August 2023 Issue • Northern Connection Magazine

NC Features

Back to School 2023-24

P.O. Box 425 Mars, Pa. 16046

Phone: 724-940-2444

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com

President & Publisher

Laura Lyn Arnold

Publisher Emeritus & Contributor

Marion Swanson Piotrowski

Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko

Janice@northernconnectionmag.com

Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green

Paula@northernconnectionmag.com

Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson

Design & Production

Kostilnik & Associates Graphics, Inc.

Web Master

Swanson Publishing , LLC

Core Writers

Maura Brown

Belinda Burchick

Ron Eichner

Paula Green

Janice Lane Palko

Sofya Stearns

Bronwyn Wain

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year.

The mission of the Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest community publication, Northern Connection. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, and recreational needs of the area. The contents of Northern Connection magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Northern Connection magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

Movers & Shakers

The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation announced that $10,000 each is being granted to Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Burn Center and Mario Lemieux Foundation Austin’s Playroom to bring joy to children in Pittsburgh. The foundation is hosting celebrations across the country and delivering the $1.6 million in funds raised on Dunkin Iced Coffee Day to children’s hospitals, fortifying its commitment to bringing the simple joys of childhood into the lives of kids battling hunger or illness.

The Butler VA Health Care System hosted its first Korean War Recognition Day Event on Thursday, July 27, at its main facility on North Duffy Road in Butler. Special recognition pins and certificates were passed out at the event.

Dr. Keith Leaphart, a Philadelphia physician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, was confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate to serve as commissioner of Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC)

The Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) today announced the launch of the Library Road Trip.  The new program challenges

residents to explore as many libraries as possible, have their library passport stamped and receive prizes based on their participation level. Allegheny County is home to 45 libraries outside of the City of Pittsburgh, and each one is different and offers a variety of materials, programs, and services to their respective communities. More information on the program can be accessed from ACLA’s website -aclalibraries.org.

AdVenture Development, LLC, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a Hampton Inn & Suites franchise from Hilton Hotels with plans to construct a new hotel property in the North Hills of Pittsburgh. Construction for the new hotel, to be located in the McCandless Crossing area, is expected to begin in mid2024.

Food21 of Pennsylvania, as a result of its successful Farm to Tap project, has launched a regional malted barley branded as Allegheny Mountain Malt. The malt is produced in collaboration with CNC Malt in Fenelton, PA, and farmers in Westmoreland County. It will be distributed by Zilka and Company, located in Hunker, PA.

Antonio C. Aiello, CFP, CRPC | Premier Wealth Partners

Tony is a Certified Financial Planner™ and a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™. He has helped his clients thrive for more than 20 years. He focuses on retirement planning and wealth management.

At Premier Wealth Partners we look to provide comprehensive financial care to help clients with their wealth management strategies. Our approach starts with your dreams and goals, not just numbers. We have experience helping clients with the complexities of wealth management and customized financial planning. We work to achieve this through consistent, disciplined processes and strategies.

Tony has chosen to keep his client base limited to understand and appreciate the uniqueness of each individual client, allowing him to provide a higher level of personalization than most other financial advisors. “I really consider my clients as an extension of my friends and family. I truly care about each one of them, beyond just their finances,” said Tony.

412-922-7700 | antonio.c.aiello@ampf.com

Roger and Stephanie Poorman and Their Adoption Journey

By Paula Green

Have you ever heard the expression, “One hand washes another?” In other words, when folks work together, both parties benefit. Such is the case with Gibsonia residents Roger and Stephanie Poorman and a team of volunteers who, on June 3, helped a friend with a home improvement project. The group stained the deck and painted lawn furniture for Patti Navilliat, also of Gibsonia. Navilliat is a widow; she and her husband, Joe, were married for 35 years before he passed away in 2015.

The refurbishing initiative was also a fundraiser coordinated by Both Hands. A family organizes a group of volunteers, and Both Hands coaches them on implementing the project. The goal is to help Christian adoptive families fund their adoptions by coordinating a service project fixing up a widow’s home.

The Poormans are in the process of adopting a baby. They began the long and arduous journey in October. “Two different doctors said that a biological baby for us would essentially be a miracle. We lost the only baby we ever conceived naturally due to ectopic pregnancy in August of 2021. We decided to pursue a domestic infant adoption. We were told to prepare to pay around $50,000. It is overwhelming,” said Stephanie.

The first step the couple went through was a home study process; they had to submit a wide range of documentation and were interviewed by a social worker. The Poormans also had friends and family members write letters of support on their behalf.

The couple has held numerous fundraising efforts; a major one was a puzzle project, in which each puzzle piece sold contributed $25 to their adoption fund. The project wrapped up in April. Stephanie’s cousin is compiling a list of contributors. The completed list and the finished puzzle will hang in the baby’s nursery as a loving reminder of those that donated to the cause.

The couple’s church, St. Thomas Anglican in Gibsonia, has also helped them in their fundraising efforts. They have received grant funding from Both Hands, Lifesong for Orphans, and Anglicans for Life.

The agency that the Poormans are contracting with for the adoption is Christian Adoption Consultants (CAC). Since Pennsylvania adoption laws are challenging, the couple works with Florida, Utah, and Arizona agencies.

They have to present a profile to the prospective biological mother; she decides whether or not to accept them as the parents of her infant. It is estimated that around two million couples are waiting to adopt, which is challenging.

The Poormans hope to be matched with a birth mother who is further along in her pregnancy so that they can be present for the birth of their child. Once the child is born, they must remain in that state until they are approved to return to Pennsylvania with their newborn.

For more information on the Poormans’ Both Hands fundraiser, visit www.Bothhands.org/poorman-10385. For email inquiries, contact: poormanadoption@gmail.com. n

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Third Annual Race to Beat Women’s Cancers Helps to Put Cancer on the Run

By Janice Lane Palko

On September 3, A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation are hosting the third annual Race to Beat Women’s Cancers at North Park.

“For our first race, we had more than 1,000 participants, and last year, in addition to about 1,000 racers signing up, we had horrific rain,” said Diana Napper, Founder of A Glimmer of Hope Foundation. “This year, we’re hoping for even more participants and better weather.” The first race raised $179,000 and although the second race was cancelled due to the inclement weather, it raised $114,000.

In 1994, Napper founded A Glimmer of Hope Foundation to honor the wishes of her best friend, Carol Jo Weiss Friedman, who lost her battle with the disease in 1990. The grass-roots effort, 501c3 nonprofit organization is committed to battling breast cancer through cancer research and programs, and most importantly, clinical trial studies in premenopausal breast cancer, as breast cancer in younger women tends to be more aggressive.

Through various fundraising events supported by businesses, sports organizations, and individuals, Diana and A Glimmer of Hope Foundation have raised more than $3 million, which has been donated to Allegheny Health Network, Magee-Womens Research Institute, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, and Allegheny General Hospital.

“One hundred percent of the money raised through Glimmer of Hope’s efforts for the RTBWC goes to Metastatic Breast Cancer Research, and all of the dollars stay right here in the Pittsburgh region,” said Napper. Metastatic Breast Cancer is the most advanced stage of breast cancer.

In 2017, A Glimmer of Hope Foundation funded Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM) technology for the UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital Breast Imaging program. CEM is a technology in which a contrast agent, like that used in CAT Scan (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), is given to a patient for mammographic imaging to identify lesions and possible cancers.

