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Paula Green
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After years in Wexford and cycling the world, Angie and Earl Bidlack shifted gears into retirement at St. Barnabas Communities. Drawn by the “no large endowment fee” model and freedom from home maintenance, they’re coasting through life with more time for the saddle and the swimming pool. Earl says, “I’d rather bike than fix gutters”—and Angie’s still pedaling strong with pool therapy and great friends nearby.
Life in motion, freedom in retirement — only at St. Barnabas Communities!
Schedule a tour with Cindy or Nina today at CBoyd@StBarnabasHealthSystem.com or 724-444-5568.
Emily Betler purchased McCandless Floral in January from Janet and Bob Woloszyk, who previously owned and operated the business for 48 years. Emily is an alumnus of North Allegheny and Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Smeal College of Business. She has worked at McCandless Floral for several years and is excited to continue to bring joy to the community through her flower arrangements. Emily has said, “This truly is my happy place, and I am blessed by the community and staff for their support. I look forward to creating arrangements for decades to come.” With Mother’s Day just around the corner, please visit 8601 Old Perry Highway Pittsburgh, PA 15237; www.mccandlessfloralinc.com or call (412) 367-8708.
Josiah Golojuh, author of the novel, The Paper Boy, set in Western PA recently released The Borough, the superhero comic book. The story dwells on strange new powers, a body plagued by cancer, a last hope of love, and a shocking legacy of superheroes in the city of Pittsburgh.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has officially launched a new text messaging service, offering customers real-time communication during unexpected traffic backlogs and underscoring its commitment to providing a safe, reliable, customer-valued toll road. By texting “info” to 47676, drivers receive automated, location-specific information about the incident, anticipated clearance times and roadway updates.
St. Barnabas Expands Its Exceptional Medical Center Team
Dr. Jonathan Buncke, a highly skilled Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.), has joined the team at St. Barnabas Medical Center. With over 21 years of extensive experience serving the greater Pittsburgh area, Dr. Buncke is committed to delivering outstanding chiropractic care to improve his patients’ health and well-being.
Dr. Buncke has extensive experience in hands-on treatment using specialized spinal decompression techniques, and he emphasizes patient education to help promote positive outcomes. In March 2020, Jonathan founded Pittsburgh Mobile Chiropractic as an innovative way to better serve his patients during the pandemic. His in-depth knowledge of the nervous system, muscular system, spine, and body movements makes him a valuable asset to the Medical Center team.
Dr. Buncke expresses his commitment to helping patients by alleviating pain and promoting mobility, allowing them to lead more active and independent lives. He is currently welcoming new patients. For more information, please call St. Barnabas Medical Center at (724) 443-7231. n
OPEN HOUSE
MAY 30 1:00 – 3:00PM
SCORE BIG with a chance to win Pirates memorabilia
Hit a Home Run at A 55+ Community
The Commons at Stonebrook Village Join us for our Open House and explore the exceptional residential living options we offer. Meet and mingle with our friendly staff and residents, while you enjoy live entertainment and experience our welcoming community.
Appetizers / Tours Available RSVP, 412-630-2200 by May 27 811 Village Drive, McCandless Township
ALICE RUMBERGER
By Paula Green
This Mother’s Day, we are introducing a special mom who is a pillar of “community service” in the North Hills. Alice Rumberger of McCandless Township is the president of the Northland Public Library Foundation, and she is involved with projects to enhance the library’s current expansion.
“The Northland Library is completing the ‘New Northland’ $4 million project by the beginning of this summer. The Foundation gifted the library $250,000 towards the project in addition to our annual commitment to the library. The Foundation actively fun draises throughout the year. We had our Garden Gala in April, and there were smaller events, including selling pavers for the ‘New Northland.’ We also have our Love Your Library Month in September and host our Children’s Gala. The library is a critical community resource, and I am excited to serve as president and share my passion for the importance of the community library. Libraries are a place for everyone,” said Alice.
Alice devoted much of her time to the North Allegheny Foundation. “I completed my term as chair of the NA Foundation in 2024. I worked with an amazing all-volunteer board to provide grants to NA teachers and staff and scholarships to graduating seniors. We created signature fundraising events with the Taste of North Allegheny in May, the Golfing Outing in September, and the Trick or Trot. I am co-chair of the Trick or Trot for the 12th year. I co-chaired our North Alumni Distinguished Alumni Gala, held in January. It’s such a great event to connect NA Alumni with our current NA community,” Alice said.
Alice is a physical therapist who works part-time for Pivot/ Athletico in their Butler office. She also works part-time in Occupational Health to keep employees in an industrial setting be safe at work. Additionally, Alice provides direct-care Physical Therapy services through TheraFusion.
This June, Alice will do mission work. “I am going to Peru with Seton Hill University as an assistant professor and Spanish translator. We will travel to Chimbote, Peru, and work at a children’s clinic for five days. I will be working with Seton Hill doctor of physical therapy students. I am excited to be able to provide mission work to an underserved community and work with students and faculty from Seton Hill,” Alice remarked.
Alice assists her husband with his business. “David is a realtor and owns Turning Leaf Vacation Rentals, a short-term vacation rental company. I am the chief design officer, and I work closely with investors to bring the aesthetics to each vacation rental property. I look at a property through the lens of a vacation stay to help maximize its value. David handles the day-to-day activities with our team,” Alice said.
Alice is a board member of the Equity Impact Center, founded by Leigh Solomon Pugliano. She also volunteers with the University of Pittsburgh and her alma mater alumni program, Panther Shadows. She is on the Global Sisterhood board. For the past twenty years, Alice has taught preschoolers in Vacation Bible Camp at her home parish, Saint Aidan in Wexford.
Alice is the mother of seven - Amanda (36), Sarah (34), Brittany (32), Lindsay (30), Ian (25), Caleb (18), and Elijah (16). She has six grandchildren. Last summer, McCandless Township honored Alice with the Shining Star Award for outstanding volunteer service.
Alice enjoys being busy. She noted, “When you are involved with truly amazing organizations and have a supportive family, I never feel super busy. I am grateful for opportunities in my community to be helpful and serve. The biggest gift is time, and to share my time with people who collectively make our community great is time well spent.” n
Alice and David Rumberger
Alexis McKinley, Northland Library, director of Development with Alice Rumberger
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UPMC Magee-Womens in Pittsburgh’s Northern Suburbs
For more than a century, women have relied on UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital for their health care needs. From routine care to having a baby to highly specialized treatment, UPMC Magee-Womens delivers more to our patients throughout their lives.
This care is not limited to our hospital in Oakland. UPMC Magee-Womens is proud to offer our renowned women’s health services right here in your community. Patients who live in Pittsburgh’s northern suburbs do not have to go far to find the care they need, whether it’s an annual exam or a visit with a specialist.
Routine Ob-Gyn Care
An obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) is an expert in women’s health and a trusted advocate who can help you stay healthy at every stage of life. Our ob-gyns provide annual gynecology wellness exams, prenatal and postpartum care, cervical cancer screenings, breast exams, minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, and access to maternal fetal medicine specialists for high-risk pregnancies. Our team also includes midwives, physician assistants, and certified nurse practitioners.
Specialty Care
A wide range of specialty services available at our locations north of the city include:
• Women’s heart care — the UPMC Magee-Womens Heart program provides specialized care dedicated to women’s heart health. Women’s health specialists and cardiologists collaborate on customized treatment to address heart conditions related to pregnancy and health concerns that are unique to women.
• Pelvic floor issues — our urogynecologists, specialists with training in both gynecology and urology, focus on conditions affecting the pelvic floor, bladder, and bowel.
• Chronic pelvic pain — chronic pelvic pain can have many causes including endometriosis and uterine fibroids. Our multispecialty team provides a range of options for treatment and pain management, including medicine, physical therapy, and minimally invasive surgery.
• Midlife health — many of our providers are certified by the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) as Menopause Society Certified Practitioners (MSCP) and
specialize in addressing hormonal changes, bone health, and symptoms women may face at midlife, like brain fog, fatigue, and sleep problems.
• Gynecologic oncology — UPMC Magee-Womens Gynecologic Cancer Program specializes in treating cancers of the female reproductive organs.
Womens Imaging
UPMC Magee-Womens Imaging offers breast imaging, ultrasound, bone density scans, and other state-of-the-art imaging services at convenient locations north of Pittsburgh.
UPMC Magee-Womens Locations in the Northern Suburbs
Allison Park
UPMC Outpatient Center 4490 Mount Royal Blvd., Suite 3100 Allison Park, PA 15101
• UPMC Magee-Womens Center for Bladder and Pelvic Health — 412-748-3930
• UPMC Magee-Womens Imaging — 412-641-4700
• UPMC Womancare Associates — 412-641-5867
O’Hara Township
UPMC Womancare Associates 1384 Old Freeport Rd., Suite 1B Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412-782-4340
Sewickley / Wexford
UPMC Greater Pittsburgh OB/GYN
111 Hazel Lane, Suite 200 Sewickley, PA 15143
412-749-3200
UPMC Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143
• UPMC Magee-Womens Imaging — 412-641-4700
• UPMC University Obstetrics and Gynecology — 412-641-8851
• UPMC Womancare Associates — 412-641-8833
UPMC OB/GYN Associates of Pittsburgh 119 VIP Drive, Suite 102 Wexford, PA 15090
412-621-7575
UPMC Magee-Womens
Virtual Care Center Offers Quick Access to a Variety of Specialties
Are you seeking care for a women’s health condition, but you don’t know where to start? If you live in Pennsylvania and have a smartphone or a tablet, you can quickly connect with a UPMC Magee-Womens expert from the comfort of your home.
Virtual care centers allow new patients to establish care with a UPMC Magee-Womens provider. No referral is needed – just schedule an appointment online. Seeing a provider through our virtual care centers can help new patients navigate our services, find the provider they need, and reduce the waiting time for an appointment.
A virtual care visit involves a conversation with a provider, during which the patient can talk about what they are experiencing and ask questions. If the provider determines the patient needs to be seen in person or have testing, the care team will help the patient schedule follow-up appointments.
UPMC Magee-Womens offers virtual care centers for the following specialties:
• General gynecology — talk about symptoms you are having.
• Prenatal care introduction — begin pregnancy care with a prenatal nurse.
• Pediatric and adolescent gynecology (for patients under 21) — begin ob-gyn visits for teens and young adults.
• Addiction medicine — pregnant and non-pregnant women can seek care for substance use disorders.
• Bladder and pelvic health — speak with a provider about conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic floor disorders.
• Complex contraception — ask questions about managing complex contraception.
• Endometriosis — find care for pelvic pain and other symptoms caused by endometriosis.
• Fibroid treatment — discuss options for managing fibroid symptoms like pelvic pain or heavy periods.
• Gynecologic cancer — talk to a specialist about treatment for cancers affecting the female reproductive organs.
