UPMC Physician: Know the Signs of Heart Trouble
Kashif Chaudhry, M.D.
Heart and Vascular Institute, UPMC
February is National Heart Health Month and a great time to familiarize yourself with the signs of a heart emergency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one person succumbs to a heart attack every 40 seconds in the United States. Most times, these emergencies happen suddenly. It is vital to take quick action to help someone have the best possible outcome after a cardiovascular incident.
Warning Signs
Not everyone displays the same symptoms of heart attack, and some symptoms can be more subtle than previously believed. If you or a loved one displays a combination of any of the following indicators, do not hesitate to call 911 or to go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
- Discomfort in the chest or areas in the upper body – This discomfort could be described as squeezing, uncomfortable pressure, fullness, or aching. The location of the discomfort could be in the back, one or both arms, neck, jaw, or abdomen.
- Difficulty breathing or lightheadedness – A shortness of breath, like you just walked up a few flights of stairs.
- Other signs – These signs may include cold sweats, nausea, indigestion, fatigue, or a general unwell feeling.
These symptoms may happen all at once, start gradually, or occur intermittently. No matter what, it’s vital to get treatment as soon as possible.
Preventing Heart Disease
There are many lifestyle choices that you can adopt to help prevent cardiovascular issues.
Lack of physical activity is the most common way your health affects your heart and vascular system. The goal is to be active in a moderate intensity level for at least 30 minutes a day. You could simply go on a walk or bike ride. Not only will this help improve your health, but physical activity is a great way to practice self-care and improve your happiness.
Many diseases and conditions of the heart are also attributed to unhealthy eating habits. Diabetes, cholesterol levels, and a variety of other conditions can overwhelm your heart if you’re not careful. Some insurances may cover a standard assessment session with a registered dietician to go over healthier eating options. Both exercising and eating a healthy diet will help you manage your weight, ultimately fighting heart disease.
Stress negatively affects your heart health as it increases the risk for hypertension. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can damage your arteries over time and increase the likelihood of a heart attack. Making time to unwind or participate in activities you like, talking to others about your feelings or concerns, and taking breaks from social media and the news are just a few ways to help manage stress.
Finally, it is highly advised to quit smoking. Smoking can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, a reduction in blood flow, and promote clotting and fatty substance buildup. Stopping the use of tobacco will reduce your risk for cardiovascular diseases.
it’s important to participate in regular screenings with your physician. A simple check-up and blood pressure screening can help prevent future issues and may end up saving your life.
Kashif Chaudhry, M.D., is an electrophysiologist with UPMC’s Heart and Vascular Institute and sees patients at the UPMC Health Innovation Center, 740 High St., Williamsport. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chaudhry, call 570-321-2800. For more information, visit UPMC.com/HeartNCPA.
MARK NUZZO CONVICTED OF AGGRAVATED ASSAULT BY VEHICLE
(SMETHPORT, Pennsylvania) [January 30, 2023]: District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that, following a 6 day jury trial at the McKean County Courthouse, a jury has convicted former Bradford man Marc Nuzzo of 3 counts of Aggravated Assault (Felony 3) and 6 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person (Misdemeanor 2) for his actions that resulted in a car crash in 2018.
The jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict of Homicide by Vehicle and Manslaughter.
Following the jury verdict, the Judge found the defendant guilty of 8 summary violations of the vehicle code. The charges were the result of a crash that occurred on September 5, 2018 on Rt. 219 near Mead Run where NUZZO had been travelling South when he crossed the center line and entered the Northbound lane. A vehicle driven by Stanley “Guy” Austin and occupied by 5 other passengers had been travelling North when it was struck head-on by NUZZO.
Numerous other drivers stopped to assist the people in the Austin vehicle, including a local couple on their way home from the hospital, a Canadian truck driver, an off-duty EMT, and several others. Numerous fire companies responded to the area as the Austin car erupted in fire upon impact and many of the passengers were still inside. Guy Austin and two of his passengers were flown to out-of-area hospitals for their injuries.
