Pittsburgh Pirates host Charity Event

Pirates Host 2014 Pitch for

“The Pitch for Hope is a meaningful and wonderful event that we are proud to be a part of.” –Clint Hurdle

Women in Our Community Making a Difference Diet & Exercise: Myths & Facts Kean Quest Talent Search Winners Women’s Health & Wellness

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic Prepares to Open

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Northern Connection | May 2014

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CONTENTS May 2014

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NORTHERN CONNECTION NC Features

Kids & Education

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20 Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School Prepares to Open

Kean Quest Talent Search Winners...

10 Cover Story: A Summer of Hope Rosemary Garrity

41 Business Spotlight: Starfish Rentals and Realty, Inc. 42 Women in Our Community Making a Difference Marianne Reid Anderson

Health & Wellness 12 Fit Families: Exercise & Diet: Myths and Facts to Help You Succeed Joella Baker 17 Enhancing Your Life: The Dieting Transformation Jaclyn Herring, PhD

Image & Style 18 Put Your Best Brow Forward Kelly A. Smith

Marianne Reid Anderson

22 Learning Through Play at Early Years Child Care Marianne Reid Anderson

24 School Movers and Shakers 30 Innovative Classrooms, Camps and Summer Programs Marianne Reid Anderson

Senior Living 32 Welcome Spring Barbara A. Killmeyer

Home & Garden 40 Spring Plumbing Tips and Tricks Courtesy of the “Famous Lionel Linerman” Matt Mertz Plumbing 41 7 Tips to Spruce Up Your Home for Spring Laura Grunert, owner of Jane of All Trades

Cover photo of Pittsburgh Pirates manager Clint Hurdle courtesy of Dave Arrigo/Pittsburgh Pirates

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10 In Every Issue 4

From the Publisher

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Movers & Shakers

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Mover & Shaker of the Month: Jean Dennison

Marion Piotrowski

Paula Green

23 Starting the Conversation: Why Is It a “Boy” Thing?

Marianne Reid Anderson

31 Trivia Connection: Law Enforcement TV Paula Green 33 Happenings for Seniors 34 Town Crier: May – A Meaningful Month Joe Bullick 34 Support Our Troops: World War II Rememberances and Memorial Day Commemorations Paula Green 36 Happenings

Advertorials 9

Divine Providence

15 Rookie or Pro? Tips to Help You Have Better Performance and Less Injuries Dr. Shannon Thieroff

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PUBLISHER NOTES

Welcome to the May 2014 issue of Northern Connection Magazine.

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his is an exciting issue as we feature local women making a difference in our community! It is such an inspiration to hear the stories of these successful women in our area that have started their own businesses and/or have strived in their career.

Make sure to let us know about the successful women in your life and their stories!

The cover story features the 2014 Pitch for Hope hosted by our very own Pittsburgh Pirates to benefit the Glimmer of Hope Foundation. The Glimmer of Hope Foundation was started by another inspirational woman in the area that is continuously making a difference in the world of cancer research, Diana Napper. Read more about the upcoming event and all that The Glimmer of Hope Foundation does to support breast cancer research.

Northern Connection’s education section has been featuring an article on Innovations in the Classroom and Summer Camps. This is a great way to learn about the lengths that your community schools have been taking to teach kids about the ever growing and fast-paced world of innovations and the sciences. Make sure to continue the conversation with our editor Marianne Reid Anderson on her blog: ContinuingTheConversation.blogspot.com. She starts her conversation every month with a hot topic that is bound to spark conversation and this month is no different.

Happy Mother’s Day and remember to hang your American Flag with pride and remember those who have fallen on Memorial Day. Thank you to all of those that have served and continue to serve and to their families that support them.

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hero IS SOMEONE WHO HAS GIVEN HIS OR HER LIFE TO SOMETHING BIGGER THAN oneself.

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BY JOSEPH CAMPBELL

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Coming in the June NC...

Feature on Men and Fathers Events in and around the Pittsburgh area

Coming in the July NC...

Northern Connection Magazine’s Annual Physicians & Healthcare Professionals Guide Call to reserve your ad space by May 16th!

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Northern Connection | May 2014

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

Mary Simpson

marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executives

Mary L. Simpson Marisa Tomasic Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Marisa Tomasic, PhD

marisa@northernconnectionmag.com

Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Marianne Reid Anderson

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

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

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Donna Smith Dominion Distribution

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year.

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

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

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

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MOVERS & SHAKERS May 2014

Movers & Shakers The Sisters of Divine Providence have hired Susan H. Rohm as the congregation’s new director of Mission Advancement.

Kelly Harris of the Cranberry Chapter of Professional Referral Exchange was voted the Gold Award Winner in the category of Photographer by the readers of the Trib Total Media in the North section of Pittsburgh.

National Volunteer Week was held Apr. 6-12, the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) took advantage of the opportunity to thank more than 79,000 citizen volunteers who gave back to Veterans every day at local VA medical facilities.

The First Lego League Western PA Championships were held Feb. 22, at Carnegie Robotics in Lawrenceville. The winning team from Western PA was Team 90: Not the Droids You Are Looking For. The team won with a robot named “Millennium Falcon.”

Team members were: Arjan Guglani, Nick Faber, Arvind Seshan and Sanjay Seshan.

The board of directors of North Hills Community Outreach is pleased to announce the hiring of the organization’s new executive director, Sharon Wolf.

Genesis of Pittsburgh purchased 550 California Ave, formerly the Francks Pharmacy in Avalon from Ron and Shirley Francks.

Renovations are underway with expected completion in July.

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Susan Rohm

Sharon Wolf

Gateway to Equity Award. The event was held Mar. 29 at La Roche College.

On Apr. 17, the North United FC U14 boys’ soccer team hosted “The Steel City International Cup” against JFC 09 Mondorf-Rheidt, a youth soccer club from Germany at J.C. Stone Field in North Park. The North United U14 premier team from Pittsburgh was chosen because of its reputation as the top team in its age group in PA-West, as well as, being a past Pennsylvania State Champion.

The Blackwood Theatre Organ Society announced that they’ve awarded six scholarships this year to Pennsylvania high school seniors pursuing a college degree in instrumental music performance. The winners are: Bethany Lueers (Hampton High School), Matthew Ruwe (Seneca Valley), Eli Naragon (Winchester Thurston), Inori Sakai (The Ellis School), Jonah Trout (Canonsburg) and Jeremy Katz (Lower Merion High School).

The Art Place Studio, now open at 100

The AAUW- PA North Hills-McKnight Branch honored the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh (WC&S) with the

Pittsburgh Fringe Festival announce that their organization is a recipient of a 2014 Sprout Award.

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Church Rd. in Wexford, is having its Grand Opening Ceremony on May 17th, with a ribbon cutting at 3pm. The studio is family-owned and operated, and offers a wide variety of art mediums for kids and adults such as pottery, painting, sewing, ceramics and more. For more info on Summer Camps, workshops, birthday parties, etc. call 724-719-2181 or visit www. theartplacestudio.com.

MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH

Jean Dennison

BY PAULA GREEN

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ean Dennison spent 16 wonderful years communicating the mission of the Community as she worked for the Sisters of Divine Providence. Dennison recently retired on Mar. 28 from her position as executive director for the Office of Mission Advancement.

“People have the mistaken idea that working for a religious community means a calm, quiet and perhaps a boring workplace. Not so! The Mission Advancement Office has responsibility for telling the story of the sisters who work very hard every day to meet the needs of the times. My department was incredibly busy writing newsletters, maintaining the website and Facebook presence, creating appeals for support, designing advertisements, planning events and other fundraisers and finding opportunities to teach others about the mission of the community – to make the Providence of God visible on earth,” Dennison said.

Dennison grew up in Bellevue and attended Bellevue High School. She worked a variety of administrative positions before she started a family in 1970. She has resided in Avalon for nearly 30 years. This is the community where she raised her three (now grown) children – Tracy, Brad and Christy.

“When my youngest was three, I began college at the University of Pittsburgh. I was raising three children alone and working full-time, so it took 11 years for me to earn my

undergraduate degree in English writing with a minor in women’s studies. I went on to graduate school at Point Park and in 1998, I earned a master’s degree in Journalism and Communications,” said Dennison.

“I like to think I set a good example for my children in showing them that hard work and determination are rewarding. It’s never too late to go after what you want in life,” she added.

Since she is no longer working full-time, Dennison plans to spend a little more time with her children and her two grandsons, Gustav, 8 and Anton, 5.

“I have thought about what ‘retirement’ means to me and while I am at an age where I don’t want to work as hard as I have been, I am not ready to be completely unemployed. So I am exploring consulting opportunities and have some interesting prospects. In fact, I threw myself a huge retirement party in April, and three days later I had an interview for a consulting position - so much for retirement!”

Happy Mother’s Day to Jean – and all mothers! F

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MOVERS & SHAKERS May 2014

Kean Quest Talent Search Winners...

T Maura Yates

Jake Pederson

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he Kean Quest Talent Search ended on April 11. Gabby Barrett of Pittsburgh won the 2014 Kean Quest Talent Search title, impressing the judges with her rendition of Mercy.

Jake Pederson of Gibsonia won the Audience Choice Award with his performance of All of Me by John Legend.

Maura Yates of Franklin Park took home the Jackie Evancho Award. Evancho herself had the pleasure of bestowing Yates with this prestigious honor. Maura performed Taylor Swift’s hit Picture to Burn.

Cortney MacKay of Hubbard, Ohio was selected as the first runner-up. She performed Don’t Rain on My Parade. Shailen Abram of Pittsburgh was chosen as the second runner-up. He played piano and sang a medley of Grenade by Bruno Mars, While My Guitar Gently Weeps by Beatles, and All of Me by John Legend.

Congratulations to all the winners and contestants for their outstanding performancGabby Barrett es! F

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COVER STORY May 2014

A Summer of

BY ROSEMARY GARRITY

Keep those fingers crossed! Can the Pirates not only repeat the great season they had last year…or better yet…surpass it?? That’s what most Pittsburghers are hoping they can do. And why not? The roster is very strong with players like hometown hero, Neil Walker, Andrew McCutcheon, Pedro Alvarez, and Gerrit Cole, to name a few. In addition, last year’s Manager of the Year, Clint Hurdle, is still at the helm and looking forward to a very productive season. To many, this team is destined to do well. That is the HOPE!

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NC Park is expected to have sellout crowds for games this season.

The venue has been nationally recognized as one of the best ballparks for fans. The breathtaking panoramic view of the city is often mentioned as a major attraction. On May 25, the Pirates will once again host Pitch for Hope, a charity event for A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, an organization which funds breast cancer research, primarily for pre-menopausal women. Sponsors include Highmark, Allegheny Health Network, rue21 and

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Diehl Automotive. This is a very special day for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as, for women in general. The participants purchase tickets that include a t-shirt, a game ticket, and a delicious brunch. What makes this day very exciting is that the women get to be on the field with some Pirate players and coaches, if they’d like that experience. The attire is casual because they will be running and fielding balls.

Comfortable shoes are a must! Last year several hundred women were active par-

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ticipants, and this year, the event appears to be attracting even more.

One of the reasons that this is such a fun-filled day is because the coaches and players are so encouraging. Many of them know women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, and so they are very supportive. Clint Hurdle’s mother is a breast cancer survivor and he knows all too well how devastating this disease can be, and how it affects the whole family.

Unfortunately, the incidence of breast cancer in women is about 1 in 8. On the

Photos courtesy of Dave Arrigo/Pittsburgh Pirates

positive side, about three million women in the United States have survived breast cancer. The statistics seem to indicate that there has been good progress made in the detection and treatment of this disease. Carolyn Walker, mother of Neil Walker, understands the impact of the disease. “Like everyone else, cancer

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THE DAY IS

but also for the players and coaches who helped to make this day so special. This year, women who want to support the cause, but don’t want the field experience, can arrive post clinic and stay for brunch and the game. For that Guest group, the tickets cost $50 and $65 for those who participate in the entire event.

special FOR MYSELF AND MY STAFF AS WE ENJOY

SPENDING TIME WITH THESE LADIES AND HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE BREAST CANCER

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awareness.

CLINT HURDLE

has touched my life…a favorite aunt, a special neighbor, a close friend’s mom, a paddle tennis teammate. It is indeed a terrifying disease, but breakthroughs in medical research and treatment are giving us more hope than ever before.

