Northern Connection Magazine July 2015 Issue

Make a Splash in

Greene County 16th Annual Physicians & Specialists Issue Summer Happenings

Nationally Recognized as a Patient Centered Medical Home Pages 28-29

CONTENTS July 2015

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NORTHERN CONNECTION

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NC Features

Senior Living

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44 Town Crier: Jaunting Through July Joe Bullick

In Every Issue

45 Happenings for Seniors

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From the Publisher

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Movers & Shakers

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Mover & Shaker of the Month: Dr. Robert H. Potter Paula Green

Cover Story: Make a Splash in Greene County!

Image & Style 20 7 Hot Weather Beauty Hacks Kelly Smith

16th Annual Physicians & Specialists Guide 24 Lose Up To 30 lbs. in 30 Days and Keep It Off with Dr. Vactor’s Innovative Weight Loss Program!

Kids & Education 48 School Movers & Shakers

Advertorials 39 Have We Been Wrong the Whole Time? Dr. Shannon Thieroff

Marion Piotrowski

13 Trivia Connection: Special Delivery Postal Trivia Paula Green

14 July 2015 Happenings 47 Support Our Troops: Blue Star Museums, Civil War Reenactment and PTSD Awareness Month Paula Green

28 Genesis Medical Associates 34 2015 Physicians & Specialists Directory

56 Starting the Conversation: What’s Fracking?

40 Fit Families: One Year Gluten-Free Joella Baker

Marianne Reid Anderson

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PUBLISHER NOTES

Welcome to the July issue of Northern Connection magazine

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

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his month’s cover story will encourage you to visit our neighbor, Greene County. Once again, this year Greene County has highlighted some of the exceptional and distinctive reasons why it is certainly worth the short drive to this area to experience some summer fun that is sure to please all ages! Check out the cover story on page 8 to see what is going on this summer in Greene County. Check out these and all the summer fun happenings around our area in this issue. You’ll see that there are plenty of things to do close to home that will fill your summer with fun and lasting memories.

Also, this July issue features Northern Connection magazine’s 16th annual Physicians & Specialists Guide.

This year, we highlight some of the Physicians and Specialists who continually strive to bring their patients state-of-the-art medical advancements and innovations. We are truly blessed to live in a community that has so many healthcare options. I would like to thank the many physicians, specialists, practices and facilities that took the time to help us create awareness in this year’s guide.

Enjoy reading all Northern Connection magazine’s special features along with our regular monthly columns. And be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and our blog “Continuing the Conversation” with our editor, Marianne Reid Anderson, where she continues the topic in her monthly column “Starting the Conversation.”

This month we celebrate the 4th of July. This is a special holiday to remember all those service men and women who have protected our freedoms and made it possible for us to live in this great country.

Thank you for your continued support. Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work. God Bless America! F

Phone: 724-940-2444

Laura Arnold

laura@northernconnectionmag.com

Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: northcon@consolidated.net www.northernconnectionmag.com President & Publisher

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Mary Simpson

marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executives

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Marianne Reid Anderson

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Joella Baker Joe Bullick Paula M. Green Donna Summers Moul, M.S.Ed. Marianne Reid Anderson Kelly Smith Distribution

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Dominion Distribution

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Coming in August BACK TO SCHOOL 2015!

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year.

Be sure to be included in our 16th annual Back to School issue!

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.

SUMMER FUN

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.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS July 2015

Movers & Shakers Seneca Valley students, Cranberry Township Rotarians and several community members were recognized on May 26, at the George Henderson “Service Above Self” Awards Dinner as hosted by the Cranberry Township Noon Rotary Club. Cranberry Township police Sergeant Bill Ahlgren was named Public Servant of the Year; Jim Logan, owner of Battery Giant and was named Business Leader of the Year; Rozann Lamberto, Haine Elementary school counselor, was honored as Educator of the Year; Amy Roy, Cranberry Township resident and co-founder of Neighbors for Neighbors, was honored as Community Servant of the Year; and Patrick O’Shea, Seneca Valley senior, was named Student of the Year. O’Shea was also recognized along with fellow Seneca Valley seniors Bailyn Bench, Jordan Harris, Rachel Kirsch, Jennifer Lynskey, Tanner Quiggle and Abigail Sledge as 2015 Rotary Scholarship winners. Cranberry Rotary president John Marshall and Dave Elliott, past president were named Paul Harris Fellows.

Keystone State Music Theater chose five local student apprentices to be a part of their upcoming professional summer season. Tessa DeJeet (Seneca Valley), Lance Hahn (Seneca Valley), Mia Manuppelli (Mars), Delaney Martin (North Allegheny) and Alena Zappa (Pine Richland) are working backstage during Always….Patsy Cline and are all ensemble members in Pinkalicious, The Musical.

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC has been named one of America’s Best Children’s Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, making this the sixth consecutive year the hospital has been listed on the Honor Roll.

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation celebrated their 125 anniversary on June 4. They launched a yearlong campaign “Give Kids a Chance to be Kids.”

UPMC Passavant celebrating its 50th year caring for the people

of the North Hills and northern Allegheny County, provided $22.8 million in total community benefits during fiscal year 2014, from July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2014.

That amounts to $62,500 each day for programs and services to improve the area’s health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has received $252,950 in grants from the Walmart Foundation to expand select summer food programs for children and enhance nutritious food delivery throughout the organization’s 11-county southwestern Pennsylvania service area.

St. Barnabas Health System announced its Employees of the Month for May. They are: Orsolya Meszaros, Heather Detch, Aimee Frazier, Martin Miller, Sandra Miller, Patricia Kelley and Lori Helm.

St. Margaret Foundation recently received $527,366 in grants for access, education and experience.

Genesis Medical Associates Inc., has recently launched electronic medical records. The medical group has over 143,000 patients from the city of Pittsburgh north to Cranberry Township.

Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania presented a $10,000 check to Hosanna Industries to help pay for the materials needed to rehabilitate and rebuild many client’s homes throughout the utility’s service territory.

The American Red Cross received a $7,000 donation thanks to Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania’s new Social Media audience.

The Woodlands hosted its first Block Party on Saturday, June 6, at their 52 acre campus in Wexford. This brand new event

featured live entertainment by Good Brother Earl, games, a raffle featuring Beer Baskets, tickets and passes to area events, Steelers’ autographed gear, and more.

Five University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health alumni were recognized for their outstanding service to the field of public health during a special ceremony at the University Club.

The honorees were: Patricia Maryland, Dr.P.H., Yvette Conley, Ph.D., M.S., Nancy Obuchowrski, Ph. D., M.S. Hyg., Nancy Glynn, Ph. D., and Megan Kavanaugh, Ph.D., M.P.H. Janet Gledich, of Shaler Township, is the recipient of the Women’s Business Network’s (WBN) 2015 Woman Janet Gledich of the Year Award. This honor is awarded to one member annually, and recognizes the individual who has best demonstrated excellence and leadership in her business or profession, and in her service to the community and to WBN. Edgar Snyder & Associates attorneys and North Hills residents, Todd Berkey and Christopher Hildebrandt were selected to the 2015 Super Lawyers list.

Strassburger, McKenna, Gutnick & Gefsky announced that four of their attorneys – David Strassburger, Joseph Lawrence, Reid Roberts and Harry Kunselman have been named to the 2015 Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list. Three of their attorneys – Matthew Marquette, Erica Laughlin and Kimberly Tague have been named to the Pennsylvania Rising Stars list.

Kathy Nipps, executive director of the Baierl Family YMCA and member of the Kiwanis Club of Allegheny North, greeted Kiwanis members Brian DeLuca, Cindy DeLuca and Denny Shea along with 20 members of the North Allegheny High School and Intermediate School Key Clubs at the Baierl Family YMCA Herb Garden. Using rakes, hoes and shovels the crew was directed to rake the ground clear of stones and debris in order to prepare the area for planting of the specific herbs.

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MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH

Dr. Robert H. Potter, Jr.

BY PAULA GREEN

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r. Robert Potter, Jr. of McCandless Township is a physician who enjoys treating and helping his patients. His passion for medicine was instilled in him as child as he observed his father who was a family physician. “I learned from my dad, it amazed me how well he knew his patients, and I have gotten to be the same way,” Dr. Potter said.

Dr. Potter practices with Genesis Medical Associates, Inc., where he specializes in family medicine. As he notes, “I have treated some of my patients for 25 to 30 years, and it is rewarding to be able to help these people.”

Another thing that Dr. Potter finds to be gratifying is the annual mission trip he takes to Honduras. He journeys to this impoverished region of Central American with approximately 20 volunteers. “One of my employees was actively going to Honduras with her church First Presbyterian of Bakerstown and I asked if I could be of assistance and go along, that was nine years ago,” Dr. Potter commented.

The mission team visits the same town of Honduras every year. They provide medical treatment, along with

optometry care and dental care from Dr. Fred Gropp and his wife. The group also helps with physical therapy.

Dr. Potter’s wife Cindy is a physical therapist and she accompanies him on this trip, as well as their youngest son Randy, 24. Besides the medical assistance, the team also provides the Honduran residents with water filters, school uniforms and food for their needy families. “Leaving Honduras is bittersweet. These people are so appreciative. They start lining up at 3:00 in the morning to see us,” Dr. Potter added.

Along with his mission work and medical practice, Dr. Potter also serves as a physician for North Allegheny and North Hills School Districts. He is a clinical instructor at Duquesne University and Saint Francis University. He is an associate clinical instructor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

Dr. Potter is a certified medical director for Kane Ross Regional Center and Celtic Hospice and he is also a medical consultant with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

In addition to their son Randy, the Potters have two other children – Julie, 32 and Brandon, 30. Dr. Potter plans to continue his mission work and his treatment of his many patients at Genesis. As he states, “Even though there is so much training and commitment involved in being a physician, it is well worth it, because you do so many positive things and make people feel better.” F

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COVER STORY

Make a Splash in

Greene County!

From daytime splashing to an evening of old-fashioned family fun at a county fair, from an afternoon of all nature has to offer to maybe some shopping in the heart of downtown, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the simple thrill of a day well spent in Greene County, just one hour south of Pittsburgh.

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reene County has three recently renovated public pools, including its own mini-waterpark, Alpha Aquatic Center in Waynesburg, located just two miles from Interstate 79, Exit 14.

Swimming is now in full swing, and the month of July marks the beginning of a signature season of summer events in Greene County.

The Jacktown Fair kicks off the middle of the month, running July 14-18 in Wind Ridge, on the western end of the county. The longest continuously run-

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ning fair in the U.S., the Jacktown Fair is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. Scheduled activities include the threenight “Jacktown Fair Idol” singing contest, musical acts, truck and tractor pulls, fireworks, and carnival rides and games.

Admission and activity prices vary. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit www.jacktownfair.org.

Another long-running standby in the county is Rain Day, which – much like the hoped-for showers – always falls on July 29. This year will be the 142nd annual Rain Day, and it has rained 114 times during those previous 141 years. The day-long street festival shuts down traffic right in the heart of downtown Waynesburg and will feature a wide variety of food and craft vendors, children’s activities, umbrella and window decorating contests, and live entertainment. For those unfamiliar with Waynesburg’s holiday, it’s the only event considered a success if it does rain, so be sure to bring your umbrella. For more information and the full history of Rain Day, visit www.raindayfestival.com.

The annual Miss Rain Day pageant – held to crown the queen who will represent Waynesburg for the next year – will be held a few days prior to Rain Day on Sunday, July 26, the same day as the Flashlight Drags drag-racing events that take place at the Greene County Airport in Waynesburg.

A more recent addition to the slate of Greene County summer events, Flashlight Drags is a series of races offering a safe alternative to street racing, with a 1/8th-mile race between two vehicles, just for fun. Gates open at noon, and racing is held from 2 to 6 p.m. Cost is $30 to race and $6 to watch, and plenty of car-related vendors fill the grounds as well. And since Flashlight Drags doesn’t share the same love of inclement

weather as Rain Day, rain dates are planned. After this month, the final two races of the season are scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 30, and Saturday, Sept. 12. For more information and schedule updates, visit www.flashlightdrags.com.

Speaking of cars, the summertime is a great time for car shows in Greene County. From “Cruizin’ for Heroes” on Saturday, July 18 – benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project – to Catholic Charities’ fourth annual Classic Car Show and the SkyView Drive-In Car Show for the Humane Society, both on Saturday, Aug. 1, gearheads and car enthusiasts can enjoy an array of vehicles on display, all for great causes.

Heading into August, two back-to-back, week-long events (both steeped in history and tradition) will take up much of the

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month. First, the Greene County Fair will be held Aug. 9-15 at the county fairgrounds in Waynesburg. Highlighting the best of the county’s rich agricultural roots, the fair includes farm animal shows and sales, home and garden exhibits and judging, truck and tractor pulls, a demolition derby, live music, and carnival rides and games.

New this year will be a monster truck jam the night of Aug. 10. For a full schedule, visit www.greenecountyfair.org.

The following week, the Bituminous Coal Show in Carmichaels will take us from Aug. 22 to Aug. 29 and the tail-end of summer. Celebrating Greene County’s mining heritage, the Coal Show offers different coal-themed events and activities, from a 5K race and a golf outing to the Coal Queen pageant and mine rescue contests.

Throughout the week, several different types of parades will be held (including parades for pets, bicycles, and cars), wrapping up with the 62nd annual King Coal Parade Aug. 29. In addition, carnival rides and games, live music, and informational exhibits will take place during the show days. Visit www.kingcoalshow.org for more details.

And from the land to the air, Aviation Day will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, at the county airport. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free parking and admission. Hosted by the aviation group S.O.A.R., this event features free airplane rides for children, aircraft static displays, and a visit and candy drop from the “Spirit of Freedom,” a Douglas C-54 “flying museum” from the Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation. For updates, visit www.soarofgreenecounty.org.

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A few more annual highlights will close out the summer season.

