January 2022 issue - Northern Connection Magazine

January 2022

CONNECTING YOU TO THE COMMUNITY FOR 23 YEARS

Agora Cyber Charter School

Offers Continuous Education for PA Students Grades K-12 Also...

2022 Education Guide | Trivial 22 | Let It Go | Vietnam Veterans, Inc.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

January NC Features 8 Jackson “Jax” Ramirez 32 January Events 32 Facts from the Farm: When Helping Isn’t Always Best Ron Eichner 33 Home Guide

2022 Education Guide 10 Cover Story: Agora Cyber Charter School Offers Continuous Education for PA Students Grade K-12 12 Choose the Right School for Your Child PA Cyber 14 Passion Projects Ignite Kids’ Curiosity at Shady Side Academy 16 Travel Tales Oakland Catholic 18 ADVERTORIAL: Providence Heights Alpha School The Palladino Family 21 Katie’s Clay Studio 22 School Movers & Shakers

Health & Wellness 26

Let It Go Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm

Advertorials 25 Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey

In Every Issue...

4 Movers & Shakers 6 Mover & Shaker of the Month: Jada Nabry and Teammates Raise Funds for Cancer Bridges 28 Trivia Connection: Trivial 22 Paula Green 30 From the Editor: What’s the Rush? Janice Lane Palko 31 Support Our Troops: Vietnam Veteran, Inc. Paula Green

Coming in the February issue of Northern Connection

2022 Health Care Guide Winter Happenings 2

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NORTHERN CONNECTION P.O. Box 425 Mars, Pa. 16046

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Phone: 724-940-2444 ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com President & Publisher

Laura Lyn Arnold Publisher Emeritus & Contributor

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Janice Lane Palko Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Associates Graphics, Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing , LLC Core Writers

Belinda Burchick Ron Eichner Paula M. Green Janice Lane Palko

Northern Connection is published twelve times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge to the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year.

The mission of the Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest community publication, Northern Connection. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, and recreational needs of the area.

The contents of Northern Connection magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Northern Connection magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Movers & Shakers Highlighting its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality, Butler Memorial Hospital was named a Top General Hospital nationally by The Leapfrog Group. “We are exceptionally pleased that Butler Memorial Hospital received the hard-earned distinction of being one of the safest and highest quality hospitals in the country,” said Ken DeFurio, BMH President & CEO. “Our entire team again receives the recognition they deserve for the excellent care that they provide every day.”

Dec. 21 marked National Homeless Persons Memorial Day. In honor of this event, Pittsburgh Mercy invited the public to remember persons who died while experiencing homelessness in 2021 at their annual candlelight vigil.

Memorial Park Church recently welcomed Rev. Christopher S. Eatough as their new Lead Pastor.

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St. Margaret Foundation announced $721,688 in grants for 2022 in alignment with the organization’s strategic priorities of: 1) Patient Access 2) Patient Education and 3) Patient Experience.

Carnegie Science Center is launching a new campaign to update Buhl Planetarium with needed refurbishments. The campaign will expand seating accessibility with wider, updated seats and an area of moveable seating to allow for wheelchairs, as well as refresh the theater with new carpeting.

Clarisse Jordan of East Liberty has spent decades of her life working on behalf of people living with HIV in Pittsburgh. Now, she is sharing her story, as well as the stories of people across Clarisse the country living with HIV, in Jordan a new book, Life After … The book is published by Love Wins Publishing and features stories from eight writers, recruited by Jordan.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH

Jada Nabry and Teammates Raise Funds for Cancer Bridges Seneca Valley senior Jada Nabry “cheered up” SV’s athletic director by taking the lead on a very special project. As part of her Leadership class, Miss Nabry decided to create pink #SVALLIN T-shirts that she advertised and sold.

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s cheerleading captain, she also enlisted the help of her squad to promote sales of the shirts. All money raised would go to Cancer Bridges in support of SV’s very own Athletic Director, Ms. Heather Lewis. In total, Miss Nabry, along with her fellow cheer and dance teammates and additional donations from Raider Crate and the SV Marching Band, was able to donate $6,105 to Cancer Bridges. The check was presented to Ms. Lewis on Nov. 16.

“I just wanted to help a community that many people don’t look out for,” stated Miss Nabry. “What I am most proud of is that the money we were able to raise will help so many people.” At the game on Oct. 29, SV Cheerleaders, the band and the student section, showed their support by donning Miss Nabry’s pink T-Shirts.

“I am so proud of Jada, the cheerleaders, dancers, the band and all of the teachers, friends and families that bought the shirt and donated,” said SV cheerleading coach, Laura Wise. “I know Heather never wanted to be in the spotlight or for any of this to be about her, but she is bringing a school together for something bigger. As Heather says to us coaches... ‘Be a leader, teacher and mentor.’

She is that to me and to so many.”

To learn more about Cancer Bridges, visit https://cancerbridges.org/. n

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NC FEATURE

Jackson “Jax” Ramirez Be the Match for “Jax”

Missy and Pete Ramirez need a bone marrow match for their six-year-old son Jax. About six weeks ago, Jax was diagnosed with IPEX Syndrome, an extremely rare genetic disease that affects 1.6 million. Although, typically, children die within the first two years of life with this syndrome, thankfully, Jax is a miracle and has defied those odds. However, he now needs another miracle; and time is of the essence.

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ecause of Jax’s unique genetic make-up—Mexican, German and Irish—his HLA typing is rare. The doctors told Missy and Pete that the likelihood of them finding a perfect bone marrow match for Jax is like winning the lottery. Jax needs a diverse group of people to consider donating marrow (or blood) to him.