HOPE. What a powerful thing!” Women who attend this event are varied…some have had breast cancer, or others are there to simply demonstrate their support. Another segment simply knows that this is an important cause, and they get to have a great time while learning a little more about baseball.

When the morning “training” session is done, the women head to The Deck above The Trib Total News Media Hall of Fame Club for brunch. Before and during brunch, they can bid on a variety of baskets that have been donated by supporters. The selection is unbelievable! For sports fans, there are baskets with sports memorabilia and for the fashionistas, “girlie” baskets of beauty items, seasonal baskets and jewelry are there to win.

The ladies who hold the winning tickets will not be disappointed! The Pirates are scheduled to play the Nationals that afternoon, and these lucky women are invited to stay for the game.

Diana Napper, founder of A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, will be there to thank the Pirates and the women who attend, for their support. “We are very appreciative of the on-going assistance that we receive from the Pirates organization, in our effort to find a cure for this dreaded disease.” For the past few years, the women who have attended this event have walked away with a greater appreciation of not only the game of baseball,

For more information about Pitch for Hope that will be held on May 25 starting at 7:30 am at PNC Park, visit pirates.com/ pitchforhope or Angela.Criscella@Pirates. com.

A Glimmer of Hope Foundation is gaining more recognition in the area as evidenced by the increase in the number of events that are planned for the summer and fall. On June 7, the Treesdale Women’s Golf Organization will host the third annual Par-Tee for Hope at the Treesdale Golf and Country Club. Co-chairs of the event are Jocelyn Thompson and Diane Blakeney. Monies raised at this golf outing will help to purchase specialized equipment that will be used by research staff at local hospitals.

Then on August 22, Eileen Early and her committee are planning The First Annual Dimond Golf Outing that will be held at North Park Golf Course. Early has a relative who was diagnosed with breast cancer, and she is determined to do her part to help find a cure for this disease. For more information about this golf outing, please contact Anne at northparkglimmerofhope@gmail.com.

On June 13, the Meadows Casino and Racetrack in Washington, PA will host a Ladies Night out that will include a fashion show. It will surely attract women who want to support A Glimmer of Hope and have a great night out with friends.

Then on June 26, the Pirates will host a huge Zumba event outside of PNC Park.

Zumba is a fitness program that combines aerobic and dance elements and is performed to Latin American music. It has become one of the most popular group exercise classes in clubs everywhere!

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Women and men alike seem to really enjoy this activity because it seems like they are just dancing…but still reap the benefits of exercise. Proceeds from this fun-filled activity will benefit A Glimmer of Hope Foundation. Another summer attraction is scheduled on July 16 and 17, when The Home Depot will sponsor the fifth annual Clays for the Cure at Seven Springs Mountain Resort Clay Course.

Diana Napper is very grateful for all the support A Glimmer of Hope Foundation continues to receive from all of these organizations. “The proceeds from all of these events will enable the Foundation to continue to donate funds for research and equipment to various hospitals, so that we may soon find a cure for breast cancer. Our goal is to give women HOPE!” F

Pitch for Hope May 25th, 2014 7:30am at PNC Park

Pirates.com/pitchforhope

Email: Angela.Criscella@Pirates.com

For more information about A Glimmer of Hope Foundation visit our website at www. symbolofthecure.com or call 1-800-454-6746.

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FIT FAMILIES May 2014

Exercise and Diet: Myths and Facts to Help You Succeed

BY JOELLA BAKER

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’m always hearing people talk about the different diets they are trying and ways they plan to lose weight, lose it fast and keep it off. The truth is there is no easy way to do this. If you really want to lose weight and have it last, it takes the following…

• A commitment to change.

• A plan you can stick to that will allow for success.

• Hard work.

• A plan that includes exercise and eating healthy.

Unfortunately, there are several myths, facts, and half-truths about diet-

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ing and exercise, so how do you take the first step?

Commit to a Program: I prefer www.myfitnesspal.com. This program allows you to track your exercise and everything you eat and then tracks the calories for you. Then, it will tell you if you are above your calorie intake for the day or not. You can put in a goal weight and it will help you with a healthy plan of calories you should eat in a day to reach that goal losing a pound a week.

This way, you’re not losing the weight too quickly and you know it will stay off. I have one client who just hit a weight loss of 30 lbs by exercising, eat-

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ing smart and using the My Fitness Pal website to help track her success. It really does work, if you can commit.

Now, that the commitment is made and you know how to track your calories, let’s look at some of the myths and half-truths that can sabotage your commitment and get the real facts instead: Not Counting Calories: I love when people say they don’t have to count calories to lose weight. The truth is, if you don’t count calories, you’ll never know if you have a “calorie deficit” and that is exactly what you need to lose weight. My Fitness Pal will help

you find the calorie deficit you need to reach your goal.

Avoid Carbohydrates: A lot of people believe if they avoid carbohydrates they will lose weight.

However, many people do not realize that fruits and vegetables are carbohydrates. These two sources of carbs are essential to any diet and should not be avoided. By avoiding carbohydrates, you lose your main source of energy and you miss out on vital nutrients.

Remember to read labels and know what you’re eating and how many calories you are consuming. If you plan to eat starchy carbohydrates like bread and pasta, choose whole grain since this will provide you with a higher nutrient intake than white or processed flour foods.

Avoid all fats. This is a diet myth. Fats are needed to lubricate our joints, they also make your body process correctly and maintain normal body function and fats give you the feeling of being full or satisfied. The fats that are best are the non-processed fats, or natural Fats. Olive oil, avocados, nuts, salmon are all healthy fats that can be included into your daily diet.

Cut out all sweets. Sweets are typically higher in sugar and calories’ so staying away from sweets is important.

However, you don’t have to avoid them completely, you need to count those calories. Sometimes having that small piece of chocolate will offer you a feeling of satisfaction that will prevent you from splurging later. Unfortunately, soda is by far one of the worst things you can add to your diet. Stay away from it.

Don’t snack between meals: This is a big myth. It’s more important that you eat smaller meals throughout the day. This includes snacks. I eat about 10 times a day, trying to focus on healthy snacks. I like yogurt, veggies, hummus, peanut butter, cheese, nuts, fruit and more. Snacks keep your metabolism going and keep your tank filled. You don’t want your tank to get too empty because then your body wants to respond by storing fat instead of burning it.

Eat fewer and fewer calories or skip meals. You can’t forget meals or snacks or cut back on your calories too much. You can’t lose weight

properly if you starve yourself. Skipping meals is what puts your body into starvation mode and makes it want to store fat, so eat healthy, eat often and keep your tank full.

I love this one, don’t eat late at night. Remember, it doesn’t matter when you eat; it’s still about calories in and calories out. If eating late doesn’t put your over your calorie intake, then you won’t gain weight.

Don’t go with diet pills or cleansing programs that deny your body the nutrients it needs. Instead, go with

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a balanced plan. Groups like Weight Watchers, local YMCA’s or a fitness and diet friend, a cool program like My Fitness Pal will help you achieve success. Good luck and start exercising more, count those calories and eat smart.

If you have a suggestion for an article or a question, email me at joella@ zoominternet.net or visit my website at www.getfitfamilies.com. F

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ADVERTORIAL

Rookie or Pro? Tips to Help You Have Better Performance and Less Injuries

BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF

S

pring season means we start to get out more and ask more of our bodies. Whether you’re a hobbyist who enjoys sports leisurely or someone who competes aggressively, we all want the same things. We want to be able to enjoy our sport safely. We also want to overcome any physical limitation that makes us unable to do our sport.

In chiropractic, there is an emphasis on the structural integrity of the body. We know that the human frame must work properly so that there is 100% function though the body. When our structure is compromised it causes a breakdown in the function and can result in limitation and injuries. I’d like to share some of the tools and tips that people can use to protect their bodies while they’re active: Chiropractic Adjustments help to balance the body both skeletally and also neurologically. Athletes are very prone to misalignment of the spine and limbs because of the following: • Impact from hard landings on your feet, falls, and collisions • Repetitive Motion Trauma from repeated motions, like what

happens when you practice pitching, kicking, or swinging your golf club over and over • Imbalanced muscle structure from training more to one side than the other There is no pill or exercise to correct the abnormal alignment.

Only the adjustment does that.

Studies have shown that when athletes are adjusted they have less injuries, probably due to better reaction times, and faster rates of healing.

You can use simple and effective tools to make sure you have a fun and safe sports season

Graston Technique is a soft tissue technique that does the following: • Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions in the muscles, tendons and connective tissue • Allows for better range of motion and less pain • Helps to restore normal muscle function Graston trained doctors specialize in this technique and have a unique knowledge of soft tissue mechanics.

This is a great option for people with conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and trigger points as well as post-injury or post-surgical stiffness.

K-Tape is a new therapy that has been developed to help athletes re-train their bodies. You may have seen this brightly colored tape on runners or people playing sports.

Here’s how it works: • The tape is applied in a specific pattern to help the area that’s malfunctioning • The tape causes slight tension on the skin which triggers the nervous system to start changing the underlying muscle memory • This can be applied to help an injury recover or to prevent re-injuring an area and provides a long-lasting therapy to the body Supplements can be helpful in giving the body the tools it needs to be able to maintain energy, produce new cells, and sustain physical activity. With supplements, every person is different and their regimen should be custom developed from high quality, absorbable nutrients.

The good news is that you don’t even have to be an athlete to benefit from chiropractic or any of the other things I described above. Everyone deserves to live in a body that works properly and lasts a long time. Are you curious about whether we can help? Just give us a call. F

Brought to you as a Public Service by:

Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates McKnight (412) 364-9699 Harmar (412) 826-9030 www.choicechiropractic.net We are your “in-network” provider Like us on Facebook www.northernconnectionmag.com

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ENHANCING YOUR LIFE

The Dieting Transformation

BY JACLYN HERRING, PhD

Are you looking for a diet to transform your life (or has a transformation already happened)?

R

esearch shows that there is NO proven diet that leads to sustainable weight loss. Instead, many, many studies show that most people (up to 90%) who lose weight through dieting gain the weight back plus more pounds. Perhaps that is the transformation you have experienced! If that’s not bad enough, dieters often experience depressive and hypochondriacal symptoms (beliefs that they are sick); decreases in sexual interest, concentration, comprehension and judgment; decreases in body temperature, respiration and heart rate. During and after dieting, dieters obsess about food, often binge eat, withdraw from social situations and have a decrease in metabolism.

Dieting is a set up for all of the above transformations.

But what are people to do given all of the press about extra weight affecting your health? First, understand that “obesity” is diagnosed arbitrarily. There was little, if any, medical science behind those weight charts that tell us we are “normal weight,” “overweight” or “obese.” If you want to read further about that, look at “Do You Believe in Fairies, Unicorns, or the BMI?.” Mathematical Association of America. May 1, 2009. Moreover, being in one of the BMI categories does not necessarily protect you from or doom you to disease. In a recent study, researchers found that using the BMI as a “proxy for Health” indicated that over 130 million people who were overweight or obese by their BMI were over treated for cardiac and metabolic issues (high blood pressure, high triglycerides, fasting glucose, insulin resistance, and cholesterol) while over 16 million people who were normal by the BMI standard were overlooked for treatment. Instead of weight, the more causative factors of disease development appear to be low income, extent of physical activity and fitness, unhealthy foods and possibly weight cycling (yo-yo dieting).

Let’s concentrate on your health and stop the weight and food obsession. Focus on your health by increasing your fitness, eating healthy foods and stopping the weight ups and downs. The Health at Every Size® movement is gaining steam, providing worthwhile resources and support.

If you find that you need help to free yourself from the dieting obsession, The Hearing & Heeding your Hungers…a diet liberation course is now available for you

by download or as a complete package shipped to you by mail. How about Transformation through Liberation! F Jaclyn Herring, PhD is a licensed psychologist, practicing at the Psychological Cooperative at Malec, Herring& Krause in Mars. She is also the President of Diet Liberation, Inc, a company devoted to helping individuals make peace with food, their weight and bodies. She can be reached at 724-772-4949 or at www.dietliberationcourse.com. She will be speaking about this course at the Where to Turn Resource Fair on May 13 at the David Lawrence Convention Center.

