in-west-mifflin-fall

FALL 2012 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Back to School!

PLUS! Car BuffsAbound in the Region

Saving a Piece of America

Here’s the PlanAt UPMC Health Plan, we believe customer service should be a service to you, not a headache. That’s why we offer you a personal health care concierge. A live person who lives here and can answer all your questions in just one phone call. Sure, we win awards for our customer service.

But it’s the reaction we get from satis� ed members that we � nd most rewarding.

“I’d like to have my questions answered in just one phone call.”

To fi nd out more visit upmchealthplan.com

West Mifflin | Fall 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 1

inevitable disorders that they may encounter without preventative main-tenance. Dentists, MDs, and other health care professionals all see them periodically throughout the year–why not chiropractors? If we want to make things easier for our kids then why not take action and have them checked by a chiropractor for spinal problems. Imagine a 15 year old kid that has never been to the dentist. Their mouth is a ticking time bomb with issues just waiting to arise. Why wouldn’t that same young person, not have health or spinal problems since they have not been checked by a chiropractor? Don’t wait for the inevitable breakdown. Have your young ones checked today no matter what their age. For more informa-tion about us and our office please call 412.205.3094. Also, check our website for monthly philanthropies that we participate in. They are great opportunities for new patients.

Truth be told chiropractors are and should be the leaders in the health care profession in terms of prevention and main-tenance. However, the reality of how we as chiropractors are utilized is something other than optimal. We only see

people when they are in excruciating pain or when none of the other health care models have worked. This is about to change! First of all, Chiropractors don’t treat any specific condition or ailment. We check the whole body for proper function which in turn translates to how the body is feeling. When the problem is left untreated and or uncor-rected the problem will remain dormant for years, even decades until there is and will be inevitable breakdown. It usually takes 10 years after the problem originated for symptoms to manifest as pain or dysfunction. Why wait for this to happen? Why not change this vicious cycle for you and particularly for your children. Is that not what all parents want for their children...better than what they had? Did you know that chiropractors adjust children as young as minutes to days old? No!? You may be asking yourself why would a baby that young ever need to see a chiropractor? They can’t possibly be in pain. If that is your thought you are only partially correct. These young children don’t feel nor sense pain. Why do chiropractors promote checking young children? The human fetus grows 7 times more quickly than the infant and because of that biomechanical stressors are affecting them. There are shearing, stretching, torsion, and bending to the babies musculoskeletal system. Breech babies are an ever growing concern. Upon a medical doctor reviewed study consisting of 6000 breech babies it found 42% developed postural scoliosis , 20-25% had torticollis and/ or mandibular

asymmetry and 50% had hip dysplasia. Birth trau-mas can and do occur from obstetrician involve-

ment particularly by hand, forceps , or vacuum extractions. In 2006 , 31% of US births were

by C-section, which is a 50% increase from the previous decade. The US currently ranks 34th in the world in infant mortal-ity rate. Our philosophy in dealing with pediatrics has to change. The aforemen-tioned statistics are proof. Traumas are not limited to physi-cal stresses. Babies nowadays are bombarded with never seen amounts of

chemicals introduced into their systems. Formula fed babies have an increased likelihood for infections and allergies. 20% of children are eating fast food 3 times per

week which increases the risk of juvenile diabetes and obesity. 13% of children’s calo-ries come from soft drinks and they consume

149 lbs of sugar per year. Prevention and routine check-ups work for other professions why not chiropractic? At young ages children are checked for a variety of health related problems in order to “prevent”

Kids Chiropractic

By Dr. John Montesano, DC.

&Industry Insight

Dr. John is a graduate of Palmer Chiropractic College and member of the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association. He is certified in Passive and Active Rehabilitation, Graston Soft Tissue Mobilization Technique, Kinesio Taping, and Non-Surgical Decompression Therapy. E-mail: [email protected]

Winter Content Deadline: November 11

2 724.942.0940 to advertise | West Mifflin

Welcome to the Fall issue of West Mifflin Magazine! As I write this, we are having one of the hottest summers on record, and it doesn’t look like the record-breaking temperatures will end just because the leaves will be changing colors soon. So while this is the fall issue, I want to reiterate some summer tips from the health department to help you stay safe in the heat. The last two points are probably the most critical because they deal with children and the elderly.� Stay cool indoors, preferably in an air-conditioned environment. Fans don’t help much when temperatures are in the 90s. A cool bath or shower is a more effective way to cool off, if you don’t have air conditioning. Better yet, visit someplace that does, such as a senior center, theater, mall or neighbor’s house.� Drink plenty of fluids, at least eight cups a day, but avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks which actually cause you to lose more fluids. Avoid hot foods and heavy meals, which add heat to your body.� Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing. A wide-brimmed hat pro-vides shade and helps keep the head cool. Sunscreen can prevent sunburn, which can affect your body’s ability to cool itself and also cause a loss of body fluids.� Avoid strenuous physical activity, particularly during the hotter part of the day.� Never leave a child, or a pet, in a vehicle alone on a hot day. A child may become dis-oriented in just five minutes, unconscious in 10 and brain-damaged in 20.� Use the buddy system and check on the elderly and the infirm who do not have air conditioning and are less able to take care of themselves. For senior citizens, local governments also establish cooling centers to help people beat the heat. Contact your local municipality for the one nearest you before the tem-peratures top 90 again. As always, enjoy your fall, West Mifflin!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

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

WE WANT TO KNOW: How did you meet your spouse?

LEARN MORE ON PAGE 4

INSIDE

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Steel City Chiropractic Kids & Chiropractic .................................... | 1

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Equitable Gas ..................................... | 25

IN West Mifflin | FALL 2012 |

ON THE COVER | It’s back to school time! Photo by Gary Yon

22

6

UPMC TODAYHealth and Wellness News You Can Use | Fall 2012

What’s Inside2 Have You Scheduled Your Annual Mammogram?

