at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.

As many as three out of every four women have UFTs, but the majority nevereven know it. For women like Robin,though, these non-cancerous growths in the wall of the uterus can literally take over their lives.

The Fibroid Treatment CenterEstablished in 2008, the Fibroid Treatment Center offers the region’s most comprehensive approach to UFTs.“We bring together gynecologists and interventional radiologists with extensiveexpertise in treating fibroids,” says RichardGuido, MD, the center’s founder and director. “Our focus is educating women on their full options so they can choose the best treatment plan for themselves.”

The center’s structure also offers womenmuch-valued convenience. “During a one-day visit, you can have necessary diagnostic tests done, the results of these tests evaluated, and then meet with our physicians for a counseling session to determine your best plan of action,” says Dr. Guido.

In the past, the leading treatment for UFTs has been a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). “It’s still the only

way to totally prevent fibroids from recurring,” says Philip Orons, DO, chief of interventional radiology at Magee. “But women who are planning to have children or who are some years away from menopause may want to considerother options.”

For Robin, her treatment of choice was auterine fibroid embolization, a minimallyinvasive procedure requiring little down-time. Using a thin catheter, about the size of a spaghetti strand, Dr. Orons injected small particles into the blood vessels that “feed” the fibroids to stop theflow of blood to them. “The procedure literally changed my life,” says Robin.

The center offers a full range of other options, including pain medication, hormonal therapy, and surgery. It also has a research component that includes trial procedures unavailable elsewhere.

FibroidsBefore embolization

After embolization

To learn moreWomen are encouraged to first have a conversation with their doctor if they think they may have UFTs. If you’re looking for a physician in your area, visitwww.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

You can visit the Fibroid Treatment Center’s webpage at www.UPMC.com/Magee. The center also will host a Community Health Talk at Magee on Thursday, Sept. 29. For details, call 412-641-4435.


Martha Makin of Somerset, Pa., says she’s “done it all”since being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2007. Not a candidate for surgery, the 69-year-old grandmother first received chemotherapy, followed by multiple radiation treatments that required her to remain still on a hard surface for long periods.

But her most recent radiation treatment in April used a new form of technology that left her impressedand enthusiastic. “I was amazed at how fast and comfortable it was,” she says. “It’s definitely my choice for future treatments!”

Determining the right treatment“We see many cancer patients who are not good candidates for conventional surgery, particularly among the elderly,” explains Neil Christie, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon with UPMC. “Additionalmedical complications or hard-to-reach tumors justmake surgery too risky.”

Radiation therapy is often used in such instances toshrink or eliminate tumors. For Martha, her age andtype of tumor made her a good candidate for the Novalis® powered by TrueBeamTM STx system, selected byUPMC cancer specialists for the precision, speed, and comfort it offers patients.

“TrueBeam is one of the most advanced radiation technologyavailable,” says Dwight E. Heron, MD, FACRO, professor of radiation oncology and otolaryngology, and vice chairmanfor clinical affairs, Department of Radiation Oncology atUPMC Cancer Centers. “It’s letting us treat challenging cancers of the brain, lungs, spine, neck, and prostate with much greater precision.”

Another UPMC first When UPMC introduced TrueBeam STx to Pittsburgh last November, it became one of the first 20 medical centersworldwide to do so. But like all technologies, TrueBeam is just a tool. Its real potential is realized through the talents of those who use it.

“In the late 1980s, UPMC was the first center in the UnitedStates to use Gamma Knife® technology for radiosurgery of the brain. Since then, we’ve advanced our knowledgethrough research and the innovative use of technology,” notes Dr. Heron. “Our multidisciplinary team approach gives patients a highly individualized plan of treatment based on their specific needs. TrueBeam now extends the kind of care we can offer them.”

How it works Some cancerous tumors are located in a hard-to-reach part of the body, while others “float” in an organ, or shift positionwhen a person breathes or coughs. Just like a sharpshooteroften struggles to hit a moving target, such cancers make it hard to directly aim radiation at a tumor.

“But TrueBeam’s built-in imager produces sharp, ‘real-time’ 3D images that fine-tune a patient’s position during treatment,even while breathing,” explains Dr. Heron. “It’s able to track a tumor’s exact location within a millimeter.”

UPMC specialists are combining TrueBeam technology with RapidArc®, another radiotherapy technique that delivers a powerful, faster, more uniform dose of radiation. Radiosurgery and other radiation treatments can now be accomplished two to eight times faster, with fewer side effects reported by patients.

“These and other minimally invasive treatments are really redefining how we treat cancer,” notes Dr. Christie.“We’re no longer limited by conventional procedures.”

To learn moreThe TrueBeam system is housed at the Mary Hillman Jennings Radiation Oncology Center at UPMC Shadyside. UPMC provides access to a number of physicians that can refer interested patients to the center. For a list, visit www.UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

A New Level of Pinpoint AccuracyThat’s Patient FriendlyTrueBeamTM allows UPMC cancer specialists to enhance treatment and patient comfort


With the July 2012 grand opening of UPMC East less than ayear away, exciting things continue to happen at the formerPalace Inn site. As the hospital’s exterior structure nears completion, local residents and visitors can see a dramaticchange in the Monroeville skyline.

UPMC also has undertaken several less visible, but equally important, projects associated with the new hospital’s construction that will have a significant impact on quality of life for Monroeville and the surrounding communities.

“As a community hospital, we want to be a good neighbor.That’s why we took steps to reclaim and recycle nearly all of the former structure, and developed plans to control water runoff and alleviate traffic problems at the location,” says Mark Sevco, president, UPMC East.

Everything old is used againDuring demolition of the Palace Inn, workers were able to recycle and reuse nearly 100 percent of the steel, copper, aluminum, and glass, says Joseph Badalich, senior project manager, UPMC East.

