Northern Connection Magazine February 2015 by Northern Connection Magazine

Passavant Hospital Foundation: Supporting Open Heart Surgery in the North Hills

2015 Healthcare Issue Fun, Food & Drinks at Over the Bar CafĂŠ Hail to the Chief Trivia Chiropractic Family Health Center: Healing Peripheral Neuropathy

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Northern Connection | February 2015

CONTENTS February 2015

NORTHERN CONNECTION Features

Senior Living

36 Town Crier: Feeling Kind of February...ish Joe Bullick

Business Spotlight: Over the Bar Bicycle Café

49 Fun Activities to Enjoy with Your Pet Animal Friends

2015 Healthcare Guide 10 2015 NC Healthcare Directory 11 Cover Story: Passavant Hospital Foundation 18 Fit Families: Sticking With It Joella Baker

20 Enhance Your Life: Get Started Donna Summers Moul

From the Publisher

Kids & Education

Movers & Shakers

40 Educators Making a Difference

Mover & Shaker of the Month: Jennifer Mailey Greevy

Marianne Reid Anderson

44 School Movers & Shakers 46 Student of the Month: Connor Gingrich Paula Green

Advertorials Dr. Shannon Thieroff

29 Weight Loss Changes Client’s Life Dr. Michael Vactor

26 Does Metabolism Make a Difference? Dr. Bridget Chufo

In Every Issue

38 Happenings for Seniors

27 Feeling Kinky? These Tips Can Help...

22 Chiropractic Family Health Center: Healing Peripheral Neuropathy

11 Marion Piotrowski

Paula Green

25 Starting the Conversation: What is the Fad with Fad Diets? Marianne Reid Anderson

50 Trivia Connection: Hail to the Chief Trivia Paula Green

51 Support Our Troops: Soldiers & Sailors Presents a Moving Play and a Heritage Celebration Paula Green

30 Diabetes: “The Day My Life Changed Forever” Dr. Alicia Hartung

52 February 2015 Happenings

34 St. Barnabas Announces Partnership with World-renowned Neurosurgeon Dr. Jospeh Maroon

ON THE COVER: Cardiac surgeon Chris Cook, MD with three of his patients. From the front, George Kline of Pine, Judy Blum of Ross and dentist Scott Winkler, DDS who practices in McCandless. You can see Dr. Winkler talk about his surgery and recovery on the Passavant Hospital Foundation channel on YouTube.

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Northern Connection | February 2015

PUBLISHER NOTES

orthern Connection magazine’s cover story is on the Passavant Hospital Foundation, and is filled with information on raising funds for the advancements in Open Heart Surgery, Hospitality programs for families, updates on the 50th anniversary dinner of the Legacy of Caring and the Holiday concert. Events being planned for 2015 are the Golf outing and the participation in the Pittsburgh Marathon. Passavant Hospital Foundation also announces its 2015 Grants, explains how the Foundation serves the Health of the community by presenting seminars and programs open to the public and the incredible impact of the Foundation’s Auxiliary.

We are very fortunate to live in an area where state-of-the-art medical technology is easily accessible. Northern Connection magazine would like to thank all of the Medical Facilities and Physicians and Professional Practices that took part in advertising in the 2015 Healthcare issue. There is a lot to look forward to in Healthcare for 2015. NC Magazine’s new feature, “Educators Making a Difference,” is continuing throughout 2015. Thank you to all the schools that have submitted teachers for this section, and please continue to send them to us. We are proud to have the opportunity to showcase these special Educators so our readers can see firsthand the exceptional quality of professionals that we have educating our students. In honor of President’s Day, this month’s trivia will test your knowledge of Presidential Portrayals in movies, see how many you remember! Enjoy reading all this month’s special features and NC Magazine’s regular monthly columns. Thank you for your continued support. Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! F

“

Health IS THE GREATEST GIFT, Contentment IS THE GREATEST WEALTH, AND Faithfulness IS THE

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

Phone: 724-940-2444

Laura Arnold

laura@northernconnectionmag.com

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

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Mary Simpson

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Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executives

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Marianne Reid Anderson

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Joella Baker 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 Stacie Sikora Kelly Smith Distribution

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Donna Smith Dominion Distribution

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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.

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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.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS February 2015

Movers & Shakers The Jeep’s roots are planted in the city of Butler where the Bantam Car Company designed the prototype and delivered it to the U.S. Army in 1941. In his new book, Project Management in History: The First Jeep, project manager and historian Paul Bruno examines the Bantam’s industrious efforts, ingenuity and masterful project management while detailing the 49-day challenge by the U.S. Army in which the jeep emerged triumphant. Published by MFP Enterprises, LLC, the book is available now in digital at Amazon (Kindle) and Barnes & Noble (Nook); paperback at Amazon; and via thefirstjeep.com (Apple devices). Franklin Park residents George Perilli and Jack Nicolette entertained customers at the Ingomar Post Office on Dec. 23. Music and holiday jokes and

cheer were the entertainment of the day. Sporting a Santa hat is postmaster Mark Wahl, alongside Mark Wiese who provided refreshments for the day. Matt Mertz Plumbing located in Wexford, has expanded and is now offering full HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning) services for their customers. The Duck family of East Liberty was the winners of Community Auto’s “Too Big for the Stocking” vehicle giveaway competition. They were presented with a 2009 Chrysler Town & Country car on Christmas Eve.

On Dec. 21, Operation Safety Net® hosted their annual candlelight memorial service to remember those who died while homeless in 2014. Passavant Hospital Foundation announced that 34 projects are being funded thanks to a partnership between the Foundation, the Auxiliary and the Hospital itself. The 34 projects funded improve patient diagnosis, treatment and comfort and range in cost from $1,000 to $49,534 for a total of $405,016. St. Margaret Foundation president, Mary Lee Gannon recently released her new book, Reinvent You – From Welfare to CEO: Your Six Step Plan to Enjoy the Freedom that comes from Success in Life, Career and Business. For more info, visit www.stmargaretfoundation.org. The U. S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded a lease contract for 168,000 net usable square foot Health Care Center (HCC) in Butler to Cambridge Healthcare Solutions PA, LP (Cambridge) of Vienna, Va.

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Local real estate developer RE360 pledged donations valued at more than $2,500 for south Pittsburgh families with their Three Wise Men Fundraising campaign. Panera Bread held their grand opening of their first drive-thru bakery-café in McCandless crossing on Jan. 6th. The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce (PAACC) announced that its executive vice president, Michelle Kreutzer has completed her first year at the Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at Villanova University in Philadelphia.

Rep. Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) was elected as Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 2015-16 legislative session.

MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH

Jennifer Mailey Greevy BY PAULA GREEN

uring February, love is in the air and many of us have chocolates on our mind, but instead of talking truffles, let’s shift our focus on a delectable breakfast food - “pancakes.” Local author, Jennifer Mailey Greevy of O’Hara Township enlightens us on this tasty treat in her children’s book, We ALL Love Pancakes. “It’s a book for young children about the importance of inclusion, diversity, civility, respect and kindness, but it doesn’t use any of those words. Logan is bi-racial, as my husband Fasy is Cambodian and immigrated to America when he was eight years old. I am white. Logan attends A Place to Grow preschool. It occurred to me two years ago that children are often much more tolerant and respectful of one another’s differences, which is what led me to the idea of creating this sensitive story aimed at children ages four through nine, since there are few books about civility, inclusion, diversity and tolerance for that young age range,” commented Greevy.

“The intention of the book is that the message and characters, which represent diverse races, religious backgrounds and abilities is relatable to the young child or reader and that he/she recognizes both the similarities and the differences of all the characters,” Greevy added. This easy to read book, takes you on Logan’s journey as he explains to his mother, why he likes his friends, and he tells her about their different talents and what type of pancakes they like. It is a fun story about similarities and differences. We All Love Pancakes is Greevy’s first published book. She earned her Master’s degree in Education Administration from Gannon University in Erie. For seven years, Greevy worked as a TV journalist at KDKATV as a producer and assignment manager. She also held communications/development leadership roles at the University of Pittsburgh, as well at Gannon University. Currently she works as the director of Executive and Internal Communications

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and Employee Recognition at Giant Eagle. Logan’s favorite pancakes are banana, and his mom’s favorite is whole wheat pumpkin. We All Love Pancakes is illustrated by Jesse Mader of Pittsburgh. Softcover editions of the book are available on Amazon. Hardcover gift editions can be purchased by visiting jenmaileygreevy@ gmail.com. The hardcover books are $14.99, but for the month of February, they are discounted to $12. n

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MOVERS & SHAKERS February 2015

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Day and Night, Over the Bar Bicycle Café Lights-Up the North Park Boathouse

ver since Over The Bar Bicycle Café opened its North Park Boathouse location a little over a year ago, the North Park Boathouse has become the place to enjoy a fabulous meal, great ambiance, craft beers, locally distilled liquors and more, all in a friendly atmosphere in a fun, historic location. “The boathouse was built in 1936 as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) funding that was responsible for adding the lake and other amenities to the park. It is also at the beginning of the mountain bike trails and the inspiration for the bicycle theme,” explains founder and co-owner Michael Kotyk. In addition to supporting local craft beers and distilleries, the Café boasts a true fresh and artisan menu. “We work with local farmers in the Western PA region to bring their healthy and deli-

cious seasonal products to our kitchen,” describes Kotyk. The restaurant is open all year but during winter, Over the Bar Bicycle Café offers an ALL-DAY SUNDAY BRUNCH from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. “At our brunch, we feature special breakfast cuisine such as steak and eggs with prime rib, ‘The Stack’ of poblano home fries topped with bacon, eggs and a chipotle sauce, as well as, the breakfast standards and a weekly special such as a seasonal frittata, lox and bagels or some other savory delight,” says Kotyk. “We also offer Mimosa, our signature Bloody Mary with bacon and a whole Bloody Mary bar where you can design your own Bloody Mary from a bevy of traditional and nontraditional ingredients.” In addition to the Sunday brunch, Over the Bar Bicycle Café is open 7 days a

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week Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.to 9 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. with breakfast available Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. “We also offer lots of logo’d items – Over The Bar shirts, key chains, pint glasses and more. A portion of all our retail sales goes directly to North Park to help support all the many amenities and programs the park has to offer,” explains Kotyk To check out their menu, draft list and get directions to this trendy new eatery of Over The Bar Bicycle Café, visit their website at www.otbbicyclecafe.com. Also, be sure and like their Facebook page and follow them on Twitter and Instagram where they frequently hold best photo contests for special offers. #BikesBurgersBeers. See you Over The Bar! F

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Northern Connection | February 2015

2015 NC Healthcare Directory Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and The University of Pittsburgh

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center

Allegheny Health Network

Colon and Rectal Wellness Center

1-866-430-8742 www.aging.upmc.com

Health + Wellness Pavilion www.AHNWEXFORD.org

Always at Home alwaysathome.org 412-348-1065

Care Unlimited Inc

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

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC Center for Independence

Children’s Pine Center, Suite 202 11279 Perry Highway Wexford, Pa. 15090 www.chp.edu/cfi 724-933-9286

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

Choicechoicechiropractic.net 412-364-9699

Brad Levinson, M.D. Board-Certified Colon and Rectal Surgeon Cranberry Twp, Pa. 724-741-6020

Donna Summers Moul, MSED., PC Certified Life Coach Mars, Pa. 724-935-6275

Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness

www.drchufosweightlossandwellness.com 1-800-900-THIN

Extremity MRI Express

4500 Brooktree Rd, Suite 300 Wexford, PA 15090 1-866-EXTREMITY www.CashForMRI.com

Francis Audiology

Passavant Hospital Foundation

Georgia L. Fulgenzi

Pawlowicz Dentistry

Gastroenterology Associates of Pittsburgh, P.C.