• Lactation center — get support for breastfeeding-related issues.
• Preconception — discuss existing health concerns prior to becoming pregnant.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — seek help for PCOS symptoms such as irregular periods, pelvic pain, hair loss, or infertility.
• Postpartum pelvic floor healing clinic — hear about options for dealing with pelvic floor issues after having a baby.
• Recurrent miscarriage — for those with a history of pregnancy loss who want to conceive again.
• STI care — ask questions about testing and treatment for STIs.
• Vulvar disorders — find treatment for vulvar and vaginal pain.
For more information about UPMC Magee-Womens services, or to schedule an appointment with a provider near you, visit UPMC.com/DeliveringMore. n
• Social work services — connect with a licensed social worker for support services.
For more information about UPMC Magee-Womens virtual care centers and to schedule an appointment, visit UPMC.com/ MageeVirtualCare. Patients may also call 412-641-6977 with questions.
Wigs ‘n More & Mastectomy Boutique
By Janice Lane Palko
When cancer strikes, it can feel as if your world and you have fallen apart. However, the caring professionals at Wigs ‘n More & Mastectomy Boutique can help to make you feel whole, confident, and beautiful throughout recovery and beyond.
Located at 5924 Route 981 in Latrobe, Wigs ‘n More was founded by Kathy Hendrickson in 1988 as Tangles Hair Salon. “Over time we saw a need to serve women who have lost their hair or had breast surgeries such as lumpectomies and mastectomies, and in 2000, we began to add the medical aspect to the store, carrying wigs and mastectomy products,” said Kathy.
In June 2024, she realized that there was also a need to carry fashion brands, and they added on to the building opening Bras ‘n More Boutique, which offers high quality fashion bras for women in a large range of sizes from 30AA to 52NN.
Wigs ‘n More is one of the largest wig and mastectomy boutiques in Western Pennsylvania. “We help women from all over the area. We even have fitted a woman from Alaska who comes here to shop whenever she is in town,” said Kathy.
As a medical product provider, Wigs ‘n More works with insurance companies. “We are HIPPA compliant and are Board Certified Mastectomy Fitters,” said Kathy.
Today, breast prosthetics aren’t onesize-fits-all item but are custom made to
look and feel as natural as possible. “Fitting a prosthesis is a bit like creating a puzzle piece. It takes about 35 minutes to an hour. We use an iPad and scan the woman’s chest to get a seamless fit,” said Kathy.
The prosthetics are lightweight silicon and are breathable and durable. They are matched to the skin tone and can be worn outside the bra or in a pocket in a mastectomy bra. “It is all very high-tech, and they look very natural,” said Kathy.
In addition, Wigs ‘n More offers mastectomy recovery garments, swimsuits, and products for those undergoing radiation treatments.
Losing one’s hair can be traumatic, and Wigs ‘n More offers both synthetic and human hair wigs. “We not only help those who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy, but those who have alopecia and who have lost hair due to COVID,” said Kathy, who can instruct clients on proper care of their wig and can also clean and style it.
If you would like to contact Wigs ‘n More, you can get in touch with them online at info@wigsnmore.net or by calling 724-532-1901.
“Unfortunately, many women don’t
know where to turn to when they need help. Some end up at large retailers where they get less-than-stellar results,” said Kathy. “We are trained, compassionate, and provide the utmost in care and products.”
For more information on Wigs ‘n More, visit the website at: wigsnmore.net. n
5924 Route 981 Latrobe
info@wigsnmore.net *Most Insurances Accepted
CELEBRATING WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE
Each year, it is our pleasure to introduce you to the remarkable women shaping the landscape of healthcare in our area. These women hail from diverse industries and specialties, each bringing their unique expertise and experiences to excel in their chosen professions. Prepare to be inspired as you read about their journeys and accomplishments, and don’t forget to show your support by visiting their businesses or scheduling appointments with these exceptional professionals.
Debra Swift Swift Audiology
Debra Swift, founder and owner of Swift Audiology, opened her full-service audiology & hearing care practice in 1987. Her mission is to help people who are having hearing difficulties hear better with the assistance of hearing devices. The practice has three locations – Washington, South Hills, and North Hills, PA. The choice is in the patient’s hands - we help educate patients on the options by considering their needs, lifestyle, budget, and hearing profile. Through our Hearing Aid Test Drive Program, patients can test drive their hearing aids in real-time and in real life. Our patients experience a family-like atmosphere with state-of-the-art technology and the best option to meet their hearing needs. Debra’s diverse staff includes Doctors of Audiology and Board-Certified Hearing Instrument Specialists who make it their purpose to help those in our community hear better and continue enjoying life. Experience the gift of better hearing. Following a comprehensive hearing evaluation, we invite you to take our Hearing Aid Test Drive – No Commitment or Deposit Required. The North Hills office is located at 6000 Babcock Blvd, Suite 105, Pittsburgh, PA.
412-364-8338 www.swiftaudiology.com
Chief Mental Health Officer, Co-Founder, LPC, NCC
Revelations Counseling & Wellness
There are roughly 8 billion people in the world. Although we are surrounded by people, we often feel isolated. I chose to pursue a career in counseling because I want people to feel that they have support, hope and that they are being heard. I want them to know that someone cares for them and what they have to say. I love seeing the potential in my clients and helping them to realize that potential in themselves. We opened Revelations Counseling & Wellness because we saw an opportunity to approach mental and physical health differently. Throughout my career I’ve built strong, collaborative relationships with primary care physicians, ensuring an integrated approach to mental and physical health. By working alongside healthcare teams, we focus on treating the whole person, recognizing the profound connection between mental and physical well-being. I hope that you take a moment to check out our website and that we have an opportunity to welcome you into our practice sometime soon!
Elisabeth Plutko
Chief Operating Officer, Co-Founder
Revelations Counseling & Wellness
For as long as I can remember I’ve had a passion for health and fitness. It was through fitness that I found an outlet from the stress and anxiety I faced during my middle school years - it helped me manage body image concerns and frustrations at school. We opened Revelations Counseling & Wellness because we saw an opportunity to approach mental and physical health differently. What makes me so proud of our practice is that it infuses the passions of my sister, my husband and I together to bring Pittsburgh an integrated approach to their health for children and adults. We have a wide variety of behavioral health services, as well as nutrition coaching with our registered dietitians, personal training, reiki, private yoga, and self-mastery. As a mom of two young girls, I’m personally passionate about the relationships that we are building with local school districts, consulting with them on programs we can offer to help improve the mental and physical health of the tweens and teens in the area, teaching them healthy habits that they can engrain into their routines now to have a stronger foundation to stand upon when they face life’s challenges.
You can learn more about our new practice at: RevelationsCounselingWellness.com
Crystal Manning
Crystal Clear Medicare
Crystal A Manning, Licensed Medicare Advisor is the founder of Crystal Clear Medicare. After being in the Insurance business for over 30 years, in 2015 she established her own company. Licensed to sell Medicare in 10 states. Crystal focuses on educating her clients to enable them to make the best decisions for their unique health care situations. Specifically, she explains the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Part D (drug) and optional pharmaceutical plans and the enrollment requirements for all Medicare plans. Additionally, she provides each client with no-cost annual reviews to ensure that they are in the right plan at the most affordable cost. Crystal enjoys networking and belongs to various groups such as several local Chambers of Commerce throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio. She was selected as a former Pittsburgh Fifty Finest. Locally, she belongs to Pittsburgh North Professionals, Inspired Women and North Allegheny Women’s Association. She has conducted Medicare presentations for interested organizations throughout the year in various locations. Crystal volunteers for North Hills Community Outreach, Ladies of Charity, Carnegie Museums and Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Her hobbies include reading, traveling as much as possible, golfing, bicycling, and relaxing with family and friends. To contact Crystal call 412-716-4942 or email crystalmanning33@gmail.com.
412-716-4942
crystalmanning33@gmail.com
Dvonya Sedlacko
Crystal Clear Medicare
Dvonya Sedlacko, is new to the Medicare World. She joined her mother, Crystal Manning, as a licensed Medicare Advisor with Crystal Clear Medicare. Prior to her entry into Medicare she worked as a technical recruiter. In late 2022 she had twin boys and chose a career change to be able to stay at home and raise her family and make her own schedule. Dvonya graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2006 with a BA in Communications, followed by a Master’s Degree in Professional Writing from Chatham University in 2011. She has been part of Orange Arrow since inception in 2013 where she serves as the HR/Intern manager. Dvonya lives in Wexford with her husband and her twin boys. She loves sports and traveling. To connect with Dvonya, please email her at djsedlacko@gmail.com.
412-716-4942
djsedlacko@gmail.com
Dr. Leslie Pasco
MyoWay Centers for Kids
Helping Children Breathe Right and Live Better: Dr. Leslie Pasco’s Mission at MyoWay Centers for Kids
With over 25 years of experience as a dentist, Dr. Leslie Pasco saw firsthand the long-term impact of underdeveloped jaws and airways in adults. Determined to change this outcome for future generations, she opened MyoWay Centers for Kids—a place where early intervention through orofacial myofunctional therapy can change lives.
“My goal is to help children grow right, breathe right, and live better,” Dr. Pasco explains. “When a child snores or struggles with sleep, they are up to 100% more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD. We now know that by supporting jaw and airway development early on, we can dramatically improve a child’s quality of life.”
MyoWay’s approach pairs gentle, non-invasive appliances with fun, personalized muscle and breathing exercises. This helps guide the natural growth of a child’s jaw and airway, promoting better sleep, straighter teeth, and healthier development.
Dr. Pasco and her team see a wide range of concerns: open-mouth posture, snoring, speech delays, mouth breathing, bedwetting, behavior issues, and even cognitive and digestive challenges. “Many of these are early signs of airway restriction or underdeveloped jaws,” she says. “Even infants can show symptoms.”
The team at MyoWay Centers for Kids is unique in that it includes orofacial myologists from the dental field— bringing a deep understanding of the root causes behind common childhood concerns. They combine compassionate care with expert knowledge to create a warm, supportive environment for both kids and families. Dr. Pasco wants parents to know they don’t have to wait. “If your child snores, mouth breathes, or struggles with sleep or focus, we can help. Early intervention is key—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.”
724-765-0001 myowaycenters.com
Laura Ellis
Bridges Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine
“Transformative” isn’t usually a word that’s associated with either healthcare or business, but that’s exactly the kind of healthcare business that Laura Ellis runs. The medicine of ancient East Asia - which includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and more - sees health as not just the absence of disease, but as the ability to move from imbalance back to balance. That’s what transformation is: the ability to move from one state to another. Health is not just giving you a medication or a supplement to fix a lab number: it’s reminding your body how to function so well that you don’t need those medications and supplements in the first place. That is the kind of transformative healthcare that Bridges Acupuncture does and sees on a daily basis. Since opening its doors in 2016, the clinic has provided over 11,000 treatments and offers the only sliding-scale-based Community Fund for acupuncture in the greater Pittsburgh area to support patients on fixed or limited incomes. Laura also uses the principles of acupuncture to run her clinic behind the scenes: staff are trained on systems that support their work rather than burden them; they’re compensated well so they have freedom to enjoy and engage with their work; and everyone has a voice in company projects and direction to strengthen trust and collaboration. As one patient put it: “This place feels like healing from the moment you walk in.” Because when a healthcare practice is built on integrity, accessibility, and ancient wisdom, transformation isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.
