Northern Connection Magazine May 2015

PyroFest 2015

America’s largest fireworks festival comes to Cooper’s Lake Business Spotlight:

Start the Heart, LLC Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces 29th Annual EQT Children’s Festival Star Wars Trivia May Happenings & Events Page 46

CONTENTS May 2015

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NORTHERN CONNECTION

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NC Features

Health & Wellness

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Shailen Abram is the New Kean Quest 2015 Youth Champion

29 The Vigil of Hope

Business Spotlight: Start the Heart, LLC

30 Enhance Your Life: What’s Your Excuse? Donna Summers Moul

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From the Publisher

32 Breast Cancer Prevention Tips

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Movers & Shakers

34 Wexford Health+Wellness Pavilion Inaugurates Breast Cancer Support Group

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Mover & Shaker of the Month: Nicole Maxwell

36 Cancer Care, Close to Home

12 May 2015 Happenings

Image & Style

16 Trivia Connection: Star Wars Trivia

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10 Cover Story: PyroFest 2015 Marianne Reid Anderson

41 Swinging Into Baseball Excitement and Horsing Around at the Triple Crown Paula Green

Education & Camps 17 Fit Families: Get Off the Couch and Run or Walk: Join the Movement Joella Baker

Passavant Hospital Foundation

38 Sportswear with Flair Kelly Smith

Senior Living

19 Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Announces 29th Annual EQT Children’s Theater Festival

42 Town Crier: Moseying Through May Joe Bullick

22 School Movers & Shakers

Home & Garden

26 Dave DeGregorio’s Boys’ Basketball Camp at North Allegheny

43 Happenings for Seniors

In Every Issue Marion Piotrowski

Paula Green

Paula Green

18 Starting the Conversation: When Do We Start Listening to Our Mothers?

Marianne Reid Anderson

44 Support Our Troops: Soldiers & Sailors Inductions and Events at VA Butler Healthcare Center Paula Green

46 Renew Crew and Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

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Advertorials 28 Accoustic Lipo-Tuck for Batwings Advanced Liposuction Center 35 How to Get the Most Out of Your Run Dr. Shannon Thieroff

39 Lose up to 30 Lbs in 30 Days Dr. Michael Vactor

45 Understanding a Collaborative Divorce Collaborative Solutions North

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Northern Connection | May 2015

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PUBLISHER NOTES

Welcome to the May issue of Northern Connection Magazine

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

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his month’s cover highlights PyroFest, America’s largest and most fantastic firework festival to light up the sky, coming to Cooper’s Lake in Butler County on May 22 & 23. This event is absolutely awesome. No words can describe the explosion of lights and beautiful choreography that is displayed at PyroFest. Take the entire family for one of the most enjoyable and entertaining Memorial Day weekends you can have, you will be glad you did!

If you are looking for another fun place to take the family, check out the article on Pittsburgh Cultural Trust 29th Annual EQT Children’s Festival.

For all of you Star Wars fans, this month’s Trivia will test your knowledge on the famous movies since the first one hit the big screen in 1977.

With the nice weather upon us, now is the time that many of us start to exercise outside. This month’s Image & Style column, Sportswear with Flair, will get you in style for your outdoor activities.

This month, we celebrate Memorial Day. For all of you who serve or have served our country, a heartfelt THANK YOU. Let us never forget the price that was paid for our freedom.

Enjoy reading all of this month’s special features along with our regular monthly columns. Thank you for your continued support. Together, we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work. F

“

Phone: 724-940-2444

Laura Arnold

laura@northernconnectionmag.com

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

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Mary Simpson

marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executives

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Core Writers

Marianne Reid Anderson

ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Joella Baker Joe Bullick Rosemary Garrity Paula M. Green Barbara A. Killmeyer Ryan C. Meyer Liz Miles Donna Summers Moul, M.S.Ed. Marianne Reid Anderson Stacie Sikora Kelly Smith Distribution

how much WE HAVE, BUT HOW MUCH WE enjoy THAT MAKES happiness.

IT IS NOT

— CHARLES SPURGEON

Coming in June

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Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Dominion Distribution

Paula Green 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.

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

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@NCONNECTIONMAG Find us on Facebook under Northern Connection Magazine!

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MOVERS & SHAKERS May 2015

Movers & Shakers On March 27, Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Company delivered a rack of fire safetyrelated books written for young readers to the Cranberry Public Library. The donated books are displayed in a handmade red and white bookcase shaped like a fire engine and equipped with several child-size seats, as well as tiny ladders, pike hooks and other classic implements of firefighting.

The Second Annual Pittsburgh Rock N’ Roll Legend Awards were held on Apr. 23. This year’s inductees were – Donnie Iris, Porky Chedwick and Lou Christie.

POWER (Pennsylvania Organization for Women in Early Recovery) announced that its executive director, Rosa Davis is among seven women who will be honored by the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh at its 33rd Annual Tribute to Women Leadership Awards Luncheon.

The North Star Kids will perform a benefit show at 2:30 p.m., May 2, at St. John Lutheran Church, 311 Cumberland Road in McCandless Twp. For tickets, call (412) 366-6610 or email NSKdirector@yahoo.com. All proceeds benefit the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel in Shanksville.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announced that PNC’s donation of the Lantern Building to the organization in support of its mission to culturally and economically revitalize the Cultural District. The building is located at 600 Liberty Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh.

Edgar Snyder & Associates, the Pennsylvania-based law firm that helps injury victims announced that Wexford resident Brad Trust as the newest addition to their downtown Pittsburgh office.

Brad Trust

$5 off

Purchase of $30 or more

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Coupon must be presented at time of purchase.

Not valid on alcohol.

Expires May 31, 2015.

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The Pittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerce (PAACC) hosted its Annual Mixer with Shakers event on March 19, at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Airport Hotel. The event raised more than $6,500 for local charities which included: Angel’s Place, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh, Hope Grows for Caregiver Support, Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, Renovating Hope, and Treasure House Fashions.

MOVER & SHAKER OF THE MONTH

Nicole Maxwell

2015 Golden Apple Recipient

BY PAULA GREEN

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ach year, the Diocese of Pittsburgh honors a select few Catholic elementary and secondary school teachers with the distinguished Golden Apple Award. These outstanding educators are recognized for their excellence in teaching, community services and commitment to the church.

Saint Alexis School eighth grade teacher, Nicole Maxwell will be honored on May 28 with the Golden Apple Award at Saint Paul’s Seminary. She has been teaching at the school for the past 13 years. “I graduated from college and interviewed at Saint Alexis, and that summer I was hired,” she remarked.

Maxwell attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education (grades K-6). After a few years of teaching, Maxwell obtained her certification for Middle School Language Arts (grades 7-9).

In addition to her teaching responsibilities at Saint Alexis, Maxwell is involved with charitable organizations.

“I am the school moderator for the Diocese Chimbote Mission. This spring, the Saint Alexis middle school students will organize and implement a Chimbote Carnival.

Each year I have my class visit The Little Sisters of the Poor. We serve lunch to the residents, play games, sing songs and help in any capacity around the grounds. I also participate in the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s with my dad and sister to honor his mother (my grandmother Mary C. Viola). She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and passed away in 2010,” Maxwell said.

Another pastime Maxwell enjoys is coaching. She coached a CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) girls’ basketball and ran an after school basketball program on the Northside. Currently, she spends four days a week tutoring middle school students.

Maxwell resides in Brookline with her husband Jason and her two children Olivia, 13 and Nathan, 10. “Nate is in third grade at Saint Alexis and Olivia is in my eighth grade class. When I found out I won the Golden Apple Award, our principal Jim Correll presented the news to me in front of my class. Olivia ran to me and gave me a huge hug; we both had tears in our eyes. To share that moment with my daughter was extra special,” said Maxwell.

She also noted, “To achieve being nominated for the Golden Apple Award was an honor and a career goal that I had set for myself. Winning the award was truly humbling.

Father Zywan, Mr. Correll, the entire faculty and staff and the Saint Alexis School family have made this process special for me. They know how to make a person feel loved and supported, I am enjoying this moment and still trying to take it all in.” F

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Nicole Maxwell (center) with previous Golden Apple winners Mary Smolter (left) and Kim Van Kooten (right).

Nicole Maxwell with her eighth grade Saint Alexis class

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MOVERS & SHAKERS May 2015

Shailen Abram is the New Kean Quest 2015 Youth Champion

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ean Quest, the popular local vocal competition that boasts singing sensations Jackie Evancho and Chris Jamison, concluded its youth competition Friday evening, April 10. Entertainers and vocalists between the ages of 7 and 18 took to the Kean Theatre stage to compete for the coveted title.

Shailen Abram, 17, of Pittsburgh received the Kean Quest Champion Award for his performance of “I Will Find A Way” by Fred Hammond.

Blair Nelson, 15, of Mt. Lebanon received the First Runner-up Award.

Nelson performed the hit song “Almost Is Never Enough” by Arianna Grande.

Ariel Cameroe, 11, of South Fayette received the Second Runner-up Award and sang “Amazing Grace.” Alexus Burke, 16, of Ohioville Borough received the Audience Choice Award.

Burke performed “Back At One” by Brian McKnight accompanied by Daniel Mihelarakis on guitar.

The 2015 Kean Quest Talent Search benefits the St. Barnabas Free Care Fund, which provides more than $6 million dollars in free care each year to St. Barnabas patients.

Following a video message from Pittsburgh singing sensation Jackie Evancho, a former Kean Quest contestant, her father Mike Evancho presented the 5th Annual Jackie Evancho Award to Sara Hopkins. Hopkins has been a Kean Quest contestant for the past four years and sang “God Bless America.”

The award is presented to a contestant who, like Jackie, has competed in Kean Quest for two or more years, works hard, never gives up and continues to follow his or her dreams no matter the outcome of the competition.

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Shailen Abram, Kean Quest Champion

Trisha Pittman, WPXI; Ariel Cameroe, Second Runner-up; Blair Nelson, First Runner-up; Sara Hopkins, Jackie Evancho Award winner; Shailen Abram, Kean Quest Champion

WPXI’s Trisha Pittman was the evening’s special guest and emcee.

Gabby Barrett, 2014 Kean Quest Youth Champion and up-and-coming Pittsburgh musical talent, performed.

Contestants were competing for a chance to a recording package with Audible Images, a Grammy awardwinning studio; professional head shots with photographer Ray Cordero of Mainline Photography; one month of music or vocal lessons with In-Tune with the Arts Studio; and the Kean Quest trophy. F

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Sara Hopkins – Jackie Evancho Award winner

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Start the Heart, LLC EMPOWERING TRAINING!

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very person, from every household and every business should be trained in high quality Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the proper use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

Don’t put off today what could save a life tomorrow!

Start the Heart is a unique and special training center, committed to providing the highest standard of training available! Start the Heart empowers people by preparing them to respond to a Cardiac Arrest as well as other emergency situations.

Scott and Brenda Frank, the founders of Start the Heart, are the team behind the dedication and passion that makes Start the Heart the respected leader in exceptional CPR/AED training. They consistently command and provide the knowledge, skills and confidence required to perform high quality, effective CPR on someone in Cardiac Arrest.

Start the Heart provides a full array of American Heart Association CPR / AED / First Aid and Pediatric First Aid courses as well as courses offered by the Emergency Care and Safety Institute and the Safe Sitter course.

Other courses offered include: Child Abuse Recognition & Reporting Training (CARRT) - This course is designed for mandated and permissive reporters as defined by the Pennsylvania law.

Personal Safety Awareness Training (PSAT) - Personal Safety Awareness Training is not merely to educate you on potential safety

threats and what you can do to prevent them, but to suggest you have a larger goal to increase and enhance your focus on the importance of heightened awareness. This will serve as an additional layer of defense against personal safety threats. THIS CLASS IS FOR EVERYONE but a great class for women.

Babysitter Education & Safety Training (BEST) – Ideal for adolescents 11-14 yrs. old. This Safe Sitter course teaches babysitter skills, awareness, responsibilities, prevention, safety, injury management and prevention for specific ages, stages of child development, and personal limitations. This course also teaches CPR and Care of choking techniques for Child/Infant, following the American Heart Association guidelines.

Pet Emergency Training (PET) - Presented by Dr. Donna Schuring of Bradford Hills Veterinary Hospital. The course includes PET CPR and First Aid, providing you with the knowledge and skills needed to assist and aid your pet, dog or cat, in an emergency.

Start the Heart provides training to anyone interested in, or required to have CPR/AED or First Aid training. For your convenience, this dedicated team offers training on site at YOUR BUSINESS LOCATION as well as at their WEXFORD TRAINING CENTER. Start the Heart is conveniently located near Route 910, the Wexford exit off I-79 and the Cranberry exit from the PA Turnpike.

Located in Wexford at the Pine Center, 11269 Perry Highway.

Be pro-active and be prepared! Don’t wait for help to arrive; YOU need to be the help! Remember this, seconds turn into minutes and every minute matters! Call 724-622-7229 or visit Start the Heart at www.starttheheart.com. For additional information on the babysitter training, visit www.bestbabysittertraining.com. F

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COVER STORY

PYROFEST America’s Largest and Most Fantastic Fireworks Festival to Light up the Sky at Cooper’s Lake

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

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Appearing for two nights, May 22-23, over 450 acres at Cooper’s Lake in Butler County, PyroFest is a one-of-a kind spectacular fireworks event designed to amaze, thrill and captivate audiences of all ages. For two nights, May 22-23, the sky at Cooper’s Lake in Butler County will become a festival of light and pyrotechnic special effects that are choreographed with split-second timing to a monumental musical score.

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roduced by Peony Entertainment and Pyrotecnico, PyroFest 2015 brings techniques and products from around the globe in an effortless array of pyrotechnic presentations to include both daytime and nighttime fireworks that will dazzle spectators with a thrilling sensory and visual experience they will never forget.

PyroFest displays are designed to entertain and delight everyone, young and old alike. Among the productions and activities planned for this year’s PyroFest are: • Daytime & Colored Smoke Fireworks – New technology makes pyrotechnic displays possible even in the daylight hours. Among the daylight displays will be a very special choreographed presentation of a U.S. Military Salute and National Anthem Daytime Display.

• Pyro UFO Launch – Science fiction fans of all ages will be overwhelmed by witnessing a pyrotechnic alien aircraft. The flying saucer will launch, hover and zoom into outer space right before your eyes.

• “Fantasy in the Sky” Fireworks Challenge – Selected by PyroFest judges to kick-off the night-time displays, “Fantasy in the Sky” is the debut of a uniquelydesigned display by an aspiring fireworks choreographer.

If you would like to enter the challenge, visit http://pyrofest.com/fantasyinthesky.html for details.

2015 • Internationally acclaimed Ricardo Caballer, Ricasa Fireworks Production – Direct from Spain, this world-renowned, award-winning fireworks choreographer returns to PyroFrest where in 2013 he had his United States debut. Best known for choreographing the fireworks for the Olympics, Ricardo Caballer brings his latest innovative and European production techniques to captivate spectators at PyroFest 2015.

• Grandest Finale of All Time – The evening culminates with a Grand Finale beyond compare. This World Premiere of a Unique, Never-Before-Seen, Pyrotecnico Production is sure to awe, amaze and delight the fireworks fan in all of us.

In addition to this best-of-class, pyro-packed lineup, Pyrofest will also include all-day, live music provided by an extensive lineup of great musical artists and groups including B.E. Taylor, the return of NOMaD a.k.a. North of Mason Dixon, plus Ruff Creek, and Pittsburgh’s own Johnny Angel and the Halos!

Also, be sure and have the kids visit the PNC Kid’s Zone presented by the PA Leadership Charter School to enjoy this

fun and fabulous area designed just for them. There will be games, face painting, inflatables, make & take crafts, and various interactive educational presentations.

Concession stands will be serving all your festival favorites and delicious summer-fare to keep your tummies and taste buds satisfied – and be sure to remember to savor a warm, freshly made funnel cake among the bevy of yummy treats.

Parking is included in the ticket price and all vehicles will be directed to free on-site parking at Cooper’s Lake. VIP ticket holders are guaranteed parking in the VIP lot area next to the VIP tents. VIP tickets must be shown prior to entry into this area. Handicapped Parking: Handicapped parking is located onsite at Cooper’s Lake by the main gate entrance.

Only vehicles having handicapped license plates or regulation handicapped placards will be permitted to park in these spaces. All others will be ticketed. Please be aware there is NO OVERNIGHT PARKING and NO TAILGATING allowed in the parking lots. This will be strictly enforced by local police authorities. Anyone in the parking areas must buy an event ticket and enter the event gate, otherwise they will be asked to leave the park. RVs and campers are welcome overnight in the campground areas as seen on the ticketing website.

PyroFest is expected to sell-out, so be sure and purchase your tickets early by going to www.pyrofest.com and click “Buy Tickets.” You can purchase online until 11:59 p.m., May 21.

PyroFest 2015 will appear: Friday, May 22, 5 p.m. – 11p.m.

Saturday May 23, 3 p.m. – 11p.m.

Children 6 and under are FREE. Purchase price for Friday is $20 for adults; Students/Military receive a discounted price of only $10. For Saturday, purchase price is $25 for adults; Students/Military receive a discounted price of only $15. There are also special VIP passes available for Saturday at $70 each.

There are also special discounted weekend bundle passes of $40 for Adults, $20 for Student or Military passes and $110 VIP pass for both nights.

Cooper’s Lake is located at 205 Currie Road, Slippery Rock, Butler County.

For more information about PyroFest 2015, an unforgettable experience that will be enjoyed by everyone, both young and old, friends and family, visit www.pyrofest.com. F

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HAPPENINGS May 2015

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

May 2015 Happenings North Happening North Hills Community Outreach’s Community Auto Program serving the Greater Pittsburgh region needs car donations. Call (724) 4438300 or www.communityauto.org.

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.

Mondays 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. For info, 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.,(May 18) Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Topic is “The 85th Pa. Regiment.” Free & open to the public. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329.

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Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m.

Mondays, May 4, The Judge; May 11, Interstellar; May 18, Into the Woods; May 25, no movie (Memorial Day), Jun 1, Grand Budapest Hotel, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. For info, visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

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

Wednesday 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.

Dorseyville Alliance Church, 3703 Saxonburg Blvd. For ages 16 & older. To register call (412) 915-8486 or (724) 443-2616 or beatty3@consolidated.net.

Friday Christy House Tea Room Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Fridays, on Walnut & Frederick in Sewickley. Homemade soups, salads, breads & cookies. Needles Eye & Early Treasures gift shops. RSVP to (412) 741-5960.

Saturdays Saturday Singles Dance for ages 40+, 8 p.m.-midnight, May 2, “Anniversary Extravaganza Party,” May 23, Free Speed Dating, 7:30 p.m. free dance lesson; West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy, West View. Call, (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

Thursdays

Arts & Entertainment

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

Act One Theatre: Children of Eden, 7:30 p.m., May 1, 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., May 2, noon & 3 p.m., May 3, Scotus Hall, Millvale.

For info, visit www.actonetheatreschool.com.

Handicapable Square Dancing, 7-8 p.m., weekly on Thursdays beginning May 7,

Benedum Center: An Evening with Neil DeGrasse Tyson, 7:30 p.m., May 7; Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles, 8 p.m., May 16; Matilda, May 31-Jun. 12. For tickets, (412) 456-6666 or www.TrustArts.org.

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Legacy Theatres shows: Pure Gold, May 16; Johnny Angel & the Halos, 7:30 p.m., June 13, The Fabulous Hubcaps, 7:30 p.m., July 25. For tickets, call 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com.

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust EQT Children’s Theatre Festival, May 14-17, in the Cultural District. For info, visit http://www.TrustArts.org/about/explore.

Pittsburgh JazzLive International Festival, June 19-21.

For details, visit TrustArts.org/jazzlivefest.

Pittsburgh Philharmonic May Concert: A Story To Tell, 8 p.m., May 15, Succop Theatre at Butler Community College; 7 p.m., May 16, Hampton Middle School. For info, visit www.pghphil.org.

Scottish Ballet, 8 p.m., May 19, Byham Theatre. For info, visit www.TrustArts.org.

Very Eric Carle traveling exhibition premieres June 13, and runs thru Sept.

20, Children’s Museum. For details, call (412) 322-5058 or www.pittsburghkids.org.

Health & Wellness Attention Deficit Simulation: Walk in the Shoes of a Child with Attention Issues, 7 p.m., May 21, Northland Library. For info, call (412) 3668100 x103 or northlandlibrary.org.

Domestic Violence Conference, 5-9 p.m., May 5, Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center at Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless. To register, go to classes.upmc.com. For info, call (412) 748-6550.

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

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

Dyslexia Executive Functions, May 2, AIU at the Waterfront, Homestead. For info & to register, visit http://pbida.org.

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

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.

Free Diabetes Support Group for Adults, 6-8 p.m., May 6, UPMC Passavant McCandless. Sponsored by Passavant Hospital Foundation. For info, call (412) 748-6550 or https://classesupmc.com/ Consumer/Default.aspx.

Good Posture, Good Health, 7 p.m., May 28, Northland Library. Required registration. For info, call (412) 366-8100 x103 or northlandlibrary.org.

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

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

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

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

Networking

Recovery programs for Addicts & Codependents is available at Orchard Hill. For details, call (724) 935-5555 or visit http://www.orchardhillchurch.com

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

Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community, May 16. For info, visit www. walkforahealthycommunity.org.

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

129 or www.anchorpointcounselingministry.org.

Cranberry Chapter of Professional Referral Exchange meets 7:15 a.m., networking meeting every Wed., North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Mary Ann, (724) 935-2221.

Support Groups

Counseling

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

Ask the Attorney, free legal consultation for low-income families. Sessions are 7 p.m., May 13, NHCO in Millvale; June 10, NHCO Boroughs. For info, call (412) 408-3830 or hzgibbs@nhco.org.

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.

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.

Cranberry Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 7:30 a.m., Thurs., May. 7 & 21, Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church, Cranberry Twp. For info, call Marcia at (724) 538-3059.

Criders Corner Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, noon, Thur., May 14 & 28, The Sports Grille, 1294 Freedom Rd. For info, call Annette at (724) 316-8005.

North Hills Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 9 a.m., Fri., May 8 & 22, Eat N’ Park, Rt. 8 & Saxonburg Blvd, Etna. For info, call Jean at (724) 443-0990.

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Sarver Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 11:30 a.m., Thur., May 7 & 21, Savor in Sarver, 123 Malone Drive, Sarver. For info, call Michele at (724) 353-2431.

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

Wexford Chapter of Women’s Business Network meets, 8 a.m., Tues., May 12 & 26, Atria’s Restaurant, Wexford. For info, call Kathy at (724) 935-5143.

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

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

North Hills Community Outreach Volunteer Orientation, 10 a.m., May 14, NHCO, Ferguson Rd., Allison Park. Call Patti, (412) 408-3830 or pmferraro@ nhco.org.

North Hills Community Outreach has speakers available who will speak at your business, congregation, or school at no charge about our programs. For info, call Jen at (412) 487-6316, opt. 1 or ext.

3112 or JLKissel@nhco.org.

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North Hills Community Outreach has speakers who will speak to business, congregation, civic groups or school at no charge about our programs and services and volunteer opportunities. For info, call (412) 4876316, opt. 1 ext. 3112. Or JLKissel@ nhco.org.

Treasure House Fashions, a nonprofit boutique style women’s clothing shop is looking for volunteers. For details, call Karen at (412) 979-1534.

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

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

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

School Events & Courses & Symposiums The Coverlet Casualty Civil War Exhibit is on display thru May 20, McCarl Gallery at Saint Vincent College. For info, call (724) 805-2188 or www.mccarlgallery.org.

Faith & Reason Summer Program, Jun. 14-19, St. Vincent College. For info, call (724) 805-2844 or Michael.krom@stvincent.edu/faithandreason. Students can register online at www.stvincentedu/faithand reason.

Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP) is taking registrations for 12 courses to be held 2 different weeks, Jun. 18-Jul. 3 & Jul 19-24, at La Roche College. For info, visit www.GRIPitt.org.

Hampton Township School District is seeking nominations for inductees into its 2015 Athletic Hall of Fame. Deadline for submission is May 11. For nomination forms, call (412) 492-6389 or www.ht-sd.org.

La Roche College has developed a Master of Science in Information Systems. For info, call (412) 536-1260 or graduateadmissions.edu.

North Allegheny Kennywood Day, Jun. 18.

Discount FunDay Kennywood Tickets ($30) will be on sale beginning May 29, at all North Allegheny Schools. Tickets may be used any day in May or Jun., or weekdays in Jul. or Aug. For info, visit www.northallegheny.org/athletics.

Tickets can be purchased online ($1.25 per ticket online fee) visit www.kennywood.com/na.

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Saint Sebastian School in Ross Township is accepting applications for preschool thru 8th grade for the 2015-16 school year. For an application or info, call (412) 364-7171 or www.SaintSebastianParish.org.

Courses & Camps Grandparent University (GPU®), June 16-18 for youths 7 to 14 to attend with their grandparents, St. Vincent College. For info, call (724) 805-2288 or grandparentsuniversity@ stvincent.edu.

Night at the Races, 6 p.m., May 12, Adams Ridge Clubhouse.

All proceeds benefit the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber Educational Foundation Scholarship. For info, call (724) 934-9700 or http://www.pghnorthchamber.com/.

North Hills Newcomers & Friends Spring Raffle, May 12, Shannopin Country Club. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit Hairpeace.

For info, visit www.northhillsnewcomers.org or email NHNFmembership@ gmail.com.

Quilt in a Day, 10 a.m.-noon, May 26, Harmony Museum, Stewart Hall. For info, call (724) 452-7341 or www.harmonymuseum.org.

Pittsburgh Walk Now for Autism Speaks, 10 a.m., Jun. 14, Schenley Park. For info, call (412) 367-4571 or visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/pittsburgh.

Veterans

Spiritual

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.

Buddy Program Respite Night (for special needs kids), 6-9 p.m., May 22, Orchard Hill.

Register at least day prior. Call (724) 935-5555 or visit http://www.orchardhillchurch.com/ChildrenBuddy.asp.

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

Veterans Discover HOPE Here-Career, 3rd Wed., 6:308:45 p.m., Cranberry Twp., Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp. Free. Call (724) 779-8323, discoverhopehere@gmail.com or www. discoverhopehere.com.

Veterans Fitness Classes 5 Days a week, 4:30-5:30 p.m., VA Butler Healthcare Auditorium (bldg. 1), 325 New Castle Rd., Butler.

For details, visit www.prevention. va.gov/B_Physically_ Active.asp.

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

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

Fundraisers Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community 5K Walk or 1-mile Fun Walk, 9 a.m.-11 a.m., May 16, Stage AE- North Shore. 100% of the money raised goes to Glade Run Lutheran Services.

To register or to make a donation, go online http://hcf.convio.net/gladerun.

Inaugural Charitable Block Party, 4-7 p.m., June 6, The Woodlands, 134 Shenot Rd., Wexford.

For info, call (724) 935-6533.

Spring Events HIS Kids Christian School “Spring Bash,” 10 a.m.-3 p.m., May 2, 650 Saxonburg Blvd. Food, local vendors, crafts, bake sale & Chinese auction. For info, visit Hiskidscs.org.

North Hills Historic Auto Club, Antique & Classic Car Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., June 7, Mars Area Senior High School, Rt. 228, Mars. For info, call Joe at (412) 4430359 or joeandkath@verizon.net.

Spring Craft Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 3, East Union Presbyterian Church, 292 East Union Rd., Cheswick. Handcrafted item and Chinese auction. Free admission. For info, call Mary Lynn at (412) 767-5750.

Three Rivers Arts Festival, June 5-14, downtown Pittsburgh. For info, visit www.TrustArts.org.

Summer Events Summer Theatre at St. Vincent College, The Marvelous Wonderettes, May 28-June 14; Tuesdays with Morrie, June 18-July 3; Into the Woods, July 9-26; Moon Over Buffalo, July 30-Aug. 16. For info, visit www.svst.org.

Whiskey Rebellion Festival, July 9-12, for details, visit www.whiskeyrebellionfestival.com.

Woodlands Block Party, 4-7 p.m., Jun. 6, The Woodlands, 134 Shenot Rd., Wexford. For info, call (724) 935-6533 or ccohn@woodlandsfoundation.org.

Pet Adoption Event

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ome to the Pet Adoption Event,11 a.m.-4 p.m., May 17, Happy Tailz Pet Spa, Wexford. Adopt a pet from the Butler County Humane Society or make a donation.

For details, call (724) 759-7620. F

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Environmental & Gardening Events Friends of North Park Events: Kids Fishing Derby, 7 a.m.noon, May 2; North Park Stewardship Day, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., May 17; Grand Re-Opening of North Park Lake Trail/ North Park Spring Fling, 3-5 p.m., May 30; Garden in the Park, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Aug. 15. For info, call (724) 544-7284.

Greybrooke Garden Club Hanging Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., May 8, Duncan Manor Shopping Center,McCandless Twp. Greybrooke Garden Club meeting, 9:30 a.m., May 13, Parkwood United Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park. For info, call (412) 296-0538.

Ingomar Garden Club Plant Sale, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., May 9, Rt. 19 & Ingomar Rd. (by Brusters). Beautiful flower baskets, annuals and perennials.

For info, call Bege at (724) 316-4274.

Rid Your Home of Unwanted Chemicals, Electronic and Freon Appliances (no refrigerators), May 16, Jun. 6 & 27, Jul. 18, Aug. 15, Sept.

19, Oct. 3 & 24, Nov. 21 & Dec. 19, 129 Ash Stop Rd., Evans City. Nominal fee, must pre-register at 1-866-815-0016.

Shaler Garden Club Plant Sale, 9 a.m.-noon, May 2, Kiwanis Park, Mt. Royal Blvd. & Wetzel Rd., Glenshaw. Bake Sale & Flea Market.

Camps Girls Basketball Skills Camp sponsored by Vincentian Lady Royals, June 22-26. For girls entering grades 4-8. To register, visit www. vincentianacademy.org or vagbbsummercamp@gmail.com.

SonSpark Labs Vacation Bible Camp, 9 a.m.-noon, June 15-19, Saint Alexis Parish, 10090 Old Perry Hwy. For info, call (724) 935-4343 or www.stalexis.org.

Sales & Festivals Flea Market, Plant & Bake Sale, noon-7 p.m., May 29; 9 a.m.-2 p.m., May 30, housewares, indoor & outdoor plants, toys, clothes & more, Dutilh Church, 1270 Dutilh Rd., Cranberry Twp. Call (724) 776-1094 or DutilhUMC.org.

St. James 55 Plus Club Celebrates its 15th Anniversary

S

t. James 55 Plus Club is commemorating a big milestone this year, the group is celebrating its 15 year inception.

The anniversary themed celebration will be held at 12 p.m., Thursday, May 21 at 200 Walnut Street, Sewickley.

“Our president, Rudy Ujhazy has put together a special power point presentation,” said the group public relations coordinator, Starr Hull.

“The video production will feature photos of the group from the past 15 years. It will also show some of the patriotic places that we have visited such as Washington, D.C. and Gettysburg. We will also pay tribute to our veterans in a special military segment of the show. We will also sing the theme songs from the various branches of the military,” noted Ujhazy.

“Our group has monthly meetings at noon on the third Thursday from September through May. We have about 140 members, usually 65 to 80 attend on a regular basis. You don’t need to be a parishioner of St. James to attend, nor do you even need to be Catholic. We have folks from neighboring parishes who attend,” Hull added.

For more information on St. James’ 55 Plus Club, call Gerard Heuler at (724) 266-8522. F

New & used books are needed for Anchorpoint’s Annual Used Book Sale which will be held in June. For info, call (412) 366-1300 or www.anchorpointcounselingministry.org.

Pennsylvania Arts & Crafts Festival, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., May 15 & 16; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 17, Washington County Fairgrounds, 2151 N. Main St., Washington, Pa. For details, call (724) 863-4577 or www.familyfestivals.com.

Golf Golf Outing for Elliott Acres Therapy Riding, 10 a.m., July 12, Hartmann’s Summer Resort, 169 Hartmann Rd., Harmony. Cost $70, registration due by July 7. For details, call (724) 283-0947.

NHCO’s Mini Masters Golf Tournament, May 14, RMU’s Island Sports Complex on Neville Island. Call Pam, (412) 307-0069 ext. 3322 or pjlindenberger@nhco.org.

Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber Spring Golf Outing, May 18, Wildwood Golf Club.

For info, call (724) 934-9700 or visit http://www.pghnorthchamber.com/ Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities (Millvale) Golf Tournament, 12:30 p.m., July 22, at Longue Vue Club, 400 Longue Vue Drive.

Call 412.821.2200, ext. 217 or visit www.sosf.org to register.

St. Barnabas Charitable Golf Open, June 1, Butler Country Club.

Register at (724) 625-3770 or https:// stbarnabashealthsystem.com/golf/.

Workshops Divorce Workshop for Women, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., May 16, Cooper Siegel Community Library, 403 Fox Chapel Rd., Fox Chapel. Cost is $35, required registration. Call (724) 493-9695.

Library Shaler North Hills Library: Get Your Artist On, 7-9 p.m., May 22; Kid’s Summer Reading Program kicks off 7 p.m., May 29, with Al Mazing & his magic show. Reading program runs May 29-Sept. 8; 1822 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. For info, call (412) 486-0211 or www.shalerlibrary.org.

Spring Book Sale, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., May 1 & May 2, 1-4 p.m., May 3 (bag sale), Northland Library, 300 Cumberland Rd., McCandless. For info, call (412) 366-8100 x103 or www.northlandlibrary. org. Other library events: Free Comic Book Day, noon to 3 p.m., May 2; Medical Ethics: Let’s Talk About It, 7 p.m., May 7; Writers at Work, 6:30 p.m., May 11, for info on the writer workshop, call Hanna at (412) 364-0877.

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Northern Connection | May 2015

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TRIVIA CONNECTION May 2015

Star Wars Trivia A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...

he fourth of May is an ordinary day to most folks, but for Star Wars fans it is a time celebrate. That’s because it is “Star Wars” day, and there’s a logical explanation for this choice – “May the fourth be with you!”

The film’s creator, George Lucas was so sure the film would flop that instead of attending the premiere, he went on holiday to Hawaii with his good friend Steven Spielberg, where they came up with the idea for Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981).

Star Wars opened in theatres on May 25, 1977. It was a relatively limited release and then expanded…and then skyrocketed over the summer. It was a phenomenal success, which spawned the release of Star Wars toys, games and numerous merchandising paraphernalia.

Three years later after the film’s release, on June 20, 1980, we saw the premiere of the second episode in the Star Wars trilogy - The Empires Strikes Back. In this sequel, Luke Skywalker takes advanced Jedi training with Master Yoda, while his friends are pursued by Darth Vader as part of his plan to capture Luke.

Six years to the day of the release of the original Star Wars movie, we saw the debut of the third and final installment of the first trilogy. The Return of the Jedi premiered on May 25, 1983.

After rescuing Han Solo from the palace of Jabba the Hutt, the rebels attempt to destroy the second Death Star, while Luke struggles to make Darth Vader return from the dark side of the Force.

Next came the Star Wars prequel trilogy - Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace was released on May 19, 1999. It is the fourth film in the Star Wars saga to be released and the first of a three-part prequel. It is the first film in the story chronology.

Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones debuted on May 16, 2002. The film is set 10 years after the events in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, when the galaxy is on the brink of civil war. In this film we follow the adventures of Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) and Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman and Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor).

The third prequel Star Wars Episode II: Revenge of the Sith hit the theatres on May 19, 2005. As the Clone Wars near an end, the Sith Lord Darth Sidious steps out of the shadows, and Anakin succumbs to his emotions, becoming Darth Vader.

Star Wars fans are now anxious for the release of the sev-

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enth film to be released this year on December 18. It is called Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Since we have soared through the galaxy, we must now skyrocket our way through this cosmic quiz. Get set to don those space suits, because it’s time to get a little trivial...

1. What was Princess Leia’s home planet?

2. Name the ship flown by Han Solo and co-piloted by Chewbacca.

3. What is the name of C-3PO’s sidekick?

4. Which actor portrayed Obi-Wan Kenobi in the 1977 Star Wars film?

5. Who destroyed the first Death Star in the original Star Wars movie?

6. In which film does Jar Jar Binks make his debut?

7. What character did Samuel L. Jackson portray in the three Star Wars prequel films?

8. What is the name of Darth Vader’s theme song?

9. Which Star Wars character created C-3PO? 10. We see the emergence of this antagonist in The Phantom Menace.

11. Who played Lando Calrissian in Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi?

12. Which is the only one of the six Star Wars movies to be nominated for a Best Picture award?

13. This is the first Star Wars film in which Yoda (Frank Oz) is entirely computer-generated.

14. Name the composer who scored the music for all of the Star Wars films?

15. This actor played Senator Bail Organa in Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith. F Sources: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0076759/trivia, www.quizland.com, www.quibblo.com, http://www.funtrivia.com, www.wikipedia.com, www.wikipedia.com, http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0121766/?ref_=nv_sr_4

Answers: 1. Alderaan 2. Millenium Falcon 3. R2-D2 4. Sir Alec Guinness 5. Luke Skywalker 6. The Phantom Menace 7. Jedi Master Mace Windu 8. The Imperial March 9. Anakin Skywalker 10: Darth Maul 11. Billy Dee Williams 12: the original 1977 Star Wars movie 13. Attack of the Clones 14. John Williams 15. Jimmy Smits

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BY PAULA GREEN

Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

EDUCATION & CAMPS

Get Off the Couch and Run or Walk: Join the Movement

BY JOELLA BAKER

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t’s been a busy month and as summer approaches, I can’t help but think about running and triathlons. ‘Tis the season. This past month, I received my USA Triathlon Race Director Certification.

A certification I’m very proud to hold. As we were told at our certification, race directors have a special role in the lives of their participants. We help individuals live their dreams, reach their goals and aspire to be healthy through the events that we organize. It made me start to think about all the races I’ve done over the years and how they’ve already changed, especially for women.

I ran my first 10K when I was 13 years old at Cranberry Park. This race was a year before women could run the marathon in the Olympics. I still remember watching Joan Benoit Samuelson win the Gold Medal in 1984. It was such an important time for our sport and for running. Now, running a marathon or a half marathon is something thousands of women are doing every year. In fact, did you know that in 1990 there were 143,000 marathon finishers? In 2011 there were 518,000 finishers and the numbers continue to rise. For example, I ran my first Pittsburgh Marathon in 1989.

There were approximately 1200 runners that year. Now the Pittsburgh Marathon has approximately 25,000 runners, with 6,000 of them running the full marathon and approximately 15,000 running the half marathon. So, another statistic, since 2000 half marathon finishes grew from

482,000 to 1,610,000. The thing that’s most important about the half marathon statistic is that 59% of the finishers are women. That’s a staggering number.

Women are taking charge of running events and now triathlon events. Why are running and triathlon events so important to women?

• They are way to stay fit and stay healthy.

• They are a way for women to set a good example for their kids on how to stay healthy and active.

• Women love to run to clear their minds and release stress.

• Women run to be social. Women only half marathons and marathons and triathlons are a way to set up a women’s only get-a-way with friends.

It’s not just about physical health, but also mental health.

a running program, but the best and most successful way is to start by walking 1 minute and running 1 minute for 10 minutes straight. Each week, add 2 minutes until you start to feel comfortable. Then you can add minutes to your running and maintain your walking minutes. It’s that simple.

Take your health to the next level this summer and commit to a race and join thousands of other women who are changing their lives, their shape and their minds through running.

For more information or to get started, visit my website at www.getfitfamilies.com. See you on the roads. F Statistics from Running USA and their 2012 Marathon Report.

• Women can run everywhere. If you travel for work, or go on vacation, just take your shoes with you and run. You can run wherever you go.

• Running is fun. Some of you may dispute this, but once you start a running program, you’ll find out why the rest of us love it so much.

Remember, you don’t have to be a super athlete to run a 5K, 10K, Half or Full Marathon. You simply just have to get off your couch, walk out your door and start moving. There are so many ways to start

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Northern Connection | May 2015

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EDUCATION & CAMPS

STARTING THE CONVERSATION

When Do We Start Listening to Our Mothers?

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

“W

ash your hands!” “Sit up straight!” “Clean your room!” “Save up and don’t put it on a charge card!” These are just a few of the seemingly endless list of directives that turn out to be very valuable advice that we get from our mothers or other caring adult. At some point, we realize Mom is right and to stay healthy, we should wash our hands. To save on back problems later in life, we should sit up straight. To get along with roommates and spouses, we should clean up after ourselves. To manage debt and avoid interest, it’s better to save.

Yet, generation after generation, rebellious youths don’t seem to be listening. But as experience shows us, at some point, they do. Is it when they mature, are on their own, have kids of their own?

In addition to the typical advice, I have received a ton of great advice over the years from my own mother. The advice ranges from how to clean (although I think she may be giving

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up on that one), how to see someone else’s side or point of view, how to manage a household and so much more. But I think the best advice she gave me and my sister was through our teenage and college years when she simplified all rules into one guiding principle: “Just don’t do anything that will cause me any grief.” And that pretty much summed it all up.

We knew not to drink, smoke, stay out late, behave or dress promiscuously, drive carelessly or give into any other temptation that might, in any way, shape or form, do anything that could result in causing our mother “grief.”

What was the best advice you ever received from your mother? Or, what has been the best advice you have ever received on motherhood? Let’s “Continue the Conversation” on my blog at http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot. com where you can post this advice for our readers and any future mothers out there. F

Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

SPOT by Theater Terra from The Netherlands, for ages 3-7, will be performed as part of the EQT Children’s Theater Festival, presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

TANGLE by Polyglot Theatre from Australia. TANGLE is an outdoor interactive art installation for all ages, part of the EQT Children’s Theater Festival, presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

EQT CHILDREN’S THEATER FESTIVAL FOCUSES ON THEATER, ACTIVITIES AND FUN!

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Announces 29th Annual EQT Children’s Theater Festival May 14-17 Festival open daily, 10AM – 7PM CULTURAL DISTRICT, DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH

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deal for kids and grandkids! The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust announces the EQT Children’s Theater Festival, now celebrating its 29th year, to be held May 14-17 in the Cultural District, downtown Pittsburgh.

FEATURED TICKETED EVENTS For a full description of each Featured Ticketed Performance, including performance times, please visit www.TrustArts.org/PGHKids.

SPOT The Netherlands Sensory Friendly Performances, which will include interactivity, rhythm, repetition, reduced sound levels and gentle lighting are scheduled at 1:00 p.m. on May 16 and 5:45 p.m. on May 17.

UMBO Mexico All children require a ticket, accompanied by an adult. Additional adult companions and guests will be seated in chairs surrounding the play space.

HANSEL AND GRETEL Denmark Children under the age of 8 will not be admitted.

THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD Scotland MANXMOUSE: THE MOUSE WHO KNEW NO FEAR The Netherlands TANGLE Australia Play in and explore this unforgettable art installation, complete with live music! Visitors create a tangled multicolored landscape by weaving colorful balls of elastic through tall golden poles.

Over 30 FREE activities, including: LILYPAD PARK – This special green space is full of turf lily pads and furniture, flower planters, a sandbox, and more! Enjoy even more play space this year as Penn Avenue will be closed to traffic from 7th to 9th Streets during the entirety of the Festival! Benches and grass seating areas are available throughout the Cultural District to enjoy food vending or packed lunches.

HANDS-ON AND RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES – From craft-making to workshops to games, attendees can discover over 30 fun activities on the festival grounds!

FROG STOP SCAVENGER HUNT – Attendees can explore key locations in and around the festival Grounds!

Discover interesting facts, partici-

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pate in fun activities and learn about the Cultural District along the way.

Complete the scavenger hunt and win a kid cone from Dream Cream Ice Cream.

THE KID FLIX MIX – A showcase of the best short film and animation! Films are recommended for kids ages 3-6 and will take place at the Harris Theater, located at 809 Liberty Avenue.

Vendors will be selling a variety of foods on the festival grounds. A Complete listing of Food Trucks – all sales are cash only, Family-Friendly Restaurants, Community Stage performances and Hands-On activities will be made available at TRUSTARTS.ORG/ PGHKIDS in May. Be sure and reserve your parking vouchers in the heart of the Cultural District at Theater Square Parking Garage. A limited number of vouchers will be held for Festival visitors each day. To reserve your parking voucher, call 412-456-6666 or visit the Box Office at Theater Square.

FEATURED TICKETED PERFORMANCES: 1 show: $8 per person; 2 shows: $14 per person; 3 shows: $18 per person; and TANGLE: $5 per person.

Visit, TrustArts.org/PGHKids or call (412) 456-6666. Groups of 10+ call (412) 471-6930, GroupSales@TrustArts.org or TrustArts.org/GroupSales. F Northern Connection | May 2015

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Catholic Schools REGISTER NOW

Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh (Gibsonia)

Head of School: Leslie Mitros 724-444-0722 www.AquinasAcademy.info

Assumption School (Bellevue) Principal: Mary Ann Miller 412-761-7887 www.assumptionschool.org

Butler Catholic School (Butler) Principal: Sister John Ann Mulhern, C.D.P. 724-285-4276 www.butlercatholic.org

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School (Cranberry Twp) Principal: Ann Gaudino, Ed.D 412-321-4823 www.cwnchs.org

Central Catholic High School (Oakland) Principal: Brother Robert Schaefer, FSC 412-208-3400 www.centralcatholichs.com

Holy Sepulcher Catholic School (Middlesex Twp)

Principal: Sister Anna Marie Gaglia, CSJ Phone: 724-586-5022 http://www.holysepulcher.org/holysepulcher-catholic-school

Northside Catholic School (Brighton Heights) Principal: Rosanne Kwiatkowski (412)761-5043 www.northsidecatholicschool.org

Oakland Catholic High School (Oakland)

President: Mary Claire Kasunic 412-682-6633 www.oaklandcatholic.org

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School (Coraopolis) Principal: Tim Plocinik 412-262-3300 www.olsh.org

Providence Heights Alpha School (McCandless)

Principal: Margaret Ruefle M.ED.M.S. www.alphaschool.org 412-366-4455

Quigley Catholic High School (Baden) Principal: Mrs. Rita McCormick www.qchs.org 724-869-2188

Catholic Schools Week is J 20

Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

of the Pittsburgh Diocese

for the 2015-2016 School Year Saint Alexis Catholic School (Wexford)

Saint James School (Sewickley)

Saint Sebastian School (Ross)

Saint Alphonsus (Wexford)

Saint Joseph High School (Natrona Heights, PA)

Saint Teresa of Avila School (Perrysville)

Saint Kilian Parish School (Cranberry Twp)

Saint Ursula School (Allison Park)

Saint Mary (Glenshaw)

Vincentian Academy (North Hills, PA)

Principal: Mr. Jim Correll www.stalexis.org 724-935-3940

Principal: Mr. Robert Reese 724-935-1152 www.stals.org

Saint Bonaventure (Glenshaw)

Principal: Jacqueline B. Easley 412-486-2606 www.stbonaventureparish.org

Saint Gregory School (Zelienople) Principal: Erin Harris 724-452-9731 www.stgregzelie.org

Principal: Sister Christy Hill, CSJ 412-741-5540 www.stjamesschool.us

Principal: Beverly K. Kaniecki (724) 224-5552 www.SaintJosephHS.com

Principal: Mrs. Jane Pampena 724-625-1665 Ext.2101 www.saintkilian.org/school Principal: Antoinette Pilarski 412-486-7611 www.stmaryglenshaw.org

Principal: Dr. Patricia Thomas 412.364.7171 www.SaintSebastianParish.org

Principal: Dr. Michael J. Pendred II 412-367-9001 Ext. 530 www.saintteresas.org

Principal: Sr. M. Joanita Fedor, S.C.N. 412-486-5511 www.stursulaschool.org

President: Mr. John Fedko Principal: Ed Bernot 412-364-1616 www.vincentianacademy.org

January 25–January 31 www.northernconnectionmag.com

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EDUCATION & CAMPS

School Movers & Shakers Hampton

Mars Area junior Josh Raymundo competed in the quarterfinal round of the WPIAL/ McDonald’s Boys Class AA Singles Tennis Championship held on April 7. Raymundo advanced to the WPIAL Championship after taking first place in the Section 2-AAA Singles Tournament. Junior Aaron Gruber advanced to the quarterfinal round of the section tournament.

Fox Chapel The Fox Chapel Area School District has been named among the 2015 Best Communities for Music Education (BCME).

Fox Chapel Area is one of 54 in the states of Pennsylvania and one of only 388 school districts in the nation chosen for this honor.

Pine-Richland Hampton Middle School eighth grader Tejas Badgujar won the state National Geography Bee on March 27 in Harrisburg. He will advance to the National Geography Bee where he will compete on May 15.

Five Central Elementary School students in the Hampton School District participated in the Odyssey of the Mind regional competition. The students placed first in their division and advanced to the state final.

Mars Mars Area School District ranks 10th in the Pittsburgh region and 36th among Pennsylvania schools according to the latest rankings published by the Pittsburgh Business Times.

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The Alliance for Young Artists awarded PineRichland High School sophomore Kayla Duffy with a National Gold Medal for her entry into the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program.

She earned the award for her photograph entitled “Migrane.”

Pine-Richland School District teacher Alison Monk is being named one of only 12 finalists in the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year program for 2016. Monk is a second grader teacher at Richland Elementary and has been teaching in the district since 1991. In addition, Eden Hall Upper Elementary School Autistic Support teacher Janice Kazalas and PineRichland High School Social Studies teacher Matt Roberts were named semifinalists in the program.

Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

The American Association of University Women (AUW) Fox Chapel Area Branch recognized 69 young women from Fox Chapel Area High School for their achievements in science, technology, engineering and mathematics at their biannual STEM Careers Achievement Night.

Two Fox Chapel Area High School students, Kristopher Penner and Cassidy CarsonLove won first places in the German Day competition held at Washington & Jefferson College.

Four Fox Chapel Area High School students were named winners in The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. Suvir Mirchandani was awarded a Gold Medal. Julia Lynch, Faith Kim, and Mary Clare O’Connor all won Silver Medals.

Dorseyville Middle School eighth grader Annika Urban received a third place award in the Junior Individual Documentary category at the National History Day competition.

A team of Dorseyville Middle School students won first place in the 7th Grade Northeast Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl. Team members were: Abigail Alexander, Jackson Boychuk, Hanna Chen, Serena Fisher, Rajeev Godse, Evan Gu, Noah Hertzman, Shando Naini, Anzu Sekikawa, Angelique Uku, Ameya Velankar, Felix Veser and Qingqing Zhao.

Seneca Valley Seneca Valley School District students Sarah Johanknecht and Bailyn Bench have been named Carson Scholars.

Sarah Johanknecht

Bailyn Bench

Jack Reynolds, a freshman at Seneca Valley Intermediate High School won second place for his digital photograph “Ennui” at the Butler County High School Student Art Show held at The Art Center in Butler.

The Seneca Valley Academic Games Team excelled at the Pennsylvania State Academic Games competition, known as the Tri-Bowl. Thirty-four Haine Middle School (HMS) students, as well as Evans City Middle school students competed with schools from across the commonwealth in four different academic games.

(Continued on page 24)

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EDUCATION & CAMPS

Two Seneca Valley students earned awards at the 76th annual Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair on March 27 at Heinz Field. Andrew Lingenfelter received a fourth place category award in physics and a special award from the Pittsburgh Supercomputering Center. Jared Jordan earned a special award from Duquesne University Dept. of Biological Sciences for his study of brain lateralization in echinoderms.

Shaler Shaler Area School District teacher Jade Leung has been named one of 12 finalists for the state Teacher of the Year award. Leung is Shaler Area High School science teacher. She joined the district in 2007.

Shaler Area High School students won Best Robotics Design at the VEX Robotics Competition held on March 26 at Ambridge High School.

Two Shaler Area High School students took top place in the 11th High School Integration Bee. Josiah Johnson took first place and Jacob Nasiadka came in second.

Five Shaler Area student musicians performed in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District honors ensembles.

The performers were: Marissa Fukas, Esther Kim, Peter Moorey, Camryn Turner and Michael Zang.

The Shaler Area faculty took on players from the Pittsburgh Steelers in a basketball game, held on April 17. The all-district fundraising event was held to raise money to benefit the students.

Five Shaler Area Elementary School students performed in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Elementary District 1 Band Fest West. The performers were: Adam Braughler, Emily Moorey, Maxwell Scherm, Madeline Turner, and Erika Waldron.

Providence Heights Alpha School Fourteen Providence Heights Alpha School seventh and eighth graders participated in the Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair. The following students won awards – Jacob Lowry (2nd place), Sean McCarthy and Anthony Warda (3rd place) and Claire Green (4th place).

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Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

Providence Heights Alpha School students celebrated Earth Day on April 22. The student teams mulched, weeded and plant flowers around the school grounds.

Aquinas Academy Bishop David A. Zubik recently blessed Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh’s New Mross-McGonigle Hall. The new building consists of 13 classrooms, two state-of-theart high school science labs and art wing.

Aquinas Academy awarded its annual Penn Pal award to four students. The awarded is named in honor of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania.

This year’s winners were: Sarah Hall (first place), Julia Meland (second Place), John Paul Henry (third place) and Grace Gasior (honorable mention).

Sarah Hall

Shady Side Academy Shady Side Academy junior Roy Navid is one of less than 400 high school students nationwide – and one of only 10 in Pennsylvania – who qualified to take the 2015 USA Physics Olympiad (USAPH0) Exam.

Roy Navid

Shady Side Academy junior Abbie Minard has been recognized by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers with two national medals in the writing category of the 2015 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

The Shady Side Academy Middle and Senior School Science Olympiad Team swept the 2015 Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Tournament, with each team winning first place in its respective division.

Shady Side Academy Middle School seventh grader Caroline “Coco” Redican has been named a finalist in the 2015 Young Naturalists Awards.

Saint Sebastian Nine St. Sebastian students competed in the first annual Catholic Middle Schools Science Bowl at Robert Morris University.

Team 1 included Sean Farrell, Timothy

McClelland, and Emma Polen; Team 2: Anne Kilpatrick, Xavier Moskala and Connor Stutz, and Team 3: Fulton Fontana, Eric Ford and Liam Oberst. Team 1 won first place and the championship and Team 3 earned fifth place.

The Saint Sebastian School Forensics team participated in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Forensic League Finals placing fifth out of 28 schools. The team also placed sixth in the Diocese of Pittsburgh for the Forensics competition season. The honorees were: Antonio Battista, Sarah Berger, Luca Consalvi, Mary Doerfler, Lauren Gaertner, Carlie Kreutzer, Lauren Lutz, Sarah Petrunia, Emma Polen, Savannah Powers, Rachel Rombach, Dana Schaich, Emma Sennott, and Nicholas Weising.

Saint Sebastian students in kindergarten through third grade read during the month of February in honor of Read Across America Day. They logged 92,990 minutes, with third grade reading the most for 32,000 minutes.

The highlight of the celebration was a visit from Pittsburgh Steeler Cam Heyward who read one of his favorite books The Giving Tree.

La Roche College La Roche College alumna Christine J. Spadafor will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters and deliver the commencement address at La Roche’s 50th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9.

CCAC Community College of Allegheny County North Campus women’s bowling team member Rachael Brown finished ninth in the women’s singles at the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association Bowling Championship held March 5-7 in Buffalo. N.Y. Dr. Paul Gentile, former dean of Workforce Training & Development at CCAC North Campus has completed his second book, Salvatore and Maria, Finding Paradise.

Saint Vincent College Dr. Margaret Watkins, associate professor of philosophy in the Saint Vincent College School of Humanities and Fine Arts, has been elected to a three-year term, from 2015-2018, on the executive committee of The Hume Society.

Dr. Margaret Watkins

Saint Vincent College announced that six seniors have been named finalists for the 41st annual President’s Award. The students are: Zachary Ligus, Aliethia McLeod, Carly Meholic, April Smith, Justin Teets and Robert Tokarski II. Hedda Sharapan, L.H.D., has been named PNC Grow Up Great Senior Fellow at the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media at Saint Vincent College.

Hedda Sharapan

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Dave DeGregorio’s Boys’ Basketball Camp at North Allegheny

H

ave you heard the expression – “Basketball doesn’t build character, it reveals one?” This summer, boys in kindergarten through 9th grade can experience basketball excitement.

“Our boy’s camp stresses FUN and FUNdamentals. Campers are divided by grade level. Team concepts as well as sportsmanship will be stressed during 5 on 5 and 3 on 3 play,” said camp director, Dave DeGregorio.

Session 1 for boys in grades K-3 runs June 29-July 2, at North Allegheny Intermediate. Sessions 2 for grades 4-9 will be held July 13-17, at Carson Middle School for 4/5th grades; at NAI for 6/7th grades and at North Allegheny High School for 8/9th grade.

Session 3 runs July 27-31, and will be held at the same locations as Session 2.

“The camp will be staffed by current and former coaches and players, and championship tournaments are held at the end of camp. It’s a popular camp and kids enjoy themselves,” DeGregorio added.

Cost is $95 for K-3 camp, 4-9 camp is $125 for one week or $185 for both weeks.

Add $10 per session if application is received after June 5.

For information, call (724) 272-8426 or http://www.nboysbasketball.com or on twitter: @nabasketball. F

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ADVERTORIAL

Accoustic Lipo-Tuck for Batwings

A

coustic liposuction has been the gold standard for abdominal, buttock, and thigh lipo procedures for years. It’s simply a superior all-around technique. When used in combination with “tuck” type procedures, there’s virtually no limit to the problem areas it can improve. In the classic “tuck” technique, sometimes referred to as skinplasty, portions of baggy skin are removed and sutured back together for a better, tighter look. As modern plastic surgeons say “If you can pinch it, we can fix it.” In terms of batwings, think of this approach as tummy-tuck for the arms, with added liposuction to complete the effect. The technical term for this procedure is brachioplasty with liposuction.

What You Can Expect

As with any surgery, careful consideration prior to the procedure is essential. The following are common reasons why you might want to consider the upper-arm tuck and liposuction combo: • You’ve lost a lot of weight, but are left with redundant upper arm skin in the triceps area.

• You’re an adult with significant upper-arm skin laxity due to aging.

• You are in good overall health and don’t have any medical condition which results in excessive bleeding or impaired healing • You’re a non-smoker.

• You are committed to a healthy lifestyle including diet and exercise.

Fortunately, this procedure has a longstanding track record of great results. It’s also an extremely safe procedure, but still carries a low probability of complications, just like any operative procedure. You’ll go over these during your consultation: • Bleeding and infection • Hematoma or seroma formation (a collection of fluid under the skin which may require drainage or other removal • Scarring of the skin • Damage to underlying structures • Unsatisfactory results which may require additional treatment It does bear mentioning that these complications are very rare, and scarring is typically minimal. As with any cosmetic surgery, it’s important to have realistic expectations.

For example, this approach will almost certainly get rid of your batwings, but it won’t add muscular definition—this can come after the procedure, with a basic exercise routine for the arms, chest, upper back and shoulders.

Choosing a Surgeon

Overall, 15 years of improvement in liposuction technique mean that more fat cells can be removed, with less blood loss and tissue damage, less discomfort and much less risk. Recovery periods have also been reduced drastically (as short as 48 hours before a patient can return to light activity). Even so, surgical expertise is essential, as this isn’t just a simple lipo procedure. Regarding the combined approach, Newport Beach plastic surgeon Dr. Amy Bandy says “the expertise of the surgeon is primary.”

All of our staff surgeons are certified by the America Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, American Society of Liposuction Surgery, and The American Medical Association.

More importantly, they’ve performed this particular procedure many times and achieved uniformly excellent results.

Call The Advanced Liposuction Center today at (724) 987-3221 for a free, no-risk consultation.

Say goodbye to your batwings for good!

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Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

Vigil of Hope

The Vigil of Hope Bridge to Hope & Beyond Bridge to Hope Family Support Groups are proud to announce their Tenth Annual Vigil of Hope

June 3, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

Passavant Hospital Foundation Conference Center & Legacy Theatre 700 Cumberland Woods Drive Allison Park, PA 15101 (Next to Cumberland Woods Village independent senior living center on UPMC Passavant McCandless campus)

D

r. Michael Flaherty, a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years experience in the prevention, intervention, treatment, research, and policy development related to substance use, addiction and recovery will be the featured speaker at this service.

The Vigil of Hope is a nondenominational service open to the community.

It is a day when we remember those who have died from the ravages of drug addiction, pray for those who still struggle with the disease and celebrate those who have found their way to recovery.

Countless families are affected by the disease of addiction. Too often these families suffer in isolation, desperation and despair. The Vigil of Hope is a time to come together to replace isolation with fellowship, desperation with support and despair with hope.

Participants are encouraged to bring a picture of their loved one.

Please join us and light a candle to...

• remember those who have died from drugs • shine a light of hope for tomorrow • share your light with other families who may • be touched by drugs.

For more information call: 412/748-6640 Bridge to Hope is an Outreach Program of

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HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2015

ENHANCE YOUR LIFE

What’s Your Excuse?

BY DONNA SUMMERS MOUL

A

re you in the habit of making excuses? What have you been wanting to do for the last 5 - 10

years that you haven’t accomplished yet?

Do these excuses sound familiar? “I’m too old.” “I’m too young.” “I’m too fat.”

Ninety-nine percent of failures come from people who have the habit of making excuses.

— George Washington Carver “I’m too dumb.” “I’m not good enough.”

“I don’t have enough time, courage, smarts, money, or education.” “I don’t know how.” “Nobody would want me anyhow.” “I need to get organized first.”

Think about it, if this is the self-talk ruminating around your head, no wonder you haven’t reached your goal. Stop bombarding yourself with negative messages.

To change this habit of making excuses, try this 4 step approach.

1) Start with what you want.

State your goal, then write down all the negative messages that quickly surface to try to dissuade you. For example, if your goal is to go back to school, the messages that might surface are: I’m too old, I’m too dumb, I don’t have enough time or money, and I’ll probably fail anyway so what’s the use of trying.

2) Look at your list with a questioning mind. What are these messages trying to tell you? Often your excuses are actually trying to protect you from pain, embarrassment, failure, success, or the unknown. Acknowledge the benevolent intent of your messages, then reassure yourself that you can do it.

3) Talk back to each concern.

What if you are the oldest student?

As long as you’re alive, you are not too old to learn, and you can’t do it any younger. What if you see yourself as dumb? Learning as an adult is different than attending school as a child and now you have valuable life experiences to draw on. Time is a matter of setting priorities; if you wait

8-week Coaching Group for Women forming now Tuesday evenings 7:00-9:00 pm, Cost: 8 Sessions - $320 Contact Donna to register at (724) 935-6275 www.Especially-for-Women.com

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Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

until you have enough time, you will never get started. Lack of money can be a legitimate excuse, but you can check into other alternatives, such as scholarships or work study programs, or audit a class. As to your last concern; you will never know whether you can succeed unless you try.

4) Redirect your energy. By addressing each concern, you are redirecting your energy into finding solutions instead of making excuses. The antidote to negative thinking is action.

Take heart from Stephen Hawking who lives an amazing and productive life in spite of what many consider to be his limitations.

When you stop making excuses and start to redirect your energy and thoughts into positive action, you will be well on your way to success instead of wallowing in the habit of making excuses. F Donna Summers Moul is a Certified Life Coach.

Her passion is to help women of all ages figure out what they want to be when they grow up. She offers Individual Coaching and Coaching Groups for Women. Contact Donna: (724) 935-6275, www.

Especially-For-Women.com

End Your Peripheral Neuropathy My doctor said there was no help for my neuropathy . . . Until Now! Call for a free consultation TODAY!

Dr. Shawn Richey

drshawn@backnline.com www.backnline.com 2591 Wexford-Bayne Road Suite 207 Sewickley, Pa. 15143

724-940-9000

We may not be your first choice, but we will be your last!

What is Peripheral Neuropathy? Peripheral Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts.

Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms can include: • • • • •

Numbness Burning pains Cramping Sharp, electric pain Difficulty sleeping from leg/foot discomfort

• Hurt when you walk • Pricking/tingling feelings • Dependency on medication • Loss of balance or coordination

If you are experiencing some or all of these symptoms, you are a candidate for our program Get Your Life Back with our program that has proven results.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2015

Breast Cancer Prevention Tips 1

Avoid becoming overweight. Obesity raises the risk of breast cancer after menopause, the time of life when breast cancer most often occurs. Avoid gaining weight over time, and try to maintain a body-mass index under 25 (calcula-

tors can be found online).

2

Eat healthy to avoid tipping the scale. Embrace a diet high in vegetables and fruit and low in sugared drinks, refined carbohydrates and fatty foods. Eat lean

protein such as fish or chicken breast and eat red meat in moderation, and eat whole grains. Choose vegetable oils over animal fats.

3

Keep physically active.

Research suggests that increased physical activity, even when begun later in life, reduces overall breast-cancer risk by about 10 percent to 30 percent. All it takes is moderate exercise like a 30-minute walk five days a week to get this protective effect.

4

Drink little or no alcohol.

Alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Women should limit intake to no more than one drink per day, regardless of the type of alcohol.

5

Don’t smoke. Research suggests that long-term smoking is associated with increased risk of breast cancer in some women.

6

If you bear children, breast-feed your babies for as long as possible. Women who breast-feed their babies for at least a year in total have a reduced risk of developing breast cancer later.

7

Get regular breast cancer screenings. Follow your doctor or health care provider’s recommendations to decide what type of screening you need and how often you need it.

8

Say no to hormone replacement therapy. For decades, women have used hormone therapy during and after menopause to combat symptoms such as hot flashes, irritability, and trouble sleeping. But recent research has shown that hormone replacement therapy may increase the risk of breast cancer. F

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Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

COMING UP IN

June 2015

Men’s Health Call Today to Advertise

724-940-2444

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HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2015

Wexford Health+Wellness Pavilion Inaugurates Breast Cancer Support Group Cancer...

When it’s you or someone you love, the words bring fear, confusion, uncertainty. How do we navigate this new territory? Even after successful surgery, women may wonder, “How do I move forward?”

Help with your questions and concerns is available at the free breast cancer support group held on the second Wednesday of every month at the Wexford Health+Wellness Pavilion (HWP). In a relaxed setting, newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and survivors can obtain information, exchange ideas, offer encouragement and provide support to one another.

Each month features a different speaker, such as a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, integrative medicine specialist, and others. The group is facilitated by Sandy Brown, BSN, RN, CBCN, nurse navigator, Wexford HWP Women’s Center, and Lori Brown, RMA, BSB/M, practice manager, Women’s Health. The Cancer Caring Center, a local non-profit organization dedicated to helping people diagnosed with cancer, is a sponsor of this group.

The goal is to help those attending learn how to continue staying healthy and keep a positive attitude. This is your group – come and share your ideas about how the group can best support you and one another.

Facing cancer alone, we can feel powerless. Facing it together, multiplies our strength. F

Breast Cancer Support Group Wexford Health + Wellness Pavilion 12311 Perry Highway Wexford, PA 15090

May 2015 Baseline Concussion Testing Every Wednesday in May from 5 to 6:40 p.m. $20/student $15/student if the parent is an Allegheny Health Network or Highmark employee. Children 10 years and older.

Reduce Blood Pressure with the Dash Diet: Do you have high blood pressure or know someone who does? Learn more about reducing blood pressure by eating foods that help you do so.

May 6, 2015 – 12 to 1 p.m.

Free Getting Ready for Breast Feeding May 6, 2015 – 6 to 9 p.m. $40 per couple Health for Her – Meet Dr. Right: Women, come meet the right doctor for you! Spend an evening mingling with OBGYNs, the Breast Center Team, Endocrinologists and more!

May 7, 2015 – 5 to 8 p.m.

Call 1.855.856.0319 or www.meet-dr-right.com to RSVP Weight Loss Information Session: We invite you and your family to our free session to enhance your understanding of weight loss surgeries and services offered by our Institute.

May 13, 2015 – 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

May 28, 2015 – 12 to 1 p.m.

Breast Cancer Support Group: Free breast cancer support group on the second Wednesday of every month! Open to recently diagnosed breast cancer patients and survivors.

This month will feature Terri Spirk, Dietitian, along with a free cooking demo!

May 13, 2015 – 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Call 412.622.1212 to RSVP

Meetings are held monthly on the second Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Café (first floor). Free parking and light refreshments are provided.

Please call 412.622.1212 to register.

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Health for Her – “Moms and Food: Maximizing that Relationship”: Learn from obstetricians and other medical professionals how your nutritional needs change as you deal with the demands of pregnancy, motherhood and hormonal changes.

May 19, 2015 – 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Genevieve Hunkele, DO Jenny Halfhill, DO Wexford Newborn Basics: May 20, 2015 – 6 to 9 p.m. $40 per couple Healthy Cooking for Life Series – Juices and Smoothies for Good Health: Need a quick healthy drink on a hot summer day? Come learn how to make smoothies and juices that are delicious and healthy.

May 20, 2015 – 12 to 1 p.m. $10 fee required Common Shoulder and Knee Problems: Learn what causes shoulder and knee problems and the treatments available to improve your daily life.

May 20, 2015 – 6 to 8 p.m.

Darren Frank, MD One-Day Labor and Delivery Session: This intensive full-day class prepares couples for what to expect through labor, birth and beyond.

May 23, 2015 – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Prenatal Yoga (zen mama) May 26, 2015 – 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

June 2, 2015 – 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

June 9, 2015 – 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

June 16, 2015 – 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. $50 per 4 class session Brain Tumors/Aneurysms Talk: Learn about the recent advances for surgical treatment of primary tumors and aneurysms.

May 27, 2015 – 6 to 8 p.m.

Khaled Aziz, MD

ADVERTORIAL

How to Get the Most Out of Your Run

BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF

T

he start of spring is the start of “race season.” Whether you are a beginner or a novice, using good form can help you run better, longer, and prevent injuries. As a chiropractor and a runner, I’ve had the opportunity to get a unique perspective on how chiropractic specifically affects runners and how it can improve your running and recovery time.

Alignment affects How Your Joints Work Running is most stressful to our lower extremity and pelvis.

All of our parts, starting at the feet, are related and the movement of the joints creates a “chain reaction.” If we have a joint that isn’t positioned properly, it affects the movement and the stress gets re-distributed in a pattern that can cause problems.

Sometimes, this is evident because we have had an injury to a joint or we know we have flat feet, etc. Other times, it’s less evident and would need to be uncovered through an examination or gait analysis. In any event, if you have biomechanical (movement pattern) problems, and you run, it can create an environment that can accelerate the injury process. The longer the biomechanical problem is left untreated, the more complicated it can become to treat.

Posture affects Running Runner’s World tip sheets on running posture include the You can run better, faster, and avoid following: injuries if you’re well-adjusted.”

• The head should be upright and the shoulders should be down and relaxed, free of tension • The torso should be upright and stacked over the pelvis • The hips should be even and the pelvis should be neutral.

What’s ideal and what happens in “real time” are often different. If the spine is in poor alignment, good posture becomes impossible. You will see forward head jutting, one hip higher than the other, torso hunching forward and tense shoulders on a lot of runners. This poor posture is something that can cause back and neck pain, joint stress, an inefficient movement pattern and can decrease lung capacity. Correcting your posture and alignment can help decrease all of these problems…with the added side effect of making you feel and look better on a day to day basis.

Taking Medicine to Cover Pain Can Cause Other Problems A friend of mine who is a competitive athlete used to refer to his daily dose of Advil as “Vitamin A.” Taking NSAID’s to cover pain has a host of associated issues including: • A higher risk of asthma attacks in asthmatics and a higher risk of developing asthma, especially in pediatric cases.

• Delayed healing time and quality of healing in the soft tissues including muscles, tendons and ligaments.

In studies done on tendons in injuries treated with NSAID’s and without showed a significant reduction of strength (40% or more) in the group treated with medicines.

The best advice that I can give you is to take care of your body to prevent wear and tear and injury in the first place. Using chiropractic can help balance your gait, help your joints work better, and improve your overall comfort during your runs. If you have not been assessed by a chiropractor or it has been a while, please consider setting aside that time for yourself. You get one body and it has to last a lifetime. See you at the finish line! F

Brought to you as a Public Service by:

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

Northern Connection | May 2015

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HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2015

Cancer Care, Close to Home

W

hen AGH McCandless Radiology staff told Cranberry resident Marcia Rymarchyk she needed additional breast imaging, they suggested she make an appointment closer to home at the Wexford Health + Wellness Pavilion. “That was one of the most fortuitous things to happen in my life,” she says.

Before her Wexford exam, “My technician warned me it would be more ‘intense’ than the previous mammogram.

Boy was she right. The ultrasound followed and the doctor recommended a biopsy and clip insertion to mark the cyst location. Being already ‘on the table’ and the comic I am, I asked if they could finish in time for my nail appointment!”

The answer was “yes” - and Marcia was introduced to Sandy Brown, RN, nurse navigator, who walked her through the next steps. “I cracked jokes the entire time to deal with the discomfort and found a new audience in the team who held my hand(s) and kept me calm. Before I left we

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were all friends.”

Three days later, Sandy called Marcia with the results: invasive ductal carcinoma. “I had become ‘a person with cancer,’” Marcia says. “My husband Nick and I recognized that while this is a manageable form of breast cancer, life was about to change drastically.”

The following day they met Marcia’s “newest champion” breast cancer surgeon Michael Cowher, MD, who presented options and detailed her plan of care.

“He drew some pretty comical diagrams that were actually more understandable than much of the ‘formal’ information I had researched.” With that done, a lumpectomy was scheduled for Feb. 23, and was a total success.

Marcia then met radiation oncologist Steven Karlovits, MD, and medical oncologist Casey Moffa, DO, and staff. “I have my very own team of radiation technicians who are already my family, as are my doctors and everyone who has supported me.

All of the employees are compassionate,

Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

professional, and quick to be helpful. They laugh at my jokes, they hug me when I’m a bit down, and lift my spirits daily. I’ve been so touched and impressed with their care. My heartfelt thanks to them all! I’m grateful & very blessed.”

“The services available at this location continue to amaze me. For example, I joined the new Breast Cancer Support Group, attended the recent “Meet the Doctors” event and will attend many of the future programs. Although I never expected to be coming to the Pavilion on such a sudden (and daily) basis, I could not have made a better choice for my ‘unexpected journey.’ This patient focused facility completely embodies the way health care should be administered, both now and in the future. F

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IMAGE & STYLE MAY 2015

M Sportswear with

BY KELLY SMITH

Flair

The sun is out and summer is close at hand! It’s safe to say that a good portion of us are at least considering some form of outdoor exercise. What better way to get in shape and welcome the new season than with some new sportswear?

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ost of us are probably tired of the long winter workout in the gym. After all, who wouldn’t prefer the sights and sounds of nature versus the confines of fluorescent lighting and the aroma of sweat? Whether you’re a runner, a walker, tennis player or yoga enthusiast, you will want to look and feel your best. New clothes often make us feel better and as such, can have a direct impact on our outlook on working out. Having a fresh prospective always keeps things on the positive side so why not freshen up that workout wardrobe today? Here are a few ideas that just may inspire you to get your workout on!

Get a leg up – Leggings are a safe bet for everyone and we all should have several black pair on hand but prints are definitely on fire right now! Loud leggings are trending in all sorts of crazy prints and bold colors that will be sure to make you want to work out! Try getting a few in each length such as ankle, knee or calf.

Some of us may be hesitant to slide into a pair of spandex leggings but when styled correctly,

they can be very flattering to your derriere and legs. Always check the material to be sure they will be “fitness friendly” meaning they should be made of moisture wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable.

Tanks, tees, and sports bras – nothing looks cuter than a long tee over a great fitting pair of leggings but do be mindful of fit. Oversized tops will not only look ill-fitting but they can hinder your workout. It’s best to buy form (not tight) fitting tanks because you need room to stretch and breath. Not to mention the fact that if you dress in layers during chilly days, you’ll need to save room for a jacket or hoodie. A good sports bra, not your everyday bra, should always be worn while doing any kind of workout. Nothing looks cuter this time of year than dressing up in bright colors and your tees and tanks should never be subjected to the motto of “black is slimming.” Mesh tunics are hot right now so go ahead- throw a crisp white one over your loudest hot pink tank and let the head turning begin!

Shoes/accessories – spruce up your outfit by adding the latest shoe and accessory trends! Gone are the days of schlepping around in a pair of old tattered tennis shoes. From loud neons to pretty pastels, whatever your favorite brand of sneakers, you’re sure to find a pair with style. And, the style doesn’t stop at your feet. Show some flair by trying a pair of knee socks in stripes, solids or polka dots. Are you constantly readjusting that pony tail?

Why not keep it all in place with a cute headband? Soft and stretchy, headbands provide practicality with style!

The choices are endless from patterns to sparkles, a good headband is a musthave accessory!

Make your fun-in-the-sun more fashion-forward this summer! We all know that when we look good we feel better about ourselves. Motivation is important when starting a good fitness program so keep it positive and keep that wardrobe fun and functional! F

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NC FEATURE

Swinging into Baseball Excitement and Horsing Around at the Triple Crown

BY PAULA GREEN

Spring ushers in flowers, birds and warmer weather, but it is also a time for sports excitement. Baseball season is now in full swing. This popular sport is one of America’s favorite pastimes. It was invented 176 years ago by Abner Doubleday in his own backyard in New York.

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he first official baseball game was played in 1846, and the first official baseball league was formed in 1876. The tradition of spring training began in 1886. Every year our own beloved team, the Pittsburgh Pirates hold their spring training at McKechnie Field in Bradenton, Fla. The Pirates roots in Pittsburgh date back to April 15, 1876, when the team played in the city’s first professional baseball game held at Union Park. They were originally called the Pittsburgh Alleghenys. The following year the franchise was accepted into the minor league International Association, but they disbanded after the 1877 season. In 1882, the Alleghenys put their team back together and joined the American Association.

In 1890, the Alleghenys were renamed the Pittsburgh Pirates. This popular team won five World Series titles – 1909, 1925, 1960, 1971 and 1979.

Now that baseball has resumed, Bucco fans are anxious to see what this year’s exciting season will have in store for us.

Another thrilling sporting event held in the spring is the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. This series of three thoroughbred horse races runs in May and

early June. The triumvirate of races-Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes-have been held for more than 125 years to determine the best of that year’s crop of three-year old thoroughbred racehorses.

The first jewel in the Triple Crown is the Kentucky Derby which is held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. This year’s “Run for the Roses” will be held on Saturday, May 2.

The second horse race is Preakness Stakes, which takes place on the third Saturday in May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Md. The 140th Preakness Stakes will run this year on May 16.

The final race is the Belmont Stakes which is held on the third Saturday following the Preakness (first or second Saturday in June.) This race is run at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y. Mark your calendars and be sure to watch the run of this year’s big event on June 6.

Watching a thoroughbred horse evolve into a potential champion can be really exciting. Be sure to watch the Triple Crown this spring and hopefully you’ll bring home a winner! F Sources: Pittsburgh.about.com/od/pirates/a/history.htm, idealphyicaltherapy. com/history-of-baseball-in-America, http://derbybox.com/Kentucky-Derby-History. htm

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SENIOR LIVING May 2015

TOWN CRIER

Moseying Through May

BY JOE BULLICK

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i May, the fifth month of the year! Let’s welcome May Day rituals which celebrate the sun’s victory over winter. Tradition says that young maidens filled baskets with flowers and greens and bathed their faces in the May Day dew to enhance their complexion.

A big job for my mother was putting away our woolies.

She’d wash and have some clothing dry cleaned to remove and food stains or perspiration odors, both of which attract moths before storing them. She vacuumed the carpets regularly, especially around the edges, under baseboards, underneath furniture and in the closets.

As a young boy, I started to do a lot of horseback riding.

We had three horses that we boarded and one was our own, which brought more work for me. May also brought The Kentucky Derby into our home. We had to sit and listen to it on the radio. It made national coverage on television in 1952.

It is the most exciting two minutes in sports! Secretariat holds the fastest time record with 1 minute, 59 2/5 seconds

for the one and one quarter mile. It’s always fun if you can pick the winner – good luck!

The Derby is sometimes referred to as “The Run for the Roses,” as a blanket of 554 roses is awarded to the derby winner each year. The most wins achieved by a single jockey is five. Jockeys Eddie Arcaro and Bill Hartack are tied for the record. Isaac Murphy rode in the derby 11 times from 1877 to 1893; many consider him to be the greatest jockey of all time. He died of pneumonia at the age of 34, and is buried at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, next to thoroughbred racehorse Man O’ War. May is full of lots of great things to do. Gardeners love to debate the best times for all sorts of gardening activities.

Nature give us certain signs that indicate that it’s safe to plant.

We always had a big garden. Mom had a rose garden, and spring flower bulbs that she planted. Some were pansies; she always loved flowers around our home.

Pittsburgh is a great town especially in May, after the long winter it is great to enjoy longer days. There are plenty of things to see and do here. Why not go to the National Aviary or the Pittsburgh Zoo? Or you could go to the Strip District or a baseball game. May was a fun time for me because baseball was in full swing.

The month of May has given us so many great happenings over the years. The Empire State Building was dedicated on May 1, 1931. Good old root beer was invented by Charles Elmer Hires in 1876. The Red Cross was founded on May 21, 1881. Don’t forget the second Sunday in May is Mother’s Day. Well, be sure and enjoy May and Mother’s Day. Happy Birthday to you Taurus and Gemini’s. I leave you with this – I’ve learned that I can always pay for someone When I don’t have the strength to Help in some other way.

– Andy Rooney

St. James Parish Sponsors Trip to Roscoe Village The 55 Plus Group of St. James Catholic Parish in Sewickley is sponsoring a trip to Roscoe Village, a restored canal town of the 1800’s in Coshocton, Ohio on Wednesday, June 24. Trip includes roundtrip motor coach transportation from St. James Church to Roscoe Village, and lunch. Take a horse drawn canal boat ride along the Ohio-Erie Canal and end the day with a wine tasting and tour of Raven’s Glenn Winery. Price is $89 per person. Reservations due by May 21. For trip details, call Suzanne at (412) 264-6386. For info on St. James, call, (412) 741-6650 or www.saintjames-church.com

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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 Rides for Seniors, to grocery stores, doctor’s appts & more thru St. Margaret’s Foundation.

Pick up & drop off seniors in the corridors from Sharpsburg to Blawnox & Rt. 28 to the Allegheny River.

Sign up by calling, (412) 449-0151.

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 help area families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available for families at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com.

McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkley Hills, Swan Acres & part of McCandless Twp. Call (412) 487-4088.

Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring – An Hour a Week Can Change a Child’s Life. For adults 50 & over become a tutor. Training sessions are held at Macy’s downtown. For details, call (412) 232-2021.

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

Entertainment & Social Events

North Hills Community Outreach’s Faith in Action program is seeking Senior Companion volunteers. For details, contact Nancy, at (412) 307-0069 or nljones@nhco.org.

Open Your Heart to a Senior has an urgent need drivers to help seniors get to doctor appointments, etc. For details, call (412) 307-0071 or allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Saint Alexis Over 50 Trips & Events, May 16, Jorden Lunz, singer; June 28, Bobby Vinton trip; Nov. 20, Light Up Night; Sound of Music, March 2016; New York City trip; June 2016. Contact Rose at (724) 728-2563 or Janet at (724) 869-5339 for information.

Open Your Heart to a Senior volunteer orientations, 10:30 a.m., May 5, Cooper Siegel Library, Fox Chapel; 6 p.m. May 27, NHCO, Ferguson Rd; 6:30 p.m., June 9, Lighthouse Pointe, 500 Chapel Harbor Drive, Aspinwall. For details, visit oyhs. org.

Seminars

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

AARP Driver Safety Refresher Course, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., May 5, The Legacy Theatre. Required registration, call (412) 635-8080.

Stocking the Caregiver’s Toolbox: Techniques and Tips for Families and Professionals, May 13, Edgewood country Club in Churchill. For info, call (412) 224-4700 or visit www.ursulinecaregiverconference.org.

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

Spring yard work help needed for seniors countywide. To register, call the United Way helpline at 2-1-1 or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Volunteer drivers are needed for various programs to help seniors. For details, call (412) 3070071 or allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

Yard work help for seniors is needed countywide. To register, call (412) 307-0071 or email allegheny@openyourhearttoasenior.org.

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

Senior Meetings AARP #2991 invites you to join their monthly meetings 11:30 a.m., every 3rd Thurs. of the month (May 21), in the hall at Northmont Church, located at Perrymont & Rt. 19. Light lunch at noon is provided for a nominal fee. Travel and events will be discussed.

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.

Cranberry Senior Citizens Club for residents 55+ meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. Call (724) 816-4977 for info and programs.

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

For info, call (724) 444-0064.

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

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS May 2015

Soldiers & Sailors Inductions and Events at VA Butler Healthcare Center

BY PAULA GREEN

S

oldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust, Inc. held its annual induction ceremony for new members into its Joseph A. Dugan, Jr. Hall of Valor on March 29. This hall recognizes Pennsylvanian veterans that have received medals for bravery and heroism during times of military conflict. Since its inception in 1963, Soldiers & Sailors has inducted nearly 700 veterans as recipients of the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross. The 2015 inductees are: U.S. Army – Richard Biondo (Silver Star Medal) – Vietnam; Frank A. Catanzarite (Silver Star Medal) – WWII; Edward Dvorchak, Jr. (Distinguished Flying Cross) – Vietnam; Dominick Gallo (Silver

Star Medal) – WWII; James Gormley (Silver Medal) – Korea – KIA; Joseph F. Johovics (Silver Star Medal) – WWII; Paul Krinock (Silver Star Medal) – WWII; Joseph M. Lang (Silver Star Medal) – WWII; George A. Lapic (Silver Star Medal) – WWII; Sherman J. Laughlin (Silver Star Medal); Edward E. Mackey (Soldier’s Medal) – WWII; Kenneth L. Wise (Silver Star Medal) – WWII. U.S. Navy – William G. Mawhinney – Distinguished Flying Cross –WWII U.S. Air Force – Michael F. Connolly – (Silver Star Medal Distinguished Flying Cross w/Oak Leaf Cluster) - Vietnam U.S. Marine Corps – Crescenzo P. DeMatheis – Navy Cross – Navy Cross – KIA; Bruce A. Hornick – (Navy and Marine

Corps Medal) - Vietnam U.S. Army Air Corps – Alexander M. Teets – Distinguished Flying Cross w/ Oak Leaf Cluster – WWII In March, the VA Butler Healthcare assembled a quilt to honor women veterans in recognition of National Women’s History Month. The quilt was made up of individually designed squares, each devoted to women veterans.

In addition to honoring women, VA Butler Healthcare’s Center for Behavioral Health (CBH) is helping female veterans in need. CBH is now offering a weekly women Veteran’s Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Support Group. The group meets 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Friday mornings, at VA Butler Healthcare. Women veterans must be pre-screened prior to attending.

The new group is geared towards support (it is not a trauma processing group). Topics discussed include: learning to trust others, recognizing possibly unsafe situations, and the cynical nature of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

For more information, call 800-3628262, ext. 2498 or Susannah.Flamm@ va.gov.

In addition, the VA Butler celebrated the National Volunteer Week April 12-18.

During that week, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) honored the more than 79,000 citizen volunteers who give back to veterans every day at local VA medical facilities. Locally, over 300 volunteers were recognized for their service of caring for veterans. F We welcome brief biographies and photos of local servicemen and women from our community. If you know of someone you’d like to see featured in this column, please call (724) 940-2444 or mail the information to: Northern Connection Magazine, P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722 or email northcon@consolidated.net.

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Understanding a Collaborative Divorce Collaborative Solutions North is a voluntary association of like-minded professionals who are committed to assisting individuals in working through their legal disputes without going to court.

Q: My spouse and I have come to the conclusion that we need to divorce, but we don’t like the idea of putting our children in a courtroom. Is there any other option?

CSN: Absolutely! We agree – families don’t belong in court. Collaborative professionals strive to assist family members in resolving conflicts in a civil and respectful manner, through the collaborative process.

Q: How does the collaborative process work?

CSN: Pledging never to go to court, the parties and their attorneys agree to resolve their dispute privately. Each party articulates their own needs, goals, values and aspirations describing what they want to accomplish. Those goals set the agenda. The parties then disclose all relevant information, making the process transparent. Mutliple options are generated in an effort to craft solutions which meet the reasonable goals of both parties. Ideally, the best win-win outcome is chosen.

Q: What are the benefits of a collaborative divorce?

CSN: There are many benefits of keeping your family out of court. The collaborative process provides privacy, transparency, a free exchange of information and the ability to set your own goals and agenda, just to name a few. In addition to each party’s collaborative-°©-trained attorney, you also have the option to add a neutral coach, child specialist or financial advisor to the team to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard adequately.

Q: Is collaborative divorce for everyone?

CSN: No. Most couples are capable of successfully participating in the collaborative process.

However, when parties are unable to articulate their own needs, where there has been a history of domestic violence, where there is significant mental illness and in other extreme situations, disputes may have to be resolved by an outside decision maker, such as a judge.

For more information on Collaborative Solutions North please visit www.collaborativesolutionsnorth.com or call 1-844-4 NO COURT.

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HOME & GARDEN

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The professionals you need to renovate your outdoor living space

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rom cleaning and preserving your deck and concrete patios to lighting and beatifying your home, you can revamp your outdoor living space so it can become your own oasis to enjoy.

The Renew Crew Clean provides an effective and environmentally-friendly 3-step process that lifts builtup outdoor dirt and grime to the surface and washes it away, leaving your outdoor living spaces not only clean but also protected.

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Our 3-step process starts with pre-soak foam. Unlike outdoor cleaners that most pressure washing companies in Pittsburgh use, ours is environmentally friendly and won’t cause any damage to plants, animals or your outdoor surfaces.

Once our foam has had a chance to penetrate your outdoor surfaces to loosen the dirt and grime, we use non-damaging controlled pressure to rinse it all, leaving your outdoor exteriors and spaces looking beautiful.

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Northern Connection | May 2015 www.northernconnectionmag.com

Before

After

Before

The third and final step in our Renew Crew process is what truly sets us apart from other outdoor surface cleaning companies. We take cleaning and exterior surface rejuvenation one step further and protect it to repel harmful outdoor elements, including UV rays.

Through Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, professional outdoor lighting designers create solutions that beautifully illuminate and accentuate your outdoor living spaces, using subtle touches of energy-efficient light to accentuate features without overpowering the yard or detracting from your nighttime view. This greatly enhances eye appeal. It also extends the usable square

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footage of your home, opening up your deck, porch, patio or gazebo for nighttime entertaining. And with our fully programmable automatic lighting controls, the whole yard can switch on and off each evening. Owning the night was never easier.

Porch, patio and deck lights not only allow you to use your outdoor spaces late into the evening, but also increase the safety and security of your backyard.

For more information visit http://Pittsburgh.

RenewCrewClean.com and http://Pittsburgh. outdoorlights.com F

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After Northern Connection | May 2015

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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

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Coming in June, July and August

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Call Laura or Mary to reserve your space TODAY!

724-940-2444 www.northernconnectionmag.com

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