Greensboro’s Art Blast on the Mon will be held Sept.

5-6 during Labor Day weekend. Focusing on preserving and promoting regional arts and crafts, Art Blast features demonstrations, hands-on activities, and food and music in the blossoming artist community close to the Mon River.

The following weekend will see a busy Saturday in Greene County, as the 50’s Fest and Car Cruise, Flashlight Drags, and the Lucas Oil Truck Pulling Expo will all take place in Waynesburg, and the Outdoor Heritage Festival will be held at Ryerson Station State Park in Wind Ridge.

Finally, another area tradition officially signals the end of summer each year. The 45th annual Covered Bridge Festival will be held Sept. 19-20 at two county bridges: the Carmichaels Covered Bridge, just off the town square in Carmichaels, and the White Covered Bridge, located in the countryside but just a few miles from Exit 7 off I-79. The covered bridges are just more of the signature sights in Greene County, connections between the past and the present that are carefully tended and still standing.

So whether you’re looking for history and heritage, agritourism and animals, specialty shopping and dining, or just outdoor recreation for the whole family, it’s right here in Greene County.

For a full calendar of events and more information on attractions, visit www.GoGreeneCounty.org. F

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TRIVIA CONNECTION July 2015

Special Delivery Postal Trivia

BY PAULA GREEN industry, which supports between 7 million and 8 million private-sector jobs and which is heavily dependent on a healthy and efficient Postal Service.

Since we’ve delivered information on the mail service, we must now stamp our way through this postal puzzle. Get set to carry your thoughts, because it’s time to get a little trivial…

1. He was our 23rd U.S. Vice President, but at one time he served as the assistant postmaster general.

2. Our 25th U.S. President served as the assistant postmaster in Poland, Ohio.

3. What service should be used when sending valuables through the mail?

4. This abolitionist believed in the overthrow of the slavery system, and he once served as postmaster in Randolph, Pa. 5. What was the name of the delivery man on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood?

6. What actor portrayed the postal character Newman on Seinfeld?

7. Where is the largest post office located at in the United States?

8. What is the name of the mailman in the Blondie cartoon?

9. Name the Nickelodeon show where a mailbox sings “Mail” when it is delivered.

10. What was the name of the female mail carrier in Pee Wee’s Playhouse?

11. This former Notre Dame football player and coach at one time worked as a postal clerk in Chicago, Ill. 12. Name the Hooterville postmaster on the shows Petticoat Junction and Green Acres.

13. He served as a postmaster in San Antonio, N.M., and is founder of a famous hotel chain.

14. This science educator, comedian, television host, actor, and writer, is a former postmaster from Laramie, Wyo. 15. What does ZIP in “zip code” stand for? F http://www.history.com/topics/american-revolution/benjamin-franklin/videos/postmaster-benfranklin, https://about.usps.com/publications/pub100/pub100_007.htm, http://inventors.about. com/library/inventors/blmailus1.htm, http://www.funtrivia.com, http://www.graceland.com/elvis/ biography/post_1977.aspx, http://ponyexpress.org/history/, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ fictional_postal_employees, http://www.rioleo.org/fun-facts-about-the-us-postal-service.php

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Answers: 1. Adlai Stevenson 2. William McKinley 3. registered mail 4. John Brown 5. Mr. McFeeley 6. Wayne Knight 7. New York City 8. Mr. Beasley 9. Blue’s Clues 10. Reba 11. Knute Rockne 12. Sam Drucker 13. Conrad Hilton 14. Bill Nye 15. Zoning Improvement Plan

B

en Franklin was known as a great inventor, a brilliant politician and even a leading author, but did you know that he was also the colonies’ Postmaster General?

On July 26, 1775, the Continental Congress appointed him the first Postmaster General of the organization now known as the United States Postal Service (USPS). He was responsible for all Post Offices -- from Massachusetts to Georgia -and had authority to hire as many postmasters as he saw fit.

Franklin served until November 7, 1776.

The postal service of the United States began with the delivery of stampless letters, whose cost was borne by the receiving person. Eventually a national postal system was established.

On April 3, 1860, the Pony Express officially began with relays of men riding horses and carrying saddlebags of mail across a 2,000-mile trail. Riders left simultaneously from St. Joseph, Missouri, and Sacramento, California. The pony express riders covered 250 miles in a 24-hour day.

In 1893, the first U.S. commemorative stamps were issued. The top-selling commemorative stamp of all time was the Elvis stamp. It was released on January 8, 1993, (Elvis’ birthday) with extravagant first day of issue ceremonies at Graceland. The USPS printed 517 million of them, three times the usual print run for a commemorative stamp.

The first stamp sets were issued in the 1920’s to celebrate the Opening of the British Empire Exhibition. The first Forever Stamp went on sale in April 2007, and it featured an image of the Liberty Bell.

There were plenty of famous people who worked for the USPS. Abraham Lincoln was the only President who had served as a postmaster. Harry Truman briefly held the title of postmaster, as well. Truman signed papers but immediately turned both the position and its pay over to an assistant.

Some famous people that worked for the post office included – Shirley Babashoff, Bill Cosby, Walt Disney, William Faulkner, Sherman Hemsley, Rock Hudson, Charles Lindbergh, Noah Webster, Hal Williams and Richard Wright.

We’ve also seen some fictional postal characters – Cliff Clavin in Cheers, and Newman in Seinfeld.

The slang term “going postal” (crazy, uncontrollably angry) comes from a series of incidents between 1986 and 1997 where USPS employees shot and killed what amounted to more than 40 people as a result of workplace rage.

The USPS has 560,000 career employees, including many veterans. It also serves as the center of a $1.3 trillion mailing

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HAPPENINGS July 2015

Deadline for submissions is by the 12th of the month prior to publication.

July 2015 Happenings North Happenings Food Donations Needed at NHCO, nonperishable, unexpired food or paper products. Donations accepted at any NHCO office, M-F, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 1975 Ferguson Road, or in the pantry behind the main building, 9 a.m.-noon, July 18. Contact Brent at (412) 487-6316 opt 1 or bpshelby@ nhco.org.

North Hill Community Outreach Back-to-School Collection, new backpacks & school supplies for students in K-12. Donations accepted until July 31. For info, (412) 487-6316, opt. 1 or vdburst@nhco. org.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Community Auto Program serving the Greater Pittsburgh region needs car donations. Call (724) 4438300 or www.communityauto.org.

4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. Call (724) 940-0034.

Greater Cranberry Barbershop Chorus, meets every Monday at 7 p.m., Mars Alliance Church, Rt. 228. Visit Bogmeisters.com.

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meets the 3rd Monday of every month 7 p.m., Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park (meeting July 20). Speaker July 20, Free & open to the public. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329.

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m.

Mondays, July 6, American Sniper; July 13, Selma; July 20, The Theory of Everything; July 27, Unbroken; 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

Tuesdays

North Hills Food Bank, 10 a.m.1:45 p.m. every Tues & Thurs, rear parking lot of Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Highway. Call, (412) 366-7477 or www.northhillsfoodbank.com. Donations always welcome.

North Pittsburgh Mother of Multiples meeting, 7:30 p.m., 3rd Tues., of the month, North Hills Community Baptist Church, 7801 Thompson Run Rd. For info, visit www.facebook.com/NPMOMS.

Mondays

Thursdays

Chisel and Chips Carvers of North Pittsburgh meetings, meets 6:30-10 p.m., the 2nd Monday of every month, Parkwood United Presbyterian Church,

Cranberry Women’s Club, meets 7 p.m. the 2nd Thurs of the month, Cranberry Library Meeting Room. Contact Sandy, (724) 779-1854.

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Arts & Entertainment Gallery Crawl, 5:30-10 p.m., July 10, in the Cultural District. Featuring an evening of free events – visual arts, music comedy & more. Visit TrustArts.org.

I’ve Been Out Walking exhibition, July 10-Aug. 9, 709 Penn Gallery, Cultural District. For info, visit TrustArts.org Legacy Theatres shows: The Fabulous Hubcaps, 7:30 p.m., July 25; Jimmy Beaumont and The Skyliners, 7:30 p.m., Aug. 22, The Philadelphia Story, 7:30 p.m., Sept. 12 & 19; 2 p.m., Sept. 13 & 20. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com.

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents: Pattern and Noise an Exhibition by D-Fuse, July 10-Sept. 6, Wood Street Galleries, 601 Wood St. Special Opening Performance, July 10, doors at 9:30 p.m., show at 10 p.m., Peirce Studio. For more information, visit TrustArts.org.

Health & Wellness Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and Pirates Charities team up and created recipe cards that focus on nutrition. For details, visit www.pittsburghfoodbank.com.

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Orchard Hill Church sporting activities: Co-Ed Indoor Soccer, 8:30- 10 p.m., Weds., Sept. 16-Dec. 9, gym; Co-Ed Volleyball, 7:30-9 p.m., Tues., Sept. 15-Dec. 8; Zumba, 6:15-& 7:15 p.m., Tues., Sept. 15-Dec. 8. Men’s Pick-up Basketball​, for ages 16 & up, 7:30-9 p.m., Thurs., Sept. 17-Dec. 10, there will also be a men’s basketball group for men 35 & over that will meet at the same time. Call (724) 935-555 or orchardhillchurch.com.

Support Groups Bereavement Support Group, Beyond Bridge to Hope, 7-8:30 p.m., 2nd Wed., of every month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, McCandless Twp. Free of charge, no registration is necessary. For details, (412) 748-6640.

Bereavement Support Group (for widows/widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed. Hosted by St. Sebastian Parish, Haber Hall. To register, call (412) 366-1300.

Bereavement Support Group in the North Hills, 10-11:30 a.m., 2nd & 4th Thurs. of each month, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd., Allison Park. Contact Heritage Hospice at (724) 3346600 with questions.

Bridge to Hope, 7-8:30 p.m., every Wed., of the month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, McCandless Twp. For drug & alcohol addiction. Phone, (412) 748-6640.

Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30 p.m., every 3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. To register, call (412) 261-5886 or ccallen92@aol.com.

Professional Counseling for seniors, families & kids, for those who can’t afford counseling or lack healthcare coverage. Call (412) 366-1300 or www.anchorpointcounselingministry.org.

Recovery programs for Addicts & Codependents is available at Orchard Hill. For details, call (724) 935-5555 or visit http://www.orchardhillchurch.com Women’s Self Care Support Group, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Sats., Anchorpoint Counseling. For info, call (412) 366-1300, ext.

129 or www.anchorpointcounselingministry.org.

Counseling Ask the Attorney, free legal consultation for low-income families. Sessions are 7 p.m., July 8, NHCO Ferguson Rd., Aug. 12, NHCO in Millvale. Call (412) 408-3830 or hzgibbs@nhco.org.

Berkley Hills Lutheran Church is offering it Stephen Ministry Program for people experiencing grief, divorce, cancer, illnesses, job loss, loss of home, military deployment & other life struggles. Free & confidential program for people of any faith. Call (412) 486-4010 or www.bhlc.org.

Employment Counseling is available through Workable, a countywide United Way-funded program through North Hills Community Outreach. For info on workshops & counseling, contact Harriet at (412) 408-3830, ext. 3219 or visit www.workableac.com.

Group Services, Intensive Outpatient Program, 5:30-8:30 p.m., M,W, Th.,Therapy Group 6-8 p.m., Tues., Family Only Group 7:30-9:00 p.m., 2nd Tues, Psycho-educational Support Group 7-9 p.m., 4th Mon. Contact Anita at 412-215-7967, pened1@aol.com, or www. anitasinicropemaier.com.

Professional Counseling, need someone to talk with but can’t afford it or lack health coverage. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300.

Networking AM Spirit Cranberry Chapter, a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Wed, at North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. (no meeting July 1). For info, call Glen at (412) 916-8699.

Criders Corner Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, noon, Thur., July 9 & 16, The Sports Grille, 1294 Freedom Rd. For info, call Annette at (724) 316-8005.

North Hills Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 9 a.m., Fri., July 17, Eat N’ Park, Rt. 8 & Saxonburg Blvd, Etna. For info, call Jean at (724) 443-0990.

Sarver Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 11:30 a.m., Thur., July 2 & 16, Savor in Sarver, 123 Malone Drive, Sarver. For info, call Michele at (724) 353-2431.

Toastmasters Cranberry High Noon Club, meets noon-1 p.m., every Mon., Pella Windows Training Center, 230 Thorn Hill Rd., Warrendale. Questions? Call (724) 316-3595 or email SueEllis@PeopleLearn. com.

Wexford Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 8 a.m., Tues., July 14 & 28, Atria’s Restaurant, Wexford. For info, call Kathy at (724) 9355143.

Volunteer Opportunities American Cancer Society is looking for volunteers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments to & from their appts. Interested volunteers call (412) 919-1100 or emailsharon.stalter@ cancer.org.

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

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council volunteer tutors needed to work with adult literacy students on basic literacy skills, 4 hour/week commitment. Free tutor training provided. Call (412) 393-7600 or http://www.gplc.org/become-a-volunteer.cfm.

North Hills Community Outreach has speakers available who will speak at your business, congregation, or school at no charge about our programs. Call Jen at (412) 487-6316, opt. 1 or ext. 3112 or JLKissel@nhco.org.

North Hills Community Outreach has speakers who will speak to business, congregation, civic groups or school at no charge about our programs and services and volunteer opportunities. For info, call (412) 487-6316, opt. 1 ext. 3112. Or JLKissel@ nhco.org.

AM Spirit Wexford Chapter, a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Mon, at Eat N’ Park, Franklin Village. For info, call Glen at (412) 916-8699.

Volunteer tutors needed to work with adult literacy students on basic literacy skills. 4 hour/week commitment. Free tutoring training provided.

To register call Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council, (412) 393-7600 or http://www.gplc. org/become-a-volunteer.cfm.

