Northern Connection Magazine: May 2018 issue by Northern Connection Magazine

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YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

MAY 2018

Dr. Bridget Chufo The Wise Woman of Weight Loss Plus... Summer Camp Guide Business Spotlight Club Pilates Wexford Baby Animal Trivia

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

I N T H I S I SSUE

NORTHERN CONNECTION May 2018

Contents 10

NC Features

Image & Style

Advertorials

7 Business Spotlight: Club Pilates Janice Lane Palko

24 Mix and Match Your Way Into Spring Kelly Smith

28 There’s No Dithering During a Seller’s Market Vince Parrucci

8 Business Spotlight: Janet McKay, Realtor Janice Lane Palko

25 Thank You for Voting The Body Bar the BEST in the North Hills!

49 Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey

10 Cover Story: Dr. Bridget Chufo – The Wise Woman of Weight Loss Janice Lane Palko

Home & Garden

Women’s and Babies’ Health Guide 12 Third Time is a Charming Baby Boy 14 Children’s Institute

27 Accent Contracting for All Your Remodeling Needs Janice Lane Palko

In Every Issue...

27 Why NOW is the Time to Sell Your House Janet McKay

4 From the Publisher: Marion Piotrowski

Senior Living

6 Movers & Shakers

16 Naturalis Essential Oils + Wellness

29 Town Crier: Welcome May! Joe Bullick

16 Coolscuplting

30 Happenings for Seniors

18 Butler Memorial Hospital ranked amongst Nation’s top 100 hospitals

31 Vincentian Home Needs You!

20 Hemorrhoid Problems in Women

32 2018 Summer Camps Guide

21 How to Safely Use Citrus Essential Oils Fe Tubio

Kids & Education

22 Supports Available to Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Heather Cherry 23 Fit Families: Sugar: How Much is Too Much? Joella Baker 2

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

2018 Summer Camps 37 2018 Summer Camps Directory 39 School Movers & Shakers

6 Mover & Shaker of the Month: Heather Shuker Paula Green 21 Where Was I?: Being Them Janice Lane Palko 26 Support Our Troops: Memorializing Those That Perished in the Great War Paula Green 42 May 2018 Happenings 48 Trivia Connection: Baby Animal Trivia Paula Green

P U B LI SH E R ’S NOT ES

Welcome to the May Issue of Northern Connection Magazine!

hat a beautiful time of the year. This month we celebrate moms and Memorial Day, and this year we certainly welcome the warmer weather! Now we can be outside and enjoy nature’s beauty and the colors of spring. The cover story is about a local woman, Dr. Bridget Chufo, and her commitment to helping people look and feel their best. If you are looking for someone to help you with weight loss, be sure to check out this month’s cover story. We are continuing to highlight summer camps and programs in this issue. There is still plenty of time to select the right summer activities for your children. If you are an animal lover, this month’s trivia will test your knowledge about baby animals and their mommas. If you are looking for something to “There is no way do, be sure to check out the to be a perfect Happening section where you will find many activities that are interesting and mother, but a fun for you and your family to enjoy. As we celebrate Memorial Day this million ways to be year, let us never forget the men and a good one.” women who have served our country and the sacrifices they paid for our freedom. Jill Churchill For all those who have served our country, a heartfelt thank you for your service from all of us at Northern Connection magazine. To all the moms and to any woman that has a positive influence in a child’s life, Happy Mother’s Day! Enjoy reading this month’s feature articles, along with our regular monthly columns. Thank you for your support and together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! 4 4 4

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

Phone: 724-940-2444 Laura Arnold laura@northernconnectionmag.com

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

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko

Mary Simpson marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master

Janice Lane Palko ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Joella Baker Joe Bullick Paula M. Green Janice Lane Palko Marianne Reid Anderson Kelly Smith Distribution

Paula Green

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com 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.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

M OV E R S & SH AKER S Dr. Robert Potter has completed his 13th successful Honduras Hope Mission. One of the founders of Genesis Medical Associates, Potter was joined by wife Cindy, a pediatric physical therapist, fellow Genesis physician Dr. Dan Grob, Dr. Grob’s daughter Paige and 20 other volunteers in their February visit. Sponsored through the auspices of several churches in the North Hills, they annually visit the people of La Villa de San Francisco. Amy Barkley has been named practice director for Genesis Medical Associates’ Dayalan & Associates family Practice in Ross Township. Forbes Media, in partnership with Statista, announced that Basilone Executive Search and Staffing is named to Forbes 2018 list as one of America’s Best Recruiting Firms. Pamela R. Schanwald, CEO of The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center, was elected to the 2018 Class of the Board of Directors for the Healthcare Council of Western Pennsylvania. The National Aviary has named Wexford resident Melissa Wolfslayer as its 2017 Volunteer of the Year for her commitment and service as a docent, instructor and guide. Since 2013, Wolfslayer has served more than 2,000 volunteer Melissa Wolfslayer hours, teaching classes, providing visitors with personal insight and background on the National Aviary’s birds, and leading groups on educational tours.

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MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Mover & Shaker of the Month

Heather Shuker By Paula Green

“When you brighten a child’s life, you brighten a family’s, which in turn strengthens families during difficult times.” - Heather Shuker

exford resident Heather Shuker knows what it is like to brighten a child’s life. She is the mother of a beautiful, young lady. Hannah just celebrated her 15th birthday this past April. For her, every birthday is a milestone. Hannah has severe intractable epilepsy and has suffered from well over 100,000 seizures since she was four months old. Hannah’s prognosis was grim, and Heather was told there was a good chance that her daughter would not live to be a teenager. For Heather, this was never considered to be acceptable. Hannah has been through numerous treatments, and a little over five years ago, the doctors told her that Hannah was out of viable medical treatment options. Everyday Heather faces the true reality that she could lose her daughter. She is at high risk for SUDEP (sudden unexplained death from epilepsy). She learned of medical cannabis. With nowhere else to turn, she decided it was worth trying this treatment for Hannah. The major road block was this type of remedy was still illegal in Pennsylvania. Heather set out to advocate for medical cannabis and became one of the founding members of Campaign 4 Compassion (C4C), a group of ten mothers, who in a grassroots effort, successfully advocated and educated for medical cannabis reform in Pennsylvania. “We came together with a mission to legalize medical cannabis in Pennsylvania and refused to take no for an answer. We spent countless days at the capitol in Harrisburg advocating. We attended town hall meetings and sent videos to legislators of our children’s lives. Hannah participated in this every step of the way, traveling back and forth to Harrisburg many times. This was the most challenging five years for the both of us,” Heather said. Two and a half years after Heather began advocating, the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act became law in Pennsylvania. Hannah has certainly had her challenges in her 15 years, but she has never given up. Her seizures have decreased. The medical cannabis has helped her, but in addition to that, Heather is cautious with other things. “We carefully look at all factors that go into Hannah’s care—from the water she consumes, to the cleaning products we use, to the temperature of her environment to the positive environment that we strive to surround her with—all of it contributes to her improvement. Hannah began to have drop seizures again this past January. I increased her medical cannabis oil and they immediately stopped. I use medical cannabis as the first line of defense when she goes into status, “Heather added. Heather is continuing to be involved in the medical cannabis industry as she volunteers for the Pennsylvania Medical Cannabis Society. She is the Patient and Community Outreach Director at Keystone Integrated Care, and she just recently embarked on her dream mission. Heather and Hannah recently launched a new company, Empower Your Odyssey. It is a kick-starter lifestyle apparel company with a mission to launch a company in which we will brighten the lives of children with medical special needs. All the proceeds for Empower Your Odyssey will go toward the start-up costs of Hannahtopia. For more information on it, visit www.empoweryourodyssey.com. To learn more about Hannah Shuker, visit her Facebook page at H2forMMJ. 4 4 4

Business Spotlight

Club Pilates Wexford By Janice Lane Palko

ntil now, finding a true Pilates workout has often been elusive and expensive. With the opening of Club Pilates Wexford at the end of May, all of that is changing. Located at 101 Fowler Road behind Labriola Italian Market, Club Pilates offers group classes in a state-of-the art studio at affordable prices. Husband and wife owner Mike Castiglione and Autumn Adamiak Castiglione, who come from fitness/sports backgrounds, were looking for a franchise opportunity. After investigating Club Pilates and trying a workout, they knew that they had found what they were looking for. “We liked that Pilates focuses on the tiny muscles often overlooked in other workouts. We also liked that in the Club Pilates studio, instructors provide individual, almost personal training, in a supportive group setting. We both were looking for a workout that we would stick with, and Pilates offered us that because it is effective, and more importantly, the workout is fun!” said Autumn. “But the beauty of a Club Pilates workout is that it leaves no muscle under- or over-trained,” said Mike. “And anyone can benefit from Pilates. Regardless of your fitness level, you can start with Pilates.” Club Pilates offers nine different classes at four different fitness levels ranging from Foundation to Mastery. And unlike heading to the gym where you hit the same weight machines and put your minutes in on the treadmill, workouts at Club Pilates are everchanging and designed to improve your fitness. In addition to the Pilates Reformer, classes also use EXO-Chair, Bosu Balls,

Michael Castiglione and Autumn Adamiak Castiglione owners Club Pilates Wexford

Magic Circle, Barre, TRX suspension and other apparatus.. “It is estimated that there are about 5,000 different movements making up the Pilates repertoire, so you will never become bored with your workout and your body will always be improving,” said Autumn. Club Pilates instructors are highly trained. “Our Lead Instructor has over 13 years of Pilates instruction, and Club Pilates requires all instructors to have a minimum of 450 hours of comprehensive training. Therefore, our instructors know how to modify any exercise to meet member needs. We have signed up numerous

members who are recovering from medical procedures or who are rehabbing from an injury,” said Mike. A variety of memberships are available from 4- and 8-packs to unlimited classes. Classes will be offered seven days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours so that everyone can find a class that fits their schedule. `You are also invited to take a free, introductory class to see how Club Pilates can lead you to a fuller, more satisfying physical life experience. To find out more about Club Pilates Wexford, call (878) 332-2311 or visit the website at: www. clubpilates.com/wexford/. 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Business Spotlight

Janet McKay, Realtor, CNE, SRES By Janice Lane Palko

hen searching for a real estate agent, certainly, you want someone who has experience and a proven track record, but sometimes you need more than that. You want someone who is emotionally invested in helping you achieve your real estate goals. Janet McKay of Re/Max Select Realty is that agent. A full-time Realtor with more than 20 years of experience in the industry, she is a consistent Multi-Million Dollar Producer, receiving numerous accolades, including the Pittsburgh Business Times “Who’s Who in Residential Real Estate.” A great deal of Janet’s business is representing Baby Boomers, Senior Citizens, Estates and Trusts. “Having downsized recently myself, I know what’s involved,

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

both emotionally and physically, of letting go of a family home. I also know what a huge undertaking it can be. That’s why I became certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist–so I can help the older population with this very important transaction,” said Janet. Janet’s other passion is helping firsttime home buyers. “I love working with first-time homebuyers. Although they usually involve more time and energy, I like teaching them what to look for in a home so their investment is protected should they have to sell a few years down the road. I tend to be more involved with the mortgage process, home inspections, closing requirements and basically, anything else that might pop up. With

my background, I like to stay on top of things so they have a happy, positive experience.” She consistently receives stellar reviews for her work. “This was our first house and we’ve lived here for 35 years,” said Barb, a seller client. “There was a lot of emotion involved. But her wealth of experience and her calm, professional manner helped us through the experience of selling our home and moving across country within a few days. I’ve already recommended her to several friends who are contemplating selling their homes. And many neighbors were amazed how quickly our house sold. The beautiful pictures she posted online showcased our house and neighborhood.” First-time buyers also sing her praises. “As first-time home buyers, we were nervous about venturing out into new waters. Janet calmed our fears and helped us every step of the way. She answered any and all of our questions—and then some. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable in the real estate field, she has a welcoming and compassionate personality, which was everything we wanted in an agent!” said Sam, a first-time homebuyer. If you are searching for an agent who is not only highly qualified but compassionate and caring, look no further than Janet McKay. To contact her, call her cell: (412) 303-1408; Office: (724)-933-6300 x686 or email: janetmckayrealtor@gmail.com 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

COV E R S TORY

Dr. Bridget

CHUFO

The Wise Woman of Weight Loss By Janice Lane Palko

Dr. Bridget Chufo has such a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping people lose weight that meeting with her has the feel of making a pilgrimage to meet a wise woman. For more than 38 years, she has devoted her professional life to the study of weight loss and obesity and to guiding people to healthy eating practices and improving their lifestyles.

