Northern Connection Magazine - November 2019 Issue by Northern Connection Magazine

November 2019

CONNECTING YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 20 YEARS

Inside Modern Senior Living Terrace Place welcomes smart technology and intergenerational living

Also... Holiday Guide Family & Small Business Profiles Sesame Street Trivia UPMC Senior Communities

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

I N T H I S I SSUE

NORTHERN CONNECTION November 2019

Contents 16

Features

Kids & Education

10 Business Spotlight: Hand and Upper Ex Center Janice Lane Palko

31 School Movers & Shakers

In Every Issue... 4 From the Publisher: Marion Piotrowski

12 Business Spotlight: SSB Bank

33 Who Really Discovered America? Weston Waite

Senior Living

6 Movers & Shakers

13 TRAC Services for Families 16 Cover Story: Terrace Place at Vincentian 18 Family and Small Business Profiles

35 Facts from the Farm Ron Eichner 36 Together Again -

40 2019 Holiday Guide

Health & Wellness 24 Staying Active Thanksgiving Day Joella Baker 26 Solevo Wellness – Providing Treatment for Special Needs Children Janice Lane Palko

Image & Style 28 3-Ingredient DIY Face Masks Kelly A. Smith

38 Happenings for Seniors

Your Home 14 Building A House from the Ground Up Wayne Homes 48 Kimberly Ferraro-Buchanan Honored Janice Lane Palko

Advertorials 7

Get Your “ING” Back: Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

8 Mover & Shaker of the Month: Heather Shuker and NillyNoggins Paula Green 30 Trivia Connection: Sesame Street Trivia Paula Green 34 Where Was I?: Veterans – Their Service Never Ends Janice Lane Palko 34 Support Our Troops: Sister Melanie Kambic, CDP Paula Green 44 November 2019 Happenings

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

P U B LI SH E R ’S NOT ES

Welcome to the November Issue of Northern Connection Magazine!

his month’s cover story will inform you about Terrace Place, a senior living facility, which is a new addition to the Vincentian Collaborative System, in the North Hills. This facility features smart technology and Intergenerational Living. Read more about this new facility on pages 16-17. With the official start of the holiday season this month, it is a great time of year to appreciate the many blessings in our lives. As we celebrate Veterans Day, let’s make sure to appreciate the men and women who have served our country. A simple thank you for your service can go a long way to make their day a little bit special. Celebrating 50 years is always a big accomplishment! In this month’s Trivia, we celebrate half a century of Sesame Street. See how well you remember the characters and things about this special TV show that made kids of all ages happy. Speaking of 50-year “Just think how celebrations, I just celebrated 50 years since my happy you would graduation from Vincentian High School with be if you lost a class reunion in September! It was a special everything you have time reconnecting with friends who you haven’t right now, and then seen since your high school days. We were very got it back again.” fortunate that many of us have stayed friends throughout the years. Many of these friends are Frances Rodman another reason why I am very thankful. Don’t forget Small Business Saturday on November 30 and the importance of shopping local this holiday season. In this issue, we are featuring local, small and family-run businesses; makes sure to check them out. Enjoy reading this month’s special features along with our regular monthly columns. This is a great time to say “Thank You” for your continued support, and together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work. 4 4 4

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

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

President & Publisher

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko

Mary Simpson

Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc.

Janice Lane Palko ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

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

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

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

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

Distribution

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-9402444) 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.

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

M OV E R S & SH AKERS

Movers & Shakers UPMC Senior Services celebrated their Senior Champions on Oct. 16. The Grand Champions were William E. Klunk, M.D., Ph.D., and Chester A. Mathis, Ph.D. The Community Champion was the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. The Caregiver Champion was Ralph T. DeStefano.

Abbey Inches

Nancy Johnson

Christine Duran

Heritage Valley Health System announced the 2019 Cameos of Caring Awardees as Abbey Inches, RN, PRN Pool at Heritage Valley Sewickley, Nancy Johnson, RN, IV Therapy Department at Heritage Valley Beaver, and Christine Duran, RN, Acute Rehabilitation Unit, Ohio Valley Hospital.

The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) announced that Heritage Valley Health System has earned 2019 CHIME HealthCare’s Most Wired recognition as a certified level 7 in the Hospital and Ambulatory categories. St. Margaret Foundation announced a $3.4 million capital campaign for a new home for the UPMC St. Margaret New Kensington Family Health Center where patient volume has grown 127% over the past 15 years. The proposed site will be located on a vacant lot at 1080 Fifth Avenue in the Innovation Corridor in New Kensington. The Children’s Home & Lemieux Family Center, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit, received over $120,000 in state-of-the-art technology for medically fragile infants. ATOM Medical USA donated five incubators and an infant warmer. They will be used in the Pediatric Specialty Hospital at The Children’s Home to care for fragile babies. Autism Connection announced the winners of this year’s Temple Grandin awards. The winner was Brian Kluchurosky. Finalists were Megan Sicheri and Stephanie Smiegiel. The nominees were Cassandra Bortot, Computer Aid Inc.; Catherine Hughes, Julia Igims, Marcia Laus, Lindsay Martsolf, Jason Rudge, Dr. Kathleen Strickland, and Kristi Wees. Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS announced that De’netta Benjamin-Miller was recently appointed as executive director.

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

De’netta BenjaminMiller

Janice Lane Palko, executive editor of Northern Connection and Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazines, has released her fifth novel, a romantic comedy called Our Lady of the Roses. “Style and Substance. Fire and Ice. It’s a Roman Hell-iday when Janetta Orlando and Bob White clash in romantic Rome in Our Lady of the Roses.” Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple Books. For more information: visit www.janicelanepalko.com. The following board officers and board members were voted into office at the Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS: Nishuana Ball, Kelly Dane, Nancy Davis, Dr. Staci Flint, Serina Green, Liz Harrington, Tom Klemmer, Kimberley Miller, Christie Smith, and Retired Col. Ronald Szwarc. Greybrooke Garden Club is celebrating their 50th Anniversary. Community projects of the club include planting and maintenance of gardens at the Orion Personal Care Residence, Passavant Hospital, and the Greybrooke residential community entrance. The club annually supports various conservancy, community and horticulture organizations. Meetings are held in the Fellowship Hall of Parkwood Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd. For info, contact Karen at (412) 366-2096.

Vincentian High School class of 1969 celebrated its 50th class reunion in September with a celebration at Treesdale Country Club. The weekend’s festivities also included a tour of the school. Many of the alumnae had not been in the school since graduation. It was a very memorable weekend and great time was had by all.

Get Your “ING” Back Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have HOPE

Announcing Our Newest Location!

Dr. Shawn Richey has restored the lives of thousands of peripheral neuropathy sufferers.

Carla S. walkING to watch my grandson’s soccer game!

Michael walkING again

Gretchen B. sleepING again

Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or

destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol utilizing brand new technologies is available at the 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. Dr. Shawn’s SUPERVISED, MONITORED and IN OFFICE program has a 90 percent satisfaction rate. With the experience of seeing over 3000 patients, he is able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results.

1385 Washington Rd., Suite 100, Washington, PA 15301 Across from the Meadows

Marla C. balancING again

Pat H. wearING shoes again

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 marydancedin.com.

Three Locations:

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

Debra B. sleepING again

Sewickley 2591 Wexford-Bayne Rd, Suite 207

Latrobe 1901 Ligonier Street

Washington, Pa

Neuropathy Treatment Centers of PGH

1385 Washington Rd., Suite 100

MaryDancedIn.com (724) 940-9000

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

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

M OV E R S & SH AKERS

Mover & Shaker of the Month

Heather Shuker

Heather Shuker Creates NillyNoggin EEG Caps to Help Children with Epilepsy By Paula Green

e first introduced you to Heather Shuker in our May 2018 issue. Heather is a Hampton resident and the mother of 16-year-old Hannah Pallas. When Hannah was four-month olds, she began having seizures. The doctors diagnosed her with severe, intractable epilepsy. Heather along with other mothers fought diligently to bring medical marijuana to Pennsylvania to help Hannah and others suffering from debilitating illnesses. Heather was successful in this quest, and medical marijuana has helped Hannah. She is over 95% seizure-free since 2017. Hannah still has around 20-40 seizures a month, but the improvement is significant. Now Heather is turning her efforts towards helping children with epilepsy; she is trying to comfort them and blanket their anxiety. She has created an epilepsy cap called the NillyNoggin. Heather explains her motivation behind the caps. “When Hannah went into respiratory failure in 2017, I decided I needed to change my life’s mission. I wanted to make a difference in the life of a child living with epilepsy. I took the ideas I had while sitting with Hannah in the hospital and many sleepless nights and created the company Hannahtopia. I knew the first thing that I wanted to do was to design this EEG cap. I searched for someone to help me, but it was tricky since I didn’t know what I needed it to be. I decided to take a sewing class, and that is how the NillyNoggin EEG Cap was born.” In the early hours of the morning, Heather came up with the unique name for these caps. “It was 1:00 a.m., and I was trying to think of a fun name. I needed another word for head, so I thought of noggin. I thought what rhymes with noggin, and Nilly came to mind. I wondered if Nilly is a word, so I looked it up. According to the urban dictionary, nillys have a heart of gold, are honest, respectable and absolute sweethearts. They’re always wearing a smile, have beautiful eyes and are angelic. They are dedicated friends and give the best hugs. The definition was perfect and fits every child that lives with these awful seizures. Despite the over 100,000 seizures that my daughter Hannah has had, she still has a smile on her face and gives the best hugs,” Heather said. Heather found a place that helps produce the NillyNoggins. “Several people told me I should check with the East End Cooperative Ministry to see if they could produce the caps. I took that advice and went to EECM. Their program is called Sew Forward, and they are now producing the caps for me. They have created 700 of them so far. These caps have been worn at Children’s Hospitals all over the United States,” added Heather. “We’re excited about our new sections on our website: ‘Gift a NillyNoggin EEG Cap’ and ‘Adopt an Epilepsy Monitoring Unit.’ People have inquired about purchasing the caps as a gift for a child, so we created ‘Adopt an EMU.’ We added this because we feel these caps should be on supply at hospitals. Many times, a child will require an emergency EEG and will not have time to purchase a NillyNoggin beforehand. We want to make sure that every child that requires an EEG can wear a NillyNoggin. Contact us to see how you can help us with our mission. Let’s make a difference in the life of a child living with epilepsy,” Heather said. For information on NillyNoggins and other Hannahtopia products, visit https://hannahtopia.com/shop/. 4 4 4

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Healing Knee Pain Not Just Managing Symptoms