Unfortunately, Jax’s younger brother, Lincoln, whom he adores, is not a match. So, the Ramirez family must desperately search outside the family.

In an effort to help Jax, a live donor drive is upcoming on January 25 at Slippery Rock University. Fundraisers are also being coordinated for January at the CycleBar at The Block Northway. CMU is also solidifying a date. Tom Yankello’s World Class Boxing Gym will also host live drives every weekend in January. In addition, fundraisers will be held in other states such as Florida and El Paso, Texas.

There are 31 million possible donors in the donor bank, zero are a match for Jax. Here’s what the Ramirez family is looking for: swabbers-18-40 years old, healthy people who would be able to swab and donate marrow or blood.

Sponsors for match drives: Your contact would just have to say yes, provide a potential location (like a church, community center, small business, restaurant, and library). The Be the Match organization would do all that is needed if a drive could be sponsored.

A “Go Fund Me” page has been set-up to help Jax for pre and post medical expenses. For more information, visit https://gofund.me/9cd37ae6. You can also help by joining, Be the Match and text “JAX” to 61474. Be a hero today and help Jax find his match! n

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2022 Northern Connection Education Guide

In this rapidly changing world, nothing seems to stay the same for very long. That is true even with our educational institutions.

To stay the same is to fall behind. We are fortunate in our area to have many innovative programs, facilities and educators who believe in adapting to the times. In this our 2022 Education Issue, you will learn, among many things about schools that excel in not only creating scholars, but humanitarians and who are adopting courses that will prepare students for our everchanging world.

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COVER STORY

Agora Cyber Charter School Offers Continuous Education for PA Students Grade K-12 Agora Cyber Charter School, an online public school established in 2005, has delivered an uninterrupted education to Pennsylvania students grades kindergarten through 12th for the last 16 years. The continuous educational choices begin with kindergarten and extend to graduation from the 12th grade.

Agora Stands Alone

A rigorous curriculum is delivered to all Agora students in real-time by PA-certified teachers. Live classroom instruction provides students with an engaging education, while going to public school in the safety and comfort of their homes. Deciding which educational opportunity best fits a child’s needs is crucial, and Agora has spent over 16 years ensuring their online educational model allows each student’s needs to be met.

Agora teachers incorporate a variety of options to differentiate and work with the range of skill levels that exist within the classroom. We believe that a student succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school—one that thrives on communication. It is Agora’s vision to assist students in becoming lifelong learners.

Agora’s enrichment programs span throughout all grades with the National Honor Society chapters available for grades 4 to 12. Elementary and Middle School have Advanced Learners Programs, High School has 19 AP courses and 14 honor courses. Agora’s student-driven programs and curriculums are designed to provide all students with the best educational options which will meet their individual needs.

Twenty-eight percent of Agora students have an IEP. Upon enrollment the student’s IEP is immediately implemented, a review of the special education documents and

curriculum-based measures are then completed, following those processes a meeting with the family is conducted and the IEP is adapted to cyber education. Specially designed instruction and a standards-based curriculum are delivered by qualified staff to meet the educational, emotional, and physical needs of all students.

Unique to Agora are 83 family coaches who are the first point of contact to welcome the families to Agora and online learning. We refer to the family coaches as boots on the ground, as they are regionally located throughout the state. They are the liaison between the school and the family and provide an extra layer of support to the student for a successful educational experience. The family coach also organizes social opportunities for the students, during the last year this was done online.

Sixteen years of perfecting online cyber education has allowed Agora to offer robust schooling to any child in Pennsylvania who desires it, no matter the circumstances.

Upon enrollment, each student receives a laptop, printer and all resource materials needed for online success. It takes a village to educate a student, at Agora from your first contact with the Enrollment Concierge, to the orientation and school advisers, principals, teachers, family coaches, we all rally around your student with you, as an essential support, for a successful cyber education. n

Register to attend Virtual Open House and meet live with an Agora Enrollment Concierge who will walk you through an overview of Agora and answer your questions at agora.org or call us directly at 844-462-4672.

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Elementary School

Elementary school principal Jansen Hornbake states “Agora’s elementary program builds a strong foundation of skills as students transition from learning to read to reading to learn. The students develop a deep conceptual understanding of math skills that lay the groundwork to success in their later years of schooling. Students who begin their journey here at Agora are able to shine as this learning progression continues through each school year.”

Students in kindergarten through grade 2 will be assigned one teacher for all core subjects. However, in grades 3 to 5, students will work with a team of teachers who each teach a specific core subject. Agora elementary teachers use their talents to develop and execute engaging, academically challenging lessons to meet the diverse needs of the learners in the classroom. Agora teachers and staff work alongside students and Learning Coaches to develop warm, caring learning environments where students can take academic risks in a safe space. It is our goal each day to help students achieve their potential.

Middle School

Agora’s middle school is the grade span in which youngsters are most transformed throughout their academic career. They enter middle school as children and leave as young adults. Bridget Kozar, middle school principal states “We help students become independent with their learning and take responsibility for their education, as they continue to find their unique strengths and encourage them to flourish as they move towards high school.”

In middle school, Agora students are offered a standards-based curriculum in four core content areas: history, science, math and ELA. In addition, students may have the opportunity to participate in teacher-led electives of music, art and physical education. Agora’s goal is to prepare students for life beyond the classroom, so middle school students are exposed to a career-readiness course as well as a computer-literacy course.

High School

The high school team has designed courses and instruction to engage the 21st-century learner with multiple units, lessons, and activities that allow for differentiation, practice, exploration, and assessment of learned skills. Parents can easily support their students by accessing the student calendar, which clearly illustrates assignments, due dates and grades in one easy-to-use tool designed to improve student focus.

