November 2016 Issue - Northern Connection Magazine

2016 Holiday Guide

YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2016

Explore DePaul School for Speech & Hearing New Section!

All Things Pets

Presidential Campaign Slogans Trivia

Festival of Trees Keeps the Active in Activities

It’s good to be KING! Coming Events:

LIVE MUSIC with Shelley Duff NOVEMBER 4, 2016 @ 9:00pm DECEMBER 2, 2016 @ 9:00pm DECEMBER 23, 2016 @ 9:00pm

LABATT BLUE EVENT! WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 from 8-10pm The Labatt Blue Girls will be here with lots of swag and some Penguins giveaways!

Gift Certificates Available for the Holidays!

Thank you for voting us “King of the Wings!”

2016 People’s Choice – Best Overall Wings Stop in today and try our award-winning recipes 10501 Perry Highway • Wexford Flats www.wexfordalehouseonline.com

724-935-9870

C E LEBRA TING

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YEARS!

$5 off

a $20 Lunch Purchase Weekdays M-F 11am-4pm Coupon must be presented at time of purchase.

Not valid on alcohol. Expires November 30, 2016.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Contents NORTHERN CONNECTION 30

CONTENTS | November 2016

Features

2016 Holiday Guide

10 Cover Story: Listen...Do You Want To Know a Secret? - The DePaul School for Hearing and Speech

32 Celebrating the Festival of Trees with Hosanna Industries

12 The Children’s Home Provides Three Unique Programs to Establish and Strengthen Families

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From the Publisher Marion Piotrowski

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Movers & Shakers

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Mover & Shaker of the Month Dr. Bridget Chufo

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Support Our Troops: November is a Special Time to Honor & Recognize Our Veterans Paula Green

36 Starting the Conversation: Should Retail Stores Be Open for Thanksgiving? Marianne Reid Anderson 38 November 2016 Happenings 45 Trivia Connection: Presidential Campaign Slogans Trivia Paula Green

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34 Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland Returns to Big Butler Fairgrounds This Holiday Season

13 Focus on National Adoption Month

35 Singers Wanted for Cahal Dunne’s Pop Music ChoirPlay

Kids & Education

All Things Pets

14 Tape a Teacher Fundraiser

42 Building Hope for Struggling Pet Owners Kathleen Beaver

14 The Glen Montessori School Community Celebrates 30 Years 15 Saint Alexis Prepares for Trip to Holocaust Museum

In Every Issue...

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43 Affordable Pet Care is Available at the Spay Neuter Clinic

16 School Movers & Shakers

Advertorials

18 The School at McGuire Memorial

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Image & Style 20 7 Wardrobe Pieces to SKIMP or SPLURGE Kelly Smith

Health & Wellness 22 Fit Families: The Holiday Downward Spiral Joella Baker 25 Local Therapist Instrumental in New Technique

Senior Living 27 Happenings for Seniors 28 Town Crier: Nudging Through November Joe Bullick 30 UPMC Senior Communities Keeps the “Active” in “Activities”

NC November 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

The Power of Independence Donna Kline, MBA, CDFA

21 Lose Up To 30 Lbs. in 30 Days

Dr. Michael Vactor, D.C. 24 Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey 27 Caring for Concussions

Dr. Shannon Thieroff

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Welcome PUBLISHER NOTES | November 2016

Welcome to the November issue of Northern Connection magazine!

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

I

n November, we welcome the start of the Holiday Season with Thanksgiving, right around the corner. This month’s Happenings section features many fun holiday activities and events that you and your family will enjoy throughout the season! Specifically, we at Northern Connection are proud to be the 2016 Media Sponsor for Hosanna Industries’ Festival of Trees. Be sure and check out the article explaining this amazing event of this amazing charity and the work they do.

This month’s cover story features DePaul’s School for Hearing & Speech.

This school gives so much to children who are deaf and hard of hearing so they can achieve the gift of hearing and the ability to live a “normal” life. It is amazing and heartwarming to read about all that the schools talented teachers, knowledge and technology have done for the students and their families.

