PLUS! Plum School District News 2012.pdf · Tressler Chiropractic ... Mark Fainstein Len Pancoast...

WINTER 2012 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

PLUS! Plum School District News

IN Plum | WINTER 2012 |

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Plum School District News ............................................... | 3

Plum Chamber of Commerce ........................................... | 10

The Santa Watch Continues in Plum ............................. | 12

UPMC Today ........................................................................... | 17

Edgewater: A Small Town and its Big Development . | 26

Sugar Plum Days 2012 ....................................................... | 28

Oakmont Lights Up for the Holidays ............................. | 30

Plum Senior Community Center Expands ................... | 32

Health and Wellness: The Whole Picture ....................... | 36

ON THE COVER |

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Hometown PharmacyMedication 101 ........................................ | 34

SupercutsServing You and Your Community .............. | 35

Tressler ChiropracticPlum Woman Loses Over 100 Pounds ....... | 41

UPMC TODAYHealth and Wellness News You Can Use | Winter 2012-13

What’s Inside2 In a Heartbeat

3 Absent From Pain

4 Butt Out: New Reasons to Quit Smoking

Brittle Bones

5 Shedding More Than Pounds

6 Growing Up With Heart Disease

7 We’re Here for You

Stay Well This WinterSome people seem to sail through winter without a sni�e or a grumble. These simple steps may help you do the same: Spend some time in the fresh air, de-stress your holiday planning, wash your hands often, get plenty of sleep, and get a flu shot.

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Oakmont gets into the holiday spirit. (Photos by Gary Yon)

INSIDE WINTER 2012 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

PLUS! Plum School District News

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IN Plum is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing,encouraging and promoting the people of Plum Borough by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to providereaders with the most informative and professional regional publication in theCommonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Welcome to the winter issue of Plum magazine. At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking the journey with

us that was 2012.IN Community Magazines continues to grow, and for that we thank you, our readers and our

advertisers. Our readers help shape these magazines. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail orwrite in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table ofcontents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and yourideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor [email protected].

I wish to thank our advertisers for your continued support of INCommunity Magazines. By advertising with us, you are supporting yourcommunity by underwriting the cost of the editorial content that thosewho read these magazines enjoy and look forward to each issue.Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed.

In this last issue before 2013, I urge our readers to support theadvertisers who support your community magazine before you makeyour holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know and make

a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also yourneighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that2013 has to offer!

Enjoy your winter with the ones you love,Wayne Dollard, Publisher

INPERSPECTIVEPUBLISHERWayne Dollard

REGIONAL EDITORS

Pamela Palongue [North and East][email protected]

Mark Berton [South, West and Erie][email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Leo [email protected]

AD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

Debbie [email protected]

SCHOOL & MUNICIPAL CONTENT COORDINATOR

Megan [email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Jan McEvoyAnna Buzzelli Joe MilneSharon Cobb Tamara TylendaSusie Doak

WRITERS

John Barrera Nick KepplerJonathan Barnes Chelsie KozeraJennifer Brozak Leigh LyonsMatt Fascetti Dana Black McGrathTracey Fedkoe Joanne NaserMike Ference Aimee NicoliaJacob Flannick Melanie PaulickBritt Fresa Gina SallingerHeather Holtschlag Judith Schardt PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mark Fainstein Len PancoastGinni Hartle Kathleen RudolphBrad Lauer Gary Yon

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

Tamara Myers Tom Poljak

ADVERTISING SALES

Sophia Alfaras Gabriel NegriBrian Daley Aimee NicoliaDavid Despot Annette PetroneAndrea Graham Vincent SabatiniJulie Graff Michael Silvert Jason Huffman Karen TurkovichConnie McDaniel RJ VighettiBrian McKee Nikki Capezio-Watson This magazine is carrier route mailed to all districthouseholds and businesses.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part withoutwritten permission is prohibited. Copyright 2012.

CORRESPONDENCEDirect all inquiries, comments and press releases to:

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

Spring content deadline: February 3

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

STAFF

2 Plum

PLUM BOROUGHS C H O O L D I S T R I C T

...Leading The Way newsDear Parents and Residents,

As we are well into the second nine-week grading term, I continue to be impressed with our students’ appetite forlearning and excitement for school. Our official 2012 PSSA results were finalized last month and have reaffirmedour belief in the value of a Plum Borough education. We are proud to announce that forthe second consecutive year the College Boardselected Plum High School for their AP DistrictHonor Roll. This award is presented each year to school districts that are able to expand access to AP courses to a more

diverse group of learners, while simultaneously improving performance.

Our District’s academic improvement plans were finalized last monthand we are strategically implementing these plans to ensure continuousimprovement. Our prescriptive strategies include explicitly and systematically teaching students how to respond to open-ended questions in reading and math, using research-based interventions during tier time to close the achievement gap among sub-grouppopulations, increase the frequency of student centered instructional activities, and review benchmarked student data to identify needs early and often.

The School Board and Administration continues to systematicallyplan for the long-range academic, financial, and physical future of our District. During the past few months, we have discussed options and taken official Board actions related to school consolidation and closure, redistricting elementary students, enrollment and demographic study and projections, and the development of a strategic plan. These steps will ensure that Plum Borough continues to be a great place to live and raise our children.

Lastly, with the winter season just around the corner, please take time toreview our winter safety letter, school delay and cancellation procedures,and sign up for the Electronic Mustang. Please visit our District websitefor additional information: www.pbsd.k12.pa.us

Wishing you a restful and joyous holiday season,

Dr. Timothy S. GlasspoolSuperintendent

A Message fromDr. Glasspool

Plum | Winter 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3


sports

4 Plum

BOWLINGDAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Wednesday 12/5/12 Penn Hills Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 12/12/12 St. Joseph High School Home 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 12/19/12 Gateway High School Home 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 1/2/13 Woodland Hills High School Home 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 1/9/13 Burrell Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 1/16/13 Penn Hills Senior High School Away 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 1/23/13 St. Joseph High School Away 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 1/30/13 Gateway High School Away 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 2/6/13 Woodland Hills High School Away 3:30 p.m.Wednesday 2/13/13 Burrell Senior High School Away 3:30 p.m.

BOYS BASKETBALLDAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Friday 12/7/12 (Plum Tip-Off Tournament vs. Highlands) Home 8:00 p.m.Saturday 12/8/12 (Plum Tip-Off Tournament Winners TBA) Home TBATuesday 12/11/12 Kiski Area Sr High School Away 7:45 p.m.Friday 12/14/12 Woodland Hills High School Away 7:30 p.m.Tuesday 12/18/12 McKeesport Area High School Home 7:30 p.m.Friday 12/21/12 Gateway High School Away 7:30 p.m.Saturday 12/22/12 Valley Senior High School Home 1:30 p.m.Thursday 12/27/12 Seneca Valley High School Away 5:00 p.m.

Holiday TournamentFriday 12/28/12 Seneca Valley High School Away TBA

Holiday TournamentFriday 1/4/13 Central Catholic High School Home 7:30 p.m.Saturday 1/5/13 Wilkinsburg High School Home 1:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/8/13 Penn Hills Senior High School Home 7:30 p.m.Friday 1/11/13 Fox Chapel High School Home 7:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/15/13 Franklin Regional High School Home 7:30 p.m.Friday 1/18/13 Woodland Hills High School Home 7:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/22/13 McKeesport Area High School Away 7:30 p.m.Wednesday 1/23/13 Knoch High School Away 7:30 p.m.Friday 1/25/13 Gateway High School Home 7:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/29/13 Central Catholic High School Away 7:30 p.m.Friday 2/1/13 Penn Hills Senior High School Away 7:30 p.m.Tuesday 2/5/13 Fox Chapel High School Away 7:30 p.m.Friday 2/8/13 Franklin Regional High School Away 7:30 p.m.


All photos supplied by Ray Viglione Photography

G I R L S B A S K E T B A L LDAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Friday 12/7/12 Penn Trafford High School (Tip-Off Tournament) Away 4:00 p.m.Saturday 12/8/12 Norwin Senior High School (Tip-Off Tournament) Away 3:00 p.m.Monday 12/10/12 Kiski Area Sr High School Away 7:45 p.m.Tuesday 12/11/12 Allderdice High School Away 5:30 p.m.Friday 12/14/12 Woodland Hills High School Away 6:00 p.m.Tuesday 12/18/12 McKeesport Area High School Home 6:00 p.m.Friday 12/21/12 Gateway High School Away 6:00 p.m.Saturday 12/22/12 Valley Senior High School Home 12:00 noon Thursday 12/27/12 (North Allegheny Tournament) Away 3:30 p.m.Friday 12/28/12 (North Allegheny Tournament) Away TBASaturday 1/5/13 Wilkinsburg High School Home 12:00 noonTuesday 1/8/13 Penn Hills Senior High School Home 6:00 p.m.Wednesday 1/9/13 Pine-Richland High School Home 7:30 p.m.Friday 1/11/13 Fox Chapel High School Home 6:00 p.m.Tuesday 1/15/13 Franklin Regional High School Home 6:00 p.m.Wednesday 1/16/13 Shaler Area High School Away 7:30 p.m.Friday 1/18/13 Woodland Hills High School Home 6:00 p.m.Tuesday 1/22/13 McKeesport Area High School Away 6:00 p.m.Friday 1/25/13 Gateway High School Home 6:00 p.m.Friday 2/1/13 Penn Hills Senior High School Away 6:00 p.m.Tuesday 2/5/13 Fox Chapel High School Away 6:00 p.m.Friday 2/8/13 Franklin Regional High School Away 6:00 p.m.