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IMAGE & STYLE May 2014

Put Your Best Brow Forward

BY KELLY SMITH

S

haping your eyebrows is one of the best, yet subtle ways to highlight your face. It’s also one of the most common mishaps that a lot of us make. The right brow shape can enhance your appearance by making your face look slimmer, your eyes larger and giving you a more youthful appearance. Brows that are hastily plucked, waxed or trimmed can turn

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into a disaster that will take weeks to grow back. No matter what method you choose, be it tweezing, waxing or threading, everyone covets perfectly plucked and sculpted arches so allow me to share with you some easy tips and techniques that will make a world of difference in putting your best face and brow forward.

Eyebrow shape — The best starting point is to find your natural contour of the brow line. To locate your natural arch, line up a pencil against the corner of the tip of your nose and to your pupil while looking straight ahead.

The extension of the pencil tip on your brow is the natural arch. Always use a white liner to mark the brow line before tweezing to use as a guide since you don’t want to over pluck. Gone are the days of super thin brows. Nowadays, more is better. A thicker brow creates a more youthful look; however, it does need to be shaped and trimmed.

Also, avoid the “crescent moon” or “Shocked” eyebrow. These looks are extremely unnatural and create an unbecoming appearance.

Color — Generally, your brows should match your natural hair color.

You should keep it as close to your natural color as possible to give a natural look. If you have dark hair but have some highlights throughout, then lightening them is appropriate but do make it subtle. If you have very blonde hair then you can easily darken your brows a shade or two knowing that it will indeed look natural. If you have crimson locks then you’re in luck because you can really go with red, brown or blonde depending if you are redder or

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more auburn.

Toolbox tote — You should always have a dedicated box or bag strictly for eyes. Items to keep on hand include: a good pair of tweezers, brow scissors, brow comb, white liner (for outlining shape) alcohol wipes,( gotta sterilize those tools!) Brow liner and gel (Revlon® makes a handy 2 in 1 combo that I love!) and a small magnifying mirror.

Sparse brows — some women find that their brows aren’t as full as they used to be. This can happen for a variety of reasons such as medications, genetics, fair completion, even aging.

But not to worry as there is a fast fix for this little beauty bother. A good brow liner should be matched as closely as possible to your natural hair color. A common mistake is the “crayon” eyebrow. The liner should be “feathered in” not “colored on.” Always use a light hand: never press or grind the product into your skin. Whether you use a stick brow liner or powdered formula, you should always finish with a brow wax. Think of it as a hairspray for your brows.

Even if you already have a great brow shape, one can always benefit from some additional touch ups now and again. Of course, the best brow is always a natural brow so if you start there you really can’t go wrong.

Nothing is mistake proof with beauty and it takes some practice, like everything else that we all do to look and feel our best. Spring is here so put your best brow forward, along with your best shoes, your best purse, your best everything! F

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KIDS & EDUCATION May 2014

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

Construction is almost complete on the new Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School as the school, staff and administration ready themselves to welcome its first students in the fall. The school is a 185,000-square-foot complex situated on 70 acres atop a scenic hill on the north side of Route 228 near Cranberry’s border with Seven Fields. It is located near several highways making it an ideal location for those traveling from any direction.

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s part of the preparation for the school opening, the Rev. Charles Bober, the pastor of Saint Kilian parish, was named as president of the new school. Fr. Bober said, “I can’t wait to get the school up and running. It’s very exciting because it’s a major undertaking by the diocese. The diocese looking north for its latest high school provides a great opportunity to expand, a great opportunity for Catholic education.”

When asked about his future plans for Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic, Fr. Bober said “The mission of Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic is directed toward the formation of Christ-centered young adults who are leaders in their communities, known by their intellectual, practical, ethical and human skills.

Providing academic excellence in the context of Gospel values is at the core of what we do. Continuing the mission of the school is the foundation of our plans. As with any family moving into a new home, we are all aware of so many tasks that lie ahead as we live out our mission in a new location.”

In addition to his duties at the new high school, Fr. Bober will remain as pastor of St. Kilian Parish in Cranberry.

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The only area of the building still being worked on is the chapel, the focal point and centerpiece of the school.

Crews are expected to finish the circular structure by the end of May. Many of the chapel’s detailed design elements link to Mary, the mother of Christ and patron of the Marianist order that founded North Catholic in the North Side’s Troy Hill neighborhood in 1939.

Five alcoves within the chapel represent the five decades of the rosary and each will contain images of Mary as she has appeared throughout history. In addition, even the curve of the pews and an exterior cornice have been designed to suggest the petals and shape of a rose, the symbol of Mary.

Fr. Bober said, “I deeply appreciate the fact that the chapel is physically located at the center of the entire building. Students will able to go almost anywhere in the building and pass the chapel. It truly will be the center of their life at school.”

Regarding the religious education at Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic, “At the heart of life at Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic is the Eucharist and the sacramental and devotional life of the Church. All the Catholic high schools

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in the Diocese have a common religion curriculum. At Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic we plan on initiating an exciting new program of ‘faith formation’ in the fall. Entitled “Explore! CFF,” it will provide many opportunities for students to apply what they learn in classrooms about Catholic faith in their lives.

The school itself is a completely modern learning facility. There are dry erase boards and interactive SmartBoards installed in every classroom.

Each student will be issued a school-owned laptop computer for state-of-the-art learning and educational reinforcement of lessons and skills. In addition to the innovative classrooms, the school houses a television studio, science labs and musical composition rooms.

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic also has the other amenities expected in a modern school. The 900-seat carpeted auditorium will offer a spacious environment for student plays or assemblies and will be used for community events and for outreach and conference events for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. According to Fr. Bober, “Part of the mission of Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic entails

High School Prepares to Open welcoming local Catholic parishes and their ministries. These contacts as well as the school’s own outreach will provide many ways to interact with and serve our neighbors.”

In addition, the gymnasium holds more than 1,250 people and boasts a huge school logo emblazoned on the center of the basketball court. There is also a large, college-style cafeteria in the basement of the school that will have several food stations.

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic also has brand new athletic and training facilities, perfect for their PIAA winning football team, new lacrosse team and all their WPIAL sports.

The new Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School has also been constructed to be a “green” building or in other words, “environmentally-friendly” through substantial use of recycled and reconstituted elements, energy-saving fixtures and appliances, sustainable water-saving technology and much more. As a result, Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic is seeking silver certification through the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) program.

Although a modern facility, elements from the previous school on Troy Hill have been integrated into the building. Statues and stained-glass windows will be incorporated into the chapel, and trophies, photos and artifacts will be displayed in cases and a hall of fame and a heritage room in the library.

The school is designed for a maximum enrollment of up to 1,000 students, although officials said that

enrollment won’t reach that number in the school’s inaugural year. Currently, approximately 150 students are expected to transfer from the school’s current site in Troy Hill to the new site in Cranberry. In addition, they have received more than 150 applications for enrollment from prospective incoming freshmen. That number is expected to rise as the school’s opening date gets

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closer to at least 350 for the inaugural year.

Students interested in enrolling in Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic, should visit the Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic website with their parents at http:// cwnchs.org/ to schedule a tour and learn about the many benefits and scholarships available at this innovative, yet traditional, Catholic school. F

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KIDS & EDUCATION May 2014

Learning Through Play at Early Years Child Care Center

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arly Years has been taking care of children in the North Hills for 25 years. Early Years is family-owned and operated with four child care center locations: Allison Park, Butler, Gibsonia and Ross Township.

“Having four locations spread out across the northern area, enables us to keep classes small so that each child receives individualized attention while providing convenient access to working parents,” explains Maureen Bergdahl, owner of Early Years.

Early Years accepts children from six weeks old through the third grade. The children are separated by age groups so the daily programs are structured for the correct level of play, learning and interaction.

“For example,” continues Ms. Bergdahl, “with our Toddlers and Pre-K groups, we prepare your child for kindergarten with ‘learning through play’ where fun games and creative activities are used to teach the fundamentals a child

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BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

needs to know to ensure success in elementary school. The children have so much fun they do not even realize they are learning.”

In addition to their services for younger children, Early Years has worked with the University of Pittsburgh Child Development Office to develop School Age Summer Camp Programs which include Space Exploration; Restaurant Day where children design, plan and operate their own restaurant; Puppet Making where children write a play, create puppets for a performance; Plant and Maintain a Garden where children learn about how plants grow, how insects help and even how to recycle water, plus much more.

At Early Years, the staff is dedicated to providing fun and interesting learning and activities in a safe enveironmnet.

To learn more about Early Years and their services, schedule a tour or to register for their School Age Summer Camp Programs, visit www.earlyyearsinc.com. F

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STARTING THE CONVERSATION

Why is it a “Boy” Thing?

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

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rowing up in the ‘60’s and ‘70’s, the era of women’s lib, every teacher I ever had told all of us girls that we could do anything a boy could do, we could become doctors, lawyers, astronauts, professional athletes, you name it. And as I look around today, I see that many women have achieved these goals and so much more. There are new Olympic sports for women, female hockey teams, most young women in business advance into management much faster than their male counterparts, and the list goes on and on. I even earned a Bachelor of Science in Systems Analysis and never realized it was a male dominated profession.

Yet, when I look at the younger generations, I see something has changed. I see how few girls have an interest in science, technology, engineering and math, also known as, the STEM fields, I get nervous, bewildered and sometimes even outraged.

When my nephew was in the 5th grade, he joined the Lego® club at his elementary school and there was only one girl. Why? Because even at that young age, it was labeled a “boy” thing. When I take my nephews to the science center and ask friends if they want to bring their daughters, I repeatedly hear, “oh no, not science, my daughter would never be interested in that.”

Why? Science is nature’s magic show. Plus, careers in the STEM fields tend to be very lucrative; particularly for women. Personally, I am also a technical writer and enjoy learning about new technologies that I can pass along to our readers and I do not consider it to be a “boy” thing.

In my series of articles on innovations in the classroom that have spanned these last five months, I applaud the many amazing advances in technologies and teaching paradigms used by our local private, public, and parochial schools. In particular, I applaud those programs, faculty and administrators who encourage girls to join Lego clubs, robotic teams and other science-related activities.

I also applaud the female scientists that are terrific role models on television and show girls having fun and great jobs in science, such as, Kari Byron in Mythbusters and Mayim Bialik who portrays Amy on The Big Bang Theory who, in addition to being an actress, earned her PhD in Neuroscience from UCLA. So why do you think the STEM fields are now being described as a “boy” thing and thereby discouraging girls from pursuing these interests? What do you think should be done about it? Let’s Continue the Conversation on my blog at northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot.com where I also have embedded videos that illustrate this issue facing younger generations of women. F

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KIDS & EDUCATION May 2014

School Movers & Shakers

Chrzanowski, Zach DeDionisio, Mitch Weaver, Brendan Kennelty, Aaron Jackson, Chrissy Otteni, Becca Danik and Adam Johanknecht.

Pittsburgh Northern Homeschool Enrichment Co-op

Five Seneca Valley students earned honors at the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair at Heinz Field. They are: Robert Kunkel, Andrew Lingenfelter, Brock Gresock, Julia Kooser and Karina Latsko.

Three students from the Pittsburgh Northern Homeschool Enrichment Co-op in McCandless were honored for their work in essay contest from the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Mitchell Groves and Emma Cubarney were the Kushkushkee Trail Chapter winners.

Melina Stratigos won not only a chapter award, but also the state of Pennsylvania award. She will be honored in Washington, D.C. in June. Melina’s essay has won the Eastern Division of the Daughters of the American Revolution which consists of fourteen states plus Pennsylvania. Her entry is now being judged in Nationals.

Seneca Valley Butler County Conservation Group named Seneca Valley Senior High School biology and horticulture teacher, Dana Hadley, as Conservation Educator of the Year.

Cara Morgan, a Seneca Valley senior has been named a silver medalist in the 2014 National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Competition in New York City.

Two Seneca Valley Senior High School students, Gina Famiglietti and Melissa Pallotti earned awards in the 2014 Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh (SACP) Essay Competition.

Fifteen students from Seneca Valley participated in the PMEA District 5 Festival held at Lakevue High School. Participants included: Dan Singer, Stefany Baron, Sarah Kochis, Sam West, Dan Eppler, Matt Ruwe, Natalie Byers, Martin

Six Seneca Valley students performed at the Pennsylvania Music Educator Association (PMEA) AllState Choir.

They are: Josh Baktay, Lance Hahn, David Osorno, Ellie Lahm, Lauren Ottaviani and Hayley Hoss.