2469 Evans City Road Harmony, PA 1603
724-453-4335
info@bridgesaom.com www.bridgesaom.com
Dr. Michelle Victain
Gastroenterologist
For Michelle Victain, DO, a career in gastroenterology is both a calling and a personal mission. Growing up in a close-knit family, she was deeply impacted by the GI-related illnesses that affected many of her relatives. That early exposure fueled her desire to pursue a career in medicine—specifically in helping patients facing similar diagnoses.
Today, as a physician at UPMC specializing in gastroenterology, Dr. Victain finds the greatest reward in seeing her patients reclaim their lives. “It brings me great joy to help someone feel better and live life to the fullest,” she shares. “GI illnesses can be debilitating, so being part of a patient’s journey back to wellness is incredibly meaningful to me.”
Her approach to patient care is rooted in empathy and excellence. “I hold myself to the same high standards I expect from my own doctor,” she explains. That mindset—delivering top-tier medical expertise with genuine compassion—defines her daily practice.
Dr. Victain is also enthusiastic about the future of her field, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence in gastroenterology. She believes advancements like computer vision for endoscopic procedures and AI-driven predictive tools will significantly enhance patient care.
For young women aspiring to enter health care, she emphasizes the importance of empathy, communication, and continuous learning. “Volunteer, shadow professionals, and stay current with medical innovations,” she advises. “But most importantly, believe in your abilities and don’t lose sight of your personal goals.”
Outside of her medical career, Dr. Victain is a dedicated wife and mother of three. She embraces her role as a “soccer mom,” stays active in her children’s school activities, and enjoys traveling and cooking new recipes for her family.
In every facet of life, Dr. Victain blends heart and expertise— making her a true leader in health care.
Diane Ankney, MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Director of Nursing Operations, UPMC Passavant
Diane Ankney’s journey into nursing began with a spark of inspiration from her sister-in-law, who was a nurse herself. That encouragement, combined with Diane’s passion for caring for children, led her to a fulfilling 33-year career in pediatrics—20 of which were spent in leadership roles. In 2019, Diane expanded her impact by joining UPMC Passavant as a Clinical Director and, just two years later, was promoted to Director of Nursing Operations.
For Diane, the most rewarding part of her role is mentoring the next generation of nurse leaders. In 2022, she led, with the support of her colleagues, the Nurse Leader Development Program at Passavant, which has since guided more than 40 emerging leaders in building their skills and confidence. “Helping others grow is the most fulfilling aspect of what I do,” she says.
When it comes to patient care, Diane emphasizes the power of active listening. “It’s not just about treating illness—it’s about making patients feel heard, understood, and supported,” she explains. Her approach underscores the importance of empathy in creating meaningful connections with patients and their families.
To young women considering a career in health care, Diane offers strong encouragement. “Nursing opens doors to so many paths— whether at the bedside, in education, in leadership, or in advanced practice roles like Nurse Practitioner or CRNA,” she shares.
Diane is especially excited about current initiatives that prioritize nurse well-being, aiming to reduce burnout and improve retention across hospitals. “Supporting the caregivers is just as important as caring for the patients,” she says.
Outside of work, Diane finds balance through family time— especially with her new granddaughter Sophie—and enjoys boating, kayaking, and any chance to be near the water.
Meet the Women Leading the Way in Emergency Care
HONORING THE UPMC PASSAVANT EMERGENCY MEDICINE TEAM
These dedicated women bring compassion, strength, and expertise to every shift. Thank you for being the heart of emergency care.
Dr. Sheridan: A Passion for Healing and Human Connection
From a young age, Dr. Sheridan knew she wanted to pursue a career in medicine. Inspired by her mother, a social worker at McKeesport Hospital, she found herself drawn to the hospital environment and fascinated by the sciences. That early exposure laid the foundation for a lifelong desire to help others through health care.
Dr. Sheridan chose Infectious Diseases as her specialty because of its universal relevance—diseases that transcend demographics, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. “Infections have been present throughout history and are something that can affect all of us,” she says.
The most fulfilling part of her work is simple yet profound: seeing her patients feel better and return to their lives. She approaches patient care with deep compassion and a commitment to personal connection. “I try to learn something about my patients’ lives— what motivates them to get better,” she explains. She also prioritizes education, ensuring patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects. “I believe the physician’s role is to educate, so patients can make the best decisions for their health.”
Dr. Sheridan is enthusiastic about advancements in her field, particularly long-acting injectable antibiotics and new treatments for HIV prevention and care. These innovations are transforming how providers manage chronic and infectious conditions, offering patients more convenience and improved outcomes.
For young women considering a career in health care, Dr. Sheridan offers heartfelt encouragement: “Follow your dream. Being a physician and a mom is a lot of work—but it’s doable, especially with a supportive partner and family.”
When she’s not treating patients, Dr. Sheridan enjoys spending time with her family, getting lost in a good book, and her newest hobby—crocheting—as a way to recharge and find balance.
Healing with Heart: Dr. Steinberg’s Journey in Infectious Diseases
For Dr. Steinberg, medicine has always been more than a profession—it’s a calling inspired by her father, a physician in the Philippines. As a young girl, she accompanied him to the hospital and witnessed the profound impact he had on patients during their most vulnerable moments. That early exposure sparked her passion to pursue medicine and ultimately led her to specialize in Infectious Diseases, a field she finds particularly rewarding for its curative possibilities.
“What I love most,” Dr. Steinberg shares, “is working hand-in-hand with patients, helping them make healthier choices and recover from complicated infections.” She emphasizes a personalized approach to care—acknowledging that each patient’s circumstances are unique. Her practice often involves coordinating with hospital liaisons to provide IV antibiotics, home nursing, and other support services while being mindful of the patient’s financial limitations. “Our goal,” she says, “is to deliver the best outcome possible, regardless of cost barriers.”
Outside the hospital, Dr. Steinberg recharges with her greatest joy—her family. With two young children, ages five and one, and a full-time professional husband, she embraces the chaos and fun of parenthood, staying active to keep up with her little ones. “We love traveling and creating memories together,” she adds with a smile.
To young women considering a future in healthcare, Dr. Steinberg offers honest encouragement: “Medicine isn’t easy. It’s a long road, but incredibly fulfilling if you’re passionate about it.”
She’s also energized by advancements in her field, particularly ongoing studies in antimicrobial treatments that aim to enhance patient compliance and reduce resistant infections. With a steadfast commitment to compassionate, individualized care, Dr. Steinberg continues to make a lasting difference—one patient at a time.
Meet Dr. Nicole Dalton Wheeler: A Voice of Empathy in Infectious Disease
For Dr. Nicole Dalton Wheeler of Romano, Pontzer & Associates, the path to becoming an infectious disease specialist began with a deep fascination for the immune system. “It’s amazing that we aren’t sick more often,” she reflects. “The immune system is constantly fighting off infections and even managing our own bacteria. It’s incredibly complex and inspiring.”
Now a physician making a real impact in her field, Dr. Wheeler finds the greatest reward in seeing patients return to her office after hospitalization—stronger, healthier, and healing. “It’s truly gratifying to witness their progress and know I played a role in that journey.”
Her approach to patient care is rooted in empathy and connection. “I make it a point to sit down and listen to patients’ stories,” she says. “I believe in incorporating their values and perspectives when developing a treatment plan. It’s about partnership.”
Dr. Wheeler is also a strong advocate for young women exploring careers in medicine. “Absolutely go for it,” she encourages. “There are so many specialties and lifestyles within medicine. You can find a path that suits your personality and supports your family goals.”
Looking ahead, she’s particularly excited about the future of preventative care. “The development of new monoclonal antibodies for preventing infections is really promising,” she shares. “It’s an exciting time in the field.”
When she’s not making strides in medicine, Dr. Wheeler finds joy and balance at home with her four children. Whether it’s working on jigsaw puzzles, playing games, or reading quietly, she embraces these moments as essential for recharging.
In both her professional and personal life, Dr. Wheeler exemplifies dedication, compassion, and balance—an inspiring role model for patients and aspiring healthcare professionals alike.
Dr. Melanie Ongchin Surgical Oncologist
A Dedicated Leader in Cancer Care: Dr. Melanie Ongchin
Dr. Melanie Ongchin’s path to medicine was inspired by a desire to make a meaningful, hands-on impact in people’s lives. As a surgical oncologist, she combines technical precision with deep empathy, guiding patients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Drawn to the complexity of surgical oncology, Dr. Ongchin thrives on the collaboration it requires and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients.
“What I find most rewarding,” she shares, “is the trust patients place in me. It’s an honor to be part of their treatment journey.” Her dedication extends beyond the operating room—Dr. Ongchin is also the Program Director for the Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship at UPMC, where she mentors the next generation of surgeons. “Watching trainees grow into thoughtful, skilled physicians is incredibly fulfilling.”
Her approach to patient care centers around empathy, clarity, and communication. She ensures her patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options and feel heard throughout the process. “Being given a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming,” she explains. “I want them to know they’re not navigating it alone.”
Dr. Ongchin is especially excited about advancements in the treatment of complex gastrointestinal cancers, including metastatic and recurrent cases. “We’re seeing more refined surgical strategies and better systemic therapies,” she notes. “The multidisciplinary collaboration in this field is stronger than ever.”
To young women pursuing careers in healthcare, she offers empowering advice: “Don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Seek mentors and be one for others.”
Outside of medicine, Dr. Ongchin values time with family and friends, enjoys travel, and recharges by exploring new restaurants or spending time outdoors. “Sometimes the best reset comes from stepping out of the routine.”
Through her work and mentorship, Dr. Ongchin continues to shape the future of cancer care with compassion and excellence.
Compassionate Care, Close to Home
Eileen Boyle, MD
Rupa Mokkapatti, MD PhD
Jennifer Mall, MD MPh
Jaeyoung Lee, MD
Surbhi Agarwal, MD MPh
Dr. Elizabeth Ann Piccone
Women’s Cardiovascular Disease • Cardiology
Dr. Elizabeth Ann Piccione: Leading with Heart in Cardiovascular Care
For Elizabeth Ann Piccione, MD, the journey to becoming a cardiologist was fueled by her love of science, a passion for problemsolving, and a desire to make a meaningful impact. “Medicine allows me to tackle complex challenges while helping people,” she says. Drawn specifically to cardiology, she was motivated by the prevalence of cardiovascular disease—the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S.—and the opportunity to care for patients across all stages of life.
