October 2023 issue

The Doctors at Tri-State Neuropathy Centers Give Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers

® One of the largest treatment centers in the country.

® Have successfully seen over 11,000 patients in nearly 10 years offering the most experience in the industry.

® 100% dedicated to treating Peripheral Neuropathy.

® Most powerful technology on the market today.

® Have grown to seven locations in the Tri-State area.

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include:

• Sharp Pains or Cramps in the Feet or Legs

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 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% satisfaction rate and the experience of seeing over 11,000 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. Take our

• 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.

NC Features

Health & Wellness

P.O. Box 425 Mars, Pa. 16046

Phone: 724-940-2444

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com

President & Publisher

Laura Lyn Arnold

Publisher Emeritus & Contributor

Marion Swanson Piotrowski

Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko

Janice@northernconnectionmag.com

Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green

Paula@northernconnectionmag.com

Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson

Design & Production

Kostilnik & Associates Graphics, Inc.

Web Master

Swanson Publishing , LLC

Core Writers

Maura Brown

Belinda Burchick

Ron Eichner

Paula Green

Janice Lane Palko

Sofya Stearns

Bronwyn Wain

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (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, LLC 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.

The recently renovated entrance to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant–McCandless.

The Woodlands honored Pittsburgh-based company  MSA Safety at its Butterfly Ball fundraiser which was held on Friday, August 25, at Hotel Monaco. Gregory B. Jordan, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer of PNC and MSA Director, was the Butterfly Ball Honorary Corporate Chair.

Cindystock 20, which was held on Friday, August 18, and Saturday, August 19, was a tremendous success with a

record-setting attendance of over 300 and record donations of over $40,000. Sponsors for the event included UPMC, Highmark, AHN, Lamar, William Bates, musicians: Dan Navarro, Alice Howe, Freebo, Crystal Bowersox, Johnny Angel and the Halos, restaurants: Pomodoro’s, Braddock’s Rebellion, Ernie Ricci’s Sausage, 5 Generation Bakery and kitchen magicians: Chef Denise and Chef Don. Donations are still be accepting at www.paypal.com/ fundraiser/charity/77255.

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust, Inc., announced that the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation has awarded our organization a $5,000 grant. The award will support the expansion of the “hands-on” children’s interactive area within the museum.

Clear Thoughts Foundation Roll for a Reason Gala

By Paula Green

Watching someone that you love struggle with dementia is heartwrenching. A once fully functioning person is suddenly and sadly robbed of their thought processes. Dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, causes memory impairment and the inability to plan and initiate complex behavior.

One local organization, Clear Thoughts Foundation (CTF), is doing its part to make a difference in the battle against dementia with a mission to fund the discovery of breakthrough drugs and novel treatments to eliminate this debilitating disease.

CTF was founded in 2010 by siblings Hayley and Matthew Jameson and longtime friend Sharon Sippel after watching their father, Don ‘DJ’ Jameson, suffer through the long and painful road of dementia.

“CTF has grown since our humble beginnings of bake sales, jewelry sale fundraisers, and website launch parties in 2010. Today, we have a working board of 17 members and advisors, a full-time executive director, annual events, and community awareness opportunities. But most importantly, we have remained laser-focused on our mission by growing our support for research and launching CTF’s collaborative cohort in 2020, the CTF Consortium. We are proud to be funding this cohesive cohort that works to accelerate research findings faster than traditional siloed models while multiplying the impact of our donors’ dollars! All of us at CTF continue to hear new stories from individuals and families about the devastation dementia has had on their lives. Sadly, as diagnosis rates have risen over the past 13 years since CTF’s inception, so have the number of stories we hear. That is why this research is so vital and needs everyone’s support. The only way we can combat this disease is to join in raising funds – funds required for desperately needed treatments and cures. I believe that if we work together, we can one day see a world free of dementia,” said Hayley D. Jameson, CTF founder and president.

“We are always looking to the future and analyzing what cutting-edge therapeutics/drugs are on the horizon. We feel we have positioned ourselves to make the most impact possible through the CTF Consortium. We will remain focused on funding the brilliant researchers within Dr. Robert Friedlander, Dr. Oscar Lopez, and Dr. Amantha Thathiah. We would love to add more researchers to this cohort in the future, but more funding is needed,” said Cait Fenello, CTF’s executive director.

Next month, CTF is hosting its annual fundraising event, the Roll for a Reason Gala. The festivities will be held from 7:30-11 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, at J. Verno Studios on Pittsburgh’s South Side. “It is our largest fundraiser of the year, where 350+ attendees enjoy a Monte Carlo Casino Night featuring casino and trivia games, performance art by Cody Sabol & Kate Schoeb; live magic by Eric Russell; music by Take Two; evening theme song performed by Keely Singer; raffle auctions, hors d’oeuvres and more. We hold this one-of-a-kind event to continue raising funds for our collaborative research, the CTF Consortium. It is a great night for an even greater cause,” Ms. Fenello said.

In addition to funding research and holding various annual events, CTF also offers a podcast called “Dementia Uncovered.” Learn from industry experts, impacted individuals, and researchers about the disease and what we can do to eliminate it! Interested listeners can check out episodes on their website at https://clearthoughtsfoundation.org/dementia-uncovered-podcast/ or on their favorite podcast apps: Apple, Spotify, Google, iheartradio, and Spreaker.

For more information on CTF and their Roll for a Reason Gala, visit www.clearthoughtsfoundation.org/. n

SSB Bank

By Janice Lane Palko

If you could custom design your bank, what would it be like? Would it have all the services of a large bank yet have a personal feel? If so, then you don’t have to start from scratch because SSB Bank is already here in our community and has been providing that type of service for more than 100 years.

Established in Pittsburgh’s Northside in 1922, SSB Bank was originally known as Slovak Savings and Loan as it had its beginning in the basement of an old Slovak church. Since then, SSB Bank has changed its name and grown from a Savings & Loan to a fullservice financial institution with two locations. One is still located on the Northside at 2470 California Avenue and the newest McCandless Branch is at 8700 Perry Highway near CCAC.

SSB Bank offers a variety of products and services for both its personal banking customers as well as small business owners. “We are entrenched in the community,” said Dan Moon, CEO, “and we are consistently cited as an outstanding local bank for our commitment to helping the community. In fact, we were recently recognized by the Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group for our mission to lending to low- and moderate-income and African American borrowers.”

While SSB Bank has all the services of a big bank, it has something else much rarer these days: a personal touch. “As long as I’m here, our customers will never have to call an 800 number and wait while you are presented with a series of menus, instructing you to push options #1 or #2. You will speak to a person,” said Mr. Moon, who noted that in addition SSB Bank has tech security that is more robust than the larger banks. “The big banks have internal IT departments, but we outsource our IT to leaders in the industry, who have provided us with a 4-layer authentication system,” said Mr. Moon. “That is one layer more than they have.”

SSB Bank is a hidden gem for merchants as well. “We’ve got businesses in 48 states that are processing payments through our bank, which is good for them and for our area as we bring millions of dollars to the region,” said Mr. Moon.