Pulmonary Partners–UPMC UPMC Passavant

www.francisaudiology.com 724-933-3440 LCSW, CAADC 30 Warrendale Bayne Rd. Warrendale PA 15086 724-814-9521

http://gastroassociatespittsburgh.com/ 3285 Babcock Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Phone: (412) 318-0075

Genesis Medical Associates, Inc

www.genesismedical.org (412) 369-9550

Hope Hospice

Hopehospicepgh.org 1-877-367-3685

Jade Wellness

Wexford, Pa. 15090 www.jadewellness.com 412-380-0100

Kids Plus Pediatrics Cranberry/Seven Fields 671 Castle Creek Drive Seven Fields, PA 16046 www.kidspluspgh.com 724-761-2020

516 Hansen Avenue Lyndora PA 16045 www.WowSmileNow.com 724-287-4000

9104 Babcock Blvd., Suite 2103 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-367-5020

Pulmonary Partners–UPMC UPMC Passavant-Cranberry 3 St. Francis Way, Suite 209 Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 724-742-1600

Seven Fields Veterinary Hospital sevenfieldsvet.com 724-742-4433

Start the Heart, LLC www.starttheheart.com Wexford, PA 15090 724.622.7229

St. Barnabas Health System Stbarnabashealthsystem.com 724-443-0700

Tri State Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine

Masonic Village

www.tristateortho.com North Hills 412-369-4000 Seven Fields 724-776-2488 Robinson Twp. 412-787-7582 Fox Chapel 412-696-0300

Massucci Vision Plus

Tri-State Neurosurgical Associates-UPMC

Sewickley, Pa. 412-749-6862 www.masonicvillages.org 6600 Brooktree Road; Suite 2800 Wexford, Pa. 15090 724-719-2712 www.visionsource-massuccivisionplus.com

Metropolitan ENT Associates www.UPMC.com/MetroENT 724-772-2711 1-866-929-6368

Mobile Fitness by Rick

www.personalfitnessbyrick.com 724-709-7789

Three Rivers Healthy Vending LLC 412-915-4495 www.freshandhealthy.org

Ohio Valley Hospital

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

Orthopedic Specialists - UPMC 1-877-471-0935 www.upmc.com/orthospecialists

PassavantHospitalFoundation.org 412-748-6640

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3000 Stonewood Drive, Suite 300 Wexford, PA 15090 1-877-635-5234

UPMC Senior Communities UPMCSeniorCommunities.com 1-800-324-5523

Dr. Michael Vactor, DC

www.weightlossnorthpittsburgh.com 724-742-2700

Vein Institute of Pittsburgh Dr. Terrance R. Krysinski Warrendale, Pa veininstituteofpittsburgh.com 724-934-8346

Weirton Health Center

http://www.weirtonmedical.com 304-914-4250

Wexford Cardiology

www.wexfordcardiology.com 724-940-6000

Supporting Open Heart Surgery in the North Hills Passavant Hospital Foundation is raising funds for the advancement of open heart surgery in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.

he open heart service at UPMC Passavant began in 1996 and has expanded to perform approximately 300 open heart surgeries a year. While new cardiac operating rooms were introduced in 1999, over the past 15 years there have been advancements in technology. If implemented, these new technologies will allow additional procedures to be done at UPMC Passavant instead of being referred elsewhere. This includes minimally invasive valve surgery and robotic valve surgery as well as other procedures. State-of-the-art equipment allows surgeons to continue to provide the latest and best surgical care for patients in the North Hills. “All funds raised by Passavant Hospital Foundation stay right here for our hospital and our community,” says Fay Morgan, Foundation President/CEO. “While at the same time, the cardiac surgery program at Passavant benefits from being part of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute where multiple sites collaborate for the common goal of excellence in patient care.” To learn more about this project, contact president/CEO Fay Morgan at (412) 748-6645 or morganfp@ph.upmc.edu. F

Funding a Hospitality Program for Families

PMC Passavant is a tertiary hospital with patients traveling here from other states for cancer treatment and open heart surgery as well as other care. The Comfort and Hospitality program at Kearns Spirituality Center hosts the families and friends of some of these patients, offering them convenient (across the street), secure and hospitable accommodations in a friendly and contemplative atmosphere. Passavant Hospital Foundation recently made a grant of $10,000 to enhance the program and ensure its continuation. Outreach into the community with projects like these is one of the three components of Passavant Hospital Foundation’s mission. The Comfort and Hospitality program receives its guest referrals from UPMC Passavant’s Care Management Department, following an interview to determine suitability. First consideration is given to those who are experiencing a financial hardship, who live far Sr. Agnes Raible (r), director of Kearns away, who need quick access due to their loved ones’ critical illness, who don’t drive, who Spirituality Center, readies a room with are elderly or who are all alone as they support a hospitalized loved one. Sally Shamalla, a volunteer at the center. Guests in the Comfort and Hospitality program are offered private rooms or if needed, a larger family group can be accommodated in its own separate wing. A suggested donation is requested of program guests, however no one is turned away for inability to donate. Last year 41 guests stayed a total of 124 nights. F www.northernconnectionmag.com

Northern Connection | February 2015

COVER STORY

50th Anniversary Dinner Honors a Legacy of Caring

n October 9, 2014 at the LeMont on Mt. Washington in front of 350 attendees, Passavant Hospital Foundation celebrated UPMC Passavant’s 50th anniversary in the North Hills, while honoring a special group of individuals who have contributed to the growth and excellence in care at UPMC Passavant. The inaugural event established the Foundation’s Legacy of Caring Award to be presented each year, and raised over $100,000 to support Passavant Hospital Foundation’s 34-year mission, advancing health and wellness in the community through education, outreach and grant making.

These honorees represented the hospital’s five decades of service to the community:

• Doctors John Earl, Linn and Jesse Weigel were honored as representative of the hospital’s first decade. In 1964, Jesse helped his father and brother move their inpatients in a caravan up McKnight Road to the new North Hills Passavant Hospital. • Doctors and brothers Scott and Lewis “Pete” Nettrour were honored as representing the hospital’s second decade. They joined the hospital medical staff in 1971 and 1972 respectively, serving the community they grew up in for more than 30 years. • To represent the hospital’s third decade, Dr. Ralph Gaudio was honored. Dr. Gaudio practiced at Passavant as a critical care pulmonologist, acting as both the Director of

Respiratory Services and the Medical Director of the intensive care unit. • Elizabeth “Libby” Shumaker, RN was honored to represent the fourth decade. She was instrumental in the development of the UPMC CancerCenter at Passavant, and is a leader in its oncology programs. Dr. Robert Ford (pictured • To celebrate the hospital’s fifth here with his wife Karen) decade in the North Hills, Dr. Matt was one of eight other El-Kadi was honored. Dr. El-Kadi is individuals honored. a skilled neurosurgeon who joined UPMC Passavant in 2000. His dream of a multi-disciplinary state-of-the-art Spine Center to feature specialists in neurosurgery, orthopedics, pain management, radiology, physical therapy and rehabilitation at one location is currently being built on Route 19.

Two special awards were given:

• Virgina Cole, who served the hospital in all five decades, first as an employee and then as a volunteer, received the Legacy of Service Award • Patricia Kutcher, who helped with the original fundraising campaign to bring the hospital north and who remains active with the Auxiliary today received the James C. and Henrietta D. Lear Leadership Award. This award, to be given annually, was instituted to honor the early, exceptional leadership of the Lears.

SAVE THE DATE – this year’s Legacy of Caring Gala will be held on October 8 at the Pittsburgh Marriott North. To attend or support the event contact Anthony R. Savannah the director of Community Engagement at 412-748-5788 or savannahhar@ph.upmc.edu. F

Holiday Concert for the Community

n partnership with the Nurse’s Education Committee at UPMC Passavant, Passavant Hospital Foundation hosted the annual Sounds of the Season Holiday Concert at the Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre on December 5, 2014 in front of a soldout crowd. Guests enjoyed a holiday reception, complete with a visit from Santa, before the festive performance by the Pine Creek Community Band. Thanks to the support of attendees, vendors and sponsors, the event raised more than $5,500 for nursing education. SAVE THE DATE – December 4, 2015 for this year’s Sounds of the Season concert. F

Golf Outing at Treesdale June 8th

assavant Hospital Foundation will host its 28th Annual Golf Outing on Monday June 8, 2015 at Treesdale Golf & Country Club. You can join the field of golfers as they tee off for a great round golf, fabulous dinner, skill prizes and a silent auction. For sponsorship or golf opportunities, contact Anthony R. Savannah the Director of Community Engagement at 412-748-5788 or email savannahhar@ph.upmc.edu. F

Foundation Participates in Pittsburgh Marathon May 3rd

un for the HEALTH of it! Passavant Hospital Foundation is participating as a Contributing Charity for the 2015 Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon and is looking for runners to join our team. Individuals can run the marathon for FREE by fundraising for Passavant Hospital Foundation. Runners who meet or exceed their fundraising goal ($250 for individuals and $1,000 for teams of up to five runners) will receive a reimbursement for their race registration fee and a running shirt! Participants in any of the marathon weekend activities are eligible – marathon, marathon relay, half-marathon, 5K. Individuals can also raise funds as a “Virtual Runner” or make a donation to support one of our other runners. So many ways to be part of the team! Contact Jennifer Steinsdoerfer at 412-748-6689 or steinsdoerferj@ph.upmc.edu to sign up today, or visit www.crowdrise.com/passvanthospitalfoundation. F

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Passavant Hospital Foundation Serves the Health of the Community

assavant Hospital Foundation advances the health and wellness of everyone in our community through education, outreach and grant making, serving the greater North Hills area since 1981. Working with UPMC Passavant’s Domestic Violence Advisory Committee, the Foundation brought Lynn Shiner to Pittsburgh in October to tell her story so that others could learn from her experience. The Foundation partnered with CCACAllegheny, CCAC-North, Crisis Center North and VOICe of Butler County to hold three events to educate professionals and community members about this serious health issue. “Stabbed in the Heart: a Story about Domestic Violence, Homicide and Transformation,” was presented by Ms. Shiner, the Director of Victims’ Services for the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency. She is a 20-year survivor of domestic violence which ultimately took the lives of her two children. Over 175 individuals attended.

Upcoming presentations open to all

The Foundation is partnering with Club Julian 24 Hr. Fitness for a monthly Wellness Wednesday health lecture series. Held the first Wednesday of each month from 1 until 2 PM, the Foundation brings top-notch clinicians to the club for presentations that are open to the public. Upcoming sessions include: • February 4 - “Osteoarthritis Management for the Fingers and Thumb” presented by Megan Murray, Certified Hand Therapist, Centers for Rehab Services, UPMC • March 4 - “Osteoporosis: How to Keep Your Bones Healthy” by Anna Dumont, DO, Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers CCAC-North is another location for Foundation health education programming. Each spring and fall the Foundation offers the ‘For Your Health’ lecture series at the college on Rt. 19. These evening sessions (from 6:30 – 8:30 PM) are open to the public and also provide two hours of continuing education credit for nursing professionals. The spring schedule includes: • March 17 - “Knee Osteoarthritis” presented by Craig Maartmann-Moe, DPT, Cert. MDT, C.S.C.S, Strength and Conditioning Specialist; UPMC Centers for Rehab Services • April 21 - “Common Conditions of the Upper Extremity” by Trenton M. Gause, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers, UPMC Passavant • May 19 - “Common Pathologies Affecting the Foot” by Dr. Michael Ryan, DPM, Podiatrist and Wound Care Specialist, Cranberry Foot and Ankle Associates, UPMC Passavant F

Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Makes an Impact

Upcoming Auxiliary sales in the hospital main hallway:

assavant Hospital Auxiliary is a committed group raising funds for projects that directly benefit patients and their families. Since 1961 the Auxiliary has raised and donated $4,194,226 for hospital improvements. They welcome new members to the group. Individuals who enjoy special events, friendship and making a true difference for the health of the North Hills community should call president, Beverly Aufman at 412.364.1814 or treasurer, Kathy Buck at 412.364.0260 for more information.

Goody House Chocolate Company February 5 - 6, 2015 7:00 AM- 3:00 PM

BeautiControl Gifts March 6, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Pretzel Crazy March 27, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Aunt Carol’s Dips April 14 - 15, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

A fine variety of gourmet chocolates and other delectibles made right here in Pittsburgh.

An internationally recognized beauty company that brings the “spa” experience into the home.

Featuring savory, dessert olive oil dips and dip chillers.

Flowers by Bidwell February 11, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Thirty-One March 10, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Bidwell Training Center offers floral displays that help further student careers – great deals!

A unique selection of purses, totes, thermals, wallets and accessories for any event.

Locally made caramel and chocolate hand dipped pretzels and marshmallows in over 20 flavors perfect for that Easter holiday sweet tooth. Dressed in Deception Jewelry April 2 - 3, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Pasta and Olive Oil February 27, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Euro Haus Gifts March 19 - 20, 2015 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Vendors from Pittsburgh’s Strip District offer a wide array of pastas and oils for any gift or dish.

Jewelry, scarves, Eastern European items as well as unusual gifts to delight.

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It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to look fabulous – high end reproduction jewelry at affordable prices! Tastefully Simple April 9 - 10, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM Over 80 foods and gifts – something you and your family will love!

What’s Hot Sunglasses April 21 - 22, 2015 7:00 AM- 4:00 PM Great selection - many items to choose from as well as seasonal and sports items. McFeely’s Gourmet Chocolate May 1, 2015 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM Homemade chocolates, hand-dipped fresh fruits made daily. They also carry gluten free fudge!