Butler County Chamber of Commerce Summer Open House, 5-7:30 p.m., July 9, Mike Kelly Automotive. Call, (724) 283-2222 or Jennifer@ ButlercountyChamber.com.

Volunteer Tutors Needed for children struggling with school work. Call Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, (412) 366-1300 or www.anchorpointcounselingministry.org.

Cranberry Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 7:30 a.m., Thurs., July 2 & 16, Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church, Cranberry Twp. For info, call Marcia at (724) 538-3059.

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HAPPENINGS July 2015 School Events & Courses & Symposiums

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

La Roche College and the Office of Mayor Peduto invite the public to experience the journey of undocumented immigration through a student-designed exhibit at Pittsburgh’s City-County Building, until July 24.

For info, visit laroche.edu

“Veteran X” mental health & substance abuse recovery program for vets meets 6 p.m., every Mon., at VA Butler Healthcare, Room 213, East South (ES), 325 N. Castle Rd., Butler.

For info, visit http://www.butler.va.gov/.

La Roche College Summer Visits Days, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., July 11 and Aug. 7. High school students can explore over 50 majors and study abroad opportunities.

Register at laroche.edu/visitdays.

Mercy Parish Nurse and Health Ministry Program, will host “Foundations of Faith Community Nursing,” a five-day, course Sept. 11, 12, 26 & Oct. 2 and 3, (times vary), at UPMC Mercy, 1400 Locust Street,(Uptown). For info, (412) 232-5815 or visit ParishNurse@pmhs.org.

Open House for Graduate, Adult and Transfer Students, 4-6 p.m., July 20. Register at laroche.edu or contact the Office of Graduate Studies & Adult Education: 412-536-1260 or adultadmissions@ laroche.edu.

Penn State Extension of Allegheny County Urban Homesteading Series, July 7: Bug Your Bugs! July Pest Walk; July 21: Midsummer Night’s (Berry) Jam, Aug. 4: August Pest Walk. For info, visit: bit.1y/1FqAp7R

Saint Alexis Festival Days

July 29, 30, 31, Aug. 1 • 6-11pm Nightly 10090 Old Perry Highway

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Live stage entertainment Games Rides Food Raffles

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•

Flea Market

Saturday, July 18 8:00 am–1:00 pm Sunday, July 19 9:00 am–2:00 pm (half-off sale) Join us for the 23rd annual Saint Alexis Festival from July 29 through Aug. 1, 6-11 p.m. nightly on the church grounds. Fun for all ages including rides, live stage entertainment, games, delicious festival-style food and nightly indoor dinners, Kiddieland, blackjack & poker, raffles and so much more!

For more information: (724) 935-4343 or www.stalexis.org

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Saint Sebastian School in Ross Township is accepting applications for preschool thru 8th grade for the 2015-16 school year. For an application or info, call (412) 3647171 or www.SaintSebastianParish.org.

Seminars Legacy Theatre Seminars: Pigeon Heroes, 11 a.m., July 14; Immaculate Reflections of Art Rooney, Chuck Noll & Troy Polamalu, July 28. Call 1-877-987-6487.

Fundraisers Cindystock 12, 4 p.m., Aug. 15, Warrendale. Held for potentially life-saving cancer screening tests and essential cancer support services. For info, visit www.cindystock.org.

Eye Kandy in Zelienople is collecting gently used shoes for those in need in developing countries. The goal is to collect 10,000 pairs

by July 31.

Pittsburgh Blues Festival, July 24-26, Hartwood Acres w/headliners The Duke Robillard Band. Benefits the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Visit https://www.pittsburghfoodbank.org/events/pghblues/

Dancing Country Knight Line Dancers host a line dance 7-10:30 p.m. every Wed., in St. Athanasius Hall, cost $5 per person.

Call, Janine (412) 931-6971 or janine.beley@ gmail.com.

Handicapable Square Dancing, 7-8 p.m., weekly on Thursdays, Dorseyville Alliance Church, 3703 Saxonburg Blvd. For ages 16 & older. Register at (412) 915-8486 or (724) 443-2616 or beatty3@consolidated.net.

Saturday Singles Dance for ages 40+, 8 p.m.-midnight, July 11, “Free Pizza Party,” 7:30 p.m. free dance lesson, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy, West View.

Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight. weebly.com.

Saint Sebastian School Class of 1964 reunion, Aug. 22. The reunion committee is seeking graduates. Call (412) 364-7171.

Yes, You Can Dance! (YYCD) is a special needs ballroom program for teens (16+). Participants meet for one hour on Sundays at DancExplosion Arts Center in the North Hills or Steel City Ballroom in the South Hills. Participants are paired with a trained volunteer dance mentor. For info, call (412) 999-3998 or info@yesyoucandance.org.

Veterans

Car Shows

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

Frank J. Farina, Jr. Memorial Car Cruise, in conjunction with the Town of McCandless’ 15th annual Community Day. 2–6 p.m., Sept. 12, North Allegheny Intermediate High School, 350 Cumberland Rd. Call Larry Steckel at 412-364-1519 or lorenzoscribe@hotmail.com.

Reunions

Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs Awarded VA Grants to Support Disabled Veterans in Adaptive Sports at Slippery Rock University. For info, visit www.va.gov/adaptivesports.

Veterans Discover HOPE HereCareer, 3rd Wed., 6:30-8:45 p.m., Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 779-8323, discoverhopehere@gmail.com or www.discoverhopehere.com.

Veterans Fitness Classes 5 Days a week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. For details, visit www.prevention.va.gov/B_Physically_ Active.asp.

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Wexford Starlite Car Cruise, 5-9 p.m., Fridays thru Sept. 4, North Way Christian Community, Wexford. Visit http://www.starlitecarcruise.com/ Environmental & Gardening Events Friends of North Park Events: Garden in the Park, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Aug. 15. Call (724) 544-7284.

Great Local Gardens Contest sponsored by the Shaler Garden Club & Shaler North Hills Library runs through July 14. Visit www.shalerlibrary.org.

Latodami Nature Center Events: Are You Ready Weather or Not, 10 a.m., Jul. 11, No Water Gardens, 2 p.m., Jul. 11; Young Naturalist Program-Butterflies, 10 a.m., Jul. 6-8; Birds, July 27-29; Rid Your Home of Unwanted Chemicals, Electronic and Freon Appliances (no refrigerators), Jul. 18, Aug. 15, Sept. 19, Oct. 3 & 24, Nov. 21 & Dec. 19, 129 Ash Stop Rd., Evans City. Nominal fee, must pre-register at 1-866-815-0016.

The Rosalinda Sauro Sirianni Garden, a program of North Hills Community Outreach, at 119 Davis Ave in Bellevue has open volunteer hours Mon. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Thurs. 9 a.m.1 p.m., Tools are provided. No open-toed shoes. Contact Alyssa at aacrawford@nhco.org or (412) 307-0069 ext. 3311.

Summer Events Ice Cream Social & Fleece to Shawl, 1-4 p.m., July 12, Depreciation Lands Museum, (412) 486-0563 or DepreciationLand@gmail.com.

Movie in the Park, starts at dusk Jumanji, Aug. 11, Cranberry Park Rotary Amphitheatre.

Sisters of Divine Providence Summer Sweepstakes, one person will win $2,000 grand prize.

Additionally prizes of $500 & $100. To enter, visit www.cdsisters.org.

Steel City Con, Aug. 7-9, Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. For details, visit http://www. steelcitycon.com.

Three Rivers Storytelling Festival, Fri, Aug. 7 & Sat, Aug. 8, Winchester Thurston Campus, 4225 Middle Rd., Allison Park. For details, call (412) 449-9373 or visit www.3rstf. org.

Train Rides on the Mars Shortline Railroad in Mars, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., every Fri, thru Sept., & 1-4 p.m., the 2nd Sat., of every month. Donations are welcome. Call (724) 272-9588 or www.marshistory.org.

5K Run/Walk Penn Christian Academy 5K Run/Walk & 1/2 Mile Kids’ Fun Run, 9 a.m., Sept. 19, located in southern Butler County. Visit www.pennchristianacademy.org.

Poker Run, 8 a.m., Labor Day, Sept. 7, Arthur H. King Access Area of the Youghiogheny River Trail in West Newton.

Sponsored by the Westmoreland Yough Trail Chapter of the Regional Trail Corporation. Visit www.bikewytc.org or email wytcnews@hotmail.com.

St. Barnabas 5K Run/Walk, 9 a.m., Aug. 1. Benefits the Free Care fund. To register, visit stbarnabashealthsystem. com/stbarnabas5k/

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Festivals, Community Days & Flea Markets Flea Market, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Aug. 28, 5-8 p.m., Aug. 29, at Parkwood Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park, Bag Sale at noon. For more info, call (412) 486-9220, or visit www.parkwoodchurch.

Giant Flea Market, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., July 18, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., July 19, St. Alexis Parish, 10090 Old Perry Hwy, Wexford. Eight large rooms with housewares, small appliances, tools, sporting goods, jewelry & watches, holiday decorations, books, videos, electronics, linens, plus much more. All day Sunday everything half off. For info, call (724) 935-4343 or visit stalexis.org.

Pine Community Day, 4 p.m.-dusk, July 18, Pine Community Park. Family fun, games, great food & fireworks.

Performance by Tres Lads band. Call (724) 625-1636 x3 or pinecenter@twp.pine.pa.us.

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HAPPENINGS July 2015 Saint Alexis Parish Festival, 6-11 p.m., July 29-31 & Aug. 1, 10090 Old Perry Hwy., Wexford. Concession booths, games, prizes, bingo, rides, and raffles, and nightly dinners. Call (724) 935-4343 or visit stalexis. org.

Saint Ferdinand’s Festival, 6-11 p.m., Aug. 7, 5-11 p.m., Aug. 8, 4-9 p.m., Aug. 9, Oldenski Hall, 2535 Rochester Road, Cranberry Twp. Concession booths, games, prizes, flea market, bingo, rides, and raffles, and nightly dinners. Call (724) 776-2888 or go to http://STFERD.org.

Saint Sebastian Parish Festival, 6:30-10 p.m., July 6-11, 311 Siebert Rd., Ross Twp. Nightly dinners, super bingo, fresh produce sale, flea market, rides, games, car raffles & more. Visit www.saintsebastianparish.org.

Town of McCandless Community Day. 12:30–9:00, Sept.

12. McCandless Town Hall, 9955 Grubbs Rd., Wexford. Family fun, amusement rides, entertainment, food, and fireworks. For info, call 412-364-0616 or visit townofmccandless.org.

Whiskey Rebellion Festival, July 9-12, historic downtown Washington, Pa. Farmer’s Market, health fair, fireworks finale on the 12th. Free Family fun!

Concerts Butler Symphony Concert Series, noon on Weds., thru Aug. 26, at 259 S. Main St., Butler. Jul. 5-Cloud Chamber, Jul. 12-Maestro Matthew Kraemer & Bryan Helsel, Jul. 22-TBA, Jul. 29-Zoe Keckemethy.

Free Summer Outdoor Concerts at Shady Side Academy: Melinda, July 16; SSA Jazz Combo, Aug. 6. For info, call (412) 968-3045 or www.shadysideacademy.org/playground.

Golf & Sporting Events Butler County Chamber 59th Annual Golf Outing, Lake Arthur Golf Club. For info, call (724) 283-2222 or ButlerCountyChamber.com.

Golf Outing for Elliott Acres Therapy Riding, 10 a.m., July 12, Hartmann’s Summer Resort, 169 Hartmann Rd., Harmony. Cost $70, registration due by July 7.

For details, call (724) 283-0947.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh Kids Triathlon Series, 7 a.m., July 18, South Park Wave Pool, 7-9 a.m., Aug. 15, North Park Swimming Pool. Register online at www.kidstriathlon. org.

Lupus Golf Challenge, 10:30 a.m. registration, noon shotgun, July 13, The Club at Nevillewood. Register at, https:// lupuspaorg.presencehost.net/news-events/ events.html/event-form/golf-challenge-registration/11427/tickets.

Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities (Millvale) Golf Tournament, 12:30 p.m., July 22, at Longue Vue Club, 400 Longue Vue Dr. Call (412)821-2200, ext. 217 or visit www.sosf.org to register.

Library Northland Library, 300 Cumberland Rd., McCandless. Natural & Medical Therapies for Children w/Autism, 7 p.m., July 9; Writers at Work, 6:30 p.m., July 13 (call Hana 412364-0877); Science Spot: Sticky Science, 10 a.m., July 29; Hot Dog Day, 11 a.m., Aug. 7.

For info, call (412) 366-8100 x103 or www. northlandlibrary.org.

Thursdays in the Park, 7 p.m., July 16, Blackhorse; (8 p.m.), July 23, Keystone Musical Theatre; July 30, Network; Aug. 6, NOMaD; Aug. 13, Elvis Live, Cranberry Park Rotary Amphitheatre. Free events.

St. James Parish Elegant Junk Sale

S

t. James Catholic Parish in Sewickley along with the Women’s Guild will conduct their annual Elegant Junk Sale from 8am to 2pm on Saturday, August 1 in the school cafeteria and parish garage. There will be various household items, furniture, and more. Early bird shopping at 7:30am for a $5 donation. St. James Catholic Parish is located at 200 Walnut Street in Sewickley.

For more information please call 412-7416650 or www.saintjames-church.com F

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IMAGE & STYLE July 2015

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Hot Weather Beauty Hacks

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each bunnies, heat mavens and sun goddesses, listen up! While you may enjoy frolicking through the sand and wading in the pool, chances are your hair, skin and makeup may not be as forgiving. Even though it’s hot and humid out there, you still want to look cool and collected. At the end of a hot summer day, you can end up looking melted and wilted, or a.k.a., a hot mess! So, how do you get and keep a polished look that stands up to high temperatures?

Well, it’s not as hard as it seems but you do need to change up your everyday beauty regime to a new normal. Don’t let sunburns, bug bites or melting makeup shatter your summertime hoopla! From switching products, to quick-witted “DIY’s,” read on for ways to combat your hot weather beauty woes!