Phone Number: (412) 967-9767 Address: 107 Gamma Dr #100 Pittsburgh, PA 15238

For those who suffer with knee pain, it often seems that there are only two choices: put up with the pain or have an invasive knee surgery. Cenk Integrated Health offers a third way; their Knee Rejuvenation Protocol. It’s not only older people who suffer with knee pain. Everyone from student athletes, to weekend warriors, to moms and dads can experience knee pain. You shouldn’t have to give up the things you like to do like cycling, basketball, tennis or running because of painful, unhealthy joints, and you don’t with Cenk’s Knee Rejuvenation Protocol. If you have bone-on-bone pain, have osteoarthritis, have difficulty going up or down the stairs, experience your knee locking up, have difficulty getting out of a car, have swollen or stiff knees, have difficulty walking or doing activities you previously enjoyed, you need to investigate the Knee Rejuvenation Protocol. The devices and modalities used in the Rejuvenation Protocol are FDA cleared, non-invasive and designed to restore function to the knees and alleviate the debilitating pain that comes with knee degeneration and arthritis. Cenk’s treatment is different in a number of ways: • • • • •

They treat the cause not the effect Their treatment is a Functional Protocol not a symptom relief protocol Their treatment is safe, non-invasive, non-surgical, and painless Their treatment offers a long-term solution Their protocol doesn’t require lots of down-time or days lost at school or work

Don’t waste another moment sitting on the sidelines of life. Regain your vitality and mobility so that you can live and not just exist. Call Cenk Integrated Health today.

www.cenkintegratedhealth.com www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

M OV E R S & SH AKERS

Business Spotlight:

The Hand and UpperEx Center By Janice Lane Palko

“We are expanding and growing,” said Tara Sanderson, Practice Manager for the Hand and UpperEx Center, an independent, private practice dedicated to the prevention and treatment of all disorders from the shoulder to the hand.

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

he center recently added a new physician to the practice, James R. Mullen, M.D., who will join Glenn A. Buterbaugh, M.D.; Joseph E. Imbriglia, M.D.; William C. Hagberg, M.D.; Marshall L Balk, M.D.; and Aaron G. Grand, M. D.; in providing specialized treatment of upper extremity disorders— from the shoulder to the hand—giving the practice more than 150 years of combined hand surgery experience. All their physicians are fellowship trained and are either board-certified or board-eligible with the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and with a Subspecialty in Surgery of the Hand. The physicians provide evaluation, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care for conditions affecting the nerves, bones, tendons, joints, skin and vascular supply from the hand to the shoulder. The center provides medical care to all ages including children and has privileges at many of the area’s hospitals. In addition, the practice has its own therapy department providing quality occupational and hand therapy on site, and an ambulatory surgical center that is located on site, offering patients comprehensive care thereby making scheduling and treatment more advantageous for patients. The Hand and UpperEx Center has three locations: Wexford, Jefferson and Beaver, with the staff of orthopaedic physicians and occupational therapists as well as nurses, medical assistants and office personnel who are committed to delivering the highest quality care to patients. In July, the Hand and UpperEx Center opened a temporary office in Beaver while waiting for their new office to be built. With a projected opening date of December 2020, they are enthusiastic to bring shoulder-to-hand care to Beaver County. “Most of our patients come to us by referrals from their primary care physician, physical and occupational therapists and by our active, loyal patients,” said Ms. Sanderson, who said that the practice accepts most insurance plans. For more information on the Hand and UpperEx Center, please visit the website at: www.handupperex.com or email them at: info@handupperex.com. Contact the office to schedule an appointment today at 724-933-3850. 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

M OV E R S & SH AKERS

Business Spotlight:

SSB Bank

Although SSB Bank, member FDIC, is known to many for its long tenure on the Northside, it is slowly “branching” out into other Pittsburgh communities. Rest assured, though, it will remain committed to its community banking roots. That’s one thing that will never change for this local and independent financial institution going on almost a century of business in Pittsburgh.

nto its third year in the North Hills, SSB Bank’s McCandless Branch continues to make its mark as a customer-centric institution that generations of individuals and businesses have come to rely on. Their commitment doesn’t stop there, either. From providing the most up-to-date services and products, to ensuring every customer feels at home when they walk through the door, no detail is missed when it comes to guaranteeing a customer-first banking experience. In addition to providing banking services for individuals, SSB Bank takes pride in its ability to support small businesses and provide them with a wealth of resources, support and guidance throughout their journey. Whether they are in the beginning stages of opening a business, on a path toward expansion and growth or they are looking to start a new project, SSB Bank finds a way to help each business meet their goals. They don’t want you to take their word for it, they want you to take their small business customers’ word for it: Erin Turo, a longstanding personal and small business customer of the bank, explains, “We have worked with many banks over the years, and none compare to

the service that we now receive with SSB. They make things easy to understand, simple to accomplish and they really care about our needs as a small business. SSB is truly a community minded bank and we are glad we found our home here.” SSB has surely done their due diligence in determining the products and services small businesses, non-profits, charities and

government agencies need and are always looking to expand their small business options to remain competitive. More so than anything else, they provide an experience that is unique and personal for each business because they want business owners to feel supported. They recognize that

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

small business owners have a lot invested in the success of their business; it is their livelihood. As a result, SSB makes it their priority to help them maximize their potential and reach success. Some of the services provided to small businesses that chose to bank at SSB include: • Merchant Services • Remote Deposit Capture • Night Depository (McCandless Branch only) • No-Fee and Interest-Bearing Deposit Account Options • Responsive and Hands-On Customer Service Another advantage to banking with a locally owned, independent community bank like SSB rather than an impersonal “big bank.” The benefit to your local communities. SSB Bank focuses on establishing a foundation for lifelong partnerships where all parties are valued, because they understand what it takes to live and thrive in our city. As a true success story themselves, they know what hard work, dedication and support can do for a business. SSB believes in making Pittsburgh a better place for all who live, work and raise their families here. Supporting small businesses, charities and organizations within the communities they work and serve shows their true commitment to that. It’s one thing to say it in an article and another to prove it, though. Not a problem for SSB. They invite all individuals, small businesses and community organizations in the area to visit one of their branches and experience the SSB Bank difference. They are confident that once you walk through the doors, you will understand what makes SSB bank so special. They guarantee it. To learn more about how SSB Bank can help with your small business banking needs, visit the website at: www.ssbpgh. com/business-banking or stop in to either location to talk with one of our business banking professionals. 4 4 4

TRAC Services for Families

RAC is celebrating its 40th anniversary and has evolved from a volunteer organization focused on educating the community about the need for adoptive parents, to a full-service organization focused on ensuring healthy permanent relationships for all children and families. This has included fully operationalizing our foster care license. With all TRAC families being approved for both foster care and adoptive resources, there is added stability for a child placed in foster care with the goal of reunification – but who will not have to move if the permanency goal is changed to adoption. In addition, with foster to adoptive placements, we recognize the needs of birth parents, who have most often experienced trauma in the past, that has gone untreated. When we take this into account, we are able to understand, that for every family made happy through adoption, there is another family left hurting by their loss. With our growing Outpatient program, TRAC is able to work with individuals on both sides of the adoption spectrum, by providing strength-based mental health therapy to assist in the healing which is necessary for positive emotional health. Because of the work we do with all family types, changing the name of the organization from Three Rivers Adoption Council to TRAC Services for Families was done to embrace all of the services we provide. Since its inception, one of the things TRAC has always done, is provide amazing support for our families. TRAC’s staff is trained to give families and children the tools needed to navigate this newly created family. This is extremely important when families have birth children who also have to learn new family dynamics. In our finalized families, this support is most often done through our Post Permanency program. One of the first of its kind in the country, TRAC’s Post Perm services involve master’s level, in-home therapists with the primary goal of ensuring family stability thereby decreasing the possibility of a disruption and the child being returned to the child welfare system. TRAC’s Post Permanency services has received national recognition, receiving the first Adoption Excellence Award from the US government. One of TRAC’s focus population has been the placement of children over the age of 8 years old. Recognizing the importance of youth being placed with families rather than in group homes, TRAC has begun a special effort to recruit families willing to parent children 12 years old and over. During fiscal year 2018, TRAC served over 800 children and families. 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

Get More Holiday Business

by advertising in Northern Connection’s 20th Annual Holiday Guide featured in the December 2019 issue. Discounted rates apply

Featuring:

Holiday Gifts • Specials • Events • And much more!

Call: 724-940-2444

or email: NCmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com 14

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

FA M I LY B USINESS

Family & Small Business PROFILES

There’s something special about a family or small business. Perhaps it’s because we like to see people working together for something larger than themselves. Perhaps we like to see how generations come together. Perhaps it’s because we like seeing a dream turn into a reality, and the family or small businesses we are featuring all started with someone having a good idea. Whatever the reason, Northern Connection is proud to feature these small and family businesses in this issue.

The Dented Keg Brewing Company

Derek McCullough (brewmaster), Travis McCullough (brand ambassador), Matt McCullough (beer connoisseur and co-owner), Gareth Poe (kitchen and bar manager) and Corey Gibbons (beer connoisseur and co-owner)

The Dented Keg Brewing Company opened on Oct. 2 in the Adams Shoppes in Mars. The founders of the brewery started brewing beer in 2016 in co-owner Matt McCullough’s basement. The founders of the Dented Keg include Matthew McCullough (co-owner), Corey Gibbons (co-owner), Brian Cogley and Austin Roberts. Brian and Austin are no longer part of DKB, but they were part of the home-brewing process from 2016-2018. The Dented Keg creates beer and cider recipes on their full-mash brewing system, brewing those recipes onsite. What started as just a group of buddies home brewing beer has grown tenfold, and they’ve taken that idea and created a brewpub atmosphere outfitted with a brewery area, full-service kitchen, dining and bar area. “We are a close-knit family, so our focus is to make our customers feel the same,” said Travis McCullough. “We want the atmosphere to reflect a comfortable, relatable space, where friends and family can gather and enjoy our handcrafted beer, cider and food. 700 Adams Shoppes, Mars, PA 16046 | 724-591-5511 | www.dentedkeg.com

The Print Shop at Office Things The Print Shop at Office Things was founded in 1973 by Peter J. Nudi, Nina A. Nudi Dryna and Mary Ann Nudi Sembrat. In 1978, Peter left the company, and since that time Nina and Mary Ann have been running the printing business. Located at 133 Grand Avenue in Mars, The Print Shop at Office Things specializes in Commercial Printing, Advertising Specialty Items and Signs and Banners. As times have changed, their printing services have changed along with them. Technological advancements have transformed their business, when before 100% of their business used negatives and metal plates to today when 90% of their business is now computer to digital press with only 10% offset presses. The Print Shop at Office Things pays superior attention to customer service, no matter the size of the project, and they offer a wider variety of products. 133 Grand Ave Mars Pa 16046 | 724-935-2221 | Printshopppg.com