The jury heard from some of those who assisted the occupants and heard some of the 911 calls. Following the verdict, DA Shaffer asked the Court to increase the defendant’s bail. The Judge increased his bail to $150,000 percentage. As a condition of bail, the defendant was ordered to turn in his driver’s license.
On March 28, 2019, an arrest warrant had been issued for the arrest of Marc Nuzzo. Nuzzo had been the subject of an investigation into the crash that occurred on 219 in McKean County. Nuzzo was charged by criminal complaint with Homicide by Vehicle; three counts of Aggravated Assault by Vehicle; Involuntary Manslaughter; 6 counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person; and several summary violations.
During the trial, many of the occupants in the Austin vehicle testified to seeing the lights in their lane and Mr. Austin trying to avoid the Nuzzo vehicle in his lane. They described how they were removed from the vehicle – most of whom required the assistance of the people who stopped to help.
Trooper Quinton O’Rourke of the Pennsylvania State Police investigated the case. Corporal David Kostok and now-retired Trooper Robert Manno, both accident reconstructionists with the State Police, testified before the jury. District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer and First Assistant Michael Alfieri prosecuted the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. No date has been set for sentencing. Source: McKean County District Attorney’s Office
Sourced via CRIMEWATCH®: https://mckean.crimewatchpa.com/da/136029/post/nuzzo-convicted-aggravated-assault-vehicle
St. Marys Area United Way Holds Annual Meeting
Back: L-R: United Way Board members Rob Oleary, Leah Whiteman, John Dippold, Pete Straub, Becky Piccolo, Doug Bauer, Dani Schneider, City Parks & Recreation Director; Lewis Murray, UW board member; and Jane Olson, UW board member
Elk County- The St. Marys Area United Way board of directors met on January 27, 2023 for their annual board meeting. The meeting was hosted by the City of St. Marys and held within the city chambers conference room. The meeting started with a brief City overview from city manager Joe Fleming and a presentation from parks and recreation director Dani Schneider regarding their efforts to rebuild a new Playland at Memorial Park. Jim Ryan, United Way Vice-President chaired the meeting and presented several agenda items for discussion. Two of the most important agenda items included the voting for the 2023 grant award recipients and the vote to set 2023 campaign goal to $200,000.
Acting 101: Learn the Fundamentals of Acting
Calling all thespians! So you’ve never acted before but would love to? Come learn the essential skills needed to be on the stage. Even if you are not a novice, this is an excellent opportunity to refresh those skills and learn something new to add to your repertoire, such as improvisation or different techniques. The local theatrical group, Potter-McKean Players, has plans to offer productions in the upcoming months. This course will teach you what you need to be ready for those auditions.
This 4-part course will be taught by local director Paul Herzig and actor Jared Empson, of Eliot Ness Fest fame. The classes will take place on Tuesdays, March 7 – March 28, 2023 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Education Council’s Coudersport office. The cost of the course is $25 per person. Class size is limited, so register today at www.pottercountyedcouncil.org or call (814) 274-4877.
Terry L. Carlson Sr., 65, of Hacker St. in Kane, PA
Terry L. Carlson Sr., 65, of Hacker St. in Kane, PA passed away Sunday morning (Jan. 29) at his residence.
He was born on Aug. 13, 1957 in Kane, the son of the late Guy and Mary (Walker) Carlson. On March 25, 1980, he married Carol Milford, who survives.
Terry served in the US Navy and at various times had been employed by Highlander Mineral, St. Marys Lumber Company, ITL, Eastern Sintered Metals, Kane Screen and Amguard Security. He enjoyed working on small gas engines and loved his dog Molly.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Terry Carlson Jr. and Ron Carlson, both of Kane; four brothers, Chuck (Ellen) Carlson of St. Marys, David (Lynette) Carlson of Kane, Adam Carlson of Spokane, WA and Craig (Tammy) Carlson of Bradford; two sisters, Kathy Stanley of Canfield, OH and Susan (Brian) Silvis of Sheffield; two grandsons, Dakota Victory and Andrew Carlson; two granddaughter Liberty Carlson and Vicki Baumgratz and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Dan Carlson; two nieces, Kristen Nelson and Brittany Carlson; two brothers-in-law, Charles Walton and Mark Stanley and one sister-in-law, Delores A. Carlson.