S W I M M I N GDAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Tuesday 12/11/12 Deer Lakes High School Home 6:00 p.m.Thursday 12/13/12 Highlands High School Home 6:00 p.m.Tuesday 12/18/12 Penn Trafford High School Away 6:00 p.m.Thursday 12/20/12 Hempfield Area Senior High School Home 6:00 p.m.Thursday 1/3/13 Central/Oakland Catholic High School Home 6:00 p.m.Thursday 1/10/13 Allderdice High School Away 6:00 p.m.Friday 1/18/13 Woodland Hills High School Away 6:00 p.m.Thursday 1/24/13 McKeesport Area High School Home 6:00 p.m.Thursday 1/31/13 Gateway High School Home 6:00 p.m.Tuesday 2/5/13 Shady Side Academy Away 6:00 p.m.Thursday 2/7/13 Penn Hills Senior High School Home 6:00 p.m.Monday 2/11/13 Kiski Area Intermediate High School Away 6:00 p.m.Thursday 2/14/13 Fox Chapel High School Away 6:00 p.m.Thursday 2/28/13 (WPIAL Finals @ Pitt) Away 8:45 a.m.Friday 3/1/13 (WPIAL Finals @ Pitt) Away 8:45 a.m.


sports

6 Plum

RIFLE DAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Tuesday 12/4/12 Waynesburg Central High School Home 4:00 p.m.Tuesday 12/11/12 Mount Lebanon Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Thursday 12/13/12 Butler Area High School Away 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 12/18/12 Hempfield Area Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Thursday 1/3/13 Indiana Area Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/8/13 Butler Area High School Home 3:30 p.m.Thursday 1/10/13 Hempfield Area Senior High School Away 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/15/13 Indiana Area Senior High School Away 3:30 p.m.Thursday 1/17/13 Butler Area High School Away 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/22/13 Hempfield Area Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Thursday 1/24/13 Indiana Area Senior High School Home 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 1/29/13 Butler Area High School Home 3:30 p.m.Thursday 1/31/13 Hempfield Area Senior High School Away 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 2/5/13 Indiana Area Senior High School Away 3:30 p.m.Tuesday 2/12/13 (WPIAL Team Rifle Championships) Away TBA TBAThursday 2/14/13 (WPIAL Individual Rifle Championships) Away TBA TBA

H O C K E YDAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Monday 12/10/12 Hampton High School Ice Connection 8:30 p.m.Wednesday 12/19/12 Pine Richland High School Ice Connection 6:10 p.m.Monday 1/7/13 Kiski Area High School Pittsburgh Ice 8:20 p.m. Monday 1/14/13 Hampton High School Pittsburgh Ice 8:20 p.m. Thursday 1/24/13 West Allegheny High School Airport Ice 8:30 p.m. Monday 1/28/13 Erie Cathedral Prep Pittsburgh Ice 8:20 p.m. Friday 2/1/13 Franklin Regional High School Center Ice 6:30 p.m.Monday 2/4/13 Gateway High School Pittsburgh Ice 8:20 p.m.Monday 2/11/13 Greater Latrobe High School Pittsburgh Ice 8:20 p.m. Thursday 2/21/13 Kiski Area High School Center Ice 7:45 p.m. Monday 2/25/13 Chartiers Valley High School Pittsburgh Ice 8:20 p.m.

Plum Senior High SchoolSports Schedules (cont.)


Members of the Plum High School Fast Pitch and Slow PitchSoftball teams are pictured in front of their new batting cage.The batting cage is 70’ long, 14’ wide and 12’ tall and is locatedat Plum High School near the newly constructed softball field.This new batting cage was made possible through the generosity of East Suburban Sports Medicine Center. ESSMC has provided athletic training services for the

Plum Borough School District since 1984 and they have six locations in Pittsburgh's eastern suburbs. Plum Athletic Director, Bob Alpino, expressed his gratitude towards ESSMC,"We are very thankful to East Suburban for their generosity inproviding the funding for the batting cage for our softball

teams. This batting cage is a nice additionto our new softball field, and it will

be used by softball players in the borough for many

years to come.”

ESSMC Funds New Softball Cage at Plum High School

W R E S T L I N G DAY DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME

Friday 12/7/12 (Eastern Area Tournament @ Gateway) Away 3:00 p.m.Saturday 12/8/12 (Eastern Area Tournament @ Gateway) Away 9:00 a.m.Wednesday 12/12/12 Hampton High School Away 7:00 p.m.Wednesday 12/19/12 Fox Chapel High School Home 7:00 p.m.Friday 12/28/12 (West Mifflin Tournament) Away 8:30 a.m.Saturday 12/29/12 (West Mifflin Tournament) Away 8:30 a.m.Wednesday 1/2/13 Shaler Area High School Home 7:00 p.m.Friday 1/4/13 Gateway High School Away 7:00 p.m.Wednesday 1/9/13 North Hills Senior High School Away 7:00 p.m.Friday 1/11/13 (Allegheny County Tournament) Away 8:00 a.m.Saturday 1/12/13 (Allegheny County Tournament) Away 8:00 a.m.Wednesday 1/16/13 Central Catholic High School Home 7:00 p.m.Friday 1/25/13 (New Oxford Tournament) Away 4:00 p.m.Saturday 1/26/13 (New Oxford Tournament) Away 9:00 a.m.Saturday 2/2/13 (Buckeye Local Tournament) Away TBAWednesday 2/13/13 West Mifflin Area High School Home 7:00 p.m.Saturday 2/23/13 (WPIAL Wrestling Sectionals ) Away 8:00 a.m.Thursday 2/28/13 (WPIAL Tournament) Away TBAFriday 3/1/13 (WPIAL Tournament) Away TBASaturday 3/2/13 (WPIAL Tournament) Away TBA


8 Plum

The staff at Plum Senior High is extremely proud of the most recent standardized assessment results from the 2011-2012school year. Our school was one of only 14 out of more than 50 schools in Allegheny County to meet all of the state’s Adequate Yearly Progress targets on the 2012 PSSA assessments (Post-Gazette, 10/4/12). Students in the current seniorclass also achieved the highest scores in our school’s history on all exams (Reading, Math, Writing, and Science).

Significant participation gains were also achieved in Advanced Placement testing. Seventy one more students took AP classes in 2011-2012 than the previous year and 128 more AP exams were taken. Despite the significant increase,scores remained well above the state and global averages. It is important to our staff that our work lends to both teaching students to proficiency, as well as teaching to extremely high competencies. We will continue to work to

maximize achievement on all standardized assessment results through effective teaching at high competency levels.

The graduation rate for the class of 2012 continued to lie well above both the state average and state target for Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), coming in at 95%. However, the graduation rate is also an area in which we will continuously work to improve. We want ALL of our students to graduate and will continue to seek resources,interventions, strategies, and opportunities that assist students in meaningful ways to ultimately prevent studentsfrom dropping out of school.

This year, student-centered instructional activity will be afocus for all content areas. This instructional methodology works to improve upon students’ learning in all contentareas, not just testing needs. Students take ownership of their learning through experimentation, collaboration, trial and error, analysis, and applying the content in some meaningful way, and are in turn, likely to retain their learning athigher competency levels. Examples will be shared within professional learning communities and feedback will beshared regularly with staff about how to more actively engage students in the learning process. Student-centered instructional activity serves to motivate and interest students and requires a higher level of responsibility on the students’ part for their learning.

The best academic interests of our students continue to be the focus of the staff at Plum Senior High despite challenging times in education. We are extremely proud of our students’ accomplishments and will continue to serve their needs to a standard of excellence expected by our school community.

Ryan Kociela, PrincipalPlum Senior High School

Proud of ourachievements,but the workcontinues...


Girls Leaders Association (GLA) hasbeen in existence at Plum SeniorHigh School for 50 years. This service club works on a variety of projects per year by helping individuals or groups in need withinthe Plum Community and beyond.The sponsors for this year are RoseShrout and Amy Martello. Over thesummer, three GLA officers attendeda leadership workshop by GirlGovearning a grant of $800 for their ideaand plan to expand on communitywork by going green. Recently, GLA held its annual Breast CancerWalk on Saturday, October 20, 2012.$2,000 was raised for research forthe PA Breast Cancer Coalition!GLA wishes to thank all walkers for their support and contributions.In the near future, GLA will be sponsoring three blood drives (December 7, February 7 and April11) to help Central Blood Bank savethree lives with each donation. Inaddition to ‘saving lives,’ you couldhelp our senior students receivescholarship money. All blood drives will take place in the Auxiliary Gym at the high schoolfrom 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pleaseconsider being a ‘superhero’ by helping to ‘save lives’ with your donation!

10 Plum

Stay up to date by accessing our website atwww.plumchamber.com

The Plum Borough Chamber of Commercehosted a Halloween Costume Party to assist thePlum Borough Emergency Medical Services,(EMS), all four borough fire departments and the Plum Food Pantry with funding to support the organizations’ operations.

The event took place on October 26 and was held at the Plum Masonic Hall. Chambermembers David Johnson of D. Johnson Insuranceand Tracy Mitchell of Holiday Park Apartmentswere event organizers.

Guests enjoyed entertainment,music, and food provided by Nathan's Catering.

There were contests for the best costume and several raffles throughout the evening. The event raised $6,200 for the Plum organizations. The funds were also used to provide a Thanksgiving dinner for Plum Borough Police and EMS personnel who wereworking on Thanksgiving Day.

Johnson has also headed up three otherfundraisers on behalf of the critical careservices in Plum Borough. In 2010, over$10,000 was raised that was used topurchase life-saving equipment,which led directly to the savingof three lives inthe area.


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12 Plum

During November and December, Mr. Claus willbe visiting as many cities and towns across the U.S. as possible, including appearances in Oakmontand Plum. Those wishing to consult Mr. Claus tomake a particular gift request should check the localshopping malls and holiday parades. Mr. Claus alsomay be seen in the vicinity of 34th Street in NewYork City and any cold, mountainous region wherereindeer may live.

