February 2022 Issue: Northern Connection Magazine

February 2022

CONNECTING YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 23 YEARS

Digestive Health Specialists, Closer to Home

Gastroenterology Associates of Pittsburgh–UPMC

Associates in Gastroenterology–UPMC

Also...

2022 Health Care Guide | Higher Education |

Wedding Guide

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

February

NORTHERN CONNECTION P.O. Box 425 Mars, Pa. 16046

12

NC Features 10 10 34 36

Year of the Tiger Rothrock’s Kung Fu February Events Facts from the Farm: The “New Normal” Ron Eichner Home Guide

2022 Health Care Guide 12 Cover Story: Digestive Health Specialists, Closer to Home 16 Why You Need a Primary Care Physician Heyl Family Practice 17 AHN Bariatric and Metabolic Institute Comes to Wexford Hospital Janice Lane Palko 20 Concordia Lutheran Ministries

Wedding Guide 22 24 24 26

COVID Still Affecting Weddings Two Years Later Janice Lane Palko The Camelot Event Center Betsy’s Barn General Rental Center

Higher Education 28 Chatham University 28 A.W. Beattie Career Center to Hold Open House Janice Lane Palko 29 Pittsburgh Technical College

Kids & Education 30 School Movers & Shakers

Advertorials 9

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com President & Publisher

Laura Lyn Arnold Publisher Emeritus & Contributor

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Associates Graphics, Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing , LLC Core Writers

Belinda Burchick Ron Eichner Paula M. Green Janice Lane Palko

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey

In Every Issue...

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Movers & Shakers Mover & Shaker of the Month: Jacquelyn Demianczyk From the Editor: Regrets – I Have a Few Janice Lane Palko Trivia Connection: Phil/Phyllis Trivia Paula Green Support Our Troops: Friends of The Fisher House Paula Green

On the Cover: Jan Ravi, MD, a gastroenterologist at UPMC Passavant and Gastroenterology Associates of Pittsburgh–UPMC, with his patient Ken Senatore, a rectal cancer survivor. The teams at Associates in Gastroenterology–UPMC and Gastroenterology Associates of Pittsburgh–UPMC.

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Phone: 724-940-2444

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

The mission of the Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest community publication, Northern Connection. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, and recreational needs of the area.

The contents of Northern Connection magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Northern Connection magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Movers & Shakers Dr. Joseph Dougherty

Dr. Tonia Skakalski

Joseph Dougherty, M.D., joined BHS Primary Care in December 2021, specializing in Family & Sports Medicine. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine.

Dr. Dougherty received his medical degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine, completed a residency in Family Medicine at UPMC St. Margaret and a fellowship in Sports Medicine at Allegheny General Hospital.

Tonia Skakalski, D.O., joins BHS Women’s Care Associates in January 2022.

She is accepting patients at 219 West Fairmont Avenue in New Castle and 129 Oneida Valley Road in Butler. Dr. Skakalski earned her medical degree from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri, completed an internship at the St. Francis Medical Center in Pittsburgh and an OBGYN residency at the Synergy Medical Education Alliance in Saginaw, Michigan.

Curtis Armstrong of Total Card Processing, was recently recognized for his outstanding volunteering efforts with the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber. PNRC President, Jim Boltz, thanked Curtis for his years of service, and his humble attitude and dedication to the chamber.

Curtis Armstrong

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH

Jacquelyn Demianczyk

Top Woman in Wellness and HR award recipient

by Ragan Communications

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All of us at Passavant Hospital Foundation Congratulate

Jacquie Demianczyk On winning the Top Woman in Wellness and HR by Ragan Communications and thank her for all of her hard work.

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By Paula Green

PMC Passavant Human Resource Director and Pine Township resident Jacquelyn (Jacquie) Demianczyk recently won a prestigious honor.

Jacquie was selected as a Top Woman in Wellness and HR by Ragan Communications. Ragan (based out of Chicago) annually celebrates top female workplace wellness and Human Resources professionals in more than 20 categories; she was named the “Dynamic Doer.”

Jacquie has been working at UPMC for the past 8.5 years.

She has been at Passavant for the past 4.5 years, serving both the McCandless and Cranberry Township hospital locations.

Before joining the Passavant staff, Jacquie worked at UPMC Children’s and UPMC Corporate Services.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, the day-to-day hospital practices and routines have proven to be more difficult. “We’re seeing unprecedented challenges in our workforce as we experience the ‘Great Resignation.’ I hear a lot lately, ‘Wow, it must be hard to be in HR at a hospital right now,’ but my challenges are nothing compared to what our front-line employees have experienced. I’ve lived in the North Hills most of my life (and was born at Passavant hospital) and get the greatest reward from knowing I can impact the recruitment and retention of the amazing people that provide care to our community, my family and friends. I’m extraordinarily proud to work for UPMC Passavant,” Jacquie said.

Jacquie and the rest of the UPMC Passavant staff have managed to find ways to cope. “Flexibility has been the key in the past two years. As soon as you think you know what is happening with this pandemic, things change, so we’ve learned to adapt very quickly. I found myself involved in things I never imagined I would be, and while it was challenging, it was also really rewarding,” Jacquie added.

She is grateful to be chosen for Ragan’s “Dynamic Doer” award. “I am honored to be recognized but honestly, I feel I’m just doing my job. I really love what I do,” Jacquie noted.

The administration at Passavant appreciates her dedication. Jacquie’s boss, Eric McIntosh, who is the Vice President of Human Resources, at UPMC Passavant, values her loyalty, as he states, “Jacquie is a true champion of our employees, of our values and is an extraordinary leader. She has built and developed one of the strongest HR teams in the world. Her team is constantly recognized as one of the highest performing HR teams at UPMC because of her leadership.”

Northern Connection magazine congratulates Jacquie on winning the prestigious HR award from Ragan Communications. n

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ADVERTORIAL

HOPE

Frank S.

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

Ten years ago I hurt my foot and it continued to get worse over the years.

It got to the point that my feet were so sore and cold all the time. Outdoor activities are very important to me and I was losing the ability to do them.

I felt there was no hope. A friend of mine learned of Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and I made an appointment. The results have been unbelievable.

I have no more pain and my feet are no longer cold. My range of motion is so much better, and my balance is back. I am now enjoying all the outdoor activities I use to and am nearly 100% better.

Don’t Give Up!

Janie C. It seems like it became noticeable about 20 years ago. At first my feet would ache from time-to-time, then my feet would ache so bad that I had to limit my time standing or walking. In the last two years I have had to change the way I have lived my life. I could no longer go hiking with my husband or just take a walk. I knew it was just a matter of time before I would need a wheelchair. I heard about Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and went for my free consultation to see if I was a candidate. To date, I see a significant improvement. I can take short walks, cook and I have even been gardening.

It feels like a miracle. I plan to get back into volunteer work.

Paula C. It all began with major surgery in October 2020 with an ankle break on two major bones from a fall. I was getting very depressed as my foot was numb on the side of the incision and it was affecting my life. I decided to meet with Tri-State Neuropathy Centers for a free consultation. I have completed the program I am pain free and 90 percent better. I highly recommend anyone needing help to go see a Tri-State Neuropathy Center. I am 68 and a Grammy of six grandchildren. The treatment has helped me walk without a cane and be more active with my active family as my balance has improved tremendously.