In 2022, A Glimmer of Hope Foundation purchased a new device for the department. This CEM technology is now available in combination with breast biopsy procedures. The CEM biopsy improves the patient experience in that it is more comfortable, faster, doesn’t have the noise of an MRI and removes the concern of claustrophobia. Using CEM biopsy for either CEM or MRI identified lesions unburdens MRI units and allows women to have needed diagnostic and screening MRIs in a timelier fashion.

With the generous support of A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, Magee-Womens Research Institute and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center are now examining a new and novel technology for monitoring and understanding breast cancer from a blood draw, also known as a ‘liquid biopsy’. This new study is setting protocol in research that will now impact the entire United States. Furthermore, this will allow real-time monitoring of the size and severity of breast cancer tumors and their response to therapy.

“Support from Glimmer of Hope has been instrumental in our research of liquid biopsies, a new and non-invasive alternative to diagnosing cancer,” said Adrian Lee, PhD, director of the Institute of Precision Medicine, a joint effort by UPMC and the University of Pittsburgh. “Our hope is that this will revolutionize how we diagnose, treat and monitor breast cancer. Most importantly, we hope this will lead to improved outcomes for breast cancer patients.”

Ginger Pillar, a nurse who was diagnosed with breast cancer, knows the importance of breast cancer research as six out of the 12 women from her mother’s generation on down were diagnosed with the disease. All but one were under the age of 50. When she was diagnosed, she decided to seek treatment at UPMC. “As a nurse, I have always researched and gathered information pertaining to health issues and disease processes. Upon learning I had breast cancer, that’s exactly what I did, which led me to UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital,” said Pillar.

“We all had genetic testing done,” said Pillar, “but they have not found any of the known genetic mutations in our family for breast cancer. This is one reason why research is so important; there’s so many other genetic markers to still be discovered and ways to better treat and hopefully one day cure this disease.”

Pillar has become an advocate for breast cancer patients and is involved with A Glimmer of Hope Foundation. “They are focused on keeping funds here in Pittsburgh and making sure funds are going to pertinent research and support of breast cancer patients, especially those with metastatic disease who need it the most,” said Pillar.

While these new technologies and research are exciting, sometimes it’s the little things that make a difference in a patient’s battle with breast cancer. “Through our various fundraising efforts by sponsors and supporters, we have been able to provide breast cancer screenings to women under 40 who have

no insurance coverage at no charge,” said Napper. Not only that but A Glimmer of Hope provides acupuncture treatments, yoga and massage therapy to patients.

The response to this has been overwhelmingly positive as patients have commented:

• “I have had a migraine for months and after my first acupuncture appointment, I have not gotten one again.”

• “The neuropathy has lessened, and I no longer feel like my hands are weak. I am not dropping things and I can cook again.”

• “Weekly acupuncture has gotten my stomach troubles back on track. I no longer have any nausea and have a better appetite throughout the day.”

• “The swelling in my arm and chest is so much better since starting acupuncture. I have no pain in that arm, and I feel more balanced with the other half of my body.” (following left mastectomy)

Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation envisions a future free of cancer. To achieve that, it fosters an environment that embraces basic, translational and clinical research, all dedicated to bringing new discoveries into improved patient care. Its research focuses on breast and gynecological cancers, such as ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers, and is proud to team with up A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. The Race to Beat Women’s Cancers recognizes the importance of funding laboratory research while supporting women who are currently facing a breast, ovarian, uterine or cervical cancer diagnosis.

A Glimmer of Hope hosts several fundraisers throughout the year including the Clays for the Cure, sponsored by Home Depot, held on Aug. 16 & 17 at Clay’s Resort.

To learn about upcoming events, breast cancer, breast cancer research, and how to donate, visit A Glimmer of Hope’s website at: www.symbolofthecure.com. You can also purchase Diana’s original “symbol of the cure” pin as well as other merchandise which helps to fund breast cancer research and provide the latest medical equipment. For more information on volunteering, call 800-454-6746.

To register for The Race to Beat Women’s Cancers, visit: MageeWomens.org/5K.

Northern Connection magazine is proud to be a sponsor of The Race to Beat Women’s Cancers. n

Diana Napper (Founder & President of Glimmer of Hope) and Shawnika Hunt

PA Cyber Graduate Follows Blueprint to Architecture School

Chloe Perko, 20, is a smart, curious person who, after graduating in 2021 from PA Cyber in the top one percent of her class, took two semi-gap years to flex her entrepreneurial and creative skills. In that time, she started her own online business, became an Instagram ambassador for multiple companies, took summer classes online at Marywood University, and worked as a freelancer. Being a student at PA Cyber helped her understand her personal workstyle and empowered her to teach herself how to do anything she chooses.

Chloe has been awarded Marywood University’s Presidential Scholarship for all five years of architecture school. She will begin full-time as a freshman at Marywood this fall with 21 credits in tow from summer classes. She first became interested in architecture when she and her parents were looking for a new home. “We really wanted to find our dream house,” she said. After searching, they finally found a house designed by Peter Bohlin, an internationally recognized architect. “It’s such a unique house. Living in a

Bohlin-designed house has made me even more obsessed with architecture and how it works with nature to create a masterpiece.”

In 2020 and 2021, Chloe attended Marywood’s two-week architecture summer program for high school students. She gained hands-on experience and made connections with other participants that she still maintains today. She interviewed architects local to her parents’ home to better understand the different types of architecture and to create a blueprint for her own career path.

Creative Prowess

Chloe grew up in a creative environment with her parents, Rhonda and Wyatt, who met in art school. “They have done everything creatively,” she said. “It’s been wonderful to have that exposure. It has made me seek out and seize upon every opportunity I could find.” This year, she submitted one of her architectural marker renderings to the Copic Award 2023.

Chloe has gained professional experience since August 2022 when she began working as a freelance videographer and

Chloe graduated from PA Cyber in 2021 in the top one percent of her class.

video editor alongside her mother who is Vice President of Marketing for Pride Mobility. In this short time, she has completely altered the company’s social media presence, which has greatly increased engagement and sales for the business.

Her entrepreneurial father, Wyatt, is primarily a creative director and talent manager in the music industry. “He has started many unique businesses,” she said. “We are extremely similar.” When she was in cyber school, her father was able to work from home in order to help her navigate through challenges.

The PA Cyber Difference

Chloe enrolled at PA Cyber at the beginning of ninth grade in anticipation of moving for her mother’s new job. She recalls discussing with her parents that her brick-and-mortar school didn’t feel safe, and the curriculum and schedule didn’t match the path she wanted. Her family moved from Pittsburgh to their

current home in Bear Creek Village without having to change schools.

“I could still attend my classes,” Chloe said. “All my work was still there. Nothing had to be transferred.”

She loved the flexibility of being a cyber student. She was able to have experiences that she wouldn’t have had if she attended a brick-and-mortar school, including traveling to trade shows for her mom’s job.

Chloe chose blended classes while at PA Cyber, which are self-paced but provide a live classroom experience one day per week. The blended classroom format granted Chloe the most flexibility over her schedule. For example, during her senior year she completed six classes in two or three months so she could later focus on AP Calculus.

“Chloe is a brilliant young mind,” said calculus teacher Brad Chrisman. “Her drive and dedication in AP Calculus brought her to the forefront of the class. … Students like her make teachers enjoy their career every day.”

