School & City News Page 25
WINTER 2013 icmags.com
Special Section: Health & Wellness Page 11
Dealing with Digestive Disorders UPMC McKeesport’s Center for Digestive Health offers the latest technology for early detection and treatment of digestive disorders.
Preventing colon cancer
Healthy digestion is something we all take for granted — until something goes wrong. From heartburn, diarrhea, and bloating, to constipation, nausea, and vomiting, gastrointestinal woes can wreak havoc with your life.
“When caught early, colon cancer is curable,” says Dr. Narla, who recommends colonoscopy screening for everyone age 50 and older. “Screening enables us to remove polyps before they become cancerous.” One of the most powerful tools available for preventing cancer is the colonoscopy, which uses a small camera to examine the colon.
Sudhir Narla, MD, chief of gastroenterology at UPMC McKeesport and director of the hospital’s Center for Digestive Health, says prompt diagnosis is key to resolving digestive problems. “An early diagnosis usually means we can cure it,” says Dr. Narla. “But if you wait too long, all we can do is treat it.” At UPMC McKeesport’s Center for Digestive Health, board-certified gastroenterologists use the latest tests and technology to prevent, diagnose, and treat a wide range of digestive conditions, including colorectal cancer and disorders of the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, pancreas, liver, and biliary tract.
Providing comprehensive care As a comprehensive inpatient and outpatient unit, the center offers a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal (GI) procedures. Featuring the latest technology, the center was designed with the comfort and privacy of patients and family members in mind. Each month, gastroenterologists perform hundreds of procedures in the fully equipped GI unit — certified by the American Society for Gastro-intestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) for promoting the highest standards of safety and quality. Because the center is located within UPMC McKeesport, many therapeutic procedures can be performed immediately.
Colon cancer often has no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. A colonoscopy detects polyps — abnormal growths in the colon or rectum, which are removed and tested. Most forms of colorectal cancer are slow growing, taking five to 10 years to develop, he adds.
A wide range of tests In addition to colonoscopy screenings and polyp removal, the center offers a wide range of diagnostic tests and procedures to evaluate and treat problems of the digestive tract, including: • Upper intestine — abdominal pain, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), difficulty swallowing, ulcers, and intestinal bleeding. • Colon and rectum — lower abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids, rectal spasm or pain, and diverticular disease. • Gallbladder and pancreas — diseases of the pancreas, gall bladder stones, tumors, and blockage of bile ducts. To learn more about UPMC McKeesport’s Center for Digestive Health, call 412-664-2119.
“We can take care of anything, from a simple polyp to bleeding or cancer,” says Dr. Narla. “As a full-fledged GI unit, we can provide immediate treatment.”
This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC
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CONTENTS winter
•
2 013
features 11 Special Section: Health & Wellness How to live a healthier, happier, longer life.
19 O Christmas Tree Choosing a live evergreen in McKeesport.
20 All I Want for Christmas is a Home
The White Oak Animal Safe Haven has animals eagerly awaiting adoption.
22 Tradition of Great Performances
The McKeesport Little Theater is a wonderful facility that is one of the best in the area, drawing both actors and patrons from all over the city.
8
on the cover
An adorable bassett hound from White Oak Animal Safe Haven takes part in the 49th Annual Salute to Santa Parade. COVER PHOTO BY PRIMETIME SHOTS
departments 4 6 8
From the Publisher IN the Loop IN Events
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City News School District News INCognito
content
Industry Insights 17 Obesity: Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists
22
IN Community is a publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the McKeesport area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 3
FROM THE
PUBLISHER PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Julie Talerico j.talerico@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] m.berton@icmags.com
At Seven Springs with my wife Lisa and our three sons.
Top-notch health care, education, banking and technology are what make Pittsburgh known, but our communities are what make us home. Home – where you live, go to school, shop, work and play – is what IN Community Magazines is all about. Each quarter, we bring you the latest news and information about schools, businesses, nonprofits and the people who make them exceptional. We also bring you coverage of interesting events and articles about historical sites you may pass every day without even knowing. We like to surprise you with little-known facts about your community and profile intriguing people who’ve made their mark locally – and sometimes even globally. One thing that makes our communities in western Pennsylvania special is the beautiful seasons. As autumn comes to an end and the snow begins to fall, we hope you take some time to enjoy the many winter activities our area has to offer and hit the slopes, sled ride, cross-country ski or ice skate at one of our many beautiful parks. Or simply build a snowman in the backyard! The staff at IN Community Magazines wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!
Wayne Dollard Publisher
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We’d love to hear from you if you know someone in your community who is making a difference or has done something extraordinary. We’re also looking for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history or other news) within your community.
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space Pittsburgh’s premier guide to stylish living, sophisticated create your design and the best resources in Pittsburgh and surrounding regions. buys l aunc hi ng fi r s t i s s ue De c e mbe r 2013 wise
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balance McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 5
in the
LOOP What’s news in McKeesport Area
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM TOPS HALF-MILLION MARK
NEW VOCATIONAL TRAINING WING OPENED
McKeesport High School Alumni & Friends Association awarded $69,050 in scholarships and grants for members of the McKeesport High School Class of 2013, an amount that pushes the all-time award total over the half-million-dollar mark. Since the early 1990s, when the alumni and friends association first began coordinating scholarship contributions, $536,485 has been awarded. The scholarship funds are open to all seniors intent on pursuing post-secondary education, whether they are college-bound or headed to career or technical school, business school, art school or culinary institute. “Our association, now in its 27th year, always has been about giving back, and the scholarship program is a direct expression of that commitment…and of a desire to keep the tradition of Tiger excellence alive,” explains Dr. Linda L. Croushore, founder and president of the group. Many of the scholarships are funded by alumni or in honor of MHS graduates. Croushore commended all those who provide a financial helping hand for McKeesport students. Gifts large and small are accepted on an ongoing basis. Donors who lack the means to establish a scholarship of their own can contribute to the All-Alumni Scholarship Fund. For more information, please call 412.678.9215 or go to www.tcfpe.org (click on Programs and then on Alumni) or email mhsalumni@tcfpe.org.
Mon Yough Community Services (MYCS) celebrated the opening of the Edith L. Trees Training Wing Nov. 19. With the new facility, it will be able to provide services for 26 more consumers and expand training in the Vocational Business Alliance Market Street Mail program. This opening could not have come at a better time for MYCS. The Vocational Department is in the process of completing a mailing project with 876,000 pieces – the largest bulk mailing project in the program’s history. MYCS extended its gratitude to the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust and community supporters and partners. MYCS strives to maximize the potential of individuals facing mental health issues, substance abuse or intellectual disabilities. MYCS offices are located at 500 Walnut Street in McKeesport. For more information on the programs offered by MYCS, visit mycs.org or call 412.675.MYCS (6927).
WHITE OAK RECREATION WINTER EVENTS SCHEDULE
Arts & Crafts Show December 7 White Oak Athletic Association Gym 6 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
Evening with Santa December 8 White Oak Athletic Association Gym
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Overly’s Country Christmas Bus Trip December 14
Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance with the band Corned Beef & Curry February 8
Spring Craft Show April 12 White Oak Athletic Association Gym
5-6-7-8 Grade Dances December 20 • January17 • February 21 • March 21 • April 18 • May 16
Easter Egg Hunt April 19
Business Directory
McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 7
INEVENTS
SALUTE TO SANTA
On a beautiful sunny November day, hundreds of McKeesport residents and visitors kicked off the holiday season with the 49th annual Salute to Santa parade. More than 60 groups participated, including the McKeesport Area band and cheerleaders, Versailles Volunteer Fire Co. and the Three Rivers Model A Restorers Club. And, of course, Santa. | PHOTOS BY PRIMETIME SHOTS
8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 9
sharing the harvest If you’re a hunter but your freezer’s full, please consider donating your deer to Hunters Sharing the Harvest, a program that’s been helping to feed Pennsylvania’s hungry for more than 22 years.