Family is one of the greatest gifts to be thankful for, and adoption agencies have brought so many families together and helped so many parents and children live in a home that is blessed with the love of a family. November is National Adoption month and so this issue “The smallest good of Northern Connection magazine deed is better than features articles on adoptions and the grandest good adoption services.

Adopt-a-Pet is also celebrated in intention.”

November and, of course, so many Duquet of us know the joy, companionship and love that a pet can bring into our homes. Be sure to check out Northern Connection magazine’s special feature, “All Things Pets” if you are interested in adopting a pet!

Enjoy reading all the special features along with Northern Connection’s regular monthly columns.

This is a great time of year to remind ourselves and be thankful for the many blessings that we have in our lives.

Thank all of you for your continued support. Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! lll

Coming in December 17th Annual Holiday Guide

Coming in January 2017 Education Issue Call (724) 940-2444 today to reserve your ad space Email: northcon@consolidated.net

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

Laura Arnold laura@northernconnectionmag.com

President & Publisher

Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor

Marianne Reid Anderson Managing Editor/ Public Relations Coordinator

Paula M. Green Mary Simpson marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator

Laura Lyn Arnold Marketing & Account Executive

Mary L. Simpson Design & Production

Kostilnik & Assoc., Inc. Web Master

Swanson Publishing Company Marianne Reid Anderson ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Core Writers

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

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer Dominion Distribution Paula Green ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

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

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

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

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

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You Can Get Rid of that Unwanted Belly Weight AND have a Toned Body with Dr. Chufo!

Any change is hard, but losing fat with Dr. Chufo is easy. It is somewhat simple to lose weight, but the entire key to losing weight is to keep it off and get rid of the old “yo-yo” syndrome. Dr. Chufo starts on day one planning with you for 10 years from now. She gives you more food to eat than you could ever imagine, supplements that give you lots of energy without feeling nervous or jittery, and works each week with you, one-on-one, herself.

When you have unlimited foods, help to suppress your appetite, and a life coach (Dr. Chufo) who will work personally with you until you get the weight off and keep it off for at least 30 more weeks, how can you not beat the “battle of the bulge?” We’ve done it all and if she can’t get it off after doing this for 36 years, believe me, no one can! You leave her office feeling a million times better and more motivated than you thought was possible!

“Dr Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness Center is a phenomenal place to go if you want to lose weight. I was feeling very poorly about the way I looked and felt, so I decided to stop in. I had tried everything, you name it I tried it. I was discouraged and didn’t think I could ever lose weight. As soon as I walked into her office I felt like a friend.

She was so positive and upbeat about everything.

Long story short, I have lost 21 pounds and a total of 25.5 inches in 8 weeks and feel amazing. My cloths fit better and I feel great!” Kim C.

“I feel 10 years younger and love the way I look now. Dr Chufo’s coaching and supplements helped me stay on track and control my appetite so I could retrain myself to eat better and maintain a great weight while staying “real”. It was not a 500 -700 calorie diet plan. It was a real plan with real food and I was not hungry. I learned to make better choices so that I can maintain this weight for the rest of my life. So far, so good. I’ve maintained for almost 2 years now and I know Dr. Chufo will be there for me if I slip off the wagon.” Barb V.

“I was having trouble losing weight beyond a certain point, and then I’d always gain it back, the few pounds that I did manage to lose. I gave up at this point and started going wild eating again. I saw Dr. Chufo in this magazine and I called and went in to her office in Wexford. I liked what I heard and I especially liked her and her assistant, so I decided to do her program because she said from day 1, it’s a life long way of eating. With Dr. Chufo’s weekly coaching, support, and supplements, I was able to acheive my goals without tracking points or calories or anything. I didn’t feel deprived. I am at the size and weight that I want to be forever. I DEFINITELY RECOMMEND WORKING WITH DR. CHUFO ON YOUR WEIGHT LOSS GOALS.” Rebecca L.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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People

MOVERS & SHAKERS | November 2016

Movers & Shakers Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC will join a group of academic medical centers nationwide that survey for communicable diseases in children and evaluate vaccine effectiveness.