Friends are invited to attend a visitation on Wednesday (Feb. 1) from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at the Cummings Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place on Thursday (Feb. 2) at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. David Pflieger officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Tabor Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the family to help offset burial expenses.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.cummingsfh.com.
Eola “Pat” Benninger, 92, Field of Dreams in Allegany, NY.
Eola “Pat” Benninger, 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 29, 2023 at the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY, while currently residing at Field of Dreams in Allegany, NY.
Pat was born August 23, 1930, in Pigeon, to parents William Frost & Florence (Sayers) Frost-Ishman and graduated from the Bradford Area High School.
Over the years she was best known for her love of gardening, antiques and flea markets.
She is survived by her daughter Carla (Jan) Nulph-Brantner of New Bern, NC; grandsons Timothy Brantner of New Bern, NC and Brandon Brantner of Kettering, OH; and granddaughter Emily Molitor of Xenia, OH.
She was predeceased by her parents, brother Jim Frost, husband Carl Nulph; and husband William Benninger.
A special thanks is extended to her beloved niece, Dianne Austin of Bradford, who has been such a help over the last couple years.
Private burial will be in Frost Cemetery, Pigeon.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc., Bradford.
Online Condolences can be expressed at www.maschofuneral.com.
Charlotte Lee Sikula, 70, Sorrento, FL; Duke Center, PA Native
Charlotte Lee Sikula, passed away at the age of 70, on Friday, January 27, 2023 peacefully at home after a long battle with liver failure. Her husband Michael, Sister Judy, and brother-in-law John were at her side at the time of her passing.
Charlotte was born in Olean, New York on March 27, 1952. She was the daughter of Howard and Greta (Ault) Yeaples. She was a graduate of Otto-Eldred Jr-Sr High School, Duke Center, PA. During high school years she was a cheerleader, Blazer member, vice-president of her class, member of the Senior Chorus, and participated in Junior and Senior Plays. BTW-She was also voted “Best Looking”.
Charlotte joined the Navy right out of high school. She was in the Navy 3 years where she pursued a nursing career. In the Navy she was HM3 Secretary to Head Naval Regional Medical Center, Secretary to Chief of Division, and Naval Regional Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. She was also Head Corpswave, Dependent female ward and worked special duty on maternity ward, Quonset Point, Rhode Island. She was honorably discharged in 1973.
After the Navy, she obtained a BS from the University of Central Florida. She was in the 1st graduating class in Nursing from the University of Central Florida.
In her 30-year nursing career she worked in various disciplines; operating room nurse, relief charge nurse, general surgery ranging from urology, ENT, thoracic, gynecology, neurosurgery, ophthalmology, orthopedics, cardiovascular and laser nurse for laser surgery. She was also the Nursing Manager of a freestanding outpatient surgery center.
Charlotte met her husband, Michael, through a Classified Personal Ad that she ran in the Orlando Sentinel newspaper. Their first date was at Chi-Chi’s Mexican Restaurant, where she had given him the wrong directions on how to get there (Grrr).
They were married 36 years. They have one son Michael Gerald Sikula and one grandson Lucas Jeremiah Sikula.
Charlotte’s favorite things to do was travel around the country visiting family, attending family reunions, and seeing famous sites like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, etc. She enjoyed watching cooking shows and soap operas…her favorite being “The Young and The Restless”.
She was preceded death by her parents, Howard Fred Yeaples and Greta (Ault) Yeaples, her sister Ellen (Yeaples) Young, brother Howard Fred Yeaples, Jr.; brothers-in-law, Philip Thomas Young and Gary William Silsby, niece Olivia Lee Douglas, and other extended family members.
