May 2020 issue of Northern Connection Magazine

May 2020

CONNECTING YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 21 YEARS

Dr. Bridget Chufo

Eating in Times of Crisis Also...

• Women in Business • Notable Nurses Trivia • Memorializing Iwo Jima • Facts from the Farm

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

May

Features

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10 Cover Story: Dr. Bridget Chufo: Addressing the When’s, What’s, Where’s, Why’s and How’s of Eating Janice Lane Palko 12 Celebrating Women in Business 16 Celebrating Women in Health Care 24 Facts From the Farm Ron Eichner

Health & Wellness 20 If You Listen to Your Body, It May Tell You That It Needs Medical Marijuana Janice Lane Palko

22 A Silent Syndrome is Lurking in Women’s Health Belinda Burchick

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Kids & Education 26 School Movers & Shakers 28 Super Teacher – Mallory Gurney

Advertorials 7

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many events usually featured in our Happenings and Senior Happenings have been cancelled. Therefore, we have not published those sections in the May issue. We will update our website when we learn of activities resuming. Also, it would be advisable to check with any business or organization hosting an event to make sure that it is still scheduled before venturing out.

In Every Issue...

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From the Publisher

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Movers & Shakers

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Marion Piotrowski

Mover & Shaker of the Month: John Lovra 29 Support Our Troops: Memorializing 75 Years of Iwo Jima Paula Green Paula Green

21 Trivia Connection: Notable Nurses Trivia Paula Green

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22 From the Editor: When Little Things Are Big Things Janice Lane Palko

MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Welcome to the May Issue of Northern Connection Magazine!

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

M

ay has always been one of my favorite months of the year. I enjoy the spring weather and the first spring flowers with all their beautiful colors. For most of us, this spring has been spent in self-quarantine. It is a bit different living life from the inside of our house or office. If you’re able to get out occasionally to the store, it is a lot different than it was a few weeks ago. You are now equipped with gloves, masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. I have been thinking about the first responders, health care professionals, bankers and store workers. It is not just another usual day at work for them, and I sure do not take for granted that they are working and providing us with necessary foods and services.

We at Northern Connection “May you always remain Magazine are doing our part in young at heart and continue publishing a magazine that brings good news to our community. We to spread cheer among have been working with our adveryour loved ones.” tisers and readers to help keep you informed about our community. In Author Unknown this difficult time, we are seeing so many people of all ages doing kind and wonderful deeds. I hope that when this is behind us, we will not forget that we got through this by all of us pulling together and doing our part.

Thank you to all the Women in Business and Health Care Professionals for all you do and for making this issue special.

Enjoy reading this month’s special features along with our regular monthly columns.

Thank you for your continued support, and together, we make our community an outstanding place to live and work! n

Phone: 724-940-2444 Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com

President & Publisher

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko Laura Arnold laura@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 Mary Simpson marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Janice Lane Palko ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Happy Mother’s Day!

Joella Baker Belinda Burchick Ron Eichner Paula M. Green Janice Lane Palko Marianne Reid Anderson Kelly Smith Distribution

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Keep in touch with Northern Connection on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest

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.

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Movers & Shakers Kevin Amick was appointed as the new Director of the Butler VA Health Care System at the main facility, the Abie Abraham VA Clinic.

Turner Dairy is commemorating their 90th Anniversary. To celebrate, the company released their latest Limited-Edition Flavored Milk – Birthday Cake, which is available in stores. Turner has been releasing limited edition flavors for the past five years, to which they credit much of their success.

“We couldn’t be more thankful for our Team Members and farm partners who are on the front lines during these unprecedented circumstances to keep all of our customers stocked,” said Chuck Turner Jr. For more information, visit www.turnerdairy.net.

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Pittsburgh orthopaedic surgeon Thomas S. Muzzonigro, MD, FAAOS, was named chair of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ (AAOS) Board of Councilors (BOC). Dr. Muzzonigro practices out of Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers of Pittsburgh.

Sarris Candies in Canonsburg donated thousands of Easter chocolates to the hospital doctors and staff at: UPMC Hospitals, Allegheny General Hospital, Canonsburg Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Southwest Psychiatric Hospital, Boys and Girls Club and the Food Bank.

In response to the economic and community challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Farmers Charitable Foundation donated $25,000 to regional charities needing accelerated assistance such as food banks, food delivery services and regional food sources. The Farmers Charitable Foundation was formed in 2018 by Farmers National Banc Corp. and is managed by The Farmers Trust Company.

ADVERTORIAL

Betty P. As heard on KDKA

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

HOPE Don’t GIVE UP!

Get Your “ING” Back!

Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol utilizing brand new technologies is available at the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of PGH. It includes the combination of very specific, non invasive, FDA approved and painless treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Ray B. walkING again

Cindy P. sleepING again

Dr. Shawn’s SUPERVISED, MONITORED and IN OFFICE program has a 90 percent satisfaction rate. With the experience of seeing over 5000 patients, he is able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results.

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • Sharp Pains or Cramps in the Feet or Legs • Burning Pain in the Legs, Feet or Hands Take • Extreme Sensitivity to Touch PREQU our ALIFY ING • Loss of Balance or Coordination www.M SURVEY at aryDa ncedIn • Feelings of Walking on Pins and Needles .com • Weakness in the Arms and Legs • Numbness and Tingling or Pain in the Toes, Feet, Hands, Arms and Fingers • Dependency on Medications If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait till they get worse. Call today to schedule your FREE consultation.

I have Myasthenia Gravis and Polymyalgia Rheumatica. When I told the doctors my legs were tiring, and having numbness of course they said it was from M.G. and P.R. This was 8 years ago. I was told this by my neurologists in Pennsylvania and Florida. They increased my meds and I got worse.

The Doctor in Florida decreased my meds back to where I was and had me see another specialist.

I now had burning in legs and feet. The Doctor ran tests on my legs and when finished said I had Peripheral Neuropathy. I was put on medication.

They increased my meds as Neuropathy got worse.

My legs and feet felt like someone held fire to them.

My balance was very bad and was told to use a cane, which I did for last several years. One doctor said I would end up in a wheelchair. I found Dr. Shawn Richey in the FiftyFive+ magazine. I called, asked him a lot of questions, and made an appointment for three days later. I was really scared that I was going to a scam artist. I have not used a cane since my 12th treatment, eliminated my meds, and my legs now have no burning or numbness. Dr. Richey’s moon boots did the trick for me. I feel 100% better than when I started. It’s the best investment I’ve ever made! I have a life back. Love how excited Kelly, Karen and Dr Shawn get with each new progression I had. I have recommended friends to Dr. Richey. My friends ask who helped you. They can see with their own eyes how I have improved.

Neuropathy Treatment Centers of PGH Three Locations: Sewickley 2591 Wexford-Bayne Rd, Suite 207

Latrobe

During COVID19 stay-at-home we are offering FREE PHONE CONSULTATIONS to qualify all new patients and begin the path to recovery. Call Dr. Shawn Richey at 724-940-9000 to schedule your time.

1385 Washington Rd., Suite 100

Visit us on Facebook under Neuropathy Treatment Centers of PGH and join our private support group

MaryDancedIn.com (724) 940-9000

1901 Ligonier Street

Washington, Pa

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Mover & Shaker of the Month

John Lovra Cycling in Support of Children’s Cancer Research Fund

By Paula Green

J

ohn Lovra is committed to making a difference in the battle against pediatric cancers. In September, he will be participating in the annual Great Cycle Challenge.