Through a $5 million, five-year grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Children’s will become a New Vaccine Surveillance Network (NVSN) site and collect information on respiratory and gastrointestinal viruses circulating in Allegheny County.

by NIH’s National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS).

Timothy Billiar, M.D., George Vance Foster Professor and chair in the Department of Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and associate medical director, UPMC International, has received the Friendship Award, the highest recognition bestowed by the People’s Republic of China to foreign experts who have made outstanding contributions to the country’s economic and social progress.

Researchers at the UPMC Division of Vascular Surgery and University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering have been awarded a four-year, $2.5 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) for further development of a retrievable stent to treat non-compressible hemorrhages, a major cause of mortality among servicemen and women, as well as civilian gunshot victims.

The Department of Urology at the University Of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has been awarded more than $7.7 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to create an O’Brien Urology Cooperative Research Center.

Two University of Pittsburgh faculty members received awards from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). William R. Stauffer, Ph.D., an assistant professor in Pitt’s Department of Neurobiology and a member of Pitt’s Brain Institute, was awarded an NIH Director’s New Innovator Award. Matthew D. Neal, M.D., an assistant professor of surgery and of critical care medicine at Pitt’s School of Medicine, was selected for a Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award

Melissa Ferraro has been selected as the new executive director of the Lupus Foundation of Pennsylvania.

McAuley Ministries, Pittsburgh Mercy’s grantmaking foundation, has awarded 33 grants totaling $1,991,387 this year to 29 Pittsburgh-area nonprofit organizations to expand outreach initiatives to vulnerable populations.

Allegheny County Council honored the recent graduates of the Community College of Allegheny

County FireVEST scholarship program. They are – Joseph Andrews, Nathan Butala, Melissa Cerda, Eric Darr, John Ebbert, Eric Gartley, Cynthia Gironda, Holly Kendall, Jenna Klousnitzer, Gary Miller, Jettie Eva Parker, Marissa Perelstine, Kenneth Sebastian, Tyler Sergent and Jason Sonafelt.

Local author and Ross Township resident, Janice Lane Palko has recently released the novel Most Highly Favored Daughter. In addition to Most Highly Favored Daughter, she has written the romantic comedy St. Anne’s Day, the Christmas novel, A Shepherd’s Song, and the romantic suspense, Cape Cursed. All four of Palko’s books are available at Amazon.com.

HBK CPAs and Consultants (HBK) announced it has expanded its sponsorship relationship with the Pittsburgh Penguins to the team’s “Official Accounting Firm” as the Penguins celebrate their 50th anniversary as a National Hockey League franchise. HBK became a Penguins sponsor during the 2015 season as the team made its drive to capture the Stanley Cup. Yes, You Can Dance (YYCD) announced that Deborah Rosen Fidel has been hired as the organization’s first full-time executive director. The organization is based in Mt. Lebanon and offers classes in both the South and North Hills, and promotes the physical and emotional wellness of seniors and special-needs teens.

The second phase of Cranberry Township’s 115-acre Graham Park is now underway.

Groundbreaking was held on Oct. 17 at a ceremony that launched the CTCC SportCourts at Graham Park – a joint project of Cranberry Township Community Chest and multiple departments of Cranberry Township’s municipal government.

The Container Store opened on Oct. 8 at The Block Northway. As part of the retailer’s commitment to the local communities, the store donated a percentage of its Grand Opening weekend sales to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Pittsburgh making a contribution totaling $14,500.

Financial-services firm Edward Jones was recognized as one of the Best Workplaces for Women in the country by Great Place to Work® and Fortune magazine, according to financial advisor, Traci Conlon.