3 Give Your Back a Break

Using Your Blood for Natural Healing

4 A Partnership of Hope and Transformation

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

7 When Wounds Don’t Heal

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

1310

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Car Buffs Abound in the Region ..................................... | 6

The CREW to the Rescue ................................................... | 10

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ........... | 13

Celebrating American Heroes ........................................... | 21

Saving a Piece of America ................................................ | 22

Craft Fair ................................................................................. | 24

West Mifflin Midget Football ........................................... | 26

Holy Spirit 50th Anniversary ............................................. | 28

Little Sisters of the Poor ................................................... | 28

Community Worship ............................................................. | 29

A Vision of Freedom ............................................................ | 30

IN West Mifflin is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the West Mifflin area 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.



or some, the smell of car wax, the heat of the sunshine and the strains of ‘50s music take them back to their younger days. In their minds, they go back to a time when having good weather and a

great car for the afternoon, and the free time to enjoy it, were all that you needed for some fun. Thankfully, it’s been a good summer to lower the convertible roof on the car and go cruising, allowing the wind to blow through your hair, smelling the flowers and watching the gawkers staring at you as you roll past them in your classic car. After all, what’s the sense of having an antique car or a classic muscle car if you can’t show it off and allow others

to enjoy it? Sharing the love of design, beauty and mechanics of a classic car or muscle car is part

of the joy of collecting such vehicles. Car cruises are an American

tradition in which owners of

classic and high-performance cars meet together in parking lots and other wide-open spaces, to show off their vehicles and to enjoy an afternoon or evening of fun with other car lovers. Often these events include music or entertainment and food, and sometimes, they even have races. Western Pennsylvania is home to many of these events, thanks to the many gearheads who live in the region. Here is a sampling of some of the many popular car cruises in the Pittsburgh area:Mineral Beach (in Finleyville) – This popular event happens every Friday night and often includes motorcycles as well as cars. This larger cruise usually includes several hundred cars.Wendy’s (in Peters Township, along Rt. 19) – This cruise is every Monday night, and is a smaller cruise that usually has about 50 to 100 cars.West Mifflin, PA #3 VFD Car and Bike Cruise– Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.Event held Wednesdays. Call 412.370.6253 for information. Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise (Wexford) – Wexford Star Lite Car Cruise is held every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.,

through Labor Day. This is one of the largest weekly cruises in the region, and usually has more than 1000 cars attending each week. The Wexford

Star Lite Car Cruise is free and is hosted and presented by North Way Christian Community (www.

starlitecarcruise.com).Ultimate Car Cruise (Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills) – Every Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., through October. This cruise

and many others can be found listed at the website www.carcruises.com.

Flashlight Drags (Waynesburg) – Features a car show, a car cruise, a vendor’s midway, music,

food and more. The idea behind this event

By Jonathan Barnes


sprang from the need for local hot rodders to have a place to legally and safely race each other. The essence of the event is providing a safe environment in which to enjoy the excitement of street racing, with an equal measure of nostalgia—which is where the antique and classic cars displayed at the event make their greatest impact. www.flashlightdrags.com.Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix International Car Show (Schenley Park, Pittsburgh) – Held every July and touted by international media including National Geographic magazine, the Vintage Grand Prix once hosted competitive races between racers in vintage cars around the park’s winding roads, but for years the entire event has been for show, and as always, still benefits charity. More than 2,000 cars, many of them very high-end,are displayed at the event, in which all makes of car are welcome. Held annually since 1983, the Vintage Grand Prix has raised more than $2.75 million to benefit autistic and developmentally disabled people. All local car cruises are weather-dependent. Check the web sites for each cruise regularly to determine if a cruise will be held when foul weather could be imminent. While each car cruise is unique in its location and the makeup of vehicles, owners, and attractions, every car buff comes to the hobby by his or her own path. It could have started with a secret childhood yearning for a hot rod, or by catching a glimpse of something extraordinary in a shop window, seen totally by happenstance. Like a lover retelling the story of his romance, each classic car owner has a tale to tell about how he and his car were united.

Bob Perun of West Mifflin has been behind the wheel of a classic Chevelle for most of his 56 years of life. The West Mifflin School District teacher is in the process of restoring his third Chevelle and, as far as he’s

concerned, the Chevrolet model is the one true love of his life. “A lot of people like cars for the memories they build in them,” he said. “They might meet their wife in one or something like that. Not me, though. I’m just a guy that really loves Chevelles.” Perun’s most prized possession is his red 1967 Chevelle SS. He found the car in a for-sale ad in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette in 1980 and bought it shortly after. He was immediately attracted to the car for the quality condition it was in—a rarity in western Pennsylvania where vehicles are repeatedly exposed to harsh weather for the majority of the calendar year. “You just don’t see that,” the technology education teacher said. “They’re usually just hunks of rust so I had to have this one.” After 13 years of light driving in clear conditions, Perun decided to stuff the Chevelle, originally from Oklahoma, in the garage for a complete restoration. The car had a small block motor which Perun replaced with a rebuilt big block motor. He also replaced all of the chrome, glass and rubber on the frame’s exterior before repainting the white body with a stock-color viper red. “I did everything except take the body off frame,” he said. “Almost completely stripped her down but she’s beautiful now. A lot of guys restore a Chevy Malibu to look like a Super Sport and slap an ‘SS’ sticker on it but she’s the real deal. She’s a real Super Sport.” Perun finished the restoration on the ’67 Chevelle SS in 2004 but is staying busy with another complete restoration on his new 1968 Chevelle. The 56-year-old is about halfway done fixing up the ’68, returning it to stock condition. He hopes the ’68 will mirror the ’67 SS’s attractiveness. “I hardly take out the ’67 but when I do, there are a lot of jaws dropped,” he said. “The few people who see it out in person really appreciate how pretty she is.” – Brady Ashe

1967 Chevelle SS

other. The essence of the event is providing a safe environment in which to enjoy the excitement

measure of nostalgia—which is

still benefits charity. More than

Bob Perun of West Mifflin has been behind the wheel of a classic

1967 Chevelle SS


Local lovers of classic cars and the weekly

cruises that exhibit them are probably familiar with Hugh “Babe” O’Donnell of West Mifflin who, along with his two adult sons, hosts three weekly car cruises in the Pittsburgh area. The 70-year-old and his sons, Matt and Jeffery, host and D.J. the Rock Bottom Brewery & Restaurant Car Cruise at the Waterfront in Homestead on

Mondays, the Chick Fil-A Car Cruise in Pleasant Hills on

Thursdays and the Quaker Steak and Lube Car Cruise in Cranberry on Saturdays.


Lcruises that exhibit them are probably familiar with Hugh “Babe” O’Donnell of West Mifflin who, along with his two adult sons, hosts three weekly car cruises in the Pittsburgh area.

The 70-year-old and his sons, Matt and Jeffery, host and D.J. the Rock Bottom Brewery & Restaurant Car Cruise at the Waterfront

Mondays, the Chick Fil-A Car Cruise in Pleasant Hills on

Thursdays and the Quaker Steak and Lube Car Cruise in Cranberry on Saturdays.