Although SSB only has two brick and mortar branches, it’s reach is nationwide. Customers can access their funds at ATMs all over the world with no fee. “We automatically refund fees at time of transaction,” said Mr. Moon. n For

SSB Lending Team at the PCRG Awards Ceremony where SSB received awards in the small banking category for Overall Excellence in Low-and Moderate-Income Lending, Overall Excellence in African American Lending & Overall Excellence in Small Dollar Lending (From left: Kathryn Lokar, Matthew Gray, Heather Dieckmann, John Tavares, Joshua Wynkoop, Ben Contrucci, and Skyler Liddell with Ernie Hogan, PCRG Executive Director)

President/CEO Dan Moon with retired VP of Retail Banking Margie Glassbrenner at her retirement dinner

Mortgage Loan Department from left: John Tavares, Mortgage Loan Originator; Heather Dieckmann, Mortgage Loan Supervisor; Skyler Liddell, Mortgage Loan Originator

When he finished his final radiation therapy treatment, Wiz celebrated with staff by “ringing the bell” at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant–McCandless.

Cutting-Edge Cancer Care: Advanced Radiation Therapy in Pittsburgh’s Northern Communities

After two surgeries for prostate cancer, Don Wisniewski underwent radiation therapy at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant–McCandless to kill returning cancer cells. He credits the technology and expert care he received from doctors, nurses, and staff for a good experience and positive results.

“I’ve always been conscientious about my health,” says Don “Wiz” Wisniewski, 72, of Gibsonia. “I was especially glad I kept my yearly urologist appointment in 2019.” That’s when a routine blood test showed Wiz’s prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was rising — an indicator of possible prostate cancer.

After a biopsy confirmed cancer, Wiz had surgery at UPMC Passavant to remove his prostate gland. In November 2022, tests showed his PSA levels were rising again, and Wiz had robotic surgery to remove lymph nodes near his tailbone.

Sometimes a few cancer cells remain after surgery. They’re difficult to find on a scan until they grow a bit. When cancer cells appeared again in early 2023, Wiz’s doctors consulted with a radiation oncologist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant. Based on his history, the doctor recommended that Wiz undergo pelvic radiation. A positron emission tomography (PET) scan identified where to direct the radiation. Radiation therapy can treat a broad area to reach these cells without damaging the

surrounding organs.

“At first I was nervous about getting radiation,” says Wiz. “But my doctor explained the process clearly and I understood what was going to happen and why. I thought, ‘OK, I can do this.’”

Radiation Therapy: How It Works

Tumor cells are more sensitive to radiation than normal cells. Radiation therapy can kill abnormal cancer cells or damage them beyond repair so they can no longer spread. Wiz received external beam radiation therapy through a linear accelerator, or LINAC. The LINAC is a specialized device that delivers a beam of radiation into the body to treat the affected area.

“Imagine a bicycle wheel,” explains Heath Skinner, MD, PhD, chair and medical director of the Department of Radiation Oncology at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. “In the center of the wheel you have the hub — where the energy beam is focused.

This content is sponsored by UPMC.

Now, Wiz spends his retirement getting out on the golf course and building and repairing homes pro bono in West Virginia through his nonprofit.

Around the hub are many spokes. The spokes are a lower dose of radiation which serves to minimize radiation going to areas where it’s not needed.”

Each treatment adds a little more radiation, augmenting the overall effect. “Think of the treatments like a piggy bank you had when you were a kid,” says Dr. Skinner. “You drop a penny in the bank every day, and as the days go by, your pennies add up.” This daily application (a penny a day) of low-dose radiation through the LINAC adds to the cumulative dose needed to kill the cancer.

Wiz’s Plan of Action

“I was prescribed one radiation therapy session, which totals 38 individual treatments,” says Wiz. “I went to UPMC Passavant–McCandless every weekday morning for just over seven weeks in April and May.

“I’m a little claustrophobic and was worried when I went in the first time,” says Wiz. “I was relieved when I saw how it actually worked. I’d go into the treatment room and settle on the table. The radiation technician then positioned the LINAC and the machine moved around the table.”

Wiz received hormone therapy in conjunction with radiation. “With hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, cancer cells need testosterone to grow,” says Dr. Skinner. “Hormone therapy interferes with this process.”

“We also want to minimize the side effects of radiation therapy as much as possible,” he says. “We can’t promise zero side effects for all types of radiation, but we’re aiming for as few as possible.”

Besides fatigue, patients usually experience few side effects from radiation therapy for prostate cancer. “I actually played nine holes of golf every Wednesday and worked part-time when I was going through radiation,” says Wiz. “I stayed busy but didn’t do a lot of heavy lifting. I slept more and went to bed earlier.”

Exceptional Support

Wiz says he’s grateful for the exceptional support he received throughout his treatment at UPMC Passavant.

“I can’t say enough about the support and care I got every day — from the doctors, radiation therapy nurses, and techs to the front desk receptionists who knew me by name when I walked in,” says Wiz. “There was always someone to answer questions and help me through things. It was reassuring to know they were watching out for me every step of the way.”

They also celebrated with him when he finished his final treatment, he adds.

“The nurses and staff were there to congratulate me: ‘You’re done! Ring the bell to celebrate!’,” says Wiz. “My wife gave me a hug. All the nurses told me how happy they were for me. It was a very moving experience.”

Today, Wiz is back to his busy life in retirement: working with his nonprofit to build and repair houses pro bono in West Virginia, attending Pirates games with his wife, getting out on the golf

Wiz received external beam radiation therapy through a linear accelerator, or LINAC. The LINAC is a specialized device that delivers a beam of radiation into the body to treat the affected area.

Cutting-Edge Radiation Technology

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant–McCandless will acquire a more advanced LINAC in early 2024 offering a broader spectrum of high- and low-dose radiation so fewer treatments are needed. “The new LINAC will improve treatment for more challenging tumors,” says Dr. Skinner. “It also will allow us to direct radiation therapy to more sites in the body. Our goal is to deliver the best radiation treatment to the smallest area possible.”

This upgrade is a continuation of UPMC’s expansion of cancer care and services in the northern communities. In late 2022, extensive renovations of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC Passavant–Cranberry were unveiled.

course, and keeping busy with a part-time job at a local building supply store.

“Great people work at UPMC Passavant,” says Wiz. “I’ve only had good experiences with UPMC — I’m so glad I chose them.” n

Find

Heath Skinner, MD, PhD, chair and medical director, Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

Restore Hyper Wellness

By Janice Lane Palko

There’s that iconic scene in the first Star Wars movie where the Millennium Falcon shifts into hyperspace, supercharging the craft’s travel speed. In effect, the services provided at Restore Hyper Wellness have that effect on your well-being.

Restore Hyper Wellness has two locations: one at McCandless Crossing, 9186 Covenant Avenue, McCandless Twp., and the second the Pittsburgh North location in Cranberry Twp. at 1713 Route 228, near Starbucks. The Pittsburgh North location, opened in June of 2022, and focuses on

nine elements of hyper wellness—oxygen, hydration, cold, heat, nourishment, rest, light, movement and connection. Restore Hyper Wellness offers different modalities that support each of these elements. For example, humans can’t live without oxygen and at Restore Hyper Wellness, their

Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber can enhance the body’s natural healing processes and may optimize sleep, speed up athletic recovery, repair muscles and boost cognitive clarity.