art medical professional, part counselor, part coach and part friend, Dr. Chufo, with her inimitable style and passion, identifies what works when it comes to weight loss, and then imparts that wisdom in simple-to-understand images and language that resonate with her patients. “Our metabolism is like a furnace,” said Dr. Chufo. “We put coal or wood into the fireplace. We give our bodies protein to keep the fire burning, which is our metabolism. To lose weight, we need to eat protein every 3-4 hours. Vegetables and fruit stoke our furnaces, as well. However, it’s when we add things that don’t keep our metabolism blazing that we begin to gain

weight.” Those items that don’t help our metabolism Dr. Chufo refers to as SSAD foods—starches, sweets, alcohol and dairy. In addition to gaining weight, SSAD foods generally make us feel fatigued, tired, and our sleep is not restorative. It also triggers numerous health conditions. “I believe we have found that sugar is the main culprit. SSAD foods convert to sugar. Dairy is classified in this group because it acts in a similar way even though it is not a sugar” said Dr. Chufo. “Being overweight can lead to a host of health issues from heart disease, strokes, brain disorders, Type 2 diabetes to arthritis and inflammation,” said Dr. Chufo. “It is

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

estimated that 48 percent of adults in the U.S. need either a knee and/or hip replacement. A major factor in joint failure is that we are overweight. “Losing weight and eating properly is the key. I always tell my patients to eat God-made foods, not factorymade ones.” Dr. Chufo has been studying weight loss and obesity since 1980. A Pittsburgh native and graduate of Vincentian High School, she earned a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Villanova University, a Master’s in Family Health Nursing from Duquesne University and a Doctorate in Nursing Research in the study of Weight Loss and Obesity from New York University. Dr. Chufo has helped hundreds of

thousands of patients throughout the country and has been on most national TV news shows offering her opinion and guidance and documenting the newest research. She has hosted a weekly cable news show on PCNC, has been featured on The Tammy Bruce Show, has hosted an hour-long talk show on KDKA-radio every Saturday for 18 years with Rob Pratte, and has been a guest on Fox News station, The O’Reilly Factor, debating the pros and cons of vegetarianism with children. Along the way, Dr. Chufo has garnered many awards and honors including being selected Woman of the Year, 2005, by The Biological Institute and its Board of International Research. She was a finalist for the 2002 Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, One of Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women in Business in 2002. In addition, she has been highly involved in the community. She serves on the boards of DePaul School for Hearing and Speech and The Hearing Center of Children’s Hospital. Dr. Chufo has studied the weight loss industry over the years and the changes it has gone through. She knows what works and does not work when it comes to shedding excess weight. “In the 1960s, it was Metracal and liquid diet drinks in the ‘70s, it was “special diets” like the cabbage soup diet, in the ‘80s, we were told to count calories, (but we know that all calories are not the same). In the 2000s, the key was to limit fat. So, they removed the fat from foods and added sugar or additives. As a result, we are fatter than ever, and we are pumping ourselves full of poisons,” she said. “My patients don’t count anything, especially not calories. They don’t do 500-calorie depravation diets, where the weight comes right back with a vengeance. They eat healthy, normal, everyday foods and lots of them.” In addition to knowing how to help people lose weight, she also knows that women and men differ when it comes to weight loss and the factors that cause them to gain weight. “Women have less muscle, so they tend to see less dramatic results on the scale, but they see double to triple the inches lost to pounds shed because fat takes up more space,” Dr. Chufo said. “We evaluate progress in several ways. Of course, we use a scale, but we also measure our patients, monitor how their clothes are fitting and we take pictures.”

Menopause can also trigger weight gain. “We have patients come in who were always a normal weight, and then they hit menopause and find their waists are thickening and expanding,” Dr. Chufo said. “Our nutritional plan and customized supplements can even take the menopause weight off.” Dr. Chufo knows that everyone is an individual and tailors her program accordingly. She treats everyone from children to seniors. At present, her oldest patient that she is helping is 86 and her youngest is 13. “We take a holistic approach to weight loss; we take into consideration the mental, emotional, spiritual, physical and financial aspects of weight loss,” said Dr. Chufo. To enlist Dr. Chufo’s help in your quest to lose weight, all you need do is give her a call or drop by her Weight Loss & Wellness Center in Pine Center at 11279 Perry Highway, Pine Township. She will sit down with you and get to know you, your lifestyle, your schedule, and why you want to lose weight. She will then customize a mild detox for you. There is the phase of Weight Loss with the number of weeks depending on the length of time needed to get the excess weight off. Stabilization is the next phase where all the foods on the planet are added back into your life. That is then followed by 24 weeks of Maintenance where there is, after completion, a 95 percent chance of keeping the weight off for good compared to a 5 percent chance without the Maintenance phase! In the beginning, she will meet weekly with you. For those who have a crazy schedule or travel, Dr. Chufo will accommodate your needs. “I correspond with my patients by phone, text and email. I even counsel patients who live out of state or country. As long as there is a strong desire to lose weight

and a commitment to follow the program, I can work with you from anywhere in the world.” There are some individuals who do not want to come in for counseling but simply want to utilize the valuable supplements, and that is okay, too. 4 4 4

To begin your journey to your best life now, contact the wisest woman in weight loss, Dr. Bridget Chufo at 1-800-900-THIN or drop by her Weight Loss & Wellness Center.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Women’s & Babies’ Health Guide

Women’s and babies’ health are intimately linked. When we improve the health of women, we also improve the health of babies. National Women’s Health Week is observed May 13-19 and calls to mind not only the health issues that primarily affect women but also steps women can take to ensure that they are leading the best lives possible and, in turn, giving their babies the best start in life. The following are some of the most proficient health providers in our area catering to women and babies.

Allegheny Health Network Center for Reproductive Medicine

Third Time is a Charming Baby Boy

auren and her husband started trying to get pregnant right after they got married. Her friends were getting pregnant, and she comes from a fertile family. But after years of trying, she had a gut feeling that something wasn’t right. She went to her doctor for a sonohysterogram, which showed that neither of Lauren’s fallopian tubes were working and had to be removed. In-vitro fertilization was the only way she could have a baby. Lauren went to reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Lori Homa at the Allegheny Health Network Center for Reproductive Medicine to begin fertility treatments. Dr. Homa and her colleagues understand how important parenthood is for their patients and how hard it can be to get there. As a smaller practice, the doctors are able to spend time getting to know each individual person – both men and women – to better address both the medical and emotional aspects of infertility care. Personally, Dr. Homa chose to become a fertility specialist because she wanted to create a place where patients could feel cared for during some of the most sensitive and difficult times in their lives. “I’ve had patients who have struggled to get pregnant for over ten years. When they come in now and they’re on their second or third child with me, it’s such a rewarding feeling to know that we were able to help create these families.” In all, Lauren went through three cycles of IVF. She got pregnant on the first one, but nine weeks in, she miscarried. During the second cycle, none of the embryos took. But the third time was the charm. Lauren gave birth to Grayson Matthew on February 12 after 12 hours of labor ending in a C-section. She jokes that he was just as hard to get out as he was to get in! 4 4 4 12

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Women’s & Babies’ Health Guide The Children’s Institute

hen you’re looking for the right person to help address your child’s health, you want an open ear, an open mind, and experience. At The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh, we have all three. We are committed to providing high quality, effective therapy services for children. We continually advance our treatment methods—by using new techniques, as well as new technology—to produce better therapeutic interventions for children.

Therapy services offered in Wexford include: • Physical therapy • Occupational therapy • Speech/language therapy • Nutrition services

Each child’s treatment is personalized and family-centered. Because we know that the key to long-term success is family participation and understanding, we focus on the needs of the patients and their caregivers. We incorporate families into our therapy sessions, promoting understanding, a sense of collaboration, and confidence. In our experience,

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this approach is key to our patients reaching their maximum potential and living the most fulfilling lives possible.

Treatments address:

• Concussions • Chronic pain conditions • Feeding & swallowing difficulties • Orthopedic & sports injuries • Brain injuries • Spinal cord injuries • Developmental delays • Fine & gross motor difficulties • Torticollis and plagiocephaly

To learn more or to make an appointment, please contact us at 412.420.2362 or visit www.amazingkids.org. Our Wexford office is located at 5000 Stonewood Drive, Suite 100, Wexford, PA 15090. 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Women’s & Babies’ Health Guide Coolsculpting with Cosmetic Laser Centers

oolsculpting is an exciting new technology that uses precise, controlled cooling to permanently remove unwanted pockets of fat without surgery or downtime. The principle behind Coolsculpting is “cryolipolysis,” which is the idea that cold temperatures can target fat cells without damage to the skin or surrounding tissues. The fat cells freeze

and die. Then the destroyed fat cells are metabolized by the body over time. When a patient chooses Cosmetic Laser Centers as their Coolsculpting provider, not only is their evaluation performed by a Physician extender, but so is their treatment. Since

Coolsculpting is a body contouring tool, we feel that the medical expertise of a Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) or Physician Assistant (PA) is a benefit to our patients. Coolsculpting is a body sculpting tool and not intended as a means of weight loss. The Coolsculpting procedure can help both women and men get rid of those stubborn pinchable pockets of fat. The device and its applicators were designed to treat areas

such as the belly, love handles, double chin and upper arm fat, to name a few. Patients who appreciate the best results are those generally within 30 pounds of their ideal body weight. The fantastic results that Coolsculpting can provide are further enhanced with the maintenance of a healthy, active lifestyle.

Most patients will require more than one treatment session for a given body area. The average is two sessions per area, although there are certainly exceptions depending on body type, patient goals and budget. 4 4 4

Naturalis Essential Oils + Wellness is a unique store front conveniently located in Pittsburgh offering a wide range of wellness resources

olleen Anthony and Abbey Koenig, founders, set two goals: Provide education for people to enhance their knowledge regarding natural options and provide easy access to the products and resources that have impacted the lives of so many. We were extremely selective with the brand of oils & products we chose to align ourselves with. Months of research, education and personal usage lead us to “dōTERRA CPTG Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade®” essential oils & products. “Find your balance” is a slogan you will find displayed at Naturalis. We know it’s a struggle to find a reasonable balance between health & wellness and the fast pace in which we tend to maintain our lives. Prioritizing our own health and wellness tends to become secondary for many. You CAN find balance that doesn’t require a complete overhaul. If you can lean in a little, you will find simple ways to infuse natural options that can make a noticeable difference. Whether you are new to essential oils or a long-time user, Naturalis offers an abundance of resources for everyone! We know there are other brands available. We welcome everyone to our store. We offer the ITOVI nutritional scanner, pay per ounce for carrier oils, glass bottles ranging from 2ml drams to 10ml rollers, spray bottles and labels & most importantly, you can pay per drop for “doTERRA CPTG® oils.” We are open daily from 10-4. We would be happy to help you “find your balance.” 4 4 4

www.naturalis13.com | 412-465-0661 2001 Kinvara Drive, #B1, Pittsburgh PA, 15237 | Located by Ross Park Mall 16

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Women’s & Babies’ Health Guide Nationally honored, community inspired

Butler Memorial Hospital ranked amongst nation’s top 100 hospitals. For a third year, Butler Health System’s flagship, Butler Memorial Hospital, is recognized as one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals by IBM Watson HealthTM, formerly Truven Health Analytics®. This honor acknowledges Butler Health System’s unwavering commitment to provide the highest quality healthcare to patients. The award is based on quality of inpatient and extended care, operational efficiency, financial health and customer experience. BHS is proud to be recognized as a model provider and a local leader.

n addition, Butler Memorial Hospital was one of only 13 of the 100 Top Hospitals nationwide to also be selected as an Everest Award winner. Being a part of the elite Everest Award list means that leadership, medical staff and employees worked tirelessly to simulta-

neously set the national benchmark for both balanced excellence in a single year, as well as greatest improvement over five consecutive years. Inspiration to achieve excellence, right here in the community, comes from those we serve. Each team member comes to work every day keeping Butler Health System’s mission at the forefront and works toward a vision to improve the health of the communities served.

Unwavering commitment to excellence.

“BHS is incredibly honored to receive these prestigious awards. Hospitals do not apply for the 100 Top Hospitals designation. This recognizes the year after year efforts by our 400 doctors and 2500 employees to provide and improve upon the very best care to patients,” said Ken DeFurio, BHS President & CEO. “The Watson Health award measures publicly available data across many areas of hospital performance, and to be recognized as a member of this elite group of the 100 Top Hospitals in the nation validates the results that we strive for every day.” Transforming healthcare motivates the drive to move medicine forward, work collaboratively and efficiently, and achieve excellence throughout the patient’s journey. Chosen from nearly 2,840 hospitals nationwide, BHS is one of only six hospitals in the state chosen as a 100 Top Hospital and the only provider in the state to receive the Everest award.

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

IBM Watson HealthTM uses public data-driven analytics to evaluate how a hospital performs on cost and quality of healthcare.