In addition, tons of concrete and stone were crushed and reused as fill around foundations and retaining walls at the new hospital. “By doing that, we were able to keep 6,500 truckloads of stone and concrete off local roads and out of landfills saving additional wear and tear on the roads,”adds Mr. Badalich.

Storm water management will ease flooding concernsUPMC is spending more than $2 million to install an extensive storm water management system to capture runoff from the hospital site and the surrounding area.

According to Mr. Badalich, runoff from the former Palace Inn site caused serious flooding on Mosside Boulevard and led to downstream pollution and flooding. The new system allows storm water to be captured onsite in a large retention pond (pictured above). The water is then cooled and cleaned before being released at half the previous rate to reduce downstream flooding.

Sean Logan, vice president of community affairs at UPMC, iskeenly aware of the flooding issues faced by the surroundingcommunities. “I grew up in Pitcairn and when it rained, residents kept a close watch on the streams because the town had a history of flooding issues,” explains Mr. Logan.“UPMC’s storm water management plan will definitely helpease concerns for residents,” he says.

Improving one of the state’s busiest intersectionsUPMC also is spearheading a $2.4 million project to improve travel in the area around Route 22 and Route 48/ Mosside Boulevard (pictured above) — one of the busiest intersections in Pennsylvania.

Mr. Badalich, a resident of nearby Plum, says the project is designed to alleviate any additional traffic generated by the new hospital. The addition of sidewalks and handicapped ramps will greatly improve pedestrian access. Other improvements include:• Fox Plan Road: Rebuilding and widening the road, adding

sidewalks, and moving overhead utilities underground.• Mosside Boulevard (Route 48): Widening the road,

adding two turning lanes and new signals, and moving overhead utilities underground.

• Route 22: Widening the road, adding two turning lanes, new signals, and sidewalks.

“Area residents can tell you just how difficult it used to be navigating around Route 22 and Mosside. These improvementsnot only will make a huge difference to drivers, but pedestrians,too,” adds Mr. Badalich.

UPMC East website is up and runningWe invite you to learn more about the new hospital and UPMC’s commitment to the local community, check out our construction slide show, take a video tour, and much moreby visiting UPMCEast.com.

A new hospital brings more to a community than meets the eyeCommitted to Building a Better Community


FOR THE LITTLE THINGS. FOR THE BIG THINGS.

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

FOR THE FOR THE LITTLE THINGS.

E BIG THINGFOR THE LITTLE THINGS.

GSFOR THE LITTLE THINGS.

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UPMC 600 Oxford DriveMonroeville, PA 15146

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

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

Follow UPMC East on Facebook.

New UPMC EastOpens Summer

2012


ith the advent of travel sites on the internet, the way travelers plantheir trips has changed in more ways than one. So with all of theonline sites out there to choose from, you would think that finding

a real flesh and blood travel agent would be near impossible these days. However, you would be very wrong. Live travel agents are still out there

making quite a good living from all the shortcomings of the DIY websites. If you enjoy taking a cruise, going to an actual travel agent can save

you a lot of headaches. Cruises entail planning multiple aspects of onetrip — airfare to the port of departure, which stateroom has the bestview, whether you go on the paragliding excursion or tour the Mayanruins. All of those aspects can be easily handled for you by a travel agent,saving you time and money.

You may like the appeal of naming your own fare on a website, but keepin mind that even the giants of internet travel booking still have a limitedpool of airlines to pick from. Travel agents don’t. A travel agent can workwith smaller or foreign carriers to find you a discount, and some have accessto private, reduced fares that can be well worth the cost of the agent’s fees.

Sometimes travelers have more than one destination in more than onecountry. Some agents specialize in these global itineraries and can save youthe hassle of trying to plot a complicated route for your trip. What’s more, ifyou’re going somewhere that has a warning for Americans issued by thestate department, is known for being difficult for tourists, or is simply off thetypical American itinerary, your travel agent can make recommendations tohelp you navigate the terrain, both figuratively and literally.

Whether you’re a senior citizen, or looking for an Asian-languagesafari in the Sahara, travel agents know more about special needs andrequests than any website out there. They can help with alternativelifestyle requests such as easily finding a seat on a tour bus forsomeone with a disability. Your travel agent has likely heard it all whenit comes to meeting the specific needs of travelers, so don’t hesitate toask them about your particular requirements.

Travel agents can do more than simply rebook your flight if it’s

cancelled. Agents can assist in getting you the medical help you need or

even cash if your wallet is stolen. A dot-com can’t and won’t do that fortheir customers. The peace of mind alone can be worth the agent’s fees.

Believe it or not, many people still don’t have – or want – access to

the internet. Or they may have access, but don’t feel comfortablegiving out their credit card numbers online. That’s totallyunderstandable, and yet another reason why having a courteous travelagent smiling back at you can be the difference between gettingsunburned…or just getting burned.

Want a sure fire way to improve your life and the lives of those you love?

Learn to Listen.Reading and Writing and Rith-ma-tic are all taught in school – but

what about Listening?By learning to listen, we can dramatically improve our relationships.

We become wiser, more knowledgeable, more understanding, and moreself-aware by learning to listen with empathy.

Communication is:7% Words

38% Tone55% Body language

We take listening for granted - like breathing. Effective listening is alearned skill that takes resolve, dedication, practice, and patience.

There are five types of listening.1. Ignoring2. Pretend listening 3. Selective listening4. Attentive listening5. Empathic listening- We actively listen to the whole person

considering carefully what is said, how it is said, and what iscommunicated by the whole person.

Empathy meansEm – inPathy – suffering

To be “in suffering” with another. Empathic listening requires that welisten with our eyes and our heart. This requires that we are otherdirected, non-defensive, and open minded.

