October 2019 issue - Northern Connection Magazine by Northern Connection Magazine

October 2019

CONNECTING YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 20 YEARS

AHN Wexford Hospital 724 Reasons to love it! Also... Fall Happenings • Women’s Health & Wellness Worldly Mysteries Trivia

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

I N T H I S I SSUE

NORTHERN CONNECTION October 2019

Contents 14

Features

Image & Style

7 Develop You! #careerdevelopment

26 Ladies Out to Lunch Kelly A. Smith

40 Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Presents Family Friendly Theater from the Cultural District to Your Neighborhood

Kids & Education

Real Estate

29 Happy Anniversary Chatham!

10 Michael McGroarty, Jr.

Health & Wellness 14 AHN Wexford Hospital – For You, Your Community, Your Time Janice Lane Palko 18 Exercise During Perimenopause and Menopause: Why Is It Important? Joella Baker

28 College Credits Received at Quigley Catholic 30 School Movers & Shakers 31 PA Cyber Charter School 31 Agora Cyber Charter School 33 BC3 to Showcase Advantages at Oct. 16 Open House

Senior Living 36 Managed Care for the Dually Eligible Beneficiary Crystal Manning

20 Is There a Role for Medical Marijuana for Helping Anxiety Symptoms? Dr. Joseph C. Maroon

37 Fresh from the Farm Ron Eichner

22 Medical Marijuana Providing Relief for Women Janice Lane Palko

Happenings

24 Women in Health Care

38 Happenings for Seniors

45 The History of Halloween Weston Waite

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

45 In Every Issue... 4 From the Publisher: Marion Piotrowski 6 Movers & Shakers 7 Where Was I?: Show Me the Way to Go Home Janice Lane Palko 8 Mover & Shaker of the Month: George Kruth Paula Green 34 Trivia Connection: Worldly Mysteries Trivia Paula Green 35 Military Events in October Paula Green 42 October 2019 Happenings

Advertorials 5

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

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

P U B LI SH E R ’S NOT ES

Welcome to the October Issue of Northern Connection Magazine!

his month’s cover story will inform you about the new AHN Hospital that is being built in Wexford and give you the details of what you can expect when this new facility is completed. What a great addition to our community! There are many local farm events, community festivals and arts and crafts shows taking place in and around the Pittsburgh area. Make sure to check out our Happenings section this month to find the perfect ones for your family. We are excited to feature The Pittsburgh Cultural District this month! They are presenting FamilyFriendly Theatre for all to enjoy; a schedule of the events is listed in their feature article, and make sure to check it out! It is never too early to introduce your children to the theatre! “You only live It’s a great time to take a ride and once, but if you enjoy all the beautiful fall colors that do it right, once is nature presents to us at this time of year. enough.” Enjoy reading all the October issue’s Mae West special features along with our regular monthly columns. Thank you for your support. Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! 4 4 4

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

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

President & Publisher

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko

Mary Simpson

Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc.

Janice Lane Palko ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Core Writers

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Call Mary or Laura today at 724-940-2444 to reserve your space.

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Web Master

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

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

Advertise in our upcoming Holiday issues!

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

Distribution

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-9402444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year. The mission of the Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. is to connect the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest community publication, Northern Connection. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, and recreational needs of the area. The contents of Northern Connection magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Northern Connection magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

Get Your “ING” Back Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have HOPE

Announcing Our Newest Location!

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

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

Michael walkING again

Gretchen B. sleepING again

Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or

destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol utilizing brand new technologies is available at the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of PGH. It includes the combination of very specific, non invasive, FDA approved and painless treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Dr. Shawn’s SUPERVISED, MONITORED and IN OFFICE program has a 90 percent satisfaction rate. With the experience of seeing over 3000 patients, he is able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results.

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

Marla C. balancING again

Pat H. wearING shoes again

For a FREE Consultation, contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000 and your appointment will be made at the location that is most convenient for you. To learn more, visit marydancedin.com.

Three Locations:

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

Debra B. sleepING again

Sewickley 2591 Wexford-Bayne Rd, Suite 207

Latrobe 1901 Ligonier Street

Washington, Pa

Neuropathy Treatment Centers of PGH

1385 Washington Rd., Suite 100

MaryDancedIn.com (724) 940-9000

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

MOVERS & S HA KE RS

Movers & Shakers St. Margaret Foundation announced record breaking results for its 2019 Employee Giving Campaign that ended August 12 with 560 UPMC St. Margaret employees donating $129,685 to fill in the gaps with hope for people struggling with some of life’s greatest challenges. This is the highest amount in the hospital’s history.

Blume Honey Water was recently awarded the Queen’s Choice Award for Best Packaging / Design by the National Honey Board.

To meet the increased need for child and adolescent mental health services, Pittsburgh Mercy, a community health and wellness provider, welcomes Michael S. Blastos, M.D., a board-certified psychiatrist who will practice child and Dr. Michael adolescent psychiatry. Dr. Blastos Blastos will specialize in helping children and adolescents, ages 5 through 18 years lead healthy, successful lives in the community.

As a small token of their gratitude, ManorCare Health Services - North Hills not only gave thanks and remembered our fallen heroes from 9/11, on the 18th anniversary of that tragic day, but they also shook hands and showed appreciation for the First Responders that bravely serve our community day-in and day-out.

The Heart Institute at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh has been named an accredited center of care by the Children’s Cardiomyopathy Foundation (CCF), a national nonprofit organization committed to improving health outcomes and quality of life for children with cardiomyopathy — a chronic, potentially life-threatening heart disease that affects how the heart pumps blood through the body.

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Clearview FCU and Moon Township Parks and Recreation celebrated the new Moon Park playground with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, August 28.

WHE RE WA S I?

Show Me the Way to Go Home By Janice Lane Palko

Develop You!

#careerdevelopment

“T

he Business and Education Connected program helped me to discover and analyze how my strengths, values, skills, and interests can all intersect in a fulfilling career path… this program was just what I needed; it has given me the confidence to take the next steps towards my future career. The program provides many opportunities for in-depth personal analysis, and it includes unique online resources that give access to interviews, comparative salaries, education requirements, etc. pertaining to my careers of interest. Using these opportunities and resources, I was able to eliminate careers that did not match up with my strengths and values, while at the same time discovering careers that would utilize my full potential. - Cassie R., College Senior B.E.Connected provides services for students, “stayat-home moms,” empty-nesters, jobseekers and athletes. Packages include individual consults, career portfolios, resume and interview preparations. For more information contact: Aafke Loney: aloney@business-education-connected.com www.business-education-connected.com 4 4 4

grew up reading the late humor writer Erma Bombeck, and she authored a book in 1991 called When You Look Like Your Passport Photo, It’s Time to Go Home. I wish she were alive to today to ask her: Where do you go when you look worse than your passport photo? Last month my husband, two grown sons and I headed for what some have called “a trip of a lifetime,” but I refuse to call it that because it implies it was a one-and-done, and I want to go back. Anyway, we headed to Rome for three days and then a Mediterranean cruise. I prepped for months, and on departure day, I thought I looked Rome-ready. Italians embrace a concept known as bella figura, meaning “beautiful figure” or presenting your best image to the world. So, I did my best to live up their sartorial standards. I had applied my fake tan, gotten my hair cut, had a pedicure, got some press-on nails because gel nails often weaken my own nails, and on departure day, I donned my chic cheetah-print palazzo pants, black sweater and glitzy gold jewelry. My oldest son said I looked like Karen Hill from Goodfellas, which I wasn’t sure was good or bad. But what I do know is that it was all down hill from there. My press-on nails didn’t make it through the security check at Pittsburgh International, so on the plane, I plucked off the six that remained. While shuttling my luggage, a bag shifted chipping my pedicure and hitting my instep. I didn’t think about that until logging 10 miles on our first full day in Rome and my right foot swelled and looked a bit like an elephant foot. But the trip was incredible, besides Rome, we visited Florence, Nice, Monaco, Palma Majorca, Barcelona and Naples. I sweated off my fake tan in on the beach in Majorca, but other than being pale and gimpy, things looked pretty good—I had budgeted my wardrobe so that I had one clean outfit left to don to fly home. We had to be off the ship by 7 a.m., so I was too lazy to put on makeup or curl my hair. What did I care? By that evening, we’d be back in Pittsburgh. Too make room in my suitcase, I ditched my deodorant, which had crumbled, and pitched the squished tube of toothpaste, thinking what use could that little bit left in the tube do me? Don’t ever tempt the toothpaste gods! Although our flight leaving Rome for Montreal was a bit delayed, we had an empty plane allowing us to stretch out and in my case elevate my elephant limb and watch movies, but we missed our connecting flight to Toronto. The airline put us on a later flight that got us into Toronto with only minutes to spare before our flight left for Pittsburgh. We passed through Canadian customs and then a kind airport employee tried to help us get through U.S. customs. He collected all our passports and had my oldest son process us through the automated kiosks while we stripped off shoes, belts, watches and Fitbits to pass through security. Unfortunately, my husband’s shoe got trapped in the conveyor belt for a few moments, and after doing our best O.J. Simpson dash through the terminal sans shoes and accessories to the gate, they wouldn’t let us on the flight because our bags were still on the plane from Montreal and the U.S. Border inspectors didn’t want to retrieve and clear them. This necessitated us going back through Canadian customs and being put up in a Toronto hotel overnight. By the time we settled in, it was 12:30 a.m. eastern time, but by our Roman-adjusted body clock it was 6:30 a.m. and we’d been up more than 24 hours. We had to get up three hours later for our flight to Pittsburgh. The girl who had cultivated her bella figura, was flying home with teeth that felt like they had a velvet covering because I had no toothpaste, a swollen elephant foot and major bed head while wearing dirty clothes and smelling of Old Spice. Since I had no deodorant, I used my husband’s (Manly, yes. But I like it too!) By this time, I looked, smelled, and felt worse than my passport photo, and I don’t know what Erma would have prescribed, but I did the only thing that felt natural. I brushed my teeth, took a shower and headed for my bed! 444

