October 2021
CONNECTING YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 22 YEARS
It Takes a Team of Nurses to Come Back from Orthopaedic Surgery Also... Fall Fun | Health & Wellness | Home Guide | Back to School Business Spotlight: Face Forward Aesthetics | Halloween Costumes Trivia
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
NORTHERN CONNECTION
October
P.O. Box 425 Mars, Pa. 16046
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NC Features 17 20 24 24 26 27
A Glimmer of Hope Foundation 13th Annual Celebrating Senior Champions In Memoriam of Three Great Ladies Ron Eichner Facts from the Farm Ron Eichner Home Guide A Pittsburgh Home Comfort Specialist You Can Trust Mr. Sewer
Health & Wellness
12 Cover Story: It Takes a Team of Nurses to Come Back from Orthopaedic Surgery UPMC Passavant 14 Business Spotlight: Face Forward Aesthetics 18 What is Speech Therapy at Encompass Health?
Kids & Education
28 A.W. Beattie Fall Open House 29 Chatham University 30 School Movers & Shakers
Advertorials 5
Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey
In Every Issue... 4 6 8 10 11
Movers & Shakers Mover & Shaker of the Month: Judy Masucci Paula Green October Events From the Editor: Lessons from Alaska Janice Lane Palko Trivia Connection: Spook-tacular Halloween Costumes Trivia Paula Green 25 Support Our Troops: Richard “Eric” Burkett, Jr. Paula Green
Welcome to the October issue of Northern Connection Magazine! We are now in our 22nd year of connecting you to the community. We would like to thank all our advertisers and readers for your support. Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work. Enjoy reading our October issue! Marion Piotrowski, President & Publisher
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OCTOBER 2021 | www.northernconnectionmag.com
Phone: 724-940-2444 ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com President & Publisher
Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor
Janice Lane Palko Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator
Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator
Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executive
Mary L. Simpson Design & Production
Kostilnik & Associates Graphics, Inc. Web Master
Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers
Belinda Burchick Ron Eichner Paula M. Green Janice Lane Palko Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year. The mission of the Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. is to connect the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest community publication, Northern Connection. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, and recreational needs of the area. The contents of Northern Connection magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Northern Connection magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.
MOVERS & SHAKERS
UPMC announces its new leaders which took effect October 1. Mark Sevco assumed the role of president, UPMC Hospitals, comprised of 40 academic, community and specialty hospitals. Joon Lee, M.D., became president of UPMC Physician Services, overseeing its 4,200 employed physicians. Sevco and Lee will co-lead the Health Services Division and report to UPMC president and CEO Leslie Davis.
Mark Sevco
Dr. Joon Lee
The National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) has recognized UPMC Hillman Cancer Center as an approved NPF Center of Excellence for the treatment of pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis. This is the second time UPMC Hillman has received this designation. Butler Memorial Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s GoldPlus Get With The Guidelines® -Stroke Quality Achievement Award for their commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.
Butler Health System announced that Michael Fiorina, DO, was named a Fellow of the America Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). To become a Fellow, applicants must show dedication and advancement within Family Medicine through life-long learning, quality and improveDr. Michael ment, volunteering, public service, Fiorina research, and service to the specialty. Butler Health System is pleased to welcome Brittany Bielewicz, DO. Dr. Bielewicz joined BHS Primary Care on September 1 and will be seeing patients at 1022B N Main Street in Butler. Dr. Brittany
Cindystock 18 (fundraiser for canBielewicz cer research and treatment) raised over $26,000. This year’s event which was held on August 21 was sponsored by: Gateway Health, AHN/ Highmark, UPMC and Lamar - 100% of the donations go directly to agencies providing the services.
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OCTOBER 2021 | www.northernconnectionmag.com
ADVERTORIAL
HOPE
Frank S.
Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have
Ten years ago I hurt my foot and it continued to get worse over the years. It got to the point that my feet were so sore and cold all the time. Outdoor activities are very important to me and I was losing the ability to do them. I felt there was no hope. A friend of mine learned of Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and I made an appointment. The results have been unbelievable. I have no more pain and my feet are no longer cold. My range of motion is so much better, and my balance is back. I am now enjoying all the outdoor activities I use to and am nearly 100% better.
Don’t Give Up!
Janie C. It seems like it became noticeable about 20 years ago. At first my feet would ache from time-to-time, then my feet would ache so bad that I had to limit my time standing or walking. In the last two years I have had to change the way I have lived my life. I could no longer go hiking with my husband or just take a walk. I knew it was just a matter of time before I would need a wheelchair. I heard about Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and went for my free consultation to see if I was a candidate. To date, I see a significant improvement. I can take short walks, cook and I have even been gardening. It feels like a miracle. I plan to get back into volunteer work.
Paula C. It all began with major surgery in October 2020 with an ankle break on two major bones from a fall. I was getting very depressed as my foot was numb on the side of the incision and it was affecting my life. I decided to meet with Tri-State Neuropathy Centers for a free consultation. I have completed the program I am pain free and 90 percent better. I highly recommend anyone needing help to go see a Tri-State Neuropathy Center. I am 68 and a Grammy of six grandchildren. The treatment has helped me walk without a cane and be more active with my active family as my balance has improved tremendously. The staff is truly compassionate and kind. Thank you Tri-State Neuropathy and your staff for your kindness and helping me walk 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 TRI-STATE NEUROPATHY CENTERS. It includes the combination of very specific, noninvasive, FDA approved and painless treatments that are designed to get rid of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. With over 90 percent satisfaction rate and the experience of seeing over 8000 patients, they are able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, don’t wait until they get worse.
Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • Sharp Pains or Cramps in the Feet or Legs Take o • Burning Pain in the Legs, Feet or Hands PREQUA ur LIFYING • Extreme Sensitivity to Touch SU www.M RVEY at aryDan • Loss of Balance or Coordination cedIn.c om • 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.
Call for your FREE consultation to begin your path to recovery. Call Dr. Shawn Richey at 724-940-9000 to schedule your time.
Five Locations: Sewickley
2591 Wexford-Bayne Rd., Suite 207
Monroeville
4314 Old William Penn Hwy, Suite 105
Washington, PA
1385 Washington Rd., #100
Poland, OH
70 W McKinley Way, Poland, OH 44514
Weirton, WV
3350 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite A, Weirton, WV 26062
MaryDancedIn.com • (724) 940 -9000 www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Fall 2021
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MOVERS & SHAKERS
Mover & Shaker of the Month
Judy Masucci
Curve’s awards winner for philanthropic excellence By Paula Green
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Pine Township business owner and resident was recently recognized for her community support. Judy Masucci, the owner of Levana Bratique, received top honors for philanthropic excellence at the Curve Awards. The national event was held in New York City in August. Levana Bratique is a specialty store that sells bras and lingerie. Judy
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is committed to making sure that her clientele find the perfect fit. Judy wants to support women in every way, and that is why it is called Levana. It is derived from the Latin word “levare,” which means to lift. “I started my first business, A Mother’s Boutique, after becoming a mother myself. I wanted to help other new mothers in their breastfeeding journeys. I had that business from 2007 to 2016. Around 2013, the only other bra store in Pittsburgh went out of business. People were coming into my store and begging me to carry regular bras (at the time, I only had nursing bras). I would end up fitting people into nursing bras because no other store carried their size. From this, the idea for Levana Bratique was born. I wanted to be able to provide bras for every person, not just nursing mothers. So in 2016, I changed my business from a maternity/breastfeeding focus to a bra/lingerie focus,” said Judy. In 2017, Judy discovered a unique organization called I Support the Girls. This group collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and feminine hygiene products, allowing women experiencing homelessness, impoverishment or distress to stand tall with dignity. “Through my team of volunteers, we have been able to reach many different women and girls in the Pittsburgh area. My store manager, Adrian, is my most active volunteer. She even volunteers for I Support the Girls on her days off. Before the pandemic, we did events where we did in-person bra fittings at a local shelter to help women in need. During the pandemic, we weren’t able to do that,” Judy said “While the pandemic was ongoing,
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I partnered with the Pittsburgh Food Bank and a few other organizations to get bras and feminine hygiene products to families in need in Pittsburgh. We donated nearly 60,000 items during that time. “Since then, we created a new way to reach people in need through our “Free Bras for People in
Need” appointments in store. This is a no-questions-asked,” Judy added. Levana is no ordinary shop; they can accommodate women of all shapes and sizes. “We pride ourselves on fitting our clients into properly fitting bras. We carry just about every size imaginable (from 28-56 bands and A to W cups!), so we don’t have to compromise to get something to fit - we make sure it fits properly. In addition, my staff has spent months training before they are allowed to perform bra fittings on their own - so when you get someone to fit you here, you know that they have the experience and training to do it properly.” noted Judy. Levana Bratique is located in Wexford on Rt. 19 (by Cenci’s). For more information on this specialty shop, visit https://levanabratique.com/. n Photos by: Lisa Seligman Photography
Saturday, November 6, 2021 11 AM- 4 PM Free Event Admission Food Trucks and Vendors Live Entertainment Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities Boyce Mayview Park 1551 Mayview Road Upper St. Clair, PA 15241
twpusc.org/bounty | 412-221-1099
www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2021
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HAPPENINGS
October Events Allegheny County Medical Society Foundation (ACMSF) is hosting a “Virtual Gala” for members and friends at 7 p.m. Thursday, October 7. For info, visit www.acms.org/-foundation-gala, or call ACMS, (412) 321-5030.
Bellwood Kids Stuff Sale, 9 a.m.-5
p.m., Oct. 1 & 9 a.m.-noon, Oct. 2, 2359 W Ingomar Rd. Gently used infant clothes, name-brand children’s clothes up to size 14, maternity, books, toys, and more.
Coats For Kids benefiting North
Hills Community Outreach. Food and Fun for the entire family. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, The Preferred Realty; North Hills Regional Office is collecting coats, hats, scarves, and gloves (infant-18 years old) on Saturday, October 9: 9am 4pm at 9401 McKnight Road, Pgh. Pa. 15237. Call (412)367-8000 for more information.
Glade Run Drive-in Style Outdoor Movie - Hocus Pocus, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2, 30 Glade Run Dr., in Zelienople. Purchase tickets online https://glade-
runmovie.eventbrite.com or call (724) 453-4453 ext. 127.
North Pittsburgh College Fair, over
100 colleges & universities will participate in the College Fair, 6-8 p.m., Oct. 4 at La Roche University’s Kerr Fitness & Sports Center. For info, visit laroche. edu/npcf.
Northland Library has numerous
events scheduled for October. For a complete list, visit www.northlandlibrary.org or call (412) 366-8100.
UPMC Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Membership Opportunities, are you
looking for a stimulating opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals—UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets the 2nd Monday of each month, 10 a.m., Sept. through June. New members are welcome. For info, contact Nicole Kaib at (412) 748-6640 or kaibn@upmc.edu.