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Stephany Insurance Stephany Insurance is a family-owned, independent agency providing auto, home, business and life insurance to the Wexford and surrounding areas for over 30 years! Located in the 2500 building of Brooktree Center Office Park, the Stephany Insurance team includes Principal Agents Ken and Mary Lynn Stephany, Agent Mike Casper and Licensed Customer Service Representative Cheri Fink. Together they bring over 100 years of insurance experience to service the community. As an independent agency, Stephany Insurance can offer customized plans that fit YOUR needs. Whether you are an individual, family or small business, you will be guaranteed the Mary Lynn Stephany, Ken Stephany, best rate. However, what sets Stephany Insurance apart is their Mike Casper and Cheri Fink commitment to customer service. How responsive is the agency when you need help? Most of their clients come from satisfied customers by word-of-mouth recommendations. “They appreciate our attention to their every concern,” said CSR Cheri (Fink). And unlike other agencies where everyone is competing for clients and commissions, the “all-in-the-family” team at Stephany Insurance believes they are all in it together, and that they are all in it for you. 724-935-8010 | www.stephanyinsurancellc.com

Landau Building Company Established over 100 years ago, Landau Building Company has become one of the premier family-owned and operated construction management and general contracting firms in Western Pennsylvania. In 2006, Landau Building Company expanded its construction services to include the northern West Virginia region when it created the subsidiary Marks-Landau Construction. Now in its fifth generation, Landau continues to build strong RELATIONSHIPS with its clients by focusing on their need to build a safe, high-quality project on time and within budget. Our commitment to integrity, honesty and excellent client service has built the solid REPUTATION we exhibit every day on every project. We deliver exceptional RESULTS that exceed our client’s expectations for quality and service which makes Landau Building Company their builder of choice. We welcome the opportunity to be your builder of choice. 724-935-8800 | www.landau-bldg.com

Jewelry by Alicia & Scott Jewelry by Alicia & Scott is a husband and wife-owned jewelry business located in Wexford. They have over 20 years’ experience in custom design, fine jewelry, diamonds and gemstones. Modernizing their approach to the industry, Alicia & Scott’s custom jewelry is designed through CAD design with precision and only the finest materials. All setting work and repairs are done in-house so that nothing leaves their showroom. Alicia & Scott’s dedication to their craft and their clients shows through in every piece of jewelry they design. They are truly passionate about their clients and are thankful to be a part of their journey through life. Alicia has been designing jewelry and grading diamonds for the past 24 years. Scott has over 15 years in metal fabrication from aircraft to jewelry. Together, these two are an incredible team. Check out their Facebook and Instagram profiles to learn more about their designs and services. 724-934-6296 | www.jewelrybyaliciaandscott.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

FA M I LY B USINESS

Process Reproductions

| Proud Printer of Northern Connection magazine

Process Reproductions, Inc. was founded in 1990 by Paul C. Neugebauer and son Paul J. (P.J.). “I was working in printing in high school with my dad at another company, and one day I said, “Dad, we could do this on our own. So, we worked our regular jobs but began acquiring projects and printing after work using a printing press owned by a printer in Canonsburg,” said P.J., who reflected on what a bold move that was for them. After six months, they both left their jobs to oversee their blossoming business, which was initially called Genesis Printing. His father has since passed away, but he was 55 when he and P.J. started their business, and he worked in the business until he was 65. Today, P.J. and his brother Steve run Process Reproductions. “It was tough going in the beginning. I think it was six months before we were able to take a check. In fact, I used my wedding gift money to help purchase equipment,” said P.J., who reflected how on supportive his new wife was and who believes that there is nothing more important than family. Their employees are like family with several of his employees being with the company 20-25 years. Today, the company, which is located at 939 West North Avenue on the North Side, has numerous clients from high schools and colleges to Duquesne Light and Giant Eagle and even doing the posters for the Pittsburgh Penguins when they won back-to-back Stanley Cups. One of the secrets to their success is catering to small as well as larger clients. “No job is too small. I tell our sales representatives, that if we turn down printing 500 business cards for being too small, then the customer will never come back when they have larger projects,” said P.J. The printing industry has changed considerably since 1990. “Printing was not as clean a business then, but today we are a cleaner, greener industry. We use recycled paper when possible and biodegradable, inks and many less chemicals,” said P.J. For more information on Process Reproductions,call us at 412-321-0920 or visit our website at www.prpgh.com

Guardian Angel Home Care Services By providing affordable, high-quality, in-home care, Guardian Angel Home Care Services, Inc., is continuing to deepen its roots while bolstering its already strong reputation in the community as it nears its 20th anniversary! Stacey Perry, who created Guardian Angel Home Care Services, Inc., says she’s proud of the services it has provided to the region over the past two decades. Regardless of their growth, they’ve maintained personal attention to the needs of each client. In addition to their outstanding administrative team, who play a vital rule in the daily operations of the business, Stacey credits the many long-time, loyal caregivers working with the company, who she maintains are the heart and soul of the business. Guardian Angel Home Care Services, Inc., is a proud provider of Pennsylvania’s Medicaid/Community Health Choice (CHC) Program. For additional information, please call 412-492-8290 or visit www.guardianangelinhomecare.com.

ALWAYS HIRING CARING HEARTS!

Eichner’s Family Farm Our family farm history began in 1897 when John Richard purchased 22 acres and a one-story log cabin with a livestock stable in the basement. He added a second floor to his house, built our barn and a few wooden outbuildings in 1900. The second generation, Mike and Teresa Eichner, continued to develop our farm by expanding farm fields and building several masonry farm buildings over the years without accruing a penny of debt through the 1960s. The third-generation brothers, Dick and Paul Eichner, continued to maintain and nurture our farm through the 1990s with Ron waiting in the wings. Grandpap Eichner knew 42 years ago that I was the one to take the farm in to the fourth generation. I shared his comment with someone special 20 years ago, and she said to me, “That is the fuel that supports your drive.” Also, twenty years ago in 1997, I bought 22 acres adjacent to our farm and made a personal decision. A day later Dick made a decision, then I responded, “Dad, what is your plan?” Dad responded, “There is a time when a son follows his dad, and then there’s a time when a dad has to follow his son.” Dad is still following me today, AKA – YouTube Eggman Wexford, KDKA. Fast forward to the fourth generation. What keeps me outstanding in my field is our angel’s message from heaven, “Dad, I love you. Just let me help you.” That’s when I put him on full-time at our farm. Our family farm future can be secured with support from our community for our family farm. We welcome our valued customers’ support throughout the year. You are welcome to stop by Eichner’s Whole Farm. 285 Richard Road, Wexford, PA 15090 | 724-935-2131 | eichnerfarm@gmail.com

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

HE A LTH & WELLN E S S

BHS Nurse Honored in Cameos of Caring® Program – Terri Isacco, RN BSN CHPN

utler Health System is pleased to recognize Terri Isacco, RN, BSN, CHPN as recipient for the 2019 Cameos of Caring Program® Award. Ms. Isacco was nominated by her colleagues for this distinction and will be recognized at the 19th annual Cameos of Caring Program® and Awards Gala on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at the David L. Lawrence Convention center in Pittsburgh, PA. The Cameos of Caring Program® and Awards Gala was created in 1999 to honor exceptional bedside nurses. The goals of the program are to honor outstanding nurses, increase public awareness of the nursing profession and help recruit the next generation of nurses. Terri Isacco stated, “I live to make a difference. In nursing this is possible at many levels.” Early in life Terri was inspired by a mom who had an unrealized dream of becoming a nurse. Overcoming personal illness early in life, Terri found herself in the hands of caring, compassionate nurses. This experience conf irmed that Terri (and her two sisters) inherited the same calling, becoming nurses and fulfilling their mother’s dream. In her over 25 year career at BHS, Terri has served on many key health system committees and initiatives and gone from a nursing assistant, to team leader, to case manager, to educator and beyond. But perhaps the most rewarding is her current role in Palliative Care. Terri states, “Most rewarding are the ‘wins’. Connecting patient need with community resources or supporting a patient overwhelmed with a serious diagnosis they just can’t wrap their minds around is a win. Seeing them beginning to cope better, move forward with a plan and live with their diagnosis – that’s a win. When a patient is facing death and you help alleviate fear, provide comfort and peace for them and their loved ones – that’s a win.” Building relationships is a strength with both her patients and her colleagues. Terri supports patients and the community as a whole through her involvement in palliative care programs such as music therapy, the annual community memorial service and Navigating the New Me. “Terri’s exceptional care, compassionate heart, and cheerful

personality truly exemplifies what the essence of nursing can and should be. We are honored to have her at the helm of our palliative care clinic.” – The BHS Palliative Care Team Terri is married and the proud parent of 3 successful children and six grandchildren. She is active in her community and attends Community Alliance Church. 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

H E A LT H & WEL L NESS

Staying Active Thanksgiving Day By Joella Baker

efore or after the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie are gobbled up, think about what you can do to keep moving on Thanksgiving Day. Instead of lying on the couch for your pre- or post-turkey nap, gather up the family for some fun activities that will keep everyone entertained! You will be spending time together while having fun and staying active. You may even start a new family tradition. Here are my ideas to keep you active and keep you moving throughout the Thanksgiving holiday.

Run in a Turkey trot, Turkey Chase or some Thanksgiving race. There are so many to choose from. My favorites include the Gobbler’s Gallop at Riverside High School, The Turkey Chase at Graham Park in Cranberry Township, The Emerald Fields Thanksgiving Race, The Turkey Trot in downtown Pittsburgh. All these races raise money for great programs and are a lot of fun. Play some football. Don’t just watch football, get the

family out and play some football. This is fun and a great opportunity to do something as a family while getting everyone moving and off the couch. Go for hike or a walk. Maybe you don’t like to run. That’s OK, go for a walk or a hike instead. You could even visit some neighbors and drop off a small Thanksgiving gift while walking through your neighborhood. We always plan a hike at McConnell’s Mills State Park the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Volunteer for a nonprofit. This could be a food bank, homeless shelter or an animal shelter to name a few. Getting out and helping others is what Thanksgiving is all about. So many organizations need help this time of the year. Do your part! Deliver meals to those in need or visit a youth home, nursing home, hospital or veteran housing unit. So many people don’t get visitors on a holiday. Take some time and visit some people who may need to see a friendly face. Help deliver meals to the elderly or simply visit these people and talk or play a game with them. A small gesture can go a long way in brightening someone’s day.

Start decorating for Christmas. Pick out your tree, setup your tree or start your decorations. This will keep you moving and keep you from eating all day.

Hold a holiday scavenger hunt or set up an outdoor obstacle course. The key is to make it fun and make it so everyone can complete it and most of all, make it fun and for all ages. Plan a Turkey burner workout. The Rose E. Schneider Family YMCA always holds multiple indoor cycling classes and some tough boot camp classes the day after Thanksgiving to burn off all the calories you ate the day before.