Benefits of a high-performing hospital

Based on 2018 research conducted by IBM Watson Health, 100 Top Hospitals winners, like Butler Memorial Hospital, demonstrate that quality care and operational efficiency can often be achieved simultaneously. These projections indicate that if the new national benchmarks of high performance established by 2018 winners were achieved by all hospitals in the U.S., the following would be true: • More than 102,000 additional lives could be saved in-hospital. • Over 43,000 additional patients could be complication-free. • Over $4.4 billion in inpatient costs could be saved. The typical patient could be released from the hospital almost half a day sooner and would have two percent fewer expenses related to the complete episode of care than the median patient in the U.S. Over 200,000 fewer discharged patients would be readmitted within 30 days. Patients could spend 17 minutes less in hospital emergency rooms per visit 444

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Hemorrhoid Problems in Women

here are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids, located just inside the rectum, about two inches from the anus, consist of a dense concentration of blood vessels. External hemorrhoids, located just outside the anus, are covered by skin. Any significant pressure within the pelvis (area surrounding the rectum) tends to prevent blood from being able to flow out of these hemorrhoids. This causes the hemorrhoids to become engorged and swollen. Hemorrhoids often become painful and bleed during pregnancy. The best way to deal with hemorrhoid problems is to prevent them from occurring. That can only be done effectively beginning before pregnancy. The critical issue is to decrease the blood supply in the lower rectum prior to becoming pregnant. If a specialist-colon and rectal surgeon- examines a patient and discovers prominent internal hemorrhoids, that physician can quickly get rid of the hemorrhoids in the office. The painless method by which this is done is called “banding.” A special kind of rubber band is applied to the base (beginning) of the internal hemorrhoid. Within a few days, the rubber band cuts through the hemorrhoid without the patient knowing it and the hemorrhoid and the rubber band fall off, usually during a bowel movement. Finally, it must be made clear that although pregnant women are prone to hemorrhoid problems, so are other women for many other reasons. Just keep in mind, the vast majority of hemorrhoid problems can be reduced or prevented in simple ways. Brad Levinson Board-Certified Colon and Rectal Surgeon For appt. call: 724-473-4047

Breastfeeding Education for New Moms

ike any new skill, breastfeeding is a learned art and takes practice and preparedness to be successful. Pediatric Alliance is home to many lactation experts who can help babies and new moms with how to successfully initiate breastfeeding from day one. New breastfeeding mothers find it easy to worry. Breastfeeding is a full-time job, and it is comforting to know that there is somewhere to turn and someone with experience who can answer your questions in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. This is why Pediatric Alliance offers free classes at many of our locations. New and expectant moms can learn about the benefits of breastfeeding, both short-term and long-term, for Mom, Dad, and Baby. Visit classes.pediatricalliance.com for a list of classes and locations and information on how to register. Every woman’s experience with breastfeeding will be different because every mom and baby is different. When you have any breastfeeding concerns, it is important to see a doctor or a lactation consultant for guidance. Pediatric Alliance has experts who can help you and your baby on your breastfeeding journey. 444

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

How to Safely Use Citrus Essential Oils By Fe Tubio

ou need to practice safety when using some essential oils on the skin because some are “phototoxic oils” (some citrus oils) and should not be immediately exposed to ultraviolet light (sunlight). Skin will experience irritation or deep burn, even when oils are diluted when exposed to sunlight. It is recommended to wait 12 hours after applying the oils on your skin before exposure to sunlight or UV radiation of a tanning booth. Clothing should provide sufficient protection for skin where citrus oil has been used. The most common phototoxic oils are Bergamot, Bitter Orange, Grapefruit, Lemon and Lime. So, you can apply the oils at night, and then can go under the sun next day provided you meet the 12-hour waiting time. 4 4 4 Would you like to give essential oils a try? Call Fe Tubio at 724-601-6628 to learn more! https://www.myyl.com/fetubio

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WHE RE WA S I ?

Being Them By Janice Lane Palko

“W

hat is that on your foot?” I was around seven years old when I asked my mother that question. “It’s a callus,” she said. “You’ll have them when you’re older.” No way, I thought. My feet are never going to look like that. “What’s that thing?” I was around eight years old when I asked my grandmother that question. “It’s a needle threader,” she said. “I can’t see the eye of the needle anymore. You slip this little metal loop through the needle’s eye, and then put the thread though the loop. Then you pull the loop through the eye, and it threads the needle. When you get older and can’t see as well, you’ll need one.” No way, I thought to myself. My eyes are never going to get that bad. “Oh, my leg,” moaned my great-grandmother as she came down the steps. “What’s wrong with your leg?” I was about 10 when I asked that. “Things wear out when you get older,” she said. “I hope you don’t get knees like mine.” No chance, of that I thought. I’m never getting old. Never say never.

Flash forward to today where I regularly remove calluses from my heels, and I now use a needle threader. By the time, you read this, I will be home recovering from knee surgery. I tore a meniscus in my left knee seven years ago, and after babying it and enduring pain off and on, an MRI recently revealed that I now have an acute meniscus tear and insufficiency fractures, for which the surgeon plans to perform a subchondroplasty. The procedure entails drilling into my leg bones (yikes!) and injecting them with calcium phosphate, which will then harden and repair my bones. As I was limping down the stairs the other day after receiving that diagnosis, I felt a stab of pain in my knee. “Oh, my leg,” I reflexively yelled, and then stopped in my tracks as I flashed backward four and half decades and realized that I have now become my great-grandmother. And not only her but my grandmother and my mother. But then it occurred to me that maybe that is not so bad. My vows to never to turn into them was a revulsion to aging, which I don’t think anyone embraces, and not the people they are and were. My mom, grandmothers, and great-grandmother were all loving, kind and giving--women who would sacrifice anything for their loved ones. So yeah, even though I don’t like getting older, I’m okay with turning into them because being them is a pretty admirable way to be. Happy Mother’s Day! 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Women’s & Babies’ Health Guide

Supports Available to Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities By Heather Cherry

enter for Community Resources (CCR) was created in 2002 to provide assistance to the community through a single point of contact. Since its inception, CCR has expanded their service territory to include all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. CCR provides Pennsylvanians a choice for the supports and service coordination needed to make a positive difference in everyday lives. CCR connects people to a network of supports and services essential for actively learning, working, and living in the community. CCR offers supports coordination for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). “For children and adults who have been diagnosed with IDD, our supports coordination is a well-known and well-respected program that helps with locating, coordinating, and monitoring services that improve the quality of their lives,” said Ashlee Hershberger, Senior Manager of Programs at CCR. “We provide supports coordination services for all of the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) waivers.” The ODP waivers include: Consolidated Waiver, Community Living Waiver, and Person/Family Directed Support Waiver. “We also provide supports coordination services to individuals who have an open case with the County Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Program who have yet to be enrolled into a waiver.” CCR connects people to services. “We make a difference by connecting individuals to resources and services in their community,” said Hershberger. “We can advocate and act as an intermediary, helping them to navigate the very complex human services system.” Home and community waiver funded services CCR can refer individuals and families to include: respite services, companion services, employment services, adult day programs (including pre-vocational programming and adult training facilities), specialized therapies (i.e. physical, behavioral, speech), transportation services, residential services, environmental and vehicle accessibility adaptations. For more information, or to make a referral, call the CCR Information and Referral line at 844-360-4372 or visit www.ccrinfo.org. 4 4 4

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

HEA LTH & WELLN E S S

Fit Families

Sugar: How Much is Too Much? By Joella Baker

lot of people continue to talk about different diets that include Whole30, Paleo or simply going through a detox. All of these have one thing in common: eliminating or cutting back on sugar. Dr. Ranit Mishori, a faculty member in family medicine at Georgetown University Medical School, states that diets don’t have to be all or nothing, and you don’t have to live on liquids or cayenne pepper to be healthy. However, she does mention that one thing everyone can do is to cut down on their sugar intake and processed foods. Currently, research shows most Americans consume 20-22 teaspoons of sugar a day in their diets. Grab a teaspoon and fill a glass or a bowl with 22 teaspoons of sugar. See what that adds up to. That’s almost a half a cup of sugar a day we consume. So why is sugar bad for you? It causes weight gain, it can cause liver damage, it can cause chronic disease (type 2 diabetes) and it can cause cancer. By lowering your sugar intake, you will have more energy, you will stay a healthy weight, you will notice your triglycerides drop, you will have fewer dental cavities and you will even look younger. However, since sugar is so addictive, it’s often best to eliminate it in stages. Going off sugar all at once can cause short-term effects such as headaches, body aches, irritability and fatigue. When I went off sugar for a month last year, I felt as if I had the flu. I went off cold turkey. and it was so tough, I would recommend doing it in stages.

• Eat more protein. Protein will help to f ill you up and lower the cravings for sweets. • Try natural yogurt instead of flavored yogurt. There are no added sugars in natural yogurt. • Eliminate sugar in your coffee or tea or on your breakfast cereal. This is easy, either use a sugar substitute, or simply don’t add it. Is any sugar good for you? The best way to get sugar is often from honey, pure maple syrup and from fruit or pure fruit juice. You can start to eliminate sugars from your diet. You will see results and you will feel better, but in the end, remember, it’s OK to have things in moderation. Perhaps you choose 1-3 days a week where you eat a small dessert or toast for breakfast or a sandwich. We don’t expect people to eliminate all sugar and stay off of it. However, if you lower your daily intake, you will see positive results. 4 4 4

Here is how to start taking sugar out of your diet…

• Taper off sugar over several weeks to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Don’t try to go cold turkey, or you will experience symptoms. The worst maybe the headaches and nausea. • Trick your body with sugar substitutes. Opt for natural sugar substitutes such as Stevia and Xylitol rather than artificial sugar substitutes. • Eat a lot of fruit. Fruit contains natural sugars and can curb the sweet tooth you do have. • Drink a lot of water. Hydration is very important. Your body can become dehydrated when you start to eliminate sugar from your diet, so consume a lot of water throughout the process. • Exercise. This is a great way to take your mind off eating sugar. Exercise your way through the tough times. • Keep a food log. When you have to write it down, you most often times will choose to not eat it. • Eliminate sugars and temptations from your house and your shopping list. If you don’t buy it and it’s not in your house, you won’t be tempted to eat it. • Lower your carbohydrate and processed food intake. Almost all processed foods have sugar in them. • Eat a lot of vegetables. Vegetables, especially sweet potatoes, carrots and sweet peppers can taste really good when you have a sweet tooth. www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

I M AG E & S T YL E

Mix and Match Your Way Into Spring By Kelly A. Smith

ith spring in the air and a spring in our step, we welcome the new season with newfound style and sass. Mix and match fashion trends have always been a mainstay in the fashion industry, but it’s definitely an easier task with the dark colors of fall and winter. All of those neutral tones seem to just flow together as easy as the ingredients to pumpkin pie, but as soon as the colors of spring start busting out all over (pun intended), we have some serious style struggles on our well-manicured hands. This season, like many before, has some fierce flower power as spring’s main event. Bold and bright will also be added to the vernacular this spring as will stars and stripes and many, many more. Keep reading on for some of the best and brightest ways to pull off the mix and match trend!

Pretty, Pretty Prints

One of the best ways to venture into spring and color is to go with a print. Start off with either a blouse with a solid bottom or vise versa for those of you who are accustomed to a more sleek and solid style. Don’t shy away from a good mix and match medley, but do chose prints that compliment, not contrast each other. For example, it’s appropriate to pair a brightly colored floral skirt with a light colored pinstriped blouse. Also, you can pair up a bold striped top with a small herringbone printed leggings, finished off with something solid such as a denim jacket. The point is to have fun with prints and colors; it is after all, a new season!

Color Me Happy!

If you’re like me, my favorite “color” of the rainbow tends to be black, so why not turn that upside down this spring? Sure, we all know about black’s slimming power, but did you know that you can get just as good of a slimming effect by keeping your clothes properly fitted? If you tend to shy away from color, then try adding just a pop sporadically, or even better, start with light layers. A good example of hopping onto the color bandwagon without going full steam ahead is to try a fitted floral slinky tank. Slip a cute and cozy cardigan or lightweight blazer atop, and then you can opt for your black bottom. You can also flip this look by reversing the floral print on the bottom with a pair of brightly colored pencil pants and a darker blouse or tunic on top. Either way, you’ll get your color on and still keep your signature black.

