February 2014 Issue by Northern Connection Magazine

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Northern Connection | February 2014 1

February 2014 CONTENTS | NC n n n

NORTHERN CONNECTION

This Month

2014 Healthcare Guide

Education Guide 2014

10 Healthcare 2014 Directory

32 More Innovations in the Classroom

11 UPMC Passavant Celebrating 50 Years of Health Care in the North Hills 15 Brain Health Across the Lifespan Dr. Paul Nussbaum

18 How Does Food and Exercise Affect the Winter Blues? Joella Baker

20 Starting the Conversation: Obamacare– Is It Good, Bad or Ugly? Marianne Reid Anderson

21 From 256 to 4,000,000 Cells

Senior Living 23 A VERY Busy Month Barbara A. Killmeyer

Marianne Reid Anderson

41 School Movers & Shakers of the Month: Local College Students Reach Out to Those Less Fortunate Paula Green

43 2014 NC Education Directory

Features 8 Kean Quest Talent Search Robin Taylor

28 Encounters with Socialized Medicine in Foreign Countries Marianne Reid Anderson

45 A Presidential Pastime Paula Green

New! Living Simply

Advertorials

29 Living Simply

5 Dr. Shawn Richey Neuropathy

Marisa Tomasic, PhD

Image & Style 30 5 HOT Styling Tips for the Cold Kelly A. Smith

31 Enhance Your Life: “Gifts” You Can Give Someone Who Has Lost Someone Through Death

In Every Issue 4

From the Publisher Marion Piotrowski

Movers & Shakers

Moving On... Thomas Moore, DVM

24 Happenings for Seniors 25 Town Crier: Exploring February – Our Second Month Joe Bullick

39 School Movers & Shakers 44 Trivia Connection: Winter Olympics Trivia Paula Green

46 Support Our Troops: Quilts of Valor Provide Comfort for Veterans Paula Green

48 NC February Happenings

17 Is Neck Pain Driving You Nuts? Dr. Shannon Thieroff

26 A Wound Care Patient’s Remarkable Journey Ohio Valley General Hospital

47 Divine Providence

@NCONNECTIONMAG Find us on Facebook under Northern Connection Magazine! http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot.com/

Elaine A. Malec, PhD

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FROM THE PUBLISHER | NC n n n

Welcome to the February issue of Northern Connection Magazine!

s you noticed on the cover, the cover story focuses on UPMC Passavant Hospital’s history throughout its 50 years in existence, courtesy of Passavant Hospital Foundation. For all of us who have lived in the North Hills for years, we have all been a part of UPMC Passavant Hospital’s interesting history in some way or another and I am no different. I have been personally associated with UPMC Passavant Hospital for the past 40 years from the birth of all three of my children to my oldest grandchild. When I first read this article, it sent me on a sentimental journey reminding me of the many days that I spent there with my family members and parents and it also made me realize how fortunate we are in the North Hills to have such a renowned medical facility so close to home. I wish UPMC Passavant Hospital many more years of taking care of the areas patients and offering new and innovative treatments to keep all of us as healthy as possible. The January education issue was a great success and we thank all of the readers and education providers who contacted us with all of your additional input. We are proud to bring you a part 2 in this issue and look for more Innovations in the Classroom in our upcoming education sections. It is always a pleasure to highlight these schools, photos and their accomplishments in our education section for the community. Keep them coming! In this issue, we are also introducing a new section, Living Simply. It seems to me that we are all so very busy that it might be time to slow down a bit and enjoy the simple things in life. We welcome any suggestions from our readers that you would like us to include in this section. Enjoy reading all this month’s special features along with Northern Connection magazine’s regular columns. Thank you for your continued support, and together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work. F

NORTHERN CONNECTION P.O. Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722

Phone: 724-940-2444 Laura Arnold

Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: northcon@consolidated.net www.northernconnectionmag.com

laura@northernconnectionmag.com

President & Publisher Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator Paula M. Green

Mary Simpson marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executives Mary L. Simpson Marisa Tomasic

Marisa Tomasic, PhD marisa@northernconnectionmag.com

Design & Production Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master Swanson Publishing Company

Marianne Reid Anderson ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

“Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there” By John Wooden

Coming in the March NC...

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Core Writers Joella Baker Jacquelyn Brinker Joe Bullick Rosemary Garrity Paula M. Green Barbara A. Killmeyer Suzanne (Suz) Mauro, AICI Ryan C. Meyer Liz Miles Donna Summers Moul, M.S.Ed. Marianne Reid Anderson Kelly Smith Distribution Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Donna Smith Dominion Distribution

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 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 Co., Inc. 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.

4 February 2014 | Northern Connection

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ADVERTORIAL

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My doctor said there was no help for my neuropathy . . . Until Now! What is Peripheral Neuropathy? Occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts.

eripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs, and feet. When damage occurs, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. It can affect multiple nerves (polyneuropathy) or only one nerve or nerve group (mononeuropathy) due to trauma, injury, local compression, prolonged pressure, or inflammation. It starts with numbness, prickling or tingling in the toes or fingers. It may spread up the feet or hands and cause burning, freezing, throbbing and/or shooting pains. It is often worse at night. Sometimes it is constant or periodic and usually the pain is felt equally in both hands or in both feet. It can develop suddenly, while others progress more slowly over many years. It is a sensation of wearing an invisible ‘glove’ or ‘sock,’ a burning sensation, freezing pain. Sharp jabbing electric-

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like pain. Extreme sensitivity to touch. Difficulty sleeping because of feet and leg pain. Loss of balance and coordination. Muscle weakness. Difficulty walking or moving the arms.Unusual sweating. Abnormalities in blood pressure or pulse. I have the solution. I have the necessary tools to the uncover the underlying cause of the nerve damage. *Certified Neuropathy Professional Member of the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of America

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drshawn@backnline.com www.backnline.com/ 2591 Wexford-Bayne Road, Suite 207 Sewickley, Pa. 15143

724-940-9000

Northern Connection | February 2014 5

During the month of January, the Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Program Committee at VA Butler Healthcare sponsored a food drive. The food will be distributed to local veterans in need during the month of February.

The fifth annual Community Auto “Too Big for the Stocking” vehicle giveaway competition was presented to Max Sainvelus, 27 of McKeepsort. Sainvelus is a single father who is raising his two-year old son, Aubrey.

Boy Scout Troop 335 held its Eagle Court of Honor on Jan. 6. Eric John Bianco, a sophomore at Winchester Thurston and Lucas Gray a senior at North Allegheny received their Eagle Scout Awards.

Mary Lee Gannon

Mary Lee Gannon has recently published her book – Reinvent You – from Welfare to CEO: Your Six Step Plan to Enjoy the Freedom that comes from Success in Life, Career and Business. Turo Family Chiropractic raised $1,220 for Crisis Center North during their Second Annual Patient Holiday Party held on Dec. 12.

Renee Foust of Farmer’s National Bank branch manager presented $2,500 to Vic Conrad of Seneca Valley Foundation’s Board of Trustees. The Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) donation will benefit the Seneca Valley School District’s Honors Women in Engineering Program. The Allegheny River Towns Enterprise Zone (ARTEZ) held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Dec. 19 for Bridge Street freight access. These improvements are the first phase of a community-oriented riverfront revitalization strategy ARTEZ is implementing with Etna and Sharpsburg Boroughs at the gateway of the towns. Butler Downtown congratulates Tracy LeFevre and Margie Bowser of Renovo Design for being selected as the winners of the Pop-Up Shop contest.

$5 Off Purchase of $25 or more

Dine in only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Only one coupon per visit, per party. Not valid on daily specials. Excludes alcohol. Expires 2/28/14.

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The Federal Emergency Management Agency has selected the Highland Volunteer Fire Department of McCandless as the recipient of a Fire Prevention and Safety Grant for 91,600. The money will be used to incorporate a smoke alarm campaign for residents of the Highland district in McCandless.

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February 2014 MOVERS & SHAKERS | NC

Movers & Shakers

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MOVING ON...

Saani Mac Designs has partnered with kickstarter to raise the capital necessary to start production on their first denim jean line.

Pine Richland students raised $104 for UPMC Children’s Hospital while Christmas Caroling. Pictured from left to right: Tatum O’Brien, Kyle Hoogstraten, Sydney Smith, Lacee Richwalls, Sasha Winter and Anastasia Simpson.

Thomas Moore, DVM

homas Moore, D.V.M. purchased Avalon Veterinary Hospital in 1966. Dr. Moore has dedicated his professional career to serving our community, and has been an icon in the area for years. He has decided that he would like to reduce his hours at the hospital in exchange for the opportunity to spend quality time with his children, grand-children, and other family members. It was with great consideration that he decided to offer Dr. Ann Cirillo and her husband, John, the opportunity to join his practice and assume the management responsibilities. He has reduced his schedule, but is still seeing appointments and maintaining the focus and mission of Avalon Veterinary Hospital. F

MOVERS & SHAKERS February 2014 n n n

Dana Faletti has published her second book in the Whisper series, called Wake. Dana Faletti For more information, visit http://www.danafaletti. com/.

P.A. ERBE & Associates Inc.

Accounting & Tax Preparation Service for Personal & Business Income Taxes

Penny Ann Erbe

Enrolled Agent Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner

412-487-1009

4767 William Flynn Highway Allison Park, PA 15101-2456

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February 2014 MOVERS & SHAKERS | NC n n n

Kean Quest Talent Search BY ROBIN TAYLOR

inging sensation Jackie Evancho got her start at the Kean Theatre, competing in what’s now known as Kean Quest Talent Search, a popular local singing competition in Gibsonia. Evancho was first runner up in 2008 and again in 2009, before going on to national acclaim in 2010 on America’s Got Talent, where she came in second place at the age of 10. In 2004, when Kean Quest started, American Idol was the most popular show on television, and the vocal competition was seen as a fun way to raise money for St. Barnabas Charities. Unlike American Idol, there are no Simon Cowell’s on the judge’s panel. The judges score each contestant’s performance, but do not comment afterwards or share the scores with the contestants. Kean Quest is a fun, friendly competition and is not meant to criticize anyone personally or discourage development. We know the contestants are amateurs who are learning how to perform and we want this to be a positive experience. For many of them, this is the first time they will have ever performed before a live audience. This year’s competition began in January, although it’s not too late to sign up. There is another preliminary youth round in February and two more preliminary rounds in March. The top scorers in the preliminary rounds move on to the semi-finals on Sunday, March 30. The winners from the semi-finals will compete in the Youth Championship on Friday, April 11.

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There is also an adult competition on Friday, April 4. Anyone 19 and up is allowed to participate as long as they are an amateur and are not currently under a recording contract. Contestants are judged on three factors: talent, stage presence and presentation. The audience also gets to vote and will select a winner from each round. The grand prize includes a recording session at Audible Images, a Grammy award-winning recording studio. The winners will also get professional headshots that can be used by an agent for promotions, if they plan to pursue a career in music. Every year, the prestigious Jackie Evancho Award is given to the runner-up who tried the hardest and showed the most promise. Jackie is usually on stage to personally present the award to the winner. This year, Evancho is planning a Latin American concert tour and plans to attend the Kean Quest finals as long as her tour dates don’t conflict. Since her success on America’s Got Talent, Jackie has issued 5 albums, including a platinum and a gold album. Jackie isn’t the only recognizable face to get her start on Kean Quest. Sarah Marince, the young lady with the big smile, who is featured in the Eat ‘n Park restaurant chain commercials, also was a finalist in 2006. While Kean Quest is a competition, it is first and foremost a charity fundraiser. The money raised through ticket sales will benefit St. Barnabas Charities. The www.northernconnectionmag.com

St. Barnabas Free Care Fund provided more than $4.5 million in free care last year to patients in need. The goal of the friendly competition is to find a fun way for kids and adults to get involved in this charity fundraiser. The signature sponsor of the 11th annual Kean Quest Talent Search is Trib Total Media. Event sponsors include: Armstrong, Audible Images, Beautiful Buys Thrift Shoppes, Consolidated Communications, Cookson Peirce Wealth Management, DKYS&B Attorneys at Law, Donner Farber & Assoc., Gordon Food Service, Farmers Bank, In Tune With The Arts, NET Xperts, Northern Connection Magazine, Paracca Interiors, Parks Moving and Storage, Rudolph Auto Repair, Schellhaas Funeral Home, Subway, Wells Fargo and WPXI.