Today, as a cardiologist with UPMC, Dr. Piccione finds deep fulfillment in guiding patients through some of their most vulnerable moments. “The ability to impact people’s lives when they are at their most vulnerable is a wonderful gift,” she says. Whether diagnosing a condition, managing long-term care, or offering reassurance, she considers it a privilege to support her patients’ health journeys.
Known for her attentive, compassionate approach, Dr. Piccione emphasizes listening as the foundation of good care. “I always take extra time to understand a patient’s full story and make sure all their questions are answered,” she explains. Her dedication ensures that patients not only feel heard but truly supported.
Looking ahead, Dr. Piccione is excited about innovations in artificial intelligence—particularly how AI could ease the administrative burdens on providers. “I think ambient listening and other tools will allow us to spend more time with patients and less time on documentation,” she notes.
When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Piccione finds balance through time with her husband and three children. She also enjoys biking on local trails, a practice she says helps her reset and recharge.
With a career rooted in compassion, expertise, and forward-thinking care, Dr. Piccione is helping to shape the future of cardiology—one patient at a time.
CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Each year, it is our pleasure to introduce you to the remarkable women shaping the landscape of business and in our area. These women hail from diverse industries and specialties, each bringing their unique expertise and experiences to excel in their chosen professions. Prepare to be inspired as you read about their journeys and accomplishments, and don’t forget to show your support by visiting their businesses or scheduling appointments with these exceptional professionals.
Karen Anspaugh
Surrett & Anspaugh, LLC
Karen Anspaugh is a partner at the law firm of Surrett & Anspaugh LLC. She has helped companies form and thrive for over 33 years. Combining her business law practice with her experience in estate planning and asset protection, she helps businesses and individuals implement beneficial tax strategies and safeguard all they have worked for. Karen also operates Adrienne Abstract & Closing Company, where she manages every stage of residential and commercial real estate transactions, from drafting documents to settlement. She routinely works with real estate investors and assists with transactions involving nontraditional financing.
Steel City Fortitude Fitness is a one-on-one personal training studio where the focus is coaching clients on proper strength training techniques. I began my own weight loss and wellness journey in 2014 and it was during this time I began working with a trainer that is now my co-owner of Steel City Fortitude Fitness. It quickly became apparent to me that I wanted to share my knowledge and passion for exercise and living a healthy lifestyle with others. I made my career change to a personal trainer back in 2019 and Steel City Fortitude Fitness just celebrated it’s 3-year anniversary! My goal is to inspire and aid my clients in becoming stronger, healthier, and more active individuals. All my workout programs are individually customized to each client – no cookie cutter programs here! I make sure my clients use proper form to prevent injury and have fun during the workouts too. I also have a Fitness Nutrition Certification and can assist clients in making proper food choices. We are in Wexford, PA, run by appointment only, and are a small studio without the crowds of a public gym!
412-758-4897
Shannon@steelcityfortitudefitness.com
Shan_steelcityfortitudefitness
Emily Betler
New Owner of McCandless Floral
Emily Betler purchased McCandless Floral in January 2025 from Janet and Bob Woloszyk, who pre viously owned and operated the business for 49 years. Emily is an alumnus of North Allegheny and Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Smeal College of Business.She has worked at McCandless Floral for several years and is excited to continue to bring joy to the community through her flower arrangements. Emily has said,“This truly is my happy place, and I am blessed by the community and staff for their support. I look forward to creating arrangements for decades to come.”With Mother’s Day just around the corner please visit 8601 Old Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237; Mccandlessfloralinc.com or call 412-367-8708.
FINANICAL ADVISOR & PARTNER
Lisa Brooks knows that confidence in your financial future doesn t come from guesswork it comes from having a plan With over 24 years of experience, she helps clients move from uncertainty to clarity one smart dec sion at a time
“Most people don’t have one person connecting the dots their nvestments insurance and long-term goals ” she says “That ’ s where I come in Starting early allows us to make meaningful shifts that build momentum over time
As a Partner at Premier Wealth Partners
Lisa combines technical expertise with a calm, steady approach Her focus is on helping clients fee empowered, informed and ready for whatever comes next
Jackie Sorrenti
Gals On and Off the Green
Gals On and Off the Green is a women’s golf and casual wear boutique. Our passion is simple: to help women of all ages, shapes and sizes look and feel better about themselves (We offer fashions in sizes from double zero to 22!). Our flagship store in Pittsburgh is celebrating 20 years in business this June, and our newest location in Naples, Florida, opened in September 2023. Our fashions are not just clothes for golf – they are truly clothes for everyday LIFE! About 80% of the fashions we carry are beautiful and stylish and of great quality – and they are fashions for EVERY DAY! The fabrics do not wrinkle, they hold their shape, they quickly dry if you get caught in a sweat or downpour, they are easy-care. They are great for travel and 18-hour days...and they do not say “I am going golfing” – they are smart clothes for life! We provide one-on-one attention to your particular fit needs and sense of personal style – and accentuate your best features. We offer over 40 different brands and fits - the best selection of colors, lengths and styles. We can help you be “every you”– sporty-chic Gal, classic Gal, fashion-forward Gal, modern Gal – our selection provides something for a Gal’s EVERY style! In addition, Gals On and Off the Green is proud to sponsor the GALS Scholarship foundation – for women of ALL ages who participate in golf. To date, they have awarded almost 50 scholarships. See the website for more information. www.galsfoundation.org
Unleashing Success: Toni Shelaske’s Journey from Pet Stores to Podcasting
Toni Shelaske, who calls North Hills home, never imagined she’d be hosting her own podcast. But after building and selling one of Pittsburgh’s top natural pet supply chains, she realized her journey had something powerful to offer.
For 16 years, Toni ran Healthy Pet Products, a business that’s become a trusted staple in the Pittsburgh community. Toni is a pioneer in this space and was educating her customers long before natural and holistic pet care was even talked about. But she knows there’s more work that needs to be done. The ingredients in your dog or cat’s food is probably not something the average pet parent spends a lot of time thinking about, which is what makes Toni so passionate about what she does.
“As the store owner, I was always answering pet parents’ questions about food,” Toni says. “A lot of times people aren’t ready to go 100% raw when feeding their pets so that’s why I made the decision to sell kibble in my stores. So if I was going to sell kibble, it had to be the best kind on the market. Kibble will never go away so I had to meet them where they are and teach them things that they couldn’t necessarily Google or get from their veterinarian.”
Toni’s mission-driven approach behind Healthy Pet Products helped it grow into a multi-location business. Toni built a retail model that could compete in a world increasingly dominated by big-box chains and online giants. Earlier this year, she made the decision to sell her Pittsburgh-based business, a move that allowed her to take everything she had learned and go all in on a new chapter and reach an even bigger audience.
She’s the voice behind the podcast Toni Unleashed where she interviews experts in the pet industry and challenges common assumptions about pet food. Just like if you were walking into one of her stores, you can always expect honesty and humor from listening to one of her episodes.
In addition to hosting her podcast, Toni now serves on the board of IndiePet, a national organization dedicated to supporting independent pet retailers. Through this role, she advocates for policies and programs that help small businesses thrive in a market increasingly tilted toward massive conglomerates. Her entrepreneurial spirit hasn’t slowed down either. She recently launched her own private label line of Pittsburgh-themed dog toys which reflect her deep ties to the city and her ongoing commitment to quality pet care.
“I’m still obsessed with what’s best for pets, and I’ll never stop finding ways to bring that to pet parents,” she says.
With her voice now reaching far beyond Pittsburgh, Toni Shelaske is more than a business owner turned podcast host, she’s a champion for pets, for entrepreneurs, and for doing business with heart.
Toni Shelaske and GLaylaG
Walton, Realtor®,
Coldwell Banker Realty
Deb is originally from Upstate New York and has been a resident of Cranberry Township for 31 years after being transferred here by her former employer, Eastman Kodak Company. Deb has 25+ years of experience in Consumer Product sales and served as a Kodak Account Executive, calling on the Navy and Marine Corps Exchanges throughout the world. After being home with her children until they entered elementary school, Deb started her real estate career and has received many accolades as a consistent annual multi-million dollar producer. Married for 26 years to a retired PA State Trooper, she has three children. Deb represents buyers and sellers throughout Metro Pittsburgh, and specializes in helping our Veterans, Active-Duty and Military Families buy and sell homes. She also serves on the Capital Campaign Committee for the Friends of Pittsburgh Fisher House, helping raise funds to build a second Fisher House in Pittsburgh for the families of Veterans and active-duty military who are hospitalized. Deb enjoys serving her clients and prides herself on the relationships she builds. Please visit RealtorDebWalton.com to learn more about her.
AmSpirit Women in Business
Mary Simpson
Marketing & Account Executive
Northern Connection & Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazines
Connecting You to the Community for over 26 years!
Providing high quality print advertising and digital marketing opportunities to help you grow your business and connect to the community.
Michelle Lee Business Coaching MAKE PEOPLE MATTER AND TAKE IT TO THE BANK!
“No one likes to be sold to but people love to buy! Learn the secret and science behind “Why They Buy” and skyrocket your results! (724) 333-4987 mmyrter@gmail.com
Leslie R. Harrison
Vice-President
Manager and Business Development
NMLS# 1549809
harrisonL@fnb-corp.com | 724-444-6700
Specializing in personal and commercial loans for consumers and business clients.
Kristen Thiel
AVP/Mortgage Banking Consultant
NMLS# 1139779
thiel@fnb-corp.com | 724-321-3502
Specializing in residential home loans: Conventional, Government, Construction, Jumbo, Physician and First-Time Homebuyers. Licensed in 16 states, to provide financing for primary, second homes and investment opportunities.
Janet Woloszyk Success
Jill Sutter, Realtor®, SRES, PSA, HFR
Coldwell Banker Realty
A full time Realtor with a passion for helping first-time buyers, older buyers and everyone in between, by making the whole process easy and stress-free. I offer the support and guidance my clients need for a smooth move whether buying, selling or both.
412-518-0806
JillPAHomes.com
jill.sutter@pittsburghmoves.com
Emily Betler
Owner, McCandless Floral
“This truly is my happy place, and I look forward to creating beautiful arrangements for decades to come.” From weddings and special occasions to everyday moments that deserve something beautiful, Emily brings heart and elegance to every bloom.
412-367-8708
www.mccandlessfloralinc.com
Jill Miller Director of Clinical Sales for Living Assistance for St. Barnabas Health System
Providing support and assisting families to place their loved ones in our Living Assistance facilities. Office: 724-495-1600
“I have been in real estate for over 20 years. I’ve owned my own mortgage brokerage since 2002 and have invested in real estate on multiple platforms both with single-family units as well as commercial properties. I’ve learned a lot along the way and want to provide lessons and insight to my clients to help them achieve their real estate investment goals,” Colleen Anthony, who founded Strategic Real Estate Consulting to do just that.