Agora’s high school credit-based program values a well-rounded individual and believes that students who study the arts as well as history, mathematics, science and language arts have the best chance to be competitive members of their community after graduation. Agora students are offered a variety of career paths to post-secondary life. In addition to the core subjects, students have the option of choosing from 80 electives, 19 AP courses, and 14 honor courses. Destinations Career Academy offers industry-relevant pathways in Healthcare, Business and Information Technology and are complementary courses to the traditional high school program. “At Agora, we support your student in charting a new course. Whether it is a career pathway or college prep, we have courses that will guide them on their path to success,” explains high school principal Jeff Miller. 18 Agora school counselors are on hand to assist students with their academic, social, and emotional needs, to help them navigate high school and beyond. www.northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com | JAN | U JANUARY A R Y 22022 022

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2022 EDUCATION GUIDE

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Choose the Right School for Your Child

arents in Pennsylvania have the power to select the best school for their children. Make the most informed choice possible because education is not a game—it’s your child’s future.

Join the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School (PA Cyber) in celebrating National School Choice Week January 23–29 in honor of the 1.7 million Pennsylvania students who deserve the right educational fit.

PA Cyber’s legacy of nearly 20,000 graduates proves that a unique online education works for many. Over the past two decades, PA Cyber has grown and evolved—right along with its students—becoming one of the largest, most experienced, and most innovative online public schools in the nation. Its students can choose live instruction or a self-paced format. They can select a class schedule to best suit their lives outside of school.

And they can complete their schoolwork anywhere. PA Cyber families embrace the flexibility of allowing the school to fit the student—instead of the student having to fit into the school.

If it becomes necessary to try a “different way to school,” consider leveling up with PA Cyber. Make the choice. For more information, visit pacyber.org or call (724) 643-1180. n

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2022 EDUCATION GUIDE

E D U C AT I O N S P O T L I G H T

Passion Projects Ignite Kids’ Curiosity at Shady Side Academy “How does gravity work?” “What’s the difference between bees and wasps?” “How did they build the pyramids?”

C Allison explored the effects of anesthesia on the body, building a model for her presentation.

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hildren are born with a sense of wonder about the world around them, and harnessing that natural curiosity can ignite more meaningful learning experiences. At Shady Side Academy Country Day School, fourth and fifth graders have the opportunity to explore their individual interests through “Passion Projects” – inquirybased, student-directed learning experiences.

Passion Projects take place over 2-3 months and involve six Ps: Passion, Plan, Pitch, Project, Product and Presentation.

Students are challenged to come up with

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three things they are interested in learning about, and to think about how they would explore each idea and share their learning with the class. What kind of research will they do? What materials will they need?

What will they create to show their learning?

How long will it take? Students pitch their ideas to a teacher and small group of peers, who ask questions that help them think through which one might be best to pursue.

Once they’ve selected a topic, students dive right in. Teachers take a fairly hands-off approach to empower students to drive the

Tristan learned to make a stop-motion video using a LEGO backdrop as a green screen.

projects, providing support when needed.

In addition to homeroom teachers Justin Rebitch (grade 4) and Raquel Kramer (grade 5), librarian Courtney Anderson helps with research and educational technology specialist Jody Kokladas helps with technology.

Students can also tap other adults in the SSA community for their expertise. For example, Jesse Robinson, director of the Senior School’s Glimcher Tech & Design Hub, helped Wenwen learn to design and 3D print a model house and Solomon learn computer animation last year.

Once they’ve completed their Passion Projects, students present them in class either in person or through a video, website or digital presentation. The projects are as unique as the students themselves. Leanne created an online personality test. Beau designed vinyl skateboard decals. Mason built a cardboard marble run. Coulter created a website about cat breeds. Makenna built a robotic LEGO dog. Ysabelle learned how to sew a dress. Zach created a digital book about how to ride a bike.

“Passion Projects build confidence and a sense of independence,” said Rebitch. “That sense of ownership, of knowing you did something all by yourself, is really powerful.”

They also build time management and problem-solving skills. Kids must create a step-by-step plan and timeline for their project. If something doesn’t go as planned, they have to figure out a different way to do it.

Most of all, Passion Projects allow kids to shine in their own unique way.

“They enable us as teachers to see our students through a different lens,” said Kramer. “You really see them blossom creatively when they have the chance to create something they care about.”

Learn more about Shady Side Academy Country Day School at www.shadysideacademy.org/countrydayschool. To schedule a personal tour or register for admissions testing, call 412-963-1277. n www.northernconnectionmag.com | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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2022 EDUCATION GUIDE

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Travel Tales

n a time when fewer people have had the opportunity to travel abroad, Oakland Catholic High School students and faculty were able to bring their international experiences home to an OC audience. On December 2, at the annual Travel Tales event, students from Oakland Catholic’s Global Competence Initiative (GCI) certificate program reflected on their travels and the lessons they learned from contact with new people, cultures and histories. Presentations ranged from stories of vacations in Israel, St. Croix and France to visits with extended family living in Turkey, Dominica and Mexico.

In addition, OC teachers Elaina Tabb and Jennifer Schmidt shared knowledge gained from their experiences in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe.

“Travel permits us to tangibly see and understand the concept of shared humanity, shared responsibility and shared experiences” said Oakland Catholic President Mary Claire Kasunic.