The program is simple and rewarding – you go hunting, you arrange with your nearest participating processor to donate the deer (or elk, moose and caribou where applicable), and you make a tax-deductible $15 donation to help cover the cost of processing. All donations, whether monetary or deer meat, are recognized by a letter for your taxes and a window decal to let people know that your hunt helped feed the hungry. From the processing plant, your deer meat will be butchered and distributed to area food banks and charities throughout the state. Your average-sized deer can provide up to 200 meals to help those in need. As a hunter, you probably already know that deer meat is an extremely healthy food source that’s low in cholesterol and saturated fat. It has more protein and fewer calories than other processed meats, and is on par with other meats for nutritional content such as vitamins and minerals. For more information, call 866.474.2141 or email info@sharedeer.org.
County: Allegheny Kip's Deer Processing Padgelek, Paula 3 Saint John's Drive Carnegie, PA 15106 412.279.6527
Romes Meat & Deli Rome Sr., Ronald 312 Bonniebrook Road Butler , PA 16002 724.285.1236
Scott's Custom Deer Processing Mills, Scott 212 S. Main Street Albion, PA 16401 814.449.5335
TA Giger Deer Processing Giger, Tim 121 Kyle Road Valencia , PA 16059 724.898.2244
County: Butler Bims Boloney Slater, Bim 145 Morris Road Petrolia , PA 16050 724.894.2569
County: Erie McDonald Meats, Inc. McDonald, Neeli 10445 Ridge Road Girard, PA 16417 814.774.3507
County: Washington Bobeck's Deer Processing Bobeck, Mary 139 Craig Road Monongahela , PA 15063 724.258.2298
McKruit's Custom Meat Cutting McKruit, Tracy 1011 Bear Creek Road Cabot, PA 16023 724.352.2988
Pacileo's Great Lakes Deer Processing Pacileo, John 8890 Wattsburg Road Erie , PA 16509 814.825.3759
The meat processors serving the region for 2013 are:
10 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
County: Westmoreland Custom Deer Processing Monteparte, Samuel J. 131 Flowers Road New Alexandria, PA 15670 724.668.8950 Espey's Meat Market Espey Jr., Joe 319 Espey Meat Market Lane Scottdale, PA 15683 724.887.3226
Lenik Deer Processing Lenik, Ron 204 Railroad Street Finleyville , PA 15332 724.348.7019
G. Karas Packing Karas, Sharon 606 Story Road Export , PA 15632 724.468.5811
Shuba's Processing Shuba, Steve 1116 Allison Hollow Rd-Shop Washington, PA 15301 724.255.4861
Hoffer's Ligonier Valley Packing Zimmerman, Denise 582 Darlington Road Ligonier , PA 15658 724.238.7112
Great Ways to Live a Healthier, Happier, Longer Life in McKeesport
McKeesport HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION BY MICHELE THOMPSON
Though finding the fountain of youth (or miracle product) is unlikely, you can embrace the following ways to feel and look younger. Gleaned from age-defying experts this list is a must-keep for your desk or refrigerator.
So turn the page — hack into the havoc that aging can wreak on your body! ››
McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 11
H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / McKeesport Area
HEALTH & FITNESS EXERCISE TO LIVE LONGER. McKeesport Area has many walking and biking trails to help you stay fit. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), regular exercise helps control blood pressure, body weight and cholesterol levels, and reduces the risks of hardening of the arteries, heart attack and stroke. Not to mention you will look and feel better! WARM UP AND COOL DOWN. Regardless of the types of exercises you do, warming your muscles as well as cooling down with slow rhythmic stretches is key to avoiding injury, reducing soreness, and speeding up your recovery. COMMIT TO DAILY FITNESS. Getting out there and staying active translates into better health and well-being — both physically and mentally. FOCUS ON TOTAL FITNESS. ACE recommends aerobics and muscular conditioning along with exercises to stretch your body and promote good posture. YEAR-ROUND EXERCISE. Don’t ditch your fitness routine because of inclement weather. Try new activities, such as snowshoeing, swimming at an indoor pool, or fitness classes at your local fitness or senior housing facility. JOIN A HEALTH CLUB. Be social and get fit. This one’s worth its weight in sheer motivation points.
TAKE SUPPLEMENTS. Don’t mega-dose, just take a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement. GET AEROBIC. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends getting moderate aerobic activity 30 minutes per day, five days per week or 20 minutes of vigorous cardiovascular activity, three days per week. BREAK IT UP. Instead of 20 or 30 minutes of exercise, break up your cardio into 10-minute segments throughout the day. MAKE WORKING OUT FUN. Getting out of the house and traveling to interesting places where you can walk around is one of the best ways to get exercise without even trying, and you get to enjoy the sightseeing, too. PUT A SET OF DUMBBELLS BY YOUR TELEVISION SET — and use them!
STOP SMOKING. Nuff said.
PUMP IT UP. Margaret Richardson, author of Body Electric, says one pound of fat burns three calories a day while one pound of muscle burns 30-plus.
GO GREEN. Eat organic, use eco-friendly products and practice green living to protect your health as well as the environment.
CHALLENGE YOURSELF. To counteract age-related muscle loss, do exercises with progressively challenging resistance.
“ZUMBA IS SO MUCH FUN! IT’S JUST LIKE A GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT AND YOU DON’T EVEN REALIZE THAT YOU’RE EXERCISING.” Paula Spence, certified Zumba instructor
12 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / McKeesport Area
COGNITIVE BOOSTERS MUSIC THERAPY. Music can regulate mood, decrease aggression and depression, improve sleep, and, because old songs are stored in memory, even create new brain cells. BRAIN FOOD. Keep your mind sharp by eating salmon, nuts, olive oil, soy, meat, eggs, dairy, leafy greens, beans, oatmeal and dark skinned fruits.
P
TRAIN YOUR BRAIN Working a daily crossword, Sudoku puzzle or another brain teasing game can help improve your mental fitness.
ORAL HEALTH & HEARING BRUSH AND FLOSS YOUR TEETH. According to research, chronic inflammation caused by periodontal disease has been linked to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. TURN IT DOWN. According to the House Ear Institute, noiseinduced hearing loss is a leading cause of permanent hearing loss that can be prevented by turning down the volume on your TV, radio, or headsets to a level that you can comfortably hear.
P PRACTICE HEALTHY SLEEPING HABITS. Not getting enough nightly rest puts you at risk for accidents, depression and other illnesses, and it decreases your quality of life.
POSTURE AVOID SITTING CROSS-LEGGED. Pain management specialists at New York Chiropractic warn that crossing your legs puts excessive stress on your knees, hips and lower back. SIT UP STRAIGHT. When you slouch or strain to look at the screen, these patterns stick and posture learns these positions. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. See a chiropractor, physical therapist or post-rehabilitation specialist for postural exercises to reduce pain and risk of injury. STRETCH. Stretching your neck and chest can prevent short and tightened muscles that can lead to injury. A simple stretch involves bending your head to your shoulder, holding it there and slowly bringing it back to the mid line and then switch sides. BELLY BUTTON TO SPINE. Not only will this exercise help you stand taller, it will take five pounds off your waistline! HEAD UP. Instead of scrunching your head to your shoulder to hold the phone, get a headset and avoid injury to your neck and shoulders.
McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 13
H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / McKeesport Area
EAT HEALTHY EAT AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET. Holistic
EAT AND DRINK COCONUT. The type of saturated fat in
guru Dr. Andrew Weil recommends eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and minimal processed foods to reduce inflammation in your body.
coconuts does not contribute to heart disease and it is rich in lauric acid, which boosts your immune system.