2014 Kean Quest Schedule Youth Preliminary Rounds Sunday, January 26 Sunday, February, 16 Sunday, March 2 Sunday, March 16 Youth Semi-Finals Sunday, March 30 Adult Championship Friday, April 4 Youth Championship Friday, April 11 To register, call 724-625-3770 or visit www.KeanTheatre.com. There is a $30 registration fee to enter. F

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2014 HEALTHCARE GUIDE | n n n

Health & Wellness 2014 Directory Allegheny Imaging of McCandless, LLC alleghenyimaging.com 412-367-7226

Always at Home alwaysathome.org 412-348-1065

Brain Health Center Brainhealthctr.com 724-719-8233

Care Unlimited Inc

http://www.careunlimitedinc.com/ 1-800-535-3747

Chiropractic Family Health Center backnline.com 724-940-9000

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Choicechoicechiropractic.net 412-364-9699

Colon and Rectal WellnessCenter Brad Levinson, M.D. Cranberry Twp, Pa. 727-741-6020

Defined Fitness

www.definedfitnesswexford.com 724-934-2000

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Compression Management Services

Passavant Hospital Foundation

DeNovo Chiropractic

Seven Fields Veterinary Hospital

The Lymphedema Centers compressionmanagement.com 412-364-3720 www.denovopittsburgh.com 412-443-8873

Francis Audiology

www.francisaudiology.com 724-933-3440

Genesis Medical Associates, Inc 412-847-0010

Hope Hospice

Hopehospicepgh.org 1-877-367-3685

PassavantHospitalFoundation.org 412-748-6640

sevenfieldsvet.com 724-742-4433

St. Barnabas Health System

Vein Institute of Pittsburgh

Dr. Terrance R. Krysinski Warrendale, Pa veininstituteofpittsburgh.com 724-934-8346

Vincentian Collaborative System www.vcs.org 412-630-9980

Stbarnabashealthsystem.com 724-443-0700

Weirton Health Center

UPMC Senior Communities

Wexford Cardiology

UPMCSeniorCommunities.com 1-800-324-5523

The Hormone Center www.hormonecenter.net 412-432-7909

North Pittsburgh Vein & Vascular Institute Sheri Marcino, M.D. helpmylegs.com 412-847-1234

Ohio Valley Hospital

www.ohiovalleyhospital.org 412-847-7500 412-250-2600

www.northernconnectionmag.com

304-914-4250

www.wexfordcardiology.com 724-940-6000

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2014 HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Passavant Hospital Foundation and Auxiliary Integral to Hospital’s Success This year, UPMC Passavant celebrates its 50th year of providing health care to the North Hills community. The hospital has long been a vital part of the area, thanks to the collective effort of community members who first worked to “bring it north” and then helped it grow into the innovative, state-of-the-art medical facility that it is today.

n 1964, residents of the North Hills could hardly imagine that 42 acres located on Babcock Boulevard would one day house an advanced care hospital that could provide highly specialized medical and surgical treatment for cancer, as well as heart and vascular, spine, colon and rectal, and women’s specialty services. Over the years, the size of the campus, its locations, and its services have grown. Today, those who live north of Pittsburgh now have access right in their own backyard to the same cuttingedge medical care offered at urban hospitals. From the individuals who went door-to-door collecting nickels and dimes to bring the hospital north, to the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary that has raised funds for hospital projects for more than a half-century, to the Passavant Hospital Foundation, which continues to provide funding to take UPMC Passavant into the future, a legacy of caring has been built through the efforts of the entire community. “The community has always supported this hospital; it wouldn’t be here today if people did not take a proactive role in supporting it,” says Fay Morgan, president and CEO, Passavant Hospital Foundation. “It is our goal to make sure that the people in the North Hills have an outstanding facility with the most

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Celebrating 50 Years of Health Care in the North Hills

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The original Passavant Hospital building in 1964 Special section in the North Hills News Record commemorating Passavant’s grand opening

advanced technology so that they can receive the best care when they need it — now and in the future.” Bringing It North Passavant Hospital, originally called the Pittsburgh Infirmary, was established by Pastor William Alfred Passavant in Lacyville, now the Hill District section of Pittsburgh, in 1849. “While UPMC Passavant has been in the North Hills for 50 years, it has actually been in Pittsburgh for 165 years,” explains Ralph T. DeStefano, former president and CEO of Passavant Hospital and the Passavant Hospital Foundation. Dealing with a decline in patients, and the fact that the city was redeveloping the Hill District to make room for the Civic Arena, the hospital board decided that it was time to move the facility. While Monroeville, the South Hills, and the North Hills all vied for the hospital, the North Hills proposal was strengthened by its show of community support. “We needed a hospital out here, so a group of people banded together to do what we could to bring it to the North Hills,” explains Pat Kutcher, Passavant Hospital Auxiliary member and hospital and foundation board member. “We called it the ‘Bring It North’ campaign, and we went door-to-door collecting nickels and dimes to help fund the move.” The group also presented a petition signed by 16,000 North Hills residents stating their willingness to support a hospital in the area. “Eight different auxiliaries, one from each township, also helped raise money to bring the hospital to the North Hills,”

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Ms. Kutcher adds. “Over the years, these auxiliaries all merged into one, called the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary, which is still very active; to date, we’ve raised more than $4 million for the hospital.” During the 1960s, the auxiliary raised money through a thrift shop located in Etna, as well as through lunches and fashion shows, the Mother Passavant’s Kitchen at Gimbels department store, and by selling home-baked goods. “Now, the auxiliary raises money through a variety of sales at the hospital that we hold several times a year,” says Ms. Kutcher. In 1981, Passavant Hospital Foundation, a nonprofit organization independent of UPMC, was created with the goal of raising funds to support the hospital while maintaining its unique culture. “Passavant has always been known as a warm, caring hospital, and the foundation and the auxiliary strive to enhance the hospital by providing amenities that are not in its capital or operating budgets,” says Mr. DeStefano. “What’s important to note is that all of the money that we raise can only be used for UPMC Passavant — every penny we earn stays in the North Hills,” he adds. “We don’t provide funds to outside agencies or other hospitals. It all stays here.” The Departmental Grants Program One of the ways in which the foundation contributes to the quality of care and legacy of caring at the hospital is through its grants program, now in its fourth year. This year, 38 proposals were submitted by staff members for their departments, and all 38 were able to be fulfilled, thanks

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to a partnership among the foundation, the auxiliary, and the hospital. “We used to have an annual campaign where we would pick an item of equipment to buy and make that the subject of our campaign,” explains Mr. DeStefano. “Now, we set aside funds each year, and solicit proposals from the hospital staff on a department-by-department basis for things that will positively impact the health, safety, and welfare of patients and staff. This year’s projects ranged in cost from $300 to $75,000.” Because more proposals were received than the foundation alone could fund, the auxiliary and the hospital were asked to commit funds toward fulfilling the requests, which totaled $498,647. “This year is the first year that we all worked together to meet 100 percent of the proposals for projects that will enable the hospital to continue to provide the highest quality of care possible,” says Ms. Morgan. “While each entity works separately, this three-way partnership enables the hospital to be as strong and modern as it can be.” Passavant Hospital Foundation grants, which total $335,252, include light training boards for the physical and occupational therapy departments, bariatric stretchers for wound healing, outdoor wireless coverage so that families can have Internet access when their loved ones are in the hospital, and a portable ultrasound for the Anesthesiology Department. “While we do fund some very large projects, these grants enable us to fund smaller projects, such as iPads® for the Emergency Department physicians to use to write orders, and a special hematology micro-

Grant to Help UPMC Passavant Reduce Risk of Infection

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ealth care-associated infections, or HAIs, can be acquired by patients who receive treatment in a health care setting. These infections can be caused by antibiotics, and also can be passed from person to person. “While one-third of cases are endemic, or originate in the hospital, approximately two-thirds of cases are caused by visitors bringing them into the hospital,” explains infectious disease specialist Joseph Romano, MD. One of the ways to combat these infections is to make sure that hospital rooms are cleaned appropriately, which includes disinfecting high-touch surfaces. In 2013, Passavant Hospital Foundation provided a $75,000 grant to the Environmental Services, Infection Control, and Surgical Services departments at UPMC Passavant to purchase a state-of-the-art room disinfection system to target the hospital’s high-risk infection areas. The 150-pound mobile robot can be moved from room to room, where it pulses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, including Clostridium difficile colitis, or C. diff, a bacteria that causes swelling and irritation of the large intestine or colon. “Previous machines took more than 30 hours to clean a room and were not as effective as the new system,” says Dr. Romano.

2014 HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Looking Ahead The Passavant Hospital Foundation and the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary will continue to rely on the community to further their mission. “When the hospital was purchased by UPMC, we had an endowment of $112 million, which we’ve since spent down significantly by contributing to build both the UPMC CancerCenter and UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute here at UPMC Passavant,” says Ms. Morgan. “Our goal is to build that endowment back up in order to continue to help the hospital provide the best care possible.” The Passavant Hospital Auxiliary is also trying to recruit more members in order to continue its work serving the needs of patients in the North Hills. “All service organizations are seeing fewer volunteers these days, but we’d like to increase our membership — it’s important to grow,” says Ms. Kutcher. “It is our belief and hope that the North Hills community will continue to support UPMC Passavant, just as the hospital has supported the medical needs of community members for the past halfcentury. Sooner or later, everyone will need the hospital,” says Ms. Morgan. “Medical care is ever-evolving, and we will need the help of our community to evolve along with it.” To learn more about how to support UPMC Passavant through Passavant Hospital Foundation or the Passavant Auxiliary, call 412-748-6640 or visit passavanthospitalfoundation.org. For more information about UPMC Passavant, visit UPMCPassavant.com. This advertorial has been provided by the Passavant Hospital Foundation. F

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scope designed to help detect disease at an earlier stage,” says Ms. Morgan. The Passavant Hospital Auxiliary grants, which total $41,275, include compact isolation stations, coughassist devices for Respiratory Services, a Wound Zoom® camera and color printer, and DVD players for education in the Intensive Care Unit. Hospital grants equaling $124,820 will fund efforts to obtain Magnet® status, which is a designation denoting nursing excellence, chairs in the Physical Therapy and Infection Control departments, and a kitchen office facelift in the Food and Nutrition Services Department, among other things. In addition to providing these departmental grants, the foundation also provides larger grants to the hospital each year. Past investments have included $65 million for a new hospital wing, which includes the UPMC CancerCenter at UPMC Passavant, $16.4 million to help fund the Legacy Theater and Conference Center at Cumberland Woods, and $2.1 million for the new UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Passavant, which opened in 2013. “It takes a lot of money to build these kinds of facilities,” says Ms. Morgan, adding that the foundation recently committed a $6 million grant for a planned effort to enlarge the operating rooms at UPMC Passavant–Cranberry. “The grants, in addition to other support provided by Passavant Hospital Foundation and the auxiliary, help UPMC Passavant in its mission to provide outstanding patient care,” says Dave Martin, president, UPMC Passavant. “They help us go above and beyond what you would typically expect from a community hospital.”

Passavant Hospital Foundation sponsors numerous conferences each year for community members on various health-related topics, including diabetes, cancer, and stroke.

The foundation raises funds to purchase equipment, such as a specialty lift and a portable ventilator, which will help to enhance patient care and safety.

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PASSAVANT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

UPCOMING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS “For Your Health” Seminars at Cranberry Township Municipal Building

“For Your Health” Seminars at Club Julian 24-Hour Fitness, North Hills

HOW WE HEAL OUR WOUNDS & WHY WE SOMETIMES CAN’T

HEART & STROKE EXPO – MAY 1

Presenter Sandeep Kathju, MD, PhD Tues., April 15, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR HEART (FREE BLOOD PRESSURES)

HEART & CARDIAC WELLNESS (FREE BLOOD PRESSURES)

Speaker: Martha Bowman, DO Wed., February 19, 12:30 p.m.

Speaker: Darlene Loebig, BSN, RN Wed., February 5, 1:00 p.m.

SAVE YOUR SHOULDER! SURGICAL & NONSURGICAL TREATMENTS FOR SHOULDER PAIN

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center & Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village, 8 a.m. Includes multiple speakers and free screenings.

COLON PROBLEMS . . . WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Speaker: Ved Kaushik, MD Wed., March 19, 12:30 p.m.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT & SAFE WEIGHT LOSS FOR SENIORS

PULMONARY FUNCTION SCREENINGS (FREE BREATHING TESTS) Speaker: Phil Zmenkowski, RRT Wed., March 5, 1:00 p.m.

PAIN & MANAGING PAIN

Speaker: Amanda Conklin, RD, LDN Wed., April 16, 12:30 p.m.

Speakers: M. Melissa Moon, DO; Eric Helm, MD Wed., April 2, 1:00 p.m.

HOW TO STAY VIBRANT AS YOU AGE

HEAD & NECK PAIN

Speaker: Anna Gaines, MD Wed., May 21, 12:30 p.m.

EFFECTS OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE Speaker: Erek Lam, MD Wed., June 18, 12:30 p.m.

SHOULDER PAIN . . . OUCH! WHY DOES MY SHOULDER HURT? Speaker: Christopher Emond, MD Wed., July 16, 12:30 p.m.