The staff is truly compassionate and kind. Thank you Tri-State Neuropathy and your staff for your kindness and helping me walk again!

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. A specialized treatment protocol utilizing brand new technologies is available at the TRI-STATE NEUROPATHY CENTERS. It includes the combination of very specific, noninvasive, FDA approved and painless treatments that are designed to get rid of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

With over 90 percent satisfaction rate and the experience of seeing over 8000 patients, they are able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, don’t wait until they get worse.

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • Sharp Pains or Cramps in the Feet or Legs Take o • Burning Pain in the Legs, Feet or Hands PREQUA ur LIFYING • Extreme Sensitivity to Touch SU www.M RVEY at aryDan • Loss of Balance or Coordination cedIn.c om • 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 If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait till they get worse. Call today to schedule your FREE consultation.

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FROM THE EDITOR

February Events

Regrets – I Have a Few

By Janice Lane Palko

For of all sad words of tongue or pen, The saddest are these: ‘It might have been!” ― John Greenleaf Whittier

L

ast month when we were featuring some of our exceptional schools, I started thinking about my school days, and for the most part, they were a positive experience. However, there is one thing I regret and that is not learning to play an instrument. As far as regrets go, I guess that’s pretty mild. I don’t have biggies like regretting robbing a bank, cheating on my husband, or posting an embarrassing video on the internet. I’m naturally cautious and have always looked at things I’ve considered doing through the lens of what will be the consequences of this or how will this turn out in the future? And will I be happy with what could possibly result from a decision or action?

No matter how thoughtful you are, you will still end up in life with some regret.

Acquiring them is unavoidable because, often times, they spring from a decision. For instance, I was a good student in high school but for a variety of reasons including monetary and lack of direction, I didn’t go to college right out of high school, I went to Duff’s Business Institute instead and became an executive secretary. I always felt I should have gone to college, but it just wasn’t the right thing at that time.

Although I had some regrets about that, had I gone to college fresh out of high school, I wouldn’t have met my husband, and as a silver lining, while at Duff’s the exceptional grammar and organizational skills I developed there and while working, laid the foundation for my writing career. I did go back an earned my degree when I was 49 and that leads me to something else.

According to psychologists, some of the biggest regrets people have at the end of their lives are: • Not spending enough time with loved ones • Not trusting their instincts • Not taking care of their physical health • Wasting their life by worrying too much • Not taking risks Regrets can be paralyzing for some. I’m not a therapist, but here’s my take on regrets. They are useless. Like the past, they can’t be changed. They’re just baggage. If you can’t get over a regret, seek help. If you can correct a regret, like not learning an instrument or acquiring an education, do it. But most important of all, live your life from now on so as not to regret things later. n

Year of the Tiger

By Rothrock’s Kung Fu

The Tiger is restless and reckless by nature and geared for action. Because of his suspicious nature, he finds it hard to trust others or to quell his emotions. He must speak his mind when upset. But just as he is quicktempered, he has a marvelous sense of humor. He has a humanitarian touch in him. When he gets involved, his involvements are total. Everything, even breathing, will take second place to the object of his adulation.

The Tiger Year

This is definitely an explosive year. It usually begins with a bang and ends with a whimper. A year earmarked for war, disagreement, and disasters of all kinds, but it will also be a big, bold year. Nothing will be done on a small, timid scale. Everything, good and bad, can and will be carried to extremes.

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American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Feb. 18, Glade Run Lutheran Services, Seiberling Rec Center, 10 St. Stephen’s Dr., Zelienople. To schedule your appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Fox Chapel Area School District kindergarten registration will be held in March. The district also offers various pre-registration events (including parent/guardian orientations and 2022-2023 kindergarten story times) that are held in February. Further information, can be found at https://www.kdgfcasd.com/.

La Roche University Launches Master of Arts in Teaching,

the new 30-credit MAT program offers online and evening courses for students to earn initial Pennsylvania teaching certification in 15 months. The program begins in the fall. For info, contact the Office of Graduate Studies & Adult Education at graduateadmissions@laroche.edu or (412) 536-1260.

Laughlin’s Children Center in Sewickley is in need of tutors.

For info, email Rachel at r.troglio@laughlincenter.org.

Nicolette Tolomeo Germain featured artist at the Cranberry Artists Network Show Cranberry Artists

Network announced that Nicolette Tolomeo Germain’s work will be featured in an Art Show in February at the Back Hall Gallery of the Cranberry Township Municipal Center. She also is having a live opening reception from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m., February 6. For more information about C.A.N., visit their website at www.cranberryartistsnetwork.com.

North Hills Genealogists online presentation, 6:45 p.m., Feb.

21. Join Kathy Walker for It’s all about location! Creating a Locality Guide. Free & open to the public. For details, visit their website: NorthHillsGenealogists.org.

North Pittsburgh Quilters Guild Spring Quilt Show, Flowers of Hope, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri & Sat., & 10 a.m.-5 p.m., &

noon-4 p.m., Sun, April 22-24, at the Ross Community Center, 1000 Ross Municipal Drive, Pgh. 15237. Admission is $10. For details, visit http://www.npqg.org/.

Northland Library, has numerous events scheduled for

February. For a completed list, visit www.northlandlibrary.org or call (412) 366-8100.

Saint Aidan Parish Over 50 Travel, Soaring Eagle Casino Trip, Sept. 13-16, 3 nights accommodations. Visit Soaring Eagle & Hollywood Casinos, plus the Henry Ford &Native American Museums. $605 pp dbl occ., $765 single rate. For info, call Lois at (412) 400-4516 or Dave at (412) 719-3172.

Twilight Night, 7 p.m., Feb. 3 & 4, Memorial Park Church in

Allison Park. Students from schools throughout the North Hills put on a showcase of talented performances. Donations collected for North Hills Community Outreach. Masks are required. For info, visit mpcepc.org/Twilight-Night or call Jim at (412) 364-9492 x118.

UPMC Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Membership Opportunities, are you looking for a stimulating opportunity

for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals—UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets the 2nd Monday of each month, 10 a.m., Sept. through June. New members are welcome. For info, contact Nicole Kaib at (412) 748-6640 or kaibn@upmc.edu.

Virtual Cindystock Concert, 7 p.m., Feb. 11. Tickets $20.

Proceeds will fund prostate cancer screening test. For details and tickets, visit cindystock.org.

Women’s Business Network has meetings scheduled in

February at various times and locations. For a details list, visit www.wbninc.com.

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COVER STORY

Digestive Health Specialists, Closer to Home UPMC’s broad range of regionally ranked gastrointestinal services in Pittsburgh’s northern communities offer local patients access to world-class care and top experts — without the need to travel into the city.

H

ealthy digestion is something we all take for granted — until something goes wrong.

Gastrointestinal (GI) woes can wreak havoc with your life, causing problems like heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting.

At UPMC Passavant–McCandless, boardcertified gastroenterologists use the latest technology and procedures to prevent, diagnose, and treat a wide range of digestive conditions — delivered in a special patient-centered suite designed for privacy and comfort.