“One of our most effective sessions we offer is cryotherapy, where the whole body or a localized area is exposed to sub-zero temperatures for a brief time,” said Melissa Montani, manager of Restore Hyper Wellness – Pittsburgh North. When the body is exposed to these freezing temperatures, the blood vessels constrict shunting the blood away from the extremities. During this process, the body increases its oxygen levels and certain proteins that can decrease swelling. “Cryotherapy is great for reducing aches and pains,” said Montani.

Restore Hyper Wellness also offers Red Light Therapy and an Infrared Saunas well as specialty services such as Cryoskin, which is a non-invasive cosmetic service that promotes a slimmer, more toned appearance to the skin. “Red Light Therapy

and Infrared Saunas warm the body from the inside out and help the body to release toxins,” said Ms. Montani, who recommends their Fire and Ice session, which combines cryotherapy with the light/heat therapies. “This is very relaxing, especially for stressed out women or moms. We have groups come in - corporations, mom’s groups, etc. even couples who instead of a date night drinking and eating making them feel worse, they enjoy a night of enhancing their health.”

Restore Hyper Wellness also offers specialty medical modalities such as IV Drip Therapy, Intramuscular shots, and mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy. It offers free consultations and has a registered nurse on staff with access to Telemed doctors or nurse practitioners to make sure that Restore Hyper Wellness’s therapies are right for you.

“The comment I get most from clients is, why didn’t I find you sooner!” said Ms. Montani, who notes that a session makes a

great gift and gift cards are available. Several different levels of membership. For more information, visit: www.restore. com or call the Cranberry location at: (412) 837-4163 n

Celebrates Its First Anniversary

By Janice Lane Palko

On Sunday, August 13, Aspirational Health, the innovative integrated health care provider, celebrated its first anniversary of bringing high-quality healthcare to its patients by hosting a Walk for Wellness 5K at the North Park Boathouse. With the success of Aspirational Health’s first year, it’s a wonder that the attendees weren’t just walking the streets but dancing in them.

Located at 1002 Emeryville Road, Mars, Aspirational Health is not your run-ofthe-mill corporate medical practice; it is a physician-owned and-operated private insurance-based health care practice.

“Our mission is to build trusting relationships with our patients and provide them with the best of care. We take our time to get to know them and coordinate their care,” said Nikhil Asher, M.D., M.B.A , Aspirational Health’s founder and medical director, who is board-certified in internal medicine and critical care medicine. Dr. Asher graduated from St. Vincent Hospital Internal Medicine and completed a fellowship in critical care medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Joining him on staff are Kelly Lee, MSN, CRNP, FNP-BC , who is a boardcertified Family Practice Nurse practitioner, Nathan Sturm, MSN, CRNP, FNP-

BC , who is also certified in Family Practice, and Jessica Mosco, MA , a professional Medical Assistant with more than 15 years’ experience in the medical field.

“Primary Care Medicine involves evaluation and treatment of the most prevalent, often-silent, health conditions in adult Americans that lead to longer term adverse outcomes if undiagnosed or poorly followed,” said Dr Asher. “To be effective in managing risk factors such as excess weight, elevated blood pressure or blood cholesterol, depression and anxiety, family history of health conditions such as heart disease and cancer, our focus involves comprehensive heath assessments, regular follow ups, evidence-based, guidelinedirected treatment approaches and a significant focus on lifestyle medicine, medical nutrition management and optimal mental wellbeing. Well managed preventative care

ensures we provide the best long-term health outlook for our clients.

Dr. Justin Scott founded Next Level Sport Physical Therapy, Sports Chiropractic and Massage Therapy, and though he looks like the picture of health, he has a family history of heart issues. “I met Dr. Asher and he and Kelly were the first ones to listen to me and not blow me off. I’d been to four or five different primary care doctors who dismissed my concerns, saying you look fit, don’t worry about it. But Dr. Asher took the time to understand my condition, performed the required work up and referred me to a specialist physician who addressed my familial hypercholesterolemia, and now my cholesterol numbers are normal, giving me no greater risk than someone who doesn’t have predisposition to heart issues.”

Dr. Scott believes so much in Aspirational

L-R: Dr. Nikhil Asher, M.D., M.B.A; Nathan Sturm, CRNP; Michelle (office coordinator); Julie Klasen (Yoga Therapist)

Health’s approach to care that he opened an office onsite. “The two most common referrals PCs make are for mental health and physical therapy. It simply makes sense to have PT at Aspiration Health where we can offer a coordinated approach to care.”

Aspirational Health always has a team member to facilitate any same-day appointments for sick or urgent care visits. “Enabling access is important to us. Patients should feel comfortable reaching out to us for any healthcare needs. Often our first meeting with our clients is for sick urgent care visit and then they eventually establish care with our practice for long term health improvement,” said Dr. Asher.

Facilitating lifestyle approaches to manage long-term health is an important mission for Aspirational Health. At the onsite wellness studio, the wellness team offers a multitude of wellness services such as fitness lessons, yoga instruction, individualized yoga therapy, medical massage and reiki. The integrative medicine team consists of Hailey Corton , who specializes in medical massage and yoga, Julie Klasen , who specializes in yoga and yoga therapy, and Kile Reynolds, who is a reiki master.

Laura Arnold, the owner of Swanson Publishing LLC and publisher of Northern Connection magazine, became a patient at Aspirational Health when she was sick and visited its Urgent Care. “The individualized attention and care I received was unlike anywhere I have been in the past. I was so impressed that I switched to their practice shortly after,” said Arnold. “They care about their patients; I did not feel rushed, and they asked questions and listened during my appointment. I felt like they truly cared about my health and listened to what I was/ am comfortable with regarding my health.”

Arnold has also enjoyed some of Aspirational Health’s wellness services.

“I just started Yoga Therapy with Julie, and it is amazing. She personalizes your yoga experience, and I was so impressed, I brought my seven-year-old daughter with me so that we can both benefit.”

“Yoga Therapy is the application of the principles and practices of yoga to promote health and well-being,” said Klasen. “All yoga can be beneficial, healing, and therapeutic—and yoga therapy is the specific, personalized application to support an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.”

Hailey Corton has worked in various spas, fitness centers and even hospitals, but has found that there is a gap in health care and was enthusiastic about joining the Aspirational Health team. “We must integrate fitness, meditation, yoga, massage, etc., into healthcare for a truly well-rounded approach to wellness,” said Corton. My colleagues and I all have something special and unique to offer the community, and we work hard to provide such services. Our goals and passions overlap in integrative care practice, and we share, create, and brainstorm ways to share our individual expertise,” said Corton. “With guidance from the medical team at Aspirational Health, we can safely offer our services for weight-loss, fitness, stress-relief, and much more. The Wellness Studio, located next door to the medical practice, is a safe and welcoming space for all who seek care, and we are ready to work with you!”

“I currently offer one-hour individual private reiki sessions and soon I will be offering a reiki circle for groups,” said Reynolds. “Everyone who I’ve had sessions with has really loved reiki. They thought it was an incredibly relaxing experience and felt benefits afterwards. They usually can feel the energy and have had significant improvements in any issues they were experiencing. I’ve helped a group of people who were mourning the loss of their friend find peace in a reiki circle, and they felt like it really helped them. Aspirational Health also offers a drive-through medical center. “Our staff will check you in through the drive-through registration desk where you are provided with pre-check options, which you can complete in your car. You can wait in your car and be seen by walking through a door accessible from the parking lot directly into your exam room. That eliminates sitting in a waiting room and possibly picking up an illness from another patient,” said Ms. Lee.