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Mistake proof makeup – Try switching up your summer style by changing your formulas. Here are a few suggestions to swap out during the summer months: If you use: Liquid foundation....................................... Try tinted moisturizer Smokey eyes...............................................Try bronzer over lids Pressed powder......................... Try loose powder with a brush Matte/dark lipstick............................ Try nude or peach lip-gloss Heavy eyeliner................................... Try long, thick dark lashes with waterproof mascara Brush on blush.......................... Try a sheer creamy bright color

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Baby powder power – When your fun in the sun is at day’s end and you feel like you could be a walking sandcastle, it’s time to break out the big guns- in a little bottle. Baby powder has the amazing ability to absorb anything that is wet, sandy or salty. Just sprinkle it all over you from your feet, legs, arms and even your hair! It’ll remove all of the sweat and saltwater which, by the way, is what adheres the sand to your skin, and you’ll be able to brush that scratchy sand off your skin with ease!

3

Deodorant do’s – it’s not just for underarms anymore! Try dry, (not roll on) antiperspirant on the back of your neck a few minutes before you blow dry your hair and feel the difference. Nothing is worse than a hot blowdryer causing you to sweat right after a shower, but do use just a dab. Also, if your sandals are causing you to blister up, you can avoid those ugly bandages by dabbing a bit of deodorant on your feet. It will counteract the friction that creates them in the first place.

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BY KELLY SMITH

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Bikini line bliss – Nothing is worse than razor rash, but on sensitive areas, it can be not only unsightly, but uncomfortable. The remedy, you may ask?

Chamomile. Very simply put, chamomile has natural herbal properties that soothe. Steep a few chamomile tea bags then let them cool down in the freezer then, lay them on the irritated skin. The calming effects will do their job in a matter of minutes and its back to beach business!

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Manicure magic – Get your best manicure in minutes! Have you ever had your polish bubble up in the heat? Well, try throwing a few bottles in the fridge as lacquer goes on smoothly when it’s chilled. Also, if you’re in a huge hurry, (and aren’t we all?) and have no time to dry, you can dip your fingertips into a bowl of cold water for 2 minutes or so and that will basically flash freeze-dry your polish enough to make them scuff free.

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Lemon mania – I love the diversity of lemons! Never have I used an edible item more often for DIY purposes than for sustenance. Try lemons to fix a self-tanning mishap by mixing with baking soda or to exfoliate dry, summer skin by mixing it with sugar. We all probably have a few sweat stains on our whites (come on, you know you do!) but, the power of lemon juice will whisk those stains away!

Simply squeeze directly onto stains before washing and the acidity will lift those stains out in no time! Make your own healthy, and invigoration face mask after a long day of sand and sun with just 2 ingredients; lemon juice and honey. Whip up this fresh concoction and apply all over and you’ll see bright, even skin in just 15 minutes!

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Bugged and bothered – The creepy crawlies and flying pests are out in full strength but if you’re like me, spray repellents, even the ones that boast “deet free,” creep me out, no pun intended. I don’t want harsh chemicals seeping into my skin. The alternative? Try a dryer sheet.

Yes, it seems those little anti-static “buggers” are fragranced to hit the spot with our noses but not so much with the bug community. Try rubbing one all over your clothes and even lightly over your exposed skin to keep the bug bites at bay.

And, don’t forget to tuck a few away in your pocket or purse.

Summer is full of pleasures but melting makeup, frizzy hair and dry, sunburned skin is not one of them. Even if those summer rays are delivering a beauty beat down, they’re no match for our knowledge of combating them with style! F

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16th Annual

Physicians & Specialists Guide

Pittsburgh remains internationally-renowned for its incredible healthcare; consistently, being one of the top factors in why Pittsburgh continues to be one of the best places to live, work and even retire. We at Northern Connection magazine our proud of the caring, dedication and skill of our area’s talented healthcare professionals. In this, our 16th Annual Physicians and Specialists issue, we highlight many of the doctors and specialists in our area, their outstanding qualifications and the type of healthcare that they provide to our families, neighbors and community. www.northernconnectionmag.com

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Lose 30 lbs. in 30 Days up to

and Keep it Off with Dr. Vactor’s Innovative Weight Loss Program!

Jen S., Pittsburgh PA Lost 47 lbs.

Tammy T., Cranberry Twp. PA Lost 48 lbs.

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as your weight loss plateaued? Do you eat right and exercise but the scale doesn’t move?

Is your metabolism slowing due to middle age or over-eating? Are you having health-related issues due to your weight? Feeling aggravated, frustrated and helpless every time you get on the scale?

With Dr. Michael Vactor’s innovative weight loss program, you can lose up to 30 lbs. in 30 days and learn to keep it off, permanently.

How it Works: Unlike other weight loss programs, Dr. Vactor’s plan focuses on losing the weight and keeping it off through a safe, healthy system that is made up of ALL-NATURAL INGREDIENTS with NO STIMULANTS. The system is, quite simply, designed to increase your metabolism. The system increases your metabolism by naturally invigorating your hypothalamus (responsible for your metabolism), without stimulants, while decreasing your hunger response. This way, your own fat-burning engine works at its optimum performance while re-acclimating your metabolism to first lose the weight and then adjust to your new body to keep off the weight.

Unlike other programs that you may have experienced, where you lose weight but then gain it all back or even more, this program focuses on first weight loss, then helping you readjust to the thinner you.

In addition, this program has consistent, predictable weight loss results where people also see a

Before

After

Patty M., Cranberry Twp. PA Lost 67 lbs. & 30 inches

Juanita S., Ambridge PA Lost 43 lbs.

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Northern Connection | July 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

dramatic improvement in their overall HEALTH in about a month’s time. According to Dr. Vactor, “I have seen cholesterol numbers, blood pressure and blood sugar levels return to normal in 30 days. People who follow our program as outlined get great results! But I must be straight-forward about our system. You must be dedicated, committed and want results.”

Several different products come with the plan, as well as, a simple, easy-to-follow meal plan that is based on normal food that you can get anywhere and prepare easily for yourself. In addition, they supply pH-balanced, ionized drinking water which is another important part of the system.

Also, exercise is NOT required. Alternatively, the focus, is getting the weight off first, so that exercise programs will help tone and strengthen rather than contribute to the risk of over-exertion from carrying too much weight.

Who is Dr. Michael Vactor, DC? Dr. Michael Vactor is a doctor of chiropractic, and a natural healthcare advocate in the north Pittsburgh area for over fifteen years.

He is also an award winning expert in weight loss management and is frequently featured on KDKA-TV, WPXI, Cornerstone-TV, radio shows and other public speaking venues on health and weight-loss issues. In addition, Dr. Vactor also cares for the players, coaches and families of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ and Pirates’ organizations.

To date, 90-95% of his patients have achieved their weight loss goals. YES, 90-95% of patients have achieved their weight loss goals. Dr. Vactor is so absolutely sure of the results and outcomes of his program, that he offers a GUARANTEE of RESULTS! Dr. Vactor and his family have lived in the Cranberry and Mars area, where he is also devoted to his community and helping his patients reach their goals. Over fifteen years in this community, he would not and could not make any such guarantee claims for weight loss, if they weren’t true.

How to Get Started: If you are serious about losing up to 30 lbs. of extraneous weight, inches off your waist and, most importantly, improving your health in about a month’s time, call for a FREE, in-office review of our revolutionary weight loss system. Our office is conveniently located at 673 Castle Creek Drive Ext., Suite 106, Seven Fields, PA 16046. http://www.drvactor.com Improve your health today! Call now, at 724-742-2700.

If you are one of the first 25 callers to schedule your no cost/no obligation consultation and in office review, and mention you saw Dr. Vactor in the Northern Connection July issue, you will receive a $50 discount good towards any of his guaranteed weight loss programs. Not valid with any other offers and new patients only are eligible. F

Here is my weight loss journey…

I

was over 205+ pounds, miserable and uncomfortable! I wanted to be healthy and thin so I could go and do everything my husband and stepson like to do! I was sitting in my home office one day, at the end of my rope about 5 minutes away from signing up for Nutrisystem (even though in my heart, I didn’t believe it would work for me because I travel for my job 50-75% of the time). I came across an ad and it was Dr. Vactor’s program. I called and made an appointment for the next free seminar to hear more…MY LIFE HAS CHANGED EVER SINCE! Not only did I lose over 65 pounds in less than 10 months, I am the happiest and healthiest, I have ever been! Plus, I have been able to successfully learn how to manage my body and keep the weight off for good!! I am NOT an actress, I am a normal woman who always struggled with her weight! This program really works if you follow it and you are willing to find the foods that don’t work for your body and stop eating them!

Here are the pictures of my results…I hope you give it a try and find the same happiness and success that I did.

Tina Z. (Wexford, PA)

Individual results may vary, depending on starting weight, adherence to the program and other factors. Complete details of the guarantee can be reviewed prior to starting the program.

www.DrVactor.com 724-742-2700 Dr. Michael Vactor, DC

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Genesis Medical Associates Genesis Medical Associates, established in 1995, is the largest, independent, primary-care practice in the North Hills. As a physician-owned independent practice, Genesis Medical Associates accepts ALL major insurances and treats patients at both UPMC Passavant and at Allegheny General Hospitals. The Physicians and Staff of Genesis are committed to providing the best quality healthcare and patient services even as healthcare continues to transform throughout the Pittsburgh region.

A

ccording to Genesis executive director, Mark Kissinger, “Our continued mission is to promote tangible advancements in quality, safety and value and to provide our patients with consistently high value healthcare in the context of a long term, patient-centered relationship.”

Specifically, Genesis Medical Associates has implemented several state-of-the-art, quality initiatives that embrace the leadingedge of the most innovative care delivery processes, including: The Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) – Credentialed in 2014 by the National Committee for Quality Assurance, Genesis is recognized as a Level 3 Patient Centered Medical Home. As a PCMH, Genesis is designed to be your “home-base” of medical care. NCQA recognizes only those medical practices that strive to obtain the best possible outcomes for patients by coordinating the medical team’s care with available community resources and active engagement in the patient’s ongoing care treatment. It represents a philosophy of healthcare delivery that emphasizes the importance of the patient-physician relationship. Physicians serve as leaders of the healthcare team that is responsible for coordinating all aspects and specialists involved in their patient’s wellness care, acute care, hospital care and chronic care management throughout their lives. The foundation of PCMH is based upon the following principles: Improved Access to Care – The goal of the PCMH and Genesis is to improve access to care, which means that in most cases, same day appointments will be accommodated whenever possible.

Use of the Electronic Health Record – PCMH practices employ the EHR to collect and store patient information and clinical data. That information is then used by your physician to manage care, identify high risk patients, track lab results and transmit prescriptions to pharmacies. In addition, physicians can communicate with testing centers and specialists through a HIPAA-secure and integrated electronic referral portal, whereby transition of care documents are electronically sent to specialist physicians and treatment reports are electronically received back into the Genesis Electronic Patient Record.

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Genesis Patient Portal - Patients can access their own medical data, view lab results, request prescription refills, send messages to their physician’s office and schedule appointments through the Genesis patient medical record portal on the web site. Beginning in July, patients will also be able to request same day office appointments directly through the Genesis Schedule App for IOS and Android devices.

Self-Care and Community Resources – The PCMH recognizes that patients want to share the responsibility for their health care with their medical team. Through a partnership with their providers, patients are encouraged to participate in managing their care and valuable community resources are made available to assist in those efforts.

Enhanced Patient Experience – Genesis Medical Associates believe that improved patient satisfaction is an important aspect of healthcare delivery. With that goal in mind, Genesis encourages feedback from patients and constantly endeavors to improve the quality of the care they provide.

Accountable Care Organizations (ACO’s) – in tandem with Keystone Clinical Partners, Genesis is co-owner of the first Physician Led Accountable Care Organization to be contracted with Medicare in Western Pennsylvania. Medicare ACO’s represent a new form of alignment between hospitals, physicians and health insurance companies and were established to coordinate care, improve quality and reduce costs. Genesis is currently working in conjunction with these entities in creating Accountable Care Alliances toward a more comprehensive approach to individual and family medicine.

Genesis Physicians recognize that healthcare is not a singular or episodic event and, as such, they take the concept of Care Coordination very seriously. Physicians will follow-up with patients to actively engage them in getting the on-going treatment necessary to control their chronic care or disease condition, as well as, to encourage appropriate preventative care based on age and gender.

To learn more about Genesis Medical Associates, Inc., their life-time dedication to providing high-quality patient care and their high standards of medical excellence, visit their website at http:// www.genesismedical.org. F

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Genesis Medical Physicians Jeffrey Bentz, D.C. is a national board certified chiropractor with an additional license in adjunctive procedures. In the past 8 years he has successfully treated thousands of patients with complex musculoskeletal conditions where multidoctoral co-management is the standard of patient care. Dr. Bentz was recently published in Dynamic Chiropractic Journal in discussion of manipulation of post-surgical knees. He has spent time in the operating room with neurosurgeons furthering his education of complex spinal surgeries. Dr. Bentz offers 3 chiropractic techniques with focus on rehabilitation of muscular imbalances and spinal disc herniation. Dr. Bentz was born and raised in the North Hills of Pittsburgh. He is married and has 2 children.

Matthew G. Cook is a Pittsburgh native and a graduate of North Hills High School, Duquesne University and Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. He enjoys spending time with his wife Corissa and his two boys Dominick (3) and Nicholas (4). In addition to treating patients in his office he is active in hunting, fishing and playing soccer. Dr. Cook has been a practicing chiropractor since 2007 and treats athletes and families of all ages. His services in his office include chiropractic manipulations, rehabilitation, extremity adjustments, medical massage therapy, decompression therapies and physiotherapies. He is proud to be serving the community and city he was born and raised in and strives for excellence through superior patient treatment, education and working collaboratively with medical, neuro and orthopedic physicians. He believes that a multi-disciplinary team approach assures the highest quality of care and outcomes for patients.