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Mover & Shaker of the Month

Dr. Bridget Chufo Vincentian Academy “Women of Courage” Recipient

On Oct. 13, Vincentian Academy held their 5th Annual Academy Awards Gala which captures the spirit of the early days of the Academy as an all-girls school and the lives of two women of courage living in different centuries who serve as inspirations in a powerful blending of the charism of charity. This year’s “Woman of Courage” Award was given to Dr. Bridget Chufo, a 1970 Vincentian alumna. Dr. Chufo stated that she was honored and extremely humbled to be chosen to receive this accolade. “I strive to live the example and reflect the pioneering spirit that this honor represents. I do live by the mantra that anything is possible with hard work, persistence, prayer and a positive attitude.”

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ollowing her graduation from Vincentian, Chufo went on to receive her Bachelor’s in Nursing from Villanova University. She practiced nursing at UPMC in the intensive care settings and the trauma unit. She then attended Duquesne University, received her Master’s Degree in Nursing Administration and Family Health Nursing. She taught Nursing at Duquesne for four years and went on to New York University to earn her Doctorate in Nursing Research in the study of Weight Loss and Obesity, making her a true pioneer in the field.

When asked why she received the Courage Award, Dr. Chufo humbly answered that she was surrounded by family members who extol the meaning of courage through their everyday living and this is how she was raised. Her father was an immigrant and succeeded with all the struggles that coming to a new country entails and made a success of himself, providing a good life for his family. Her mother lived courage by being a 43-year recovering alcoholic and helping thousands live healthy and sober lives. Her husband lived the ultimate meaning of courage by being a US Marine, by being

in combat in Vietnam and receiving the Purple Heart. She smiles and tears up as she recalls their lives together of 28 years and his death just this past February. She lights up as she talks about her children, Max, 24, and Carly, 22. Max has challenges, as society says and is labeled as such, but Chufo says he doesn’t have an unhappy bone in his body and can bring a smile to anyone’s face. Her daughter may be in her early 20’s but appears to have lived a former life, making her more like a 50 year old with all the struggles she has survived in her young life.

Friedrich Nietzsche says, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” Dr. Chufo fully believes in the truth of that statement. She says that she has lived through many endings in her life, but knows that every story has an end, but in life, every end is a new beginning. Dr. Chufo knows that with every major and minor struggle in life, a new and better experience is right around the bend. “Getting over a painful experience is much like crossing monkey bars. You have to let go at some point in order to move forward.” She also fully believes, that with God, all things are possible. She knows this because she has lived emptiness and desperation in her life and has come out on the other side.

Chufo offers hope to all those she comes in contact.

Working with people who have food addictions and struggles, she consistently urges them not to give up and to take one day at a time and it WILL get better and they WILL be a success! She is a coach in every meaning of the word to each and every client she cares for and has been since 1980. She owns and operates Dr. Chufo’s Weight Loss and Wellness Center in Wexford.

Chufo continues her message of courage and hope by being and staying actively involved in several organizations, winning numerous awards and accolades in addition to “Woman of Courage,” and being a guest speaker on television, radio and events. It is no wonder that Dr. Chufo has been selected as Vincentian’s “Woman of Courage” Award, 2016!

To learn more about Dr. Chufo, her many accomplishments and awards, and her highly successful Weight Loss and Wellness Center, visit www.drchufosweightlossandwellness. com. l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Honor

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS | November 2016

November is a Special Time to Honor & Recognize Our Veterans

BY PAULA GREEN

It was the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 when an armistice was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I. The following year, it was commemorated as Armistice Day, and it became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became Veterans Day, a holiday dedicated to American Veterans of all wars.

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eterans Day is commemorated annually on Nov. 11.

Locally, a few school districts have special events slated to honor Veterans. The North Hills School District in sponsoring a special education day on Nov. 4 at North Hills Middle School. The seventh grade students are hosting a roundtable discussion with local military servicemen and women. Students will interview Veterans and hear first-hand accounts about their experiences, and how they have dutifully served our country.

The Hampton Township School District will hold their annual Hampton Heroes program at 9:00 a.m., Nov. 14 at Hampton Middle School auditorium. Since 2001, local Veterans have been honored by the district. About 200 Hampton men and women have been inducted as Hampton

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Heroes and recognized at the Veterans Day program.