All medical services are covered by insurance, and Aspirational Health is credentialed to accept all major insurances including Medicare. “If you are checking to see if your insurance participates with Aspirational Health, simply search for Asher Health and Wellness PLLC,” said Dr. Asher, who also works with those who don’t have health insurance to set up a selfpay payment plan.

If patients need specialty care, Aspirational Health will make referrals and facilitate communication between them and the specialist to provide treatment. Aspirational Health utilizes electronic medical records and can share and receive information with you and any other medical professionals that you designate to have permission to access them. Dr Asher also has hospital privileges at AHN Hospital Wexford and UPMC Shadyside/ Presbyterian.

“If someone is looking for a new PCP that is interested in a whole body/wellness approach, then I would recommend Aspirational Health,” said Arnold. “They care about their patients’ well-being and want to make sure you get and stay healthy.” n

For more information on Aspirational Health or to schedule an appointment, visit the website at: aspirationalhealthandwellness.com.

Dr. Asher & Family

Caroline & Laura Arnold enjoying their Mother/Daughter Yoga Therapy

Julie Klasen & Husband Dr. Justin Scott & Family

Go Purple: Show Your Support During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

By Maura L. Johnson, LCSW, PMH-C

When the call came on the morning of April 10, 2018, what had been a typical workday drastically shifted to one of shock and devastation. A stark, immediate line divided what came before and what would forever come after that moment. My beautiful, kind and endlessly supportive aunt, Janice Erickson, had lost her life to a horrific act of domestic violence. Her spouse of nearly thirty years, someone deeply entrenched in our family and whom we trusted, had ended her life, as well as his own. Left with far more questions than answers, we did what we could to move forward amid such a senseless tragedy. While my experience in social work had long been providing education regarding domestic violence (DV)/intimate partner violence (IPV), my lived experience has prompted a strong desire for more advocacy.

As it stands, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced violence within an intimate partner relationship. This includes a range of behaviors such as pushing, shoving, slapping/hitting and is a serious violation of personal boundaries and safety. On average, 20 people per minute are abused by an intimate partner in the United States, coming out to roughly 10 million per year. These statistics encompass a wide range of ages, ethnicities, socioeconomic and religious backgrounds. One in 4 women and 1 in 7 men have been victims of severe physical violence, and on a typical day, nearly 20,000 calls are made to DV hotlines across the country. Roughly 1 in 15 children are exposed to DV/IPV and 90% of them are eyewitnesses to violence. Perhaps most sobering, the presence of a firearm in a DV/IPV situation increases the odds of homicide by 500%. In a situation such as my family’s, 72% of murdersuicides are committed by an intimate partner; 94% of these victims are female (Statistics: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence). In terms of seeking therapy, couple’s therapy when DV/ IPV is present is highly discouraged, as it often presents significant safety concerns for the victim. DV/IPV is not a “problem to be worked on”; it’s a crime and should be treated as such.

These statistics can be incredibly difficult to absorb and leave many feeling powerless to help initiate change. However, there are many opportunities to become involved and educate ourselves regarding the signs of DV/IPV and the resources available. Common signs of DV/IPV may include:

• Telling you that you never do anything right.

• Showing extreme jealousy of your friends or time spent away from them.

• Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with others, particularly friends, family members, or peers.

• Insulting, demeaning, or shaming you, especially in front of

other people.

• Preventing you from making your own decisions, including about working or attending school.

• Controlling finances in the household without discussion, such as taking your money or refusing to provide money for necessary expenses.

• Pressuring you to have sex or perform sexual acts you’re not comfortable with.

• Pressuring you to use drugs or alcohol.

• Intimidating you through threatening looks or actions.

• Insulting your parenting or threatening to harm or take away your children or pets.

• Intimidating you with weapons like guns, knives, bats, or mace.

• Destroying your belongings or your home.

Source: National Domestic Violence Hotline

As parents, one of the most important things we can do for our children is provide ongoing conversations and education around healthy relationships, boundaries and consent. Reminding ourselves to build them up whenever possible, to know their worthiness as a human being and never to place their value solely on the validation of a partner. Encourage open expression of emotions, validate feelings and in terms of seeking therapy, couple’s therapy when DV/IPV is present is highly discouraged, as it often presents significant safety concerns for the victim.

During the month of October, organizations throughout the United States come together to bring even more awareness to the devastating consequences of DV/IPV. This is often done through special events, educational opportunities, community outreach/ advocacy, speaking engagements, social media campaigns and wearing purple on October 19 (Purple Thursday) to show your support. We are incredibly fortunate here in Pittsburgh to have a

number of wonderful organizations working tirelessly to provide resources, shelter and support to survivors, children/families and families experiencing loss due to DV/IPV. Below are some helpful resources:

• Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh: (412) 687-8017

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

• Crisis Center North 24/7 Hotline: 412-364-5556

• Center For Victims: 1-866-644-2882

• Alina’s Light, Inc.: 412-440-8582

• Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern PA (DVSSP): 800-791-4000

This Purple Thursday (October 19), I hope you will join me and the many others wearing purple to further this incredibly important mission. I will wear mine in honor of my aunt, who is forever at the forefront of why I do what I do. n

Maura Johnson is a licensed clinical social worker currently in practice at Cranberry Psychological Center. She is a certified perinatal mental health provider, as well as a contributing staff member with Postpartum Support International. While her primary focus is treating PMADs, she also treats a variety of conditions and clients of all ages. She resides in the Pittsburgh area with her husband, Brendan, daughter, Sloane, and dog, Max.

WE’RE STILL HERE and so is the POLIO VIRUS

As we approach World Polio Day on October 24, we are reminded that we still have work to do. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative has determined that Polio is the World’s Only Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Polio still poses a risk of international spread as noted with detections of variant poliovirus around the world in several previously polio-free countries, including Canada, Israel, Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the United States.

The goal of polio awareness has a dual purpose: to draw attention to the estimated 1 million polio survivors in North America, the vast majority of whom are realizing the disabling effects of Post-Polio Syndrome. And to draw attention to the importance of being immunized against polio and all crippling childhood diseases.

Even as Rotary International and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative move toward achieving the goal of eradicating the wild polio virus through vaccination, we cannot forget that the World Health Organization estimates there are 15+million polio survivors worldwide, the majority of whom are living with Post-Polio Sequelae and the disability caused by the polio virus.

PA Polio Survivors Network celebrates Rotary International’s focus on disease prevention and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative for their determined efforts to rid the world of polio. Polio hasn’t been eradicated yet. The foreign origin of the polio virus that paralyzed the unvaccinated man in New York in 2022 is a painful reminder that polio and other preventable diseases are only a plane ride away. If polio exists anywhere, it is a threat to children everywhere.

The PA Polio Survivors Network, managed by and for polio survivors, is in service to bring support and information to polio survivors, families, caregivers and healthcare providers.

Donations to END POLIO NOW can be made to Rotary or our website. The Gates Foundation will double your donation. n

Joe Randig Western Pennsylvania Coordinator For PA Polio Survivors Network

Joe Randig of Butler is given the polio vaccine by Dr. Jonas Salk. Joe and his family were part of the 1954 field trials.