“It was wonderful to see the strong attendance...and presentations when travel has been so limited,” added Cindy McNulty, retired OC teacher and former director of GCI. Both Alessandra Pazzaglia, assistant director of GCI, and Matt Williams, director of OC GCI, hope that 2022 brings more opportunities for everyone to safely travel internationally. n

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2022 EDUCATION GUIDE

ADVERTORIAL

Providence Heights Alpha School

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By the Palladino Family

here are many milestones in a family’s life, and one of the earliest and most important is when a child enters kindergarten. It is hard to believe that twelve years have passed since we began this journey with our daughters and Providence Heights Alpha School (Alpha School). Practically speaking, we set out looking for a good school that offered morning and afternoon daycare options since we are both working parents.

Providence Heights Alpha School offered both. What we didn’t realize is that we were about to begin one of the most unique and rewarding experiences as a family.

With our second child now reaching the last years in her educational journey at Alpha School, we have never regretted the choice of a private, Catholic education for our girls. This choice has ensured that our children received an exceptionally wellrounded education in their formative years, but it also has made them better thinkers, writers, problem solvers and empathetic young women.

From the early days of kindergarten to the more formative years of elementary school, we were impressed with the comprehensive curriculum delivered by caring, nurturing teachers. The ability for Alpha School to provide small class groupings in core subjects enabled our daughters to receive personalized attention allowing them to develop confidence in their abilities, as well as resiliency when met with a challenge. As middle school began for our eldest daughter, we were immediately impressed with the rigorous academic expectations set in place by an experienced, cohesive group of teachers. An emphasis on STEM, creative problem solving, and writing, both formal and creative, was found across the curriculum. The middle school staff played an invaluable role as teachers, mentors and faith-based guides for our daughter. She left Providence Heights Alpha School completely prepared for the academic challenges of high school and has only continued to excel. The solid foundation Alpha School set in place for her as a learner throughout every developmental stage gave her the tools to navigate high-level, rigorous secondary classes.

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We see this positive transformation again occurring as our middle school daughter evolves into a confident, independent learner.

While academic excellence is expected in a private school setting, some of the most remarkable aspects of Providence Heights Alpha School are intangible. Alpha School is able to bring joy to its students, through creative, fun outlets that are incorporated into the day-to-day routine of a school schedule. For example, a trip to the school store, a silly Wacky Wednesday dress down theme, a teacher versus student basketball game, a visit with a younger student “buddy,” or the anticipation of the privileges bestowed on the eighth grade make the school day enjoyable.

Thanks to Alpha School, our daughters have developed a love of learning in the context of a Christian values system that teaches respect, empathy and an understanding of others and the broader world.

Providence Heights Alpha School has been an instrumental part of our family for more than a decade. To families contemplating Providence Heights Alpha School for their children, our experience serves as affirmation that the decision to enroll will be the best choice for your family.

Providence Heights Alpha School is founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Divine Providence. Alpha School is now enrolling for the 2022-2023 school year. To learn more or schedule a private tour, visit AlphaSchool.org n

Saint Joseph High School (Natrona Heights) Principal: Beverly K. Kaniecki (724) 224-5552 www.SaintJosephHS.com

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Katie’s Clay Studio

atie’s Clay Studio offers pottery wheel-throwing from one-time try-it workshops to six-week classes for ages 10 and up. A professional potter will guide students through hands-on instruction to make one-of-a-kind creations on the wheel. Choose from functional items like mugs, bowls, spoon rests, planters and more. Pick from a wide variety of glazes to finish your piece. Upgrade your choice of clay to make your pieces microwavable and dishwasher safe.

Reservations are required for all lessons. We book about 2-5 weeks in advance.

Call to schedule your lesson today. Further details and prices can be found on our website at www.katiesclaystudio.com. Lessons must be booked via phone at 412-486-2184. n

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2022 EDUCATION GUIDE

School Movers & Shakers Fox Chapel

Pine-Richland

Three Fox Chapel Area High School students Patrick Alexander, Isabella White and Blaz Vavpetic won awards at the virtual Shady Side Academy Speech and Debate Tournament.

The PineRichland/Mars Area U.S. Air Force JROTC Drill Team took first place overall at the Pine-Richland JROTC Drill Competition.

Four Fox Chapel Area High School sophomores were selected to receive Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) recognition. Annalese Bartolacci, Amelia Costello, Lakshanya Rajaganapathi, and Abraham White have been chosen to attend the Pennsylvania-West HOBY Leadership Seminar June 17-19, 2022.

The Fox Chapel Area Board of School Directors held its annual reorganization meeting Dec..

Marybeth Dadd was re-elected president. Ronald P. Frankwas re-elected vice president. Vanessa K. Lynch was elected assistant secretary.

Aquinas Academy

Mars Area Mars Area High School Girls Varsity Soccer Team celebrated after winning the team’s third consecutive PIAA Class 3A Championship Title.

Mars Area High School junior Kaitlyn Ames received an honorable mention for her gouache painting, “A Study in Orange,” in the 2021 Slippery Rock University Juried High School Art Exhibition.

Mars Area Centennial School sixth-grader Reese Polito, a Type 1 Diabetic, organized the school’s fundraiser to benefit the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation.

Seneca Valley

Kaitlyn Ames

Reese Polito

Numerous Seneca Valley staff members and students joined forces to launch the opening of the No Cost to Shop store on Nov. 1.

The store is located in the senior high school for students in grades 7-12 who are in need of clothing, food or other items. Last year, Michelle Eppinger, a special education job coach paraprofessional, went to senior high school administrators with concerns that some students had additional needs that were not being met due to the pandemic. From there, her vision of a “brick and mortar” store came together and turned this vision into a reality.

Five Seneca Valley seniors Madelyn Gross, Grace Hines, Julia Lingenfelter, Cooper Sainiak and Tyler Yurich were named candidates in the competition for a Special Scholarship to be awarded through the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Blessed Francis Seelos Academy Blessed Francis Seelos Academy in Wexford had fun filling Jared boxes during the class-

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room Thanksgiving celebration.