Ashim K. Dayalan, M.D. Dr. Dayalan attended the Bangalore University as well as Bangalore Medical College/St. Joseph’s College, graduating in 1988. He completed a residency in Internal Medicine at St. Francis Hospital in Pittsburgh. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and is currently a member of the American Board of Internal Medicine, The Pennsylvania Medical Society, and the Allegheny County Medical Society.

Dr. Dayalan is also certified in treating addiction by the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry. Dr. Dayalan currently serves as a preceptor for the Duquesne University School of Pharmacy and has attained recognition in diabetic care and office systems under the Bridges to Excellence program.

Some of the services provided include primary care, wellness, chronic disease management behavioral health, addiction treatment, osteoporosis management, joint injections, and a vast menu of point of service testing and treatment. He became a physician not just to help those in need, but also to experience the satisfaction of helping others. Dr. Dayalan is the proud father of one son – Raj. In his free time he enjoys playing squash, target shooting, cooking, and sports cars.

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Barbara Fardo, DO is a doctor of osteopathic medicine who specializes in Family Medicine at Genesis Medical Associates in Cranberry Township, PA. Dr. Fardo is board certified by the American Academy of Family Medicine. Selected the Community Choice Award Winner – Best Physician Cranberry Eagle for 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Eric S. Griffin D.O. was educated at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Osteopathic Medicine and he completed his residency at UPMC St. Margaret’s Hospital. He has been a member of Genesis Medical Associates for one year. Dr. Griffin is married to Dr. Adrienne Griffin and they have one child.

He spends most of his free time playing with his child and being with his family but will occasionally spend time gardening and going to the theatre. Dr. Griffin decided on Medicine as a career when he was in high school and volunteered for a day in the surgical recovery area. At the time he always wore funny ties and one of the patients was a young girl who had been in a very bad car accident and her face was almost completely covered. When she saw his Sylvester and Tweetie Bird tie she smiled and at that moment he decided that he wanted to make a difference in people’s lives and to have the sense of fulfillment that comes with it..

Daniel K. Grob, M.D. was educated at the University of Pittsburgh and completed residency at UPMC St. Margaret’s Hospital. He has been a member of Genesis Medical Associates for seventeen years.

He serves as medical director at Concordia at Rebecca Residence in Allison Park.

He is a certified medical director in Long Term Care. Dr. Grob is married to Carla and they have three children and they keep him busy but he does find time to hunt and fish, often with one or other of his children joining in the fun. There is no one defining moment when he became inspired to follow his career path but his mother remembers him claiming medicine as his future occupation at the age of 4. He sought out opportunities in high school and college to learn more about medicine and at each step his passion for medicine was confirmed and grew. It was the director at St. Margaret’s Family Practice residency that showed him the rewards of a long term relationship caring for entire families across generations.

Kurt Heil, MD is a Pittsburgh native. He attended high school at North Allegheny where he was part of the Western Pennsylvania championship wrestling team. Outside of school , he was an Eagle Scout and active leader in the Boy Scouts of America. This helped forge his love of the outdoors.

He attended the University of Notre Dame, went on to Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia and completed medical training at the Fairfax Family Practice residency program of Northern Virginia. He is proud to be part of Northern Area Family Medicine, a division of Genesis Medical Associates for 18 years. He enjoys practicing family medicine

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due the great joy it brings him to care for multiple generations, seeing them through good times and bad. Medicine has gone through many tremendous changes lately, but the shift has favored primary care, allowing him to focus on preventive medicine and promote quality healthcare. Dr. Heil has recently served as medical director of the Transitional Care Unit at UPMC Passavant Hospital. He is also on staff at Allegheny General Hospital. Finally, he is dedicated to his family, raising three talented ice hockey players.

Louis Heyl, MD joined his father Dr. Frank Heyl in family practice in 1981. He and his wife Mary have two sons who are in medical training and will join Genesis Medical Associates in the future. Presently, Dr. Heyl is president of Family Medicine at UPMC Passavant and, president of Genesis Medical Associates. He is also a member of Allegheny County Medical Society, American Medical Association and Pennsylvania Medical Society. In his free time Dr. Heyl enjoys spending time with his family and his favorite hobby is fly fishing.

Alka Kaushik, M.D. Dr. Kaushik has been actively practicing medicine since 1979. She began her education at Lady Harding Medical College, completing multiple residencies and internships in India. In 1981 she came to the United States and completed an Internal Medicine residency at Lincoln Hospital, NY. She then completed a radiology residency at Bronx-Lebanon Medical Center followed by an Anesthesiology residency at Methodist Hospital in NY. Upon relocating to Pittsburgh, she decided to specialize in Pain Management, completing a fellowship at Allegheny General Hospital in 1993. Dr. Kaushik provides full service pain management, from medication management up to and including interventional pain procedures. She holds certification from the American Board of Anesthesiology and has been a diplomate recognized by the American Academy of Pain Management. She is also a certified in acupuncture and has been certified in addiction management by the American Board of Addiction Psychiatry. She currently lives in the Pittsburgh area with her husband, Ved (also a physician) and enjoys spending time with her two daughters among her many other interests.

Joseph Kimmell, DO is a Family Medicine physician and is board certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians. Dr. Kimmell has been with Genesis Medical Associates since 2007 and currently serves on its board of directors. Dr. Kimmell was born and raised in the Pittsburgh area. Dr Kimmell is married and has two children. Osteopathic medicine provides all of the benefits of modern medicine including prescription drugs, surgery, and the use of technology to diagnose disease and evaluate injury. It also offers the added benefit of hands-on diagnosis and treatment. Osteopathic medicine emphasizes helping each person achieve a high level of wellness by focusing on health promotion and disease prevention. DOs are trained to look at the whole person from their first days of medical school,

A which means they see each person as more than just a collection of organ systems and body parts that may become injured or diseased. This holistic approach to patient care means that osteopathic doctors integrate the patient into the health care process as a partner.

Christopher G. Koman MD, CMD, FAAFP Is a family physician and has been a member of Genesis Medical Associates since 1998. Dr. Koman received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Washington and Jefferson College and his Doctorate of Medicine from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He completed residency in family medicine at UPMC-Shadyside and is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. He is a certified medical director in long term care by the American Medical Directors Association. Dr. Koman is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Medicine. Dr. Koman has held academic appointments with the University of Pittsburgh school of Medicine and Duquesne University School of Nursing. He is medical director of Vincentian Home and Vincentian Personal Care, and holds clinical privileges at AHN-Allegheny General Hospital and UPMC-Passavant. Dr. Koman has professional interests in family medicine, geriatrics and healthcare quality. His practice is recognized as a Level III Patient-Centered Medical Home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance. Dr. Koman is married with four children and is active in his parish and the community.

Shailaja Parepally, M.D. Dr. Parepally began her education in medicine in 1977, attending Osmania Medical College. Following an internal medicine residency at Harlem Hospital, NY, she made the decision to specialize in endocrinology, completing a residency in that specialty at University Hospital in Newark, NJ. Shortly thereafter, she moved with her family to Pittsburgh and has been an actively practicing Endocrinologist since. Dr. Parepally enjoys providing services to her patients and gains her greatest satisfaction from managing their conditions in order to improve their quality of life. She is currently board certified in endocrinology, and is a member of both the Pennsylvania and Allegheny County Medical Societies. Dr. Parepally has been recognized as one of America’s Top Physicians for the past several years. Dr. Parepally enjoys exercise and meditation, and is involved with her religion. She resides in Pittsburgh with her husband Hari who is also a physician, and also enjoys spending time with her two sons.

Robert H. Potter, Jr., MD has been part of the practice for 33 years. He followed in his father’s footsteps after going to Allegheny College then attending the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. He completed his training at UPMC St. Margaret’s Family Medicine residency program. Dr. Potter is also trained in geriatric medicine and serves as medical director for Celtic and Bethany Hospice Services, as well as being medical director of Kane Nursing Facility. At this time, Dr. Potter is focusing his scope of practice to a limited panel of patients, in order to provide comprehensive, direct access health care. He will continue to practice in the same office suite as his partners.

s an Independent Laboratory, Genesis Medical Laboratory offers routine testing for patients with orders from Genesis providers or others in the healthcare community with specimens conveniently drawn at Genesis Practice offices or lab location.

We are committed to a quick turnaround on testing; recognizing the importance of accurate results allowing the treating physician to begin a regimen of care or carefully monitor a health condition.

Genesis Medical Laboratory is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services through the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA).

The testing staff at Genesis Medical Laboratory is registered with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP). They are dedicated professionals who demonstrate a strong commitment to their work.

Patients seen by appointment or walk-in Monday-Friday,7 AM to 3 PM. Saturday visits by appointment only.

Tad D. Scheri, M.D. was educated at the University of Pittsburgh and completed his Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry at the University of Virginia. He completed his residency at UPMC St. Margaret’s Hospital.

He has been a member of Genesis Medical Associates for thirteen years. He serves as medical director at UPMC Cranberry Place and is a Certified Medical Director in Long Term Care. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. Dr. Scheri is married to Dedee and they have two children. He enjoys hiking, camping, traveling and cooking.

Karen L. Schogel, MD, FACP is a board-certified doctor of Internal Medicine. She is actively involved as Medical Director of Health Informatics for Genesis Medical Associates. She represents the medical staff at UPMC Passavant Hospital as a member-at-large of the Medical Executive Committee. She has served on the board of directors at the Eden Christian Academy for the past 12 years. Dr. Schogel has been elected to Fellowship in the American College of Physicians.

She and her husband have two children.

Donald Shoenthal, MD joined Dr. Heyl to practice family medicine in 1991. He and his wife Mary Ann have a daughter. Dr. Shoenthal is secretary of Genesis Medical Associates. He is board certified through the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Shoenthal is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Medical Association, Pennsylvania Medical Society and Allegheny County Medical Society. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family and is a ski enthusiast.

Warren Smith, MD was born in Johnstown and completed his undergraduate degree in Health Records Administration as a member of the first class of students in this major at the University of Pittsburgh. He subsequently served as Interim Director of Medical Records at Mercy Hospital and then Director of Medical Records at Eye & Ear Hospital of Pittsburgh before deciding to return to the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine where he obtained his MD degree. He completed a residency in Family Practice at St. Margaret Memorial Hospital in Pittsburgh and then served a US Public Health Service obligation at the Sto-Rox Family Health Center in McKees Rocks before joining Northern Area Family Medicine in 1989. In addition to assisting with the administration of the practice, he is often times called upon when there are

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computer related issues in the practice as this is an area of interest. The proud father of two children, Dr. Smith resides in Wexford and is the third of six children. Most of his siblings still live in the Johnstown area. He is one of the remaining founding partners of Genesis Medical Associates which serves much of the North Hills of Pittsburgh. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and a member of the Pennsylvania Medical Society and the Allegheny County Medical Society. He received an award for working with the US Public Health Service for greater than 15 years serving the medically underserved.

Mark A. Woodburn, M.D. His desire to enter medicine was solidified when his mother passed away of breast cancer at the young age of 43, when he was only 9 years old.

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, he graduated from North Allegheny High School. The first one to go to college in his family, he received a full scholarship to attend Denison University in Ohio, then went on to attend Drexel University College of Medicine. Following he returned to Pittsburgh and completed residency in family medicine at UPMC St. Margaret’s Hospital.

Board certified in family medicine, he especially enjoys all the many facets of medicine, including caring for patients of all ages, sports medicine and injections, and has a special interest in dermatology.

He currently lives at home in Wexford with his beautiful wife Kiley (whom he feels has a harder job than him as a stay-at-home mom), and his two daughters, Isabella and Evelyn. He prides himself on following patients during their entire line of care, from office to hospital (when needed) and even to skilled nursing home care (where he serves as medical director at Manor Care North Hills. He carries his motto “treat every patient in front of you as how you would want your own family treated” wherever he goes.

William Zillweger, MD Dr. Zillweger is a physician who specializes in Internal Medicine as a member in Genesis Medical Associates.

He is actively pursuing recertification by the American Board of Internal Medicine. His clinical focus incudes comprehensive primary care, ambulatory care, gerontology, hypertensive diseases and addiction-recovery medicine. He serves as medical director of Celtic Hospice and the Genesis Medical Laboratory. Dr. Z and his staff are dedicated to providing quality, personalized healthcare for adolescents to the elderly.

Communication, understanding, confidence and trust are the basis of his professional relationships.

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2015 Physicians & Specialists Directory Merrie Cousins, D.O. Pediatic Alliance in the Wexford Health + Wellness Pavilion

Dr. Merrie Cousins graduated Cum Laude from the University of Notre Dame in 2004 and went to medical school at Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. After completing a pediatric residency in Akron, Ohio, Dr. Cousins continued to work at Akron Children’s Hospital for three years as a pediatric hospitalist. Dr. Cousins grew up in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania and is very excited to be moving back to the Pittsburgh area to join Pediatric Alliance. Her time as a hospitalist helped her build experience taking care of acutely ill children and children with chronic, complex medical needs. Moving forward with her career, she is excited to focus on preventive care, educating patients and families on how to stay well, and how to best take care of themselves when they are ill or injured.

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Dr. R. Patrick Francis, Board Certified Audiologist Francis Audiology Associates

Dr. Francis and his staff take pride in getting to know you in a caring and professional manor. Additionally, we offer you the latest in diagnostics and rehabilitative audiology so that we can provide you the level of care appropriate for your individual needs. In providing the hearing healthcare products that protect and rehabilitate your hearing, we enable you to enjoy better hearing to your fullest potential. Dr. Francis has been serving the Pittsburgh area for over twenty five years and is located in Wexford. Please visit us at francisaudiology.com or speak with us at 724-933-3440.