Attending PA Cyber was the right fit for Chloe. She graduated with A’s in all of her classes, including two Advanced Placement classes. She raved about her AP English Language and Composition class. “It was by far my favorite class that I ever took. The teacher was so fun!”

Ready for The Next Challenge

Our future architect feels that PA Cyber has prepared her well for university. Being a cyber school student taught her how to manage time and has made her aware of her work style. “You learn how to govern yourself and gain a sense of independence,” Chloe said.

“PA Cyber prepared me for the many challenges that I face in university,” she

said. “Continuing in the architecture program at Marywood University this fall, I can confidently reinforce my appreciation for the way PA Cyber is structured and their skill-building methods of teaching. Having exposure to critical thinking and gaining confidence in working independently, I have continued to achieve academic success at Marywood University.”

PA Cyber is proud to have been an integral part of Chloe’s education. She is looking forward to dorm life this fall and diving into the hands-on architecture studio sessions. With a solid foundation, she is ready to build her future, like the architecture she admires, with balance and integrity. n

Connect with Chloe on Instagram @chloemperko and learn more about PA Cyber at pacyber.org.

Chloe’s parents come from creative professional backgrounds. “It has been wonderful to have that exposure,” Chloe said. “It has made me seek out and seize upon every opportunity I could find.”

Chloe Perko delivers her final critique at Marywood University’s summer architecture program in 2021.

EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT: Provident Charter School

By Janice Lane Palko

The word “provident” means “to provide for the future,” but it’s difficult for children to look to their future when they have difficulty reading. Provident Charter School was founded to offer children who have dyslexia and other language-based learning differences with a high-quality, well-rounded education delivered through multisensory instructional methods and individual learning plans that enable students to move into high school prepared to succeed and confident in their own abilities.

“Provident Charter School is the only school of its kind in southwestern Pennsylvania, and we have two locations. PCS Central opened in 2016 and is located on Troy Hill in the former North Catholic High School on the North Side, and it is chartered under the authority of the Pittsburgh Public Schools. Our newest location, PCS West, is located in Baden and is housed in the former Quigley Catholic High School and is chartered under the Ambridge Area School District,” said Maria Paluselli, Provident’s Chief Executive Officer.

It is estimated that up to 20% of the population has dyslexia, and this neurological condition can frustrate and perplex students as well as parents. “We see students come into the classroom afraid, lacking in confidence, hating school, and with PCS’s instructional model that is designed for students with dyslexia, we see dramatic changes time after time,” said Ms. Paluselli.

PCS is a tuition-free, brick-and-mortar public school, and PCS Central educates students from 45 different school districts. Enrollment at PCS Central is nearly full, but PCS West is currently accepting students in grades 1-4. “Our goal is to prepare students to transition to high school, and so far, we are hearing positive things from the students who have moved on to high school,” said Ms. Paluselli

Some of the unique features of PCS include: Daily reading instruction by teachers certified using the Wilson® Reading System, small group instruction with classrooms having two teachers and 12 students. The school day is slightly longer, and no homework is given until fifth grade. In addition to specialized interventions, PCS is the only public school in the country that offers Tae Kwon Do as a weekly special area class along with traditional Music, Art, PE and Digital Media. A well-used Makerspace allows students to design, build and creatively demonstrate their knowledge of content using other media besides paper and pencil.

“It’s incredible the transformation we see in our students,” said Ms. Paluselli. “I receive texts with pictures from parents of their children on the beach reading for enjoyment. These were students who would never consider picking up a book. We start by building strong relationships with our students, so they are willing to take academic risks with us. For some students, several years of intense remediation is required, but the payoff is significant. Now, instead of tears because of frustrations in the classroom, we have more tears at graduation because of what our students have been able to achieve.”

For more information on Provident Charter School, visit the website at: www.providentcharterschool.org. n

Oakland Catholic Has a New President

On Monday, May 15, the Diocese of Pittsburgh announced the appointment of Mrs. Kelly Lazzara as the third President of the school and Oakland Catholic High School excitedly welcomed her to campus! After a successful national search conducted by Partners in Mission and careful vetting of all candidates by the Search Committee, Diocesan Bishop David A. Zubik appointed Mrs. Lazzara at the recommendation of the Search Committee. She officially took office on July 1.

Mrs. Lazzara brings extensive experience in school administration, teaching, development, and marketing to her new role, including previous experience in the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Diocese of Greensburg. Most recently, Lazzara served as the Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Richmond. Prior to her career in education, she held several different positions in the sales and marketing industry. In his appointment letter to Lazzara, Bishop Zubik emphasized the mission of diocesan schools, writing, “Our Catholic school administrators are witnesses, in word and deed, to the Divine Teacher, Jesus Christ and share a commitment to the fostering of the Catholic mission and identity of each school.”

The appointment is the result of a search which began last November when outgoing president Mary Claire Kasunic announced her decision to step down from the position after serving Oakland Catholic High School for over 30 years, with the last nine years as the school’s second President. As she put it, “I am excited to start a new adventure, but sad to leave Oakland Catholic—this institution which

has been my home, my anchor, my favorite project, and the source of so much inspiration, learning, and motivation in my life for so very long.”

President Lazzara is thrilled to be back in Western Pennsylvania and looks forward to advancing the school, its mission, and its legacy of excellence for years to come. She shares, “I am truly honored and humbled to be appointed the new President of Oakland Catholic High School. My primary goal will be to foster the strong tradition of educating young women in spirituality, scholarship, and service. I look forward to meeting everyone and fully immersing myself in the OC community. Go Eagles!”

Welcome President Lazzara! n

Mrs. Kelly Lazzara

Silent Summer

By Janice Lane Palko

As you read this article, stop a moment and listen. What do you hear? Do you hear the laughter of children? I don’t.

When we moved into my neighborhood 31 years ago, there was a sign at the entrance that stated, “Please drive carefully. Over 200 children live and play in this neighborhood.” On my stretch of the block of a dozen or so houses back then, there were about 30 children living around me. On summer days, there’d be kids outside playing in the backyards, riding bikes or swimming in pools.

Today, I can count four kids under the age of 18 living around me. Granted, I’ve lived here long enough that those children my kids played with have all grown up, but the experts tell us that my little slice of the world is not an anomaly; we are in a dramatic global decline of births.

This lack of children will bring many consequences. According to Economics Help, “In the 1960s, there were six people of working age for every retired person. In 2021, that is three-to-one. By 2035, there will be two working-age persons for every retired person. This has profound implications for health care, government spending and tax revenues.”

Having no children deprives the world of innocence, humor, innovation, and hope as well. Throughout the pandemic lockdowns, it was being around my young grandchildren that kept us looking on the bright side of things. Most inventions and innovations come from young people. Expect things to grow stodgier with less children.

There are many reasons why birth rates are declining, from falling fertility rates, to the view that having a career is more rewarding than having children, to the belief that this world is such a mess, why would I bring a child into it?

When wasn’t the world a mess?

I sympathize with those who want children but are

unable to have them, and I understand that there are some people who should never have children, but for the rest, I can only speak from experience that it is not a cliché to say that children are truly one of life’s greatest blessings.

Children make life worth living. They make you laugh, require you to live in the moment while also looking toward the future. Having children takes you out of your selfishness. Sure, they require work, love, and sacrifice, but all things of value require that.