THE NOVEMBER & DECEMBER ISSUES OF NORTHERN CONNECTION WILL FEATURE WINTER EVENTS IN AND AROUND PITTSBURGH! ALL ADS INCLUDE: •DISCOUNTED RATES •SOCIAL MEDIA ADS •EDITORIAL & FEATURES
northernconnectionmag.com
724-940-2444 info@northernconnectionmag.com
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OCTOBER 2021 | www.northernconnectionmag.com
FROM THE EDITOR
Lessons from Alaska By Janice Lane Palko
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ast month, I went to Alaska on vacation. Before I went, nerd that I am, I scoped out where we were going and learned some remarkable facts about the state. Alaska has more land mass than the next three largest states of Texas, California and Montana combined. Alaska is so huge, if you superimposed a map of the state onto the center of a map of the continental U.S., Alaska’s Aleutian Islands would fall on San Diego in the west and the state’s eastern islands would reach to Jacksonville, Florida in the east. Alaska is so far west, portions of its island are technically in the eastern hemisphere. It has more than 3,000 rivers and 3 million lakes. It is also the least populated state. Last Christmas, I was given Kristin Hannah’s fantastic novel The Great Alone, which is set in Alaska during the 1970s, and it illustrates how remote the state is, how great the emptiness there is, so much so that it has a sinister aspect. I knew all that going in, but that is nothing compared to experiencing Alaska’s vastness and aloneness. We probably saw 1 percent of Alaska, but for the most part, we saw nothing but mile after mile of mountains and eerie nothingness. While talking to residents, several emphasized that to survive an Alaskan winter, you must get into the sunlight and maintain social contact, or you could lose your mind or die. For the last nearly two years, many of us have been living our own “Great Alone,” we’ve been isolated from one another, and that’s not good as the rising suicide rates and mental
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health issues have indicated. Many of us have started to venture out, but for others, the world is still a frightening place. I understand that; I used to suffer with anxiety. But I have a greater fear. While we were in Alaska, my husband and I ziplined for the first time at Hoonah. It was billed as the tallest and highest zipline in the world. It sounded like a good idea when I booked it, but when we got there and saw how high up in the mountain the launch site was, I was thinking this may have been a mistake. It was a loooong way down. We took the 45-minute bus ride up the mountain to the launch site, where we were dropped off to hike down to the zipline site. On the way, we met a woman who was having some difficulty navigating the steep hill down to the site. We struck up a conversation and learned that she was 76, from Massachusetts, traveling alone because her husband had in her words “turned into an old curmudgeon and didn’t want to go anywhere,” and that she’d just had a hip replacement surgery in January. When I expressed that I was a little bit apprehensive about descending from what was equal to the height of the Empire State Building to the ground in 90 seconds at 60 miles an hour, she said not to be afraid, enjoy it. She’d ziplined six times in her life already. I did enjoy the zipline; in fact, it was the highlight of the trip, and I’ve thought a lot about that woman since. She also told me that during
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the lockdown, she made 200 quilts for charity and intended to travel as long as she could, saying “I’m running out of time.” I know life can be scary; it always has been, and it always will be. But you can’t crawl in a hole and hide. That will kill you as well—maybe not physically, but it will kill that spark of life in you. We’re all running out of time. We’re all on the clock, and we don’t know how much time any of us has until the buzzer sounds. So, do what you can, take necessary precautions, evaluate the risks, but get out there and live. We’ve already lost so much; how much more can we afford to lose? To me, the only scarier thing than dying, is not having lived. n
TRIVIA CONNECTION
Spook-tacular Halloween Costumes Trivia By Paula Green must now uncover the answers to this costume query; get set to don those scary masks because it’s time to get a little trivial. 1. When Halloween first came about with the Celtics, what material did they use for costumes? 2. Jason wore this frightening type of mask in the Friday the 13th film. 3. In It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown what costume does Lucy wear trick-or-treating? 4. Following the release of this 1977 blockbuster, costumes from this film became a hot commodity for treat-or-treaters. 5. In what American state is it illegal to be a priest or nun for Halloween? 6. Ahoy matey! This costume ranks in the top ten in popularity. 7. For this Halloween outfit, a person dons a black robe, carries a wand, and has a lightning bolt drawn on their forehead. 8. Which costume ranks number two in popularity for a dog (it is an item you grill)? 9. Make no bones about it; this costume also falls in the top ten. 10. In the 1982 film, E.T. what costume did this cute little alien don while he was trick-or-treating? 11. On the TV show Friends, which character dressed up as Spud-Nik (a cross between a Russian satellite and a potato)? 12. The TV series The Walking Dead spiked the popularity of this costume in 2011. 13. Name the sitcom where on Halloween two characters dress-up as Megan Markle and Prince Harry. 14. On the show Frasier, Marty Crane sported this costume honoring a New York Yankees great for Halloween. 15. What is the largest Halloween store franchise in the nation? n Sources: https://www.history.com/topics/halloween/history-of-halloween, https://oldschoolshirts.com/blogs/news/ben-cooper-and-the-great-halloweencostumes-of-the-past, https://www.theactivetimes.com/most-popular-halloweencostume-every-year-1983-2019/slide-4, https://www.insider.com/halloween-costumes-trend-history, https://play.howstuffworks.com/quiz/halloween-costumes-and-candy-quiz, https://www.tvinsider.com/gallery/10-best-tv-show-halloween-costumes-rankedphotos/#1 Answers1. Animal skin 2. hockey mask 3. witch 4. Star Wars 5. Alabama 6. pirate 7. Harry Potter 8. hot dog 9. skeleton 10. ghost 11. Ross 12. zombie 13. Modern Family 14. Joe DiMaggio 15. Spirit Halloween Store
