Vein Institute of Pittsburgh Leads Support for Animal Friends Dr. Terrance R. Krysinski with his son Spencer
Bid for Hope XIII Supporting A Glimmer of Hope St. Barnabas Fashion Show Features Kiya Tomlin Fall 2014 School Open House Dates Visit Garrett County!
Your Luxury Home Specialists
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Northern Connection | October 2014
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CONTENTS October 2014
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NORTHERN CONNECTION Features
Home & Garden
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28 Berkshire-Hathaway Properties
Off the Hook Restaurant Has ‘Hooked’ Bid for Hope XIII Rosemary Garrity
12 Cover Story: Vein Institute of Pittsburgh Leads Support for Animal Friends 15 Toxic Foods and Plants during the Holiday Season
Kids & Education 38 Innovations in the Classroom Marianne Reid Anderson
42 Spotlight on Education: Eden Christian Academy 43 2014 Fall Open House Directory
12 In Every Issue 4
From the Publisher
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Movers & Shakers
Marion Piotrowski
11 Mover & Shaker of the Month: Rose Lynd Paula Green
44 School Movers & Shakers
30 Trivia Connection: Spooktacular Trivia Paula Green
34 Tis the Season for Fall Harvest
47 School Mover & Shaker of the Month: Chelsea Carver
32 Happenings
Health & Wellness
48 What is Celebrate My Drive?
18 Fit Families: Living Without Wheat and Gluten: A change in diet, a change in life style
Image & Style
26 Need to Get Away? Visit Garrett County
Joella Baker
20 The 3 C’s of Life: Choices, Chances and Changes Dr. Bridgit Chufo
24 Enhance Your Life: Seven Critical Financial Issues to Address During Divorce Donna Cheswick
25 October: Domestic Violence Awareness Month
50 Fun Fall Weekend Outfits to Try Right Now Kelly Smith
51 St. Barnabas Fashion Show – Uptown Style Reese Randall
52 Business Spotlight: Johnny Angel Opens “Ginchy Stuff” in Brighton Heights
49 Starting the Conversation: Do You Believe in Ghosts? Marianne Reid Anderson
55 Happenings for Seniors 56 Town Crier: October is the Month of Optimism Joe Bullick
57 Support Our Troops: 37th Annual Veteran’s March for Diabetes Paula Green
Senior Living 53 Boo! Barbara A. Killmeyer
54 Celebrating Senior Champions
Advertorials 17 Stopping the “Spillover” Effect in Your Health Dr. Shannon Thieroff
Cover photo of Dr. Terrance R. Krysinski, his son Spencer and dogs Angel and Kadzu courtesy of photographer Sharon K King owner of Portraits by Sharon
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23 Weight Loss Changes Client’s Life Dr. Michael Vactor, DC
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Northern Connection | October 2014
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PUBLISHER NOTES
Welcome to the October 2014 issue of Northern Connection magazine
NORTHERN CONNECTION P.O. Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722
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or all you animal lovers, the October cover story is about the Animal Friends Black Tie & Tails event that was held on September 26 & 27th. This year’s event’s lead sponsor is the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh. Dr. Krysinski and his staff are very involved in the fostering and caring of animals. They believe in taking care of patients by day and animals by night! Once again, Northern Connection is proud to be a media sponsor for the Bid for Hope XIII. This year’s event will be held on Monday, October 27 at Off the Hook restaurant in Warrendale and once again hosted by Heath & Katie Miller. Diana Napper has worked tirelessly over the past thirteen years to raise over two million dollars for Breast Cancer research, especially for women under 40. If you are looking for some fall fun, be sure to check out Northern Connection’s Happening section. From farms in and around the area to jazz concerts and a fashion show at St. Barnabas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you are looking for a quick fall get-away be sure to read about Deep Creek in Garrett County, Maryland, a beautiful two hour drive from Pittsburgh that can offer you an active or relaxing time; whatever you may want it to be. Enjoy reading all the special features along with Northern Connection’s regular monthly columns. Thank you for your continued support and together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! F
“
lead dog, THE SCENERY never changes.
IF YOU AIN’T THE
LEWIS GRIZZARD
”
Coming in November FAMILY • HEALTH & WELLNESS FALL & HOLIDAY EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
Coming in December HOLIDAY GUIDE
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Phone: 724-940-2444
Laura Arnold
laura@northernconnectionmag.com
Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: northcon@consolidated.net www.northernconnectionmag.com President & Publisher
Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor
Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator
Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator
Mary Simpson
marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com
Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executives
Mary L. Simpson Design & Production
Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master
Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers
Marianne Reid Anderson
ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com
Joella Baker Joe Bullick Rosemary Garrity Paula M. Green Barbara A. Killmeyer Suzanne (Suz) Mauro, AICI Ryan C. Meyer Liz Miles Donna Summers Moul, M.S.Ed. Marianne Reid Anderson Stacie Sikora Kelly Smith Distribution
Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com
Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Donna Smith Dominion Distribution
Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year. The mission of the Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. is to connect the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest community publication, Northern Connection. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, and recreational needs of the area. The contents of Northern Connection magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Northern Connection magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.
Coming in January
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NORTHERN CONNECTION MAGAZINE’S 16TH ANNUAL EDUCATION GUIDE
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Northern Connection | October 2014
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“When I developed peripheral neuropathy, the condition was painful and debilitating. I shared my problem with my chiropractor, Dr. Shawn Richey. He suggested that I try a program he had specifically designed. I began the comprehensive, step-by-step program. I am now only a quarter of the way through and I have complete pain relief 95% of the time. I would recommend anyone, who suffers from peripheral neuropathy, choosing to have Dr. Shawn help you to your way to recovery as he has helped me.” -Nance Stewart
My doctor said there was no help for my neuropathy . . . Until Now! What is Peripheral Neuropathy? Occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts.
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eripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs, and feet. When damage occurs, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. It can affect multiple nerves (polyneuropathy) or only one nerve or nerve group (mononeuropathy) due to trauma, injury, local compression, prolonged pressure, or inflammation. It starts with numbness, prickling or tingling in the toes or fingers. It may spread up the feet or hands and cause burning, freezing, throbbing and/or shooting pains. It is often worse at night. Sometimes it is constant or periodic and usually the pain is felt equally in both hands or in both feet. It can develop suddenly, while others progress more slowly over many years. It is a sensation of wearing an invisible ‘glove’ or ‘sock,’ a burning sensation, freezing pain. Sharp jabbing
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electric-like pain. Extreme sensitivity to touch. Difficulty sleeping because of feet and leg pain. Loss of balance and coordination. Muscle weakness. Difficulty walking or moving the arms. Unusual sweating. Abnormalities in blood pressure or pulse. I have the solution. I have the necessary tools to the uncover the underlying cause of the nerve damage. *Certified Neuropathy Professional. Member of the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of America
Call for a free consultation TODAY!
Dr. Shawn Richey
drshawn@backnline.com www.backnline.com/ 2591 Wexford-Bayne Road, Suite 207 Sewickley, Pa. 15143
724-940-9000
Northern Connection | October 2014
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NC FEATURE October 2014
Happy sponsors with autographed footballs
Heath Miller and emcee Bob Pompeani
Attendees bid on the assorted gift baskets and sports memorabilia
Heath Miller jersey (right) Corina Diehl
Off The Hook Restaurant Has ‘Hooked’ Bid for Hope XIII Photos courtesy of Gary Yon Photography
BY ROSEMARY GARRITY
Lisa and Glenn Hawley, owners of Off the Hook, the North Hills’ premier seafood restaurant, are thrilled that the thirteenth annual Bid for Hope will be held at their site on Monday, October 27. A few members of Lisa’s extended family have been diagnosed with breast cancer, so she and Glenn are very committed to help raise money to find a cure for this disease. A wide variety of sumptuous hors d’oeuvres prepared by their experienced staff will be enjoyed by all. As in the past, attendees will receive a gift bag that includes a white paneled football that can be signed by numerous Steelers who support Glimmer. Sports memorabilia and a wide assortment of great baskets will be on display for people to bid on that evening.
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he fact of the matter is that Glimmer of Hope, a small grass-roots organization has caught the attention of many individuals and businesses. Funds raised at different events by this organization are donated to Pittsburgh area hospitals. This year alone, over $277,000 has been donated to Magee-Womens Hospital, Allegheny Health Network, and the Hillman Cancer Center. Diana Napper, along with a small group of volunteers, has made an impact in this region. Since October is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness month, several new entities will sponsor events to assist Glimmer Corina Diehl, of Diehl Automotive, is a big supporter of Glimmer of Hope. “I think that Diana has done an incredible
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amount of work since the death of her best friend, who had breast cancer. She has raised over two million dollars that has been donated to Pittsburgh hospitals. I have so much respect for everything she has done.” On November 6, Diehl Automotive will help sponsor Girl’s With Guitars, a group of country western celebrities that will perform at the Heinz Field Club and proceeds from auction items will be earmarked for Glimmer. The three local Chico’s, in Wexford, Ross Park Mall and Cranberry, will each give customers discounts at different times during the month of October. The events will be posted on the Glimmer website at www.symbolofthecure.
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MOVERS & SHAKERS October 2014
Movers & Shakers Katie Miller and emcee Bob Pompeani
Bid for Hope (Continued from page 7)
com. Those who are interested can plan to shop at the Chico’s of their Choice…or at all three! Why not? For the second year, Chick-fil-A will be donating some of the proceeds from the sale of lemonade to Glimmer in October. Last year, with the support of Joslynn Tatterson, marketing director, about $5,000 was donated to Glimmer, and this year, the amount may increase even more. The employees at Alcoa headquarters in downtown Pittsburgh, are once again planning to sell hoagies and cookies during lunch hour in October, and will present Napper with a sizable check at the end of the month. Also, during the month of October, Glimmer of Hope will partner with Brighton Collectibles at Ross Park Mall to support breast cancer research. Brighton has created a limited edition bracelet for 2014 for this cause. In August, Eileen Dimond Early chaired the First Annual Dimond Family Golf outing in North Park that raised about $40,000 which she donated to Glimmer. The Oxford Athletic Club will once again support Glimmer of Hope throughout Alan Faneca, Bob Pompeani, Katie and Heath Miller the month of October and has planned a special day for Zumba aficionados to make donations during class times. When people ask, “Where does my donation go?” They are pleased to learn that the organization supports specific programs. For example, this past February, Diana Napper presented a $132,775 check to MageeWomens Hospital to launch a Pilot Program there. According to Napper, “It is a dream come true to see this consultation center begin to take life.” This funding will allow Magee to begin a pilot project for six months as one of only a handful of academic medical centers in the country to offer this type of multispecialty clinic for women with complicated breast cancers. This is another example of the impact that Glimmer of Hope has made and with the continued support of people in the area, much more can…and will be accomplished. For more information visit http://symbolofthecure.com. F
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McCandless Township held a ground-breaking ceremony on Sept. 13 at 830 Pump House Lane, behind the McCandlessFranklin Park Ambulance Authority. McCandless is building a museum to house historian Joe Bullick’s artifacts. The Hope for Autism Foundation in conjunction with The Miracle League of southwestern Pennsylvania hosted the grand opening of the “Hope Hut” at the Miracle Field in Graham Park, Cranberry Township.
St. Barnabas Health System announced its Employees of the Month for August. They are Kris Donahue, Shannon Gerst, Doug Hassler, Art Hughes, Donna Salmane, Jaimi Titus and Jordan Titus. Beginning Feb. 1, 2015, Pittsburgh Mercy Health System (PMHS), part of CHE Trinity Health serving in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy will become a tobacco-free environment and implement tobacco-free work shifts. Rep. Mike Turzai has been named a “Guardian of Small Business” by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Turzai received the award for his 100 percent voting record on behalf of Pennsylvania’s small-business owners.
Maura Elyse performed at Cindystock 11 on Aug. 16 at the Wexford home of founders Cindy and Ted Yates. The annual outdoor music festival benefits local cancer charities including Adagio Health, Hair Peace Charities, Satchels of Caring, Cancer Caring Center, Obediah Cole Foundation and UPCI Colon Project. The “Riding for the Cure” group held its annual motorcycle ride in July to benefit Butler County women with cancer. Group members Ned and Lynda Kerr presented a donation to Cheryl Schaefer of the Breast and Women’s Cancer Support Group and Anna Silverio, Butler Health System Foundation in the amount of $11,000 for the Butler Breast Cancer and Women’s Support Group. In addition, money from the ride was donated to Lana’s Spirit; the Richard Laube Cancer Center and cancer support groups in Armstrong County.
Pittsburgh automotive detailers Doug Parfitt of Pittsburgh’s Eye For Detail and Evan Jankowski of Premier Auto Dealing were selected from hundreds of detailers nationwide to put the final touches on a decade-long paint restoration project on the original Air Force One presidential jet and the Concorde Alpha Golf. Harmony commemorated the Hurricane Ivan flood disaster of 2004 and celebrated its recovery successes on Sept. 27, with a free community day called Rise Above the Waters. The event opened with a parade and included art, photos, music, food, creek fun and a big yellow ducky created by stu(Continued on page 10)
Mercy Community Health and Pittsburgh Mercy Family Health Center, part of Pittsburgh Mercy Health System and CHE Trinity Health, in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, announced Dr. Andrew Dr. Vininder Jennifer Conway, the addition of three Leuenberger Khunkhun PA-C new members to its fulltime primary care physician practice on Pittsburgh’s North Side. They are: Dr. Andrew H. Leuenberger, MD, Jennifer Conway, PA-C and Vininder Khunkhun, MD.
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MOVERS & SHAKERS October 2014
dents at Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School (CVE). North Hills resident, attorney Todd Berkey, a partner at the law firm of Edgar Snyder & Associates, has been named to the 2015 edition of Best Lawyers in America in the categories of Insurance Law, Palintiffs Personal Injury Litigation & Plaintiffs Product Liability Litigation. Measure Twice, a thriller by J.J. Hensley has been released and is now available through Amazon. com, BarnesandNoble.com and various other outlets. The novel is set in modern-day Pittsburgh and is divided into 12 chapters that symbolize the 12 steps of addiction recovery.