In other news from the North Pole, Prancer hasbeen placed on the injured reserve list, although he is expected to be healthy for the Christmas Eveevent. A young reindeer named Techno is beingcalled up from the farm team as a possible replacement if Prancer is unable to fly by Christmas.Elfkin stresses, “Presents WILL BE delivered on time and there will be no lapse in service regardlessof personnel changes.” Elfkin also reminds homeowners to leave the damper open to provideeasier access through the chimney. (This season Mr. Claus is watching his cholesterol intake and low fat snacks are appreciated).

by Pamela Palongue

According to Minnie Elfkin, Public Relations Coordinator for Santa Claus OperationsNorth America, the iconic Christmas figure will be keeping a dizzying schedule ofpublic appearances this holiday season.


Elfkin also reports that the UnitedFederation of Elves, (UFE), has beenworking on some exciting, new toys thisseason that should please any toddleror preschooler. Children are alerted tobe on their best behavior, now thatSanta Claus has Skype capabilities.

Although there have been many imposters, there is still no official Santa Claus website at this time. SantaClaus cannot be liked on Facebook orfollowed on Twitter due to the covertnature of his operations in the NorthPole region. Those children wishing to contact Mr. Claus, should send allcorrespondence to the usual address,Santa Claus, North Pole.

All children in the Plum Borough area are requested to go to bed no laterthan 10 p.m. on Christmas Eve. SantaClaus will be arriving in Oakmontsometime between 2:17 and 2:18 a.m.Eastern Standard Time, and arriving inPlum at approximately 2:20 a.m. Inorder to receive a present from Santa,children should be sure to pick up theirtoys and eat all of their vegetables.

In the meantime, keep a sharp eyetoward the northern sky and watch forflying reindeer and twinkling lights. To All a Merry Christmas and to All aGood Night! Institute.The Institute.get my life back

Driving back from school, Brittany was just a minute from home when her car hit a patch of ice and spun into a pole. The accident left her in a coma for six days and caused traumatic brain injury. Surrounded by world-class care while in inpatient therapy at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, Brittany relearned the basics—like standing, speaking, and maintaining balance. Making great progress, she chose outpatient rehabilitation at a UPMC Centers for Rehab Services location close to home. Nearly fully recovered, Brittany is not just walking, but driving, and has returned to work. She also is back in school studying early childhood development.

To learn more about the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/MyRehab.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is rankedamong the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

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14 Plum

The Palace Theatre, Greensburg724-836-8000 • www.thepalacetheatre.orgFREE PARKING FOR EVENING & WEEKEND SHOWSPa

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The Palace Theatre Coming Attractions

Vicki Lawrence & Mama

Brian Regan

Get The Led Out

The Amazing Kreskin

Dec 14-16 F/S/S 7:30/7:30/2PM Stage Right presents AnnieDec 18 Tue 7:30PM Elko Concerts presents Kenny G 2012 World Tour Dec 19 Wed 2&8PM Latshaw Pops Christmas Show Dec 22 Sat 8PM Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra presents Home For The Holidays Jan 19 Sat 8PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents The Amazing KreskinJan 26 Sat 8PM WCT presents Get The Led Out: The American Led Zeppelin Feb 2 Sat 8PM WSO presents Beethoven’s PastoraleFeb 9 Sat 8PM Carnegie Mellon Chamber Orchestra presents An Evening of European DancesFeb 10 Sun 2PM WCT presents Duquesne University TamburitzansFeb 14 Thu 8PM Latshaw Productions presents The Association & Jay And The AmericansFeb 18 Mon 7:30PM Elko Concerts presents Michael BoltonFeb 23 Sat 6PM WCT’s Hollywood Party - A Salute to The PalaceMar 2 Sat 7:30PM River City Brass presents Celtic ConnectionsMar 3 Sun 7PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Gaelic StormMar 13 Wed 7:30PM Westmoreland Cultural Trust presents Vienna Boys’ ChoirMar 16 Sat 8PM WSO presents Amadeus! A Mozart CelebrationMar 17 Sun 7PM Live Nation presents Brian ReganMar 20 Wed 8PM Elko Concerts presents JewelMar 24 Sun 7PM Vestry presents Jesus Christ Superstar’s Ted NeeleyApr 4/5 Th/Fr 7:30PM Univ. of Pitt-Greensburg: Eleanor - An American Love StoryApr 6 Sat 7:30PM River City Brass’ Big Band and Doo Wop BrassApr 8 Mon 8PM Latshaw Productions presents The Beach BoysApr 11 Thu 2&8PM Latshaw Productions presents Branson’s Ozark JubileeApr 12 Fri 7:30PM Latshaw Productions presents Michael W. SmithApr 13 Sat 8PM WSO presents Brilliant Brahms w/Pianist Angela ChengApr 18 Thu 6PM Elko Concerts presents Pajanimals LIVE: Pajama PlaydateMay 3 Thu 8PM Elko Concerts presents Tanya TuckerMay 16 Thu 2&8PM Latshaw Productions presents Vicki Lawrence & Mama

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Charley Gates, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon with Premier Medical Associates, the largest independent multi-physician practice in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

Not Just for Athletes:Could that nagging shoulder pain be a torn rotator cuff?

www.PremierMedicalAssociates.com

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16 Plum

UPMC TODAYHealth and Wellness News You Can Use | Winter 2012-13

What’s Inside2 In a Heartbeat

3 Absent From Pain

4 Butt Out: New Reasons to Quit Smoking

Brittle Bones

5 Shedding More Than Pounds

6 Growing Up With Heart Disease

7 We’re Here for You

Stay Well This WinterSome people seem to sail through winter without a sni�e or a grumble. These simple steps may help you do the same: Spend some time in the fresh air, de-stress your holiday planning, wash your hands often, get plenty of sleep, and get a flu shot.

2 UPMC.com/Today

James Colwell was relaxing after building a retaining wall when he began to feel pressure in his chest, along with nausea and sweating. He didn’t think it was a heart attack but told his daughter to drive him to UPMC East, located just 10 minutes from his Penn Hills home.

“It turns out I was having a major heart attack. If I had waited any longer or traveled to a hospital farther away, they may have been calling the undertaker,” says James, 75, who works full time as an independent broker heading up the Colwell Agency.

He was rushed to the cardiac catheterization lab where Abdulrab Aziz, MD, chief of cardiology at UPMC East, and a team of nurses and technicians jumped into action. Dr. Aziz quickly restored blood flow with a balloon angioplasty and stent.

James felt immediate relief — less than an hour after first experiencing symptoms. He had survived a blockage in his left anterior descending artery, which is a major artery to the heart. Blockages there are often fatal.

Door-to-balloon time

National guidelines call for hospitals to perform an angioplasty within 90 minutes — starting from the moment a patient enters the hospital until the balloon is inflated and blood flow is restored. According to Dr. Aziz, since UPMC East opened in July all procedures have been performed within those guide-lines — most of them in less than 60 minutes.

“Time is critical. The sooner we restore blood flow through the arteries, the less damage there will be,” says Dr. Aziz.

UPMC East has a team of heart doctors, nurses, and specialists on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to treat serious heart conditions. One reason the door-to-balloon time is so impressive is because so many team members live near the hospital, enabling a team to assemble within 20 minutes.

“Our location makes it easier — and faster — for patients and their families to get here. It’s easier for our response team to get here, too,” says Dr. Aziz.

An obvious choice

James says going to UPMC East was an “obvious choice.”

“I wouldn’t go anywhere else but UPMC. I’m just glad I didn’t have to get on the Parkway East and head into town,” he says. “When you’re having a heart attack, or any emergency, the quicker you can get to an emergency room, the better off you are.”

UPMC East’s connection with the renowned UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute means patients have access to internationally acclaimed experts, as well as sophisticated life-saving treat-ments, and technology. While the hospital provides a full range of noninvasive diagnostic imaging, catheterizations, and emergency interventions, patients needing open heart surgery, such as a coronary bypass or valve replacement, are transferred to UPMC Shadyside or UPMC Presbyterian for treatment. Because UPMC East’s cardiologists also are on staff at those hospitals, patients continue with the same physician for follow-up care.

“That continuum of care is very important and appreciated by patients,” says Dr. Aziz.

To schedule an appointment with one of our cardiologists, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call toll-free 1-800-553-UPMC (8762).

In a HeartbeatUPMC East is cutting minutes and saving lives by opening blocked arteries in record time.

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Anesthesia makes possible some of modern medicine’s greatest miracles. Can you imagine undergoing surgery without it?

The father of Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes is generally credited with bringing the term into popular use in 1846, though references to anesthesia can be traced back to 1741. The term is based on a Greek word meaning “lack of sensation.”

“Anesthesiology uses medicine to eliminate your ability to feel pain or other sensations,” explains John Williams, MD, the Peter and Eva Safar Professor and chair of the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Anesthesiology. “Your anesthesiol-ogist partners with your surgeon to manage your vital functions before, during, and after surgery. Everything from breathing, heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, body temperature, blood clotting, and fluid loss is consistently monitored.”

A team of professionals

Anesthesiologists are physicians who complete four years of residency after finishing medical school. Their extensive preparation includes training in cardiology, critical care medicine,

internal medicine, pharmacology, and surgery. Many also pursue subspecialty training in such areas as pain medicine, and pediatric, cardiothoracic, or obstetric anesthesia.

In today’s complex surgical suites, anesthesiologists lead an entire team of skilled professionals, which can include a certified registered nurse anesthetist, resident physician, student nurse anesthetist, and anesthetist assistant. “It’s a true team effort, with each member playing a distinct role in delivering patient care,” says Dr. Williams.

Anesthesia’s role in health care extends far beyond the operating room. Anesthesiologists offer pain management in a variety of settings, enhancing the daily lives of patients with chronic diseases or complex medical conditions.

Getting to know you

For minor operations, you’ll typically meet your anesthesiologist at the hospital, shortly before surgery. For major surgeries, you will be asked to participate in a pre-surgery consultation. “With patients who live at a distance, we’re now using telemedicine to conduct pre-op visits,” says Dr. Williams. “It allows us to get to know you, address your questions and concerns, review options, and determine if any additional tests or consultations are needed.”