EAT ALL NATURAL. Avoid high-calorie foods full of sugar, fat and artificial ingredients and concentrate on eating high-nutrient, high-flavor foods such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.
EAT MANY SMALL MEALS. Eat something every three hours to keep your metabolism high and your blood sugar and insulin levels steady. DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST. The easiest meal to skip but the most important. Eat something small, even if you aren’t hungry. READ LABELS. Opt for products with at least three grams of fiber, low sugars and no hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.
EAT LESS AND LIVE LONGER. Maoshing Ni, author of Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to be 100, suggests the “three-quarters rule,” essentially not eating any more after you feel three-quarters full.
DRINK TEA. Ni recommends daily tea because tea is a proven
AVOID BAD FATS. Bad fats include saturated fats, which are primarily derived from animal products, and trans fats, which are used in commercial fried foods, margarines, and baked goods like cookies and crackers. SPICE IT UP. Dr. Wendy Bazilian, author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients, recommends high-antioxidant spices and herbs such as cinnamon, ginger, curry, rosemary, thyme, oregano and red pepper.
DRINK UP. Drinking water throughout the day can decrease your urges for sweets, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, minimize pain associated with arthritis, migraines, and colitis, hydrate your skin, and help with your digestion. LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE TO ONE OR TWO DRINKS PER DAY. According to the Centers for Disease Control, too much alcohol can increase your risk for developing various diseases and physiological and social problems.
preventive and treatment for hardening of the arteries and has potent antioxidant powers.
SIDELINE THE SODA. The phosphoric acid in carbonated beverages, particularly colas, can put you at risk for osteoporosis.
SLIM DOWN WITH SOUP. People who eat soup before a meal reduce the total number of calories they consume.
DRINK RED WINE. Red wine is
SINK YOUR TEETH INTO SUPERFOODS. Experts say superfoods can help ward off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, cholesterol, bad moods, high blood pressure, and improve digestion, skin, hair, nails, bones and teeth. Superfoods recommended by WebMD.com are beans, blueberries, broccoli, oats, oranges, pumpkin, salmon, soy, spinach, green and black tea, tomatoes, turkey, walnuts and yogurt.
EAT MORE HEALTHY FATS. According to University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, healthy fats to include in your diet are monounsaturated fats, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and some plant foods as well as polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3s found in fatty fish and omega-6s found in nuts.
P EAT A VARIETY Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, and omega-3 fats better ensures you get all the nutrients your body needs. 14 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
renowned for its many health benefits, primarily for the heart. However, new research from the Institute of Food suggests that wine may also protect you from potentially fatal food-borne pathogens, such as E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and H. pylori.
MARINATE YOUR MEAT. Research from the Food Safety Consortium recommends marinades with rosemary, thyme, peppers, allspice, oregano, basil, garlic and onion to cut down on carcinogens.
H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / McKeesport Area
STRESS CONTROL SMILE. Smiling lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and the stress hormone cortisol.
AROMATHERAPY. Essential oils improve your mood, reduce stress and even improve your memory. Try lavender, lemongrass, cinnamon or cedarwood. Being outdoors with green plants, fresh air and the sounds of nature is a proven stress buster.
YOGA. The Mayo Clinic recommends practicing yoga to reduce stress and anxiety.
GET KNEADED. Research from the Touch Research Institute indicates that regular massage lowers heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety levels, depression, hostility, and the stress hormone cortisol. SEE A THERAPIST. Mental health professionals can help you deal with stress.
BEGIN WITH BREATHING. The first thing you ever did for yourself was breathe. And consciously focusing on your breath remains the epitome of self-care throughout your entire life.
P HUMOR YOUR STRESS Laughing improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, releases tension, and improves your immune system.
Reprinted with the permission from SeniorsForLife.com
LET NATURE TAKE YOUR STRESS AWAY.
McKeesport Area | Fall 2013 | icmags.com 15
H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / McKeesport Area
Fighting
Childhood Obesity One Child at a Time By Heather Holtschlag
Imagine – for the first time in four generations, a child’s life expectancy may not match his/her parents. One in 10 American children is obese, and between 16 to 25 percent of children are overweight. Children average a weight of about nine pounds heavier today when compared to the 1960s, and the average teenager’s weight has increased by 12 to 16 pounds, according to government statistics. Beyond the issue of just being overweight is the risk factors associated with obesity, including heart disease, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Fit-Trix Fit Kidz, located in Bethel Park, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is devoted to the prevention of childhood obesity in the western Pennsylvania region. The purpose of Fit-Trix Fit Kidz is to educate children and parents on the importance of achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight by adopting increased physical activity and healthy eating. “We promote fitness, proper nutritional habits and self-esteem in a fun, positive and safe environment,” said Lynn Ross, owner of FitTrix Fit Kidz. “Our 45-minute program provides a full body workout regardless of fitness ability. We focus on cardio, hydraulic and resistance training with kid-friendly equipment, including BOSU balls, punching bags and agility ladders.” Fit-Trix Fit Kidz also encourages small lifestyle changes that may provide immediate health benefits for children, such as lower blood cholesterol levels, increased independence and productivity and reduced demands for health care services. And, staff members are committed to disseminating these healthy lifestyle messages to children of 16 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
all ages, regardless of their ethnicity or socioeconomic status. Ross said that the main purpose of Fit-Trix Fit Kidz is to teach kids that fitness can be fun, so that they can develop a healthy lifestyle to maintain throughout their entire lives. The staff members do this by providing a fun and safe environment where they teach healthy behaviors to children at young ages, hoping that by doing so, the children will carry their good habits well into adulthood. “At Fit-Trix Fit Kidz, we believe that exercise and proper nutrition are the pinnacles of preventing obesity in children and adolescents,” Ross explained. “We differ from other gyms in that we work by appointment, which helps make the children we see to remain accountable to their fitness goals and gives the staff the opportunity to work with and get to know each child on an individual basis.” According to Ross, there are a number of benefits that can have an impact on children as they begin an exercise program. These include an improved body mass index (BMI), an increase in self-esteem, a boost in athletic performance, increased flexibility and endurance, and an increase in lung capacity and fat burning through cardio exercise. “Strength conditioning also will increase a child’s bone density and improve tendon and ligament strength,” Ross noted. For more information about Fit-Trix Fit Kidz, call 412.831.1200, stop by the facility located at 4941 Library Road in Bethel Park, or visit the website at www.fittrix.org.
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OBESITY!
re you or a loved one affected by obesity? Are you looking for help? Your answer could be right here in your own community. At Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists along with Hope Bariatrics, Dr. Tunc Aksehirli is here to answer your questions and help you control the biggest fight of your life – your weight.
What is obesity?
Obesity is a medical condition that is associated with having excess body fat. If your body weight is more than 20% higher than it should be, you are considered obese. Morbid obesity is when you are more than 100 pounds over your ideal weight. The standard used to measure body weight is the Body Mass Index (BMI). The BMI is a statistical measurement derived from your height and weight. How can obesity be unhealthy for you?
Most people who are obese suffer from many common medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, sleep apnea, heartburn and arthritis to name a few. Large medical studies have also suggested a two-fold increase in endometrial and breast cancers in those who are morbidly obese, a decrease in life expectancy of 10-15 years, as well as a 50 to 100% higher rate of death from all causes. Does losing weight help to lessen these medical problems and risk of death?
The good news is that losing weight is very effective in controlling or eliminating many obesity-related illnesses. Here are some examples of how weight loss can improve your health: Type II Diabetes 82-96% resolved Hypertension 62-70% resolved Obstructive Sleep Apnea 74-98% resolved Heartburn 72-95% resolved Risk of Mortality (Death) 89% decreased in a 5-year period Quality of Life 95% improved
Which avenue of weight loss is right for a person who is morbidly obese?