Lovra, 64, of Coraopolis, is planning to ride 300 miles and raise $5,000 for the Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF). “This is the sixth time I have participated in this cycling event. During those years, I rode 1,239 miles and raised $8941.35,” said John.

Lovra has seen the pain that cancer can cause, and it has stemmed from within his own family. His mother, sister and two brothers had been diagnosed and defeated cancer.

“For two years, I did fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, which was the type of cancer my

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MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

brother had. Then, six years ago, I saw an article on Facebook about the Great Cycle Challenge. I was alarmed when I read that only 4% of government funding went to finding cures for childhood cancer. I further learned that few treatments had been approved specifically for kid’s cancer. Suddenly, I realized that should one of my grandkids ever be diagnosed, they would receive the same treatments that my adult family members went through. I couldn’t bear the thought of that happening. So I signed up and have been doing this ever since,” said John.

“Last year, because of my previous work for the organization, I was named a GCC Champion and was bestowed with the task of helping others get involved. Since that time, another brother and my wife have also battled and defeated cancer,” John added.

John has been cycling for over 20 years. “I rode as a kid and started again about 20 years ago to keep my weight down. During good weather, I average 200 miles per month, but will ride no matter the weather in September,” John noted. He originally was going to cycle in June, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was pushed back until September.

“After completing my 300 miles, I feel great and have a sense of accomplishment, but that isn’t what is important.

I ride for the kids, and meeting my fundraising goal is what means the most,” John said.

John is retired from the postal service after 28 years of service. He currently works part-time as a substitute custodian for the Moon Area School District.

John married his wife MaryEllen in 1981. They have one daughter, Tanya Marie Mellinger, and four grandchildren, Raeannah and Meghan Clark and Ava and Kaleb Mellinger.

To learn more about John’s Great Cycle Challenge USA and to make a donation, please visit www.greatcyclechallenge.com/Riders/JohnLovra n

THANK YOU! All of us at Northern Connection Magazine would like to thank ALL of the frontline and essential workers that are keeping our community running and our families fed.

Make sure to visit our website and follow us on Instragram and Facebook to read uplifting stories about how our community is coming together during the COVID19 crisis.

724-940-2444

www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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COVER STORY

Dr. Bridget Chufo Addressing the When’s, What’s, Where’s, Why’s and How’s of Eating

By Janice Lane Palko

For more than 40 years, Dr. Bridget Chufo 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.

“R

ecently, I’ve come to a new approach with weight loss. I take the approach of helping patients make choices, deliberately about what they put into their mouths,” said Dr. Chufo, who is part medical professional, part psychological counselor, part motivating coach and part empathetic friend. “I want to help them choose the foods they want, not because it’s there or because everyone else is eating it or because it is a habit, but rather because they want to enjoy the taste of that particular food. When that choice is made, I want to help them understand it’s OK to enjoy it and not feel guilty.”

Unlike our cavemen ancestors, we, many times, don’t eat for fuel. Most of us, who are overweight, eat to “feed” our emotions. With the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Chufo has seen emotional eating increase, especially from feelings of stress and boredom. “This has been a very challenging time for most every-

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one, and for those who are struggling to lose weight and improve their health, it’s added an even greater challenge,” said Dr. Chufo.

Sadly, we’ve seen that many of those who are most vulnerable to the Coronavirus are those who have underlying medical conditions related to obesity and unhealthy diets. Those who are obese with respiratory, cardiac and diabetic conditions have faced a much greater incidence of complication and death.

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 on Obesity and Weight Loss from New York University, with postdoctoral work at Duke University.

She has helped thousands upon thousands of patients throughout the

MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Northeast and Chicago. She 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 and has also hosted an hour-long talk show on KDKA-radio every Saturday for 18 years with Rob Pratte.

Along the way, Dr. Chufo has garnered many awards and honors including being selected Woman of the Year by The Biological Institute and its Board of International Research. She was a finalist for the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and one of Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women in Business. In addition, she has been highly involved in the community. She has served on the boards of DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, The Hearing Center of Children’s Hospital and the American Liver Foundation.

“I lived in New York City for many years, and though this is not a terrorist

attack, what NYC is dealing with the suffering with the Coronavirus reminds me of how important health is to survivability.

During the terrorist attacks of 9/11, we saw how hard it was for those who were obese to escape the towers, how they could not navigate the stairs or run away from the buildings. Like then, being obese or in poor health, comprises those with the virus too,” said Dr. Chufo.

But Dr. Chufo offers hope for those wanting to lose weight, improve their health and optimize their ability to survive the Coronavirus should they have the misfortune of contracting the virus. “I counsel my patients to avoid or decrease the amount of SADS – Starches, Alcohol, Dairy and Sweets,“ said Dr. Chufo. “These are the foods we turn to when we are bored or stressed. Few people settle down with a bowl of broccoli when they are upset. They turn to ice cream, cookies, pizza—I find pizza is the No. 1 comfort food and cheese, the most sought ingredient.”

In addition to gaining weight, when we eat SADS, we find that we feel fatigued, moody, and our sleep is not restorative.

“Sugar is the main culprit. SADS convert to sugar. Dairy is classified in this group because it is high in fat and salt,” said Dr. Chufo. “We are finding that sugar and dairy are highly inflammatory to the body and major inflammation is the culprit in many health problems.”

Dr. Chufo often acts as a detective, trying to get to the root of what makes a patient engage in emotional eating. “So much of our emotional eating comes from when we were young. We associate food with feelings. If you were sad and your mother gave you a cookie to cheer you up, guess what you turn to when you are feel-

ing down? If you made good grades and were rewarded with candy, how do you think you want to celebrate when you are an adult?”

During her counseling sessions, she estimates that 10% of the time is spent talking about food per se, and what has been eaten, and the rest of the time is spent exploring the choices made and what was happening when the food was consumed and different future alternatives. Her approach to weight loss is three pronged: “I counsel lifestyle changes related to food, prescribe supplements that elevate the metabolism, makes one not hungry physically or emotionally, gives energy and reduces inflammation, all of which impact weight loss significantly. A couple of supplements are coined ‘willpower in a capsule’ and the ‘fat-seeking missile.’ All supplements recommended accelerate weight loss and make one feel good, be healthier, and can be taken with most all prescription meds. Patients are advised to see Dr. Chufo weekly. This accountability works in a marvelous way,” said Dr. Chufo.

Dr. Chufo knows that everyone is an individual and tailors her program accordingly. She treats everyone from children to seniors. “I’ve always approached weight loss in a holistic way because it works. I look at the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and financial aspects of one’s weight loss journey because this is not a diet; it is a lifestyle change to maintain forever,” said Dr. Chufo.

To enlist Dr. Chufo’s help in your quest to lose weight, all you need do is give her a call. Her Weight Loss & Wellness Center is in the Pine Tree Shoppes at 11279 Perry Highway, Pine Township. She will sit down

with you and get to know you, what your life is like, what your schedule is like, why you want to lose weight, what will change with the weight gone, and then she will customize a plan for you. After the weight loss is achieved, she stays with you for a time as a safeguard to maintain the loss.

Dr. Chufo corresponds with patients in person, by phone, Zoom, text and email. ”I counsel patients who live out-of-state and even out of country.” n

To begin your journey to your best life now, contact Dr. Bridget Chufo at 1-800-900-THIN, drop by her Weight Loss & Wellness Center, or go to www.dbcweightloss.com Studies with the present Covid-19 virus indicate that people who are overweight and obese have more critical outcomes and many times, death. It is believed that the Covid virus attaches to adipose (fat) tissue and finds a home there. When there is an excess of fat tissue, the virus spreads much more quickly with many times, devastating results.