Our running club loves to get together for some long runs on the Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving. Getting out and walking, running or mountain biking for 1-3 hours will burn a lot of excess calories.

Go skiing or ice skating. If the weather is cold and there is snow, this is a great way to be active. Don’t forget, snow needs to be shoveled. You can also sled ride or build a snowman. Having fun in the snow is a fun way to get active. The main goal is to have fun and get moving this holiday season. Check out local race calendars and activity calendars to get ideas for races. Look to your local YMCA’s and fitness centers for what they are doing Thanksgiving weekend to help burn those calories. Get up, get out, get moving! Happy Thanksgiving readers! 4 4 4 24

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

H E A LT H & WEL L NESS

Solevo November Events Monday, November 4 • 11:30am - 3pm Squirrel Hill Certification Event With Dr. Shannon Community Room 5600 Forward Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Wednesday, November 6 • 3-4:30 pm Pop Up Event with Uncover Squirrel Hill Aiello’s Pizza 2112 Murray Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Thursday, November 7 • 5-9 pm Cal U dinner & presentation Atria’s Restaurant Friday-Saturday November 8-9 All day Pain Society Conference Hershey Hershey, PA Wednesday, November 13 • 10:30 am-12:30 pm Parkinson’s presentation The Caring Place 200 Warrendale Village Drive Warrendale, PA 15086 Thursday, November 14 • 4-9 pm Veteran Certification Event West View West View VFW Post 2754 386 Perry Highway West View, PA 15229 Friday, November 15 • All day Society of General Internal Medicine Regional Mtg University of Pitt Club Saturday, November 16 • 6-10 pm Autism Connection Gala 3030 Jane Street Pittsburgh, PA 15203 Saturday, November 16 • 7-10 pm Parents in Toto Fundraiser West View Banquet Hall 398 Perry Highway West View, PA 15229 Sunday, November 17 • 1-3 pm SH Pediatric Support Group Community Room 5600 Forward Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Tuesday, November 26 • 10 am-12pm Breast Cancer Support Group presentation Classroom 129 Butler Health System 129 Oneida Valley Road Butler, PA 16001 For additional information on events please visit our website.

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Solevo Wellness – Providing Treatment for Special Needs Children By Janice Lane Palko

f you have or love a special needs child, you know that their condition affects not only the child but also the entire family. That is why at Solevo Wellness, Annie Corbin, the Pediatrics Director, involves the whole family when treating a child with medical marijuana. A Pittsburgh native, Ms. Corbin worked in Colorado in the industry and returned to Pittsburgh to bring her expertise and experience to area children and their families. A mother of a special needs child herself, she has first-hand knowledge about using medical marijuana to treat her child. Her daughter has epilepsy and was born with a brain defect that causes seizures. Medical marijuana has helped her to remain seizure-free for the last five years. “My daughter is now 19, working full-time and getting ready to go to college. Traditional medicines, induced rage issues, but Medical marijuana gave her her life back,” said Ms. Corbin. Currently, medical marijuana is approved in Pennsylvania for 23 medical conditions. The most common conditions treated in children are autism, epilepsy, anxiety, pediatric cancers and brain cancer,” said Ms. Corbin, who works with parents and children to find the most therapeutic benefit from medical marijuana. Solevo Wellness has a sensory-friendly room for when children come to the dispensary as well as offering a family support group for those with special needs children because when there is a special needs child in the family all the members are under extra stress. Often it takes a bit of time to find the right formula, but when Solevo does, it can make all the difference. “Our goal is to help a child feel normal and be able to function. I tell our families to be patient because when their child achieves homeostasis, it will be worth it,” said Ms. Corbin. “It’s so gratifying to see families start to heal, to see moms’ anxiety lessen and everyone be able to get some sleep.” 4 4 4

I M AG E & S T YL E

-Ingredient DIY Face Masks

By Kelly A. Smith

love a good face mask as much as the next girl. Who doesn’t love great looking skin, right? Food-based facials are the ultimate organic indulgence. Face masks are supposed to be relaxing and promote a sense of tranquility, but you can’t have those benefits if you’re worried about the ingredients leeching chemicals into your skin. There’s just something comforting about a DIY face mask that allows you to whip up a concoction using only ingredients that you use in your everyday cooking, not to mention the drastically lower cost. I like to stick to three ingredients because—well, the “less is more” approach really rings true with these recipes. Sometimes, I change out the ingredients based on what I have (or don’t have), but I do like to stick to no more than three because anything more just starts to feel a bit too experimental and where’s the fun in that? A lot of these recipes are oatmeal based since it is chock full of amino acids, which of course, nourish the skin and promote healing with its soothing properties. I narrowed my top picks that I think are the simplest, give the best results and have ingredients that you’re sure to have in stock for the Thanksgiving season! These recipes can be done in a blender, a handheld food processor or ground and whipped by hand- your choice! All should be applied either using clean fingertips, or brushed on with a silicone facial brush (can be purchased at any drugstore) and left to sit on the skin for 15-20 minutes. Gently rinse off with warm water, and don’t forget to end with a splash of cool water to close the pores of your newly cleansed face. Now, let’s get cookin’!

n Oatmeal/Yogurt/Honey

Steel-cut oatmeal (stirred in hot, not boiling water) then add full-fat yogurt to oatmeal paste followed by a few drizzles of honey.

n Banana/Olive Oil/Honey

You’ll want to use very ripe bananas and smash them until they form a puree of sorts. Then gently whisk in your olive oil and honey.

n Avocado/Coffee Grounds/Yogurt

Gently smash the avocado until almost smooth, then whisk in the coffee grounds (what a great antioxidant!) finishing up with a full-fat yogurt. Let sit for 5 minutes to get those coffee grounds really infused!

n Cocoa/Cinnamon/Honey

Start with fresh, raw cocoa and mix together with cinnamon. Add your honey and blend all together until silky smooth. Let this sit for 5 minutes-feel free to lick the spoon while you wait!

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

n Lemon/Sugar/Olive Oil

Start by mixing your olive oil with some granulated sugar then add some lemon zest by grating the peel directly into your ingredients, and don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lemon juice for an added kick of radiance!

n Apple Cider Vinegar/Cinnamon/ Honey

Ground cinnamon, or my personal preference, a grated cinnamon stick should be mixed directly with the honey. Once its consistency is pastelike, add your apple cider vinegar, slowly stirring it in and let it sit for 5 minutes before applying. This will allow the cinnamon to infuse with the vinegar.

n Pumpkin/Egg White/Yogurt

Mix the pureed pumpkin with egg whites until smooth. Then beat in full-fat yogurt until thickened. Tip: while this is technically a fourth ingredient, I do find it festive to add a dash of allspice to this recipe!

n Triple Berry Mask

This face mask has some flexibility- you can use 3 berries of your choice combined with olive oil (I know, again, technically a fourth ingredient but 3 berries are better than 2!) I like to use mostly dark berries such as, blackberries or black raspberries but you can use strawberries, blueberries or red raspberries- all of them have good antioxidants. It just depends on your preference and all of them are sold frozen so do take advantage of that! Berries should be mashed and mixed fully with the olive oil and, like some of the other recipes, be left to sit for 5 minutes to allow the ingredients to be absorbed into the oil. If you find that you have extra product left and want to use it another day, do keep in mind that these are all fresh ingredients and should be treated as such. Do keep leftovers stored in the fridge in airtight containers (Ziplock sells the perfect, tiny, round reusable containers with a snap on lid) for up to 7 days. For the banana-based masks, you can just drizzle with a bit of fresh lemon juice to prevent browning. And, you may want to make a bit extra to bring to mom. Come on, she’s done her fair share of cooking for you, right? I’m sure any family member or friends would love to try your custom creations! Take a break from the stresses of holiday cooking and pamper yourself with the perfect homemade face masks created by you, for you! You can also rest easy knowing that your concoctions are truly one-of-a-kind and made with TLC in your own kitchen, free of harsh chemicals, as well as unpronounceable mystery additives. Happy Thanksgiving to all! 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

T R I V I A CO NNEC T ION

Sesame Street Trivia By Paula Green

e’ve enjoyed 50 years of fun and laughter and a “sunny day sweepin’ the clouds away.” The popular children’s, educational television program Sesame Street celebrates its golden anniversary this month. The show officially debuted on November 10, 1969, on PBS. Sesame Street was almost called 123 Avenue B, but the rhythmic title was changed after producers discovered this was an actual address in New York City. Some of the show’s characters like Big Bird have always been on Sesame Street. Big Bird lives in a large nest next to Oscar’s trash can, and he has a teddy bear named Radar. The namesake is a tribute to the M*A*S*H character Radar O’Reilly, who always slept with a teddy bear. Big Bird’s best friend is a wooly-mammoth named Snuffleupagus. Snuffy has a baby sister named Alice. He also attends “Snufflegarten.” In the first season, Oscar made his debut as an orange grouch, not the green grump we know him as today. In addition, Grover, the cuddly blue creature was brown. Cookie Monster wasn’t an amateur when he joined the Sesame Street cast. Three years prior, he starred as “The Wheel Stealer” in an unaired General Foods commercial. He also appeared in an IBM training film and a Munchos commercial. Cookie Monster is also the only Muppet character who has five fingers. Everyone else has four. Best buddies Bert and Ernie got their names from two characters in the Christmas-themed film It’s A Wonderful Life. Ernie wears horizontal stripes on his sweater to make him appear more relaxed. Bert wears vertical stripes to make him seem more uptight. Elmo is a furry, red monster with large white eyes and an orange nose. He currently hosts the last full 15-minute segment on Sesame Street, Elmo’s World, which is aimed at toddlers. He is accompanied by his goldfish, Dorothy, silent Charlie Chaplin and Mr. Noodle. Count von Count is a friendly vampire-like muppet who is meant to parody Bela Lugosi’s portrayal of Count Dracula. He first appeared in the Season 4 premiere in 1972. His primary role is to teach counting skills to children. Abby Cadabby is a fairy-in-training. After counting to ten with the Count, Abby’s magic wand sets off too much lightning

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

and breaks, so Big Bird takes her to the Fix-It Shop so her wand can be repaired. Sesame Street has been continuously broadcast since its inception, making it one of the longest-running shows in American history. It is watched by almost half of all American preschool-age children. It airs in 120 countries, with more than 30 international versions in production. We’ve learned how to get to Sesame Street; now we must pave our way through this educational TV query. Get set to don those thinking caps, because it’s time to get a little trivial… 1. 2. 3. 4.