The best way to find out is to first make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss your obesity and health issues. A referral to our bariatric program may be the next best step to evaluate all the medical and surgical options that best suit your individual needs. Find out more at www.jeffersonsurgical.net or www.hopebariatrics.com. To set up an appointment/inquire about the Bariatric Surgery Program through Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists/Hope Bariatrics, please contact Patricia Patton, RN, Bariatric Nurse Specialist at 412.267.6260. For a surgical consultation at Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists, please call 412.469.7110. Article submitted by Tunc Aksehirli, M.D., Fellowship trained Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon, American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, American College of Surgeons. MAIN OFFICE 1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 170 Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 BETHEL PARK 1000 Higbee Drive, Suite 102 Bethel Park, PA 15102
CHARLEROI 1200 McKean Avenue, Suite 107 Charleroi, PA 15022
BRENTWOOD 3720 Brownsville Road Pittsburgh, PA 15227
PETERS TOWNSHIP 455 Valleybrook Road, Suite 300 McMurray, PA 15317
Is it possible to lose weight on my own with diet?
Unfortunately, the answer is very hard to predict. Many of the conditions associated with obesity make it very difficult to lose weight with conventional diet plans. The body will crave food with insulin spikes and most people, after they lose the weight, will gain it all back. The odds are that many of you reading this article may have already experienced that. How does a person go about losing weight to help live better and longer?
There are three recommended treatment options for obesity, depending on the individual’s BMI: 1. Lifestyle Modification (for BMI > 25) These include changes to your diet, behavior, and physical activity. 2. Pharmacotherapy (for BMI > 30) These include medications for individuals dealing with medical issues as a result of their obesity. 3. Bariatric Surgery (for BMI > 35 with other medical conditions or BMI > 40 with no other medical conditions). What types of bariatric surgeries are offered?
Bariatric surgery, also called metabolic surgery, is often indicated for patients who are morbidly obese. We offer three types of minimally invasive surgeries, and we would discuss which surgical option would be best suited for you based on your criteria. Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass
Adjustable Lap Band
Sleeve Gastrectomy
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HEALTH &WELLNESS DIRECTORY Orthopedic Associates of Pittsburgh 412.349.8190 www.oapgh.com
Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists 412.469.7110 www.jeffersonsurgical.net
Orthopedic Associates of Pittsburgh was established over 40 years ago. Originally in Oakland, the Monroeville office opened in 1978 and White Oak in 2002. We have evolved from a general orthopedic practice into a sub-specialty practice encompassing hand & upper extremity, foot & ankle, total joint replacement, sports medicine and spine. We will strive to provide the finest service and care for your orthopedic needs.
With over 150 years of combined surgical experience in the fields of General Surgery, Breast Care, Bariatric Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Colorectal Surgery and Screening, Capsule Endoscopy, Advanced Laparoscopic and Minimally Invasive Surgery, Wound Care, and Emergency Surgical Care, Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists is one of the premier general surgery practices in the Pittsburgh region located conveniently in the South Hills suburbs.
GET FIT IN MCKEESPORT AREA Here are just some of the fitness classes available:
Zumba with Paula Spence at Founders’ Hall Middle School
LifeSpan’s Mon Valley @ Olympia Community Resource Center
Dance your way into fitness at a Zumba class with certified instructor Paula Spence. Zumba “features exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats.” Classes are on Tuesday evenings from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. and are just $4 per class. (Entrance is to the left of parking lot.)
Beat the winter blues and have fun with other seniors by enjoying a wide variety of fitness classes, including low-impact aerobics and line dancing! A yearly membership is just $10. Call for more information on class schedules and all of the available activities.
Cardio Intervals with Dawn Wonderling at Founders’ Hall Middle School
McKees Point Trailhead at the Great Allegheny Passage
There is no boredom when short periods of all kinds of exercise are combined into one class! Cardio Intervals with Dawn Wonderling, certified instructor, are on Mondays from 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. and are just $4 per class. (Entrance is left of the parking lot.)
Dust off your hiking boots and take a hike on the multi-use, non-motorized, recreational rail-trail that spans 150 miles and runs from Cumberland, Maryland, to Pittsburgh. Call or visit the website for more information.
3600 Oneil Blvd., McKeesport 412.378.0282
3600 Oneil Blvd., McKeesport 412.673.3568
624 Lysle Blvd., McKeesport 412.664.5434
100 5th Ave., McKeesport 1.888.282.BIKE atatrail.org
Heart Shine Yoga
White Oak Park
Enjoy gentle yoga, beginner’s yoga, intermediate yoga, yoga for stress reduction and more, starting at just $10 a class at Heart Shine Yoga. Visit the website for information on classes and schedules.
Bring your snowboard, sled or cross-country skis and enjoy winter fitness in the picturesque, 810-acre park. Call or visit the website for more information.
1202 Long Run Rd., White Oak 412.216.3817 heartshineyoga.com
18 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
3 Muse Lane, White Oak 412.678.3774 alleghenycounty.us
SURGERY OF THE FUTURE IS NOW A relatively new approach to gynecological surgery is revolutionizing the standard of care in obstetrics and gynecology. daVinci is a technology that enhances a surgeon’s capabilities while offering patients the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, such as less surgical trauma, smaller incisions and a faster recovery time. “daVinci is like an extension of the surgeon’s hands,” said Shannon McGranahan, MD, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at St. Clair. “It can mimic the natural movements of my hand while causing less bleeding, less pain and fewer complications than traditional surgery.” Gynecological procedures being performed with daVinci include hysterectomies, which is the most common utilization; complicated hysterectomies; pelvic pain present with endometriosis; and myomectomies, or removal of fibroids. daVinci also is being used across many other disciplines as well, including urology, colorectal surgery and thoracic surgery. “In the past, surgery such as hysterectomy would require an extended recovery period of several weeks or more, which is a large reason why many women procrastinated with their care. The long recovery interfered with their daily responsibilities,” Dr. McGranahan said. “Surgery performed with daVinci, however, usually requires only one overnight stay in the hospital, and the woman can return to work in about one to two weeks.” A common patient misconception, however, is that daVinci is a programmed robot that will be performing the surgery. “That’s simply not true,” Dr. McGranahan noted. “Board-certified surgeons are still managing and performing the operation. daVinci is there to enhance their capabilities.”
O Christmas Tree
Choosing a live evergreen tree in McKeesport By Matthew J. Fascetti
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t’s the most wonderful time of the year, and choosing a real Christmas tree is a season highlight for many families. Whether you make the trek to a tree farm to cut down your own, or head to your neighborhood tree lot, the smell of fresh pine in your home signals the beginning of the holiday season. Your tree selection is often the result of personal preference and budget, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Perhaps the most popular type of tree is the Fraser Fir. It has one-inch needles that are silvery-green and soft to the touch. Because there is space between the branches, the Fraser is easier to decorate and the firm branches hold heavier ornaments. Also very popular is the Noble Fir, with a deep green color, soft needles and well-shaped, sturdy branches. Other varieties include the Colorado Blue Spruce, known for its blue foliage and pyramidal shape with strong limbs that can hold heavy ornaments. The Grand Fir has glossy dark green foliage and is soft to the touch, however it may not hold heavier ornaments. The Balsam Fir is a wonderful dark-green color with airy, flexible branches and a pleasant fragrance. The branches are not as sturdy so it’s not the best choice for heavy decorating.
Find it here...