Respiratory, cardiac, and diabetic issues very often coincide with obesity issues, as well, and these three seem to have the greatest consequences with the virus.

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CELEBRATING WOMENin BUSINESS Each year it is Northern Connection’s pleasure to introduce you to the business and professional women in our area. They come from many different industries and specialties, and each brings her own expertise and experience to make them the best at their chosen profession.

Kimberly Catale

| Operation Veteran Benefits

For the last 20 years, Operation Veteran Benefits, and Kimberly B. Catale have specialized in care planning for senior citizens aged 50 and up. Kimberly has helped families receive over $100 million in government benefits. Many families ask us, what is care planning? It essentially means, planning for paying for care if you move to an independent or assisted living community. People who don’t have previous experience with an aging parent, do not understand what often happens later in life, believing they will pass away in their own home. While we hope that happens, according to statistics, 69% of seniors will need some kind of care during their life and 15.2% of people who turned 65 years old between 2015 and 2019 have spent over $450,000 for 5 years of care. That’s a big number to digest.

Financial advisors would probably recommend old-school long-term care insurance. But not us. There are better alternatives out there, alternatives where you can turn a small asset into care for both husband and wife for their whole life. Kimberly also helps families look at options on injecting government benefits into your income stream. Many families do not know that they can qualify for many government benefits. Many think government benefits are for people living in poverty, but that’s just not the case. We specialize in all government benefits.

O: 724-591-8479 | www.operationveteranbenefits.com | kimberly@bcatale.com

Nina Nudi Dryna & Mary Ann Nudi Sembrat The Print Shop at Office Things

The Print Shop at Office Things has been in business for 47 years. The printing industry is part of our roots; our father was the In-House Department head at both the William Penn Hotel and The Duquesne Club. Our family also owned the Free Press and the Allegheny Journal newspapers, so opening a print shop was a natural choice for the Nudi sisters. The Print Shop at Office Things was born in an age of hot metal typesetting and has since modernized along the way. We are now fully modernized to digital printing, along with Offset and Letterpress printing. We also produce blueprints on site. Over the years we have seen the necessity to grow and add more lines to what we offer. We have added advertising specialties, apparel printing and sign and banner making to our services. The Print Shop at Office Things has you covered no matter what your needs may be.

We think of printing as a craft, and our customers are people who, we want to make proud of their printed material. www.printshoppgh.com | (724) 935-2221

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MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Deb Walton, Realtor®, SRES®

| Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services

Deb is originally from Upstate New York and has been a resident of Cranberry Township for 28 years after being transferred here by her former employer, Eastman Kodak Company. Deb has 28 years of experience in Consumer Product sales and served as a Kodak Account Executive, calling on the Navy and Marine Crops Exchanges throughout the world. After being home with her children until they entered elementary school, Deb started her real estate career and has received many accolades as a consistent annual multi-million dollar producer. Married for 21 years to a retired PA State Trooper, she has 3 children. Two children attend Seneca Valley School District and one attends the University of Kentucky. Deb enjoys supporting her children in their various activities within the school district and community. She enjoys serving her clients and prides herself on the relationships she builds and continues to maintain after closing. Please visit the following link to learn what her clients have to say about her service: realtordebwalton.com/cp/my-reviews | C. 724.480.6690 | O. 724.776.2900 | deb.walton@pittsburghmoves.com

Susan Krol

| Krol Media Associates, LLC

Susan Krol began her career as an advertising account executive in the radio industry.

After over 23 years, 18 of which were spent at KDKA Radio, it was time to step away from her career to raise her children, a decision that ultimately lead her to launch her own consulting business in 2006. The inception of Krol Media Associates, LLC, a full-service PR and marketing firm that works with non-profits, hotels, B2B and service companies, gave Susan the opportunity to customize her dream job by becoming an entrepreneur. The business model was one that helps companies achieve marketing goals while creating synergistic promotional ties between non-profits and businesses that benefit communities and families in our area. Bringing clients together into positive working relationships to celebrate common missions is a passion for Susan. Additionally, Susan helps young professionals to advance skills and gain experience, which she has accomplished through hosting successful internship programs and hiring talented, young professionals. www.krolmedia.com | 724-713-4905

Colleen Anthony

| MABC Mortgage

Mortgages proved to be the answer for how Colleen Anthony, Broker/Owner of MABC Mortgage, could combine her financing skills and passion for helping others. MABC Mortgage has been serving Pennsylvania for over 18 years. Colleen has provided financing in several sectors throughout her career: commercial, investment, construction and residential. Having first-hand knowledge of how lenders and processes work in all sectors provides her clients with a wealth of knowledge and experience to navigate the financing process. “I personally handle every client and attend every closing,” said Ms. Anthony. With the current state of affairs surrounding COVID-19, there have been many changes within the mortgage industry. Lenders are working hard to deal with the shifting dynamics of this crisis. Credit requirements have changed. In many cases, lenders require higher qualifying credit scores, higher down payment/equity position as well as reserves. Interest rates for terms of 15 years or less are very attractive. If you are considering a refinance, moving forward with application to begin the process is strongly encouraged. If you would like to obtain an estimate, please call our office at (412) 358-9680 or email cmanthony@mabcmortgage.com Licensed by the PA Dept of Banking, NMLS 119413, 134430

Annie Lang

| LeadersNow International

LeadersNow International is a non-profit organization that forms middle and high school girls in authentic leadership that is based in strong character, professional presentation and service to others. I was inspired to establish LeadersNow International after having a sister lose her life due to and eating disorder and alcoholism disorder. Additionally, with a daughter of my own, I was concerned about the messages young women consistently receive in our world and media about their value being in their size, popularity or possessions. I wanted to create an organization that would help young women filter out these messages in order to develop to their fullest potential and to equip them with the skills necessary to make a positive impact in their families, schools, and communities. We have been in business since 2003. What makes LeadersNow International special is our unique approach in training young women to be leaders. We understand that each girl has unique gifts and talents along with a specific mission in life. We work to help each of our members recognize these gifts and talents. We help our members develop from the inside out and provide the support and encouragement young women need to be a positive influence in every environment they find themselves in. Our members use the leadership skills we provide to impact the world in positive ways They work together to recognize the needs around them, develop plans and strategies to meet those needs, then carry out specific service projects where they can make a positive impact. To date, our members have accumulated over 165,000 hours of service to their communities! To learn more about LeadersNow International, visit us on the web at www.leadersnow.org

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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CELEBRATING WO Kimberly Ferraro

| Northern States Mortgage, Inc.