Last year, more than 13,000 procedures were performed at the hospital’s GI Center — one of the busiest GI labs in western Pennsylvania. In 2021, U.S. News & World Report ranked UPMC Passavant–McCandless second in the Pittsburgh region for gastroenterology and GI surgery. (The only area hospital ranking higher was UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside.)

The UPMC Passavant–McCandless GI Center draws patients from throughout the tri-state region. With eight endoscopy and fluoroscopy procedure rooms, it is one of the largest GI labs in the Pittsburgh region. Designed for comfort and privacy, the center also features

26 private patient rooms for use pre-procedure and during recovery.

Gastroenterologists treat a wide range of digestive conditions, including colorectal cancer and disorders of the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, pancreas, liver, and biliary tract.

Jan Ravi, MD, a gastroenterologist at UPMC Passavant and Gastroenterology Associates of Pittsburgh–UPMC, says it’s important not to ignore worrisome symptoms. For example, persistent heartburn can be a sign of Barrett’s esophagus — a condition that increases the risk of esophageal cancer.

“It’s essential to see a doctor for persistent symptoms to find out if the condition is harmless or serious. If it is serious, it’s best treated in the early stages when it is most treatable,” says Dr. Ravi.

Preventing Colon Cancer

One of the most powerful tools available for preventing cancer is the colonoscopy. It uses a small camera to examine the colon and is the most common GI procedure performed at UPMC Passavant–McCandless.

“When caught early, colon cancer is treatable,” says Michelle Victain, DO, a gastroenterologist at Associates in Gastroenterology– UPMC. “Screening enables us to remove polyps before they become cancerous.”

Colon cancer often has no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. A colonoscopy detects polyps — abnormal growths in the colon or rectum. They are then removed during the procedure and tested. Some forms of colorectal cancer are slow growing, taking months to years to develop, she adds.

Dr. Victain recommends colonoscopy screening for everyone age 45 and older. Lowrisk patients should have a colonoscopy every 10 years and those who have polyps and other risk factors, like a family history of colon cancer, should have more frequent screenings.

Diagnosing Digestive Conditions and Disorders

As many as 70 million people in the United States have a digestive disorder. If your doctor suspects you have a digestive disorder, screenings and tests will ensure the most accurate diagnosis.

Meet Our GI Experts in Ross Township, Wexford, and Cranberry

Associates in Gastroenterology–UPMC

Gastroenterology Associates of Pittsburgh–UPMC

5500 Brooktree Road, Suite 201, Wexford, PA 15090 724-933-1420

3285 Babcock Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15237 412-318-0075 1 St. Francis Way, Building 3, Suite 211 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 724-935-8452

Michael L. Mlecko, MD James A. Pilla, DO Michelle S. Victain, DO Kayla Guntrum, CRNP Halie Banas, PA-C Nicole M. Bowan, PA-C

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Frank J. Koziara, II, MD Andrew W. Thomas, MD Deepa Mani, PA-C

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Jan Ravi, MD Anna M. David, PA-C Kristen M. Zon, PA-C

Seven Reasons to See a GI Doctor Everyone has heartburn or “tummy troubles” from time to time. But if your abnormal GI symptoms are becoming your new normal, it’s time to see a doctor. Some digestive problems can become chronic, while others may last only a short time.

Seeing a professional can help minimize your condition and speed your recovery.

Here are seven signs of possible problems a GI doctor should evaluate: 1. A change in bowel habits 2. Abdominal pain 3. Acid reflux or heartburn 4. Difficulty swallowing 5. Nausea or vomiting 6. Persistent diarrhea, constipation, gas, or bloating 7. Unintentional weight loss

Beating Cancer with Surveillance Colonoscopies

“No symptom should be ignored. Talk to your doctor first about your symptoms,” says Dr. Victain.

At UPMC Passavant–McCandless, gastroenterologists perform a full range of GI procedures. They include colonoscopies and endoscopies and more complex endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). These advanced procedures require special training.

Dr. Ravi uses ERCP, which combines x-ray and endoscopy, to examine and treat problems affecting the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

Dr. Victain is one of the few doctors in western Pennsylvania with advanced training in endoscopic ultrasound. This minimally invasive outpatient procedure allows her to diagnose GI tract malignancies and other pancreaticobiliary or GI disorders without major surgery. It combines endoscopy and ultrasound to create detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding organs and tissues.

Other advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities available at the GI Center include: • BARRX procedure to destroy pre-cancerous cells in the esophagus with radio frequency ablation

GI Services at UPMC Passavant A comprehensive range of screening, diagnostic testing, and treatment services are offered at UPMC Passavant’s GI Center, including: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

BARRX® procedure BravoTM esophageal pH test Breath tests Colonic stenting Colonoscopy Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) Endoscopy Esophageal and colon dilation Esophageal manometry Flexible sigmoidoscopy Ileoscopy Peg tube placement Single balloon enteroscopy

• Bravo esophageal pH test to check for and treat acid reflux disease • Single balloon enteroscopy to inspect the small bowel

A Collaborative Approach

Many GI conditions can be treated with medicine or a minimally invasive procedure. If patients do need surgery, UPMC Passavant–McCandless gastroenterologists work closely with the hospital’s colorectal and general surgeons. They also work with specialists at the UPMC Digestive Disorders Center to ensure patients receive the care they need.

“We work as a team — it’s all collaborative,” says Dr. Ravi. “We all work together to provide the best care for patients.”

Michael Mlecko, MD, a gastroenterologist at UPMC Passavant and Associates in Gastroenterology–UPMC, says they work closely with the hospital’s general surgeons when patients need surgery for gallbladder and pancreatic diseases. He adds that they even work closely with UPMC Passavant thoracic surgeons. “They help us with our patients who have intractable heartburn and esophageal tumors,” he says.

David Medich, MD, chief of UPMC colorectal surgery, says patients benefit from having exemplary GI doctors. He relies on the information they provide to plan and perform precise surgery.

“Great patient care David Medich, happens at UPMC MD, chief of Passavant–McCandless UPMC colorectal and the GI team is every surgery bit a part of that,” says Dr. Medich. “As someone who shares care for a lot of patients with them, I can honestly say I trust them. They are highly qualified, skilled, and compassionate doctors and I’m proud to work with them.” Learn more at UPMCPassavant.com/GI. n The information in this article was provided

by UPMC. BARRX® is a trademark of Medtronic. Bravo™ is a trademark of BreviTest Technologies, LLC.

K

en Senatore gets emotional when he talks about his team of doctors at UPMC Passavant–McCandless. He’s been a patient of Dr. Ravi since 1998. That’s when he was diagnosed at age 36 with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes irritation and ulcers in the large intestine.

Other than a couple of flareups, a low-dose maintenance drug kept Ken’s disease in check for the next two decades. Because patients with ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, Dr. Ravi recommended regular colonoscopies. Ken initially went to the UPMC Passavant–McCandless GI Center every three or four years for a colonoscopy. He began having annual colonoscopies once he hit the 15year mark.

All were uneventful until December 2018. “Dr. Ravi found a suspicious lesion during a routine colonoscopy. A biopsy confirmed it was cancerous,” says Ken, now 59, who works as a risk manager.