Empathy and sympathy are different.Sympathy requires judgment and the feeling of sadness for another.

Empathy means to become one in their suffering – to walk in their shoes. Steven Covey, in his bestselling book, “Seven Habits of Highly

Effective People”, says that effective listening skills are necessary for success.He calls this habit “Seek 1st to understand, then to be understood.”Successful people ask to be heard only after fully listening and understandingthe other party.

Scott Peck in his best seller, “The Road less Traveled”, defines love as thewillingness to extend one’s own ego boundaries in order to nurture thespiritual growth of another. This is what effective listening requires us to do.

Empathic listening is the greatest gift we can offer another. When welisten fully, with all our faculties - our ears, our eyes, our heart and ourspirit- we hear what isn’t said as well as what is. We consciously make aneffort to walk in the shoes of the one being listened to. We reservejudgment and refrain from probing, evaluating, advising, or interpretingwhile listening.

We are different from others in our experience, knowledge, andattitudes, and often misinterpret another person’s message while under theillusion that a common understanding has been achieved. Disagreementsand arguments begin when we assume that others listen and speak with thesame perceptions with which we listen and speak.

Empathic listening takes focused energy, undivided attention, an openmind, and an unbiased heart. It is eye contact, a hand placed gently uponan arm- neither analyzing nor searching for labels, diagnoses, or remediesbefore the person is done relating their story.

As we listen, the speaker begins tofeel important – like they matter. Thisvalidates the person sharing and allows them to begin to open up. Asan atmosphere of safety comforts them, they feel safe enough to say whatneeds to be said- to express what feelings need to be expressed. Soon, likean onion they begin to unfold. Off comes the flaky outer shell and thenlayer after layer peels off as we uncover the sensitive opaque center – theheart of the person where the truth lies.

Effective listening can foster healing, create opportunity, nurturerelationships, and open doors to deeper and more intimate relationshipsthan we ever thought possible. In our technical world of today, we aremissing the valuable benefits of communication.

Next time a loved one has a problem, offer to listen. You will give themfreedom and healing, and in return you will feel better, know more, andlove deeper than you ever thought possible.

Note: My focus on listening began in the cemetery and funeral industry where Isought to help others during the various stages of grief. The most valuable tool Ifound was the art of listening. As I learned to listen empathically, I watched asgrieving survivors experienced freedom and expression for their pain. Often no onewants to talk to a grieving friend or family member after a death occurs. They tend torepeat themselves and talk incessantly about the deceased. When they are affordedthe opportunity to be deeply listened and attended to, their healing evolves naturallyand they begin to heal more rapidly. Learning to understand our human need to belistened to has been one of the most rewarding benefits of my years in death care.

Cyndi Savage RiceTransformations, Management Consultant, Speaker/WriterCyndi is a Certified Cemetery Executive with the InternationalCemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association and has over 38 years ofexperience and expertise in the Death Care Industry. She is currently living in Monroeville while rehabilitating Restland Memorial Park.


My wife says I never listen to her – At least that’s what I think she said…


Back to

School

GATEWAY SCHOOL DISTRICT

T he Gateway School District has one less school building tomanage this fall with the closing of Pitcairn Elementary.However, that does not mean it had less to do to prepare

students for a return to the classroom. The district has been reorganized to accommodate the school

closing and the redistribution of elementary students to its otherelementary schools – Steward, Ramsey and University Park,. “Wedid not move all the students into one elementary. That would haveput us off balance and made class sizes too high,” aid Cara Zanella,Gateway's Director of Communications. “The students weredistributed equitably through the schools so we could keep class sizessmall and no school would become over populated.

As part of that process, the district is doing a new transportationschedule that takes into account the new distribution of students.“There's also an external piece we need to look at,” Zanella said. “Werealized when we closed the schools that students will be in a newenvironment. In some cases that can be very traumatic change.”

To help ease the transition for students, the district devised aseries of meetings and tours in July and August at its elementaryschools to give parents and students an opportunity to talk to thebuilding principals, ask questions and take a look at the school'slayout and facilities.

At the morning July meeting, former Pitcairn Elementarystudent July Gruss and her mother, Barbara Gruss took a lookaround Julie's new school Ramsey Elementary. “She was upset,”Barabra Gruss answered when asked how her daughter felt aboutPitcairn closing. Julie's friends are going to different schools, hermom said. But during the tour the incoming 4th grader made theacquaintance of a group of siblings, who were touring Ramsey, aswell. Dalton, Nikkita and Dylan Vojnik, will all be students atRamsey. While Dalton, who's in 4th grade and Nikkita, who's in2nd grade attendend Ramsey last year, the tour was really for theiryoung brother, Dylan, who started kindergarten this school year.Also on the tour were older brother, Michael, who started 6thgrade and their mother, Ann Vojnik.

For the meeting and tour session, University Park principal BrianWerner stood in to answer questions. Since that time, the district has

hired Katie Friend as the new principal for Ramsey Elementary. Newstaffing this school year also includes Ken Stancliffe as Director ofFacilities and Tony Aquilio as principal of Gateway Middle School.

In another change, the district implemented a new energy policy,which required that district employees work four ten-hour daysduring the summer. All the schools buildings were closed during thesummer with the exception of the high school, Mosside Middle andRamsey Elementary, which have summer programs.

“What that allows us to do is our maintenance and custodialcrews can go the buildings that are not occupied, clean them, stripthe floors, clean them from head to toe,” Zanella said. Then theschools were locked up so they could be in pristine condition whenstudents return. “We're also putting some time and effort into theexterior of the properties, as well. We have teams specificallyassigned to outdoor duty, trimming trees, removing shrubs thathaven't made it through the winter, so it looks very manicured.”