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hink back to all of the Halloweens you’ve seen come and go. Is there a costume or two that you donned that sticks out in your mind? According to Google, Americans spend an estimated $6 billion annually on Halloween, making it the country’s second-largest commercial holiday after Christmas. Halloween in the United States went from an obscure celebration observed by Scottish and Irish immigrants to a big costume and candy celebration. Borrowing from European traditions, Americans began to dress up in costumes and go house-to-house asking for food or money at the start of the 19th century. Around the 1940s, the practice of going door-to-door for candy began. This practice became known as trick-or-treating. Costumes are the main focus of the celebration for kids and adults. Early on, Halloween was thought to be a “rustic, country holiday,” so many costumes were inspired by nature and included cornstalks, vegetables, and tree branches. Meanwhile, dressing as a clown, a ghost, a witch, or a sorcerer during this time was a sign of people’s fascination with spirits and magic. For the most part, costumes after World War II were store-bought and manufactured by a few main companies: Collegeville, Ben Cooper, Rubie’s, and the J. Halpern Company (better known as Halco). The exciting part about Halco is they were based right here in Pittsburgh. This local company began licensing images of fictional characters like Popeye, Olive Oyl, Little Orphan Annie, and Mickey Mouse. One thing that Halloween costumes follow is trends. For example, in the 1960s, costumes followed pop culture. So you saw plenty of Addams Family, Flipper the Dolphin, The Beatles and Barbie attire for trick-or-treating. Likewise, sales of presidential masks are prevalent in election years. Some Halloween masks have unique origins. For example, in the Halloween film, the villain Mike Myers dons a scary white mask. It turns out the studio had such a small budget; they had to use the cheapest mask they could find. It was a $2 William Shatner mask that they spray painted white. According to rent.com the top five Halloween costumes are 1. witch 2. vampire 3. cat 4. Batman 5. ghost. Princesses and superheroes rank as the most popular kids’ costumes. Don’t forget about your furry friends; the number one costume for a dog is a pumpkin. Since we’ve clowned around with favorite Halloween get-ups, we
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COVER STORY
It Takes a Team of Nurses to Come Back from Orthopaedic Surgery Whether it’s your hip, knee, or shoulder, it’s important to find the right orthopaedic surgeon to perform your joint replacement. In addition to a highly trained surgeon, a coordinated and skilled nursing team is key to your recovery after joint replacement surgery.
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rthopaedic nurses are at the frontline of your post-operative care and pain management. They follow your surgeon’s specific care instructions and collaborate with rehabilitation therapists to get you up and moving. Their ultimate focus: to prepare you for a safe discharge home, as soon as possible.
The Proof Is in the Numbers
UPMC Passavant is among the thousands of hospitals that take part in Press Ganey surveys. This questionnaire measures the patient satisfaction of millions of patients nationwide after discharge. Each year, nearly 2,000 patients consistently give high marks to the care they receive from the 65-member orthopaedic nursing team on 5 North at UPMC Passavant. According to Lisa Bryan-Morris, MSN, chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care services at UPMC Passavant, in the last three years, the unit has consistently exceeded the 90th percentile nationally for patient satisfaction. “That puts the unit among the highest scores nationally,” says Bryan-Morris. “These nurses are dedicated to providing excellent care and a consistently positive patient experience through the application of best practices.”
A Culture of Teamwork and Improvement
Shannon Seitz, MSN, RN, PCCN, unit director and nurse leader, 5 North Pavilion, UPMC Passavant–McCandless
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“It takes tremendous coordination to offer our patients a seamless transition home after surgery,” says Shannon Seitz, MSN, RN, PCCN, unit director and nurse leader on 5 North Pavilion. “That’s why we’ve built our unit around a culture of teamwork. We collaborate with one another and with our physical therapists, registered orthopaedic technician, preand post-op nurses, and our doctors.”
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The unit’s orthopaedic technician works with each patient to review what is needed for successful outcomes after surgery. “With his help, we’ve been able to reduce the average length of stay to under two days. Our patients also have fewer complications after surgery,” says Seitz. The unit is an integral part of UPMC Passavant’s Hip and Knee Joint Replacement Center of Excellence. In 2019, UPMC Health Plan recognized the hospital’s surgical facilities and orthopaedic surgeons for demonstrating high-quality outcomes, low complication rates, and the best patient experience. “Our nurses regularly meet with surgeons, anesthesiologists, physical therapists, and the pre- and post-op nursing team,” says Seitz. “By working across disciplines, we’re able to make sure that everything we do results in consistent care for each patient we see.” They also work with peers at other UPMC hospitals to share knowledge and incorporate best practices.
A Healing Environment
Three years ago, 5 North Pavilion was renovated to support patient comfort and recovery. Every room is private, brightened by floor to ceiling windows, with individual bathrooms and showers. “Our gym is also right on the floor, so there’s no downtime taking patients to a different floor,” says Seitz. “Once they’re up and dressed, patients can head right to the gym for physical therapy. They can also walk our floor as part of their recovery, which has milestones marked.” In May, Ross Township resident Terry Mohr fractured his right hip. He underwent hip repair surgery at UPMC Passavant and recovered on 5 North. “The doctors, physician assistants, nurses, as well as the dining service and housekeeping staff provided me with top-level treatment. They enabled me to heal and improve faster than many thought possible,” he says.
Preparing the Patient — Before and After Surgery
“Experience shows us that the more a patient knows coming into surgery, the better,” says Seitz. “Our pre-operative education and testing center helps a patient and their designated support person understand everything they need to do before surgery. Patients also receive information on how to manage after surgery.”