What to tell your anesthesiologist

Prior to surgery, you’ll be asked to provide information about yourself. “Be candid and comprehensive. What you share will be held in strict confidence,” advises Dr. Williams.

Be sure to include the following: Previous reactions you or other family members have had

to anesthesia Any food, medicine, or latex allergies you have Prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you take Your use of alcohol or recreational drugs

Absent From PainMost of us think of anesthesiology as the medical specialty that “puts you to sleep,” but it’s really all about pain relief.

Did You Know?There are four basic categories of anesthesia:

Local: Numbs a small, specific part of your body

Regional: Numbs a larger area of your body, usually below the waist

Twilight: Sedates and provides pain relief

General: Renders you unconscious

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4 UPMC.com/Today

Butt Out Despite dire health warnings, one out of five Americans still smokes. If you’re one of them, here are some new reasons to crush that butt.Before you light up your next cigarette, consider this: With every puff, you’re inhaling more than 7,000 chemicals.

Hundreds of them are poisonous, and about 70 can cause cancer. And no organ or tissue in the body is immune to this toxic cloud.

Most people know that cancer, heart disease, and lung disease are major health threats caused by smoking. But are you aware that smoking increases your risk of getting diabetes by 44 percent?

That’s just one of the not-so-obvious reasons to put that butt out. Here are five more.

1. See the difference. If you smoke, your risk of age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness, doubles. Smokers also have double the risk of developing cataracts.

2. Heal better. Smoking weakens the body’s ability to heal from surgery, disease, broken bones, and even minor back strains.

3. Now hear this. Smokers are more likely to develop a hearing loss. Exposure to secondhand smoke also puts former smokers and nonsmokers at risk.

4. Stand tall. Smoking weakens bones and raises the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures in men and women.

5. Keep your head. If your mind is cloudy, smoking may be the culprit. It’s been linked to memory problems and poor reasoning skills in middle-aged smokers.

You’re not just hurting yourself

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that secondhand smoke kills about 50,000 people every year and sickens many more. Children who live with a smoker are especially susceptible to lung and breathing problems, and they run an increased risk of hearing loss as adolescents.

If you’re among the eight out of 10 smokers who want to quit, talk to your primary care doctor. To locate a doctor in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call toll-free 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Sources: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Journal of the American Medical Association.

Brittle Bones Osteoporosis is quickly becoming a national health care concern.It’s estimated that 10 million Americans now have osteoporosis and 34 million are at risk. Whether you’re young or old, male or female, chances are good that you — or someone you love — will be affected by the disease.

“In osteoporosis, your bones become thin and brittle, putting you at increased risk of a bone fracture,” says Susan Greenspan, MD, UPMC’s director of osteoporosis prevention and treatment. “In advanced stages, simple acts like lifting a baby or sneezing can lead to a fracture.”

Here are four facts everyone should know about osteoporosis:

1. Osteoporosis can appear at any age. But after the age of 50, one out of every two women — and one out of every four men — are likely to experience a fracture due to the disease. These breaks occur most often in the hip, wrist, and spine.

2. Osteoporosis is silent. It’s often diagnosed only after a fracture. Menopause, family and medical history, physical build, and your lifestyle and diet can increase your odds of the disease.

3. You can take proactive steps at any age to promote bone health. These include: eating foods rich in calcium, such as milk, cottage cheese, and calcium-enriched juices; exercising (weight-bearing exercise like walking); stopping smoking; and limiting alcohol use. If needed, consider taking a calcium supplement and vitamin D daily.

4. The good news is early detection is easy. If you’re 65 years of age or older, Dr. Greenspan recommends talking to your doctor about your risks. A simple bone mineral density test can assess your bone health.

To learn more about osteoporosis, talk to your primary care provider, or visit the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s website at nof.org.

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

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It’s well known that bariatric surgery can produce impressive weight loss. But there’s increasing evidence that it offers other health benefits, too. For example, a recent Swedish study showed weight-loss surgery can prevent diabetes among individuals who struggle with obesity.

That news came as no surprise to Anita Courcoulas, MD, professor of surgery and chief of the Section of Minimally Invasive Bariatric and General Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “It’s another study demonstrating the lasting impact of bariatric surgery on health improvement,” says Dr. Courcoulas. “The changes are real and durable.”

A life-altering surgery

According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, an estimated 72 million Americans are considered obese and nearly 200,000 undergo bariatric surgery annually.

UPMC is a leader nationally in bariatric surgery and in the number of bariatric procedures performed annually.

Dr. Courcoulas says bariatric surgery (including gastric bypass, gastric band, and gastric sleeve) can help reverse a variety of serious obesity-related health conditions, such as:

Diabetes High blood pressure Sleep apnea Heart disease High cholesterol

Is bariatric surgery right for you?

Current national guidelines recommend bariatric surgery for patients who are 80 to 100 pounds overweight and with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40, or a BMI of 35 or more for those with one or more significant obesity-related health conditions.

Those guidelines may change, though. For example, at UPMC — one of the most highly funded centers of bariatric research in the country — Dr. Courcoulas is heading a study examining the impact of bariatric surgery on diabetic patients with lower BMIs (30–35).

She predicts more and more patients will seek out bariatric surgery for health reasons — not just weight reasons. “We’re just beginning to understand its full potential,” she says.

Shedding More Than PoundsBariatric surgery helps free patients from a range of life-threatening health problems.

Bariatric Surgery Centers at UPMCEach of UPMC’s four bariatric surgery centers has been named a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Our multidisciplinary approach to weight loss through both surgery and lifestyle changes is available at:

UPMC Hamot: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, and gastric sleeve. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Amjad Ali, MD, or Rodolfo Arreola, MD, call 814-877-6997.

UPMC Horizon: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Christopher Myers, MD, call 724-588-6660.

UPMC St. Margaret: Pittsburgh Bariatrics offers gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, and revisional surgery. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Joseph Colella, MD, or LeeAnn Peluso, MD, call 412-784-5900.

Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC: Offers gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery, gastric sleeve, revisional surgery, and clinical trials. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Anita Courcoulas, MD, director, Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery; George Eid, MD; Giselle Hamad, MD; Carol McCloskey, MD; or Ramesh Ramanathan, MD, call 412-641-3632.

Each center offers free monthly information sessions. To learn more about bariatric surgery, or to find out if you’re a candidate, visit UPMC.com/bariatricsurgery.

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6 UPMC.com/Today

Alexis Laney was only 14 months old when she underwent open heart surgery in Cleveland to repair a faulty valve. She had annual checkups until age 17, when her pediatric cardiologist referred her to an adult cardiologist. She scheduled sporadic checkups, but stopped going after giving birth to a son in 2005. “I felt fine,” says Alexis.

Now 27, the young wife and mother finally gave in to her family’s urging last year and saw a cardiologist near her home in Youngstown, Ohio. Although her EKG and echocardiogram were normal, he urged Alexis to see a specialist at the Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, saying, “I don’t know what to look for, but they will.”

Tests conducted by Stephen Cook, MD, director of the ACHD Center, found scar tissue blocking blood flow to her aorta — a serious condition putting her at risk of sudden death. “I was shocked. I could have collapsed and died,” Alexis says.

Lifelong expert care

Alexis is part of a growing population of adults born with heart defects who had lifesaving heart surgery as newborns and children. Thanks to advances in medicine and improved surgical techniques, “the number of adults with congenital heart diseases has outgrown the number of pediatric congenital heart disease patients,” says Dr. Cook.

The ACHD Center — a joint program of Children’s Hospital and UPMC Presbyterian — provides specialized transition support and care for patients with congenital heart disease.

“Despite surgery, patients can experience complications as adults, including arrhythmias, stroke, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Our care and follow-up enables these young people — now in their prime — to lead long, productive lives,” Dr. Cook says.

A healthy outlook

Before her diagnosis, Alexis thought she was in great shape; she had lost 100 pounds, was running daily, and had completed a two-mile race. But her conditioning actually helped disguise her declining health. After undergoing surgery at Children’s last April to restore blood flow, she now realizes how much better she feels. This summer, she ran the race again.

“Last year, I was better conditioned, but I couldn’t breathe after the race. This year, I felt fantastic,” Alexis says. “I’m glad I went to Children’s. I’m more confident about exercising now. I know my heart can take it.”

Growing Up With Heart DiseaseChildren’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC is responding to the special challenges facing adults born with congenital heart disease.

ACHD Center Fast FactsA single childhood surgery is seldom a permanent cure for patients born with a heart defect. The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center provides lifelong care and follow-up for patients with congenital heart disease who are:

Ages 18 and up with conditions ranging from simple to severe

Women of childbearing age needing pregnancy counseling or contraception

Adolescents (13 to 17) who receive guidance, support, and care during their transition to adulthood

For more information, contact the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center at 412-692-5540 or email [email protected].

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Location, location, location. It influences almost every decision we make — from where we live to where we shop.

Location is especially important when it comes to making health care decisions. You need quality services that are convenient and accessible — without the hassles of driving the Parkway East or dealing with construction woes.

“With higher gas prices, increased traffic, and less free time, people place a high priority on good medical care that’s closer to where they live and work,” says Laura Gailey Moul, vice president, operations at UPMC East. “That’s why UPMC continues to expand its level of high-quality health care services to the Monroeville community.”

UPMC’s outpatient facilities in the eastern suburbs serve people of all ages, offering:

Cardiovascular care Chemotherapy Imaging and diagnostic procedures Pediatrics (Children’s East, which includes imaging and

diagnostic services, medical services, and outpatient specialty services, and Children’s Express Care)

Physician specialties including ear, nose, and throat; gastroenterology; general surgery; heart and vascular; neuro- surgery; orthopaedics; pulmonary; urology, and many more

Rehabilitation and physical therapy Same-day surgery Senior care Sleep medicine Women’s health (UPMC Womancare Center, which offers

a range of imaging services, as well as general ob/gyn and women’s specialty physician services)

A medical complex serving patients and physicians

A new physician office building opened recently at 400 Oxford Drive, which is adjacent to 600 Oxford Drive. Open for many years, 600 Oxford Drive houses imaging, UPMC Center for Rehab Services, and several physician offices. The result is UPMC at Oxford Drive, a medical complex with ample free parking and easy access to labs, x-rays, and other testing facilities, as well as primary care and specialty physician offices. “UPMC at Oxford Drive is a one-stop option,” says Ms. Moul. “Patients can see their primary care doctor, get necessary lab work and other testing done, or visit a specialist, all in the same location.”