Marion Piotrowski, publisher of Northern Connection and Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazines, with husband Steve and “The Dude” himself: Mr. Jeff Bridges at his awesome concert at the Ridgefield Playhouse in Ct. Mr. Bridges invited Marion and Steve as 2 of only 20 people to the preshow meet and greet reception where Mr. Bridges was a very charming host. Be sure and follow Mr. Bridges and Northern Connection on Twitter @TheJeffBridges and @NConnectionMag.
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Mary Beth Smetana of Achieve Realty is entering her 25th year in the real estate industry. Smetana was the recipient of the Pittsburgh’s regional “Outstanding Agent of the Year” award. She was among the nation’s top 5% in real estate sales.
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Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust hosted its Vietnam Veterans (VVI) Annual POW/MIA Vigil, Sept. 20-21.
Tom Anderson of Ross Township achieved a hole-in-one at Diamond Run Golf Club, 138 yd hole #2 with a pitching wedge. Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC) announced that 32 Main Street communities from across the commonwealth received recognition as “Nationally Accredited Programs” by the National Main Street Center (NMSC).
MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH
Rose Lynd
Three-time cancer survivor rappels the Oliver Building to raise cancer awareness Rose Lynd
BY PAULA GREEN
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appelling down a skyscraper requires skill and bravery. One local woman completed this arduous journey along with 59 other courageous individuals on Sept. 17. Rose Lynd, 33 of Morningside successful rappelled down the 345 foot Oliver Building in downtown Pittsburgh. Rose’s descent of the skyscraper is yet another obstacle she has hurdled over the past nine years, while she has endured three bouts with cancer. In Sept. 2005, Rose was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at the age of 24. She relapsed in 2008. Last year, Rose was diagnosed with leukemia. In June 2013, she had a peripheral blood stem cell transplant with cells donated by her sister. She chose to rappel the 25-story skyscraper to celebrate her survival and give back to the community. “This event sounded really awesome. There hasn’t been nearly enough fun or joy in my last year and a half, so this is sort of my ‘you-survived-transplantand-deserve-some-fun’ gift to myself,” Rose noted. Rose decided to immerse herself in a cause that would help others who are also raging a battle with cancer. The rappelling
event “Over the Edge Pittsburgh” fundraiser was sponsored by UPMC and UPMC Health Plan. It was held for the benefit of Our Clubhouse, which a local nonprofit organization that provides free emotional and social support for those touched by cancer. “There is one big lesson I’ve learned over the last nine years that every woman should know: trust your body and stand up for yourself. It is important to trust your doctor, but it is more important to find a doctor that you trust and who also trusts you. Six months before I was diagnosed with cancer I knew something more than acid reflux was wrong with me but I didn’t stand up to the doctors and the cancer grew, and spread. I don’t make those mistakes any more. My doctors are the experts on my disease, but I have always been the expert on my body - each person is. When your life is at stake is not the time for polite deference. Your advocate needs to believe just as much in your instincts. I know I have survived these illnesses and enjoyed many beautiful moments along the way.” F
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COVER STORY October 2014
Vein Institute of Pit Leads Support f
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Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
ttsburgh or Animal Friends Caring for people by day, animals by night, the founders, family and staff of the Vein Institute of Pittsburgh give to both people and pets.
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n September 26th and 27th, Dr. Krysinski, founding physician of the Vein Institute of PittsburghSM and Cosmetic Laser CentersSM, along with his wife Kim, son and staff, were lead sponsors of the very special two-day Animal Friends event Black Tie and Tails. The event took place at the Animal Friends shelter an 80-acre campus on Camp Horne Road among the true party “animals” – the 200 homeless residents of Animal Friends. The first night, Running at Large, was a casual evening where participants could dance the night away to a DJ, or just relax or both. The second night was Collared and Tagged, the more upscale, black tie event with live jazz, a formal dinner and spectacular auction. Renowned illustrator Patrick McDonnell, the creator of the nationally syndicated and much beloved comic strip MUTTS which appears in over 700 newspapers in 20 countries, also attended the event. An annual event, the Krysinski’s and staff of Vein Institute became involved last year at Black Tie and Tails and at the spring event of BowWow Bingo. “We are delighted by the enthusiasm and support of the Krysinski’s and the staff of Vein Institute of Pittsburgh.
Their outpouring of care for our cause, the animals and our volunteers and staff has been inspirational and greatly appreciated,” says Kathleen Beaver, chief operating officer of Animal Friends. According to Dr. and Mrs. Krysinski, “We both grew up around lots of animals, even farm animals such as horses and goats. We knew we wanted to pass along the importance of caring for animals and the sick to our son. We have two dogs and several cats. It was tender and amazing to see our son bottle-feed abandoned kittens back to health. And as it has turned out, completely by coincidence, our entire staff happens to be ‘animal-people’ too and several staff members actively foster and find homes for many pets. Becoming involved in Animal Friends has given the entire team the opportunity to participate in a cause we all believe in.” “In addition to Black Tie and Tails and BowWow Bingo,” continues Dr. and Mrs. Krysinski, “Animal Friends has many programs and volunteer opportunities including many camps and volunteer programs for children and teens, counseling, behavior training and clinics for spaying, neutering and vaccinations. October is a particularly special month, since it is Adopt-a-Shelter-Pet month.” Dr. Krysinski was born, raised and a life-long resident of the North Hills community. He graduated from North Allegheny High School and attended Washington and Jefferson College where he earned a bachelor’s degree
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COVER STORY October 2014
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Animal Friends (Continued from page 13)
in chemistry and graduated summa cum laude. Dr. Krysinski earned his medical degree from Temple University and undertook his surgical training at Albert Einstein Medical Center. After completing his residency Dr. Krysinski began a private surgical practice in Western Pennsylvania. Dr. Krysinski’s interest in lasers began while in medical school. He worked as a clinical researcher at Temple and studied the use of lasers in the treatment of lung and esophageal cancers. During his surgical residency, Dr. Krysinski expanded his interest in lasers to clinical experience. Now, in private practice, he uses his expertise in the techniques of lasers and laser surgery daily when treating patients. Vein Institute of Pittsburgh specializes in the treatment of varicose and spider veins, so if you are experiencing aching, pain, swelling, or restless legs, learn more about this incredibly caring staff at www.veininstituteofpittsburgh.com. If you are interested in joining them in supporting Animal Friends, becoming a volunteer, learning more about their many programs or adopting or fostering a loving, furry companion, visit Animal Friends at their Camp Horne Road location, call 412-847-7000 or visit www.thinkoutsidethecage.org. F
Toxic Foods and Plants during the Holiday Season
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all is here and with Halloween right around the corner it is time to get into the Holiday spirit. While joining in the festivities and enjoying all the candy, food and fun, please remember to keep your furry friends safe and happy too. We have compiled a list of toxic foods and plants to keep your pets away from during this holiday season. During Halloween remember that candy is NOT safe for your pet. Specifically, sugarless candies and gum containing xylitol can be very dangerous and even deadly. It is also important to keep the chocolaty treats away from your furry friends. In addition, to dangerous foods it is also suggested to keep any black pets inside during this holiday. Thanksgiving and Christmas are joyous holidays but can be dangerous for your furry friend. Keep your curious critters away from these popular toxic foods: grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, unbaked bread dough, fat trimmings and bones, alcohol, and caffeine. It is also important to keep them away from toxic plants. A few holiday favorites that are toxic are: holly, amaryllis, mistletoe, poinsettia, and Thanksgiving and Christmas cacti. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic please call BelaCoop Animal Hospital of North Park immediately at 724-939-7062 or call the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680. Happy Holidays! F
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ADVERTORIAL
Stopping the “Spillover Effect” in Your Health BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF If you’ve ever gone through a tough spot in your health, you know how quickly things tend to snowball. For example, you get really stressed out, catch a cold, lay around for a couple of days, try to get back to your life, get sick with something else, get in a bad mood because you can’t do what you want, and it feels like forever before you’re back to your normal happy self. This result also happens when people injure themselves or experience other setbacks. It’s like a “Spillover Effect” of bad circumstances and bad health. Our health is really dependent on our whole system (mind, body) working together. As a chiropractor, I emphasize and maximize that synergy inside of us. I want to teach you how the “Spillover Effect” can keep you sicker longer, and what you can do to avoid it. Your Activity Level is usually decreased when you’re not well. I often see that people don’t have the energy to move around as much when they’re experiencing pain or sickness. It’s not just not having enough energy to work out. It’s often not having enough energy to get through your day. Here are some scenarios that occur: • Decreasing the amount of steps you take every day means you burn less calories and gain weight. • Less movement equals more stiffness and pain. Which
makes us want to move less. • It’s harder to keep your blood sugar, A state of health is when everything in blood pressure, the body is balanced. It’s easy to lose that and cholesterol balance. Chiropractic helps. levels under control when you’re less active. • Finally, not being able to do what you want often leads to emotional issues.
You’re Likely to Have Emotional Changes When You’re Sick
• Studies show that people with back pain are more likely to be depressed. • Neck pain sufferers have increased rates of mood disorders and headaches that drastically decrease quality of life. • The longer someone is sick or injured, the higher the likelihood that they’ll have an emotional problem. If you develop an emotional issue on top of a physical issue it’s harder to recover.
Your Immune System Suffers From the Loss of Activity and Bad Moods • Activity helps your body produce “fighter cells” and circulates them more rapidly. When you’re not moving, this decreases. • Stressful periods as short as THREE DAYS have been shown to impair immune function.
More Medicine, Less Wellness?
• In 2012, an initiative called “Choosing Wisely” was launched by doctors to help curtail over-prescribing tests and medications because of the potential harms of both. • The more medicines you take the more likely you will experience side effects. Every medicine has side effects.
I always tell my clients to start with the basics. You need proper nutrition, hydration and rest. Stress management tools help to keep you balanced. Chiropractic care addresses the function of the nervous system, which controls all other body functions. A welladjusted body has the tools it needs to repair itself and produce energy. It makes all of your other efforts that much more effective. If you’re experiencing the “Spillover Effect” and want it to stop, call us. We’ll be able to let you know if we can help. Stay positive and take those first steps in getting better. F
Brought to you as a Public Service by:
Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates McKnight (412) 364-9699 Harmar (412) 826-9030 www.choicechiropractic.net We are your “in-network” provider Like us on Facebook www.northernconnectionmag.com
Northern Connection | October 2014
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FIT FAMILIES October 2014
Living Without Wheat and Gluten: A change in diet, A change in life style BY JOELLA BAKER
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bout a year ago I wrote an article about going gluten and wheat free. I did a great deal of research on the topic and talked to people I knew who were gluten-free and what it came down to, was if you do not have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, then there is no need to go gluten-free. At the time though, I never thought it would happen to me. After all, I’m married to a Baker. Yes, my last name is Baker and I’m married to a man who makes bread for a living. His family is the Baker Family who owned Jenny Lee Bakery in McKee’s Rocks and now he owns 5 Generation Bakers. They produce gourmet cinnamon swirl breads. They are a staple in our household from toasting the bread to making French Toast and bread pudding. Then, on May 31, I ended up in the Emergency Room with what we thought was a terrible stomach virus. They were the worst stomach cramps that I’ve ever experienced. It was terrible. We thought nothing of it at the time, but after several triathlons where the cramps continued to return and simply not feeling right, I knew something was going wrong. With the help of Dr. Elliott Smith in Evans City, Pa, we found out I had a severe allergy to gluten and wheat. I was a celiac. What a shock. How could this be? I love eating stuff with wheat and gluten in it. Cookies, cakes, donuts, all kinds of fun things. One of the reasons that I work out so much is so I can eat these treats. That’s all changed now. At first I thought, how hard can it be? I hear there are so many great alternatives now, so I’ll be fine. It’s now been 5 weeks since I stopped eating gluten and wheat. It hasn’t been easy. I have noticed a lot of changes some good, some frustrating. My stomach cramps have subsided. I’m not as congested as I usually am.
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I’m still tired, but it’s not the same kind of tired as I had before. It’s more of a normal tired from my crazy schedule instead of wanting to just fall asleep at random moments and especially wanting to fall asleep while exercising. At first I did notice that I was finally sleeping better, but that has changed recently, you’ll know why under why I’m frustrated. I am definitely concentrating better.