How tall is Big Bird? What is Snuffleupagas’ first name? Who is the host of Monsterpiece Theatre? What’s the name of the store where the Sesame Street characters go to hang out? 5. Name the food that Bert loves to cook. 6. This amphibian was a reporter on Sesame Street when it debuted; he eventually switched over to The Muppet Show. 7. Which female character is Elmo’s best friend? 8. Who was the first celebrity to make a guest appearance on Sesame Street? 9. This Sesame Street fellow’s birthday is on October 9, 1,830,653 B.C. 10. What does Ernie like to collect? 11. Name the female Mexican muppet found on Sesame Street. 12. What is the name of Oscar’s worm? 13. This character is a waiter, and he drives Mr. Johnson crazy. 14. Which Sesame Street character is the only non-human puppet ever to testify before the U.S. Congress? 15. Ernie hit the billboard charts in 1970. Name his song that was #16 on the Hot List. 4 4 4

Answers: 1. 8’ 2” 2. Aloysius 3. Cookie Monster 4. Mr. Hooper’s Store 5. oatmeal 6. Kermit the Frog 7. Zoe 8. James Earl Jones 9. Count von Count 10. paper clips and bottle caps 11. Rosita 12. Slimy 13. Grover 14. Elmo 15. Rubber Duckie

“This is Sesame Street. A place where people, birds, monsters all live in perfect harmony.” — Phil Donahue, guest star

Sources: https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/sesame-street-debuts, https://www. familyeducation.com/fun/kids-tv/celebrating-40-years-sesame-street, https://www.songfacts. com/facts/jim-henson/rubber-duckie, https://www.triviaplaying.com/553-sesame-streettrivia.htm, http://www.123facts.com/quiz_results.php?quizid=2143, http://sesame-streetz. blogspot.com/2012/09/who-is-most-popular-sesame-street.html, https://www.imdb.com/ title/tt0063951/trivia, https://www.metv.com/lists/12-sunny-and-surprising-facts-aboutsesame-street, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Sesame-Street

KIDS & E DUC ATIO N

School Movers & Shakers Blessed Francis Seelos Academy Blessed Francis Seelos Academy eighth grade students had the opportunity to hear Lynne Ravas, a daughter of a Holocaust survivor, tell her father’s survival story. Her inspiring talk had the students full attention. Mrs. Ravas said that she was quite impressed with the students and their knowledge of the Holocaust.

St. Joseph High School Saint Joseph High School senior Michael Smith has been named the Volunteer of the Year by the Pittsburgh Cares Foundation for his work at Computer Reach. He has volunteered 112 hours to the Michael Computer Reach organization. Smith Michael has been involved in helping to deconstruct, rebuild, and reprogram donated computers that are then donated to in-need local, national and international schools and organizations.

Fox Chapel Fox Chapel Area High School has been selected as a 2019 National Banner Unified Champion School by Special Olympics. This honor is given by the international headquarters of Special Olympics to only a small number of schools that demonstrate a commitment to meaningful inclusion and quality Unified Champion Schools programming. Fox Chapel Area High School senior golfer Scott Bitar was named to the 2019 American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Scholastic Junior All-America Team. The Fox Chapel Area High School Marching Band recently won first place at a Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) competition held on October 12.

Two Fox Chapel Area High School students placed in the Sterner Steel City Invitational Forensic Tournament. The Public Forum Debate team of Griffin Kerstetter and Ian MackeyPiccolo won fifth place.

Mars Area Mars Area School District announced that Mars Area High School has been selected as a 2019 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Mars Area High School seniors Dalton Becker and Kamryn Kolson were selected to receive a 2019 Scholastic Sports Marketing Student-Athlete Award. Mars Area High School senior Michael Riggio has installed a “Buddy Bench” on the playground at Mars Area Elementary School as part of an Eagle Scout Community Service Project (Continued on page 32)

Seneca Valley In September, the Seneca Valley Marching Band held its second annual cancerfighting campaign called “SV Band Gives Back.” Band members raised over $2,400 to support the McFeeley Family from Mt. Lebanon. Brian McFeeley, Mt. Lebanon High School Principal, who was recently diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. The Seneca Valley School District Special Education Department recently opened Seneca Square, a smoothie and beverage shop, in the intermediate high school. Run by exceptional students in the district, this endeavor is the third such student-driven retail shop at Seneca Valley. Ryan Gloyer Middle School (RGMS) English Teacher Susan Moury is headed for a once-in-a-lifetime teaching opportunity in India. Moury, who was recently accepted into a Limited Resource Teacher Training (LRTT) Fellowship, will be training teachers in India during the summer of 2020.

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

Vincentian Academy (North Hills)

Mrs. Rita Canton (412) 364-1616 www.vincentianacademy.org

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

K I D S & E DUC AT ION

Mars Area Elementary School students have been hopping, skipping and jumping to class since the start of the school year, as the school has installed a new Sensory Path in its fourth grade hallway.

Shady Side Academy Four members of the Shady Side Academy Class of 2020 were named semifinalists in the 65th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. The SSA semifinalists are: Akshay Amesur, Nicole Caputo, Arusha Nirvan and Giri Viswanathan. The Glimcher Tech & Design Hub, a new facility dedicated to innovation, creativity, technology and design, is now open at Shady Side Academy Senior School. The 12,000-square-foot space is located on the lower level of Rowe and Memorial Halls on the school’s 130-acre campus in Fox Chapel, which serves approximately 450 students in grades 9-12. The new facility includes three primary areas: the Fabrication and Robotics Wing, the Computer Science Wing and the SSA Café.

La Roche University According to The Princeton Review, La Roche University ranks among the nation’s best colleges in the Northeast. The Eta Psi chapter of Delta Mu Delta at La Roche University earned STAR status from the International Honor Society in Business for the fourth time since 2015. La Roche University and Vincentian Collaborative System have partnered to offer Western Pennsylvania’s first intergenerational residency for college students and seniors. The students in Residence program offers a unique opportunity for students to live and volunteer with seniors at Terrace Place at Vincentian, a new independent living community for individuals 55 and older. For details, visit laroche.edu/vincentian. The La Roche University Board of Trustees elected two officers and welcomed two new members. New officers are: Bradley Franc and Ernestine Harris. New members are Mary Elizabeth Fisher Albaugh and Lyle Albaugh.

La Roche University has hired Stephen M. Lippiello as the institution’s new vice president for Finance and Administration/CFO. La Roche senior Danielle DiNatale recently received the Benevolent Quill grant from Words for Charity.

BC3 Butler County Community College’s 18-monthold “Hope is Dope” opioid addiction program will apply $180,000 in funding as part of a state grant awarded to the Center for Community Resources in Butler toward developing a four-phased curriculum for those identified as having suffered from opioid use disorder within the past year. Linda Franiewski and John Reddick were named 2019 distinguished alumni at Butler County Community College Linda (BC3). Franiewski

John Reddick

Butler County Community College graduate, Connie Pikoulas Butler, of Butler was at the New York Stock Exchange on Oct. 17 with representatives of AIG. They celebrated the company’s 100th anniversary by ringing the market’s closing bell at 4 p.m.

Connie Pikoulas Butler

CCAC The Community College of Allegheny County’s North Campus chapter of Psi Beta, the Community College National Honor Society in Psychology, has received the 2018–2019 Chapter Excellence Award. Community College of Allegheny County golfers Dominic Achille and Blake Martin took third and fourth place in the tworound 2019 Western Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference Golf Championship, which was held Oct. 5 and 6 at the Links at Spring Church in Apollo.

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Who Really Discovered America? By Weston Waite

e were all taught that “In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue.” Christopher Columbus, aka Cristoforo Colombo, is often credited for having discovered America. But was Columbus really the first person to discover what would later become the United States? The answer to this question is both yes and no. Christopher Columbus was the first European to land and establish a settlement in the new world (Sorry Leif Erikson). He did not however, land on what we would consider the United States. While trying to find an alternate route to China, Columbus stumbled upon the island of San Salvador off the coast of South America. So, Columbus was not the first to step foot in the “United States,” but he did set a precedent of exploration that others would soon follow. America actually derives its name from another Italian Explorer, Amerigo Vespucci. But like Columbus, he also landed in South America, and so it prompts the question; Who was the first person to land in the “U.S.”? Many people would answer this and say that the Pilgrims who landed at Jamestown were the first. Well, if you think this is the answer, I’m sorry to say that this is incorrect as well. In 1607, the Pilgrims landed and established a colony at Jamestown, Virginia, and this would become known as the first “English” European settlement. The very first Europeans to establish a colony were actually the Spanish, who settled in St. Augustine, Florida, in 1565. Founded by Pedro de Menéndez de Avilés, St. Augustine is credited as being the very first European settlement in the “United States.” Also interesting is the fact that St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States. So long answer short, the Spanish and Pedro Menendez were the first to “discover” America. Sorry Mr. Columbus. Happy fall and Happy Thanksgiving! 4 4 4 Weston Waite is a senior at Duquesne University, majoring in Political Science and French. His academic specialties are those of American history and American politics. In addition, Weston is a member of the Duquesne Men’s Hockey Team and Sigma Nu Fraternity. He is a lifelong resident of McCandless, where he currently resides with his family.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

SU PP ORT OUR T ROOPS

Sister Melanie Kambic, CDP Sister of Divine Providence to receive military honor By Paula Green

ccording to the National World War II Museum, nearly 350,000 American women served in uniform, both at home and abroad, during World War II. For these women, it was a significant opportunity to help the war effort and make a difference. A local woman took part in this chapter of U.S. history. Sister Melanie Kambic, CDP, 98, served in the Army Nurse Corps during WWII. In recognition of her military service, she will be honored during a special ceremony held on Veterans Day. On Nov. 11, State Rep. Sara Innamorato, D-Lawrenceville, will present Sister Melanie with a citation from the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives. The “Patriotic Social” will be held from 2-3:30 p.m. at Providence Heights on Babcock Blvd., in Allison Park. Sister Melanie was raised in a small Croatian community in Rankin. When she was 16 years old, she and one of her friends were set to enter a religious order. The friend changed her mind, and so did Sister Melanie. Instead, she enrolled in the Braddock Hospital School of Nursing. Upon her graduation in 1944, Sister Melanie joined the Army Nurse Corps. She knew the Army was in desperate need of nurses, so she answered the call. She spent three years in the Armed Forces. In addition to her military service, Sister Melanie devoted much

of her time in the classroom. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Duquesne University, a master’s degree in nursing administration from the University of Maryland and her certification as a nurse practitioner from the University of Pittsburgh. Sister Melanie spent numerous years teaching and supervising at various hospitals. Although she was working diligently in her nursing career, she still had the calling to serve the Lord. As she noted, “The hound of heaven pursued me!” In 1954, Sister Melanie entered religious life at the age of 33. It was the late Rev. William Cheetham at Saint Anslem Church in Swissvale who influenced her to follow her vocation. She is a member of the Sisters of Divine Providence (CDP). Even though she officially retired in 1994, it didn’t stop her from being involved. Sister Melanie took several classes at La Roche University and became a member of the Providence Heights “peanut butter and jelly brigade.” This group of sisters makes sandwiches for the homeless through Operation Safety Net. Sister Melanie also helps with the collection of clothing and appliances for St. Thomas Catholic Church in Burnsville, West Virginia. Her favorite motto is “leave wherever you are better than you found it.” This year, Sister Melanie celebrates her 65th Jubilee. Northern Connection magazine congratulates her on this remarkable milestone. We honor Sister Melanie for her years of military service. 4 4 4

WH E R E WAS I?