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Northern Connection | February 2015

2015 NC HEALTHCARE GUIDE

FIT FAMILIES

Sticking With It BY JOELLA BAKER

ast month, I talked about resolutions and how starting a resolution is simply half the battle. Sticking with it is the true battle. It’s so easy to give up when you miss a few days or even a couple weeks. However, don’t throw it all away. Stick with it so you can be successful. One of the problems is that we start our resolutions in January. Our worst month for weather. It’s cold, it’s dark and it’s simply hard to get out and be active. But think about it. If you can get through January and February and stick to your resolution, then staying with it as the weather gets better will be so much easier. This month, I want you to make things easy for yourself. Use these tips to get your resolution going and stick with it for the rest of the winter. Set very realistic goals: Don’t just say you want to lose weight or eat healthier. Say I want to workout 3

days a week. I want to lose 15 pounds. I want to eat fruits and veggies with every meal. Write your resolution down and post it where you have to look at it every day. You need that reminder every day of what your goals are. Post it, look at it, live it! Enlist the support of your friends and family. If you’re lucky, they’ll have similar goals and you can work on your resolutions together. Encourage people to be helpful and supportive. Take action immediately. Sign up for a gym membership or buy any equipment you need, hire a personal trainer or coach. Join Weight Watchers® or a weight loss group at your gym so you have support throughout the process. Do something you enjoy: The biggest mistake most people make is they try things they don’t enjoy. If you don’t like to run, then don’t run. Pick the type of exercise you really love and enjoy. Walking, cycling, swimming, strength training, Zumba, yoga or aerobics. Pick something you love so you can stick with it. Find someone to workout with: This winter, find a training buddy. Someone to keep you accountable and make sure you will stick to your plan. Try something new: Outdoor winter sports like snow shoeing, skiing, cross country skiing, winter hiking or sled riding can all entice you to get outside this winter and have fun. Never be afraid to try something new. Try a cleanse: When it comes to nutrition, kicking off your nutrition resolution with a cleanse can kick-start your metabolism and get you on track to a healthier weight and life style. I like the Standard Process Cleanse. It takes you back to how we should eat. It takes us back to the basics. After a cleanse you will find yourself leaner and more energetic. Balance your nutrition: Focus on vegetables, good fats from fish, nuts and vegetables, lean protein from lean meats and fish and fresh fruits to take care of that sweet tooth craving. Set incremental goals and reward yourself for partial successes. If you lose 5 pounds towards your 15 pound goal, buy yourself some new workout clothes. The key is to enjoy your resolution and your success. Don’t beat yourself up if you get off track. Just jump back in. Most of all, make sure you’re having fun along the way and never give up! F

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Northern Connection | February 2015

2015 NC HEALTHCARE GUIDE

ENHANCE YOUR LIFE

Get Started BY DONNA SUMMERS MOUL

Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day-in and day-out. – Robert Collier

ecently, I was asked by a coaching student how to get started in business after she gets certified as a Life Coach. Here are some tips that may be helpful for anyone starting a business. Join a professional organization. The International Coaching Federation is a popular professional organization for coaches. They offer interesting and educational workshops with credits towards advanced certifications, great networking opportunities, advertising possibilities and social media experiences. Choose an organization that will help you to stay current in your field with educational advancement. Connect with a networking group. There are many local organization to choose from. For example, for women, Pittsburgh Professional Women, offers a nice blend of networking opportunities with dynamic women and numerous workshops on every aspect of creating a successful business from Branding to Getting

Paid What You Are Worth, to Getting Published and Becoming a Leader in Your Community. Find the networking group that fits your niche. Hook up with a mentor. Find someone in your field who is doing what you want to do and ask them to mentor you. Take advice from business expert Marcus Buckingham, concentrate on your strengths and learn to manage your weaknesses. You can do this by hiring someone to do the things that are difficult for you. A good mentor should be able to guide you to the services you need. Get a professional photo. A professional photo can be used on your business card, your advertising, social media and any publicity that requires a picture. A quality photo speaks to the quality of your services. Think about it; would you hire someone who advertises with a low quality photo? Get a professionally designed business card. Your

8-week Coaching Group for Women Spring Group forming now Tuesday evenings — 7:00-9:00 pm, Starting April 14 $40.00 a session Contact Donna (724) 935-6275 www.Especially-for-Women.com

business card is often the one item that a new contact takes with them. If you want to be remembered, have a unique, professional business card with your photo on it so days later, your contact can place your face and remember you. Read, Read, Read. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Find a few business gurus and learn their secrets. Three of my current favorite business books are: The Success Principles, How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be by Jack Canfield, Reinvent You - From Welfare to CEO by Mary Lee Gannon and Growing Your Business, What You Need to Know, What You Need to Do by Mark LeBlanc. If you want to be successful, surround yourself with talented people and incredible resources, read good books and attend exciting workshops. Just get started! F Donna Summers Moul is a Certified Life Coach. Her passion is to help women create their best lives. She offers Individual Coaching and Coaching Groups for Women. Contact Donna: (724) 9356275 or www.Especially-For-Women.com

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Northern Connection | February 2015

2015 NC HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Chiropractic Family Health Center: Healing Peripheral Neuropathy

hiropractic Family Health Center announces a breakthrough treatment protocol for treating peripheral neuropathy pain, a common condition with devastating effects and thought to be incurable. Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. Approximately 20 million Americans suffer from this debilitating disease. It is commonly associated with diabetes, however, neuropathy symptoms can also occur in patients with restless leg

“

Peripheral Neuropathy OCCURS WHEN NERVES ARE

DAMAGED OR DESTROYED AND CAN’T SEND MESSAGES TO THE MUSCLES, SKIN, AND

”

OTHER PARTS OF THE BODY.

syndrome, sciatic neuropathy, and has been recently linked to statin drugs used to lower cholesterol. Although, there are also patients who just have neuropathy without a particular cause. Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • Sharp Pains or Cramps in the Feet or Legs • Burning Pain in the Legs, Feet or Hands

• Extreme Sensitivity to Touch • Loss of Balance or Coordination • Feelings of Walking on Pins and Needles • Weakness in the Arms and Legs • Numbness and Tingling or Pain in the Toes, Feet, Hands, Arms and Fingers • Dependency on Medications

End Your Peripheral Neuropathy My doctor said there was no help for my neuropathy . . . Until Now! Call for a free consultation TODAY!

Dr. Shawn Richey

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

724-940-9000

We may not be your first choice, but will be your last! 22

What is Peripheral Neuropathy? Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts.

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • • • • •

Numbness Burning pains Cramping Sharp, electric pain Difficulty sleeping from leg/foot discomfort

• Hurt when you walk • Pricking/tingling feelings • Dependency on medication • Loss of balance or coordination

If you are experiencing some or all of these symptoms, you are a candidate for our program Get Your Life Back with our program that has proven results.

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Many patients are suffering from symptoms of painful cramping, burning and tingling, difficulty walking, numbness and even interruption of sleep. The specialized treatment protocol offered at the Chiropractic Family Health Center includes 9 specific treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms. This therapy has long been well recognized internationally, and these recent advancements offer hope for many more to live a more pain-free and enjoyable life. Dr. Shawn Richey (a member of the NeuroTCA) has seen many patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy. He has treated patients that have tried everything including potentially harmful medications and other painful testing and treatments. This can leave patients still struggling and wandering down the long road of endless disappointment. Now we are able to address the pain

Dr. William Bentz

Dr. Daniel Grob

associated with peripheral neuropathy with a successful, non-invasive, drugfree approach that includes the use of light therapy to stimulate tissue repair. Dr. Shawn Richey’s treatment program has given me miraculous relief from a debilitating and painful disease. I would recommend anyone, who suffers from peripheral neuropathy, choosing to have Dr. Shawn help you to your way to recovery as he has helped me.” This ground-breaking treatment has achieved a 90% overall satisfaction rate. The treatment identifies the cause and enables nerve endings to regenerate and heal rather than remain damaged. As the treatments repair the nerve endings, pain is reduced, and patients regain balance and coordination. For a free consultation, contact Dr. Shawn Richey at 724-940-9000 or email him at drshawn@backnline.com. F

Dr. Tad Scheri

Dr. Mark Woodburn

Dr. Eric Griffin

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Northern Connection | February 2015

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STARTING THE CONVERSATION

What is the Fad with Fad Diets? BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

hen I read Joella Baker’s article on “Sticking With It,” I know she’s right and that exercise and a nutritious diet are the key. But fad diets just seem so alluring. Why is that? A good friend of mine recently lost a lot of weight and when I asked how he did it, he said the ELF diet and even though I knew better, I immediately said, “ooooo what’s that one?” He smiled and said “Eat – Less – Food.” Funny, very funny, but it got me thinking, why do we so willingly follow the fad of fad diets? I think I must be the guiltiest of all. After all, I trust Marie Osmond completely. And I am honestly happy for her that her diet plan worked for her and she seems so delighted. But, I just don’t think those plans with the readyprepared food will work for me. I love to cook and I do tend to eat out quite a bit. My husband and I tried one of those no-carb diets and while my husband dropped pounds quickly, after about ten days, I started having trouble focusing and got extremely moody, so that ended that one. However, we did pick up a great habit of dinners consisting of lean meat, two veggies and a salad (when we eat at home). Then, being a Pittsburgher, I tried the soup diet, but somehow a grilled sandwich, dripping with butter and cheese, kept finding its way into accompanying the soup. Alas, I keep trying, even though I know better – it’s just that there are so many success stories that accompany each fad diet – one has to work for me, right? What about you? Is there a diet plan that works for you? What exercise program or equipment do you like the best? Do you have a success story you’d like to share? Let’s continue the conversation on my blog at www.northernconnectionmag.blogspot.com. F

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Northern Connection | February 2015

2015 NC HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Does Metabolism Make a Difference? BY DR. BRIDGET CHUFO

Do you play the “blame game” in regards to losing weight using just about any excuse of why you can’t be healthier and smaller? One of the top excuses is “we are older and our metabolisms have slowed down.” There’s this myth that all skinny people must have “fast” metabolisms, probably because we assume they can eat whatever they want and still stay slim. But that’s not how metabolism works.

he easiest way to understand metabolism is to think about the gas in your car: As soon as you turn the ignition key, the car’s engine converts the liquid fuel into kinetic motion so you can drive. By the same token, metabolism is a series of internal combustionstyle processes that your body uses to transform the calories in the food you eat into different types of chemicals that perform various lifesustaining functions. Through its secretion of the hormones insulin and glucagon, your pancreas tells your organs to perform and release the hormone, thyroxine. Your thyroid determines the rate of metabolism. The chemicals made during metabolic reactions then helps your heart beat, inflates your lungs, digests

your food and all your body does. If you turn a car off before you burn through all the fuel in the gas tank, the car simply stores the extra for your next drive. Your metabolism does a similar thing with all those essential chemicals, only instead of keeping them in a tank, it uses them to create fat stores in your belly, thighs, and hips. As you’ve probably noticed, some of us are better prepared for food scarcity than others, like our ancestors many millennia ago when food was scarce. Two people can eat the same number of calories, and the person with the so-called fast metabolism will utilize most of those calories right away, while the other person’s metabolism will burn calories more slowly, storing more as

Northern Connection | February 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

fat. The alleged “slow” metabolism isn’t really slow; it’s just using calories differently. There are actually three different kinds of metabolism, but the most significant is your resting metabolism, which is the energy needed to keep the heart pumping, lungs inflating, brain functioning and so on. It accounts for 60-75% of your body’s total energy expenditure. Your brain alone uses up 35-40% of the calories you take in every day. Resting or basal metabolism is based on many factors. The first is age. It is fastest in infancy and puberty, when we’re experiencing major growth spurts. As we stop growing, it gradually declines. By the time you retire, you should be eating about one-third less than you did at age 20 to maintain the same weight. But here are a few tricks that will help your metabolism. • Get 6-8 hours of sleep a night. • Break your exercise into smaller, more frequent periods of activity. • Eat protein every 4 hours at least. • Snack with veggies and fruits consistently. • Drink half to all your body weight in water every day. F

ADVERTORIAL

Feeling Kinky? These Tips Can Help... BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF

id I get your attention? I have to come clean and admit that this isn’t going to be a steamy 50 Shades of Grey inspired read. My advice will, however, help you keep your body healthy, comfortable, and in good shape. Have you ever woken up and felt like you just couldn’t move your neck the right way? Or bend to lift the laundry and felt stuck in a part of your back? People will often describe their spinal problems as a “kink” in their spine. And that’s a pretty accurate way to explain what’s happening in the body. I’ll explain how these “kinks” happen, what you can do to fix them, and how to prevent them.