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

M OV E R S & SH AKERS

Mover & Shaker of the Month

George Kruth

Takes readers on a historical journey with his Shalercrest: A Defense Housing Project By Paula Green

uring World War II, there was a housing shortage among factory workers. To help with the war effort, the federal government provided housing for defense laborers. One such region that was built in 1940 was called Shalercrest, which is located on Mt. Vernon in Shaler Township. George Kruth, 77, of Shaler lived in this 251-unit facility, so he is familiar with its history. Kruth recently published the book Shalercrest: A Defense Housing Project. The story chronicles everyday life growing up in Shalercrest with family and friends. Kruth, along with his parents, Ruth and Florence, and his eight siblings, resided in Shalercrest from 1943-1962. “The central focus of the book is to provide the historical background of Shalercrest as not only a ‘project’ but rather as an essential part of the war effort, especially here in Pittsburgh with all the steel-related industries. The people who resided in these projects at the time supported the war effort in the surrounding communities or they had to be servicemen or women. They were involved in the manufacturing of various armaments, ships, bombs, ammunition and other goods and services for the military. Also, a component of this story is how the proud people became owners of the Shalercrest community, as co-ops, once the war concluded,” Kruth said. The inspiration for the book began with Shaler North Hills librarian Sharon McRae. She was speaking with Kruth and mentioned there was no information regarding Shalercrest in their library. She asked him if he would be interested in writing a book about this Shaler Township neighborhood to add to the township history. “I took up the challenge about four years ago and began my extensive research into the many World War II defense housing projects initiated by the federal government for specific steel-related industry communities. Ramping up of the war support effort required an influx of workers and housing in these communities. Many of these projects were identified as middle-income projects required to support the war effort,” said Kruth. “I have been a life-long resident of Shaler Township and have a strong connection to my roots just like many of the people I grew up within Shalercrest. I also enjoy writing and research. So this was the perfect combination of skills and interest to preserve the history of this important Shaler Township community. My wife, Mary Lou, was great support for my long hours of research and writing the manuscript. We are the proud parents of five children and four grandchildren,” Kruth added. The book can be purchased for $24.95 at the Shaler North Hills Library on Mt. Royal Blvd., or the Shalercrest Housing Association Business Office on Mt. Vernon Drive. You can meet George Kruth at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, at the Shaler North Hills Library. Kruth will enlighten visitors on the Shalercrest book. The event is free and open to the public, register at (412) 486-0211. 4 4 4

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

RE A L E S TATE

Michael McGroarty, Jr. McGroarty & Bradburn Insurance

Michael McGroarty, Jr. CIC has been with McGroarty & Bradburn Insurance since 2007.

was working for a large corporation and did not like how managers were fighting for the next promotion, often at the expense of their employees and customers. I wanted to cut out the corporate bureaucracy and grow a business that would benefit my team and our clients. Not all insurance agents and companies are the same. We shop your insurance with our 25+ companies to make sure you are getting the right coverage at the best price. We â&#x20AC;&#x153;do the right thingâ&#x20AC;? for our clients and team. We explain insurance in simple terms so the client can make an educated decision. This allows us to customize insurance policies to meet their needs and budget. 4 4 4

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

Healing Knee Pain Not Just Managing Symptoms

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

or many with knee pain, the only solution seems to be shots, invasive procedures or surgery that often don’t help or may even make your knee pain worse. This is because most conventional treatments only address the symptoms and don’t address the cause. At Cenk Integrated Health, Dr. Donald Cenk, D.C. and his team of health care professionals employ a functional protocol rather than a symptom relief protocol. “When you merely alleviate the effect (symptomatic relief), you never address the cause (malfunction). Our functional protocol is all about restoring vitality to the lives of our “I have been in treatment for 5 patients and exacting long-term, easily sustainable weeks and this is the first time in change,” said Dr. Cenk. about 2 years that I have been Cenk Integrated Health in Fox Chapel tackles two able to walk without a cane - for aspects that contribute the most to knee ailments— a short period but I couldn’t do inflammation and instability of the knee it all before. Very pleased with joint. “We utilize multiple mechanisms to restore the treatment and feeling a lot of progress” – Margaret stability. Arthritis itself is your body’s attempt to stabilize what it perceives as a malfunctioning joint through misuse, disuse, abuse or overuse. We reduce hydraulic pressure in the knee (swelling) and fit the patient with customized customized orthotics that are individually analyzed on a computerized digital scanner. We then strengthen the core muscles of the knee with simple, repeatable exercises that can be easily carried out at home without specialized equipment,” said Dr. Cenk. Physicians have only recently realized how devastating inflammation can be to the body, and while the joint is inflamed, healing cannot occur, and degeneration is accelerating. “Our protocol addresses inflammation right off the start by utilizing modalities to stop and reverse the inflammatory process,” said Dr. Cenk. “We also supply, as a part of our program, a proprietary blend of turmeric, boswellia, xanthohumerol taken orally and a proprietary topical anti-inflammatory to reduce edema and swelling.” Cenk Integrated Health can even help those who have lost cartilage. “Cartilage, like any other soft tissue undergoes normal metabolism in the form of anabolism (build up) and catabolism (break down). As we age, the balance shifts towards breaking down. In our program, we shift the balance back towards building up with our patients ending up with younger knees,” said Dr. Cenk. The Knee Rejuvenation Protocol utilizes numerous FDA-cleared devices to reduce inflammation, accelerate healing and restore normal knee function. Although not covered by insurance, Dr. Cenk observed that, “Just because a treatment is covered by insurance, doesn’t make it effective. For example, steroid injections, knee arthroscopy and knee replacement often don’t fix knee joint pain.” Everyone is different, but Dr. Cenk says that the majority of knee conditions can be functionally restored with 20 treatments that consist of numerous modalities that take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to administer for each treatment. He also describes the protocol as a participation sport. “There will be exercises necessary to restore functionality. Therefore, each patient will be enlisted in the restoration of their own health. The exercises are only mildly strenuous and take about 10 minutes to complete 3 times per week,” said Dr. Cenk. “Our functional protocol is all about restoring vitality to the lives of our patients and exacting long-term, easily sustainable change.”

www.cenkintegratedhealth.com 12

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

COV E R S TORY

AHN Wexford Hospital For You, Your Community, Your Time By Janice Lane Palko

These days customization and personalization are often talked about when creating goods and services for the consumer, but when the new Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Wexford Hospital was being designed, administrators put those concepts into practice to create a hospital that caters to you, to your community and to your time.

n August 15, 2018, AHN and Highmark Health broke ground on the new, full-service hospital in Pine Township, and since that time, construction has commenced on both the primary facility and its adjacent parking garage. The final beam will be put into place within the next two months in the skeletal structure of the 160-bed hospital that can be seen being erected along Route 19 in front of the AHN Health + Wellness Pavilion hospital. “We are projecting an opening date of end of summer 2021,” said Allan Klapper, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist, who currently serves as chair of the AHN Women and Children Institute and who has been appointed president of the new hospital. “When the hospital is completed, it will connect to the Health + Wellness Pavilion to create a complete medical campus that was designed with our patients, their families, our medical professionals and staff as well as the community in mind.”

The Health + Wellness Pavilion opened in 2014 and is still easily accessible during the expansion and offers a range of primary, specialty and outpatient care. The facility has been a welcomed addition to the region exceeding the expectations of patients, medical staff and the community. The $275 million, 345,000-square-foot inpatient hospital is viewed by AHN as a natural extension of the model established by the Health + Wellness Pavilion and will offer primary, specialty, outpatient, inpatient and emergency care. AHN Wexford Hospital will have a dedicated, covered main entrance leading directly from Route 19, giving direct access to the front of the hospital and the lobby. The hospital’s emergency department will have 24 beds for emergency care and observation, including specialized rooms for pediatrics and behavioral health. State-of-the art operating rooms, with minimally invasive robotic surgical capabilities; advanced neurosurgical, orthopaedic, cancer and cardiac care, includ-

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ing cardiac catheterization and hybrid operating room technology; a range of diagnostic and medical imaging; and an adult intensive care unit, as well as a NICU, are only some of the features of the new hospital. It will also house a heliport for transporting critically ill or injured patients. Perhaps the most awaited addition will be a women and infants program, including advanced labor and delivery services. The hospital will be a destination for the many other services a woman may need throughout her lifetime including high-risk obstetrics, minimally invasive gynecology surgery, gynecologic oncology, urogynecology, and menopausal management. In line with AHN’s commitment to the treatment of perinatal mood disorders, maternal mental health services for women and their families will also be offered. In addition, a new 500-spot parking garage is being constructed on the pavilion’s south side and will feature covered, free self-

parking with direct access to the pavilion and the hospital. The garage will have louvres that will aid in ventilation and help to limit the occurrence of headlights shining into patients’ rooms. AHN Wexford will offer complimentary valet parking as well. Attention to those kinds of details were considered across the board when designing the hospital. “We engaged the Human Centered Design team from Highmark Health to create the best functioning, most patient- and staff-friendly hospital,” said Lisa Graper, Chief Nursing Officer, AHN Wexford Hospital. “We went from a design on paper to mockups to a cardboard simulation of rooms in a warehouse. We instituted a ‘day-in-the-life’ experience for clinicians and patients. This allowed us to take into consideration what patients would see, feel, hear and experience in the new hospital as well as allowing our staff to ‘test-drive’ the hospital. This enabled us to adjust the design before construction and thereby reduce costs.” “We made it our mission to focus on patient-centered care,” said Amy Cashdollar, Chief Operating Officer, AHN Wexford Hospital. “For example, rather than transferring a patient to various units throughout the hospital depending on the varying level of care required during their stay, our goal is to bring the care to them.” Little things mean a lot when it comes to health care. “We’ve designed larger patient rooms with a hotel or spa feel to them,” said Dr. Klapper. “Larger rooms mean less clutter, and that reduces the risk for a fall or injury for patients and staff. The rooms will have ample sitting space and recumbent sleeping options for those who’d like to stay at the bedside of a loved one.” “We know that attractive, comfortable environments promote health and wellness,” said Ms. Graper. The patient rooms will also have exterior views, providing natural lighting, and therapeutic art. Patients will be able to control their own environment, enabling them to set the temperature, lighting, and entertainment to their satisfaction and order from a room-service menu. The new hospital hopes to continue to foster involvement with the community, especially the thriving spirit of volunteerism that has been characteristic of the area. Volunteers play an important role in supporting patients at the pavilion and will also be a welcome addition at Wexford Hospital. “We have a variety of opportunities for volunteerism outlined on our website and encourage members of the community to be a part of our mission,” said Ms. Cashdollar. In addition to welcoming volunteers, the hospital’s philanthropy team is offering the community the opportunity to be a part of

the new hospital in a very meaningful, lasting way. “We are working on a variety of ways in which the business community and the artistic community can become involved and leave a legacy,” said Ms. Cashdollar. The Wexford Hospital also promises to have an extremely positive impact on the local economy, including employment opportunities. “We anticipate that the hospital will bring over 750 new health care jobs to the community,” said Dr. Klapper.