Veterans - Their Service Never Ends By Janice Lane Palko

hen it comes to veterans, we often hear about their alarming suicide rates, high incidences of homelessness, and how prevalent post-traumatic stress disorder is among them, and rightly so because too many veterans suffer from those maladies. But there is another side to veterans that no one that I know of keeps track of and that is the number of veterans who freely stand in the breech for us, protecting and serving long after their tour of duty or military career ends. It’s a phenomenon that I’d like to call Post Military Service Disposition or PMSD. I just finished reading the remarkable book, The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett Graff. The book is an oral history and an in-depth chronology of what happened during the terrorist attacks on 9/11 in the words of the people who experienced that day. I can’t recommend it enough. Though many of us lived through that infamous day, I guarantee you that you did not know all of the things the author brings to the page in this book that should serve as a reminder of what this country suffered and lost on that day. For instance, after the World Trade Centers collapsed, there was a rush of people who ran to the river in lower Manhattan to escape the carnage and destruction. Overwhelmed, the Coast Guard sounded the alarm

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asking for assistance and scores of water taxis, barges, ferries and other private vessels answered the call –making it the largest civilian water evacuation ever—even greater than the Dunkirk rescue in World War II. Throughout the book there are numerous tales of heroism, but what struck me was how many of these everyday heroes had prior military experience. Though they don’t get much attention, civilians with prior military experience time-after-time have responded in a crisis admirably, many times putting their own life in danger. For instance, in 2015 a terrorist attack on a Paris train was thwarted by three Americans, two of whom were veterans. In 2015, Army veteran Chris Mintz took seven bullets while trying to protect students when a gunman opened fire at an Oregon community college. In October 2018, Patrick Shields, an Army veteran who still serves in the National Guard, apprehended a shooter after he opened fire at a high school football game in Tennessee. In December 2018, an Altoona Marine veteran and bartender took down a would-be robber. The search on the internet goes on and on, but you get the picture. Why do so many heroes have prior military experience? I believe it comes down to training. In the military, you are trained to see a problem, step up, and fix it. You are also trained to protect each other and to offer yourself for a higher cause. While I’m not in favor of compulsory military service, I don’t think we’d be harmed as a society if we included some of the training tactics or ethos employed by the military in our schools. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful world if more people had PMSD? Bless all our veterans! 4 4 4

Facts From The Farm By Ron Eichner

i, folks! As a third generation family farmer raising two flocks of turkeys each year, I am often asked how I raise “vegan turkeys.” Each flock has a true five months of bliss. Day-old turkey poults arrive at our farm and are welcomed into a 90-degree gas-heated nursery. Each poult gets three swallows of vitamin electrolyte and mineral water, which continues daily for the first three weeks, followed by our three-step, exclusive, vegetable-based protein feed program of starter, grower and finisher. The all-natural, vegetable-based feed program makes our farm-raised turkeys true “vegans.” We don’t use any antibiotics with our poultry programs. Turkeys want close and easy access to feed, water and rousting, making them true couch potatoes! It’s a six-month sprint for me as the mother hen of our two flocks of turkeys for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. At the farm we get no days off and no holidays, and this sprint lasts up until the weekend before Christmas. The flocks consume over 26 tons of turkey feed. On the weekend before Thanksgiving, there are three days of processing. Over a period of two days, it takes 20 family members and friends to complete the harvest. On the third day, they are weighed and packaged, making them ready for our customers and the deliciousness the turkeys will bring to their Thanksgiving celebration. We can honestly say our farm-raised turkeys are 100 percent vegan, and our customers tell us they are the best. We hope you make Eichner’s Whole Farm a destination for your Thanksgiving needs and your “rest of the story.” 4 4 4

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SE N I OR LIV ING

Together Again 36

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Casual conversation and an old photo have led to a remarkable discovery for two UPMC Senior Communities residents.

ob Adams and Wes Piros have a few things in common. They live down the hall from one another at Beatty Pointe Village, the UPMC Senior Communities independent living campus in Monroeville. They both celebrated their 96th birthdays in October, only three days apart. Both are full of vigor. Both served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. What they didn’t know until recently was that they were “neighbors” in different quarters 75 years ago as Air Force cadets. Shortly after each man enlisted, Bob and Wes spent time in Texas to qualify to be a pilot, bombardier or navigator in the military’s nascent branch, the Army Air Forces, which eventually became the U.S. Air Force. After Texas, each headed to Indiana for flight training at Butler University. Bob has a photo of his fellow cadets at Hoosier Air Field. At the time, Bob recalls, he simply handed his camera to someone close by, the cadets lined up in two rows and smiled, and the image was captured. Most of those 20 cadets of the Army Air Forces went their separate ways that day. Some fought and died in the war. Others stayed stateside in reserve, including Wes, who served until the end of the war on the West Coast working on bomber planes. Bob went on to serve on the European front as a radio operator in the infantry. The year was 1944. One morning Bob brought that framed black and white photo down to breakfast at Beatty Pointe Village. Neither knew when Bob shared the photo with Wes the incredible coincidence that would reveal itself. In the photo, Bob and Wes are pictured toward the center, with Bob in the top row looking down at Wes in the bottom row. “I didn’t recognize myself in the picture at first,” said Wes, “mostly because I couldn’t believe it!” Both men agree that the service taught them organization, promptness, discipline, “and the ability to pull yourself up by your bootstraps” in the words of Bob’s grandfather. The gentlemen do not remember one another specifically from their earlier days together, but they do share recollections of their time in Indiana. “We slept in the field house in triple bunks,” Bob recalled. “Some nights we laid awake, unable to sleep, wondering what tomorrow would hold.” Wes remembers how the women and students in the town would sew and press their uniforms so that they were form-fitting. “They made us look like officers,” he said with a smile. Bob added, “The little decisions and actions taken by strangers had such an impact on the course of our service and our lives.” This proved true countless times, whether it be a commanding officer or civilians encountered at home or overseas. “We are all connected to one another, dependent on one another, and our actions have consequences for others,” said Bob. “This was an important thing to learn as a young man and to remember now that I am older.” UPMC Senior Communities is home to hundreds of veterans across its many campuses. It is a privilege to share their stories, to honor them, and to express gratitude for their invaluable service. 4 4 4

To learn more about UPMC Senior Communities, visit our website at UPMCSeniorCommunities.com or call 1-800-324-5523. www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

SE N I OR LIV 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 Fox Chapel Area High School Fall Play: The Importance of Being Ernest, 3:45 p.m., Nov. 6,

611 Field Club Road, O’Hara Twp. Performance for seniors age 60 and older, in the Fox Chapel Area High School auditorium. Refreshments served prior to the performance at 3 p.m. in the auditorium lobby. Reservations are requested. Call (412) 967-2410 for reservation for the senior citizens’ performance only.

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.

North Hill Community Outreach provides Safety Checks for Seniors. Interested seniors who

reside in northern Allegheny County should email Cathy at clpschirer@ nhco.org or call (412) 307-0069 x3313.

Pennsylvania consumers are

encouraged to sign up for a text alert system through his Bureau of Consumer Protection to raise their awareness on how to avoid becoming a scam victim. For info, visit https://www.attorneygeneral.gov/ consumer-alerts/

Meals on Wheels Aspinwall Meals on Wheels pro-

vides home cooked, home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Blawnox, Aspinwall, Fox Chapel, Sharpsburg, and O’Hara. Call (412) 820-8350.

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

North Country Meal on Wheels

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) 935-1877.

Medical North Hills Community Outreach

offers free medication safety screenings for seniors living in northern Allegheny County, north of the city of Pittsburgh. For details contact, Cathy at (412) 307-0069, ext. 3313.

Spiritual 2nd Act, ages 55+, 10 a.m.-noon,

2nd Thur. thru May 14, Wexford, lobby, Orchard Hill. Fosters spiritual growth thru music, inspirational speakers & outreach projects. For info, visit orchardhillchurch.com.

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

Senior Meetings 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) 816-2159.

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. from 1:15-3:15 p.m., The Lunch Bunch meets 4th Thurs. from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon., 1-2:30 p.m., at Berkeley Hills Lutheran Church, Sangree Rd., Ross. Call (724) 4440064.

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Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the

Lighthouse Foundation is looking

Social Groups

Neighborly Gnomes assist seniors

month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. Call (412) 741-4900 or visit http://www.ccgf.org.

Amazing Singles, for singles in the

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

AUP Club, have fun & meet new

people with the Association of University People/AUP. We are looking for single, 4-year college graduates over 50 to join us for monthly dinners, meet at various social spots, gatherings and Scrabble. For info, call (412) 734-8445 or visit us at www.aupsinglespittsburgh.org.

Catholic Alumni Club of Pittsburgh, has dances, retreats

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

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.

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.

for volunteers to help in the food pantry for prep and packing, distribution, & greeters. For details, contact Lee Ann at (724)586-5554. with disabilities with yard tasks. Visit NeedsbyNeighborhood.org.

North Hills Community Outreach

needs volunteer dispatchers for their senior shuttles. For info, contact Kerry at kkmulhern@nhco.org or (412) 449-0151.

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

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

Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program

is seeking volunteers (50+) to tutor in Pittsburgh Public, Wilkinsburg and Woodland Hills School Districts in grade K-4. Trainings held at 411 Seventh Ave., Suite 525 (Duquesne Light Building) downtown Pittsburgh. Training, materials & clearances are provided. For info or to register, call 412) 393-7648 or email 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.

2019 NC Holiday Guide Spread holiday cheer and create wonderful memories with these local businesses and events!

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

2019 NC Holiday Guide On Saturday, December 7, the Avon Club proudly presents the 2019 Holiday House Tour, offering tours through 7 beautiful homes in the Ben Avon Borough. The homes selected for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tour represent a wide variety of architectural styles and designs, as well as diversity in the age of the homes. One of the homes from this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tour is pictured here. Each is beautifully decorated to not only honor the historical features of the home, but also to demonstrate the unique style and taste of the homeowners. The homeowners are happy to share their journey with guests regarding their home, including any upgrades made during their ownership. Guests will also be provided with a detailed history of the homes, giving guests a fascinating look back into times past. Daylight tours are available from 10am until 4pm, and a candlelight tour will be held from 6pm until 9pm. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 the day of the tour. For tickets, more details, and a list of FAQs, visit: https://theavonclub.org/house-tour/

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

November 2019

Happenings Arts & Entertainment Cranberry Artists Network Fall Show, Nov. 8-Dec. 20. Opening

reception 6-8 p.m., Nov. 15, at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center. Visit www.cranberryartistsnetwork.com.