Strategic Real Estate Consulting offers two levels of service for clients: Basic Consulting and Advanced Consulting. Among the services offered with Basic Consulting is property evaluation for 1–4-unit properties.
SREC’s typical clientele often includes homeowners seeking to grow their real estate portfolio, whether with a single-family investment or a multi-unit property. SREC specializes in scrutinizing property specifics to guarantee adequate debt coverage, monthly cash flow, and profitability.
SREC also assists with financial package preparation, helping clients seeking financing to assemble and ensure the accuracy of all required documents for submission to potential lenders as well as offering guidance in evaluating financing options. SREC aims to equip clients with a comprehensive understanding of their options beyond the conventional financing option so they can make informed decisions tailored to their specific project needs. SREC assists in assessing estimates to determine the most suitable financing option.
“For instance, I have several clients who have children going to college that are interested in purchasing a property for their child versus paying dormitory fees or renting. This is a great first step for many to begin building their real estate portfolio. The property appreciates over time and in most cases, they have roommates paying rent, which is applied towards the mortgage and other monthly expenses.” said Ms. Anthony. “Recently, we’ve been helping clients interested in investing in short -and long-term rental properties such as Airbnb. I have access to the data necessary to make the best decisions as to where in the country it is best to purchase, how to optimize that property so that it receives bookings, and what to expect with management fees.”
SREC also offers Advanced Consulting, which includes property evaluation for multi-units, commercial real estate, and land development. These clients are seeking a comprehensive analysis for potential property or land acquisitions. Many individuals venturing into this sector need clarity on the crucial factors needed for an effective assessment and financial package preparation. Understanding the required data for a thorough evaluation is pivotal. Analyzing rent rolls, capex estimates, cap rates, expenses, debt service coverage, company structure for tax benefits forms the cornerstone of assessing the property’s profitability. “Furthermore, we offer third-party resources to educate clients on additional real estate investment benefits, such as depreciation, cost segregation, proper accounting and financial planning,” said Ms. Anthony. “I have considerable experience in building construction, and our expertise lies in adeptly managing the construction process, especially in the commercial realm,” said Ms. Anthony. “Effective communication between lenders and contractors is paramount. I am the conduit specializing in overseeing contracts, plans, timelines, draw schedules, and budgets for commercial construction projects.”
“It’s always a good time to purchase real estate. Interest rates are higher and will fluctuate, however you can always refinance. ‘Buy and Hold is my motto” because real estate appreciates, making it a desirable asset, not to mention the tax benefits.” said Ms. Anthony.
Those interested in investing in real estate can contact Anthony for a free, 30-minute consultation. “I strive to make it affordable for investors to engage my services, you can book on the website at: www.strategicrealestateconsulting.com or call my cell phone at: 412-491-2319. With SREC’s assistance investing in real estate is easier than ever,” said Ms. Anthony.
“I highly recommend Colleen Anthony of Strategic Real Estate Consulting. I have been fortunate to work with Colleen for the past 11 years. I can attest to her exceptional skills, work ethic, and character. Her expertise and extensive knowledge of real estate, mortgages, project management and finance is priceless.”
— Dana Cupples
“I have had the pleasure of working with Colleen on multiple occasions for mortgages and refinancing. Colleen’s extensive knowledge of the mortgage and real estate industries made each transaction a smooth and efficient experience. She was consistently responsive, detailed, and communicative, ensuring that I felt supported throughout the process. Colleen excelled at navigating challenges, such as purchasing properties not listed on the market, with precision and grace. I have complete confidence in Colleen and wouldn’t trust anyone else with my real estate needs. ”
— Mike Ross
Beyond the Pain: New Hope for Women Battling Migraine
By Dr. Mohammad Ali, MD
It is time we stop dismissing migraines as “just headaches.” For millions of women, migraines are a relentless, invisible storm striking without warning, disrupting careers, crippling social lives, and eroding mental health. They steal time, energy, and joy from women in the prime of their lives. And yet, they remain underdiagnosed, undertreated, and misunderstood.
Women are three times more likely than men to suffer from migraines. It’s a neurological disorder shaped by complex interactions between hormones, brain chemistry, and genetic predisposition.
Migraines exist in various forms, including migraine with aura, without aura, chronic migraine, and menstrual migraine. Although the hallmark symptoms are intense, pulsating head pain often confined to one side,migraine episodes can also include vision disturbances, nausea,vomiting, dizziness and even stroke-like symptoms. Some people experience neurological symptoms without any pain at all, illustrating the wide spectrum of this underrecognized disorder.
Hormonal fluctuations significantly increase vulnerability in women. Changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can act as powerful migraine triggers. Despite the established link, many women’s concerns are downplayed, mislabeled as emotional or stress-related. Nearly 20% of women live with migraines and countless more go undiagnosed or undertreated due to societal bias and stigma.
The ripple effects of migraines go far beyond the headache itself. They can interfere with professional obligations, impair personal relationships, and compromise a person’s ability to enjoy life. Migraines also have strong associations with other medical conditions like anxiety, depression, insomnia, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome, which exacerbate suffering and complicate treatment.
Fortunately, recent scientific advances
have led to a transformative shift in how migraines are managed. In the last five years, a new class of medications CGRP antagonists has emerged as a gamechanger. These drugs block a specific neurotransmitter involved in migraine attacks, significantly reducing both the frequency and intensity of episodes. For many women, these therapies have restored their lives.
For rapid symptom relief, Gepants, a newer class of oral medications, are proving effective with fewer side effects than traditional treatments. Meanwhile, chemodenervation techniques like Onabotulinum injections at targeted nerve sites offer long-term relief. Additionally, neuromodulation devices that stimulate specific nerves noninvasively provide a medication-free option that’s both safe and effective. Beyond pharmaceuticals, lifestyle modification and behavioral strategies remain vital. Many women experience substantial relief through practical, at-home interventions such as hydration, consistent sleep, stress management, avoidance of dietary triggers, menstrual cycle tracking, breathing exercises and cold compresses.
Migraine is a complex health issue that intersects with broader gender disparities in medicine. It’s a condition that deserves to be treated with the same seriousness and compassion afforded to other chronic illnesses.
Women with migraines are not seeking sympathy, they are seeking solutions. They deserve personalized care, validation of their pain and access to cutting-edge treatment options.
In closing, migraines are not merely
an inconvenience or a passing headache, they are a significant public health issue that demands attention. The pain is real, the science is evolving, and the need for empathy and implementation of advanced treatment options is urgent.
Dr. Mohammad Ali, MD Medical Director, Interventional Pain & Spine Center Wexford, PA | Ph: 724-965-8946 www.ipscpgh.com
Dr.Ali, MD, is a Neurologist and Pain Management Specialist dedicated to advancing care for migraine and chronic pain patients. He advocates for equitable access to cutting-edge therapies.
Mental Health, Reimagined: A New Approach
By Elisabeth Plutko, Co-Founder Revelations Counseling & Wellness
This May, as we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re invited to pause and consider what it really means to be well—not just mentally, but physically, emotionally, and spiritually. At Revelations Counseling & Wellness, we believe these parts of the self are deeply connected. That belief is what inspired my sister, Emily Heyl, and me to open our counseling and wellness practice right here in Wexford.
We started with a simple but powerful vision: to create a space where healing could happen in a more complete and connected way. As mental health professionals and wellness advocates, we saw a need for something more than siloed care—a place where counseling didn’t exist in isolation but alongside movement, nourishment, and the pursuit of self-understanding. And so, Revelations Counseling & Wellness was born.
Our approach is rooted in integration. We offer mental health
counseling (for individuals and groups), nutrition coaching, personal training, reiki, yoga and self-mastery programs, all under one roof. Each service stands on its own, but they’re designed to work together—to support our clients in finding balance, strength, and resilience in all areas of life. We offer these services for both children and adults.
In our work, we’ve seen time and again how deeply mental health is influenced by the body—and how the body, in turn, responds to our mental and emo-
tional lives. A breakthrough in therapy might come after a long walk. A sense of peace might emerge after a yoga session. A shift in self-confidence might begin in the gym. Healing is not linear, and it rarely fits into neat boxes. That’s why our team collaborates across disciplines, ensuring that care is as dynamic as the people we serve. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we encourage you to check in with yourself—honestly and gently. How are you really doing? What do you need more of? What would help you feel more connected to yourself, to others, or to the world around you? What goals do you have for yourself for the second half of 2025 and what steps can you take to accomplish those goals? Whether you’re seeking support for a specific challenge or simply wanting to grow in a new direction, you don’t have to do it alone. Our doors are open. And we’re honored to be part of a community that believes in whole-person care. To view a complete list of our services you can view our website at RevelationsCounselingWellness.com We hope to see you soon and we look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey! n
AHN Wexford Hospital Pediatric Services
Playing an Integral Role in Children’s Health
By Janice Lane Palko
“This was the worst season for respiratory illness since 2009, when we experienced the swine flu pandemic,” said Evelina Krieger, M.D., Director of Inpatient Pediatric Services at Wexford Hospital. “Influenza A was the first to appear, and that was followed by respiratory syncytial virus or RSV. Then we had a late arrival of Influenza B. Many of the area hospitals were overrun with patients, and fortunately, we were able to step in and step up to treat many pediatric patients.”
In the fall of 2023, AHN Wexford Hospital expanded its Pediatric Services to provide cutting-edge medical care in a family- and child-friendly setting. On staff are five full-time Pediatric Hospitalists, which is a sub-specialty where doctors only see children in a hospital setting. They provide care 24-7, year-round.
“In addition to the pediatric hospitalists, we have a team of nurses experienced in pediatrics,” said Karla Mackowski, MSN, RN, Nurse Manager, Pediatrics, who said they treat children from newborn to 18 years, and are able to treat common pediatric illnesses, asthma, pneumonia, dehydration and sports injuries, and they can also provide IV antibiotics and oxygen.
All rooms at AHN are private rooms. Pediatric patients who require an overnight stay, whether from orthopaedics, ENT, or as the result of a visit to the emergency room, AHN Wexford is prepared to accommodate pediatric needs. The hospital accommodates two surgical lines –Orthopaedics and ENT as well as being able to admit patients directly from the Emergency Department.
“The Emergency Department is geared to treating children and is very competent at placing pediatric IVs, and we have a Child Life Specialist on staff as well to
facilitate that your child has the best treatment and experience while here,” said Ms. Mackowski.
Children can be admitted either through the Emergency Department or by their own pediatrician requesting admittance.
This winter with the outbreak of respiratory illnesses, Wexford Hospital stepped up their pediatric services to treat the children presenting in the ED. “We don’t usually provide intermediate care modalities, but we instituted increased respiratory support such as high-flow nasal cannula for the significantly ill children,” said Dr. Krieger, who noted that their six pediatric-capable beds were able to accommodate the children to a good outcome. “Most of the children treated spent 1-4 days in the hospital.”