1962 Pontiac Catalina

i n the summer of 1974, Bob Koribanic whimsically purchased a light green 1974 Ford Bronco that he spotted on the side of the highway he was cruising. It served as his

everyday vehicle for 28 years, racking up over 100,000 miles on the odometer, before the West Mifflin man made the decision to

tuck it in the garage for a complete restoration. It’s an ongoing process and while Koribanic estimates

the restoration that he’s done manually and independently since 2004 is about 90 percent done, the former carpenter isn’t satisfied with the current condition. He wants the Bronco in showroom shape in time for next summer’s car cruise season. “That’s the whole idea behind it,” he said. “This baby’s held up for me for over 35 years and I want it looking good as new to show ‘er off.” One part of the old Ford that is literally “good as new” is the jeep’s body which Koribanic replaced last year. The body kit was shipped from Arizona and following the installation, the body’s exterior was refinished with its original stock color, village green. Koribanic didn’t replace the Bronco’s 302 V8 engine but spent several months fixing it up, replacing the carburetor and spark plug. Having owned several older trucks that frequently broke down throughout the years, the former carpenter learned basic mechanics through trial and error. Before the ’74 Bronco makes its way out to any local car cruises, Koribanic plans on installing a custom dual

exhaust and reupholstering the interior. He also needs to install a sending unit for the gas tank so the gauge will display its fuel level and wants a professional mechanic to adjust the steering system.

i n the summer of 1974, Bob Koribanic whimsically

tuck it in the garage for a complete restoration.It’s an ongoing process and while Koribanic estimates

baby’s held up for me for over 35 years and I want it looking good as new to show ‘er off.”

new” is the jeep’s body which Koribanic replaced last year. The body kit was shipped from Arizona and following the installation, the body’s exterior was refinished with its original stock color, village green. Koribanic didn’t replace the Bronco’s 302 V8 engine but spent several months fixing it up, replacing the carburetor and spark plug. Having owned several older trucks that frequently broke down throughout the years, the former carpenter learned basic mechanics through trial and error.

Before the ’74 Bronco makes its way out to any local car cruises, Koribanic plans on installing a custom dual

1974 Ford Bronco


O’Donnell is passionate about the cruises because it gives him an opportunity to spend time with his sons and combines his love of music with his passion of classic cars. “It’s a great thing for our family,” the father of two said. “It allows us to do something together and make some money. We always get a pretty good turnout and it’s great to have a little fun with those guys, too, and see all the local classics.” In 2005, O’Donnell bought a classic of his own that he could display in his three summer cruises when he took a silver 1962 Pontiac Catalina with 26,000 original miles off a Duquesne man’s hands for about $3,500. The West Mifflin D.J. recruited the talents of a friend who had worked in the automotive industry for 40 years for

the light restoration of the Catalina which took about a month. O’Donnell was satisfied

with the condition of the classic car’s frame and merely replaced the engine,

gas tank and tires. He also heavily detailed the Pontiac’s interior which was covered in coal dust after the previous owner haphazardly parked the car in front of a furnace and

its contents were sucked into the interior through the exhaust pipe. O’Donnell finished the restoration with a coat of silver paint to overlap the ‘62’s original finish. He also stacks the car with vintage Americana memorabilia including a Marilyn Monroe antique license plate and a miniature phonograph record player on the dash to set it apart from its car cruise counterparts. The O’Donnells seek sponsorship for their cruises from multiple automotive companies and have been particularly successful with several body wax companies including Zephyr and Voodoo. Their relationship with the wax companies has led frequent cruise participants to nickname Matt and Jeffery “the wax brothers.” O’Donnell first found an interest in automobiles in the early 1960s when he’d attend stock car races and work on hot rods in his spare time. He’s been involved in car cruises for over 50 years. “Most people when they go to sleep count sheep,” he said. “I count cars.” – Brady Ashe

about a month. O’Donnell was satisfied with the condition of the classic car’s

frame and merely replaced the engine, gas tank and tires. He also heavily detailed the Pontiac’s interior which

The West Mifflin resident attributes his senior age and semi-retired work schedule as the main impediments to the ongoing restoration process which has already spanned eight years.

“I’m in my late 70s and I just can’t work on these things for eight hours a day,” he said. “Sometimes it feels like it’s never gonna make it out of the garage but it’s all gonna be worth it when it does.”

Koribanic, a Duquesne native, lives about a mile from the Allegheny County Airport with his wife of 50-plus years, Vilma. What the couple enjoys most about the Bronco that’s been a part of their life for over 35 years is the durability found in the classic American construction.

“It’s unbelievably sturdy,” Koribanic said. “They just don’t make ‘em like that anymore, literally. I have a modern jeep and it’s so light and plastic compared to the Bronco. That car has been faithful to me for almost half of my long life.” – Brady Ashe


CREWto the Rescue

The

Jefferson Hills church group and volunteers reach out to help property owners in surrounding communitiesBy Earl Bugaile


Continued on next pageContinued on next page

to the Rescue

Owning a home and balancing a job and other responsibilities can be a difficult task for some people, especially if they are unable to get to the usual “weekend work” of completing jobs around the house.

It was with that thought in mind that the Crossroads Com-munity Church of Jefferson Hills began an outreach ministry three years ago to reach those residents who for numerous reasons need a few pairs of extra hands around the house to complete the tasks that need to be addressed to keep their homes and properties maintained. Every fourth Saturday of the month, volunteers of the CREW team, an acronym for Community Radically Engaged and Willing, venture out into the neighborhoods of Jefferson Hills and surrounding communities to help their neighbors in need. The CREW project is the brainchild of Judi Robbins, who

approached church administrators with the idea of begin-ning a program as an outreach program. The program began with a small group of church members who went to the homes of those in the community who were facing financial hardships, or those who were too elderly or too ill to take care of the properties themselves. As the program developed, more and more volunteers signed up to assist the CREW team, and the service has been expanded to any homeowner in Jefferson Hills. It has also been expanding to other surrounding communities. “Our goal is to create relationships and unite the commu-nity by meeting the needs of its residents,” Robbins said. A typical work Saturday will find CREW members per-forming projects such as small painting jobs, cleaning up yards, planting flowers and making flower beds, trimming hedges, mowing lawns, weed whacking and performing tasks such as light house cleaning and dusting.