“I look forward to helping advance the great work of the UPMC Passavant hip and knee surgery team. It’s exciting to be part of a group committed to advanced procedures, new technologies, excellent nursing care, and patient satisfaction.” Eric Chen, MD, director of Anterior Hip Surgery, UPMC Passavant–McCandless
A special focus of patient education includes effective pain management. “We have a host of resources to help patients control pain without using opioids,” says Seitz. “They range from mindfulness applications and aromatherapy to stress balls and journaling.”
A Commitment to Continual Improvement
UPMC Passavant holds prestigious Magnet® designation — the “gold standard” of nursing excellence nationwide. Magnet designation is granted by the American Nurses Credentialing Center to fewer than 7% of all hospitals. It recognizes quality patient care, nursing excellence, and innovations in professional nursing practice. “Having the Magnet status is a real badge of honor for our nurses,” says Seitz. “It’s one of the reasons we set the bar high for ourselves and our patients.” Magnet designation is based on a number of quality nurse indicators, including the number of certified nurses. “The certification for orthopaedic nurses is a particularly challenging exam. But as usual, the 5 North Pavilion team exceeded expectations,” says Bryan-Morris. The unit set a two-year goal to reach 30% professional certification among its eligible professional nurses. Instead, a remarkable 43.3% achieved certification. “When patients come to UPMC Passavant for a joint replacement, they can be confident that that they’re receiving world-class, compassionate care by highly trained experts,” says Michael Pagnotto, MD, medical director of joint replacement surgery at UPMC Passavant. “Our program is a hospital-wide commitment to quality performance and patient satisfaction that starts at the top with Susan Hoolahan, president of UPMC Passavant.” According to Dr. Pagnotto, studies show that when a hospital specializes in certain surgeries and performs many of them, the quality and consistency of that procedure improves. “That’s what our program is all about,” says Dr. Pagnotto, an expert in robotic orthopaedic surgery. “We interact and communicate with one another. Everybody understands the program from beginning to end. The result is a consistent, high-quality experience for each patient.” n The information in this article was provided by UPMC.
“I’m most proud of how UPMC Passavant’s reputation in orthopaedics has evolved in recent years. We’re becoming a destination hospital for patients in PA and the surrounding states for the best in hip and knee replacement and other orthopaedic care.” Michael Pagnotto, MD, medical director of Joint Replacement Surgery, UPMC Passavant–McCandless
Advanced Orthopaedic Surgery Highlights
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nnovation drives orthopaedic surgery at UPMC Passavant. The following advancements are making joint replacement surgeries more precise and leading to faster recovery for patients.
Anterior Hip Surgery
Eric Chen, MD, recently joined UPMC Passavant as its director of the new anterior hip surgery program. He is bringing a novel approach to hip surgery, which uses a small incision near the front (anterior) of the hip joint to access the femur. “This type of hip replacement offers a number of attractive advantages,” notes Dr. Chen, who also performs partial and total knee replacements. “In particular, none of the muscles that power the hip are disturbed. Patients typically have smaller scars and improved recovery rates. Additionally, the use of fluoroscopy and robotics allow for accurate restoration of anatomy and leg length equality.” Technology allows the surgery to be very precise. Prior to surgery, a CT scan of the hip is taken to generate a 3D model. During surgery, Dr. Chen uses a combination of both fluoroscopy and robotics for optimal placement and positioning of the new hip. A specialized orthopaedic table is used to position patients for maximum surgical access without cutting any muscles. Depending on a patient’s overall health, anterior hip surgeries offer the option of being performed as a same-day procedure.
Same-Day Surgery
About one in four joint replacement patients at UPMC Passavant choose same-day surgery. That number is only expected to grow, according to Dr. Pagnotto. “Approved patients go from surgery to the recovery room, then back to the same-day surgery unit. There, they work with physical therapists on learning the basics and then return home,” he says. “A physical therapist follows up with in-home visits and most of our patients are extremely pleased with both the convenience and results of outpatient surgery.”
Robotic-Assisted Surgery
The first robotic arm-assisted knee replacement surgery at UPMC Passavant began in fall 2020. Today, the majority of knee replacements at the hospital are robotic-assisted procedures. “We begin with a presurgery CT scan. We use the scan to build a 3D model of the knee, followed by an online ‘virtual surgery’ before the actual procedure,” explains Dr. Pagnotto. “The virtual surgery allows us to make subtle adjustments that wouldn’t be possible with traditional techniques. The result is a knee that’s very well balanced and customized to each patient.” Many of the hip replacement surgeries are also robotic-assisted at UPMC Passavant. www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2021
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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
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N C F E AT U R E
A Glimmer of Hope Foundation Since 1994, A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, a Pittsburgh-based breast cancer foundation, has been supporting breast cancer patients and their loved ones. It was started by Diana Napper to honor the wishes of her best friend, Carol Jo Weiss Friedman, who lost her battle with the disease in 1990.
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iana, a wife and mother of four children, promised that she would pursue her dream as a jewelry designer and open a jewelry business that would fund a hospice in Carol Jo’s name. As the dream evolved, Diana realized that her mission was to create a means to support those diagnosed with breast cancer, and A Glimmer of Hope Foundation was born. The nonprofit remains a grass-roots organization with a staff of 50 volunteers committed to the fight against breast cancer through cancer research and programs, and most importantly, studies in premenopausal breast cancer, as breast cancer in younger women tends to be more aggressive. Through fundraising events and the generous support of many people, businesses, sports celebrities and sports organizations, $6 million dollars for breast cancer projects has been donated to Allegheny Health Network, Magee Women’s Research Institute and the Hillman Cancer Center. A Glimmer of Hope Foundation has received tremendous support because of the transparency of the programs it supports; the satisfaction people receive from seeing their contributions at work, and the knowledge that the funds raised stay in the Pittsburgh area.