Everything about Wexford’s Pediatric Services was designed and planned with purpose. Nearby is a playroom, and a Physical and Occupational Therapy gym. The space also offers the Make Room for Kids program, an extension of the Lemieux Foundation’s Austin’s Playroom Project. This gives patients access to gaming and other multimedia resources during their hospital stay.
Even the food served was created with children in mind. “We have a pediatric menu and can accommodate special diets, among them vegan, kosher, gluten-free
as well as allergy-free items,” said Ms. Mackowski.
AHN Wexford Hospital also has a Neurodivergent Adaptive Care Program. “It is estimated that 15% of kids have some neurodivergence, and we can make notes in the child’s EPIC file to address that and offer decreased stimulation or increased—whatever the child needs,” said Dr. Krieger.
“We have a four-foot lighted bubble tube with fiber optic lights that helps to distract and calm the children,” said Ms. Mackowski. “We are so proud of this space and the care we provide.”
Wexford’s Pediatric Services has consistently received excellent ratings from patient satisfaction scores and from Press Ganey, a survey that helps health care organizations assess their patients’ satisfaction, which is all well and good, but when you get excellent feedback from parents and children who have been treated there, that carries even more importance.
For more information about AHN Wexford Hospital and its Pediatric Services, visit the website at: www.ahn.org/wexford n
Little patients have little patience.
AHN Wexford Hospital has kids care close to you, including an ER with short wait times. Because the sooner they get seen, the sooner you’ll both breathe easier. See all our pediatric services at ahn.org/wexfordkids.
Master Krista Kaminski, 33-Time World Champion to Compete in Two World Championships
By Janice Lane Palko
For a time back in the 1970s, Pittsburgh was known as the City of Champions. That nickname has slowly faded as the last championship won by a professional sports team was 2017, when the Penguins won the Stanley Cup. However, there is a champion living in the area whose remarkable career is going under the radar and that is Master Krista Kaminski.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)
Master Krista, 53, of Wexford, is a sixth-degree black belt in Taekwondo and a Master Instructor in the American Taekwondo Association (ATA), which is the largest martial arts organization in the world. Not only that, but she is also a 33-time World Champion in the ATA.
Master Krista trains at Kaminski’s ATA Black Belt Academy, in Allison Park, which her husband, Chief Master Kevin Kaminski, an eighth-degree Black Belt in ATA, owns.
A former University of Pittsburgh cheerleader, Master Krista has always been physically active and competitive. “I have a strong competitive urge, and I don’t feel fully alive unless I’m setting goals, training, and competing,” she said.
In addition to excelling in martial arts, Master Krista is also a Physical Therapist and a Certified Sport Performance Training Specialist, assisting other athletes to compete and achieve their goals. “I work locally as a physical therapist and coach, but I travel the world providing training and educational seminars for athletes. I specialize in injury prevention and sports performance training,” said Master Krista.
The mother of two grown sons, who are also black belts, she achieved her first black belt in 2008. “It took me three years to become a first-degree black belt, and most people don’t realize that to become a second-degree black, it takes two years, and a third-degree means three more years of training, instruction, and testing and so on. So, it took me
six years to go from a fifth degree to sixth degree,” she explained.
The ATA competition events feature sparring, combat, weapon, and forms, and she recently won the United States Masters Cup in Olympic sparring, which qualified her to compete in May in Taipei City, Taiwan, in the World Masters Games. Like the Olympics, these games occur every four years and encompass many Olympic sports, but they are for athletes 35 years of age and older. “I will be competing for the world title in Olympic sparring,” said Master Krista.
At present, she is ranked No. 1 in the world in sparring and combat, and she will also compete in July in Phoenix, Arizona, at the World Championships for the American Taekwondo Association. “So, there are two world titles in two different competitions I am training to compete in,” said Master Krista.
To compete and excel in world competition events, she maintains a rigorous training schedule, one that seeks to prevent injuries. “I focus on strength and agility four days a week. And then I do actual combat sparring two-three times a week,” she said.
“It is my belief that consistency is the key to a healthy lifestyle and the key to the ability to remain active and competitive in sports and fitness while preventing injuries,” said Master Krista.
Northern Connection magazine wishes Master Krista the best of luck in both competitions. n
School Movers & Shakers
Mars Area
A plaque recognizing 1941 Mars graduate and Tuskegee Airman Carl J. Woods Jr. was erected outside Mars VFW Post 7505 as part of an Eagle Scout project completed by Mars Area High School senior Jack Riggio.
Mars Area Middle School
Junior High wrestlers
Grayson Joseph and Parker Joseph placed in the 2025 Keystone State Championships.
Mars Area High School sophomore Alex Hutchens was selected as finalist for the FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) FIRST Dean’s List Award.
Mars Area Centennial School sixth graders and members of Cadette
Girl Scout Troop #28850, (from left) Nina Szudera, Grace Carnicelli, Hannah Wolfe, Jill Julian, Katherine Wyman, (not pictured) Elise Balazs and Kaylen Ralph, received The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh’s Jon A. Douglas Philanthropy Award for helping foster children.
Mars Area Centennial School sixth-grader Caris Hartman took first place in the Chip competition at the 2025 Drive, Chip & Putt National Finals, held April 6 at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia.
Mars Area Elementary School fourth-grader Addison Smith made her network television debut in an episode of the CBS television drama, FBI: Most Wanted, on Tuesday, March 18.
Fox Chapel
An A.W. Beattie Career Center and Fox Chapel Area High School senior placed at the SkillsUSA Pennsylvania competition. Gretchen Shelestak won a third-place bronze medal in the cosmetology category and is enrolled in Beattie’s cosmetology program.
Fox Chapel Area High School junior Ori Goldin was named the first-place winner of both the state and Allegheny County American Legion Essay Contest. The essay topic was “Why is the 1st Amendment Important in America?”. Essays were judged on proper English structure, accuracy, the extent of the information, and originality.
Fox Chapel Area High School junior Mariana Ramirez has been named one of two winners of the 2025 Luminari Award. As a 2025 Luminari Award Scholar, Mariana will receive a scholarship, worth more than $1,200, to attend Luminari’s “I Want to be an Ambassador!” camp June 10-18 in Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.
Fox Chapel Area High School
senior Luca Poli and junior Laila Golla were named 2024-2025 High School All-American Strength and Conditioning Athletes of the Year by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
Two Dorseyville Middle School students were named MathCON 2025 finalists. Shengfeng Fei and Brian Xu each earned 285/300 points in the online test in March and ranked in the 99th percentile. Both have secured a spot in the MathCON Finals that will be held May 10 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago where they will compete with North America’s brightest mathletes.
Aquinas Academy
The Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh’s High School Mock Trial team were Co-Champions and advanced to the State Finals competition. Aquinas Academy was undefeated in Allegheny County. They placed fifth at the State Competition which took place on March 28 and 29 at the Dauphin County Courthouse in Harrisburg. Aquinas Academy’s team included seniors Brynn Burnsworth, Anne Dolan, Lucy Fowler, Samuel McGowan, John Ortiz, Alice Rothfus, and Clara You. The Pennsylvania Mock Trial Competition is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association Young Lawyers Division.
Saint Joseph High School
Saint Joseph High School congratulates Domenic Dellemonache, Isabella Graff, Louisa Palumbo, Martin Stickney, and Vanessa Schneider for being named as 2025 Carson Scholars.
Saint Joseph High School (SJHS) has named three recipients for its 2025 Spirit of Saint Joseph Awards including: Dr. Rosanne Granieri, Larry Klukaszewski ‘88, and the One in a Million Endowment Campaign Leadership (Toby ‘66 & Melanie Maloney & Dr. G. Alan ‘66 & JoEllen Yeasted). Saint Joseph High School will present these awards at a dinner and ceremony on the evening of Saturday, May 17, at Oakmont Country Club.
Pittsburgh Youth Chorus
Join us in our commitment to increasing accessibility to the rich experiences, growth, and lifelong benefits offered by participation in choral music by attending “A Million Dreams” on Wednesday, June 18.
Pittsburgh Youth Chorus is the premier chorus for young singers in Pittsburgh, PA and creates a space for all young people to experience the magic of music-making. Through its choirs for grades 1–12 and wide-ranging artistic collaborations, PYC opens pathways for young people to become part of Pittsburgh’s musical community. PYC partners with world-class artists and organizations within and beyond Pittsburgh, offering singers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to collaborate with professional musicians and perform a range of repertoire. Recent examples include “The Little Prince” with Resonance Works, “Holiday POPS!” with the Pittsburgh Symphony, and “Tosca” with the Pittsburgh Opera. We want every young person in Pittsburgh to have such opportunities, and we strive to remove barriers to our programs, including financial ones. Every year, PYC offers membership to young people from families who demonstrate the need for scholarships and financial assistance, totaling upwards of $50,000.
“A Million Dreams” will take place at the beautiful Greystone Fields in Gibsonia, PA. Guests will enjoy a delicious sit-down meal and the opportunity to go home with an array of
unique auction items. The entertainment for the evening will include performances by past and present PYC singers and our headlining musical guests, internationally-renowned opera star, Marianne Cornetti who said, “Being a part of this WONDERFUL evening warms my heart because there are future singers being formed in PYC at this very moment! How exciting is that!” and former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and musical talent, Steven Brault, “My life changed forever when I found theater as a child. It gave me a way to express my creativity, to put myself in uncomfortable situations and grow through the feeling of achievement through performance… and I can’t wait to perform with Pittsburgh Youth Chorus!”
The success of this very special event will help provide financial assistance to many families for seasons to come! Will you help make dreams come true? n
For more information or to purchase tickets visit the website at: www.pittsburghyouthchorus.org or Email:jacqueline@pittsburghyouthchorus.org
THANK YOU, SUFFRAGETTES!!
Shout, shout, up with your song! Cry with the wind for the dawn is breaking; March, march swing you along, Wide blows our banner and hope is waking.
Perhaps it sounds out of sorts and a bit strange for our ears in 2025, but not in 1910, when the song was written and performed. This is the song of suffragettes, March of the Women, who began their long fight for the women’s rights to vote more than a century ago. And they won. In 1920, the 19th Amendment, under pressure from President Wilson was ratified. And the result - the most promising for us ladies, women are equal when it comes to the business world, from small corporations to the large. We can be whoever we want. We can even be a White House press secretary, if we want a twentyfour-hour job. Or Katharine Graham, who was an owner and a publisher of various newspapers, including The Washington Post. And how about, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the first Jewish woman and the second woman to serve as an associate justice
of the Supreme Court. And then, yours truly, me, a business owner, founder and CEO of Izabella’s Gourmet Chow. I started my business educating kids in cooking and languages, and now, I offer classes to adults, and not only that, I work with the disabled, helping them to learn basic life tasks; families who have addicts in the family, cancer patients AND on April 28, my very first book was published, “The One and Only.”