The White Fir has a pleasing natural shape and aroma and good needle retention. The Eastern White Pine is known for making garlands, wreaths and centerpieces due to its long, feathery-soft needles. Though it’s a beautiful tree, the branches can be a bit too flexible to use as a Christmas tree. Finally, the Douglas Fir makes a visually appealing tree with soft, shiny green needles and wonderful aroma. If you purchase your tree at a lot, keep in mind some pre-cut Christmas trees may have been cut weeks earlier. Try to buy your tree early to extend its freshness. Check the tree for brown needles and perform a “drop test.” Raise the tree a few inches off the ground and then firmly place the tree trunk on the ground. If green needles drop, it could indicate the tree may have been cut for some time. Once you get your tree home, make a straight cut at the bottom of the trunk, removing about one inch. This will improve the tree’s ability to absorb water. Place the tree in a container that holds at least one gallon of water and add more as needed. The base of the trunk should always be in water which will help sustain the beauty of the tree for as long as possible.
e Rainbow Volunteer Fire Company 2916 Jacks Run Road (Rt 48 North)
e The Home Depot 1402 Lincoln Way
e Spangs Landscaping Hartman St. (McKeesport)
e Sam’s Club 2251 Century Dr.
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ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS
a Home...
The White Oak Animal Safe Haven has animals eagerly awaiting adoption BY JENNIFER BROZAK 20 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
T
he best gift you could ever receive is a pet that offers unconditional love. There are many dogs and cats waiting for adoption at the White Oak Animal Safe Haven. It is a volunteer, no-kill shelter that has found homes for over 9,000 animals. The shelter currently has many charming dogs and cats who need to find their forever home.
These wonderful animals have wound up on the doorstep of a shelter through no fault of their own. Their owners may have moved to a home that does not allow pets, or may have decided they can no longer afford them. In some cases, the owner has become ill or has to enter a nursing facility which does not accept pets. These confused, lonely animals don’t know why they’ve been abandoned or what they’ve done wrong. If you
can give a home to one of these dogs or cats, you will find a true friend for life. John Grogan, author of Marley & Me, wrote, “A dog judges others, not by their color or creed or class, but by who they are inside. A dog doesn’t care if you are rich or poor, educated or illiterate, clever or dull. Give him your heart and he will give you his.”
The White Oak Animal Safe Haven accepts no government funding in order to remain a no-kill shelter. It depends solely upon donations and fundraising events to provide shelter for the animals. For more information on the shelter and the pets waiting for adoption, please visit the website at WOASH.org, or call 412.672.8901 or 412.672.8902.
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a Tradition of
The McKeesport Little Theater is a wonderful facility that is one of the best in the area, drawing both actors and patrons from all over the city BY PAMELA PALONGUE 22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
“People are here because they care. We’re very lucky to have the theater here in McKeesport.”
A
t a time when many local theater groups have dissolved into memories, McKeesport Little Theater (MLT) has remained an active, vital part of the community providing excellent, live entertainment close to home.
The group just wrapped its last production, “The Westing Game,” a Darian Lindle adaptation of the mystery novel by Ellen Raskin. The stage play was an entertaining mix of mystery and mayhem that left the audience guessing until the end who done it. In January, the junior theater group will present “Shrek the Musical.” Dorothy Fellows, president of MLT, is especially proud of the young actors who participate in the junior group. The junior players have access to free theater classes and get to participate in two productions a year at MLT. “Some of our actors have gone on to Point Park and now make their living in acting,” says Fellows. Another early 2014 production will be “Boeing, Boeing”, a comedy about a pilot stationed in Paris trying to juggle the attentions of three flight attendants. MLT is also looking forward to a spring production of “Amish Burlesque,” a musical comedy by Brian Edward which is a lampoon of Broadway’s finest musicals from “Chicago” and “West Side Story,” to “Gypsy” and “42nd Street.” “I actually saw “Amish Burlesque” when Brian Edward was developing it. It’s a scream!” says Fellows with delight.
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The theater group carries on a long performance tradition begun in 1960 under the name Mon-Yough Players and functioning out of the McKeesport YWCA. By 1962 the thespians were renamed McKeesport Little Theater and a year later moved to a church downtown. Through the years the theater has survived fires, recessions and makeshift conditions. Today the theater has a wonderful facility that is one of the
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best in the area, drawing both actors and patrons from all over the city. Fellows herself is from Brookline. “It’s a great place to work,” says Fellows. “I’ll tell you... these people become your family. They’re a great group of people.” Fellows credits the success of MLT with the fact that it is 95% volunteer. “People are here because they care. We’re very lucky to have the theater here in McKeesport.”
}
For more information on McKeesport Little Theater and its upcoming productions, visit the website at McKeesportLittleTheater.com. Tickets may be purchased online.
Host an International Student Join Serra Catholic High School and Green Planet in supporting international education! Host families will receive 24/7 local support, plus a monthly stipend of $800! Contact us! (781)996-0429 info@g phomestay.com | g phomestay.com
24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
MCKEESPORT City & School News
City of McKeesport
McKeesport School District
26
Mayor’s Corner
34
Superintendent Letter
27
Palisades Improvements
35
Board of Director Letter
28
2014 McKeesport Recycling Schedule
35
Cosmetology Clinic Open
30
McKeesport Recycles
36
Tiger Marching Band and Color Guard
29
McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center
36
SMALLab Learning Rooms
Civil War Display
37
Johnny Appleseed
32
Festival of Trees
38
Founders’ Hall
33
Salute to Santa Parade
38
Dating Violence
39
Sixth Grade Academy at Founders’ Hall
MAYOR’S
Corner MICHAEL CHEREPKO
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all is behind us and winter will soon begin. Hopefully Mother Nature will once again be kind to us and we will have another mild winter. From a city standpoint, a mild winter is what we hope for. The more that we can save on anti-skid materials and overtime for Public Works employees, the more that we can hopefully put toward improvements in our fair city. I trust that all enjoyed the Halloween festivities put on by the Recreation Commission. They teamed up with local groups to make these events bigger and better, and the result was fantastic! On October 25, the city hosted its’ first teen event – a zombie walk/mad scientist mash-up. We were lucky enough to have talented actors and dancers from McKeesport Little Theater work with us to make this a fantastic event for the young adults. McKeesport Area High School helped with publicizing the event to their students, helped with props, and supplied actors from the theater arts classes. A great time was had by all in attendance, and the Recreation Commission looks forward to planning the next teen event. The younger crowd was treated to the traditional Halloween parade and party the following day, and the city teamed up with Carnegie Library of McKeesport this year. The library brought their tradition of decorating pumpkins to the party and all children in attendance took home a pumpkin that they decorated themselves! Speaking of the Recreation Commission, don’t forget The Festival of Trees. This annual event will be taking place December 5-9 in Renziehausen Park. The park will be decorated for the holidays, and you can view the many trees decorated by local businesses, clubs & organizations. Santa will be there to hear little one’s requests, and you can take a sleigh hay ride from Jacob Woll Pavilion to the McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center, and also to the clubhouse of The McKeesport Garden Club. My family and I always look forward to not only viewing the trees, the childrens’ activities and musical acts, but also that great ride provided by Public Works employees. Don’t forget the wonderful food sold by the culinary arts students from the high school, and desserts sold by the Semper Fidelis Club! By now you have probably seen McKeesport Message signs not only in yards, in front of places of worship, and
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PHOTO BY GARY YON
over area roadways, but now large signs are popping up all over town. These signs are being sponsored by local businesses and community leaders. The goal is to spread the word of Respect, Dignity, Hope, and Love to citizens and visitors alike. The McKeesport Message Committee, a subcommittee of the Mayors Select Committee on Crime and Violence, hopes that everyone has taken note of these signs and is practicing these values in their everyday lives. It is especially important in this season of Hope, the Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza seasons. It doesn’t take much – just a smile or nod as you pass by a neighbor, or even a stranger. Maybe you can do something for a neighbor like sweep leaves or snow, pick up litter around your house, or even volunteer just a few hours of your time. My daughter and I are planning on volunteering at a local church for a Thanksgiving dinner. It will be something that I know that she will remember for years to come. My wife and I work hard at instilling these values in our children, and hope that everyone else in the city takes note of these key words to live by. On a last note, recycle, recycle, recycle! It will not only help the environment, but will also save both you and city money. It’s so easy to recycle, and you’ll even save money since you won’t be buying as many garbage bags. In riding around the city, I hope to see more & more recycling bins out for pick-up. If you don’t have a bin, use one of your garbage cans and mark it for recycling pick-up. So many items that are currently being put in your garbage can be recycled – newspaper, cardboard, any color glass, and plastics such as milk containers and detergent bottles. So little effort is required, but there is so much to gain. I want to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday, and may God bless.