For Shawn Naseem, MD, an internal medicine physician with Primary Care Associates of Monroeville–UPMC, and his colleagues, the decision to move to UPMC at Oxford Drive was an easy one. Located on the top floor of the new building, their office space — newly built specifically for a primary care practice — is both functional and comfortable. “It is a warm and open environment that our patients and staff love.”

“Having so many other skilled medical specialists in such close proximity is a great advantage,” he adds. “We work very well together and communicate with one another. I know they are the very best at what they do, and I trust them to take care of my patients.”

“Patients and physicians alike benefit from having such a comprehensive array of services and specialists available,” says Ms. Moul. “And UPMC East is a natural extension of our commitment to this area, offering convenient access to specialty care and inpatient services for primary care physicians and their patients.”

Do you have a PCP?

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

“A PCP is equipped to deal with all kinds of health problems, whether simple or complex,” says Dr. Naseem. If you need advanced care, your PCP is the most effective and efficient link to specialists or other services and treatments. “For patients and their families, having a PCP to coordinate their care with specialists and other providers is a huge relief,” adds Dr. Naseem. “We are your advocate and guide in the broader health care system.”

To locate physicians in the eastern suburbs, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor, or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

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We’re Here for YouYou’ll find the best of UPMC at strategic locations throughout the eastern suburbs, giving you and your physician even more resources for care.

UPMC East2775 Mosside Blvd.Monroeville, 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 information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment.Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC East on Facebook.

Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC East physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments.

Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/Patient Careand we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’tmatter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

TAKE TIME TO TAKE CARE OF YOU

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

26 Plum

Demolition of the Edgewater Steel buildingsbegan in the winter of 2005 with the last ofthe steel legacy’s walls coming down in

March of 2010. The history of Edgewaterdates back to 1916 when Frank Bell purchased the factory in Oakmont from BestManufacturing, then a

leading producer in industrial valves and pipeproducts. By 1918 Bell’s Edgewater was anestablished producer of train wheels andrings and it was all taking place inside thewalls of Oakmont’s beloved mill. Essentially,Edgewater – stretching from Plum Creek to the Allegheny River and encompassingapproximately sixty acres – put the town ofOakmont on the map at the turn of the 20thcentury. Now, almost one hundred yearslater the remnants of a steel town havefaded, but the legacy lives on in the name ofa new development, Edgewater at Oakmont. In March of 2011 construction of the

34-acre Edgewater Housing Developmentbegan. Jason Corna, Director of Marketing atKacin Companies, expresses his hopes forthe new neighborhood, telling IN Plum, that Edgewater “will bring new life to thecommunity and bring up local home values.”It’s the project’s intention to build each home to the highest of standards while preserving the historic integrity of Oakmont’s architecture. The developmentwill consist of 242 residences: 62 apartments and 180 homes.

- by Chelsie Kozera


The types of homes range from manor flats (or condos) to townhomes to cottage homes and park homes. Edgewater’s priciest living quarters are Park Homes, which are stand-alonestructures with a river view. The appeal of the Oakmont community has attracted buyers from twelve different states, according to Corna. A riverfront park with green grass, vegetation, and a few benches will give home owners a shared place to soak up the outdoors. The community as a whole has qualified for a LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). One interesting aspect of the community is that Oakmont’s

existing streets, California Avenue and College Avenue, will just extend into the new neighborhood. The site holds true to

Oakmont’s walkable town reputation, as the developers have putemphasis on sidewalks and made an effort to connect them to therest of the town. There will also be a specialty grocer, a bank andan eatery within walking distance in the spring of 2013 when thenext phase of adding commercial buildings begins. (Corna was unable to reveal specifics.) Edgewater Steel was a pillar that picked up a Pittsburgh

suburb and made it a lively town. Today, Oakmont grows larger,greener and happier, while continuing to recognize its heritage. The Edgewater development will be a blend of modernity and history that preserves Oakmont’s features as a quaint town. Soventure down to take a stroll in the new walkable suburb of oursteel city.

This year's Sugar Plum Days was held December 8 – 15. There were a variety of activities for everyone to participate in,with fun things to do each day, turning Plum Borough into aChristmas wonderland. Children were able to participate in the

Sugar Plum Days Passport Program wherethey could get their passport punched at each of the following locations: Plum Borough Building, PittsburghEast Community Church, Plum Community Library, Plum Senior Center, Dojonovic Disney Christmas Display,Hayride at Renton Fire Hall,Carpenter Log House, EastSuburban Family YMCA, ChristLutheran Church and Nowalk’sDaily Grind. A school bus maderound trips each day between thedifferent locations and childrenhaving five or more punches on theirpassport were eligible to win one ofseveral different prizes.

The Plum Senior Center and the Plum Borough Education Association kicked off Sugar Plum Days with the arrival of Santa Claus. Kids participated in Christmas Karaoke and crafts activities. Plenty of hot chocolate, popcorn and cookies

was consumed. The Plum Creek Presbyterian Church located

on Center New Texas Road, was the scene of aLiving Nativity. Visitors were able to take awalking outdoor journey to experience the birth of Christ, which included actorsand live animals.

On Tuesday, December 11, the Plum Senior High School Music Department presented an evening ofholiday favorites at the high schoolauditorium. Appropriately, the Renton Fire

Hall was the holiday scene of a bonfirefor toasting marshmallows, with sleighrides and warm hot chocolate. The historic Carpenter Log House

served up hot cider and cookies and provided musical entertainment for guests.

28 Plum


The Plum Borough Building had a train display and face painting and crafts for children as well. Visitors were able to vote on their favorite gingerbread house

sponsored by Colleen Prokopik and the Plum Senior High SchoolAdvanced Foods class. Artwork from the Plum ElementarySchool Coloring Contest was prominently displayed.

The Dojonovic Light Display at 219 FiestaDrive was beautiful and successfully got everyone in the holiday spirit. Free hotchocolate and coffee from Nowalk's DailyGrind were offered. East Suburban YMCA had refreshments

for everyone and entertainment withdancers and the Adlai Singers.Plum Community Library offered crafts

for children and teens and held a Christmas Puppet Show, along with a sampling of Holiday Quick Breads.The library was also the scene of the wreath decorating contest,decided by popular vote.The sounds of Christmas spilled out into the night from

Christ's Lutheran Church located on Route 286.The Kiski Area Community Band performed their annual

holiday concert under the direction of Patti Marco. Donations received from the event benefited the Plum Food Pantry. And finally, a Painted Window Competition for advanced

art students of Plum High School was held at King’s FamilyRestaurant.

30 Plum

We all find ways to embrace the seasonal spirit year after year. Some of us carryout the same traditions over and over, while others stir up holiday cheer differentlyeach year. There’s something wonderful about a month-long celebration of family,

friends, and the magic of Christmas. If you’re looking for some ways toget yourself feeling like the Clauses this season then read on...

Bake your favorite holiday dessert: bread pudding with butter rumsauce, gingerbread cookies with peppermint icing, or dark chocolatebark with candy cane bits. Baking will fill your house with seasonal aromas and give you a yummy snack to nosh on, while reminding you ofwhen you were taught this very recipe by Mom or Grandma. But don’t consume it all! Share it with your neighbor or friend. Now you’re really thinking Christmas. Sharing desserts or giving gifts is a great way to grabChristmas spirit by the reins and steer your sleigh into the land of generosity.

If you’re looking forward to playing Santa this season, you don’t have to venturefar or spend much to put thoughtful gifts under the tree. Try perusing the shops in Plum or Oakmont for the perfect book, dress, necktie, spa treatment, or even dining gift card for your loved ones. But if you don’t want your holiday to be burdened by financialwoes, consider giving the gift of time. Take a vacation dayfrom work and do something special, like sleddingor skiing in nearby Boyce Park. Have friendsover for dinner and share a bottle of wine.Call relatives you haven’t spoken to in a while and askthem about their lives.

‘Tis the season for the streets of our neighborhoods to be illuminated by glorious, cheer-spreading holiday lights.Oakmont turned on the spirit at its 37th annualLite Up Night on Saturday, November 17. The evening commenced with an hour-long parade at 5:00 p.m., during which candy was tossed to salivatingyoungsters while their parents tried to hold them tight. Spectators watched asChristmas characters atop local fire trucksrode down Allegheny River Boulevard.

by Chelsie Kozera

Other highlights of the parade included RiverviewHigh School’s marching band, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts proudly walking with their troops, acharismatic elf riding a unicycle all the way down the boulevard not far behind Charlie Brown, Snoopy,and the whole crew, while local businesses showedoff their impressive holiday floats. But the most anticipated moment of the parade was a glimpse at good ol’ Saint Nick who rode high above thecrowd on a bright red fire truck.When the parade concluded, residents

meandered around the boulevard, admiring decorated storefront windows, snacking on seasonal treats, trying their luck at the Chinese auction, and catching up with old and new friendsalike. The annual celebration wouldn’t have beencomplete without a few musical performancesunder the clock tower and Clydesdale-drawn carriage rides around the brightly-lit streets of Oakmont. The evening ended with a fireworks show at 8 p.m. Afterwards, many retreated tonearby restaurants to carry on good times and good conversation with friends in anticipation of a merry holiday season.