Dr. Ravi referred the Franklin Park resident to Dr. Medich, a colorectal surgeon at UPMC, who specializes in the care of patients with rectal cancer and ulcerative colitis. Ken was relieved to learn Dr. Medich could remove the cancer without removing his entire colon, which would have required drastic lifestyle changes.

In mid-January 2019, Dr. Medich performed a right colectomy, removing about half of Ken’s colon during the surgery at UPMC Passavant–McCandless. Ken also underwent a brief round of chemotherapy as an “insurance policy” to kill off any remaining cancer cells.

“It was an aggressive cancer that was successfully removed. I’m cancer-free after three years and doing fine,” says Ken. Following his doctors’ advice, he started exercising. Ken’s current routine includes walking at least two miles daily and running three to four days a week.

“My doctors were fantastic. I’m very fortunate that Dr. Ravi was so adamant about the need for regular colonoscopies to watch for and identify the cancer. And Dr. Medich was a godsend,” says Ken. “My life would be so different now without the care they gave me.”

Ken says he appreciates having the UPMC Passavant–McCandless GI Center so close to home and with ample parking. He also praises the staff for always making him feel so comfortable during his colonoscopies.

“I can’t say enough about the care I’ve received during my colonoscopies and my surgery.

Everyone was phenomenal,” he says. n

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2022 HEALTH

CARE GUIDE

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Why You Need a Primary Care Physician

A

Submitted by Heyl Family Practice

Primary Care Physician (PCP) can be your “go-to” when it comes to you or someone in your family’s medical needs. A large part of their job is to learn about you - medical conditions, personal or family medical history and other variables that may impact your health and wellbeing. In so many cases, establishing a relationship with a PCP will help to eliminate unnecessary trips to the ER, costly specialist bills, or misdiagnosis due to a lack of knowledge with your medical history and needs.

Here are the four reasons we believe Primary Care is important to establish and maintain overall wellness:

1. You Will Establish a Trusted Connection.

Whether you have questions about unexpected aches and pains, or you think you may have an issue that requires specialty care, your PCP is the best “first stop” for guidance and referrals to other physicians. Just like anything else, having an established relationship with someone makes them a person you are more likely to trust when you are in need. The same goes for your relationship with healthcare providers. With time and routine visits,

your PCP will get to know your health history and your ongoing healthcare needs. This will make your trust in their support with your health grow stronger with time. Establishing trust with your PCP allows for you to feel more comfortable discussing your needs and knowing you will receive the most optimal guidance and recommendations.

2. You Will Receive Proper Management for Existing Conditions.

Part of the responsibility of a PCP is to screen for major healthrelated conditions, including existing conditions. That can include (but is not limited to) things like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.

With the completion of those screenings, as well as routine check-ups, your PCP can help manage your existing conditions by providing the proper treatment based on what has or hasn’t worked in the past. Additionally, they can recommend additional screenings or alternative options (like working with a specialist, if necessary), while maintaining open communication with you.

3. You Get to Experience a Team Approach to Healthcare.

Many PCPs are part of a larger team of healthcare professionals that bring a well-rounded level of expertise to their individual practice. In most cases, the teams include physicians, nurses, physician assistants, front office staff and even mental health counselors. Having a team approach to health care allows for you, as the patient, to have access to a variety of professionals with varied perspectives and experience, making your healthcare extremely comprehensive and multifaceted. The goal of primary care is to provide you a unique and tailored experience, not a one-size-fits all approach. The best way to achieve that is by having a team involved in your care.

4. Potential Problems Can Be Addressed Sooner (and Possibly Avoided).

At each appointment with your PCP, routine tasks are completed like checking your temperature, blood pressure, weight, etc.

These things may seem tedious and sometimes irrelevant to the issue at hand, but this data can help the team to identify a health issue that may come up unexpectedly in the future.

Developing a baseline with these routine screenings over the course of routine appointments can provide doctors the information they need to identify a problem before it becomes a more serious issue.

This will help to improve your overall quality of life and ensure no rock is left unturned.

Heyl Family Practice is a local primary care practice that consists of a well-rounded team of knowledgeable family practitioners that can assist with a variety of needs for patients of all ages. In many cases, Heyl Family Practice has established care for generations of families in our local community as a result of their passionate, caring and experienced staff.

Now with two locations - McCandless and West View - we have the ability to reach more patients in the community! If you are looking for a PCP to enhance your healthcare routine, we have availability for new patients at both office locations. Call the practice today to request an appointment with one of our practitioners today! We’d love to be your trusted primary care provider. n

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AHN Bariatric and Metabolic Institute Comes to Wexford Hospital Janice Lane Palko

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besity is a serious health problem, and until recently you had to travel to West Penn or Allegheny General Hospitals for treatment. Allegheny Health Network’s Bariatric and Metabolic Institute is adding a new location to provide care closer to your home at AHN Wexford Hospital.

“Obesity is a complex disease, and it affects the health from head to toe,” said George M. Eid, MD and Chair of the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute. “We are happy to offer our excellent medical and surgical treatments to help you lose weight and take control of your health now in the North Hills,” said Dr. Eid. To properly treat obesity, a team of health professionals is needed and AHN’s Bariatric and Metabolic Institute includes board-certified bariatric surgeons, who have many years of experience with complex procedures; endocrinologists; obesity medicine specialists; and dietitians, who specialize in helping people reach their weight and health goals, psychologists and other supportive care team members.

“At the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, we are helping more people each year to reach and maintain their weight-loss surgery goals.

Our experience and our ongoing research in bariatric surgery, obesity research, internal medicine, behavioral science and related fields help us provide the very best care in bariatric surgery,” said Dr. Eid.

The institute’s research has shown that bariatric surgery has many benefits in addition to the weight loss—from resolving diabetes, migraines, obstructive sleep apnea, asthma, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, GERD and mortality. In fact, 95% of bariatric patients say that the surgery has improved their quality of life. “Unfortunately, we also have learned that those who are obese face a greater risk when contracting COVID-19,” said Dr. Eid, “making that another reason for you to take control of your weight.”

The good news is that the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute has a nationally recognized reputation for delivering positive outcomes in bariatric surgery. Two types of surgery are offered at the Wexford Hospital: gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery.

During gastric bypass, a bariatric surgeon staples off part of the stomach, reducing its size to roughly 1 ounce and then divides the small intestine, attaching the bottom end of the small intestine to the newly created small stomach pouch and then connects the top portion of the divided small intestine to the small intestine further down, allowing for optimal digestion. Gastric bypass helps you lose weight in several ways: A smaller stomach helps you eat less in one sitting, translating to fewer calories consumed. Also, since part of the small intestine is bypassed, fewer calories are absorbed during digestion.

Rerouting food also affects gut hormones in ways that help you to make you feel full longer and improve blood sugar control.

During gastric sleeve surgery, a bariatric surgeon staples off a large section of the stomach, creating a tube-like pouch that

Shaun Burke, AHN Bariatric Surgery Patient

resembles the shape of a banana. The surgeon then removes that portion of the stomach tissue (called the fundus) from the body.