C. Renee Gwin M.S. CCC-SLP Owner and speech language pathologist

C. Renee Gwin M.S. CCC-SLP, owner and speech language pathologist at NURTURE Feeding and Communication Support, LLC. She graduated from Geneva College,1997 and Masters from Clarion University, 1998. She began NURTURE Feeding and Communication Support, LLC in 2011. She has extensive continuing education and specializes in feeding, swallowing, speech, and language skills. She is trained in the SOS approach, sensory integration, and is a member of the American Speech Language Hearing Association. Renee is thankful for the infants, children, and families she has the opportunity to work with and is excited for new growth opportunities.

• How can NURTURE Feeding and Communication help you?

• Tailor an evaluation, plan, goals, and therapy activities specific to what each child needs.

• Work with your child’s doctors and specialists to determine appropriate goals.

• Provide services in your home which is familiar to your child and saves you time.

• When natural skills are difficult, we help NURTURE them.

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Alicia Hartung, DO, IBCLC

Dr. Alicia Hartung, a board-certified pediatrician and International Board Certified Lactation consultant, has lived on the same North Hills street her whole life. A graduate of Vincentian Academy, Washington & Jefferson, and the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, she joined Kids Plus in 2001 after completing her residency at Mercy Hospital.

A shareholder in the practice, Dr. Hartung is thrilled to be opening a new office so close to her home.

Lucas Godinez, DO, IBCLC

Dr. Lucas Godinez, a board-certified pediatrician and International Board Certified Lactation consultant, lives with his family in the North Hills. He joined Kids Plus in 2004 after completing an Osteopathic Internship at Meadville Medical Center and his Pediatric Residency at Mercy Hospital. A shareholder in the practice, Dr. Godinez specializes in prevention medicine, sports-related injuries and concussions, and children with special health care needs.

Ditte Karlovits, DO

Dr. Ditte Karlovits, a board-certified pediatrician, came to school in the US after growing up in Denmark. A graduate of Northwestern University and Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, she completed her Osteopathic Internship at Michigan State and her Pediatric Residency at Georgetown University. Dr. Karlovits, who lives less than a mile away from the Cranberry/Seven Fields office, joined Kids Plus in 2012 after several years as a pediatrician in the North Hills.

Todd Wolynn, MD, IBCLC

Dr. Todd Wolynn, a board-certified pediatrician, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, and 6-time Pittsburgh Magazine Top Doc, is President and CEO of Kids Plus Pediatrics. A graduate of Washington & Jefferson University, the University of Pittsburgh Medical School, and Carnegie Mellon University, he also serves as Executive Director of the Breastfeeding Center of Pittsburgh. A shareholder in the practice, Dr. Wolynn is a nationally recognized expert on immunization, pediatric sleep, breastfeeding, and practice management.

Terrance R. Krysinski, MD, RVS, RPhS Diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine

A Pittsburgh native and lifelong resident of the North Hills, Terrance R. Krysinski, MD graduated from North Allegheny High School and attended Washington and Jefferson College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and graduated summa cum laude. Dr. Krysinski earned his medical degree from Temple University and undertook his surgical training at Albert Einstein Medical Center. After completing his residency Dr. Krysinski began a private surgical practice in Western Pennsylvania.

Dr. Krysinski’s interest in lasers began while in medical school. He worked as a clinical researcher at Temple and studied the use of lasers in the treatment of lung and esophageal cancers. During his surgical residency, Dr. Krysinski expanded his interest in lasers to clinical experience. Now, in private practice, he uses his expertise in the techniques of lasers and laser surgery daily when treating patients.

Dr. Krysinski is the founding physician of the Vein Institute of PittsburghSM and (Continued on page 36)

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2015 PHYSICIANS & SPECIALISTS GUIDE Cosmetic Laser CentersSM. He is a member of the American College of Surgeons, the American College of Phlebology, the American Society for Lasers in Medicine and Surgery, The American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine, the American Medical Association, the Pennsylvania Medical Society, and the Allegheny County Medical Society.

Leah Levanduski, VMD BelaCoop Animal Hospital of North Park

Dr. Leah Levanduski joined BelaCoop’s staff as an associate veterinarian in June.

She is a Pittsburgh-area native, having grown up about an hour south of the city. Dr. Levanduski has always loved animals and has had a history of bringing strays home, much to the joy of her parents. Dr. Levanduski is a proud graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. From there, she obtained a Master’s degree in Food Microbiology from West Virginia University. She received her VMD from the University of Pennsylvania in 2011. While in vet school Dr. Levanduski worked for 4 years in the Genetics Department, where she aided in the studies of dog models for human diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Juvenile Cardiomyopathy. After obtaining her VMD Dr. Levanduski spent the past 4 years practicing General and Emergency medicine and is very excited to join the wonderful team at BelaCoop! Dr. Levanduski enjoys travelling, playing tennis, and spending time with her new nephew. She also loves spending time with her 2 very naughty cats, Lulu and Nymeria, and 2 very good dogs, Chloe and Hugo.

Brad Levenson, M.D. Board Certified Colon and Rectal Surgeon

I am a Board-Certified Colon and Rectal surgeon. Although trained in New York City in general surgery and at the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit in my specialty, I have been practicing only in Pittsburgh and western PA for the last 25 years. Over the years, the experience of contributing to new innovations has and continues to be extremely fulfilling. Some of the procedures I perform can be life-saving, such as a colonoscopy, which is a quick and painless way of preventing colon cancer. Some of the rectal procedures I perform are best done by specialists, like myself, in order to offer patients their best results and full rectal control after surgery. Ultimately, as in all of medicine, my personal interaction with so many patients I have helped is what makes my work a lasting inspiration.

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Ryan M. Levy, MD Chief of Thoracic Surgery at UPMC Passavant

Dr. Ryan Levy was born in New York, New York, raised in New Jersey, and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana but has become a “Pittsburgher” at heart. Dr. Levy received his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He then choose to stay in Pittsburgh and completed his General Surgery Residency, a Research Fellowship, a Cardiothoracic Surgery Residency, and a Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery Fellowship with UPMC. Dr. Levy’s clinical focus includes minimally invasive surgical treatment of diseases of the lungs, esophagus, and mediastinum. In the three years he spent as an attending physician in practice with Dr. Luketich, he accrued over 1,000 complex lung and esophageal operations by minimally invasive and open technologies. Dr. Levy lives in Pittsburgh with his wife of 10 years and their three children.

Ohio Valley Hospital — World Class Care. Right Next Door.

Ohio Valley Hospital (OVH) is located in Kennedy Township. A community hospital with a wide variety of services; with us, you’re just around the corner from feeling better. Some of our specialties and programs include: a Pain Treatment Center, an Acute Rehabilitation Unit, the Willow Brook Geropsychiatric Unit, senior living, dementia care, outpatient laboratory services, and The Wound Care Center. We provide a wide range of services for people suffering from diabetes. OVH is also helping to educate the next generation of medical professionals through our nursing and radiography programs. For people who may have trouble getting to the hospital, OVH offers a free courtesy van service. We have made advances in our surgical unit, offering the option for robotic-assisted surgery during gallbladder and hernia procedures, as well as in gynecology. We have a stroke telemedicine program, which allows patients with stroke-related symptoms to get the care they need. OVH also has a Cardiac Catheter Lab and Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, a critical care suite, and other top-of-the-line facilities. To learn more about our hospital and the many services available, visit http://ohiovalleyhospital.org/

Shawn Richey, D.C. Chiropractic Family Health Center

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Dr. Shawn, graduated from North Hills High School in 1988 and from the University of Pittsburgh with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with minors in Chemistry, Math and Spanish in 1994. He then spent the next 6 years to become a National Sales Account Manager.

Although the job was rewarding, he did not find the satisfaction in helping people that he desired. So, in August 2003, he graduated from Logan College of Chiropractic with a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree and a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology. “To see the transition of a person’s health and demeanor for the better because of your care is the most rewarding experience that I have encountered. My goal is to help as many people as I possibly can,” explains Dr. Richey. Healing peripheral neuropathy in hundreds of patients, getting them back to walking and living life again, are just some of the amazing results that Dr. Richey has seen in his journey of being a Chiropractor.

Adrienne Schouchoff, MD, FACC Wexford Cardiology

Dr. Adrienne Schouchoff is one of the founders and partners of Wexford Cardiology. She earned her degree from Penn State University and her medical degree from Hahnemann University School of Medicine. She did both her internal and cardiovascular residencies at Allegheny General Hospital. She is a member of the Pennsylvania Medical Society, Allegheny County Society, American Board of Internal Medicine, Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology, and American Society of Echocardiography. She is currently Board Certified in Cardiovascular Medicine, Nuclear Medicine, Echocardiography, and has earned her FACC thru American College of Cardiology.

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2015 PHYSICIANS & SPECIALISTS GUIDE

St. Barnabas Health System

St. Barnabas Health System is one of Pennsylvania’s largest health care systems of its kind, offering comprehensive, compassionate care for people of all ages. For 115 years, St. Barnabas Health System has had one simple mission: to help retirees live comfortably at a price they can afford. St. Barnabas’ spectrum of care includes four retirement communities, four living assistance facilities, two skilled nursing homes, home care, hospice, and a community outpatient medical and dental center. Our beautiful suburban campuses are located a short drive north of Pittsburgh in Allegheny and Butler Counties. Our newest addition, Beaver Meadows, is located in Beaver County. St. Barnabas provides more than $6 million in free care annually, engaging in innovative methods to raise money for its Free Care Fund such as the Kean Quest Talent Search, the St. Barnabas 5K, Rudolph Auto Repair, and Beautiful Buys Thrift Shoppe. For more information on St. Barnabas visit StBarnabasHealthSystem.com.

Katti Stoller, DVM Head Veterinarian and Owner, BelaCoop Animal Hospital of North Park

Dr. Katti Strahsmeier-Stoller is the owner and head veterinarian of BelaCoop Animal Hospital of North Park. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Dr. Stoller grew up with a love for animals and by the age of 7 she knew she wanted to be a veterinarian. She grew up with 14 beagles and cherished going along with her dad to the vet. In high school, she worked in kennels and different animal hospitals gaining experience. After graduating high school, she left to start her career as an Animal Science/Pre-Vet major at Virginia Tech University. After obtaining her Bachelor’s degree, she continued onto graduate school in Poultry Nutrition at Virginia Tech University. After leaving her Master’s program, she relocated to the island of St. Kitts in the Caribbean and furthered her education at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. She subsequently returned to the United States to finish her clinical year of study at Purdue University, obtaining her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2006. From there, she worked on Cape Cod at Sandwich Animal Hospital for 3 years, met the love of her life and moved back to Pittsburgh. She obtained a job working emergency medicine for the next 3 years and married her husband, Sam. Katti then went on to do relief work in shelter medicine for the Western PA Humane Society and White Oak Animal Safe Haven. Katti and Sam decided to make Katti’s dreams come true and open their own animal hospital. They wanted to make the animal hospital special and name it after their two dogs, Bela and Cooper, that have both passed away. Sam and Katti currently have two cats, Liamuiga who was rescued from the island of St. Kitts and Kitteness a local rescue. They also have two dogs, a golden retriever/hound mix named Pepper, who they adopted from the Western PA Humane Society and a rescued pit bull named Zen. Katti’s beloved dog, Cooper, whom this practice is named after, was such a big part of her life as well.

Her special interests include oncology, exotic medicine, emergency medicine and seizure disorders.

Dr. Stoller’s hobbies include gourmet cooking, interior decorating, shopping and spending time with her family. Dr. Stoller has also been featured in the hit TV show “My Dog Ate What!” on National Geographic Wild. She has had honorable mention in the Veterinary Practice News magazine as well as Pittsburgh Magazine.

Shannon Thieroff, D.C. Choice Chiropractic

Dr. Shannon Thieroff, the owner and founder of Choice Chiropractic, has been practicing in Pittsburgh since 1999.

She is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and Logan College of Chiropractic. Because she grew up in the North Hills, Dr. Shannon has had the pleasure of helping the people who made up her childhood community. She is licensed in Pa, Md and N.Y. and is a Diplomate of the National Board of Chiropractic examiners. Dr. Thieroff is proficiency rated in Activator technique.

Additionally, she is a graduate of the Entrepreneurial Fellowship Program through the

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Katz Business School at Pitt. Dr. Shannon enjoys working with patients of all ages and has done extensive work focusing on treating injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents as well as cervical spine conditions. She has served as a safety consultant for the Allegheny County EMS, LifeFlight and PennDOT. In addition, she has helped local school districts implement wellness programs for their teachers and staff. Dr. Shannon loves her work and greatly values the opportunities she has each day to help her patients achieve the best health and quality of life possible.

UPMC Senior Communities

At UPMC Senior Communities, we offer a lifestyle that promotes health and wellness in comfortable, worry-free surroundings. Residents have a variety of choices including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. In 18 Pittsburgh-area locations, our communities offer a full calendar of activities and programs to promote healthy senior living, including: • Wellness and education programs designed to help seniors stay active, independent, and healthy • Access to UPMC’s comprehensive medical and preventive services • Specialized, state-of-the-art memory care for those in need • Information and resources about health, social, insurance, and legal services through the Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh, a respected resource on aging-related issues At UPMC Senior Communities, you will live life well — close to the people you love, the places you know, and the activities you enjoy. For more information about UPMC Senior Communities call 1-800-324-5523 or visit UPMCSeniorCommunities.com

Michael Vactor, D.C. Doctor of Chiropractic and Natural Healthcare Advocate

Dr. Michael Vactor has cared for patients in the north Pittsburgh area for over fifteen years. He is also an award winning expert in weight loss management and is frequently featured on KDKA-TV, WPXI, Cornerstone-TV, radio shows and other public speaking venues on health and weight-loss issues. In addition, Dr. Vactor also cares for the players, coaches and their families of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ and Pirates’ organizations. To date, 90-95% of his patients have achieved their weight loss goals. YES, 90-95% of patients have achieved their weight loss goals. Dr. Vactor is so absolutely sure of the results and outcomes of his program, that he offers a GUARANTEE of RESULTS! During this time, Dr. Vactor and his family have lived in the Cranberry and Mars area, where he is also devoted to his community and helping his patients reach their goals.