Perhaps in the past you strummed up some holiday spirit by driving your familyor loved one through Hartwood Acres for the Celebration of Lights. If you haven’talready heard, the county won’t be offering this annual display of illuminatedscenes this year. Instead, take a tour of Christmas lights in your own neighborhood.Yes, it’s true that many residents of Plum believe they are like Clark Griswold, sotake the kiddies for a drive down Old Leechburg Road and enjoy all the hard workresidents put into making their homes light up like a concert stage. For those who celebrate Christmas through religion, spend time at your place

of worship, talk to fellow members, and ask about opportunities to get involved. It’s likely that your local parish will host a toy drive for the holidays or call uponmembers to work at a nearby soup kitchen. In years past Plum Borough has hostedToys for Tots and a Food Pantry Drive at the Boyce Park Ski Lodge. Don’t be a“Scrooge;” donate what you can! Giving to the less fortunate never fails to getthose holiday juices flowing and helps us remember the true meaning of Christmas. Regardless of how you choose to muster up the essence of Christmas, we hope

you find ways to enjoy good food, good times and good conversationwith the ones you love.

and all through Plum, the locals were preparing for a joyous seasonBy Chelsie Kozera

32 Plum

On September 14, Allegheny County ExecutiveRich Fitzgerald and State Representative JosephMarkosek celebrated the opening of the newly expanded Plum Senior Community Center. They were joined by County Council President Dr. Charles Martoni and County Council Vice President Nick Futules. The $900,000 expansion includes an addition of 2,500 square feet in the form of exercise rooms, a shower area, remodeledrestrooms, a restaurant-grade kitchen, dining room,expanded office space and a conference room.

“This beautiful addition will enable the Plum Senior Community Center to provide additionalservices and programs to area seniors,” said Fitzgerald. “I want to thank RepresentativeMarkosek, who worked tirelessly to make this day areality.” Fitzgerald also credited Congressman JasonAltmire, Representative Tony DeLuca, CountyCouncil President Martoni and County CouncilVice President Futules with work on the expansion.

Executive director of the center, Nina Segelsoncommented that the expansion was a fitting rewardfor the patrons who faithfully attended classes and events throughout theyear of construction. “It was of course very noisy and dusty throughout the construction, but the seniors still came and participated,” says Segelson. “We've been able to add line dancing to our list of classes with the new space, and fitness is a big part of what we encourage here.”

Segelson is also very impressed with the improvedkitchen which meets all health department standards and will serve the center well for upcoming events.

In December, the Plum Senior Community Center will host its annual Christmas party, whichwill be visited by Santa Claus, when he arrives byfire truck. He will be on hand to listen to greet children and listen to Christmas lists.

The center's addition was funded through$300,000 in Housing & Urban Development Economic Development Initiative grants acquiredby Congressman Altmire, $250,000 in CommunityDevelopment Block Grant funds, $250,000 fromthe Community Infrastructure & Tourism Fund, $40,000 in Pennsylvania Community & Economic Development grants acquired by State Representatives Markosek and DeLuca and $60,000 in Plum Senior Community Center funds.

The Plum Senior Community Center serves seniors in Plum Borough and eastern Allegheny

County. In addition to social activities and exercise classes, the center serves as a hub for several meal programs, including Meals on Wheels.

For more information on the center, please visit the websitewww.plumseniorcenter.com.

Plum Senior Community Center is Expanded and Improved!

“This beautiful addition willenable the Plum SeniorCommunity Center to

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Medication 101: The Right Dose at the Right Time

This Industry Insight was written by Lynette Tomasetti, Director of Business Development for Hometown Pharmacy, which has 5 retail locations in the Pittsburgh area. For more information about RxMap, please call the pharmacy at 412.539.1331.

id you know that it’s estimated that 10% of hospital admissions and 23% of nursing home admissions are due to medication non-adherence? Skipping a dose, taking a

medication at the wrong time, taking the wrong dose, stopping the medication or not � lling a prescription are all considered forms of non-adherence.

� e rami� cations of this behavior not only a� ect individuals but also leads to national health problems as well as � nancial concerns. According to the World Health Organization, over 50% of patients with chronic diseases do not take their medications as prescribed and more than $290 billion in medical expenses are generated each year due to poor adherence. � e signi� cance of this issue led Shawn Nairn, partner and owner of Hometown Pharmacy, to introduce RxMap to the Pi� sburgh region.

RxMap is a medication adherence program that helps people who take multiple prescriptions stay compliant and ensures that the right dose is taken at the right time. Instead of opening pill bo� les each day or � lling a pill box each week, this packaging system provides a specially labeled medication card and delivers it free to the person’s home every month. Each dose is sealed into a perforated pill cup that can remain in the medication card or can be taken out for travel purposes. � e customizable RxMap medication card includes all the prescriptions, vitamins and supplements for each month.

� e RxMap program also provides relief for family members and caregivers when they are taking care of their loved ones. � is program is helpful for seniors, children with special needs, transplant patients, head trauma patients or other individuals with medical needs.

Medication adherence can help people avoid unnecessary admissions to a hospital or a nursing home. Keeping a person healthy and independent in their own home can be bene� cial as well as cost e� ective. If you or a family member would like to see if you can qualify as an RxMap candidate, please contact the pharmacy.

D

RxMap® multi-med adherence cards are manufactured by MTS Medication Technologies


utting hair isn’t just a business for Supercuts stylists, it’s also a way to give back to the customers they love and the community they

call home.Guests know that they can always count on superb service and a

welcome smile when they visit the Bethel Park Supercuts. Our expertlytrained stylists offer a multitude of services including haircuts, waxing,blow-outs, color and more. As the owner of the Supercuts franchise in Southwestern

Pennsylvania, Laurel Breuner has not only added over 350 jobs to theregion through her stores, but she and her employees have also beensupporting local schools, sports teams, civil services and charities inthose communities for more than 20 years.“We support the communities we serve,” Breuner said. “Giving back

is important to us because the communities have given us so much.”Supercuts also invests in its employees through extensive training

programs and prides itself on hiring aspiring stylists graduating fromlocal trade schools. “Pittsburgh is filled with talented people and we arethrilled to be able to hire vibrant employees, many of whom haverecently graduated and are entering the work force for the first time,”Breuner said.Supercuts hires only licensed stylists and mandates extensive

education with two weeks of in-store training before stylists are sent toSupercuts’ own Hair Stylist Academy. Stylists attend an advanced

training course conducted by the Supercuts Certified Trainer/ArtisticDirector. New stylists must pass the five-day, 40-hour course beforethey are able to actively work on the floor of the salon. After masteringthis level, stylists will continue to undergo regular training to enablethem to keep up with the latest styles and trends.“We take what they’ve learned at school, provide additional and

ongoing education, and look to retain these employees for many years,”Breuner said. This strategy is apparently working because Supercuts wasjust rated one of the top places to work in 2012 by a PittsburghPost-Gazette survey.“It’s an honor to be recognized as a great place to work,” Breuner

said. “Our employees are happy and that attitude is passed on to ourguests. We not only offer a superior salon experience at an affordableprice, but our locations are full of people who love and take pride inwhat they do and the community they serve.”If you haven’t already experienced the full services Supercuts offers,

please visit us soon. Supercuts has 30 Pittsburgh area locations; thenearest one in Bethel Park is located at 2398 Oxford Drive, and is open7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information on all of Supercuts locations and services visit www.supercuts.com, or to call ahead for faster service, call 412.833.9834. Walk-ins are always welcome!

CSERVING YOU AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Back row left to right: Melissa Mahoney, Jennifer Borne, Jean Everhart, Jessica Rankin, Jennifer Vasilvich,Alexis Reber, Jill Lippi, Sarah Modespacher

Front left to right: Manager Donna West, Leanne Dow, Stephanie Echland, Kim Brochi, Stephanie Cook

Cutting hair isn’t just a business for Supercuts stylists, it’s also a way to give back to the customers they love and the community they call home.

Guests know that they can always count on superb service and a welcome smile when they visit the Plum Supercuts. Our expertlytrained stylists offer a multitude of services including haircuts, waxing, blow-outs, color and more.

As the owner of the Supercuts franchise in Southwestern Pennsylvania, Laurel Slaughter-Odelein has not only added over 350 jobs to the region through her stores, but she and her employeeshave also been supporting local schools, sports teams, civil services and charities in those communities for more than 20 years.

“We support the communities we serve,” Slaughter-Odelein said. “Giving back is important to us because the communities have given us so much.”

Supercuts also invests in its employees through extensive trainingprograms and prides itself on hiring aspiring stylists graduating fromlocal trade schools. “Western Pennsylvania is filled with talentedpeople and we are thrilled to be able to hire vibrant employees,many of whom have recently graduated and are entering the workforce for the first time,” Slaughter-Odelein said.

Supercuts hires only licensed stylists and mandates extensive education with two weeks of in-store training before stylists are sentto Supercuts’ own Hair Stylist Academy. Stylists attend an advanced

training course conducted by the Supercuts Certified Trainer/ArtisticDirector. New stylists must pass the five-day, 40-hour course before they are able to actively work on the floor of the salon. After mastering this level, stylists will continue to undergo regulartraining to enable them to keep up with the latest styles and trends.

“We take what they’ve learned at school, provide additional and ongoing education, and look to retain these employees for manyyears,” Slaughter-Odelein said. This strategy is apparently workingbecause Supercuts was just rated one of the top places to work in2012 by a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette survey.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a great place to work,” Slaughter-Odelein said. “Our employees are happy and that attitudeis passed on to our guests. We not only offer a superior salon experience at an affordable price, but our locations are full of people who love and take pride in what they do and thecommunity they serve.”If you haven’t already experienced the full services Supercuts

offers, please visit us soon. Supercuts has 30 Pittsburgh area locations; the nearest one in Plum is located at 1800 Golden MileHighway, and is open 7 days a week; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. onSundays. For more information on all of Supercuts locations andservices visit www.supercuts.com, or to call ahead for faster service,call 724.519.2996. Walk-ins are always welcome!