One of my favorite scenes about having children comes from the 1989 movie Parenthood starring Steve Martin as Gil. There is one part where he and Grandma have a conversation, and she tells him of an episode about riding a roller coaster, relating it to what it’s like to have children.

Grandma: You know, when I was nineteen, Grandpa took me on a roller coaster.

Gil: Oh?

Grandma: Up, down, up, down. Oh, what a ride!

Gil: What a great story.

Grandma: I always wanted to go again. You know, it was just so interesting to me that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn’t like it. They went on the merry-go-round. That just goes around. Nothing. I like the roller coaster. You get more out of it.

Having children is a thrill ride. Writer Elizabeth Stone once said that having a child is “is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.”

It can be scary and risky to be that vulnerable, but not taking into account the economic, demographic and social benefits, yes, you get more out of life with children in it. Even if it’s only the sound of laughter on a summer afternoon. n

1Unique Global Studies certificate program

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16 Advanced Placement courses Robotics & advanced computer science State-of-the art facilities, including E-Sports

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19 varsity athletic teams

Over 4,000 alumni worldwide

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185 years educating tomorrow's leaders

School Movers & Shakers

Aquinas Academy

The Aquinas Academy Mock Trial Team had a successful season. Aquinas finished the Allegheny County competition as undefeated co-champion, and was one of 14 district champions to advance to the state competition in Harrisburg on March 25. Aquinas Academy finished 6th in its quest to advance to the National finals in Little Rock, Arkansas. The eight performing team members were Elizabeth Swift, John Ortiz, Clara Yuo, Chase Harrison, Lucy Fowler, Enzo Flati, Isabel Giancola and Luke Crawford.  The team is coached by Mr. Timothy Waxenfelter

Mars Area

Mars Area High School Boys Lacrosse team member Enzo Grieco and Jack McKenzie were named USA Lacrosse All-Americans. Jack Dunham, Evan Frye, Jonathan Grieco, Kyle McEwen, Enzo Grieco, Jack McKenzie, and Cole

Yoshioka were selected for the AllWPIAL Class 2A Team. Jack Dunham, Ian Edinger, Evan Frye, Jonathan Grieco, Enzo Grieco, Jack McKenzie, and Cole

Yoshioka were named to the All-Section 2-2A Team. On the girl’s team, Charlotte Stamper and Mya Cote were selected for the All-WPIAL Class 2A Team. Charlotte Stamper, Mya Cote, and McKenna Merritt were named to the Section 2-2A Team.

Mars Area High School graduate John Sutton was named valedictorian of the Class of 2023, and Madeline Wolf was named salutatorian of the Class of 2023.

Madeline Wolf

John Sutton

A.W. Beattie Career Center Excels in Preparing Students for Success

By Janice Lane Palko

Since its inception in the 1960s, A. W. Beattie Career Center has been preparing students to excel after graduation. “Beattie students enjoy a superior ranking post-program whether they choose post-secondary education, employment or the military career pathway,” said Eric C. Heasley, executive director, of A. W. Beattie Career Center.

Located at 9600 Babcock Boulevard in Allison Park, A. W. Beattie Career Center provides students from nine area school districts—Avonworth, Deer Lakes, Fox Chapel Area, Hampton Township, Northgate, North Allegheny, North Hills, Pine-Richland and Shaler Area—with the opportunities to earn advanced college credits and industry certifications while still in high school that will enhance the student’s post-secondary pathway after high school graduation.

Beattie offers 19 programs to provide students with an educational experience that enables them to be college and career ready after high school graduation. The programs fulfill elective credit requirements for 10th, 11th and 12th grade students. Seniors who attend A.W. Beattie participate in the NOCTI exam, which awards a Pennsylvania skills certificate and the ability for college credits based on test results.

“We have articulation agreements with many local colleges, universities and technical schools statewide that accept Beattie credits,” said Mr. Heasley. “Students at Beattie can potentially earn 3-22 college credits while here, and that puts them ahead when they go on to continue their education.”

In addition, Beattie offers a robust externship program which allows students to engage in employment in their chosen field while still in high school. “Students gain classroom experience and real-world experience at the same time,” said Mr. Heasley, who noted that Beattie’s enrollment has increased year over year, with the 2023-24 school year’s enrollment to be almost 1,100 students.

A. W Beattie is noted for offering instruction in relevant, innovative fields and industries where employers are seeking trained, skilled workers. “For instance, our Robotics Engineering Technology program has been endorsed by the Advanced

Robotics and Manufacturing Institute (ARM) in Pennsylvania. The ARM Endorsement program primarily recognizes postsecondary schools across the United States, and Beattie Career Center is only the second career and technology center endorsed by the ARM Institute in the country,” said Dr. Justin Watkins, Assistant Director.

“Beattie is also the first and only career center in Pennsylvania to offer a Surgical Science – Operating Room Central Sterile Processing Program. This program will enable students to prepare for these in-demand, rewarding careers in our region,” said Mr. Heasley.

Some of Beattie’s most popular programs are Culinary Arts; Heating, Ventilation and AirConditioning; Health and Nursing Sciences; and Automotive Technology. Students may enroll after completing the ninth grade. They attend their high school for half of the school day and then spend either the morning or afternoon at A. W. Beattie. School districts provide the students with busing. For students contemplating getting a leg up on their future by attending Beattie Career Center, there is a Back-to-School Night scheduled for August 31 from 5:15-7 p.m. On October 9, Beattie will also host an Alumni & Community Open House from 5:15-7 p.m.

“It’s never too early to start thinking about the 2024-2025 school year,” said Mr. Heasley, “and we invite students and their families to visit and see why A. W. Beattie Career Center is so well-regarded and how we prepare our students to excel postprogram.” n

For more information, on A. W Beattie Career Center, visit the website at: www.beattietech.com or call, (412) 847-1900.

Engaging the Available Support in the Public Schools: What is a 504 Plan?

By: Maura L. Johnson, LCSW, PMH-C

When it comes to academics and learning styles, no two students are exactly the same. While many students find their rhythm within the parameters of grade-level expectations, there are also many that struggle under them. As a teen and young adult, I often struggled with the rigid expectations surrounding standardized testing. The strict time constraints, background noise and awareness of my peers’ speed of completion was often a stressful experience during testing. As a student of the late 90s, I believed these were issues beyond my control to change. However, there are available supports and contingencies to support learners of varying abilities and styles.

Most of us are familiar with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in the early childhood years through high school. In Pennsylvania, whether the parent/ guardian requests the IEP orally or in writing, the school must provide the Permission to Evaluate (PTE) form to the parents/guardians within 10 calendar days of request. After this form

is completed, the school has 60 calendar days (minus summer months) to complete the evaluation and issue an Evaluation Report (ER). Following this, the school must provide the ER to the parents/guardians at least 10 days prior to the IEP meeting. A meeting invitation is sent to the family, with one or both parents/guardians needing to attend. If the child is determined

to be eligible for special education services, an IEP meeting occurs with the team of school professionals to develop the plan. This is a methodical, multi-step process that works to support a variety of special education needs, including Gifted Education (a GIEP).