Trends and Things

Lots of fun frills and details are popping up this spring for sure! Bell sleeves have never been better- they are on everything from dresses and blouses to blazers and even denim jackets. I love the bell sleeve just because it really has such a spring/summer vibe, and it also has a definite slimming effect. Anytime we widen an appendage with clothing, be it our wrists, forearms or ankles, it makes our core appear visually narrower—and that is always a welcome change! Another fun detail that should be in all of our wardrobes this spring is lace. I just love anything that can have lace added to it, and this spring, it seems to be popping up all over on everything such as denim jackets, dresses and blouses. I’ve even seen this trend in accessories. So, do be sure to add a few pieces into your closet before this fun trend disappears! May is a month of transition in many more ways than one. It’s really about that hard break of the chilly air and late snows of April, so now is a great time to stock up on everything fun and floral, bright and bold. Don’t worry too much about clashing or looking out of sorts by mixing and matching because chances are, if you’ve crossed the proverbial fashion faux pas line, you’ll know it! Venture your way into color and print by easing into it one color, one print, one trend at a time! 4 4 4

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

S U PP ORT OUR T ROOPS

Memorializing Those That Perished in the Great War

World War I Memorial Is Being Built in the Nation’s Capital By Paula Green

emorial Day used to be called Decoration Day, and it originally honored those that perished in the Civil War. But during World War I, the United States found

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itself embroiled in another major con26

flict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars. On the National Mall there is a domed-style marble temple dedicated to local residents. The D.C. War Memorial is officially named the District of Columbia War Memorial. It commemorates the 26,000 citizens of Washington D.C. who served during World War I. This landmark was dedicated by President Herbert Hoover in 1931 on Armistice Day – the day that marked the official end of the World War. While this landmark in our nation’s capital pays tribute to some of the doughboys (Army service members) of World War I, there is no memorial in D.C. that honors the 4.7 million Americans who served. There were 116,516 U.S. military personnel that perished in the Great War. In 2014, Congress authorized the construction of a World War I Memorial in Pershing Park. Following the passage of this bill, a bitter battle ensued. There were many folks that were angry because they wanted the WWI Memorial to be built in the National Mall along with the other war commemorations. A ground-breaking ceremony for the World War I Memorial was held on November 9, 2017. It will be locat-

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

ed in Pershing Park one block from the White House. The design for the World War I Memorial is called “The Weight of Sacrifice.” It includes themes expressed through three sources – relief sculpture, quotations from soldiers and a free-standing sculpture. Pershing Park is a small park located on 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. The park currently contains a 12-foot bronze statue of John J. Pershing, who served as General of the Armies in World War I. The “Great War” erupted in Europe in 1914. President Woodrow Wilson pledged neutrality, which was in sync with prevailing American public opinion. In early April 1917, with the toll in sunken U.S. merchant ships and civilian casualties rising, Wilson asked Congress for “a war to end all wars” that would “make the world safe for democracy.” Congress voted to declare war on Germany, and on Apr. 6, 1917, the United States joined the bloody battle. World War I ended at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 (November 11). Germany signed an armistice agreement with the Allies in a railroad car outside Compiégne, France. The First World War left nine million soldiers dead and 21 million wounded. In addition, at least five million civilians died from disease, starvation or exposure. The World War I Memorial that honors those that served in this battle is slated to open in November of this year, in time for the centennial anniversary of the end the Great War. 444

Sources: https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/ memorial-day-history, https://www.history.com/this-dayin-history/world-war-i-ends, https://www.flocabulary.com/ unit/world-war-i/, http://www.worldwar1centennial.org/ honor/national-wwi-memorial.html

HO M E & G A RDE N

Accent Contracting for All Your Remodeling Needs By Janice Lane Palko

ne of the most difficult aspects of doing a home remodel is not picking new fixtures or working up a budget, it often is finding a reputable contractor. Accent Contracting is a general remodeling company working on existing homes and can do everything from roofs to basements—that includes siding, gutters, decks, porches and nearly any home improvement. “There are tens of thousands of remodeling companies out there,” said Pat Folan, owner of Accent Contracting, “but not many have been around since 1986 like we have.” Located at 3457 Babcock Boulevard, in Ross Township, Accent Contracting uses only the most skilled of craftsmen. “We use insured registered trade companies some of whom have been with us since 1986 as well,” said Folan. To maintain your investment in a home, it is wise to keep your home in tip-top, marketable shape. Two of the most popular projects that Accent Contracting can undertake is updating kitchens and baths. “These types of remodeling projects give homeowners the most bang for their remodeling buck,” said Folan. Insured and registered as required by the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Accent Contracting is always in demand. “We currently have about 5-6 weeks of work in signed contracts, but we encourage anyone thinking of remodeling to get in touch with us for a free estimate,” Folan said. Accent’s minimum project starts at $3,500. If you are interested in how Accent Contracting can help to make your remodeling visions a reality, you may email Pat Folan at paddyfolan@gmail. com or call (412) 977-1851. 4 4 4

Why NOW is the Time to Sell Your House By Janet McKay

s the saying goes, “There’s no time like the present.” With today’s real estate market, when it comes to selling your house, that adage couldn’t be truer. For Senior Citizens and Baby Boomers contemplating downsizing, NOW is the time to sell your home for several reasons: 1. It’s a Seller’s Market Well-maintained homes are selling quickly, and in some cases, sellers are finding their homes the subject of bidding wars as prospective buyers outbid each other for houses. 2. Mortgage Rates Are Still Low The Federal Reserve has indicated that it plans to hike mortgage interest rates at least three times this year. NOW is the time to list your house while mortgage rates are still historically low for buyers. 3. Demand Is High and Inventory Is Low When the demand is high but property is scarce, well-maintained homes are more likely to sell quickly – sometimes for full asking price or more. 4. The Economy Has Improved With the unemployment rate falling and incomes rising from recent tax cuts, buyers who have been “on the fence” are ready to buy NOW. 5. Millennials Are Looking to Buy After graduating college with lots of debt and entering a depressed job market, circumstances are finally improving for Millennials, who are tired of paying rent or living with their parents. They’re ready to buy NOW.

If you’re a Senior Citizen or Baby Boomer and are hesitant about selling your home, let me walk you through each step. It really is not as hard as you think! If you’re a First-Time Home Buyer, let me put my years of experience to work for you and help you find that perfect first home! Contact me today at 412-303-1408 for a FREE one-hour consultation on how to buy or sell a home in today’s market. In the meantime, check out my reviews on Zillow – www.janetmckay/zillow/reviews 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

NC ADVER TORIAL | REAL ES TATE

There’s No Dithering During a Seller’s Market

By Vince Parrucci Licensed Real Estate Agent/Realtor and Professional Real Estate Consultant

f you follow the real estate market, you know that we are in a seller’s market. That’s great for those who are selling a home, but what does it mean for buyers? It means competitions is stiff for homes and you can’t dither. Here are four tips to help you get the home you want at a reasonable price. You Need to Be Pre-Qualified – Being pre-qualified for a mortgage may give you a leg up on another buyer who hasn’t been pre-qualified. A seller would be more likely to accept an offer from a buyer who they know is in a financial position to buy their home. Being pre-qualified also helps with understanding what you can afford which can help when making a strong offer. You Need to Know What You Want – When homes are selling quickly, buyers need to know what they are looking for in a home and make 2

lists; a ‘must haves’ and a ‘would like to have’ list. Their ‘would like to have’ list must be flexible unless they are planning on building a custom home. They don’t have the option to just browse homes on the market to see if any strike a chord. You need to know where you want to live, how many bedrooms and baths, etc. and focus on that. If you delay, you may miss out. You Need an Agent Who Knows the Market – A good agent knows the market and knows what you want and can keep their ear to the ground to learn of new homes coming on the market. An experienced agent also knows if a home is appropriately priced. Even though competition for homes is stiff, you still don’t want to over-pay. There are two advantages to working with a buyer agent and having them set you up on an MLS search - 1) the listings come to you

(your email) directly, you don’t have to go looking for it on various websites and 2) you immediately receive notifications of new listings. You Need to Present Serious Offers – When homes are selling in mere days, buyers can’t be indecisive; they must be prepared to move quickly an present serious offers or face the prospect of possibly having another buyer come in with a better offer and scooping that house. Whether you are buying or selling a home, I can help you navigate today’s real estate market. Considering a move? Whether it is buying or selling, have an expert work for you. Contact Vince Parrucci, Licensed Real Estate Agent, Realtor and Professional Real Estate Consultant, at Vincent.parrucci@pittsburghmoves.com, call (724) 612-3770 or visit: www.smartbuystrongsale.com. In addition to being a Licensed Real Estate Agent/Realtor and Professional Real Estate Consultant, Vince Parrucci is the author of Smart Buy, Strong Sale: The Consumer’s Guide to Buying and Selling Your Next Home is available through Amazon.com. His extensive experience includes VP of Mellon Bank, VP of Allegheny Financial Group, Real Estate investor, mentor and coach to thousands on investment real estate and flipping of houses and property. 4 4 4 VINCE PARRUCCI

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MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

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S E N IO R LIVING

Town Crier

Welcome May! By Joe Bullick

hope you had a great April and Easter. I know we had a lot of ham left over from Easter. Good luck to the farmers who are sowing their fields. To my mom, this was an important time because she had to get our garden planted. We had a big garden. My job was to keep the weeds out and water the garden. We enjoy more daylight now. Traditional May Day rituals celebrated the sun’s victory over winter. This is the time of year to pack away your woolies. We always packed away our clean winter clothing in tightly sealed sweater bags or boxes with cedar chips

or lavender to keep out moths. Mother’s Day is celebrated in May. My grandmother lived in Detroit, and mom would visit her. We would take a Greyhound bus. What a trip that was! I thought we would never get there. She’d pack a lunch to eat on the way. It was fun to meet other travelers. In those days, spring meant baseball was in full swing and a trip to West View Park. In May we also celebrate Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day. We always fly our flag at half staff on Memorial Day to honor our deceased servicemen and women.

Many important things have happened in May. In May of 1931, the Empire State Building opened in New York City. In May 1962, the first Kmart opened in Garden City, Michigan. In May 1961, Alan B. Shepard became the first American in space. In sports, Roger Bannister became the first man to run a mile in less than four minutes on May 6, 1954. With spring in bloom now, why not take a hike with the family? The Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel is an ideal place to see abundant wildlife. The Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon also takes place on May 6. Happy birthday to all of you born under the sign of Taurus or Gemini. Have a great spring and month of May. God bless. I leave you with this: You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. — Ralph Waldo Emerson

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

SE N I OR LI V ING

Happenings for Seniors Collections North Hills Community Outreach is collecting safety items for seniors. For details, visit nhco.org or call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 x3313.

Entertainment & Social North Allegheny students host Senior Citizens’ Prom, 7-10 p.m.,

May 11, NASH, 10375 Perry Hwy. All interested senior citizens are invited to attend this free event. Features music, dancing & light refreshments. Call (412) 369-5445 to make your reservations. Info can be found on NA’s website.

2nd Act, adults 55 & older gather

monthly for music, inspirational speakers & outreach projects, 10 a.m.-noon, 2nd Thurs thru May 10, the lobby at Orchard Hill Church. For info visit, https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/.

St. Alexis Over 50 trips: May 17,

Little Switzerland; July 4, Gateway Clipper & Fireworks; Sept. 9, Mackinac Island. Contact, Rose (724) 728-2563, or (412) 908-0124, or Janet, at (724) 869-5339.

The 55 Plus Group of St. James Catholic Parish is sponsoring a

“Made in America and Proud of It” bus trip, June 7 to Elma, N.Y. Bus departs St. James at 7:30 a.m.& returns 7 p.m. Cost $97 per person. For details, call Suzanne at Travel Broker at (412) 264-8446. Reservation deadline is Apr. 26.

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

Healthy Start Café, 8:45 a.m.,

every Mon & Thurs, St. John Lutheran Church of Highland, 311 Cumberland Rd. Presented by Lutheran SeniorLife & St. John Lutheran Church of Highland. Call (412) 364-1606 or (412) 307-1797.

Meals on Wheels McKnight Meals on Wheels pro-

Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon. of each month 1-2:30 p.m. Call (724) 444-0064.

vides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkeley Hills, Swan Acres, McCandless, Shaler & Hampton Townships. Call (412) 487-4088.

Gateway North AARP #3586 meets

North Country Meal on Wheels

Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the

provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound & disabled. Services Marshall, Pine, Richland, Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, parts of McCandless, West Deer, Cranberry, Adams, Seven Fields, Mars & Valencia. Call (724) 9351877.

Seminars Legacy Theatre Seminars, 11

a.m., May 29, Diagnosis: Treatment of Hip & Knee Pain; June 12, The Darkest Hour; 10 a.m.-1 p.m., June 26, Day of Health for Seniors. For info, visit http://thelegacylineup.com/

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

Senior Meetings AARP 3736 welcomes new mem-

bers, 7:30 p.m., every 2nd Thurs., of the month (except June & July) at St. Ursula Church Social Hall. Special dinners in May & Aug. and exciting trips.

Cranberry Township 55+ Club

meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. The club features activities, social events and local trips. For info, call Bill at (724) 776-1933.

Friends and Fun 55+ Singles

meet at 7 p.m., every 1st Friday, at St. Ferdinand’s, Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp., Oldenski Hall, Upper Room. Call (724) 776-9274.

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

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

at 1 p.m., the 3rd Monday of the month, at West View Banquet Hall at 398 Perry Hwy. Short meeting with entertainment, and cake & coffee. Everyone is welcome. month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. Call (412) 741-4900 or visit http://www.ccgf.org.

Social Groups Amazing Singles, for singles in the

Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets 2 p.m., the last Friday. Contact Pam, at (724) 779-5020.

Volunteer Opportunities: Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit Hospice patients. Call (412) 367-3685.

Neighborly Gnomes assist seniors

with disabilities with yard tasks. Visit NeedsbyNeighborhood.org.

North Hills Community Outreach

Pittsburgh region, visit, http://www. amazingsingles.com/pittsburgh.html.

needs volunteers to snow shovel for seniors. Email clpschirer@nhco.org or (412) 307-0069 x3313.

Catholic Alumni Club of Pittsburgh, has dances, retreats

North Hills Community Outreach

and plays various sports and other great events. Visit their website http://www.cacpittsburgh.org/.