Kimberly Ferraro is a Mortgage Broker with over 18 years of experience, working for a locally owned mortgage company in Zelienople with license in PA, CT and FL. Being a mortgage broker enables me to help people with not-so-perfect credit and perfect credit. It’s given me the ability to make their home-buying dreams come true. I work with 11 different lenders, so I have the flexibility to shop for the best loan option available and interest rate. Being such a small company, we pride ourselves in customer service and attention to detail, which allows us to consistently close loans in 30 days or less. If you go through a bank, you will only have access to what that bank has to offer, so no rate shopping and limited products. I’m passionate about my work and will help anyone to make their home purchasing dream come true. If you’re looking for the best service in town, low rates, no fees and options, please give me a call. Kim@NorthernStatesMortgage.com | 877-808-6611 or 724-272-0770

Andrea Feinstein

| Executive Vice President, American Natural

American Natural was created in 2011. Like many women, I have a lot of balls in the air, where I am an executive, mother, wife, friend – all of which are full-time jobs! I left my Wall Street job and embarked as an entrepreneur partly because I wanted to find a solution for other people like me, who are juggling all the priorities. A core group came together, where we worked in the asset-management industry for many years. There is a huge gap in expectations between US and other countries, when it comes food offerings – particularly in fresh and higher quality foods. Food is a lifelong passion of mine. We created a one-stop shop for fresh variety of food and fuel. The stores offer a careful mix of quality, variety, speed and community warmth. Each American Natural location sells fuel and has an Eatery, which offers a menu of fresh, handcrafted sandwiches, pizzas and salads. Our coffee is not your typical “gas station” coffee. We have coffee and barista drinks that are exceptional in taste and quality – and at a great price! When we created our menu, we wanted to provide options for our customers. Our sandwiches and pizzas can be made gluten-free. The café area was designed to provide an open and friendly environment, where customers can come and grab a bite to eat and do some work or take a conference call.

The center of our store is our marketplace, where we carry snacks that most convenience stores would carry, except we broadened our selection, where we carry affordable premium brands, snacks and merchandise. American Natural is here to serve the community.. www.americannatural.com

Michelle Bushée

| Piatt Sotheby’s International Realty

Michelle Bushée provides comprehensive real estate assistance for buyers and sellers in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, and she has been in the business full-time for seven years. My motivation is to help people by solving problems.

This is a relationship business, and I’m a people person. The relationship doesn’t end at closing; I stay in touch and my team holds multiple client appreciation events throughout the year. I enjoy helping people secure and realize their dreams of homeownership or relocating to a new area. My previous background is the law, and I bring a refined skillset to contracts and negotiations. This gives my clients an added lens to the documents, but my knowledge of the community is what helps to match my clients with the right neighborhood and perfect home. I’m a third-generation resident of the North Hills and fourth-generation Pittsburgher. I grew up in Hampton and now live in Adams Township, and I’ve raised my three children here. The community is woven into who I am. With a comprehensive understanding of Pittsburgh-area property values, neighborhoods and schools, I’m able to efficiently evaluate the needs of my clients, and I look forward to providing you with a seamless, successful transaction.

M: 412-585-2451 | O: 724-765-7000 | mbushee@piattsir.com 14

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OMEN in BUSINESS Karen Anspaugh

| Surrett & Anspaugh, LLC

Karen Anspaugh is a partner at the law firm of Surrett & Anspaugh LLC. She has helped companies form and thrive for over 30 years. Combining her business law practice with her experience in estate planning, asset protection, and wealth management, she helps businesses and individuals implement beneficial tax strategies and safeguard all they have worked for. Karen also operates Adrienne Abstract & Closing Company, where she manages every stage of residential and commercial real estate transactions, from drafting documents to settlement. She routinely works with real estate investors and wholesalers and assists with transactions involving nontraditional financing. 724-831-1410 | www.surrett-anspaugh.com | karen@surrett-anspaugh.com

Donna Kline, MBA, CDFA®

| HBKS Wealth Advisors

HBKS® Wealth Advisors is an independent advisory firm with nearly $4 billion under management. We provide comprehensive financial planning tailored to accomplish business and individual goals. As a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® and Certified Divorce Coach®, I work with clients at all stages of the divorce process and help plan for their financial future. Divorce can be difficult, but it does not have to be devastating. Working with a divorce professional can help ease the uncertainty of life beyond divorce. Selecting an independent, fee-based investment firm can assure you that your goals – and the goals of the advisory company – are aligned. 724-934-8200 | hbkswealth.com The information included in this document is for general, informational purposes only. It does not contain any investment advice and does not address any individual facts and circumstances. As such, it cannot be relied on as providing any investment advice. If you would like investment advice regarding your specific facts and circumstances, please contact a qualified financial advisor. This document does not contain any accounting or legal advice. If you would like accounting, tax or legal advice, please contact a qualified accountant or attorney. Insurance products are offered through HBK Sorce Insurance LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through HBK Sorce Advisory LLC, doing business as HBKS Wealth Advisors. NOT FDIC INSURED - NOT BANK GUARANTEED - MAY LOSE VALUE, INCLUDING LOSS OF PRINCIPAL - NOT INSURED BY ANY STATE OR FEDERAL AGENCY.

Nicole Bush

| A Place to Grow

Dana Cupples is the owner of A Place to Grow, she followed her dream of opening the daycare in 2001.

Dana couldn’t run this amazing facility without the help of her directors Nicole Bush and Terry DeMoss. Nicole Bush, the director of A Place To Grow, has been with the center 18 years, starting as a pre-k teacher and working her way up to director. At A Place To Grow, we focus on exhibiting a personal touch, and our goal is for the children to have the most positive “first” school experience. We have been in the Fox Chapel community since opening the center, and we have two teachers who once attended our center as toddlers! What better recommendation could we have? Ms. Nicole pours her heart and soul into the center, and because of this, our parents and children sing our praises.

We truly appreciate and value everything she does to make the center what it is today. In addition to Ms. Nicole, we are fortunate to have Ms. Terry, our other director. She has given us many years of wonderful service. We also have a great team of teachers and assistants. The teachers are the reason behind our success. They make our program what it is!

From l-r: Nicole Bush, Terry DeMoss, Dana Cupples

Terry DeMoss has been a director at A Place to Grow since 2002 and is loved by students and parents. www.aplacetogrow.net | 412-963-1222 www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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CELEBRATING WOM Dr. Bridget Chufo

| Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness

Dr. Bridget Chufo is a renowned expert in the field of weight loss and obesity. She is a registered nurse with a Ph.D. from the prestigious New York University. Dr. Chufo has studied in this field since 1980. She has worked with thousands of patients whose lives are debilitated in various ways, from being overweight and obese. Through these interactions, she has instituted strategies and techniques unique to helping them follow a healthier way of living. It is life changing, and in many cases, lifesaving! She believes that most anything can be accomplished with hard work, persistence, prayer, and a positive attitude. Dr. Chufo helps people weather the storms that life presents and helps them to find purpose in their lives. She is a motivator, nutritionist, coach and confidant to her clients. She deals with the whole person increasing health is all areas….physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and financial. She helps her clients become their best selves. 1-800-900-THIN | www.dbcweightloss.com

Dr. Anu Anand

| PCMA Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

PCMA Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is a group that is dedicated to improving the quality of life for our patients. “I graduated medical school in 2009 and have been a specialist in PM&R since 2013,” said Dr. Anu Anand. We want to improve pain, function and return them to enjoy their favorite hobbies and time with family. “I found rehab medicine to be a very fulfilling field, since I get to see the difference I make in a person’s life in a short period of time. I have always loved medicine and truly enjoy seeing my patients every day, especially If I see them happy and pain free after I treat them,” said Dr. Anand. We have a multidisciplinary approach to pain which includes starting with a comprehensive evaluation and management with conservative methods. If needed we have interventional procedure rooms for epidural and nerve blocks in both office locations, and we also offer innovative ways to help with pain such as PRP and Stem Cell therapy. We strive to help patients and are accommodating. We can usually get someone in within that week for evaluation and if needed a procedure. 724-741-0633 | info@pcmanetwork.com