I can run and workout without using the bathroom several times throughout the workout. My joints feel better. I’m not as stiff and sore as I was before. There are a few restaurants in the Cranberry Township Area with decent gluten-free options. Gluten-free pizza at an artisan pizza place is actually pretty good. As you can see there are certainly some benefits and I understand as I completely rid my system of the gluten, I will continue to feel even better. On the other hand, you can’t completely change your diet and not feel some negative affects too. Such as: I’m hungry all the time. I mean hungry. I feel like I’m starving and I wake up in the middle of the night hungry and dreaming about food. It’s a terrible feeling. I miss the foods that I used to love to eat. My husband’s bread, really good bread or dinner rolls at dinner time, cookies, apple pie and Twizzlers® most of all. Eating out at restaurants and attending events where food is served is not easy. There are not a lot of great gluten free options in the Cranberry
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area. I’m finding some, but choices are certainly limited. The worst is that the best foods at Chinese restaurants are not gluten-free. I’m limited to steamed dishes only and only their white sauce, all the brown sauces have gluten since soy sauce has gluten. Therefore, when I eat sushi, I need to have a gluten-free soy sauce or eat the sushi without soy sauce. I find it really tough to always have enough snacks and easy foods that fill me up and keep me going throughout the day. I’ m not one of those people who can eat the same thing every day. I can only eat so many rice cakes with peanut butter, yogurt and pieces of fruit before I run and in-between workouts. I’m learning a whole new way of eating and it’s scary, to be honest. Trying to find the perfect combination that agrees with my training and racing program is tough. I had this all perfected for so long and now I have to change it all. Lastly, I really do miss bread and chocolate chip cookies. I know I already mentioned that, but it’s amazing how much you miss something once you can’t eat it any longer. None of this will be easy, but I also can’t live with the stomach cramps any longer. I know I am very allergic and I can’t risk my health by eating gluten or wheat any longer. This is my new way of life. They always say once you suffer from one autoimmune, you are more likely to end up with another one. I now have a triple dose of autoimmune diseases; Celiac, Lupus, and Raynaud’s Syndrome. I will continue to exercise. I will continue to eat healthy. I will continue to do what I can to keep these diseases under control. I will learn to live without wheat and without gluten. I can and so can you. Thanks for reading. Happy Healthy Eating! F
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HEALTH & WELLNESS October 2014
The 3 C’s of Life: Choices, Chances, and Changes BY DR. BRIDGET CHUFO
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irst impressions make all the differences in the world! We live in a world where thinner is better and being larger has a negative context. It designates laziness, a “less than” appearance, and an overall attitude of not being in good shape and certainly, not in style. Research consistently shows that a thinner person will be chosen over an overweight person with the same qualifications for jobs, speaking engagements, and most anything that has to do with being a representative of a company, school, and other potential markets. Unfair maybe, but that’s the way it is. Of course, the best thing one can do simply for good health and greater self-esteem is to lose those unflattering excess pounds. Little changes make big differences! For example, drink more water. Eat off of a plate, not out of a container. Cut a piece of cake instead of “forking” it until it’s done. Eat 3 nonstarchy vegetables and 3 fruits every day. Eat a protein laden breakfast consistently as well as protein every 3-4 hours throughout the day. Get 7-8 hours of sleep a night.
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Eliminate the word, “diet,” from your vocabulary and decide to become healthier because you want a quality life. Once these things are done, there are many things to do to take the major focus off the physical appearance. Our hair is part of our overall look and it should highlight and flatter the best features on us. Make the hair cut part of your style! Another is to dress in clothes that play up your shape. Shaping fabric plus ruching is ultra-flattering! Black side paneling is very slimming and don’t be afraid to wear a belt that shows off or creates a waist. The cropped jacket creates sleek lines and tights stream-line legs and highlight slim ankles. Spark up your wardrobe with some bright colors and have fun by adding a scarf. A great pair of shoes with a fabulous purse goes a long way and don’t forget to accessorize with great earrings, necklace, and bracelet. And a positive attitude towards life covers a multitude of sins. A smile can be your best accessory with your head held high with good posture. Be a “glass half full” kind of person. Light up a room! Always believe in yourself, your talents, and your abilities. Make time to recharge your energy, relax and have fun. No one wants to be around a “Debbie Downer!” Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace changes; explore the new and unfamiliar...that’s where success rests. Doing these things will bring out the best of your style and image! Utilize the 3 C’s of Life: Choices, Chances, and Changes. You must make a Choice to take a Chance or your life will never Change! F Dr. Bridget Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness Center welcomes adults, teens, and children who want to re-train their brain to get in better shape. She has 34 years of experience in this arena, is an R.N. with a Ph.D. in Nursing Research in the study of obesity and weight loss from New York University. Now is the time to get up to 40 pounds off for the holidays!
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Dr. William Bentz
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Dr. Daniel Grob
Dr. Tad Scheri
Dr. Mark Woodburn
Dr. Eric Griffin
Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
Vactor, Good Morning, Dr. all of your staff’s y THANK YOU for opportunity to sa t loss program. s thi igh e we tak ur to yo d on I wante while I have been e vic ad d an ort help, supp ys! life in so many wa gram It has changed my try the current pro so long. I would for s re. los mo t igh US we PL th back I had struggled wi d up gaining it all prepackaged ight and then en or fad, lose the we to eat but not why. I simply ate the ming back on ds co foo s at wa t I was told wh ow why the weigh kn n’t did I . downward r on lia d food and move o the oh-so-fami — strated, and fall int caused so many health problems fru t ge uld wo d an weight gain had self-esteem. My low . d up an ing ep giv sle d thyroid of spiral , restless 10 years. I was tol rol, foot problems dication for over overweight me d be roi to increased choleste thy ed os ing pp t su I have been tak figured I was jus I t. igh we e On top of all that, los u. make it hard to at’s when I met yo issues alone would to change that. Th program. At the ing go s wa ng thi er we joined your and no sister and togeth I of 36.7. These my BM th a wi d an ps nt ho your works dy fat of 43 perce bo a th and how could y wi I attended one of wa ds s un thi t I weighed 207 po did I let myself ge rld wo the the first two d in time of sign-up, rte w re shocking — ho mmitment! As I sta these fatty foods numbers alone we ? But I was willing to make the co all g tin ea is w lp me eally? Ho your program he I was thinking, “R and Teresa told me m (pig out days), t everything you my days of your progra e weight?” But I was optimistic tha pla d n and drank los recommended foo assured the s wa ed I t low bu fol going to make me I zy, e, g the VLCD phas exercising like cra job. And a d rin an Du lf rk. se wo my ng uld wo starvi program do its rmally, I would be phase, so I let the alkaline water. No ssary during this ce ne t no s wa that exercise rted happening! y, I would see the wonderful thing sta scale. Every da this!” Even while sults on my do re n e ca se “I to ld ” s? wou from, “Can I do thi d scale every day! Every day, I ge the an ch off y wl me co slo d gram. I about a half-poun g ER experienced. ein results of the pro EV se e s I’v wa I st , be medication Teresa, was the lly cia pe ns at all hours of es taking my thyroid tio ff, es sta qu eived from your uld email her odd wo I y. wa could not have the I The support I rec . of p tions and praise with me every ste t answers, sugges mp Teresa has been pro th wi re the a was the day and Teres r! by 3.7 percent, done it without he ered my body fat lost 28 pounds, low NOTHING has worked like this I m. gra pro CD I completed the VL BMI! Even with my thyroid issues! gram and even phase of the pro s in the maintenance g kinds of foods dropped 4.8 point rin at du wh off t ew kn igh I pt the we e difference was, Th . ke my body ds ma before. I easily ke un to po o do tw to at an additional ight gain, and wh we for rs managed to lose ge trig foods were my I could eat, which nd. I am way it needs to. the on cti fun d t I did another rou an look of this program tha d my body fat by 6 d en the at s ult ds, lowere with my res I was so pleased en, my foot lost 41 poun lowest it’s ever be t so far, I have happy to report tha points in BMI! My cholesterol is the the charts! I never thought off 7.6 my self-esteem is percent, dropped e of your s all becaus I sleep great, and , it’ ne d go An are !! ms AT RE proble G K O LO this but I that I would say program. other to continue on an ge. ccess, I am going su ran at al rm gre s no thi the all n thi With to get my BMI wi m ur gra yo pro nd ur me yo om round of would rec t I will succeed! I weight in the I am confident tha d problems losing ha s ha o wh ne of! pro ng program to anyo livi m works and I am past. This progra pecially Teresa! es d an ie gg ctor, Ma Thank you, Dr. Va e back! n me my lif You’ve give Patti Massa
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HEALTH & WELLNESS October 2014
ENHANCE YOUR LIFE
Seven Critical Financial Issues to Address During Divorce BY DONNA CHESWICK
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uring divorce people are often at their most vulnerable, both financially and emotionally. At such a time, knowledge about finances and avoidance of costly mistakes can be highly empowering. This article explores some common financial issues that must be addressed.
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Realistically assess your financial position. Obtain copies of all financial documents pertaining to property and debt titled in individual and/or joint names. You need to have a clear understanding of what the marital estate consists of before you can decide how to divide it.
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Understand the true value of assets. Before agreeing to retain, or give up, an asset you must know its current value, tax consequences, transaction costs, and original cost basis. What you get is not always what you keep. Once a property settlement has been signed and the divorce is final, it’s too late to renegotiate an unfavorable deal.
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Realize you may not be able to afford the family home. To keep the home, you need to have the means to support not only the mortgage payment, but the real estate taxes, maintenance, utilities and costs associated with refinancing the home into a single name. Assets are not created equal, so be aware of what you may be giving up should you keep the house.
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Acknowledge the potential decline of your standard of living. In divorce, trying to stretch the same amount of income over two households is extremely challenging. The sooner you can cut spending and live below your means, the better off you’ll be. It’s critical to develop a realistic budget for forecasting current and future expense and income needs.
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Understand the importance of retirement assets. All retirement accounts accumulated during the marriage are property subject to division. There is no such thing as “what’s mine is mine.” To ensure legal rights to these assets, a legal document called a QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order) must be prepared and executed by the court.
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Engage a CDFATM to model various settlement proposals. Professionals trained as Certified Divorce Financial Analysts can show the effects of various settlements to help determine whether they are equitable and
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financially achievable. Their specialized software illustrates comprehensive, realistic short and long-term financial effects of any given divorce settlement. This allows for a “what if” analysis to make sure the settlement makes sense. A CDFA’s role is to educate the client by providing a thorough knowledge and understanding of the complicated financial decisions.
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Explore alternatives to litigation. Battling out your divorce in court is lengthy, costly and emotionally draining. Methods that are more cooperative and less adversarial such as mediation or collaborative divorce often result in a more favorable outcome while saving time and money. It’s important to think financially, not emotionally because post-divorce you can’t go back and re-negotiate an unfavorable settlement. Using legal and financial professionals who are specifically trained will help you along your journey. This will save time and money and help ensure an effective outcome. F Donna Cheswick is a CDFATM, Financial Advisor and Trained Divorce Mediator with Medallion Wealth Management Inc. Contact Donna at 724-934-8615, dcheswick@medallion-wealth.com or visit her website at www.medallionwealth.com/divorce-services This material is for informational purposes and is not intended to provide legal or tax advice.
DIVORCE WORKSHOPS FOR WOMEN: Four-hour educational workshops addressing the legal, financial and emotional issues of divorce to help participants gain a greater understanding of the divorce process to help save time and money. Saturday, October 11 - 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Cooper Siegel Community Library, 403 Fox Chapel Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 Saturday, November 8 - 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM at Medallion Wealth Management, 2605 Nicholson Road, Bldg 2, Franklin Park, PA 15143 Cost is $35 per person and pre-registration is required. Call Donna at 724-493-9695.
Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
October: Domestic Violence Awareness Month Co-Author of “Stabbed in the Heart,” Lynn Shiner, Victim of Domestic Violence Uses Own Personal Tragedy to Help Other Victims of Domestic Violence
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t was Christmas Day 1994, when Lynn Shiner had arrived at her ex-husband’s house to pick up their children Jen and Dave, who had just spent the previous night with their father. Lynn, knocked on the front door, and received no answer. Becoming reasonably concerned, Lynn began trying to come up with possible excuses to why there had been no response at the door, but as she says, “you obviously try to change fate by thinking of more positive scenarios; you try your best to avoid thinking of the worst case scenarios; Like maybe he had taken them out to breakfast, taken them to play at the park, or unexpectedly had to drop them off with another relative or friend. However, deep down in her gut, she could just feel that something horrific had happened to her children.” Shiner says, “On any other normal day I would’ve just opened the door and gone inside, but something inside me told me to stay outside, and look through one of the windows. It was then Shiner saw what initially appeared to be her exhusband asleep on his couch, still feeling that this was usual, Shiner called her then boyfriend, Paul to come over to check things out further inside the house. Nothing could have prepared Shiner or anyone else for the grizzly scene inside the home. Shiner recalls, “A neighbor quickly phoned 911, saying, ‘you’ve got to get over here and come into this house with me, something horrific has happened,’ all while my boyfriend and another neighbor entered the home, it was there they discovered Shiner’s ex-husband dead on his couch with a selfinflicted stab wound to the chest, plus the two children, Dave and Jen, tucked away in their beds; both had been stabbed multiple times with Jen having been stabbed directly in her heart.” Shiner could tell the news wasn’t what she wanted to hear, and she fell to her knees, and began to scream in hysterics. How could a devoted mother of two ever recover after such a tragic incident such as this? “You don’t have a lot options. The options I saw were to both curl up in a ball, and hide away from the rest of the world, or commit suicide, which at the time was the strongest option I was considering because I couldn’t begin to imagine a life without my children,” explains Shiner. Instead however, Shiner chose to not let her children’s lives die in vain along with them. Shiner used the bursts of empowering grief to begin asking more questions. “One day a few weeks after the murders I marched right into the Office
of the Coalition against Domestic Violence, and demanded answers,” Shiner exclaimed! Through some of her own thorough investigation, Shiner found out that several weeks prior to the murders her ex-husband had been arrested for stalking and harassment and that a fellow co-worker of the exhusband’s had filed a police report testifying in an affidavit that “he feared for the lives of this man’s children.” “In which case, if I had found all of this information out sooner about my ex, I would’ve never allowed him to have overnight-visitation with our children,” Shiner bellowed. After the murders, Shiner lobbied for the passage of the Dave and Jen Law, which allows parents involved in a custodial dispute to gain immediate automated access to the criminal reports filed against the other custodial parent. Plus it allows the other custodial parent to request an emergency court hearing to modify the current custody agreement. The Jen and Dave Act, was signed into law by then Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge in 1997. When asked what Shiner hopes to achieve through her domestic violence avocation and own tragedy? Shiner declared that, “I am anxious to debunk some of the myths: domestic violence honors no sanctuary, crosses every aspect; there are more people like me than not, people are afraid of talking about it.” Ms. Shiner will be giving a presentation on her journey of experiencing tragedy through an act of domestic violence, and how she has used her own personal story as a way to educate and create public awareness of domestic abuse. She will be sharing this same presentation at three separate locations on October 22nd and 23rd. The first will take place on Wednesday, October 22nd at the main campus of the Community College of Allegheny County: 808 Ridge Avenue, Pittsburgh, 15212 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Then, that Wednesday evening, October 22nd, she’ll speak from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Passavant Hospital Foundation Legacy Theatre, 700 Cumberland Woods Drive, Allison Park, 15101. Her final presentation will be given on Thursday, October 23rd, at the North Campus of the Community College of Allegheny County, 8701 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, 15237 from 2:304:30pm. Continuing education credits for nursing, social work, law, and medicine will be available to professionals attending any session. F
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TRAVEL October 2014
Need to Get Away?