HOW’S YOUR HEARING? (FREE HEARING SCREENINGS) Speakers: Mariann McElwain, MD; Jonathan Urffer, MD; Jenifer Fruit, AuD Wed., August 20, 12:30 p.m.

I’M HAVING A SENIOR MOMENT! Speaker: Betty Robison, MSN, RN-BC Wed., September 17, 12:30 p.m.

HEARING LOSS & DIZZINESS Speaker: Metropolitan ENT Associates-UPMC Wed., October 15, 12:30 p.m.

HEALTHY LIVING WITH DIABETES Speaker: Jennifer Sotirake, RD, CDE Wed., November 19, 12:30 p.m. Please call (412) 748-6640 to register for seminars at the Cranberry Senior Center.

Speaker: Scott Rainey, DO Wed., May 7, 1:00 p.m.

KNEE PAIN – CONSERVATIVE & SURGICAL TREATMENTS Speaker: Christopher Emond, MD Wed., June 4, 1:00 p.m. Please call (412) 366-1931 to register for seminars at Club Julian Fitness.

“For Your Health” Seminar at Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre SHOULDER PAIN Speaker: John Richmond, MD Tues., June 24, 11:00 a.m. Please call (412) 748-6640 to register for seminar at PHF Legacy Theatre.

“Extending the Care” ETC Seminars at Community College of Allegheny County – North, McCandless Township STROKE AND WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS FOR STROKE CARE Presenters - Linda Edwards, MA, CCE-SLP; Nate Schomburg, PT, NSC; Carmen Scolieri, OTR/L; and Denise Sponcer, MSN, RN CRRN Tues., March 18, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Presenter - John Richmond, MD Tues., May 20, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Please call (412) 369-3701 to register for CCAC-North Seminars. Fall Series: September 16; October 21; and November 18, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Topics/Speakers to be announced

Support Groups BRIDGE TO HOPE SUPPORT SESSIONS FOR FAMILIES AFFECTED BY A LOVED ONE’S SUBSTANCE ABUSE Conference Room #1, Passavant Hospital Foundation, Conference Center, Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Passavant McCandless Campus; Every Wednesday: 7 – 8:30 p.m.

BRIDGE TO HOPE – VIGIL OF HOPE SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village, Wed., June 4, 7 p.m.

BEYOND BRIDGE TO HOPE SUPPORT SESSIONS FOR FAMILIES THAT HAVE LOST A LOVED ONE TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center & Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village, 8 a.m. Lectures and a resource fair centered on approaches that help veterans and their families build resiliency. Please call (412) 748-6640 for information.

Special Events LEGACY MUSIC SERIES … CONCERTO GALA COMMUNITY CONCERTS Performers from The Center for Young Musicians; Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village; Sat., February 8, 4 p.m.; Fri., April 18, 7 p.m. For information call (412) 748-6640.

CHILD CAR SEAT SAFETY CHECK McCandless-Franklin Park Ambulance Authority, Wexford; Thurs., June 26, 10 a.m.; appointment necessary, call (412) 881-9221.

LEGACY MUSIC SERIES PATRIOTIC MUSIC TRIBUTE AND SOUNDS OF THE SEASON HOLIDAY MUSIC PROGRAMS

Conference Room #2, Passavant Hospital Foundation, Conference Center, Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Passavant McCandless Campus; Monthly on the second Wednesday: 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center & Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village. Call (412) 748-6640 or watch our website for an announcement of the dates.

Please call (412) 748-6640 or visit bridge2hope.org for more information.

Fundraisers

Day-Long Conferences

Treesdale Golf & Country Club; Mon., June 9, noon.

MEDICAL ETHICS CONFERENCE – MARCH 28 Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center & Legacy Theatre, Cumberland Woods Village, 8 a.m. Bringing together physicians, nurses, social workers, attorneys, clergy and others to learn from national and local experts.

PassavantHospitalFoundation.org 14 February 2014 | Northern Connection

RETURNING VETERANS CONFERENCE – OCTOBER 17

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PASSAVANT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION 27TH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING

PASSAVANT HOSPITAL FOUNDATION 2ND ANNUAL 8K SCRUB RUN North Park Pool Loop; Fri., August 15, 7:00 p.m. Please contact Pam Taylor (412) 748-5788 or taylorps@ ph.upmc.edu.

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Across the Lifespan

BY DR. PAUL NUSSBAUM

The Brain Health Lifestyle® integrates Physical Activity, Mental Stimulation, Nutrition, Spirituality, and Socialization into a proactive approach to achieve cognitive and emotional health and overall balance. This approach will be used in the Center for those suffering neurological and neuropsychiatric conditions such as memory loss, dementia, depression, anxiety, attention deficit, substance abuse, PTSD, and head injury. The Center will also work with clients who have lost balance in their lives or who are not achieving peak performance. Dr. Nussbaum wants to “help students, athletes, CEOs and executives, and everyone learn about their brain and how to achieve greater balance and performance in the school, field of play, and board room.”

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This holistic and integrated approach to brain health and wellbeing is accomplished by offering clinical neuropsychological services together with less traditional approaches such as Yoga, Meditation, Nutrition Planning, Massage, and Brain Fitness. Dr. Nussbaum has long taught, “the human brain is a complex system that requires a comprehensive and holistic approach to both heal and thrive.” On any given day, the Brain Health Center will provide diagnostic assessments of memory, personality, mood, and behavior for patients in need. At the same time, the Center will lead yoga classes and meditation for athletes, students, couples, business men and women. Everyone who comes to the Center will be encouraged to meet with the registered dietician to develop a plan for healthy eating, and the massage therapist can help to remove some of those knots in our neck and back from the daily grind of life. Dr. Nussbaum suggests, “the Center is a place to learn about yourself, to stop and give yourself the attention you deserve, and to implement a set of therapeutic and healing activities that will help you achieve greater health and balance.” It is one of the only places in the nation dedicated to brain health lifestyle ® that offers a holistic and integrated approach. It is never too early or late to get started! The Brain Health Center also serves as the epicenter for Dr. Nussbaum’s work that is international in scope. The Center provides consultation to organizations and companies across the planet and the lifestyle approach has been implemented in schools, libraries, and companies all across the nation. The Center is capable of contributing brain health as part of a corporate wellness program and we will also be leading “Brain Health Retreats” for organizations and communities. Please call the Center today at (724) 719-2833 to make an appointment or to visit. You may also review our website www.brainhealthctr.com for more information. F

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he human brain is the single most magnificent miracle ever designed in the history of the universe. Weighing two-to-four pounds, composed of nearly 60% fat, and demanding 25% of the blood from each heartbeat, the brain is the origin of our every thought, emotion, and movement. It reflects our very identity! It is a bit surprising and unfortunate, therefore that the brain has only started to find a place on the radar screen of the American psyche. Thanks to advances in neurosciences, we understand the brain has “neural plasticity” and can be shaped for health across the entire lifespan. It is from this understanding that Dr. Nussbaum developed his Brain Health Lifestyle ® and recently opened his first Brain Health Center located in Wexford (see www.brainhealthctr.com).

2014 HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Brain Health

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ADVERTORIAL

By Dr. Shannon Thieroff

re you asking your significant other for a neck rub every day? Find yourself being distracted by knots in your neck or taking medicine to alleviate the pressure and pain? You need to read this…

Your Neck Does a Lot of Work Your neck is a small body part tasked with the job of holding up a heavy head every day. The neck allows for the most range of motion of any part of the spine; and the nerves in the neck help to control balance, the immune system, and arm function.

Stress and Tension Are Not Normal In countless cases, people have come to me and explained that their neck was stiff and sore because they were “stressed.” Emotionally stressful circumstances can definitely make the problem worse but are not usually the cause of the problem. Our fight or flight response increases tension in the muscles and can aggravate spinal misalignment and instability.

I have found the following to be the most common causes

50-70% of people will have neck pain. 85% of it is mechanical, coming from the bones, nerves, or muscles.

In some cases people can actually have problems with their neck starting as small children. In all of these situations the neck is exposed to stress, the bones often shift out of place, and the normal movement and function of the neck is affected. In some cases, pain can occur right away; but in other cases, it can be years before the spinal changes become painful. In many cases, at this point, there are degenerative changes like arthritis or nerve damage.

Neck Pain Doesn’t Just Affect Your Neck. Neck problems can spill over and affect other parts of your body. Here are some problems that are connected to neck dysfunction: • Problems regulating blood pressure and balance • Decreased lung function • Tension and Migraine headaches • Arm and shoulder pain or numbness and tingling

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Neck Problems Can be a Fast or Gradual Problem

of neck pain: • Sports injuries in childhood or adolescence that are not treated properly • Automobile Accidents • Falls • Lots of computer use with poor posture • Repetitive lifting and arm movements

2014 HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Is Neck Pain Driving You Nuts?

What Can Chiropractic Do That’s Different? In a study from the National Institute of Health (2012) that looked at different treatments for neck pain, 272 people were divided into three groups. One group got chiropractic adjustments, another exercised, and a third group took medicine. After 12 weeks 57% of the adjustment group (48% of exercise group) reported at least 75% improvement in their symptoms. The medicine group only had 33% reporting that amount of change. After 1 year, 53% of the drug-free group reported that they had retained those improvements versus only 38% of the medication group. The difference is that chiropractic works to correct the structural cause of the neck pain versus just masking the symptoms. If you’re hurting, it’s time to do something about it. Call us and we’ll let you know if we can help. F

Brought to you as a Public Service by:

Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates

McKnight (412) 364-9699 Harmar (412) 826-9030 www.choicechiropractic.net We are your “in-network” provider Like us on Facebook

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How Does Food and Exercise Affect the Winter Blues? BY JOELLA BAKER

f you’re like me, short days, no sunshine and cold weather wreak havoc on your mood, what you eat and how you feel when you workout, it’s all connected. Winter is tough on all of us who live in cold areas. But how does the weather and where you live change your daily habits? How can you maintain good habits? How can specific foods and exercise keep you from entering the winter blues or some form of depression? As an individual living with an auto immune disease, I know first-hand how much the weather can affect how I feel. Joint and muscle pain this time of year is often unbearable. I must rely on my diet, exercise, sleep and staying positive to get me through the really tough days. I know it’s not easy. Typically when people fall into the winter blues, they often fall into bad eating habits. Comfort foods like pasta, breads, cookies, chips are at the top of the food chart for people who fall into this category. Unfortunately, these foods may make your palate and your brain feel better, but it makes your body feel worse. If you really want to use food to keep the blues away this winter, try the following…a diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables; pretty much how you should be eat-

18 February 2014 | Northern Connection

ing all the time. For me, one thing I try to do in the winter is to slice up oranges for a late night snack. Right before I go to bed, I sit down and eat one, two or sometimes three sliced up oranges with my family. Oranges actually boost serotonin levels in your body and serotonin is a natural mood enhancer. Oranges have a great smell, natural sugars and vitamin C. All of these will enhance the serotonin levels and make you happier. Other foods that will help to boost your mood include…. Eggs: eggs are a source of tryptophan, an amino acid the body converts to serotonin. Bulgur: Bulgur is a grain that cooks quickly. It’s full of complex carbohydrates so the body digests it slowly and this helps to keep your blood sugar levels from dropping and taking your mood with it. Quinoa is another food that will work similar to bulgur. Salmon: Omega 3 Fatty Acids found in cold water fish like salmon will keep your mood high. Omega 3 keeps your brain stimulated and these healthy fats are good for your joints. Chicken, like turkey and eggs are filled with tryptophan. Tryptophan will boost your mood. Making some fun and healthy chicken tenders with some fragrant spices will enhance your

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nose, your palate and will, in essence, improve your mood. Try adding lime juice, chili powder, paprika, cilantro, scallions and soy sauce with some olive oil. Marinate your chicken for one hour in this flavorful sauce and sauté it in a pan until it’s crispy. Chocolate, we all love it and yes, it’s great for enhancing your mood. Allowing yourself one small piece of chocolate a day can help to improve your mood. Remember, don’t overindulge in the chocolate, but enjoy one small piece each day. Lastly, since sunlight isn’t around, you have to do something to keep your mood up. In lieu of the sun, try exercising. Exercise is a great source of the hormones serotonin and dopamine while lowering cortisol, a stress hormone that is also linked to weight gain. Getting on a daily routine of at least 30 to 60 minutes a day will make up for not seeing the sun. So wake up, eat some eggs and oranges, go for a walk, a run or hit the gym and eat some salmon or chicken with fragrant spices for lunch and dinner. Oh, and don’t forget your piece of chocolate too. We still have at least another month of cold weather. Make the best of it. Use the time inside to try some new recipes and foods you may have not tried before like quinoa or bulgur and enjoy. Most importantly, don’t fall into the trap of sitting down and eating a bag of chips or a pan of mac n’ cheese. Get up and move around, eat healthy and remember, swim suit season is just around the corner, so focus on staying at your current weight or losing weight this winter so you’re ready for the pool and the beach come Memorial Day. F