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m.,

Bereavement Support Addiction Bereavement Support Group Beyond Bridge to Hope,

7-8:30 p.m., 2nd Wed., of every month, Cumberland Woods Village Chapel, McCandless Twp. Free of charge, no registration is necessary. Call (412) 748-5120.

Cancer Support Groups at Our Clubhouse, 6:30-8 p.m., 1st Tues,

Breast Cancer Support and Prostate Cancer Groups; 6-8 p.m., 2nd Tues, Multiple Myeloma; 6-8 p.m., 3rd Tues, Living Life with Metastatic Breast Cancer; 6:30-8 p.m., 2nd Thurs., Pancreatic Cancer Group, 2816 Smallman St., Pgh. Call (412) 338-1919 to register.

Gentle Yoga Cancer Support,

Nov. 4, Apollo 11; Nov. 11, A Dog’s Journey; Nov. 18, The Secret Life of Pets 2; Nov. 25, Late Night, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup. com/movies/

Bereavement Support Group in

Legacy Theatre Seminars: 11 a.m.,

Grief Share, 7-8:30 p.m., thru Dec.

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.

Grief Support Group for widows

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

Nov. 19, Marketing the Presidency: A Visual Tour of 125 Years of Presidential Artifacts; 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 25 & 26, AARP Smart Driver Course (two-day course), Cumberland Woods Village, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. RSVP to, (412) 635-8080.

Legacy Theatres shows: 7:30 p.m.,

Nov. 16, Chuck Blasko & The Vogues, 2 & 7:30 p.m., Dec. 7, Johnny Angel: The Halos Christmas Show; 2 & 7:30 p.m., Pittsburgh Big Doo Wop Big Band Christmas, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http:// www.thelegacylineup.com/productions.

Lynn Jacques will be the Beaver Valley Artists featured artist, 7 p.m., Nov. 14, at the Merrick Art Gallery, 1100 Fifth Avenue, New Brighton. Visit www.beavervalleyartists.org.

Opus I Music Society program,

What, No Joplin? Exploring Other Early Ragtime Pianists and Their Music, 9:30 a.m., Nov. 11, LifePointe Alliance Church, (music room) Rt. 228, Adams Twp. Guest: Dr. Glenn Utsch, member of Slippery Rock University’s music faculty. Call (724) 772-1063.

Pittsburgh Shorts Film Festival,

Nov. 1-7 at Southside Works Cinema. Visit https://filmpittsburgh.org/ pittsburgh-shorts/films.

Salute to Glen Campbell, 7:30

p.m., Nov. 5, Beaver Falls Middle School. For details, visit https:// bvcommunityconcert.org/salute-toglenn-campbell-with-jeff-dayton/.

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. 5, Orchard Hill, Room 206, Upper Level. For details, visit https://www. orchardhillchurch.com/. 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/

Pittsburgh L.A.M.P.S. is 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@lifeaftermps.org.

Cancer Support Brain Tumor Group, 4:30-6:30 p.m., 3rd Thurs., Wexford. Visit www.cancercaring.org.

Breast Cancer Support Groups,

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.

Cancer Caregivers Support Group,

6-7:30 p.m., the 3rd Tues, in the North Hills. Visit www.cancercaring.org.

Cancer Caring Center free exercise programs for cancer patients,

8:30-9:30 p.m. every Wed., Rose E. Schneider Family YMCA; 9:30-10:30 a.m., every Sat., Sewickley YMCA. Registration is required, call (412) 622-1212.

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5:45-6:45 p.m., 3rd Mon., North Hills. Visit www.cancercaring.org.

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

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. Register at (412) 622-1212.

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) “Teal Hearts Network” meets 6-8 p.m., the

3rd Monday of every month at the Cancer Caring Center. This network group is for ovarian cancer survivors. Visit http://ovarian.org/component/ events/event/483.

Young Adult Cancer Group, 5:307 p.m., 4th Tues, North Hills. Visit www.cancercaring.org.

Colleges & Universities Butler County Community College (BC3) free certificate program provides training for entry-level health care jobs. Email kelly.mckissick@bc3.edu or call (724) 287-8711, ext. 8171.

La Roche University has launched

Pennsylvania’s first prelicensure master’s program in nursing. Classes begin May 11. For info and to apply, visit laroche.edu/elmsn.

La Roche University Undergraduate Open House for high school students, transfer stu-

dents & their families, 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Nov. 9. Morning refreshments & lunch are included. Visit admissions@laroche.edu or call (412) 536-1272.

Stuff the Trolley Toy Drive, 11:30

a.m.-2:30 p.m., Nov. 16, in the parking lot of the Fred M. Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College. Sponsored by Saint Vincent College Alumni Office & Alumni Council. Visit https://www.stvincent.edu/.

Technology, Media & Information Literacy Conference, Nov. 20, Fred M. Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College. Visit www.tmilieracy.org.

Counseling Ask the Attorney sessions for

low-income families, free legal consultation for noncriminal issues for families in need at North Hills Community Outreach locations at 7 p.m. the 3rd Wed of each month (except Dec.), NHCO Allison Park. Preregister by contacting Jackie at jmboggs@nhco.org or (412) 4083830 x3217.

Ask the Financial Advisor, free second opinions on 401Ks, social security & other financial related matters. Contact Kevin, at klingenfelser@ cfnmail.com or (412) 605-7900.

Craft & Vendor Craft & Vendor Show, 9 a.m.-3

p.m., Nov. 17, Shriner’s Center, 1877 Shriners Way, Cheswick. Crafts & vendors from the Tri-State area. Call Colleen (724) 864-2130.

Hampton Township Holiday Event, 7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 5, 3101 McCully Rd, Allison Park, Call (412) 487-7870, www.hampton-pa.org.

Dancing Events Ballroom Dancing, 7-8 p.m. (beginners), 8-10:30 p.m. (social) 1st & 3rd Fri., thru Dec. 6, gym, Orchard Hill Church. For info, visit www.orchardhillchurch.com.

Bodiography, La Roche University

presents Bodiography’s Multiplicity, Nov. 15-16 at the Byham Theatre. For info, visit http://www.bodiographycbc.com/

Country Knight Line Dancers

host a line dance 7-10:30 p.m. every Wed., in St. Athanasius Hall, cost $5 per person. Call, Janine (412) 9316971 or janine.beley@gmail.com.

Saturday Singles Dance, ages 40+, 8-12 p.m., Nov. 9, A Perfect Pair Mix & Match Ice-Breaking Singles Dance; 8-12 p.m., Nov. 23, Free Pumpkin Pie Night. Free Dance Lesson 7:30 p.m. Dance Line (724) 316-5029, email dancetonight09@aol.com, visit www. dancetonight.weebly.com.

Fundraiser Mister Rogers Neighborhood Sweater Drive, Nov. 7-Dec. 20.

Bring new & gently-used sweaters to the Children’s Museum to donate to local and regional charitable organizations serving families in need. For info, visit pittsburghkids.org/ fredmemories.

Reindeer Ball & Holiday Auction,

4-7 p.m., Dec. 8, at the Westin Convention Center Pittsburgh Hotel, downtown. For tickets, visit www. pittsburghmercy.org/events.

Gala Providence Heights Alpha School Gala, 6-9:30 p.m. (after party til

midnight) Nov. 9 at the Rivers Casino. Supports Catholic education. Tickets can be purchased online atALPHAgala.givesmart.com. Alpha is selling raffle tickets for Disney; 7-day Disney package for a family of four. Go to www.Alphaschool. org and click Mickey.

Harvest Farm to Table Western PA Annual Harvest Tasting at two

locations, 1-4 p.m., Nov. 9, Voodoo Brewery Compound, Meadville & 4-7 p.m., Nov. 16, The Galleria of Mt. Lebanon. For info, contact Erin at ehart@american-healthcare.net or call (412)657-3028.

Health & Wellness First Place 4 Health is a Christian

Bible-based weight loss group that meets 6:15-7:30 p.m., Tuesdays at 536 Lincoln Ave., Bellevue. Call (412) 487-4819.

Flu Shots Fridays, every Friday thru

December at Heritage Valley Health System’s Convenient Care walk-in Clinics. Cost $15. No appointment is necessary. For info, visit www.heritagevalley.org/pages/convenient-care.

Free CPR Class, 7 p.m., Nov. 12,

at Heritage Church, 2262 Rochester Rd. Instructor is Dan McSorley from McCandless/Franklin Park Ambulance

Authority. There’s a $20 fee if you want an American Heart Association certification card. Space is limited. For info, call (412) 366-1356.

Health & Wellness Fair, 9 a.m.-3

p.m., Nov. 11, Cranberry Township Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd. Sponsored by the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber. For info, visit, pghnorthchamber.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.

Historical Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meeting, 7 p.m., Nov.

18, Hampton Township Community Center, 1301 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Bill May presents “In the Footsteps of John Wilkes Booth.” Free & open to the public.

Holiday Ben Avon Holiday House Tour,

10 a.m.-4 p.m. & 6-9 p.m., Dec. 7. Visit seven homes in the Ben Avon Borough. For details, visit theavonclub.org/house-tour. To purchase tickets, visit squareup/com/store/ avon-club-foundation.

Brunch with Santa, two seating;

10:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Dec. 8, at the Aviary. For details, visit https:// www.aviary.org/.

Hampton Twp. Holiday Event,

7 p.m., Dec. 5, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Low-level fireworks, Santa arrives on fire truck, cookies & hot chocolate, live holiday music, pictures with Santa. Free to the public. For details, visit www.hampton-pa. org or call (412) 487-7870.

Holiday Craft Show & Cookie Walk, 9 a.m., Nov. 23, St. Brendan’s

Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. Over 50 vendors, handcrafted goods & homemade cookies, over 80 varieties. For info, visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 364-5974.

Holiday Tour of Homes, 10 a.m.-4

p.m., Dec. 7. Sponsored by the Butler County Symphony. If you want your home included email Sue at sjmor-

row7@gmail.com or call Judith at (724) 496-2782.

Shadrack’s Wonderland Lightshow, Nov. 23-Jan. 5, in Butler. Visit https://shadrackchristmas.com/ pittsburgh-pa.