“Our goal is to create

relationships and unite the community by

meeting the needs of its residents”

Continued next page


While in previous years, the CREW team was able to pro-vide services to one or two residents per month, the addition of new volunteers has made it possible for two teams to pick up an additional projects. The group works from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on a typical Saturday. Because most of the work is done outdoors, the program runs from May until October. The CREW team has already done projects in West Mifflin and West Elizabeth Borough. The project in West Elizabeth was to repaint picnic tables that had been vandalized with graffiti. Robbins said she hopes to expand the program even further, to reach out into other communities. “Right now the bulk of our work is done in Jefferson Hills or within a 20- to 30-mile radius,” she said. “The team also assisted a group from the North Side of Pittsburgh in a cleanup effort there.” Robbins said that the CREW team is also reaching out to other areas of the Mon Valley to offer their services. As the CREW program expands, the group continues to gain new volunteers to provide help and services. Several Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, as well as college and high school students have joined the program, and Robbins says several other community service organizations have ex-pressed an interest in serving. A motorcycle group known as Michael’s Marauders pitched in to help earlier this year. “We’ve had volunteers who have joined the CREW who range in age from 16 to in their 60s” Robbins said. “It’s helped us to really expand and reach out to people.” Robbins said the quest continues for more volunteers, which will enable the CREW to assist more homeowners ev-ery month. Although the group’s primary focus has been on assisting those who have been physically unable to do the work themselves, she said that any homeowner is eligible to receive help. Those who wish to volunteer, or those who would like to schedule a CREW visit to their home or to make a referral should contact Robbins at 412.708.7328 or 412.384.9278.

Continued from page 11CREW

UPMC TODAYHealth and Wellness News You Can Use | Fall 2012

© 2012 UPMC

What’s Inside2 Have You Scheduled Your Annual Mammogram?

3 Give Your Back a Break

Using Your Blood for Natural Healing

4 A Partnership of Hope and Transformation

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

7 When Wounds Don’t Heal

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

2 UPMC.com/Today

One in eight women in the United States can expect to be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. A mammogram is still the best test your doctor has to detect breast cancer sooner — sometimes up to three years before it can be felt. If breast cancer is diagnosed early, the survival rate is 98 percent. If it is diagnosed late, the survival rate drops to 27 percent.

The digital advantage

Digital mammography, among the latest in breast imaging technology, has been available at UPMC McKeesport since 2008. Although traditional film and digital mammography are done in the same way, the digital technique has many important advantages for both doctors and patients. “It cuts exam times in half, something patients appreciate,” says Rachelle Gebis, director of Imaging Services at UPMC McKeesport. “Digital also produces sharp images and uses a relatively low dose of radiation,” she adds.

“Digital images can be manipulated to improve contrast and magnification, allowing the radiologist to see things that may have been obscured on a film mammogram,” says Marvin Abdalah, MD, a radiologist specializing in mammography at UPMC McKeesport who completed a fellowship in women’s imaging at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.

The fear factor

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends yearly mammogram screenings beginning at age 40 for women at average risk of breast cancer. But one in two women avoid regular mammograms. Fear of being diagnosed with breast cancer is one of the top reasons women skip regular mammograms, however the vast majority of screenings come back negative.

“Not surprisingly, a patient’s anxiety level rises when an abnormality is detected,” says Marcy Vasko, RN, nurse navigator for Breast Imaging services at UPMC McKeesport. It’s her job to ensure that the process of moving patients from screening to diagnosis and treatment is as seamless and stress-free as possible. “Having someone who knows what to expect, can answer questions, help schedule appointments, or just listen is a real comfort to them,” says Ms. Vasko.

And after a patient completes therapy? “I get them back on a regular cycle of mammograms,” she replies.

To learn more about digital mammography and other imaging services at UPMC McKeesport, call 412-664-CARE (2273).

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The pink ribbon is a powerful reminder that in the battle against breast cancer, early detection can save lives. When you combine mammography with a clinical breast examination, the chances of finding cancer early are even better. Many breast problems are found by women themselves. By regularly examining your breasts, you’re more likely to notice changes. Call your doctor to report changes you see or feel in your breasts, but remember: most breast changes are not cancerous.

Underinsured or uninsured women in Pennsylvania may be eligible for free breast cancer screenings through the Healthy-Woman Program. For more information, including eligibility standards, call 1-800-215-7494.

You’ll find the ACS breast cancer screening guidelines, as well as instructions on how to examine your breasts, at UPMCMcKeesport/Today.

Have You Scheduled Your Annual Mammogram?Just being a woman and getting older puts you at risk for breast cancer.

UPMC222169_UPMC Today_McKeesport_Fall_2012_Final.indd 2 7/30/12 3:38 PM

1-800-533-UPMC 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: National Institutes of Health

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

What is PRP therapy?

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

Who should use PRP therapy?

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

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

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

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

Is PRP therapy covered by insurance?

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

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

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan


4 UPMC.com/Today

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

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

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

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

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

A network like no other

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

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

Three powerful pillars supported by 1,700 experts

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

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

Pillar I: Clinical Care

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

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


Pillar II: Specialized Care

Pillar III: Research

Architectural rendering of the patient waiting area of the Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers, currently under

construction at Hillman Cancer Center. u

4 UPMC.com/Today

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

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

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

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

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

A network like no other

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

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

Three powerful pillars supported by 1,700 experts

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

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

Pillar I: Clinical Care

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

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


1-800-533-UPMC 5

p Mark Sosinski, MD, a nationally recognized lung cancer specialist who joined the UPMC CancerCenter and UPCI team in 2011, says “This was a good fit for

me and my research, but the strong leadership really stood out.”

The UPMC CancerCenter radiation oncology network includes radiation oncology network includes radiation oncology network16 community-based radiation oncology centers and 10 dual radiation and medical oncology centers. Many of these sites offer innovative, advanced technology that allows for more precise tumor imaging and radiation treatment.

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

Pillar II: Specialized Care

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

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

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

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

Pillar III: Research

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information, visit UPMCCancerCenter.com.

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

6 UPMC.com/Today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Emphasizing patient and family-centered care

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


1-800-533-UPMC 7

For most people, a cut, blister, or scrape on the foot usually heals quickly. But for millions of Americans, wounds that don’t heal pose a major health threat that requires special treatment to avoid serious infection, amputation, and even death.

“Chronic wounds are usually the result of serious underlying health issues. It’s a big problem with our aging and obese population,” says Marc Cordero, MD, a general surgeon and wound care specialist at UPMC McKeesport. People with diabetes and vascular disease are particularly vulnerable to slow healing and chronic wounds because of poor circulation.