Students had fun filling the boxes with small toys and activity books and decorating the outside for the next child in need. In all, the group created 52 boxes that were donated to the neighboring AHN Wexford Hospital and the Allegheny County Police Department.

Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh’s high school theater students performed Thorton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize winning play Our Town.

Using two mixed casts, Mike Flynn directed four shows in Aquinas Academy’s Rhodora J. Donahue building on the school’s campus.

CTDTCA Students from the third and fourth grade class of Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy in Aspinwall walked over to UPMC St. Margaret Hospital on Friday, December 3,with their teachers to help decorate the courtyard with their handmade Christmas ornaments, to wave to the patients and to sing holiday carols. The children delivered cards for the patients.

La Roche University Dr. Paul J. Gleason, an accomplished dentist serving the Pittsburgh area, has joined the La Roche University Board of Trustees. He became a member of the board in October 2021.

BC3 The American Physical Therapy Association-Pennsylvania has selected Ashlee Esplen, a professor in Butler County Community College’s Shaffer School of Nursing and Allied Health, as recipient of its 2021 Steven Kolumban Award.

Ashlee Esplen

Students enrolled in a BC3 forestry class had the opportunity to earn National Wildfire Coordinating Group certifications in S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior and in S-130 Firefighter Training after being assessed by the state Bureau of Forestry.

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ADVERTORIAL

HOPE

Frank S.

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

Ten years ago I hurt my foot and it continued to get worse over the years.

It got to the point that my feet were so sore and cold all the time. Outdoor activities are very important to me and I was losing the ability to do them.

I felt there was no hope. A friend of mine learned of Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and I made an appointment. The results have been unbelievable.

I have no more pain and my feet are no longer cold. My range of motion is so much better, and my balance is back. I am now enjoying all the outdoor activities I use to and am nearly 100% better.

Don’t Give Up!

Janie C. It seems like it became noticeable about 20 years ago. At first my feet would ache from time-to-time, then my feet would ache so bad that I had to limit my time standing or walking. In the last two years I have had to change the way I have lived my life. I could no longer go hiking with my husband or just take a walk. I knew it was just a matter of time before I would need a wheelchair. I heard about Tri-State Neuropathy Centers and went for my free consultation to see if I was a candidate. To date, I see a significant improvement. I can take short walks, cook and I have even been gardening.

It feels like a miracle. I plan to get back into volunteer work.

Paula C. It all began with major surgery in October 2020 with an ankle break on two major bones from a fall. I was getting very depressed as my foot was numb on the side of the incision and it was affecting my life. I decided to meet with Tri-State Neuropathy Centers for a free consultation. I have completed the program I am pain free and 90 percent better. I highly recommend anyone needing help to go see a Tri-State Neuropathy Center. I am 68 and a Grammy of six grandchildren. The treatment has helped me walk without a cane and be more active with my active family as my balance has improved tremendously.

The staff is truly compassionate and kind. Thank you Tri-State Neuropathy and your staff for your kindness and helping me walk again!

Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol utilizing brand new technologies is available at the TRI-STATE NEUROPATHY CENTERS. It includes the combination of very specific, noninvasive, FDA approved and painless treatments that are designed to get rid of symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

With over 90 percent satisfaction rate and the experience of seeing over 8000 patients, they are able to tailor a specific and successful treatment plan for each individual to provide maximum results. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, don’t wait until they get worse.

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

Call for your FREE consultation to begin your path to recovery. Call Dr. Shawn Richey at 724-940-9000 to schedule your time.

Five Locations: Sewickley

2591 Wexford-Bayne Rd., Suite 207

Monroeville

4314 Old William Penn Hwy, Suite 105

Washington, PA

1385 Washington Rd., #100

Poland, OH

70 W McKinley Way, Poland, OH 44514

Weirton, WV

3350 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite A, Weirton, WV 26062

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Let It Go

Be in the present, as the past should stay in the past

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By Belinda Burchick, RPh, BPharm

anuary is the best time to start anew and free yourself from living in the past. Also, with it being the peak of winter where everything is usually “Frozen,” one can’t help but think of the song “Let it Go.” The past is a memory to be honored and cherished. We all learn from our past. The future exists in our thoughts and brings us hope. We all anticipate the future. The present is real and happening right now. The best place to be is in the present.

Some people hold on to the past, so they may need extra help in learning how to stop dwelling on the past or holding a grudge. It sounds so simple to resolve yet can be hard to overcome.

You cannot control some situations or people, but you can control how you react. Focusing on the negative situation or the other person who did you wrong is purely a distraction to your day-to-day living. Blaming others or the situation is not good for your health.

Why is it so hard to let go of intense negative emotion or

events? Technically, the brain processes a negative experience more intently than a positive experience, causing us to easily recall an adverse event and allowing us to learn from the experience. We have no control over how our brains work, but we can exercise our brain.

It is time to move on and reshape how you think of the past.

Time to forgive others and learn from the mistakes that you made and forgive yourself. Below are steps to help you toward this process of letting go.

Commit. Identify what you cannot let go from your past. Think about why you are reliving this memory. Look deep inside and discover how you process emotions. Feeling this way has been part of your day-to-day, so you may not notice the negative impact it has on your life.

Envision. Ask yourself how you will feel without the past haunting you or if you let go? How will your life be?

Establishing a goal and sense of purpose will keep you on course, especially during difficult times or when you want to give up. Start with small steps every day. Develop and learn strategies to ensure you are in the right state of mind. Begin to exercise your brain. Find the silver lining to a bad situation. You are in control of your emotions, so bend and stretch and reach for the sky. Have a positive back-up plan for times when you have a setback, and allow your brain to rewire these emotions.