I
f you haven’t been to The Palisades recently, you haven’t seen the new and improved Palisades. All of this work has been made possible thanks to a grant that was awarded to the Redevelopment Authority of the City of McKeesport by the Community Infrastructure and Tourism Fund, which is being administered by Allegheny County. The engineer for the project is Garvin Engineering, and after a bidding process, work on the project was awarded to Nasoco LLC, Swede Construction Corporation, and Satira Construction, Inc. The scope of work being done includes interior painting of all public areas of the building, carpeting at the entry steps and elevator, energy efficient lighting in the main ballroom area, removal of the existing bar area, creation of a buffet area for catered events, construction of a new storage area, a new ceiling and lighting in the new buffet area, and construction of a handicapped accessible walkway from a new parking area to be constructed at a later date. In addition to this interior work, a new marquee sign will soon be placed at the corner of Gibson Way and Lysle Boulevard announcing upcoming events. The sign is thanks to a grant obtained by State Senator Jim Brewster. Area groups and businesses will also be able to rent advertising space on the electronic sign to promote their events and sales by contacting The Palisades manager. This area is heavily traveled by thousands of motorists each day, so it would be a wise and prudent fiscal decision to advertise on this electronic billboard. The Palisades has been an area staple over many decades, and has worn many hats in its’ years of existence. It has been a car dealership, roller rink, home to dances too numerous to count, hosted both wrestling and Golden Glove matches, and comfortably seats 600 for special occasions such as wedding receptions and club functions. In its’ rebirth, hopes are that it will become an event center, hosting functions such as parties,
fundraisers, weddings, concerts and dances. With such a wideopen space, many configurations are possible, making it the ideal place for many functions. There aren’t many venues in the area that can boast a ceiling that is 30 feet high, and music reverberating off of the wooden floor is absolutely great. Be sure to check out The Palisades website for a listing of upcoming events, and attend a function there. If those newly painted walls could talk, they would tell all sorts of history! PHOTOS BY PRIMETIME SHOTS
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By Annette James
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Palisades Improvements
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Recycle!
By Annette James
D
id you know that by doing your part in recycling in McKeesport that you not only help the environment, but you can help save the city money? The city pays the garbage hauler per ton of garbage that is picked up, so if you recycle more, the city can save more, and you can also save money because you won’t be buying as many garbage bags. That saved money can then be used toward projects like demolishing abandoned buildings, paving streets and improving the city. Recycling is so much easier now, more than ever! Materials that are accepted for recycling include newspapers, phone books, grocery bags (both paper and plastic), junk mail, magazines, catalogs, greeting cards, copy/printing paper, posters, cardboard, file folders, hard & soft cover books, aluminum & tin cans, and plastic products (including milk & laundry detergent containers, soda & water bottles). Just
rinse any containers and place them in your recycling bin along with any other materials to be recycled – no need to sort! If you don’t have a bin that was provided by the city, you can use any bin or can that is clearly marked “RECYCLING”. If you have an item that can’t be recycled or can’t be picked up by the garbage hauler because of federal regulations, you can call “Our Recycling”, run by a local veteran, for pickup of hard to dispose of items such as stoves, refrigerators, hot water tanks, furnaces, washers, dryers, computers and televisions, at 412-377-0991. A copy of the recycling calendar for 2014 is shown here, and can be cut out of this magazine for your future reference.
WHAT CAN I RECYCLE? newspapers • phone books • grocery bags (both paper and plastic) • junk mail, magazines • catalogs • greeting cards • copy/printing paper • posters • cardboard • file folders • hard & soft cover books • aluminum & tin cans • plastic products (including milk & laundry detergent containers • soda & water bottles) Just rinse any containers and place them in your recycling bin along with any other materials to be recycled – no need to sort! McKeesport Area | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 29
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Recycling in McKeesport
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Help save the city money!
McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center
CIVIL WAR DISPLAY by Michelle Wardle
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McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center Director
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he McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center will host a special traveling exhibit, The Civil War in Pennsylvania, from March 15, 2014 to April 8, 2014. This exhibit was created by the Senator John Heinz History Center and sponsored by Peoples Natural Gas and IMLS, in partnership with Pennsylvania Civil War 150. In conjunction with the traveling exhibit, the Heritage Center will also have a display related to McKeesporter’s who served during the Civil War. Over 500 men from McKeesport served during that conflict, and three companies were recruited from our then Borough of McKeesport. In 1860, the population of McKeesport stood at just over 2,000 people. The Aliquippa Guards in McKeesport were a small military company that had organized around 1858. Just after the opening shots of the Civil War had been fired at Fort Sumpter, South Carolina, on April 14, 1861, our Aliquippa Guards offered their services to the Governor of Pennsylvania, and they were immediately requested to report to Harrisburg, where they arrived on April 17th and were assigned as Company K, 14th Pennsylvania Volunteers Brigade. The men with the 14th PA Regiment were officially mustered into service on April 30, 1861 at Camp Curtin. On May 9th they moved to Camp Johnston near Lancaster. The 14th Regiment was attached to the command of Brigadier General James S. Negley of Pittsburgh. Under his Brigade, they marched from Sharpsburg to Martinsburg, Bunker Hill, Charleston and then Harper’s Ferry. Their three month term of service was ending just as the Battle of Bull Run was being fought, and they returned to a camp in Carlisle, while waiting to be mustered out of
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service. Many of the men then enlisted in other Pennsylvania regiments. Shortly after the Aliquippa Guards left, many McKeesporter’s came together to form Company I, 9th Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserves, organized in May of 1861. On June 28th they went to Camp Wright, near Pittsburgh. In July 1861 these troops were ordered to Washington, where they were officially mustered into service. They began by serving picket duty in and around Washington. They were involved in the Battles of Dranesville, Mechanicsville, Gaines Mill, Groveton, Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, and Gettysburg. They were mustered out of service on May 13, 1864 in Pittsburgh, as their term of service expired. Company I of the 63rd Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers were also known as “The McKeesport Rifle Grays.” Many of them enlisted at Aliquippa Hall on August 12, 1861, after a stirring speech by Rev. D.K. Kline, and they reported to Camp Wilkins, near Pittsburgh. Within a week they were mustered into service, sent to Washington D.C., and assigned to the 63rd Regiment. They spent the remainder of 1861 on picket duty around the capital, and then they moved to the peninsula in the spring of 1862. They saw action at the Siege of Yorktown, Battles of Williamsburg, Groveton, Bull Run, Chantilly, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg and the Battles of the Wilderness. They were also involved in the siege at Petersburg and Richmond. At the close of three years’ service, the company was
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mustered out in September 1864; those of the company reenlisting as veterans were transferred to the One Hundred and Fifth Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers. There were also local men who served with other regiments throughout the war, three of whom were at Ford Theater when Lincoln was shot. They were Jacob Soles from Turtle Creek, William Sample and Jabez Griffiths from McKeesport, and John Corey from Pittsburgh. All four were members of the Independent Battery C, Pennsylvania Light Artillery, organized in Pittsburgh in November 1861. They had received a leave of absence to attend a performance at Ford Theater on April 14, 1865, and were sitting in the balcony near President Lincoln’s box. After that fatal shot was fired, these four men in their uniforms were brought into the box to carry the president out of the theater.