“Our employees are very enthusiastic about the new hospital and are excited about working here,” said Ms. Graper, who is working with hospital leaders to train and recruit new health care professionals, from physicians and nurses, and other caregivers, to vital support teams such as dietary, environmental services, maintenance, clerical and other roles. The new hospital has not only been designed with you and the community in mind, but it has also been designed to make the best use of your time – not just today, but in the future. From the moment a patient calls to make an appointment until final discharge from care, AHN is focused on ensuring a patient’s experience is efficient, satisfying and – overall – the very best. New technology will include beside registration in the emergency department, advanced robotics in the surgical rooms offering minimally invasive therapeutic options,

and the increased use of telemedicine to connect patients quickly and conveniently to expert clinicians at different locations when needed. Ease-of-use was of great importance. Unlike older hospitals with numerous additions, circuitous entrances or skywalks connecting wings, Wexford Hospital has been designed to make sense and be easy to navigate for patients, visitors and staff. AHN Wexford is also being designed to accommodate future advances in medicine and medical technology. “When the new hospital opens everything will be state-of-the art, but we wanted to be able to adapt and expand with minimal disruption, when needed,” said Dr. Klapper. “Our design of this facility ensures that we will always have the ability to provide patients and the community with the high quality, innovative care solutions that they need close to home. Highmark and AHN Wexford Hospital are dedicated to providing patients and the community with best health care available today and tomorrow.” 4 4 4

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H E A LT H & WEL L NESS

Exercise During Perimenopause and Menopause: Why is it Important? By Joella Baker

common question among aging women is how to survive the menopause years. For any of us age 40 or older, the changes in our body are evident. How to counteract those changes is not. For most of us approaching our 50s, we notice a lot of changes. How do you know if you are in perimenopause? • Hot Flashes and Night Sweats • Migraines • Weight Gain • Sleep Deprivation • Mood Swings • Hair Loss or Changes in Skin and Hair • Missed Periods • Fatigue As our bodies start to experience these changes, it’s so important to keep moving. Through personal experience, and from the athletes I’ve coached, I have learned that if you continue to exercise with a strong focus on your core and strength training, you will combat some of the weight gain, specifically weight gain through

your waistline. What are the best exercises to focus on during this frustrating time? • Planks • Sit-ups • Push-ups • Crunches • Squats • Leg Lifts • Bridges • Dips

Doing 3 sets of 15 repetitions of each exercise on 30 seconds recovery will allow you to build muscle, even when your body wants to gain weight. It’s also important to remain active through cardio exercise, flexibility and balance. The best exercises to maintain your cardio fitness during menopause are… • Walking • Swimming • Running • Cycling Flexibility and Balance exercises include… • Tai Chi • Yoga • Pilates

Exercise during the perimenopause years (and yes, it can last years) is so important, says Michele Olson, PhD, professor of exercise science at Auburn University in Montgomery, Ala. “When estrogen dips, belly fat accumulates, heart attack risk rises, bone loss occurs and muscle atrophy accelerates.” All of these health risks can be combatted through the exercises listed above. But there are more benefits too. Through exercise you can improve a lot more than your body composition, you can… • Lower your risk of osteoporosis • Lower your risks of metabolic syndrome, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases • Improve your insulin resistance • Keep joints and muscles strong • Help your bowels work well • Relieve depression and anxiety • Improve overall health The realization is perimenopause and menopause cause fatigue. Often, all we want to do is sleep or stay on the couch. Getting motivated to get up and exercise maybe the toughest part of each day. The thing is, if you pick a day to start, you can be successful. The key is to start an exercise plan. Keep it fun. Constantly change the plan and the types of exercise you do. Most of all, don’t give up. At any age, you can start to exercise and make the changes your body needs to be healthy and strong. Remember, if you aren’t enjoying the exercise plan, you won’t stick to it and you won’t be successful. Lastly, don’t forget your diet. Eating healthy, drinking a lot of water and sticking to an exercise plan is the best way to conquer perimenopause and menopause. You must do all of these for the plan to work. It’s time to get started! 4 4 4

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

H E A LT H & WEL L NESS

Is There a Role for Medical Marijuana for Helping Anxiety Symptoms? By Joseph C. Maroon, MD, FACS

n July of this year, Pennsylvania’s Department of Health added anxiety to the list of qualifying conditions for the state’s medical marijuana programs. With this approval the Department noted that patients with anxiety should consult with health care providers to see if medical marijuana would be beneficial. This is always good advice to follow. They also noted the recent expanded research now demonstrating its benefits for anxiety. So, what do we know about role of medical marijuana for anxiety? Again, as the Department of Health noted, cannabis with low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and high cannabidiol (CBD) is more effective for treating anxiety. Additionally, some studies have shown high concentrations of THC can actually lead to increased anxiety and paranoia. This statement and research on medical marijuana

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has consistently reported the molecule CBD, found in both marijuana and hemp plants, is strongly linked to the reported anxiety relief benefits.

Anxiety a Major Problem in the US

The approval for the treatment of anxiety by the Department of Health has been advocated for by both patients with anxiety and their healthcare providers as a possible non-prescription drug way to treat this oftendisabling condition. According to the CDC, the most common mental illnesses in US adults are anxiety and mood disorders affecting nearly 40 million American. In a report from 2010, 11% of middle‐aged women (ages 45‐64) and 5.7% of middle‐aged men were on an anti‐ anxiety drug(s). Large population studies have also shown (Continued on page 22)

H E A LT H & WEL L NESS

Solevo October Events Sunday, October 6 • 1-4 pm Squirrel Hill The Happening Murray Avenue at Forbes Monday, October 7 • 6:30-8 Presentation at Fox Chapel Library Thursday October 17 • 10 am-3 pm Ambridge Certification Event with Dr. Alexander 422 Merchant Street, Ambridge, PA 15003 Sunday October 20 • 1-3 pm Pediatric Support Group Oxford Club Special Events Room 100 Village Club Drive, Wexford, PA 15090 Monday October 21 • 1-8 pm Squirrel Hill Certification Event with Dr. Folgueras Solevo Community Room 5600 Forward Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Wed-Thurs, October 23 & 24 PA DUI Association Conference Station Square Friday, October 25 Oncology Nursing Society Conference Saturday October 26 • 1-3 pm Autism Connection Trunk or Treat In Etna 35 Wilson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15223 For additional information on events please visit our website.

Medical Marijuana Providing Relief for Women By Janice Lane Palko

ften times, women take a “grin and bear it” attitude when it comes to pain, but that need not be the case. Medical marijuana is providing pain relief to many women, especially those who suffer with breast cancer, endometriosis and post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. In 2016, Pennsylvania Act 16 was signed into law, giving Pennsylvanians access to medical marijuana to treat certain medical conditions. Solevo Wellness has dispensaries in several locations in Western Pennsylvania, with their Washington facility opening soon. They are honored to provide thousands of Pennsylvanians, including women, the opportunity to obtain relief through quality medical marijuana products “Medical marijuana alleviates the side effects of cancer treatments including, nausea, vomiting and pain. It can also help with the psychological stress associated with cancer and treatment,” said Richard Greer, Pharmacy Director, who is licensed in Pennsylvania. “It can also help with insomnia and stimulate appetite.” Endometriosis is another condition that medical marijuana can aid. “Pain is usually the primary presenting symptom that leads to a diagnosis of endometriosis,” said Mr. Greer, “and that pain can be alleviated with medical marijuana.” For those who are hesitant to seek help, don’t. “Unlike other dispensaries, Solevo requires a patient consultation with a PA licensed pharmacist, who formulates a treatment plan. You are never alone,” said Mr. Greer. While you may not be able to change your medical diagnosis, you can change how you meet the challenge of it by seeking relief with medical marijuana. 4 4 4

DR. MAROON (Continued on page 20)

chronic pain conditions are significantly associated with anxiety, especially true for those with headache and back pain. Studies investigating CBD in subjects with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), a debilitating disorder that is characterized by impaired social adjustment, found that CBD was an effective treatment. In simulated public speaking tasks in patients with SAD, those pre-treated with CBD had significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort compared to the placebo group, which had increased symptoms compared to the baseline level. Several interesting studies are evaluating CBD to curb 22