State-of-the-art wound care close to home

The new wound healing services at UPMC McKeesport will offer a comprehensive, hospital-based outpatient program providing specialized treatment for chronic wounds, including those resulting from diabetes, vascular disease, pressure ulcers, burns, and other traumatic injuries.

“It’s a huge advantage for area residents. Patients won’t have to travel far to receive a high level of wound care treatment, and problems can be resolved more quickly,” says Dr. Cordero.

Advanced wound care available at the new facility will include hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) — an established and highly successful method for treating many types of non-healing wounds. Opening fall 2012, the center will have double the capacity of most area wound clinics, with two pressurized hyperbaric chambers.

“We are providing the community with an invaluable tool. HBOT is a strong and proven medical technology that facilitates healing,” says Sandeep Kathju, MD, a plastic surgeon at UPMC McKeesport.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy brings hope

In HBOT, patients are placed in a sealed chamber where they breathe 100 percent oxygen under pressure. It increases oxygen in the bloodstream, improves circulation, stimulates growth of new blood vessels, and promotes healing. The intense treatment requires daily hour-long sessions, often over a course of weeks or months.

“HBOT can make a difference in whether or not someone loses a limb, but undergoing daily treatment can be challenging. Having it available close to home is a tremendous benefit for patients and their families,” says Dr. Cordero.

A team approach to wound care

The new service will offer a multidisciplinary team of wound care specialists, including general, orthopaedic, and vascular surgeons; a podiatrist; and nurses, who will work together to treat wounds and help prevent amputations. The patient’s own doctor can partner with the wound healing team throughout treatment.

“Everyone brings the expertise we need to comprehensively manage non-healing wounds,” explains Dr. Kathju. “Our goal will be to avoid amputation by providing expert treatment from wound healing specialists using the latest tools and technologies.”

For more information about the new wound healing services at UPMC McKeesport, call 412-664-CARE (2273).

When Wounds Don’t Heal If you’re at risk, a simple cut or blister can quickly escalate into a major health problem.

Foot Care TipsIf you have diabetes or vascular disease, inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, redness, swelling, or foul odor. If you can’t bend over, use a plastic mirror to check the bottoms of your feet, or ask a family member to help. And be sure your doctor inspects your feet at every visit.


1-800-533-UPMC • UPMC.com/WeSee

With convenient locations at:

WE PICTURE YOU AS A MOTHER.

WE PICTURE YOU AS A DAUGHTER.

WE PICTURE YOU AS A SISTER.

ABOVE ALL, WE PICTURE YOU AS A WOMAN.

WHICH IS WHY WE’LL NEVER PICTURE YOU AS JUST ANOTHER PICTURE.

At UPMC McKeesport, you’ll receive comprehensive,

state-of-the-art mammography services.

You’ll also receive something else — expertise,

compassion and a dedication to helping

women just like you.UPMC McKeesport Forest Hills Outpatient 2020 Ardmore Blvd • Pittsburgh, PA 15221

UPMC McKeesport 1500 Fifth Ave • McKeesport, PA 15132

UPMC McKeesport1500 Fifth Ave.McKeesport, PA 15132

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

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

Follow UPMC on Facebook.



1-800-533-UPMC • UPMC.com/WeSee

With convenient locations at:

WE PICTURE YOU AS A MOTHER.

WE PICTURE YOU AS A DAUGHTER.

WE PICTURE YOU AS A SISTER.

ABOVE ALL, WE PICTURE YOU AS A WOMAN.

WHICH IS WHY WE’LL NEVER PICTURE YOU AS JUST ANOTHER PICTURE.

At UPMC McKeesport, you’ll receive comprehensive,

state-of-the-art mammography services.

You’ll also receive something else — expertise,

compassion and a dedication to helping

women just like you.UPMC McKeesport Forest Hills Outpatient 2020 Ardmore Blvd • Pittsburgh, PA 15221

UPMC McKeesport 1500 Fifth Ave • McKeesport, PA 15132

UPMC McKeesport1500 Fifth Ave.McKeesport, PA 15132

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

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

Follow UPMC on Facebook.


Celebrates American Heroes

West mifflin BOROUGH

CelebratesCelebratesWest mifflin BOROUGH

W est Mifflin Borough is in the process of planning a tribute to veterans and active military per-

sonnel, which will take place in May of 2013. The borough website states, “West Mifflin has always taken great pride in those who have served our country in its times of need.” The borough is now taking the opportunity to give back to servicemen and women by recognizing their efforts through the place-ment of commemorative banners placed in the community. The inspiration behind this initiative is simply gratitude. West Mifflin’s mayor, Chris Kelly, feels that we, as a community, can never do enough for our veterans. He asks, “Could you imagine the world we would live in without these brave men and women?” Though the initiative is taking place in West Mifflin, veterans and active military personnel do not have to be residents to be recognized. Mayor Kelly states, “We will gladly honor any veteran. I believe that they served our country without restriction.” In the spirit of honoring members of the military without limitation, anyone can submit the name of a friend or relative for inclusion in the tribute. The banners will be mounted in Colonel Mitchell Paige Park for the borough’s Memo-rial Day celebration, which will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2013. They will remain on display in the park until Veterans Day in November of 2013. The park is a fitting loca-tion for the tribute to take place as it is named for Colonel Mitchell Paige, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Paige, a native of Charleroi, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for action on the island on Guadalcanal during the early days of the

Second World War as he served as a platoon sergeant. He held his line and continued to fire against Japanese forces after the rest of the men in his group had been killed or wounded. When reinforcements arrived, He led a bayonet charge against enemy forces. Paige went on to a full career in the Marine Corps before retiring in 1964. If you know a veteran you would like to honor with a banner, visit the soldiers’ tribute page on the borough website, www.BoroughWestMifflin.com. There, you will be prompted to supply information on your loved one including name, rank, branch of service, company, and the conflict in which he or she served. You will also be asked to submit a photo of your loved one in uniform to be displayed on his or her banner. If you do not have access to an electronic version of your photo, you can drop off a hard copy at the borough building. Once it has been scanned, the photograph will be returned to you. Each vinyl banner is $35 plus an additional charge of $5 for the mounting bracket. If you would like to order a second banner for dis-play at your home or place of business, you can do so for $35. An electronic version of the banner will also be displayed on the West Mifflin Borough website for no additional charge. Community members who do not have loved ones in the service but who would still like to take part in the initiative are welcome to submit a donation to the cause. Some veterans and their families are on limited incomes, and several community members have already volunteered to cover the cost of a banner for a veteran in need. For questions regarding the tribute, please call 412.466.8170.