Visit Garrett County Neighboring Garrett County, Maryland has been selected by Travel & Leisure as America’s Best Town for Fall Colors. Located only two hours outside of Pittsburgh, Garrett County is the westernmost county in Maryland and home to: n Deep Creek Lake, the state’s largest freshwater lake n Wisp Resort, Maryland’s only ski resort (32 slopes & trails for skiing and snowboarding, snow tubing park, terrain parks, ice skating rink, Nordic center for cross-country skiing, guided snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, mini mobiles for kids, mountain coaster). n Adventure Sports Center International, the world’s only mountaintop recirculating whitewater course. n Muddy Creek Falls, the state’s highest waterfall (53’) located at Swallow Falls State Park. n Backbone Mountain, whose elevation of 3,360’ is the highest point in Maryland. n 90,000 acres of public land, more than any other county in Maryland n 7 State Parks and 2 State Forests With so much to do, the area’s natural beauty is the perfect destination yearround, whether you seek days full of activities or just plain relaxing. Lodging options abound. There are Vacation Rental Home Companies, Vacation Rental Homes by Owner, Cabins & Lodges, Hotels & Motels, Bed & Breakfasts, Camping. And the best part is that pets are welcome at many lodgings and almost a third of rental homes allow pets. View contact information for these accommodations at http://visitdeepcreek.com. F
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TRIVIA CONNECTION October 2014
Spook-tacular Trivia Haunted Tales, Trails & Films with a Pittsburgh Twist BY PAULA GREEN
1. This unpaved road in North Park has a mystical nature, where legend has it that lynchings and murders occurred there. 2. Restland Cemetery has a legendary ghost called Walkin’ Rosie, where is this graveyard located?
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3. This establishment near Zelienople has two ghosts lurking around – Louie and the apparition of a woman. 4. George Romero worked in conjunction with this horror writer that wrote Creepshow. 5. Spirits haunt this facility that used to be inhabited at one time by Western Penitentiary. 6. At this restaurant/tavern in Warrendale strange sounds are heard, windows open on their own, and bottles hurl themselves off the bar. 7. This Pittsburgh native actress starred as Dr. Sarah Bowman in Day of the Dead. 8. Located at the intersection of McKinney and Kummer Roads in North Park. Drive up McKinney toward the golf course and stop at the stop sign at Kummer Rd. Put your car in neutral and you will drift backward up the slight hill - what is this known as? 9. At this local barn residents have called police to quiet partying teens who seem to have their cars scattered about. But when the police get there, there are no kids or cars. 10. This 1991 American thriller blockbuster was filmed in Pittsburgh, and blends elements of the crime and horror genres. 11. What is the first name of the Bayne girl that haunts the Andrew Bayne Library? 12. It is said that “Mad Mike” haunts this locale on Mount Washington. 13. Which Pittsburgh college did the “Godfather of Zombies,” George Romero attend? 14. What area was the 1968 film Night of the Living Dead filmed? 15. This 1993 George Romero horror movie was filmed in part at Washington & Jefferson College. F Sources: https://sites.google.com/site/hauntsandhistory/threerivershauntsandhistory; http://www.listal.com/list/horror-movies-real-locations, http://www. iatse489.org/pittsburgh_movies, http://www.swpenna.com/cat/haunted-placesin-pittsburgh/, http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/top-lists/best-haunted-places-inpittsburgh/, http://www.biography.com/people/george-a-romero-193499#the1980s-and-1990s, http://hauntsandhistory.blogspot.com/2011/01/mcconnellsmill-state-park.html, http://www.phenomenalplace.com/2013/09/haunting-inpittsburgh-is-mad-mike-for.html.
Answers: 1. Blue Myst Road 2. Monroeville 3. The Harmony Inn 4. Stephen King 5. National Aviary 6. Brush Creek Inn 7. Lori Cardille 8. Gravity Hill 9. Knob Hill Barn 10. Silence of the Lambs 11. Amanda 12. The Duquesne Incline 13. Carnegie Mellon University 14. Evans City 15. The Dark Half
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t’s that time of the year again for haunted legends and bewitching folklore. The spookiness and intrigue becomes more spine-tingling when the tales are found within our own region. This month, we’ll explore some supernatural Pittsburgh tales and look at scary movies that were filmed in our area. Several buildings have reported supernatural occurrences. It’s believed that four ghosts haunt the University of Pittsburgh campus. There’s also been paranormal activity on the campus of Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. The Omni William Penn Hotel’s 22 & 23 floors, both unused, have strange sounds, cold wind gust and ghostly presences. The Pittsburgh Playhouse has many apparitions lingering about, and so does the Senator John Heinz History Center. Frick Art & Historical Center’s Clayton House has spooky spirits. McConnell’s Mills has mysterious orbs that appear in photos and other unexplained paranormal activity. Two local libraries - the Carnegie Library of Homestead and the Andrew Bayne Library in Bellevue house ghoulish beings as well. U.S. Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) runs east–west across the southern part of the state, passing through Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. This stretch of road is sometimes called “Pennsylvania’s Haunted Highway.” The Orange Belt is part of Pittsburgh’s mysterious highway system, which forms a 92 mile arc around the city from Route 88 in Library to Route 51 in Elizabeth. It’s said that when you’re driving a section of it, you may meet up with its calling card, a phantom car. The phenomena especially occurs at night, when the car behind or approaching you, just disappears from the road. Northgate Drive in Warrendale is said to have paranormal activity, an old phantom muscle car that wrecked while drag racing reportedly haunts this road. Over the years, several horror movies have been filmed in Pittsburgh. Film director/producer George Romero has utilized ‘the Burgh as a creepy location for his numerous zombie movies. They include – Night of the Living Dead, Dawn of the Dead, Day of the Dead, Diary of the Dead and the eerie flick Creepshow. Since we have delved into the mystical side of the ‘Burgh we must now spirit our thoughts on this paranormal puzzle. Get set to don those haunted hats because it’s time to get a little trivial...
Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
P.A. ERBE & Associates Inc.
Accounting & Tax Preparation Service for Personal & Business Income Taxes
Penny Ann Erbe
Enrolled Agent Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner
412-487-1009
4767 William Flynn Highway Allison Park, PA 15101-2456
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HAPPENINGS October 2014
Happenings North Happenings Hazardous Waste & Electronics Collections, Oct. 18 & Nov. 8, Butler County. Visit www.recyclebutler.us. North Hills Community Outreach’s Community Auto Program serving the Greater Pittsburgh region needs donations of new or used car cleaning supplies. Call (724) 443-8300 or www.communityauto.org. North Hills Community Outreach Winter Coat Drive runs through Oct. 24, 1975 Ferguson Rd. For info, call (412) 487-6316, opt. 1 or vdburst@ nhco.org. North Hills Food Bank, 10 a.m.1:45 p.m. every Tues & Thurs, rear parking lot of Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Highway. Call, (412) 366-7477 or www. northhillsfoodbank.com. Donations always welcome. WorkAble offers free employment services to unemployed and underemployed people in Allegheny County. Call Harriet, (412) 408-3830 ext. 3219 or hzgibbs@nhco.org.
Join us for an evening with U.S. Representative Keith Rothfus to discuss the Affordable Care Act in recognition of National Aging in Place Week and learn more about your local chapter of NAIPC October 8, from 5-8 p.m. at the Shannopin Country Club. Space is limited. Call Patricia Neurohr at (724) 759-7421 for more information and to RSVP.
Mondays Chisel and Chips Carvers of North Pittsburgh meetings, meets 6:30-10 p.m., the 2nd Monday of every month, Parkwood United Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. For info, call (724) 940-0034. Greater Cranberry Barbershop Chorus, meets every Monday at 7 p.m., Mars Alliance Church, Rt. 228. Visit Bogmeisters.com. Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meets the 4th Monday of every month 7 p.m., Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329. Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m. Mondays, Oct. 6, 12 Years a Slave; Oct. 13, Heaven is For Real; Oct. 20, On the
Waterfront; Oct. 27, The Lego Movie, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. For info, visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/ movies/
Tuesdays North Pittsburgh Mother of Multiples meeting, 7:30 p.m., 3rd Tues., of the month, North Hills Community Baptist Church, 7801 Thompson Run Rd. For info, visit www.facebook.com/NPMOMS.
Wednesday Country Knight Line Dancers host a line dance 7-10:30 p.m. every Wed., in St. Athanasius Hall, cost $5 per person. Call, Janine (412) 931-6971 or janine.beley@gmail.com.
Thursdays Cranberry Women’s Club, meets 7 p.m. the 2nd Thurs of the month, Cranberry Library Meeting Room. Contact Sandy, (724) 779-1854.
Friday Christy House Tea Room Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fridays, on Walnut & Frederick in Sewickley. Homemade soups, salads, breads & cookies. Needles Eye & Early Treasures gift shops. RSVP to (412) 741-5960.
Saturdays Divorce Workshops for Women, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Oct. 11, Cooper Siegel Library, Fox Chapel; 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Nov. 8, Medallion Wealth Management, 2605 Nicholson Rd, Franklin Park. Pre-register by calling, (724) 493-9695. Saturday Singles Dance for ages 40+, 8 p.m.-midnight, Oct. 11, Free Pizza Party, free dance lesson 7:30 p.m., dance 8 p.m., West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy, West View. Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.
Handicapable Square Dancing Lessons, Thurs., thru Oct., Dorseyville Alliance Church. Volunteers needed to assist. For details, call Marti or Gary (724) 443-2616.
Arts & Entertainment
National Aviary Night, 5-9 p.m., 3rd Thurs., of the month. Half price admission, 21 and over. For details, (412) 258-9445.
Bicycle Rack Project, Pittsburgharea artist are invited to design & develop
Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, 8 p.m., Oct. 11, Byham Theatre. Visit www.TrustArts.org.
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functional bicycle ranks to be located along Penn Ave. Deadline is Nov. 30. Visit http:// pressroom.trustarts.org/2014/08/25/call-forartists-bicycle-racks-in-the-cultural-district/ Butler Symphony Orchestra concerts: Oct. 4, Espana; Nov. 1, The Magical Music of Disney. Call (724) 2831402 or visit ButlerSymphony.org. Cahal Dunne, 7:30 p.m., Oct. 18, Legacy Theatre, McCandless Twp. Call 1-877-9876487 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com. Children’s Theatre: Skippyjon, 2 p.m., Oct. 19, Byham Theatre; 5:30 & 7:30 p.m., Oct. 23, Marshall Middle School; 2 p.m., Oct. 26, Seneca Valley Intermediate High School. Visit www.TrustArts.org/kids. The Fantasticks,(Broadway musical), 7:30 p.m., Nov. 15 & 22 & 2 p.m., Nov. 16 & 23, Legacy Theatre, McCandless Twp. Call 1-877-987-6487 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com. Linda Eder, 7:30 p.m., Oct. 6, Cabaret Theater Square. For info, call (412) 456-6666 or www.TrustArts.org. Media Art Show & Sale, 3-7 p.m., Oct. 23 & 24, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Oct. 25, Christ Episcopal Church, 5910 Babcock Blvd. For details, (412) 364-2442, ext. 14 or www. artshowandsale.org. Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Broadway Across America: Oct. 28-Nov. 2, Annie; Nov. 18-23, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. For info, visit TrustArts.org. Public Record: A Pittsburgh Biennial Exhibition, runs thru Nov. 9, SPACE, 812 Liberty Ave. / 707 Penn Gallery, 707 Penn Ave. Visit TrustArts.org. Second/Second Exhibition runs through Dec. 31, Trust’s Wood Street Galleries, 601 Wood St. For info, visit www. TrustArts.org. Steel City Con, Dec. 5-7, Monroeville Convention Center. For details, visit http:// www.steelcitycon.com. Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, 8 p.m., Nov. 6, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. For details, visit www.TrustArts.org.
Health & Wellness Healthy Living with Diabetes, 12:30 p.m., Nov. 19, Senior Center, Cranberry Township Municipal Building. Sponsored by Passavant Hospital Foundation. Call (412) 748-6640 or www.passavanthospitalfoundation.org. Kathy Parry – Your Real Food Coach, 7 p.m., Oct. 7, St. Ferdinand Church Education Building, 2535 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Admission is free. For info, call (724) 776-1357, www.StFerd.org or www. KathyParry.com. Lizzy’s Bikes, a Kiwanis Club of Mars community action program, provides free bikes to local needy children. Call (724) 779-4364 or email LizzysBikes@yahoo.com. Paws for the Cure, Oct. 12, Hartwood Acres. Contests, vendor tents, sponsored by Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh. Visit http://www. komenpittsburgh.org/get-involved/paws-forthe-cure.html.
Talking to Children & Teens about Death & Illness, 5:30 p.m., Oct. 8, Legacy Theatre, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr. For info, (412) 748-5762 or https:// classes.upmc.com.
Support Groups Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30 p.m., every 3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. To register, call (412) 261-5886 or ccallen92@aol.com.
Counseling Ask the Attorney, free legal advice for those who qualify, 7 p.m., Oct. 8, NHCO Millvale; Nov. 12, NHCO North Boroughs. Pre-register at, (412) 408-3830 or hzgibbs@ nhco.org. Berkley Hills Lutheran Church is offering it Stephen Ministry Program for people experiencing grief, divorce, cancer, illnesses, job loss, loss of home, military deployment & other life struggles. Free & confidential program for people of any faith. Call (412) 486-4010 or www.bhlc.org. Professional Counseling, need someone to talk with but can’t afford it or lack health coverage. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300.