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Starting the Conversation:

Obamacare: Is it Good, Bad or Ugly? BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

n the one hand, I have a friend who is self-employed and prior to Obamacare, his insurance was over $1500 a month because his wife was a cancer survivor. Now, under Obamacare, his insurance cost has dropped to $500 a month. Obviously, a great financial savings to his family. But everyone is scared out of their wits wondering whether or not his wife will still be able to receive the same level of care? Will her physicians be limited in tests, procedures or prescriptions? The tying of a physician’s hands to control costs would be very bad indeed. Then, there was the downright ugly website development and its reported costs. I have worked in the web development industry since its infancy and I can honestly say, WHAT? There is no way on earth a web site could have or should have cost that much and then it didn’t even work? The whole thing sets my head a- spinning! So what do you think of Obamacare? Let’s Continue This Conversation in my blog at Http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot.com. F

20 February 2014 | Northern Connection

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The Hormone Center • 412-432-7909

2014 HEALTHCARE GUIDE

ammography can detect cancer(s) the size of a pea which by that time, the mass has over 4,000,000,000 cells. Thermography can detect heat changes at 256 cells. The time between a cancer growing from 256 to 4,000,000,000 cells is between 6-8 years. Thermography is a quick, non-invasive clinical image that converts infrared radiation emitted from the skin’s surface into electrical impulses that are visualized in color. Whereas most medical images are a test of anatomy, thermography is a test of physiology or function. Thermal imaging is a radiation-free imaging procedure suitable for men, women and children. The detection and monitoring of a number of dis855-254-4328 • www.heat-images.com eases and physical injuries is achieved by showing thermal abnormalities present in the body. Thermography is a preventative test that can detect subtle changes in the body 5-10 years before other tools (such as mammograms, selfexamination, ultrasound and x-ray alone). Thermography is FDA approved as an adjunct to mammography and can see activity and changes outside of other breast disease testing. Mammography, Ultrasound, MRI, and other imaging tools rely on finding a physical structure. Thermography detects heat produced by increased blood vessel circulation and metabolic changes associated with a structure’s genesis and growth. Since thermography screenings do not require body contact, areas of the breast such as the axillary region can be screened (which can be difficult to do with mammography). Breast thermography is beneficial for women of all ages, but especially for women who do not want exposure to radiation, have implants, have dense breast tissue, are fibrocystic, have had a mastectomy or are unable to undergo routine mammography. All thermal imaging exams are conducted by certified thermography technicians and all medical reports are provided by M.D.’s who are board certified thermologists. F

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From 256 to 4,000,000 Cells

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BY BARBARA A. KILLMEYER

ow is the time to put away the things of winter (thank heavens!) and prepare for spring, to be followed by summer. Personally, I have some extra things in February to keep me busy. My husband’s birthday is on the 15th, and just five days later, on the 20th my younger son celebrates his birthday. But those are fun things to prepare for and to enjoy when they arrive. I would suggest that this is a perfect time to get out those flower and seed catalogs and page through them, then order things to make your yard, your garden, or your window box look wonderful. Although a yard with a flower garden looks great, if you don’t have a yard to plant things in there are other choices. Perhaps you live in an apartment, in that case a window box is the answer to your problem. For some reason, we seem to get an awful lot of catalogs so I have a box full of the flower and seed catalogs in my sunporch just waiting for me to take the time to go through them and choose what I want to attempt to grow this year. I’m really looking forward to it. So I wish each of you the enjoyment of relaxing with your favorite catalogs and finding just the right flowers for your situation. Happy Spring and may all your flowers be beautiful! F

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A VERY Busy Month

Look for it wherever you find Northern Connection CALL now to reserve your advertising space for Spring 2014!

724-940-2444

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Happenings for Seniors

Safety for Seniors will conduct FREE Home Safety Checks. For info, call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 or www.nhco.org.

Beatty Point Village Seminars: Memory Maintenance, 10 a.m., Feb. 6, International Button Box Club, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 19, 700 Beatty Rd., Monroeville. To register, call (412) 374-9000.

Sherwood Oaks Events: Dr. Knowledge, 2 p.m., Feb. 11; Johnny Angel Performing Live, 2 p.m., Feb. 24, 100 Norman Dr., Cranberry Twp. Registration is free, call 1-800-642-2217 or www.sherwood-oaks. com.

Cranberry Senior Citizens Club for residents 55+ meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. Call (724) 816-4977 for info and programs. Free Home Safety Inspection is available for seniors through the Open Your Heart to a Senior program. For info, call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 or clpschirer@nhco.org. Free Rides for Seniors, to grocery stores, doctor’s appts & more thru St. Margaret’s Foundation. Pick up & drop off seniors in the corridors from Sharpsburg to Blawnox & Rt. 28 to the Allegheny River. Sign up by calling, (412) 449-0151.

Friendship Groups for Visually Impaired, Men’s Group meets every Weds. 1-3:15 p.m., Knitting & Crocheting Circle meets every Weds., 1-3:15 p.m., Monthly Meeting 2nd Thurs. of each month 1:15-3:15 p.m., The Lunch Bunch meets 4th Thurs. of every month 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon. of each month 1-2:30 p.m. For info, call 724-444-0064.

Home Instead Senior Care® is offering a unique approach to help area families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available for families at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com. Mars AARP Chapter #3359 meets 2nd Wed. of every month, 1 p.m., Adams Township Municipal Building, 690 Valencia Rd., Mars. All Butler seniors are welcome. Cost $5 a year. North Hills Community Outreach Sharing Winter Warmth, program helps seniors with winter warmth. For info, call (412) 487-6316 or vdburst@nhco.org. Parkwood Suburban North Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Meals on Wheels services Hampton & southern Richland townships. Call (412) 486-7115. Perrymont North AARP #2991 meeting, 11:30 a.m., 3rd Thurs, of the month, (Feb. 20th), basement of Northmont United Presbyterian Church, Rt. 19, McCandless. Prospective members are invited to visit and consider becoming members. Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. For info, call (412) 741-4900 or visit http://www.ccgf.org.

St. Alexis Over 50 Trips & Events, Feb. 4 & 5, Three Casino. For info, call Rose (724) 728-2563. Strabane Trails Village February Events: Fall Prevention, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 6, River City Brass Band, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 27, 317 Wellness Way, Washington, Penna. To register, call (724) 225-4100. UPMC Senior Communities offers independent living & personal care. For details, call 1-800-324-5523. Vanadium Woods Village Events: Silver Sky Duo, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 11; Forgotten Tales of Pittsburgh, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 27, 50 Vanadium Rd., Bridgeville. Registration is free, call (412) 222-2900. Volunteer Opportunities: North Hills Community Outreach’s Faith in Action program is seeking Senior Companion volunteers. For details, contact Nancy, at (412) 307-0069 or nljones@nhco.org. Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring, help your child learn to read. If you’re 50 or older you’ll be trained. Tutor training sessions run 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at downtown Macy’s. For details, call John (412) 232-2021 or email jdspehar@oasisnet. org. Open Your Heart to a Senior, Snow Squad volunteers are needed, to shovel snow for seniors. For details, call (412) 307-0071 or 2-1-1, or visit www.oyhs.org or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior. org. Open Your Heart to a Senior Orientation Session, 6:30 p.m., Feb. 18, Shaler North Hills Library, 1822 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. For info, call (412) 307-0071 or 2-1-1, or visit www.oyhs.org or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org. Open Your Heart to a Senior Website. Visit www.openyourhearttoasenior.org. Safety for Seniors Volunteer Orientation, 11 a.m.-4.m., Feb. 22, Family Services of WPA, 6401 Penn Ave, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh (E. Liberty). For details, contact Jeffrey at (412) 661-1670 x613 or holmesj@fswp.org. Part-Time Work: Home Helpers offer flexible part- and fulltime schedules in a variety of home care positions from caregiving to office administration. Submit a request for employment on our website, and a representative from your nearest location will be in touch to discuss the opportunities in your area. Go to: http://www.homehelpers.cc

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Town Crier

Exploring February – Our Second Month BY JOE BULLICK

he month of February derives its name from the Latin word “februo,” which means to purify through sacrifice. February was a time of atonement for the ancient Romans. February has one leg firmly planted in winter and the other tilting toward spring. It is a month that makes farmer’s downright restless, and with the thought of spring coming, February packs in a lot of action. While February seems a bit premature for spring cleaning or for any serious regrets about the year that’s just begun, we might want to hang our hats on a different piece of lore, perhaps Groundhog Day on February 2nd. During this time, we are also halfway to spring. Valentine’s Day is on Feb. 14th and it is a great excuse for smooching or indulging in chocolates. During our second month, we also have Abraham Lincoln and George Washington’s birthdays with President’s Day falling on Monday, Feb. 17th. It is no wonder that February needs an extra day every four years. It seems that in the winter months, there are more house fires. My mom always worried about having a fire. We had an older house with a coal furnace and gas heaters. It is different in homes today. Be sure to pay close attention to what are the leading causes of house fires. They include cigarette smoking, defective heating systems, kids playing with matches, lighters, faulty electrical systems, extensions cord mishaps, and cooking accidents. In our old house we had no smoke detectors, please be sure to install them and replace the batteries regularly. Make sure your family has an exit plan for each room in case of a fire. Pick a spot outside where your family can meet. February is a time for gardeners and landscapes who work outside. Sometimes we see the deepest snow and the first lambs of the season. Despite the snow cover, there are a few things that you could do. Prune grapes now removing most of the old wood. If you see coal black knobs on fruit tree branches remove them immediately since this is a fungus, and burn all the affected limbs. Get your garden tools sharpened and make sure lawn equipment is in proper order. Loggers like to fall trees in February before the sap starts to rise. One of my jobs in February was to turn all the mattresses and to clean all the closets. These small mundane tasks seemed to bring spring a little closer.

In Ireland, February 1st is St. Brigid’s Day, the start of Celtic spring. If it snows on her day, it means that you will have a wet spring. As a young boy, I could hardly wait to see the first robin. When I would see them, I knew that spring was around the corner. I can’t believe how fast they build their nest from inside and out, pressing dead grass and twigs in a cup shape. They do a great job! Well that’s February for me. Happy Birthday to you Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) and to you Pisces (Feb. 20Mar. 20). Have a great February and I leave you with this – “Wishing to be friends is quick work, but Friendship is a slow ripening fruit.” ~ Aristotle F

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Help!

Encounters with Socialized Medicine in Foreign Countries

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

y husband, Tom, and I experienced the difference between healthcare systems between the U.S. and England and what we, prior to the encounter have taken for granted. Once we arrived in England, Tom’s allergies were kicking in overtime. The BBC reported on the NEWS that this was one of the worst years on record for pollen and Tom was feeling it. During a day of sight-seeing, Tom’s congestion got increasingly worse. Nothing seemed to be helping. By the time, we got back to the hotel, none of the over-the-counter medicines were helping at all and he was still getting worse. He said, “I’ve never experienced anything like this”. Thinking if we went to “Hospital” we could get some prescription-strength decongestant or something, which would be easy enough to do in the States. So off we went to our first experience with socialized medicine. When we first went into the Emergency Room, the waiting room was packed with people. But then, a fire alarm went off and we all had to go outside. Once the firemen gave us the all clear, most of the people had left. We wondered, where did they all go? Weren’t they in need? While we were waiting, a man with cuts on his right forearm came in, dripping blood as he went. He said he had been in a fight, which if my years of watching detective shows are at all accurate, these were defensive wounds from a knife fight.

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Unsettling, but the truly terrifying thing was the fact that NO ONE cleaned up the blood or seemed to care about the blood he was dripping on the registry desk and all over the waiting room. With all the bloodborne diseases around today, you would think somebody would care about cross contamination. Tom and I kept flinching every time someone else would come in and lean into or otherwise touch the blood. Tom said “Wow, what a different culture – one day when I was teaching, one of the students got a nose bleed – just one drop fell and the entire class had to wait in the hall while the classroom was disinfected and she was forced to go to the nurse.” Personally, I think a little paranoia about blood-borne illnesses is a good thing.” Finally, after three and half hours in the waiting room, Tom saw a doctor. “Yes, she said, you are drastically congested and your sinuses are completely swollen. Unfortunately,” she continued, “we don’t keep prescription-strength decongestant at the hospital and you’re not sick enough yet for antibiotics. You would be best to go back to your hotel, put on some vapor rub and sit in a steamy bathroom and hope it clears.” Have you had any encounters with socialized medicine in other countries? Post them to our Facebook page or my blog: http://northernconnectionmagazine. blogspot.com. F

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Living Simply

BY MARISA TOMASIC, PhD

As 2014 gets underway, have you resolved to replace stress with more relaxation and joy in your everyday living, to perhaps live a little more simply? If so, we feel confident that you will enjoy Northern Connection’s latest feature, “Living Simply!”

e are excited to bring you this new segment; featuring all things simple, refreshing, and uncomplicated, things that might fit in well with your plans for making 2014 great! Sharing the spotlight will be simple recipe ideas, unique leisure and travel suggestions, natural beauty and skincare product options, relaxation and stress reduction tips, decorating hints, “back in the day” segments, “low-tech” nostalgia, and more. We look forward to sharing with you inspiring ideas for reconnecting to life’s simple pleasures. We will also be welcoming ideas from our readers, looking forward to hearing about and showcasing your suggestions for simply joyful living. For submissions, contact Marisa at Marisa@northernconnectionmag.com, or share your ideas on Facebook or Twitter. F

Quaint, charming clothing boutiques have slowly vanished from the landscape over the past couple of decades. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting the home of Andy Griffith, Mt. Airy, North Carolina during a vacation south, you might have noticed or even stopped in F. Rees Clothing along main street. Offering the very best in men’s and ladies’ apparel and accessories, they offer personal shopping with true Southern hospitality. If you don’t have a “Mayberry” trip planned any time soon, please visit them online and shop with them on Facebook for a simply one-of-a-kind shopping treat.