What is Normal?

The spine is a series of bones stacked one on the other. There is a joint on each side of the spinal bones at the top and bottom that connect it to the bone above and below it. Essentially, the spine is a movement chain because of all of those joints. The joints are shaped a certain way to allow for certain movement. When that is lined up the right way, the joints glide, movement is normal and the body is pretty efficient and comfortable.

So Are Most of Us Abnormal?

I hate to say it but, Yes… most of us are abnormal in some ways. If you think of everything our body goes through on a daily basis, over so many years, you can expect that the body may be imperfect. These “kinks,” over time, lead to a lot of the degenerative changes we see in the joints, muscles, and other structures of the body. Eventually this leads to pain and dysfunction.

What Causes the Changes?

Most of the changes we see with alignment come slowly over time. In a lot of cases, when a “kink” settles in, the body can compensate around it. This means that the If you feel like this... without actually feeling of discom- doing this... chances are you need a good fort in the area can chiropractor. decrease but the problem can still be in there. The major culprits are: • Gravity and Aging (no one escapes these) • Repetitive Movement Trauma and Poor Posture • Poorly Healed Injuries • Mental and Chemical Stress (toxins) can accelerate the process

What Can I do To Prevent This?

• Practice good spinal hygiene (get checked and adjusted as needed) • Exercise and strengthen your Core muscles • Understand the stresses that are unique to your job or hobbies and learn how to use your body in a smarter way, or learn special ergonomic tips or strategies to overcome them.

Chiropractic is a safe, natural, and effective way of helping your body. We’d like to encourage you to see if you Love Chiropractic As Much As We Do, take that first step, and schedule a consultation. Visit our website to see our satisfied patient’s chiropractic success stories. F Brought to you as a Public Service by:

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center, P.C. 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 www.northernconnectionmag.com

Northern Connection | February 2015

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Vactor, Good Morning, Dr. all of your staff’s y THANK YOU for opportunity to sa t loss program. s thi igh e we tak ur to yo d on I wante while I have been e vic ad d an ort help, supp ys! life in so many wa gram It has changed my try the current pro so long. I would for s re. los mo t igh US we PL th back I had struggled wi d up gaining it all prepackaged ight and then en or fad, lose the we to eat but not why. I simply ate the ming back on ds co foo s at wa t I was told wh ow why the weigh kn n’t did I . downward r on lia d food and move o the oh-so-fami — strated, and fall int caused so many health problems fru t ge uld wo d an weight gain had self-esteem. My low . d up an ing ep giv sle d thyroid of spiral , restless 10 years. I was tol rol, foot problems dication for over overweight me d be roi to increased choleste thy ed os ing pp t su I have been tak figured I was jus I t. igh we e On top of all that, los u. make it hard to at’s when I met yo issues alone would to change that. Th program. At the ing go s wa ng thi er we joined your and no sister and togeth I of 36.7. These my BM th a wi d an ps nt ho your works dy fat of 43 perce bo a th and how could y wi I attended one of wa ds s un thi t I weighed 207 po did I let myself ge rld wo the the first two d in time of sign-up, rte w re shocking — ho mmitment! As I sta these fatty foods numbers alone we ? But I was willing to make the co all g tin ea is w lp me eally? Ho your program he I was thinking, “R and Teresa told me m (pig out days), t everything you my days of your progra e weight?” But I was optimistic tha pla d n and drank los recommended foo assured the s wa ed I t low bu fol going to make me I zy, e, g the VLCD phas exercising like cra job. And a d rin an Du lf rk. se wo my ng uld wo starvi program do its rmally, I would be phase, so I let the alkaline water. No ssary during this ce ne t no s wa that exercise rted happening! y, I would see the wonderful thing sta scale. Every da this!” Even while sults on my do re n e ca se “I to ld ” s? wou from, “Can I do thi d scale every day! Every day, I ge the an ch off y wl me co slo d gram. I about a half-poun g ER experienced. ein results of the pro EV se e s I’v wa I st , be medication Teresa, was the lly cia pe ns at all hours of es taking my thyroid tio ff, es sta qu eived from your uld email her odd wo I y. wa could not have the I The support I rec . of p tions and praise with me every ste t answers, sugges mp Teresa has been pro th wi re the a was the day and Teres r! by 3.7 percent, done it without he ered my body fat lost 28 pounds, low NOTHING has worked like this I m. gra pro CD I completed the VL BMI! Even with my thyroid issues! gram and even phase of the pro s in the maintenance g kinds of foods dropped 4.8 point rin at du wh off t ew kn igh I pt the we e difference was, Th . ke my body ds ma before. I easily ke un to po o do tw to at an additional ight gain, and wh we for rs managed to lose ge trig foods were my I could eat, which nd. I am way it needs to. the on cti fun d t I did another rou an look of this program tha d my body fat by 12 d en the at s ult ds, lowere with my res t I was so pleased lost 68 poun ever been, my foo t so far, I have is the lowest it’s rol ste ole ch happy to report tha My never thought I! I s! BM art in s ch int the po off 12 m is percent, dropped and my self-estee it’s all because of your ne, I sleep great, AT!! And RE problems are go G K O LO this but I that I would say program. program ger to share this ccess, I am so ea your su nd at me gre s om thi rec all uld With y and healthy! I wo pp in t ha igh am I we ! ing ers with oth problems los ne who has had program to anyo d I am living proof! an rks wo m gra the past. This pro especially Teresa! ctor, Maggie and Thank you, Dr. Va e back! n me my lif You’ve give Patti Massa

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Northern Connection | February 2015

2015 NC HEALTHCARE GUIDE

Diabetes: “The Day My Life Changed Forever”

BY DR. ALICIA HARTUNG, A KIDS+ PEDIATRICIAN

was 9½ years old and excited to be going to fourth grade. We started the day at my pediatrician’s office for my annual well child visit. After the appointment, we spent the day shopping. When we finally returned home, we learned that my pediatrician had been trying to reach us all day because there were abnormalities in my urine, and he wanted us to go to a lab first thing in the morning to have fasting blood work -- which allows physicians to see your blood-sugar level before you eat anything. He was concerned I may be diabetic. Early the next morning, we went to the lab to have the blood drawn -- something I was not too happy about! But I was much less happy later that same day, when I was admitted to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh with a diagnosis of diabetes. So many thoughts raced through my head. How did this happen? A few days ago I was shopping for school clothes, and now I’m learning to prick my fingers and check blood sugars multiple times a day?! Why me?! What I didn’t know at the time was that I had lots of company. Diabetes affects more than 23.6 million people in the United States. (That’s about 7.5% of the population.) On average, 80 people per day are diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that prevents the body from breaking down food, especially carbohydrates. In kids, diabetes is usually caused by inadequate production of insulin by the pancreas. Insulin is needed to help process and break down the foods we eat (like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.) These foods are broken down to glucose that the body uses for energy. When insulin is not present, the glucose cannot be used by the body and instead is excreted in the urine, or it remains in the blood cells, causing high blood sugars. Diabetes can occur at any age, but there seem to be peaks at ages 5-6 and again in puberty. It’s believed that a virus or some other agent damages the pancreatic cells which produce the insulin. This auto immune response may start years before the first symptoms develop. In most cases, diabetes presents with

symptoms of weight loss despite an increase in appetite, extreme thirst, and excessive urination. This occurs because the cells are in a sense starving for sugar that the body is not providing. This does not, however, happen in all cases. (It didn’t in mine.) Unfortunately, there is still no cure for diabetes, and no way to prevent Type 1 Diabetes. There is a genetic pre-disposition; approximately 30% of Type 1 diabetics have a family member with the disease. That’s good to know, but of course, there’s nothing we can do about our genes! Damage to the heart, blood vessels kidneys, eyes and nervous system can occur with uncontrolled diabetes. The good news is that diabetes is one of the few diseases that, if taken care of properly, both kids and adults can minimize the damages that could be caused by uncontrolled sugars and lead a completely normal life. I’m proud to say I’m proof of that! Diabetes is managed by diet, exercise and insulin. Diabetics are encouraged to follow the same healthy diet as those without Diabetes, including complex carbohydrates, unprocessed foods, and fresh fruits and veggies, while also avoiding the simple sugars. Most Type 1 Diabetics are treated with either daily insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump to provide the needed exogenous insulin to break down the foods. These regimens are monitored closely and adjusted based on activity and sugar levels. Another important aspect for diabetics is to test the sugars regularly to help determine the amount of food and insulin they need. This is a regimen that not only the patient but also the family, school staff, and athletic coaches need to be involved with, to help avoid significant lows or highs. I managed to survive 4th grade with a lot of help from my family, doctors, nursing staff, and school. I made it through high school, college, and even medical school with minimal complications. In spite of my diabetes, I fulfilled my dream of becoming a pediatrician and caring for children. I’m married, and the proud mother of 2 beautiful girls who are healthy and thriving. Yes, the pregnancies were a bit tougher than average, but it was all so worth it! To all the children out there: if I can learn to control diabetes and thrive, you can too. Yes, you have to make adjustments to your schedule and monitor your sugars, especially if you’re very active. But you can live a full and wonderful life just like all of your friends! To all the parents out there: help your children to be independent, and teach them why the choices they make are important. Even when they’re young, they need to participate in their management. If you need it or want it, support is available for both parents and children affected by this disease. Together, parents and children can learn to manage the challenges of diabetes. And know that, even with a chronic disease, children can still lead a normal, healthy, wonderful fulfilling life. F Dr. Alicia Hartung, a shareholder in the practice, has been a Kids Plus Doc since 2001. To learn more, visit their website at http://www.kidspluspgh.com.

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Northern Connection | February 2015

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Center for Independence Children’s Pine Center, Suite 202 11279 Perry Highway, Wexford, PA 15090 www.chp.edu/cfi

The Center for Independence, located at Children’s Pine Center in Wexford has openings in their upcoming spring and summer class offerings. The Center, which comprises specialists from Behavioral Health, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and SpeechLanguage Pathology, provides interdisciplinary, group-based programs to children and teens that have mild to moderate behavioral, developmental or physical problems. Upcoming programming is listed below.

All interdisciplinary group programs run for 8-10 weeks Spring Sessions start March 30, 2015 Summer Sessions start June 15, 2015

Interdisciplinary group programming includes: • READY, SET, SCHOOL! for children preparing to transition to kindergarten or first grade

• CHATTERBOX focuses on building social communication skills for effective interaction with peers • FOCUS WITH FRIENDS provides children 8-10 years old with skills to help with attention and focus while interacting with peers for development of age appropriate social skills • PATHWAY TO INDEPENDENCE for school-age children and teenagers with physical disabilities to gain independence with self-help skills • HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS® program provides a child with the necessary skills to be successful with handwriting in school. This is a developmentally based program designed to progress a child’s fine motor and visual skills through fun and interactive activities.