Networking Butler County Chamber, MeetN-Move Networking Luncheons, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Oct. 22, (w/Grove City Chamber); Nov. 3, (w/Zelienople-Harmony Chamber). For info,(724) 283-2222 or ButlerCountyChamber.com. Cranberry Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets 7:30 a.m., Oct. 2 & 16, 2662 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Call Marcia, (724) 5383059. Cranberry Chapter of Professional Referral Exchange meets 7:15 a.m., networking meeting every Wed., North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Mary Ann, (724) 935-2221. Criders Corner Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets noon, Oct. 9 & 23, Sheraton Four Points, 190 Sheraton Dr., Mars. Call Annette, (724) 316-8005. Friday Morning “Coffee Club,” 8-9 a.m., Fridays, (Oct. 3-31), Butler County Chamber of Commerce. For details, call (724) 283-2222 or Jennifer@ButlerCountyChamber. com North Allegheny Special Education Parent Networking meeting, 9:30 a.m., Oct. 10, Baierl Center at NA High School. Topic, “PA Common Core & What it Means for Your Child. For info, visit http://www.nasepng.org/ North Hills Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets 9 a.m., Oct. 10 & 24, King’s Restaurant, 112 Northtowne Sq., Rt. 8, Gibsonia. Call Jean, (724) 443-0990. (Continued on page 34)
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HAPPENINGS October 2014
North Hills Newcomers & Friends Luncheon, Oct. 14, Rico’s. Coffee tasting & discussion of free trade coffee. Visit www.northhillsnewcomers. org or email NHNFmembership@gmail. com.
Chapel Rd., Fox Chapel. For info, visit www.thehillman.org.
Professional Referral Exchange (PRE) meets 7:15 a.m., Weds, Deck House, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Ken, at (610) 496-7600 or visit, www. prenetworking.net.
Literary Series, “Playing St. Barbara,” 7 p.m., Oct. 17, Ryan Room of the Zappala College Center, La Roche. For details, (412) 536-1216 or rita. yeasted@laroche.edu.
Seven Fields Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 8:15 a.m., Oct. 2 & 16, Concordia Life Care Community, Rt. 228, Adams Ridge. Call Nina, (724) 772-1922.
Lupus Today Education Seminar, registration 9:30 a.m., Oct. 18, Holiday Inn Monroeville, 2750 Mosside Blvd. Rt. 48. Visit http:// www.lupuspa.org/
Toastmasters Cranberry High Noon Club, meets noon-1 p.m., every Mon., at the Cranberry Library, 2525 Rochester Rd., Suite 400. Guest & new members are welcome. Call Mary Jo, (412) 367-7710 or http://3331281.toastmastersclubs.org.
Mercy Parish Nurse & Health Ministry Symposium, 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Oct. 25, Sister M. Ferdinand Clark Auditorium, Level 2 at UPMC Mercy, 1400 Locust St. Register deadline is Oct. 17. Visit http://www.pmhs.org/parish-nurseprogram/education-and-resources.aspx.
Wexford Chapter of the Women’s Business Network meets, 8 a.m., Oct. 14 & 28, Atria’s Restaurant, Rt. 19, Wexford. Call Kathy, (724) 934-5143.
Mommy & Me Ballet, 10-11 a.m., Weds, Oct. 15-Nov. 19, Orchard Hill. For info, call (724) 935-5555 or visit http:// www.orchardhillchurch.com/.
Volunteer Opportunities American Cancer Society is looking for volunteers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments to & from their appts. Interested volunteers should call (412) 919-1100 or emailsharon.stalter@cancer.org. Hope Hospice is looking for volunteer for their patients. Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, just have the heart! For details, call (412) 367-3685. North Hills Community Outreach Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m., Oct. 9, NHCO Hampton. Register by calling Linda, (412) 408-3830 ext. 3215 or lkrobins@nhco.org. Volunteers are needed at the Repurposed Thrift Store in the Northway Mall. The store is accepting donations of any kind. They support Living in Liberty, a nonprofit who helps women rescued from human trafficking. To volunteer, call (412) 548-3755.
School Events, Courses & Symposiums
Hollywood Homicides, 11 a.m., Oct. 7, Legacy Theatre, McCandless Twp. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487.
North Pittsburgh College Fair, 6-8 p.m., Oct. 6, La Roche College’s Kerr Fitness & Sports Center. For info, call (412) 536-1272 or admissions@ laroche.edu. Psychic Investigators, 6-7:30 p.m., Oct. 28, Cranberry Library. Presenters: Suzanne & Jean Vincent. Topics: Caylee Anthony, John Yelenic, Mickey Sheller, Cherri Mahan, missing persons, ghost stories & hauntings. Free. Reserve your spot, call (724) 776-9100. Put Faith in Your Child’s Education Open House, 2:30 p.m., Oct. 19, St. Bonaventure, 2001 Mt. Royal Blvd. For info, (412) 486-2606 or www.stbonaventureparish.org. Real Estate Investment Training, Nov. 14-16, LEED Platinum David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Sponsored by OneSource Real Estate University. Visit OneSource Real Estate University online for details. Saint Vincent Concert Series, Oct. 4, the Petar Jankovic Ensemble. For info, call (724) 805-2565 or http:// concertseries.stvincent.edu. Saint Vincent Planetarium Shows, 11 a.m., Oct. 25, Nov. 15, Dec. 6, Dec. 20, Saint Vincent campus in Latrobe. Visit www.stvincent.edu for details.
Community Blood Drive, 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Oct. 8, Fox Chapel Area High School, 611 Field Club Rd., O’Hara Twp. For details, (412) 967-2445.
School’s Out Day, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 13, Pine Community Center. For ages 6 to 12 - sports, games, crafts & movies. $18 members & $36 nonmembers. Call (724) 625-1636.
Effective Goal Setting, noon, Oct. 29. Sponsored by the Butler Chamber of Commerce. For info, call (724) 283-222 or email Stan@ButlerCountyChamber.com.
Spiritual
Hillman Performing Arts Series, 7:30 p.m., Oct. 18, “OuterbridgeClockwork Mysteries,” Shady Side Academy Senior School campus, 423 Fox
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“Blessing of Animals,” 11 a.m., Oct. 5, outdoor service, Bradford Woods Community Church, 4836 Wexford Run Rd. For details, (724) 935-3135 or www. bradfordwoodschurch.org.
Sisters of Divine Providence - Mass of Remembrance, 9 a.m., Nov. 2, Mother of Divine Providence Chapel, 9000 Babcock Blvd. Brunch follows Mass. Reservations due Oct. 22. RSVP to (412) 635-5401 or visit cdpsisters.org.
Veterans Hampton Heroes Program, Nov. 12, Hampton High School. For details, call (724) 713-3254. 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. Veterans Discover HOPE Here-Career, 3rd Wed., 6:30-8:45 p.m., Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 779-8323, discoverhopehere@ gmail.com or www.discoverhopehere.com. Veterans Fitness Classes 5 Days a week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. For details, visit www.prevention.va.gov/B_Physically_ Active.asp.
Reunions Holy Ghost High School All Class Reunion for classes 1941-1983, Oct. 11. For details, email Holyghostallclassreunion@gmail.com. St. Athanasius Grade School Class of 1970 Reunion, 10 a.m., Oct. 19, Four Points Sheraton, 910 Sheraton Dr., Mars/Cranberry. Classmates from ’69 & ’71 are invited to join. Looking for classmates of St. A’s & North Hills HS Class of’74. RSVP to Marigrace at (412)653-7696 or mg62529@att.net.
Fall Events Auto Raffle at St. Ferdinand Church, tickets available thru Nov. 15, at the church office, 2535 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. For info, call (724) 7762888 or www.StFerd.org. Family Lantern Tours, 6-9 p.m., Oct. 18 & 25, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd., Allison Park. For info (412) 486-0563 or DepreciationLandsMuseum.org. Hops & Homes for Hope, sponsored by the North Boroughs YMCA, 4-8 p.m., Oct. 5. For details, (412) 761-1227 or visit Northboroughs-Y.org. Hydref Fall Festival, 10 a.m.4 p.m., Oct. 4, Depreciation Lands Museum, 4743 S. Pioneer Rd., Allison Park. For info (412) 486-0563 or DepreciationLandsMuseum.org. Knittreat, Nov. 13-16, Omni Bedford Springs Hotel. For details, visit www. knittreat.com. (Continued on page 36)
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Tis the Season for Fall Harvest
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all is in the air and now is the time to continue to gather our crops from our spring plantings and celebrate with special harvest festivals and events at these local farm markets: At Eichner’s Farm on Richard Road in Wexford, Oktoberfest is a month long festive time to rekindle our German heritage. Their homemade pork sausages are super lean and naturally spiced, no preservatives added. We make Sweet (salt & pepper), Maple, Mild Hot and Italian Hot. They also make Bratwurst, Kulbassy, Natural case wieners all to garnish with their homemade Sauerkraut. A great breakfast combination is to use their High Energy Brown and White Eggs, with their sausages, bacon or Canadian bacon. As Ron Eichner always says, “Bring a Friend and Be a Friend.” At Soergel Orchards, just off Wexford exit on I-79, there are Fall Festivals every weekend through Oct. 25 and 26 with hayrides, festival food, games, activities, music and much more. Visit www.soergels.com for all the details. Cheeseman Farm in Portersville has a Pumpkin Festival every Saturdays and Sundays from Oct. 4 to Nov. 1 with haymaze, hayrides, straw tunnel, petland, snack bar and more. And for those who like to play after dark, be sure and visit the Cheeseman Fright Farm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in October. Visit www.cheesmanfarm.com for all the fun and spooky details. F
Cheeseman Farm
Portersville, PA 16051
www.cheesemanfarm.com Pumpkin Festival 2014
Cheeseman Fright Farm*
Oct. 4 – Nov. 1 Saturdays & Sundays Hayrides to the Pumpkin Patch 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm $4 per person (2 and under FREE)
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays in October
Pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, petland, Haymaze, straw tunnel & snack bar. Oct. 1 – Oct. 31 Groups by Reservation/School Field Trips Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm $6 per person* *includes FREE small pumpkin
Closing Weekend - Fri., Oct. 31 & Sat., Nov. 1 $15 per person For groups of 20 or more call for details Begins at dark and will be open to 10:00 p.m. or until the last ticketed guest has ridden. *Not recommended for young children 12 & under must be accompanied by adult
VISIT WWW.CHEESEMANFARM.COM
Open Every Friday-Saturday-Sunday in October
FOR DETAILS CALL: 724-368-3233 FOR RESERVATIONS www.northernconnectionmag.com
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HAPPENINGS October 2014
Pumpkin Pancakes Brunch, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Oct. 20, Harmony Museum, Stewart Hall. For info, call (724) 452-7341 or www.harmonymuseum.org.
welcome. All proceeds raised will benefit the elderly Residents of the Little Sisters. To register or for more information call (412) 307-1268 or email adevpittsburgh@littlesistersofthepoor.org
Touch-A-Truck, 1 p.m., Oct. 5, Pine Community Center. Ages 12 & under. $3 per child. Don’t forget your cameras! For info, call (724) 625-1636.
Little Sisters of the Poor to Hold Rummage Sale, The Little Sisters of the Poor are having a rummage sale of clothing, furniture, household items, jewelry, books and assorted items. Their Home is located in the Brighton Heights neighborhood at 1028 Benton Avenue, Pittsburgh, 15212. The sale is October 16, 17, 18 from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily. Saturday October 18th is the bag sale. All proceeds will benefit the elderly Residents living at the Home. Final sale of 2014! For more information or directions, please contact the Home at 412-307-1100.
Fundraisers North Hills Community Outreach Winter Coat Drive, Mon-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m., thru Oct. 24, 1975 Ferguson Rd. For info, call (412) 487-6316, opt. 1. North Hills Newcomers & Friends Annual Auction, 10 a.m., Nov. 4, Treesdale Country Club. Proceeds benefit Glad Run Foundation. For info, visit www.northhillsnewcomers.org or email NHNFmembership@gmail.com.
Once Upon A Hero – Halloween Party fundraiser, 6-midnight, Oct. 25, Mars VFW. For info, visit onceuponahero.org.
Pink Ribbon Round-Up, Oct. 24, Four Points Sheraton North in Cranberry Twp. $60 per person. To register, call (412) 638-9963 or www.pinkribbonroundup.com.
2nd Annual Autumn Rummage Sale – St. Ursula Christian Mother-Guild, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 18. Rent an 8-foot table, sell your stuff and keep all the profits! Reserve a $15 table by calling Chris at 412-486-3193.
Golf & Sporting Events Family Mini-Golf Outing, noon-3 p.m., Oct. 11, Fun Fore All, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Golf & lunch. Sponsored by Cranberry Twp Lions Club. For info, visit www.CranberryLions. org. Shaler Area Ice Hockey Golf Outing, 11 a.m., Oct. 5, LakeVue North Golf Course. For info, call Julie at (412) 298-7745 or julieyuiska@hotmail.com.
Halloween / Harvest Events Halloween Horror: Pittsburgh Ghost Stories, 2 p.m., Oct. 26, Northland Library. No registration required. Details, www.northlandlibrary.org. Halloween Party in the Park, 1 p.m., Oct. 25, Pine Community Park. Ghost stories, hay rides, bonfire, crafts & costume parade contest. $3 per person. For details, call (724) 6251636. Trick-or-Treat is 6-8 p.m., Oct. 31 in Pine Twp.
The Cradle Will Rock 75th Anniversary event, 7 p.m., Nov. 1, Omni William Penn. For info, call Barbara at (412) 681-8182.
Sales & Craft Fairs
Harvest Hoedown, 6-10 p.m., Oct. 10, Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center, Franklin Park, BBQ, bluegrass music, raffles & more. Register by calling Glade Run, (724) 452-4453 x1277.
Kristy Lasch Miracle Foundation fundraiser, 8 p.m., Oct. 4, White Oak American Legion. For info, call (724) 872-4125 or www.kristylasch.org.