Sleeve gastrectomy helps you lose weight in two main ways: A smaller stomach helps you eat less in one sitting, translating to fewer calories consumed. Research has shown that this procedure has a positive impact on gut hormones, helping you feel full longer and improving blood sugar control.

Both surgeries are done inpatient at the hospital and usually warrant only an overnight stay. “The surgeries are either performed laparoscopically or robotically,” said Dr. Eid. “And we employ an expedited care program that helps you to recover faster, and which supports you as you adjust and lose weight.”

You may qualify for bariatric surgery if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 and one or more weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea or type 2 diabetes or if your BMI alone is 40 or above.

To learn more about our services and to take our weight-loss surgery quiz, visit ahn.org/weightloss n

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Genesismedical.org

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enesis Medical Associates is an independent, physician-owned organization dedicated to the health and well-being of residents of Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities. As such, they want to partner with you on a wellness and prevention plan.

Finding a new primary care doctor, who meets your needs, can be a stressful journey, but it is very important. The first meeting with a new primary care doctor is usually directed at you, as the doctor needs to learn about you so that he or she can provide the best treatment. However, make sure to use this opportunity to do the same by asking questions to learn about your doctor. To help, here is a simple checklist of questions you should ask your new doctor upon meeting them for the first time.

• What is your opinion on the patientphysician relationship?

• Do you encourage me to ask questions and express my opinion?

• How does your office handle emergencies?

• If necessary, am I able to schedule a same-day appointment for urgent situations?

• If you are unavailable, whom should I expect to see?

• If I need to seek a specialist, will you work with me to find the right person?

• Do you work with a certain hospital?

• How do you follow-up on my care after discharge from a hospital?

• Do you keep electronic medical records?

• Are you comfortable with me bringing a friend or family member with me to an appointment?

• Do you provide post-visit reports that summarize what occurred, what was discussed, and what actions need to be taken after the visit?

• Can I get lab work done at your office?

• Can you explain why annual wellness visits and preventive health testing is important?

• Do you have an electronic medical records portal?

• Is Genesis a patient-centered medical home? What does that mean?

• When is it appropriate to seek care from an Urgent Care Center or Emergency Room? n

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Concordia Lutheran Ministries Outstanding Senior Living and Home Care Services in Your Neighborhood

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ince 1881, Concordia Lutheran Ministries has been dedicated to caring for others – and we have an expansive network across the Pittsburgh North region that continues to grow. As one of the largest nonprofit senior care providers in the country, we serve over 40,000 people annually and offer a lifetime continuum of care that can be tailored to fit your individual needs.

If you’re looking for a retirement living community, Highpointe at Rebecca in Allison Park or the Haven Apartments in Cabot offer safety, security, exceptional value, outstanding amenities and a worry-free lifestyle. Both communities are also part of larger care locations – Concordia at Rebecca Residence and Concordia at Cabot – that offer inpatient skilled nursing, personal care and much more on the same campus.

For a personal care community that feels like home, Concordia of Cranberry, Concordia of Wexford and Concordia of Franklin Park are ideal, especially with their excellent locations that make trips and family visits easier than ever. Our Concordia of Fox Chapel location is a specialized memory care facility that features personalized assistance from highly trained caregivers.

For in-home care, Concordia Visiting Nurses, Concordia Private Care and Good Samaritan Hospice can cover many needs, from nonmedical help around the house to skilled nursing care or hospice care in your own bed.

Whatever senior living or in-home care services you or your family may need, we have you covered. Learn more about our mission, locations, services and career opportunities at www.ConcordiaLM.org. n

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2022 WEDDING GUIDE

Photos courtesy of Amber Marie Photography

Eric and Alicia Sullivan

COVID Still Affecting Weddings Two Years Later

By Janice Lane Palko

Like many brides, Alicia (Simpson) Sullivan, formerly of Pine Township, knows what it’s like to have the COVID-19 pandemic interfere with her wedding plans. She was originally supposed to marry husband, Eric, in March of 2020, but then the lockdowns came, and the date was pushed back until that summer, but then things were postponed again.

“I

always say that planning a wedding during the Covid-19 pandemic should be considered an Olympic sport. Virtually every detail of our wedding was changed in some way because of the pandemic. At first, it was sad, frustrating and overwhelming, even though we knew we were making the best decision by prioritizing the health and safety of our family, friends, and community,” said Alicia.

Alicia and Eric finally did get married this past June 2021. “When our big day (finally!) arrived, it was better than we ever could have hoped for. Our indoor hotel ballroom wedding reception scheduled for a Saturday in March turned into a warm Friday evening in June, under a beautifully lit outdoor tent. While these changes felt like sacrifices when we initially made them, they ended up giving us an entire extra day of celebrating with our out-of-town guests and a

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quiet day of relaxation before leaving for our honeymoon. Looking back, our wedding couldn’t have been more perfect, and I couldn’t envision it any other way.”

Now, brides are facing a new conundrum of a bridal boom and supply bust.

According to the Knot Worldwide, there is a 25% increase in wedding demand this year because there is a backlog of brides whose weddings were postponed combined with those couples who have been recently engaged, and they are competing with so many other brides for dresses, venues, etc. To complicate matters even further, the supply chain crisis is making goods scarce—everything from paper shortages for invitations to flowers for bouquets. Pair that with a labor shortage that is impacting everything from dress manufacturers to floral designers to servers at wedding venues and you have a sticky situation that is expected to last throughout 2022.

So, what’s a bride to do?

Industry experts are advising several things. First, be flexible. You may not be able to secure the venue of your dreams for a summer wedding on a Saturday, but if you consider getting married on an “off day” like a Thursday, you may have a chance. Another tip is to plan far in advance. The average time to wedding is now taking 14 months. If you are recently engaged, you can’t start planning too early.

Also, be sure to stash more cash in your wedding budget because a simple rule of economics shows that when things are in short supply, prices rise. Expect to pay a bit more for everything. Therefore, it’s wise to sign contracts now before prices rise even more.

This may all seem a bit discouraging, but as we know, love will find a way! n

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The Camelot Event Center The Camelot has been a part of the community for over 30 years, and Ryan and Valerie Sarel take pride carrying on this local tradition for the past 8 years and into the future.

The original Warrendale venue is a charming historic building surrounded by the original stained glass windows, and The Camelot has recently added a larger and newly renovated venue in Wexford into their offerings. Executive Chef Ryan Sarel has over 15 years of professional, high-end catering and leadership experience, and Event Manager Valerie Sarel has over 20 years of customer service and design experience. Together, they strive to provide their community with elegant, expertly-catered, professionally executed events ranging from weddings to sports banquets, corporate functions, and everything in between. The Camelot Event Center - Wexford & Warrendale is proud to be a local family-run small business! www.thecameloteventcenter.com | 724-935-4550

Betsy’s Barn Betsy’s Barn is the perfect rustic, yet modern venue to host a variety of events including weddings, receptions, proms, graduation parties and more! With the capacity to accommodate up to 300 people, it is available as an all-inclusive venue “where memories are made.” Located in Portersville, PA surrounded by beautiful McConnell’s Mill State Park, Betsy’s Barn has been providing an original and unique venue to celebrate one of the most important days of your life for over 20 years. Betsy’s Barn now features a large wrap around porch completely under roof that houses modern bathroom facilities, a bar area, open air lounge and a glass enclosed deck. This gives you approximately 7000 sq. feet of rustic beauty. Regardless of the weather outside, you can relax and know that rain or shine your event will go on as planned. Social events are held from May through the end of August. If you would like to tour our facility, reserve your date, or need additional information, please give us a call at (724) 368-3233 or visit our website at: www.betsysbarn.com We can help make your dreams become memories.