• MUSIC TO MY EARS, is a program that utilizes music and movement for children who have varying degrees of hearing loss to develop their listening and speech/spoken language skills. • THERADANCE is designed for ambulatory children who may have problems with balance, coordination, strength or endurance. They will ultimately engage in 45 minutes of activity and learn a dance routine focusing on the above problems. • YOGA FOR CHILDREN with Special Needs will focus on improving core strength, coordination and balance. Through the use of Yoga, adolescents will understand the value of adding physical activity to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Call now for more information or to have your child evaluated by the multidisciplinary team to begin the enrollment process for participation in an upcoming group. To make an appointment, call 724-933-9286. More information is also available on our website: www.chp.edu/cfi

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Northern Connection | February 2015

St. Barnabas Announces Partnership with World-renowned Neurosurgeon Dr. Joseph Maroon

t. Barnabas Health System announced that Dr. Joseph Maroon, world-renowned neurosurgeon, nutritional expert, concussion specialist and brain health expert, has partnered with St. Barnabas effective January 1, to develop a community-based brain health initiative called “The Cognitive Brain Health Program.” The goal of this initiative, states Dr. Maroon, “Is to provide scientifically-proven methods shown to aid in persevering brain health even as we age and to introduce healthy brain interventions that can last a lifetime.” The initiative will emphasize four major brain health areas: changes in diet and the proper use of dietary supplements, brain specific physical activity, and elimination of environmental pollutants that target the brain, and improved stress management. “This is a program of empowerment. We don’t have to accept that conditions like adult-onset diabetes, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease always comes with aging,” states Dr Maroon. F

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Northern Connection | February 2015

SENIOR LIVING February 2015

TOWN CRIER

Feeling Kind of February...ish BY JOE BULLICK

ello February – our second month of the year and our third month of winter. If you are Irish, then chances are you are familiar with St. Brigid, who is second only to St. Patrick in Ireland. St. Brigid’s Feast day is Feb. 1, which is considered to be the start of Celtic spring in Ireland. The legend of St. Brigid says that she dipped her finger in the brook to release the hen that hatched the cold. In Ireland, a little straw cross called St. Brigid’s bow is tucked into the thatched roof to protect the house. Also in February, we celebrate on Feb. 2. Groundhog’s Day and Candlemas Day. They are both celebrated together for both signify the triumph of light over darkness, spring over winter. Candlemas is a Christian feast Day that got its name from the candlelit procession that it accompanies. This celebration marks the astronomical midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equi-

nox. Groundhog’s Day is a big celebration every year in Punxsutawney, Pa. They even made a movie about it. Every four years, we commemorate Leap Year. February was added to the Roman calendar in 713 B.C. The length of this month changed over time. February used to have only 23 days. When Julius Caesar revamped the calendar, it was assigned 28 during normal years and 29 during a Leap Year. Leap Years are necessary to keep the Gregorian calendar in alignment with the earth’s revolution around the sun. It takes the sun 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 49 seconds to revolve once around the sun. The Gregorian calendar has only 365 days in a year so if we didn’t add a day on Feb. 29, every four years we would lose almost five hours off our calendar every year. After one hundred years, we would lose 24 days. The last leap year was in 2012 and the next one will be next year in 2016. With the winter months, we have to try and stay healthy and avoid colds and the flu. During those months, our house always smelled of Vick’s Vapo-Rub. I think every time that I had a cold, Vick’s was all over my body. Mom always put two Smith Brother’s cough drops in my lunch bucket. Today we get flu shots. Please be sure to take care of yourself during these cold months. Another thing that I recall about February, is mom always had seed catalogues. A good garden catalogue excels at selling the potential of the next growing season. We just got through the football playoffs in January and the Super Bowl will be held on Feb. 1. Baseball spring training will be starting real soon as well. There many other things going on in February, as well, such as Valentine’s Day with candy and flowers and love. Other events include – Mardi Gras, Black History Month, and National Heart Month. On Feb. 19, 1878, Thomas Edison received a patent for the phonograph. During February, Oprah Winfrey became the first African American woman to host a nationally syndicated talk show. The United States Postal Service (USPS) will make history this Feb., when they install the first female Postmaster General and CEO, Megan Brennan. She started her career as a letter carrier in 1946. Well, happy birthday to you Aquarius’ and Pisces.’ I leave you with this – “Winter is on my head, but Eternal spring is in my heart.” -Victor Hugo

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Northern Connection | February 2015

Happenings for Seniors 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, ext. 3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org.

Hollywood Goes to the Oscars, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 21, Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village. Call 1-877987-6487.

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.

Johnny Angel, Performing Live! 2:30 p.m., Feb. 24, Hampton Fields Village, (412) 492-8448; Feb. 25, Lighthouse Pointe Village, (412) 781-2707.

Free Services for Seniors through North Hills Community Outreach. Help with rides to medical appts., grocery stores, yard work. For info, call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or Kerry at (412) 449-0151 to schedule an in-home registration visit.

Pittsburgh Doo Wop Big Band, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 19, Vanadium Woods Village. Call (412) 221-2900. St. Alexis Over 50 Trips & Events, Monte Carlo Night, Feb 14; Lou Schreiber, piano player, Mar. 14. Contact Rose at (724) 728-2563 or Janet at (724) 869-5339 for information.

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.

Tamburitzans, 2 p.m., Feb. 15, Cumberland Woods Village. Call 1-877-987-6487 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkley Hills, Swan Acres & part of McCandless Twp. Call (412) 487-4088.

Seminars

North Hills Community Outreach’s In Service of Seniors program is partnering with the Stay at Home Mission Camp of Christ Lutheran Church in Millvale to provide minor home repairs during the last full week of June to qualified seniors & low-income adults with disabilities. Registration ends late Feb. Call (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or clpshirer@nhco.org. Safety for Seniors Day of Service, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Feb. 7. For info, call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org.

A Tribute to Patsy Kline, performed by Cathi Rhodes, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 13, Strabane Trails Village. Call (724) 225-4100.

Dr. Knowledge: Fascinating Facts & Interesting Stories, 3 p.m., Feb. 19, Seneca Hills Village. Call (412) 793-1700. The Oscars, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 10, Vanadium Woods Village; Feb. 16, Sherwood Oaks; Feb. 17, Hampton Fields Village; Feb. 18, Beatty Pointe Village; Feb. 19, Lighthouse Pointe Village; Feb. 26, Strabane Trails Village. For info, visit UPMCSeniorCommunities. The Westinghouse Robots, 11 a.m., Feb. 10, Rare, Old Books – Characteristics, Collectability & Value, Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless Twp. For info, call (412) 635-8080 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

UPMC Senior Communities offers independent living & personal care. For details, call 1-800-324-5523.

Senior Meetings AARP #2991 invites you to join their monthly meetings 11:30 a.m., every 3rd Thurs. of the month, in the hall at Northmont Church, located at Perrymont & Rt. 19. Light lunch at noon is provided for a nominal fee. Travel and events will be discussed. Bereavement Support Group (for Widows/ Widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., St. Sebastian, Haber Hall. To register, call (412) 366-1300. 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. 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. Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets the 1st Mon., of every month 6-8 p.m., and the last Fri., 1:30 p.m. Contact Pam, at (724) 779-5020. 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.

Entertainment & Social Events The Best of Donna, featuring Donna Groom of the Skyliners, 2:30 p.m., Feb. 11, Beatty Pointe Village, Monroeville. Call (412) 374-9000. Bill Campbell, Country Western Singer, 2 p.m., Feb. 2, Sherwood Oaks. Call, 1-800-642-2217. Collin Stover – Magician and Mentalist, 3 p.m., Feb. 12, Seneca Hills village. Call (412) 793-1700.

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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. Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteer orientations, 9 a.m., Feb. 10, NHCO Boroughs, Bellevue; 2:30 p.m., Feb. 10, Eat N’ Park, Waterworks, Fox Chapel, 6:30 p.m., Mar. 10, Shaler North Hills Library, 6:30 p.m., Mar. 11, NHCO, Allison Park. For details, visit oyhs.org. Open Your Heart to a Senior needs volunteers year round and countywide, Volunteers are needed to help seniors remain independent and stay safe at home. For details, call (412) 307-0071 or visit oyhs.org. Pittsburgh Friendship Group is looking for volunteers to help visually impaired seniors. No experience is necessary. For info, call (724) 444-0064. Saint Athansius Parish Education & Community Center (West View) & Allegheny County Dept. of Human Services need your help this tax season to provide tax preparation for low income individuals, families, the disabled & the elderly. If interested, call Frank at (412) 350-3463 or frank.grande@alleghenycounty.us. Snow Angels are needed to Snow Shovel for seniors & disabled persons, volunteers are needed in all neighborhoods of Allegheny County. To register call (412) 863-5939 or http:// alleghenysnowangels.org. Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit our Hospice patients. Our volunteer are caring people who would be willing to listen or read to our patients. Our patients are dealing with a life threatening illness. Our volunteers participate in a training program with emphasis on providing compassionate care to our patients and their families. Time commitment is flexible, once a week or 2 times a month. An unknown author said: “Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time: They just have the heart.” Please call our Hope Hospice office at: 412-367-3685 and ask for the Volunteer Coordinator or leave your name and phone number and we will call you back.

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KIDS & EDUCATION February 2015

Educators Making a Difference BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

In January, we at Northern Connection magazine, began to highlight a few of our region’s Educators Making a Difference and we are proud to continue to highlight amazing teachers that continually go above and beyond in their devotion to educating their students. Jennifer Brown-Clair of Providence Heights Alpha School – Jennifer BrownClair is a certified K-12 art teacher who, over the past 13 years, has created and developed the current art program at Providence Heights Alpha School. What distinguishes her in her field of expertise is her strong commitment to continually enhance the art curriculum through constant growth and change. Over the years, Jennifer has coordinated an elaborate art show; most recently exhibited at the La Roche College Cantellops Gallery, and has overseen art projects involving every student which are proudly displayed throughout the school. Her lesson plans incorporate a cross curricular connection, art history background

and pertinent art vocabulary with each hands-on project. Several large scale lessons such as The Talking Art Museum and the Pinwheels for Peace installation artwork were also featured in local publications. As an educator it is important to Jennifer to make a difference. Her ability to think outside the box and incorporate a wide variety of art media and themes creates a meaningful and enriching art experience that makes a lasting impact on her students. To learn more, visit http://www.alphaschool.org. Eric Carlini of A.W. Beattie Career Center – Eric Carlini is a Carpentry instructor for 10th, 11th and 12th grades at A.W. Beattie

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Career Canter. Mr. Carlini is in his 5th year teaching but has been a carpenter and in the carpentry industry since 1987. Mr. Carlini explains, “All the instructors must come from and have an extensive background in industry first and foremost, then, as with myself, we receive our educational training and certifications through Indiana University of Pennsylvania and their Vocational Education program.” This program serves vocational instructors throughout Western Pennsylvania. “All the students get both academics and real-life experience working on job sites such as, the new McCandless Museum where we will be framing, roofing and doing finishing work on the building; but, we are also sure to combine academics with skills, particularly math and science,” continues Mr. Carlini. The students learn how to read blueprints, stage construction sites, triangulate

measurements, write contracts and much more. So, the program is actually more of a pre-engineering program with students choosing either to enter industry or go on to a college or university to study architecture and engineering. “The great thing about teaching the students is that I know for sure, that I am preparing them for their future and giving them valuable skills that will serve them throughout their lives, no matter where they choose to go.” To learn more, visit http://www.beattietech.com. Dr. Theresa Doerfler PhD of Oakland Catholic – Dr. Doerfler earned her Bachelor degrees in English and French at the University of Notre Dame and earned her Masters and Doctorate in English from Ohio State University. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, she moved to Pittsburgh almost twenty years ago with her husband. As a proud mother for four daughters, Dr. Doerfler has been an active parent with Oakland Catholic for many years prior to joining the staff. Her eldest graduates from Oakland Catholic in 2011, the second, just this past year in 2014, the third is currently a freshman and the fourth is currently in 8th and will be enrolling next year. Dr. Doerfler had been working as an editor and an adjunct for many years. “I was working on my Masters in Education at Duquesne and was absolutely delighted to receive a position with Oakland Catholic,” explains Doerfler. Dr. Doerfler teaches Freshmen and Sophomore English and finds the academic curriculum essential for preparing the students for college by requiring extensive research papers and integrating innovative technology and writing applications such as blogs and other media with traditional, classic writing skills. “It is particularly great to teach right here in Oakland – where we are surrounded by cultural performances of all types, and enjoy integrating them into the classes,” says Doerfler. To learn more, visit http:// www.oaklandcatholic.org. (Continued on page 42)

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Northern Connection | February 2015

KIDS & EDUCATION February 2015

Katie Matlak of Quigley Catholic High School – In this, her 7th year with Quigley Catholic High School, Mrs. Katie Matlak teaches religious education in all grades. Mrs. Matlak earned her degree in

Catechetics and Theology from Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio. Mrs. Matlak was recruited by Quigley and from the first time she stepped into the school, she says, “I felt an overwhelming pull at my heart, to care for and serve the students here. I knew this was the place, I wanted to be.” In addition to teaching religious education, Mrs. Matlak is

director of campus ministry where, in addition to liturgy services, she organizes retreats, special events to help serve both the school community and the community at large such as visiting nursing homes, March for Life trips, and religious retreats for upper classman. Mrs. Matlak is also particularly dedicated to helping teenagers through any crisis they may be having in their faith or spirituality and helping them to grow in both their personal and Catholic identities. According to Mrs. Matalak, “the students and staff here at Quigley are truly a family, a family that has a deep and beautiful light that keeps growing stronger each year and it is wonderful to see the older students welcome and be so incredibly helpful to the younger students.” To learn more, visit http:// www.qchs.org. Jeanne Riley of Saint James Catholic School in Sewickley – Jeanne Riley teaches 4th and 5th graders Social Studies and Reading at Saint James in Sewickley. After graduating from Duquesne University in 1972 with a Bachelor’s in Sociology, Mrs. Riley continued at Duquesne and earned her Master’s degree in Elementary Education and has been a strong advocate for a liberal arts education, ever since. Mrs. Riley taught at Cannon McMillan for several years, prior to marriage and adopting an orphan child from Russia. When time came to send her child to school, Mrs. Riley, being an educator herself, was very particular and did a great deal of research and even volunteered at Saint James for a year. From the very beginning of finding Saint James, Mrs Riley was impressed with the wonderful feeling of teamwork among the staff and for the caring and nurturing environment. According to Mrs. Riley, “I was immediately struck by how fair everyone is, how all the children are treated the same and how everyone together represents the heart and soul of the school and providing the best possible education.” Now in her 15th year with the school, Mrs.