Community Craft Fair, 9 a.m.-noon, Oct. 18, Parkwood Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. Over 50 vendors, bake sale, 50/50 raffle. For info, visit www.parkwoodchurch.org.
Ingomar Volunteer Fire Company Halloween Parade, 5 p.m., Oct. 25, begins at Ingomar Elementary ends at Ingomar Fire Station, 9695 Harmony Dr., rain or shine. Free, no reservations required.
Fall Kids Sale, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Oct. 10, 9 a.m.-noon, Oct. 11 (red-tag sale), Christ Church at Grove Farm, 249 Duff Rd., off Mt. Nebo Rd. ext. 1-79. For info, visit www.ccgf.org/mops.
Unique Boutique, presented by Heritage Valley Sewickley Foundation, Edgeworth Club, 10a.m.-4p.m. Nov.8. For details, (412) 749-7050 www.heritagevalley.org.
Needle Threader’s Sale for All Seasons, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Oct. 18, St. Athanasius Community Center, 7 Chalfonte Ave., West View. Home decor, kitchen, wearable art, doll clothing & holiday gift items. For info, call Patrice (412) 931-4624 x222.
Holiday Events
Walk-a-thons & 5K Runs
WeihnachtsMarkt (Christmas Market), Nov. 8-9, Harmony Museum. For details, call (724) 452-7341 or www. harmonymuseum.org.
Little Sisters of the Poor 4th annual Rock-Athon with performances by George Suhon and Elvis impersonator Don Obusek. October 11, 1:00-4:00pm, Rockers of all ages
Adelines’ Angels 5K/1 mile fun walk, 9 a.m., Oct. 18, North Park Boathouse. Benefits SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood). Visit https://runsignup.com/ Race/PA/AllisonPark/AdelinesAngels. Fall-O-the Ridge Race, 5K & 10K Beer Tasting, 5 p.m., Oct. 11, North Park, Pearce Mill Rd. Proceeds benefit the RSG1 Foundation “Brain Tumor & Cancer Project.” For info, (724) 272-8797 or www.rsg1foundatio@gmail.com.
Gardening & Farmers Markets Farmers Market at Shady Side Academy, 3-6 p.m. thru Oct. 29, first parking lot on the Shady Side Academy Senior School campus, 423 Fox Chapel Rd., Fox Chapel. For info, www.shadysideacademy.org/ssafarm.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, Dec. 16, Benedum Center. Call (412) 456-6666 or TrustArts.org.
Library “Book Sale Blow Out” 6:30-8:30, Oct. 17-Preview Night for Friends & Junior Friends of the Library; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Oct. 18; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Oct. 19, Shaler North Hills Library, 1822 Mt. Royal Blvd. For info, call (412) 486-0211. Fall Book Sale, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 3 & 4 and 1-4 p.m., Oct. 5 ($5 bag sale), Northland Public Library. For info (412) 366-8100 or northlandlibrary.org. October Events at Northland Library: Wise Walk, 9:30 a.m., each Tues @ Pie Traynor Field North Park; Toilet Training, 7 p.m., Oct. 16; North Hills Genealogists, 7 p.m., Oct. 21; Meet the Author, 7 p.m., Oct. 28. For other events, visit www.northlandlibrary.org.
1st Annual Olive Thomas Flapper Fete
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ust off your Zoot suits and Flapper dresses for a 1920s style party for the 1st Annual “Olive Thomas Flapper Fete” to be held 6-10 p.m., Oct. 17, at The Willow Room, Rt. 51 North, Belle Vernon. Proceeds benefit the roof repair project of the historic Coyle Theater located in the heart of the Mid Mon Valley. The public is welcomed. For tickets, call (724) 331-3654. F
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KIDS & EDUCATION October 2014
Innovations in the Classroom BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON
In this, our 10th installment on Innovations in the Classroom, we continue highlighting the innovative ways schools and educators in our area have implemented programs, technology and methodologies into their classrooms. Due to the popularity of this column, all previous columns from our monthly issues are now available on our website at NorthernConnectionMag.com under the Education tab for your quick and easy reference. This month’s highlights are:
A.W. Beattie Career Center – A.W. Beattie Career Center has extremely cool and innovative simulation equipment to aid in the learning process. This green, virtual technology has applications in welding, forklift operation and auto-painting, so far. With this new simulators, students can practice as much as they need in an energy efficient way while becoming proficient before they actually use the real materials that are actually full of pollutants. For example, in the case of welding, the student has a hands-on experience with a welding torch and mask, but the glass in the mask is actually a video screen that enables the students to practice welding in a virtual, eco-friendly and safe environment enabling a higher
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success rate when put into actual, real-life welding experiences. The same goes for auto-painting and forklift operations. In addition, we would like to give a note of thanks to the carpentry and H/AC, building contractor students who will be assisting McCandless with the building of the new museum of Northern Connection magazine’s own Town Crier, Joe Bullick. To learn more about these imnnovative programs and real-life authentic application of skills, visit http://www.beattietech.com/. Chatham University Eden Hall Campus – The entire campus is dedicated to innovation and sustainability. Using the latest in environmentally responsible technology, design and innovation, Eden Hall will be selfsustaining in every way by emitting zero carbon emissions, managing all storm and waste water on-site, and producing more energy than it consumes. There are “field labs” that are like reverse periscopes that monitor the infrastructure such as their geothermal wells for heating, and their water management systems. There are also solar-powered “aqua labs”
Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
for the growing and raising of fish in a sustainable way. To learn more of this amazingly innovative school and programs in sustainability, visit http:// www.chatham.edu/edenhall/. Eden Christian Academy - The largest non-denominational school in the Pittsburgh area, Eden Christian Academy has a 1:1 iPad program for their 7th-12th graders. The upper school’s teachers and students have been integrating iPads into instruction since the winter of 2011. Now, each student is equipped with his/ her own iPad to use at school and at home and is already having a very significant impact. Results of a recent survey indicated that 96% of upper school students polled either agree or somewhat agree that the iPad has increased their organizational skills. Additionally 93% of students agree or somewhat agree that the iPad has increased communication and research fluency and students agree that it makes school less stressful and more engaging. iPads are also available for elementary students as well. To learn more, visit http://www. edenchristianacademy.org.
La Roche Dedication photos by Phil Pavely
La Roche College – On Sept 6th, La Roche College officially opened its $2.7 million renovated athletic complex at a dedication ceremony. This complex is, indeed, a ‘Field of Dreams’ for La Roche College. The innovative renovation began in the spring of 2014 and included the installation of a turf field, a pavilion for concessions and restrooms, and additional parking and landscaping. Other enhancements, including a new scoreboard and warning track for the
Left to right: Donna Ledwin, Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) Commissioner; Greg Madej of DRS Architects, Inc.; US Congressman Keith Rothfus; Kathryn Jolley, Principal, DRS Architects, Inc., and Vice-Chair of the La Roche College Board of Trustees; Sister Candace Introcaso, CDP, Ph.D., La Roche College President; Daniel Baronick, Vice President, Commercial Lending, S&T Bank (behind Sister Candace); Steven Massaro, Vice President, Business Development, Massaro Corporation, and Chair of the La Roche Board of Trustees; Nick Hoffman, Community Initiatives Coordinator, Varischetti & Sons, Inc.; PA State Representative Mike Turzai (behind Hoffman); Lamar Oliver, McCandless Township Councilman; Greg Weimerskirch, La Roche men’s soccer team captain; and Jim Tinkey, La Roche Athletic Director.
(Continued on page 40)
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Innovations (Continued from page 41)
baseball field, are planned for completion this fall. La Roche College currently offers 12 varsity sports. The La Roche College Redhawks compete in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) in NCAA Div. III. The College’s teams have won 12 AMCC championships and 10 AMCC regular season titles. The new athletic complex will enable the College to expand the number of sponsored teams, including the addition of women’s lacrosse. The ceremony ended with a ribbon cutting followed by a cook-out lunch and the women’s and men’s soccer games. To learn more about this innovative complex and college, visit http://www.laroche.edu/. Saint Bonaventure Parish School - As St. Bonaventure Parish School begins its 55th year of educating students in preschool through eighth grade with a comprehensive curriculum in a faith-based environment, the school is embracing new technologies, which enhance not only the way curriculum is delivered to its students, but the physical security of the school as well. In August, StB Teachers, all of whom have access to Smart Boards as a teaching tool, completed additional training to use the technology more effectively in the classroom. The school’s safety plan was also updated and a new security system, which allows 24-hour monitoring, was installed making the building a safer environment for its students and faculty. St. Bonaventure also welcomed a new Jr. High math teacher, Ms. Catherine Nowak, who is implementing a new math program covering everything from algebra concepts through geometry. To learn more or to schedule a tour, visit http://www.stbonaventureparish. org/#!parish-school/ccjp. If you are offering an innovative program or extra-curricular activities for the coming school year, be sure and let us know for our November and December issues, contact us by emailing NorthCon@consolidated.net or calling 724-940-2444. F
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KIDS & EDUCATION October 2014
SPOTLIGHT ON EDUCATION
Eden Christian Academy
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he largest non-denominational Christian school in the Pittsburgh area, Eden Christian Academy has three convenient locations. Their two elementary locations are located in Berkeley Hills and Wexford, both
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educating preschool 3 and 4 year olds, and kindergarten through 6th grades. The middle school through high school, 7th - 12th grade, is located at their Mount Nebo campus. One school with three locations,
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all campuses regularly come together for special events such as All-School Chapel services, the All School Family Picnic, and the Walkathon or Gala. At Eden Christian Academy, the faculty and administrators are committed to going above and beyond in their dedication to the sciences, the arts, academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities, all from a biblical worldview perspective. The proven curriculum has resulted in high academic achievement earning the school the distinction of being dually accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The students surpass both state and national averages in their SAT scores, resulting in admission to many distinguished colleges and universities throughout the United States and abroad. Eden’s Christian Academy’s Athletic programs are a member of the PIAA and WPIAL. Athletic programs exist at the Intermediate (5th & 6th), Middle School, and High School levels. They include basketball, soccer, golf, cheerleading, volleyball, cross country, baseball, and track and field. Elementary activities include Brick 4 Kids, chess, soccer, science, choir, rhythm and band and drama. Upper school activities include Honor Societies, Choir, Band, Mock Trial, Yearbook, Student Council, Drama Club, Bible Study, Art Club, Photography, and Robotics Club. In addition, faculty and staff devote many hours to incorporating new technology and applications into their classrooms, making learning fun and inspiring a life-time love of learning. Eden Christian Academy uses a 1:1 iPad program in the middle and high school and iPad carts are available at the elementary schools level. To learn more about this incredible school and how they are educating tomorrow’s leaders, visit http://www. edenchristianacademy.org. F
2014 Fall Open House Directory Shady Side Academy
October 16 – November 8 www.shadysideacademy.org/visitus
St. Teresa of Avila School
Tuesday, October 28th: 7-9pm www.saintteresas.org
Butler County Community College (BC3) Wednesday, October 22nd: 6-8pm www.bc3.edu/open-house
Vincentian Academy
Sunday, November 16th 11-2:30 www.vincentianacademy.org
Providence Heights Alpha School October 19th, 2014: 1-3pm www.alphaschool.org
St. Bonaventure School
October 19th, 2014: 1-2:30 www.stbonaventureparish.org
Central Catholic High School Sunday, November 16th, 2014 www.centralcatholichs.com
La Roche College
Saturday, November 8th 2014: 9am-2pm www.laroche.edu
Quigley Catholic High School October 19, 2014 1:00-3:00 p.m. www.qchs.org
Oakland Catholic High School November 16, 2014: Noon-3pm www.oaklandcatholic.org
A.W. Beattie Career Center October 16, 2014: 6pm-8:30pm www.beattietech.com
Eden Christian Academy
Admissions Week – October 20-24 www.edenchristianacademy.org
Montessori Children’s Community Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014: 2-4pm Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015: 2-4pmwww. montessorichildrenscommunity.org
Saint Alphonsus Catholic School October 22: 6pm-8pm & October 23: 9-10:30am. www.stals.org
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KIDS & EDUCATION October 2014
School Movers & Shakers WPMS Western Pennsylvania Montessori School (WPMS) located in Allison Park announced the appointment of Jamie Campbell Jamie Campbell as incoming head of the school. WPMS also announced that Carol Miskell, current head of the school will officially retire on Dec. 31, after 22 and half years of service.
Seneca Valley Seneca Valley School District hosted its annual Veteran Recognition program on Aug. 29 before the football game vs. NexTier Stadium against North Allegheny. Fifty-six servicemen and women were recognized. Haine Middle School student Emma Shearer had her book review of the non-fiction text Titanic, Voices from the Disaster, selected for online publication in a fall edition of Scholastic StoryWorks magazine ‘Reviews by You.”
Avonworth The Avonworth School District hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony and community grand opening of their primary center on Aug. 23. Representatives
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from Ben Avon, Ben Avon Heights, Emsworth, Kilbuck and Ohio Townships participated. The event was attended by Senator Matt Smith and Congressman Keith Rothfus. Avonworth High School has been named one of “America’s Top High Schools” in Newsweek magazine’s “2014 High School Rankings.”
Hampton Dr. Stephen Pellathy has been hired to serve as an assistant principal at Hampton High School. Poff Elementary School library media specialist Erin Prosser represented Hampton Township School District at the Keystone Technology Innovators (KTI) Erin Prosser Summit. The event was held Jul. 21-25 at Kutztown University.
Fox Chapel Fox Chapel Area High School sophomore Mihir Garimella has been named a Global Finalist in the Google Science Fair 2014.
Dorseyville Middle School in the Fox Chapel Area School District has been certified as a Common Sense Media School.
Tyler Pashel, a freshman at La Roche College received the Pittsburgh Police Officer’s Families Scholarship, a renewable award of up to $10,000 per year.
Dorseyville Middle School students commemorated Sept. 11 in a special way. Students from the Physical education classes and the staff kept an American flag moving from 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. around the school track.