THE DISTRICTIMPLEMENTED A NEWENERGY POLICY WHICH

REQUIRED THAT DISTRICTEMPLOYEES WORK FOURTEN-HOUR DAYS DURING

THE SUMMER.

GATEWAY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Reading countsStudents at Dr. Cleveland Stewart, Jr. Elementary aka CSElove to read. They proved this theory by earning 40,536Reading Counts points this year. Pictured are Mrs. BethSmith’s 1st grade class who earned 7,909 points—he highestin the school. Leah Dehass earned 809 points - the highestsingle amount in the school. Top readers in eachclass were Riley Kirk (Kindergarten): 186points; Leah Dehass (1st Grade): 809; LukeJackson (2nd Grade): 545; Mallory Mazzocco(3rd Grade) 793; and Timothy Valentich (4thGrade): 718. Students earned a lunch at Max &Ermas to celebrate their reading success.

Gateway High School student Rohan C. Shah, received first place in thecountry in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) NationalConference in Orlando, Florida in Business Math. Fellow GHS student HaleyClinton, received second place in the country in Health Care Administration.

Rohan and Haley were each presented with a trophy and $500. Haley alsoreceived a certificate for coming in first place in the Leadership Open EventsTest. Faculty sponsor for the event is Andrea Campbell, GHS Business teacher.

Mr. Shawn Whelan, GHS history teacher, is proudof his Gateway National History Day Team. Thegroup swept the State Competition with two firstplace victories. Emily Kinnunen won with herSenior Individual Exhibit and Kate Lenart, NatalieMangene, and Nicole Giles won with their SeniorGroup Exhibit. The team also competed at theNational Competition held in June at theUniversity of Maryland.

Gateway NationalHistory Day Winners

EmilyKinnunen

KateLenart

NatalieMangene

Haleyclinton

Rohan C.Shah

NicoleGiles


Future Business Leaders of America


The year 2011 brings good news for hearing aid wearers thatneed a lot of power due to a more severe hearing loss.When new technology in hearing aids comes out, it is oftennot available in stronger power aids at the onset. Happily, Ican now report that several manufacturers have true powerhearing aids that come in the smaller cases and have muchof today’s advanced technology, including wireless that waspreviously only available in lower gain aids.

If you would like to learn more about the advances that havebeen made in hearing aids, it is recommended that you makean appointment for a hearing test. With this information, theaudiologist can discuss more thoroughly your hearing andhow today’s hearing aids may be beneficial to you.

Submitted by Dolores Y. Payne, M.A., CCC-A Audiologist – Allegheny Hearing Instruments

ne of the most exciting changes in hearing aidscontinues to be the addition of wireless capability.This feature allows the hearing aid wearer to stay

“connected” with devices that are important to his or herlifestyle. Examples of this would include staying connectedwhile using mobile phones with Bluetooth technology,watching television, or listening to music. A small remotecontrol can transform hearing aids into a rich sounding stereoheadset which allows the wearer to stream television, IPODmusic and other audio sources directly into their hearing aids.No removal of the hearing instruments is needed to enjoyspecific listening situations.

Some hearing aids can be used with a rechargeable batteryunit. This charging unit is often times beneficial for personswith limited vision and/or dexterity problems, such as arthritis,who struggle changing small batteries.

Tot TimeTot Time is held the second and fourth Tuesday ofeach month. • 10–10:30 a.m. in the Gallery Space

These story times are for one- to three-year-olds with an adult. Registration beginsone week before each program.

Fall StorytimeWednesdays September 14 - October 26Morning Session: 10:15 - 11:00 a.m.Afternoon Session: 1:15 - 2:00 p.m.

This series of stories and crafts for childrenages 3–5 are held Wednesdays, September 14through October 26. Parents do not stayduring the story portion, but return to helpwith crafts during the last 10 minutes.

Family Craft NightsOur very popular Family Craft Nights

are held in the Program Room on the lowerlevel of the Library. Family Craft Nights arefun for the entire family! Space is limited!

Halloween Family Craft NightWednesday, October 12, 7 - 8:30 p.m. in theProgram Room • Registration begins October 3

Thanksgiving Family Craft NightWednesday, November 9, 7 - 8:30 p.m. in theProgram Room • Registration begins November 1

Teen Book Club

The Teen Book Club meets the second Monday of each month from 3:30–4:30 p.m. in the Conference Room.Check the Teen Page for book titles.

Teen Writing WorkshopWhether you've already written a novel

or have never tried writing for fun, thisworkshop is for you! We meet once a weekin the afternoon.

Mother-Daughter Book ClubThis program is open to students in

grades 5-8, and their mothers. We meetonce a month at 7:30 p.m.; dates vary.

A Klezmer Music ConcertWednesday, October 5 • 7:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. • Gallery Space

Renowned klezmer violinist, composer and teacher Steven Greenman andinternational concert pianist Tom Roberts present a concert of East European Jewishinstrumental folk music (klezmer music). Steven and Tom will explore the rich and variedrepertoire of the klezmorim, the professional Jewish musicians who played and performedfor the traditional Jewish wedding in Eastern Europe from the 17th century until theHolocaust. This exciting concert will feature several of Steven’s original Jewish andklezmer compositions.

Osteoporosis and Bone HealthFriday, October 14 • 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. • Gallery Space

Please join Ashley Arango, physical therapist at the Centers for Rehab Services, for adiscussion about preventing osteoporosis and maintaining bone health. Light refreshmentswill be served.

Thursday Afternoon Book Discussion GroupThird Thursday of Every Month • 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. • Conference Room

The Thursday Book Discussion Group meets the third Thursday of every month (exceptDecember), at 1:30 p.m. in the Conference Room. We read and discuss a wide range ofbooks that are chosen by the whole group.