In 2015, a SenoClaire tomosynthesis machine was installed and began operating at the Wexford Health & Wellness Pavilion of the Allegheny Health Network thanks to a $171,000 donation made by A Glimmer of Hope Foundation. The SenoClaire tomosynthesis helps physicians differentiate benign from dangerous abnormalities and detect cancer in
its earliest stages. This machine was the first of its kind in the United States. In addition to the tomosynthesis machine, GOH has purchased an Automated Breast Ultrasound System (ABUS). This machine detects breast cancer in dense breasts. In 2016, A Glimmer of Hope created the ‘Home for Hope,’ which is located in the Wexford Health and Wellness Pavilion and West Penn Hospital. This is a designated space for integrative health services for women under 40 years of age. The Home for Hope includes massage therapy, acupuncture, transportation, and childcare. With the generous support of A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, MageeWomen’s Research Institute and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center are now examin-
ing a new and novel technology for monitoring and understanding breast cancer from a blood draw, also known as a ‘liquid biopsy.’ This new study is setting protocol in research that will now impact the entire United States. Furthermore, this will allow real-time monitoring of the size and severity of breast cancer tumors and their response to therapy. Since A Glimmer of Hope believes that research is crucial for discovering new therapies, it has have funded a study that focuses on localized immunotherapy for metastatic breast cancer. This study is being operated under Drs. Albert and Vera Donnenberg. A Glimmer of Hope Foundation has also teamed up with AHN to offer nonpregnant women 18-39 genetic testing as a preventive against cancer in younger women. Finally, in October 2020, A Glimmer of Hope opened The Glimmer of Hope Metastatic Breast Cancer Center at AHN. This center has been a lifelong goal for A Glimmer of Hope. It is dedicated to treating metastatic breast cancer, which is the most difficult type of breast cancer. It is hoped that these services, programs, research, and technology are only the start for what can be done to diagnose, treat and eradicate breast cancer for the people of Pittsburgh. In October, Breast Cancer Awareness month, A Glimmer of Hope customarily hosts its annual Bid for Hope fundraising event. Due to the pandemic the Bid for Hope has been postponed until May 14, 2022. But A Glimmer of Hope never rests in its quest to support those diagnosed with breast cancer and hosts numerous fundraising events throughout the year. If you’d like to donate or learn more about A Glimmer of Hope, visit the organization’s website at: www.symbolofthecure.com. n
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H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S
What is Speech Therapy at Encompass Health? Speech therapy is the practice of improving the function of mechanisms above the base of the neck. At Encompass Health, this process involves a series of activities that help patients recover and fine-tune communication skills such as word finding, word production, memory and sentence formation in addition to swallowing problems.
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any ailments can result in a need for speech therapy. Patients recovering from brain injury may experience cognitive damage that affects speech and memory, while those recovering from stroke can struggle with physical weakness in the tongue and throat muscles that make it difficult to swallow and control breathing. The extent of these complications varies by individual.
Speech therapy exercises range from simple to complex
Speech therapy regimens are unique to a patient’s abilities. To improve communication, activities often include
the use of matching games and picture cards, repetitive counting, song singing and exercises using a diary, journal, newspaper or other material that may stimulate vocal recollection. Activities during speech therapy could include holding objects and identifying them or flipping through a photo album and having the patient try to name familiar faces, as the speech therapist documents their vocal cadence, pitch and any stuttering or memory obstacles. Speech therapists often work with dietitians to modify the diets of those patients with swallowing issues, ensuring they have access to chopped or pureed meals and snacks during recovery if necessary.
How speech therapy differs from other rehabilitation specialties
Encompass Health’s interdisciplinary approach to care means that patients often receive a variety of therapy. Physical therapists begin by helping patients regain their strength and improve balance, coordination and mobility. Occupational therapists help individuals independently perform tasks such as cooking and bathing. For patients with communication issues and swallowing disorders, speech therapists step in to work specifically on the muscle strength necessary for speech and swallowing.
Innovative technologies make recovery possible
Use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation tools can help relieve patients of the emotional, physical and financial burdens of feeding tubes, which is why some Encompass Health hospitals are equipped to help patients improve swallowing using virtual reality. Biofeedback systems measure the strength of the throat muscles and allow patients to view their swallowing motion on a computer screen. Much like a video game, patients complete interactive activities in order to generate objective feedback. These engaging visualizations empower speech therapists to help patients recover these skills. n
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FA C T S F R O M T H E FA R M
In Memoriam of Three Great Ladies By Ron Eichner
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olks, our farm families of Wexford, with heavy hearts, came together in support of the passing of three great ladies: Mary Lou Shenot (Aug. 27) and Jean Soergel (Sept. 1). They were stars to their families and for their decades of supporting their family farms in countless ways. The unique actions of our farming families are always willing to stand together as one and have been doing it for generations. When my dad passed on December 13, 2020, Rob Shenot called me and put together a tractor parade from the funeral home to the funeral Mass. Sadly, we had to do it twice within one week for Mary Lou and Jean. Tragically, on September 18, the Shenot family lost another beloved member, Dianne Shenot. Dianne was unique; I could tell a thousand stories about Dianne. She was a character. Those of us who shared time with Dianne knew she always could tell you how to do it and where you could put it. As a career teacher, she was a mentor in many ways. Dianne would often stop by our farm and would often say, “Ron you are like a younger brother that I never had.” That truly is an honor, and I am the only one that had two sisters named Diane. I was once told that you are not entirely gone from this world until the last mind that knows you is gone. That is a bit of wisdom from old folk lore. So, in their honor, keep sharing in conversations who and what our loved ones were with friends and family so that generations to come will remember them. As farm families, we are united to serve our Wexford community every day. For generations all our farming families have had family members pass away, and we hope to become a team again as farm families in heaven. I want to encourage everyone to continue to support our family farms throughout the year, for we all are farming to support our communities each day. n
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Choosing Hope or Fear in the Life of a Farmer By Ron Eichner