La Roche College has been named a Best Regional College by U.S. News & World Report in its 2015 edition of the Best Colleges guidebook.
St. Teresa of Avila Michael J. Pendred II has been named principal of St. Teresa of Avila School in Ross Township.
OLSH Our Lady of Sacred Heart has been named a 2014 Catholic Education Honor School of Excellence by the Cardinal Newman Society. This distinction places OLSH among the top five percent of Catholic high schools in the United States.
La Roche La Roche College officially opened its $2.7 million renovated athletic complex at a dedication ceremony on Sept. 6.
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La Roche College’s Chemistry and Math/Physics Department received a $607,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) through its Scholarships for Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (S-STEM) program. The United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) named Natasha Garrett, director of international student services at La Roche College, to its first-ever 40 Under 40 list. Joshua David Bellin, Ph.D., professor of English at La Roche College recently released his debut young adult novel Survival Colony 9.
St. Vincent College Maxwell King, senior fellow and former executive director at the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s media at Saint Vincent College has been named the new president and chief
Max King
executive officer of the Pittsburgh Foundation, the nation’s 14th largest community foundation. Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., center, president of Saint Vincent College welcomed 13 new international students to the campus on Aug. 20. Mary E. Gazal has been named director of financial aid at Saint Vincent College. Five Saint Vincent College and Archabbey employMary Gazel ees were honored for 25 years of service. The honorees were – Donna Kean, Charles Kuhn, Norman Pearce Jr., Dr. George Leiner, and Denise Hegemann. Saint Vincent College held a dedication ceremony where they unveiled an Official Historic Site Marker which has been placed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. Courtney Grondziowski, a junior at Saint Vincent College has been awarded a $1,000 Jo Anne J. Trow undergraduate scholarship by Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society.
Saint Vincent College’s chapter of the Alpha Lambda Delta national honor society has won a prestigious Maintaining the Flame Award. An Orlando, Florida-based television production crew from NBC Sports Group’s The Golf Channel filmed interviews with Archabbot Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., and Saint Vincent president Dr. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B. The program Arnie and Me will air in March 2015. Pianist Yun-Chin Zhou, who opened the 2014-15 Saint Vincent College Concert Series on Sept. 6, was presented with the Saint Vincent College Bronder Prize for Piano during the concert. Alydia Thomas has been named coordinator of multicultural and residence life in the office of campus life at Saint Vincent College.
Alydia Thomas
Saint Vincent College has completed $1.8 million renovations to enhance Bonaventure Hall -“Bonny,” and Gerard Hall – “Gerry.”
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Chelsea Carver Sewickley Academy Freshman Scientific Researcher BY PAULA GREEN
A
Sewickley Academy freshman is unearthing the mystery behind intrusive worms wreaking havoc in our region. Fourteen year-old, Chelsea Carver is conducting research on the invasive Asian jumping worm in North Park. Chelsea is working alongside the park’s interpretive naturalist, Meg Scanlon, to enlighten residents on the destructive nature of these creatures. These worms cause problems because they stripped the upper soil layer of nutrients that plant seedlings need. “When Ms. Scanlon asked me to help her with an invasive worm project his summer, I was happy to oblige,” Chelsea stated. They both believe that the worm, which originates from Asia, found its way to the park through bait and bait boxes that are imported into the country. Chelsea began her research in June, when she dug holes in the park to confirm their existence. Since then, she has worked in conjunction with Allegheny County to post signs in North Park to help stop the spread of the intruder. Chelsea also created a web page about why worms are not always desirable and she developed a field guide for North Park about earthworms. “I was inspired by my research to try and do something about the problem, so I created a sign with a QR code, which the county has approved. Once the signs are printed, they will be placed around the lake in North Park letting people know that unused bait should not be dumped on the ground, but should be disposed of in the trash instead.” Chelsea has constantly been drawn to nature and the environment. “Science has intrigued me since I was very young and I always loved the outdoors. I started taking Carnegie Mellon University summer programs when I was in 3rd grade and I entered my first competition in 6th grade. It was then that my science teacher introduced me to PRSEF (Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair) with a project on water quality,” Chelsea noted. Earlier this year, Chelsea won three PRSEF awards for her research on the effects of foundation or wall cracks and gaps on the indoor radon levels in Allegheny County households. In 2013, she was bestowed with the Young Naturalist Award from the American Museum of Natural History for her study of the effectiveness of deer repellents on the eating habits of whitetailed deer. Last summer, Chelsea also worked with Ms. Scanlon in North Park as they created habitats for the Eastern box turtle. Chelsea’s next scientific endeavor will also be at North Park where she’ll create educational teaching gardens. She is considering entering the medical field since she is very math and science oriented. Chelsea resides in Pine Township with her parents Elaine and Tom Carver. F
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KIDS & EDUCATION October 2014
What is Celebrate My Drive?
C
elebrate My Drive is a campaign that unites teens, parents, school officials and community members around teen driver safety in a positive, fun way. The program is in its third year and coincides with U.S. National Teen Driver Safety Week. Celebrate My Drive uses music, videos, and social media to reach teens and get them talking about safe driving. From Oct. 15 to October 24 high schools across the U.S. and Canada will compete for prizes, including grants of $100,000, $25,000 and a private concert by an exciting music sensation. High schools must be registered to be eligible for prizes. High school administrators can go to www.celebratemydrive.com to complete a simple registration form. Registration closes on Oct. 7. Participation is easy! Tools are available at www.celebratemydrive.com to help rally students and community members to make safe driving commitments in support of registered high schools.
Why is Celebrate My Drive important?
Learning to drive is a big step in life. Celebrate My Drive and State Farm recognize that getting a driver’s license is an important and joyous time in the life of a teen. The program celebrates this milestone with new drivers to help them make positive choices and stay safe on the road. Sadly, car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens, and the first year behind the wheel is the most dangerous. Through Celebrate My Drive and other efforts to fund research, State Farm works to prevent injuries and save lives. We partner with organizations and support legislation that helps make the roads safer. Celebrate My Drive encourages drivers to think 2n2Ž: 2 eyes on the road and 2 hands on the wheel. Follow Celebrate My Drive on Facebook (www.facebook.com/celebratemydrive) and become part of the movement to keep teens safer on the road. F Peter J. Piotrowski, State Farm Agent 11565 Perry Hwy, STE 4, Wexford PA 15090 724-935-6330
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STARTING THE CONVERSATION
Do You Believe in Ghosts? BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON
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o you wonder what just went bump in the night? Have you ever experienced the unexplainable? Whether its ghostly apparitions, things that move, stairs that creek, the world does seem to be filled with strange and other-worldly phenomenon. Even here in Pittsburgh cemeteries, libraries, lonely-roadways and even our own homes and neighborhoods. My husband never believed in ghosts until we moved to Pittsburgh and he personally witnessed one. Fortunately, so far, it has been a friendly ghost. What we all, including my husband, would observe was
not so much the ghost as how our pets would interact with something that they could most definitely see, that we could not. Just as a dog can hear a high-pitch whistle too high for humans to hear, our pets could see something that wasn’t there. Dogs visiting this home would be lying in the living room panting – when something would catch their eye and they would stop panting, and stare at a certain spot in the room near the ceiling – no shadows, no cob webs – just the corner. Cats and kittens would jump onto the top of the chair and try to paw at whatever it was they were seeing. We’ve all seen the pets,
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alone and in groups, interacting with something only they can see. Actually, we think there may be more than one ghost because sometimes, when you are in the home alone, you can hear a whispered conversation going on in the living room that stops as soon as you enter the room. What do you think? Is this house haunted? Let’s continue the conversation on my blog at http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot.com/ where, in the comments section, you can share your thoughts or your own tales and experiences with hauntings and the supernatural. F
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IMAGE & STYLE October 2014
Fun Fall Weekend Outfits to Try Right Now BY KELLY SMITH
F
inally, the long week is coming to an end and the weekend is just getting started! Whether you have a slew of errands to run, kids’ soccer games to cheer at or you hit the weekend jackpot of having absolutely nothing on the agenda, (hello weekend pajama party!) you still want to face it in something other than a ratty t shirt, oversized hoodie and worn yoga pants. There’s lots of ways to look well puttogether while still keeping in the spirit of “weekend wear.” You don’t even need to buy all new duds; rather the trick is to add a few key pieces to your existing wardrobehere’s how: Jeans – We all have jeans tucked away for fall and winter but how we wear them is key when trying to be trendy. I always like to add at least a pair or two of new denim just to keep them current. Fall is the best time to show off dark denim and what better way than to compliment them with the jewel tones of autumn? Jeans also make a great day-to-night transition by just changing your top and accessories. Whether you prefer flared or skinny-style, boots are always in season with jeans. Layers – Layering used to only be done for practical reasons, but now it’s not only about functionality, it’s a fashionista’s easy way to add interest to an otherwise boring ensemble. After you throw on your jeans, try adding a cute printed tank and layer that with a scoop or v-neck tee short or long-sleeved. Not a big t-shirt fan? Try a feminine button-down blouse over a cami with ¾ length sleeves. This look also has a natural slimming affect because it creates a vertical line that makes us look longer. Sweater-coats/cozy cardigans – Instead of tucking yourself into a shapeless mess of an oversized hoodie, why not try a long and lean, sweater-coat? They are super trendy at the moment and come in a vast array of materials, colors, and prints. Look for styles this year that not only have a tie waist but also buttons, clasps, and belts to name just a few. Leggings – this falls offer much more selection than previous years including loads of prints. Anything with a dark print will be a life saver in the “flaw” department. Another good reason to grab a few pair of cute leggings is that the materials are now much heavier than years before when they were so thin and sheer, making them basically glorified pantyhose. So go ahead and pair them up with a cute tunic or long tee with a stylish knee boot for maximum trendiness! Accessories – A good outfit is only as good as the way it’s accessorized, so keep that in mind before heading out the door this weekend. Some good accessories to keep on hand should be a few scarves with various prints/colors, gold or silver jewelry, and anything turquoise, crimson or animal print. Hats are also being seen this fall from fedoras to large crochet knit caps to the slouchy beanie, these will all keep you warm while looking cool! Keeping it stylish on the weekends doesn’t have to be a chore and it certainly should be comfortable and carefree (however, not carefree enough to throw on any old ratty sweatshirt). You don’t need to spend a bundle of money or a boatload of time to look cool and casual, you just need to try some different layering techniques and play around with accessories to find the look that’s right for you! Enjoy the autumn air and keep working on that weekend wardrobe! Unless, of course you are one of those lucky ones that have no obligation this weekend, then by all means, stay cozy in those pajamas! F
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St. Barnabas Fashion Show – Uptown Style Chic, everyday style dominates this season with Uptown Sweats by Kiya Tomlin. BY REESE RANDALL
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or her latest fashion lookbook shoot—a photo collection of her urban line of reimagined sweat suits, Kiya Tomlin makes a fashion statement arriving to set wearing her Signature Dress in gray with a pair of white Nike classic sneakers. Her hair pinned up, with little to no makeup—Tomlin is set and ready for a full day of shooting. “Choosing to wear my Signature Dress was an easy decision. I knew I would be moving around a lot and lifting garments all day so that’s why I wore it. It’s a great dress for layering, because it’s a piece that works well indoor and outdoor, and our shoot had a little of both.” Tomlin was wearing a look that was comfortable, which is part of her creative mantra behind her line of inspired sweat suit designs for every woman on the go. “I feel great in representing what I do in a professional manner, while feeling comfortable in all aspects of my life.” Tomlin’s hectic life balancing her career and motherhood-onthe-move raising three kids with husband (Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin) doesn’t end there. Her drive to give back to the Pittsburgh community that embraced her 7 years ago when she and her family arrived here from Minnesota is infinite. Tomlin sits on the board of several organizations, including The Pittsburgh Promise, PNC Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Spring Hat Luncheon, The Andy Warhol Museum, Steelers Nation Black & Gold Style Show and NCJW Designer Days. “Whenever someone asks me to do anything to help support a cause—if I’m available, I’m there,” says Tomlin who notes her regular contribution to various fashion shows and events including St. Barnabas Charities Annual Fashion Gala & Luncheon October 18. In response to learning that all proceeds from this event benefit St. Barnabas Free Care Fund which provides funding to patients of St. Barnabas Nursing Home, Valencia Woods and The Arbors at St. Barnabas who can’t afford to pay for their care, Tomlin is excited to show her designs on the catwalk and during an informal showing at the event’s special VIP Lunch portion. Tomlin adds, “I feel honored to use my specialty in fashion to give back to St. Barnabas and to support their mission in helping patients with their care.” “Glitz & Glam” Fashion Gala & Luncheon Sat., Oct. 18; 11a.m.-3p.m.; Kean Theatre at The Washington Place, 5847 Meridian Rd., Gibsonia; www. stbarnabashealthsystem.com. F
Kiya Tomlin in a black leather ensemble says this about her new short hairstyle: “It’s liberating! I’m embracing what God gave me.” (Photos by Becky Thurner Braddock)
Reese Randall writes and styles a mix of fashion and lifestyle topics in a variety of regional and national magazines (www.reeserandall.com).
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IMAGE & STYLE October 2014
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Johnny Angel Opens “Ginchy Stuff” in Brighton Heights
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ohnny Angel, of Johnny Angel and the Halos, and 40-year resident of Brighton Heights realized that after 50 years in the music business and collecting mementos that he had amassed a significant amount of autographed memorabilia, vintage and timely collectables and fascinating treasures. It was being stored in attics, garages, basements and spare rooms at his
own home, the homes of family, extended family and even a few storage lockers. Definitely enough stuff to open a store and meeting place for fans, collectors, musicians and anyone interested in the history of American music and pop-culture. So the store “Ginchy Stuff” was born. “Ginchy is a slang term from the 50’s,” explains Johnny, “It means cool or hip.”
Originally coined by Edd Byrnes who played Kookie in the television series 77 Sunset Strip, it became a popular term across the country and was even used in several Sandra Dee beach-era movies.