Wednesday Evening Book Discussion GroupFourth Wednesday of Every Month • 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. • Conference Room

The Fourth Wednesday Evening Book Discussion Group meets on the fourth Wednesdayof every month (except December) at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room. The members ofthis group choose fiction, with an occasional work of light non-fiction. This is a lively groupwith many frank and open discussions. Please join us! No commitment is necessary.

Thanks to Friends of the Library, MPL is able to repair DVD/CDs that have been

damaged. The state of the art equipment was purchased because DVD/CDs were beingdiscarded due to scratches. In most cases, the equipment can repair the discs. Discs that arecracked or delaminated cannot be repaired.

The library is offering to repair DVD/CDs for the public, for a donation of $2 per disc.

For additional information, please contact Evan Karelitz at 412.372.0500, ext. 26.

As an essential part of our community, Monroeville Public Library needs your support.

Each and every day, people turn to the library seeking a book, a job, access to the Internet,or a quiet oasis where they can enjoy the newspaper, a magazine, or our gallery. At anytime, Monroeville Public Library welcomes your gift to help us sustain an ever-growingcollection of resources and a wide variety of programs and activities for individuals of allages—all FREE to the public. Make a gift today for one of the following MPL priorities.

For more information visit: www.monroevillelibrary.org/screens/donate.html


Monroeville Public Library

4000 Gateway Campus Blvd. •412.372.0500 • Christy Fusco, DirectorChildren’s Room: ext. 3, Teen Librarian:

ext. 18, Adult Reference: ext. 4

HOURS OF OPERATION:Beginning Sunday, September 11, theMonroeville Public Library will beopen Sundays from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.Additionally, the Library is open

Monday through Thursday from 9:00a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday

from 9:00 am – 5:00 p.m.


The Friends of the Library are collecting gently used books, DVDs, CDs,children’s books, puzzles and games for their Annual Used Book Sale. Alldonations for the November used bool sale should be dropped off at the backdoor of the library from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m to4 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays.

The last day to donate books is October 15, 2011. The back door can be accessedthrough the driveway entrance to the Senior Center off of Gateway CampusBoulevard. Please ring the bell and a staff member will open the door for you.Signs will be posted to direct you where to go. The Friends ask that you don’tinclude textbooks or National Geographic Magazines.

The book sale is the Friends largest fundraiser, which benefits the library. The12th Annual Used Book Sale, sponsored by the Friends of the MonroevillePublic Library, will be held Nov. 3 - 6, 2011. Best sellers, non-fiction, coffee tablebooks, mysteries, children’s books, crafts, DVD, CDs, videos children's books,puzzles, and games will be quite a bargain. Also, new gift baskets and gift cardsraffle tickets will be available, so take a chance - you may win the perfect gift forthe holidays! There will be a Bag Sale on Sunday.

The Preview Party will be held Wednesday, November 2 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.There will be a $5 donation per person to enter.The Book Sale hours are:Thursday, November 3: 2 – 8 p.m.Friday, November 4: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.Saturday, November 5: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.Sunday, November 6: 2 – 4 p.m.

When the dog days of summer are behind usand that first crisp snap of fall is in the air,energy seems to make a rebound and even theanimals seems livelier, more alert. During thistime, there’s nothing more wonderful thantaking advantage of those last days of warmth toget outside and enjoy the outdoors by doing a little yard work.

This is a great time to rake up all those leaveson the ground. But don’t just throw them into a trash bag to be hauled away. Leaves are greatfor composting and may have as much as threetimes the amount of minerals as fertilizer. Theyneed to be shredded to be easier to work with,but this is easily accomplished by running amower back and forth a few times over a pile of leaves. Also, be sure to add a little nitrogen to your compost pile with the leaves.

If your summer flowers have faded, be sure to trim back dead leaves and blooms and addsome fall flowers for some more vibrant color.Mums and sunflowers can be purchased in potsto accent any garden with a fall palette, but don’t forget purple as a great contrasting color to oranges, yellows and sienna. Some fall flowers with purple accents are pansies, purpleconeflowers, asters and mums. All of these willgrow well in zone 6. For some green accent, you might try growing some arugula in a pot orself-watering container. This spicy, leafy planthas long been popular in France and Italy and actually grows better in the fall than in the summer. The leaves will add zest to your saladsand other fall dishes. Although the planting time for arugula is in the spring, seedlings canbe purchased and transplanted, however theyalso do well if left in containers or pots.

Even if you’re not particularly good at growing plants and flowers, there are many ways to accent your lawn and garden with minimal effort and maintenance. Brightly colored pumpkins placed around pathways and steps give a whimsical touch to decorating.Avoid placing them in direct sunlight and directly on the ground and your pumpkin may well last for two to three months in the cool fall climate. Other low-maintenance decorations for fall are corn stalks and bales of hay. Hay bales also provide extra seating in outdoor areas.

Summer may be over but your yard can still be a bright, cheerful place full of beautiful,living things.

REAL ESTATE Monroeville

IN Community Magazines proudly announces a comprehensive look at the Monroeville real estate market. In this section, you’ll find interesting information

about creating beautiful spaces to live in, and other interesting facts about your community.

FEATURE STORY

FALL LANDSCAPING IDEAS

- by Pamela Palongue


According to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center inWashington, D.C., homes where multiple generations of familyhave blended together under one roof are on the rise. Witheconomic constraints and the high cost of child care, it is easy tosee why children, parents and grandparents living together in onedwelling makes sense in many situations. It’s easy to see why multi-generational dwellings which appeal to the needs of all ages arequickly becoming the trend.