Hi folks, as a fourth-generation full-time farmer, our family has
had decades of challenges, and one silent partner has always been Mother Nature. You never know what kind of weather is dawning on the horizon. With challenges, there are lessons learned, and that has been a blessing with farming and generations of our family members. I have a saying that I model, “When you accept adversities in life, you lose, and when you challenge adversity, you have another day.” We all have had adversities for the last 19 months and with being told that we will never have normalcy again. That news is troublesome. I loved seeing and hearing all the creative ways businesses have made lemonade out of lemons. However, it is worrisome when companies are labeled as either essential or non-essential. The outcomes have been that many families and small businesses have been hampered in the process. As a farmer, when raising livestock and or growing fruits and vegetables, supportive science gives us insight and guidance to work through most issues that can occur, and it truly supports hopes to mitigate fear! We have raised and processed our fresh turkeys for over 80 years on our farm and have been responsible for over 550 families for the last 40 years, which is year-round customers supporting our family farm. Raising turkeys starts ten months before the holidays with ordering two flocks of day-old poults. Six months of nurturing, feeding, and raising the turkeys, then we process them for the joy they will bring to the table. Our challenge for the second year is trying to sell turkeys without instilling any fear. Reestablishing what our Thanksgiving holiday is about with family and friends coming together to give thanks for our blessings. So, folks, God gives us all free will, and, as American citizens, our cherished constitutional rights give us a free will to choose. Knowledge is power, and all I can say is I want to inspire hope and have our family farm continue to support our community, only to have community support. It feels good to have folks patronize our small establishment. We are prepared for it in lieu of what kind of weather Mother Nature may bestow upon us since we just said goodbye to summer and have ushered in fall and all the beauty she has to offer. No matter what the season, we have plenty of fresh crops available to tantalize your tastebuds. Our farm is small but mighty, and it houses a delicious variety of fruits and vegetables. We’ve been farming our land since 1897. As a bonus, we are open seven days a week for your shopping convenience. You are welcome to stop by Eichner’s Whole Farm & Greenhouses and enjoy our “super sweet” bi-color sweet corn and all of our homegrown, seasonal vegetables at 285 Richard Road, Wexford, and get “the rest of the story.” n
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SSUUPPPPOORRTT OOUURR TTRROOOOPPSS
Richard “Eric” Burkett Jr. By Paula Green
“Not only am I a survivor of a tragedy – I have thrived and prospered in the face of adversity.” – U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Richard Burkett Jr., Retired
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ver nine years ago, U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Richard Burkett Jr. was faced with the biggest adversity of his life. Burkett was serving as a Marine Corps aviator when tragedy struck on April 11, 2012. The MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft that he was flying crashed in Morocco during Exercise African Lion. He was one of two who survived the crash. As a result of the crash, Burkett suffered life-threatening injuries. He sustained severe lower limb damage, lung and ocular nerve damage. Burkett was treated at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany for four days and was then transported to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. He remained at this facility for the next four years where he received extensive rehabilitation. Burkett went through limb salvage treatments, but after 16 months, his right leg had to be amputated below the knee. A few months later, he developed an infection in his left leg, which had to be amputated as well. Burkett was devastated by the loss of both legs, but he also knows there was a reason for it, and he knows he is blessed. As he states, “My legs don’t define me.” In June 2018, Burkett and his wife, Melissa, and their six children – Keenan, Josily, Mastin, Lochlen, Roawlynn, and Nolynn—moved into a specially adapted “smart home.” The house is located in Neshannock Township in New Castle, and it was funded through the Gary Sinise Foundation RISE (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) program. Burkett and his wife named their house Still Water after the inspiring passage in Psalm 23. While Burkett was recovering at Walter Reed, he had the pleasure of meeting Gary Sinise. “He approached me and asked me if we could talk, and we spent about 15 minutes together. Mr. Sinise is genuine, and he is in a class all by himself,” Burkett said. Another positive event that occurred for Burkett was when he was at the WRNMMC. “Two ladies that worked with the Wounded Warrior Regiment asked me if I was into sports. I remembered my true passion was rugby, but in lieu of my leg situation, I knew that was out. So I asked them if archery would be a possibility, and they
told me it was, “Burkett said. Burkett is an expert archer. He has competed in the Valor Games, Endeavor Games, and Invictus Games and has taken home the gold on several occasions. In addition to competing, Burkett coaches archery as well. “For me, coaching is therapeutic,” Burkett remarked. Before he served in the Marine Corps, Burkett was a member of the Army Reserves. “I joined when I was 22 to pay for college,” Burkett noted. He trained for different specialties and obtained the rank of Sergeant. Burkett was commissioned into the Marines when he was 28, and he became an assault pilot. Northern Connection magazine salutes Marine Corps Maj. Richard Burkett Jr. for his sacrifice and service in the United States Marine Corps and the U.S. Army Reserves. n www.northernconnectionmag.com | OCTOBER 2021
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HOME GUIDE
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A Pittsburgh Home Comfort Specialist You Can Trust
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ister Sewer, Plumbing & HVAC is a prompt, professional, courteous company that has been in business since 2009. Founded by Jason Daugherty, an experienced contractor who has always been driven to provide the best possible service, for the best possible price. “Our client relationships are built on trust, “ says Jason, noting that his company stands by its reputation, and its word. “We have the right tools and team with 40+ years experience that are ready and willing to help with your needs, however we can, as quickly as we can.” Our technicians are highly trained, and experts in many areas of plumbing including but not limited to: trenchless sewer repair, camera and dye testing for real estate transactions, hot water tank installation and repair, main sewer line cleanings and repairs, as well as a multitude of main water line repair and small plumbing repairs. We recently added an experienced HVAC team focusing on heating and air system repairs and replacements in an effort to further help our existing customers as well as others in the Pittsburgh area. n
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K I D S & E D U C AT I O N
A.W. Beattie Fall Open House A.W. Beattie is excited to host its annual Fall Open House from 5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. on Monday, October 4 when everyone is invited to tour any of its 20 programs, meet instructors, and learn more about the hands-on experiences offered through the Career Center. Masks are required due to the state mandate.