Seneca Valley choral students participated in a musical performance assessment and clinic on Apr. 3 with several accomplished musicians from our area. Guest judges were Dr. Kenneth H. Phillips, Dr.Christopher Kiver and Dr. Ryan Beeken.

Toshiba/National Science Teachers Association has named four fifth grade gifted students from Haine Middle School as honorable mention winners in the national 2014 ExploraVision Project Competition. The team consisted of Marc Amaldo, Harry Foss, Ari Bilger and Jose Ordonez.

Avonworth Third grade Avonworth Elementary school student, Sophie Guest recently appeared in episode of Two in a Half Men. She also appeared the film Draft Day and Jack Reacher. Sophie will be featured in the pilot and episode two of Those Who Kill which opens June 6.

Avonworth Middle School eighth grader Ethan Woodfill has been honored for his exemplary volunteer service with the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Avonworth Middle School seventh grade Learning Support Teacher, Steve Katkich has been selected as the Barnes and Noble Settlers Ridge winner for the “My Favorite Teacher Contest” winner.

Avonworth School District communications and publications have been recognized in the 2013-14 Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association Excellence in Education Communications Contest.

Professional bicycle rider, Jeff Lenosky visited Avonworth High School in March. Lenosky discussed alternative careers and the importance of academics and also demonstrated some of his bicycle tricks.

Pennsylvania State Senator Matt Smith spoke with the eighth grade civics students at Avonworth Middle School. He spoke on legisla-

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tive branch proceedings, how a bill becomes a law and the responsibilities of the members of Congress.

North Allegheny The North Allegheny School District had three national winners in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. They are: Anna Reed, Jake Hervoyavich and Leonardo Lupidi.

North Allegheny High School Speech and Debate Team finished among the top 16 high school teams in the world after participating in the International Public Policy Forum (IPPF). NA competed against students from 28 countries and 37 U.S. states to achieve their final spot as one of the ‘Sweet 16.”

North Allegheny’s DECA chapter won honors at the State Career Development Conference.

Six students won top awards – Emmie Bish, Abbey Kirkendoll, David Bursic, Tyler Saundry, Alexis Provenzano and Katie Franc. Medallions were awarded to: Zach Hughes, Tyler Saundry, Jake Neugebauer, Alexis Provenzano, Kelly Tagliaferre and Katie Franc.

Nineteen North Allegheny students have been recognized as All-Americans by the National Speech & Debate Association. They are: Kayla Badamo, Surabhi Beriwal, Drew Bjorklund, Chris Chang, Marisa DelSignore, Erica Fan, Jason Hu, Maria LaBella, Natalie Morrissey, Brandon Raymond, Anisha Reddy, Sarah Ricci, Medha Sharma, Annie Sippel, Pragna Sutrave, Wesley Swanson, Michael Tai, Hemanth Venkatesh and Catherine Zhang.

from pony beads and Rainbow Loom bands.

To date, the students have raised $700 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

North Allegheny students Charles Ross and Emma Barnes have been recognized in the Pennsylvania State University Essay Contest for High School writers.

Isley Smith, a junior at North Allegheny has won First Place in Category G for Grades 10-12, the Log House Award for Traditional Verse, in the Ligonier Valley Writers’ 23rd annual student poetry contest.

A team of Marshall Middle School students won First Place in the regional tournament, and advanced to the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Science Bowl competition in Washington, D.C. Team members are: Will Taft, Owen Chase, Joe Shin, Mason Blackburn and Jianfeng Chu. Marshall Middle School eighth grader Will Taft and Ingomar Elementary fourth grader Owen Prem competed in the 2014 state level of the National Geographic Bee. A team of students from Marshall Middle School earned First Place in the Fairchild Challenge at Phipps, Middle School Challenge 4.

Saint Bonaventure Saint Bonaventure third grader Elisa Tolomeo launched a campaign to raise money for pediatric cancer. Elisa and her classmates made gold HOPE bracelets

Saint Bonaventure Lady Bobcats JV Class A Basketball Team captured the school’s first ever JV Class A Diocesan Basketball Championship at Oakland Catholic High School.

Ryan Smith, an eighth grader at St. Bonaventure School qualified to compete in the 2014 Pennsylvania State Geographic Bee.

Ryan Smith

Aquinas Academy Aquinas Academy sent two teams to this year’s Divisional competition of the U.S. Department of Energy Southwestern Pennsylvania Science Bowl. Both teams were selected to receive the Civility Awards for sportsmanship in their division. Team #1 members: Tracey Schirra, Nick Navari, Jacob Scioscia, Margaret Zaharko and Lucy Zaharko. Team #2 members: Joseph Richthammer, Ian Athey, Elena Liguori, Seth So and Mackenzie Stewart.

(Continued on page 25)

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KIDS & EDUCATION May 2014

Saint Sebastian

Central Catholic

Saint Sebastian School Forensics won third place honors at the Southwestern Pennsylvania Forensic League Finals. They also placed fifth in the Diocese of Pittsburgh for the Forensic competition season. Team members were: Mary Doerfler, Alexis Moskala, Emma Sennott, Jack Wells, Alecia Spagnolo, Christina Koman, Domenic Melchiorre, Vincent Melechiorre, Claire Skirtich, Nicole Costa, Nicholas Kasper, Lisa MacQueen, Kristen Markabawl and Ryan Petrunia.

William Lloyd, a history teacher from Central Catholic High School and Matthew Sudnik, director of the Baginski Scholars Program have been selected as National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Summer Scholars.

Providence Heights Alpha School

Shady Side Academy

Providence Heights Alpha School recently participated in the “Jump Rope for Heart” fundraiser. This year the school raised over $5,900 for the American Heart Association. Additionally, first grader Anna Murray won an IPad Air for her collect donations.

Sixteen Providence Heights Alpha School seventh and eighth grade students participated in the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Several Alpha students earned accolades. They are: Emily Meinert, Hannah Schrupansky, Joe Schurer, Anna Wisniewski and Jacob Lowry.

Four members of the Shady Side Academy Senior School Speech and Debate Team competed at the Pennsylvania High School Speech League (PHSSL) state competition at Susquehanna University on Mar. 28-29. Shaun Gohel, Shea Minter, Riya Gohel and Matt Weis advanced to the quarterfinals. Shaan Fye, Anand Tayal and Abbie Minard.

Shady Side Academy Senior School announced the appointment of Sophie Lau as its assistant head of school and dean of faculty, effective this summer.

Shady Side Academy seniors Tevin Mickens and Tarah Wright have been selected

Sophie Lau

as winners of National Achievement $2,500 Scholarships.

Shady Side Academy junior Julian Schwartz auditioned for and was accepted to the British American Drama Academy’s Midsummer Conservatory Programs to study Shakespearean acting this summer.

Shady Side Academy sophomore Zachary Kosbie and Fox Chapel Area High School sophomore Konrad Urban were both winners of the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America 2014 Essay Contest. They won an allexpenses paid trip to a week-long congressional seminar in Washington, D.C.

Sewickley Academy On Apr. 4, Sewickley Academy engaged in its third annual Day of Service, a full school day committed to service projects both on and off campus, demonstrating Sewickley Academy’s commitment to the service of the greater good.

Thanks to a generous grant from Sewickley Academy’s Home and School Association, members of Sewickley Academy’s faculty were issued new iPad Airs, device that will allow their teachers to explore ways that mobile technology can enhance their teaching and learning the classroom and beyond.

La Roche College La Roche College inducted 12 accomplished graduates into its Distinguished Alumni Circle, recognizing them for outstanding leadership and extraordinary professional success.

CCAC Community College of Allegheny County student Shawn Hinnebusch has been named a 2014 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Bronze Scholar.

Saint Vincent College The Fred Rogers Scholars and Incubator 143 from Saint Vincent College collected gently used sweaters for those in need.

NerdScholar has named Saint Vincent College as among the best values in Pennsylvania higher education.

Officials of Baierl Subaru and Subaru of America presented a check for $6,603 to the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College.

Seniors in the Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government at Saint Vincent College scored in the top 17% overall among more than 662 college and university schools of business in the United States on a national test administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS).

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REGISTER NOW for the 2014-2015 S Catholic Schools of the Pittsburgh Diocese Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh (Gibsonia)

Northside Catholic School (Brighton Heights)

Assumption School (Bellevue)

Oakland Catholic High School (Oakland)

Head of School: Leslie Mitros 724-444-0722 www.AquinasAcademy.info Principal: Mary Ann Miller 412-761-7887 www.assumptionschool.org

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School (Cranberry Twp) Principal: Ms. Kellie Abbott 412-321-4823 Ext. 127 www.cwnchs.org

Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy (Aspinwall) Principal: Sr. Dorothy Dolak, S.C.N. www.cdtca.org 412-781-7927

Holy Sepulcher Catholic School (Middlesex Twp) Principal: Sister Anna Marie Gaglia, CSJ Phone: 724-586-5022 http://www.holysepulcher.org/holysepulcher-catholic-school

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Principal: Rosanne Kwiatkowski (412)761-5043 www.northsidecatholicschool.org

Principal: Dr. Maureen Marsteller 412-682-6633 www.oaklandcatholic.org

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School (Coraopolis) Principal: Tim Plocinik 412-262-3300 www.olsh.org

Providence Heights Alpha School (McCandless)

Principal: Margaret Ruefle M.ED.M.S. www.alphaschool.org 412-366-4455

Saint Alexis Catholic School (Wexford) Principal: Mr. Jim Correll www.stalexis.org/school 724-935-3940

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Saint Alphonsus (Wexford) Principal: Mr. Robert Reese 724-935-1152 www.stals.org

Saint Bonaventure (Glenshaw) Principal: Jacqueline B. Easley 412-486-2606 www.stbonaventureparish.org

Saint Gregory School (Zelienople) Principal: Erin Harris 724-452-9731 www.stgregzelie.org

Saint James School (Sewickley) Principal: Sister Christy Hill, CSJ 412-741-5540 www.stjamesschool.us

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

Saint Kilian Parish School (Cranberry Twp) Principal: Jane Pamena 724-625-1665 Ext.2118 www.saintkilian.org/school

KIDS & EDUCATION May 2014

Five Saint Vincent College seniors have been named finalists for the 40th annual President’s Award. They are: Tanner Beal, Joshua Gongaware, Rebecca McGrail, Emily Rosati and Natalie Woodruff.

Elise Glenn was welcomed to the Saint Vincent College as the director of the trial moot court program by Dr. Bruce Antkowiak and Dr. Gary M. Quinlivan of Saint Vincent College.

School Year Saint Mary (Glenshaw) Principal: Antoinette Pilarski 412-486-7611 www.stmaryglenshaw.org

Dr. Patrick D. Gallagher, a physicist and former U.S. Commerce official became the 18th chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh on Aug. 1. He will address the graduates at Saint Vincent College Commencement on May 10.

Dr. Patrick Gallagher

Vincentian Academy Vincentian Academy just finished their amazing production of Grease. Plus, over 90% of the entire student body participate in extra-curricular activities at Vincentian Academy.

Seven Saint Vincent College seniors who plan to attend law school in the fall were recognized at the fourth annual Saint Vincent Law Society Send-Off Luncheon at the college on Apr. 9.

They are: Tanner Beal, Joseph Carroll, Gretchen Panchik, Natalie Yanniruberto, Lila Eid, Peter Hronis and Felecia Watt.

Saint Vincent College management professor Dr. Michael J. Urick, is the co-author of a chapter in a book, Extreme Leadership: Leaders, Teams and Situation Outside the Norm.

Dr. Michael Urick

Saint Sebastian School (Ross) Principal: Dr. Kathleen R. Roppa 412-364-7171 www.SaintSebastianParish.org

Saint Teresa of Avila School (Perrysville) Principal: Sister Karen Brink, OSB 412-367-9001 Ext. 530 www.saintteresas.org

Saint Ursula School (Allison Park)

Principal: Sr. M. Joanita Fedor, S.C.N. 412-486-5511 www.stursulaschool.org

Vincentian Academy (North Hills, PA)

President: Mr. John Fedko Principal: Mrs. Kelly Lazzara 412-364-1616 www.vincentianacademy.org

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KIDS & EDUCATION May 2014

Innovative Classrooms, Camps and Summer Programs

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

In this, our fifth installment of innovative happenings in our areas schools, summer camps and summer programs, we continue to highlight some of the remarkable opportunities available to young people in our area.