From this perspective a ranch-style house on one floor is a goodchoice. Seniors with mobility problems will not have to deal withsteps, but also parents will not have the added worry of their youngchildren falling down stairs. Another important feature of multi-generational homes is the ‘mother-in-law suite,’ which could just aseasily be called the ‘father-in-law suite.’ This is generally an area ofthe house that is designed for an aging parent, giving them a degreeof privacy and independence while still being a part of the nuclearfamily household. They are sometimes located in a basement foreasier access for those with mobility issues and often times will havea separate entrance, giving it the appearance of a mini-apartment.They usually always include a bedroom and private bath, howeverthey may also come with kitchenettes and a small living area as well.

When accessibility becomes an issue with an older adult, there are

many options for making the home more accessible without giving itthe industrial-style, nursing home appearance. This is an importantconsideration when it comes to the re-sale of the house. First of all, ifan individual is wheel-chair bound, doorways must be made larger toaccommodate the chair. With a modern contemporary home, thismay be accomplished by removing walls for a more open floor plan

which appeals to buyers or widening doorways with attractivearchways. This will make the change look more intentional and lesslike a temporary fix for a mobility problem.

Many times it becomes necessary to install grab bars in bathsand showers for the safety of senior family members. Althoughthere are many industrial style models from which to choose, thereare a few companies on the web that are sensitive to theattractiveness of the grab bars and offer styles in decorative brassand silver. Walk-in showers and baths can be constructed withattractive glass enclosures that fit everyone’s style and are stillaccessible for seniors.

A few changes to your home can help make it safer for seniorsand children and more valuable when it comes time to re-sell.

- by Pamela Palongue


REAL ESTATE Monroeville

MAKING YOUR HOME MORE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL GENERATIONS


Homeless

In their 15 minutes of silence, volunteersfor the Homeless Children’s EducationFund (HCEF) spoke volumes during

The Purposeful Gathering held atMonroeville Mall in July.

The event, a performance artinstallation, had each volunteer standquietly for 15 minutes holding a drawing ofa child’s face in front of their own torepresent the nearly 2,000 children andyouth experiencing homelessness in

A llegheny County. The gathering kicked offa monthlong collection of school suppliesfor those homeless youngsters. Last year,HCEF staff and volunteers packed 2,300new backpacks with school supplies anddistributed them to the shelters and otherorganizations they work with that helphomeless children.

“People can donate to our office or toany Citizens Bank, [which should] have abin. If no bin is availab le just hand it to the

teller,” said Susie Robinson,manager of outreach andvolunteer services for HCEF.“The mission is to tell thecommunity about the plightof homeless children – that’stheir area,” she said of thevolunteers in her charge.

The Purposeful Gatheringat Monroeville Mall was thethird such event of its kind.Previous gatherings were heldat Duquesne University and atSoldiers and Sailors Mem orialHall in Oakland. Theoutreach department is busyplanning Homeless Children’sAwareness Week, October 15-23. It is being called “StandUp and Run for HomelessChildren” and will start with a

“The way we definehomeless is they donot have fixed,adequate, permanenthousing. They couldbe sleeping on theirgrandmother’scouch; [thosechildren have] thesame concerns as achild in a shelter.”

Susie RobinsonManager of Outreach andVolunteer Services for HCEF

Education Fund

5K run on Saturday, October 15 and end with events carried out in conjunction withHCEF’s cabinet of congregations. These cabinets are comprised of individualsrepresenting religious organizations who tell the stories of homeless children to theircommunities. There are 12 congregations including Jewish and Christiandenominations. In between, on Thursday, October 20 there will be a silent stand up fo rhomeless children program outside Soldiers and Sailors with a storytelling event andcelebration in the hall’s lobby. Saturday, there will be an evening with Roy Juarez, whowas homeless as a child and is now traveling the U.S. in a tour to bring attention tohomelessness.

The HCEF also provides afterschool programming for children through a number ofshelters, including hands-on science and field tri ps. “So the main thing is we want tomake sure they’re in school and they get to their home school,” Robinson said. Studentsliving in shelters are not the only ones classified as homeless. “The way we definehomeless is they do not have fixed, adequate, permanent housing.They could be sleeping on their grandmother’s couch; [thosechildren have] the same concerns as a child in a shelter. We’vegot peop le living in cars, we’ve got families living in cheap hotelsand we’ve got families living in shelters. All are consideredhomeless.”

This year, Pittsburgh will host the National Association for theEducation of Homeless Children and Youth Annual ConferenceNov. 5-8 at the Westin Convention Center. Three HCEFvolunteers will lead breakout sessions. “We think our mission isto just spread the word,” Rob inson said.


Childrens For more information about the Homeless

Children’s Education Fund, please visitwww.homelessfund.org.

By Marilyn K. Wempa

The Monroeville Historical Society has the responsibility to oversee the fourhistorical sites owned by the Municipality of Monroeville which maintains theseproperties, according to its president, Lynn Chandler. “These sites are consideredtreasures by the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation so the society hasaccepted the challenge to furnish the homes to reflect the period when they werebuilt and accepts approved gifts towards this goal,” she said.

They are the Old Stone Church that was originally built in 1834 and rebuilt in1896; the McGinley House, constructed in 1850, the oldest stone house inMonroeville; the McCully Log House built in 1790 behind the mall, moved to itspresent location, and rebuilt in 1995; and the McGregor Road Bridge also knownas the Old Stone Bridge, built in the 1800s and located on Old William PennHighway near GetGo. Following are the stories of some interesting items visitorscan see at these locations.

In 2004, the Van Horn family was closing its funeral business located for manyyears in Monroeville. Because Mrs. Van Horn was familiar with the dull-lookingbasement area of the Old Stone Church, she felt it should be made morewelcoming for visitors and donated the family’s many lovely furniture pieces andchina. (The society receives most of its income by renting the church for weddingsand meetings.)