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uests will see the most significant upgrade in the new Stateof-the-Art Healthcare Suite in Health and Nursing Sciences, which will enable students to develop skills in outpatient, acute, and skilled nursing settings. “I’m ecstatic because it’s even
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nicer than where I went to nursing school,” Health and Nursing Sciences instructor Sarah Dietz said. “This is everything you would see and experience if you were going to a nursing program today.” The suite has cutting edge Vital Sign machines that take blood pres-
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sure, oxygen levels, heart rate, temperature, all of which may be printed and recorded. The program has new wall simulators for suction, oxygen, flow meter, a variety of specialized outlets, IV pulls, patient whiteboards, and more. The HNS program also added work stations on wheels and healthcare mannequins that simulate a variety of heart, lung, and other bodily sounds for students to practice assessment skills. “Practicing on each other is one thing, and it’s important,” Health and Nursing Sciences instructor Doug Moran said. “But if we’re all healthy, we all have clear lung sounds. We can make the mannequin simulate bronchi, crackles, wheezing, all of those abnormal sounds. The students love it.” Guests also will have the opportunity to see new State-Of-The-Art equipment like Automotive Collision Technology’s SimSpray machine, Automotive Technology’s Hawkeye Alignment Machine, and Dental Careers’ Panorex machine, which takes full mouth X-rays. A.W. Beattie’s Surgical Sciences program is the only one of its kind at the high school level in Pennsylvania and it has added scrub sinks, abdominal simulation equipment and thoracic simulation equipment. “We can’t wait to meet everyone who wants to learn more about we do and how we prepare students for the future,” Executive Director Eric Heasley said.. n
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Chatham University
oasting a stunning location in the heart of Pittsburgh, and consistently ranked as a best college by U.S. News & World Report, Chatham University offers 40+ majors in our areas of excellence: sustainability; health and wellness; and the arts and sciences. We help students streamline their investment without shortchanging their education, with scholarships and integrated degree programs that let qualified students earn undergraduate and graduate degrees in as few as five years. And our Eden Hall Campus in the North Hills of Pittsburgh is home to our Falk School of Sustainability & Environment, a beacon of sustainability solutions, and offers workshops and community spaces for weddings, meetings, and other events. n
Saint Joseph High School (Natrona Heights) Principal: Beverly K. Kaniecki (724) 224-5552 www.SaintJosephHS.com
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K I D S & E D U C AT I O N
School Movers & Shakers Fox Chapel Fox Chapel Area High School 2020-2021 junior Margo Levinson placed seventh at the 2021 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Virtual National Leadership Conference.
Shea Davison, Russell Fenton, Anna Ferris, Claire Hamilton, Janise Kim, Zoe Lakkis, and Nathaniel Mueller. The Commended Students are Patrick Alexander, Andrew Byersdorfer, Justine Eng, Cara Felman, Maia Gravina, Thomas Healy, Owen Jim Reeder Hershey, Uma Muzumdar, Emma Szymanski, Shrivardhan Thada, James Trageser, Eduardo Weissmann and Siddharth Yende.
Shady Side Academy Shady Side Academy has appointed Jim Reeder as its new Director of Campus Safety and Security. Reeder began his employment at the Academy on September 1. Nine Fox Chapel Area High School seniors have been designated as National Merit Semifinalists and 13 have been named Commended Students in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The Semifinalists are Noah Bradley, Zhiyi Chen,
Seneca Valley Seneca Valley School District has joined the Learning 2025 network of demonstration systems, a collaborative network of districts to help advance student-centered, equity-focused, future-driven
education, administered by AASA, The School Superintendents Association.
Mars Area Mars Area High School senior Sarah Hooper was named a Semifinalist in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Sarah Hooper
Members of Mars Area High School Boy Varsity Golf Team, William Campbell, Blake Bertolo and Ryan Steigerwald, placed in the 2021 MAC Boys Varsity Golf Tournament.
Quaker Valley Four Quaker Valley students Adam Boone, Jacob Boone, Ryan Steinfurth and Liam Welge and Penn State student, Felix Cooper were awarded a prestigious honor. The boys who are all member Scouts of Troop 243, in Sewickley recently achieved their rank of Eagle Scout. Felix Cooper
La Roche University U.S. News & World Report has named La Roche University a Best University in the North, a Top Performer on Social Mobility and a School with the Most International Students. On August 19, La Roche University dedicated its new clinical simulation center in honor of Anthony J. Battaglia ’95, M.S., RN. Battaglia contributed the largest outright gift from a La Roche graduate in the institution’s history to erect the Anthony J. Battaglia Clinical Simulation Center, which opened in April 2020. The Center allows students, including those in the Entry Level Master of Science in Nursing (ELMSN) program, to study their craft.
BC3 For the sixth time since 2015, Butler County Community College has been selected as the No. 1 community college in Pennsylvania by Niche.com.
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