Gravitate toward positive and inspiring people. Surround yourself with people that make you better. What you focus on, is what you feel. The energy you put out into the world is what you get back. And who you surround yourself with is who you become.

Habituation. Practice new positive habits. Slowly establish new daily routines, such as, routines for health, living, and learning.

Start out with small routines, then build. Before you know it, you have conquered significant positive change.

Practice gratitude. You will begin to realize that whatever happened to you in the past shaped you into the person you are today; unique, strong, and simply amazing.

Shift Focus. Turn negatives into positives. Accept that we control our actions, reactions, and choices. Shift our focus away from the past distractions that were not in our control. Concentrate on the special times with family, loved ones, friends, and pets. Focus on the wonders of life itself.

Discover that the secret to living is giving, so lend an ear or a smile. Focusing on the needs of others will bring you the strength to move out of the past, and into a more fulfilling present and future.

Can’t do it alone, seek a professional mental health coach to get you started on your journey.

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

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TRIVIA CONNECTION

Trivial 22 appy 2022! To celebrate our New Year, we will catch-you up on items related to 22. The number 22 is a palindromic number for starters, meaning it’s the same coming and going.

Since 22 is a double-digit number, in Numerology, it is known as the Master Number. Math enthusiasts know that when 22 is divided by 7 it equals Pi. Joseph Heller’s 1961 novel Catch-22 gives rise to the expression “catch-22,” which means a dilemma or quandary. On May 17, 2019, the miniseries Catch-22 premiered on Hulu in the United States.

The number 22 has some biblical significance. Interestingly, there are 22 letters in the Hebrew alphabet. Jeroboam was the first king of the northern Kingdom of Israel, and he reigned for 22 years.

The Gospel of John mentioned the word light 22 times, and the 22nd reference described Jesus as a light that entered the world. The last words of Jesus were the quote from Psalm 22.

A traditional Tarot deck has 22 cards. In American football, there are 22 players on the field at any one time. The Titanic was traveling at 22 knots before it hit the iceberg. In Bingo, 22 is referred to as two little ducks.

In the music realm, Taylor Swift, Lily Allen, Bon Iver, Deaf Havana, and Jay Z all released a track entitled 22. Furthermore, in 2014, the action-comedy film 22 Jump Street was released; it is a sequel to 21 Jump Street.

Speaking of musicians, sadly, Buddy Holly, Robert Wadlow, and Terry Fox all died at 22. In addition, the 35th U.S. president John F. Kennedy was killed on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas.

The 22nd President of the U.S. was Grover Cleveland; he served as the 22nd & 24th president. In Pittsburgh sports, some famous players have sported the number 22. Fan favorite Andrew McCutcheon wore that number when he played for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 2009-2017.

Pittsburgh Steelers who wore 22 included – Bobby Layne, John Williams, William Gay, and Steven Nelson. A few players for the Pittsburgh Penguins have donned this number: Mike Bullard, Bob Kelly, Greg Polis and Bob Stanton.

Other non-Pittsburgh athletes that sported the good old “22” were Emmitt Smith and Bobby Hayes in football, Rogers Clemens, Gaylord Perry, and Jim Palmer in baseball. The NBA had Clyde Drexler and Larry Nance.

Since we have numbered our way through this quantity, we

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must now figure out this digital query. So get set to don those thinking caps because it’s time to get a little trivial.

1. Name the actor who played Brigadier General Scheisskopf in the miniseries Catch-22.

2. What element is number 22 on the elemental chart?

3. Politician Levi P. Morton had this claim to fame.

4. Which U.S. state was the 22nd one to join the union?

5. In Pennsylvania, this road runs for 338.20 miles between the West Virginia state line at Washington County.

6. Name the 22nd James Bond film; it is the shortest of all the Bond movies.

7. What is the length of a regulation Shuffleboard table?

8. He wore 22 when he played for the Pittsburgh Penguins from 1992-1994, from 2016-2017 he served as a Pen’s assistant coach.

9. The blockbuster 22 Jump Street was filmed on an actual campus in Louisiana, which one?

10. Name the talk show host that made his last appearance on The Tonight Show on May 22, 1992.

11. In weaponry, this is a popular firearm.

12. What famous event do we celebrate every year on April 22?

13. This National Memorial in West Potomac Park opened on August 22, 2011, in Washington, D.C., southwest of the National Mall.

14. What is the 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution?

15. Name the current Pittsburgh Steelers running back who dons 22.

Sources: https://www.numerology.com/articles/about-numerology/ master-number-22/, http://numerology.center/biblical_numbers_number_22.php, https://www.onthisday.com/, https://www.thepeoplehistory. com/html, https://www.pensburgh.com/2020/4/8/21207626/who-wore-itbest-penguins-edition-crosby-malkin-letang-lemieux-fleury-murray-jagrkessel-nhl, https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2020/8/18/21368518/ pittsburgh-steelers-digit-dynasty-who-wore-the-number-best-no0-25-terry-bradshaw-ben-roethlisberger, https://www.ranker.com/list/ best-athletes-who-wore-22/ranker-sports

Answers: 1. George Clooney 2. titanium 2. he was the 22nd Vice President of the U.S. 4. Alabama 5. Route 22 6. Quantum of Solace 7. 22 feet 8. Rick Tocchet 9. Tulane University 10. Johnny Carson 11. 22-caliber 12. Earth Day 13. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial 14. limits the presidency to two-terms 15. Najee Harris

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By Paula Green

Celebrating All Things 22

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FROM THE EDITOR

What’s the Rush?