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School – This brand new, stateof-the-art modern learning facility is located in Cranberry. There are interactive SmartBoards installed in every classroom and each student will be issued a schoolowned laptop computer. In addition, the school houses a television studio, science labs and musical composition rooms. The gymnasium holds more than 1,250 people and there is also a large, college-style cafeteria that has several food stations.

Visit www.cwnchs.org to learn more or schedule a tour.

Early Years Child Care - Early Years has worked with the University of Pittsburgh Child Development Office to develop School Age Summer Camp Programs which include Space Exploration; Restaurant Day where children design, plan and operate their own restaurant; Puppet Making where children write a play, create puppets for a performance; Plant and Maintain a Garden where children learn about how plants

grow, how insects help and even how to recycle water, plus much more. Visit www.earlyyearsinc.com to register for their summer camp programs.

Gymkhana – Gymkhana gymnastics facility has developed innovative summer camps designed to keep children, creative, busy and active this summer.

Two camps in particular are their KHIDS KAMP for 3-10 year olds, using all of the gymnastics equipment including: floor exercise, balance beam, rings, uneven bars, mini trampoline, tumble trak the goliath trampoline and our incredible inflatables. Theme-based kamp activities including dry-land water games, parachute play, awesome obstacle courses, craft activities, zoom-zoom zipline, climbing cargo net, bouldering and more. And their Survivor Kamp for 6 to 16 year olds.

Based on the popular Survivor TV show, campers will be split into tribes, where they create their own tribal flags and compete in challenges for rewards. Survivor camp is for boys and girls who enjoy participating in a broad range of physical activities with an emphasis on fun through gymnastics. To register, go to www.gymkhanafun.com.

Saint Kilian – Saint Kilian has integrated the iPad and iPad applications into every grade to enhance what the students learn. Even Preschool students as young as 3 and 4 have learned to use the iPad. Preschoolers use PlayArt by Tapook to learn about Claude Monet and were able to create their own pictures using the artist’s own elements. This experience led several students to further their investigation of these techniques on paper, by painting their own renditions of Monet’s

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Water Lilies. And third grade students use the iPads to strengthen and enrich their math skills and recently took a trip to outer space, using the devices to complete a webquest and create virtual postcards in Science. The innovative way the educators at Saint Killian use the iPad continues throughout the school with a 1:1 ratio of student to iPad for 6th through 8th grades. Visit www.saintkilian.org/school to learn more.

Sewickley Academy Summer Programs – These innovative, highquality summer programs are open to everyone and are very affordable. Each program has an academic element but is taught through interesting activities. For example, American Girl® Day for children grades K-3rd, uses the background of the dolls to teach various eras of American History through stories, crafts and even a tea party. In another program developed in cooperation with the Effective Leadership Academy, called “Lead!” is designed to teach leadership skills to middle schoolers. In this innovative program, students are taught how to present themselves and their ideas from the first introductory handshake, to looking people in the eye, to speaking clearly and effectively; thereby preparing them for successful careers throughout their lifetime. There are also Castles and Dragons, Treasure Island, Circus Circus, Magical World of Fairies, Math Magicians, Science Discovery Camps in the schools “Secret Garden” and much, much more. For information on the complete array of innovative summer programs available, visit www.sewickley.org.

Throughout this issue are additional summer camps and educational activities.

If you are offering an innovative program or camp or planning an innovative program for the coming school year, be sure and let us know by emailing NorthCon@consolidated.net or calling 724-940-2444. F

TRIVIA CONNECTION May 2014

Law Enforcement TV A TRIVIAL SALUTE TO TOP COPS AND SUPER SLEUTHS ON TELEVISION

BY PAULA GREEN and Sledge Hammer.

Since we’ve cruised our way through law enforcement series, we must now investigate this police puzzle. See if you can detect the answers, because it’s time to get a little trivial...

1. Which actor/singer/teen idol starred in the Miami-based detective series Surfside Six? 2. On Dragnet what was Detective Joe Friday’s Los Angeles Police Department badge number?

3. What was the name of the character that Peggy Lipton portrayed on The Mod Squad?

4. This actor started in Tightrope and Mannix.

5. When the bad guy(s) were caught at the end of an episode of Hawaii 5-0, what was the catch-phrase uttered by Steve McGarrett.

6. Diagnosis Murder was a spin-off of this crime drama.

7. Name the police officer that Reginald VelJohnson portrayed on Family Matters.

8. Georg Stanford Brown played Officer Terry Webster on The Rookies, he married this actress who also portrayed a cop on television?

9. In Miami Vice, what was the name of Sonny Crockett’s pet alligator?

10. Which TV cop duo cruised the streets in red with a whitestripe Ford Torino (the car was nicknamed the Striped Tomato)?

11. What is the first name of lolli-pop loving Detective Kojak?

12. On Magnum P.I., who provided the voice for Robin Masters, Magnum’s unseen employer?

13. This television producer/writer created the popular series Hillstreet Blues and NYPD Blue, as well as the flop show Cop Rock.

14. What was Barney Miller’s rank on the hit comedy series?

15. In which series would you find a character named Inspector Joe Dominguez? F Sources: http://www.nleomf.org/museum/news/newsletters/online-insider/2012/may-2012/history-of-national-police-week.html, http://www.wikipedia. com,http://www.funtrivia.com, book - Obsessed with Television Answers: 1. Troy Donahue 2. 714 3. Julie Barnes 4. Mike Connors 5.

Book’em Dan-O! 6. Jack and the Fatman 7. Carl Winslow 8. Tyne Daly (Cagney & Lacey) 9. Elvis 10. Starsky & Hutch 11. Theo 12. Orson Welles 13. Steven Bochco 14. Captain 15. Nash Bridges

N

ational Police Week will be celebrated this year, May 11-17. By a joint resolution on October 1, 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a law that declared May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week, the annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.

Over the years, there have been many crime-fighting themed television shows that have warranted our attention. In honor of National Police Week, we will take a look at some of the more famous law enforcement TV programs. We’ll also target those TV detectives and secret agents, who outsmarted and captured the bad guys.

We saw several programs that showcased one main detective – Banacek, Baretta, Barnaby Jones, Burke’s Law, Cannon, Columbo, The Commish, Dan August, Dexter, The Equalizer, Hunter, Ironside, Kojak, MacGyver, Magnum P.I., Matlock, McCloud, Mannix, The Mentalist, Mike Hammer, Monk, Peter Gunn, Quincy, Spenser: for Hire, Vegas, Walker: Texas Ranger, Tightrope, and Wiseguy.

There were police series that showcased male dynamic duos – Adam-12, The Blue Knight, Car 54 Where Are You? CHIPs, Crime Story, Dragnet, I Spy, The Man From U.N.C.L.E, Miami Vice, Nash Bridges, 77 Sunset Strip, Simon & Simon, Starsky and Hutch, The Streets of San Francisco, Switch and The Wild, Wild West. There were male and female partners – Hart to Hart, McMillan and Wife, The Mod Squad, Moonlighting, Remington Steele, The Rockford Files, and The X-Files.

Women ruled in a handful of crime fighter shows – Alias, Get Christie Love, Honey West, Cagney & Lacey, Charlie’s Angels, Murder She Wrote, Police Woman, Profiler, and Veronica Mars.

Several police dramas featured an all-star cast of super sleuths – Blue Bloods, Bones, Castle, Checkmate, Criminal Minds, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, CSI: Miami, CSI: New York, Cold Case, The F.B.I., The Felony Squad, Hawaii 5-0, Hawaiian Eye, Hillstreet Blues, Homicide: Life on the Street, In the Heat of the Night, Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, New York Undercover, Mission Impossible, Naked City, Numbers, N.Y.P.D., NYPD Blues, Police Story, The Rookies, The Shield, Southland, Surfside 6, S.W.A.T., Third Watch, 21 Jump Street, T.J. Hooker, The Untouchables, The Wire and Without a Trace.

In the comedic realm of crime solving there was The Andy Griffith Show, Barney Miller, Get Smart, Police Squad, Reno 911,

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SENIOR LIVING May 2014

Welcome Spring

BY BARBARA KILLMEYER

M

ay is a very busy month for me, as I’m sure it is for everyone. On May 1, my grandson will be celebrating his 19th birthday. On May 2, I will have my birthday but I’m not saying which one. Of course, May 11 is Mother’s Day and I want to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to each of you who will be celebrating. On May 13, my

husband Don and I will join the other members of our Vintage Radio Group to entertain the retirees of Duquesne University.

Those are all fun things; but, there are some work things to do too.

For instance, I have to clean and prepare our backyard gazebo to get rid of all the winter dirt that accumulates.

But, I’ll be so glad that I did when I sit out there on my recliner and read a book in the hot summer weather.

After the winter that we all went through this year, I’m sure we are all looking forward to a great Spring and Summer.

I want to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all the great mothers out there and I hope that each of us has a Spring and Summer we will remember with happiness when it’s over. F

HAPPY SPRING!!!

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

724-940-2444

www.pittsburghfiftyfiveplus.com 32

Northern Connection | May 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com

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 or clpschirer@nhco.org.

Free Rides for Seniors, to grocery stores, doctor’s appts & more thru St. Margaret’s Foundation. Pick up & drop off seniors in the corridors from Sharpsburg to Blawnox & Rt. 28 to the Allegheny River. Sign up by calling, (412) 449-0151.

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.

Parkwood Suburban North Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Meals on Wheels services Hampton & southern Richland townships. Call (412) 486-7115.

Open Your Heart to a Senior Volunteer Orientation, 6:30 p.m., May 20, Eat N’ Park (Pittsburgh Mills), 3005 Pittsburgh Mills Blvd., Tarentum. For info, call (412) 307-0071 or 2-1-1- or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Safety for Seniors will conduct FREE Home Safety Checks. For info, call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org.

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

Senior Meetings 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.

Glenshaw AARP #3744 will meet 7 p.m., May 13, Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, 3200 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw.

Mars AARP Chapter #3359 meets 2nd Wed. of every month, 1 p.m., Adams Township Municipal Building, 690 Valencia Rd., Mars. All Butler seniors are welcome. Cost $5 a year.

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.

Perrymont AARP Chapter #2991, Northmont Church at the corner of Perrymont Rd. & Rte. 19 in the North Hills. Meetings held 11:30 a.m., every 3rd Thurs., of the month, Sept-May. A light lunch is served. Events - May 20, Rocky Gap Casino, MD; June 3-4, play “Moses” in Lancaster PA; Chapter picnic, June 19, North Park. All are welcome.

Call(412) 389-2369.

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 Banjo Club, 2 p.m., May 2, Sherwood Oaks. For details, call 1-800-642-2217 or www.sherwood-oaks.com.

Cahal Dunne – Ireland’s Happy Man, 2:30 pm., May 14, Lighthouse Pointe; 2:30 p.m., May 15, Vanadium Woods Village, 2:30 p.m., May 16, Strabane Trails Village; 3 p.m., May 20, Seneca Hills Village; 2:30 p.m., May 21, Beatty Pointe Village. Visit UPMCSeniorCommunities.com.

Collin Stover: Magician & Mentalist, 2:30 p.m., May 7, Beatty Point Village. To register, call (412) 374-9000.

Dr. Knowledge: Fascinating Facts & Interesting Stories, 10:30 a.m., May 6, Hampton Fields Village, register at, (412) 492-8448, May 8, Lighthouse Pointe, register at, (412) 781-2707.

Senior Citizens’ Prom, 7-10 p.m., May 2, North Allegheny Senior High School. To make a reservation, call (412) 3695445.

Seminars & Courses AARP Smart Driver™ Course, 1-5 p.m., May 14 & 15, Sherwood Oaks. To register, call 1-800-642-2217 or www. sherwood-oaks.com.

Antique Appraisal, 2:30 p.m., May 1, Strabane Trails Village, 317 Wellness Way, Washington, Pa. Free registration, call (724) 225-4100 or UPMCSeniorCommunities.com.

Neil Diamond Performed by Chris Denem, 2:30 p.m., May 21, Hampton fields Village. Register at, (412) 492-8448.

Fall Prevention, 3 p.m., May 8, Seneca Hills Village, Verona. Call (412) 793-1700.

Saint Alexis Over 50 Trips & Events, May 12-15 - Travel to Louisville with AARP. Dinner Cruise, Churchill Downs and more. Contact Rose at (724) 728-2563 for information.

How to Stay Vibrant as You Age, 12:30 p.m., May 21, Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building.