Have fun and meet new people

with the Association of University People/AUP. They’re looking for single, college graduates over 50 to join monthly dinners, meet at social spots, book club, play bridge or scrapple and social gatherings. Call (412) 734-8445 or visit www.aupsinglespittsburgh.org

Visit Pittsburgh Events & Festivals lists upcoming events for

singles, kids, and married folks. It enlightens Pittsburghers on dining, shopping and recreational events. Go to http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/ events-festivals.

urgently needs volunteers in the upper Route 28 corridor to help seniors. Visit http://nhco.org/volunteer-opportunities/volunteer-helpseniors/. For details, call Kerry, (412) 449-0151 or kkmulhern@nhco.org.

Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program

seeks volunteers (50+) to tutor in Pittsburgh & Woodland Hills School Districts in grades K-4. Trainings are held at the Duquesne Light Building downtown Pittsburgh. For info or to register, contact John at OASIS at (412) 393-7648 or jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

Ursuline Services’ Checks and Balances program assists those

who have difficulty with financial affairs. Register at (412) 224-4700 x113 or ktobin@ursulinesupport.org.

Support Groups Alzheimer’s Support Group, 10

a.m., 1st Monday of each month, St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 2554 Wildwood Rd. Call Suzie, at (724) 799-7049.

Bereavement Support Group (for

Widows/Widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., St. Sebastian, Haber Hall. To register, call (412) 366-1300.

Home Instead Senior Care

has a program to help families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com.

Stay in Touch with Your Community! Deadline for submissions is by the 12th of the month.

Vincentian Home Needs You!

Volunteers of all stripes welcome

s the adage says, it’s often better to give than receive. When you volunteer at a Vincentian senior community, the day you brighten most could very well be yours. Opportunities are available now to volunteer at Vincentian Home and Vincentian Personal Care on Perrymont Road in McCandless. Vincentian’s residents need helpers of all stripes: pastoral care assistants, visitors, musicians, teachers for classes like cooking or crafts, escorts for outings and more. Keeping residents happy and healthy – both physically and mentally – is the goal of every volunteer. Vincentian is looking for energetic and caring individuals to serve and empower the seniors who entrust their care to Vincentian. Even just a brief visit, especially for residents with dementia and other cognitive impairment, can make a huge difference in happiness and well-being. One volunteer recently said, “I have gained more from volunteering than I could have ever provided for the residents. I wish there were more places like Vincentian.” Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join our team. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If interested, please fill out a volunteer application online at vcs.org/volunteer or call Vincentian Home at 412-440-4300. 444

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

2 018 S U MMER C AMPS GUIDE

2018 Summer Camps B Guide

BC3’s Kids on Campus turns 20 with 61 new camps May 22 open house set before summer of hands-on, imagination-inspiring experiences

utler County Community College’s Kids on Campus summer enrichment program celebrates its 20th anniversary in June with 61 new camps and with the most selections for those in Grades 2 to 8 since 2009, coordinator Eva Lowerre says. Ninety-six four-day camps – hands-on experiences that hold imaginations in acting, arts and crafts, athletics, cooking, gardening, sewing, and science, technology, engineering and mathematics – are scheduled from June 18 to Aug. 2 on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township. Kids on Campus sessions are divided among those in kindergarten and first grade, second through fourth grades and fifth through eighth grades. Morning camps will be held from 9 a.m. to noon and separate afternoon camps, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Children can bring a packed lunch or purchase lunch daily for $6 at the Pioneer Café on campus if attending morning and afternoon camps. Teens on Campus, for those in Grades 6 to 12 and with camps titled “STEM Event for Girls,” “SAT Prep,” “Intro to Photography,” “STEM Event for Boys” and “Fondant Cake” will be held June 18-July 19. Camp costs start at $69, plus a $2 registration fee per student. Morning care is available from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. for $28 per week, and afternoon care, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for $21 per week. Among the new camps for those in Grades 2 to 8 is “Flying Technologies,” in which children can learn about aeronautical engineering and design flying machines; “Cubelets,” in which students discover how programmed blocks work together in a series of challenges; and “Breakfast Club,” which teaches students about basic cooking techniques and how to follow recipes to make morning favorites. “Many parents will have their children take a nice mix of camps,” Lowerre said. “Some are academic-based, but some are sports or fine arts-based so the children can get a well-rounded summer. We have something for everyone.” The all-new “Cubelets and EV3 Robotics,” “Fairy Garden” and “NASA Challenge” camps join favorites from 2017 that include (Continued on page 34)

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

“Total Gym,” “Act One” and “Watercolor.” “These camps keep the children’s mind working, which will carry over to the next school year,” Lowerre said. “They are not just playing a video game or watching television. They will be learning, experiencing hands-on activities, forming friendships and having fun.” “Visitors can tour BC3’s campus, visit classrooms, learn more about programming and register by attending an open house from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., May 22 in the Succop Theater lobby,” Lowerre said. For more information or to request a registration form, call 724-287-8711 Ext. 8504. 4 4 4

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Irma Freeman Center for Imagination Summer Camp

elcome to our 10th year at the Irma Freeman Center for Imagination Summer Camps! Located in the East End near Friendship Park, we offer a wide variety of camps including: Acrobatic Yoga Circus, Aerial Silks, Dance, Book Making, Fiber Arts, Printmaking, Painting, Sculpture, Capoeira Martial Arts, Bike Repair, Theater, Puppetry, Mold Mak-

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

ing, Public Speaking and Story Telling. This year we are collaborating with other organizations like the Carnegie Science Center, Kraynick’s Bike Shop and many more! Our campers are ages 6 - 12 years old. We also keep a 6 to 1 ratio of campers to adult. Our teachers are specialists in their fields, and we often share talent with the art museum and other great organizations. Our camps are separated by groups, depending on the camp. Most camps are divided by ages 6 - 8 and 9 -12, although some camps may mix age groups. Our campers get a chance to spend plenty of time outside: going for walks as well as practicing and performing at Friendship Park. Most of our camps include an exhibition or performance at the end of the week for children to showcase their hard-earned play for parents and friends! 4 4 4

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Providence Heights Alpha School Summer Camp

rovidence Heights Alpha School is now offering a variety of full-day and halfday Summer Camp opportunities on our 40-acre campus. This tranquil setting in the middle of the North Hills is a wonderful backdrop for a variety of interests and (Continued on page 36)

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activities. Chess with Kevin McVay, STEM with the Alpha teachers, British Soccer programs with Challenger Sports and Science with Eco Explorers are all happening! Whether they are using forensics and deduction to solve the Area 51 mystery, developing opening and check mating chess strategy, investigating Scratchpad programming, playing soccer outside or just getting outside for a nature hike in the woods, children are sure to have fun. See our ad in this publication or visit www.Alphaschool.org to learn more and register. Come to the Castle on the Hill this summer, 9000 Babcock Blvd, Allison Park, PA 15101. 4 4 4

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Memorial Park Church Summer Surge Take it to the next level: Join us for the best week of the summer!

ummer Surge, Memorial Park Church’s alternative to Summer Vacation Bible School, explodes onto the Memorial Park property each summer with camp options for kids ages 4 through grade 6. Our week-long camps are open to the community—all children are welcome and you do not have to be a member of Memorial Park to register! Our half-day Junior Camp for children ages 4-5 encourages physical, social, and spiritual growth through presenting God’s Word in fun and imaginative ways as campers enjoy music, handson activities, crafts, games, snacks and interactive Bible stories all revolving around a common theme. Our Day Camp for children in grades 1-5 assists each camper in the development of Christian character through competitions and initiatives, and help him or her develop skill in two areas of interest through the afternoon electives, including archery, baking, basketball, climbing wall, cooking, crafts, gymnastics, intro to computer programming, science, spa days, soccer, street hockey, and woodworking. Summer Surge IMPACT is designed for pre-teens in grades 5-6 who are looking for a fun, faith-building week during the summer! A perfect “next step” for any camper, this offering is filled with both traditional Summer Surge elements (worship, Bible Study, competitions, and games) along with exciting new offerings such as day trips to places like Moraine State Park, hiking trips, Sky Zone, service projects, rock wall climbing, and more. Your camper will be challenged to take their faith to the next level, experience joy from God and discover more of who they are in Christ! For dates or to register, visit memorialparkchurch.org/summer-surge. 4 4 4

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(Continued on page 38)

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Summer Camps Directory Alpha School Summer Camp www.alphaschool.org

Backyard Flag Football

www.backyardflagfootball.org (412) 318-4557

Butler County Community College Kids On Campus www.bc3.edu/koc

Camp Deer Creek

www.campdeercreekonline.com (412) 767-5351

Camp Pisa

www.Pisausa.com 412-820-0657

Early Years Community Learning Centers

Memorial Park Church Summer Surge

www.memorialparkchurch.org/summer-surge (412) 364-9492

Old Economy Village Summer Camps www.oldeconomyvillage.org (724) 266-4500x110

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart

www.olsh.org/apps/pages/ summercamp (412) 262-3300

Penn State Beaver Summer Camps www.beaver.psu.edu/camps (724) 773-3700

St. Joseph High School (724) 226–4932 www.SaintJosephHS.com

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church

www.EarlyYearsInc.com

www.stpaulsumc.com/summer (412) 486-5591

HeartPrints Center for Early Education

The YMCA

www.heartprints.org (724) 741-1008

Irma Freeman Center for Imagination

www.bcfymca.org Butler YMCA (724) 287-0045

www.irmafreeman.org 412-924-0634

South Butler (724) 352-4541

Katie’s Clay Studio

Rose E. Schneider Family YMCA (724) 452-9122

www.katiesclaystudio.com (412) 486-2184

Little Farmers Day Camp at Blue Ribbon Trust Arts Education Summer Camps Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Farms www.blueribbonfarmsinc.com (412) 974-1650

www.trustarts.org/education

Lutherlyn Summer Camp

www.wpwp.pitt.edu

Young Writers Institute

www.lutherlyn.com (724) 865-2161

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Early Years Is Ready for Summer!

ummer is quickly approaching! And Early Years Community Learning Centers is proud to announce that they are now offering summer camps in your area. “We are always looking for additional ways to help our community and help kids grow through fun and enjoyable experiences” - Maureen Bergdahl, CEO-President Owner Early Years Community

Learning Centers. This local, family owned business has always valued the education of the children in the community. And with their six conveniently located centers, they offer care and education for children 6 weeks thru to nine years – and now summer camps for children entering Kindergarten thru age 10. These summer camps provide a secure and clean environment in which the kids can learn and play through craft and drama, water play, science experiments and team games. Camp itinerary includes Adventure Land, Fun and Fitness, and Inventors Workshop just to name a few. And to document all their exciting adventures, Early Years provides the kids with a “Camp Adventure Journal” so they can track all their fun. Summer camps are offered at their Butler, Cranberry, Gibsonia and Valencia centers. “This has always been a dream for us to provide these summer camps to the area, and we extremely excited to see how much the kids will enjoy them!” Mrs. Bergdahl exclaims. If you are interested in Early Years’ Summer Camps, you can read all about it by visiting their website at www.EarlyYearsInc. com or you can contact the Summer Camp Director Lori Sharp at lsharp@earlyyearsinc.com. 4 4 4

Katie’s Clay Studio

atie’s Clay Studio now offers DIY wood sign workshops. Using our stencil machine, you can completely customize your project by using a variety of painting, staining and distressing techniques. The farmhouse aesthetic is minimalistic, yet warm and charming. With the addition of your very own custom content, the results will be unique and inspiring, and invite conversation. Call the studio to join a workshop or book an event. All you need to bring with you is yourself and your creativity. Visit our website for more details www.KatiesClayStudio.com or call 412-486-2184. 4 4 4

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

K I D S & E D UC AT ION

School Movers & Shakers Pine Richland Pine Richland 2014 graduate and Penn State senior Andrew Vislosky was named to Whirl magazines ‘20 in their 20’s.’ Vislosky is a senior petroleum engineering undergraduate at Penn State. Upon graduation, he will be awarded a Petroleum Engineering Laureate distinction.

Andrew Vislosky

Seneca Valley The Seneca Valley Academic Decathlon Team placed third in the state and won 25 medals in the Academic Decathlon State Competition at Clarion University, March 9-10. The SV Academic Decathlon State Team includes Rebekah Carlini, Katie Parker, Ashley Conroy, Megan Neely, Jessie Glatz, Matthew Beggy, Nora Gavaghan, Nishant Jayachandran, Ryan Lipscomb and Rishin Sharma. Seneca Valley junior Hiruni Herat has been selected to participate in the prestigious PA Governor’s School for Global and International Studies at the University of Pittsburgh from June 25 – July 20.

Hiruni Herat

Fox Chapel Three Fox Chapel Area High School seniors have been designated as National Merit Finalists in the 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program. The finalists from Fox Chapel Area High School are Albert Liu, Elizabeth Mountz, and Jordan Taxay.