The Woodlands Foundation located in Wexford recently partnered with the Professional Golfers’ Association of America’s HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere). This organization utilizes golf as a therapeutic rehabilitation tool for military Veterans. The PGA HOPE held sessions in August and September at the Woodlands. The event included thirteen veterans representing the Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan Wars.

To learn more, visit www.mywoodlands.org.

VA Butler Healthcare recognized the accomplishments of Veterans who are blind or visually impaired. White Cane Safety Day is held annually in the United States on Oct. 15.

It reminds people about how the white cane is an important tool in helping the blind and the visually impaired live with greater independence. VA Butler Healthcare offers a Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) program for Veterans who have vision loss. For more information, call (724) 285-2736 or www.butler.va.gov/services/Visual_Impairment_Services.asp.

VA Butler Healthcare also held their annual Healthy Living Recognition event on Oct. 28. During this special commemoration, Veterans were acknowledged for their success they made towards healthy living choices which results in positive outcomes (improved cholesterol, blood sugar control, weight loss cessation etc…) For more information on this program, call (724) 285-4000 or email Kenneth.Kalberer@va.gov.

Northern Connection magazine wishes all servicemen and woman a happy and healthy Veterans Day! l l l

ADVERTORIAL

The Power of Independence Smart investors choose independent advisory firms over brokerage houses.

BY DONNA KLINE, MBA, CDFA™

W

ells Fargo, one of the nation’s largest banks, has been fined $185 million by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for covertly opening millions of unauthorized deposit and credit card accounts.

According to The New York Times, “For years, Wells Fargo employees secretly issued credit cards without a customer’s consent. They created fake email accounts to sign up customers for online banking services. They set up sham accounts that customers learned about only after they started accumulating fees.”

This practice, and the subsequent discovery of it, exposes the unfortunate reality of what happens when employees are inappropriately incentivized to sell proprietary products and services. Wells Fargo employees were offered bonuses for opening new accounts, whether clients wanted them or not. That such an incentive program is flawed might seem obvious, but programs like it are widespread in banking and broker/dealer communities.

Commission schedules are frequently enhanced with ancillary goals: a broker rewarded for selling a lending product; higher commissions for selling new issues of stock or funds; incentives for unloading products for which there is not enough demand. Practices that put the goals of the institution and its employees above the goals and interests of their clientele are common.

Employer incentive driven practices don’t exist at feebased, independent advisory firms. First, independent firms typically do not have proprietary products to sell. On the contrary, their advisors can choose from thousands of investment, insurance and other financial products. They can compare products side by side to determine which performs better and offers the best value to the client.

Fee-based advisors are not paid transaction fees or lump commissions. They are not offered personal financial incentives to recommend one product over another. There is nothing keeping them from being objective. Fee-based advisors are paid a small percentage of an investor’s overall account. As the account grows, the client does well and so does the advisor. Under difficult market conditions, the client and advisor both feel the pinch. The goals of client and advisory firm are aligned; the two sit on the same side of the table.

Fee-based advisory firms are often called Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) and are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under the Investment Advisors Act of 1940. The SEC imposes stringent standards on RIAs, holding them to “fiduciary” standards. Here at HBKS Wealth Advisors we pride ourselves on being an RIA and fiduciaries. And as such, we are honored to serve our clients’ best interests. l l l Donna Kline, MBA, CDFATM, combines experience as an investment broker and wealth manager, a proven approach to long-term financial planning and the unique skills of a Certified Divorce Financial AnalystTM (CDFATM) to help a divorcing client understand and address the associated financial issues and helping them in obtaining a fair and equitable divorce settlement. She directs the HBKS® CDFATM practice out of the firm’s Pittsburgh offices. To learn more, visit Hbkswealth.com or call (724) 934-5300. Conveniently located at 7000 Stonewood Dr. #300, Wexford, PA 15090.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC May 2016

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Cover

COVER STORY | November 2016

Listen… do you want to know a secret?