In 2004, Miss H. Alberta Colclaser, who was over 90 years old, had a frienddrive her from central Ohio to donate two cross-cut saws and an auger. She saidthey were used by her grandfather, Stuart, and her father, Lee Colclaser, when theyworked on the rebuilding of the Old Stone Church in the 1890s.

In 2005, Monroeville residents Maureen and Walt Lawrence were browsing an


Found in Monroeville!

antique store in Vandergrift when they were surprised to find an oldpostcard of the Old Stone Church, which featured two women indresses from the early 1900s in an automobile of the same era.

In 2005, Mr. Frank Gessinger presented MHS with a large scale modelof the McGinley House. The yearlong project, suggested by formerhistorical society president Dick McClain, was quite a challenge—especially finding a practical way to duplicate the stone exterior.

In 2006, descendents of Joel Monroe (Monroeville’s firstpostmaster), Rebecca Gillis Sooy and Anna Duff, gave the society a

quilt made in 1836 by the McGillis sisters of Delmont and measuring85 inches by 81 inches. The quilting pattern is Prince of Wales plumein pinwheel fashion.

In 2007, when Fran Riccelli was cleaning out the old Kohch Barn justoff of Old Frankstown Road, she offered items for donation. A westernsaddle from the 1950s was chosen because its horn makes it uniquelyAmerican. The open ranges of the West required the roping of cattle.Since a running steer could pull a man off his horse, the saddle horn wasdesigned to prevent that by giving the rider a place to tie the rope.

In 2007, Mrs. Jane Vance from Thompson, Ohio, and Mrs. SallyMcCrumb from Valencia, Pa., came to MHS with a very specialdonation. These women are also descendents of Joel Monroe, whomarried Margaret Bing in the late 1830s. The gift was MargaretMonroe’s wedding dress!

In 2007, then municipal manager Marshall Bond presented MHSwith the official seal of Patton Township. Patton Township was thepredecessor of both Monroeville and Pitcairn.

In 2008, longtime MHS member Olive Davies donated a horseblanket that her parents used around the turn of the 19th century. Theblanket was used as a lap robe when people were traveling in buggiesor carriages, then thrown over the horse to keep it warm while itwaited for them to return to the carriage.

In 2009, MHS received a panoramic photo of the residents ofBoyd’s Hill taken in 1918. It was donated by Mrs. Lucille Hough inmemory of her husband, Dallas Hough. Boyd’s Hill was a tight-knitcommunity of people living in homes built by George Westinghouse,

who was one of the few moguls that employed the black workforcethat moved to the North after the Civil War.

In 2010, Connie McClain donated a stereoptoscope whichbelonged to her uncle, Michael Hartzell. An ancestor of theViewMaster, it is a viewing toy that displays the same scene twice witha slight shift in the images to create depth. This was the earliest versionof 3-D entertainment.

In 2010, Michael and Dorothy Urick gave MHS the sheepskin deedto the Joseph Simpson property. This is the land that the Urick familysubsequently developed along Saunders Station Road.

In 2010, James Sutherland’s donation was skill rather than an item. Mr.Sutherland took time to help refurbish a scroll saw that had been in thebasement of the McGinley House for many years. No one knew what itwas until he told us, but it does appear in early Sears & Roebuck catalogs.

In 2011, Mr. and Mrs. Baker of Export gave us an organ for use atthe Old Stone Church. The church is used for many weddings and this


continued on following page

“The Monroeville Historical Society has the responsibility to oversee the fourhistorical sites owned by the Municipality of Monroeville which maintains

these properties.” —LYNN CHANDLER

President of the Monroeville Historical Society


The Palace Theatre, Greensburg

PalacePa

Sep 30 Fri 8PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust & LECOM present Tommy Tune Steps In Time - A Broadway Biography in Song and Dance featuring the Manhattan Rhythm KingsOct 1 Sat 10:30AM Lake Erie College/Osteopathic Medicine’s White Coat CeremonyOct 7 Fri 8PM Latshaw Productions presents Randy Travis Oct 8 Sat 7:30PM River City Brass presents OctubafestOct 9 Sun 7PM Big Brothers Big Sisters/Laurel Region presents The Clarks Oct 13 Thu 7PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Karaoke On Stage! Oct 14 Fri 2&8PM Latshaw Productions presents Frankie Avalon Oct 15 Sat 8PM WCT presents Paul Taylor Dance Company’s Taylor 2 Oct 17 Mon 7:30PM WCT: US Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus Free Concert! Oct 21 Fri 8PM Elko: Kathleen Madigan’s Gone Madigan Tour Oct 27 Thu 8PM Latshaw: Gary Puckett/Union Gap w/guests Chuck Blasko/Vogues Oct 28 Fri 8PM WCT presents Spencers Theatre Of Illusion Oct 29 Sat 8PM Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra presents Ode To RussiaNov 4 Fri 8PM Latshaw: Bo Wagner’s Rat Pack w/guests Johnny Angel/The Halos Nov 5 Sat 7:30PM River City Brass presents Boogie Woogie Bugle BoyNov 12 Sat 8PM Elko Concerts presents Phil Vassar Nov 13 Sun 5PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Bill Cosby Nov 18/19/20 Fri/Sat/Sun Stage Right presents Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Nov 25 Fri 7:30PM WCT: Ricky Nelson Remembered with Matthew & Gunnar Nelson Nov 26 Sat 8PM WCT & Mindfox Productions: Michael Londra’s Beyond Celtic Dec 1 Thu 8PM Latshaw Productions presents The Beach Boys Dec 2 Fri 2&8PM Latshaw presents The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Show Dec 3 Sat 7:30PM River City Brass presents Christmas BrasstacularDec 4 Sun 2&5PM WCT: Theatre IV’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Dec 5 Mon 7PM Elko Concerts: Kyuss Lives! with opener The Sword Dec 10/11 Sat/Sun Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra presents NutcrackerDec 14 Wed 2&8PM Latshaw Pops Orchestra 2011 Christmas Spectacular Dec 17 Sat 8PM Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra: Home for the Holidays

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Found in Monroeville!continued from previous page

was a welcome replacement for the 40-year-old instrument there thatwas no longer suited to its task.