Mastering a Mother’s Mental Load

By Marla Turnbull

The air is slightly cooler as the sun rises later and sets even earlier these days. We have now descended into October. The kids are back to school and the after-school activities dictate the family’s schedule.

After an extended season of parenting my three children into successful adulthood, I am looking at my rhythm of life-giving practices. Looking backward, how did I go from “harried to human”? Honestly, I felt like I put on my roller skates in the morning and took them off as I fell into bed at night. Life was a bit faster and “crazier.” Whether you are a single mom, grandmother or in a relationship, you often feel like you are overwhelmed and juggling life mostly by yourself.

Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, said, “The struggle is real, the juggle is real. This is why everyone should hire working mothers. They are put in crazy situations all the time and are forced to problem-solve. They are some of the most resourceful workers. They often come out on top!”

We moms, and Grandmas, work tirelessly, day in and day out. I remember trying to find childcare using my paid time off to care for my children. Many days, I was distracted at work thinking about how to manage my household. I would often stress over my career when I was with family. I felt like I was fighting against the culture to raise healthy and prosperous kids as they navigated into adulthood.

We have so many voices telling us how to raise our children; getting adequate sleep, eating healthy meals, limiting sugar, taking care of sick children, limiting screen time, practicing their sport(s) of choice to excel on the playing field. The list goes on and on. I never want you to feel that you cannot live up to the expectations that plunge you into the “depths of despair.”

As a National Board-Certified Health & Wellness & Resiliency Coach, I can help you start healing your body naturally, from the inside out. As we begin taking small, sustainable steps toward healing, your taste in food will change, your daily outlook will improve, and you will see yourself as the most important person in your story.

Taking moments to process through emotions is extremely important. If we are unable to lower our stress, our body begins to breakdown, our sleep is disturbed, and our digestion goes off. We cannot stop overthinking and are constantly on edge over the little things. I know this too well.

My clients ask me daily how they can process through their emotions? I help them carve out quiet time into their busy days and plan a time to sit and reflect. In the stillness, pay attention to the thoughts and the emotions being generated. If your mind wanders off, bring it back to the present moment. If 10-15 minutes is all you have when going into the bathroom, shut the door, and take it!

I help by holding space, giving permission for self-care, boundaries to protect time with your family, prioritizing saying “Yes and No” without being overwhelmed and feeling guilty. Helping process through limiting beliefs that keep sabotaging our best efforts, leading to chronic inflammation and illness. Coaching by organizing and implementing a successful “toolbox.” I would love to help you master your “Mother’s Mental Load” as you focus on one day at a time. Don’t suffer alone. We are here for each other. Please reach out to me for a consultation. n

Feeling Your Best as You Say Goodbye to Summer

By Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm

If you stay inside and there is less daylight, you don’t get vitamin D from the sun.

If you cozy up on a comfy chair or couch too long, you don’t get the right amount of exercise.

If you satisfy our cravings with comfort goods and baked goods, you begin to gain weight and it impacts your health overall.

Although humans don’t hibernate per se, you naturally adjust and succumb to the cooler season automatically. Also, the cooler temperatures and less daylight make it harder to keep your exercise routine. As long as you recognize this occurrence, you can take action and adjust your routine.

In addition, as the weather changes, health issues, such as colds, allergies, and viruses, start to arise. You need to be fit both physically and mentally to keep your immune system strong to fight against these infectious intruders.

Follow the below suggestions for staying healthy through the cooler seasons:

Get enough vitamin D. Only 15 minutes of sunlight daily will help. Other sources of vitamin D: salmon, herring, sardines, tuna, mackerel, eggs, and mushrooms. Also, consider supplements and foods fortified with vitamin D, such as cereal, milk, and yogurt.

Stay Active. Adjust your fitness routine and bring some indoors. Try a new indoor activity, such as dancing, kickboxing, or pickleball. Fall cleaning helps you stay active and is mentally rewarding, so get rid of stuff, clean out your closet and drawers, and organize. A brisk walk in the afternoon makes a difference.

Acts of Kindness. Look for ways to give back to your community. Find hands-on ways to get involved, such as fostering a pet, mentoring, or visiting the elderly. This benefits your mental health and the wellbeing of others.

Keep an eye on calories. Naturally, you will become less active during this season, so you will burn less calories. Choose comfort foods wisely. Select a vegetable-based soup instead of cream-based. Add fiber-rich vegetables, such as spinach, chard, carrots, broccoli, and beets.

Eat foods to boost the immune system. Citrus fruits and veggies such as broccoli are packed full of vitamin C. Some nutrient-dense options: Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, crab apples, cranberries, and turnips. Try something new, such as, rutabaga, turnips, parsnips, Beets, broccoli, eggplant, kale, pumpkin, squash, almonds, ginger, garlic, and dark leafy greens.

Minimize sugar consumption. Halloween is just around the corner, so have a plan to substitute the traditional candy. Don’t buy your bag of candy too early and don’t buy too much. In either case, you will be tempted to eat it. Take the rest to work or donate it.

Get on the pumpkin kick. Make pumpkin seeds. Look up healthy recipes using natural pumpkin and not canned, such as pumpkin soup, stir fry pumpkin, pumpkin seed cinnamon parfait, pumpkin spiced oatmeal, pumpkin smoothie, and low-calorie pumpkin pie in a cup.

Stay hydrated. Cooler air can dehydrate because your body works hard to stay warm. Count your servings to make

sure you are getting enough H20 infused liquid. Moisturize your skin.

Keep a sleep schedule. Since it is darker earlier, you may have a tendency to go to sleep earlier. Also, it is darker in the morning, so you may want to sleep in more. These changes in sleep pattern can throw off your circadian rhythm.

Health check. Wash and sanitize hands on regular basis. Schedule any wellness visits missed during the summer months. Get your vaccinations in October.

Check on mental health status. Be aware of the seasonal depression that starts to happen this time of year and the stress of the upcoming holidays.

The cooler weather is actually a good time to enjoy the outdoors. The air is crisp, the fall colors are magical. Stop to notice the sounds of nature around you. Fall is the best time to walk on a trail through nature, which will boost your mood and creativity. There are so many trails inside and outside of Pittsburgh to choose from.

Most of all, enjoy what this season has to offer. n

In October, as the air cools, you start to slow down, stay indoors more often, get cozy, and begin to crave comfort foods and baked goods.

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

Ew, Gross!

By Janice Lane Palko

don’t know, a euphemism is an innocuous word or phrase used instead of an expression that may be regarded as unpleasant or offensive. For example, rather than saying someone is fat, you may use the euphemism to describe them as being “husky” or “big boned.” Another is instead of saying you euthanized a dog, you soften the news by saying you put Peanut “to sleep.”

Euphemisms can change with the times and cultures, but in general, writing without using euphemisms is more direct and powerful, and I try to avoid them. But lately, I’m beginning to think that we need more euphemisms, especially when it comes to advertising verbiage and their accompanying graphics.

Not long ago, I was sitting down to eat my lunch when a commercial for

an ear wax removal kit came on TV. It went on to describe hardened ear wax and had a little graphic of particles of wax being flushed out of an ear canal. OK, I’m not super squeamish, but it was a bit unappetizing.