198 N. Main Street, Mt.Airy, NC. (336)786-6121

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HOT Styling Tips for the Cold BY KELLY SMITH

he weather outside is more than just frightful. It’s downright freezing, subzero at times but there’s no need to sacrifice fashion for warmth. There’s a trick to looking both cute and cozy that doesn’t involve overly puffy coats, bulky boots, or faux furlined, floppy ear hats that make you look like a little woodland creature. So, how do you manage to look stylish for a night out while keeping the warmth in? It’s actually pretty easy if you put forth a bit of effort in planning, with just a few key pieces, you’ll be ready to sashay your way through that frosty air!

Fashion Forward Coat – Find a really nice-fitting dressy coat. When I say ‘nice-fitting,’ I mean

30 February 2014 | Northern Connection

make sure it is the right size, cut and length for your body type. Avoid a zipper and instead, look for buttons or grommets and do find one that is belted, as this always tends to give a very dressy appearance while keeping you fashionably bundled up! Choose a solid color- not necessarily basic black but darker colors are just a little more practical due to the slush and snow covered streets.

Accessories – Invest in a versatile and trendy hat such as a newsboy, fedora or knitted beret, also trending right now are headbands. No, not those felt ones you wear while jogging, I’m talking real, fashionable headbands, including embellishments

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like gemstones and florets. Also, a chic set of gloves is key to stylin’ in the snow (and no one likes to look at cracked, dry hands). If you’re really into cold weather accessories, why not add a scarf? The trend has been around for a while now so there’s no shortage of style.

Layer, layer and layer – just like a good slice of cake, (shame on me!) layers are better. It could be as simple as a super thin long sleeved top under a sweater or a pair of spanx under your jeans. It doesn’t need to be bulky but adding just one thin layer can make a huge difference in body temperature. Toss those big bulky sweaters and instead opt for a body hugging wrap

NC |

“Gifts” You Can Give Someone Who Has Lost Someone Through Death

Tights and Leggings – These will be your go-to tool for showing some leg while keeping them as warm as if they were covered by jeans, however, you have to find the right material. Sheer nylons won’t stand up to the frigid frost of winter but find a good cotton cable knit pair and you’ll be looking and feeling hot! And, here’s a good tip to wearing tights or leggings: Just before you pull them up over your bare legs, use a good spray moisturizer from ankle to waist (I recommend Vaseline spray & go) and you will be inadvertently giving your legs a mini moisturizing bath since the material is skin hugging! Hey, a girl has to take advantage of any timesaving measures, right?

Boots or Shoes? – Well either one is fine as long as you follow a few simple do’s and don’ts (remember, this is for a stylish night out): Do choose a dress boot. It doesn’t have to have a heel but it does need to be made of a natural material such as leather or suede. If they are reminiscent of jumping up and down in rain puddles when you were 5 or that pair that you schlepped in to the grocery store yesterday, then you can answer to the fashion police. Heels are always good but do make sure that they are closed toed and for an extra measure of safety add some anti-slip grippers to the bottom sole. Even though it’s the dead of winter, you can always find time to have a fun and fashionable night out. Don’t be too quick to wish winter away because before long, we will be complaining about the heat and trying to find ways to hide our flaws from adding too many pounds over these last few months. Which reminds me, I need to do our weekly grocery shopping so I will be schlepping into the grocery store with my finest rubber boots and puffy coat. I just know I’ll be picking up layered cake from the bakery because, well, I have nowhere fashionable to be this evening. F

BY ELAINE A. MALEC, PHD

magine you’ve just gotten a phone call from a good friend with the news you knew was coming. Her husband has lost his battle with cancer or heart disease or diabetes or some other devastating illness. The strong desire to be there for your dear friend in her darkest hour can be overshadowed by the apprehension and insecurity of how to be supportive; but not intrusive or absent. The Gift of Quality time: We’ve all heard that relationships needs quality time not quantity time. When a friend is grieving, time can become distorted. Each day without the person she loves seems to go on forever and her physical and mental energy is being drained by this fact. Allow your friend to pace the amount of time together, but keep a gentle and constant rhythm of connection. For example cards saying your friend is in your thoughts or even a text with a simple message can provide a connection without your friend feeling the pressure of engaging. The Gift of Listening: One of the most important “gifts” a person can give another person is the gift of listening. Your gift of listening is about being in the moment with your hurting friend; wherever they are. This might mean that they are focused on some trite situation they had gone through in the morning or it might mean they are talking about the last medical test her beloved had that indicated the cancer had spread. Either way, listening can go a long way to show genuine caring. The Gift of Memories: A story you can share about the person your friend has lost is so precious. Whether the story is recent or long past, whether it is important or trivial, it doesn’t matter. Hearing someone talk about the person who’s gone is very touching to the bereaved. The Gift of “No Platitudes:” We have all done it. We are stumped, befuddled, caught off guard and we say those trite comments to fill the space. “He’s in a better place.” Or, “He’s not suffering anymore.” “You’ve got to be strong for…..”. Our gentle silence or a simple, “I’m so sorry” with a gentle hug or touch is more comforting. The Gift of Touch: Although we don’t realize it, human touch doesn’t happen often enough these days. A wonderful and tender gift is the gift of a heartfelt hug. The Gift of Help: Sometimes our friendship and support isn’t enough. If we see that our friend is truly struggling and is talking about not being able to go on, this is the time to encourage support from a trained professional.

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Enhance Your Life

or long cowl neck sweater. As long as you keep the under layer thin, you will stay slim looking.

For more information about grief and loss, please visit us at www.malecherringandkrause.com. Dr. Elaine Malec is a licensed psychologist practicing at The Psychological Cooperative of Malec, Herring & Krause in Mars.

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Photo: Dr. Paul Follansbee, right, James F. Will Professor of Engineering Science and director of the bachelor of science degree in engineering science at Saint Vincent College, demonstrates a force table in the Fr. Roland Heid, O.S.B. General Physics Laboratory for Dr. Stephen Jodis, left, dean of the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing, and Dr. John Smetanka, center, vice president for academic affairs and academic dean. The new program begins this fall.

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Innovations In the Classroom BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

In our January issue, we began highlighting the fascinating and innovative ways that the schools in our area are educating students. Here, we continue to give examples of the ways new methodologies, inspirational programs and the use of technology are being incorporated into the classroom. Agile Instruction and Management Solutions- offers innovative instructional design so that anyone can learn or improve their learning skills. From teaching children with severe learning disabilities how to write their name, to increasing skills in students who refuse to do their homework, to the high school students who wants to improve their SAT scores and everyone inbetween, these ground-breaking, inhome learning solutions enable every

32 February 2014 | Northern Connection

child across all skill levels to be both accurate and fluent WHILE focusing through distractions. Holy Sepulcher School – Computer skills start in kindergarten and by the second grade, in addition to tablets and Smart Boards, the students are composing paragraphs with the Neo 2® personal writing tool from which they can send their writing to the teacher or even beam it from

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one machine to another so students can read and edit each other’s writing. Holy Sepulcher also implements Lego® robotics into the classroom where the students can design, build and control robots to solve software simulations of real-life problems and missions such as sending directives to a robot to remove a tree branch from electrical wires. The popularity of the use of the robotics in the classroom (Continued on page 34)

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Northern Connection | February 2014 33

has led to a Robotics Club of three teams – two all-boy teams and one allgirl team – and all three teams made it to the national championships at CMU. Oakland Catholic High School – in cooperation with a program developed through Carnegie Mellon University on bioinformatics, the students have access to a plethora of International databases to study the DNA and genetic sequencing of any organ-

ism. In one experiment, the young women of Oakland Catholic were able to remove the genetic sequence of a firefly that is responsible for making it glow and splice it to the genetic code of bacteria to make it glow. In addition to their close relationship with CMU and access to the CMU labs, they also have a close relationship with University of Pittsburgh where they have access to the Chemistry and Physics labs for experiments and research. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School – has installed the latest generation of interactive projectors, specifically, the Epson Brightlink® Pro, which, when projecting, turns ANY wall into an Interactive Smart Board. Then, with special pens, the students can write on the projected area, do math problems and even annotate

presentations all of which can be saved and uploaded to the respective teacher’s online blog for reference by both students and parents. Additionally, classrooms at OLSH also have video streaming devices known as IPTVs to stream educational videos, including announcements done by the students. Teachers at OLSH have also incorporated many educational apps into the coursework, for example, even Latin class uses a fun and innovative app called Speed Latin™ which is a game for all the students play to review their Latin lesson. St. Alphonsus School – the students are learning both how to use computer software and apps and to create their own applications. Starting in kindergarten with apps that reinforce mouse skills, entering text and so forth, then continues through and by 4th grade, they are learning programming concepts through a visual programming language via the Bill Gates endorsed “The Hour To Code” and students can create their own Angry Birds® game. Then, by 7th and 8Th grade, students are being introduced to the fundamentals of programming logic such as If…Then and Looping and are writing English-based algorithms. St. James School - has participated in a NASA program with the International Space Station where students from around the world could submit questions and then, watch a LIVE feed from space where the astronauts answered the questions and demonstrated the types of experiments they do. St. James students also create a mock trial where the 8th grade students write the script and then there is a field trip to the court house to enact the trial where the 7th graders serve as the jury and the D.A. presides as (Continued on page 36)

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Northern Connection | February 2014 35

judge. Math teachers also use a web site known as Mathletics® where the students reinforce their math skills and can compete internationally for high score which has been achieved by a St. James student. St. Sebastian School – integrates inquiry-based learning throughout the school and in their completely renovated lab. Inquiry-based learning uses the scientific method for problem solving,

so the students experience learning and truly understand the material instead of just knowing the correct answer. Many projects are cross-discipline. For example, the students have debated fracking which required research on both sides of the issue, not just whether the internet says it is good or bad. Once prepared, the debate was judged by a local politician. Also, many experiments at St. Sebastian use household items so that the students can replicate the experiment at home. For example, in one experiment the students are taught to create and use a solution of soap, salt and rubbing alcohol to extract DNA from a strawberry. St. Vincent College – is receiving national recognition for its innovative Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice that was developed in cooperation between the college’s Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing and the Excela Health School of Anesthesia. Master-prepared Certified Registered (Continued on page 38)

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Northern Connection | February 2014 37

Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) from around the country are earning their doctorate without leaving their jobs through this hybrid educational program. Students participate in a oneweek classroom intensive on campus and the remainder of the semester is completed through distance learning and telecommunication technologies. St. Vincent also has a new 4-year Engineering Science major that serves to complement their successful 3-2 Engineering programs with Penn State, University of Pittsburgh and Catholic University of America. Designed for students who want to remain at SVC for their 4th year, the Engineering Science major offers a broad field of engineering including engineering design, physics, computer engineering and environmental science. If you want to learn more about the amazing and innovative way schools in our area are implementing state-of-the-art technologies and teaching methods, visit our web site at www.northernconnectionmag. com to see the January article and be sure to read our March issue that will contain even More Innovations in the Classroom. F

Look for more Classroom Innovations in our March issue! Is your school implementing innovative learning? Be sure and let us know by emailing northcon@ consolidated.net or calling 724-940-2444

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School Movers & Shakers Avonworth Avonworth School District presented over $22,300 to Children’s Hospital for the Free Care Fund, which was the top donor for the fund. Avonworth High School announced that senior soccer player Thanna Oddo will sign her letter of intent on Feb. 5, with West Liberty University in West Virginia. Thanna holds the school’s record for most career goals at 67.

Eden Christian Academy Eden Christian Academy second grade student Annie Wang was chosen as a Steinway Society Young Artist for the 2013-14. Annie’s entire audition was performed completely from memory.