Serving You and Your Community

Plum stylists Kelly, Jamie, Wendy, Angela, Ashley and Jenny are ready to help you with your new look today.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

S P E C I A L S E C T I O N

Health &WellnessThe Whole Picture

Many people think of health and wellness as just diet and exercise. While those are two key components, there are many more factors that affect an individual’s overall vitality. Other areas of focus include dental and vision; specialties such as podiatry and audiology; preventive measuressuch as chiropractic visits and acupuncture/massage. Even feel-good procedures such as hair replacement and cosmetic surgery can boost a person’s demeanor and self-confidence.

With all of these areas of wellness to consider, it can be a dauntingtask to pay for the treatments and procedures that enhance thequality of our lives. So how do we decide what to spend ourhealth-care dollars on? Which procedures are the most effectiveand beneficial? e following is a review of what to consider when choosing a healthier lifestyle.

F I T N E S S

Exercise is the one thing most doctors stress when the subject ofhealth and wellness is broached. Certainly there are other factorssuch as genetics, eating, smoking, drinking and medication thatcan play a significant role, but exercise is at the core of health andwellness. So what is the best way to stay fit?

ere is no perfect answer as it is different for each individual’sneeds and desires. ere are many ways an individual can exercise

on his/her own such as walking, running, bik-ing, hiking, at-home workout DVDs orweight training, just to name a few. ManyAmericans join gyms to help them stay fit.ere are advantages to having a gym membership which include a wide array ofequipment, fellow members to help motivate

you, professional trainers and a monthly monetary obligation that can help you stay committed to your fitness goals.

Unfortunately, gym memberships are not covered by health insurance, so it is up to the individual to not only foot the bill butto select one that best suits our needs. Most gyms have monthlypayments, but some also have yearly or bi-yearly options as well.Depending on the facility and the region you live in, the averagegym membership can vary from $10 a month to $100 a month.While gyms, fitness programs and personal trainers can be an excellent way to achieve cardiovascular health, just remember they are not the only way. If money is tight there are plenty of freealternatives that may work just as well for you.

A C U P U N C T U R Ea n d M A S S A G E

If you’ve ever been treated to a massage, you probably don’t need a list of advantages to persuade you to have one on a regular basis. Massage is the manipulating of superficial anddeeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being.

Massage involves working and acting on the body with pressure – structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving –

tension, motion, or vibration, donemanually or with mechanical aids. Target tissues may include muscles,tendons, ligaments, fascia, skin, jointsor other connective tissue, as well aslymphatic vessels, or organs of the gastrointestinal system. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers,

elbows, knees, forearms, and feet. ere are over 80 different recognized massage modalities. e most cited reasons for introducing massage as therapy have been client demand and perceived clinical effectiveness. Massage is usually only covered by insurance in very special circumstances, so be prepared to pay out of pocket for these services.

According to www.mayoclinic.com, acupuncture involves theinsertion of extremely thin needles through your skin at strategicpoints on your body. A key component of Traditional Chinesemedicine, acupuncture is most commonly used to treat pain. Traditional Chinese medicine explains acupuncture as a techniquefor balancing the flow of energy or life force known as qi or chi,(pronounced CHEE), believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believethat your energy flow will re-balance.

36 Plum


In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncturepoints as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue.is stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body’s natural painkillers and increase blood flow. Reasons for having an acupuncture procedure include chemotherapy-induced nauseaand vomiting, fibromyalgia, headaches, labor pain, low back pain, menstrual cramps, migraines, osteoarthritis, dental pain and tennis elbow. As with massage, acupuncture is generally notcovered by insurance.

C H I R O P R A C T I CC A R E

According to www.chiropractor.com, chiropractic care is a natural method of health care that focuses on correcting the causesof physical problems from subluxations or misalignments of thebones in the body, especially the spine. e field of chiropractic is

considered holistic, improving people’slives by optimizing the functioning ofthe nervous system. Every cell in the body is controlled by the nervoussystem, including taste, touch, smell,hormones, digestion and cardiovascular.Chiropractic does not just treat symptoms or problems, but allows

for a healthy nervous system, so the body functions better. Ahealthy nervous system has the ability to resist disease and ill health.

Chiropractic restores the body’s nervous system, thereby increasingits resistance to illnesses. Chiropractors are able to determine andremove blocks to the nervous system by locating subluxations ormisaligned vertebrae and adjusting them.

ere is one issue that will arise with chiropractic care… visitsare sometimes not covered by insurance. Although suggested bymany health care practitioners, including primary care physicians,some insurance companies still consider chiropractors luxury visits in some instances. One session with a chiropractor can cost anywhere from $35-$100 depending on the region you live in, withadditional fees for more complicated procedures. When it comes tochiropractic care, one must decide if the benefits outweigh the cost.

D E N TA L W O R K

Dental care is a vital aspect of health and wellness. Many people incorrectly believe that dental care is important for aesthetic reasonsonly, but this is far from the case. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there is a link between poor oral healthand conditions such as endocarditis and cardiovascular disease, although researchers are not sure of the role that oral health plays in causing heart problems. Recent studies have also shownthat women with periodontal disease are at three to five timesgreater risk for delivering a preterm infant than those who are periodontally healthy. ere may also be a link between oral healthand diabetes, Alzheimer’s and certain immune disorders.

Continued on next page

38 Plum

Whether you have a cracked tooth, a cavity, braces, dental implants or are needing a simple whitening or cleaning, dentalcare is a priority for most people. Because the costs of dental care

keep increasing, some are choosing to cut out dentist visits all together. is is not recommended. However, if carrying dental insurance is not an option, then an individual should still stick to routinecheckups. According to ehow.com, the national average cost for a regular cleaning can range anywhere from $50-130 depending

on the region in which you live. Skipping these checkups andcleanings can lead to more serious issues down the road that cancost thousands of dollars. In the meantime, as is the case with most health-related issues, prevention is the key. Brush your teethat least twice a day and floss aer every meal and you drasticallyincrease your odds of having great oral health.

V I S I O N C A R E

Many of us take our vision for granted. But we would certainly be completely lost without it, so it is essential we take good care of our eyes with regular exams and wearing glasses or

contacts, if needed.According to the Vision Council of

America, approximately 75% of adultsneed some sort of vision correction.Although drugstores sell non-prescrip-tion glasses for reading, which meansanyone can buy them without seeingan eye doctor for an exam, there is no

substitute for a professional vision exam by an eye doctor, with acustomized prescription for glasses or corrective lenses.

Approximately 30% of the American population is near-sightedand must use glasses for activities such as driving and schoolwork.About 60% of Americans are far-sighted meaning that they have trouble reading or sewing without glasses, but can focus well at a distance. e majority of young people who wear glassesare near-sighted. As people age, they are more likely to need vision correction for far-sightedness. About 25% of people whowear glasses to see distances will end up needing reading glasses or bifocals as they get older.

e recommendations for the frequency of vision exams variessomewhat, but generally individuals are advised to have an eyeexam somewhere between one to four years, depending upon their age group.

P O D I AT R Y

Podiatry is the specialty devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the foot. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, most people log an amazing 75,000 miles on their feet by the time they reach age 50. Regularfoot care can ensure that your feet are up to the task. With properdetection and intervention, most foot and ankle problems can be lessened or prevented.

Many people are unaware of the many issues that can affectfeet. Arthritis, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), peripheral neuropathy, common injuries (sprains, strains and fractures),Haglund’s deformity (bony enlargement of the back of the heelbone), heel pain and tendinitis can all create mobility problems for individuals. ere are various skin disorders including athlete’s foot, corns and calluses, psoriasis, skin cancer of the feet,as well as toe joint and nerve disorders such as bunions, hammertoes and neuromas to consider. Individuals may also suffer fromingrown toenails.

Some basic but effective foot care tips include washing your feet daily, making sure to rinse off all soap and water especially between the toes and trimming nails straight across and not overlyshort to avoid cutting or digging at corners. Over the countermedications are not recommended for removing corns or calluses.A qualified podiatrist should be consulted for treatment and removal. Wear clean socks or stockings changed daily and makesure that they are not too tight. Always wear properly fitting shoes.

If you do suffer a foot ailment, there are various ways to treatthem. Prescription, custom orthotics, which are specially-madedevices, are designed to support and comfort your feet and maycorrect the problem. For more severe issues, surgery may beneeded in cases when pain or deformity persists.

A U D I O L O G Y

Audiology is the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and management of hearing loss and balance disorders in adults and children. It is an important component to health and wellness, yet it tends to be ignored unless there is a noticeableproblem. Individuals should get their hearing checked yearly to ensure that everything is as it should be.

An audiologist, commonly called an ear doctor, prescribes and fits hearing aids, assists in cochlear implant programs, performs ear or hearing related surgical monitoring, designs hearing conservation programs and provides newborn screening programs to test hearing levels. Audiologists may also provide hearing rehabilitation such as auditory training,speech reading and listening skills improvement.

What many people don’t realize is that almost all types of hearing loss are treatable by an audiologist. No one should ever feel there is no hope with hearing loss. Some hearing related problems include occupational; earwax blockage; hearing loss related to aging; acoustic neuroma, a noncanceroustumor on the hearing nerve; Meniere’s disease, a serious tumor on the nerve ending; ringing in the ears; and fluid on the ear. Most hearing-related procedures and tests will be covered by most insurance companies.

FAM I LY M E D I C I N E

According to the American Academy of Family Medicine (AAFP), family practice is health care for the individual and family that integrates the biological, clinical and behavioral sciences. e scope of family medicine encompasses all ages, both sexes and every organ system of the body.


Our Health & Wellness PARTNERS

Tressler Chiropractic has been serving area families for over 17years. They specialize in providing life enhancing natural care to entire families, including chiropractic, nutrition and weight loss.Their passion lies in helping individuals reach their full potential, so they may lead fulfilling lives not dependent on drugs and surgery.