I don’t think my business and my book would have been possible if it weren’t for suffragettes. SO THANK YOU SUFFRAGETTES, you made it possible for us to be who we want to be.
La Dolce Vita! Happy May!! Bravo Women!!!
Until next month! n
May Happenings
Entertainment
Come From Away, May 2-4, at the Benedum. For details, visit TrustArts.org.
Desert Elephants is showing in 3D and 2D through Sept. at the Rangos Cinema at the Carnegie Science Center. For info, visit CarnegieScienceCenter.org.
Free Matinee Movies on Mondays: 2 pm, May 5, The Room Next Door; May 12, Unfrosted; May 19, Break Every Chain; May 26, no movie, Memorial Day; at the Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village in McCandless Twp. For details, visit TheLegacyLineup.com.
Fairs / Festivals
Divine Grace Parish Family Festival, 5-10 pm, Aug. 8 & 9, and 4-9 pm, Aug. 10, St. Ferdinand Church, Cranberry Township. Live entertainment, nightly dinners, White Elephant sale & rides. To learn more, visit parishfamilyfestival.org.
Pittsburgh Power and Fitness Festival, May 10-11, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown. For details, visit pittspowerfit.com.
Fundraisers
Cindystock 22, Saturday, Aug. 16. This year’s line-up of stellar bands include Incendio, Kyshona, Bobby Thompson & the Chosen Few and Jim Relja. There will also be great food and a wonderful silent auction. For details, visit CindyStock.org.
For the Love of Books, 10 am-2 pm, May 31, La Roche University Zappala Center Campus Square, 9000 Babcock Blvd. Meet local authors, books signings, basket raffles, light lunch, supports AAUW. Cost $45. For details, visit wp.me/Pdl2o4-s6.
Hope Grows Victorian Tea, 1-3:30 pm, May 18, Omni William Penn Hotel. For details, visit hopegrows.org.
Pittsburgh Youth Chorus, A Million Dreams, 5:30 pm, June 18, Greystone Fields, 4085 Sandy Hill Rd., Gibsonia. Fundraising gala to support PYC’s Scholarship & Tuition Assistance Fund. For info, visit www.pittsburghyouthchorus.org/amilliondreams2025.
Where To Turn Resource Fair, 9 am-1 pm, June 17 & Sept. 9, at Duquesne University Power Center. For info, visit lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/.
Gala
Shake Your Booties Masquerade
Gala, presented by Children’s Home & Lemieux Family Center, Saturday, May 10, at Rivers Casino. For info, visit www. childrenshomepgh.org/SYB.
Gardening
Big Bugs & the Mighty Pollinators art installation is a collaboration with the Cranberry Yarn Creations group and the Southern Butler County Garden Club (SBCGC). The project will be unveiled during National Pollinator Week June 16-22, at Cranberry Township Community Days at Graham Park. It will be on display at the group’s Annual Garden tour on Saturday, June 28.
Ingomar Garden Club Plant Sale, 9 am-2 pm, Saturday, May 10, Town Green at McCandless Crossing. Perennials, annuals, hanging baskets, herbs, and vegetables, plus a large flea Market. For info, www.ingomargarden-club.com.
Southern Butler County Garden Club’s 17th Annual Garden Tour, 9 am-3 pm, Saturday, June 28. Six gardens on the tour. Registration and Day of Event ticket sales are from 9 am to 10 am only at The Cranberry Twp. Municipal Center, 2525 Rochester Road, Cranberry Twp. For info, call: Linda at (412) 335-0550 or visit www.southernbutlercountygardenclub.org.
Historical / Library
Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Roundtable, The Hardest Campaign Ever Inaugurated: Hunter’s Retreat From Lynchburg, presented by Jon-Erik Gilot, 7 pm, Monday, May 19, at Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Road, Allison Park. Presentation is free and open to the public.
Northland Library has numerous events scheduled for May. For a complete list of events, visit northlandlibrary.org.
Markets
Block Northway Farmers Market produced in partnership with I Made It! Market, every Thurs., 3-7 pm, June 5-Sept. 25. Fresh farm-to-table food and vendors: Jodikinos Farms, Binko’s Pepper Sauce, Couldn’t BEE Better Honey, Wednesday Snacks, Glencoe Gourmet, A Sweet Morsel Co., Boyd and Blair, and many more. For info, visit www.theblocknorthway.com.
Town Square Market Cranberry Township Grand Opening, 3-7 pm, June 6, at the Cranberry Township Municipal Building, along the walkways of the Armstrong Great Lawn. Every Friday in the summer: food trucks, live music and special-themed events. For info, visit cranberrytownship.org/3198/ Town-Square-Market.
Meals / Nutrition
Free Community Meal First Monday Meal, 5-7 pm each 1st Monday of the Month at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1719 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. Meal includes entrée, starch, vegetable, salad, homemade dessert, drink. Open to the public. For info, Call (412) 4860550.
Networking / Social
Cranberry Township 55+ Club meets 1 pm the 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center. Members must be residents of Cranberry Township. The Club features activities, social opportunities, and visits to nearby points of interest. For info, contact Frank at (724) 3165807.
Glenshaw AARP 3744 meets at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, Mt. Royal Blvd. 2 pm, second Tuesday of the month. Call (412) 4871041 for more info.
Sealarks Women’s Group meeting, 1 pm, May 14, at Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Rd, McCandless. Topic: The Great Pittsburgh Fire of 1845 by Carol Kunz. Sealarks provides Christian fellowship and social activity for women alone, new members are welcome. For info, contact Edie at (412) 487-7194.
UPMC Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Membership Opportunities! Are you looking for a stimulating opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals—UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Then join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets at 10
2025 Summer
PASSES
am the 2nd Monday of each month (Sept. through June). New members are always welcome! For more info, visit passavanthospitalfoundation.org/. Call (412) 748-6639 if you plan to attend a meeting.
Recreational
The Edgeworth Bridge Club is sponsoring POP-UP Bridge game, 2-5 pm, June 29. The games will be hosted by The Lindsay Theater and Cultural Center in their Community Room, 418 Walnut St, Sewickley. For questions, email EdgeworthBridgeClub@gmail. com.
Reunions
General Braddock Area High School Class of 1975 Reunion, 6:30 pm, Friday, Sept. 19, Edgewood Country Club. If interested, contact Cindy Blasko at (412) 824-9272.
Sales
Flea Market, 8 am-3 pm, July 11 & July 12, with half-price sale 12-3 pm on Jul 12, at Sts. Martha and Mary Parish at St. Richard Church Social Hall, 3841 Dickey Rd, Gibsonia. Huge selection of kitchen and dining items, jewelry, purses, books, toys, holiday and home decor, and much more.
Rummage Sales, 8 am-2 pm, May 3, and 10 am-2 pm, May 4, St Aloysius Campus, 3616 Mt. Troy Rd., Reserve Twp. Huge selection of kitchen items, jewelry, books, seasonal items, clothing etc. Bake goods available on Saturday. If you have furniture to donate, call Deb at (412) 337-1713.
Treasures & Furniture Sale, 9 am-2 pm, May 17, at the Holy Spirit Campus, 608 Farragut St. Features six rooms of collectibles, religious items, holiday treasures, linens, framed artwork & furniture. For more info, call Deb at (412) 337-1713.
Vintage Market is a non-profit store in Shaler that benefits The Blessing Board. Open 10 am-3 pm every Th/F/Sat in the Shaler Plaza, 880 Butler Street & Rt. 8 (look for the gray door between Rite Aid & Planet Fitness).
Sports
Fox Chapel Area School District Unified eSports tournament with the partner school districts, 5-7 pm, May 8, at O’Hara Elementary School. For details, visit www.fcasd.edu.
MEGA Sports and Creative Arts Day Camp, 9 am-2 pm, June 16-21, hosted by Northgate Church, 238 West View Avenue, Ross Twp. For kids entering 1st-5th grades. Registration is required with early registration recommended at www.northgatechurch.com/mega.
Summer Camps
Carnegie Science Center Summer Camps for age 4-14, June 9-Aug. 22. For details, email customerservice@ CarnegieScienceCenter.org or call (412) 2373400.
International Conservation Center (ICC) has various summer camps: June 16-July 8; June 18-July 18; June 23-July 18, Somerset County. The events are sponsored by the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium. For details, visit www.pittsburghzoo.org/icc/icc-summer-camp/.
Summer Singer Day Camp presented by Pittsburgh Youth Chorus, 9 am-3 pm, June 16-20, at Duquesne University. For ages 7-10, singing, dance, acting, creative movement and more. For details, visit www.pittsburghyouthchorus.org/summersingerscamppgh.
Come Visit AmSpirit McCandless!
We meet every Wednesday from 12–1:15 PM at Shooters Golf in McCandless. It’s a great chance to connect with local professionals, share referrals, and grow your business. Stop by and see what we’re all about — no pressure, just great people!
For more info, contact Jill at jill.sutter@pittsburghmoves.com.
You “May” be Surprised When to Plant
By Ron Eichner
Hey folks, May is a month of 31 days. The daylight time increases every day and outdoor activities increase. The days are packed full of many ups and downs. As a professional “guardian angel,” my job is to guide my loyal farm and greenhouse customers with knowledge passed on to me from my grandparents and parents regarding Mother Nature’s experience. You can have unseasonal warm sunny days that warm the soil, and then you could get a string of cold rains that strips all of the warm temperature gains to the soil. If you plant too early, the outcome could be disastrous.
For decades, the big box stores have pushed spring garden sales on flowers and vegetables around mid-April. This spring, the plant sales started on April 2, two weeks earlier. The box stores are focused on separating the customers from their hard-earned incomes by tempting them with their in-store garden centers filled with colorful products. Planting too early can hinder the plants and your gardening experience, so maybe step back and garden for success.
One question is what’s the difference between frosts and freezes? A frost generally happens when the air temperature is between 32º and 36º F. A freeze happens when the air temperatures dips below 32º. Freezes still damage annuals and vegetable plants. Looking at the Weather Channel May’s monthly temperatures, they predict nightly temperature freezes on May 6, 7, 8, 12, and 16. Keep in mind the full moon is May 12, and the full moon theories are a story within itself.
So, if you purchase plants too early against decades of gardening wisdom, there may be lessons learned. For decades, hanging basket sales started with gifts for moms on Mother’s Day. Then, look ahead ten to 14 days and see how the weather temperatures and chances of rain are forecasted. When you get into late May and early June, there is no guess work, it’s all go.
Bring your kids and grandkids to see our spring births of lambs, calves, and piglets.