Fox Chapel Fox Chapel Area School District students held their annual telethon Dec. 20 and they raised more than $43,000. The contributions will go towards the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) of Western PA. Fox Chapel Area High School junior Simran Parwani was named a winner in the national 2013 Cassini “Scientist for a Day” essay contest.

Fox Chapel Area High School student Suvir Mirchandani was a winner at the 2014 Young Artists Auditions. Suvir will perform on Mar. 16 at the Kresge Recital Hall at Carnegie Mellon University. Fox Chapel Area High School 201213 literary magazine Tapestry has been named a first place winner in the American Scholastic Press Association’s Annual Contest/Review for scholastic Yearbooks, Magazines and Newspapers. Four Fox Chapel Area High School students placed at the North Allegheny Invitational Forensic Tournament. Team members were: Amogha Vijayvargiya, Ella Meyler, Frank Lou and Rama Godse.

the anti-bullying book Brock Lee and the Lunchbox League.

La Roche College Four projects created by La Roche College graphic design students were honored in HOW magazine’s 2013 International Design Awards, a competition that recognizes design excellence on a global scale.

Seneca Valley Seneca Valley Middle School is hosting their own Olympics, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Feb. 12, in the Middle School gymnasium. Each homeroom in the school will represent a country throughout the competition.

Five Fox Chapel Area High School students were selected to perform at Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) choral festivals. The chosen students were: Melissa Cagan, Christopher Hayes, Yonatan Quemado, Elena Meth, and Eli Berman.

Hampton Central Elementary School teacher Mrs. Joell McMonigal, in the Hampton School District has earned National Board Certification in the category of Literacy: Reading-Language Arts/Early and Middle Childhood. Hampton assistant superintendent Dr. L. Jo Welter has been named a “Leader of the Year” by Tech & Learning magazine. Hampton Township Middle School teacher Melissa Survinski, along with her husband David, co-wrote and illustrated

Seneca Valley School District received the first-place grand prize of $5,000 cash & 100 T-shirts in the high school lip dub contest. Former Pittsburgh Steeler Lynn Swann and St. Vincent College admission counselor Mara Greiner presented the award.

Shaler Shaler Area High School studentswriters in the Creative Writing class will (Continued on page 40)

Fox Chapel Area High School freshman soccer player Max Silberg has made it to the semifinal round of the USA Today Ultimate Athlete 2013. Two members of the Fox Chapel Crew, Robert Heister and Noah Kasian attended the USRowing Midwest Speed Orders in Ann Arbor, Mich. Fox Chapel Area High School junior Rama Godse received first place at the Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School Invitational Forensic Tournament.

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Northern Connection | February 2014 39

read selections of their original work Live-On-Air, 10:35 a.m., Feb. 15, in the studio of Saturday Light Brigade from The Pittsburgh Children’s Museum.

North Allegheny North Allegheny High School students Rebecca Lee and Caroline Fedor were chosen as winners at the 2014 Young Artists Auditions. They will perform on Mar. 16 at the Kresge Recital Hall at Carnegie Mellon University.

Saint Kilian Saint Kilian School, sixth grader Stephanie Petinaux was named one of the youngest winners of the Pittsburgh Concert Society Young Artist Audition 2014 which was held Jan. 4 at Carnegie Mellon University. She will perform a piano recital on Mar. 2 at Kresge Hall at CMU. Stephanie was awarded a $500 scholarship for her achievement.

St. Teresa of Avila Jane Fusco, a sixth-grader at St. Teresa of Avila School was a 2013 winner of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ “Oh Say Can You Sing” talent competition. Hundreds of adults and children competed for the chance to sing the Anthem at a 2013 Pirates regular-season game. Jane sang the Star-Spangled Banner in front of a sell-out crowd of over 33,000 people at PNC Park on July 3.

St. Vincent College One hundred and twenty-one students received their undergraduate and graduate degrees at the ninth annual December commencement ceremony of St. Vincent College on Dec. 14. A 10-second video about

St. Vincent College is now appearing on the CBS Superscreen in Times Square in New York City. The video will run through Mar. 31 and it focuses on the St. Vincent campus, its students and activities. Four St. Vincent College students were named officers of the Student Government Association Executive Board for service during 2014. They are: Justin Teets, Carly Meholic, Robert Tokarski II and Rabia Uddin. (Continued on page 42)

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School Movers & Shakers of the Month

Local College Students Reach Out and Help Those Less Fortunate BY PAULA GREEN

“Love is not patronizing and charity isn’t about pity, it is about love. Charity and love are the same -- with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach out your hand instead.” – Mother Teresa

ecently, some local college students heeded the words of Mother Teresa and reached out their hands and helped those less fortunate by performing charitable acts. The women’s ice hockey teams of Robert Morris University and Chatham University participated in a competition that benefited clients of North Hills Community Outreach who were transitioning from homelessness. The ladies challenged each other to a Move-in Basket Collection Competition and the leader of the losing team had to take the “Polar Plunge” on Dec. 14, which happened to be a snowy, rainy day in the Burgh. The two-week challenge lasted from Nov. 27 to Dec. 11. The baskets were filled with household necessities such as bedding, towels, cookware, toiletries and bathroom supplies. Many of these transitioning families had no basic, every day staples so the move-in basket items were very much needed and also very welcomed. When the contest came to an end, Chatham won the challenge by a small margin. Since the competition was so close, both team leaders decided to take the Polar Plunge. Their bodies may have frozen, but they warmed many hearts of families in need.

Another campus that was busy reaching out to the disadvantaged was Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. The SWAG group (sacrifice, witness, adore and glorify) conducted a shoe drive. Over 550 pairs of gently used shoes were collected and shipped to Soles for Souls. Founded in 2004, this global not-for-profit institution is dedicated to fighting the devastating impact and perpetuation of poverty through the distribution of shoes and clothing. They dispense garment items and shoes to orphanages, shelters and low-incomes area both domestically and abroad. SWAG team members that participated in the Soles for Souls drive included – Lauren Donahue, Mark Azzarello, Andrew Razanauskas, Ben Grassi, Emily Davis, Zaza Yanosick, Alexis Zawelensky, and Steve Sherman. The group also raised about $450 in monetary donations. SWAG’s mission is to enable students of all faith traditions to explore, celebrate, act on and live their faith through prayer, education, service and Christian living. Thanks to their dedication and charitable ways they were able to donate to many deprived souls. F

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Northern Connection | February 2014 41

St. Vincent College’s Department of Criminology, Law and Society in the School of Social Sciences, Communications and Education announced the addition of three new minors in forensic studies – computer security, financial investigations and natural sciences. Richard Fernandes has been named executive director of the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at St. Vincent College.

St. Vincent College announced that Ron Dolciato, associate head coach and offensive coordinator at John Carroll University has been named SVC’s head football coach.

Providence Heights Alpha School

The robotics team from Providence Heights Alpha School “the Alphabots,” won the Western PA First Lego League Regional Major competition and the “Golden Ticket.” Team members were: Oscar Heller, Evan Moncheck, Andrew Pritchard, Christian Farls, Max Kress, Sam Farls and Sean McCarthy. They will advance to the Grand Championship which will be held Feb. 22 at the Carnegie Robotics. Providence Heights Alpha School held a Baby Jesus Birthday Party on Dec. 20. Students traveled through several rooms and enjoy fun activities while learning something related to the Christmas season.

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EDUCATION 2014 DIRECTORY Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School Cwnchs.org 412-321-4823 See ad on page 36

Central Catholic High School

Centralcatholichs.com 412-621-7505 See ad on page 40

Chatham College www.chatham.edu 800.837.1290 See ad on page 43

Holy Sepulcher Catholic School

Holysepulcher.org/school 724-586-5022 See ad on page 38

La Roche College

Laroche.edu 800-838-4572 See out ad on the back cover

Oakland Catholic Oaklandcatholic.org 412- 682-6633 See ad on page 35

Saint Alphonsus Catholic School

Robert Morris University

Saint James School

Rothrockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kung Fu

Saint Kilian Parish School

Saint Alexis Catholic School

Saint Sebastian School

Alphaschool.org 412-366-4455 See ad on page 42 Rmu.edu/promote 800-762-0097 See ad on page 35

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart olsh.org 412-264-5140 See ad on page 34

Rothrockskungfu.com 724-940-0120 See ad on page 39

Penn State Beaver Beaver.psu.edu 877-join-psu See ad on page 37

Providence Heights Alpha School

Stalexisschool.org 724-935-3940 See ad on page 36

stals.org 724-935-1152 See ad on page 38 Stjamesschool.us 412-741-5540 See ad on page 37

Saintkilian.org/school 724-625-1665 x2101 See ad on page 38

saintsebastianparish.org 412-364-7171 See ad on page 37

Saint Vincent College Stvincent.edu See ad on page 33

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February 2014 TRIVIA CONNECTION | NC n n n

BY PAULA GREEN

he countdown has begun for the 2014 Winter Olympics (XXII) to be held Feb. 7-23 in Sochi, Russia. This marks the 90th anniversary - which no sports enthusiast would dare to miss! The first Olympics Winter Games were called “Winter Sports Week,” and were held Jan. 25-Feb. 4, 1924 in Chamonix, France. Sixteen countries participated in the inaugural event. The 1936 games were played at the German resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Many folks didn’t want it held in Nazi, Germany. Despite the protest, 28 countries attended. During this competition, the Olympic torch was lit for the first time for the opening ceremony and extinguished the final day. This tradition has remained and is still practiced today. The 1940 Olympics was to be held in Japan and the 1944 Games in Italy. Both were cancelled because of World War II. They returned in 1948 in St. Moritz, Switzerland. Over the years, many American athletes have achieved phenomenal success. Eddie Eagan is the only athlete to have won gold medals at both Summer and Winter Olympics - he won gold in 1920 in boxing, and also in 1932 in the team bobsled event. Controversy has also struck the Winter Olympics - who could forget the incident on Jan. 6, 1994? U.S. Figure Skater Nancy Kerrigan was clubbed in the leg in what became known as “The Whack Heard Around the World.” Fellow skater Tanya Harding was banned from the sport for her involvement in the bludgeoning attack. This year’s Winter Olympics has plenty of excitement with 35 countries participating in 98 events in 15 winter sports. Pittsburghers will enjoy seeing some Penguins in the hockey competition. Chris Kunitz and Sidney Crosby will play for Team Canada. Evgeni Malkin will suit-up for Team Russia, while Jussi Jokinen and Olli Maatta will face-off with Team Finland. Our own country will be represented with Brooks Orpik and Paul Martin playing for Team USA. The team will be coached by Dan Bylsma. This past November, the Winter Olympic became historical. A pair of Russian cosmonauts took the Olympic torch into open space for the first time in history as part of the torch relay of the Sochi 2014 Winter Games. Since we have glided our way through Winter Olympics, we must now race through this query. Get set to track your answers because it’s time to get a little trivial...

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1. Who is the only hockey player to win an Olympic gold medal and a Stanley Cup in the same year? 2. Name the football star who was also a member of the 1992 U.S. Men’s Olympic bobsled team in Albertville? 3. In 1998, U.S. figure skater, Tara Lipinski became the youngest athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in an individual event. How old was she? 4. In 1994, this speed skater won six Olympic medals, five gold and one bronze. 5. What was the first year that Canada hosted the Winter Games? 6. Name the event in which athletes compete in the halfpipe and parallel giant slalom? 7. In 1994, Nancy Kerrigan won the silver, Tanya Harding wasn’t in contention, and Oksana Baiul took the gold, for what country? 8. He is the most decorated American Winter Olympic athlete of all time, winning two gold, two silver and four bronze medals. 9. She won the gold medal in downhill skiing at the 2010 Winter Olympics, the first ever in the event for an American woman. 10. Dorothy Hamill, Scott Hamilton, Bryan Boitano, Kristi Yamaguchi, Michelle Kwan and Evan Lysacek won gold competing in this sport. 11. This Winter Olympics event combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. 12. The United States hosted the Winter Games four times - Squaw Valley, California (1960), and Salt Lake City, Utah (2002), and this location twice – in 1932 and in 1980. 13. In this Winter Game, a person races their sled down an icy track while they are face first. 14. He was the first African-American athlete (from any nation) to win a gold medal in an individual sport at the Olympic Winter Games. 15. The 2018 Winter Olympics will be held in PyeongChang – what country is this? F Sources: http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/first-winter-olympics, http:// www.factmonster.com/quizzes/02olympics1/1.html, http://www.infoplease. com/ipsa/A)115111.html, http://www.topendsports.com/events/winter/sports/, http://www.sochi2014.com/mobileen/history

Answers: 1. Ken Morrow (1980) 2. Herschel Walker 3. Fifteen 4. Bonnie Blair 5. 1988 (Calgary) 6. Snowboarding 7. Ukraine 8. Apolo Ohno 9. Lindsey Vonn 10. Figure Skating 11. Biathlon 12. Lake Placid, New York 13. Skeleton 14. Shani Davis (speed skater) 15. South Korea

Winter Olympics Trivia

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During their adventure, the Penco Family has visited the burial sites of (l to r) Calvin Coolidge, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson, Ronald Reagan and Warren G. Harding.