For those students who may benefit from additional support but maybe

not to the level of an IEP, a 504 Plan is another option. A 504 Plan includes accommodations that will help the student succeed in the classroom and follow curriculum—but without changing the curriculum itself (Source: Excpetionallives.org). These accommodations might include contingencies such as specific seating in the classroom, permission for breaks during class and/or receiving extra time/ separate space for exams. The law requires that students with disabilities receive their education in the least restrictive environment (LRE), like the mainstream classroom, alongside their peers. If needs can be accommodated through a 504 Plan, this will often be a less-involved process that can support the child through their school career.

So how do you go about obtaining a 504 Plan? The first step is gathering documentation of the presenting concerns, including your observations, medical documents (pediatrician, licensed therapist, etc.), schoolwork/ report cards and any private evaluations can be helpful. Then contact your school to determine who their assigned 504 coordinator is (this may also be their IEP coordinator) and how to reach them. Once this is determined, you can send a written request for a 504 plan to this individual. Explain in detail what concerns you and your child have and how accommodations may provide the best opportunity for them to succeed. You will then go through an evaluation process where your observations, medical records and school records will be reviewed to determine eligibility. You will then meet with the school to determine the next steps and create the 504 Plan. While a written plan is not necessarily required, most schools will create one and have it on file for all involved staff. If you are unsure whether your child would be better served by an IEP or a 504, you can go through the IEP process to determine which is more appropriate.

As a therapist, I have assisted in

numerous 504 Plan meetings to best support my clients. I’ve witnessed many students find success through simple changes to their day that best supported their needs. If you believe this could be a positive step in your child’s educational journey, do not hesitate to contact your school district. Please know these accommodations may also be available for SAT testing and other standardized testing. Some students struggle with the time constraints, despite being adept at understanding and completing the material. Resources exist to improve our odds of success. Wishing everyone a wonderful 2023/2024 school year! n

Maura Johnson is a licensed clinical social worker currently in practice at Cranberry Psychological Center. She is a certified perinatal mental health provider, as well as a contributing staff member with Postpartum Support International. While her primary focus is treating PMADs, she also treats a variety of conditions and clients of all ages. She resides in the Pittsburgh area with her husband, Brendan, daughter, Sloane, and dog, Max.

The Jared Box Project

Local Neighbors Bond to Put Smiles on the Faces of Pediatric Patients

By Paula Green

It is distressing when a child is sick and hospitalized. A Jared Box is a small gesture that can put a smile on their face. This heartwarming gift is a plastic shoe-sized storage box filled with small gifts, toys, games, crayons, coloring books, and fun activities. Each box contains items selected for a specific age and gender. The boxes are given to children in hospitals to provide a unique, fun diversion.

The Jared Box Project was founded in 2001 by the children of Our Lady of Victory School in State College. The boxes were created to honor their classmate Jared, who courageously battled cancer. The project’s popularity flourished, and today over one million Jared Boxes have been distributed. There are 400+ hospitals from across the country that participate in this initiative.

Kira Mesoraco had never heard of a Jared Box before, but her twoyear-old daughter Lily received one due to unforeseen circumstances. “Earlier this year, my husband was out of town, and Lily was pretty sick. It was the middle of the night, and I took her to AHN Wexford Hospital because it was the closest hospital to us. I was surprised when they told me she had pneumonia. A gentleman that works at AHN gave Lily a Jared Box. They usually don’t see too many young patients, so they forget they even had the boxes,” said Kira.

“It was nice to see how much Lily enjoyed it; the box kept her calm and entertained. The medical staff treated her with antibiotics, and it brought Lily around. It was fortunate that she did not have to be admitted to the hospital. It got me thinking about how easy these boxes are to make and how kids enjoy them. So, I got a bunch of friends and neighbors together we collected donations for the boxes. We collected enough donations to make 105 of them. The neighbor kids enjoyed doing this; they had fun putting stickers on the boxes.” Kira added.

“We donated 55 Jared Boxes to AHN’s Wexford Hospital and the other 50 to UPMC Children’s Express Care in Wexford. AHN is opening a Pediatric Inpatient Program with six treatment beds on September 18. We wanted them to have the Jared Boxes for their young patients. The hospital has invited Lily to participate in the pediatric care ribbon-cutting ceremony. She is excited to be a part of it. “It’s never too early to teach your kids how important it is to give back to the community they live in. Next up, we plan to help another local non-profit, 412 Gives Back, with a Back-to-School Supply Drive,” said Kira.

For more information on the Jared Box Project, visit thejaredbox. org/. n

Lily Mesoraco

Mushrooms Are Making a Comeback

By Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm

Did you know that mushrooms are considered a superfood? Although considered part of the vegetable food group, mushrooms are a fungus and not a plant.

Mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, copper, zinc, potassium, selenium, magnesium, phosphorous, and antioxidants. Due to exposure to UV light or sunlight, mushrooms contain vitamin D, which promotes bone health and the immune system. Mushrooms may be nutrient-dense, but the types of nutrients vary among the species.

There are over 14,000 types of mushrooms, with only a few thousand that are edible and around one hundred that are very flavorful. There are undiscoverable species out there, as mushroom foragers find new species every year.

Before you read on, please take note: Many mushrooms you find growing in the wild are poisonous. If you are not an expert mushroom forager, please only enjoy the beauty of the wild mushroom or even take a picture, but it is not worth the risk to eat.

Mushrooms can enhance your meal without adding extra calories or sodium. Researchers have been studying the impact of mushrooms on diseases and overall health. Moreover, they found there are many reasons for adding mushrooms to your daily diet, with a few named below:

Decreases the risk of cancer

Several studies over the last 50 years showed that eating only two mushrooms daily may lower your risk of cancer by as much as 45%. Mushrooms contain ergothioneine, which is an antioxidant that may slow down or even prevent cell damage. Mushrooms high in ergothioneine are oyster, shiitake and maitake.

Brain Health

Researchers continue to study the positive impact of eating mushrooms in lowering the risk of mild cognitive impairment, including memory.

Anti- Aging Properties

Mushrooms are high in antioxidants, ergothioneine and glutathione, which are both linked to containing anti-aging properties.

Immune System

Your immune system will benefit from mushrooms whose nutrients include selenium and zinc, promoting enzymes to prevent cell damage and helping the immune system, so you are less susceptible to illnesses by defeating foreign bodies. The best choices are cremini (also spelled crimini) and portabella mushrooms.

Healthy Gut

The microbiome in your gut is home to multiple organisms and bacteria. Mushrooms are considered prebiotics, which help stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria, bringing good health and even enhanced mood.

Some ideas to incorporate mushrooms into your diet:

• Add mushrooms to an egg omelet.

• Add mushrooms to pizza and pasta sauce.

• Mix mushrooms into ground beef or turkey burger or slices on top.

• Use sliced or chopped mushrooms on salads (check which ones are best to eat raw).

• Make a mushroom burger with portabella instead of beef.

Through studies, some edible mushrooms have been shown to have medicinal qualities. Read the label to make sure it is a mushroom extract from the fruiting body. Some supplements use the mycelium (called nature’s internet), which is the hidden branching network creating the mushroom. Think of the mushroom as an apple and the mycelium as the apple tree and roots.

The other well-known mushrooms under intense study are the mushrooms that contain psilocybin, which we know as the “magic” mushroom. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring compound found in over two hundred types of mushrooms. Studies have shown that psilocybin therapy is beneficial to help relieve fear and anxiety for terminal cancer patients, with an 80% success rate on improving mood and optimism, as well as a deep bond to those around them and a strong spiritual connection. Other studies have shown promise for some mental health disorders, such as clinical depression. Since psilocybin is a Schedule I controlled substance, studies are limited, but these positive results may allow more studies and access through medical venues in the near future.