Total Bloodwork

| Blood Testing

The need for in-home blood work services has never been greater, and Total Bloodwork has responded to that need. We send skilled phlebotomists to you to serve all your phlebotomy needs. A women-owned business with over 15 years combined experience in the field, Total Bloodwork’s mobile services are available for doctors, skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, special needs patients of all ages, individuals who do not want to or cannot make it to the lab, home health agencies and hospice companies. We charge a $60 fee that includes coming to your location for the blood draw, processing of specimens and submitting the specimens to the lab for testing. For those who have frequent blood tests (weekly, monthly, etc.), Total Bloodwork offers a 25% discount on each blood draw, and new customers receive a 15% off their first visit. Payment in full is expected upon arrival at the location where we are coming to draw the blood and credit cards are accepted. Your insurance picks up the cost of the testing of the blood. The laboratory results are sent to your physician. Call Total Bloodwork to make an appointment with our secretary for a phlebotomist to be sent to your location. All you need is to have your script from your physician ready, sit back, relax and wait for your phlebotomist to arrive to draw and deliver your blood to the lab. We serve Cranberry Township, Mars, Gibsonia, Allison Park, Wexford, Zelienople, Evans City, McCandless and Middlesex. totalbloodwork@gmail.com | 724-814-1271

Crystal Manning

| Licensed Medicare Advisor

I am a Licensed Medicare Advisor, and I assist with options for Medicare Health plans, which are used to supplement original Medicare coverage. Medicare can be confusing, with so many available options. I was working long hours with my former employer with little appreciation or monetary reward. It became an easy decision to leave and start my own business after I expressed a desire to expand the business for my employer and was told it was not in their business plan. I have been in the health insurance business for more than 30 years and with that knowledge, I can offer my clients individual advice on what is the best option for them, not the carrier or what works best for the company where I am employed. After more than four years on my own, I now wonder why I did not do it sooner. I am excited to have a job I love, be able help people and be my own boss.

I work with financial planners and CPAs to help their clients make positive choices for their future health care requirements. I am proud of the legacy I have created and look forward to passing my knowledge along to my daughter and others to continue the business that I have created. I truly would like to make my clients “Crystal” clear on their Medicare choice. Contact Crystal Manning at 412-716-4942 or crystalmanning33@gmail.com.

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MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

MEN in HEALTH CARE Annette G. Folgueras, M.D.

| Annette G. Folgueras, M.D., LLC

My father inspired me to pursue a career in health care. Growing up, I witnessed his dedication and hard work as an orthopaedic surgeon. When it came time to consider a career, I naturally chose medicine, specifically anesthesiology and, subsequently, MMJ certification. I am a board-certified anesthesiologist and have been practicing for 25 years. Eight years ago, I participated in medical acupuncture training, and two years ago, I began my medical marijuana education, so that I could offer my patients something more. My MMJ practice has developed into my passion. My practice is unique in that I am a travelling physician. Prior to the pandemic and the DOH’s exception to allow Telemedicine in MMJ certification, my practice consisted of caring for patients marginalized by the process. My small practice includes patients who are home-bound, those devoid of technology, recent parolees, veterans, patient referrals and patients on disability. I have a small network of case workers and PCPs who refer patients to me because they see the value of a provider who is easily accessible and communicative. I have always been a firm believer in the adage: “Actions speak louder than words.” How I care for my patients, in the OR and outside the OR, speaks for itself. Hearing that a patient referred a friend or family member to me because of the excellent care I offered makes what I am doing worthwhile! 410-340-3144

Nicolette Tolomeo Germain

| “Gifts of The Earth”

Heartfelt Greetings! I have been a business owner for 22 years, a tailor by family trade & for the past six years dedicated to health & wellness thru doTERRA International. Driven by my health needs to reduce toxins & experience helping others, I have furthered my education thru The Tisserand Institute teaching safe & proper use of essential oils. Essential oils are not all the same & our mission to “Pursue What’s Pure” holds very true. I will safely meet with you on your schedule or by phone, email & new Zoom get togethers. You can sample every oil … we will find the perfect path for you including mine & doTERRA’s lifetime support.

All the education you want & a community support group. There are 10 basic oils to support your health in every way including emotional needs. We also love the Kid’s Collection created specifically for them.

Happy to send more information! Health practitioners welcome. @NicolettesShop on Facebook | www.mydoterra.com/Nicolettes | 724-368-1100 | Nicolette@zoominternet.net

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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SOLEVO WOMEN in HEALTH CARE Beth Bittner, M.Ed

| Solevo

Beth Bittner, M. Ed. is the Communication and Outreach Director for Solevo Wellness. She has 4 years of experience in the medical marijuana industry in both dispensary and grow facility aspects. Beth has conducted over 500 educational presentations on medical marijuana as well as organizing and hosting many medical marijuana events. She was previously involved in the mental health/ drug and alcohol field for over 26 years which enabled her to bridge the education gap between these organizations and the medical marijuana industry. Beth holds a Masters of Education in school counseling from Liberty University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing from Slippery Rock University.

Caitlin Nagelson

| Solevo

Caitlin Nagelson, General Manager at Solevo Wellness in Cranberry Township, runs the daily operations as well as working alongside the staff to help educate patients and help navigate the medicine dispensed. Caitlin graduated with honors from Chatham University in 2010 with an interdisciplinary degree in psychology and business management with a focus in human resources.

Erin Rodgers

| Solevo

Erin Rodgers, General Manager of Solevo Wellness in Washington, has been with the company since day one as a Patient Care Consultant. Erin is very interested in the healthprotective benefits of plants, and this translates to a passion for helping patients to understand the many medicinal applications of cannabis. Erin holds a bachelor’s degree in integrative health studies from Chatham University.

Elisa Sanders

| Solevo

Elisa Sanders has two years of medical cannabis industry experience as Solevo’s interim HR Director. Elisa’s ability to recognize leadership talent enables her to build high performing management teams. She co-founded ULS, which was a Pittsburgh-based, minority-owned, title and settlement company. The company grew to over 2,400 employees and $200M in revenue before the business was acquired by Mortgage Connect. ULS has been listed as one of Inc. Magazine’s 500 Fastest Growing Companies in America and Black Enterprise Magazine as the sixteenth largest African-American owned firm in the United States. Elisa also manages Savory Restaurant, owned by her husband Chuck Sanders, and is the Compliance Director for Blackburgh Corporation.

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

If You Listen to Your Body, It May Tell You That It Needs Medical Marijuana

By Janice Lane Palko

“My health has been a train wreck, but I’m so much better now,” said Carrie Bryson, 37, of Economy, who was bitten by a tick in October 2018, and although she tested negative for Lyme disease, her health steadily deteriorated after that.”

“M

y problems started slowly with pain in my ankles, and then it progressed to my knees. That’s when I went to see my doctor. Although they couldn’t confirm I had Lyme disease that’s when everything started,” said Carrie, who is engaged to fiancé, Tyler Brown, and is the mother of two, Isaac, 13, and Serena, 14.

As her condition progressed, she had difficulty walking and eventually began to use a wheelchair, and

by September of 2019, she was experiencing seizures and was diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).

FND is described by the National Organization for Rare Disorders as: “A medical condition in which there is a problem with the functioning of the nervous system and how the brain and body sends and/or receives signals, rather than a structural disease process such as multiple sclerosis or stroke.

FND can encompass a wide variety of neurological symptoms, such as limb weakness or seizures.”

April is FND Awareness Month, and the organization estimates that FND is as prevalent as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.