Catholic Schools of the Pittsburgh Diocese REGISTER NOW for the 2018-2019 School Year Blessed Francis Seelos Academy (Wexford)

(formerly St. Alphonsus/St. Alexis Schools) 724-935-1152 or 724-935-3940 Principal: Mr. Robert Reese www.nhrces.org\seelos

Providence Heights Alpha School (Allison Park)

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

Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy (Aspinwall) Principal: Mr. Mark Grgurich (412) 781-7927 www.cdtca.org

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

Holy Cross Academy

(Ross Township) Principal: Mr. John Benzing 412.364.7171 HolyCrossAcademy.net

Three Fox Chapel Area School District students placed at the 24th Annual Shakespeare (Continued on page 40)

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K I D S & E D UC AT ION

Monologue & Scene Contest. Karl Pil, Zoe Lakkis and Lance Wilhelm all received honorable mentions.

Mars Area Mars Area High School Boys JV Hockey Team took first place in the 2018 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League (PIHL) Class 2A JV Pool C Post-Season Tournament. Mars Area sophomore Michael Carmody earned a first-place trophy as a member of Team Ohio basketball team, which won the Junior International Tournament, held April 4 in Lissone, Italy.

Michael Carmody

Mars Area High School Girls Varsity Basketball Team earned first place and the PIAA Class 5A Trophy after defeating the Archbishop Wood Vikings 36-33 in the final game of the 2017-2018 PIAA Class 5A Girls Varsity Basketball Championship on March 28. Mars Area Middle School seventh-grader Zoey Miller was honored as a 2018 Pittsburgh Girl of Merit at the Girls World Expo, held March 25 at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square.

Zoey Miller

North Hills North Hills School District Director of Athletics, Amy Scheuneman has been honored as Region IV Athletic Director of the Year by the Pennsylvania Amy State Athletic Director’s Scheuneman Association. The Pennsylvania Music Educators Association honored three North Hills School District employees who impacted music education in Pennsylvania. Outstanding Superintendent Award winner was Dr. Patrick J. Mannarino, Outstanding Young Music Educator Award winner was Chris Ballentine and Citation of Excellence Award winner went to Len Lavelle. North Hills Middle School eighthgrader Emma Gallagher was honored on the national level for her artistic talent as a 2018 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards National Medalist. Emma’s photo Emma “Liquid Crystals” was selected as Gallagher one of the most accomplished in the nation. In addition, Gold Key Awards were awarded to eighth-graders Kevin Tian and Quinn Peters.

Shaler Area Shaler Area High School social studies teacher Nick Haberman has been recognized by the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh and named this year’s Holocaust Educator of the Year.

Mulhern accepted the award and received an award trophy and large Innovations in Catholic Education finalist banner.

Nick Haberman

Shaler Area School District announced that Jim and Julie McDermott have been chosen as 2017-18 Jefferson Award recipients.

Providence Heights Alpha School

Butler Catholic School eighth grader Daniel Orsborn competed at the 2018 National Geographic State Bee on Friday, April 6 at The State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg. Daniel Danny competed against Orsborn 100 students from across Pennsylvania and made it to the final round of competition as the tenth top scorer. Butler Catholic School eighth grader Jonathon Livermore was named a “Carson Scholar” at the banquet held on April 7 at Heinz Field. Jonathon received a $1,000 scholarship to be used for college.

Jonathon Kivermore

St. Kilian

Providence Heights Alpha School forensics team won first place in the finals at the Southwestern Pennsylvania Forensics League. The following students competed: Mireille Antaki, Luca Assandri, Caroline Belt, Larkin Brown, Ben Capozzi, Annabel Dlugos, Ethan Dlugos, Christina Eid, Maya Eid, Megan Foody, Carson Jacob, Louisa Jen, Helen Katyal, Megan Maloney, Sofia Mancing, Patrick McCarthy, Grace McGrath, Jackson McGrath, Madeline McGrath, Evan Moncheck, Abby Ondos, Mia Orrico, Andrew Pritchard, Maura Shernisky, and Robbie Staresinic.

Butler Catholic

Saint Kilian Parish School seventh grade student Anthony Spalvieri will be representing Western PA in the National Scripps Spelling Bee in Anthony Washington, D.C., over Memorial Spalvieri Day weekend. Anthony won First Place at the Western Pennsylvania Spelling Bee. He also won all-expense paid trip to D.C. for Bee Week. He is the son of Tony and Pamela Spalvieri of Cranberry Township.

Shady Side Academy Shady Side Academy senior Emily Weiss won a national Gold Medal in the 2018 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Shady Side Academy junior Nick Lauer of Fox Chapel is one of 501 students nationwide (and one of approximately 50 in Western Pennsylvania) who were named 2018 Carson Scholars, earning a $1,000 college scholarship.

St. James

Butler Catholic School announced it was selected by Today’s Catholic Teacher as a finalist in their Innovations in Catholic Education Awards. Butler Catholic School was recognized at the 21st annual Innovations in Catholic Education Awards Presentation Reception in Cincinnati, Ohio. Principal Sister John Ann

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Ann Barger, chairperson for the Americanism Committee, for the Coraopolis Lodge #1090, presented six St. James School students with award certificates for participating in this year’s Americanism essay contest. This year’s topic was “Why our Veterans are America’s Heroes.” Congratulations to Hannah Webre, Philip DuBois, Michaela William, Katie Murray, Jacqualine Nicloaus and Matthew Doubt. Their essays now go on to the state for final judging.

Bishop David A. Zubik celebrated the sacrament of Confirmation on April 9 at St. James Catholic Parish for sixty-nine eighth graders. Rev. Thomas J. Burke, Pastor of St. James along with Rev. Stephen A. Kresak, Pastor of Holy Apostles Parish and Rev. Matthew Tosello-retired, concelebrated.

La Roche College La Roche College announced Roberto Clemente Jr. as its 53rd commencement speaker. Clemente Jr. will deliver the commencement address and receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters at La Rocheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduation ceremony at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, in the Kerr Fitness & Sports Center.

Saint Vincent College Saint Vincent College has inducted 10 new members into the Phi Sigma Iota International

Foreign Language Honor Society. The new inductees are: Delfine Bredniak, Casi Smith, Maggie Czapski, Melissa Koshute, Bailey DeTesta, Daniel Young, Shalyn Vukich, Monica Buczynski, Carly Rimel and Mallory Truckenmiller. Dr. Thomas W. Cline, consumer psychologist and professor of marketing and statistics at the Saint Vincent College Alex G. McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government, co-authored four articles in the April/June 2018 edition of the journal, Critical Care Nursing Quarterly.Â A team from Greensburg Salem High School won first place for in the pasta engineering competition held March 5 at the Fred M. Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College. Members of the first-place team were Ian Merendino, William Crites and Christopher Writt.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

May 2018

Happenings Arts & Entertainment

Human Plus Drawings by artist Richard Claraval, May 5-30 at

Panza Gallery, 115 Sedgwick St., Millvale. Opening reception, 6-9 p.m., May 5. For info, visit www.richardclaraval.com.

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m.,

May 7, Amazing Racer; May 14, Roman J. Israel, Esquire; May 21, The Shape of Water; May 28, no movie, Memorial Day, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

Legacy Theatres shows: 7:30 p.m., May 19, Night Fever: Bee Gees Tribute; Jun. 9, Johnny Angel & the Halos, Jul. 7, La Bohème Warhola by Giancomo Puccini, Jul. 14, The

Bird Dogs Present: Everly Brothers Experience; Jul. 28, My Gal Patsy Cline – Tribute by Josie Waverly; Aug. 25, Pure Gold, Sept. 15, The Return of Buddy Holly - Tribute Concert, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www. thelegacylineup.com/productions.

Theatre production, The Diary

of Anne Frank, May 4-13, Prime Stage Theatre. For info, visit www. PrimeStage.com.

Camps Adventures in Pioneer Living Camp, for ages 8-12, Jun. 18-22,

Depreciation’s Land Museum. For details, visit http://www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/ or call (412) 486-0563.

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Kidsfest, Jul. 8-13; Jul. 15-20; Jul.

22-27, Orchard Hill Church. For info, visit https://www.orchardhillchurch. com/.

Splash Canyon Vacation Bible Camp, 9 a.m.-noon, Jun. 18-22, St.

Alexis Parish, 10090 Old Perry Hwy., Wexford. For info, visit www.stalexis. org, email reled@stalexis.org or call (724) 935-0877.

Collections North Hills Community Outreach

cleaning supplies collection for distribution to the families who use their three pantries. Items are appreciated by June 8. For details, visit nhco.org or (412) 487-6316, opt. 1.

Concerts

Mother’s Day Concert pre-

sented by the Pittsburgh Mandolin Orchestra, 7 p.m., May 12, St. John’s Lutheran Church of Highland, 311 Cumberland Rd. For tickets, visit https://mkt.com/pittsburgh-mandolin-orchestra.

North Hills Chorale concert One Voice, 7 p.m., May 5 & 3 p.m., May

6, in the Visitation Chapel at Kearns Spirituality Center, 9000 Babcock Blvd. free-will offering accepted. Visit www.nhchorale.com.

Ring Pittsburgh Concerts: 3 p.m.,

May 20, St. Bernadette Catholic Church, Azalea Dr., Monroeville; 7 p.m., May 22, Highpointe at Rebecca Residence, Hightpointe Ln., Allison Park; 7 p.m., May 29, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Ferguson

Rd., Allison Park; 7 p.m., June 8, Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave. Visit, www.ringPittsburgh.org or (412) 913-5728.

Conferences & Seminars Biomedical & Mental Health Aspects of Autism, 9 a.m.-4:30

p.m., May 4, Doubletree by Hilton Pittsburgh Monroeville Convention Center.

First Growing Butler Event,

8-11:30 a.m., May 7, Conley Resort & Golf Club, 740 Pittsburgh Rd., Butler. Sponsored by the Butler County Chamber of Commerce & St. Barnabas. To register, email Jennifer@ButlerCountyChamber.com.

Counseling Lupus Foundation presents Living

Well with an Autoimmune Disease, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 19, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, 616 N. Highland Ave. For info, contact info@ lupuspa.org or (412)261-5886.

Ask the Attorney, free counseling

for qualified individuals, the 3rd Wed. of every month, 7 p.m., May 16, in North Boroughs, June 20 in Millvale. Pre-register at jmboggs@ nhco.org or (412) 408-3830 x3217.

Berkeley Hills Lutheran Church is

per person. Call, Janine (412) 9316971 or janine.beley@gmail.com.

Saturday Singles Dance, for ages 40+, 8 p.m. to midnight, May 5, Anniversary Dance Party; May 19, Speed Dating & Chile Con Queso w/Nachos. Free dance lesson 7:30 p.m., West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy. Call (724) 316-5029 or www. dancetonight.weebly.com.

Environmental Township of Pine Recycle Rama,

10 a.m.-1 p.m., May 5, Municipal Building parking lot, 230 Pearce Mill Rd. For info, visit http://prc.org/programs/collection-events/hard-recyclecollections/, or call (724) 625-1591.

Western PA Mushroom Club meetings, 7 p.m., Tues., May 15 (cultivation), Jun. 19, Jul. 17, Aug. 21, Sept. 18, Oct. 16 (photo contest results & election of officers), Nov. 20 (potluck dinner & member photos), Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Rd. For info, visit wpamushroomclub.org.

Fundraiser RSG1 Foundation Casbah Benefit Dinner, 6-9 p.m., May 24, Casbah Mediterranean Kitchen, 229 S. Highland Ave. For info, visit https:// rsg1foundation.org/fundraising/.

offering it Stephen Ministry Program for people experiencing grief, divorce, cancer, illnesses, job loss, loss of home, military deployment & other life struggles. Free & confidential program for people of any faith. Call (412) 486-4010 or www. bhlc.org.

Flowers and Fun Bloom at Shaler Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-noon,

Group Services, Intensive Outpatient Program, 5:30-8:30

Greybrooke Garden Club Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 11,

p.m., M,W,Th.,Therapy Group 6-8 p.m., Tues., Family Only Group 7:30-9:00 p.m., 2nd Tues, Psychoeducational Support Group 7-9 p.m., 4th Mon. Contact Anita (412) 2157967, pened1@aol.com, or www. anitasinicropemaier.com.

North Hills Community Outreach

offers multiple programs aimed at helping people attain self-sufficiency, including employment help. For info contact Jackie at jmboggs@nhco.org or (412) 408-3830 x3217.

Dancing & Recreational Events

Gardening May 5, Kiwanis Park, Wetzel Rd. in Glenshaw. For info, visit www.shalergardenclub.com.

McCandless Crossing, in the grassy area by Bonefish Grill, Old Navy & Ethan Allen. For info, contact, Bonnie at (412) 366-3689.

Greybrooke Garden Club presentation, Landscaping in Deer Country, 9:30 a.m., May 9, Parkwood United Presbyterian, Fellowship Hall, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd. for info, contact Bonnie at (412) 366-3689.

Herb Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.,

May 19, Beechwood Farms Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Rd. Sponsored by the Western PA Unit of the Herb Society of America. For details, visit, westernpahsa.org or westernpahsa@ yahoo.com.

Hosta Show, 1-4 p.m., June 2,

311 Cumberland Road, McCandless Twp. Business meeting followed by a light luncheon and speaker. All perspective members are invited. Visit https://www.ingomar-gardenclub.com/

Ingomar Garden Club Spring Plant Sale, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., May 12,

corner of Ingomar Rd. & 9600 Old Perry Hwy. (by Bruster’s). Hanging baskets, perennials, annuals & garden crafts.