Presented by Passvant Hospital Foundation. To register for this

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SENIOR LIVING May 2014

TOWN CRIER

May – A Meaningful Month

BY JOE BULLICK

H

i, everyone is happy to see the month of May. In our area, farmers and gardeners alike try to complete all of the seeding and planting by the end of the month working around May’s unpredictable weather.

As a young boy living in the Wexford area, I noticed that we had a large abundance of farms. Being raised in the thirties, the farmers still had draft horses, and a team of horses did all of the plowing.

They were all very hard-working people. Back then, almost everyone that I knew had a garden. As I young boy, I also remember that during the month of May, I was busy helping with the spring-cleaning.

Also as a young boy, mom always set aside May to dedicate and honor the Virgin Mary. She had a small statue, and we had flowers around it the whole month of May. At one time, this month was considered bad luck to get married. There is an old saying that goes, “Marry in May and you’ll rue the day.”

On to the positive side of May, let us not forget about our mothers this month. There are over 122 million phone calls made on Mother’s Day. To add to the statistics, over 2 million dollars are spent on flowers.

Most folks living in the United States do not realize it but, the first day of May is designated “The International Workers’ Day.” This day is also known as “May Day.” The origins of this celebration are as American as baseball and apple pie. The roots of this commemoration stem from the pre-Christian holiday of Beltane, which is the celebration of the rebirth of fertility.

Other exciting events that take place every May are the Indianapolis 500 car race and the Kentucky Derby. This world famous horse race is held the first Saturday of May. We must also take the time out this month to remember our veterans on the last Monday in May. On that day, a national observance of the holiday is held at Arlington National Cemetery. During the service, a wreath is placed on tomb of the “Unknown Soldier” and each gravesite is honored with the placement of a small flag.

There were some notable people born in the month of May. The 33rd president of the United States, Harry S. Truman was born on May 8, 1884. Heavyweight boxer, Joe Louis’ birth date was May 13, 1914.

Baseball great Lawrence Peter Berra (Yogi) was born on May 12, 1925. For you music lovers, singer, songwriter, Burt Bacharach was born on May 12, 1928.

So enjoy May, and have some fun in Pittsburgh. It has all the attractions of a much larger city. Be sure to plan an outing at PNC Park for a Pirates’ game, or you could visit the beautiful flowers at Phipps Conservatory, or relive history at the Heinz History Center.

Happy birthday wishes to all those born under the sign of Taurus and Gemini. I leave you with this – “A good laugh is sunshine in the house.”

William Makepeace Thackeray

SUPPORT OUT TROOPS

World War II Remembrances and Memorial Day Commemorations

BY PAULA GREEN

A

rmed Forces Day pays tribute to men and women who serve in the United States armed forces. This observance is held annually on the third Saturday of May. It will be celebrated on May 17th this year. Armed Forces Day is part of Armed Forces Week, which begins on the second Saturday of May. Another celebration this month is Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, it is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. It is observed every year on the last Monday in May. Some military honors have recently been held in our area. The Community College of Allegheny County North Campus paid tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen from Pittsburgh who fought in World War II. The homage included surviving airmen and their families, as well as, relatives of those now deceased. The event featured a proclamation issued by Mayor Bill Peduto and a presentation of Quilts of Valor to the airmen and their descendants.

34

The Pittsburgh Social Exchange held their “Salute Your Troops” Gala on April 16, at the Omni William Penn Grand Ballroom.

The event was held to raise awareness and funds in support of the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

Saint Vincent College in Latrobe is honoring veterans in a literary fashion.

SVC’s Center for Northern Appalachian Studies recently published Victorious! From Hometown America to Tokyo Bay, 1941-1945.

The book contains 38 personal accounts of those who served during World War II, both of the European and Pacific fields of battle and on the homefront. For details on this military novel, visit www.stvincent.edu.

Fallen veterans will be honored on May 26, as we usher in Memorial Day. Several local municipalities will be hosting Memorial Day Parades • The Allegheny Cemetery & St. Mary’s Cemetery Association Memorial Day Parade will take place 11:00 a.m.-2

Northern Connection | May 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com

p.m. , May 26, down Butler Street, in Lawrenceville to end at the cemetery for the 105th year in a row.

• V.F.W. Post 9199 and Post 785 American Legion in Shaler Township will conducted a Memorial Day Service at 11:30 a.m., May 26 in Mt. Royal Cemetery at the flagstaff.

• The Borough of Etna has its annual Memorial Day Parade which begins at 9:30 a.m., May 26, along Butler Street from Maplewood to Freeport, down Freeport and into Sharpsburg.

Take time-out from your picnics and barbecues on May 26, and remember to and salute our fallen veterans. 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.

Senior Happenings (Continued from page 31) free course, call (412) 748-6640.

Lifestyle Choices That Promote Healthy Brain Aging, 11 a.m., May 20, Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless. Call (412) 635-8080 or visit, TheLegacyLineup.com.

VA Benefits Seminar, 2:30 p.m., May 6, Vanadium Woods Village. Call (412) 221-2900.

Volunteer Opportunities: North Hills Community Outreach’s Faith in Action program is seeking Senior Companion volunteers.

For details, contact Nancy, at (412) 307-0069 or nljones@ nhco.org.

Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring, help your child learn to read. If you’re 50 or older you’ll be trained.

Tutor training sessions run 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., at downtown Macy’s. For details, call John (412) 232-2021 or email jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

Open Your Heart to a Senior, Snow Squad volunteers are needed, to shovel snow for seniors. For details, call (412) 307-0071 or 2-1-1, or visit www.oyhs.org or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Yard Work Help for Seniors, volunteers are needed in all neighborhoods of Allegheny County. To register as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, call (412) 307-0071 or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

P.A. ERBE & Associates Inc.

Accounting & Tax Preparation Service for Personal & Business Income Taxes

Penny Ann Erbe

Enrolled Agent Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner

412-487-1009

4767 William Flynn Highway Allison Park, PA 15101-2456

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HAPPENINGS May 2014

Happenings North Happenings Glade Run Foundation events: Highmark Walk, May 17, Heinz Field. Call (412) 452-4453 or www.gladerun.org.

Hazardous Waste & Electronics Collections, May 3 & 17, Jun. 7 & 28, Jul. 12 & 26, Aug. 16 & 30, Sept. 13, Oct. 18 & Nov. 8, Butler County. Visit www.recyclebutler.us.

Mobile Shredding Event, 10 a.m.1 p.m., May 17, Hampton High School parking lot, 2929 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Limit of two 13-gal. size bags. For info, call (412) 487-6605.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Community Auto Program is looking for vehicle donations that will provide transportation for lowincome individuals. Call (724) 443-8300 or www.communityauto.org.

North Hills Community Outreach Dinner Theatre Don’t Tell Mother, Dessert Theatre, June 11 & Dinner Theatre, June 12, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Call Cheryl (412) 487-6316, Opt. 1, or www.nhco.org, or clenglish@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.

The Rotary Club of Lawrenceville is accepting nominations for the “Donald R. Canfield Community Activity Award.” Deadline for nominations is May 10. Send nominations to luci.casile@ pnc.com.

WorkAble offers free employment services to unemployed and underemployed people in Allegheny County. Orientations & workshops held in March. Call Harriet, (412) 408-3830 ext. 3219 or hzgibbs@nhco.org.

Mondays 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.

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

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meets the 4th Monday of every month 7 p.m., (May 19), Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329.

Movie Matinee Mondays, 2 p.m.

Mondays, Last Vegas, May 5; Captain Phillips, May 12; & Diana, May 19, The Legacy Theatre, 700 Cumberland Woods Drive, McCandless Twp. For info, (412) 6358080 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

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

Wednesday Ask an Attorney, 7 p.m., May 14, NHCO North Boroughs; June 11, NHCO in Allison Park; July 9, NHCO Millvale. Must

North Allegheny District Band Patrons 4th Annual Flea & Crafter Market Fundraiser

S

aturday, June 7, 2014 from 7:30AM-1PM (set-up 6:15-7:30AM) located in the parking lots between McKnight Elementary and NA Intermediate High School, Cumberland Road. All are welcome! $20 for 1st spot - $15 for additional spots. Keep what you sell. Rain date: Sunday, June 8, 2014 (No refunds for rain out) Food and drink rights reserved. Details and registration information at www. naband.org. Proceeds benefit North Allegheny High School Bands. F

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pre-register, call (412) 408-3830 or hzgibbs@ nhco.org.

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.

Handicapable Square Dancing Lessons, Thurs., from May thru Oct., Dorseyville Alliance Church. Volunteers needed to assist. For details, call Marti or Gary (724) 443-2616.

National Aviary Night, 5-9 p.m., 3rd Thurs., of the month. Half price admission, 21 and over. For details, (412) 258-9445.

Friday Christy House in Sewickley, Friday luncheons, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Frederick Ave., Sewickley. Homemade soups & specialty breads. Call (412) 741-5960. Visit The Needles Eye and Earthly Treasure. Visit ststephenschurch.net.

Saturdays Saturday Singles Dance for ages 40+, 8 p.m.-midnight, May 10, “Anniversary Party,” free dance lesson 7:30 p.m., dance 8 p.m., May 24, “Free Speed Dating & Nacho Night, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy, West View. Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., May 10, Cooper Siegel Community Library, 403 Fox Chapel Rd. Preregister at, (724) 493-9695.

Arts & Entertainment The Bronx Wanderers, 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., May 17, Kean Theatre, Gibsonia.

For reservations, call (724) 882-5566 or www. thebronxwanderers.com.

“Digital Hand” art exhibition runs thru May 25, at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, 709 Penn Gallery. For info, visit www.

TrustArts.org.

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, 7:30 p.m., May 3 & 10; 2 p.m., May 4 & 11, Cumberland Woods Village. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487.

JazzLive, 5-9 p.m., Tues., May 6, George Heid III; May 13, Dan Wasson; May 20, Nelson Harrison; May 27, Eric DeFade; Backstage Bar. Visit www.

TrustArts.org/cabaret.

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JazzLive International Festival, June 20-22, Cultural District. For details, visit http://pittsburghjazzlive.com.

International Children’s Theatre, May 14-18, Cultural District, downtown Pittsburgh. For details, (412) 4566666 or www.PghKids.org.

Legacy Theatre: I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, 7:30 p.m., May 3 & 10 & 11 a.m. & 2 p.m., May 4 & 11, Legacy Theatre. For tickets, 1-877-9876487 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

Pittsburgh Concert Chorale presents: Big Band & Beyond, 7:30 p.m., May 3, Fox Chapel Presbyterian & 4 p.m., May 4, Ingomar United Methodist Church. For tickets, call (412) 635-7654 or http://www.pccsing.org/tickets/index.php.

Psychic Panic Art Exhibition, May 16-June 29, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Space Gallery, 812 Liberty Ave. For info, visit www.TrustArts.org.

Health & Wellness Head & Neck Pain Seminar, 1 p.m., May 7, Club Julian, 101 Corbett Court.

Sponsored by Passavant Hospital Foundation.

Call (412) 366-1931.

Lizzy’s Bikes, a Kiwanis Club of Mars community action program, provides free bikes to local needy children. Call (724) 7794364 or email LizzysBikes@yahoo.com.

North Hills Community Outreach is participating in Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community on May 17 on the North Shore. Join their team & raise funds for NHCO’s Back-to-School program.

Call, (412) 408-3830 or register at www.

WalkforAHealthyCommunity.com.

Save Your Shoulder, Surgical & Nonsurgical Treatment for Shoulder Pain, 6:30 p.m., May 20,CCAC North in McCandless. Sponsored by Passavant Hospital Foundation. To register for this free course, call (412) 369-3701.

St. Margaret Foundation, 6-7:30 p.m., May 8, Skin Cancer: Spot & Stop It; May 22, Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Cause if Lower Back, Leg Pain, June 5, Vanishing Varicose Veins, Heart & Vascular Institute. For info, call (412) 7844022 or www.stmargaretfoundation.org.

Counseling Professional Counseling, need someone to talk with but can’t afford it or lack health coverage. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300.

Networking Cranberry Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets 7:30 a.m., May 1 & 15, 2662 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Call Marcia, (724) 538-3059.

Criders Corner Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets noon, May 8 & 22, Cranberry Echo Restaurant, Rt. 228, Cranberry Twp. Call Annette, (724) 316-8005.