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

tobacco addiction. In a small study with smokers, the CBD group decreased the number of cigarettes smoked throughout a 7-day period by 40%, compared to the placebo treated group that showed no differences in number of cigarettes smoked. The potential indications that THC and CBD, together and separately, ultimately are used for have yet to be completely defined. Dosing, product quality and purity are still an unsettled issue. Despite this, scientists worldwide are now looking at the various roles both THC and CBD play in human health. Anxiety symptom relief is just one of the latest benefits that have been reported. Again, seek out your health care provider before using any marijuana or hemp product. 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

H E A LT H & WEL L NESS

Women in Health Care Dr. Jessany Knapp

| Francis Audiology

Dr. Jessany Knapp is a Certified Audiologist and holds her doctoral degree from the University of Memphis School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, which demonstrates her mastery of the clinical competencies in audiology services. Before earning a doctorate degree, she studied Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She has extensive clinical experience in a variety of different settings including her clinical externship at the Washington D.C. Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the National Institutes of Health. She also is a dedicated member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competency. Dr. Knapp specializes in optimal hearing health care, through diagnostic evaluations, counseling and the fitting of cutting-edge hearing technology. She enjoys working with people of all ages, providing compassionate hearing health care with an emphasis on custom hearing aid fitting, counseling, tinnitus management and hearing conservation. She believes in treating the whole person, not just the hearing loss. Dr. Knapp joined Francis Audiology Associates team of hearing health care providers, helping them provide efficient, accessible and quality hearing health care services to the greater Pittsburgh area. She is ready to help you get started on your way to a better hearing. When not seeing patients, she enjoys traveling, hiking and camping. For more information please call 724-933-3440 or visit us at: www.francisaudiology.com

Dr. Gi Ming Chan

| Appalachia Chiropractic & Wellness, P.C.

Dr. Gi Ming Chan is a board certified naturopathic doctor. She graduated from an accredited, four-year graduate program at National University of Health Sciences. She obtained further courses in autoimmune disease, diabetes, holistic counseling and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Dr Gi Ming Chan is currently seeing patients at Appalachia Chiropractic & Wellness, located in Cranberry Township, PA. Dr. Chan is very compassionate and caring. She listens and takes the time to get to know her patients and their healthcare needs. Her primary goal is to help patients achieve their optimal health by providing quality individualized care. Dr. Chan treats a wide variety of health conditions ranging from the common cold to diabetes to hormonal imbalances using natural therapies. The naturopathic modalities used by Dr. Chan include nutrition, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, and botanical supplementation. She is a blog writer for Nutritional Frontiers, a local operating supplement company. She is also a health educator, and gives out health talks at her current location and throughout Western Pennsylvania. Dr. Chan is a native of Brazil. She speaks Portuguese. She moved to the United States at age 12. She enjoys reading, writing, cooking, traveling, making natural skin care products, and shopping at farmer’s market. 724-553-5312 • www.appalachiachiropractic.com

Lorna Gavin

| Elder Care Manager, Certified Dementia Practitioner

Aging--we all do it and don’t give it a second thought, until…LIFE CHANGES-heart attack, stroke, dementia or worse. I can help sift through the maze called senior care. Should mom stay at home or go to a facility? So many choices. How can we afford this to happen? More choices. From a client’s family “Our stress level was high, and we knew my sister needed so much more. The only local point person was Lorna. She was the only source of any peace of mind we had during this entire ordeal. She was always willing to do anything for my sister or us, no matter the request. She became family to all of us in so many ways.” If you are looking for help in a person who can walk you through these anxious times, please contact me, Lorna Gavin, RN, Elder Care Manager, Certified Dementia Practitioner. 724-602-9559, lorna.aging.gracefully@gmail.com

Dr. Bridget Chufo

| Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness

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

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

I M AG E & S T YL E

Ladies Out to Lunch

A Style Guide for a Ladies’ Luncheon By Kelly A. Smith

id you know that a “ladies’ luncheon” was originally a common practice in the 19th and early 20th century? It was a time for small social groups of ladies to have a light meal, coffee or tea and, of course, conversation. All whilst their husbands were at work, bringing home the bacon! While I do get a bit of a chuckle thinking about this somewhat antiquated tradition, a lady’s luncheon today, does not differ in the purpose of a ladies social gathering. Sure, most of us are working professionals, busy gals-on-the-go trying to perfect a work/life balance and some even bringing home more “bacon” than their husbands, but there is something convivial about a girls-only gathering. We all know what to wear to a wedding or a cocktail party- heck, there’s even the term “cocktail” to signal the cocktail dress lightbulb! Nowadays, there’s so many formal/informal/business casual dress codes that it can be a daunting process to sort through it all. So, what’s a well-to-do lady in a “dress-distress” to do? I’ve got you covered so do read on! BRIDAL/BABY/WEDDING SHOWERS – These all have a relatively lenient dress code since most of the attendees will be your family and friends. Usually a fun, whimsical dress with casual heels will do the trick. Your style should reflect your personality since it is a fun and jovial luncheon, so do choose a style that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Florals are always in season with any celebratory affair as are bold colors. So, go ahead—stand out in that crowd! CHARITY/VOLUNTEER LUNCHEONS – For these types of events, it’s best to keep things conservative. Now, that doesn’t mean wearing a cardigan buttoned to the top but do

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

choose a modest neckline that still has a flair of femininity. A blazer atop a sleeveless blouse with dress slacks is just as appropriate as a dress with heels. Jeans typically should be reserved for more casual affairs; however, if you have a very dark, dressy pair of denim, you can certainly pair it up with a beautiful blouse and dressy, leather or suede boots as long as the look is neat and stylish. The key is to keep things businesslike, without being lackluster. BUSINESS/WORK LUNCHEON – You can expect most ladies will adhere to a professional attire for these luncheons. While business suits are always in style, most women opt for a more relaxed business look such as a skirt and blouse paired with a blazer and sleek heels. Other options that would be appropriate can be as simple as a dress with a matching buttoned jacket, a well-fitted pantsuit or a stylish pencil skirt with a cardigan sweater set. Jewelry and accessories should be kept simple and sweet, as should your hair and and makeup. Remember, a polished look is a finished look. It only takes a few moments to fix a quick updo or a sleek pony tail. Hopefully, these styling tips will make your next ladies-outto-lunch a memorable event. Keep in mind to wear an outfit that fits well and is the correct size. You should feel comfortable and confident with your ensemble, so do try before you buy! Networking and socializing have now become common to us ladies of today, so be mindful that you’ll want to be recognized for your contributions and collaboration abilities as well as having impeccable style. Here’s to all the ladies bringing home that bacon and looking fabulous while doing so! 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

KIDS & EDU C ATI O N

College Credits Received at Quigley Catholic What if it were possible to get a head start on college credits while still in high school?

Providence Heights Alpha School (Allison Park)

Saint Joseph High School (Natrona Heights)

Quigley Catholic High School (Baden)

Vincentian Academy (North Hills)

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

(724) 869-2188 www.qchs.org

Principal: Beverly K. Kaniecki (724) 224-5552 www.SaintJosephHS.com Mrs. Rita Canton (412) 364-1616 www.vincentianacademy.org

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

uigley Catholic High School is proud to offer many opportunities to grow while learning and earning college credits as a bonus. Valued institutions and universities offer the ability for their curriculum to be taught at Quigley Catholic. Our teachers here at Quigley are insightful and are dedicated to educating their students. They want to help us succeed in every way possible. An added bonus is that these classes are more affordable here at Quigley rather than at college. You can get the same education at a lower cost and still have the convenience of being enrolled in high school. Graduating with these credits allows for confident entry into college with credit and experience already earned. Dr. Sarah Fedorko is an alumnus of Quigley Catholic who graduated with eleven credits which she obtained directly from several local colleges and universities. Eight out of the eleven credits counted towards her core classes for her major, Chemistry. Because of these credits, she was allowed to skip her first semester, graduate early, and go on to dental school. Another alumni of Quigley Catholic, Eric Hein, attends Franciscan University and is in the midst of finishing his undergraduate degree in less than four years. Eva Philips is another alumnus who is now a freshman at Mercyhurst University. She too has taken the opportunity of these classes and is heading into her first year so far with twenty-three credits already completed. These three alumni as well as countless others have taken this chance to get a head start on college here at Quigley and will confidently say it is one of the best decisions they have made to prepare for college and their future. 4 4 4

Happy Anniversary Chatham! Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2019, Chatham University has an enrollment of over 2,200 students across 60+ undergraduate and graduate programs in our areas of excellence: sustainability & health, the arts & sciences, and business & communications.

hatham has consistently been named a College of Distinction and a “Best College” by U.S. News & World Report, and—as the alma mater of environmental icon, Rachel Carson ‘29—is consistently ranked as one of the greenest colleges in the United States by Sierra Magazine and the Princeton Review. Located in Pittsburgh, PA—one of the country’s most livable cities and great college towns—Chatham is spread across three distinct locations: the historic arboretum, Shadyside Campus; Chatham Eastside in Pittsburgh’s rapidly growing East End; and Eden Hall Campus, one of the world’s most sustainable campuses. Chatham offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help make education more affordable. We also prepare our students to stand out in competitive job markets, providing them with professional development experiences, including internships, mentorship programs, and networking events. And our 50+ student organizations and 18 NCAA Division III sports teams ensure that there is something for everyone. To learn more about Chatham University, visit www.chatham.edu. 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

K I D S & E DUC AT ION

School Movers & Shakers Saint Joseph Saint Joseph High School freshman Kathryn Huth has been selected as one of the Top 300 Broadcom MASTERS in the 2019 Broadcom MASTERS®, a program of Society for Science & the Public.

Kathryn Huth

North Hills

Shaler Area Shaler Area School District welcomed Millvale Borough Police Officer Brenan Jackson as the district’s second school resource officer.

in an emergency or extended lockdown situation such as flashlights, first-aid kits, duct tape, rope, a space blanket and whistle.