With FND, Carrie experienced movement disorder, speech impairment, seizures, and loss of memory

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at times as well as anxiety that often accompanies the disorder. “Honestly, there were times when I wasn’t able to do anything. I had a home health care person come in for an hour a day, but I don’t know what I’d have done without my fiancé and my kids. They took care of me and were my rock.”

Carrie endured two hospital stays, and the prescription medications that she was given were exacerbating her FND symptoms significantly. It was discovered that she has a much higher sensitivity to SSRI and SNRI medications than most people, hence the natural approach of the medical marijuana.

As the disease progressed, she felt the life she had enjoyed slowly being taken from her. “It was so isolating. I couldn’t work, drive, or be the person I had always been,” said Carrie, who observed that what everyone is feeling with social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic is akin to what she was experiencing before she started taking medical marijuana.

“I was willing to try anything, and I started listening to my body, finding what works. I got a medical marijuana card a year ago and went to Solevo Wellness,” said Carrie. “I met with a pharmacist and we began a process of trial and error to see what would work best for me. I tried a variety of combinations and products and I wrote down

MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

what results I experienced.” Initially, she started with a tincture, but has found that pills work best for her. The greatest effect Carrie experienced from the medical marijuana has been the reduction in the frequency and severity of her seizures (non-epileptic seizures) and providing relief for the associated anxiety.

“I’m not 100% cured, but since I’ve begun taking the medical marijuana, I’ve been able to drive three times. It’s so liberating,” Carrie said. Her neurologist is on board with her decision to try medical marijuana. “My neurologist told me that unfortunately, ‘I can’t help you; there is no pill that can cure FND,’ so that I need to do what works for me.”

Carrie also works with a health coach and practices yoga and uses essential oils and a weighted blanket to manage her condition, but it’s the medical marijuana that has made the greatest improvements in her health.

“The staff members at Solevo (in addition to the pharmacist) have been very supportive and helpful. They worked with me on a personal level to find the products that worked best for me and provided their insight into the myriad of options available. I’m starting to get my life back. I feel like I can be me again!” said Carrie.

Solevo Wellness, a medical marijuana dispensary, has locations in Squirrel Hill, Cranberry and Washington. If you’d like to explore whether medical marijuana may be able to help you, contact Solevo Wellness at www.solevowellness.com. n

TRIVIA CONNECTION

Notable Nurses

By Paula Green

Blood) and Rory Williams (Doctor Who). Since we’ve examined notable nurses, we must now cut into this medical query. Get set to explore your thoughts, because it’s time to get a little trivial...

1. Julia ran on NBC from 1968 to 1971, which featured a nurse in the title role. Who portrayed Julia?

2. Majel Barrett played Nurse Christine Chapel in this sci-fi series.

3. Helen Hayes plays Catherine Barkley, an English nurse who falls in love with an American ambulance driver in this 1932 adaption from Ernest Hemingway’s novel.

4. Actress Judy Reyes portrays this RN in the TV comedy-drama Scrubs.

5. This movie RN was the queen of mean, Nurse Ratched in this 1975 flick.

6. Renee Zellweger, Morgan Freeman, Chris Rock and Greg Kinnear starred in this 2000 flick.

7. Name the television program where you find RN Kitty Forman.

8. What is the character’s name that Dana Delany, portrayed in China Beach?

9. She played Nurse Diesel in Mel Brook’s comedy High Anxiety.

10. What cable network aired Nurse Jackie from 2009-2015?

11. Nurse Helen Rosenthal was featured in which TV series?

12. Kate Jackson played an RN in the show The Rookies. What was her character’s name?

13. Jada Pinkett stars as the chief nursing officer in this series set at Richmond Trinity Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.

14. This actress portrayed RN Terri Alden on Three’s Company.

15. Which TV drama featured a nurse named Linda Reagan? n Sources: https://www.biography.com/scientist/florence-nightingale, https://www. nursingschoolhub.com/top-nurses-in-history/, https://www.redcross.org/about-us/ who-we-are/history/clara-barton.html, https://blog.soliant.com/nursing/the-12-alltime-greatest-tv-nurses/, https://toprntobsn.com/tv-nurses/, https://www.imdb. com/title/tt0108757/, https://www.ameritech.edu/blog/memorable-movie-nurses/

Answers: 1. Diahann Carroll 2. Star Trek 3. A Farewell to Arms 4. Carla Espinosa 5. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest 6. Nurse Betty 7. That 70s Show 8. Nurse Colleen McMurphy 9. Cloris Leachman 10. Showtime 11. St. Elsewhere 12. Jill Danko 13. Hawthorne 14. Priscilla Barnes 15. Blue Bloods

N

ational Nurses Week is May 6-12. National Nurses Day is held on May 12, which is Florence Nightingale’s birthday. Nightingale was born that day 200 years ago in 1820 in Florence, Italy, the city which inspired her name. She was an English socialite and the founder of modern nursing. Nightingale was known for her nightly rounds to aid the wounded soldiers during the Crimean War. She was often called the “Lady with the Lamp.”

This month, we’re going to honor nurses who’ve worked through trying circumstances and given it their all. Some of these nurses were actual people, and others are fictitious. Known as the First Lady of Nursing, Virginia Henderson was a pioneer in codifying the profession.

One major thing Henderson accomplished was the creation of a list of what it meant to assist a caregiver.

Clarissa Harlowe Barton, known as Clara, is one of the most honored women in American history. Barton risked her life to bring supplies and support to soldiers in the field during the Civil War. She founded the American Red Cross in 1881, at age 59, and led it for the next 23 years.

Martha Jane Cannary was more commonly known as Calamity Jane. She was one of the most resourceful women ever to take up the mantle of nurse. Mary Breckinridge was a resident of Kentucky and is the founder of the Frontier Nursing Service. While most of the nurses on this list focus on physical health, Dorothea Dix put her efforts towards a different field. Dix took great pains to advocate for the treatment of the mentally ill in America.

On prime time TV and in the movies, there were some memorable nurses. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan was an Army nurse in the film and television show M*A*S*H. It was set during the Korean War, and in the movie version, Sally Kellerman portrayed Houlihan. In the TV series, Loretta Swit played “Hot Lips.”

In the TV show ER, there was Carol Hathaway, Abby Lockhart, Samantha Taggart, Chuny Marquez, Malik McGrath, Haleh Adams, Lily Jarvik, Lydia Wright and Connie Oligario. Other famous TV nurses are An Bokhee and Olivia Harper (Grey’s Anatomy); Dixie McCall (Emergency!); Alyssa Ogawa (Star Trek: The Next Generation); Ann Perkins (Parks & Recreation); Laverne Roberts (Scrubs); and Laverne Todd (Empty Nest).

Let’s not forgot our male nurses – Eli Lloyd (Grey’s Anatomy); Jack McFarland (Will & Grace); Peter Petrelli (Heroes); Jesus Velasquez (True

www.northernconnectionmag.com | MAY 2020

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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S

From the Editor

When Little Things Are Big Things

By Janice Lane Palko

W

hen my twins, Caitlin and Christopher, were about six, I remember watching a rerun of The Little House on the Prairie with them. The episode was one that took place at Christmas when a terrible blizzard strikes. Mr. Edwards, the Ingalls family’s neighbor, walks miles through deep snow and whiteout conditions to deliver Christmas gifts to the Ingalls children. As little Laura opens her gift, she squeals with delight and thanks Mr. Edwards profusely for the gift, which was a peppermint stick.

I remember my son looking up at me and saying, “He’s crazy. He walked all that way in the snow to give her a peppermint stick? I’d have stayed home!” I laughed and hated to be a scoffer too, but I think I would have skipped the trek through the snow too.