Longvue Acres Garden Club

presentation The Basics of Rain Gardens, 7:30 p.m., May 22, Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Hwy., McCandless. Guests are welcome. For info email Patty at pattyb1988@ gmail.com.

Longvue Acres Garden Club Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-noon, May 19,

Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Hwy., McCandless. For info email Patty at pattyb1988@gmail.com.

Health & Wellness

ners); 8-10:30 p.m. (social dance), 1st & 3rd Fri., thru Jun. 1, Orchard Hill. Visit https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/

Soergel Orchards Farm Market. Hosta plant sales starts at 10 a.m. Presented by the Daffodil & Hosta Society of Western PA. For questions, call Jim at (724) 933-3382.

Co-Ed Indoor Soccer for ages 16 &

Country Knight Line Dancers

Ingomar Garden Club meets 10:30

up, 7:30-9 p.m., Tues., thru May 22, Orchard Hill Church. For info, visit https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/.

Ballroom Dancing, 7-8 p.m. (begin-

host a line dance 7-10:30 p.m. every Wed., in St. Athanasius Hall, cost $5

a.m., the 1st Wed. of the month, thru Nov., at St. John’s Lutheran Church,

up, 7:30-9 p.m., Thurs., thru May 24, Orchard Hill Church. For info, visit https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/.

Co-Ed Volleyball for ages 16 &

Diabetes Prevention program

beginning the first week of June at the Butler and Rose E. Schneider family YMCA. The program is a partnership with the CDC and Adagio Health. For info, visit https:// www.bcfymca.org

Parkinson’s Exercise programs

are available at the Oxford Athletic Club in Wexford. For details, visit http://www.oxfordathleticclub.com/ knocking-out-parkinsons-with-thenewest-programs-at-oxford/ or call (724) 933-1911.

Revelations Fitness® Fusion (car-

dio, strength & flexibility) classes, 9:30 a.m., Mon; 6:30 p.m., Thurs., 2 p.m., Sundays, Get Moving for those with special needs, Woodland Valley Church, Mars; 6:30 p.m., Tues., Revelations Fitness® Fusion, North Way Christian Community. Contact heather.simplynatural@gmail.com.

Tai Chi Classes, gentle martial

art that provides health benefits, 1:30 p.m., Tues., at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., corner of Rochester Rd., Franklin Park. Visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 364-5974.

Tai Chi Exercise for Exercise,

11 a.m.-12:15 p.m., thru Jun. 23, (no meeting May 26), Orchard Hill Church. For info, visit https://www. orchardhillchurch.com/. (Continued on page 44)

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Western PA Professional Business Association Network Breakfast, 7:15 a.m., Tuesdays,

King’s Restaurant, Rt. 8, Gibsonia. Call Mary Ann, at (724) 935-2221 or www.wpabusiness.com.

Outreach Donate your vehicle to NHCO’s

Transportation Assistance program. Free pickup or towing and hassle-free donation process. For details, visit nhco.org/donate/donate-car or (412) 408-3830 x3225.

Knitters needed to join the Busy

Hands Group at The Olive Branch Fair Trade Store and Missions. The group meets 9:15-11:15 a.m., 1st & 3rd Monday of the month, at 11160 Perry Highway in Wexford. Bring your needles! For info, call (724) 799-8700,

Nativity Lutheran Church, 4517

Mt. Royal Blvd. in Allison Park is a donation site for non-perishable groceries for North Hills Community Outreach for its three food pantries. Drop-off hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit, www.nativitylutheranchurch15101.org.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Pathways program

VA Butler Healthcare will be offer-

ing flu vaccination clinics to Veterans at the main campus, CommunityBased Outpatient Clinics, and other community locations this fall. For a list of date and times, call (724) 2874781 or 1-800-362-8262.

Historical Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table lecture The Unfinished Work: Gettysburg During World Wars I & II, 7 p.m., May 21, Hampton Township Community Center. Free & open to the public.

Library Northern Tier Library, Three

Seasons of Color, 6:30 p.m., May 1; Earthquakes, Hurricanes & Fires, Oh My, 6:30 p.m., May 14; Plant & Garden Sale, 7-9 p.m., May 16 & 10-5 p.m., May 18 & 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 19; Kids Story Times & Summer Reading Club at various times. Visit www.northerntierlibrary.org or (724) 449-2665.

Northland Library, I Can Relate

to That: A Mental Health Q&A, 6:30 p.m., May 10; Northeast PA Coal & Folk Music, 7 p.m., May 18; Journey Form the Attic, 7 p.m., May 21; That Was Vaudeville, 7 p.m., May 24; Tea-Ing Up For Summer: Iced Tea Workshop, 7 p.m., May 31. For info, visit www.northlandlibrary.org or (412) 366-8100.

Networking AM Spirit Business Link Chapter,

a business networking group, meets 11:45 a.m. every Wed, at Bistro 9101, 9101 Perry Hwy., McCandless Twp. Call Roy at rrudl@northwood. com.

AM Spirit Cranberry Chapter, a

business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Wed, at North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Glen (412) 916-8699.

AM Spirit McCandless Chapter, a

business networking group, meets at noon every Wed, at Bistro 9101, Rt. 19, McCandless Twp. Call Glen (412) 916-8699.

AM Spirit Pittsburgh North Chapter, a business networking

group, meets 8 a.m. every Thurs, at Sports Grille at Cranberry. Call Glen (412) 916-8699.

AM Spirit Wexford Chapter,

a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Mon, at Eat N’ Park, Franklin Village. Visit https://www.amspirit.com/chapter. php?chapter=Wexford.

Amity Lodge #45 affiliated with

Italian Sons & Daughters of America is welcoming new members. Meetings are held the 2nd Sunday of the month with a social & refreshments. If interested, call Joanne at (724) 443-8303.

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

offers goal-setting help for those who are struggling. Call Abby at North Boroughs (412) 307-0069; Nicole in Millvale (412) 408-3830 or Shela in McKees Rocks (412) 331-1685 x233.

North Hills Community Outreach’s staff or volunteer speakers will speak to your congregation, civic group or school at no charge. For details, contact Jen at JLKissel@ nhco.org or (412) 487-6316 opt. 1 x3112.

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.

Toy Drive to help immigrants

in underway during May, at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., Franklin Park. For details, visit www.stbrendans.org or (412) 364-5974.

UPMC Passavant Auxiliary is

looking for dedicated people who wish to support UPMC Passavant McCandless & Cranberry. The group meets 10 a.m., the 2nd Mon. of each month. (Sept-thru Jun.) For details, call (412) 748-6640 or burkea2@ ph.upmc.edu.

Races & Walks Great Allegheny Passage 5K/10K Run & 2 Mile Fun Walk, May 12, Arthur H. King Access Area of the Great Allegheny Passage in West

Newton. Register before Apr. 12 to get a free t-shirt. For details, visit www.bikewytc.org.

Mars Band on the Run 5K Run/ Walk, 8:55 a.m., May 19, at Mars Area High School. To register, visit www.marsband5k.com.

Run for the Health of It! Join Passavant Hospital Foundation’s team in the Dick’s Sporting Goods Marathon, May 5 & 6. Sign up at, www.crowdrise.com/passavantpitt2018. Questions? Call (412) 748-6648. St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church hiking group hits the trails every

three weeks. The group meets at 9 a.m., each hike is followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant. For details, visit www.stbrendans.org or (412) 364-5974.

Walk for NHCO in the Highmark Walk, May 12. Register at http:// hcf.convio.net/nhco. Contact Maria at mschristina@nhco.org or (412) 408-3830.

Sales St. Aloysius Spring Rummage Sale, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., May 5 & 12:30

p.m.-3:30 p.m., May 6, 3616 Mt. Troy Rd. Visit https://saintaloysiuspittsburgh.org or call (412) 821-2351.

School & Classes College Kickstart Day (Open

Houses), 10 a.m.-1 p.m., May 12 & 3-6 p.m., July 18, all eight campuses of Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). For info, email admissions@ccac.edu.

Farewell to Jeffery Primary, 6:307:30 p.m., May 2, Jeffery Primary School, 201 Wetzel Rd., Shaler. For info, visit http://www.sasd.k12. pa.us/.

Global Development and Humanitarian Aid Training, May

21-25, La Roche College. For info, email emily.markham@laroche.edu or call (412) 536-1215.

La Roche College is offering summer college courses which run

from three weeks up to 10 weeks. For info, visit laroche.edu or email registrar@laroche.edu or (412) 536-1083.

Leadership program, presented

by Fox Chapel Area School District and Dale Carnegie & Associates, Jun. 18-28. For details, email Lisa_Gibson@fcasd.edu or (412) 967-2479.

North Allegheny Kennywood Day is June 21. Discounted admission tickets are $30. Tickets available at all of the NA district’s schools on May 30, in the Athletic Office beginning May 1 & online May 1-Jun. 19 at www.Kennywood.com/na. For

(Continued on page 46)

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

Hospital Conference Center, McCandless Twp. Free of charge, no registration is necessary. Call (412) 748-6640.

GriefShare, 7-8:30 p.m., Thurs.,

Bereavement Support Group (for

Grief Support Group for widows

widows/widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., St. Sebastian Parish, Haber Hall. To register, call Anchorpoint at (412) 366-1300.

Bereavement Support Group in

Lupus Foundation meetings,

Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group, noon-1:15 p.m., 3rd Weds.,

Metastatic Cancer Support Group, 5-6:30 p.m., 1st Thur. of each

Brain Injury Support Group,

Mind Matters, 7-9 p.m., every 3rd Thurs., of the month, Butler Memorial Hospital, East Brady St. in the Dimmick Center. Call (724) 283-6666.

St. Stephen’s Church Classical Academy, located in Sewickley

Village is open for enrollment for grades 1-3. For details, visit https:// classicalchristian.org/measure-it.

St. Vincent College Scholarship Fundraiser Maifest, 6 p.m., May

19, at the Fred M. Rogers Center at St. Vincent. For info email alumni@ stvincent.edu or (724) 805-2568.

Shows The Royal Wedding will be

televised 6-11 a.m., May 19, at The Rangos Giant Cinema at the Carnegie Science Center. For info, visit CarnegieScienceCenter.org or call (412) 237-3400.

Spring Events Afternoon Tea, 2-4 p.m., May 6,

St. Ferdinand Church, Oldenski Hall, 2535 Rochester Road, Cranberry Twp. Advanced reservations are required by Apr. 30. Call (724) 6253388.

Depreciation Lands Museum,

Children’s Heritage Day, 1-4 p.m., May 6, 4743 S Pioneer Rd, Allison Park. For info, visit DLMuseum@ gmail.com or (412) 486-0563.

May 20, both events will be held at Montour Heights Country Club in Moon Twp. For info, visit https:// hopegrows.net/ or call (412) 369HOPE (4673).

North Hills Community Outreach

is collecting spring cleaning supplies for distribution to the families who use its three pantries. Need supplies by June 8 for NHCO in Hampton & North Boroughs in Bellevue. For info, visit nhco.org or (412) 487-6316, opt. 1.

Summer Events Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social,

1-4 p.m., Jul. 15, Depreciation Land Museum in Allison Park. Visit http:// www.depreciationlandsmuseum.org/ or call (412) 486-0563.

Support Groups Amputee Support Group, 4-5:30

p.m., 3rd Wed. of every month, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley, 3rd Floor Boardroom, 303 Camp Meeting Rd., Sewickley. For info, call Michelle at (412) 7492388.

Bereavement Support Group,

Beyond Bridge to Hope, 7-8:30 p.m., 2nd Wed., of every month, Passavant

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

7-8:30 p.m., every 3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. Call (412) 2615886 or ccallen92@aol.com.

month, UPMC Passavant HospitalMcCandless. For cancer patients and survivors with metastatic disease. Caregivers are welcomed. No cost to attend. Led by Wendy Myers, MSW, LSW. Free parking & light refreshments. Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center. New members register at (412) 622-1212.

MISS Foundation (Mothers in

8 p.m., 3rd Thurs., AHN Health & Wellness Pavilion. Free & open to cancer patients & caregivers over 18, no students. Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center. Register at (412) 622-1212.

Sympathy and Support) for those grieving the loss of a child – includes miscarriages, still birth and prematurity. Meetings held 7:30 p.m., 1st Tues of the month, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Cumberland Rd., McCandless. Contact Laurie. Jackson@missfoundation.org.

Breast Cancer Support Groups,

Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m.,

Brain Tumor Support Group, 6:30-

Hope Grows “Tee Time” Golf Classic & A Victorian Tea. Golf Classic, May 14, A Victorian Tea,

and widowers over fifty, 2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., of the month, St. Sebastian Parish, 311 Siebert Rd. Visit http://www.saintsebastianparish.org/

the North Hills, 10-11:30 a.m., 2nd & 4th Thurs. of each month, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd., Allison Park. To register, call (724) 334-6600.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Sewickley, 3rd Floor Board Room. For info, call Michelle at (412) 7492388.

additional info, contact the Athletic Dept at http://athletics.northallegheny.org/department/ubo or (724) 934-7238.

thru May 31, Room 205, upper level, Orchard Hill. For details, visit orchardhillchurch.com.