By Janice Lane Palko

W

ell, here we are. January. Whenever I turn the calendar page on a new year, I always have the same feeling: Now what?

I remember having that feeling when I started my first real job. After nearly 14 years of school and landing a position as an Executive Secretary at Westinghouse Electric Corp. at their headquarters in downtown at the age of 20, I remember thinking, I went to school all those years, studied, took tests, worked hard, and couldn’t wait to grow up for this? To get up early, fight traffic, work all day, sometimes with annoying people, only to fight traffic again and go home to do it all over again? There had to be something more. Now what? A paycheck helped and eventually I learned to like my job, but I also learned something else.

I think this “Now what?” feeling is exacerbated by rushing through life, and I often wonder if others feel that emptiness when January arrives too, especially those who start decorating for the holidays as soon a Halloween is over. There are several houses I pass by while I’m out driving around that do that, and I’ve also noticed that they seem to be the homes that also take down their decorations as soon as the gifts are opened.

It has only been in the last few decades that people have done such things. My parents still talk about their childhoods when their Christmas tree was put up by Santa on Christmas Eve. Back then people didn’t decorate their homes like Clark Griswold and most cultures prepped for Christmas during Advent, the four Sundays leading up to the Nativity,

and the celebrating only kicked off with Christmas and lasted 12 days until Epiphany.

The Christmas carol, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” harkens back to the observance of celebrating Christmas for 12 days starting with Christmas and ending with Epiphany or Three Kings Day on January 6.

Many countries around the world still observe Epiphany celebrations.

Shakespeare’s comedic play Twelfth Night takes place during this celebration too.

It’s not illegal, immoral or fattening to decorate early and take everything down before January 6, but it’s sort of like having the Super Bowl, engaging in the two-week hype of the run up to the game and then as soon as the kickoff comes, shutting down the game. Christmas essentially only begins on Christmas Eve. While I like to have things to look forward to as much as the next person, sometimes I think we speed through life as if it were one of my favorite childhood boardgames, The Game of Life. In this Milton Bradley classic, players compete against each other to go to college, establish careers, marry, have children and retire to Millionaire Acres before your competitors do. The only trouble is when you get to that last square on the board, that means the fun and the game are over.

If we move too quickly through life, always speeding ahead to the next big thing even by rushing through simple things like the holidays, we eventually come to the last space on our own life, and we may find ourselves bewildered asking ourselves, What was the rush?

This year I’m going to make a concerted effort to live in the moment and not speed through life. As the saying goes, It’s the journey and not the destination. That’s true because once you’ve reached your destination, you’re faced with those two troublesome words: Now what?. n

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS

Vietnam Veterans, Inc.

By Paula Green

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he Vietnam War lasted over 19 years, from November 1, 1955, to April 30, 1975. According to history.com, more than 3 million people, including 58,000 Americans, were killed in the Vietnam War. The carnage and wounds from this extensive conflict run deep. Yet, these military men and women who battled in this war fought for freedom, and they were willing to risk their lives, some were volunteers, and others were drafted.

Locally, an organization assists these brave heroes; it is called Vietnam Veterans, Inc. Their goal is, “To foster, encourage, and promote comradeship and ’Esprit de Corps’ among Vietnam Veterans.” In addition, their goal is to assist disabled and needy Vietnam Veterans and the dependents of Vietnam Veterans. And to promote the physical and cultural improvement and growth, development, self-respect, and selfconfidence of Vietnam Veterans.

“Vietnam Veterans Inc. (VVI) was founded back in 1980. Currently, we have approximately 500-600 members. We not only help Vietnam veterans, but all veterans and their families in need,” said VVI president Butch Burke, who served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. “One of the groups that we work closely with is Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship and Veteran’s Home, which Reverend Mike Wurschmidt runs. It is located at 13 Pride Street. We recently provided 800 pairs of socks for homeless veterans. In addition, we help these folks during all of the holidays by providing food and care packages.”

“Before the pandemic, we would go to Aspinwall VA Hospital and have cookouts with the hospitalized veterans. We still participate in an annual activity every third full weekend in September; we have a POW (prisoner of war)/MIA (missing in action) Vigil. This year was the 41st year we held this ceremony; we had it at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall. We also have weekly veteran’s breakfasts and monthly meetings,” said Burke.

Another VVI member and U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran Daniel McPoyle noted that VVI held a special Memorial Day service. “The memorial tribute is held in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Peters Township in the South Hills. This is the first Vietnam Veteran’s State Memorial.

The tall, black, two-sided granite stones list ALL of Pennsylvania’s killed in the Vietnam War State Vietnam Veterans. In addition, the five flags are our military branches. Each yellow brick area lists bronze markers -Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine and Coast Guard and above the 5’ x 8’ American Flag.”

“We also annually participate in the National Wreathes Across campaign. That is held in December, when wreathes are placed on the graves of veterans. Locally, we conduct this project in the National Military Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Washington County, near Bridgeville,” said McPoyle. “VVI also holds various flag presentation ceremonies. Next year, we plan to go to the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington, D.C. We take this trip about every three years.”

For information on the Vietnam Veterans, Inc., visit their website at vietnamveteransinc.com/ or call them at (412) 431-2096. Northern Connection magazine salutes all members of Vietnam Veterans, Inc. for their military service and dedication to our country. n www.northernconnectionmag.com | J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 2

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FACTS FROM THE FARM

January Events

When Helping Isn’t Always Best

By Ron Eichner

Hi folks, farming has always had challenges, and usually, it’s Mother Nature who

poses the most problems on any given day each year. However, the challenges in the last 12 months have been the availability of products and escalating costs of products. Our natural vegetable-based poultry feeds have increased at sonic speed. Chicken feed is up 28% to date, and turkey feed is up 32%. We fully process fresh hams from Thoma Meat Market, and the new hams increased 28% for the holidays. Always focusing on understanding costs, and if costs increase, adjust the retail pricing so that we are not working for less at a loss.