Well, we’ve just celebrated an Easter, and for those who celebrate Passover, a season like no other— almost as simple as one on the prairie. We’d gotten used to donning new Easter outfits, crowding into churches, and enjoying brunches or Easter dinners.

We’d become accustomed to the ease of walking into stores to purchase items for our feasts. We’d become accustomed to participating in Easter Egg Hunts and celebrating with those we love. We’d gotten used to being able to hold our infant grandchildren and kissing the little ones on cheeks. But this year was different—much, if not all, of that was taken away by the Coronavirus. And what did remain was changed.

Perhaps your holiday was like mine. I attended Mass online, stayed six feet away, cordoned off by orange safety cones, to watch my little granddaughters hunt for Easter Eggs. We ate Easter dinner with only those who resided in my house instead of gathering with my whole family. We went online and Zoomed with each other in rectangular boxes as if we were the Brady Bunch.

Everything that we’d come to know love and expect when celebrating Easter was changed. But as Mr. Edwards went the extra mile in a blizzard to share the Christmas love, I’ve gained a greater appreciation for each small way that we were able to keep the holiday.

Though we couldn’t go to church or dine with family, couldn’t shop for Easter finery, foods, candy, or flowers, though we couldn’t hug our loved ones, it helped to make me focus on the little things. My son and I may have sneered at Mr. Edwards back then, laughing at his simple gift of a peppermint stick, like the Ingalls family who faced a difficult life on the prairie, we now have been humbled and have learned that little things mean a lot and sometimes are the biggest things. n

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A Silent Syndrome is Lurking in Women’s Health

By Belinda Burchick Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is an endocrine system disorder that affects 1 in 10 women in their reproductive years. The condition and symptoms of PCOS have been identified in women since the 1700s, but it still remains a mystery today. The multiple symptoms may appear unrelated, so it is hard to detect. Since not all women have ovarian cysts with PCOS, the name is misleading.

T

he cause of PCOS is not known but some contributing factors may be excess insulin, low grade inflammation and heredity. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, supplying your body with energy, but we can become resistant to insulin so excess insulin can be produced leading to increased androgen levels impacting ovulation. Constant low-grade inflammation in the body can lead to increased androgen levels as well.

Heredity and your genes have a strong link to PCOS. Based on several genetic studies, there are genes that have an impact on your hormone levels and insulin resistance. The understanding is that PCOS is something you had since birth, but symptoms may begin during your first menstrual cycle or develop later. Below are some of the common symptoms: • Abnormal or irregular menstruation • Darkened velvety skin areas • Excess body and facial hair • Skin tags on the neck or armpits • Thinning or loss of hair on head • Mood disorders • Excessive oily skin or acne • Obstructive sleep apnea • Easy weight gain Other symptoms are depression, anxiety, high blood pressure and cholesterol, sleep disorders, infertility, pelvic pain and low libido.

If you have some of these symptoms, you may want to seek help. Start with your primary care doctor, who may refer you to an endocrinologist.

Let your doctor know all your symptoms and other seemingly unrelated health concerns, so that you get a more accurate diagnosis and be on your way to treatment. There is no single diagnostic test for PCOS. Diagnosis is based on blood tests, physical examination and your symptoms. Your doctor may order a pelvic ultrasound.

There is no cure right now, but treating the symptoms will be beneficial to you. The National Institute of Health recommends diet and exercise for women with PCOS. By just losing 10% of your body weight, the symptoms may begin to lessen. Exercise can help you lose weight, build muscle and lose abdominal fat—all important factors towards beating PCOS symptoms. Potential medication treatments may include combination birth control pills and insulin-sensitizing drugs. Surgical procedures for PCOS are available, so check with your doctor.

A few ways to stay positive is to join a support group to share information with other women, or reach out to a therapist. Also, learn everything you can about PCOS, and trust your own instincts about your body. You are not alone!

Through your PCOS journey, it is important to stay focused, be wellinformed and be optimistic. n Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm, has focused her career on geriatric pharmacy and automated dispensing systems to promote patient safety and improve health outcomes. For the last 10 years, she has served as Chief Pharmacy Officer (CPO) for a long-term care pharmacy, servicing the geriatric population in nursing homes, assisted living, independent living, and the senior day programs, such as, Pennsylvania’s LIFE programs and the PACE programs in multiple states. Belinda oversees the pharmacy operations in three pharmacies, located in Denver, Philadelphia and headquarters in Pittsburgh.

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N C F E AT U R E

Facts from the Farm

By Ron Eichner

H

i Folks! With spring in full swing, May is an interesting month packed full of temptations for not only gardens, but also farmers. Years ago, I accepted the role as “The Gardening Angel.” The No. 1 question that I get is, “When will the last frost be?” Well, if I have to dust off my crystal ball, it is black, shiny and has three holes in it. Late May is generally the last frost and is the green light for people to start their spring garden. Below are some important things to consider when planning a spring garden.

There are solid reasons behind when and how to plant a garden that have worked for generations; however, many fall victim to the mistake of improper timing. Grown in greenhouses and shipped for spring temptation, tender annuals and vegetable plants are shipped to the big box stores 4-6 weeks too early. Unfortunately, premature delivery results

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in local greenhouses beginning to plant earlier, so they don’t lose plant sales to the big box stores. Understanding the successful gardening rules and steps for generations in our area makes the early temptations, crazy on steroids.

For generations, Memorial Day week was the planting time for tender annuals and vegetable plants for two reasons. The first reason is the chance of a frost is almost over. The second reason is the cold, damp soil can stall and even destroy tender plants. I describe cold, damp soils with scenarios like trying to relax in your family room watching your favorite TV program with your feet in a bucket of ice water. Yes, all of mid-May, soil temperature gains can be wiped out by cold spring showers.

Another problematic situation that occurs each year is that there is no standard for potting soils, and there are a lot of

poor-quality potting soils. The best potting soils to start with are the potting soils that greenhouse growers use.

Timely watering is another crucial step to spring gardening success. When you transplant your tender annuals and vegetables into the garden, it is important to make sure that they are watered, should you not get timely rain showers for the first two weeks after transplanting.

Hanging baskets are also a popular purchase with spring gardening in mind. Mother’s Day traditionally is the beginning of hanging basket sales. If the basket is just breaking basket edge with some color, you’re on schedule. However, for the last 20-plus years, customers requested larger basket sizes that had a mid-July look and size. Tips like weekly fertilizing of the baskets, pots and containers or watering patterns aren’t always offered by the sales staff and can set up for poor plant performances.

Successful spring gardening is enjoyable and really quite simple with the tips that have been provided. Make sure the timing is right, the temperature of the soil is correct, watered properly and the right potting soil is important. So if you need or want some gardening tips, quality annuals, herbs and vegetable plants along with our professional PittMoss potting soil, feel free to contact us at Eichner’s Whole Farm and Greenhouses at 235 Richard Road in Wexford and get the “rest of the story.” n

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K I D S & E D U C AT I O N

School Movers & Shakers Enrichment Center of W PA

Four students from The Enrichment Center of Western Pennsylvania in Baden were recognized for their work in The Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest. Barb O’Baker from the Kushkushkee Trail chapter presented the awards. Winners were - Ezra Hess (8th grade); Mustafa Ahmed (6th grade); Nolan Curran (high school winner); Emaan Ashfaq (7th

grade). Mustafa Ahmed has also won the Pennsylvania level and will be honored in Washington, D.C. this June. His entry is now being judged at the Regional level. Teacher, Mrs. Ruth Butler, has been honored at the March meeting of the DAR at the Treesdale Country Club for her work with students throughout the years.