5:30-7 p.m., 3rd Mon., AGH Hospital; 7-8:30 p.m.,1st & 3rd Weds, UPMC Passavant Cranberry; 6-7:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., AHN Health & Wellness Pavilion. Free & open to cancer patients & caregivers over 18, no students. Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center. Register at (412) 622-1212.

Bridge to Hope, 7 p.m., every Wed., of the month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, at Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless Twp. For drug & alcohol addiction. Visit bridge2hope.org, or call (412) 7485120. bridge2hope.org.

Tues, at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., corner of Rochester Rd. in Franklin Park. For info, visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 364-5974.

Parkinson’s Support Group, 10

a.m., 1st Tues of each month, Rose E. Schneider YMCA. For details, contact Dale at (724) 591-8121 or d.reckless@mrsphysicaltherapy.com.

Parkinson’s Support Group,

1-2:30 p.m., last Wed of each month, HealthSouth Harmarville, 320 Guys Run Rd. Contact Jessica, at (412) 828-1300 x7710.

Christian 12-Step Recovery, 7-9

Recovery from Codependency,

Compulsive Eaters Anonymous,

Recovery for Parents of Addicts,

p.m., Kidzburgh 4th-5th grade room, Orchard Hill Church. Visit orchardhillchurch.com. 10:30 a.m., Tues., Prayer Room of Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Rd., McCandless. For info, call Jane at (412) 951-9517.

Divorce Care, 7-9 p.m., Thurs.,

thru May 31, Room 201, Upper level, Orchard Hill. For details, visit orchardhillchurch.com.

General Cancer Center Support Groups, 6:30-8 p.m., 2nd & 4th

Weds, UPMC Passavant Cranberry. Free & open to cancer patients & caregivers over 18, no students. Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center. Register at (412) 622-1212.

7-9 p.m., Kidzburgh 3-yr old room, Orchard Hill Church. Visit orchardhillchurch.com. 7-9 p.m., Kidzburgh K-1 room, Orchard Hill Church. Visit orchardhillchurch.com.

S.P.I.N. For Single Moms: 6-7:30

p.m., 4th Monday of the Month in Bellevue. For details, call (412) 3661300.

Stroke Support Group, 1-2:30 p.m.,

once a month on Weds., HealthSouth Harmarville, 320 Guys Run Rd., For info, contact Valerie at (412) 826-2784 or valerie.bucek@healthsouth.com.

Under One Roof supports people

who are housing extended family members under their roof. The group meets 6:30 p.m. every other Wed. at

Iarrapino’s EXTERIOR PRESSURE WASHING for your House Wash off Green Algae/ Black Mold from Siding, Stone, Brick, Walkways, Decks, etc. Also PAINTING both Exterior and Interior. 22 Years Experience

CALL TODAY! 412-901-7112 St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., Franklin Park. St. For details, visit www.stbrendans. org or (412) 364-5974.

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.

treatments to & from their appts. Call (412) 9191100 or emailsharon.stalter@cancer.org.

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council volunteer

tutors needed to work with adult literacy students on basic literacy skills, 4 hour/week commitment. Free tutor training provided. Call (412) 393-7600 or http://www.gplc.org/become-a-volunteer.cfm.

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers for their patients. Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, just have the heart! Call (412) 367-3685.

Mission Vision needs volunteers to help with

Provide vision–Give hope. Call (724) 553-3114 or www.mission-vision.org.

Seeking hospice volunteers...if you can find the

time to sit with hospice patients, we would love to have you. Call Bethany Hospice, at (412) 921-2209.

Tutoring volunteers needed for Anchorpoint’s Tutoring Mentoring Program. For details, call (412) 366-1300 x123.

Volunteers needed at The Emmaus Community of Pittsburgh, 282 Sarah Street on the Southside. Help make a difference in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities. Call (412) 381-0277 or www.EmmausPgh.org.

CALLING ALL TRAP SHOOTERS Wounded Heroes Hunting Camp 7th Annual Trap Shoot for Heroes Saturday June 9, 2018 Northside Sportsmen’s Association Benefits Wounded Veterans For more information or to register go to WHHC.org

Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs Awarded VA Grants to Support Disabled Veterans in Adaptive Sports at Slippery Rock University. Visit www.va.gov/adaptivesports.

VA Butler Healthcare’s Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Program now offers Veterans the opportunity to work one-on-one with a personal trainer in its Wellness Center at the Abie Abraham VA Health Care Center. For info, visit https://www. butler.va.gov/services/Health_and_Wellness.asp or call, 878-271-6484.

Veterans Breakfast Club Meetings, held every month throughout the Pittsburgh region. For details, visit http://veteransbreakfastclub.com/.

Veterans Discover HOPE Here -Career, 3rd Wed.,

6:30-8:45 p.m., Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 779-8323, discoverhopehere@gmail.com or www.discoverhopehere.com.

Veterans Fitness Classes 5 Days a week, 4:30-

5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. Visit www.prevention.va.gov/B_Physically_ Active.asp.

Veteran HOPE, support group for women Veterans recovering from mental illness, meet 6-8 p.m., every Tues., VA Butler Healthcare, Room 217WS, Building 1. Call (724) 996—8892 or (724) 285-2756 or butlerva.gov.

Veterans’ Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Support Group, 10 a.m., Fridays, VA Butler Healthcare. Call 800-362-8262 ext. 2498.

“Veteran X” mental health & substance abuse

recovery program for vets meets 6 p.m., every Mon., at VA Butler Healthcare, Room 213, East South (ES), 325 N. Castle Rd., Butler. Visit http:// www.butler.va.gov/.

Volunteer Opportunities American Cancer Society is looking for volun-

teers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing

Pressley Ridge Breaks Ground for School for Autism and Deaf

n March 29, Pressley Ridge broke ground for a new state-of-the-art school designed to create positive learning experiences for children with autism and deafness. Pressley Ridge’s President and CEO, Susanne Cole, spoke to attendees, which included board members, supporters, county dignitaries and government officials. A tented reception and light lunch followed the ceremony. Although Pressley Ridge has been serving students with these special needs for more than 20 years, there was not a designated facility that catered to the students’ specific requirements. The schools will now have a permanent location on Pressley Ridge’s Marshall Avenue campus located on the North Side of Pittsburgh. The new building for the Pressley Ridge School for Autism and Pressley Ridge School for the Deaf is expected to be open for the 2019-2020 school year. These schools will provide enhanced learning experiences for students with autism and those who are deaf or hard of hearing. The school was designed with the help of autism and deaf experts to serve the unique population of students in the most effective way possible. Pressley Ridge’s PR2020: Building a School for Successful Futures Campaign will support the financing of the $12 million facility. To date, a total of $3.55 million has been raised to support construction of the new school. “We want to create a sensory-friendly space that is designed to meet the unique needs of these two populations and where parents are proud to send their kids to receive optimal learning opportunities,” said Ms. Cole. “The PR2020 Campaign provides an opportunity for the community to be a part of this special project by donating funds that will really make a difference in the lives of so many deserving and eager students,” said Ms. Cole. For more information on Pressley Ridge School for Autism and Deaf and the PR2020 Campaign, visit www.pressleyridge.org/pr2020.html. 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2018

NC T R I V I A

Baby Animal Trivia By Paula Green

MAY 2018 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

such as eaglet (eagle); froglet (frog); and owlet (owl); piglet (pig) and snakelet (snake). A few other baby animals that we’ll enlighten you with are: a baby pigeon is a squab or squeaker, an infant porcupine is a porcupette and a baby partridge is a cheeper. An infant hen is known as a pullet, and a young rooster is called a cockrell. Since we have explored baby animal names, we must now crawl our way through this infant exam. Get set to cradle your thoughts because it’s time to get a little trivial... 1. 2. 3. 4.

A baby goat is called a billy or a ____. A peacock gives birth to a _____? November is turkey month – what do we call a turkey tot? This mama is a llama, but what’s her baby called? (alpaca infants are called this too) 5. An infant swan is known as a flapper or a _____. 6. A soft, furry lamb is the baby to this mother. 7. Who knew that a baby gnu is called this_______? 8. Baby frogs are known as tadpoles, froglets or this other name______. 9. The donkey, horse and zebra babies are called a colt or a _____? 10. Caterpillar, larva, pupa, chrysalis are all infant stages for this insect. 11. An infant boar and a baby pig are called a piglet, shoat and this other name? 12. Some folks enjoy oysters, what is an infant one called? 13. The baby koala bear, kangaroo, possum, wallaby and wombat are called a _____. 14. Bunny is the name for a baby rabbit, what do we call an infant hare? 15. The watchful hawk soars high to protect its baby, which is called an _____? Sources: http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/animals/Animalbabies.shtml, http:// www.dictionary.com/e/s/baby-animals/#leveret, http://mentalfloss.com/article/48847/11lesser-known-names-baby-animals, http://www.zooborns.com/zooborns/baby-animal-names. html Answers: 1. kid 2. peachick 3. poult 4. cria 5. cygnet 6. sheep 7. calf 8. polliwog 9. foal 10. butterfly 11. farrow 12. spat 13. joey 14. leveret 15. eyas

baby deer is called a fawn, and an infant cat is a kitten. There are many interesting names for little ones in the animal kingdom. This month we observe Mother’s Day, and in June we commemorate Father’s Day. In honor of these parental celebrations, we’re going to examine baby animal names. Humans have babies or infants, but did you know that there are other animals that have infants as well? These animals include baboons, gorillas, lemurs and monkeys. A little ape is called a baby. The aardvark, antelope, bison, buffalo, camel, caribou, cattle, cow, dolphin, elephant, elk, giraffe, hippopotamus, manatee, moose, ox, porpoise, rhinoceros, whale and yak all have a baby called a “calf.” It’s commonly known that an infant dog is a “pup,” but there several other animals that have “pups” as well. They include: the anteater, armadillo, bat, beaver, coyote, gerbil, guinea pig, hamster, hedgehog, mole, mouse, otter, rat, seal, shark, squirrel, walrus and wolf. A platypus has a platypup. Cub is another popular name for a baby animal. A bear has a cub, and so does the badger, cheetah, hyena, leopard, lion, panda, raccoon, tiger, walrus and wolf. There are also numerous baby animals referred to as a “kit.” A few kits in the animal realm include the beaver, ferret, fox, mink, muskrat, skunk, weasel and woodchuck. We also see many infant animals referred to as a chick. A chicken obviously has a chick, but so does the crane, crow, dove, emu, falcon, finch, grouse, gull, heron, hummingbird, lark, ostrich, parrot, penguin, pheasant, quail and wren. In the aquatic world, a young salmon is a smolt; an eel is known as an elver. A baby jellyfish is called an ephyna. Clams, sand dollars, sea urchins and starfish babies are referred to as larva. Speaking of “larva,” that is a common name for many insects such as a bee, gnat, hornet, termite, wasp and yellow jacket. Nymph is another baby name for some insects. The cicada, cockroach, grasshopper, louse, and mosquito all have nymphs. Baby flies are called maggots. Some baby animal names end with the suffix “ling.” A few examples are – antling (ant); duckling (duck); fingerling (fish – it’s also called a fry), fledgling (eagle), gosling (goose); hatchling (alligator, bird, crocodile and turtle); and spiderling (spider). Other baby animal names end with the suffix “let.” These include animals

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

HOPE Don’t GIVE UP!

Dr. Shawn Richey

“Dr. Shawn’s office along with his help from Kelly are like Family. Tom, Pittsburgh

“I couldn’t sleep from the pain and tingling. That has lessened. Also had trouble with the balance. That is now better.” Terri, Aliquippa

Join our private neuropathy group on Facebook Share stories about the journey to better health, support and learn from one another. Find our support group on Facebook under: Chiropractic Family Health Center Private Neuropathy Support Group Or find the link on our website: Chiropractic Family Health Center - Chiropractor, Peripheral Neuropathy, & Weightloss Services - WEIGHTLOSS

“I can feel the pedals in my car again. I am 85% better!”

Once thought to be incurable, peripheral

neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol is available at the Chiropractic Family Health Center. It includes seven specific treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Dr. Shawn’s SUPERVISED, MONITORED and IN OFFICE program combines the newest and most advance technologies that are FDA approved, painless and noninvasive. Seeing over 3000 patients and with a 90% satisfaction rate he tailors a plan for each individual to provide maximum results. Dr. Richey has expanded his practice to include Westmoreland as well as Allegheny Counties. Chiropractic Family Health Center now has offices in both Sewickley at 2591 Wexford-Bayne Road, Suite 207 and Latrobe at 1901 Ligonier Street. For a FREE Consultation, contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000 and your appointment will be made at the location that is most convenient for you. To learn more, visit www.backnline.com.

Bill, Irwin

“I was just about to resort to a wheelchair and now I am cane free.” Harold, Irwin

“I don’t have to take Neurontin anymore.”

Leann, Ellwood City

“I am now able to stand and talk to someone without sitting. Also able to sit down on the floor and play with my new granddaughter.” Janie, Freedom