Tressler Chiropractic 4241 William Penn Hwy.,Murrysville, PA 15668724.327.5665

Common services provided in family medicine include bone density screenings, EKGs, hospital care, immunizations and flu shots, lab services, minor surgery (warts, lesions, stitches), newborn health, gynecology and obstetrics, school and sportsphysicals and preventive visits.

Family Medicine physicians work closely with patients to prevent disease and offer them a long and healthy life. Healthylifestyle, exercise and weight control are oen points that arestressed to all members of the family. For those with a personal history of chronic disease, specific measures are taken to ensurethat they are being monitored and that their disease is being managed effectively. is is usually achieved with regular health maintenance exams and by keeping up with what is going on in their lives.

e main focus and advantage of family medicine is the verypersonal and intimate care that is normally received. e attendingphysician almost becomes a member of the family.

Another particular benefit of family medicine is that it concentrates on education as well. Everyone in the family shouldunderstand what good healthy living is and all the ins and outs ofhow to achieve health goals. is is done with open discussionswith your physician.

G E R I AT R I C S

Geriatric medicine is quite unique because it usually deals with health issues related to age such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and more. Despite these challenges, geriatric wellness is better than it has ever been before. People are living longer andtaking better care of themselves.

Retirement goals for the senior citizen of today differ widelyfrom the objectives of retirees in years past. Today’s senior has a desire to not only stay healthy and prevent disease, but is passionateabout living an active lifestyle. Exercise has been shown to increaselongevity and quality of life.

According to livestrong.com, the five categories of fitness includeaerobic fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, body composition and flexibility. For the geriatric exercise participant,balance also plays a huge role in the development of a wellness program. For example, working on strength and balance to prevent falls is important, but in reality a trip, slip or fall will eventually happen. Exercises that build bone density and joint integrity along with flexibility are important to prevent fracturesand other injuries.

Continued on next page

Hometown Pharmacy2103 Noblestown RoadPittsburgh, PA 15205412.539.1331

R

Instead of opening pill bo�

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RxMap is a medication adherence program offered by Hometown Pharmacy that helps people who take multiple prescriptions to stay compliant and ensures that the right dose is taken at the right time. The program includes a free consultation with the pharmacist, free delivery to the home and automatic refills.

40 Plum

e American College of Sports Medicine exercise guidelines for men and women 65 and older includes cardiovascular exerciseat a moderate pace for 30 minutes, five days a week to improve aerobic fitness. It is also recommended that older adults engage instrength training two days per week. e focus should be on largemuscle group exercises that mimic activities of daily living, such as standing, reaching overhead and pulling. It is also suggested that flexibility exercises be added at least two days per week.

One should also utilize balance exercises to create a well-rounded program that focuses on both performance and prevention. e bottom line is, today’s world offers better opportunities than ever before for seniors to live and be healthy for many years to come.

P E D I AT R I C S

Arguably, pediatric medicine is one of the most important areas ofmedical practice because it involves our children. is branch of

medicine deals with the care of infants,children and adolescents. e agestreated usually range from birth to 18 years.

According to www.news-medical.net,pediatrics differs from adult medicine in many aspects. e obvious body size differences are paralleled by

maturational changes. e smaller body of an infant or neonate is substantially different physiologically from that of an adult. Congenital defects, genetic variance and developmental issues are areas of greater concern for pediatricians.

Treating a child is not like treating a miniature adult. A majordifference between pediatrics and adult medicine is that childrenare minors, and in most jurisdictions, cannot make decisions forthemselves. e issues of guardianship, privacy, legal responsibilityand informed consent must always be considered in every pediatricprocedure. In a sense, pediatricians oen have to treat the parentsand sometimes the family, rather than just the child. Adolescentsare in their own legal class, having rights to their own health caredecisions in certain circumstances.

Pediatrics is a fairly new practice, only becoming a specialty in themid-19th century. Today it is one of the biggest medical specialtiesin the United States, mainly because individuals tend to care morefor their children than they do themselves and are therefore morelikely to seek regular and consistent medical care for their children.

H A I R R E S T O R AT I O N

It is no secret we live in a society where looks are important tomany people. So, naturally, hair replacement has become more and more popular.

According to www.plasticsurgery.org, hair loss is primarilycaused by a combination of aging, a change in hormones, and afamily history of baldness. As a rule, the earlier hair loss begins, the more severe the baldness will become. Hair loss can also be caused by burns or trauma, in which case hair replacement surgery is considered a reconstructive treatment, and may be covered by health insurance.

Baldness is oen blamed on poor circulation to the scalp, vitamin deficiencies, dandruff, and even excessive hat-wearing. Allof these theories have been disproved. It’s also untrue that hair losscan be determined by looking at your maternal grandfather, or that40-year-old men who haven’t lost their hair will never lose it.

Hair replacement surgery can enhance your appearance andyour self-confidence, but the results are not always what you envisioned. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefullyabout your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon. It’simportant to understand that all hair replacement techniques useyour existing hair. e goal of surgery is to find the most efficientuses for existing hair. Hair replacement candidates must havehealthy hair growth at the back and sides of the head to serve asdonor areas. Donor areas are the places on the head from whichgras and flaps are taken. Other factors, such as hair color, textureand waviness or curliness may also affect the result.

Transplant techniques, such as punch gras, mini-gras, micro-gras, slit gras and strip gras are generally performed onpatients who desire a more modest change in hair fullness. Flaps, tissue-expansion and scalp-reduction are procedures that are usuallymore appropriate for patients who desire a more dramatic change.

Remember, there are limits to what can be accomplished. Anindividual with very little hair might not be advised to undergohair replacement surgery.

C O S M E T I C S U R G E R Y

Cosmetic surgery is very popular in the United States these days.In fact, according to the American Society for Aesthetic PlasticSurgery, Americans spent a staggering $10.7 billion on cosmeticsurgery in 2010.

According to www.cosmeticsurgery.com, the most popularcosmetic procedures include liposuction, breast augmentation,BOTOX®, eyelid surgery, thermage, faceli, rhinoplasty, tummytuck and buttocks implants.

While cosmetic surgery is generally a safe procedure, when itdoes go bad, results can be disastrous. e key is to research yourdoctor thoroughly, making sure he/she has extensive experienceand many references from satisfied patients.

Insurance does not usually cover cosmetic surgery, so it is a rather expensive, completely out of pocket expense. For example, a liposuction can cost around $10,000. e only kind of cosmetic surgery that is generally covered by insurance is for conditions that may interfere with someone’s overall health and wellness.


Plum Woman Loses Over 100 Pounds Sandy, like many, has always struggled with her weight. Through her

battle she tried everything, even hypnosis. Though initially successful,

she soon gained all the weight back. She knew that 2012 would be

different. Tired of hating the scale,

she and her husband John made

a resolution, joined a common

weight loss program… and failed.

In March, they saw a newspaper ad

and immediately knew this was

different. They attended a free

workshop, committed to the

program, and watched their bodies

and lives transform.

To date, Sandy has lost over 110

pounds and 18% body fat. John

lost 87 pounds and was able to

reduce 11 medications to just one.

She says the lifestyle she and John

have adopted is one of the easiest

things they’ve ever done. The

transformation was so powerful

that Sandy decided to leave her job

of 11 years to help people change

their lives through weight loss.

Chemical Detoxification

As modern humans, we are

exposed to over 82,000 chemicals

weekly, from household cleansers

to personal care products. Your

body, unable to excrete these

chemicals, encapsulates them in

fat to protect the rest of the body.

These chemicals must be removed

if permanent weight loss is to

be achieved.

Rehydrating Your Body

At The Cellular Level

America is chronically dehydrated.

Most people drink little water,

instead choosing soda and other

unhealthy beverages. Those

beverages add the associated

detriment of acidifying the body.

An acidic environment is very

harmful, as it promotes cancer and serious disease development.

Common symptoms include fatigue, body ache, increased PMS,

depression, irritability and digestive complaints.

Balancing Hormones

Chemicals, such as xenoestrogens, disrupt the endocrine system,

creating hormone imbalances. In addition, natural hormone

production decreases as we age, such that by age 50, hormone

reduction can reach up to 50%, leading to illness and weight gain.

Synthetic hormone replacement therapy is rarely the answer,

considering the increased cancer and heart disease risk. Fortunately

there are natural ways to balance hormones.

Cleansing The Colon, Liver And Other Organs

While the body rehydrates and hormones balance, another serious

problem can be addressed. As much as 30% of the population is

afflicted with constipation. As the bowel accumulates, it’s not just

uncomfortable, it’s loaded with toxins to be excreted. A thorough,

gentle cleansing of the entire digestive tract is essential in rebuilding

proper digestive health after years of consuming unhealthy,

processed foods.

Stimulating Your Hormones To Burn Abnormal Fat

Abnormal fat is that stubborn fat that accumulates around your belly,

thighs and arms. Starvation diets decrease your weight by taking

away water, organ fat and muscle, making these diets dangerous.

Plus, eliminating nutrients, like healthy fats with a diet high in refined

carbohydrates (typical “low-fat” foods) will only put the weight

back on. The great news is all of this can be done with real food!

No expensive prepackaged, unhealthy foods are required.

Common weight loss approaches focus on caloric intake, excessive

exercise, or dangerous surgical interventions. A fully integrated and

customized plan is what most people need to finally succeed at losing

weight and keeping it off. Then the real benefits of weight loss can

begin. A fulfilling life of activities with loved ones, and a renewed

relationship with yourself… and food!

About the writer. Dr Aaron Tressler owns Tressler Chiropractic.

His passion is helping others reach their fullest potential.

Tressler Chiropractic has been providing chiropractic care

to entire families for over 18 years, and now provides

comprehensive customized weight loss programs.

Contact information: www.DrADT.com, 724.327.5665,

4241 William Penn Highway, Murrysville, PA 15668

Sandy - March 2012

Sandy - May 2012

Sandy - October 2012

PLUS! Plum School District News 2012.pdf · Tressler Chiropractic ... Mark Fainstein Len Pancoast...

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