Many farmers across the United States have suffered massive financial losses to reduced demands and the supply chain disruptions. The proposed Build Back Better Plan (Triple B) aims to divert $6 billion dollars for credit and debt relief to struggling farms. It targets farms undergoing bankruptcy or foreclosure, delinquent on debts, or restructured eligible farm debts.

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that serves farmers, ranchers, and agriculture partners by delivering effective agriculture programs. Through the Farm Loan Programs, the FSA provides direct and guaranteed loans to beginning farmers and ranchers who have farmed for ten years or less and who are unable to obtain financing from commercial credit sources like banks. They direct loans, and farmers that have borrowed will have their debt paid off in full if the debt is equal to or lower than $150,000.00 or otherwise, they will receive a $150,000.00 payment.

The USDA has two ways of measuring farm sizes. First, according to the USDA, small family farms average 231 acres, large family farms average 1,421 acres, and very large family or corporate farms average 2,086 acres. It may be surprising to note that small farms make up 88 % of the farms in America. The second method of measuring farm sizes is using gross annual sales. The USDA classifies family farms as small, less than $250,000 and large, between $250,000 and $500,000, and very large more than $500,000.

The Triple “B” Plan claims that it would be funded without increasing taxes on the “average farms,” which I assume may be the 88% of farms in America. Instead, the Triple “B” plan is to rely on increased taxes on the “wealthiest Americans,” however, that is defined, along with “improved collection” of taxes currently owed and “restructuring of corporate” taxes. The proposed plan would set a minimum tax rate of 15%.

The American Farm Bureau opposes the Build Back Better plan and for good reasons.

First, as a life-long member of the Butler County Farm Bureau and Allegheny County not having a bureau for the farmers of Allegheny County, we are under the umbrella of Pennsylvania Farm Bureaus.

Every level of Farm Bureau opposes the Triple “B” Plan for rational reasons. While some elements of the proposed plan would benefit agriculture and family farms, the expanded massive amount of spending, lending to excessive tax increases across the board required to pay for the plan, outweigh the gains that family farms would receive.

Farmers feed the world and our community is blessed to have several family farms that have farmed for generations and with continued community support, we hope we can Farm Even Better (FEB).

So now that 2022 has just arrived, and as Wexford’s “Best Kept Secret,” we wish you all, your families, and friends a Happy New Year! If homemade sauerkraut is on your menu, we offer our homemade fermented sauerkraut in pints and quarts.

You are welcome to stop by Eichner’s Whole Farm & Greenhouses and let us be one of your year-round destinations for 2022 at 285 Richard Road in Wexford and get the “rest of the story.” n

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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Breakfast on January 17, at La Roche University in the Zappala Student Center. Doors open at 8 a.m. For details, email Tom Baker at tjbaker@nhco.org Gingerbread Display is being held 9 a.m.-9 p.m. thru Jan.16 at The Block Northway. Nearly 80 gingerbread houses have been created by individuals, families, and various organizations.

The sugary exhibit will be in the South Corridor Lower Level between DSW and Land’s End. It is free to the public.

Greybrooke Garden Club meeting, 9:30 a.m., Jan. 12, Fellowship Hall of Parkwood Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Hampton. Service project for a North Hills personal care residence. “Valentines for Patients.”

Guests are welcome! For info, contact Karen at (412) 366-2096.

Introduction to Autism for Parents & Caregivers, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 12, Autism Center of Pittsburgh. For info, email jsalamon@autismofpa.org or call (412) 995-5000.

Jeremiah Village housing community Open House, 4-7 p.m. Jan. 6. For details, visit jeremiahvillage@trekdevelopment.com or call (724) 453-8100.

Laughlin’s Children Center in Sewickley is in need of tutors. For info, email Rachel at r.troglio@laughlincenter.org.

North Hills Genealogists online presentation, 6:45 p.m., Jan. 17, by Rich Venezia entitled Passports of our Ancestors. Free & open to the public. For details, visit their website NorthHillsGenealogists.org.

North Hills Genealogists online presentation, 6:45 p.m., Feb. 21. Join Kathy Walker for It’s all about location! Creating a Locality Guide. Free & open to the public. For details, visit their website NorthHillsGenealogists.org.

North Pittsburgh Quilters Guild Spring Quilt Show, Flowers of Hope, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri & Sat., & 10 a.m.-5 p.m., & noon-4 p.m., Sun, April 22-24, at the Ross Community Center, 1000 Ross Municipal Drive, Pgh. 15237. Admission is $10.

For details, visit http://www.npqg.org/.

Northland Library, has numerous events scheduled for January. For a complete list, visit www. northlandlibrary.org or call (412) 366-8100.

Psychic Vincent Sisters Communicating Beyond The Veil, Jan. 22 & 23, gallery reading, lecture and Q&A event at Harmonie Laden Gift Shop, 229 Main St., Harmony. Bring a can of cat or dog food to the event. Partial proceeds will benefit Butler County Humane Society. Tickets $40. For info, visit www.suzannevincent.com UPMC Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Membership Opportunities, are you looking for a stimulating opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals—UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring.

The Auxiliary meets the 2nd Monday of each month, 10 a.m., Sept. through June. New members are welcome. For info, contact Nicole Kaib at (412) 748-6640 or kaibn@upmc.edu.

Women’s Business Network has meetings scheduled in January at various times and locations. For a detailed list, visit www.wbninc.com.

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