Mother’s Day is May 11. It is truly one of the top celebration days. We all came into this world by way of our moms. It’s a day to recognize and honor mothers, motherhood, and nature’s bond as well as their positive contributions to their families, friends and society.
Memorial Day is May 26. Originally known as Decoration Day, it is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning our military service members who died serving our country.
May is when yards, gardens, and farms come to life with the smells and sounds of spring. The lawns start to grow, and the sounds of lawnmowers are in the air. Nature and trees are pushing out pollen, which can be problematic. Keep in mind that local
honey can be a solution to allergies. If you want to plant your gardens and flowers, and get them done, then get a tip from me on when to plant for decades in May. Be sure to get well into May with a 10-day future forecast of temperatures. Like I said earlier in the story, late May should be the focus, and it truly is the planting schedule for decades of gardening.
Pansies and violas can be safely planted in April into early May, if hardened by the garden by the grower. They can endure frost and freezes. One of the biggest growing problems customers come to me with is their poor selection of potting soil. We have exclusively used Pitt Moss for six years, and we also sell it to our customers. Our greenhouses will have colorful hanging baskets for Mother’s Day and continue to have a nice selection of annuals, herbs, vegetable plants, and potted plants. We not only grow and sell for successful gardening; we will
also offer free advice for our customers. There are no stupid questions, but there can be many stupid answers. Our farm market is stocked with fresh farm eggs, beef, lamb, and pork products, vegetables, local honey and maple syrup, homemade cookies, biscotti, chocolate candy, and fudge.
Our mom, Vi Eichner, passed away on Thursday, April 10, at 5:00 p.m., and as a full-time family farm member, she contributed along with our dad for over seven decades. As our thirdgeneration family members, they will be missed but never forgotten for how they lived their lives providing for our farm and our valued family friends and year-round customers. They were both always around our farm, farm market, and greenhouses. They were true ambassadors for our family farm and the community. God created our mom and dad. They were separated for four ½ years, and on April 10, in God’s plan, he ended their earthly separation,
and they are again united as one. Don, Gary, Diane, and I want to thank all who reached out during this time of celebration for Mom.
Our family farm wants to wish all the moms a Blessed and Happy Mother’s Day. We are nestled in a valley, and our farm market and greenhouses are open seven days a week. We welcome you all to come and visit Eichner’s Whole Farm and Greenhouses at 285 Richard Road, Wexford, to experience farm-fresh and discover “the rest of the story.” n
Proud to support the neighborhood
Being a good neighbor means being there for my community. As your local State Farm® agent, I'm ready to help whenever you need me. Give me a call.
“Life is a salad of choices: make it fresh, make it colorful, and savor every bite.” ~ Unknown
Salads are incredibly versatile and delicious! They can serve as either a side dish or a main meal, and they’re excellent sources of fiber that aid digestion. May is National Salad Month, making it the perfect time to enjoy more greens and indulge in this delightful dish.
Salads come in several types - green salads include lettuce, kale, spinach, arugula, or mixed greens. They can be enhanced by adding vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, cheese, and crunchy croutons.
Vegetable salads are filled with hearty vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, beets, and cucumbers. Cabbage is another excellent choice—coleslaw qualifies as a salad. A seven-layered salad utilizes a variety of vegetables, and it’s also nice and colorful. Caprese is an Italian salad prepared with sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, salt and olive oil.
Bound salads are held together by a thick dressing, often mayonnaise, these salads can be eaten with a spoon or served on a plate. Examples include potato, macaroni, tuna, ham, egg, and chicken salads.
Fruit and dessert salads are staples at summer picnics and enjoyable year-round. Strawberry pretzel Jello salad is a delightful side dish, and cranberry salad is a favorite during Thanksgiving gatherings.
What is a salad without delicious dressing? A Caesar salad is flavorful due to a dressing made with mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and anchovy paste. Spinach salads are complimented with a hot bacon dressing. Taco salads pair perfectly with Catalina dressing, while pasta salads get their zest from Italian dressing.
The most popular salad dressing in the U.S. is ranch. Not only does ranch dressing taste great on salads, but it also makes an excellent dip! Other flavorful dressing includes balsamic vinaigrette, Italian dressing, French dressing, bleu cheese, and oil and vinegar.
Finally, when you talk in gibberish that is called a “word salad.” Now that we’ve tossed around salad facts, let-tuce address a culinary query. Get ready to put on your thinking caps because it’s time for some trivia!.
1. This American salad contains the principal ingredients of apples, celery, and walnuts.
2. Name the dessert salad that has pineapple, mandarin oranges, coconut, nuts, whipped cream and miniature marshmallows.
3. The Brown Derby Restaurant owner in Los Angeles created this salad made up of lettuce, tomato, bacon, chicken, hard-boiled egg, avocado, baby corn, chive and Roquefort cheese.
4. A Greek salad includes tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and olive oil. What type of cheese does it contain?
5. Nicoise salads are made with canned tuna, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, olives, green beans, lettuce and a vinaigrette dressing. What European country originated this dish?
6. Which salad dressing consists of mayonnaise, tomato puree or ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped pickles? It’s great on Reuben sandwiches.
7. This colorful salad has Romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, corn, green onions, black beans, cheddar cheese, a pinch of lime juice, crushed tortilla chips, topped with a ranch/taco-seasoned dressing.
8. This delicious salad has lettuce topped with tomatoes or other vegetables, pieces of beef steak or grilled chicken, and crispy French fries.
9. Watergate salad is made of pineapple, miniature marshmallows, walnuts, whipped topping and what type of pudding?
10. A quarter hunk of iceberg lettuce topped with bacon crumbles, onion, tomatoes and a cream dressing is what type of salad?
11. This salad has salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and cheeses.
12. American salad that combines lettuce with chopped vegetables and proteins like smoked turkey, roast beef, ham, cheese, and hard-boiled eggs.
13. It is referred to as “the king of salads,” featuring crab meat, hard-boiled eggs, tomato, and asparagus, served on a bed of lettuce and topped with Thousand Island dressing.
14. This classic Tuscan salad has ripe tomatoes, cucumber, basil, and toasted bread.
15. Name the TV comedy with a theme song about tossed salad and scrambled eggs. n
Memorial Day has been a significant part of American life for the past 157 years. It was first recognized in 1868 and became a federal holiday in 1971. This special day is observed on the last Monday of May to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. This year, Memorial Day will be observed on Monday, May 26.
Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday began as a way to honor those who lost their lives during the Civil War. However, after World War I, it evolved to commemorate all American military personnel who have died in various conflicts, including World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War.
The Veterans Leadership Program, in partnership with GCXC Racing Pittsburgh, is sponsoring a Memorial Day Remembrance Run. The event features a 10K, 5K, and 1-Mile Walk, scheduled for Saturday, May 24, at 9 a.m., taking place at the North Park Boathouse. For more information or to register, visit runsignup. com/Race/PA/AllisonPark/MemorialDayRemembranceRun.
Additionally, the Prospect Borough Memorial Day Parade and Community Day will also be held on Saturday, May 24. Children’s activities will kick off at 3 p.m., followed by the parade at 4 p.m. on and around Prospect Borough Main Street. A spectacular fireworks display is set for 8:30 p.m. For further details, visit prospectborough.com/calendar-of-events.
Furthermore, Pittsburgh Hires Veterans is organizing a Veteran Memorial Bike Tour from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 24, at Helicon Brewing, located at 102 Union Avenue in Oakdale. The tour will follow the Panhandle Trail and provide opportunities to view veteran memorials. For more information, visit pittsburghhiresveterans.org/bike-tour/.
The Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum will host a Memorial Day Ceremony and Celebration from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, May 26. The event will honor those who have served our country with a variety of activities, contests, entertainment, and refreshments. There will be an all-day tribute to Fallen Post-9/11 Pennsylvania Veterans, along with free museum tours available for visitors.
Additionally, Soldiers & Sailors will observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m., an annual event that encourages Americans to pause for one minute, wherever they may be, to remember those who have died in military service to the United States. For more information, please visit www.soldiersandsailorshall.org/event/memorial-day-ceremony-celebration.
Following Memorial Day, Rocky Bleier’s “Call for the Greatest Generation” will take place at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 6, at Stage AE, located at 400 North Shore Drive in Pittsburgh. Be sure to mark your calendars for this special event, which will pay tribute to the Centenarian Veterans of World War II and commemorate the 250th birthday of the United States Army. For more information, visit www.eventbrite. com/e/rocky-bleiers-roll-call-for-the-greatest-generation-tickets.
Northern Connection magazine honors and salutes all of our fallen heroes and expresses gratitude to all military personnel for their courageous service in defending our country and our freedoms. n
Back when Saturday Night Live started, there was a skit called “The Thing that Wouldn’t Leave.” It was a spoof of horror movies and featured John Belushi as the “monster,” an overbearing, inconsiderate house guest who didn’t know when it was time to go home. He terrorized his hosts, Jane Curtin and Bill Murray, by making them stay up past their bedtime, watching long movies on their television, and making long distance phone calls on their home phone. They would shriek each time Belushi missed their clue that it was time for him to go.
Sometimes it’s hard to know when to leave, especially when you like the company you’re keeping as it is here with my job as editor. However, I turned 65 last month (I can’t believe that!), and I’ve decided to step down as the magazine’s Executive Editor.
I started back in December 2005 and aside from four years doing other writing assignments, I’ve been here for two decades.
When you start out writing, it’s so difficult to get a paying job in the field, and thanks to Marion Piotrowski, our Publisher Emeritus, she took me on and let me do my “dream job.” I’ve interviewed so many
interesting people from sports stars to celebrities to just regular people doing extraordinary things. I’ve been allowed to put whatever has been on my mind on the page, and I’ve heard from many of you how much you enjoyed what I wrote, which was gratifying.
When I started, Laura Arnold, who is now at the helm of the magazine, was a recent college grad, and I was still in my forties, with my twins being freshmen in college. I remember when our sister magazine, Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus, launched, and I thought that it was for old people. Now Laura is in her forties and a mom, and I’m a grandma and the perfect demographic
for the senior magazine! Time does fly.
The hardest part of stepping down is not being a part of the “team,” which includes my co-workers Mary Simpson and Paula Green. They are not only coworkers but friends. That also includes Tim Kostilnik, our graphic designer.
You can’t see it on the pages of the magazine, but Marion and Laura are the nicest, kindest, upstanding people I’ve ever worked for.
Needless to say, it’s with mixed emotions that I step down, but Laura and I have struck a deal, I’ll write a monthly column on senior issues, which will allow me to still be in touch with them and to write, which I love, while giving up the editing responsibilities.
My biggest fear is of overstaying my welcome. I don’t want to be the “Thing that Wouldn’t Leave.” I’d like to be more like circus master P.T. Barnum, who quipped, “always leave them wanting more.
So, as we transition, I hope you keep wanting more from and reading Northern Connection and Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus, and I’ll see you over in the Senior Section. n
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