A Presidential Pastime BY PAULA GREEN

As Presidents’ Day approaches, we introduce you to a family whose quest is to see all the presidential burial sites. Pittsburgh natives, Greg and Donna Penco who now reside in Erie, have been visiting historical markers for the past 34 years.

“T

he visits to the presidential sites have been an exciting and remarkable adventure in learning more about the individuals that helped shape our nation’s history,” said Greg. Their journey began when they were married in 1980. Both are history buffs, so they decided to honeymoon in Washington, D.C. During their trip, they visited their first Presidential grave at Mt. Vernon, home and burial site of George Washington. Twenty years later, they went back, this time accompanied by their two daughters, Heather and Holly. They revisited Mt. Vernon, and Arlington National Cemetery, the final resting place of John F. Kennedy and William Taft. They included Woodrow Wilson, who is interred in the Washington National Cathedral. The next several years, the Pencos made stops in Virginia to see the burial sites of Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe and John Tyler. According to Donna, 2004 was their first “official” presidential vacation year. “We went to Boston to visit the burial sites of John Adams and John Quincy Adams, as well as JFK’s birthplace and Presidential Library.” “The following year, we saw six presidential sites during our trip to Nashville. We toured the ‘Hermitage’ - home and burial site of Andrew Jackson, and James Polk’s grave on the grounds of the Capitol Building. Enroute to Nashville, we stopped at Warren Harding and William Henry Harrison’s graves in Ohio, Zachary Taylor’s in Kentucky and Abraham

Lincoln’s birthplace and childhood homes in Kentucky. Our last stop was “Spiegel Grove” in Fremont, Ohio, which encompasses the home, library and grave of Rutherford B. Hayes.” Their next trip was to New England. They started in an Albany, N.Y. cemetery to find Chester Arthur. There are 17 presidents buried in cemeteries and sometimes the pursuit can be challenging. The Pencos searched for Arthur, Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison and James Buchanan. The least impressive grave site they found was Millard Fillmore’s in Buffalo, N.Y., with a simple granite marker with only two letters “MF.” They also explored Calvin Coolidge’s final resting site in Plymouth, Vt., Franklin Pierce’s in Concord, N.H., Martin Van Buren’s in Kinderhook, N.Y. and in Hyde Park, N.Y., the home, library and tomb of Franklin Roosevelt. The Penco family flew to California for two west coast sites. “Richard Nixon was born in a humble home that his dad built in Yorba Linda. His birth home sits steps away from his final resting place. In Simi Valley, we saw Ronald Reagan’s Presidential Library and grave,” Donna said. There were also presidential locations closer to home. They saw James Garfield’s tomb in Cleveland, Ohio, William McKinley’s in Canton, Ohio and Gerald Ford’s in Grand Rapids, Mich. On a trip to N.Y.C., the family stopped in Riverside Park, the location of Ulysses Grant’s tomb, the largest mausoleum in North America. “Our most recent pilgrimage was to www.northernconnectionmag.com

Springfield, Ill., which is truly the ‘Land of Lincoln.’ It became our favorite presidential experience. The home that Lincoln resided in prior to the White House is intact, and free and open to the public. His son sold the property to the state of Illinois for one dollar, with the stipulation that no one would ever get charged to enter it. Lincoln’s library opened in 2005. It takes you from his humble beginnings to his White House days, incorporating life size figures of Lincoln and his family. Springfield also boasts Lincoln’s law offices to tour, and the old capitol building, where he laid in state before being buried nearby. Walking into the mausoleum that houses his remains, you can almost feel his presence,” stated Greg. After Springfield, their next stop was in West Branch, Iowa, the birthplace, home, museum and burial site of Herbert Hoover. “Although our leaders haven’t always been the best at being president, most were decent men who truly cared about the country they led. It has brought our family closer together to be able to share our passion for history in this special way,” Donna remarked. The Penco family has visited 33 presidential burial sites, with only five remaining. They are: Teddy Roosevelt at Oyster Bay on Long Island, N.Y., Andrew Johnson in Greeneville, Tenn., Lyndon Johnson in Stonewall, Texas, Harry Truman in Independence, Mo., and Dwight Eisenhower in Abilene, Kan. They look forward to completing this rewarding experience in the next few years. F Northern Connection | February 2014 45

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Quilts of Valor Provide Comfort for Veterans BY PAULA GREEN

t all began back in 2003, when Blue Star mom Catherine Roberts began the Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) from her sewing room in Seaford, Delaware. Her inspiration was her son Nathanael’s year-long deployment in Iraq. Roberts’ desire was to see returning warriors be welcomed home with the love and gratitude they deserved. Since its inception, QOVF has grown into a national community service effort connecting the home-front with the wounded combat warriors and veterans. After the quilt has been bound, washed, labeled and wrapped in a presentation case, it is ready to be awarded. We are fortunate to have a local chapter in our area that skillfully sews these military quilts. The North Pittsburgh Quilts of Valor was launched back in Sept. 2010. The group meets on the second Monday evening of each month at the Quilt Company on Middle Road in Allison Park. Additionally, the group has three Sunday workshops throughout the year for those who are unable to attend the evening meetings. “Currently we have 26 members in our group. We have made 385 quilts so far,” said Bonnie Purcell, head of the North Pittsburgh QOVF chapter. The group receives request for the quilts from various sources, and they are always more than willing to fulfill the needs. “We sometimes receive personal requests, as well as ones from Quilts of Valor Foundation which is done via their website. When one is requested through the website, QOVF will try and find a local group in the area that can make and present the quilt. We have presented quilts to the Veteran’s Leadership Program on the Southside, Wounded Warrior Program, Walter Reed Military Hospital, Semper Fi Odyssey Camp in Boswell, and Women’s Veteran Retreat in New York. We gave out over 40 quilts in November 2011 to the WWII veterans who attended Shaler Middle School’s Veteran’s Breakfast,” Purcell said.

L to R: Betty Kania, Carol Beck, Becky Shanko, Bonnie Purcell

“Recently there was a segment on NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams about a Ranger who they thought was in a coma, but he saluted when he was presented his purple heart. That ranger had a Quilt of Valor covering him and Williams did a segment on the ladies who make these quilts. After it aired, over 300 requests for quilts were submitted on the QOV website. Sometimes we get a request for quilts to go to Returning Warrior Workshops throughout the United States. These workshops are for the reservists who are coming home from Afghanistan and there are usually over 100 quilts needed so everyone receives one. We recently sent some of our quilts to Jacksonville Fla., for a Returning Warrior Workshop. We’ve also sent them to Austin, New Orleans, and Washington D.C. We will be going back to Semper Fi Odyssey Camp in April, so we are currently working on getting the 40 quilts that will be needed,” Purcell added. The quilts are funded through various organizations. “Thrivent Financial, Allegheny Chapter 30712, has supported us the last three years with a grant for $1,200. They give us a gift certificate for The Quilt Company that we can use to purchase fabric. We have received donations from the VFW in Ross Township, Lawrenceville and McMurray. We spent over $700 last year on mailing our quilts, so donations are always greatly appreciated,” added Purcell. For information on the North Pittsburgh Quilts of Valor, call (412)-366-7269 or visit www.qovf.org. F We welcome brief biographies and photos of local servicemen and women from our community. If you know of someone you’d like to see featured in this column, please call (724) 940-2444 or mail the information to: Northern Connection Magazine, P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722 or email northcon@consolidated.net.

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foodbank.com. Donations always welcome.

Citrus Fruit Sale for North Hills Community Outreach runs thru Feb. 5. To order, call (412) 3070069 x3311 or https://www.nhco. org/fruit.cfm.

Pine Community Center Events: Royal Tea Party, 11 a.m., Mar. 14; Senior Fun & Fitness Day; 11:30 a.m., Mar. 25; Muck-N-Mess, 1 p.m., Fri, Mar. 7-Apr. 11; Start Smart, 6:00 p.m., Tues., Mar. 11-Apr. 15; Tae-Kwon Do, 6:15 Weds. Mar. 5-Apr. 30; Gym Class Challenge, 4 p.m., Tues or Wed., Mar. 11-Apr. 16; Teen Pizza Party & Game Night, 6 p.m., Mar. 28, Thinner Winner Contest, Mar. 3-Apr. 13. Call, (724) 625-1636 x3 or pinecenter@twp.pine.pa.us.

Glade Run Foundation events: Spring Symposium, Mar. 15, Glade Run; Cherish the Children Gala, Apr. 4, Circuit Center Ballroom; Highmark Walk, May 17, Heinz Field. For info, call (412) 4524453 or www.gladerun.org. North Hills Community Outreach’s Community Auto Program is looking for vehicle donations that will provide transportation for low-income individuals. Call (724) 443-8300 or www. communityauto.org.

North Hills Community Outreach is collecting donations of organic seeds for their Rosalinda Sauro Sirianni Garden. For details, call Rosie (412) 307-0069 ext. 3311 or rmwise@nhco.org. North Hills Food Bank, 10 a.m.1:45 p.m. every Tues & Thurs, rear parking lot of Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Highway. Call, (412) 366-7477 or www.northhills

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Pittsburgh Steelers Kick Hunger Challenge benefits the Great Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Visit http://support.tasteofthenfl. com/ for details. Professional Counseling, need someone to talk with but can’t afford it or lack health coverage. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300. Tutoring Volunteers Needed, 1-3 hrs., per week w/homework & study skills. Call Sandy at Anchorpoint Ministries (412) 3661300 x23.

Volunteer Book Sorters Needed for Anchorpoints annual used book sale. For info, call Denise a (412) 366-1300 x13. WorkAble offers free employment services to unemployed and underemployed people in Allegheny County. Call Harriet, (412) 4876316 opt. 2 or visit www.workableac.com.

Mondays Greater Cranberry Barbershop Chorus, meets every Monday at 7 p.m., Mars Alliance Church, Rt. 228. Visit Bogmeisters.com. Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meets the 4th Monday of every month 7 p.m., Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329. Movie Matinee Mondays, 2 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 3, Snitch; Feb. 10, Star Trek into Darkness; Feb. 17, Midnight in Paris, Feb. 24, Oz the Great and Powerful, The Legacy Theatre, 700 Cumberland Woods Drive, McCandless Twp. For info, call (412) 635-8080 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

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Tuesdays North Pittsburgh Mother of Multiples meeting, 7:30 p.m., 3rd Tues., of the month, North Hills Community Baptist Church, 7801 Thompson Run Rd. For info, visit www.facebook.com/NPMOMS.

Wednesday Country Knight Line Dancers host a line dance 7-10:30 p.m. every Wed., in St. Athanasius Hall, cost $5 per person. Call, Janine (412) 931-6971 or janine.beley@ gmail.com.

Thursdays Cranberry Women’s Club, meets 7 p.m. the 2nd Thurs of the month, Cranberry Library Meeting Room. Contact Sandy, (724) 779-1854. DivorceCare, 7-9 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 6-May 8, (no meeting Apr. 17), Orchard Hill in Wexford, Room 201, upper level. For info, call (724) 935-5555 or http://www. orchardhillchurch.com. DivorceCare for Kids, 7-9 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 6-May 8, (no meeting Apr. 17), Orchard Hill in Wexford, Room 200, upper level. For info, call (724) 935-5555 or http:// www.orchardhillchurch.com.

Christy House in Sewickley, Friday luncheons, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Frederick Ave., Sewickley. RSVP for reservations, (412) 7415960. Visit The Needles Eye and Earthly Treasure. For the menu, visit ststephenschurch.net. Sweetwater Jazz Series, 7-9 p.m., Feb. 7, Kevin M. McManus; Feb. 14, Roger Humphries; Feb. 21, Spanky Wilson; Feb. 28, Howie Alexander. For info, call (412) 741-4405 or sweetwaterartcenter. org.

Saturdays Saturday Singles Dance for ages 40+, 8 p.m.-midnight, Feb. 1, Super Bowl Sports Spectacular Party w/prizes, free dance lesson at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 22, Free Speed Dating & Free Nacho Night, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy, West View. Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

Kean Quest Talent search, runs thru Apr. 11. For info, (724) 444-KEAN or http://www.stbarnabashealthsystem.com/keantheatre/ Legacy Lineup at Cumberland Woods Village, Pittsburgh Quirks and All, 11 a.m., Feb. 4; Winston Churchill & Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 11 a.m., Feb. 18, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., Allison Park. Visit TheLegacyLineup.com Legacy Theatre: The Tamburitzans, 2 p.m., Feb. 16; The Marvelous Wonderettes, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 22 & Mar. 1; and 2 p.m., Feb. 23 & Mar. 2, Legacy Theatre. For tickets, 1-877-9876487 or TheLegacyLineup.com. Magic! 7 p.m., Feb. 8, Shaler High School auditorium. Featuring ventriloquist, Dennis Bowman & illusionist, Dan Kuniak. For tickets, contact athena.pacek@gmail.com. Mamma Mia! Feb. 11-16, Heinz Hall. For details, visit www. TrustArts.org.