To divert my attention, I looked at my phone and clicked on an article, but the accompanying ad of a crusty, fungus-infected toenail provided no relief. I changed the channel and was

If

confronted with a commercial for a whole-body deodorant that went into detail describing all of the smelly parts of our body from toes to “under boobs” and various other parts in between that I didn’t realize reeked like “fat rolls.”

To top off my repast of revulsion, I switched from network television to YouTube, where I usually check in with some travel tip channels. I was enjoying a video of a beautiful blue Mediterranean cruise when the post broke for a razor commercial, which featured a hairy man, focusing on his groin and describing how this razor was the best for shaving his “nether regions.” To paraphrase the Valley Girls from the ‘80s—grody to the max!

I know people smell, are hairy, and can suffer from various medical conditions, but maybe we could tone down the in-your-face ads at least until later in the day. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I believe I’m about to lose my lunch. Oh, and that’s a euphemism for vomit.

One maxim of writing is to use precise language and avoid euphemisms.

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Sewickley Academy Open House

Join us at Sewickley Academy on November 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an Admissions

Open House. Learn how our academic programs are educating tomorrow’s leaders and meet members of our admissions team, faculty, and students. Tour our beautiful campus and experience life as an SA Panther! n

School Movers & Shakers

Providence Heights Alpha School

THE LEARNING NEVER STOPS

Discover new K-12 education opportunities waiting for you at the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School!

Call (724) 643-1180 or visit pacyber.org to start your PA Cyber journey today.

Providence Heights Alpha School announced a new partnership with REL Academy, an elite basketball program that has been preparing basketball players for high school, college and professional levels for more than 10 years. The collaboration offers current and future student athletes a unique basketball experience with REL Academy, while still participating in Alpha School’s basketball program with the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Mars Area

During a Veteran’s Breakfast, Mars Area High School senior Reva Kalbhor presented an American Flag to Julia Parsons, who served as a code breaker in the U.S. Naval Reserve (Women’s Reserve) or WAVES during World War II.

Mars Area Centennial School fifth-grader Madison Do earned second place in the Girls 10-11 Division at the Tri-State Section PGA Drive, Chip & Putt Sub-Regional Qualifier.

Mars Area High School held its 2023 Mars Area Sports Hall of Fame Induction on Friday, Sept. 8, at Mars Athletic Complex. Inductees were: David Bednar (Class of 2013), baseball; Mani Brueckner (Class of 2012), soccer; Dan DeMarco (Class of 2003), baseball/football; Maggie Gruber (Class of 2013), swimming; Jack Muehlheuser (Class of 2012), swimming; Jimmy Petruska (Class of 2000), coach.

Southwestern Pennsylvania’s only Preschool—Grade 12 Private Catholic School

Aquinas Academy graduates are exceptionally formed young leaders who love God and neighbor. Tuition is a fraction of the cost of other elite private schools. Students benefit from a traditional curriculum with a classical emphasis and achieve among the highest SAT scores in the region.

ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, October 14, 2023 | 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

BUSING FROM 14 SCHOOL DISTRICTS INCLUDING MARS, NORTH ALLEGHENY, SENECA VALLEY, AND PINE-RICHLAND FULL-DAY

WITH HALF-DAY OPTION

Travel, Walk, Eat,and Stay Healthy

By Sofya Stearns

Good health is made of five attributes: a state of complete physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual well-being! So, let’s break down element by element and see how they all corelate with each other. Last month I had a pleasure to visit Italy with my family— eight beautiful cities. Did I eat what I wanted? Heck yes. Did I indulge in gelato? Heck yes. Did I feel sluggish? Heck no. Did I gain weight? Heck no. Do you know why? Because we walked, and walked, and walked. And I have to say, it felt amazing.

The reason I love to travel to Europe is because walking will get you anywhere. And when you walk, you get a chance to see and admire what’s around you—architecture, fountains and more architecture and that makes you energized. And when we see something so beautiful as Trevi Fountain or your eyes are glued to the Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo, you are in the best mental state of mind. When you walk, thousands and thousands of people pass by you. At times you see people using a cane, or in a wheelchair, or with physical deformities. And I don’t know about you, but I reflect on myself and think how lucky I am that neither my family nor I have any physical, life-threatening disabilities. You also cannot help yourself but pick into a church, cathedral, or temple, not because of your religion but because of the curiosity and craving to see what’s inside. And no matter what religion you follow, hearing the organ playing in the background, viewing people praying, the surroundings melt your heart. You feel free to let your emotions go, spirituality to take over and the social well-being kicks in. At that moment you can reflect on your life and feel blessed for what you have.

So, stop for a moment, put down whatever you were doing and think. What makes you the happiest, whole, and complete? For me travel, food and being with my family does. For someone else maybe it’s family and shopping, for someone else family and exercise. But whatever it is, own it. Because well-being is what makes us women strong and if we are strong, our minds are clear, and we feel healthy.

La Dolce Vita!! n

Fall into October and the Pre-Thanksgiving Prep

By Ron Eichner

Hi folks, October is the first full month of fall, putting autumn into full swing. Each year, I hope for late frosts so the harvesting can continue as long as possible. Our two flocks of farm-raised turkeys are having the time of their lives eating, drinking, and roosting. With daylight getting minutes shorter each day, the month finishes very scary and spooky, with Halloween closing out October.

October’s full moon is known as the Hunter’s Moon, which arrives on Saturday, October 28. Those of us that archery hunt

for deer know that late October is the rut period of bucks, and the deer herds get active, for the bucks are chasing after the breedable does.

In October, our valued farm customers stop in our farm market and “talk turkey.” They tell us the turkey weight they need for Thanksgiving. I want to share our family history of raising turkeys and farming.

Our grandfather, Mike Eichner, truly defined our family’s work ethic. He and our grandmother, Teresa, worked full-time for the Divine Providence nuns, running their diversified farm. After 20 years, our grandmother put her foot down and told him only to work one full-time position, and home, he stayed!

We have been raising our day-old turkey poults for 20 weeks, the same way for 85 years. The only thing that has changed has been modifying our poultry feed as we seek to add natural ingredients to fortify our poultry diets. Grandpap set the bar high in nurturing his turkey flocks, and it shortened the second and third-generation learning curve.

As the third-generation family member raising our seasonal turkeys, my first year at the helm in 2001 was challenging. I had so much adversity that year I told my dad, Dick, that I may have to sleep with the turkeys, but I will get it all to Grandpap’s level and proudly say, these are my girls!”

Our two flocks of day-old turkey poults come the second week of July and the third week of August each year. When they arrive, they’re given three swallows of vitamin electrolytes water, which they get for three weeks and slide into the nursery with care. All turkey poults need a Mother Hen to survive and as a third-generation farmer that is my role for half a day, six months each year.

After two weeks, we slowly lower the temperatures until their fourth or fifth week. They get turned out in the large turkey pens. The turkey’s feed is all-natural, with plant-based proteins, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and essential oils to support a healthy immune system without antibiotics. Unlike chickens, turkeys want to follow me around and are always ready to greet me whenever I enter their pens. Some people have said that we inhumanely raise the turkeys in the pens and they should be free-ranged out in the fields. Free-range only benefits natural predators like cats, dogs, foxes, coyotes, fishers,

raccoons, hawks, and even bald eagles. The number one poultry predator in the eastern United States is the bald eagle, our national bird.Grandpap had a simple rule: You need good fortified feed to have healthy, happy turkeys and keep their triangle as short as possible. The turkey triangle is all the turkey wants: feed, water, and a place to roost, and keeping the three as close as possible, and you get happy turkeys. I always echo to our two flocks of turkeys “the joy they will bring to the holiday tables.”