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CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP CHAPTER

Your Wedding Specialists The Print Shop AT OFFICE THINGS

John Marshall Catering John Marshall Catering is a full service catering company, bringing high quality food to southwestern Pennsylvania, including Allegheny, Butler, Beaver, Washington and Westmoreland Counties.

John Marshall Catering is dedicated to serving our clients with the freshest ingredients and gracious hospitality. Clients not only call on us for spectacular food, but when they want to create a memorable and complete environment for their guests.

John Marshall Catering

weddings@johnmarshallcatering.com 724-444-1384 (M-F 10am - 4pm) www.facebook.com/johnmarshallcatering www.johnmarshallcatering.com

Specializing in Custom Invitations and More!

Your invitation is the preview to your special wedding day, and no matter your budget, your invitation can be a beautiful presentation.

We print everything you will need for your big day, the invitation, the rehearsal dinner invitation, ceremony programs, and any items that will be used at your reception.

All designs are on trend. All are of the highest quality with exceptional printing. All are crafted just for you.

Please visit our website at: www.printshoppgh.com Conveniently located in the town of Mars, PA 16046

724-935-2221

GENERAL RENTAL CENTER RENTALS OF TENTS, TABLES, CHAIRS, LINENS, AND MORE

Celebrate Your Love and Make Your Special Day Memorable!

GENERAL-RENTAL-CENTER.COM 724-776-6990 GRC@GENERAL-RENTAL-CENTER.COM

Your Honeymoon and Destination Wedding Specialist

Hilah Mason 724-494-9270

Caribbean • Europe • Hawaii • Mediterranean and much, much more!

Call Hilah Mason to help you plan the honeymoon and/or destination wedding of your dreams!

hilah.btc@comcast.net • 724-494-9270 www.northernconnectionmag.com | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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2022 WEDDING GUIDE

General Rental Center We are the area’s most professional, prompt, reliable party rental store with over decades of experience in creating excellence, and generations of service. We have everything you need to make your dreams come true.

W

e can handle anything from large weddings, to small intimate affairs, or bridal showers and rehearsal dinners. Located in Cranberry Township, you can visit our showroom or website, www.GeneralRental-Center.com, to browse our broad array of products and services. We carry tents, tables, chairs, liners, dancefloor, and more.

We understand that wedding planning can be stressful that’s why we’re the experts and here to help. Whether you’re an event pro planning for a client or visualizing your own big day, we can help you every step of the way. Planning is our passion. Call 724-776-6990 or visit us online today, www.General-Rental-Center.com, to speak with one of our event specialists.

We will assist you with finding the right wedding rental essentials based on your vision and budget. We can’t wait to get started with you. n

2022 NC HOME GUIDE featured in the Spring issues of Northern Connection Magazine • Builders • Contractors • Landscapers • Realtors and more!

Reach 60,000+ monthly readers.

Magazines are distributed directly into homes and free pick up locations in the northern area of Pittsburgh.

C AL L N O W TO RE SE RV E Y O U R SP AC E: 7 24- 9 40- 2 4 44 O R E MA IL IN F O @ N O R TH E RN C O N N EC T IO N MA G. C O M W WW . N O RT HE R N CO N N E C TIO NM AG . CO M

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HIGHER EDUCATION

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Chatham University

hatham University has an enrollment of over 2,400 students across 60+ undergraduate and graduate programs in our areas of excellence: sustainability & health, the arts & sciences, and business & technology.

Consistently named a College of Distinction and a “Best College” by U.S. News & World Report, Chatham’s campuses include its flagship location in the heart of Pittsburgh and Eden Hall Campus in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, built from the ground up for the study of sustainability, which also offers community workshops and K-12 programs. n

A.W. Beattie Career Center to Hold Open House

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By Janice Lane Palko

ebruary is CTE (Career and Technical Education) month, and A.W. Beattie Career Center has much to celebrate. It has been offering programs to students that provide an educational experience that prepares them to be college and career ready after high school graduation for decades.

“Today, the career center offers 20 programs in highly sought-after fields, everything from Advertising Design to Robotic Engineering Technology, for students from Avonworth, Deer Lakes, Fox Chapel Area, Hampton Township, Northgate, North Allegheny, North Hills, Pine-Richland and Shaler Area school districts,” said Eric C. Heasley, A. W. Beattie’s Executive Director.

The career center recently expanded its facilities to include a new, stateof-the-art clinical health care nursing suite for its Health and Nursing Sciences program that integrates all lab instruction into one setting, allowing instructors to co-teach students.

The Sports Medicine – Rehab Therapy program continues to be quite popular, and recently added a new Anatomage machine, which features virtual, life-sized cadavers for students in seven medical programs to see 3D rendered anatomy from the whole body in such fine detail as to see individual bones and blood vessels.

“A.W. Beattie continues to look ahead to anticipate students’ and the labor markets’ needs and offer relevant programs. In addition, students may earn college credits related to their program at A. W. Beattie, which are accepted at many local colleges, universities and technical schools, with whom it has articulation agreements,” said Mr. Heasley.

Enrollment for the upcoming 2022-23 school year is beginning, and for students interested in learning more about A. W. Beattie Career Center and all the programs it offers, there is a Spring Open House on March 24 from 5:15 to 8:00 p.m. where students can meet the instructors, staff, and current students. For more information, www.beattietech.com n

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Pittsburgh Technical College

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ittsburgh Technical College prepares students for career success and has the numbers to prove it: 100% of PTC’s degree-seeking students experience onsite internships or clinical rotations before they graduate. It’s this kind of experience that results in high in-field placement rates with a fiveyear average of 93% from 2016-2020.

PTC’s hallmark is academic excellence, grounded in an environment that supports students’ journeys. With more than 30 associate, bachelor’s, and certificate programs, PTC provides education in: Business, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Hospitality, Design and Engineering Technology, Healthcare, Nursing, Information Systems and Technology, Trades Technology, and Energy and Electronics Technology. PTCollege.edu n

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KIDS & EDUCATION

School Movers & Shakers Aquinas Academy Aquinas Academy students Helayna Baer, Steven Giacobbe, Isabelle McGowan and Macrina Vollmer earned the AP Scholar award “granted to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams.”

Nathan Anthony, Theo Austin, Samuel Everson, Maria Figucia, John Griffith, Emilia Kartsonas, Anna Keverline and Therese Solomond were awarded the AP Scholar with Honor award “granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.” Genevieve Archer, Alica Lenartova, and Benjamin Stalder earned the AP Scholar with Distinction award “granted to students who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.”

Shady Side Academy Shady Side Academy senior Steven D. Liu of McCandless is one of only 300 students who were named Top Scholars in the 2022 Regeneron Science Talent Search. Liu is one of Steven Liu just six students from Pennsylvania and two from the Pittsburgh region to receive this prestigious STEM honor.