Brenan Jackson

The Shaler Area District Parent Council, in partnership with the district, launched a new initiative to help teachers be more prepared for an emergency situation. The District Parent Council organized the Go Bucket project to provide classrooms with an emergency kit. The Go Buckets are five-gallon buckets that include items that can be used

The North Hills School District’s four elementary schools are now equipped with interactive touchscreen displays. Approximately 200 Promethean ActivPanel Nickel displays were installed over the summer before the start of the 2019-20 school year in every elementary school classroom, computer lab and library, replacing older projectors and other presentation devices.

Mars Area Mars Area High School held its 2019 Mars Area Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Sept. 6, at Mars Area Middle School. The inductees were: Rob Carmody, Lily Grenci,

Brian Hoffman, Melanie (Nicklas) Hynden, Justin Piocquidio and Matt Powell. Members of Girl Scout Troop 28842 (Mars) painted a four-square court, one of several improvements to the playground at Mars Area Centennial School completed as part of a community service project. Participants were - Lauren Chadwick, Arden Flynn, Madeline James, Caroline Martin, Addison Pangonis, Anya Peck, Rachel Snyder, Makenna Steiner, Kiara Van Wyk and Grace Wilson.

Seneca Valley Seneca Valley sophomore, Rachel Spear was invited to The Advantage Testing Foundation 2019 Math Prize for Girls Competition based on her Rachel performance on the American Spear Mathematics Competition (AMC) 10 test last school year. This is the largest math prize for girls in the world which is held in the fall at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Officials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced Seneca Valley seniors Nishant Jayachandran, Olivia Schultheis and Sean Scott, as Semifinalists in the 65th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

La Roche University La Roche University was recently named a Best University in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

CCAC Two teams from the Community College of Allegheny County have been named regional winners in the Draw the Lines PA competition. Team ‘Wild Card’ from CCAC North Campus received an Honorable Mention in the Higher Ed-West category, and Team CCAC South received an Honorable Mention in the Adult-West category.

St. Vincent College Saint Vincent College announced the creation of The Saint Vincent Center for Catholic Thought and Culture, an interdisciplinary academic institute that advances the college’s mission. Through campus programs and sponsored research, it will engage today’s intellectual climate through sustained reflection upon the Catholic Intellectual and Benedictine wisdom traditions.

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

PA Cyber Charter School

erving students in kindergarten through 12th grade, the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School (PA Cyber) is one of the largest, most experienced and most successful online public schools in the nation. PA Cyber’s online learning environments, personalized instructional methods and choices of curricula connect Pennsylvania students and their families with state-certified and highly qualified teachers and rich academic content that is aligned to state standards. Founded in 2000, PA Cyber is headquartered in Midland (Beaver County) and maintains a network of support offices throughout the state. As a public school, PA Cyber is open for enrollment by any school-age child residing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and does not charge tuition to students or families. At PA Cyber, our student-centered instructional model recognizes the different developmental stages students typically follow, while respecting the innate differences and unique abilities of each individual child. This flexible-but-focused learning model allows our teachers to use a variety of teaching strategies and curriculum choices to create an education program that is deeply personal. It all works to inspire students – supported by the caring adult mentors in their lives – to become self-motivated, lifelong learners. For more information, to attend an online info session or to make an enrollment appointment, please visit www.pacyber.org or call 1-888-PA-Cyber (722-9237). 4 4 4

Agora Cyber Charter School

gora Cyber Charter School is a statewide, tuition-free online public charter school and is a premier provider of innovative and unique K-12 cyber education in Pennsylvania. With admission available to any Pennsylvania student between the ages of 5 and 20, the cyber option provided by Agora is a lifesaver for thousands of families across the state and has time and again proven to be the best choice for many a child’s specific needs. Agora invests 100% of their resources into creating a fully immersive cyber education for each and every student. Established in 2005 for students in kindergarten through 12th grade, Agora’s engaging curriculum is offered by dedicated, Pennsylvania-certified teachers, committed to an individualized learning approach. Faculty and staff work together to provide a system of support, so every student has what they need to succeed. Agora embraces a collaborative partnership between teachers and parents in order to empower students to reach extraordinary heights and live interactions make the difference in success. With all of their resources—from family coaches, to counselors, to their new Destinations Career Academy--Agora has proven that they prepare students to achieve their highest potential through an education that works best for the student and their family. For more information, go to https://agora.org/enrollment/ or phone 844-462-4672 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

K I D S & E DUC AT ION

BC3 to Showcase Advantages at Oct. 16 Open House

isitors to Butler County Community College’s Oct. 16 open house can learn how 70% of BC3 graduates are debt-free, how BC3 has the highest salary-to-cost ratio among 43 regional colleges and universities, according to the U.S. Department of Education, and why BC3 has been ranked the No. 1 community college in Pennsylvania in three consecutive surveys by Schools.com. BC3 will waive its $25 application fee for those who apply for admission during the open house, scheduled from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the college’s main campus in Butler Township. The open house will be held in Founders Hall. Information sessions will take place at 5 p.m. in Succop Theater on BC3’s Nursing, R.N., program, and at 7 p.m. in Room 200 of the Science and Technology building on financial aid. BC3’s tuition is among the most affordable of 43 regional colleges and universities, according to U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard data. The Pittsburgh Business Times in January reported that BC3’s salary-to-cost ratio – a measurement of graduates’ salaries 10 years after commencement for every dollar a student pays to attend the institution – was the highest among those 43 regional colleges and universities. BC3’s top-ranked salary-to-cost ratio means graduates will earn the most compared to what they spend to attend BC3. The average student loan debt nationwide for those in the Class of 2018 is $28,565, LendEDU reported Aug. 8. The Class of 2018 average in Pennsylvania is $35,510, the highest among students in all states except Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Connecticut. Two of three graduates from Pennsylvania institutions have student-loan debt, according to LendEDU, a website that provides comparisons for loans, credit cards and other financial products. Seventy percent of BC3 graduates are debt-free. RSVP to BC3’s open house at bc3.edu/visit. 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

T R I V I A CO NNEC T ION

Worldly Mysteries Trivia By Paula Green

1. What is the name of this humanoid with insect wings and crimson eyes that is believed to have terrorized folks in Point

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Pleasant, West Virginia? 2. Located in Groom Lake, Nevada, it was founded in 1955 by the U.S. Air Force to develop and test new aircrafts. This secretive base is thought to house UFO cover-ups. 3. What is another name for the alleged Abominable Snowman, an ape-like creature found in the Himalayans? 4. This famous mythological “lost” island was considered a utopia. 5. According to legend, this kangaroo-like creature was spawned 250 years, during Mrs. Leeds 13th pregnancy. 6. What was the name of the 1987 comedy film based on Bigfoot? 7. In which Central American country can you find hundreds of stone balls? 8. Also known as Rapa Nui, its located 2,000 miles off the coast of Tahiti. It is most famous for its nearly 1,000 extant monumental statues, called moai. 9. Elaborate pyramids and sphinx were built in this Middle East region. 10. This is known as the American version of Stonehenge. The mysterious monument was erected in 1979 in Elbert County. 11. A creature known as chupacabra allegedly preys on chicken and goat blood. What Latin American area are chupas supposedly found? 12. This religious relic was discovered in the Middle Ages; it is believed to be Jesus’ burial cloth. 13. In the desert region of Peru, you will find these enormous geoglyphs. Some people feel they are extraterrestrial. 14. In 1509, Don Juan Ponce de Leon traveled to Bimini island in search of this place where the water was claimed to have healing properties. 15. What is the name given to the feline ghost which is purported to haunt the government buildings of Washington, D.C.? 4 4 4 Sources: https://quizpug.com/how-much-do-you-know-about-these-unsolved-mysteries/, https://www.sporcle.com/games/midlifecrisis/20_world_mysteries, https://www.livescience. com/22427-stonehenge-facts.html, world-of-lucid-dreaming.com/unexplained-mysteries.html, https://www.chasingmidnight.com/roswell-ufo-crash

Answers: 1. Mothman 2. Area 51 3. Yeti 4. Atlantis 5. The Jersey Devil 6. Harry & The Hendersons 7. Costa Rica 8. Easter Island 9. Giza 10. Georgia Guidestones 11. Puerto Rico 12. The Shroud of Turin 13. The Nazca Lines 14. The Fountain of Youth 15. Demon Cat

re you a believer, or a naysayer? Let’s face it; there are mysterious events and unexplained phenomena that have baffled folks around the world for centuries. Crop circles are strange patterns that mysteriously appear overnight in the farmer’s field. To date, there have been over 9,000 reported and documented crop circles throughout the world, with 90% of them coming from England. Despite having been studied for decades, the question remains who or what is making them? Speaking of England, another oddity is Stonehenge. This massive stone monument located in Salisbury, England, draws 800,000 tourists a year. It is estimated it was built roughly 5,000 years ago. Some believe Stonehenge to be an ancient burial ground. Who created this colossal site? No one knows for sure. Over in Scotland, the buzz is about the Loch Ness Monster. This dragon-like beast is believed to reside in the Loch Ness Lake in the Scottish Highlands. It became an English wonder in 1933 after witness accounts made newspaper headlines. Scientists now believe that “Nessie” is a giant eel. Some folks in North America think that we have a monster (or monsters) roaming around. Bigfoot, also called Sasquatch is an alleged, hairy, upright-walking, ape-like creature that dwells in the wilderness and leaves footprints. About one-third of Bigfoot sightings are located in the Pacific Northwest, with the remaining reports spread throughout the rest of North America. The Bermuda Triangle is an area between Miami, Puerto Rico and Bermuda. It got its name after 28 navy airmen vanished from this region during a routine flight in 1945. It is often referred to as the Devil’s Triangle, and it covers about 500,000 square miles of the Atlantic Ocean. Look to the sky, and if you’re lucky enough, you’ll spot a UFO (unidentified flying object). Probably the most famous UFO incident occurred in July 1947. A flying saucer crashed in the desert north of Roswell, New Mexico. Rumor has it that three dead aliens were recovered from the wreckage, but the story was quickly recanted. Since we have analyzed some mysteries, let’s see if we can fly through this supernatural query. Get set to don those mystical hats, because it’s time to get a little trivial...