The Old Stone Church is located on Stroschein Road across from Eat’nPark. It is open for tours during and after Monroeville’s Memorial Dayparade and Independence Day parade from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and forMonroeville’s Light-Up Night Ceremony and Program the Tuesday beforeThanksgiving at 7 p.m. Parking is available at the Petco and Target lots.

The Historical Houses are located on McGinley Road near ForbesHospital and across from HealthSouth Hospital. They are open fortours every Sunday in June, July and August from 1 to 4 p.m. and onspecial event days, such as the Antiques Appraisal on a Sunday in lateMay, Children’s Old Fashioned Game Day Festival on a Sunday in lateJune, and Heritage Day Festival the third Saturday in October—this

year on October 15 – from 1 to 5 p.m. “Heritage Day Festival is an outdoor event when bread is baked in

an outdoor oven; visitors can churn butter; children delight in makingscarecrows, painting stones and pumpkins; and re-enactors entertainthe crowd with tales and artifacts of pioneer life,” according to eventschair Mary Lou Span. There is no admission, but there is a small chargefor the crafts, she added.

There is no admission charge for site tours and events. The supportof MHS members, businesses, and the public is vital, so anyone wishingto join or contribute should contact President Lynn Chandler at724.327.6164. Log on to the MHS website for interesting historicalphotos and society information: www.monroevillehistorical.org.

It is my pleasure to introduce myself to the readers of IN MonroevilleMagazine. My name is Dr. William Roscoe of ALL KARE Chiropracticand Laser Clinic in North Huntingdon, Pa. I will be writing a column in each issue of IN Monroeville Magazine this year covering weightloss, overall health and wellness plus chiropractic care. Theinformation I will convey is researched and compiled through myyears of continuous study.

I am a graduate from Sherman College of Straight Chiropracticin South Carolina. I graduated valedictorian of my class by puttingin countless hours of study, learning about how the body works,physiologically, and about what the body needs (nutritionally,mechanically and biomechanically) in order to stay healthy orrecover from an unhealthy state.

I returned to Southwestern Pennsylvania and acquired All KareChiropractic in 1998. Again, I started to work hard to build a practice and God willing, bring health and well-being to the communities that Ihave loved my entire life.

It was at this point that all of my hard work was paying off for me. I had a very successful practice but continued to further my knowledge in healthier lifestyles and ways to prevent people from having health issues. Then it hit me that my success had a huge price. I was 100 poundsoverweight, completely out of shape and not practicing what I preached.So to be a better role model, I started making better choices more often,eating healthier, simple exercise, less TV, less computer games and NOFAST FOOD. It took 5-6 years but I have lost over 100 pounds and I have kept it off for years. I can teach you how to easily lose the weight and keep it off for the rest of your life.

Research shows that lifestyle accounts for 70% of the way a personfeels. This is true for things like pain in your back, neck, hips, arms and legs, but is also true for more serious health concerns like diabetes, heartdisease, cancer, dementia, and Alzheimer’s. Research also shows that a person diagnosed with diabetes prior to age 40 will lose 11-14 years from their lifespan. In most cases, this is preventable through proper diet and exercise.

In order to help more people more effectively, I have recently addednew technology to my practice at ALL KARE Chiropractic and LaserClinic, “The Zerona LIPO Laser.” It has been featured on television showslike Rachel Ray, The Doctors and Extra. You can check it out on the web at zeronalaserpittsburgh.com.

The Zerona laser has been used for years to assist in traditionalliposuction surgery but because liposuction surgery is very expensive,invasive, painful and has the chance of serious infection, themanufacturer received FDA approval to use the Zerona laser for non-surgical purposes. The Zerona is a 635 Nanometer cold laser thatexcites fat cells to dump their fat into the interstitial fluid of the body,without pain and without downtime. It is the only laser that, at the time

I am writing this, is FDAapproved for fat reduction.

During the procedure theZerona Lipo Laser treatment thatis being administered is a low level laser thatdoes not produce heat, and it is completely non-invasive and has nevershown any recorded side effects beyond fat reduction. Research showsthat treatment should take 40 minutes and needs to be administered every48 hours, three times a week for two weeks for best results. The laser willbe applied to the targeted areas i.e. waist, hips, thighs for 20 minutes thenpatient will turn over to do the same treatment on the opposite side.

The first step that you need to take is to decide if you want to behealthy and happy. Next is to schedule a free consultation, where wecan start the journey and you can commit to making the lifestylechanges that will start to change your life for the better. When youcommit to a new you we will commit to being your coach, yourmentor, your advocate...not just your doctor.

After completion of the two week ZERONA Laser treatmentpackage, along with the lifestyle changes that we have implemented,the average ALL KARE patient can expect 6-10 inches of fat loss, inthe stomach, waist, hips and thighs.


in the Pittsburgh Area

The

For more info, call ALL KAREChiropractic & Laser Clinic at 724-864-3310. You can either comein for a free consultation or come toone of our free monthly seminars.

William H. Roscoe, D.C.

Smart PhonesClick Here


60th annual

4th of july parade

Clowns, cars, bands, beauty queens,floats and fire trucks were all part

of the scene as Monroeville held its60th Annual Fourth of July Parade.This year's theme was “Celebrate

America.” The parade began at theMiracle Mile Shopping Center andproceeded along Route 22 to thegrand stand at Monroeville Mall

near the entrance to Macy's. Of course, later that evening,

there were fireworks!Photos by Brad Lauer


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