Seneca Valley Seneca Valley School District student Dylan LaDieu, 10, a fifth grader at Haine Middle School, wrote and published “Dylan Draws Dinosaurs,” a how-to dinosaur drawing book

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

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with over 100 dinosaur facts for kids. According to Amazon. com, each how-to drawing page is accompanied by a scene showing the dinosaurs in action. The book has statistics and facts for each dinosaur and even includes a representation of what their skull looks like.

Seneca Valley School District students at Haine Elementary School’s First Lego League (FLL) teams, aka the SV TechSperts and SV Tech-Ovators, earned the highest SV single-round score in the robot game at the Western Pennsylvania FLL Grand Championship at Sewickley Academy. Team members for the SV Tech-Ovators were Shannon Evans, Kate Takac, Emma Gift, Georgia Bryer, Gavin Draskovich, Moorthy Maharajan, Lucio Impellizzeri, and Eoin McCarthy. SV Tech-Sperts team included Nick LaGamba, Bella Richards, Austin Sperry, Luke Sloan, Cameron Schuster, Evelynn Wirkowski, Salvatore Semrau and Ally Bookwalter.

Fox Chapel Fox Chapel Area School District students held their 32nd annual telethon December 23, 2021, and raised a record-breaking total of $107,146.

Last year’s total brings the money raised by Fox Chapel Area students and staff to more than $1,025,532 over the last 32 years for various local and regional charities.

3 Classes for just $29.99… $19.99 Scheduled at Your Convenience Kung Fu - Tai Chi - Kids Friendly Staff Call or Schedule Online

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Two Fox Chapel Area High School publications won recognition in the 2021 American Scholastic Press Association Annual Review and Contest Awards for scholastic yearbooks, magazines and other publications. The 20202021 literary arts magazine Tapestry received a first-place national award. The high school’s newspaper, Fox Tales Quarterly, was also named a first-place national winner for the fall 2021 issue.

Mars Area Several members of Mars Area High School’s FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) Chapter placed at a virtual 2021-2022 FBLA Regional Leadership Conference. Award winners were: Ava Donnelly, Ava Balazentis, Kyra Harvey, Taylor Hollern, Ainsley McGee, Jessica McNulty, Alexis Whitworth, Maxwell Weaver and Sophia Maestra.

Mars Area High School’s Competition Cheer Team joined in the WPIAL Competitive Spirit Championships, held Jan. 8 at Hempfield Area High School. The team received a final score of 72.2 and team will compete in the UCA Nationals High School Cheerleading Championship to be held Feb. 11-13 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Mars Area Centennial School fifth-graders from the 2021-2022 DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program pose for a photo. First place winners are Annabelle Dickman, Ella George, Madeline Gibson, Jackson Graham, Monica Grunden, Alexis Harrington, Avery Harrison, Allison Sottile, Addison Wick and Tumaris Yalkun. Tumaris Yalkun was selected as the overall winner and read her DARE essay during the ceremony.

Saint Joseph High School (Natrona Heights) Principal: Beverly K. Kaniecki (724) 224-5552 www.SaintJosephHS.com

GET TO KNOW ST. JOE’S!

Catholic School Education is within reach!

SPRING OPEN HOUSE Discover why St. Joe’s is an amazing opportunity for your child!

Saturday, March 5 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Register online at SaintJosephHS.com

Scholarships up to $10,000 The Student Tuition Assistance Resource (STAR) program, established by an anonymous donor, provides additional financial aid - making Catholic education more affordable.

PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE Call to schedule a private tour of our campus.

Tours can be scheduled any day of the week including evenings and weekends. We will find a time that will work for your busy schedule.

St. John Paul II Student Tuition Assistance Resource

Contact Admissions Director Mrs. Shane Palumbo ’92 admissions@SaintJosephHS.com • (724) 226-4932 800 Montana Ave. • Natrona Heights, PA 15065

Enrollment and tuition assiStance are non-denominational. Families of ALL FAITHS are encouraged to apply.

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TRIVIA CONNECTION

Phil/Phyllis Trivia appy Groundhog Day! This year marks the 135th anniversary of the annual rodent meteorological forecast. The first Groundhog Day was February 2, 1887, at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pa. According to tradition, if a groundhog comes out of his burrow on this date and sees its shadow, then we have six more weeks of winter; no shadow means an early spring.

In 1993, Bill Murray and Andie McDowell starred in the film Groundhog Day. Murray portrays a cynical television weatherman covering the annual Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney who becomes trapped in a time loop, forcing him to relive February 2 repeatedly.

It is believed that Punxsutawney Phil was named after King Phillip. Before being called Phil, he was called Br’er Groundhog. Yes, he has a wife, and her name is Phyllis. To celebrate this festive day, we will focus on famous folks named Phil, Phillip and Phyllis.

There are four men named Philip in the Bible. King Herod had two sons named Philip. The other two were servants of Christ: Philip the apostle, and Philip the evangelist. Over in England, there was the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, a member of the British royal family as the husband of Elizabeth II. In the TV realm, there are talk show moguls Phil Donahue and Dr. Phil McGraw. Phil Silvers starred in The Phil Silvers Show, a 1950s sitcom set on a U.S. Army post. Comedian Phil Hartman was a Saturday Night Live cast member. Philip Michael Thomas portrayed Ricardo Tubbs on the TV series Miami Vice. Phil LaMarr starred in Mad TV. There was also TV game show host, Regis Philbin.

Entering into the music world, Phil Collins performed with the rock band Genesis, and also became a successful, solo artist. Philip Glass is a famous American composer and pianist.

There are good sports that share this name as well. Phil Simms and Philip Rivers are both former NFL quarterbacks. In hockey, the Penguins had a former right winger, Phil Kessel. In Major League Baseball, Phil Rizzuto played for the New York Yankees. Philip Niekro is a former baseball pitcher who played 24 seasons.

Onto the feminine side, let’s discuss ladies named Phyllis; Phyllis Diller was a popular comedian. Former beauty queen Phyllis George was a reporter and co-host of the CBS Sports pre-show The NFL Today.

Other actresses who share that name include – Phyllis Applegate, Phyllis Boyens, Phyllis Davis, Phyllis Kirk and Phyllis Logan.

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If you drive eastward through Pennsylvania, you’ll encounter Phil-adelphia. Since we have burrowed through some famous folks, we must now Phil-in our namesake query. So, get set to don those thinking caps because it’s time to get a little trivial.

1. What was Bill Murray’s character’s name in Groundhog Day? 2. Name the groundhog weather predictor who resides in Marion, Ohio.

3. What do you call a groundhog in the United Kingdom?

4. Phil Hartman starred in a 1996 Christmas comedy film.

5. He is a hunter and reality television star on the television series Duck Dynasty.

6. Buddy Hackett plays a groundhog named Pardon-Me-Pete in this 1979 animated tale.

7. He won acclaim for portraying Truman Capote in the 2005 movie Capote.

8. Name the American the “March King” who composed Stars and Stripes Forever.

9. This gentleman is nicknamed “Lefty” because he became the oldest golf champ at age 50.

10. He is the co-founder and current chairman emeritus of Nike, Inc. 11. For which Disney film did Phil Collins write and perform You’ll Be in My Heart?