Bottom line: Mushrooms are tasty, affordable, and packed full of nutrition. Hope to see even more promise in the near future on their medicinal qualities. n

Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm, has focused her career on geriatric pharmacy and automated dispensing systems to promote patient safety and improve health outcomes. For the last 10 years, she has served as Chief Pharmacy Officer (CPO) for a long-term care pharmacy, servicing the geriatric population in nursing homes, assisted living, independent living, and the senior day programs, such as, Pennsylvania’s LIFE programs and the PACE programs in multiple states. Belinda oversees the pharmacy operations in three pharmacies, located in Denver, Philadelphia and headquarters in Pittsburgh.

Friends of AHN Wexford Hospital Networking Event

On June 23, Allan Klapper, M.D., President of AHN Wexford Hospital , hosted the first AHN Friends of Wexford networking event. Guests enjoyed a complimentary breakfast and had the opportunity to network with local leaders, and community partners, as well as hear from physician specialists regarding clinical advancements to care.

Speakers included Timothy Sauber, M.D./ Orthopedic Surgeon with AHN Orthopedic Institute and Kathleen Latouf, M.D. /Medical Director of AHN Wexford Hospital Emergency Department. n

Allan Klapper, M.D., President of AHN Wexford Hospital

By Paula Green

This month we commemorate the 60th anniversary of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr’s, “I Have a Dream” speech. Dr. King gave his famous address during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. Over 250,000 civil rights supporters were there to hear Dr. King deliver his speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. In honor of this momentous occasion, we’ll focus our trivial attention on dreams.

According to Healthline, we spend one-third of our lives sleeping. Sixty-five percent of the elements of dreams are associated with your experiences while awake. Our most vivid dreams happen during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which happens in short episodes throughout the night, about 90 to 120 minutes apart. When we are aware that we’re dreaming, that is referred to as a lucid dream. Some folks have reoccurring dreams, such as Bill Murray in the movie, Groundhog Day. We have all experienced bad, frightening dreams called nightmares. At one time or another many of us “zone out” and have daydreams.

Of course, there are numerous instances when we hear the word “dream” or its derivative in a title. William Shakespeare wrote a famous play called, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Girls rock in the Broadway musical Dreamgirls ; in 2006 a movie version with the same title followed. Barbie Eden was a faithful servant in the television show I Dream of Jeannie

There have been movies with dreamy names such as Arizona Dream, Cassandra’s Dream, Dream a Little Dream, Dream Lover, Dream Man, Follow That Dream, Hold the Dream, The Jacksons: An American Dream, Just a Dream, Requiem for a Dream, Tucker: The Man and His Dreams, and What Dreams May Come

In the music realm, there were plenty of songs about peaceful slumber. Some memorable ones include All They Had to Do Was Dream, Daydream, Dream Baby, Dream Lover, Dream On, Dream Weaver, Dreaming, Dreaming for You, Dreams, I Can Dream About You, I Like Dreamin,’ Sweet Dreams, The River of Dreams, Teenage Dream, These Dreams, You Make My Dreams Come True, and Your Wildest Dreams

Since we have fancied our way through this slumber segment, we must now prance through this dreamy query, get set to don those thinking caps because it’s time to get a little trivial.

1. This 1968 billboard release by Elvis Presley contained lyrics directly inspired by Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr.

2. Which former member of The Beatles released a song called #9 Dream?

3. This American film company was founded on October 12, 1994, as a live-action film studio by Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg, and David Geffen.

4. A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes is a song from this 1950 Walt Disney animated movie.

5. He portrayed Chris Nielsen in the 1998 film What Dreams May Come

6. Name 1989 comedy film that starred Michael Keaton, Christopher Lloyd, and Peter Boyle.

7. This songstress released the popular hit Wildest Dreams in 2015.

8. Dennis Quaid starred in this 1984 film about a psychic named Alex.

9. He sings the tune Get Outta My Dreams, Get Into My Car.

10. This comedy ran on CBS for eight years. In the final episode it is revealed that the entire series was a dream of Dr. Robert Hartley.

11. Name the author of the novel Dreamcatcher, published in 2001.

12. Tommy Petty & the Heartbreakers released a song in 1989, and a documentary in 2007, both with the same title.

13. This folk-rock band sang the songs Dream A Little Dream of Me and California Dreamin.’

14. The song The Impossible Dream (The Quest) is from this 1965 Broadway musical and is also featured in the 1972 film of the same name starring Peter O’Toole.

15. Name the foursome that sang the tune Daydream Believer. n

Sources: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Have_a_Dream, www.healthline.com/ health/why-do-we-dream, www.musicpicklists.com/categories/sharedwords-in-song-titles/songs-with-dream-in-the-title/, www.musicgrotto.com/songs-about-dreams/www.funtrivia.com, www. ranker.com/list/the-best-movies-with-dream-in-the-title/reference

“I still have a dream” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

August is a Time for Sweet Corn Goodness

By Ron Eichner

Hey folks, August is the last full month of the summer and is generally the hottest month of the year. August’s first full moon is called the Sturgeon Moon. It will reach peak illumination on the night of Tuesday, August 1. It’s also one of the four supermoons of 2023.

August is the time to reap what we have sown in gardens or farm fields. Harvesting goes until we receive a killing frost, so for the next 10-12 weeks, let’s all enjoy the harvest. However, remember that this year has had many challenges with a drier spring and three weeks with no measurable rainfall. This year’s crop will be inconsonant, especially for the everpopular sweet corn. Most farmers plant sweet corn on five-to-seven-day planting schedules. The theory is to

keep the sweet corn harvest for 10 to 12 weeks.

There are many experts who argue about what sweet corn is. When sweet corn is grown with natural methods like our farm vegetables, it is nutritious. Nutrition in fruits and vegetables in recent decades has been decreasing because of modern farm practices and expanded synthetic fertilizer usage.

For generations, sweet corn was in full demand for the season-long harvest period. Unfortunately, for the last decade, it seems that when we get past Labor Day in early September the sweet corn sales really drop off. The truth is the sweet corn varieties harvested in September and October can be the best of the season.

Sweet corn has several varieties and three flavors: bi-color, yellow or white. Yellow sweet corn contains slightly more nutritional value than white sweet corn because of the pigments that make corn yellow. The bi-color sweet corn gives you the best of yellow and white kernel corn. Supersweet varieties are crisp and succulent with exceptionally high sugar content and tenderness. Supersweets also hold the sweetness for days longer, just like it was freshly picked.

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Supersweets are a growing favorite, so ask your favorite farms what they raise.

One comment I hear on why people avoid sweet corn is the fear of GMOs. Well, the truth is there is GMO sweet corn sold in stores. However, most local family farms don’t raise or sell GMO sweet corn. Our homegrown sweet corn is Wexford’s “best kept secret” for its natural nutritional values.

When you purchase from area farms, it’s a sim-

ple two-step from farm to table. With each succeeding generation, there seem to be fewer home gardens, and if you are concerned about how, what, where, and why about growing corn, go to an area farm and get your questions answered.