In 1866, the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) was founded to provide connections for veterans of the Civil War. Our local post, Col. Sam Black Post 59, was organized on July 3, 1877. It was named for Samuel W. Black, a Pittsburgher who had previously served in the Mexican War. During the Civil War he served in the 62nd Pennsylvania Infantry, where he was killed in action in June 1862, during the Seven Days’ Battle. We hope you will visit the museum to see The Civil War In Pennsylvania exhibit this spring. Our museum is located at 1832 Arboretum Drive (in Renzie Park). It is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9-5 and Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. If you have a group you would like to bring, please call in advance to make arrangements at 412.678.1832.
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By Annette James uick, make plans to attend The Festival of Trees in Renziehausen Park before it’s too late! The Festival runs December 5-9 this year, and is a sight to behold. Trees from area churches, service organizations, businesses and clubs adorn not only Jacob Woll Pavilion, but overflow into the McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center and nearby Garden Club Center. Admission to the festival is $2.00 for adults, and children under 10 years old get in with the donation of a canned good, which is then donated to a local food bank at the conclusion of this annual event. You always know that Christmas is around the corner when holiday decorations appear in Renzie Park thanks to the Public Works employees, and that The Festival of Trees can’t be too far off! In the days leading up to the festival, the buildings are a frenzy of volunteers busy erecting and decorating their trees, setting up children’s activities, and displaying handcrafted items to be sold. During the festival, free parking is available in the lot near the senior center and tennis courts. Although the drive that circles around Jacob Woll pavilion is closed to thru traffic during the festival, it can be accessed for handicapped accessible parking near the building. The circle and also part of Arboretum Drive is closed to thru traffic to accommodate the “sleigh” hay rides that are run courtesy of Public Works Department employees between the
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pavilion, History Center and Garden Club. The wagon leaves approximately every 15 minutes, and riders can hop off at any of the stops that they wish, or if you prefer, you can walk between buildings. After dark, luminaries light the way for the wagon, thanks to the young men and women volunteers from Auberle. Jacob Woll Pavilion is host to the largest number of trees in the festival, and sponsors range from local churches, day care centers, businesses, politicians and service organizations. In the side room, kids can visit Santa, you can purchase baked goods from the Semper Fidelis Club, or enjoy refreshments sold by the Culinary Arts students from McKeesport Area High School. McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center also hosts trees, popcorn for the kids, and a craft area for the little ones to be creative and have something to take home. McKeesport Garden Club hosts handmade items for sale during the festival so that you can decorate your home for the upcoming holidays. Don’t forget to come back to visit during the summer months when the roses and other flowers are in bloom in the Arboretum. McKeesport is home to the second largest rose garden in Pennsylvania. For sixty-four years, area residents and visitors have walked the gardens, attended weddings and have had portraits taken in this fabulous garden. It is indeed a gem to behold.
C I T Y OF MC KE E SP OR T N E WS
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By Annette James nce again, the Salute to Santa parade was a great success and enjoyed by children of all ages from the Mon Valley. This annual tradition is eagerly anticipated by citizens, and as usual, members of the Recreation Commission did not disappoint. The parade contained the traditional bands, floats, fire trucks, and Santa himself. The jolly old elf even put in an appearance at the children’s party at The Palisades at the conclusion of the parade. This year’s Grand Marshall was Senator Jim Brewster. Not too many towns can boast that they have a state senator living right there amongst their citizens, but McKeesport has just that. Senator Brewster’s political career started with his tenure on City Council, then as Mayor of McKeesport, before serving citizens from thirtyseven communities as state senator. Other participants in the parade included numerous fire trucks, a group depicting the Holy Family from St. Patrick parish, the Western PA Firefighters Memorial Honor Guard, the Washington Wild Things baseballstyle car, cars from the Three Rivers Model A Club, and the Kennywood Trolley, to name a few. Following the parade was the traditional children’s party featuring Shriner Clowns and the crowning of this years’ Salute to Santa queen and princess. A fine time was had by all, and children of all ages look forward to next years’ parade and party! PHOTOS BY PRIMETIME SHOTS
McKeesport Area | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 33
Dear MASD Community Members,
Winter Break begin on December 24, 20 s Classes will resum 13! January 6, 2014.e on
Welcome back to another new and exciting year! I am truly humbled and honored by the appointment of Superintendent of the McKeesport Area School District. I am pleased to continue my commitment to be a part in leading the school district that I am dedicated to, and believe in. The beginning of a new school year brings new opportunities and heightens excitement for the year ahead. On Thursday, August 22nd over 3400 students arrived at MASD’s eight schools and began their educational journey for 2013-2014. The incoming Kindergarten class is the class of 2025. We, collectively as a school system, are committed to ensure that all students are prepared to meet the challenges of the world, now and in the future. Futurists remind us that 80% of the jobs for this incoming class have yet to be created, and 90% of the technology our 2025 graduates will use has yet to be invented. Our success as a district is directly connected
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to parental support and involvement, a talented, dedicated faculty and staff, a dedicated school board of directors and a system of continuous improvement that permeates all aspects of our work. It will take all of us, including community support, to collaborate in a meaningful way to continue the McKeesport Area School District tradition of excellence. The 2013-14 school year brings with it both great promise, as well as new challenges. As we begin this new school year, all of us in the school district are committed to providing the best educational experiences to meet the needs of our students and prepare them for the 21st Century. New opportunities await our students and we are ready, excited, and anticipate a great 2013-2014 school year! Yours in education, Rula S. Skezas. Ed. D Superintendent
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Welcome to our new Superintendent, Dr. Rula S. Skezas. Pictured with her family, Husband, Jacob Skezas, and children, Nicholas and Eleni.
Area School District are continuing to move forward! Our district has been working diligently on the building projects for the entire Kindergarten through eighth grade population. When students in the Twin Rivers Primary and Intermediate Schools return from winter break, they will be welcomed into the brand new, stateof-the-art building located on Cornell Street, in McKeesport. The School Board of Directors, District administrators, and project leaders broke ground on the sixth grade academy addition to Founders’ Hall Middle School. This project will be completed to house all of the district’s sixth through eighth grade students in one school, joining the ninth through twelfth grades, on one campus. One of the largest factors in the overall success of our students and our District will always be the ability to work collaboratively with parents and our community. It is our hope that you feel welcome
McKeesport Senior High School Cosmetology Clinic Open Residents of McKeesport and surrounding areas are invited to visit the cosmetology clinic at McKeesport Area Technology Center and Senior High School. Students will be available to offer services related to hair, skin, and nail care. The clinic will be open every Friday that school is session, and will begin at 11:30 p.m. Favorite services include European facials, manicures, permanent waves, hair color, highlights, deep conditioning treatments, haircuts, clipper cuts and styles. Along with the Friday schedule, groups may visit by appointment as well. All work is done by students under the supervision of licensed instructors. Charges are for materials only, and are minimal. Appointments may be made by contacting the cosmetology department at 412.664.3650.
in our buildings and that you will take advantage of opportunities to become active within them. Members of the School Board of Directors encourage parents and guardians to be actively involved in all areas of the district, by attending board and building level meetings. Board meetings are typically held on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. in the boardroom of the Administration Building, located at 3590 O’Neil Boulevard in McKeesport. On behalf of the board, have a safe and wonderful holiday season! Sincerely, Patricia Maksin President, McKeesport Area School District Board of Directors
McKeesport Area | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 35
MC K E E SP OR T ARE A SC HOOL DI STRI C T NE WS
things in McKeesport
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As the mercury drops,
Tiger Marching Band and Color Guard Congratulations to the Tiger Marching Band and Color Guard on their first place win at the Regional Tournament of Bands Competition on Saturday, October 19, 2013. The band held a medal presentation ceremony on October 24 in the High School Auditorium. The McKeesport Area Tiger Marching Band is under the
Installation of One of Two SMALLab Learning Rooms The McKeesport Area School District has completed the installation of one of the two SMALLab Learning rooms in the district. The first installation was completed in time for
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direction of Ms. Karen Cole.