recognizing their efforts through the placement of commemorative banners placed in the community. The inspiration behind this initiative is simply gratitude. West Mifflin’s mayor, Chris Kelly, feels that we, as a community, can

Second World War as he served as a platoon


Saving a Piece of America

By Judith Schardt

The Pinkertons landing to battle the steel workers

in West MifflinWest Mifflin’s Brown’s Dump Part of National Heritage Preservation Efforts


From 1875 to 1980, southwest-ern Pennsylvania was the “Steel Capital of the World,” producing the steel for some of America’s greatest icons: the Brooklyn Bridge, the

Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building. Its forging mills pounded out the 70-ton axle used in the renowned George Ferris’ Wheel that held 2,160 passengers at its debut at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. (George Ferris was a Pittsburgh bridge builder. During both World Wars, the steel workers assumed great responsibility for much of the nation’s defense by producing more steel, armor and armaments in a one-year period than entire countries. Steel mills were part of Pittsburgh and its surrounding areas because of the availability of materials and the rivers for the transport of heavy steel. Iron ore, coal and limestone, the raw materials needed for making steel, were all readily available. Steel workers had dangerous, demanding and exhausting jobs and men would come home with red-dened, dirty faces; but they were grateful for work. The pay was about $5/day in the early 1900s, fairly good for that time. Farmhands from Chester County, sharecroppers from Alabama, and peasants from Slovenia became industrial workers. One would start at the mills as a laborer. Work in the coke ovens, blast furnaces, or mill yards were tricky, paid less, and had little prospect for advancement. Workers of differ-ent nationalities and backgrounds made up the workforce. Ex-soldiers could get trained by the casting-pit work gang - immigrants from Italy, Croatia, Germany, Russia, and Poland. A man could be uneducated, unskilled, and still get a job working in a steel mill. “A truly American sentiment recognizes the dignity of labor and the fact that honor lies in honest toil.” (Grover Cleveland, 22nd and 24th U.S. President) Hard to believe, but today many of the region’s renowned mill sites have been shuttered and the Pittsburgh skyline shows no signs of the belching fire and smoke it saw for decades. After WWII, the United States shared its technology to build steel mills with other countries. The Pittsburgh mills were not updated; it proved less expensive to build new mills rather than to expand and renovate original ones. Plus the raw material deposits began to run out, and had to be imported from other states. Eventually, it cost too much to make steel in Pittsburgh, and as a result the mills shut down one by one. The enormity of the region’s steel-making contributions and its historical significance to our country demanded that its story be told and its sites preserved. “Our heritage, our code and standards – the things we live by and teach our children – are preserved or diminished by how freely we exchange ideas and feelings.” (Walt Disney, Film Producer) Created by Congress in 1996, the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area undertook the task of preserving, interpreting, and managing the historic and cultural resources of Big Steel

and its related industries. The Rivers of Steel Heritage Area encompasses over 5,000 square miles in eight counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Greene, Fayette, Wash-ington, and Westmoreland. It tells the story of the area’s remarkable transition from heavy industry to high technol-ogy and diversified services as

well as bolstering the economy by promoting tourism based on the region’s historic industrial saga. The goals for the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area are extensive: historic and cultural preservation, education, recreation and resource development. Currently, there are bills in Congress to create the Homestead Works National Park. The proposed park would be located on 38 acres surrounding the Carrie Furnaces, the last of the giant blast furnaces from the Homestead Works, and the Pump House, site of the bloody 1892 Homestead Steel Strike. The staff is determined to inform current residents of the dynamic and powerful story of Big Steel which was unsurpassed in artifacts, buildings, historic communities, industrial sites, and cultural traditions of its people. It is managed by the non-profit Steel Industry Heri-tage Corporation (SIHC) in partnership with the National Park Service and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Since its inception, Rivers of Steel has undertaken preservation projects using public and private funds. Sherris Moreira, Director of Marketing/Tourism, said this: “Preserving the past is costly; but failing to preserve our heritage cannot be measured.” The mature steel industry, with its abundant profits, sim-ply collapsed. Half the country’s steelworkers lost their jobs; the losses were catastrophic in many Pennsylvania towns. Management bungling, union inflexibility, government igno-rance, and global competition all contributed to the distressing outcome. Steelworkers in America were increasingly forced to work not for hometown companies, but for corporations based in Europe and Asia. The devastating effects on the workers and the rundown mill towns were profound: many never recov-ered. The Rivers of Steel wants to be their voice. Moreira said there are exhibits featuring replicas of the mill towns (the Bost Building, a hotel in Homestead; the Homestead Room with artifacts from the Homestead Works and the Pump House). The program offers Hard Hat walking tours, Routes to Roots driving tours, which lead you from mansions and mill towns to national landmarks, inviting you to savor the flavors and folk life of a region as diverse as its people. Field trips for students, attractions that span eight counties and an online store to purchase books, DVDs, apparel and tickets for tours are also available. The Heritage Area brings together the industrial age and its impact on history and the future by offering great interactive events with unforgettable experiences. If you would love some unique and interesting fun, please contact Sherris Moreira at 412.464.4020, ext. 46. She loves sharing the informa-tion about what Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area does.


The Annual Mon Valley Craft/Vendor Fair will be held on Saturday, November 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. Last year’s show included over 95 craft/vendor tables, a Chinese auction table

of over 80 baskets, a $2.00 admission fee entitled you to a chance of winning one of 25 door prizes, plus food and refreshments were also for sale. The Mon Valley Craft/Vendor Fair was reintroduced two years ago after a 10-year hiatus. Since then it has been growing every year and just gets better and better. It is currently accepting applica-tions for crafters/vendors. For more information contact Mon Valley School at 412.469.2551. Mon Valley School is one of the three special education centers of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit located at 555 N. Lewis Run Road, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. The school is located right up from Bowser Pontiac on Route 51 or off Rte.885 by CCAC South Campus. All proceeds benefit student activities.