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Riley continues to help welcome all children coming to the school and teaching the 4th and 5th grades. “The kids are where my heart is,” explains Riley. To learn more, visit http:// stjamesschool.us Lauren Sarazen of Vincentian Academy - Lauren Sarazen, English Faculty Member at Vincentian Academy and Director/ Choreographer for Performing Arts Program at Vincentian Academy, earned her Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education with a Minor in Theatre and Dance at Clarion University. This North Hills native has successfully combined her two passions: Education and the Arts. Sarazen starred as a child performer in the performance group, North Star Kids. One of her brightest moments as a North Star Kid was singing back-up to Celine Dion while Dion was touring in Pittsburgh. At Clarion University, Sarazen developed an ensemble called Show Choir where she wrote, directed, casted and choreographed students to perform regionally and nationally. From there she became the Choreographer to the North Hills Senior High School musical No, No, Nannette, and continues in that role today. Sarazen soon became the Director and Choreographer at Vincentian Academy and has produced shows including Once Upon a Mattress, Wizard of Oz, Grease, and this year’s Vincentian Academy musical Into the Woods (Feb. 20, 21, 22, 27, 28) at Pittsburgh Masonic Temple in Ross Township. Sarazen teaches English and the Theory of Knowledge at Vincentian Academy and brilliantly brings the written word to life. She chooses literature plays, like Macbeth, for her classes that illicit thought-provoking ideas, “Students connect better to what the message is in written material if it becomes tangible. Reading becomes more

powerful,” says Sarazen. In summer 2014, Sarazen performed as a featured dancer in the Broadway production of Swing, with the Ocean City Theatre Company in New Jersey. Along with performing she held the position of Assistant Choreographer at Stage Door Manor in New York City, where she worked alongside professionals from London, Wales, New Zealand and Ireland. There, she was able to use her teaching skills to instruct some of the most talented student artists in the country. Sarazen’ expertise

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on the performance stage and in the classroom is evident every day, right here in the North Hills of Pittsburgh at Vincentian Academy, as students are excelling at tremendous heights because of her exceptional teaching ability! To learn more, visit www.vincentianacademy.org. If you know of an educator, administrator, or counselor making a difference, contact us by emailing NorthCon@consolidated.net or by calling 724-940-2444. F Northern Connection | February 2015

KIDS & EDUCATION February 2015

School Movers & Shakers Seneca Valley

Seneca Valley Senior High School competed in the Westinghouse Contraption Competition on Dec. 12 at the Carnegie Science Center. The Seneca Valley Team won the “Most Mechanical Award” and finished first among the 34 high schools that competed from the tri-state area. Seneca Valley School District teacher, Jim Lucot, shown above with First Lady of Pennsylvania Susan Corbett, is a 2015 Finalist for Teacher of the Year. Haine Middle School sixth grade students presented a check for $837.12 to the Butler County Humane Society. The amount will be matched by a private donor. The fundraiser was independently planned and carried out by students.

Seneca Valley Industrial Technology and Engineering teacher Joseph Logsdon was recently appointed to Penn State University’s (PSU) Electro-Optics Center’s (EOC) Sea, Air and Land (SEAL) Challenge Advisory Committee.

Art students in grades 1-6 at Evans City Schools worked collaboratively to create the giant map of the world. All grades studied portraiture in art class and connected their learning to math and social studies to make a large mural.

Pine-Richland Joseph Logsdon

Seneca Valley seniors Bailyn Bench and Rachel Tollerton have been selected as Bailyn Bench Rachel Tollerton semifinalist in the Coca-Cola Scholars Program.

The Pennsylvania Dept. of Education’s Division of Federal Programs is honoring Richland Elementary School as one of the top performing Title 1 schools in Pennsylvania. The school is being named a Title 1 Distinguished School for 2014-15.

Hampton Ed McKaveney, Hampton Township School District technology director, is part of a senior-level delegation heading to Singapore as part of a nine-day strategic discussion on technology in schools.

St. Joseph Saint Joseph High School senior Erin Gilboy was selected as a 2015-16 Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program recipient.

La Roche College The National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Organization awarded Kelly Slates, a junior at La Roche College, the American FFA Degree at the 2014 National FFA Convention and Expo in Louisville, Ky. Seneca Valley Instrumental Music Department had 46 students selected to participate in the 2014 District 5 Honors Band festival that was held Nov. 13-14 at Westminster College. Seneca Valley senior and 2014 Homecoming Queen Jordan Harris repreJordan Harris sented the school district at the 2014 Liberty Bowl on Dec. 29, held in Memphis, Tenn.

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The board of trustees at La Roche College welcomed new members alumnus William F. Gruber ’83 and George Simakas, CIMA®.

CCAC The Community College of Allegheny College successfully completed the Pennsylvania Safety Inspection Academic Audit on Oct. 21, earning a rating of “Excellent.”

The Community College of Allegheny County North Campus Intercollegiate Ice Hockey Team has raised more than $20,000 in funds and other donations for area charities since 2008. This year, the team raised an excess of $3,000 for Operation Troop Appreciation.

St. Vincent College Kate Fletcher, executive director of Hekima Place, an orphanage for girls in Kenya, received an honorary doctor of humane letters degree and was the principal speaker at the December Commencement of Saint Vincent College on Dec. 13. Saint Vincent College had a “Day of Celebration” on Jan. 19 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. Guest speaker for the event was Janard Pendleton, program manager for the Office of College and Career Readiness at the Janard Pendelton Pittsburgh Public Schools. A 10-second video about Saint Vincent College is appearing in Times Square in New York City – in two locations. Greggory Brandt, a professional Broadway actor and director has been named director of stage and summer theatre at Saint Vincent College. Dr. Susan Mitchell Greggory Brandt Sommers, professor of history in the Saint Vincent College School of Humanities and Fine Arts, has been elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society in the United Kingdom. Dr. Michael J. Urick, assistant professor of management and operational excellence at Saint Vincent College, had two peer-reviewed journal articles published in December.

Dr. Michael Urick

Ben Schachter, professor of fine arts in the Saint Vincent School of Humanities and Fine Arts, recently published an article in a Rabbinic journal called Artistic Engagement with Halakhah. Ben Schachter www.northernconnectionmag.com

Northern Connection | February 2015

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Connor Gingrich BY PAULA GREEN

eventeen year-old, North Allegheny High School senior, Connor Gingrich was instrumental in turning Newman Stadium into a “sea of pink” this past fall. On Oct. 24, the NA Tigers played their final game of the season against their rival – the North Hills Indians. Gingrich, along with his fellow key club members and key club sponsors – Mrs. Sharon Volpe and Mrs. Joy Manesiotis held a “Pink Out” where they sold pink t-shirts for classmates to wear during the game. The student section of the stadium was overflowing with pink attire which Connor Gingrich, Chris Hoke, Lexi Napper, and Marty Lazzaro was worn in support of Glimmer of Hope, a local organization that raises breast cancer awareness and supports cancer research. “The motivation to donate to Glimmer of Hope resulted from numerous years my mom spent designing baskets for Glimmer’s founder, Diana Napper. Additionally, my grandmother is a breast cancer survivor, and my parents, Kurt and Mary attend the annual ‘Bid for Hope” event. This fundraiser is supported and attended by many members of the Pittsburgh Steelers. My dad is a sports memorabilia collector, and most of his items have come from this event. Donating to this foundation felt right because I knew 100% of the donations would be used in 3D tomography research in our area,” Gingrich noted. “When the “Pink Out” project began last summer, I was working with my friends Marty Lazzaro, Joe Fitzgerald and Sal Peluso and Mrs. Volpe on setting our goals for the event. Once we priced the t-shirts we decided that they we would try and raise $2,500 for Glimmer of Hope. As for myself, I set $5,000 as my own personal to reach by Oct. 24. I was determined to do anything to meet this mark. Fortunately, we did manage to reach our target and we sold roughly 1,250 t-shirts. On Oct. 24, we presented former Pittsburgh Steeler, Chris Hoke and Lexi Napper (Diana’s daughter) with a $5,000 check for Glimmer of Hope, on behalf of the NASH Key club and the North Allegheny student section,” Gingrich added. Gingrich intends to continue supporting others through the North Allegheny Key Club. He plans to attend college, and has his sights set on Michigan State, Penn State University or the University of Utah. He would like to pursue a degree in business. To learn more about Glimmer of Hope, visit http://symbolofthecure.com/. F

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Northern Connection | February 2015

Open Registration

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NC FEATURE

Fun Activities to Enjoy with Your Pet BROUGHT TO YOU BY ANIMAL FRIENDS

ere at Animal Friends, our shelter residents partake in enrichment activities, each and every day, which engage their senses and provide benefits to their physical and behavioral health. The goal of enrichment is to provide a daily environment that is varied and stimulating. All in all, stimulating the brain reduces stress and is fun – making a healthier, happier pet. You can even do these kinds of activities at home with your own pets! The following enrichment activities will do the trick – even for just five to 10 minutes each day:

For cats:

• Hide toys throughout your home to provide a chance for hunting while your cat is alone. • Homemade toys: shower curtain rings, bottle caps, drinking straws and milk jug rings. • Catnip or cat grass freshly grown in a planter. • Classical music, bird songs and wind chimes.

Scent games for dogs:

• Drop treats into the box filled with empty water bottles. The dog must search in the box to recover the treats. Because the bottles move and make noise, the game

can help build confidence. For a fearful dog, try crumbled newspaper in the box instead of bottles. Leave some treats visible on the top of the newspapers to encourage the dog to search. • Randomly toss treats or kibble into grass, snow, leaves, the play yard, a room or onto a blanket on the dog’s bed and let the dog sniff and search. The challenge is greater when the treats are not easily visible requiring him to use his or her nose. • Cereal boxes and egg cartons: Dogs also enjoy tearing up cereal boxes and egg cartons to find hidden treats.

For rabbits:

• Wind chimes, folk music and the sound of human voices. • A sandbox with fresh, clean sand. • Egg cartons, balls with bells, tunnels, mirrors and baby stacking rings.

If you are interested in supporting Animal Friends, becoming a volunteer, learning more about their many programs or adopting or fostering a loving, furry companion, visit Animal Friends at their Camp Horne Road Location, call 412-847-7000 or visit www.thinkoutsidethecage.org. F

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TRIVIA CONNECTION February 2015