Like most gardens, our farm fields are a salad bar for deer, groundhogs, and raccoons. These three critters really like sweet corn, and the damage starts 10 to 12 days before the sweet corn is ready to harvest. The critters also hope for a 10 -12-week harvest period to continue to forage the fields for their expanded palates.

Years ago, we partnered with Thoma Meat Market in Saxonburg to make our homemade pork, beef, and lamb products. We also stock our meat case with Thoma’s homemade products. We are a one-two punch if you are grilling and seeking homemade local meats.

Our farm market is open seven days a week and an accessible destination, so feel free to stop by Eichner’s Whole Farm and Greenhouses at 285 Richard Road in Wexford and get “the rest of the story.”

Butler Farm Show Prepares for 75th Anniversary

By Bronwyn Wain

In the words of co-founder LeeRoy Miller, “It began with a plow and grew into a family tradition.” Since 1948, the Butler Farm Show has grown more than some could have imagined.

A1947 plowing contest, held on the Roe property in Meridian, was so well received they decided to do it again the next year, and the annual event blossomed from there.

“The original bylaws said the Farm Show was a way to bring farm and city people together and to better understand one another,” said Board Secretary Ken Metrick, a member of the Farm Show’s board of directors for 34 years. Having served on various committees, he is in charge of the exhibitor and vendor space.

During the event’s humble beginnings, its first “vendor” handed out free water bottles, lightbulbs were strung across the street, and no buildings were built until 1958. Metrick recalls how the community event has grown, even from what he personally remembers from the 1980s.

“I was on the board with LeeRoy Miller, who was one of the founders,” said Metrick. “I asked him one time, ‘Did you guys ever think it would be like this?’ He told me, ‘Never.’”

Farm Show President, Ken Laughlin, is also part of one of the many multi-generational families that have been involved for years.

“I was in 4-H and FFA in high school,” recalls Laughlin. “It’s something that’s in your blood. My grandfather was a casual farmer, and my wife and I were able to

buy a farm in 1999. It was always a goal of ours.”

Laughlin’s children have been involved in 4-H from a young age, showing animals such as sheep, cattle, and pigs.

“We started off with rabbits,” said Laughlin. “After we bought the farm, we started other animal projects. My kids also did baking and craft projects, so they have really done it all.”

For Laughlin, other board members, and countless volunteers, the Farm Show is a year-long job.

“We’re already planning for two years out,” said Laughlin. “I have a great board of directors.”

For the 75th anniversary celebration, the board has invited dignitaries, such as Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding, and has planned commemorative collectibles, a ceremony on Sunday, fireworks, and more during the 2023 Farm Show, August 7th through 12th.

Along with the midway, grange, and arts-and-crafts exhibits, animals are a main attraction. This important week is the 4-H Roundup, where kids can show their animals and participate in an auction at the end. According to Metrick, being involved in 4-H teaches children responsibility, leadership, and how to manage their own business.

“It’s all very educational,” said Metrick.

“It also builds relationships and life-long friendships.”

For Metrick and Laughlin, they see the Farm Show as an educational opportunity for not only exhibitors, but also for the public.

“I’ll see kids come in, and it’s the first time they have seen a sheep or touched a steer,” said Laughlin. “We take it for granted as farmers, but a lot of kids and adults haven’t experienced agricultural life. It feels great to be able to give people that experience.”

For those who make the Farm Show week happen, seeing it all come together makes everything worth it.

“It’s exciting when it starts happening and people bring stuff in,” said Metrick. “Everybody works together.”

For the hundreds of participants and their families, seeing it come to fruition is what they work towards all year.

“We’ve come a long way in 30 years,” said Laughlin. “It’s a lifestyle for us.” n

Bronwyn Wain is a 2022 graduate of Kent State with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a minor concentration in political science. She especially enjoys writing about music and politics, and currently resides in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Standing Room Only at the Junior Livestock Auction

Antique Farm Equipment Demonstration

Bronwyn Wain at Livestock Auction in 2011 Market Lamb Show

AUGUST EVENTS

Barrel & Flow Fest, August 12, at The Stacks at 3 Crossings. For details, visit www.barrelandflow. com/tickets.

Cindystock 20 Music Festival, 6:30 p.m., Aug. 18 & 3:30 pm, Aug. 19, at the Wexford home of founders Cindy and Ted Yates. All proceeds benefit local cancer screening and support programs. For details, visit www.cindystock.org.

Cranberry Township 55+ Club meets 1 p.m. the 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center. Members must be residents of Cranberry Township. The club features activities, social opportunities, and visits to nearby points of interest. For info, contact Bill at (724) 776-1933.

Do you like to knit or crochet? You’re invited to join the Busy Hands group at the Olive Branch Fair Trade Store in Wexford. We meet the first and third Monday of each month from 9:15-11:15 a.m. to make items for charity. For more information, call the store at (724) 299-8700.

First Annual Free Drive-Up/Take Out Spaghetti Dinner, 4-7 p.m., Sept. 30, Ascension Lutheran Church, 8225 Peebles Rd., Pittsburgh, PA  15237. For details, call (412) 364-4463.

FIT4MOM Stroller Strides classes, 9:30 am Weds., on the McCandless Crossing Town Green (between

Old Navy and Ethan Allen). Sign-up at northhills. fit4mom.com/schedule. To learn about FIT4MOM call Erica at (412) 303-3674 or email ericastrnad@ fit4mom.com.

Free Matinee Movies on Mondays: 2 p.m., Aug. 7, Uncharted; Aug. 14, Living; Aug. 21, 80 For Brady; Aug. 28, Creed III, at the Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Crossing in McCandless Twp. For details, visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

Gently Used Clothing Sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Aug, 4-5, St. Aidan Parish at St. Alphonsus Church, 221 Church Rd (lower gym). For info, visit saintaidanparish.org.

Glenshaw AARP 3744 meets at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, Mt. Royal Blvd. 2 p.m., second Tuesday of the month. Sept. 12 first regular meeting of the season.  (412) 487-1041 for more info.

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Roundtable meeting, 7 pm, Monday, Aug. 21, Hampton Township Community Center, 1301 McCully Rd., Allison Park. James Hessler presents, “The Peach Orchard.” Lecture is free and open to the public.

Harvest Home Dinner, 12:30-6:30 p.m., Sept. 10, Saint Aidan Parish, St. Alphonsus Church, 221 Church Rd, Wexford. Homemade meal, raffle baskets and more. For info, visit saintaidanparish.org, or call (724) 935-4343.

Hope Grows Parent Night, 6-8 p.m., Thurs., Aug. 17. For details, visit, www.hopegrows.org.

Ingomar Garden Club monthly meetings 10:30 a.m., meeting, light lunch and guest speaker, March through November at Northmont Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh 15237. For details, visit www.ingomar-garden-club.com for additional information.

Leslie & Ray’s Dance in the Park, 2-6 p.m., Aug. 20 at the Avonworth Pavilion, 498 Camp Horne Rd. This is a Pre-Pay Event. Picnic Dinner & Snacks. Only the 150 pre-registered folks will be admitted. For details, visit dancetonight@weebly.com or email dancetonight09@aol.com or call (724) 316-5029.

Magnificat Prayer Breakfast for Women, 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, August 26, at the Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe, 1000 Corporate Drive, Canonsburg. Prayer-filled breakfast, guest is Jess Echeverry. Registration $35 and includes music by Living Praise, speaker, and breakfast. Registration deadline for mail-in form is Aug. 16. Online registration deadline is Aug. 24. Visit www.magnificatpittsburgh.org for registration info.