the start of school and students at Founders’ Hall Middle School are already using it, daily! As stated on Smallablearning.com, SMALLab is an embodied learning environment. Motion-capture technology tracks students’ 3D movements as they learn in immersive, interactive space. For example, as students are learning about a physics concept like velocity, they can hear the sound of their actions getting faster. They can see graphs and equations that represent their motions in real time. They can feel the weight of an object in their hand as they interact in real physical space. “We are very excited to create new and advanced technological experiences for our students” stated Ms. Kristen Giran, Public Relations and Communications Specialist, “Our students are able to reinforce what they are learning in the classroom, in the SMALLab.” The second of the two SMALLabs will be installed in the new Twin Rivers Primary & Intermediate Schools. 36 McKeesport Area
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Johnny Appleseed The Kindergarten and first grade students of Francis McClure Primary School celebrated the birthday of Johnny Appleseed with many projects in each classroom. Students traveled to one another’s classroom to complete each of the projects over a two day span.
McKeesport Area | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 37
Founders’ Hall The Student Council of Founders’ Hall Middle School collected over $500 for the family of one of their fellow students
Dating Violence
whom is battling cancer. Students in the building
Jodi Cuccia, mother of Demi Brae Cuccia, came to speak to a group of high
donated money and
school students on warning signs and how to prevent dating violence.
created a giant greeting
Students watched a video presentation before listening to Ms. Cuccia describe
card to send to their
the unfortunate events surrounding her daughter’s murder. Students were
classmate.
able to ask questions before receiving cards with information on where to
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seek help if they knew someone in an abusive relationship.
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McKeespor t Sixth Grade Academy at Founders’ Hall Middle School For more information on the building projects or questions about the transitions, please call 412.664.3645.
McKeesport Area School District officials and project leaders broke ground on the new Sixth Grade Academy at Founders Hall Middle School. Construction is projected to start by the end of November and be completed by December 2014. The new academy will be outfitted with the latest technologies and feature sixteen classrooms, one life-skills room, a large faculty space, a large group instruction room, a science lab, and two small group instruction rooms. The basement level will have a semi-finished wrestling practice room and locker rooms. Once finished, the entire Kindergarten through 8th grade student population of McKeesport Area School District will be in new and updated spaces. Twin Rivers Primary and Intermediate Schools are slated to open in January and welcome the students back from their winter break. Students are currently housed in the former George Washington and Centennial Elementary buildings. For more information on the building projects or questions about the transitions, please call 412.664.3645. McKeesport Area | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 39
INCOGNITO
DID YOU KNOW?
McKeesport resident played an important role the night Abraham Lincoln was assassinated By Pamela Palongue
Did You Know? We are looking for little-known facts, history or other interesting stories about your community. Please send your ideas to editors@icmags.com. 40 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | McKeesport Area
J
abez Griffiths was the son of a Welsh immigrant and was just 16 when he ran away from home to enlist in the Union Army. He was assigned to Thompson’s Battery C, Independent Pennsylvania Light Artillery, as a bugler. Battery C had seen some of the fiercest battles in the Civil War, including the terrible battle of Antietam, Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. Griffiths enlisted after the Battle of Gettysburg, eager to fight for the preservation of the Union. Stationed at Camp Barry in Washington, Griffiths and three other soldiers from his company decided to see a show at Ford’s Theatre on the evening of April 14, 1865. None of the young men could possibly have known that they were about to become a part of history as they took their seats in the first balcony that night. The comedy, “Our American Cousin,” had already begun when Lincoln arrived late to the theater. The performance was interrupted briefly while “Hail to the Chief ” was played and the president took his seat. In the first balcony, Griffiths was only about 15 feet from Lincoln. Suddenly, in the middle of the play, shots rang out, followed by a woman’s scream. Those seated in the State box called for help and soldiers rushed to the box where they found an unconscious Lincoln on the floor. Griffiths and his companions scooped up the president and made their way down the stairs. Once outside, they were instructed to carry him across the street to a bedroom in the Petersen house. Griffiths and his companions waited anxiously in the street outside, until a doctor told them that although Lincoln was still alive, his wound was no doubt fatal. The stunned soldiers returned to Camp Barry. After the war, Griffiths worked as a riverboat pilot and was a well-known figure in river towns along the Ohio. He eventually married Minerva Thomas and fathered five children. He lived at 313 Penny Street in McKeesport and was active in the Methodist Episcopal Church, helping others less fortunate until his death in 1898 at the age of 52. Griffiths saw and experienced many things in his life, traveling to many places, but all would pale in comparison to the night he became a part of history. Griffiths is buried in Dravosburg Cemetery. ■
Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship Whether you have a minor concern or a more serious medical issue, your primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense in getting well and staying well. If you don’t already have a PCP, it’s best to find the right one before you get sick.
A trusted partner in your good health “It’s important to have a relationship with a PCP you trust and are comfortable with, even when you feel great,” says David Harinstein, MD, chair, Internal Medicine and a physician with Health First Medical-UPMC McKeesport. By getting to know you and your health history, your PCP can provide you with the best care possible.
Someone to watch over you Research indicates that people who have an ongoing relationship with a PCP are healthier than those without one. “Personalized care leads to patient trust, and that is vitally important in the doctorpatient relationship,” says Dr. Harinstein. Patients who trust their doctors are shown to have improved outcomes, such as better control of their diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. If you need advanced care, your PCP is the most effective and efficient link to medical specialists, or advanced services or treatments. “For patients and their families, having a PCP to coordinate their care with specialists and other providers is a huge relief,” adds Dr. Harinstein. Since early detection can minimize the impact of many illnesses, your PCP will recommend screenings, including annual physicals, ap tests, breast examinations and mammograms; prostate screenings, and colonoscopies. “Without a PCP, you might ignore important health maintenance issues,” he says.
Make a date with your doctor When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to the doctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, and avoid disease and disability. “Your annual exam is the perfect time to talk with your doctor about illness prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and any screenings,” says Dr. Harinstein. “That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on making changes to improve your health.”
One final piece of advice: Be honest. “Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something,” he advises. “What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.” To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harinstein or another UPMC physician, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/FindADoc.
This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC
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Time for our area VolunTeers
to Shine! Seeking nominationS for 2014
Community awardS for ServiCe exCellenCe (C.a.S.e.) What makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort in order to help others. At IN Community Magazines, we would like to honor these special people who have made a positive impact in their community and whose philanthropic leadership sets an inspiring example for us all.
2013 Master of Ceremony
Andrew Stockey WtAE Channel 4
IN Community Magazines' second annual C.A.S.E. Awards will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 35 magazines. Awardees will be selected in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger) Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more)
SponSored by
Awardees will be honored at an awards dinner in Spring 2014.
PlEAsE fIll out foRM bEloW AND sEND IN youR NoMINAtIoN Name of Nominee_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Category (check one)
❍ Volunteer of the Year ❍ Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger ) ❍ Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) ❍ Large Nonprofit of the Year ( staff of 11 or more) Which community is this nomination for?___________________________________________________________________________ Name of person submitting nomination_____________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Why are you nominating this person or nonprofit organization? Please submit a typewritten statement of no more than 600 words. Send nomination form and statement to: Wayne Dollard, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317. If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Mountain at 724.942.0940. Deadline for nominations is February 1, 2014.