She leaves behind the following family: husband-Michael Joseph Sikula, son-Michael Gerald Sikula, grandson- Lucas Jeremiah Sikula, sisters-Patti (Yeaples) Silsby, Judy (Yeaples) Mix, Greta (Yeaples) Edminster, brothers-in-law, Jeff Edminster, John Mix, sister-in-law Anita (Varga) Yeaples, and many nieces, nephews, and family members.
There will not be a funeral service held. Charlotte will be cremated. A memorial will follow at the Sikula residence in Sorrento, Florida at a later date.
Collision on I-86 in Town of Angelica
31 January 2023
NEW YORK STATE POLICE
Major Eugene J. Staniszewski
Troop A Commander
PRESS RELEASE
On January 30, 2023 at 9:00 P.M., Troopers out of SP Amity responded to I-86 west bound in the town of Angelica for a vehicle collision involving a tractor trailer.
Investigation determined that a 2009 Kia Optima was traveling west bound on I-86 and lost control. The Kia spun multiple times, striking the guide rails on both sides of the I-86. The Kia came to rest in the left land and was struck by a 2022 Volkswagen tractor trailer traveling west bound.
Both occupants of the Kia were taken to Strong Memorial Hospital for serious injuries. The Volkswagen operator had no injuries.
This is an active investigation.
New HR leader takes helm at UAHS
Upper Allegheny Health System (UAHS), parent company of Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH) announce the official appointment of Lesley Zurek as senior director of human resources.
Lesley steps into the role with over a decade spent in human resources leadership positions. She had spent time working in the gaming industry advancing through the ranks becoming the vice president of human resources at Seneca Resorts and Casinos. She most recently was the regional human resources director for 19 long term nursing care facilities before recently transitioning to UAHS.
“We’re thrilled to have someone with the versatile experience that Lesley has step into the senior human resources director role,” said Jill Owens, MD, president, UAHS, BRMC, OGH. “This position is so important to execute the initiatives dealing with recruitment and retention of our workforce that is comprised of over 1,100 team members. Even with the most recent market adjustments made throughout our organization, there are still a lot of obstacles we need to overcome in regards to our workforce and I think Lesley is the right person to help tackle those barriers,” Owens said.
Lesley acquired her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Columbus, OH and her master’s degree in organizational leadership from Medaille College. She also holds certifications in Professional in Human Resources (PHR), HR Generalist Certificate (SHRM), Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), and Certified Benefits Professional (CBP).
Lesley, a Salamanca High School graduate and Salamanca resident, is also an enrolled member of the Seneca Nation. Outside of work Lesley enjoys crafting, sewing, and machine embroidery along with spending time with her family.
Overnight Crash on Route 6 Near Irons Hollow in Smethport
Smethport Fire Department Inc.
At 0024 hours this morning SFD was dispatched to the area of 16362 Route 6 for a MVA. Car into telephone pole with ejection.
Chief 2 arrived on scene, established command and confirmed 1 patient outside the vehicle and requested flight services which were unable to respond due to weather.
MA-16 arrived on scene and transported victim to the hospital.
Engine 24 also responded. McKeirnan’s Towing removed the vehicle from the scene and PSP investigated. Station 2 personnel returned at aprx 0140 while Station 2 Fire Police remained on scene until telephone pole was removed from the highway. Route 6 was opened for traffic at 0204.
Angelica Fire and ambulance were dispatched for a multi Vehicle crash
ON January 30, at 9:00 pm. Angelica Fire and ambulance were dispatched for a multi Vehicle crash with injuries a tractor trailer hit a passenger vehicle that spun out on I 86 between mile markers 110 and 111. Two Patients are entrapped and Belfast ambulance has also been dispatched to the scene Wellsville als has also been dispatched
GALE LARGEY DOCUMENTARY “THE LESSONS OF SISTER VICTORIA” TO BE SHOWN FREE TO THE PUBLIC THIS COMING WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1 IN WELLSBORO
At 7 p.m. this coming Wednesday, Feb. 1, “The Lessons of Sister Victoria,” a Gale Largey documentary film, will be shown to the public for free in the Grand Community Room at the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro.