Arts & Entertainment

Neverlands art exhibit runs thru Feb. 23, Penn Gallery, 709 Penn Ave. For details, visit www. TrustArts.org.

African American Heritage Celebration, 1-3 p.m., Feb. 22, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall. For details, call (412) 621-4253 or soldiersandsailorshall.org.

Richard Thompson w/special guest Teddy Thompson, 8 p.m., Mar. 1, Byham Theater. For details, visit www.TrustArts.org.

All You Need is Love, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 19, Byham Theatre. For info, (412) 456-6666 or TrustArts.org. Brit Floyd, 8 p.m., Mar. 7, Benedum Center. For details, visit www.TrustArts.org. Essence of Joy, 7:30 p.m., Mar. 1, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 985 Providence Blvd, McCandless Twp. Sponsored by Penn State University. For tickets, call Kathy at (412) 610-1952 or kabalouris60@gmail.com. The Gershwinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Porgy and Bess, Feb. 25-Mar. 2, Benedum Center. For details, visit www.TrustArts.org. JazzLive, 5-9 p.m., Tues., Feb. 4, Kevin Howard; Feb. 11, Spanky Wilson; Feb. 18, Kenia; Feb. 25, Anquenique Wingfield, Backstage Bar. Visit www.TrustArts.org/ cabaret. Jergelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rhythm Grille presents: Gin Blossoms, 8 p.m., Feb. 4; Satisfaction: Rolling Stones Tribute, 8 p.m., Feb. 6; Sweet Breeze, 9 p.m., Feb. 15; The Jaggerz, 7 p.m., Feb. 16, Outlaws, 8 p.m., May 7; Average White Band, 8 p.m., June 19. Visit http://tickets.jergels.com.

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Friday

Junie B. Jones, 11 a.m. & 7 p.m., Mar. 14, and 11 a.m. & 2 p.m., Mar. 15, Byham Theater. For tickets, (412) 456-6666 or TrustArts. org/kids.

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GriefShare, 7-8:30 p.m., Thurs., Feb. 6-May 8, (no meeting Apr. 17), Orchard Hill in Wexford, Room 205, upper level. For info, call (724) 935-5555 or http://www. orchardhillchurch.com.

Teacher from the Black Lagoon, 2 p.m., Feb. 16, Seneca Valley Intermediate School; 5:30 & 7:30 p.m., Feb. 20, Marshall Middle School. For tickets, (412) 4566666 or TrustArts.org/kids. Thank God for Jokes, 7:30 p.m., Mar. 20, Byham Theater. For tickets, call (412) 456-6666 or TrustArts.org. Vincentian Academy presents: Grease, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 21, 22, 28 & Mar. 1; 2 p.m., Feb. 23, at the Greater Pittsburgh Masonic Center, 3570 Masonic Way, Ross Twp. For tickets, call (412) 3641616, ext. 219 or visit http:// www.Vamusical.org.

Health & Wellness American Cancer Society is looking for volunteers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments to & from their appts. Interested volunteers should call (412) 919-1100 or emailsharon.stalter@cancer.org. Health, Wealth, Wellness & More Business Expo, noon-6 p.m., Feb. 7 & 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Feb. 8, Clearview Mall. For info, (Continued on page 58)

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call (724) 283-2222 or Jennifer@ ButlercountyChamber.com Lizzy’s Bikes, a Kiwanis Club of Mars community action program, provides free bikes to local needy children. Call (724) 779-4364 or email LizzysBikes@yahoo.com. North Hills Community Outreach needs at least 50 runners to commit to running in the Pittsburgh Marathon. For info, (412) 4876316, opt. 2 x3215 or http:// www.crowdrise.com/Team/ NHCOPittsburgh2014.

Networking Cranberry Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets 7:30 a.m., Feb. 6 & 20, 2662 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Call Marcia, (724) 5383059. Criders Corner Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets noon, Feb. 13 & 27, Cranberry Echo Restaurant, Rt. 228, Cranberry Twp. Call Annette, (724) 316-8005. North Hills Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets 12:30 p.m., Feb. 14 & 28, Atria’s Restaurant, 5517 William Flynn Hwy. Call Debbie, (724) 449-8368. North Hills Newcomers and Friends luncheon featuring chocolate recipes for Valentine’s Day, 11:30 a.m., Feb. 11, Diamond Run Country Club. Visit www. northhillsnewcomers.org or email NHNFmembership@gmail.com. Professional Referral Exchange (PRE) meets 7:15 a.m., Weds, Deck House, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Visit, www.prenetworking.net or call Ken, (610) 496-7600. Ross-West View Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 7:30 a.m., Feb. 13 & 27, Perry Perk Coffee Shop, 1012 Perry Hwy, Ross Twp. Call Donna, (724) 493-9695. Seven Fields Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 8:15 a.m., Feb. 6 & 20, Concordia Life Care Community, Rt. 228, Adams Ridge. Call Nina, (724) 772-1922. Toastmasters Cranberry High Noon Club, meets noon-1 p.m., every Mon., at the Cranberry Library, 2525 Rochester Rd., Suite 400. Guest & new members are welcome. Call Mary Jo, (412) 3677710 or http://3331281.toastmastersclubs.org. Wexford Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 8:00 a.m., Feb. 11 & 25, Atria’s Restaurant, Rt. 19, Wexford. Call Denise, (412) 7161322.

School Happenings Avonworth School District Mobile Makeshop every Tuesday til the end of May. Offered in conjunction with the Children’s Museum. For info, visit www.avonworth.k12.pa.us. Edgar Snyder “Words to be Heard” Scholarship Contest runs through Mar. 28. For details, call 1-800-394-3660 ext. 4412 or www.edgarsnyder.com/scholarship. Every Day is a Holiday (film), 2 p.m., Feb. 9, Rea Auditorium at Sewickley Academy. To register, visit www.sewickley.org/silkscreen. Fox Chapel Area High School Blood Drive, 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Feb. 12, at the high school, 611 Field Club Rd., O’Hara Twp. For info, call (412) 963-9600 or www. fcasd.edu. Fox Chapel Area High School is sponsoring a preschool program that runs Feb. 3-May 15. For details, call Jennifer at (412) 9672400, #1883. Fox Chapel Area Schools 201415 Kindergarten Registration& Parent Orientations are scheduled for Mar. & Apr. For details, visit www.fcasd.edu.

Saint Vincent College is able to provide a few scholarships thanks to a grant from the Eden Hall Foundation. For details, call (724) 805-2371 or sandy.quinlivan@ stvincent.edu. Saint Vincent College Office of Career Services in partnership w/Princeton Review is offering discounted test preparation services. For details, call 1-800-2REVIEW or www.PrincetonReview.com. Saint Vincent Planetarium Shows: Dynamic Earth, Feb. 8; Two Small Pieces of Glass, Mar. 8; Oasis in Space, May 3; IBEX Search for the Edge of the Solar System, Jun. 14. For reservations, call (724) 805-2631 or www.stvincent.edu/planetarium. Second Cup of Coffee w/Dr. Mannarino, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Feb. 12, North Hills Middle School. For further info, call (412) 318-1014 or hartlea@nhsd.net. Shaler Area Marching Band Pancake Breakfast, 8-11 a.m., Feb. 15, Shaler Area Middle School, 1810 Mt. Royal Blvd. All You Can Eat, adults $6; seniors & children 6-12 $4, kids 5 & under are free. Tickets sold at the door.

Veterans

La Roche College Open House, 4-6:30 p.m., Feb. 17, Cantellops Art Gallery in the Zappala College Center. For details, call (412) 536-1260 or email adultadmissions@laroche.edu.

North Pittsburgh Quilts of Valor meets 7-9 p.m., 2nd Mon., of the month (Feb. 10), Quilt Company, Middle Rd., Allison Park. For info, call (412) 487-9532 or www.qovf. org.

North Allegheny Special Education Parent Networking Group (NASEPG) meeting: 9:30 a.m., Feb. 14, Complementary Therapies (equine, music). Speakers – Rebecca Lewis, MaryKay Soergel & Annette Hermetz; Mar. 14, Christie Emmons, pediatric neuropsychologist, Baierl Center at NA. For info, visit http://www.nasepng.org/

“Out of the Foxhole” Celebrating Post 9/11 Veterans & Military Families, 1-4 p.m., Feb. 23, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall. For reservations, call Todd (412) 623-9029 or todd@veteransbreakfastclub.com.

Preschool Story Time in the Fox Chapel School District: 2 p.m., Feb. 26 & Apr. 23, Fairview; 1:30 p.m., Feb. 20, Mar. 20 & Apr. 24 at Hartwood; 2 p.m., Apr. 22 & May. 13, Kerr. For details, visit www.fcasd.edu. Professional Development Series, 6:30 p.m., Feb. 10, Mar. 13 & Apr. 7, Ryan Room of the Zappala College center at La Roche. For info, call (412) 5361193 or laroche.edu. Providence Heights Alpha School Open House, 1-3 p.m., Feb. 9. For info, call (412) 3664455 or www.alphaschool.org/ Saint Alexis School Gala, 5 p.m. (auction) & 7 p.m. (dinner), Mar. 1, Omni William Penn Hotel. For info, email mhconklin@gmail.com.

Veterans Discover HOPE HereCareer, 3rd Wed., 6:30-8:45 p.m., Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 779-8323, discoverhopehere@gmail.com or www.discoverhopehere.com. Veteran’s Fitness Classes 5 Days a week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. For details, visit www.prevention. va.gov/B_Physically_ Active.asp.

Tax Preparation North Hills Community Outreach is offering free Tax Prep for lowwage individuals & families thru Mar. 8, 4-7 p.m., Mon. & Tues. in Bellevue & 9 a.m.-noon, Sat. in Millvale. Household income must be less than $40,000. Appointments are required, call 2-1-1.

St. Athanasius Parish Education & Community Center (West View) & NHCO in sponsorship by Allegheny County Dept. of Human Services are offering free tax prep for low-income individuals, families, the disabled & the elderly. Contact Frank (412) 350-3463 or frank.grande@alleghenycounty.us.

Fundraisers & Collections North Hills Community Outreach Sharing Holiday Warmth - collecting grocery gift cards & financial donations for senior citizens to help pay heating bills. Call (412) 487-6316 opt. 1 or vdburst@nhco. org. RSG1 Valentine’s 5K, Feb. 15, North Park. For details, visit www. rsg1foundation.com. Shaler Area Ice Hockey Fundraiser, 7 p.m.-midnight, Feb. 8, Fugh Hall, Etna. $20 per person includes dinner, drinks & dancing. Contact: shalertitanshockey@ outlook.com or julieyuiska@hotnail. com.

Courses & Trainings Kids Introduction to Tennis, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Weds, Mar. 5-26, Orchard Hill in Wexford. For info, call (724) 935-5555 or http:// www.orchardhillchurch.com. Mercy Parish Nurse & Health Ministry Program is sponsoring, “Foundations of Faith Community Nursing,” Feb. 28, Mar. 1, Mar 28-29, at UPMC Mercy, 1400 Locust St., Uptown. For info, call (412) 232-5815 or download application http://www.pmhs.org/ parish-nurse-program/educationand-resources.aspx. Professional Development series, 6:30 p.m., Feb. 10, La Roche College. Topic: A Global Challenge: The Intersection Between HRM and Corporate Social Responsibility. Cost is $15. Pre-register at, (412) 536-1193 or visit laroche.edu. Who’s in Charge? Boundaries with Kids: How & When to Set Them, for parents of 10-18 year olds, 6 p.m., Mar. 2, Trinity Lutheran Church. To register, call (724) 935-2746.

Conventions, Festivals & Flea Markets Harmony Museum Quilt & Coverlet Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mar. 8, noon-4 p.m., Mar. 9, 218 Mercer St., Harmony. For info, call (724) 452-7341 or www.harmonymuseum.org. (Continued on page 60)

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All That Glimmers Bridal Event PITTSBURGH’S PREMIER WEDDING SHOW

Saturday March 15th, 2014 • Meet local wedding vendors • • View stunning wedding displays • • Sample delectable food • • Door prizes, gift bags, raffles, gifts cards and so much more! • Held at The Grand Room at Holy Trinity Center 985 Providence Boulevard, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15237 (at the intersection of Babcock Boulevard and Cumberland Road) 11:00 am - 5:00 pm • VIP Event: 10:00 am $15 General Admission • $35 VIP Event Ticket Glimmerbridalevent.com • glimmerbridalevent@gmail.com

412-716-2835 Limited vendor booths available.

HOSTED BY: