March 2016 issue

Annual Wedding Guide Page 18

YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Look

and

MARCH 2016

Feel Your Best

Experts in Laser and Medical Spa Services Spring Happenings

2016 Summer Camps

Business Spotlight:

The Joint Chiropractic Page 28

Contents 24

Dan & Sherri Kohley At Geneva on the Lake

NORTHERN CONNECTION CONTENTS | March 2016

36

Features

Kids & Education

16 Ideal Image: Experts in Laser and Medical Spa Services

38 Innovations in the Classroom

2016 Wedding Guide 19 Special Choices for Your Special Day 21 Wedding Guide Vendors

57

Real Estate

44 Advances in Healthcare

Marianne Reid Anderson

9

Jane of All Trades

28 IDI Landscape Solutions Creates Your Dream Oasis

4

From the Publisher Marion Piotrowski

31 Summer Camps Equal Summer Fun!

6

Movers & Shakers

7

Mover & Shaker of the Month Mapling It in Marshall

34 Planning for Fun Times at Summer Camp

Dr. Bruce Hyde

42 Starting the Conversation: Sporting Concussions – Are We Too Violent?

Marianne Reid Anderson 57 Trivia Connection: Hare It Is— Rabbit Trivia

Paula Green

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Health & Wellness 42 Allegheny Health Network Establishes Breathing Disorders Center at Wexford Health+Wellness Pavillion

2016 Summer Camps Guide

24 Support Our Troops: Military Wedding Traditions

Paula Green

40 School Movers & Shakers

26 5 Easy Ways to Spring Clean Your Lingerie Drawer

Kelly Smith

In Every Issue...

10 March 2016 Happenings

39 Student of the Month: Ella Tominac-Ural

Paula Green

36 Shady Side Academy Summer Programs Have It All!

48 Fit Families: Living Gluten Free

Joella Baker 52 Business Spotlight: The Joint® Chiropractic Comes to McCandless Crossing 53 Health & Wellness Spotlight: Prevent Colon Cancer in You or Someone You Love

Senior Living 54 Marching thru March

Joe Bullick 55 Happenings for Seniors

Advertorials Featured on the Cover: from left to right – Michelle Makepeace, Nicole Dee and Kim Cueva Cover photography by Chris Corbelli

NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

43 Three Things You Can Do to Stop Sciatica

Dr. Shannon Thieroff 50 Lose Up To 30 Lbs. in 30 Days

Dr. Michael Vactor

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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Welcome PUBLISHER NOTES | March 2016

Welcome to the March issue of Northern Connection magazine

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

T

he days are getting a bit longer which means, hopefully, warmer weather is coming! Even though summer still seems like a ways away, this is the time of year when parents have to start thinking about what programs and camps their kids will be interested in for the summer. The Pittsburgh area offers an array of summer camps and programs that fit the needs and interests of today’s children.

Whether it be arts, science, sports, outdoor/indoor adventures, day or residential camps, there are special programs to give children a fun and enjoyable summer. The camping experience can also help broaden a child’s horizon and bring friendships and skills that will last a lifetime. Northern Connection magazine features some of the area’s most popular camps in this issue along with additional information so that you can make the right pick for your child. I would like to thank all of the camps and programs that participated in this year’s special section. We will continue featuring these wonderful camping opportunities next month.

In this issue, we are also excited to feature our annual Wedding Section. Our area has a wide variety of venues and locations to make each bride’s experience a dream come true. It is exciting to feature all of the different wedding trends and traditions over the years. Northern “No winter Connection magazine’s monthly column lasts forever; Support Our Troops, takes a look at some of the traditions that each branch of the No spring Military includes in their special day.

This month, we celebrate St. Patrick’s skips its turn” Day, Easter, and the beginning of spring!

By Hal Borland If you are looking for something to do this month, be sure to check out Northern Connection magazine’s Happenings section. There are many remarkable events taking place in an around the area. Be sure to try out some of the areas delicious Fish Fries!

Enjoy reading all Northern Connection magazine’s special features and regular columns. Thank you for your continued support and together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! l l l

Coming in April Summer Camps/Programs Advances in Healthcare Higher Education Call (724) 940-2444 today to reserve your ad space

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NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Phone: 724-940-2444 Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: northcon@consolidated.net www.northernconnectionmag.com

Laura Arnold laura@northernconnectionmag.com

President & Publisher

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Mary Simpson marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Account Executive

Karen Knewpol Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Karen Knewpol knewpol@northernconnectionmag.com

Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Joella Baker Joe Bullick Paula M. Green Marianne Reid Anderson Kelly Smith Distribution

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Dominion Distribution

Marianne Reid Anderson ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

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.

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.

Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

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.

@NCONNECTIONMAG Find us on Facebook under Northern Connection Magazine! http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot.com/

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People

MOVERS & SHAKERS | March 2016

Movers & Shakers Charles ‘Charlie” Pedley of Butler Township, Butler County is St. Barnabas Health System’s 2015 Hoppy Award winner. A 15-year veteran, Charlie is the transportation coordinator at The Village at St. Barnabas. He was nominated by his co-workers and selected for the honor which is St. Barnabas’ equivalent of an Employee of the Year.

Karen Friscia, Elaine Shaffer and Amy Krause.

Sarah Schoendorf, who joined the St. Barnabas Communities team in early 2015, has been promoted to Assistant Director of Recreation at The Woodlands at St. Barnabas.

James E. Taylor, Ph.D will join UPMC as its new chief diversity and inclusion officer beginning Mar. 14.

Sarah Schoendorf

Rachel Seifried joined St. Barnabas Communities team as the Hospitality Venue manager.

St. Barnabas Health System announced its Employees of the Month for January. They are – Doug Hassler, Susan Hall, Patricia Zelinka-Boring, Cindy Churilla,

Walter P. DeForest, senior partner of DeForest Koscelnik Yokitis & Berdardinelli, a law firm with offices in Pittsburgh, New York City and Detroit has been elected to the Board of Trustees of St. Barnabas Health System.

The Allegheny County Medical Society will present the following medical awards during their community awards and fundraising gala on Mar. 5. James Betler, DO - Physician Volunteer Award; Fred Rubin, MD - Humanity in Medicine Award; James Bradley, MD – Ralph C. Wilde Leadership Award; Donamarie Wilfong, DNP, RN – Benjamin Rush Individual Award; Robert Potter – Nathaniel Bedford Primary Care Award; and the late Andrew Fisher, MD – will be honored with a special citation.

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh UPMC has been named a 2015 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Enterprise Davies Award recipient. The hospital will be recognized at the 2016 Annual HIMSS Conference & Exhibition, Feb. 29 to Mar. 4 in Las Vegas.

The 12th fiscal year of the Yates Fund for Cancer Hope has closed.

The total donations made for this past year exceeds $31,000. Ninetyone cents of every dollar donated to the Yates Fund for Cancer Hope supports people critically affected by cancer and to organizations whose mission is to provide cancer screening tests and support services to those with little or no health care insurance. (9% operating costs for holding Cindystock). Cindystock 13 will be held on Saturday August 13.

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust Inc. held its 6th Annual African-American Heritage Celebration on Feb. 13. The year’s program was entitled “Black

A baby Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth has joined the flock at the National Aviary in Pittsburgh where he is being hand-raised to be comfortable around people and will participate in education programs highlights rainforest species and the dangers they face from rapidly disappearing habitat.

Veterans with Success: Their History and Commitment to Excellence.”

The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce host a “Protecting your Workplace” seminar on Feb. 25, at the Crowne Plaza Pittsburgh West in Green Tree.

Mars resident, Linda Lamneck Medwig, recently published the children’s book The Big Sneeze which (Continued on page 8)

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Mover & Shaker of the Month

Mapling It in Marshall

Clay McLeod, Betty and Roger Boff

BY PAULA GREEN

B

ack in 2010, Marshall Township resident Clay McLeod knocked on the door of neighboring residents Roger and Betty Boff. He asked them an unusual question – “Can I tap the maple trees on your property?” The Boff’s house in Marshall sits on five and a half acres of land, and has numerous maples (about 30 trees) that sit closely together.

After much thought, Roger and Betty gave Clay permission to do the tapping. “At first I was a little bit concerned that it would kill the trees,” but it didn’t take long before we realized that Clay knew exactly what he was doing,” Betty commented.

Clay has been doing tree tapping since 2007 when he watched the procedure being done at his daughter’s house. “I am a hands-on type of person, and found it to be interesting so I decided to try it myself,” he said. Tapping the Boff’s maples has become an annual event for Clay.

Around mid-winter (end of January or early February) he spends a day inserting taps, and placing buckets on the trees.

“The sap will flow when temperatures are above freezing. It’s no secret Mother Nature controls all, I just follow her lead” Clay noted.

Once the sap flows out of the trees and it is gathered in the buckets, the process of making maple syrup begins. According to Clay it takes 60 gallons of sap to make one gallon of maple syrup. He gathers the sap when it is running.

“If you don’t empty the buckets and process it, then the sap spoils just like milk,” Clay mentioned.

Clay takes the sap back to his place (a work shop in Marshall) and he uses a wood burning stove to boil the sap. It boils for about 11 to 12 hours before it turns into pure maple syrup. As he noted, “It needs to boil until it reaches 219 degrees.” After the sap becomes syrup, Clay then cans it in mason jars. He doesn’t sell the finished product; he gives it away to family and friends. Of course, he also gives some to Roger and Betty Boff for kindly allowing him access to their trees. Once the syrup is opened, it needs to be refrigerated.

In addition to tapping to the Boff’s trees, Clay says he taps about ten others in the area. He accepts sap from friends who tap their own trees. The end result of Clay’s hard labor is a delicious, pure maple syrup free of additives and preservatives. It is a perfect pairing with warm pancakes, waffles and other tasty delicacies. l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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People

MOVERS & SHAKERS | March 2016

is about two bunny friends who are kept apart by a big problem. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of The Big Sneeze will be donated to the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of its illustrator (Linda’s mother), Caroline Wissinger.

Sue Golden recently celebrated 26 years as a Mary Kay representative. She has 17 years on Mary Kay’s Court of Sales and has been number one in personal sales for her regional area four times. She has been awarded seven automobiles in her career.

Sue Golden

Beverly’s Birthdays, a North Huntingdon based nonprofit creates birthday party cheer for homeless children in the Pittsburgh region.

Moe’s Southwest Grill Pittsburgh has joined in the initiative. Moe’s has launched a “Buy One, Give One” birthday party catering program.

Every time a Pittsburgh-area family uses Moe’s to cater their own child’s birthday party, their purchase will directly contribute to catering a Beverly’s Birthday party at no cost. For info, visit https://beverlysbirthdays.wordpress.com/

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NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

This year Ingomar Garden Club celebrates its 70th anniversary. IGC was founded on Feb. 7, 1946 as 17 ladies from the social Ingomar Woman’s Club branched off. Their initial goal was to beautify home landscapes as well as tidy up overgrown spaces around the local community. IGC eventually became federated in 1954. At the same time members became stewards for Ingomar’s David Councill Park. Projects such as horti-therapy, conservation youth, junior garden club, flower shows and Northland Library and UPMC Passavant plantings were further added to enhance the original club objective involving over 60 members today.

Homes

REAL ESTATE | March 2016

Jane of all Trades Jane of all Trades - Residential Painting. Bringing over 10 years of professional experience, a meticulous eye and honest work ethic to projects both large and small. This includes plaster repairs, wallpaper removal, painting for two-story walls and foyers, and exterior painting.

Jane of all Trades - Landscape Architect. Providing clients one-of-akind landscape designs, master plans, and project management. Outdoor living designed and built especially for you! Custom water features, patios, fireplaces, walls, lawns, irrigation, planting, lighting, and outdoor kitchens.

“Transforming spaces both inside and outside also transforms lives, fulfilling my dreams and those of my clients!” Call today for a consultation, 412-512-0973. l l l

P.A. ERBE & Associates Inc.

Accounting & Tax Preparation Service for Personal & Business Income Taxes

Penny Ann Erbe

Enrolled Agent Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner

412-487-1009

4767 William Flynn Highway Allison Park, PA 15101-2456

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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Events

HAPPENINGS | March 2016

MARCH 2016

Happenings

North Happenings

From the Madding Crowd; Mar. 28, PAN; 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

Mondays

Self-Care for Women, eight-week support group for

Chisel and Chips Carvers of North Pittsburgh meetings,

meets 6:30-10 p.m., the 2nd Monday of every month, Parkwood United Presbyterian Church, 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. Free & open to the public. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329.

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m. Mondays, Mar. 7, Z for

Zachariah; Mar. 14, Me, Earl and the Dying Girl; Mar. 21, Far

women struggling with stress and depression, 6-8 p.m., Mon. Scholarship available. Call (412) 366-1300.

Tuesdays North Hills Community Outreach Workable Services in

Bellevue, 1-5 p.m. every Tues., at NHCO AGH-Suburban. For an appt., call (412) 904-5993.

North Pittsburgh Mother of Multiples meeting, 7:30 p.m.,

(412) 366-1300.

Wednesday Custodial Grandparents Group, a support group for individuals raising grandchildren, 12:30-2:30, Weds., Anchorpoint. Call (412) 366-1300.

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

3rd Tues., of the month, North Hills Community Baptist Church, 7801 Thompson Run Rd. Visit www.facebook.com/NPMOMS.

Friday

Sanctuary for Teens, eight-week group for teens with

Fridays. Homemade food and kid’s menu available, corner of Frederick & Walnut. RSVP for reservations (412) 741-5960.

Visit The Needles Eye & Earthly Treasure. Visit http://www. ststephenschurch.net/christy-house.

depression & anxiety meets 4-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays; Self-Care after Divorce, ten-week educational group for coping after divorce, 6-7:30 p.m., Anchorpoint. Scholarships available. Call

Christy House in Sewickley, the lunch room is open on

Arts & Entertainment Cranberry Artists Network Members Show runs thru Mar. 3, at the Cranberry Township Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry twp. Visit www.cranberryartistsnetwork.com.

Legacy Theatres shows: Swingin’ With An Angel (Johnny

Angel), 7:30 p.m., Mar. 12; Rat Pack with Bo Wagner and Buster Maxwell, 7:30 p.m., Apr. 2; Pure Gold, 7:30 p.m., Apr. 30. For tickets, 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com.

Pittsburgh Philharmonic spring concert Spring is in the Air,

8 p.m., Mar. 11, Butler Community College’s Succop Theatre (724) 284-8505; 7 p.m., Mar. 12, Scotus Hall at Mt. Alvernia in Millvale (412) 223-7501. Visit pghphil.org.

Health & Wellness Common Problems of the Foot and Ankle, 6:30 p.m., Mar. 15, CCAC-North Campus. Sponsored by Passavant Hospital Foundation. Required registration. Call (412) 788-7546.

Dance Fitness, 9 a.m., Sat.,Lighthouse Foundation, 1302 E.

Cruikshank (Rt. 8), Butler. Bring pantry items for the food bank in lieu of class fee. Contact heather.simplynatural@gmail.com.

Lupus Foundation: Luncheon & Fashion Show, Apr. 2,

Eleven Contemporary Kitchen, 1150 Smallman St., Spring Education Program, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Apr. 16, Grand Concourse Restaurant, Station Square. Visit lupuspa.org.

Pittsburgh Rock ‘N Roll Legends Awards, Apr. 28, Stage

AE on the North Shore. Sponsored by UPMC CancerCenter and UPMC Health Plan. Money raised benefits the Cancer Caring Center. Call (412) 622-1212 or info@cancercaring.org.

Senior Olympics of Western PA are seeking individuals age

45 or older to join their athletic competition. A qualifier will be held Apr. 9. For details, call (724) 445-9997 or www.seniorolympicswpa.weebly.com.

Tai Chi Exercise for Beginners, 7-10 p.m., May 13, Orchard Hill, Wexford. For details, visit orchardhillchurch.com.

Treating Connective Tissue Diseases, 1-2 p.m., Mar. 2,

Club Julian, 101 Corbett Ct. Reservations are required. Call (412) 366-1931. Sponsored by Passavant Hospital Foundation.

Zumba Fitness, 9:30 a.m. Mon., & 6:45 p.m., Thurs,

Woodland Valley Church, 225 Crowe Ave., Mars. Try a free class! Contact heather.simplynatural@gmail.com.

Zumba Fitness, 6:00 p.m., Sats, North Way Christian

Community, 12121 Perry Hwy., Wexford. Suggested $5 donation to benefit the food pantry Contact heather.simplynatural@ gmail.com.

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Outreach Community Auto (a program of North Hills Community

Outreach) is accepting old vehicles. Call (724) 443-8300 or www.communityauto.org.

Nativity Lutheran Church, 4517 Mt. Royal Blvd. in Allison

Park is a donation site for non-perishable groceries for North Hills Community Outreach for its three food pantries. Dropoff hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit, www.nativitylutheranchurch15101.org.

NHCO is accepting donations of organic seeds. Call (412) 487-6316 or visit nhco.org.

North Hills Community Outreach is seeking runners for the Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon to be held May 1.

For info, call Patti at (412) 408-3830 ext. 3204 or pmferraro@ nhco.org or thepittsburghmarathon.com.

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.

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. Call (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. Call Heritage Hospice (724) 334-6600.

Breast Cancer Support Groups, 5:30-7 p.m., 3rd Mon.,

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

Bridge to Hope, 7-8:30 p.m., every Wed., of the month

(Mar. 16), Hitting Bottom & Other Deadly Myths Surrounding Substance Use Disorders, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, McCandless Twp. For drug & alcohol addiction. Phone, (412) 748-6640.

General Cancer Center Support Groups, 5-6 p.m., 4th Mon.,

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

Grief Support Group for widows and widowers over fifty,

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

Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30 p.m., every 3rd Tues,

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

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

Women’s Self Care Support Group, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Sats., Anchorpoint Counseling. Call (412) 366-1300, ext. 129.

Counseling Ask the Attorney, free legal consultation for low-income

families. Held 7 p.m., the 3rd Wed, Mar. 16, NHCO in Millvale; Apr. 20, NHCO North Boroughs. 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.

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.

Tax Preparation United Way Money in Your Pocket Tax Prep at NHCO’s Bellevue/North Boroughs. Income eligibility requirements.

Appointments required, call 2-1-1.

Networking AM Spirit Cranberry Chapter, a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Wed, at North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Glen at (412) 916-8699.

AM Spirit Pittsburgh North Chapter, a business networking group, meets 8 a.m. every Thurs, at Panera Bread, Cranberry.

Call Glen at (412) 916-8699.

AM Spirit Wexford Chapter, a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Mon, at Eat N’ Park, Franklin Village.

Call Glen at (412) 916-8699.

Cranberry Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 7:30 a.m., Thurs., Mar. 3 & 17, Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church, Cranberry Twp. Call Chris at (412) 7359494.

Cranberry High Noon Toastmasters Club meets at noon

every Mon., Pella Windows Training Center, 230 Thorn Hill Rd., Warrendale. Visit http://cranberryhighnoon.toastmastersclubs. org/.

Criders Corner Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 12 p.m., Thur., Mar. 10 & 24, The Sports Grille, 1294 Freedom Rd. Call Jan at (412) 366-1600.

North Allegheny Special Ed. Parent Networking meeting, 9:30 a.m., Mar. 11, at NA High School Baierl Center, Ponce Room. Topic: Navigating Sexuality: A Tool for People with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Visit

Jesus Christ Superstar

Saint Sebastian Youth Ministry presents Jesus Christ Superstar Mar. 10-13.

Cabaret performance, Mar. 10, doors open at 6:00 p.m., dinner 6:30 p.m., show 7:15 p.m. Regular performances are 7:30 p.m., Mar. 11; 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., Mar. 12, and 2 p.m., Mar. 13 at Getty Hall, 307 Siebert Road, Ross Twp. WTAE’s Mike Clark and Kelly Brennan (SSYM musical alum) will have new clips inserted to help narrate the story of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” All donations are split between the Diocese mission in Chimbote and their Appalachia group. For tickets, visit http://www. saintsebastianparish.org/

Saint Alexis Gala

Saint Alexis School is hosting their 14th Annual Gala, Auction and Dinner on Mar. 5 at the Omni William Penn Hotel.

The reception will begin at 5 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. Christine D’Antonio from KDKA will be the mistress of ceremonies.

The event is co-chaired by Mark and Michel Conklin. For more information, call (724) 935-3940.

(Continued on page 12)

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Events

HAPPENINGS | March 2016

http://www.nasepng.org/.

North Hills Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 9 a.m., Mar. 4 & 18, Eat N’ Park, Rt. 8 & Saxonburg Blvd, Etna. Call Pat at (412) 486-8938.

Sarver Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 11:30 a.m., Thur., Mar. 3 & 17, Savor in Sarver, 123 Malone Drive. Call Michele at (724) 353-2431.

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

Tuesdays, King’s Restaurant, Rt. 8, Gibsonia.

Call Mary Ann, at (724) 935-2221 or www. wpabusiness.com.

Wexford Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 8 a.m., Tues., Mar. 8 & 22, Atria’s Restaurant, Wexford. Call Judith, at (412) 848-7986.

Volunteer Opportunities American Cancer Society is looking for

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.

Mission Vision needs volunteers to help

with Provide vision–Give hope. Call (724) 553-3114 or www.mission-vision.org.

North Hills Community Outreach Volunteer Orientations, 10 a.m., Apr. 14,

NHCO Allison Park. Call (412) 408-3830 ext.

3210 or hzgibbs@nhco.org.

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

Volunteers needed at The Emmaus

volunteers to drive cancer patients who are undergoing treatments to & from their appts.

Interested volunteers call (412) 919-1100 or emailsharon.stalter@cancer.org.

Community of Pittsburgh, 282 Sarah Street on the Southside. Help make a difference in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities.

For details, call (412) 381-0277 or www.

EmmausPgh.org.

Concession Volunteers needed for the 2016

Volunteer tutors needed to work with adult

U.S. Open, June 13-19, Oakmont Country Club. Contact Shelly at (Lupus Foundation) 800-800-5776 or mtonti@lupuspa.org.

Anchorpoint needs concession volunteers.

Call (412) 366-1300.

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

Volunteer Tutors Needed for children

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

School CCAC Allegheny Campus Spring Job Fair, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Mar. 16. For info,

(412) 237-2545. CCAC North Campus Spring Job Fair, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Apr. 6. For info, (412) 369-3674.

is being offer thru Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC and The Allstate Foundation. For schools interested, call (412) 692-8229 or www.chp.edu/CHP/ street+and+off-road+for+parents.

Worried about the New SAT? Total

Cinderella, North Allegheny Senior High, 7

Fox Chapel elementary schools Pre-K story times, 2-3 p.m., Apr. 20, Fairview;

Fundraiser & 5K Race/Walks

p.m., Mar. 2-5, 2 p.m., Mar. 6, at NASH. For tickets, visit www.NAMusical.com.

1:30-2:30 p.m., Mar. 3, Apr. 7, Hartwood; 2-3 p.m., Mar. 1, Kerr; 10-11 a.m., Mar. 2, Apr. 7 O’Hara. Family Fun Night, 5:30-7 p.m., Apr. 6, Kerr. Pre-register at the elementary school.

Visit clp.fcasd.edu.

Knights of Columbus All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner, 4-7 p.m., Apr. 9, St.

Fox Chapel Area High School Spring Musical, The Music Man, 7 p.m., Mar. 3-5;

North Hills Community Outreach is

Mars Elementary School Science Fair,

Verland State-of-the-Heart® 5K Race/ Walk, Apr. 24, Schenley Park Oval. For

2 p.m., Mar. 6, in the high school auditorium.

For tickets, visit http://www.fcasd.edu/ tickets.

5-8 p.m., Apr. 5, Mars Area High School. For info, call (724) 625-4589.

Mars High School musical The Wedding

Catherine of Sweden Church Hall, 2554 Wildwood Rd. Free will offering accepted.

Proceeds benefit local charities. accepting donations for their Spring Share program. For details, call (412) 487-6316 opt.

1 or vdburst@nhco.org.

details, visit www.verland.org.

Westmoreland Yough Trail Chapter of the

Singer, 7:30 p.m., Mar. 4-5, in the auditorium.

For tickets, call (724) 625-1581.

Regional Trail Corporation 5K/10K Run & 2 Mile Fun Walk, May 14. Pre-register by Apr. 14. For details, visit www.bikewytc.org.

North Allegheny Preschool registration for the fall 2016 is currently underway.

Veterans

Pine-Richland 2016-17 kindergarten registration: 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Mar. 7, Richland Elementary; Mar. 9, Hance Elementary; Mar. 11, Wexford Elementary. Visit http://www. pinerichland.org/enrollment.

Seneca Valley 2016-17 kindergarten registration: Mar. 1-3, Haine Elementary; Mar. 7-9, Evans City Elementary; Mar. 15-17, Rowan Elementary; Mar. 21-23, Connoquenessing Valley Elementary.

A Taste of Shaler Area, 5-7 p.m., Mar. 19, Shaler Area High School. For info, call (412) 492-1200 ext. 1531.

Seminars, Workshops & Courses AAUW - Political Forum, 9:30 a.m., Mar.

8, Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church. The New Women’s Institute of Chatham University, Apr. 12. Sponsored by AAUW. For info, email lbtotten@comcast.net.

North Pittsburgh Quilts of Valor meets

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

Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs Awarded VA Grants to Support

Disabled Veterans in Adaptive Sports at Slippery Rock University. Visit www.va.gov/ adaptivesports.

Veterans Discover HOPE Here-Career,

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

Veterans Fitness Classes 5 Days a

week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler. Visit www.prevention.va.gov/B_ Physically_ Active.asp.

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

“Veteran X” mental health & substance

Anchorpoint: Siblings Support Group, 1—

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

Bully Proof Your Kids, 6:15-&45 p.m., Mar.

Dancing

Week group for kids 8-12, 4:30 p.m., Mon., & Life Skills Group, 4:30. Tues., Anchorpoint.

Call (412) 366-1300.

9, Heritage Church. For parents of kids ages 4-12. RSVP at (412) 366-1338.

Legacy Theatre Seminars: 11 a.m., Mar.

1, A Taste of Russia; Mar. 15, Strange Encounters of Pennsylvania, Mar., 29, U.S. Power Grid Security, 700 Cumberland Woods

NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Teen driver safety FOCUS program

Learning Center is offering practice testing free of charge, 11 a.m., 1st Saturday of every month, 12051 Perry Hwy., Wexford. Call (724) 940-1090 or success@totallearningcenter.com.

Preschool meets 8:25-10:40 a.m. or 11:15 a.m.-1:25 p.m., Tues, Wed & Thurs, at North Allegheny High School. Email kloeffert@ northallegheny.org.

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Dr., McCandless Twp. Call, (412) 635-8080 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

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.

Dance Before the Lord: A History of Gospel Music and Liturgical Dance, 7 p.m., Apr. 1, Zappala College Center Square, La Roche College. Call (412) 536-1216 or rita. yeasted@laroche.edu.

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) 4432616 or beatty3@consolidated.net.

Saturday Singles Dance. For ages 40+, 8 p.m. to midnight,

Mar. 5, St. Patrick’s Day Party; Mar. 19, Great Gift Card Giveaway, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy. Free dance lesson 7:30 p.m. Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

Yes, You Can Dance! (YYCD) is a special needs ballroom

program for teens (16+). Participants meet 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. Call (412) 999-3998 or info@yesyoucandance.org.

Community Events Afternoon Tea, 1:30-3:30 p.m., May 1, St. Ferdinard Church, Oldenski Hall. Required reservations by Apr. 26. Call (724) 779-3986.

Celebration of the Arts sponsored by the Diocese of

Pittsburgh, 1-5 p.m., Mar. 6, St. Paul Seminary, 2900 Noblestown Rd., Carnegie. RSVP at (412) 456-3067 or www. diopitt.org/celebration-arts.

North Boroughs YMCA Spring Break event, 4-7 p.m., Mar. 13, Knights of Columbus, Bellevue. Food, games, prizes & dancing. For info, call (412) 223-1900.

North Hills Community Outreach Block Party, 5:30-8:30

p.m., Apr. 21, Chadwick in Wexford. Call (412) 487-6316, opt.

1 ext. 3111 or nhco.org/2016-neighborhood-block-party.

Register to run for NHCO in the Pittsburgh Marathon, half

marathon, relay & 5K must register by Mar. 31. Call (412) 408-3830 x3210 or thepittsburghmarathon.com or marathon@ nhco.org.

Slide & Glide on North Park’s Olympic Size Ice Rink, TuesdaySunday now until mid-March. Family skate 4:30-7 p.m. every Wed. Two adults and up to four children can skate for only $10. For hours and rates visit alleghenycounty.us/winterfun.

Spring Treasure Hunt, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Apr. 2, Parkwood

Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd. Vendors needed.

Call Elaine, at (412) 486-8755 or www.parkwoodchurch.org.

Three Rivers Quilters Guild Show, 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Mar. 17; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Mar. 18; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Mar. 19, The Circuit Center, South Side. Visit quiltshow@threeriversquilters.org.

(Continued on page 14)

Hiland Preschool’s Spring/Summer Children’s Clothing Consignment Sale Saturday, March 12, 8:00am - 3:00pm Sunday, March 13, 1:00pm - 3:00pm (Red Tag Sale 25-50% off.)

Gently worn clothes NB- size 12 as well as toys, books and baby equipment.

Proceeds support our non-profit preschool.

845 Perry Highway, Ross Twp. Info @ hilandpreschool.com. www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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Events

HAPPENINGS | March 2016

Environmental & Gardening Glade Run Spring Gardening Symposium, Garden to Plate,

organic garden. For details, call (412) 307-0069 x3311 or nhcogardens.squarespace.com.

Great American Cleanup of PA, Mar. 1-May 31. For details,

Northern Area Environmental Council (NAEC) tree, shrub, wildflower seedlings sale runs thru Mar. 25. Plants pick-up is Apr. 23 at Latodami Nature Center in North Park. For details, visit naecwpa.org.

Greybrooke Garden Club meeting 9:30 a.m., Mar. 9 at the

Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania Annual Orchid Show, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, March 19, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,

Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Rd. “Bald Eagles Presentation.” For details or reservation, contact Barbro at (412) 296-0538.

Sunday, March 20, at the Phipps Garden Center, 1059 Shady Avenue (Fifth & Shady). Admission is free. For info, visit www. oswp.org.

North Hills Community Outreach is seeking individuals or garden groups to grow seedlings for transplanting in their

Easter Egg-citement

8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Apr. 2, Glade Run, Zelienople. Required registration, call (724) 452-4453 x1277 or www.gladerun.org. visit gacofpa.org.

Easter Egg Hunt for ages 1-9 years, Mar. 19, Pine Community Center, $3 per child for non-residents, free for Pine residents.

Required registration online or at the Pine Community Center.

Teen Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Mar. 25,

Pine Community Center. For ages 10-15. $12 for non-members & $6 for members, free for Pine residents. Required registration by Mar. 18, online or at the Pine Community Center.

Library Northland Library Events: Pierogi Truck, noon-6 p.m., Mar. 11 & 25; Beyond the Basics, Open IPad Forum, 6:30 p.m., Mar. 17; American Red Cross Pillowcase Project, 2-3 p.m., Mar. 19; Ask the Organizers, 7 p.m., Mar. 24; Northeast Pennsylvania Coal and Folk Music, 7 p.m., Mar. 28. Call (412) 366-8100 x103 or www.northlandlibrary.org.

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NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Lenten Fish Fries

Saint Alexis Catholic Church 2016 Lenten and Easter Triduum Liturgical Schedule

Daily Masses

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday: 8:00 a.m.

Friday: 8:30 a.m.

Sacrament of Penance Communal Service 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, March 16, 2016 _______________

Stations of the Cross Fridays 1:45 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. _______________

Fish Fry

4:00-7:00 p.m.

Mar. 4, 11 & 18 No Fish Fry on Good Friday _______________

Palm Sunday Masses

ST ALEXIS FISH FRY!

F

ridays during Lent (except Good Friday), 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the school cafeteria. We offer choice of baked cod or our “King Cod” (fresh battered fried fish), two side dishes (pierogies, scalloped potatoes, green beans, cole slaw, apple sauce or macaroni and cheese), rolls, choice of the dessert from our delicious selection of homemade desserts and drink (no drink with takeout), $10 adults, $6 children under 10 and children under three are free, $30 family meal deal (2 child/2 adult meals). A fish sandwich is $6 and a bowl of soup and roll is $3. Back by popular demand we have our popular Boston clam chowder which is only $3 for a bowl. Credit cards accepted. There are plenty of handicapped and takeout parking spaces reserved behind the cafeteria. Take out ordering 724.401.1FRY (after 3:30 p.m.) or use our online ordering at stalexis.org. Thanks for supporting our youth ministry! F

March 20, 2016 Anticipated Mass: Saturday 4:00 p.m.

Sunday: 8:00 a.m., 9:45 a.m. procession before 10:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 noon and 6:00 p.m. _______________

Easter Triduum Holy Thursday

Mass of the Lord’s Supper: 7:00 p.m.

Good Friday

Stations of the Cross: 12:00 noon Spiritual Reflection: 1:00 p.m.

Celebration of the Lord’s Passion: 2:00 p.m.

Good Friday Evening Tenebrae Service: 7:30 p.m.

Holy Saturday

Blessing of the Baskets: 11:00 a.m.

Easter Vigil: 8:30 p.m.

Easter Sunday Masses

8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 12:00 noon No 6:00 p.m. Mass _______________ 10090 Old Perry Highway Wexford, Pennsylvania 15090 724.935.4343 www.stalexis.org

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Ideal Image: Experts in Laser and Medical Spa Services Want to look and feel your best?

Tired of unwanted hair?

Want smooth and sexy skin?

Want to look and feel years younger?

A

t Ideal Image, we are dedicated to helping you look and feel your personal best. Giving you the confidence you deserve. Our service are performed by licensed medical and nursing professionals, with an uncompromising concern for your comfort and safety.

• Ideal Image has performed over 5.5 million laser hair removal treatments nationwide.

• Ideal Image is Americas #1 Choice for Laser Hair Removal.

• We use only the top licensed nursing and medical professionals in the Country, and employ over 200 licensed medical professionals.

• Most of our guests can return to work or play immediately after a laser hair removal treatment.

• Ideal Image provides our Laser Hair Removal Guests with a Lifetime Membership for the areas purchased.

At I deal Image, we provide a full array of skin and body services: Laser Hair Removal – at Ideal Image, we have mastered the process of laser hair removal and stand behind our methods as one of the best ways to achieve permanent hair reduction. No more bumps, stubble or irritation. Treatments average just under 30 minutes and then guest can go back to work or play.

BBL™ BroadBand Light therapy – also known as Intense Pulsed Light therapy or the photo facial, produces younger looking skin that’s firmer, and more even in tone and texture. With little recovery time and no surgery, BBL™ offers a safe, FDA-cleared option for sun damage, anti-aging, and skin rejuvenation.

Coolsculpting® – Developed by renowned scientists of Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital, the FDAcleared procedure known as CoolSculpting uses patented cooling technology to eliminate fat cells, without surgery, and little to no downtime. The reduction in fat cells in the treated area provides noticeable, and lasting results to help you look and feel your very best.

Laser Tattoo Removal – Regret a Tattoo? Does it not look the way you wanted? We use FDA-cleared PicoSure™, the most advanced laser treatment available for tattoo removal.

PicoSure™ targets unwanted ink faster than ever before, successfully removing difficult ink colors, such as blue and green, as well as previously treated tattoos.

Ultherapy Skin Lifting – Ultherapy® is a non-surgical, noninvasive procedure that uses focused ultrasound and the body’s own natural healing process to lift, tone, and tighten loose skin

on the brow, neck, under the chin, and even the décolletage (upper chest area). With Ultherapy®, there’s no downtime, no foreign substances, no radical change; just a healthy revving-up on the inside for a natural, noticeable effect on the outside. The result? Tighter, better-fitting skin, even on the neck. It’s the lift without the surgery!

Injections – With safe and effective anti-aging treatments services including Botox, Dysport, Restylane, Juvederm Ultra, Voluma, and Kybella. You’re able to unlock more youthful looking skin, with only minimally invasive procedures requiring little, if any downtime. Whether your goal is to instantly add volume to sunken when you mention this article cheekbones, fill in deep lines, reduce the appearance of wrinkles or add beautiful contours, the medical and healthcare professionals at Ideal image are just a phone call away.

35% off

Ideal Image has two convenient locations in the Pittsburgh area: Ideal Image Wexford in the Wexford Flats at 2000 Village Run Road, Suite 204 and Ideal Image Pittsburgh in Robinson Town Centre at 1934 Park Manor Boulevard.

To learn more and watch informative videos, visit our website https://www.idealimage.com or for a FREE consultation, call (724) 759-2620 for our Wexford location and ask to speak to Michelle.

Or call Lisa at our Robinson location at (412) 706-5262. l l l

The experience in the words of our guests: “This definitely changed me as a person 100%. It is phenomenal. I haven’t bought razors - which are so expensive now. It’s not even anything on my mind anymore where it was always on my mind and the first thing on my mind before I had Laser Hair Removal. It’s amazing. It truly is amazing. If I could speak to my fifteen year old self… you have a lot to look forward to, is what I would tell her.” – Nicole “Now that I’ve had the Laser Hair Removal, I feel like my life is so much simpler. I feel like I look better; I feel better; I have more confidence.

The flexibility to be able to play with my children, being able to throw on a bathing suit and just go get in the pool without a second thought has been really a life saver. And my husband has been really supportive. He knows that I struggled with the waxing and shaving for years. And so I think he’s happy to see me happy.” – Sammy “I started to notice hair on my back when I was probably 19 or 20 years old. It always bothered me. It was always one of those self-conscious things that I always felt like you know, can somebody see that? Can somebody else notice that? And it just got to me…No one actually ever suggested it to me because it’s honestly not things that guys are usually tell each other…I was in and out in like, 30 minutes – I mean I did it on my lunch hour – I was right back to work, I mean no problems. Went to the gym that night, and it was good. -- Steve

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Rohit & Brittany Phatak.

Bona fide Photography

Rohit & Brittany Phatak.

Bona fide Photography

Photo by Alan Marinelli

Dan & Sherri Kohley at Geneva on the Lake

Jeremy & Melissa Appleby Photo by Darice Michelle Photography

General Rental Center

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NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Springwood

Springwood

Dan & Sherri Kohley’s wedding cake

2016

WEDDING GUIDE Special Choices for your Special Day Your first day being officially married. This special occasion deserves the best to help you celebrate your new life together. These following special choices will make your wedding a truly exquisite, charming and memorable moment: Planning the Day Tonya Edinger, The Expert Wedding Planner – Happily ever after starts with an expert! Tonya Edinger, owner at Weddings of Pittsburgh, with 17 years’ experience planning weddings and events, is dedicated to making your vision of your special day a reality. She is the conductor of your wedding symphony. In addition to keeping track of all the details, Tonya Edinger helps you to select the ideal vendors to match you and your fiancée’s personality and flair. She always says you wouldn’t cut your own hair or fix your own car, you would hire an expert. Your wedding is one of the most important events in your life, it sets the precedence for all your future parties. Make sure you have an expert by your side! She can even handle guest management. To learn more about how Tonya Edinger can help you plan your wedding, avoid pitfalls and make your wedding a day to cherish for a lifetime, call (724) 968-7135 or visit www.

WeddingsofPittsburgh.com to schedule

your complimentary 30 minute consultation, be sure to mention you saw this ad in the Northern Connection.

Looking Your Best Ideal Image – Experts in laser hair removal, the medical professionals at Ideal Image can remove unwanted hair, tattoos and more, giving you the appearance and confidence you want for your special day, your honeymoon and your lifetime together. Among a whole array of services, Ideal Image can remove unwanted hair from bikini line, arms, legs, body and back, eyebrows and facial hair, even providing Brazilian laser hair removal. Ideal Image has performed over 5.5 million laser hair removal treatments nationwide and is Americas #1 Choice for Laser Hair Removal. To learn more, visit https://www.idealimage.com or for a FREE consultation, call (724) 759-2620 for our Wexford location and ask to speak to Michelle. Or call Lisa at our Robinson location at (412) 706-5262.

Renee Hoy, Rodan+Fields Independent Consultant – In your dreams, every detail matters. Whether your wedding is a year away or just months away, it’s not too late to get the skin of your dreams.

My partnership with Rodan and Fields gives you the opportunity to use skin care products that are tailored for your specific skin care needs. From foaming sunless tanner to reducing the appearance of acne, acne scaring, dark spots, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, facial redness, fine lines and wrinkles. Our 60 to 90 day Multi-Med Therapy regimens will have your skin ready for its close up. Don’t fret, we have something for the groom as well. Keep his face soft, smooth and free of nicks and razor burn. Our Beyond the Shave will alleviate razor irritation and reveal better looking skin. What about your bridesmaid(s) gifts? The microdermabrasion paste, night renewing and lip renewing serum offer your bridesmaid(s) months of mini facials. Start your jour(Continued on page 20)

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2016 WEDDING GUIDE ney to better looking skin with me today.

For more information, visit https://rhoy. myrandf.com.

Charming and Elegant Venues The Atrium – Whether held in one of our greenhouses, the outdoor gazebo and gardens or the main hall, an event at The Atrium is truly distinctive. Of course, the intriguing surroundings are only part of what makes an event here memorable.

A caring and creative staff, a full range of services and menu selections, and the flexibility to work within a variety of budgets, all combine to make The Atrium the place where events flourish. Enjoy personal attention as they service only one event; Your Event! Select one of our allinclusive wedding packages. You will be guaranteed an exquisite meal, excellent service and a day of great memories. In addition to evening ceremony and reception packages, they also offer customized morning and midday packages. For more

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information, visit http://theatriumonline. com.

The Crystal Conservatories at St. Barnabas is a four building complex that includes a Pre-function room ideal for mingling, The Main Conservatory with a large indoor heated pool featuring poolside dining, the Tower Conservatory which is a glass house with buffet and bar areas, tables and a loft and the Cruise Deck with patio dining and room to socialize outside and adjacent to the pool. The indoor space is flexible and can be configured for a bridal shower for as few as 25 guests, or a wedding and reception for up to 100 guests. Parties can rent a tent for an outdoor wedding ceremony for up to 150 guests or a reception for up to 100 guests. Visit http://thecrystalconservatories.com/weddings-events.

The DoubleTree Hotel in Cranberry – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel PittsburghCranberry - Two is better than one – start your forever together at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Pittsburgh-Cranberry! With 13,440 square feet of Grand Ballroom space, we can seat up to 900 for dinner and 1,200 for a reception. If you prefer a more intimate event, the ballroom is divisible in up to 8 sections to allow you maximum flexibility. The beautifully renovated ballroom arrival area is spectacular and provides 5,000 square feet of preevent space, perfect for your cocktail hour. Allow our wedding specialists and catering team to customize your pictureperfect event with unparalleled attention to every detail. We take care of everything so you can relax and enjoy the best

NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

day of your life. Our guest rooms and suites are recently renovated to provide maximum comfort for your friends and family. Learn more at doubletreewedding. com or call 724-776-6900.

Geneva on the Lake – Amidst an ambiance of Italian Renaissance architecture, classical sculptures and Stickley furnishings, guests from around the world enjoy wedding receptions, family reunions and special celebrations. Geneva On The Lake provides the gourmet cuisine, personal service, friendly hospitality, and the coordination needed to make such occasions a joy for you as the host and a pleasure for all of your guests. For more information, visit http://www.genevaonthelake.com/memorable_moments.html.

The Johnston House – Take the shower out of the living room and out of the house. Instead, move it to someplace elegant, filled with charm and grace. This way, no one in your wedding party needs to worry about decorating and best of all, no clean-up, leaving you time to visit with your guests for some real girl-bonding time. The Johnston House Tea Room located in Mars near Cranberry is just such a place. It offers a blend of romance, luxury and old world charm inside and out with unmatched options and impeccable service. Their core purpose for over 25 years is “making memories” and “making people feel at home.” For more information on this one-of-a-kind location, contact their event coordinators at (724) 625-2636.

The Mayernik Center – Located in Avonworth Park, the Mayernik Center is a year-round venue with a 200 person seating capacity. The Center is a beautiful log cabin building with a full wrap-around porch which allows guests to utilize the inside and outside of the facility. Featuring 18’ cathedral ceilings and stone fireplace in the main hall, it’s a perfect venue to get away from the norm.

In addition, The Oak Room is located directly off of the main section of the Mayernik Center, and hosts an eye-catching oak bar. This area is great for smaller weddings or showers or the buffet for receptions of any kind. Surrounded by

Photo by Alan Marinelli

The Atrium

Matt & Holly Hebebrand

George Street Photo & Video

our beautifully landscaped park, the Mayernik Center provides a break from the busy city. Conveniently located off of I-279 or Route 65. For more information, call (412)-766-1700 to arrange a tour.

Springwood Manor and Villa (1000 Indiana Road, Penn Hills; 412-793-7453, info@springwood.org) offers two premier Pittsburgh venues, both providing unique natural settings for hosting your wedding ceremony & reception. SPRINGWOOD MANOR, with its magnificent Glass Atrium, offers indoor din(Continued on page 22)

2016 Wedding Guide Vendors The Atrium

Ideal Image

724-865-2830 www.theatriumonline.com

Wexford 724-759-2620 Robinson 412-706-5262 www.idealimage.com

Avonworth Community Park 412-766-1700 www.avonworthcommunitypark.org

Crystal Conservatories 724-625-3807 http://thecrystalconservatories.com

DoubleTree by Hilton 724-776-6900 www.doubletree.com

General Rental Center 724-776-6990 www.General-Rental-Center.com

Geneva on the Lake 315-789-7190 1-800-3-geneva

Home 2 Suites 412-630-8400 www.home2suites.com

The Johnston House 724-625-2636 www.thejohnstonhouse.com

The Print Shop 724-935-2221 http://www.printdaughters.carlsoncraft. com

Saint James Catholic Church 412-741-6650 www.saintjames-church.com

The Springwood Manor & Villa 412-793-7453 www.springwood.org

Tonya Edinger Weddings of Pittsburgh 724-968-7135 www.weddingsofpittsburgh.com

Rodan + Fields Rene Hoy 740-961-3356 www.rhoy.myrandf.com

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2016 WEDDING GUIDE ing (~175) along with a vaulted-ceiling pavilion (~ 150 seating), outdoor ceremony sites, a 3-tiered deck, balconies, gardens and gazebos. THE VILLA at SPRINGWOOD boasts towering evergreen and maple trees, spacious lawns, a unique covered bridge, and spectacular WATERFALLS—one of which has a 55 foot drop! The Villa offers a private, yet convenient getaway—a three-bedroom well-equipped, air-conditioned brick home on Springwood grounds, as well as an inground heated pool with expansive patio.

Events on the Villa grounds include elegant wedding ceremonies and receptions, poolside barbecue rehearsal dinners, and/ or Sunday brunch. Villa packages include a tented patio from spring through fall (seating up to 100 guests). Springwood is a premier meeting & reception site that provides a unique natural setting for hosting your wedding ceremony & reception....a natural choice for all seasons. www.springwood.org

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Accommodations for Out of Town Guests Home2 Suites by Hilton - Forget the fold-out sofa and the futon on the floor, book a block of rooms at Home2 suites to give your out-of-town guest that homey feel without the work and chaos. Home2 Suites by Hilton are walking distance to all of the shops, eateries and cinemas in McCandless Crossing for your guest to enjoy while you are busy getting ready for the wedding. In addition, each Home 2 Suite gives your guests a kitchenette, free breakfast and a great place to relax and enjoy. Also, be sure and provide a welcome gift and thank you note for each guest. To see what all Home2 Suites have to offer your out-of-town guests, visit http://home2suites3.hilton.com.

Essentials Invitations - For help designing your invitations, use the Print Daughters at

NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

the Print Shop at Office Things in Mars. In addition to invitation, they can help with all your printing and wedding item needs including programs, place cards, napkins, favors, thank you notes and so much more. To see what all they have to offer, visit http://www.printdaughters.carlsoncraft.com.

General Rental - Contact General Rental for all kinds of items to spice up the big day. In addition to the conventional party rentals such as tents, tables, chairs, linens and much, much more, they have fun rentals too including dunk tanks, bounce houses, cotton candy machines and frozen drink dispensers. They are constantly updating their inventory with new games and concession equipment, so be sure and visit their Cranberry location. To learn more, call (724) 776-6990 to speak with an event planner or visit http:// general-rental-center.com. l l l

Jeremy & Melissa Appleby Photo by Darice Michelle Photography

Military Wedding Traditions

BY PAULA GREEN

M

ilitary weddings are like civilian weddings, but the difference is the attire and the patriotic traditions. One requirement for a military wedding is at least one of the parties getting married must be a part of a branch of the U.S. military, whether it be the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard or Air Force.

An officer or enlisted personnel in the bridal party wear uniforms in accordance with the formality of the wedding. For officers, evening dress uniform conforms to civilian white tie and tails. Dinner or mess dress uniform in accordance with black tie.

In case of non-commissioned officers, dress blues, or Army green uniforms may be worn at the ceremony. Men who choose to wear their uniforms are not allowed to pin boutonnieres or any additional items to their uniforms; instead they wear military decorations. A female officer may wear a traditional bridal gown, or her military uniform. If the father of the bride or groom is an active or retired officer, they may wear uniforms.

White gloves are a necessity for all saber (sword) bearers. However, the groom and best man do not wear gloves because they will be handling rings.

For the seating of the officers, the bride or groom’s commanding officer and spouse may sit in the front pew if the parents are not present. They may also sit near or with the immediate family.

The saber arch or arch of swords is a special tradition. Sabers are curved, singleedged swords and are wielded by the ushers in the bridal party. There are typically six to eight saber bearers to create this arch. Swords are raised to create an arch and walkway for the bride and groom to walk through. Depending on which part the military the bride or groom is in, is when this tradition takes place.

In the Army the arch of swords takes place immediately after the newlyweds are departing from the church or chapel. The arch signifies a safe entry into their new lives together.

In the Navy and Marine Corps, the arch of swords is authorized for commissioned, warrant, staff noncommissioned officers and noncommissioned officer only. The arch of swords ceremony is an old English and American custom, which gives a symbolic pledge of loyalty to the newly married couple from their Marine family.

The primary difference between the Navy and Marine Corps’ arch and the Army’s arch is that for the Navy and Marine Corps, they use swords instead of sabers and they are drawn at the cue; they are turned so that the cutting edge of the blade is facing upwards.

In the Air Force, as the bride and groom walk through, each pair of bearers turn to face one another and once the couple stars to kneel, the bearers turn in unison to face the Bible on the altar. The arch is formed as the newlyweds leave the chapel.

At the reception, American flags and other patriotic décor are commonplace. Cake toppers of a bride and groom in uniform are also popular. Sabers and swords are often used to cut the cake as well. The groom hands his sword to the bride and with his right hand over hers; they cut the wedding cake together. Military weddings are beautiful traditions that are inspiring to witness. l l l Sources: http://weddingdetails.com/lore-tradition/u-s-military-traditions/, http://www.bridebox.com/blog/ saluting-military-wedding-traditions/

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Easy Ways to Spring Clean Your Lingerie Drawer

BY KELLY SMITH

As we anxiously await the arrival of warm and sunny days, many of us start our spring cleaning. It’s a time of year where the motto “out with the old, in with the new” echoes throughout every area of our home but, chances are, you missed a spot! An often overlooked area is one we use everyday.

W

hether your storage space for everything pretty is a drawer, cabinet, chest or closet, this is one area of your wardrobe that deserves some attention.

Wearing the right undergarments can make or break an outfit so, do care for and store your undergarments properly. To make sure that your bras and panties are body worthy, you’ll need to take an inventory and decide which pieces stay and which ones get ousted. I find that I am constantly on the lookout for ripped or tattered undergarments to throw away (even for my boys) because; do you really want to go out with dirty or ripped underwear? Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Learn to say goodbye to those ratty old bras if: • • • •

The straps are stretched or worn The cups are misshaped The underwire is exposed (ouch!)

The color is faded or stained

2. Say sayonara to your panties if: • • • •

They are too tight or baggy Stained or tattered Stitching or elastic is stretched or torn The lining is ripped

3. Everything in its place and a place for everything Keeping your unmentionables properly stored and organized will not only make your mornings easier but will extend the life of your favorite things! Placing your bras in neat rows will help them retain their shape. This also allows for a full view of all your pieces. Also, remember to always wash your delicates by hand and if you must use a washing machine, do so only on a delicate cycle. I always use a garment bag so nothing gets torn or stretched.

4. Hosiery hot lead Call them what you will: panty hose, stockings, tights.

These all cover our lower extremities but they most definitely have an expiration date that usually comes sooner, rather than later in comparison to other co-habitants in our lingerie home. Some signs that your stockings need to be tossed: runs, tears, stains or stretched material. No one likes to toss a brand new pair of stockings but if you’re sheer hose has a run, its best to say bye-bye. Don’t forget about those socks.

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Yes, the rule applies to those too! No one wants to see your toes peeking out of your socks so by all means, toss those out with the rest of the crew!

5. Make room for more Once you’ve removed any items that no longer spark joy, what better excuse to go shopping than out of necessity?

Delicate wear does need to be replaced more often than other items in our wardrobe. If you think about it, our undergarments are worn almost all day long (hopefully!) so it only makes sense to care for them and replace them as needed.

With spring right at our door, try some fun floral prints and tuck the dark colors to the back of the drawer.

Cleaning out your lingerie drawer should be done a few times a year so what better time to start than now? Also, when taking inventory of your undergarments, ask yourself a few questions before you keep or toss them, does this make me feel beautiful? Would I want anyone seeing me in these?

Is this really the right fit? Why do I have indentations on my skin? Bras and panties should make you feel beautiful and confident. Some may look good but not feel very comfortable. Bras should never leave marks or pull so tight that it leaves folds of skin exposed. If it does, you need to get properly fitted. Most department stores with a lingerie department will do this free of charge!

Always remember the old adage “when in doubt, throw it out.” Or, you can just listen to Mom and always put on a clean pair of undies! l l l

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Imagine.

Recently, IDI Landscape Solutions created a two-tier patio and octagon fire pit for a client who had this to say: “Matthew is a master perfectionist. On-time, detailed and communicative, he would send me a text every day about the status of the project.

Matthew is a great contractor who is meticulous, personable and made the project a pleasant experience. He has a tremendous work ethic and kept at it until finished, even in bad weather. Best of all, there were no over-runs. The cost was exact to quote. I highly recommend Matthew and IDI Landscape Solutions.� - Linda

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Design. Install.

IDI Landscape Solutions Creates Your Dream Oasis

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ith IDI Landscape Solutions, you can give your home an exquisite look with custom hardscapes and landscaping for you to showcase and enjoy.

From design to finish project, IDI Landscape Solutions offers true artistic alternatives in: n Outdoor Kitchens and Living Space n Fire pits and Fireplaces n Water Features n Patios and Walkways n Walls and Pillars n Steps and Stairs n Designer Planters All complete with accent colors, ambient lighting and so much more.

Owner and founder Matthew Eger explains, “At IDI Landscape Solutions, we focus on fluidity, function and flawless designs and installation. Most importantly, we offer a whole range of products, including multi-lock pavers and natural stone, and will customize design, materials and scope to achieve the results you want while keeping within your budget.”

“During the initial consultation,” continues Eger, “I

learn about the client and what they want, whether they are into curves, angles, octagons, pavers, natural stone, any unique landscaping challenges and see where and how the landscape flows and access the best location for the outdoor kitchen, fire pit, water feature or other landscape possibility. Also, based on their wants and their budget, I can select the best combination of multiple products to make their dream a reality.”

A veteran of the first Gulf War, owner and founder Matthew Eger earned his landscape contracting degree from Penn State University but has been a landscaper and gardener for his whole life starting with his own garden at 8 years old. “I inherited my green thumb from my mother, grandmother and even great grandmother,” explains Eger. “But what all my clients have preferred over the years is that I’m the one, rolling up my sleeves and doing the work. I’m at every work site, should anything need changed or any challenge arise.”

To learn more about having your own outdoor, home oasis, visit www.landscaperpa.com or call (412) 760-8801 today for a FREE estimate and take the first step towards your dream landscape and outdoor living space. l l l www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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Winchester-Thurston Summer Camp

Camp Spirit of the Game

Winchester-Thurston Summer Camp

2016 Summer Camps Guide Summer Camps Equal Summer Fun! Winchester-Thurston Summer Camp

Winchester-Thurston Summer Camp

GreenE Academy Summer Camps

What’s the key to summer camp?

Book Early! All the camps throughout the Summer Camp guide of Northern Connection magazine are filled with summer fun. But remember, summer camps and programs fill-up fast so be sure and reserve your spot today.

Camp Spirit of the Game – uses the fast-paced sport of ultimate frisbee to build character, teach and develop teamwork, constructive approaches to conflict resolution, good sportsmanship and so much more.

Ultimate frisbee is a team sport that has no referees, so the players must self-officiate. Therefore a code of conduct has been developed known as “Spirit of the Game.” Camp organizers use the “Spirit of the Game” to teach ethical behavior. During the camp, a different word such as Integrity or Enthusiasm is the word of (Continued on page 32)

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Winchester-Thurston Summer Camp

Winchester-Thurston Summer Camp

the day and its meaning is worked into the many activities. Camp Spirit of the Game takes place throughout the area with two camps available in North Park.

Each camp is five full days from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 13-17 and July 11-15. To register, go to http://camps.PghUltimate. org.

Chatham Music and Arts Day Camp For sixty years, Chatham University has hosted one of Pittsburgh’s best-loved summer traditions: the Chatham Music and Arts Day Camp. Now, we’re bringing the best of the CMADC to the North

Hills, and adding an environmental element, at Chatham’s new 388-acre Eden Hall Campus in Richland, PA—the world’s first academic community built from the ground-up for the study of sustainability. “We wanted to take the successful CMADC to Eden Hall to give families in the North Hills the same opportunity that our campers at the Shadyside campus have. Our camp is like no other, offering a well-rounded and structured schedule that has a balance between the arts and traditional camp programming,” says Camp Director Alicia Danenberg. Campers entering grades 1-6 this upcoming school year will have the opportunity to participate in a summer camp with a daily schedule including swimming, music, art, sports, and drama. Our campers explore their favorite activities and try new things that they wouldn’t do at a traditional summer camp. Our program includes an Eden Hall Experiences course that introduces campers to our sustainable campus and how it fits into their world. Enroll in the entire three-week session beginning on Tuesday July 5th, or try the camp out with open enrollment on Fridays. For more information visit our website at www.chatham. edu/daycamp or call 412-365-1148.

GreenE Academy - Created by a faculty and an engineer from Carnegie Mellon University, GreenE Academy has trained over 2,000 children in the past seven years. GreenE offers summer camps root-

GreenE Academy Summer Camps

ed in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). In 2016, GreenE Academy will offer several programs for kids entering grades 2 to 7 in the fall: 1. 1. Lego Power Function & Tynker Programming (grades 2 and 3).

Students will create several projects using the LEGO Technic elements and bring them to life. They learn Tynker, a visual programming language similar to Scratch from MIT and Alice from CMU. 2. EV3 Robotics (grades 3, 4, and 5). Students will use the Lego Mindstorms EV3 elements to program their robots to solve a series of challenges and play fun games such as hockey and sumo wrestling.

3. Advanced Robotics for FLL (grades 6, 7 and 8). This program is for students with previous experience in building and programming with Lego Mindstorms EV3, especially for students who want to engage in the First Lego League Tournament and want to learn advanced building and programming concepts.

4. Video Game Design and Programming (grades 4 and 5). Students create their own world with characters, and use the built-in functions to create fun games.

5. VEX IQ Robotics (grades 6 and 7).

This program will introduce students to building and programing with VEX IQ Robots using RobotC. 6. JavaScript and Movie Making (grades 6 and 7). Students will learn basic concepts of JavaScript programming, HTML documents, and creation of videos to produce a variety of fun projects.

Programs will be offered at Alpha School located at 9000 Babcock Blvd., Allison Park, PA 15101, Monday to Friday 9-3 pm. To register, please visit http://greeneacademy.net.

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Hampton School District – Open to everyone, including cyber, parochial and students from other districts, Hampton School District offers an incredible list of opportunities available as part of its summer programs in the arts, sciences and much more. This year’s classes are centered on sewing, cooking, robotics and computer programming. Technology enthusiasts can learn 3-D design and how to use a 3-D printer! Participants can even learn how to develop their own video games. There is even a special Babysitting class where participants learn CPR and first aid, learn how to market their babysitting business and even earn a certificate upon successful completion of the program. There will still be three sessions this summer, but the third session is dedicated solely to a new program called Camp Invention. To learn more about Camp Invention, visit http://campinvention.org/2016-program/. Camp Invention will be an all-day program, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Wyland Elementary School. It is for students in grades K-5 only.

The classes during the first two sessions generally run from 9 a.m. to noon, with a few exceptions. For the first time this year, an afternoon recreation program also will be offered from noon until 3 p.m. through the Baierl YMCA and is an excellent option for those requiring full-day care. Visit www.ht-sd.org, go to the Community tab and select HTSD Summer Program 2016 to access the brochure and full list of opportunities for summer classes.

Be sure to read our April issue to learn about even more summer camps and programs in our area. If you are implementing a summer camp or would like us to feature a camp counselor or volunteer that is making a difference, be sure and let us know by emailing northcon@consolidated.net or calling 724-940-2444. lll

Summer Camps Directory Camp Invention

Camp Spirit of the Game

Merck Summer Therapeutic Inclusion Program (STIP) 412-235-5405 toscolanijm@upmc.edu

www.camps.PghUltimate.org

Pittsburgh International Film Festival

Chatham / Eden Hall Music & Arts Day Camp

www.pghkids.org 412-456-6666

www.campinvention.org 1-800-968-4332

412-365-1148 www.chatham.edu/daycamp

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

www.forestdancing.com 814-938-8517

ArtCity: Summer Camps TrustArts.org/artcity 412-471-6079

Glen Montessori International Summer Camp

Sewickley Academy

www.glenmontessori.org 412-318-4885

www.sewickley.org/summer

Shady Side Academy

GreenE Academy

www.shadysideacademy.org/summer 412-447-2230

Forest Dancing

www.greeneacademy.net 412-513-6155

Hampton Township School District (HTSD) www.ht-sd.org 412-492-6393 412-492-6357

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church www.stpaulsumc.com/summer 412-486-5591

Sweetwater Art Center

KidsFest Orchard Hill

www.SweetwaterArtCenter.org 412.741.4405

www.kidsfestrocks.com

TenderCare Learning Centers

Little Appleseed Learning Center

www.earlyeducationpros.org Wexford 724-934-0411 McCandless 412-367-3269 Hampton 412-486-5510

www.littleappleseedlearningcenter.com 724-625-4029

Winchester Thurston www.winchesterthurston.org/summercamp

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2016 Summer Camps Guide

Planning for Fun Times at Summer Camp Photo courtesy of GreenE Academy

BY BRUCE HYDE, M.D. — PEDIATRIC ALLIANCE, NORTH HILLS DIVISION

If you have already decided that summer camp is in your child’s future, then there are many things to consider. For families where both parents work, summer camp is a natural follow-up after school ends.

F

irst to consider is day camp vs. overnight camp. Many children have their first experience with overnight camp during the tween years, ages 10 to 12. Children at camp can make new friends, learn new skills, learn independence and broaden their knowledge of the world and their interests. Before opening up your wallet, you must ask if your child is ready and interested in a sleepaway camp. Is she independent, able to ready herself for school by herself, get herself dressed, prepare a snack etc.? Did he get anxious when you mentioned the idea, or did he seem interested and excited? Has he experienced several sleepovers or short times away from home? In all cases, talk to your tween and explore the idea. Often, your child will need lots of reassurance and an understanding about what the experience is likely to include.

If you are considering day camp, children age 5 and above often welcome the opportunity.

Here are several points to think about: 1) Your child’s interests. Would they like a camp focused on a specific interest or sport, or a camp where general activities like hiking and swimming are provided? Nowadays, there are many different kinds of camps. Camps specializing in soccer, tennis, swimming, skating, and football are available.

There are camps for special needs children, gifted kids, kids with diabetes or celiac disease, as well as camps for children with ADHD, autism or hearing loss. There are also camps

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that may have religious overtones, such as YMCA camps, Jewish camps, etc.

2) Summer camp can be expensive. You many need to plan for it and save in advance. Sometimes there are funds available to help families send their children to camp.

3) Your need for child care. When school ends, you and your spouse or partner both still may work and your child needs somewhere to go. Summer camp is not the only option, though, for a summer experience.

4) Convenience of transporting your child to summer camp.

You may need to plan car pools or a driving schedule as to who takes and picks up your child. Of course, location and proximity to your home or work should be taken into consideration.

5) Your summer vacation schedule. A certain camp might not fit in with other summer plans. Camp can be a great experience, but sometimes kids need a break after a highly scheduled school year.

6) Many camps require a medical form, including a physical exam. Our office is happy to examine your child and fill the form out for you. Appointments often can be made for the next day. Contact us at http://pediatricalliance.com.

Once all of the above are taken care of, a parent must plan what to send with their child: 1) A good backpack. It should be durable, have a large enough compartment and an outside mesh pocket for a water bottle.

2) Clothes. An extra set of clothing should be included. An extra pair of shoes, a hooded sweatshirt and a baseball cap or hat are also desirable.

3) Swim gear. Of course a bathing suit and towels should be sent along with sunglasses and flip flops or sandals. A plastic bag is helpful to house wet clothes.

4) Miscellaneous. These items include sunscreen (SPF 30 or more), bug spray, hand sanitizer, and prescription medicines.

Lastly, label everything with permanent marker. Also include a surprise, a small note, favorite snack or a family picture. Camp is fun and even more enjoyable with a little bit of planning.

Pediatric Alliance has 15 different locations, each offering weekend and evening office hours for your convenience. Visit http://pediatricalliance.com for more information. l l l

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Shady Side Academy Summer Programs Have It All!

S

ummer is a unique time for students to grow. After the school year ends, a good summer camp or class can give your child the opportunity to discover new passions, develop existing talents, forge new friendships and tackle personal challenges.

For more than 75 years, Shady Side Academy has offered Pittsburgh families fun, flexible and affordable summer programs for kids from any school. SSA’s Middle and Senior School campuses in Fox Chapel play host to a wealth of day camps, focus camps, sports camps and summer school classes. High-energy programming, combined with a knowledgeable and experienced staff, make SSA Summer programs unlike any other in the region!

All full-day camps include free lunch and free before-care, plus optional paid after-care. A convenient North Hills bus makes transportation to and from camp a snap.

At Day Camp Discovery, held on the 130-acre Senior School campus, kids entering grades K-5 are grouped into coed squads by grade. Campers enjoy a full day of activities including swimming, tennis, media arts, outdoor adventure, theater and more. Special activities such as competition days, Friday picnic dance parties and field trips add to the fun.

At Camp Ren, held on the 35-acre Middle School campus, kids entering grades 6-9 enjoy greater autonomy and can choose from cool activities such as robotics, rocketry, cooking, ceramics, geocaching, filmmaking and sports to personalize their camp experience. Ninth graders develop leadership skills through a counselor-intraining program.

Both Day Camp Discovery and Camp Ren are offered in three two-week sessions from June 20 to July 29.

Focus Camps allow kids to focus on a single interest, from film to science to fitness to sewing. Eleven different weeklong camps are offered in June and August.

Got a budding athlete? Sports Camps led by SSA coaches give kids the chance to learn the fundamentals of a sport while having fun. Weeklong camps are offered in lacrosse, tennis, baseball, ice hockey and basketball in June and August.

Shady Side’s Summer School features small class sizes and individualized attention from the area’s finest teachers. Elementary and middle school students can pair math or language arts classes with day camp for a full day of learning and fun. High school students can take courses in math, science, computer science and art, as well as a college essay-writing workshop.

For information or to register, visit www.shadysideacademy.org/summer or call 412-447-2230. lll

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Schools

KIDS & EDUCATION | March 2016

Innovations in the Classroom School is still in session and the endless energy of the educators in our community, continue to make learning a fun and innovative experience in the classroom. Enjoy reading about these local area programs: Butler County Community College – The innovative Nursing program at BC3 was acknowledged during a recent ACEN accreditation visit for its focus on Evidence-Based Nursing Practice.

Evidence-based means that students are challenged to identify situations where the nurse’s action can influence patient outcomes and then select the appropriate course of action based on current research and patient preferences.

“Beginning with the very first semester, the students learn to identify situations where nurses can make significant contributions toward insuring the safety and comfort of patients and their families,” explains Sherry Neely, nursing professor. Students are taught to practice the art and science of nursing, caring for the whole person, with dignity and respect. In addition to providing a firm foundation for life-long learning, these activities facilitate the achievement of the nursing program outcomes: Accountability, Caring, Communication, Critical Thinking, Management, Health Promotion, Nursing Informatics and Professionalism. To learn more, visit http://www.bc3.edu.

La Roche College - In May, La Roche College will offer its annual Global Development and Humanitarian Aid Training Program to prepare individuals to assist in global emergencies. “The fields

of humanitarian aid and global development are growing and becoming more professionalized,” assistant director of Global Engagement Charlotte Reed, Ph.D., said. “In 2013 we began this training to offer a quality and low-cost alternative for current humanitarian aid workers, recent graduates and working professionals who may want to embark on a career or volunteer service in these areas. Upon completion of the program, participants receive a certificate, referrals to field work and the potential for credit for undergraduate or graduate coursework.” Designed for those who want to enter the field of humanitarian and emergency aid, the program provides specialized instruction in disaster relief response, sustainable humanitarian aid and global development. Partnering with RedR UK, one of the world’s premier training organizations, La Roche

allows students from all over the world to gain knowledge from local and regional experts while participating in introductory training and hands-on simulations.

Room and board at the College’s main campus in the North Hills are included in the cost of tuition. Applicants must hold a college degree or be in the process of earning one to be eligible. Visit laroche. edu/humanitarian to apply by April 20.

For more information please contact Dr. Charlotte Reed at 412-536-1215 or charlotte.reed@laroche.edu.

Saint Ursula School - One of the huge perks of St. Ursula’s is the amount of interaction between classes; older and younger students. The younger kids really look up to the older ones, as well. They are all such good role models! The theme was “kids helping kids,” all week the 8th graders had a science project that they made to work with the younger students.

They made penny boats with first grade, and density towers with 3rd grade. They also did a “Sink or Float” experiment with the kindergarten class. The students predict whether an object will sink or float and then they test it! The older students guide them to find the results...all with so many smiling faces! To learn more about these and their variety of fun and interesting activities, visit http://www.stursulaschool.org.

Past Innovations in the Classroom are available on our website at www. northernconnectionmag.com and we will continue highlighting new innovations and programs in the coming months. If you are implementing an innovative program, lesson, or extra-curricular activity, be sure and let us know by emailing NorthCon@ consolidated.net or calling (724) 9402444. l l l

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Student of the Month

Ella Tominac-Ural

BY PAULA GREEN

E

lla Tominac-Ural, a fifth grade student at Ross Elementary in the North Hills School District received high honors in last year’s Math Challenge: First in Math. This national competition is an online Math Olympiad that lasted the entire school year 2014-2015.

Ella’s math results were very impressive. She placed fifth in the nation out of an estimated 1.5 million school children grades first through eighth. She garnered first place in the Pittsburgh region. For this competition, each child got to select a logo. Ella chose a “Pink Whale,” not only because it is her favorite stuffed animal “Pinky,” but also to send a message that girls are math champions!

Ella is the only child of Nikki Tominac.

Mom also participated in the math challenge. She competed against parents and placed number one in Family Player in the nation. Nikki and Ella’s combined Family Team was second in the country.

This year, Ella began competing in the Math Olympiad and was among the top few players, but she decided to retire her pink whale because she wanted to spend time on other interests.

In addition to her stellar math results, Ella has earned high marks in other competitions. “When she was in third grade, she was crowned the North Boroughs Spelling Bee Champion in 2014. Ella advanced to the state championship and placed among the top ten. At school, she is in the gifted program. She is a percussion player in band and sings in the North Hills children’s choir. Ella is a seasoned pianist and vocalist. Last year, she sang a duet in Kids on Broadway. She also performs with DancExplosions Arts Center in jazz, hip hop and tumbling. At ages nine and ten, she won trophies competing in tennis at Valley Brook Swim and Tennis Club,” Nikki said.

She also noted, “While Ella has many interests, her true passion is inventing. In kindergarten, she was in an engineering class at Carnegie Mellon University for K-3.

She was the only child in the class that could build from scrap material a model landing pad for astronauts that safely landed the astronaut! She would greatly appreciate knowing about any opportunities to invent. She may be 11 years old, but she has rare talent and ingenuity.” l l l

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Schools

KIDS & EDUCATION | March 2016

School Movers & Shakers Hampton The Robocruisers – a team of Hampton Middle School Robotics Club members received a $750 check courtesy of Health Care Relocations in recognition of their first place ranking in the team work category at the Western PA First Lego League Grand Championship.

Seneca Valley

Charlesa Fassinger, an advanced French IV/gifted education teacher and National Honor Society sponsor at Mars Area High School was Charlesa selected to receive Fassinger a Saint Vincent College Great Teacher Award.

Seneca Valley High School computer science teacher Diane Krauland was recognized with the National Center for Women & Information Technology Aspirations in Computing Educator Award.

Urvi Gupta

Sarah Johanknecht

Kelsie McElroy

The National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) chose three Seneca Valley Senior High School students: Urvi Gupta, Sarah Johanknecht and Kelsie McElroy as 2016 Western & Central Pennsylvania and West Virginia Affiliate winners of the NCWIT Award for Aspiration in Computing.

The Seneca Valley Foundation received donations of $17,500 on behalf of NexTier Bank and $8,000 from Waste Management through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program grant.

Mars Area High School Girls Varsity cheerleading team advanced to the semifinals of the 2015-16 PIAA Competitive Spirit Championships held Jan. 29-30 in Hershey.

Mars Area High School named its Renaissance Students of the Month for January. They are: Hannah Kemper, Erin Neff, Isabella Sekely and Troy Leblanc.

Several works by Mars Area High School students were presented at the 2016 Pittsburgh Arts region Scholastic Art & Writing Awards held at CCAC North Campus. Exhibitors were – Jessica Bender, Morgan Keys, Kristen Goddard, Meghan Piscarcik, Adia Taimuty-Loomis and Jonathan Knotts.

Mars Area senior Jordan Bezaire and junior Adia TaimutyLoomis are finalists in the 2016 Photographer’s Forum Best of College & High School Photography contest.

Mars Area

Shaler Area

Mars Area School School District ranks 12th in the Pittsburgh region in average 2015 SAT scores, according to the latest rankings published by the Pittsburgh Business Times.

Shaler Area High School Alumni, Steve Sciullo presented the district with the Golden Football to mark the district’s membership in the Super Bowl High School Honor Roll. Sciullo graduated from Shaler in 1998 and was a lineman for the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX.

Mars Area High School Girls and Boys Varsity basketball teams held a “Play for a Change” autism awareness fundraiser on Feb. 4 & 5.

The event was held for the benefit of Autism Speaks Greater Pittsburgh Chapter.

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Shaler Area School District Varsity Cheerleaders Competition Squad placed third out of 37 teams in the PIAA Medium Varsity Division

NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

on Jan. 30 in Hershey to earn the bronze medal.

Shaler Area 2008 graduate Steve Labate attended Super Bowl 50 as an athletic trainer for the Carolina Panthers.

The Shaler Area School District will benefit from two separate grants through the Pennsylvania Dept. of Education’s Safe Schools Initiative Targeted Grant program aimed at improving school safety in the district.

Shaler Area Elementary School sixth grader, Ethan James built a robot to solve Rubik’s Cube.

North Allegheny The National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform has recognized Ingomar Middle School (IMS) on its list of 2016 Pennsylvania Don Eichhorn Schools: “Schools to Watch.” IMS is one of 35 middle schools in Pennsylvania and 400 schools nationwide selected for the honor.

Fox Chapel The Fox Chapel Area School District has been recognized by the White House for its commitment to computer science education. Only three school districts from across the nation, including Fox Chapel were highlighted in a fact sheet from the White House which was released on Jan. 30.

Fox Chapel Area High School senior Stephen Polcyn has been named a candidate in the 2016 United States Presidential Scholars Program.

Three Dorseyville Middle School students Rajeev Godse, Harry Chen and Noah Hertzman scored high on the American Mathematics Contest (AMC) 8 exam.

Aquinas Academy Aquinas Academy Ranked #1 Catholic High School in Pennsylvania Niche 2016 Best Schools in America rankings for private high schools.

This is the second year in a row,

Aquinas Academy has achieved this highest-ranking.

Saint Joseph Saint Joseph High School senior Alyssa Pennycuick has been recognized by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers through the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards at the regional level.

Alyssa Pennycuick

Saint Joseph High School Students participated in the PJAS (Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science) Region 7 Meeting on February 6, at Duquesne University.

The following students were honored: Holly Wolfe, Caroline Maltese, Leah Grady, Cayleigh Jenkins, Alexandra Loperfito, Sophia Maltese, Calley Neelan, Julianna Nichols, Isabelle Schroeder, Julia Singleton, Samantha Alden, Alyssa Synder, Vaunden Brunn and Hannah Cook.

Shady Side Academy Six Shady Side Academy students were recognized by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers with 29 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards.

The six SSA students honored were: Abbie Minard, Max Minard, Caldwell Holden, Emily Weiss, Tanay Kumta and Olivia Lyda.

Sixteen Shady Side Academy students were recognized by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers with 46 Regional Scholastic Art Awards in the 2016 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition. The honorees were – Maggie Aiken, Sasha Arefyev, Killian Cavanaugh, Sydney Cleveland, Yumeng “Rain” Du, Paige Golden, Caldwell Holden, Kay Hughes, Maria Jovin, Aniket Kumta, Jeanne Lauer, Nicholas Lauer, Hank Lin, Christopher Muracca, Alisa Pugacheva and Juliana Sandford.

St. Sebastian Saint Sebastian students came in second out of 14 schools in their second forensics tournament. Winners were: Justin Bell, Sarah Berger, Fulton Fontana, Ella Harding, Carly Kreutzer, Isabella Kunsak, Lauren Lutz, Sarah Petrunia, Emma Polen, Savannah Powers, Ethan Rihn, Rachel Rombach, Charlotte Soltesz, Emily Stepp, Michael Taffe, Sophia Weger, Nicholas Weising and Kate Wells.

Saint Sebastian students competed in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) regional competition at Duquesne University.

Awards winners were – Eric Ford, Madison McBurney, Emma Polen, Ethan Rihn, Michael Taffe, Kate Wells, John Adamczyk, Antonio Battista, Isabella Kunsak, Ben McClelland, Xavier Moskala, Sydney Ryan, Patrick Sharpe, Connor Stutz, Aliyah Slifkin, and Sean Farrell.

Saint Sebastian School has been awarded a $1,000 Champion School grant from Let’s Move Pittsburgh to support the school’s newly expanded physical education program.

Saint James The Coraopolis Elks Lodge 1090 presented three Saint James School students with awards for their writing and essay expressing the topic, “What I can do to promote Americanism and Love of Country.”

Elks’ chairwoman and Saint James parishioner Ann Barger presented certificates to: Catherine Martsolf, Tyler Pontello, and Haley Hamilton.

Saint James pastor Father Tom Burke and eighth grade teacher, Karen Scully were on hand for the awards ceremony.

La Roche College Kordell Leshon Collins, a freshman at La Roche College was recognized at Carnegie Mellon University’s 2016 Martin Luther King Jr. Writing Awards Ceremony.

La Roche College announced that 312 students were named to the dean’s list for the fall 2015 semester. For a complete list of names, visit www.laroche.edu.

CCAC Community College of Allegheny County North Campus student athletes assisted the Woodlands Foundation with a runway show for foundation program participants on Jan. 30.

Saint Vincent Shawn A. Gouch has been named director of alumni relations in the office of institutional advancement at Saint Vincent College.

Thirty-three high school teachers in four states were recognized by the Saint Shawn A. Gouch Vincent College Great Teacher Recognition Program “for excellence in teaching that provides a positive and end enduring influence on students.”

Cardinal Donald Wuerl, S.T.D., Archbishop of Washington; Dr. Carolyn Woo, president and chief executive officer of Catholic Relief Services and Bishop Robert Barron, Ph.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles, founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries will keynote a conference at Saint Vincent College. The New Evangelization and Higher Education: The Vision and Pope Francis will be held May 23-25.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS | March 2016

Allegheny Health Network Establishes Breathing Disorders Center at Wexford Health + Wellness Pavilion

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he Allegheny Health Network Breathing Disorders Center is a full service pulmonary practice with a strong focus on management of chronic respiratory disorders through evidence - based protocols.

Staffed by board-certified pulmonologists, registered nurse navigators, certified medical assistants, and respiratory therapists, the center provides of a full array of services to facilitate diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of chronic breathing problems.

The center specializes in the care and treatment of: n Chronic Obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) n Lung Cancer Screening / Lung Cancer n Pleural Effusion n Asthma n Pneumonia n Surgical Clearance

n n n n n n n n n n n

Chronic Bronchitis Pulmonary Fibrosis Pulmonary Hypertension Dyspnea Pulmonary Nodule Emphysema Sarcoidosis Interstitial Lung Disease Shortness of breath Occupational Lung Diseases Tuberculosis

“Western Pennsylvania has an extremely high population of residents who live with chronic breathing problems,” said Anil Singh, MD, MPH, co-director of the center.

“We’re closing the gaps that exist between the diagnosis and treatment processes by creating a single program

Starting the Conversation

Sporting Concussions: Are We Too Violent?

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

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t’s been a few months but I am still reeling from seeing Antonio Brown of the Steelers get hit and fall to the turf like a rag doll during the last Steelers-Bengals game. Such a great athlete, and a victim of such a cheap shot. It got me wondering how many other times he and other players have been hit – by cheap shots or not. When you add up all the hits from pee-wee football through high school, through college and on to the pro teams, it must have to take a horrible toll.

Of course, due to advances in healthcare and technology, things are a lot better now than they were in the past. The technology of the helmets has improved; coaches, parents and athletic coordinators are more aware and most, if not all, teams have started implementing concussion protocols. Most importantly, parents of children engaged in sports are encouraged to have a baseline taken to monitor any effects or concussions going forward.

Then there are proponents who point out that at least football and hockey players wear helmets. Many healthcare workers are seeing concussions in every sport, including bas-

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ketball, lacrosse, field hockey and especially skateboarders who try intense tricks that they see on TV and they rarely wear a helmet.

Besides the violence on the field, though, is the violence in the stands. For instance, the behavior of the Bengals’ fans, throwing things and some actually hoping Antonio was DEAD!!

It would be unbelievable if it hadn’t actually happened on live TV. Is all this violence in our sports really just a manifestation of the violence in our society as a whole, from sports to random shootings to terrorist bombings? Are there too many individuals out there that don’t comprehend the finality of death?

But, as always, what do you think? Do you think football, sports, society are too violent? How do we give peace a chance or is that too old-fashioned? Let’s continue the conversation on my blog at http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot.com or email me at NorthCon@consolidated. net. lll

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The center is open and seeing patients. To schedule an appointment, please call 866-4AHNBDC (866424-6232). For questions or to learn more about the Breathing Disorders Center, please visit AHN.org.

Wexford Health + Wellness Pavilion 12311 Perry Highway Wexford, PA 15090 l l l

Free March events at the Wexford Health + Wellness Pavilion A Taste of Wellness – Weight Loss Strategies: Allegheny Health Network healthcare professionals will leads this enlightening exploration of weight loss strategies, including discussion of the science behind nutrition, metabolism, motivation and behavior change.

March 8, 2016 – noon to 1:30 p.m.

Wellness Guests: Eileen Birmingham, MCSW, CT, CCTP – Psychiatric Clinician Teresa Sprik, RD, CDE, LDN - Dietician Featured Restaurant: Zuppa’s 412.330.4469 Health for Her – “Diabetes and Women’s Health, Strategies for all Ages and Stages”: Learn how lifestyle changes and the correct treatment can help to prevent or delay the onset of complications from this disease.

March 23, 2016 – 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Patricia Bononi, MD Medical Director, AHN Center for Diabetes Paul Weinbaum, MD Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology 412.469.7002 Breast Cancer Support Group: Free breast cancer support group on the second Wednesday of every month!

This month’s speaker will be Marcia Klein-Patel, gynecologist in the network, who will discuss how to manage hot flashes.

March 9, 2016 – 6 to 7:30 p.m.

412.622.1212 Meet Dr. Right: Need help finding a doctor? Come mingle with Allegheny Health Network doctors and find the right one for you and your family’s health needs.

March 31, 2015 – 5 to 7 p.m.

Call 1-855-856-0319

Three Things You Can Do to Stop Sciatica

BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF

S

o many people suffer from sciatica needlessly. The sciatic nerve comes out of the lower spinal bones and travels down to the leg and foot. It controls the movement and sensation of the leg. People will often have episodes of sciatica over many years. It typically gets worse unless you do something to stop it. Here are three effective things that when used in combination, can stop sciatic pain: CHIROPRACTIC addresses the structural problems that cause sciatica. When vertebra are not in their normal position they can lead to disc problems, arthritis, and abnormal nerve pressure. This pressure can cause pain, numbness and tingling, and tightness or weakness of the muscles.

Chiropractors are trained to gently restore normal position to the spinal bones. If you do not correct the alignment the problem can become more chronic.

EXERCISE is necessary. When someone has sciatic pain it is important to stretch the muscles that are tight and strengthen the muscles that are weak. Common areas of tension are the hamstrings, gluteal muscles and hip flexors.

Weak areas are often found in the “Core” muscles of the abdomen and lower back. Other exercise like walking or swimming will help get circulation to the muscles and nerves which aids in healing.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES are unique to each person and are very important. We all have different habits that stress our body and complicate our problem. You may want to look at things like changing your work chair, getting a better mattress, working on safe lifting, losing weight, quitting smoking, or modifying your housework to take it easier on your body.

Curious if chiropractic can help? We’ve helped many people get rid of their pain and start to live a better life without drugs and surgery. Take the time to take care of yourself and make an appointment today. l l l

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center, P.C. Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates McKnight (412) 364-9699 www.choicechiropractic.net

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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HEALTH & WELLNESS | March 2016

Advances in Healthcare

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

Our community is so incredibly fortunate to have so many devoted healthcare professionals and their continuous dedication in bringing us the best advances for our health and wellness. Previous Advances in Healthcare columns are still available on our website at www.northernconnectionmag.com. In this issue, we are pleased to highlight the following latest developments: Low-Dose CT Scanners – A CT scan can detect cancer or other problems by using x-rays, or radiation, to make detailed pictures of the body.

While it is proven to be safe and effective, some people at risk for certain cancers or who have chronic conditions, may need to have frequent CT scans. In order to reduce the amount of radiation a person is exposed to, scientists have developed a low-dose CT scanner such as the Optima 660 scanner available at Ohio Valley Hospital. The Optima 660 scanner allows quicker scans, (reducing motion artifact and repeat scans), and an enhanced angiographic (studying arteries) package enabling new services, such as CTA of the heart (Coronary Computed Tomography Angiogram). This new scanner also has improved image quality and dimensional rendering, which aids radiologic technologists and physicians in both diagnosis and treatment. The greatest benefit is that scanner’s dose reduction software reduces a radiation dose by 25-40%. This feature will, among other things, enable Ohio Valley Hospital to provide a low-dose lung cancer screening. To learn more visit www.ohiovalleyhospital.org.

Pacemakers and Defibrillators – The technology and science behind pacemakers and defibrillators has advanced (Continued on page 46)

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HEALTH & WELLNESS | March 2016

tremendously over the past ten years.

Pacemakers and defibrillators are electronic devices that help regulate the beating rhythm of your heart. Today, a pacemaker is the size of a small watch face and requires a minimally invasive procedure with only a 1 to 1 ½ inch incision to insert it. Likewise with a defibrillator, while a little bigger

than a pacemaker, still only requires a 2 to 2 ½ inch incision. Best of all, most patients can leave the same or next day. According to Dr. Jonas Cooper of the Butler Health System, “Patients who have a history of cardiac problems or are predicted to be at risk, and who are not responding well enough to medications can often find help and live an

active lifestyle through these mechanical devices. Even more incredible than their small size and effectiveness, is the fact that these devices can be programmed, monitored and adjusted through wireless technology that will communicate the status with a patient’s physician.” Dr. Jonas Cooper is medical doctor with a specialty in electrophysiology which is within the field of cardiology. Dr. Cooper also has a Master in Public Health and is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. For more information, contact www.butlerhealthsystem.org. Butler Memorial Hospital is an Accredited Chest Pain Center by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care.

Peripheral Neuropathy – 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. Many patients are suffering from symptoms of painful cramping, burning and tingling, difficulty walking, numbness and even interruption of sleep. However there is now an innovative, specialized treatment protocol that includes nine specific combination of treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms. Locally, this innovative treatment protocol is offered at the Chiropractic Family Health Center. For a FREE Consultation contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000 or through the website at www.backnline.com.

Be sure and look for more Advances in Healthcare in our upcoming April 2016 issue! If you have experience with advances in healthcare treatments and procedures, be sure and let us know so that we can create awareness for the community by emailing NorthCon@ consolidated.net or calling (724) 9402444. l l l

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HEALTH & WELLNESS | March 2016

Fit Families

Living Gluten Free

BY JOELLA BAKER

I

will be hitting the two year mark this July of living Gluten Free and it’s been interesting for sure. My inspiration for this article stems from the recent Weight Watchers commercial where Oprah talks about eating bread every day. I hate that commercial. For me, good bread is probably what I miss the most about being gluten free. I love bread too. I’m married to a baker, after all, and his signature product is cinnamon swirl bread. So now I’ve been on a mission to find the best gluten free bread I can as well as those other signature products you simply crave every once in a while, cookies, pies, cakes and more.

This past month, I’ve tried a lot of different gluten free items trying to find some of the best to share with my readers. This is what I’ve discovered…

Breads • Luce’s® Gluten Free Artisan Bread Mix. I like the “New Italian” mix. This is a bread you have to make at home. You just add water, but it does take some work and it takes over an hour to bake.

You can purchase the bread mix at Soergels Orchard.

• Schar® Artisan Baker White Bread, I recently tried this bread and if it’s toasted, it makes a decent breakfast sandwich or grilled cheese. However, I haven’t found that perfectly soft, yummy bread that makes a great pea-

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nut butter and jelly sandwich, one of the things I miss the most being gluten free.

Cereal, Granola and Breakfast • As far as other great gluten free items, kudos to General Mills® for making Cheerios® Gluten Free. Some of the gluten free cereals out there were just awful, so this has been great to see.

• Chex® cereal makes a great gluten free granola that is fantastic and can actually be added to milk for a good cereal and Bakery on Main makes some of the best granola I’ve eaten.

My favorite is their apple walnut.

They also make some really good instant oatmeal that is nice when you need a quick breakfast. You can find Bakery on Main and Chex products at most grocery stores.

Pasta • Pastas are getting better as well. My favorite brand of gluten free pasta has to be Le Veneziane®. It’s a corn pasta and can also be found at Soergels and Giant Eagle.

• Bonta d’Italia® is another great pasta we enjoy that is a little less expensive than Le Veneziane and can be found at most grocery stores.

• Notta® Pasta is my favorite rice noodle and I use it to make my gluten free Asian dishes. It’s also easy to find at your local grocery store.

NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Baked Goods • As far as baked goods go, we did make a great pineapple and banana upside down cake the other night. My friend bought me a great cook book called “Gluten Free Baking” by Michael McCamley. It has some amazing recipes in it.

• My other favorite cook book is “The Gluten-Free Table” by Jilly and Jessie Lagasse. Yes, Emeril Lagasse’s daughters who are both celiac. A lot of the recipes are inspired by Emeril which are simply fantastic. Including a lot of great bakery items.

• Some of my favorite cookies are from Tate’s Bake Shop®. You can find their gluten free chocolate chip, double chocolate chip and ginger zinger cookies at most grocery stores.

• We also enjoy the new Pillsbury® Gluten Free Cookie Dough. It’s an easy way to make some fresh chocolate chip cookies. They also make a gluten free pizza dough that’s so easy to make.

• However, when I do want a fun treat and I don’t want to bake something myself, I head to Soergels and pick up some fantastic baked goods from Truly Wize Bakery®. We love their cupcakes, their chocolate log and their cookies. They have incredible butter cream icing. Yum! Gluten free items keep getting better and improvements will continue to come.

Quaker Oats® announced recently that they will be starting a gluten free line. As more people continue to eliminate gluten from their diets, we will see more great products released and more restaurants taking a lead in providing allergy-free items and avoiding cross-contamination.

However, even with all these improvements, I still find myself eating fish, veggies and fruit more than anything else. It’s still the healthiest way to go since a lot of the processed gluten free items do have a great deal of sugar in them. That’s why now, all the items listed above are treats for me now more than things I eat on a regular basis. Like everything, moderation is so important. But luckily, we no longer have to feel like we are missing out on some of the things we love and enjoy about food because companies are now making some incredible gluten free items. Enjoy!! n

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Lose 30 lbs. in 30 Days up to

H

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.

Jen S., Pittsburgh PA Lost 47 lbs.

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

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 ALLNATURAL 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 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.”

T

oday marks our 14th day into our maintenance phase. We waited until now because we were interested in if we would continue to hold our weights. We are happy to report that this phase is keeping its promise just like the rest of the program. We started on December 6, my weight was 360 and Sue started at 219.

I should mention that we were off the program from December 23 to January 2. We did not pig out over the holidays but did put a couple of pounds back on. We picked up the program on the same day number that we left and continued until day 40 plus the three day transition. At that time I weighed 310 (-50) and Sue weighed 195.6 (-23.4). After 2 weeks on maintenance, my weight is 212.2 and my wife’s is 195.4. Needless to say we are both very pleased and will go back on the program next week, my goal is 270 and Sue’s is 170.

Everything with the weight loss was exactly as promised.

People could not believe that we only ate such a limited number of calories but I can definitely state that I was never hungry. We have been on almost all conceivable diets over the last 25 years and although we lost some weight it was a struggle doing so and most called for and exercise program also. Lets face it, when you are 50 to 100 lbs. over weight, exercise is not a good alternative.

We really did not have good before pictures because who wants there pictures taken when that much overweight. I don’t have good pictures showing pants size because for the past two or more years I was constantly in stretchy sweats, it was a struggle to put on socks and all my shoes were slip-ons. 3XLT shirts were tight and I had trouble sleeping and did not enjoy going to movies or sporting events because I could not fit in the seats. All of that has changed.

We can not wait till our next 40 day program is over.

Bob & Sue F., Washington PA

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

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, CornerstoneTV, 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 March 2016 Northern Connection, 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. n

Here is my weight loss journey…

I

tried every fad diet out there and never got the results that I have with this plan!!

I was at my heaviest weight and needed to do something, my clothes weren’t fitting anymore, and I was getting depessed and mad at myself! A good friend of mine told me about Dr. Vactor and what he had did for him in his own weight loss journey. So I called and made an appt. The staff was very polite and very informative and answered all my questions and concerns. Dr Vactor was wonderful and made this plan sound so easy and explained how quickly I would see results if I followed through with it.

Well let me tell you how RIGHT he was!! My starting weight was 365 lbs and I lost 50 lbs in 42 days!!! I did 2 courses of the plan and am now down 72 lbs!!

I feel so much better health wise! No more back or knee pain anymore!! Would highly recommend this Plan to everyone!!

Thanks Dr. Vactor and Theresa!!

Bob J., McCandless PA

Guarantee can be reviewed in office prior to starting the program. Results may vary based on an individual’s health, diet, personal commitment, and adherence to the program. Information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

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

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC March 2016

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HEALTH & WELLNESS | March 2016

Business Spotlight

Dr. Justin Shemenski, DC

The Joint Chiropractic Comes to McCandless Crossing

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he Joint Chiropractic is dedicated to making regular chiropractic care an affordable and accessible part of your everyday health and wellness routine. No appointments. No insurance required. Extended hours that include evenings and weekends. All in a warm and friendly setting.

The Joint Chiropractic at McCandless Crossing is the first in the Pittsburgh-area. Doors will open on Saturday, March 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Just walk-in, no appointment is necessary. The primary focus at The Joint is providing patients with a pathway towards better health through ongoing chiropractic maintenance and preventative care. Their number one concern is the health and safety of the people they serve.

Devoted to affordable Chiropractic care, The Joint is offering an introductory offer of only $19.00 (first time adjustment) for the first month, and a monthly membership fee of

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only $49.00 (which equals only $12.25 for a weekly adjustment.) There will be a slight increase for members joining after March of $69.00 (which equals only $17.75 for a weekly adjustment.) So be sure and sign-up early to lock in the price at $12.25 per adjustment.

The Joint’s Grand Opening Celebration will be held on Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. FREE adjustments will be available, as well as complimentary food provided by the Bone Fish Grill and Gigi’s Cupcakes. There will also be FREE drawings for prizes, including a top prize of an Apple® iWatch® along with additional prizes including three FitBits® among others. Stop on by and meet the staff!

The Joint is the largest provider of non-insurance, private pay chiropractic health care in the United States.

For more information, call (412) 364-1329, visit http:// www.thejoint.com or stop by their new, convenient location in McCandless Crossing. l l l Dr. Justin Shemenski is the primary DC on staff. His primary focus is on a large range of musculoskeletal conditions with traditional allopathic medical treatments, physical medicine modalities, physical rehabilitation, and chiropractic care. Dr. Shemenski has been trained in multiple adjustment techniques with his focus and specialty primarily in Full Spine Diversified Technique (DT) and Activator Methods Chiropractic Technique (AMCT). His clinical goals are to help people maintain their health through natural methods and to promote patient education regarding natural and preventative medicine.

Health and Wellness Spotlight

Prevent Colon Cancer in You or Someone You Love

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arch is Colon and Rectal Cancer Awareness Month. Why do we need to be aware? Because, colon and rectal cancer is PREVENTABLE. Yet, it remains the third most deadly cancer.

How is it preventable? Through a procedure known as a colonoscopy. “A colonoscopy is a 20-30 minute procedure that uses an optic probe while the patient is asleep to check the health and wellness of the bowel.

Colon and rectal cancer begins as a growth known as a polyp. Should the probe find a polyp, even a very small one, it can be immediately removed via the probe with no invasive surgery required,” explains Dr. Brad Levinson, Board Certified Colon and Rectal Surgeon.

A colonoscopy is covered by almost all health insurance plans. According to Dr. Levinson, “The federal government and health insurance companies have been attempting to promote screening colonoscopies for individuals fifty years of age and older. Also, if a close family relative has been diagnosed with colon cancer, a person should start being screened at a younger age.”

Due to the increase in awareness and more people having colonoscopies, rates of colon cancer have dropped about 30 percent over the past ten years. Yet, over 40 percent of people do not have colonoscopies on a regular basis.

“For the probe to get the clearest picture of the colon as possible, patients are required to prepare for the colonoscopy by flushing the colon by drinking a colonoscopy prep,” continues Dr. Levinson. “Fortunately, there have been tremendous advances in the prep as well as the procedure. Now patients have easy-to-drink, more flavorful options of only one cupful of prep that works overnight.” This is a dramatic change to the large quantities of liquid that were required only a few years ago.

“While medical science is researching other means of identifying polyps, such as a ‘virtual colonoscopy,’ these methods are not yet reliable and should they indeed find a polyp, the patient will need to have a regular colonoscopy to remove it,” says Dr. Levinson.

Dr. Brad Levinson is a Board Certified

Colon and Rectal Surgeon. He and his staff can explain the procedure and options for your colonoscopy and the array of FDAapproved products for the prep. His office is conveniently located in Cranberry Township

at 105 Brandt Drive, Suite 202.

To schedule an appointment to discuss the procedure and easy alternatives for the colonoscopy prep, call Dr. Brad Levinson, at (724) 741-6020. l l l

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Seniors SENIOR LIVING | March 2016

Town Crier

Marching thru March

BY JOE BULLICK

H

ello March! I know the old saying – “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” So let’s hope for the best. If you are a nature watcher, migrant birds are returning from the south. Look for Canadian geese, bald eagles, robins and meadowlarks by mid-month. Mom and I would make a game out of who would see the first robins.

I hoped you survived the snow blizzard on Jan. 22. Or did you get to see any of the demolition of the 107 year old Hulton Bridge in Oakmont?

I hope your Lenten journey is important to you and that you received your ashes on Feb. 10. As many Christians prepare for Easter, Lent is a part of our lives that prepares us for Palm Sunday, March 20; and Good Friday, March 25; and Easter Sunday, March 27. I know I have had to be on my toes for the 40 days journey!

Mom made sure that Easter was laden with many traditions. We had the customary Easter Bunny with Easter eggs and Easter baskets, which had its origins in German folklore.

The Easter Hare according to German legend was a white hare that would leave Easter baskets filled with candies, brightly colored eggs, jelly beans, and chocolate bunnies.

The Christian custom of Easter eggs can be traced as far back as the early Christians of Mesopotamia, who stained eggs red in memory of the blood of Christ.

March brings us baseball and spring training which started in February. The Buccos will be busy during the month of March playing their spring training ball at McKechnie Field in Bradenton, Fla. The field is named after Pittsburgh native, former Bradenton resident and Hall of Famer Bill McKechnie. It was built in 1923 and has been renovated several times over the years. The most recent was in 2013, the field sustained major upgrades to become one of baseball’s finest facilities. The Pirates will face the Detroit Tigers at spring training on March 1.

The Pirates will play their home opener on April 3 against divisional rival The St. Louis Cardinals. What a way to start the season!

A great way to start baseball season is to have the President throw out the first pitch. William Taft was the first to do so on April 14, 1910. Since then, every president except Jimmy Carter has tossed the ceremonial first pitch at least once throughout his presidency to open a new season. Harry Truman threw out the first with both his right and left arm in 1950. On several occasions opening season started with a double-header – Apr. 20, 1903 and most recently in April 1971. Well good luck Pirates!

March also brings in maple syrup. Be sure and read Mapling in Marshall in this issue of Northern Connection magazine Some important dates to remember – Alexander Graham Bell patents the telephone on March 7, 1876.

March 17 is Saint Patrick’s Day. My favorite TV show (the original) Jeopardy debuted on March 30, 1964. Have a great Easter Sunday and enjoy time with your family.

Happy birthday to you Pisces and Aries! God bless and I leave you with this – Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring and integrity they think of you.

– H. Jackson Brown Jr.

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Happenings for Seniors Free Home Safety Inspection is available for seniors

through the Open Your Heart to a Senior program. For info, 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. For info, 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

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.

Entertainment Banjo Club, 2:30 p.m., Mar. 1, Beatty Pointe Village, Monroeville. For info, call (412) 374-9000.

Cinderella, senior citizen performance 3:30 p.m., Mar. 1, North

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.

Allegheny Senior High. For tickets, visit www.NAMusical.com.

McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals

Pittsburgh Doo Wop Band, 2:30 p.m., Mar. 8, Lighthouse

to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkley Hills, Swan Acres & part of McCandless Twp. Call (412) 487-4088.

Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring – An Hour a Week Can

Change a Child’s Life. For adults 50 & over become a tutor.

Training sessions held on the fifth floor of the Duquesne Light Building. Call (412) 393-7648 or email jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

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

Four-course Conversation, 11:30 a.m., Mar. 7, Sherwood Oaks, Cranberry Twp. For info, call 1 (800) 642-2217.

Pointe, Fox Chapel. For info, call (412) 781-2707.

International Button Box Club, 2:30 p.m., Mar. 11, Strabane Trails Village, 317 Wellness Way, Washington, Pa. For info, call (724) 225-4100 or UPMCSeniorCommunities.com.

Magician and Mentalist Collin Stover, 2:30 p.m., Mar. 22,

Lighthouse Pointe, Fox Chapel. For info, call (412) 781-2707; Mar. 24, Hampton Fields Village, 4480 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. For info, call (412) 492-8448.

The Music Man, senior citizen performance, 3:45 p.m., Mar.

Support Groups

1, Fox Chapel Area High School. For reservations, call (412) 967-2443.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 10 a.m., 1st Monday of each

Salute to the Great American Song Book, 2:30 p.m., Mar.

month, St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 2554 Wildwood Rd. For details, call Suzie, at (412) 337-6731.

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.

10, Hampton Fields Village, 4480 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park.

For info, call (412) 492-8448; 2:00 p.m., Mar. 18, Sherwood Oaks, Cranberry Twp. For info, call 1 (800) 642-2217.

Tribute to Neil Diamond, 3 p.m., Mar. 10, Seneca Hills Village, 5350 Saltsburg Rd., Verona. To register, call (412) 793-1700.

Vanadium Woods Village presents: The Many Love Songs

of Frank Sinatra, 2:30 p.m., Mar. 8, A Taste of Ireland, Mar. 18, 50 Vanadium Rd., Bridgeville. For info, call (724) 221-2900 or UPMCSeniorCommunities.com.

Seminars Who Killed Jon Benet Ramsey? 3 p.m., Mar. 4, Seneca

Hills Village, 5350 Saltsburg Rd., Verona. To register, call (412) 793-1700.

Senior Meetings AARP #2991, meeting, noon, 3rd Thursday of every month

(Mar. 17), at Northmont Presbyterian Church at Perry Highway and Perrymont, in McCandless. A small luncheon is offered for a nominal fee. Visitors and prospective members are welcome.

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.

Gateway North Chapter of AARP meets the 3rd Monday of

the month (Mar. 21) at West View Fire Hall, Perry Hwy next to the VFW. All are welcome.

Friends and Fun 55+ Singles meet at 7 p.m., every 1st Friday, at St. Ferdinand’s, Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp., Oldenski Hall, Upper Room. For info, call (724) 776-9274.

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. Call (412) 741-4900 or visit http:// www.ccgf.org.

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Senior Happenings (Continued from page 55)

Tax Preparation AARP Tax Prep for Senior Citizens, 9

a.m.-noon, runs thru Apr. 14, Northland Library. First-come, first served basis, sign-up sheet in the lower lobby starting at 7:30 a.m. For info, (412) 366-8100.

North Hills Community Outreach’s Free Rides for Seniors shuttles, funded

by St. Margaret Foundation are seeking volunteer ride-along dispatchers. The shuttle operates weekdays in the lower Freeport Rd. area. Contact Kerry at (412) 449-0151 or kkmulhern@nhco.org.

North Hills Community Outreach needs

Spiritual 2nd Act, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 2nd Thurs.,

runs thru May 12, Orchard Hill Church, Brandt School Rd. For adults ages 55+ worship time through music and prayer. For details, (724) 935-5555.

volunteers for their senior programs. For details, contact Patti, at (412) 408-3830 ext. 3204.

Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteer

Volunteer Opportunities:

orientations, 10 a.m., Mar. 7, Cooper Siegel Library, Fox Chapel; contact, (412) 449-0151,or kkmulhern@nhco.org., 9:30 a.m., Mar. 15, Panera Bread, McKnight Rd., contact (412) 307-0069 x3313, clpshirer@nhco.org.

Calling All Angels, Open Your Heart to

Pittsburgh Friendship Group is looking

a Senior is in need of volunteers for their “Snow Angels” program. For details, visit AlleghenySnowAngels.org.

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

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers

Volunteers in all Allegheny County

to visit Hospice patients. For details, call (412) 367-3685.

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

communities are needed to shovel snow for seniors or transport seniors to medical appts., or shopping. Call 2-1-1 or email openyourheart@uwac.org.

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

Look for it wherever you find Northern Connection

CALL now to reserve your advertising space for the next issue!

724-940-2444

www.pittsburghfiftyfiveplus.com

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NC March 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Trivia

TRIVIA CONNECTION | March 2016

Hare It Is – Rabbit Trivia Hopping our way through famous bunnies...

BY PAULA GREEN t’s Easter time and with it we see the emergence of the famous hare – the Easter Bunny. So this month we’re going to hop through renowned rabbits.

In the Looney Tune cartoons Elmer Fudd is constantly in search of that “Wascally Wabbit,” Bugs Bunny. Bugs is one of the most beloved animated characters with his signature carrot-chewing phrase, “Eh – What’s Up Doc?” Other television rabbits included Crusader Rabbit which was produced in 1948 and Greg the Bunny, which was a 2002 TV sitcom with Seth Green. There was also the children’s Easter program Here Comes Peter Cottontail.

The Energizer Bunny first appeared in TV commercials in 1988, since then he keeps going and going and going… There is the cereal bunny the Trix Rabbit who was born on Dec. 2, 1959. We’ve also been entertained by the Nesquick Bunny and the Cadbury Bunny. Happy Bunny is featured on stickers, buttons and greeting cards.

In comics, Susie’s stuffed rabbit from Calvin and Hobbes is called Mr. Bun, and For Better or Worse features two house rabbits – Mr. B and Butterscotch.

In literature there are plenty of hares hopping about – Aesop’s fable gave us The Tortoise and The Hare. White Rabbit and the March Hare are found in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

Beatrix Potter introduced us to – Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, the Flopsy Bunnies, and The Fierce Bad Rabbit. There’s the character Rabbit from A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories. Another beloved children’s book is The Velveteen Rabbit. Bunnicula was a vampire bunny who sucked juice from vegetables. Local author and a former Northern Connection magazine Mover and Shaker of the Month, Dede Faltot Rittman has published the bunny book Grady Gets Glasses.

In the movies, there’s the invisible, six foot three and a half inch white rabbit called Harvey. Another large hare was Frank from Donnie Darko. Disney acquainted us with the adorable bunny Thumper from the film Bambi. Roger and Jessica Rabbit appeared on the big screen in Who Framed Roger Rabbit. In the 1920s and 1930s, Disney ran a cartoon called about a lucky rabbit named Oswald.

Wallace and Grommit featured a werewolf-like character named Were-Rabbit.

When you do house cleaning, sometimes you encounter “dust bunnies.” In the Chinese calendar, there is the “Year of the Rabbit.” People born in the Year of the Rabbit are articulate, talented and ambi-

tious. They are virtuous, reserved and have excellent taste. Lucky me, I was born in the Year of the Rabbit.

Some folks believe that rabbit’s feet are good luck charms. According to a British tradition, on the first day of every month, if “Rabbit Rabbit” is the first thing you say out loud you will have good luck for the whole month.

Since we hopped our way around famous rabbits, we must now spring into this bunny challenge. Get set to buck the answers, because it’s time to get a little trivial.

1. Which country first introduced the Easter Bunny?

2. This hare-raising animated program debuted on Disney Junior in 2007.

3. What is the name of the villainous rabbit in the Easter show Here Comes Peter Cottontail?

4. Bug’s girlfriend Lola Bunny made her first appearance in this 1996 film.

5. This animated cartoon focused on two sibling bunnies. It aired on Nick Jr. 2002-2013.

6. Name the author who wrote Rabbit Run, Rabbit Redux, Rabbit is Rich and Rabbit at Rest.

7. What was the name of Professor Hinkle’s furry rabbit in Frosty the Snowman?

8. He is a central figure in Uncle Remus’ stories of the southern United States, and was featured in the film Song of the South.

9. What is Tigger’s nickname for Rabbit?

10. This touch and feel book is popular with babies and small children.

11. What is the aunt’s name in The Christmas Story who made Ralphie’s pink rabbit suit?

12. This children’s song deals with a rabbit and field mice.

13. Name the Swiss chocolate manufacturer that produces rabbit-shaped chocolates.

14. What does the Energizer bunny wear on its feet?

15. When you go to Kennywood Amusement Park, you can hop on this thrilling coaster. l l l Sources: http://www.rabbit.org/fun/famousrabbits.html, http://www.funtrivia.com, www.123facts.com/quiz, www.finish. ie/media/276503/Famous-Rabbits, www.threelittleladiesrabbitry.com/famousrabbitry.com, http://www.factmonster.com/ quizzes/rabbits1/4.html, www.loganstrategy.ca, www.squiglysplayhouse.com/Games/quizzes/Holidays/Easter/Rabbits Answers: 1. Germany 2. Bunnytown 3. Iron Tail 4. Space Jam 5. Max & Ruby 6. John Updike 7. Hocus Pocus 8. Bre’r Rabbit 9. Long-ears 10. Pat the Bunny 11. Clara 12. Little Bunny Foo Foo 13. Lindt 14. flip-flops 15. The Jack Rabbit

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