Released in 2014, Largey researched, wrote and produced this one-hour and 57-minute documentary about the influence the Benedictine Sisters of St. Joseph’s Convent had on life in St. Marys, Pennsylvania.
At its peak in the 1950s, there were nearly 150 sisters in the convent. They epitomized their motto “Pray and Work,” teaching students at three parochial grade schools, a high school and a music and art academy. In addition, they administered the local hospital and a home for elderly women.
By January of 2014, only 17 sisters remained and it became necessary to close the convent and move them to other locations.
HAMILTON-GIBSON’S “CATS” WINTER THEATRE ARTS CAMP IN ELKLAND TO END WITH PUBLIC PERFORMANCES ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, FEB. 3 & 4
Thirty-five fourth through tenth graders who live in Northern Tioga School District communities are participating in Hamilton-Gibson’s “CATS” Winter Theatre Arts Camp in Elkland.
The 15-day after school camp began on Jan. 12 in the auditorium at Clark Wood Elementary School at 110 Addison Hill Road in Elkland.
It will end in the auditorium with two Pay-What-You-Can performances for the public at 7 p.m. next Friday and Saturday, Feb. 3 and 4.
“CATS: Young Actors Edition”was a huge leap for us,” said Thomas Putnam, Hamilton-Gibson’s artistic director.
“This one-hour adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical is specially tailored to give a young cast an exciting and rewarding experience,” Putnam said.
American Heart Month themed Walk with a Doc on Feb. 2
Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and the Guidance Center (TGC) are hosting the February Walk with a Doc event on Thursday, February 2. The event will take place at Richard E. McDowell Trail on Campus Drive, starting at 5pm.
The walk is coordinated through a partnership between the Guidance Center and BRMC. This month’s providers that will be leading the walk are Lalchand Goyal, MD and Michael Wilt, PA-C from General Physician, PC.
In honor of National American Heart Month, the cardiology team practicing at BRMC will discuss the importance of heart health. All participants are encouraged to wear red attire. Also, as an added perk to join the walk, anyone that attends the next four walks will be entered to win a $150 Dunham’s Sports Gift Card to get a new pair of walking shoes! The walk is free and open to anyone. If interested, please register at walkwithadoc.org/Ewaiver.
An alternate indoor location has been reserved for the event in the case of inclement winter weather. The location is the University of Pitt at Bradford Fitness Center located at 300 Campus Drive, Bradford, PA 16701. Any changes in the location will be announced on the Walk with a Doc Bradford Facebook Page the day of the event.
Mathew Karl Frederick, 32, of Bradford, PA
Mathew Karl Frederick, 32, of Bradford, PA passed away Friday, January 27, 2023, at the Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Born on August 31, 1990, in San Diego CA, he was the son of Todd Ford (Linda), of Beech Grove IN and Stephanie Cobb Brown (Donald) of Avon IN.
He attended school in Bradford and Indianapolis, IN.
Mathew was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Professional Wrestling fan, and he enjoyed spending time with his friends and family.
Surviving are his parents, brothers Patrick Ford of Avon, Indiana and Hunter Ford of Bradford, grandparents Bill and Sandy Ford of Smethport, Pat and Ceil Cobb of Old Town, FL, great grandmother Lois Anderson of Smethport, longtime girlfriend Tina Gray of Bradford, and many Aunt’s, Uncles and cousins.
Family will receive friends on Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 10am to 11am in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 33 South Avenue, followed by a Celebration of Life at 11am with Rev. Joann Piatko, Rector of St. Joseph Episcopal Church of Port Allegany officiating.
Memorials if desired may be made to the Corydon Township Volunteer Fire Department.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com