Hail to the Chief Trivia Presidential Portrayals in Motion Pictures BY PAULA GREEN

presidential film portrayals, we must check out this executive exam. Get set to don those thinking caps, because it’s time to get a little trivial... 1. Ed Metzger played Theodore Roosevelt in this 2008 movie. 2. This actor played Ulysses Grant in the 1999 film Wild, Wild West. 3. In 2004, Tom Selleck portrayed President Eisenhower in this flick. 4. Name the actor who played FDR in the film Annie, and also in the made-for-TV-films Eleanor and Franklin and Eleanor and Franklin: The White House Years. 5. Which actor played Thomas Jefferson in the 1972 movie 1776. 6. Name this 2000 flick that illustrates John Kennedy’s actions during the Cuban Missile Crisis. 7. Donald Moffett starred as this Vice President (who eventually became president) in the 1983 movie The Right Stuff. 8. Which actor portrayed Ronald Reagan in the Showtime movie The Day Reagan Was Shot? 9. In 1976, James Whitmore starred in this one-man show based on Harry S. Truman. 10. Which actress played Mary Todd Lincoln in the 2012 movie Lincoln? 11. Ralph Bellamy starred in the 1960 film Sunrise At Campobello. Which U.S. President does he depict? 12. What year was the Nixon, Watergate scandal movie All the President’s Men released? 13. Who directed the 1991 John F. Kennedy assassination film JFK? 14. Robert V. Barron played this popular U.S. President in Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure. 15. Who played Jacqueline Kennedy in the film The Kennedys? F Sources: http://moviepilot.com/posts/2014/01/22/which-u-s-presidentshave-been-portrayed-the-most-in-films-1222220?lt_source=external,manual, http://www.reelz.com/trailer-clips/54245/top-10-presidential-portrayals/, http:// entertainment.time.com/2012/11/07/potus-at-the-pictures-which-presidentshave-made-the-most-appearances-as-movie-characters/, http://www.slate.com/ blogs/browbeat/2012/11/08/presidents_in_movies_which_american_president_ appears_in_the_most_films.html Answers: 1. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button 2. Kevin Kline 3. Ike: Countdown to D-Day 4. Edward Herrmann 5. Ken Howard 6. Thirteen Days 7. Lyndon Johnson 8. Richard Crenna 9. Give ’Em Hell Harry 10. Sally Field 11. Franklin Delano Roosevelt 12. 1976 13. Oliver Stone 14. Abraham Lincoln 15. Katie Holmes

n the United States, Presidents Day is always celebrated on the third Monday of February. This year, we commemorate it on Feb. 16. In honor of this special day, we’re going to take you on a historical journey of past U.S. Presidents and their portrayals in motion pictures. Abraham Lincoln has been portrayed the most in films; a whopping 153 times, no other president even comes close. His most recent reenactment and was in the 2012 film Lincoln in which Daniel Day Lewis brought our 16th president to life. Henry Fonda depicted him in the 1939 movie Young Mr. Lincoln, and Sam Waterston characterized him in the 1988 movie Lincoln. The next commander-in-chief to be featured in numerous films is George Washington with 65 depictions. Richard Basehart played our famous first president in the 1975 movie Valley Forge. In 2000, Donald Holden portrayed him in the film Washington. That same year, Jeff Daniels played George in The Crossing. There were plenty of other popular presidential portrayals. Nick Nolte gave a stellar performance of Thomas Jefferson in the 1995 flick Jefferson in Paris. Anthony Hopkins depicted John Quincy Adams in the 1997 film Amistad. In the 1953 movie The President’s Lady, Charlton Heston showcased Andrew Jackson, and he also portrayed him in the 1958 film The Buccaneer. Paul Giamatti starred as our second president in the 2008 flick John Adams. The Roosevelt cousins had memorable reenactments. Robin Williams starred as Teddy Roosevelt in the 2006 movie Night at the Museum and reprised this role in the 2014 film Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb. Tom Berenger depicted him in Rough Riders. Brian Keith portrayed Theodore Roosevelt in the 1975 flick The Lion and the Wind. Bill Murray gave a memorable performance as Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the 2012 film Hyde on the Hudson. Jon Voight showcased him the 2001 movie Pearl Harbor. David Patrick Kennedy depicted Harry Truman in the 2006 film Flags of Our Fathers. Frank Langella played a memorable performance of Richard Nixon in the 2008 movie Frost/Nixon. Anthony Hopkins also played our 37th President in the 1995 flick Nixon. Greg Kinnear portrayed John Kennedy in the 2011 film The Kennedys. The 2013 Parkland took a fresh look at the thoroughly examined assassination of President Kennedy. Josh Brolin received rave reviews when he starred as George W. Bush in the 2008, Oliver Stone flick W. The movie also starred James Cromwell who portrayed the elder President George H.W. Bush. Since we have delved into U.S.

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS February 2015

Soldiers & Sailors Presents – A Moving Play and a Heritage Celebration BY PAULA GREEN

oldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall has a great line-up of events this month. The military play Tell It To the Marines will be performed for six limited engagements the weekends of Feb. 6-8 and Feb. 13-15, in Soldiers & Sailor’s auditorium. The show was written by renowned author Samuel Hazo and directed by Point Park professor Richard Keitel. It is set in 2007, and examines the effect of the Iraqi War on one family. The play focuses on a 30-year retired Marine Major, his wife, their two Marine sons, his twin brother who is a former Marine and a Catholic priest. Tell It To the Marines focuses on the human consequences of the war, the erosion of public trust in government and the historical deviance of political leadership. Showtimes are at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m., seating is limited. To reserve your spot, visit www.soldiersandsailorshall.org. In honor of Black History Month in February, Soldiers & Sailors has a special commemoration event. The Hall will present their 5th Annual African-American Heritage Celebration. This year’s theme is Black Veterans with Success – Their History, Health and Commitment to Excellence. A panel discussion will take place at 1 p.m., Feb. 7, in the Gettysburg Room at Soldiers & Sailors. Guest speakers include veterans from the U.S. Air Force and Army – Capt. Darren Rogers, 171st Division, U.S. Air Force; Sgt. E-5, S.D.V. Richard D. Portis, U.S. Army and col. Edmund D. Effort, DDS (retired), U.S. Air Force. In addition, Heather Steel with the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare system Minority Veterans program will answer questions on military health related issues. The military exhibit Slave to Soldier showcasing the importance of the historical legacy of African-American soldiers will also be on display. “Soldiers & Sailors recognizes the challenges faced by those who served in the military, regardless of their branch of service, gender or national origin, and the African-American Heritage Celebration allows us to emphasize the importance of African-American contributions to the military and the affect war had on African American veterans,” said president and CEO John F. McCabe. “We want to present an open forum that focuses attention on providing information and resources to help address a variety of issues many veterans are facing, both homes and abroad.” For more information, call (412) 621-4253 or soldiersandsailorshall.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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Northern Connection | February 2015

HAPPENINGS February 2015

February 2015 Happenings North Happenings

Mondays

Tuesdays

Saturdays

Citrus Sale going on until Feb. 5, thru North Hills Community Outreach. Pickup Mar. 7 & 8 at St. Paul’s United Methodist. To order, call (412) 487-6316 or https://www.nhco.org/ fruit/cfm.

Chisel and Chips Carvers of North Pittsburgh meetings, meets 6:30-10 p.m., the 2nd Monday of every month, Parkwood United Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. For info, call (724) 940-0034.

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.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Community Auto Program serving the Greater Pittsburgh region needs car donations. Call (724) 4438300 or www.communityauto.org.

Greater Cranberry Barbershop Chorus, meets every Monday at 7 p.m., Mars Alliance Church, Rt. 228. Visit Bogmeisters.com.

Saturday Singles Dance for ages 40+, 8 p.m.-midnight, Feb. 7, PreValentine’s Day Party w/Gifts for all ladies, 7:30 p.m. free dance lesson; Feb. 21, Free Speed Dating, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy, West View. Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

North Hills Community Outreach is accepting donations of organic seeds. For details, call (412) 408-3830, or jmdrayton.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. northhillsfoodbank.com. Donations always welcome. WorkAble employment workshops and more for job seekers. 10:30 a.m., Feb. 10, Job Search Strategies; Feb. 24, Resumes, NHCO in Bellevue. Call (412) 408-3830 ext. 3219 or visit www.workableac.com.

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meets the 3rd Monday of every month 7 p.m.,(Feb. 16), topic: Butler County’s Nine-Month Men: Pennsylvania’s 134th & 137th Regiments, Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329. Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m. Mondays, Feb. 2, Guardians of the Galaxy; Feb. 9, Begin Again; Feb. 16, The Hundred Foot Journey; Feb. 23, This Is Where I Leave You, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. For info, visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/ movies/

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.

Friday Christy House Tea Room Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fridays, on Walnut & Frederick in Sewickley. Homemade soups, salads, breads & cookies. Needles Eye & Early Treasures gift shops. RSVP to (412) 741-5960.

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Arts & Entertainment Antibalas & Zap Mama, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 4, Byham Theatre. Call (412) 456-6666 or TrustArts.org. Butler Symphony Orchestra concerts: Feb. 7, Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony; Mar. 7, Broadway Bound, Butler Intermediate High School. Call (724) 283-1402 or visit ButlerSymphony.org. Children’s Theatre: Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, 2 p.m., Feb. 22 & 10 a.m., Feb. 23, Byham Theatre; 5:30 & 7:30 p.m., Feb. 26, Marshall Middle School; 2 p.m., Mar. 1, Seneca Valley Senior High School. The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, Apr. 4-10, Byham Theatre. Visit www. TrustArts.org/kids.

Hillman Performing Arts Series, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 28, ArcAttack: Telsa Coil Music, Shady Side Academy Senior School campus, 423 Fox Chapel Rd., Fox Chapel. For info, visit www.thehillman.org. Hollywood Goes to the Oscars®, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 21, Legacy Theatre. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com Legacy Theatre Lineup: 2 p.m., Feb. 15; Hollywood Goes to the Oscars. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487 or TheLegacyLineup.com Pittsburgh Rockin’ Reunion, 4-8 p.m., Apr. 4, Benedum Center. For details, visit http://trustarts.culturaldistrict.org/production/43538/pittsburgh-rockin-reunion. PNC Broadway Across America, Cameron Mackintosh’s New Production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, Feb. 18. For info visit www.TrustArts. org. Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles, 8 p.m., May 16, Benedum Center. For tickets, call (412) 456-6666 or TrustArts.org. Ron K. Brown Evidence, 8 p.m., Feb. 7, Byham Theater. For tickets, (412) 456-6666 or www.TrustArts.org. Tamburitzans, 2 p.m., Feb. 15, Legacy Theatre. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com Union Tanguera, 8 p.m., Mar. 28, Byham Theater. For tickets, (412) 456-6666 or www.TrustArts.org. The Vogues, 7:30 p.m., Mar. 21, Legacy Theatre. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com

Health & Wellness Keep Your Hands Moving: Osteoarthritis management of the fingers and thumb, 1 p.m., Feb. 4, Club Julian. Free event. Presented by Passavant Hospital Foundation. Call 412-3661931 to register. 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 run in the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon on May 3. For details, visit pittsburghmarathon.com or Patti (412) 408-3830 or pmferraro@nhco.org.

Support Groups Bereavement Support Group, Beyond Bridge to Hope, 7-8:30 p.m., 2nd Wed., of every month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, McCandless Twp. Free of charge, no registration is necessary. For details, (412) 748-6640. Bereavement Support Group (for widows/widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed. Hosted by St. Sebastian Parish, Haber Hall. To register, call (412) 366-1300. Bridge to Hope, 7-8:30 p.m., every Wed., of the month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, McCandless Twp. For drug & alcohol addiction. Phone, (412) 748-6640. Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30 p.m., every 3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. To register, call (412) 261-5886 or ccallen92@aol.com.

Sanctuary Teen Support Group, (ages 14-17) meets 4 p.m., Weds thru Apr. 1, Anchorpoint. Visit http://anchorpointcounselingministry.org. Women’s Self Care Support Group, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Sats., Feb. 28-May 2, Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry. Call (412) 366-1300 ext., 129 to register.

Counseling Ask the Attorney, free legal consultation for low-income families. Sessions are 7 p.m., Feb. 11, at NHCO in Millvale; Mar. 11 at NHCO in Bellevue, Apr. 8 at NHCO in Allison Park. For info, call (412) 408-3830 or hzgibbs@ nhco.org. Berkley Hills Lutheran Church is offering it Stephen Ministry Program for people experiencing grief, divorce, cancer, illnesses, job loss, loss of home, military deployment & other life struggles. Free & confidential program for people of any faith. Call (412) 486-4010 or www.bhlc.org. Group Services, Intensive Outpatient Program, 5:30-8:30 p.m., M,W, Th.,Therapy Group 6-8 p.m., Tues., Family Only Group 7:30-9:00 p.m., 2nd Tues, Psycho-educational Support Group 7-9 p.m., 4th Mon. Contact Anita at 412-215-7967, pened1@aol.com, or www. anitasinicropemaier.com. Professional Counseling, need someone to talk with but can’t afford it or lack health coverage. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300.

Networking AM Spirit, a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Wed, at North Park

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Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. For info, call Glen at (412) 916-8699. Cranberry Chapter of Professional Referral Exchange meets 7:15 a.m., networking meeting every Wed., North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Mary Ann, (724) 935-2221. North Allegheny Special Education Parent Networking meeting, 9:30 a.m., Feb. 13, Mar. 13, Baierl Center at NA High School. For info, visit http://www.nasepng.org/ Professional Referral Exchange (PRE) meets 7:15 a.m., Weds, Deck House, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Ken, at (610) 496-7600 or visit, www.prenetworking.net. Toastmasters Cranberry High Noon Club, meets noon-1 p.m., every Mon., Pella Windows Training Center, 230 Thorn Hill Rd., Warrendale. Questions? Call (724) 316-3595 or email SueEllis@PeopleLearn. com.

Volunteer Opportunities 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. Hope Hospice is looking for volunteer for their patients. Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, just have the heart! For details, call (412) 367-3685. (Continued on page 54)

Northern Connection | February 2015

HAPPENINGS February 2015

North Hills Community Outreach Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m., Feb. 12, NHCO in Allison Park. Call (412) 408-3830 or pmferraro@nhco.org. Volunteer Tutors Needed for children struggling with school work. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300.