Friday Morning “Coffee Club,” 8-9 a.m., Fridays, Butler County Chamber of Commerce. For details, call (724) 283-2222 or Jennifer@ButlerCountyChamber.com Meet-N-Move Networking Luncheon w/Ellwood City, Zelienople, Harmony & Beaver County Chambers of Commerce, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., May 13, Shakespeare’s at Old Stonewall. For info, call (724) 283-2222 or email Jennifer@ ButlerCountyChamber.com.

North Hills Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets 12:30 p.m., May 9 & 23, Atria’s Restaurant, 5517 William Flynn Hwy. Call Debbie, (724) 449-8368.

North Hills Newcomers and Friends spring raffle, 10 a.m., May 13, Shannopin Country Club. Proceeds benefit Glade Run. For info, visit www. northhillsnewcomers.org or email NHNFmembership@gmail.com.

Professional Referral Exchange (PRE) meets 7:15 a.m., Weds, Deck House, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Ken, at (610) 4967600 or visit, www.prenetworking.net.

Ross-West View Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 7:30 a.m., May 8 & 22, Perry Perk Coffee Shop, 1012 Perry Hwy, Ross Twp. Call Donna, (724) 493-9695.

Seven Fields Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 8:15 a.m., May 1 & 15, Concordia Life Care Community, Rt. 228, Adams Ridge. Call Nina, (724) 772-1922.

Toastmasters Cranberry High Noon Club, meets noon-1 p.m., every Mon., at the Cranberry Library, 2525 Rochester Rd., Suite 400. Guest & new members are welcome. Call Mary Jo, (412) 367-7710 or http://3331281.toastmastersclubs.org.

Wexford Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 8:00 a.m., May 13 & 27, Atria’s Restaurant, Rt. 19, Wexford. Call Denise, (412) 716-1322.

Volunteer Opportunities American Cancer Society is looking for volunteers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments (Continued on page 38)

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HAPPENINGS May 2014

to & from their appts. Interested volunteers should call (412) 919-1100 or emailsharon. stalter@cancer.org.

College’s 49th commencement ceremony on May 3. For info, visit laroche.edu/commencement.

North Hills Community Outreach Orientation & Information Sessions, 10-11 a.m., May 8, NHCO in Allison Park. Register by calling Linda, (412) 408-3830 or lkrobins@nhco.org.

Fairy Tales & Folklore Exhibit runs through June 6, McCarl Gallery at St. Vincent College. Admission is free & open to the public. For info, (724) 805-2569 or www. mccarlgallery.org.

Tutoring Volunteers Needed, 1-3 hrs., per week w/homework & study skills.

Call Sandy at Anchorpoint Ministries (412) 366-1300 x23.

The First Step to Small Business Success, 9:30-11:30 a.m., May 14, Saint Vincent College. For details, call (724) 537-4572 or www.stvincent.edu/ sbdc.

Volunteer Book Sorters Needed for Anchorpoint’s annual used book sale. For info, call Denise a (412) 3661300 x13.

Volunteers are needed at the Repurposed Thrift Store in the Northway Mall. The store is accepting donations of any kind. They support Living in Liberty, a nonprofit who helps women rescued from human trafficking. To volunteer, call (412) 548-3755.

School Happenings Avonworth School District Mobile Makeshop every Tuesday til the end of May. Offered in conjunction with the Children’s Museum. For info, visit www. avonworth.k12.pa.us.

Charlie Batch will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters and deliver the commencement address at La Roche

Kennywood Day for North Allegheny, June 19. In-school ticket sales at all NA schools on May 15.

For details, visit www.northallegheny.org/ athletics.

Introduction to Catholic Liberal Arts will be offered June 15-20 at Saint Vincent College. For info, visit (724) 805-2844 or www.stvincent.edu/faithandreason.

Saint Vincent College is offering graduate classes 6-10 p.m., Tues, May 20, 27 & Jun. 3, 10, 17, 24 & July 1, at Somerset Senior High School. For those works a Master of Science degree in curriculum and instruction or education. Call (724) 85-2933 or www.stvincent.edu/grduateprograms.

call (412) 243-7535 ext.223 or email estimmel@power-recovery.com.

Saint Vincent Summer Theatre, Heroes by Gerard Sibleyras, May 29-June 14; Boeing, Boeing, June 19-July 5; Jeeves in Bloom, July 10-26; A Grand Night for Singing, July 31-Aug. 17. For details, www.svst.org.

Mary Kay Foundation Fundraiser, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., May 10, Pella Showroom off of Thorn Hill Ext. Funds research for cancers affecting women, and funds programs against domestic violence.

Visit, www.marykayfoundation.org.

Saint Vincent Summer Theatre Gala, 6:30 p.m., July 11, Robert S. Carey Student Center at St. Vincent College. For details, (724) 805-2901.

Peace. Love. Run 13.1 Half Marathon & 5K Run/Walk, 7 a.m. (half marathon) & 7:45 a.m. (5K Run/Walk), June 22, North Park Boathouse. Sponsored

by Catholic Hospice and Palliative Services.

To register, call 1-866-933-6221.

Veterans 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.

La Roche College & the University of Pittsburgh have signed an articulation agreement that will allow Engineering students to earn a degree from both institutions. To learn more, call (412) 536-1272 or admissions@laroche.edu.

Veterans Discover HOPE HereCareer, 3rd Wed., 6:30-8:45 p.m., Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 7798323, discoverhopehere@gmail.com or www. discoverhopehere.com.

Pittsburgh Fringe Festival, 6:30 p.m., May 6, Cathedral of Learning, University of Pittsburgh. For info, visit www.pghfringe. org.

Veteran’s Fitness Classes 5 Days a week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. For details, visit www.prevention.va.gov/B_Physically_ Active.asp.

Workshops All the Hats Owners & Managers Wear workshop, 11:30 a.m., May 28. Sponsored by the Butler County Chamber of Commerce.

Call (724) 283-2222 or email Stan@ ButlerCountyChamber.com.

Smart Investments Offers Free Money Management Workshops for Women, 10 a.m., May 19, NHCO North Boroughs; 2 p.m., May 21, NHCO Millvale & 1 p.m., May 23, NHCO Allison Park. To register, call NeighborWorks, at (412) 281-9773.

Conventions, Festivals, & Sales Children’s Festival, May 14-18, Cultural District, downtown. For details, visit www.pghkids.org.

Fundraisers American Diabetes Association “Tour De Cure,” May 18, Seneca Valley High School, 124 Seneca School Rd. For info, call (412) 824-1181 x4604 or www. diabetes.org/pittsburghtourdecure.

A Celebration for Kyle, 1-5 p.m., May 3, Jergel’s. $25 per person. Benefits the Kyle Johnson Memorial Fund. To donate, visit www.GiveNow.psu.edu/ KyleJohnsonScholarship.

A Night of Hope, 5:30 p.m., May 22, Rodef Shalom Congregation in Oakland.

Sponsored by POWER Promises. To register,

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Come Together concert, 7:30 p.m., May 25, New Community Church, Wexford.

Benefits Urban Impact in Pittsburgh. Tickets can be purchased at, www.NCCinWexford.org.

Pittsburgh Foundation Day of Giving, 6 a.m.-midnight, May 6.

Sponsored by the Butler County Symphony.

For details, visit www.pittsburghgives.org.

Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism Speaks, (8 a.m. registration), 10 a.m., walk, June 14, Heinz Field. Visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/pittsburgh to register your team. For info, call (412) 367-4571.

Camps Imagine & Build with God Vacation Bible Camp, 9:30 a.m.12:45 p.m., July 28-Aug. 1, Glenshaw & Parkwood Presbyterian Churches, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. Register at http://2014cokesburyvbs.com/GPVBS. SonQuest Treasure Island Vacation Bible Camp, 9 a.m.-noon, June 23-27, Saint Alexis Parish, 10090 Old Perry Hwy., Wexford. For info, call (724) 9354343 or www.stalexis.org.

Spring & Summer Events Antique and Classic Car Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., June 1, Mars Area Senior High School, Rte., Mars. Sponsored by the North Hills Historic Auto Club. For info, call Joe at (412) 443-0359 or joeandkath@ verizon.net.

Avalon Apple Blossom Festival, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., May 10, 638 California Ave. Pancake breakfast, crafters, car cruise, Chinese auction. Sponsored by Trinity Lutheran Church & Avalon Boroughs. For info, (412) 761-4010.

Butler County History Day, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 17, tours of the Harmony Museum, Lancaster Twp. History Center, Passavant & Buhl houses in Zelie. For info, (724) 283-8116, www.butlerhistory.com.

Common Bird of Western Pennsylvania, 11 a.m., May 6, Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless. For info, call (412) 635-8080 or TheLegacyLineup. com.

Mount Washington Home Tour, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 10 (cocktail party May 9). Sponsored by the Junior League. For info, visit www.jlpgh.org.

National Aviary: Penguin Painting, 3 p.m., May 11; National Aviary Night, 5 p.m., May 15; Eagles of the World Weekend, 11 a.m., May 17; Bald Eagle Tour, 9 a.m., May 17; Photo Safari Saturday, 9 a.m., May 17; Brunch featuring Atria’s, seating 10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m., May 11, June 15, July 6, Aug. 10 & Sept. 21, required reservations (412) 258-9445.

“Quilt in a Day” program, 10 a.m.-noon, May 27, Harmony Museum’s Stewart Hall. For info, (724) 452-7341 or www.harmonymuseum.org.

Spring Craft Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 3, East Union Presbyterian Church, 292 East Union Road, Cheswick. Hand-crafted items & Chinese auction. Free admission. Call Mary Lynn, at (412) 767-5750.

Gardening & Outdoor Adventures Ingomar Garden Club Plant Sale, 8:00 a.m.-3 p.m., May 10, corner of Rt. 19 & Ingomar Rd. (by Bruster’s). Annual, perennials, vegetables, hanging baskets & more.

Shaler Garden Club Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-noon, May 3, Kiwanis Park. Annuals, perennials, planters, vegetables, raffles. Rain or shine.

Southern Butler County Garden Club Garden Tour, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., June 28, (registration 9 a.m.-10

a.m.) at the Cranberry Municipal Building.

Self-guided tour. For info, visit www.southernbutlercountygardenclub.org.

Golf & Sporting Events Butler County Chamber Golf Outing, noon, May 23, Conley Resort. For info, call (724) 283-2222 or email Stan@ ButlerCountyChamber.com.

Golf Outing Fundraiser for Elliott Acres Therapy Riding, 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. shotgun start, June 8, Hiland Golf Course. For info, call (724) 287-8814.

North Hills Community Outreach Mini-Masters, 5 p.m., May 15, Robert Morris University’s Island Sports Center. For info, call Pam (412) 307-0069 or www.nhco.org/mini-mastersminiature-golf-tournament.

St. Barnabas Charitable Golf Open, June 2. Choose from two field, 7:45 a.m. or 12:45 p.m., Butler Country Club.

Celebrity golfer “Andy Russell.” For info, call (724) 625-3770 or StBarnabasGolf.com Youth Dragonboating, 6-8 p.m., Thurs., June 5-July 31, TRRA’s Millvale Boathouse, Three Rivers Rowing Association & Communities. RSVP by May 29. For details, call Judy, at (412) 366-3528 or Joy (412) 231-8772.

Library Northern Tier Library: May 15-18, Plant & Garden Sale (Garden Party May 14); 10 a.m., May 10, Planets, Galaxies & Black Holes, 6:30 p.m., May 27 Pinterest Fun: 7 p.m., May 22, Knit Lit, Computer & Electronic Resource Assistance, 6-8 p.m., May 6 & 20; Conversation Group, 1 p.m., May 8; Fun Science, 5-6:30 p.m., May 8; Hand & Voices, 11 a.m.-noon, May 10 & 24. For info, (724) 449-BOOK (2665).

Northland Library: Spring Used Book Sale, May 1 (ticket holder preview sale), May 2-3 (regular sale), May 4 $5 Bag Sale. Call (412) 366-8100 or http://northlandlibrary. weebly.com/ Shaler North Hills Library: Meditation & Chakra Painting w/Elaine Bergstrom, 7 p.m., May 2, 9, 16 & 23; The Art of Cold Processed Soapmaking, 11:30

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a.m., May 3 & 1 p.m., May 24; Stand-Up Comedy Camp On Stage, 7 p.m., May 3; Real Estate Seminar, 2 p.m., May 4; Book Sale Preview Night for Friends of the Library only, 6:30 p.m., May 9; Spring Book Sale, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., May 10 & 11; Olivia the Pig’s Adventure, 6:30 p.m., May 13; Zane Grey Presentation, 1 p.m., May 17; Shadows of Eve Free Concert, 2 p.m., May 18; Children’s Summer Reading Program & Magic Show, 7 p.m., May 30. Call (412) 486-0211.