Shady Side Academy Two Shady Side Academy students have earned national recognition in the 2020 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Senior Hyelim “Rose” Lee earned a Silver Medal in art and Leo Rickard won a Silver Medal in writing.

Rose Lee

Leo Rickard

Playlist, a short film written and directed by Shady Side Grady Annabel Academy Munroe Everett senior Grady Munroe as part of the Senior School’s WSSA Film Club, won two awards in the March 2020 Independent Shorts Awards. Junior Annabel Everett won the Bronze Award in the Best Child/Young Actress category, and Munroe won Honorable Mention in the Best Young Filmmaker category.

Aquinas Academy

Aquinas Academy’s First Tech Challenge “FTC” robotics team qualified for and competed in the Pennsylvania State Competition.

Team members are: Andy D’Angelo, Theresa Gates, Grant Kearcher, Sabrina Knox, Benjamin Stalder, Celina Whitmer and DJ Whitmer.

Fox Chapel Butler County Symphony Orchestra announced that the winner of the 2020 BCSO Young Artist Competition is Justin Oliver Choo, pianist, from Fox Chapel Area High School.

Fox Chapel Area School District won state awards in the 2019 Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association (PenSPRA) Excellence in Education Communications Contest.

The district received Awards for the 2018-2019 Fox Chapel Area School District State of the Schools and the winter 2019 IN Fox Chapel Area Community Magazine, for the Superintendent’s Spotlight, and for the district’s website www.fcasd.edu.

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Fox Chapel Area High School varsity gymnastics and boys cross country teams earned top honors in the district’s Athletic Department’s 2019-2020 Quality Point Average (QPA) Annual Award Contest. The gymnastics team earned the highest cumulative average, with a combined QPA of 4.181, and the cross country team posted a 3.932 average.

Seneca Valley Keely Lisco, a Seneca Valley senior, was announced as a national gold medal and a national American Visions Award winner in the 2020 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Competition.

Three Seneca Valley students, Sam McCune, David Choi and Vincent Horvath finished first at a computer programming competition held at Carnegie Mellon University on March 7.

Seneca Valley School District has two Faith Nicholas students Nedzesky Condrick sophomore Nicholas Nedzesky and junior Faith Condrick who have been announced as 2020 Carson Scholars.

Seneca Valley School District has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education.

Mars Area Mars Area High School Varsity Hockey Team collected $1,266.50

as part of an “Ice ALS” Night fundraiser to benefit the ALS Association Western Pennsylvania Chapter.

Mars Area High School senior Michael Carmody, a four-year member of Mars Area High School Boys Varsity Basketball Team, was named the leading rebounder in the nation.

Michael Carmody

Mars Area Elementary School collected $5,388.74 to benefit the American Heart Association through its annual “Hockey for a Healthy Heart” fundraiser, held Feb. 3-21.

CCAC Community College of Allegheny County student Samantha Hrubes received an honorable mention award from the Associated Collegiate Press for the 2019 Cartoon of the Year in the Comic Panel/Strip category for three comic strips published in The Voice student newspaper of CCAC North Campus and West Hills Center.

BC3 Butler County Community College high school pathway programs that premiere this fall will enable sophomores through seniors to learn about health care or business, earn up to 26 transferable credits before they graduate, and save approximately $200 per credit when compared to tuition costs charged by Pennsylvania’s regional public four-year universities. For more information, visit bc3.edu/healthcare-pathways or bc3.edu/business-pathways.

Connoquenessing Lodge No. 278’s endowment of $15,000 to the BC3 Education Foundation will result in one of 12 new scholarships available to Butler Community College (BC3) students in the 2020-2021 academic year. Students attending BC3’s main campus in Butler Township or its Brockway, Cranberry Township, Ford City, Hermitage and New Castle locations, can apply for a scholarship by visiting, bc3.edu/scholarships between Wednesday and July 1. Awards will be determined

by Aug. 1.

Providence Heights Alpha School (Allison Park)

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

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

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Super Teacher

M

allory Gurney, a kindergarten teacher at Blessed Francis Seelos Academy in Wexford, loaded her car to deliver essential learning materials to her students.

Although the students began remote learning on March 23 due to COVID-19, they have not seen Mrs. Gurney since January when she left for maternity leave.

Mrs. Gurney asked her students to dress up as superheroes in honor of all the hospital, first responders, and grocery store personnel that are helping the country through this difficult time.

“I wanted to show how strong we are in fighting. I delivered school essentials to every student,” said Gurney. The essentials included learning materials, snacks and bubbles. “It is such a horrible time that our nation is going through and for a child; they don’t understand why they can’t go to school.

So, if I could bring a smile to their face, then I was determined to do that.”

Mrs. Gurney dressed up too. She wore a Superwoman costume, along with blue latex medical gloves. She was careful to keep the proper distance from each student and their family, and in two cases, left the packages at the front door without seeing the students.

The students loved the visit. Easton Welker of Franklin Park, dressed as Black Panther. “Easton was so excited for the visit. It was a rare treat to be visited by our real life superhero,” said Easton’s mother Alyssa. n

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MAY 2020 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

SSUUPPPPOORRTT OOUURR TTRROOOOPPSS

Memorializing 75 Years of Iwo Jima

By Paula Green

Memorial Day will be celebrated this month on Monday, May 25. This federal holiday honors those who gave up their lives while serving in the U.S. military. This year, we especially remember those who fought in a bloody battle 75 years ago. Iwo Jima is a small volcanic island located in the western Pacific.

A

ccording to the Navy Department Library, the battle of Iwo Jima resulted in 25,707 deaths. The combat cost the lives of 6,800 American sailors and Marines. The Japanese lost 18,917 of their military personnel during this conflict. Additionally, the United States sustained 19,200 casualties.

One-third of all Medal of Honor awards for World War II were given for gallant actions fought in Iwo Jima (27 of them), which was more distinctions than any other battle in U.S. history. The Medal of Honor is our country’s highest award for bravery.

A famous photo of the fighting captures the essence of this courageous conflict. Who knew that when Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal snapped the flag-raising picture in Iwo Jima, that it would become be so renowned? It follows through on Henrik Ibsen’s saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

On February 23, 1945, Rosenthal photographed six Marines planting the American flag at the summit of Mount Suribachi. This heroic image symbolized the resilience of the U.S. Marines during World War II. For the Marines, the flag-raising was a rallying point.

The flag raisers were Cpl. Harlon Block, Pfc. Harold

Schultz, Cpl. Harold Keller, Pfc. Franklin Sousley, Sgt. Michael Strank and Cpl. Ira Hayes. Three of these men – Strank, Sousley, and Block were killed before the battle for Iwo Jima was over.

The U.S. Marines invaded Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945, after months of naval and air bombardment. The Japanese defenders of the island were dug into bunkers deep within the volcanic rocks. The island was finally declared secure on March 26, 1945.

Rosenthal won a Pulitzer Prize in 1945 for the photograph. This picture served as the inspiration for the United States Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington Ridge Park, Virginia. The memorial was unveiled on Nov. 10, 1954, in the presence of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed that the U.S. flag should fly over the memorial 24 hours a day. In 1968, as a gift, the United States returned Iwo Jima back to Japan. n Sources: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/iwojima-fact-sheet.pdf, https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/battle-iwo-jima-howiconic-photograph,

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