School Events & Courses & Symposiums Global Development and Humanitarian Aid Training Program, Jun. 1-5, Essentials program; Jun. 1-12, Extended training, La Roche College. Apply by Apr. 20. Call (412) 536-1215 or charlotte.reed@laroche.edu. Faith & Reason Summer Program, Jun. 14-19, St. Vincent College. For info, call (724) 805-2844 or michael.krom@ stvincent.edu/faithandreason. Students can register online at www.stvincentedu/faithandreason. Foundations of Faith Community Nursing Preparation Course, (two parts), Feb. 27-28 & Mar. 20-21, UPMC Mercy. For info, call (412) 232-5815 or ParishNurse@pmhs.org. Into the Woods, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 6-7 & 2 p.m., Feb. 8, Hillman Center at Shady Side Academy. For tickets, phone (412) 968-3040

or at the door. Visit www.shadysideacademy. org/theater.

9000 Babcock Blvd. For details, call (412) 3664455 or www.alphaschool.org.

Into the Woods, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 20, 21, 27 & 28, and 2 p.m., Feb. 21, Vincentian Academy. Adults $12, students $8. For info, call (412) 364-1616 ext. 219.

Saint Vincent College Department of Education will offer a live online graduate program leading to a teaching certificate in online instruction beginning in the fall of 2015. Call (724) 805-2933 or gradadmission@stvincent.edu.

La Roche College Instant Decision Day, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Feb. 9, La Roche invites prospective students to meet with counselors, at La Roche’s Freshman Admissions office. For info, call (412) 536-1270 or 800-838-4572. La Roche College Literacy Society Present Stories of Western PA, 7 p.m., Feb. 20, Consecrated Dust; Mar. 27, One of Us. For info, call (412) 536-1216 or rita.yeasted@laroche.edu. Meet Design, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Feb. 16, La Roche College. For details, call (412) 5361792 or admissions@laroche.edu. Pasta Engineering Competition, 6 p.m., Mar. 2, Rogers Center at Saint Vincent. Co-sponsored by Carbone’s Restaurant. For details, visit www.stvincent.edu. Pine-Richland School District Kindergarten registration will be held 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Mar. 9, Wexford Elementary; Mar. 11, Hance Elementary; Mar. 13, Richland Elementary. For info, visit www. pinerichland.org. Providence Heights Alpha School Open House, 1-3 p.m., Feb. 8,

Seneca Valley is having their kindergarten registration in March for the 2015-16 school year. For details, visit www.svsd.net.

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. Veterans 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.

Shaler Area Marching Band, Pancake Breakfast, 8-11 a.m., Feb. 21, Shaler Area Middle School cafeteria, Mt. Royal Blvd.

“Veteran X” mental health & substance abuse recovery program for vets meets 6 p.m., every Mon., at VA Butler Healthcare, Room 213, East South (ES), 325 N. Castle Rd., Butler. For info, visit http://www.butler.va.gov/.

Veterans

Spiritual

Harmony Museum presents “The Civil War in Pennsylvania,” Heinz History Center traveling exhibit. For info, (724) 452-7341 or www.harmonymuseum.org.

The Bruised Reeds, a Christian (12Step) Group for co-dependents is offering an 8-week program based on the book Boundaries by Cloud & Townsend. Meetings 10 a.m., Sats, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Allison Park. For info, contact Judy at (865) 898-3463 or judybeck10@yahoo.com.

North Pittsburgh Quilts of Valor meets 7-9 p.m., 2nd Mon., of the month, Quilt Company, Middle Rd., Allison Park. Call (412) 487-9532 or www.qovf.org. Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs Awarded VA Grants to Support Disabled Veterans in Adaptive Sports at Slippery Rock University. For info, visit www.va.gov/adaptivesports.

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Stations of the Cross, 1:45 p.m. & 7 p.m., Fridays in Lent (except Good Friday), St. Alexis Church, 10090 Old Perry Hwy., Wexford. For info, call (724) 935-4343. Tennabrae Service, 7:30 p.m., Apr. 3, (Good Friday), St. Alexis Parish, 10090 Old Perry Hwy., Wexford. For info, call (724) 935-4343.

Christy House

he Christy House is a place where gracious hospitality and fellowship abound amidst a beautiful Victorian setting. Open to the public, this lovely home (circa 1862) is located on the corner of Frederick and Walnut Streets in Sewickley. A Friday tradition at St. Stephen’s since 1976, guests are invited to enjoy lunch from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. If you are shopping for unique gift items and collectibles the Needles Eye and Earthly Treasures adds a bonus to the visit. The dining room, enhanced with fresh flowers, linens, and floral china, welcomes guests for seating at tables for two or more. A traditional lunch menu, your choice of two soups or a set menu, salad, a homemade bread and volunteers bake cookies. Enthusiastic women and of all ages prosper the ministry, in preparing, serving, and clean up. Even the men participate by running the dishwasher! Prayer, covering every Friday opening, binds the team together in the spirit of serving the Lord, as we serve one another. A prayer team gathers the prayer requests left in the baskets for family and friends. The fruits are abundant- a hurting heart consoled, a friendship rekindled, relationships built, “take outs” to home bound, laughter and joy-nourishment for the soul. The Lord’s blessings abound in this place. To RSVP call (412) 741-5960 between 9:30 am and 2:30 pm on Fridays or visit the ststephenschurch.net website and link to Christy House. Suggested donation for lunch is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. The tea room is closed in July and August. Proceeds are gifted to various ministries and missions, particularly those involving the needs of women and children. F

Fish Fries Winner Winner Fish Dinner, 4:30-7:30 p.m., Fridays in Lent (except Good Friday), Feb. 13, 20, 27, Mar. 6, 13, 20, St. Alexis Parish, 10090 Old Perry Hwy., Wexford. Take-out available after 3:30 p.m., call (724) 401-1FRY.

Seminars Rare, Old Books – Characteristics, Collectability & Value, 11 a.m., Feb. 24, Legacy Theatre. Speaker: Michael J. Dabrishus, assistant university librarian, University of Pittsburgh. Call, 1-877-987-6487 or visit thelegacylineup.com. The Westinghouse Robots, 11 a.m., Feb. 10, Legacy Theatre. Speaker: Edward J. Reis, resident Westinghouse historian, Heinz History Center. Call, 1-877-987-6487 or visit thelegacylineup.com.

Tax Preparation North Hills Community Outreach is offering free tax prep for low-income individuals thru Mar. 31, at NHCO sites in Bellevue & Millvale. Appointments must be made by calling 2-1-1. Northland Public Library in cooperation with AARP, free tax prep for seniors and low-income residents, 9 a.m.-noon, Tues., & Thurs., Feb. 3-Apr. 14. For info, call (412) 366-8100 or northlandlibrary.org.

Festivals Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festival, Mar. 27-29, Westin Convention Center, downtown Pittsburgh. To learn more, visit www.pghknitandcrochet.com.

Sales New and Gently Worn Prom Dresses, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Mar. 28, Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church, 2662 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. For info, call (724) 776-5310 or www.ccupc.org.

Winter Events Ballroom Dancing, 7-8 p.m., Beginners, 8-10 p.m. Social Dancing, Fri., Feb. 6, Mar. 6, Apr. 10, 24, May 1, 15 & 29, Orchard Hill gym. For info, call (724) 935-5555 or orchardhillchurch.com.

Celebration of Chocolate Event, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Mar. 7, Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry Woods. Sponsored by Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau. For info, (724) 234-4619 or www.visitbutlercounty.com/chocolate. Colonial Tea, 1-3:30 p.m., Feb. 15, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd., Allison Park. For info, call (412) 486-0563. Harmoniefest Dinner, 6 p.m., Feb. 14, Stewart Hall, Harmony Museum. For info, call (724) 452-7341 or www.harmonymuseum.org.

Spring Events Pittsburgh Spring Fever Festival, 10-5, Mar. 20-21 & 10-4, Mar. 22, Monroeville Convention Center. For info, call (724) 863-4577 or www.familyfestivals.com. Royal Tea Party, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Mar. 7, Pine Community Center. Register by Feb. 28. Call (724) 625-1636 or http://www. twp.pine.pa.us/communitycenter/home.html Steel City Con, Apr. 10-12, Monroeville Convention Center. Featuring: Noah Wylie, Karen Allen and Tom Wopat. For info, visit http://www.steelcitycon.com.

Fundraisers Valentine’s Day 5K, 10K & 15K, Feb. 14, North Park, Boat House-Rose Barn. Proceeds benefit the RSG1 Foundation’s Malignant Brain Tumor & Cancer Campaign. Online registration ends Feb. 8. Visit http://rsg1foundation.com/

Easter Egg-citement Easter Egg Hunt, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Mar. 28, Pine Community Center. Register by Mar. 21. Call (724) 625-1636 or http://www.twp.pine.pa.us/communitycenter/home.html.

Library Northland Public Library: Indian Vegetarian Cooking, 7 p.m., Feb. 12; ADHD Disorder: Pathways to Progress, 7 p.m., Feb. 19; Air Force One: An Honor, Privilege & Pleasure to Serve, 7p.m., Feb. 26. For info, (412) 366-8100, ext. 113. Shaler North Hills Library is looking for volunteers to help with their Caddy Stacks Mini Golf FORE to be Feb. 21-22. For details, call (412) 486-0211 or mcraes@einetwork.net by Feb. 6.

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Northern Connection | February 2015

HAPPENINGS February 2015

Saint Alexis Catholic Church 2015 Lenten and Easter Triduum Liturgical Schedule

Daily Masses

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday: 8:00 a.m. Friday: 8:30 a.m.

Sacrament of Penance Communal Service 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, 2015 _______________

Stations of the Cross Fridays 1:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. _______________

Fish Fry

4:30-7:30 p.m. Feb. 13, 20, 27, Mar. 6, 13 & 20 No Fish Fry on Good Friday _______________

Palm Sunday Masses

March 29, 2015 Anticipated Mass: Saturday 4:00 p.m. Sunday: 8:00 a.m., 9:45 a.m. procession before 10:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 noon and 6:00 p.m. _______________

Easter Triduum Holy Thursday

Mass of the Lord’s Supper: 7:00 p.m.

Good Friday

Stations of the Cross: 12:00 noon Spiritual Reflection: 1:00 p.m. Celebration of the Lord’s Passion: 2:00 p.m. Good Friday Evening Tenebrae Service: 7:30 p.m.

Holy Saturday

Blessing of the Baskets: 11:00 a.m. Easter Vigil: 8:30 p.m.

Easter Sunday Masses

8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 12:00 noon No 6:00 p.m. Mass _______________ 10090 Old Perry Highway Wexford, Pennsylvania 15090 724.935.4343 www.stalexis.org

#WinnerWinnerFishDinner is back and bigger this year @ stalexischurch BY ANDY LESNEFSKY

e believe Social media and Fish Fry’s a perfect pair. Sounds a little strange at first but for us it all about the cause, the meal, and serving people bet-

ter.

THE CAUSE: Since 2001 the St. Alexis Fish Fry has been not only serving an awesome meal but really supporting an awesome cause. Our Fish Fry goes to help fund our youth ministry and the work we do locally with high school age teens, service to the community, and our mission trips. We believe that teens are not the future of the church. They are the church now and we must fund and support this important ministry of our church. THE MEAL: We serve the best fish sandwich around! We strive to serve restaurant quality food at unbeatable price. Come see why people are raving about our #WinnerWinnerFishDinner. SERVING PEOPLE: Our Fish Fry is more than a meal. It’s about serving and loving our customers and welcoming them into our community. You are more than a customer here. You are family. SOCIAL MEDIA: follow @stalexischurch or like us at facebook.com/ stalexischurch. Use the #WinnerWinnerFishDinner, like, share and retweet our messages for a chance to win a free dinner, t-shirts, and other prizes. DINNER INFORMATION: Fridays of Lent (except Good Friday), 4:30-7:30 p.m., school cafeteria, 10090 Old Perry Highway. We offer choice of baked cod or our “King Cod” (fresh battered fried fish), two side dishes (pierogies, scalloped potatoes, green beans, cole slaw, apple sauce or macaroni and cheese), rolls, choice of homemade dessert and drink (no drink with takeout), $9 adults, $6 children under 10 and children under 3 are free. Sandwich $6. Bowl of Soup and Roll $3. There are plenty of handicapped and takeout parking spaces reserved behind the cafeteria. Takeout 724-401-1FRY (after 3:30 p.m.) or online ordering at stalexis.org. New this year we are accepting credit cards with a minimum purchase of $25. If you want to get involved with the fish fry or our youth ministry program, please go to stalexis.org. Eat our fish, experience our unique community, and support our youth! F

Northern Connection | February 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com

Northern Connection | February 2015