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Northland Library has numerous events scheduled for August. For a complete list of events, visit northlandlibrary.org.

Northland Public Library Foundation presents The Children’s Gala, A Storybook Circus presented by AHN Wexford, 6-8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30, at Northland Library. For info, contact Alexis (412) 366-8100, ext. 104, or email mckinleya@northlandlibrary.org.

Pittsburgh Collage Collective Art Exhibit, run thru Aug. 17 at Shaler North Hills Library during Library hours. Nearly 90 hand-cut collages will be on display at the library, and there will be collagemaking opportunities for the public, with tools, supplies, and materials provided. For info, visit www.shalerlibrary.org.

Rummage Sale, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Aug. 5 & 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Aug. 6, St. Matthew Parish at St. Aloysius Church, Mt. Troy Rd., in Reserve Twp. Huge selection of kitchen items, jewelry, books, seasonal items, clothing etc. Bake goods available on Saturday. If you have furniture to donate, call Deb at (412) 337-1713 or Claire at (412) 360-9866.

San Rocco Festa, Aug. 11-13, the field adjacent to the Beaver Valley Auto Mall (750 Beaver Valley Mall Boulevard). Regional Italian festival rooted in faith, love and community. Enjoy Italian food, music and dance, including performances by the San Rocco Festa Band. For info visit, www.sanrocco.org/.

Sample, sip, and shop your way through an evening with Cancer Bridges as they welcome local vendors to Pittsburgh headquarters, 5-8 p.m., Sept. 22. Each guest receives a swag bag and you can mix & mingle while enjoying samples from some of our area’s restaurants, distilleries & breweries, and local craftspeople - all in support of Cancer Bridges. For ticket purchase and info, visit page: //bit.ly/2023LocalFlavor

Summer Concerts by Chamber Music

Pittsburgh (CMP), 7:30 p.m., Hugo Cruz & Caminos Aug. 9 (rain date: Aug. 10); Tania Grubbs Quintet, Aug. 16, (rain date: Aug. 17); Anqwenique Presents the Summer Send Off, Aug. 23, (rain date: Aug. 24), at The Highline, 339 McKean St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Concerts are free. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket.

Tunnel2Towers Foundation 5K Run & Walk, 8 a.m., Sept. 9, Canonsburg Memorial Stadium, 1 N Jefferson Ave, Canonsburg. Register at: runsignup.com/Race/PA/Canonsburg/ TunneltoTowers5KRunWalkPittsburghPA

UPMC Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Membership Opportunities! Are you looking for a stimulating opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals—UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Then join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets at 10 a.m. the 2nd Monday of each month (Sept. through June). New members are always welcome!  For more info, visit passavanthospitalfoundation.org/. Call (412) 748-6639 if you plan to attend a meeting.

Vintage Market is a non-profit store in Shaler that benefits The Blessing Board. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. every Th/F/Sat in the Shaler Plaza, 880 Butler Street & Rt. 8 (look for the gray door between Rite Aid & Planet Fitness).

Western PA Mushroom Club 23rd annual Gary Lincoff Mushroom Foray on Saturday, September 30, at The Lodge in North Park.  Guest speaker’s photographer Noah Siegel and biology professor Barrie Overton. Registration at: wpamushroomclub.org/lincoff-foray/.

August 17

“Space Jam: A New Legacy” PG North Park Boathouse Lawn

In the event of inclement weather, please visit our Facebook page or sign up for Allegheny Alerts for any notifications on cancellations.

For details, scan the QR code or visit alleghenycounty.us/specialevents

LET YOUR POOCH COOL OFF IN OUR POOL ON

$25 PER DOG ACCOMPANIED BY UP TO TWO GUARDIANS, BUT ONLY ONE DOG PER GUARDIAN WILL BE ADMITTED.

ADDITIONAL ATTENDEES WILL BE CHARGED $5 PER PERSON.

ALLEGHENYCOUNT

NORTH PARK SWIMMING POOL SETTLERS CABIN WAVE POOL BOYCE PARK WAVE POOL SOUTH PARK WAVE POOL

2023 Allegheny County Summer Movie Series

Celebrating Purple Heart Day

By Paula Green

The Purple Heart is the military’s oldest medal. It dates to Gen. George Washington, who created it on August 7, 1782, to recognize heroic acts by his troops. It was called the Badge of Military Merit at that time, but it was soon abandoned. The Purple Heart wasn’t revived until February 22, 1932, on Washington’s 200th birthday. National Purple Heart Day is celebrated annually on August 7. It is a time to acknowledge and remember the sacrifices made by the brave members of our military. A few famous people are Purple Heart recipients.

Among actors – James Arness earned the bronze star and Purple Heart for his service during World War II. Arness was severely injured in his right leg during the Battle of Anzio. Charles Bronson enlisted in the Air Force in 1943 and was assigned to the 39th Bombardment Group. Bronson flew 25 missions and sustained multiple wounds, which earned him a Purple Heart. James Garner served in the Army National Guard during the Korean War. Garner received a Purple Heart and other military decorations after sustaining injuries from a mortar round and friendly fire.

Screenwriter and playwright Rod Serling was renowned for his T.V. series  The Twilight Zone. He spent three years in the U.S. Army in the 11th Airborne Division. Serling received a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, and the Philippine Liberation Medal. He was awarded the decoration after he was wounded in combat in the Philippines. Filmmaker Oliver Stone enlisted in the United States Army in April 1967 and requested combat duty in Vietnam. He was awarded a Purple Heart with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster and the National Defense Service Medal.

In the political realm – President John Kennedy was the only United States president to be awarded the Purple Heart. He joined the US Naval Reserve on September 24, 1941. Kennedy commanded the PT-109 in the Solomon Islands during World War II when a Japanese destroyer struck his boat on August 2, 1943. Kennedy responded heroically. He swam miles across the open ocean from one remote island to another to save his crew.

Former Secretary of State John Kerry was awarded three Purple Heart medals for his service in Vietnam. The late Arizona senator John McCain received two Purple Hearts for his Vietnam service. In October 1967, McCain was captured by the North Vietnamese and held as a Prisoner of War until 1973. Army Four-Star Gen. Colin Powell served in Vietnam and was awarded a Purple Heart following his first combat tour.

A few sports stars were military heroes as well. In 1968, during his rookie season as a halfback with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Rocky Bleier was drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in the Vietnam War. While on patrol with the 196th Infantry Brigade, his platoon was ambushed, and he suffered an injury in his left thigh and lost a portion of his right foot. As a result of his injury, Bleier was honored with a Purple Heart. Pat Tillman played in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals from 1998 until May 2002. He quit the league and joined the U.S. Army, as a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment. Tillman was deployed to Afghanistan, where he was killed in a friendly-fire incident. He was posthumously honored with the Purple Heart.

Northern Connection magazines salutes all Purple Heart recipients, and we thank you for your commitment and military service. n

Sources: www.defense.gov/News/Feature-Stories/story/Article/1650949/the-purple-heart-americas-oldest-medal/, www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/history-of-the-purple-heart, www.medalsofamerica.com/blog/22-famous-people-who-have-been-awarded-the-purpleheart/

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