S UPP O RT O UR TRO O P S

Military Events in October By Paula Green

here are some noteworthy military events taking place during October. There are times when a service person returns home and has difficulty finding a job. For veterans who are looking for employment, DAV RecruitMilitary is sponsoring a Veterans Job Fair, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 3, at Heinz Field, 100 Art Rooney Avenue. For more information, visit https://success.recruitmilitary.com/events/ pittsburgh-veterans-job-fair-october-3-2019. Two Mars Area High School students have been working hard to show their support and admiration for the military. Senior Jenna Sutton and freshman John Sutton worked in conjunction with the Mars Student Council to sponsor a military fundraiser. Every Saturday from June 15 thru September 7, they held “Cookies for a Cause,” at the Mars Farmer’s Market. Proceeds from the campaign benefit the veterans living at St. John Specialty Care Center. During the 2018-19 school year, the fundraiser grossed $1,348. The Suttons are having a “Cookies for a Cause” booth at the 25th annual Mars Applefest. The event will be held 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5, in downtown Mars. October 26 is annually designated as National Day of the Deployed. It honors all brave men and women who have been deployed, are sacrificing or gave their lives to defend our country. The day also acknowledges their families who are separated from them during their deployment. These family members make sacrifices in order for their family members to serve our country. In honor of Military Appreciation Day, Slippery Rock University has a Salute to Military and First Responders. The tribute will be held at 1 p.m., Oct. 26, at Mihalik-Thompson Stadium before the SRU football game against Clarion University. All military veterans, current military personnel and first responders will be admitted to the game for free and will be asked to stand for recognition. Representatives from VA Butler Healthcare will have a table with information to support veterans’ services, and spectators will have the opportunity to receive VA Butler Healthcare giveaways. Another special event that recognizes service members is the Fall Festival: Military Appreciation Day. It will be held from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 26, on Overbrook Road in Valencia. The festival is hosted by Freedom Farms Farmer’s Market. It promises to be a fun-filled family event. 4 4 4

There are some noteworthy military events taking place during October.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

S E N IO R LIVING

CONFUSED ABOUT MEDICARE?

Managed Care for the Dually Eligible Beneficiary

Medicare is confusing – call for a one-to-one, no charge consultation with a Medicare expert! Remove the FEAR, UNCERTAINTY, AND COSTLY MISTAKES from the Medicare enrollment process. Crystal A. Manning

Medicare Advisor

Call 412-716-4942 or email crystalmanning33@gmail.com 10008 Pine Ridge Drive Wexford, Pa. 15090

By Crystal Manning

People who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid are sometimes referred to as “dual eligible.” The Medicaid program is designed to help certain people whose incomes or assets fall within qualifying limits. It can cover services like personal care or stays in a nursing home even if Medicare doesn’t. How Medicaid and Part C Interact

You may be a dual eligible or know of someone who qualifies for Part C and Medicaid. In this case, Medicaid may cover items that Medicare excludes. Medicare Advantage plans are managed care and have networks with contracted health care providers, such as a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Medicare Advantage plans, which require a Primary Care Doctor. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare and provide at least the same level of coverage that Medicare Part A and Part B provide. Medicare Advantage plans must offer at least the same level of coverage as Medicare Part A and Part B, and many plans offer added benefits. These may include coverage for routine vision care, hearing aids, routine dental care, prescription drug coverage, and fitness center membership. These are great benefits to a Medicaid recipient and a perfect reason to look at Medicare advantage plans that work with your Medicaid benefits. When you’re searching for quotes, you must remember that Medicare Advantage enrollment is restricted. You can only join a plan, disenroll or make changes to your existing coverage during predetermined open enrollment periods. Contact Crystal Manning, Licensed Medicare Advisor, at 412-716-4942 or crystalmanning33@gmail. com to assist with all your Medicare options. 4 4 4 36

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Fresh From the Farm By Ron Eichner

Hi Folks,

all is our third season of the year, and October is the first full month of autumn. Fall brings mums in abundance, adding color to the landscape. Pumpkins, gourds, and corn stalks are gathered for sale. It’s also peanut butter season, and that’s always a treat! The last night in October is Halloween, and we all know what this is about--kids and grandkids putting on costumes and trick or treating for candy throughout the neighborhood. The average first frost in the fall usually occurs in mid-October, which always seems to be too early for a gardener or farmer. October is National Popcorn Popping Month. Our family members have a long German heritage that make us fond of sauerkraut. However, we had a great-grandmother who was born in Switzerland and immigrated to Ohio. She had a maiden of Roethlisberger. Oktoberfest has been a Bavarian tradition for over 200 years. In Munich, they celebrate for 16 days. It starts on a Saturday and ends the first Sunday of October. We offer our farm market throughout the year along with homemade sauerkraut. You can make Eichner’s Whole Food Farm an Oktoberfest destination for some German treats and the “rest of the story.” 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

SE N I OR LIV ING

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

Health & Wellness Free Services for Seniors through

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

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

Pennsylvania consumers are

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

North Hills Community Outreach provides Safety Checks for Seniors. Interested seniors who reside in northern Allegheny County should email Cathy at clpschirer@nhco.org or call (412) 307-0069 x3313.

PA Healthcare Benefit Support Program, a counseling service of the Birmingham Free Clinic, is offering free Medicare Counseling events in Allegheny County in Oct. & Nov., to answer questions about Medicare, prescription drug assistance & healthcare benefits. Call 412-2668322 for information.

meet at 7 p.m., every 1st Friday, at St. Ferdinand’s, Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp., Oldenski Hall, Upper Room. Call (724) 816-2159.

Friendship Groups for Visually Impaired, Men’s Group meets

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

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

North Country Meal on Wheels

Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the

Meals on Wheels McKnight Meals on Wheels provides

provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound & disabled. Services Marshall, Pine, Richland, Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, parts of McCandless, West Deer, Cranberry, Adams, Seven Fields, Mars & Valencia. Call (724) 935-1877.

Medical North Hills Community Outreach

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

Presentations Relationships & Aging, 1-4 p.m.,

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

Social Groups Amazing Singles, for singles in the

Pittsburgh region, visit, http://www. amazingsingles.com/pittsburgh.html. AUP Club, have fun & meet new people with the Association of University People/AUP. We are looking for single, 4-year college graduates over 50 to join us for monthly dinners, meet at various social spots, gatherings and Scrabble. For info, call (412) 734-8445 or visit us at www.aupsinglespittsburgh.org.

Catholic Alumni Club of Pittsburgh, has dances, retreats

Oct. 7, Tull Family Theater. For reservations, call (412) 259-8542.

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

Spiritual

Visit Pittsburgh Events & Festivals lists upcoming events for

Healthy Start Café, 8:45 a.m.,

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

Friends and Fun 55+ Singles

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

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

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

Senior Meetings Cranberry Township 55+ Club

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

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

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

Support Groups Alzheimer’s Support Group, 10

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

Bereavement Support Group (for

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

Home Instead Senior Care®

has a program to help families in Northwest Allegheny County

manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com.

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

Trips Saint Alexis Over 50 group,

October Three Casino Tour, Oct. 17-18, Meadows, Wheeling Island & Mountaineer. For info & reservations contact Dave at 412.366.3789 or 412.719.3172.

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

Lighthouse Foundation is looking

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

Neighborly Gnomes assist seniors

with disabilities with yard tasks. Visit NeedsbyNeighborhood.org.

North Hills Community Outreach

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

North Hills Community Outreach

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

Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program

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

Ursuline Services’ Checks and Balances program assists those

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

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Presents Family Friendly Theater from the Cultural District to your Neighborhood

he Pittsburgh Cultural Trust recently announced the 2019-2020 seasons of the Children’s Theater and EQT Bridge Theater Series. The Children’s Theater Series is designed to introduce young children ages 3+ to theater through family-friendly performances featuring new and familiar characters and stories, and the EQT Bridge Theater Series is for pre-teens and teens ages 7+ ready to experience more adventurous theater. Both series consist of a combined total of nine different shows throughout the Cultural District and select suburban locations at middle and high schools in the north, south, east, west, and Butler areas. The mission of both series is to bring the magic of theater to kids and their guardians for moments that will last a lifetime, exposing Pittsburgh families to high-quality, professional theater performances from around the world. “That’s what makes life, all of these memories and all of the positive time together,’’ says Pam Komar of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. “The best theater performances for young people are also enjoyable for grown-ups, and that’s what we keep in mind when selecting shows to bring to Pittsburgh.” Both series begin in November 2019 and run through May 2020. For a full list of showtimes, performance descriptions, and directions to all locations,

visit TrustArts.org/Kids or call 412456-6666. 2019-2020 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Children’s Theater Series. For the last five decades, children from multiple generations have enjoyed the liveliness of theater in their very own neighborhoods as well as downtown in Pitstburgh’s Cultural District. Be sure to catch a performance at a school near you, full list of schools serviced include: • Marshall Middle School (Wexford) • Hopewell High School (Aliquippa) • Mellon Middle School (Mt. Lebanon) • Seneca Valley Intermediate High School (Harmony) The 50th Anniversary season will feature performances that incorporate excitement, science, friendship, and adventures with beloved storybook characters and new tales. Shows this season include of Judy Moody & Stink, The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System, Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure, Diary of a Wombat and Doodle POP which can all be seen in the Northern PA area school district specifically at Marshall Middle School. Judy Moody & Stink, takes place on