Then, the turkeys are processed for the holiday on the Friday and Saturday before Thanksgiving with the help of 24 friends and family members. Without their help, I am out of the turkey business. This is why I said turkeys have 20 weeks of turkey bliss and one bad day.

October is time for pumpkins, gourds, and corn stalks; our farm can be a destination. If you get a chance, a friend of mine and a great customer, Carrie Triko, has the Haunted Hillview Manor in New Castle. Carrie and her staff do a great job. If you have haunted needs, travel to New Castle.

Oktoberfest is 16 days of festivities in Munich, Germany. Over six million gather to celebrate each year, and it’s the largest and grandest folk festival in the world. Half-roasted chickens are the most popular item during Oktoberfest, and we offer four-pound roasting chickens year-round if you want to duplicate the festival experience.

Our farm Oktoberfest, will be in full gear. Our homemade bratwurst and fermented sauerkraut are a great combination, along with our six types of lean pork sausages and homemade cookies by the dozen. Our homegrown vegetables, butter, and sugar-sweet corn are still available, so our farm-to-your-table is as good as it gets. We have pumpkins in many sizes, colorful gourds, and corn stalks ready for pickup.

Feel free to stop by Eichner’s Whole Farm and Greenhouses at 285 Richard Road in Wexford. Bring a friend and be a friend and get “the rest of the story.” n

HOME GUIDE

Eye-Opening October Trivia

By Paula Green

When we think about October, one of the first things that comes to mind is Halloween. And it is a fun celebration! But what about the other 30 days leading up to the spookiest holiday? This month, we’ll shine a light on all the awesomeness that October offers.

What’s in the name? The name October stems from the Latin word octo, “eight,” because it was the eighth month of the early Roman calendar. When the Romans converted to a 12-month calendar, the name October stuck even though it’s now the 10th month.

The beauty of autumn shines through October. While the fall season officially began on September 23, we see the start of the fall foliage a month later. As leaves lose chlorophyll during this season, they also lose their green pigment. Then, we see the emergence of warm tones of yellows, oranges, and reds.

One colorful tidbit about this month is no matter what year it is, both October and February will always end on the same day (even during Leap Year). Speaking of February, we commemorate our leaders with President’s Day in that month, but October is more of a hail-to-the-chief month. Six former U.S. presidents were born in October. They include John Adams (October 30), Chester Arthur (October 5), Jimmy Carter (October 1), Rutherford Hayes (October 4), Dwight Eisenhower (October 14), and Theodore Roosevelt (October 27).

October’s birthstones are opal and pink tourmaline. The birth flowers are cosmos and marigolds. Astrology zodiac signs of October are Libra: Sept. 23-October 22, and Scorpio: October 23-November 22.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month also celebrates Pizza Month, Popcorn Poppin’ Month, Pretzel Month, and Seafood Month. The second week in October is Fire Prevention Week.

A few zany days are October 1, National Coffee Day; and October 4, National Taco Day. This year, October 13 is Friday the 13th. Get your tasty buds in gear for October 14, which is National Dessert Day.

Disney has its centennial celebration this month. On October 16, 1923, Walt Disney and his brother Roy founded the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio in Hollywood, California. Two Disney theme parks opened on October 1 – Disney World in Orlando, Florida, in 1971, and EPCOT in 1982.

Since we have examined our tenth month, we must now delve into this calendar query. Get set to don those spooky thinking caps because it’s time to get a little trivial.

1. It took 14 years to complete; construction of this National Monument began on October 4, 1927 and ended on October 31, 1941.

2. What is the full moon called in October?

3. Name the radio broadcast that aired on October 30, 1938, that caused mass panic.

4. Oktoberfest traditionally takes place every September & October in which German city?

5. What is the name of the Canadian holiday celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day in the United States?

6. The NBA (basketball) league starts its season in October. What other pro sport begins its season in October?

7. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886. Which European country gifted it to the US?

8. Major League Baseball plays The World Series in October. How many times have the Pittsburgh Pirates won this championship?

9. In honor of St. Francis of Assisi, World Animal Day is celebrated on this date.

10. What national park was established in the United States on October 1, 1890?

11. This saying first appeared on US currency in October 1957.

12. On October 1, 1940, this 160-mile stretch of road opened between Carlisle and Irwin, Pa.

13. This children’s book by A. A. Milne was published on October 14, 1926.

14. In which U.S. state did the Mayflower land in Plymouth Rock on October 18, 1620?

15. This classic Halloween show premiered on CBS on October 27, 1966. n

Sources: www.funfactsabout.com/fun-facts-about-october/, madeyousmileback.com/amazing-fun-facts-about-october/, www.almanac.com/ content/month-october-holidays-fun-facts-folklore, www.villagevoice. com/10-fun-facts-about-the-month-of-october, groupgames101.com/ october-trivia/, popculturemadness.com/PCM/october-in-pop-culturehistory/, www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/october.htm

Military Hauntings in Pennsylvania

By Paula Green

You may have heard about or even visited some Pennsylvania military sites. It is a great way to relive parts of history and pay homage to those who served. A few places have exciting stories to tell – not just any stories but ghost stories. During the spooky month of Halloween, we will visit some spine-tingling military hauntings. Herrs Island, also known as Washington’s Landing, is an island in Pittsburgh’s Allegheny River. In 1753, George Washington’s raft capsized in the Allegheny, forcing him to take shelter on the island. Rumors have it that Washington’s spirit has returned here to haunt the island’s eastern end.

Past soldiers from three nationalities haunt the Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park. During the French and Indian War, the Battle of Grant’s Hill was fought on the museum site. Some people feel that some of these soldiers are still on duty. Security guards have reported seeing people on their monitors who weren’t there. Objects have disappeared, and strange sounds have been heard in empty areas of the museum.

Pittsburgh’s National Aviary is located where the Western Penitentiary sat from 1826 to 1880. During the American Civil War, Union soldiers operated the prison. Confederate soldiers were captured and imprisoned at the penitentiary. It’s believed that their spirits still wander the halls of the aviary. In the early morning and after closing, shadows have appeared, footsteps crept, and loud bangs have come from the basement. Staff have the feeling of being watched, and a radio has turned itself on and off. Unseen spirit presences linger in the hallways and the atrium.

Another haunted Pennsylvania historical site is Fort Mifflin, which sits between the Delaware River and Philadelphia International Airport. This establishment claims to be the only Revolutionary War battlefield that has remained entirely intact. It was commissioned in 1771 and used until the 1960s. It is still an active fort for the Army Corps of Engineers. This facility first saw combat in the fall of 1777 when the British captured it. Fort Mifflin served as a Civil War prison. Two ghosts that haunt the fort are a screaming woman and a faceless man.

In Gettysburg, it is believed the spirits of the dead still roam the grounds of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle. In July 1863, more than 50,000 Americans were killed in this Pennsylvania region. The lifeless bodies of thousands were later dumped into mass graves. Walk the haunting 10,000-acre battlefield and see the national cemetery and field hospitals where nurses desperately tried to save soldiers’ lives. You may encounter some strange activity—cameras malfunctioning, the sounds of weeping nurses and ghostly apparitions—as many soldiers are said to still haunt the place where they spent the final moments of their lives.