he Annual Mon Valley Craft/Vendor Fair will be held on

CraftSaturday, November 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

CraftCraftCraftFair


Fair


West MifflinWest MifflinWest Mifflin

Midget Midget Football

Offers Unique Program with a Focus on Academics

by Matt Fascetti


W e live in a culture that is in love with sports…the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat. We can’t get enough of it. Unfortunate-

ly, sometimes young athletes get so caught up in athletics that they place it ahead of their education. Life can be a very difficult road to travel without an education. The entire future of our country is based on the education of our youth. With this in mind, local businessman Jerome Foy decided to take action. Foy developed a midget football pro-gram that has a focus on academics. The teams have football practice three nights a week, and two nights a week they have an academic study hall that focuses on the PSAs for the younger kids and SAT prep for the older kids. The program works in conjunction with the West Mifflin School District. There are several parents and a few teachers who help out, as well individuals who specialize in PSA and SAT prep. “This is a unique program,” said Foy. “I know that education can be pushed aside, but sports and academics have to go hand in hand. This is the first year of the program. Our long-term goal is not only to help the kids in this community, but to also get this program installed in midget football leagues around the country.” The mission statement of the program reads: Our mission is to successfully teach youth the fundamentals of football while demon-strating good sportsmanship. In addition to being a youth football organization, we also are promoting literacy and PSSA and SAT Prep assistance. We teach our youth the importance of balancing academics while participating in athletics.” The West Mifflin Midget Football program was in a league last year that folded. This year they joined the Beaver Valley League. Although the away games are quite a distance away, Foy felt that the

Midget Football

league was the best one to join due to their stellar reputation. He also believed it was great for the kids to interact with kids from different areas. There are 90 kids signed up for the program and they are spread across four teams based on age group: 5-7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13 and 14 year - olds if they turn 14 after Aug. 1. The first game was Aug. 19, and the season runs until November and includes seven regular season games plus the playoffs. The last game of the year will be the annual Turkey Bowl against the New Kensington Ar-Kens. The league plays its home games at West Mifflin High School stadium. Foy has been gratified by the outpour-ing of support for the program. Former Steeler Mike Logan is a major sponsor of the program, and the Steelers themselves helped them out with two camps this sum-mer. The kids even got to meet a few of the players. In addition, the program was given all new equipment this year through generous donations from equipment giant Riddell and Sal’s in Ambridge. The program, which pays tribute to its roots by going by the nickname “Trojans,” have several celebrations planned dur-ing this season. There are plans to retire the jersey of Mike Logan as well as pay tribute to past coaches. Foy, who has been coaching football for 11 years, is excited to be running the program. “Academics are very important. They are something that must be empha-sized, and that is the goal here. These young men need to be well-rounded individuals who do not need to rely on athletic scholarships to succeed. I hope as the program continues to grow that it gets implemented into other communities. I am excited to see it grow and be successful.” For more information about the program, visit www.westmifflinmidgetfootball.com.


cial so that people could build their own sundaes.” A DVD focused on the church and its history was also shown during the celebration. Cossaro said that there were many fundraisers leading up to the 50th anniversary celebration to make the event as successful as possible. They included t-shirt, lotteries, and a production of “Late Night Catechism,” a performance with proceeds going toward the church’s yearlong anniversary celebration events and committee. “We’ve been planning events and working on this for the last year,” Cossaro said. “We have several different committees making all kinds of plans for the rest of the season. The kickoff celebration was to celebrate the beginning of the year. So there will be many different events during these next several months in honor of our 50th year.” Future activities include both spiritual and social events. This summer, the committee showed movies on the lawn once a month to bring the community together for a fun and relaxing night. There will be many events all year to cel-ebrate the different aspects of the parish’s life.

50 YEARS By Amanda Fastuca

A local parish is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer, bringing friends and family of the church

together. Sunday, May 27 was the designated opening day for the Holy Spirit Parish’s celebration of its 50th year of existence. The Holy Spirit Parish was estab-lished in 1962 in West Mifflin by Bishop, John Write. The Sunday celebration was very successful in bringing in the people of the church as well as raising money for the 50th anniversary committee. “It was a very joyful celebration and was well-attended,” said Marina Cossaro, coordinator of religious education of Holy Spirit. “The committee seemed to be very happy with the turnout and how the celebration worked in their favor.” Cossaro said there were many different activities and entertainment at the celebration. Kicking off the celebration with a 10 a.m. mass, an ice cream social and outdoor pic-nic provided fun and many different treats for the guests. “The picnic included food such as hot dogs, drinks and desserts,” Cossaro said. “We actually had Sugar and Spice come to the ice cream so-

On October 25 the Little Sisters will continue their celebration of 140 years of caring for the

elderly poor in Pittsburgh by serving up “A Heavenly Feast” Celebrity Chef Tasting.

Eight priests from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, who are celebrity chefs in their own right, will dazzle the guests with their culinary wizardry. The evening, hosted by Honor-ary Chair Bishop David Zubik, will take place at the newly renovated

Cardinals’ Great Hall at the St. Paul Seminary. The evening will include an

offering Wines from Cana and home-made Lemoncello, special recipes from

thechefs’ own collections, a unique assortment of live auction items, and the presen-tation of the St. Jeanne Jugan Medal to the Sis-

The Little Sisters of the Poor are preparing to Celebrate their 140th Anniversary with “A Heavenly Feast.”

ters’ long time board chair and friend James F. Will. John Barsotti, owner of The Common Plea, will lend his expertise from over 30 years as a restaurateur in Pittsburgh and provide support to the celebrity chefs as they offer their splendors to over 300 guests. This event will serve as the major fundraiser for the Little Sisters of the Poor as they pursue their mission of promoting the dignity of life for so many elderly poor in our region who otherwise would not know such security and love in their final years. With the generous support of friends and benefactors, the Little Sisters of the Poor will continue their legacy of maintaining one of the top 39 nursing homes in the na-tion, according to U.S. News and World Report. Tickets are $150/person. For more information, please contact Kathleen Bowser at 412.307.1268 or [email protected].

celebration of 140 years of caring for the elderly poor in Pittsburgh by serving up “A

Heavenly Feast” Celebrity Chef Tasting. Eight priests from the Diocese of

Cardinals’ Great Hall at the St. Paul Seminary. The evening will include an

offering Wines from Cana and homemade Lemoncello, special recipes from

thechefs’ own collections, a unique

Holy Spirit Church

CELEBRATES


Calvary Baptist Church Walker & Anborn DrivesWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.2006 calvarybaptistwestmifflin.com

Christ Lutheran Church 405 Kennedy AvenueDuquesne, PA 15110 412.466.7773

Come and See Bible Church 660 Noble DriveWest Mifflin, Pa 15122412.667.2592

First Baptist Church 3427 Cypress StreetWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.2522

Holy Spirit Catholic Church 2603 Old Elizabeth RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.894.8805