Andrew Bayne Memorial Library Centennial Celebration, located at 34 N. Balph Street. Celebration 100 years of serving Bellevue with an adult’s only party on May 16th, 6-8pm and a family get-together on May 17th 11am-3pm. For information, call (412) 766-7447, or visit http://www.baynelibrary.org/.

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HOME & GARDEN May 2014

Spring Plumbing Tips & Tricks Courtesy of the “Famous Lionel Linerman”

N

ow that spring has sprung, you’re probably thinking about washing your windows, organizing your closet or cleaning out your refrigerator; but chances are, you’re not thinking about cleaning your drains or checking for leaks. Here are some simple plumbing tips for you to consider this spring: • Check your water meter for slow leaks before you go to bed and check it again in the morning before you use any water. If the meter reading has changed, you may have a slow leak and you may want to look into getting it repaired.

• Pour a gallon of water down any of your rarely-used drains to prevent unwelcome odors. If you find any

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slow drains, snake them to make sure they can carry water away efficiently during any spring showers.

• Toilets can often have hidden leaks so add six drops of food coloring to the tank. If the toilet has a leak, the color will be in the bowl within 30 minutes.

• Have a water heater that is more than 15 years old? Consider replacing it; newer water heaters are more energy efficient.

• Take a look at the basement and exposed pipes under your sinks for leaks.

• Have your main sewer line snaked and camera inspected. Tree roots tend to grow fastest in spring and

Northern Connection | May 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com

fall. Recognizing and maintaining root intrusion issues will help prevent costly sewage backups into your home.

• It’s important to make sure your yard drains and that gutters and downspouts are open and free of debris.

• Buy strainers for drains, especially shower drains, to prevent hair, soap and other debris from building up and creating clogs.

Content provided by Matt Mertz Plumbing, located in Wexford and serves Allegheny and Butler Counties.

Visit www.matt-mertz-plumbing.com or call 412-367-0815. F

7 Tips to Spruce Up

your Home for Spring

BY LAURA GRUNERT, OWNER OF JANE OF ALL TRADES

1

Unfortunately, sprucing up the house sometimes has to start with maintenance first. My number one piece of advice is to clean out your gutters and do it routinely. Clogged gutters compromise roofing, siding, brick, foundations, etc., and can be very damaging.

2 3

Check caulking around windows and doors, especially after this winter!

Look for creative ways to divert ground water away from the house: landscaping, rock beds, yard drains or rain gardens.

4

Turn your mulch over and distribute evenly with a rake. You may not need to add mulch every year.

Mulch should be no deeper than 3 inches, especially around the foundation of your house.

5

Paint your front door. So many people do not take advantage of this simple opportunity. Think outside the box: orange, eggplant, turquoise, cobalt blue or even black. A couple of outdoor planters with vibrant flowers together with your door can create a dramatic entrance.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Starfish Rentals and Realty Inc.

T

his past winter was a harsh one not only for Pittsburgh but for much of our country. During those endless, blustery, snowy days so many of us longed to venture on a sunny, beach vacation. Picture yourself walking along the sandy shores where you can sunbath, surf, parasail, snorkel, swim or go deep sea fishing. All of this awaits you on the southern shores of beautiful North Carolina. Starfish Rentals and Realty Inc. is there for you to make your seaside dreams become reality.

They offer full-service property management for vacation rentals, long-term rentals and non-rental properties through-out Topsail Island and Wrightsville Beach.

With over 60 years of sales and marketing experience, this real estate company provides superior service to countless vacationers and those in the housing market. Owners Rusty and Lisa Sparrow and their team work together to ensure customer satisfaction, as well as, establishing those vacation memories that will last a lifetime.

Lisa began her real estate career in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area of North Carolina and Rusty has spent his entire career building homes on the island in the Triangle area. After several years of managing their own rental properties they relocated to Topsail Island to bring their customized-rental-approach to homeowners who are in need of more personalized services.

Starfish Rentals and Realty Inc., is a “boutique” rental agency that offers a

complete customized package of rental management to their owners and much more personalized approach for both owners and guests.

“Since we are a boutique agency, we are able to handle all needs coming in the door and can easily adapt to any owner needs or tenant needs. We aim to please,” Lisa noted.

They specialize in luxury, unique and exceptional properties and cater to homeowners and renters desiring the highest level of customer service. Their management package includes a custom marketing plan created for your property, complete interior and exterior maintenance and upkeep, property inspections, special requests, concierge services and housekeeping.

Starfish Rental and Realty Inc., where you are the star - offers a large variety of vacation rental homes and properties for sale.

“Our team is dedicated to Topsail Island and Wrightsville Beach and we look forward to helping our clients find that perfect home to relax in. We not only want you to enjoy your vacation here this year, but we want you to come back again…

Once you have relaxed and spent time on NC’s coast, we know that this will become your favorite beach destination,” said Lisa.

Give them a call toll-free at (855) 8222782 or visit them on the web at http:// www.starfishrentalsandrealty.com. Let the team at Starfish Rentals and Realty give you a vacation to remember - our luxurious oceanfront and beachfront homes, classic cottages, and condos are sure to please! F

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Look at your planting balance. You should have a mix of evergreens, perennials, annuals and fall color.

If you like chimes, consider hanging several types. When the wind is strong it sounds like a symphony.

But, one is almost sure to be chiming at any given time. F

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NC FEATURE May 2014

Women in Our Community Making a Difference

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

In this special issue dedicated to women, we would like to highlight a few of the women in our community that are making a difference by sharing their inspirations, missions and so much more.

Joella Baker – Owner of Get Fit Families, LLC. Joella explains how and why she started her own business and became a certified USA Triathlon Coach, a USA Cycling Coach, a personal trainer through International Sports Sciences Association and a Yoga and Indoor Cycling or Spinning instructor.

“I believed I had the ability to help individuals reach their personal goals of running a marathon or completing a triathlon. I started with a few clients and have now build the business to 25 clients. I also realized that within Get Fit Families were kids. The summer camps and year round triathlon and running programs for kids continue to grow and prosper. In addition to coaching, I returned to event planning from my original career in non-profits.

I now plan eight local races, including two triathlons. These events promote the sports I love and they help local non-profits. Get Fit Families is so rewarding. Seeing people cross a finish line with smiles on their faces is very rewarding and I’m grateful I can be part of their lives in such a meaningful way. More importantly, my new job allows me to spend a lot of time with my son. Spending so much quality time with him is by far the most rewarding part of owning my own business.”

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Jaclyn Herring PhD – Licensed Psychologist at The Psychological Cooperative at Malec, Herring & Krause. Dr. Herring shares why she became a psychologist, “I wanted to be a psychologist from the time I saw The Bob Newhart Show on TV when I was a kid. His character was empathic, gentle and funny, but I have to say it was a little disconcerting that his clients never seemed to get better. So I chose a program of study rooted in research and measurement to be assured that I would know if people were getting better. Our profession can see people at the absolute lowest point in their lives. And we empower them with skills and insight and they get better. There are so many possibilities available in a career in psychology, from direct patient care working with people all through the age spectrum, to teaching to writing, to administration to developing new and exciting treatments.” Visit Jaclyn’s site at www.

MalecHerringandKrause.com or www.

DietLiberationCourse.com.

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Barbara Killmeyer Author of It’s Nobody’s Business but Yours explains why and how she became a writer, “I’ve always been an avid reader so I suppose that’s why I’ve always wanted to be a writer. I’ve always felt that writing something and having a lot of people read it would be the greatest thing that could happen to me. In addition, all through grade school and high school I enjoyed and did well in English classes so I guess I’ve always been preparing for a writing career without even realizing it. I wasn’t able to go to college right out of high school, but as an adult with a full time job as a secretary, a husband, and grown children I attended the University of Pittsburgh where I earned a degree in writing and one in psychology. It would have been so easy to just forget about a career in writing but I wanted it so badly that I just had to go after it. I’ve even written a book titled, It’s Nobody’s Business But Yours, which gives helpful advice to anyone who is either already in business or wants to start a business and make it grow and be successful”. Visit www.barbarakillmeyer.com to learn more or order a copy of her book.

Jackie Sorrenti – Owner and founder of Gals on and Off The Green golf shops. Jackie shares that, “Since 2004, Gals on and off the Green has been helping women look and feel better about themselves, by providing a great selection of stylish golf and resort wear, world-class customer service and by offering fit, fashion and function for women of all shapes and sizes (sizes from zero to 22). We expanded our retail foot print by opening a new location in Chevy Chase, Md and Plano, Tx in 2013! We are very proud to be a “home town” brick and mortar retail expansion story. We also recently established our GALS Scholarship Foundation (where GALS stand for Growing, Achieving, Learning, Succeeding).The Foundation provides educational opportunities for women of all ages who participate in golf in some capacity (but you don’t have to be the best or most skilled golfer you can be a volunteer as a coach or have other involvement in golf). We are about women helping women – from fashion and sizing options – and now to educational opportunities…we are just going to keep pushing….because it matters…and we matter…one customer and one scholarship at a time.”

Visit Jackie’s online store at www.galsonandoffthegreen.com.

Donna Summers Moul - Certified Life Coach whose passion is to help women create their best lives. She offers Individual Coaching and Coaching Groups for Women. Donna explains, “There is nothing more rewarding to me than helping someone else improve their life. Throughout my career as a therapist, I have helped hundreds of women to learn to love and value themselves, create firm boundaries, say no without guilt and to find their voice to become assertive and live happier, healthier lives. More recently, as a LIfe Coach for Women, I help women own their strengths, reconnect to their values, rediscover their passions, and break through their barriers to create a purposeful, passionate and fulfilling life.

Coaching is fun, it is challenging and it is effective. One women touched my heart recently when she said that “it’s the best thing I have ever done for myself.” My advice for anyone considering coaching as a career is to attend a really good program like the Professional Coach Certification Program at Duquesne University to get an excellent coaching foundation”.

Check out Donna’s site at www.

Especially-For-Women.com to learn more.

Dr. Shannon Thieroff – Chiropractor, owner and founder of Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates.

Dr. Thieroff shares why she became a chiropractor, “I became a chiropractor after realizing that I really resonated with the drugless and non-surgical philosophy.

I wanted to be able to help people live in bodies that worked well and lasted a long time. Through my practice I became inspired to help other doctors realize their dreams of having busy practices with happy patients so I have mentored two women into business ownership. I developed a corporate and community wellness presence through my Healthyworks of PA company which has educated thousands of people in Pittsburgh about different aspects of preventative health and lifestyle. The combination of both seeing the reward of people getting better and developing other doctors to be able to help more people has made me love my work”. Visit www.choicechiropractic.net to learn more.

To learn more about these incredible women, visit our website at www. northernconnectionmag.com. If you are or if you know of someone in our community who is making a difference, be sure and let us know by emailing NorthCon@consolidated.net or calling 724-940-2444. F

As the president of Harmony Salon in Wexford, Pennsylvania, Harmony Kaiser has been committed to her mission of providing individual beauty for clients over the past 12 years. This passion for enhancing individual beauty has long been an integral part of Harmony’s personal and professional development.

Since opening Harmony Salon at the age of 22 in 2004, she has become one of the North Hills’ premiere stylist and colorist. Her customer’s include some of the regions most notable business leaders, members of the media, and sports figures. Her commitment to customers, employees, and the community have allowed for several regional organizations to recognize Harmony as one of Pittsburgh’s “Rising Entrepreneurial Stars” in 2004 and 2006. In 2009 Harmony released the Mothers Milc line of natural hair care products, and also harmony products exclusively sold at harmony salon. To learn more about harmony salon go to www.harmonysalonpgh.com.

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BENEFITING K-9 POLICE AND FIRE UNITS AND MAKE-A-WISH®

FUNDRAISER WEEKEND

PARTY

JUNE 22, 2014

Jergel’s Rhythm Grille

GOLF INVITATIONAL

JUNE 23, 2014 Treesdale Golf & Country Club

www.BRFfundraiser.com 412-441-1077

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Northern Connection | May 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com

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Northern Connection | May 2014

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