“Well on your Way” with Vincentian Following an illness or surgery, adults rely on short-term rehabilitation to get them well on their way. With the right therapy program, you’ll return home happier, healthier and better than ever.

Vincentian’s rehabilitation centers focus on this outcome. Vincentian provides compassionate care throughout Pittsburgh at three locations: • Vincentian Home in McCandless • Marian Manor in Greentree • Vincentian de Marillac in Stanton Heights

Rehab centers feature the latest innovations in equipment and technology. An occupational therapy suite is equipped with appliances and fixtures to mimic home tasks. Nearby, the large, bright physical therapy gym and private speech therapy office are staffed with experts ready to help. Some 94 percent of Vincentian’s short-term residents return home, well above the industry average. Residents return home faster, too. The average length of stay is just 22 days. Interested in learning more? Call 412925-8316 or visit www.vcs.org.

Northern Connection | July 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

ADVERTORIAL

Have We Been Wrong the Whole Time?

BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF

T

wo recent news articles got me started thinking this month. Both of them raise interesting questions about why we have pain and how we decide to deal with it. One article is written by an acupuncturist who has studied the spines of people in indigenous cultures, and the other was on the cover of Time Magazine this month. Oddly enough, they’re closely related. I thought I’d share them to open the conversation and open your thinking about what we’ve considered as being “normal” or “right” and what pain is really doing to us.

NPR recently highlighted Esther Gohkale’s work on the structure of the human spine. Gohkale is an acupuncturist who suffered from excruciating back pain. She became interested in studying pre-industrial cultures. Here is what she found: • People in these cultures report significantly lower rates of back pain despite doing heavy farming and labor • The posture of these people is flatter until the bottom of the lower back where the angle is increased and she calls it a “J-Shaped Spine”

Her work is interesting because we traditionally think of the “ideal” spine as having an “S” shape when we look at it from the side.

Unfortunately, because of the remote locations of the groups of people she studied, she didn’t have access to X-rays so we’re not sure exactly how different their spine shaped is compared Time’s latest Issue to ours. But she agrees highlights one of our with most experts that the Biggest Health Issues... extended periods that we Check it out! spend sitting in a “C” shape is wreaking havoc on our health and causing us pain and disability.

The Time (June 15, 2015) article highlighted the growing epidemic of pain pill addiction that we’re facing in the U.S. Here’s what we know: 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain.

Starting in the 1980’s, with the arrival of Oxycontin, highly addictive opioid drugs started being prescribed.

In 2007, Purdue Pharmaceuticals was charged by the Department of Justice of deceptively telling doctors that Oxycontin was safer than other drugs.

We’re now seeing higher rates of HIV and Hepatitis because of pain medicine addiction.

The American Academy of Neurology last year concluded that the risk of long term opioid use for back pain and headaches outweigh the benefits.

Unfortunately, in most of these cases, the people who are becoming addicted are people who legitimately had pain from back pain, arthritis, autoimmune diseases etc.

In both cases, these studies raise the questions…

Why do we have such high rates of pain? How can we safely manage it? I think we need to re-think it, start taking care of our bodies better, respecting our structure, stop looking for a magic fix. The list goes on and on. Chiropractic is non-drug based and offers a good option for people who are trying to live in bodies that work properly and last a long time. F Brought to you as a Public Service by:

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center, P.C. Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates McKnight (412) 364-9699 Harmar (412) 826-9030 www.choicechiropractic.net We are your “in-network” provider Like us on Facebook www.northernconnectionmag.com

Northern Connection | July 2015

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2015 PHYSICIANS & SPECIALISTS GUIDE

FIT FAMILIES

One Year Gluten-Free

BY JOELLA BAKER

I

’m writing to you from Sweden. I’m currently in Stockholm and getting ready to head to Motala, Sweden where I will represent the United States at the Long Course Triathlon World Championships. One year ago, I was in Grand Rapids, MI at the National Championship Race where my goal was to qualify for Worlds. A week before Nationals, I was in the hospital with terrible stomach pains. At that time, I had no idea what was wrong with me. During the race in Grand Rapids, I got very sick because of what I ate for breakfast and on my bike that day. Fortunately, I was determined enough to fight through the pain and still finish the race well enough to qualify for Worlds. Three weeks after Nationals last year, I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease.

One year later, I’m able to control my stomach issues with a diet that eliminates all wheat. It hasn’t been easy being a celiac patient, but you do become accustomed to it.

Most of all, knowing the pain I get when I eat the smallest amounts of wheat is enough to keep me on a strict diet. It’s

amazing when you do the research on gluten-free diets and who is following them. Research shows that only 10% of people following a gluten free diet are actually gluten sensitive or celiac. Most people choose to follow a gluten free diet because they think they will lose weight or they think it’s a healthier diet. In truth, you have to change more than just your gluten intake if you want to see true health and weight loss improvements.

What have I learned about going gluten-free over the past year?

1. You won’t lose weight unless you do more than just eliminate gluten. If you go gluten-free and choose to eat all natural foods, you will lose weight. However, if you choose to replace your previous diet with glutenfree options, you won’t lose weight. Gluten-free breads, snacks, crackers, cookies, etc. are not any healthier than their gluten counterparts. In some cases, they have even more calories. Gluten-free isn’t fat-free or calorie-free, it’s simply gluten-free.

2. Cross-contamination is everywhere. Be careful where you eat out. If you are celiac, then you must explain to the restaurant and the wait staff that gluten makes you sick. I have found a few local restaurants that actually cater to those with celiac disease. They truly make an effort to keep items gluten free by having a separate kitchen or preparation area. However, most restaurants have not gotten to the point where they can keep cross-contamination out of their food. If you really want to make sure you will get a gluten-free meal, do your research and call the restaurant ahead of time.

3. If you are gluten-sensitive or you have celiac disease, going gluten-free will make a huge difference in your life. Your stomach cramps will go away, you will have less fatigue, fewer headaches and less joint pain. If you go gluten-free and you don’t notice these changes, then chances are you are not celiac or gluten-sensitive. I noticed a difference within two weeks of going glutenfree. Now if I even get a hint of gluten, I immediately feel sick.

Going gluten-free is something I have to do. If I could eat gluten, I would do it again in a heartbeat. I miss good bread, donuts and great baked goods. There are some good options out there and more continue to pop-up, but I have not found a gluten-free bread that even comes close to regular bread. On the other hand, there are some benefits to so many people choosing to follow a gluten-free diet. These people are helping to drive the gluten-free market in both retail and in restaurants. For some of my favorite gluten-free restaurants, bakeries and items, visit my website at www.getfitfamilies.com. F

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SENIOR LIVING July 2015

TOWN CRIER

Jaunting Through July

BY JOE BULLICK

J

uly is the seventh month and although the sunshine comes with enough power to make July the warmest month in most of the country, the earth is actually at its farthest point from the sun this month, known as it’s aphelion.

With any luck, sweet corn is “knee high by the Fourth of July.” An attentive gardener can hear it growing – just listen to the creaking sound.

Growing up, Mom always made a list of priority items to accomplish each day of the month. One job that I disliked was weeding the garden. However, I learned to do it right, which is to weed at the crack of dawn before it got too hot.

It was nice to have that unpleasant task done so that I could enjoy the rest of my day.

It is a good idea to follow my Mom’s example, and make a list of priority items to accomplish each day, just always make sure you complete the first one before you move on to the second one – good luck!

The hot and humid dog days begin on the 3rd, for many of us this is a sign to start our vacations. July is a great time

for recreation on the lakes and rivers with our sailboats and speedboats. It is a perfect time to go to parks and swimming pools, and drink lemonade, eat fresh peaches and watch the fireworks, and just spend time with your family.

When I was a young boy, we didn’t have the great grills like they have today. Nowadays, you can cook and enjoy lots of burgers and hot dogs and steaks hot off the grill. It seems like almost all of the sporting events and concerts have tailgaters grilling and drinking beer before the recreational event.

One Anglo-Saxon observance that occurs this month is St. Swithin’s Day which is celebrated on July 15. St. Swithin was the Bishop of Winchester and he died in 862. His final wish was to be buried outdoors. According to legend, years later when his remains were moved to an indoor shrine on July 15, forty days of rain ensued. Eggs and apples are the traditional fare for St. Swithin’s Day, no matter whether there is rain or shine.

I have attended funerals of a flag draped coffin. Have you ever noticed that the honor guard pays meticulously attention to properly folding the U.S. flag 13 times? Each fold has a specific meaning: • The first fold of the flag is a symbol of life.

• The second is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.

• The third is made in honor and remembrance of veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country, and to attain peace throughout the world.

• The fourth represents the weaker nature; as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace, as well as in times of war, for His divine guidance.

• The fifth fold is a tribute to our country. As Stephen Decatur said, “Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong.”

• The sixth fold is for where people’s hearts lie. It is with that heart that we pledge to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands.

• The seventh fold is a tribute to the armed forces.

• The eighth is a tribute to the ones who have entered into the valley of the shadow of death that they might see the night of day.

• The ninth fold is the tribute to womanhood and mothers.

• The 10th is a tribute to the fathers.

• The 11th fold in the eyes of Hebrew citizens represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

• The 12th in the eyes of a Christian citizen represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost.

• The 13th, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”

After it is completely folded and tucked in, it takes the appearance of a cocked hat, as our early military leaders wore.

Well, have a great Fourth of July; I leave you with this profound thought– “May God protect us, always.” F (Source: http://www.legion.org/flag/folding)

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Happenings for Seniors Free Home Safety Inspection is available for seniors through the Open Your Heart to a Senior program. Call Cathy at (412) 307-0069, ext.

3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org.

Free Services for Seniors through North Hills Community Outreach. Help with rides to medical appts., grocery stores, yard work. Call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 ext.

3313 or Kerry at (412) 449-0151 to schedule an in-home registration visit.

Home Instead Senior Care® is offering a unique approach to help area families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available for families at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com.

McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled.

Services Ross Twp., Berkley Hills, Swan Acres & part of McCandless Twp. Call (412) 487-4088.

Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring Help a child learn to read! No teaching experience necessary. Free training given to adults 50 & over, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Aug. 4-6, at Macy’s downtown on the 11th floor. For info call John at (412) 232-2021 or by e-mail at jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

UPMC Senior Communities offers independent living & personal care. For details, call 1-800324-5523.

Support Groups

Seminars

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 10 a.m., 1st Monday of each month, St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 2554 Wildwood Rd. Call Suzie, at (412) 3376731.

Franklin Delano RooseveltCommander-in-Chief, 2:30 p.m., July 14, Strabane Trails Village, Washington, Pa., (724) 225-4100.

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

Good News for Bad Knees, 2:30 p.m., July 8, Beatty Pointe, Monroeville, (412) 374-9000.

Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets 3 p.m., the 1st Mon., of every month, and 2 p.m., the last Friday. Contact Pam, at (724) 779-5020.

Senior Meetings Cranberry Senior Citizens Club for residents 55+ meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center.

Call (724) 816-4977 for info and programs.

Friendship Groups for Visually Impaired, Men’s Group meets every Weds. 1-3:15 p.m., Knitting & Crocheting Circle meets every Weds., 1-3:15 p.m., Monthly Meeting 2nd Thurs. of each month 1:15-3:15 p.m., The Lunch Bunch meets 4th Thurs. of every month 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon. of each month 1-2:30 p.m. For info, call (724) 444-0064.

Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. For info, call (412) 741-4900 or visit http://www.ccgf.org.

How to Take the Stress Out of Moving, 2:30 p.m., July 8, Vanadium Woods Village, 50 Vanadium Rd., Bridgeville, (412) 221-2900.

Entertainment & Social Events Banjo Club, 2 p.m., July 13, Sherwood Oaks, Cranberry Twp. 1-800-642-2217.

The Dream MachineMoguls to Mavericks, 2:30 p.m., July 22, Hampton Fields Village, (412) 492-8448.

Elvis Tribute, 2 p.m., July 20, Sherwood Oaks, Cranberry Twp. 1-800-6422217; 2:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., July 21, Vanadium Woods Village, 50 Vanadium Rd., Bridgeville, (412) 221-2900; July 22, Beatty Pointe, Monroeville,(412) 3749000; 7 p.m., July 23, Seneca Hills Village, Verona, (412) 793-1700; 2:30 p.m., July 24,Strabane Trails Village, Washington, Pa., (724) 2254100.

Legacy Lineup, 11 a.m.

July 14, Pigeon Heroes, July 28, Immaculate Reflections of Art Rooney, Chuck Noll & Troy Polamalu, (412) 635-8080.

Pittsburgh’s Own Etta Cox, 2:30 p.m., July 8, Hampton Fields Village, 4480 Mt. Royal Blvd., (412) 492-8448.

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Health & Wellness Schenley Shuffle presented by Open Your Heart to a Senior & the University of Pittsburgh Student Occupational Therapy Association, 8 a.m., Sept. 26. Visit SchenleyShuffle. com.

Volunteer Opportunities: Drivers Urgently Needed for Volunteer Shuttle Service, NHCO, in partnership with Allegheny County and St. Margaret Foundation.

The new shuttle will pick up seniors on various days on the Route 28 corridor for local UPMC medical appts. No special license is required and training is provided. Contact Kerry at (412) 449-0151 or kkmulhern@nhco.org.

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit Hospice patients. For details, call (412) 367-3685.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Faith in Action program is seeking Senior Companion volunteers.

For details, contact Nancy, at (412) 307-0069 or nljones@ nhco.org.

Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteer orientations, 9:30 a.m., July 7, Cooper Siegel Library, Fox Chapel; 3 p.m., July 15, NHCO, Ferguson Rd., Allison Park, 9 a.m., Aug. 4, Panera, McKnight Rd., 6:30 p.m., Aug. 11, Shaler, EatN-Park, 10:30 a.m., Sept. 15, Lighthouse Pointe, Fox Chapel.

Visit oyhs.org.

Pittsburgh Friendship Group is looking for volunteers to help visually impaired seniors. No experience is necessary. Call (724) 444-0064.

Volunteer drivers are needed for various programs to help seniors. For details, call (412) 307-0071 or allegheny@ openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Northern Connection | July 2015

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS July 2015

Blues Star Museums, Civil War Reenactment and PTSD Awareness Month

BY PAULA GREEN

B

lue Star Museums is collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families (up to five family members), including National Guard and Reserve, now through Labor Day, September 7.

One local institution, The Harmony Museum located at 218 Mercer St., in Harmony has joined the Blues Stars Museums collaborative efforts. “Historic Harmony, as the nonprofit historical society and preservation advocate operating the Harmony Museum, chose to participate in Blue Stars Museums with so many other institutions in demonstrating appreciation for national service of our military’s members,” said Harmony Museum’s president John Ruch.

For more information Blue Stars Museums, visit, http://arts. gov/national/blue-star-museums#sthash.RpjUUGwb.dpuf.

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust Inc., along with the County of Allegheny County recently presented a historical wartime event. The two hosted a Civil War living history weekend which took place June 27 and 28 at Hartwood Acres in Hampton Township.

This year commemorates the 150th Anniversary of the war’s end. The two-day event featured battle reenactments with actors portraying soldiers from both the Northern and Southern Armies. Authentic camps were

set up and a Civil War music concert was performed by Wildcat Regiment Band and David Kincaid performed music of the Irish American Civil War soldier.

A few other military programs were recently held at VA Butler Healthcare. The medical facility sponsored two events for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in June for PTSD Awareness Month. A person can suffer from PTSD after they experience a traumatic lifethreatening incident, such as combat exposure. VA Butler hosted a free, educational event for family and friends call Helping a Family Member Who Has PTSD – Information Session.

The other program VA Butler presented was a PTSD Awareness Day event. An informational table was setup and VA Butler Behavioral Health Staff were available throughout the day to answer any questions or concerns from veterans and their families.

“During PTSD Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to learn what it is, who is affected and how treatment can help. Know that recovery from PTSD is possible and that it takes a great deal of courage and strength to ask for help,” said VA Butler’s PTSD team lead, Dr. Mary Jane Niebauer. For more information on PTSD, call 800362-8262, ext. 5039 or www.ptsd.va.gov. F We welcome brief biographies and photos of local servicemen and women from our community. If you know of someone you’d like to see featured in this column, please call (724) 940-2444 or mail the information to: Northern Connection Magazine, P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722 or email northcon@consolidated.net.

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KIDS & EDUCATION

School Movers & Shakers North Allegheny The North Allegheny School District (NASD) announced the release of the 2015 Niche School Districts with Best Sports Program Rankings, which places NASD at #1 in PA and #4 in the nation. More than 10,000 school districts nationwide met the necessary requirements to be included in their final ranking results.

The North Allegheny School District Board of School Directors voted to approve Daniel Swogger to serve as principal for Marshall Middle School. The effective date of appointment is July 1.

Daniel Swogger

The North Allegheny School District Board of School Directors voted to approve John Kreider to serve as principal for North Allegheny Senior High School. The effective date of appointment is July 1.

John Kreider The North Allegheny School District announced that the NA Junior Classical League (JCL) now holds eighteen consecutive State

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Championships. The NA JCL team, comprised of 98 students in grades 8–12, competed at the 64th annual Pennsylvania Junior Classical League State Convention. NA students participated in every aspect of the competition which included athletic, artistic and academic events.

Mars Area Mars Area teacher Darcy Silbaugh was selected to receive a 2015 Red Apple Education Award, presented by the Education Impact Council of the United Way of Butler County and XTO Energy.

Mars Area senior Francis Folz signed a letter of intent to join the Fighting Scots Men’s Swimming & Diving Team at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

Mars Area Elementary School collected 1,423 non-perishable items to benefit The Lighthouse Foundation food bank as part of an annual Food Drive, held May 18-22.

(Continued on page 50)

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Seneca Valley Seneca Valley accounting students placed second and third at the Geneva College Accounting Competition. The second place team included Melissa Karidis, Ann Chen, Katie Lutz, McKenzie Cullen and Adali Deiss. The third place team included Jack Harper, Michael Maloney, Samantha Logan, Victoria Pfab and Becky Turner.

Seneca Valley senior Bailey Hixon and sophomore Julia Kooser both placed first in the state level Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) Competition at Penn State University, on May 17-19.

Eric Chatterjee and Callee McCosby, members of the Seneca Valley Class of 2015, were awarded national recognition at the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in New York City on Friday, June 5.

Seneca Valley senior Teresa Leatherow has been chosen as the recipient of the Pittsburgh World Affairs Council’s prestigious Donald E. Farr Award for 2015.

Teresa Evans City Elementary and Leatherow Middle School students and staff raised over $20,610.90 at the 8th annual STOMP Out Cancer Walk. The schools presented the check to the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI). STOMP is held in memory of two faculty members, Linda

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Saulle and Roy Waugaman, who lost their battles with cancer. More than $101,592.50 has been raised over the past seven years with 100 percent of the monies going to the UPCI. Evans City Elementary and Middle School students raised $5,602.95 in the school’s annual Jump Rope for Heart event which supports the American Heart Association research and education initiatives that save lives.

Shaler Area Zach Reed, a freshman at Shaler Area High School, placed third in WQED’s August Wilson Education Project “The 11th Play Competition” for his play, Lead Astray.

The Shaler Area School Board approved the hiring of Dr. Victor Morrone as acting superintendent. Dr. Morrone will temporarily replace Superintendent Dr. Wesley Shipley, who resigned from his position effective June 30, while the District conducts the superintendent search.

(Continued on page 52)

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KIDS & EDUCATION

Vincentian Academy

Vincentian Academy recently graduated 75 students, all of which will further their education by attending a four year college or university.

Vincentian Academy is pleased to maintain its 100% graduation rate and 100% student acceptance into a college/university. This year’s co-Valedictorians were Lindsay Caprio and Nathan Smith.

Shaler Area High School and Middle School teams spent the entire 2014-15 school year competing in the Fairchild Challenge at Phipps and took top places. The Shaler Area Middle School team placed first overall in the middle school category. The students competed against 46 area schools and a total of 3,700 students.

Shaler Area receives $20,000 grant to provide STEAM experiences to primary students.

The grant was awarded through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s Center for Creativity and provided by the Chevron Corporation, the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and the Grable Foundation.

St. Joseph Saint Joseph High School sophomore, Caroline Lindey of Butler, has been chosen to participate in the Constitutional Academy located in Washington, DC from July 13 to 18 and granted a full scholarship.

Caroline Lindey

Shady Side Academy Shady Side Academy Senior School students Alisa Pugacheva and Chirag Kulkarni have been named student members of the board of the Beckwith Institute, a health care institute dedicated to improving patient care.

Pugacheva, a junior, will serve one year on the board, while Kulkarni, a sophomore, will serve a two-year term.

Shady Side Academy junior Alisa Pugacheva placed first in the state and sixth in the nation in the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest, hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, earning her $600 in college scholarships.

The 17 players of the Shaler Area Middle School U15 boys lacrosse team took time out in May to plant flowers and shrubs in the middle school Courtyard Garden under the direction and supervision of lacrosse coach Alan Jaspert.

Burchfield Primary students won top awards in Garden Club Federation of Pennsylvania contests. The following students have been recognized for their work: Isabelle Dutkovic, Parker Fox, Nate Grimes, Darius Malecki, Brady McDonald, Baleigh Mooney, Alyssandra Poliziani, William Rea, Dunnovan Ronel and Madison Werner.

Hampton Hampton High School hosted its first MiniTHON to benefit the Four Diamonds in its quest to conquer childhood cancer. The students raised $11,074.04.

Hampton Middle School student, Tejas Badgujar was named a Top 10 National Finalist in the 27th Annual National Geographic Bee. Tejas placed fourth in the competition, which was held May 11-13 in Washington, D.C.

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Shady Side Academy junior Abbie Minard’s (Valencia) essay, The American Revolution: Product of the Enlightenment, won first place in both the Pittsburgh chapter and the state in the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the American Abbie Minard Revolution (PASSAR) George and Stella Knight Essay Contest. As the state winner, Minard received a $500 prize, and her essay will advance for consideration in the national contest.

The Shady Side Academy Middle School Science Olympiad Team placed among the top 20 teams in the nation for the third straight year, finishing 16th out of 60 teams in Division B (grades 6-9) at the Science Olympiad National Tournament, held May 15-16 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Shady Side Academy Senior School appointed Paul “Elk” Elkins dean of student and residential life. Elkins will be responsible for the student life curriculum and residential life program at the Senior School, including the advisory program, discipline, student support, student activities, orientation, and residential life staff and programming.

Coming in August Avonworth Avonworth Elementary School received a $20,000 grant from the Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s Center for Creativity. The school utilized the funds to create the C.A.R.E. (Connect, Apply, Repurpose and Engage) with STEAM curricular projects.

St. Sebastian Two St. Sebastian Junior High teams competed at the Crusader Quiz Bowl. St. Sebastian competitors included eighth grader Mary Doerfler; seventh graders Eric Ford, Sarah Petrunia and Emma Polen, and sixth grader Connor Stutz. Mary Doerfler and Sarah Petrunia won second place overall.

BACK TO SCHOOL 2015!

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Saint Sebastian School students competed in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science state competition. Xavier Moskala won first place and a perfect score meaning that all judges believed his project went above and beyond what was expected. Also earning first place honors were Mary Doerfler, Emma Sennott, Patrick Sharpe and Kate Wells.

John Adamczyk, Anne Kilpatrick, Lauren Krebs and Michael Taffe received second places.

Fourteen Saint Sebastian School students had their original poems selected by judges for publication by Creative Communications. They are Ava Barkich, Zoe Blankenship, Madeline Cassella, Elisa Chapman, Elizabeth Ford, William Hoerster, Naomi Jesionowski, Andrew Koman, Michael Lukasik, Rebecca Moorhead, Evan Payne, Nicholas Santucci, Nicholas Tarquinio and Marisa White. Because of the number of students included in the anthology, Saint Sebastian School has been named as a Poetic Achievement Honor School.

Providence Heights Alpha School Thirteen Providence Heights Alpha School students placed in first- and second-place in the 81st annual Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) State competition. The following student received awards: Adrianna Amelio, Claire Green, Nolan Jacob, Christopher Katyal, Max Kress, Jacob Lowry, Grace Lunak, Sean McCarthy, Emily Meinert, Sarah Pritchard, Hannah Schupansky, Hollie Walters, and Anthony Warda. In addition, their science teacher Linda Cessar was also recognized by the Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh (SACP) during their annual awards ceremony.

Aquinas Academy Aquinas Academy fourth grader, Liam Ellis of Gibsonia, is one of two national winners of the Scholastic “Be A Backyard Superhero” Essay Contest. Representatives from Scholastic, together with the real Turf Mutt, the Super Hero Dog traveled to Pittsburgh to present a $5,000 check to Aquinas Academy for use in greening the school grounds.

La Roche College The North Hills-McKnight branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) recently named La Roche College Professor Sister Rita Yeasted, SFCC, Ph.D., the Outstanding Woman of 2015.

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KIDS & EDUCATION

Former La Roche College Baseball starting pitcher Tyler Ferguson has signed a contract to play professional baseball for the Washington Wild Things.

La Roche College is pleased to announce that 350 students were named to the dean’s list for the spring 2015 semester. The dean’s list recognizes the academic excellence of full-time students who have completed a minimum of 12 credits and earned a QPA of 3.5 or higher. Parttime students are eligible at the completion of each spring semester if requirements have been met during the course of the academic year.

Saint Vincent College Saint Vincent College Office of Student Affairs has been named a national winner in the category of “Best Practices for Mission Integration” by the Association for Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASACCU) for its program that assists students in the development of healthy relationships.

Br. Mark Floreanini, O.S.B., associate professor of Fine Arts at Saint Vincent College is completing work on a large mural of a banana split which was commissioned by Valley Dairy Restaurants.

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STARTING THE CONVERSATION

What’s Fracking?

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

A

t a dinner earlier this year with a colleague from Oklahoma, she mentioned that now, not only do they have tornados to deal with, they have earthquakes.

I was shocked by this, having lived on the Pacific Rim for six years, I am very familiar with fault lines and I knew there aren’t any significant ones under the Great Plains – definitely not ones that could produce 3.0 magnitude and higher quakes.

So I asked, “Could it be all the fracking?” Fracking is a new technology that enables drillers to access pockets of oil and gas that under previous technology was considered unreachable. Although great for the economy and to help us become less dependent on foreign oil, there are negative side effects to the environment. However, this was the first that I had heard that earthquakes were a possibility.

According to my colleague, the state officials refused to admit the quakes could be caused by the fracking. Even though, as with Pennsylvania, since Oklahoma had no significant experience with quakes, the buildings and infrastructures are not engineered to withstand quakes as they are in California, and so, consequently, residents are experiencing quite a bit of damage. However, just a few weeks ago, the Oklahoma government finally acknowledged the connection. Now the question becomes, what should they do and, likewise, what should we do here in Pennsylvania?

As always, I am very interested in your thoughts, let’s “Continue the Conversation” regarding fracking on my blog at http://northernconnectionmag.blogspot.com where I also have additional information and articles for your consideration. F Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/22/us/oklahomaacknowledges-wastewater-from-oil-and-gas-wells-as-majorcause-of-quakes.html?_r=0

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