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

November 21 at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. followed by The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System on January 9 at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m at Marshall Middle School. Erth’s Prehistoric Aquarium Adventure will be exclusively shown at the Byham Theater on February 23 while Diary of a Wombat has two performances at Marshall Middle School on March 26th at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Finally, as a part of the 2020 EQT Children’s Theater Festival, Doodle POP! can be seen on May 14 - 17 at the Byham Theater at various showtimes. Geared towards pre-teens and teens, the EQT Bridge Theater Series shares captivating stories full of humor and surprise and all performances can be seen throughout the Cultural District. The 2019-2020 season includes four shows; Walk Two Moons, An Elephant in the Garden, Pss Pss and Emil and the Detectives. Walk Two Moons takes the Byham Theater stage on November 8 - 9, 2019, followed by An Elephant in the Garden on January 17 - 18, 2020. Inspired by Charlie Chaplin, Pss Pss mimes its way into the hearts of children on April 3 - 4 at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center and lastly the EQT Bridge Theater series closes out with Emil and the Detectives during the 2020 EQT Children’s Theater Festival. 4 4 4

www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

October 2019

Happenings

Arts & Entertainment

Bodiography, La Roche University

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

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m.,

Oct. 7, Breakthrough; Oct. 14, A Madea Family Funeral; Oct. 21, The Best of Enemies; Oct. 28, The Hustle, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

Legacy Theatre Seminars: 11 a.m., Oct. 1, Move It or Lose It; Oct. 15, It’s a Hockey Night in Pittsburgh: 1893 to Today, Oct. 29, Haunted Hollywood, Cumberland Woods Village, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. RSVP to, (412) 635-8080.

Legacy Theatres shows: 2 p.m.

& 7:30 p.m., Oct. 5, The Four Aces; 7:30 p.m. Oct. 12, Sinatra & Streisand Tribute; 7:30, Oct. 26, The Marcels; 7:30 p.m., Nov. 16, Chuck Blasko & The Vogues, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup. com/productions.

Mummies of the World: The Exhibition, Oct. 5, Carnegie Science Center. For info, visit https://carnegiemuseums.org.

Bereavement Support Addiction BereavementSupport Group Beyond Bridge to Hope,

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

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Bereavement Support Group in

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

Grief Share, 7-8:30 p.m., thru Dec. 5, Orchard Hill, Room 206, Upper Level. For details, visit https://www. orchardhillchurch.com/.

Grief Support Group for widows

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

Pittsburgh L.A.M.P.S. is for those

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

Cancer Support

Breast Cancer Support Groups,

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

Cancer Caring Center free exer-

cise programs for cancer patients, 7:30-8:30 p.m. every Wed., Rose E. Schneider Family YMCA; 9:30-10:30 a.m., every Sat., Sewickley YMCA. Registration is required, call (412) 622-1212.

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

Breast Cancer Support and Prostate Cancer Groups; 6-8 p.m., 2nd Tues, Multiple Myeloma; 6-8 p.m., 3rd

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

(BC3) free certificate program

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

CCAC Nursing & Transfer Job Fair, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 22, Boyce

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

Metastatic Cancer Support Group, 5-6:30 p.m., 1st Thur. of each month, UPMC Passavant HospitalMcCandless. For cancer patients and survivors with metastatic disease. Caregivers are welcomed. No cost to attend. Led by Wendy Myers, MSW, LSW. Free parking & light refreshments. Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center. Register at (412) 622-1212.

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) “Teal Hearts

Network” meets 6-8 p.m., the 3rd Monday of every month at the Cancer Caring Center. This network group is for ovarian cancer survivors. Visit http://ovarian.org/component/ events/event/483.

Colleges & Universities Butler County Community College

provides training for entry-level health care jobs. For info, email kelly. mckissick@bc3.edu or call (724) 2878711, ext. 8171.

Campus;

Job & Employer Networking Fair, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Oct. 23, South Campus; Arts, Education, Human Services & Nonprofit Job Fair, 9:301:30 p.m., Oct. 29, Stem, Nursing & Business John & Networking Fair, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Oct. 30, North Campus. For info, visit ccac.edu.

La Roche University Professional Development, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Oct.

21, The Employee Lifecycle: How Life Intersects with Work & What HR Can Do. For details, visit laroche.edu/ hrmseries.

North Pittsburgh College Fair, 6-8

Conference & Symposiums Women Shaping Our Region, 8

a.m., Oct. 11, Regional Learning Alliance. Sponsored by Butler County Chamber of Commerce. For info email, Jennifer@ ButlerCountyChamber.com or (724) 283-2222.

Counseling Ask the Attorney sessions for

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

p.m., Oct. 7, at La Roche University’s Kerr Fitness & Sports Center in McCandless. Admission & parking are free. For info, call 412-536-1272 or email northpittsburghcollegefair@ laroche.edu.

Ask the Financial Advisor, free sec-

Technology, Media & Information Literacy Conference, Nov. 20, Fred

thru-Dec. 5, (no meeting Nov. 28), Orchard Hill Church, Room 201. Walk-ins are welcome. For info, visit https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/.

M. Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College. For details, visit www.tmilieracy.org.

ond opinions on 401Ks, social security & other financial related matters. Contact Kevin, at klingenfelser@ cfnmail.com or (412) 605-7900.

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

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

Dancing Events Country Knight Line Dancers

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

Mommy & Me Ballet, kids 2-3 yrs. old, 10 a.m., Weds, Oct. 9-Nov. 13, Orchard Hill. For details, visit www. orchardhillchurch.com.

Saturday Singles Dance, ages 40+, 8-12 p.m., Oct. 12, Speed Dating & Nacho Bar; 8-12 p.m., Oct. 26 “Halloween Costume Party & Monster Mixer Dance. Optional Dress-Up. Free Dance Lesson 7:30 p.m. Dance Line (724) 316-5029, email dancetonight09@aol.com, visit www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

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

Environmental Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club Monthly Events: Meeting, 7 p.m., Oct. 15, Beechwood Farms

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Road; Mushroom Walk, 10 a.m., Oct. 19, Murrysville Community Park (Westmoreland County). Free. For info, visit wpamushroomclub.org email cs4wpmc@gmail.com.

Farmer’s Market Block Northway Farmer’s Market,

every Friday 3-7 p.m., thru October, in the 2-level south atrium near DSW & Wahlburgers. Visit www.theblcoknorthway.com or (412) 364-1171.

Fox Chapel Farmer’s Market,

3:30-6:30 Weds, thru Oct. 23 at Shady Side Academy. To learn more, visit www.ShadySideAcademy.org/ FarmersMarket.

Fundraiser Bid for Hope XVIII, 7 p.m., Oct. 7,

Nappa Prime House, 101 Fowler Rd., Wexford. Co-hosted by Alan & Julie Faneca & Vince Williams. Register at www.symbolofthecure.com.

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

Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. Over 50 vendors,

handcrafted goods & homemade cookies, over 80 varieties. For info, visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 364-5974.

Marshall Middle School Kids for Wish Kids® Club Fundraiser, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Oct. 22, Montecello’s Restaurant, 10441 Perry Hwy., Wexford. Mention Marshall Middle School when ordering and 25% of you bill will be donated to the Marshall Middle School Kids for Wish Kids.

Gardening Longvue Acres Garden Club meeting, 7:30 p.m., Oct. 22, Northmont United Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Hwy., in McCandless. Program: Autumn Craft Making. For info, visit longvueacresgardenclub1950@gmail.com.

NHCO’s organic garden needs

volunteers for the Rosalinda Sauro Sirianni Garden, a program of North Hills Community Outreach. Volunteer hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m., MonThurs., thru October. Contact Alyssa at aacrawford@nhco.org or (412) 307-0069 x 3311.

Health & Wellness First Place 4 Health is a Christian

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

Flu Shots Fridays, every Friday thru

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

Health & Wellness Fair, Nov.

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

Parkinson’s Exercise programs

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

Revelations Fitness® Fusion (car-

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

Library Northland Library, A Celebration of Animation, 7 p.m., Oct. 2; Terrifying Tales from the Cabin, 7 p.m., Oct. 11; Genealogy Lock-In, 6:30 p.m., Oct. 18; Ayurveda Cooking with Ann, 7 p.m., Oct. 28; Cemetery Tales: Pittsburgh’s Buried Art & History, 7 p.m., Oct. 30. Visit www.northlandlibrary.org or (412) 366-8100.

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

Moms Single Moms CARE Group

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

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

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Networking Amity Lodge #45 affiliated with

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

AmSpirit Cranberry Twp., Referral

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

AmSpirit Business Link McCandless, Referral Based

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

AmSpirit Pittsburgh North Chapter, Referral Based Networking

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

AmSpirit Wexford, Referral Based

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

Butler County Chamber Coffee Club meeting, Oct. 4, 11 & 18,

SpringHill Suite & Oct. 25, Butler Eagle. For info, email Jennifer@ ButlerCountyChamber.com or call (724) 283-2222.

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber: Fall Meet & Move Luncheon, 11 a.m., Oct. 7 at

Noah’s Event Venue in Cranberry; Bah Showcase, Just In Thyme Catering, 5-7 p.m., Oct. 15, 5316 William Flynn Hwy., Suite 203, Gibsonia; Meet & Move Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 4, Pittsburgh Marriott North @ Cranberry Woods, 100 Cranberry Woods Dr. For info, visit pghnorthchamber.com.

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

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

Opportunities ESL Conversation Friends,

teaches everyday language skills to immigrants, meets at 10 a.m. Tues. & Thurs. & 7 p.m. Weds. at St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. New students & volunteers are welcome.

For info, visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 364-5974.

(412) 366-8100 or visit www.psychicvincentsisters.com.