Park rangers who have lived in various old buildings within the Gettysburg National Military Park have experienced strange manifestations, including the unexplained crying of a baby, the sound of mysterious footsteps, and the unexplained smell of tobacco smoke that had no apparent source. Tales of strange and frightening spectral visions and sounds— the groaning cries of wounded soldiers, the shouts of orders issued amid battle— have long been attributed to various famous areas of the battlefield, including the Spangler Farm, the Valley of Death, Devil’s Den, and Iverson’s Pits. Haunted or not, all these Pennsylvania military sites have historic significance, and we honor those who so bravely served. n

Sources: www.visitpa.com/trip-itinerary/ghost-rides-pittsburgh-its-countryside, www.cbsnews. com/pittsburgh/news/best-pittsburgh-haunts/, www.visitpittsburgh.com/blog/hauntedpittsburgh,www.pennlive.com/life/2016/10/13_creepiest_places_in_pennsyl.html, www.hauntedrooms.com/pennsylvania/haunted-places, www. gettysburgbattlefieldtours.com/haunted-gettysburg/, www.travelchannel.com/interests/haunted/articles/gettysburg-national-military-park

2023 Fall Fun

Get out and enjoy everything our area has to offer!

OCTOBER EVENTS

Cannon Ball, 5:30-11 pm, Friday, Nov. 3, at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum. For details, visit www.soldiersandsailorshall.org/.

Clear Thoughts Foundation (CTF) “Roll for a Reason Gala,” Monte Carlos Night, doors open 5:30 pm, gaming 7:30 pm, Nov. 4, J. Vernos Studio, 3030 Jane St, Pittsburgh. For info, visit www.clearthoughtsfoundation.org.

Cranberry Township 55+ Club meets 1 pm the 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center. Members must be residents of Cranberry Township. The Club features activities,

social opportunities, and visits to nearby points of interest. For info, contact Bill at (724) 776-1933.

Free Matinee Movies on Mondays: 2 pm, Oct. 2, Champions; Oct. 9, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Movie; Oct. 16, The Quiet Girl; Oct. 23, Jesus Revolution; Oct. 30, Moving On, at the Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Crossing in McCandless Twp. For details, visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

Glenshaw AARP 3744 meets at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, Mt. Royal Blvd. 2 pm, second Tuesday of the month. Call (412) 487-1041 for more info.

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Roundtable, 7 pm, Monday, October 16, at Hampton Township Community Center, 1301 McCully Road, Allison Park. Joseph F. Wilson will present The Andersonville Tragedy. Lecture is free and open to the public.  Green Voice Speaker Series Presents, Driving Sustainable Change, 6-8 pm, Oct. 25, 2050 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh. For info, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/driving-sustainable-change-tickets.

Kosciuszko Foundation Pittsburgh Chapter concert, featuring the music of Polish composer, Frederick Chopin. Features pianists David Allen Wehr and Dr.

Robert Armstrong, 3 pm., Sunday, Oct. 22, at Duquesne University PNC Recital Hall. For info, email mlellena@zoominternet. com.

Ingomar Garden Club monthly meetings

10:30 am, meeting, light lunch and guest speaker, March through November at Northmont Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh 15237. For details, visit www. ingomar-garden-club.com for additional information.

Mars Applefest, hosted by Rich-Mar Rotary Club, 10 am-4 pm, Saturday, Oct. 7, downtown, Mars. Over 150 vendors selling fine jewelry, quality arts & crafts, paintings, quaint decorations and trinkets. Nearby grown foods from local farms. For details, visit www.marsapplefest.com

NA Foundation Trick or Trot 5K Race & 1 Mile Fun Run, 8:30 am 5K Race; 9 am NA Marching Band performance; 9:30 am 1 Mile Fun Run; 10 am Costume Party & Awards, Saturday, October 28, Marshall Schools Campus, 5145 Wexford Run Rd, Wexford. For info, visit Facebook:

Little Sisters of thePoor Little thePoor

Holiday Boutique, In-person Sale

October 13th & 14th

10am-3pm

Fall, Christmas Crafts and Ceramics•Additional items can be viewed & purchased starting 10/20/23 at: www.littlesistersofthepoorpittsburgh.org

1028 Benton Avenue Pgh, PA 15212 • (412) 307-1100

North Allegheny Foundation; Twitter: @ FoundationNA; Instagram: northalleghenyfoundation; website, //northallegheny.org/ trickortrot.

National Conference on Cortical Visual Impairment, Wed., Nov. 1, and Thurs., Nov. 2 at the Sheraton in Station Square, Pittsburgh. Sponsored by The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center. To register, visit https://bit.ly/CVITCH.

Ninth Annual Pumpkin Fest & Flea Market, 8 am-1 pm, Saturday, Oct. 14, Ascension Lutheran Church, 8225 Peebles Rd. Homemade apple and pumpkin pies for sale. Flea market, vendors, crafts,

reserve your spot, contact vickig@zoominternet.net or 724-816-0413.

Northland Library has numerous events scheduled for October. For a complete list of events, visit northlandlibrary.org.

OLSH Speaker series, Dustin Dale, motivational speaker & author, and will speak on Servant Leadership at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (OLSH) High School, 7 pm, Monday, October 9. The event is free & open to the public, advance registration is required. Reserve your tickets at www. olsh.org/apps/pages/speaker_series.

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2023 Fall Fun

Prime Stage Theatre, The Miracle Worker, Nov. 3-12. For info, visit primestage.com.

Providence Heights Alpha School

Open House for prospective students 1-3 pm, Sunday, October 15. Register at alphaschool.org.

Resonance Works presents Cinderella, Friday-Sunday, October 27-29, The Studio at the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall, Carnegie. For info, visit www. resonanceworks.org.

Rummage Sale, 8 am-2 pm, Oct. 7 & 21 and 11 am-2 pm, Oct. 8 & 22, St. Matthew Parish at St. Aloysius Church, Mt. Troy Rd., in Reserve Twp. Huge selection of kitchen items, jewelry, books, seasonal items, clothing etc. Bake goods available on Saturday. If you have furniture to donate, call Deb at (412) 337-1713 or Claire at (412) 360-9866.

Sealarks Women’s Group meeting, 1 pm, Oct. 11, at Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Rd., McCandless.  This group provides Christian fellowship and social activity for women alone.  All women alone are welcome. Guest speaker Elissa Scalesse Powell of North Hills Genealogists. For info, contact Edie at (412) 487-7194.

Silence of the Lambs Night, 5:30-10:30 pm, Oct. 7, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum. For details, visit www.soldiersandsailorshall.org

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? Then join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets at 10 am the 2nd Monday of each month (Sept. through June). New members are always welcome!  For more info, visit passavanthospitalfoundation.org/. Call (412) 748-6639 if you plan to attend a meeting.

Vintage Market is a non-profit store in Shaler that benefits The Blessing Board. Open 10 am-3 pm every Th/F/Sat in the Shaler Plaza, 880 Butler Street & Rt. 8 (look for the gray door between Rite Aid & Planet Fitness).