12. Name the actress who is best known for playing Phyllis Vance in the television series The Office.

13. She was best known for her roles in Little Children and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.

14. Cloris Leachman played Phyllis on The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

What was her last name?

15. Which one of the Monkees was married (1964-1972) to a woman named Phyllis Barbour?

Sources: www.history.com/first-groundhog-day, https://www.groundhog. org/phil-faq, https://www.ranker.com/list/famous-people-named-phil/ celebrity-lists, https://www.ranker.com/list/famous-people-namedphyllis/reference

Answers: 1. Phil Connors 2. Buckeye Chuck 3. woodchuck 4. Jingle all the Way 5. Phil Robertson 6. Jack Frost 7. Philip Seymour Hoffman 8. John Philip Sousa 9. Phil Mickelson 10. Phil Knight 11. Tarzan 12. Phyllis Smith 13. Phyllis Somerville 14. Lindstrom 15. Mike Nesmith

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By Paula Green

In Honor of Groundhog’s Day

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS

Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House

By Paula Green

F

isher House was founded in 1990 by Zachary Fisher and his wife, Elizabeth.

The Fishers saw the need for comfort homes for families of hospitalized military personnel, so they dedicated $20 million to the construction of the facility.

The first Fisher House opened in 1991 at the National Naval Medical Center (now Walter Reed Medical Center) in Bethesda, Maryland. Today, there are 92 Fisher Houses built by the Fisher House Foundation in collaboration with local VA Healthcare Systems and military bases. Each Fisher House is between seven and 21 suites and can accommodate 16 to 42 family members.

They feature a common kitchen, laundry facilities, dining room and living room with a library and toys for children. In addition, Fisher House Foundation ensures that there is no fee to stay at one of their facilities.

Pittsburgh welcomed their Fisher House on December 4, 2012, and in 2013 the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House (the Friends), a local charitable 501(c)(3) organization, was established to support the Pittsburgh Fisher House. The 10-suite Pittsburgh Fisher House is located on the University Drive campus of VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System in Oakland. The need for family accommodations is so high that a second and larger Pittsburgh Fisher House is currently in the planning stages.

“The Pittsburgh Fisher House is often over capacity, which is why a second house is needed. When the Pittsburgh Fisher House is full, guests are accommodated at other locations. Still, they do not benefit from the hospitality offered at the House and the shared experiences with others in similar situations. Since opening, the 10-suite Pittsburgh Fisher House has provided 37,455 nights, housed 5,900 families and saved veteran families millions in lodging, parking, food and other necessities. In 2019, the Pittsburgh Fisher House provided 3,852 nights to 1,034 guests, accommodating nearly three times as many families as in 2012 when the House first opened. In November 2021, 65 families stayed at the House and the average stay for that month was seven days.

Additionally, there were 20 ‘overflow’ nights when the House was full, and guests were accommodated elsewhere,” said Mary Ellen Austin, Board Vice Chair of Development for the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House.

The Friends are seeking help for the Capital Campaign to build the second 16-suite Pittsburgh Fisher House. “Currently, because of Covid safety protocols, in-person volunteers are not allowed inside the House, but support can come in many ways. The Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House is raising funds through a Capital Campaign, Helping Heroes Heal, to build the second House. The Friends are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to be a part of the Capital Campaign Committee to raise awareness and funds for the second House. We’re always appreciative of donations to the current House, and inkind contributions can be purchased from our Wish List. We’ve had companies that raise funds through employee participation. We’ve had artists who donate proceeds from the sale of their work. And we’ve had affinity groups including state and local military associations, book clubs, bicycle or motorcycle clubs, or running groups raise funds through special events or rides/races/runs for a purpose. The Friends participate in matching gift programs, Combined Federal Campaigns (CFC), UNITED WAY, Amazon Smile, Network for Good, and other programs. Heather Frantz, the House manager (412) 360-2030, can work with interested volunteers who might want to sponsor a dinner or cater a holiday meal. Gift Cards are appreciated for guests,” Ms. Austin added.

Groundbreaking for the second Fisher House is slated for 2023, with a projected ribbon-cutting in 2024. For more information on how you can support the Friends of the Pittsburgh Fisher House, visit their website at www. pittsburghfisherhouse.org. n www.northernconnectionmag.com | F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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FACTS FROM THE FARM

The “New Normal”

By Ron Eichner

Hi folks, the COVID era has exposed

the fractures in our present global food supply network. Larger retailers have been comfortable in their extensive network of sourcing fruits, vegetables and processed products to supply the masses. However, even the large retailers and boxed stores can be vulnerable and have been vulnerable in the past.

COVID of 2020 gave many small businesses that where “essential” one of their best years for retail sales and even decades due to the public modifying their purchasing habits for countless reasons. The experts say this can be the “new normal” for the next couple

of years. U.S. grocery stores typically have 5% to 10% of their retail items out of stock any given time. Right now, the unavailability rate is hovering around 15% to 20%.

Americans are eating at home more than they used to because more people have been working from home and students are being forced to attend school online for periods of time. The average U.S. household spent $144 per week for groceries in 2021, down from the peak of $161 in 2020. However, that is still far above the $113 a week households spent in 2019.

Our farm market and greenhouses experienced the 2020 retail spike, and I told my

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dad, “If we maintain the net gain of 10% to 15% for 2021, I would be pleased and surprised! However, I wasn’t surprised that our 2021 retail numbers fell back to our preCovid retail numbers of 2019. Most small businesses have a core group of customers who feel and know that supporting the local small businesses is keeping their hard-earned money in their communities for the true balance of what sustains the community network.

Today, 43% of consumers are concerned about items they need not being in stock at their grocery store. That’s up from 40% in August 2021 and 35% in February 2021.

Even though they are a few reasons why this is, including panic buying. The “retail joke” is that when a snowstorm is predicted, three items fly off the shelves – bread, milk and toilet paper.

Interestingly, I have seen in the past six months where local restaurants, delis and businesses have been stopping by our farm or calling our farm market wanting to purchase fresh products. The problem is, as a farmer, I grow for what our retail demands dictate. If there are extra vegetables, then you can wholesale. The issues the local businesses have with their regular local distributors have been the inconsistent availability of produce and products due to the broad transportation issues with lack of truck drivers and increased fuel costs.

Labor challenges have been one of the biggest hurdles for most businesses to navigate in the past couple of years. You see, “Now Hiring” signs at many local businesses.

This shortage of workers has an affect all across system.

Folks, you can be sure, your local farmer will be doing their best to grow and supply customers with the best products available.

Don’t forget Groundhog Day on February 2. You are welcome to stop by Eichner’s Whole Farm and Greenhouses and let us be one of your year-round destinations for 2022 at 285 Richard Road in Wexford and get the “rest of the story.” n

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•Starting in the March issue.

•Feature your camp or program in 2 or more issues and receive a complimentary editorial with photo in our Summer Camp Guide.

Reach 60,000+ monthly readers.

Magazines are distributed directly into homes and free pick up locations in the northern area of Pittsburgh.

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