“I’m originally from Manchester-Woods Run,” continues Johnny but about 2 years after I got married, my wife and I moved to Brighton Heights and we have been here ever since. The Brighton Heights neighborhood is really going through a Renaissance and becoming a quite a destination for neighbors and visitors. I’m thrilled that my shop is a part of the transformation.” Located at 3623 California Avenue, just off Rt-65 Ohio River Boulevard, the shop has already hosted a multitude of enthusiasts of every age and from across the country. Opened noon-5 every day, visitors stop in to spend time with Johnny, hear stories and anecdotes associated with the memorabilia, and even hangout with other retired and semi-retired, singers and musicians.
“There are some items available for sale on the website at http://www.jaginchystuff.com/ for all our fans around the country, but most people prefer to stop in and hear the history behind the items,” says Johnny. “I didn’t just collect from the early days of rock ‘n’ roll. I have collected memorabilia from all eras of music. You could call “Ginchy Stuff” a Rock ‘n’ Roll, Baby-Boomer, Pop-Culture, Collectibles Emporium!” So if you are a music buff, collector of memorabilia or a popculture enthusiast, be sure to head to Brighton Heights and take a tour of “Ginchy Stuff.” F
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SENIOR LIVING October 2014
BOO!
BY BARBARA KILLMEYER
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his is my favorite time of the year! I’m not roasting from the hot summer sun and I’m not freezing from the cold, cold, winter. If I knew a place that had this wonderful weather all year around, I’d seriously think about living there. Of course, Christmas in the hot sun doesn’t seem quite right and neither does a 4th of July celebration with heavy, warm coats. So I guess, we have the perfect solution right here in the Pittsburgh area. ���������������������������������� Why is it that we are never satisfied? At least I get some exercise when I have to lug the clothes up and down to the basement for the change of seasons. One good thing is that since we do our daily walk in a mall, we can still
do that no matter what the weather is like outside. ����������������������������������� This is also the time to start making those meals that are too hot and difficult to mess with during the hot weather. I can’t wait to make a stuffed, roasted chicken with gravy and mashed potatoes. Are you ready to welcome the Trick or Treaters to your home? I have to wait until a very close date to buy
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the goodies that I plan to give them. The reason that I have to wait is that if I have the goodies too soon, I’ll eat them myself! I wish you all a wonderful, fun, and happy Halloween. And if a strange looking character rings your doorbell on October 31 and says, “Trick or Treat” be nice to her because it just might be me. F
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SENIOR LIVING October 2014
Celebrating Senior Champions An Event to Support Benevolent Care
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n Thursday October 23, UPMC Senior Services will host the sixth annual Celebrating Senior Champions Benefit Dinner and Auction. The event will recognize the many individuals and groups who champion the cause of seniors in western Pennsylvania. KDKA-Radio news anchor, Barbara Boylan, will serve as emcee of the event. G. Nicholas Beckwith III and Dorothy B. Beckwith will be honored as Grand Champions. Mr. and Mrs. Beckwith are co-founders of the Beckwith Institute: Patient Care Innovation Today and Tomorrow. The Beckwith Institute provides grant funding to support new ideas and innovations to improve patient care at UPMC. Older adults, who make up the vast majority of hospital patients, benefit significantly by the Beckwiths efforts. Barbara Ivanko, president and CEO of Family Hospice and Palliative Care will be recognized as Community Champions. Family Hospice and Palliative Care provides compassionate, quality comfort care that enhances the lives of people with life-limiting illness and their families. Margaret Mary Kimmel, PhD will be remembered posthumously as Caregiver Champion. Dr. Kimmel was
G. Nicholas Beckwith, III
Dorothy Beckwith
Barbara Ivanko
Margaret Mary Kimmel, PhD
Professor Emeritus in the Library and Information Science Program at the School of Information Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh. It was her personal experience as caregiver to her late mother that drove her decades-long dedication to support older adults and individuals with disabilities. All proceeds from the Celebrating Senior Champions Dinner and Auction will benefit the UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund to help support residents in need of charitable care. For more information about the event, contact Peggy VanHorn, Benevolent Care Advocate, UPMC Senior Services, at 412-622-9239 or vanhornpa@upmc.edu. F
Look for it wherever you find Northern Connection CALL now to reserve your advertising space for Fall 2014!
724-940-2444
www.pittsburghfiftyfiveplus.com
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Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
Happenings for Seniors Free Home Safety Inspection is available for seniors through the Open Your Heart to a Senior program. For info, call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 or clpschirer@nhco.org.
Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets the 1st Mon., of every month 6-8 p.m., and the last Fri., 1:30 p.m. Contact Pam, at (724) 779-5020.
Safety for Seniors Volunteer Service Day, Oct. 25. For details, email clpschirer@nhco.org or (412) 307-0069 x3313, or holmesj@fswp.org or (412) 661-1670 x613.
Free Rides for Seniors, to grocery stores, doctor’s appts & more thru St. Margaret’s Foundation. Pick up & drop off seniors in the corridors from Sharpsburg to Blawnox & Rt. 28 to the Allegheny River. Sign up by calling, (412) 449-0151.
Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. For info, call (412) 741-4900 or visit http://www.ccgf.org.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Home Instead Senior Care® is offering a unique approach to help area families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available for families at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies. com.
Saint Alexis Over 50 Trips & Events, Oct. 4 meeting, Donut Night; Oct. 22 visit Mt. Washington, Heinz History Center, 9:30 a.m. departure, cost $46; Nov. 8 meeting Cake & Coffee. Contact Rose at (724) 728-2563 or Janet at (724) 869-5339 for information.
McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkley Hills, Swan Acres & part of McCandless Twp. Call (412) 487-4088.
Courses
Safety for Seniors will conduct FREE Home Safety Checks. For info, call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org. UPMC Senior Communities offers independent living & personal care. For details, call 1-800324-5523.
Entertainment & Social Events
Open Your Heart to a Senior Volunteer info & Orientation sessions: 6:30 p.m., Oct. 14, Cooper Siegel Library in Fox Chapel; 6 p.m., Oct. 16, Panera Bread, Monroeville; 9:30 a.m., Oct. 20, Panera Bread, Oakland; 6 p.m., Oct. 22, NHCO, Ferguson Rd., Allison Park. Visit www. openyourhearttoasenior.org.
North Hills Community Outreach’s Faith in Action program is seeking Senior Companion volunteers. For details, contact Nancy, at (412) 307-0069 or nljones@nhco.org. St. Athansius Parish Education & Community Center (West View) & Allegheny County Dept. of Human Services need your help this tax season to provide tax preparation for low income individuals, families, the disabled & the elderly. If interested, call Frank at (412) 350-3463 or frank.grande@alleghenycounty.us. Yard Work Help for Seniors, volunteers are needed in all neighborhoods of Allegheny County. To register as a volunteer with Open Your Heart to a Senior, call (412) 307-0071 or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.
Senior Meetings AARP Chapter #2991 meetings, 11:30 a.m., 3rd Thurs. (Oct. 16 & Nov. 20), basement of Northmont Church, intersection of Rt. 19 & Perrymont. Refreshments served at noon (for a nominal fee). New members are welcome. For info, call (412) 367-5718. 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. Cranberry Senior Citizens Club for residents 55+ meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. Call (724) 816-4977 for info and programs. Friendship Groups for Visually Impaired, Men’s Group meets every Weds. 1-3:15 p.m., Knitting & Crocheting Circle meets every Weds., 1-3:15 p.m., Monthly Meeting 2nd Thurs. of each month 1:15-3:15 p.m., The Lunch Bunch meets 4th Thurs. of every month 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon. of each month 1-2:30 p.m. For info, call (724) 444-0064. Glenshaw AARP #3744 meeting, 7 p.m., Oct. 14, Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, 3200 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. Refreshments and entertainment. Flu shots will be available at 6:30 p.m., administered by Rite Aid technicians. Mars AARP Chapter #3359 meets 2nd Wed. of every month, 1 p.m., Adams Township Municipal Building, 690 Valencia Rd., Mars. All Butler seniors are welcome. Cost $5 a year.
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SENIOR LIVING October 2014
TOWN CRIER
October is the Month of Optimism BY JOE BULLICK
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ello to the month of October – boy, what a month this is going to be! For me, I was born in October and married during this month as well. The World Series will also be held in October. I always like to refer to this as a luminous month of glowing fall foliage, bright orange pumpkins and a bittersweet sense of change. We also honor a different of “leaf” this month, when we commemorate Leif Erikson Day on Oct. 9. This Norseman landed in Newfoundland nearly 500 years before Columbus. However, Columbus Day is always celebrated the second Monday is October. This month, pay attention to the natural signs that foretell winter weather – if autumn leaves are slow to fall a cold winter is in store. The garden tasks for this month are clear – harvest before the first hard frost and clean the garden, also clean around your house before snow arrives. October is a time when fallen leaves need to be tended. We pile our leaves in loose piles and I run the lawn mower over them. Sometimes I rake our leaves onto a large sheet and I then drop them into our compost pile. The bottom line is don’t
leave those fallen leaves in your yards, you might be sorry in the spring when you have to try and rake up a layer of halfrotted debris. When I was young, my mom always told me we would have to burn our light bulbs more because we were starting to run out of daylight. She would remove all of the light bulbs in the house; wash them to remove all of the dust. A dusty light bulb can be 40 percent less efficient than a clean one. Every fall before winter would set in; we would always make an inspection of our house. Mom always had a check list. I had to help clean the gutters and make sure the drain pipes were clean of leaves and other debris. Be sure to make an appointment to have your furnace checked and your chimney swept. If you have a wood stove, be sure the stovepipe leading into the chimney is cleaned and any creosote is removed. Don’t forget to get your storm windows on and remember to cover your air conditioners. Check your roof shingles, make certain that they are not worn out or ready to blow away. Another fall tip is – purchase your pumpkins around ten days before Halloween. Pick out your pumpkin while the picking is still good. Filled-pumpkins are generally large and a lighter shade of orange, they are the best by far. Jack-olanterns, and sugar pumpkins are usually smaller and darker orange, they are best for cooking. Whichever you chose, have fun picking out your pumpkin, and along the way – take an autumn ride and see the millions of trees waiting to amaze you. This time of year the maple and oak trees are full of bright colors of yellow, orange and red. We always took a trip down Route 108 in New Castle to Slippery Rock, which was about 16 miles and it was breathtaking sight. Another great day-trip is Route 30 and traveling along and seeing the beautiful scenic Laurel Highlands. I also enjoy this spooky-time of the year with Halloween approaching. There are scary ghosts, witches and monsters – the popular ones are Dracula and Frankenstein. Dracula was a book published in 1897. It comes from a story by Bram Stoker which is based loosely on the real life of Vlad Dracula (1431-1476). He was a prince who actually lived in Transylvania in the Carpathian Mountains. Frankenstein is from the novel of the same name written by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley. The book was based on the real life of Johann Konrad Dippel (1673-1734). He was a modern scientist who did some crazy things. Well, have a great October and Happy Birthday to folks who fall under the zodiac signs of Libra and Scorpio. I leave you with this – “Take time to laugh it’s the music of the soul. Take time to pray it the source of strength and peace.” – Salesian Missions New Rochelle, N.Y.
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Northern Connection | October 2014 www.northernconnectionmag.com
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS October 2014
37th Annual Veteran’s March for Diabetes BY PAULA GREEN
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he 37th Annual Veteran’s March for Diabetes will be held this year Oct. 10-12. The 100 mile walk from Erie to Pittsburgh raises awareness and builds camaraderie, while raising money for diabetes research. Diabetes is the fifth deadliest disease in the United States. Each year, diabetes kills more people than AIDS and breast cancer combined. Over 29 million Americans live with diabetes in the United States, with over 300,000 in Western Pennsylvania alone. According to diabetes chairman, Bob Mandera, “Twentyfive percent of veterans have diabetes. The march goes on for a cure for all diabetics. This year’s march is being dedicated to past district Commander Chuck McCormick, Post #402 who was fundamental in launching the fundraising for diabetes by the VFW in the Pittsburgh area, then statewide.” Mandera walked in this event for 25 years. The dedicated marchers this year are – Dept. of Penna., VFW Commander, Gary Smith (past); Dept. Commander, Peter Krenisky; Dept. Quartermaster, John Getz; Scott McKenzie; Post #8386; Mike Boris; Tony Powell; Glen Snyder; and 17-year veteran of the walk, Dan Casciato. Since its inception, the Veteran’s March has been backed annually by several loyal supporters. They include - the VFW Post #402 Coraopolis, VFW post and ladies auxiliaries across the state, the National Association of letter carriers branch #84 Pittsburgh and the Comfort Inn, Mercer. Other supporters of the Veteran’s Walk are – A.F. Paul Co., Mazur Auto Body, Olive Garden of Erie, Factory Restaurant of Saegertown, Travaglini Enterprise Inc., Days Inn, Burger King, Rainbow Valley Restaurant, VFW Post #6345 and McDonald’s of Wexford. The Veteran’s March plays an important step in helping to fund ground-breaking research, and discovery of new treatments in the fight against diabetes. Since 1980, the American Diabetes Association has provided over $500 million in grants to find a cure, develop new products and uncover bet-
(from left to right) - George Uhrin, Russ Canevari, Bob Mandera, Tony Powell, Scott McKenzie, Glen Snyder and Dan Casciato
ter methods of treating individuals with diabetes. In the past five years, the American Diabetes Association has provided grants totaling $15 million to Western Pennsylvania researchers. Donations of any amount can be mailed to Erie Diabetes Walk, Attn: Bob Mandera, 8884 Royal Manor Drive, Apt. #103, Allison Park, PA 15101. F We welcome brief biographies and photos of local servicemen and women from our community. If you know of someone you’d like to see featured in this column, please call (724) 940-2444 or mail the information to: Northern Connection Magazine, P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722 or email northcon@consolidated.net.
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Northern Connection | October 2014
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