Honors & Awards Carnegie Science Center is

accepting nominations for the 2020 Carnegie Science Center Awards. Nominations accepted thru Dec. 1, at CarnegieScienceCenter.org/ ScienceAwards.

Library Northland Library, Naturalization Information Session, 2 p.m., Nov. 4; Managing Holiday Stress Successfully, 7 p.m., Nov. 7; International Games Week Game Night, 6:30 p.m., Nov. 8; Come Write-In, 6:30 p.m., Nov. 21. Visit www.northlandlibrary.org or (412) 366-8100.

Lottery Sisters of Divine Providence 2020 Lucky Number ticket based on the Pick 3 Day & Evening PA Lottery. Cost $25 each and valid Jan. 1-Dec. 31-2020. To participate, visit cdpsisters.org/LuckyNumber or call (412) 635-5401.

Moms Single Moms CARE Group

facilitated by Anchorpoint Ministry, meets 6-8 p.m., 1st & 3rd Weds., at Heritage Presbyterian Church, 2262 Rochester Rd. Call Anchorpoint, at (412) 366-1300.

S.P.I.N. For Single Moms. 6-7:30 p.m., 4th Monday of the Month in Bellevue. Call (412) 366-1300.

Networking 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. Call Joanne at (724) 443-8303.

AmSpirit Cranberry Twp., Referral

Based Networking Chapter meets 7:15 a.m. every Wed. at the North Park Lounge in Cranberry Twp. Contact: Mike Hall at rentit@generalrental-center.com or (724) 612-7844.

AmSpirit Business Link McCandless, Referral Based

Networking Chapter meets noon every Wed. at the Wildwood Golf Club, Sample Road, Allison Park. Contact: Stephen Deal at stephendeal@pghdeal.org or (724) 4933292. (Continued on page 46)

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

AmSpirit Pittsburgh North Chapter, Referral Based Networking

Chapter meets 8:00 a.m. every Thurs. at the Sports Grille Cranberry Twp. Contact: Dan Novakovich at novakovich@zoominternet.net or 724309-2553.

Open House Olive Branch Fair Trade Store Holiday Open House, 10 a.m.-4

p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 & Saturday, Nov. 9, 11160 Perry Hwy, Wexford. All are welcome.

AmSpirit Wexford, Referral Based

Networking Chapter meets 8:15 a.m. every Wed. at Walnut Grill, Wexford. Contact: Jen O’Donnell at jnodonnell86@yahoo.com or (724) 809-6647.

Butler County Chamber Coffee Club meeting, Nov. 1, 8 & 15 &

Dec. 6, 13 & 20, SpringHill Suite by Marriot. For info, email Jennifer@ ButlerCountyChamber.com or call (724) 283-2222.

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber: Meet & Move Luncheon,

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 4, at Pittsburgh Marriott North @ Cranberry Woods, 100 Cranberry Woods Dr. Visit pghnorthchamber.com.

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.

Opportunities ESL Conversation Friends,

teaches everyday language skills to immigrants, meets at 10 a.m. Tues. & Thurs. & 7 p.m. Weds. at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. New students & volunteers are welcome. Visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 364-5974.

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

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 Food Bank, 10 a.m.-

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 &

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.

Ridgewood Food Pantry, open

every Tue. 5-7 p.m. & every Wed. 2-6 p.m., 335 Center Ave. Pgh. Street parking available. Helping the West View Community Call Judy at (412) 931-1313.

UPMC Passavant Auxiliary Membership Opportunities,

are you looking for an opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Then join UPMC Passavant Auxiliary’s tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets the 2nd Monday of each month (Sept.-June) at 10 a.m. Contact Alice at (412) 748-6640 or burkea2@ph.upmc.edu.

Presentations and Seminars Being Kind in the Neighborhood: An Evening of Conversation about the Legacy of Fred Rogers, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m., Nov. 14 at the MuseumLab at the Children’s Museum. For info, visit pittsburghkids.org/fredmemories.

Compassion Fatigue from a Systems Perspective: Self-Care & Beyond, Dinner & Gathering, 6

p.m. (registration 5 p.m.), Nov. 15, in the Sister M. Ferdinand Clark Auditorium, UPMC Mercy, 1400 Locust. Register at https://www.pittsburghmercy.org/faith-communities/ education/#dinner-and-gathering.

Runs, Walks & Races Brendan’s Boots, the hiking group

of St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, hits the trail every three weeks. Group meets at 10 a.m. & each hike is followed by lunch. Visit stbrendans.org or (412) 364-5974.

Sales Mission Mall, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Nov.

23, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd. Thirty tables representing 20 local & international nonprofit groups. Unique, handcrafted & fair-trade items made by local artisans. For info, visit http://www.stpaulsumc.com/events/.

Schools Fox Chapel Area High School Fall Play: The Importance of Being Earnest. 7 p.m., Nov. 7-9, at the Fox Chapel Area High School auditorium and tickets are $8 each. Tickets will be sold at the door.

Social Great Fellowship Social Club,

meeting noon, 2nd Sat. each month (Nov. 9) in Wexford, Bella Frutteto, 2602 Brandt School Rd., 15090. Live music, Dixieland, Jazz, & Eclectic sounds. $25 entertainment with a choice from Bella Frutetto’s special events menu. All are welcome! Cash bar opens at 11:30 a.m. Call (267) 838-5622.

Mosaic Singles Community (40+), a Christian Family-based community at Orchard Hill. Visit www.orchardhillchurch.com/adults.

Sealarks Women’s Group meet-

ing, 1 p.m., Nov. 13, Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Rd., Allison Park. Provide Christian fellowship & social activity for women alone: widowed, divorced or single. For info, call (412) 487-7194.

Soldiers & Sailors Cannon Ball Fundraising Event, Nov. 9. For

details, visit SoldiersandSailorsHall.org.

Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 a.m.,

Tues., at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. For info, visit www. stbrendans.org or call (412) 3645974.

Amputee Support Group, 4-5:30

p.m., 3rd Wed. of every month, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley, 3rd Floor Boardroom,

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

303 Camp Meeting Rd., Sewickley. For info, call Michelle at (412) 7492388.

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

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

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.

Brain Tumor Support Group, 6:308 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.

Bridge to Hope, 7 p.m., every Wed.,

Under One Roof helps people

who are housing extended family members under their roof. Anyone who is experiencing the challenges of extended family living is provided support & advice. For info, contact St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church at www.stbrendans.org or (412) 6352312.

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.

Operation Heroes Veterans Forum, 2-4 p.m., Nov. 7, at the

Kean Theatre, Washington Pl., 5847 Meridian Rd., Gibsonia. To register visit, StBarnabasHealthSystem.com or call Mark Piccirill at (724) 495-1600.

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.

Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs Awarded VA Grants to Support Disabled Veterans

Compulsive Eaters Anonymous,

Sgt. Joseph D. Caskey American Legion Post 80 has scholarships

11 a.m., Tues., Prayer Room of Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Rd., McCandless. For info, call Jane at (412) 951-9517.

Lupus Foundation meetings,

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

Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m., Weds, at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. For info, visit www. stbrendans.org or call (412) 9519157.

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.

Recovery for Parents of Addicts: 6 Steps to Sanity, 6:30-8 p.m., Thurs., at Orchard Hill. For info, www. orchardhillchurch.com. No meeting Nov. 28, Dec. 26.

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) 8262784 or valerie.bucek@healthsouth. com.

in Adaptive Sports at Slippery Rock University. Visit www.va.gov/adaptivesports.

and camps available for students in grades 9-12. For details, visit www. Pa-legion.com.

VA Butler Healthcare Flu Vaccination Clinics to Veterans at

the main campus, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics, and other community locations this fall. For a list of date and times, call (724) 287-4781 or 1-800-362-8262.

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 HereCareer, 3rd Wed., 6:30-8:45 p.m.,

Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 779-8323, discoverhopehere@gmail.com or www.discoverhopehere.com.

Veterans Fitness Classes 5 Days

a week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. 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 & sub-

stance 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 volunteers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments to & from their appts. Call (412) 919-1100 or emailsharon. stalter@cancer.org.

ESL Conversation Friends, which

teaches everyday language skills to immigrants meets at 10 a.m., Tues. & Thurs., and 7 p.m. Weds, at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., Franklin Park. New students & volunteer tutors are welcome. Visit stbrendans.org or (412) 364-5974.

Hope Hospice is looking for volun-

teers for their patients. Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, just have the heart! Call (412) 367-3685.

Lighthouse Foundation is looking

for individuals or groups to do local food donation pick-ups, help with food pantry distributions & special projects, and office assistant work. For details, call (724) 586-5554.

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) 3661300 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.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NOVEMBER 2019

YOU R H O ME

Kimberly Ferraro-Buchanan Honored Northern States Mortgage Originator Named a 2019 Five Star Mortgage Professional By Janice Lane Palko

t’s always nice to be recognized for your work, but it’s doubly nice when that recognition comes from your peers. Kimberly Ferraro-Buchanan, Mortgage Originator, Northern States Mortgage, LLC, has recently been named a 2019 Five Star Mortgage Professional. She was only one of 43 professionals in all of Pennsylvania to receive such an award, representing only 7% of all mortgage professionals in the market. Ms. Ferraro-Buchanan was nominated for the award by clients and real estate professionals, and she had to have met five eligibility requirements—Possess a qualifying client satisfaction rating. Be actively employed as a mortgage professional for a minimum of three years. Must have satisfied minimum production on a yearly and three-year basis (number of transactions and dollar value). Must have satisfied the applicable state licensing requirements and maintain a favorable regulatory and complaint history. Ms. Ferraro-Buchanan has been with Northern States Mortgage for five years. The company offers a variety of mortgage loan programs--everything from mortgages for first-time home buyers to loans for high priced buyers. Northern States Mortgage makes purchasing a home simple with online applications, the assurance that you are getting the best interest rates available and an expedited process. That and working with one of the best professionals in the industry—Kimberly Ferraro Buchanan—can give you the peace of mind home buyers desire. For more information on how Ms. Ferraro-Buchanan can help you to navigate the mortgage process, contact her at: kim@northernstatesmortgage.com or call: 877-808-6611. 4 4 4

Deb Walton Realtor® and SRES® Multi Million Dollar Producer Honor Roll Member, Circle of Excellence

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty Cranberry Regional 20206 Route 19, Cranberry Twp. PA 16066 Office: 724-776-3686 Cell: 724-480-6690 debwalton@TPRsold.com www.debwaltonrealtor.com

Karen J. Anspaugh Attorney at Law

Adrienne Abstract & Closing Company 4499 Mount Royal Blvd Allison Park, PA 15101 Mobile: 231-668-1934 karen@adrienneclosings.com www.AdrienneClosings.com Adrienne Abstract & Closing Company

NOVEMBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com