Holy Trinity Catholic Church 529 Grant Avenue ExtensionWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.6545

Homeville Christian Church 4702 Eliza StreetWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.3731 www.homevillechristianchurch.org

Jehovah’s Witness Pittsburgh Congregation 1075 Camp Hollow RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.466.2644

Lebanon Presbyterian Church 2702 Old Elizabeth RoadWest Mifflin, PA 15122412.466.7184 www.lebanonpc.org

Lincoln Place Church of the Nazarene 5604 Interboro AvenuePittsburgh, PA 15207 412.461.1133

Morning Star Baptist Church 812 Oak StreetWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.7861

Resurrection Catholic Church 1 Majka DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.461.8087

St. Agnes Catholic Church 622 St. Agnes LaneWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.2655

St. Rita Parish 219 West Schwab AvenueMunhall, PA 15120412.461.4204

Terrace Church of the Nazarene 1815 Worton Blvd.West Mifflin, PA 15122 412.346.0228

Walnut Grove Assembly of God 44 Adams AvenueWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.469.3010

West Mifflin Community Baptist Church 3813 Fleetwood DriveWest Mifflin, PA 15122 412.466.5924

Whitaker United Methodist Church 124 Arkansas AvenueWhitaker, PA 15120 412.461.5884

Community Worship


Driving is perhaps the privilege that most people take for granted. You need to be somewhere, so you grab keys and wallet and run out the door to your car and off you go. Or perhaps it is crossing a busy intersec-

tion in the heart of downtown–you watch the crosswalk signs, you look both ways, you watch for buses, cars, bikers or even other pedestrians and then you step out and walk across. Think how easy it is to browse a store and pick out fun, new outfits for upcoming special occasions. You peruse the racks, try things on and gaze at your appearance in three-way mirrors. Once you like what you see, you walk to the nearby cashier and reach for your cash or credit card, knowing by memory exactly where it is in your wallet or purse. Now imagine being blind or someone with low vision: you could never drive yourself anywhere; you would be almost par-alyzed by the noise, confusion and speeding vehicles to cross by yourself at any crosswalk. And how would you know where to shop, what the clothes look like, how you look in them, or even where your money is in your wallet? These are among the extreme challenges that individuals with vision impairments ex-perience every single day. Estimates vary as to the number of Americans who are blind and visually impaired, but according to the Centers for Dis-ease Control, approximately 10 million people in the United States are blind or visually impaired. Over the next 30 years, as the baby-boomer genera-tion ages, the number of individuals with vision impairments is expected to double. Vision impairment is defined as eyesight that cannot be corrected to a “normal level” by corrective lenses, exercises/therapy or surger y. So for those facing these challenges, is their only option to just stay home with family or friends who will care for them, sheltered from the potential dangers and trials of a visual world that they cannot navigate? Of course not. Where can they get expert training on how to survive sightless in a sighted com-munity? “Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” – Arnold Schwar-

zenegger (actor, former Governor of California) For 102 years, an organization now called Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services (BVRS), with sites in Homestead, Bald-win and the North Shore, has helped thousands of people with vision loss find their way to independence. There are not many agencies like BVRS in the United States and it has drawn cli-ents from as far away as Hawaii, Montana, Oklahoma, Maine, and occasionally from other countries. Its motto is: “Changing the lives of persons with vision loss and other disabilities by fostering independence and individual choice.” Here’s how it all began: In 1910, a number of Pittsburgh organizations and private citizens worked together to cre-ate the Pittsburgh Blind Association (PBA). Their goal was to provide employment for blind people and increase awareness of blindness prevention. They were motivated by the growing number of vision impaired men who lost their sight in industrial accidents. Industrialization was new and laden with unsafe conditions. For workers who were maimed or blinded on the job, the choices were few. No social safety nets existed like job retraining, workers’ compensation, Social Security, or wel-

fare. The injured turned to their fami-lies, friends or the streets to survive. Nearly 50 years later, Monsignor Paul M. Lackner, of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, formed an organization called The Greater Pittsburgh Guild for the Blind. The Guild focused on reha-bilitation, teaching people to manage their vision loss. Its mission: “Indepen-dence through Rehabilitation.” With

PBA’s focus on employment and blindness prevention and the Guild’s mission of rehabilitation, vision-impaired Pittsburghers were well served. In 1997 they merged and became Pittsburgh Vision Services, maintaining the facilities at Bridgeville and Oakland. By 2005 the buildings of both agencies were sold and the new agency, renamed Blind & Vision Rehabilitation Ser-vices of Pittsburgh, moved to its current location in the former Homestead Hospital at 1800 West Street, Homestead. BVRS is where vision impaired individuals learn to enhance all their skills and senses so as to “see” and function in unique ways. Today the private nonprofit agency carries out the missions of

The West Mifflin Lions Club support BVRS! This year, the presented the group with a $3,700 check

to support their mission. For more information on

West Mifflin Lions Club, go to: www.westmifflinlions.org.

A Vision of Freedom Vision A

For 102 years, an organization now called Blind and Vision

of FreedomBy Judith Schardt


Name of nominee: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________

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

Which IN Community Magazine is this nomination for? _____________________________________________________________________

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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: Monica Haynes, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317If you have any questions, please contact Monica Haynes at [email protected] or 412.254.8704. Deadline for nominations is 09/21/2012.

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

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

IN Community Magazines’ C.A.S.E. Dinner will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 36 magazines. Awardees will be

selected in the following categories: • Volunteer of the Year • Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger) • Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 or less) • Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more).

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

COMMUNITY MAGAZINES SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

both predecessor agencies. It provides treatment and blindness prevention programs at Homestead and low vision services at the newest office in Baldwin. It offers employment through its manu-facturing and assembly division and the commercial services division, both located on Pittsburgh’s North Side. The multiple, nationally-acclaimed programs of BVRS include: Personal Ad-justment to Blindness Training; Vocation and Employment Services; Low Vision Services; State-of-the-Art Computer Access Technology Center; Summer Youth Programs; Services for Seniors and U.S. Military Veterans; Preschool Vision Screening; In-Home Instruction; Community Services and Day Programs for People with Disabilities. If you need assistance in any way due to a vision problem, or find the need to help by vol-unteering, mentoring or donating (BVRS is affiliated with the United Way), please contact Debra Meyer, public relations coordinator, at 412.368.4400 x 2287 or log on to the website: pghvis.org. BVRS can really use your help and your “vision” for the future.

A Vision of Freedom

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