Outreach

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

Donate your vehicle to NHCO’s

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

Knitters needed to join the Busy

Local author, W. Stephen Coleman presentation & booking of

Transportation Assistance program. Free pickup or towing and hassle-free donation process. For details, visit nhco.org/donate/donate-car or (412) 408-3830 x3225. Hands Group at The Olive Branch Fair Trade Store and Missions. The group meets 9:15-11:15 a.m., 1st & 3rd Monday of the month, at 11160 Perry Highway in Wexford. Bring your needles! For info, call (724) 799-8700.

Nativity Lutheran Church, 4517

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

North Hills Community Outreach’s Pathways program

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

North Hills Food Bank, 10 a.m.-1:45 p.m. every Tues & Thurs, rear parking lot of Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Highway. Call, (412) 3667477 or www.northhillsfoodbank.com. Donations always welcome.

Ridgewood Food Pantry, open

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

UPMC Passavant Auxiliary Membership Opportunities,

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

Presentations and Seminars An Evening with the Psychic Vincent Sisters, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,

Oct. 10, Northland Library. Topics: Caylee Anthony, Scott Fosnaught & Shawn Baur, John Yelenic, Christine Sheddy, Cherrie Mahan, Mickey Scheller, ghost stories, crime stories & hauntings. Reserve your spot, call

Discovering Gettysburg, 6 p.m., Oct. 2, Adams Memorial Library, Ligonier St. in Latrobe. For info, visit http:// www.admslib.org.

Weaving A New Life After Brain Injury, 9:30 a.m., Oct. 8, Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church. Speaker, Deborah Brandon, PhD. Presented by Fox Chapel branch of the AAUW (American Association of University Women). For info, email lbtotten@ comcast.net.

Recreational Depreciation Land Museum: The Hydref Fall Festival & Market Fair, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct. 5; Family Lantern Tours, 6-9 p.m., Oct. 19 & 26. For info, email DLMuseum@ gmail.com or call (412) 486-0563.

Runs, Walks & Races Adeline’s Angels 5K/1 Mile Fun Walk, 9 a.m., Oct. 20, North Park

Boathouse. Register or donate online at www.sudc.org/adelinesangels. Benefits sudc.org (sudden unexplained death in childhood).

Brendan’s Boots, the hiking group

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

Sales Greybrooke Garden Club Garage Sale, 8 a.m.-noon, Oct. 12, at

Parkwood U.P. Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Boulevard, Allison Park. Proceeds help support the club’s annual donations to conservancy groups and charitable organizations. For info, about the fundraiser or the club, contact Karen at (412) 366-2096.

Holiday Boutique Sale, The Little

Sisters annual Holiday Boutique sale, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Oct.10-12. Fall & Christmas crafts, ceramics, and jewelry. Located at 1028 Benton Ave. in Brighton Heights. For info, call (412) 307-1100.

The History of Halloween By Weston Waite

appy October, everybody! One of our favorite holidays is just around the corner. As such, I thought I would share with you the origins of Halloween, and why we celebrate it here in America today. Halloween is actually a very old holiday. How old? Let’s go back a couple thousand years, to the time of the Celts. The Celts celebrated an ancient festival known as Samhain. Similar to today’s Halloween, during Samhain people lit bonfires and they wore costumes. But while we do it for fun, their holiday actually had a purpose. Samhain marked the transition from summer to winter, and it was believed that during this transition, the worlds of the living and the dead would become intertwined. To protect themselves, the Celts lit massive bonfires to burn some of their crops and animals as a sacrifice. In addition, they wore animal heads and skins to ward off the spirits of the dead. Sounds pretty spooky, right? The Celts in Britain would eventually become conquered by the Romans, who would mix in their own traditions into Samhain. One of them was the celebration of the goddess Pomona, whose symbol is the apple. This may be we why we love apples during autumn and Halloween (apple bobbing, candy apples, etc.). When Christianity spread to Ireland, Pope Gregory III established All Saints Day on November 1, giving the holiday a new name, All Hallows Eve. So, these are the origins of Halloween, but how did the holiday come to America? Some of the Celts of course became known as the Irish. Early in the United States’ history, there was heavy emigration from Ireland due to widespread famine. The Irish brought with them this old tradition of Samhain, and over the course of 200 years, it evolved into the Halloween that we celebrate today. On October 31, whether you’re trick or treating or handing out candy, you can impress others with your knowledge about the holiday and why we celebrate Halloween. Have a safe and Happy Halloween! 4 4 4

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

Saint Aloysius Rummage Sale, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sat., Oct. 5, and noon-3:30 p.m., Oct. 6, 3610 Mt. Troy Rd., Reserve Twp. New & used treasures in 18 rooms & 3 garages. Clothing, linens, floral, crafts, furniture, electronics, toys & other quality pieces. Hot food & bakery items in the cafeteria.

Social Great Fellowship Social Club, meeting noon,

2nd Sat. each month (Oct. 12 & Nov. 9) in Wexford, Bella Frutteto, 2602 Brandt School Rd., 15090. Live music, Dixieland, Jazz, & Eclectic sounds. $25 entertainment with a choice from Bella Frutetto’s special events menu. All are welcome! Cash bar opens at 11:30 a.m. Call (267) 838-5622.

Purse Party, 5 p.m., Oct. 5, Ross Twp. Municipal

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

month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, at Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless Twp. For drug & alcohol addiction. Visit bridge2hope.org, or call (412) 748-5120. bridge2hope.org.

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

Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30 p.m., every

3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. Call (412) 261-5886 or ccallen92@aol.com.

Overeaters Anonymous, 7 p.m., Weds, at St.

Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., in Franklin Park. For info, visit www.stbrendans.org or call (412) 951-9157.

Bld., 1000 Ross Municipal Dr., Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians (LAOH) for Adults 21+ Dinner @ 5:30 with drawings starting @ 6 p.m. Designer purses & door prizes, drawn every 15 minutes. Advance tickets $35. Contact Dianne at (412) 298-2001.

Parkinson’s Support Group, 10 a.m., 1st Tues of

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

Wed of each month, HealthSouth Harmarville, 320 Guys Run Rd. Contact Jessica, at (412) 828-1300 x7710.

SoldiersandSailorsHall.org.

Spiritual Sealarks Women’s Group meeting, 1 p.m., Oct

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

Parkinson’s Support Group, 1-2:30 p.m., last

Recovery for Parents of Addicts: 6 Steps to Sanity, 6:30-8 p.m., Thurs., at Orchard Hill. For

info, www.orchardhillchurch.com. No meeting Nov. 28, Dec. 26.

9, at Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Road, Allison Park. Provide Christian fellowship & social activity for women alone; widowed, divorced or never married. Alone are welcome to attend. For info, call (412) 487-7194.

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

Worship Night, 7-9 p.m., Oct. 18, Wexford,

extended family members under their roof. Anyone who is experiencing the challenges of extended family living is provided support & advice. For info, contact St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church at www. stbrendans.org or (412) 635-2312.

Chapel, Orchard Hill. For details, visit www. orchardhillchurch.com.

Support Groups Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 a.m., Tues., at St.

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

Amputee Support Group, 4-5:30 p.m., 3rd

Wed. of every month, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley, 3rd Floor Boardroom, 303 Camp Meeting Rd., Sewickley. For info, call Michelle at (412) 749-2388.

Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group, noon-

1:15 p.m., 3rd Weds., HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Sewickley, 3rd Floor Board Room. For info, call Michelle at (412) 749-2388.

Brain Injury Support Group, Mind Matters,

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

Brain Tumor Support Group, 6:30-8 p.m., 3rd

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

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

Under One Roof helps people who are housing

Veterans North Pittsburgh Quilts of Valor meets 7-9 p.m., 2nd Mon., of the month, Quilt Company, Middle Rd., Allison Park. Call (412) 487-9532 or www. qovf.org.

Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs

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

VA Butler Healthcare Flu Vaccination Clinics

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

VA Butler Healthcare’s Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Program now offers

Veterans the opportunity to work one-on-one with a personal trainer in its Wellness Center at the Abie Abraham VA Health Care Center. For info, visit https://www.butler.va.gov/services/Health_and_ Wellness.asp or call, 878-271-6484.

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

OCTOBER 2019 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Veteran X” mental health & substance abuse

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

Volunteer Opportunities American Cancer Society is looking for volun-

teers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments to & from their appts. Call (412) 9191100 or emailsharon.stalter@cancer.org.

ESL Conversation Friends, which teaches

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

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

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

Mission Vision needs volunteers to help with

Provide vision–Give hope. Call (724) 553-3114 or www.mission-vision.org. (Continued on page 49)

UPMC Passavant Auxiliary Membership Opportunities

re you looking for a stimulating opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals—UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Then join UPMC Passavant Auxiliary’s tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets at 10 a.m., the 2nd Monday of each month (Sept. through June). New members are welcome. For information, contact Deanna Cline at (412) 7486640 or clined3@upmc.edu. For information about UPMC Passavant Auxiliary, go to http://www.passavanthospitalfoundation.org/how-can-i-help/auxiliary. 4 4 4 www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2019

Hiland Presbyterian Church 845 Perry Hwy. Pittsburgh 15229 Saturday, October 26 Come any time between 5-9 p.m. $20/adults; $6/kids ages 2-12 @ the door. Kids 2 and under are FREE $2 discount per person for online ticket reservation by 10/22 at www. hilandchurch.org or call: 412-364-9000. Take-out meals available from 5-7pm Raffle baskets, Music, 50/50 raffle, beer Fundraiser for the new HVAC system in our Education Building

Seeking hospice volunteers... if

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

Tutoring volunteers needed for

Anchorpoint’s Tutoring Mentoring Program. For details, call (412) 3661300 x123.

Volunteers needed at The Emmaus Community of Pittsburgh, 282 Sarah Street on the

in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities. Call (412) 381-0277 or www.EmmausPgh.org.

Workshop Divorce Workshop for Women,

8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Oct. 12, Medallion Wealth Management, 2605 Nicholson Rd., Suite 2103 in Franklin Park. Cost $35, pre-register at (724) 493-9695.

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