Come along with me on a little visit to a school in Shadyside with a unique mission and a 108 year history. Let’s start our visit on the lower level of the school. Listen! Do you hear that? It is the sound of children chattering to each other in the lunch room. What makes that chatter noteworthy, you ask? Well… these children are deaf, and they are talking and listening to one another. Let me explain how the marvel of medical intervention has aided our mission at DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, located on Alder Street in the Shadyside area of Pittsburgh.

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echnological advancements in digital hearing aids and cochlear implants have made it possible for children who are deaf or hard of hearing to hear speech. With access to sound provided by these devices and intensive Listening and Spoken Language education, even children who are profoundly deaf can learn to listen and speak. Since our inception, long before anyone thought of hearing aids or cochlear implants, the mission of DePaul School for Hearing and Speech has been to teach each child who is deaf or hard of hearing to listen, speak and learn. Now that medical technology has made it possible to gain access to sound, DePaul School can teach children to listen and talk and learn on par with the language development of typically hearing peers in the preschool years.

DePaul is the only school in the western Pennsylvania and tri-state region to provide Listening and Spoken Language education to children ages 18 months to 15 years who are deaf or hard of hearing. We actually begin teaching families shortly after the birth of their child to promote auditory skill and oral language development, and continue working with families during the critical time in a child’s language development. DePaul provides families with multiple strategies to support and promote their child’s oral language development at home. Continuing our tour on the first floor of the school, we drop in to see the Toddler Program, which provides a center-based program for children 18 to 36 months. You will observe a structured learning environment in which students rapidly gain language through experiences and repeated practice.

Further on down the hallway, the Preschool Program offers an intensive language acquisition-focused instruction which is vitally important and hugely successful for our students. Many of the children in the Elementary Program (K-8) have either received a late diagnosis, a progressive hearing loss or have faced other complications which have slowed their language development and vocabulary skill progress necessary to enter the mainstream. These children will mainstream as soon as they are ready for the mainstream.

In fact, our reputation has compelled some families from outside

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of the Pittsburgh region to relocate to the area to provide the best possible education for their child.

Follow me now as we peer into Miss Amanda’s circle time, where she has six 3 year olds with her today. You will hear singing of familiar preschool songs. Again, I want to remind you, these children are deaf. This learning experience gives them practice using the newly acquired vocabulary they learned in the classroom. Once children understand that sound has meaning, helping them learn to speak in clear and meaningful context takes very specific instruction and practice. Seventy percent of the children who attend DePaul’s School’s Toddler-Parent and Preschool programs transition to neighborhood schools and are reading at or above grade level. Once each student masters listening and speaking skills, s/he is ready to enter the educational mainstream with a solid foundation to succeed.

When we stop inside a classroom on the upper level, our students are hearing some exciting changes this school year! With a very generous grant from the DSF Charitable Trust (David Scaife Foundation), DePaul School was able to install the Phonak Roger Digital Modulation (FM) system for students in our Elementary Program. This digital system features a wireless microphone for teachers, and a small discrete Roger receiver that attaches to the child’s hearing aid or cochlear implant. The teacher’s voice is then wirelessly transmitted via a proprietary Bluetooth signal directly to the students’ ears, allowing them to hear their teacher’s voice more clearly. The system also helps to filter out background noise and reduces listening strain while students are learning, helping them

“Mothers always want the best for their children, especially when life throws extra challenges in their direction. Both of our children are deaf and attended DePaul School, and we are proud to say that both have gone on to become “normal” adult children! Elena LaQuatra developed spinal meningitis and became profoundly deaf at age 4. A cochlear implant and intensive language therapy at DePaul restored her on a path to the pageants, and in 2016 she was crowned Miss Pennsylvania USA. Max Chufo went to DePaul for 10 years, ages 2-12, and he wears hearing aids and lip reads. DePaul gave him the confidence to attend CCAC for cooking and he now works alongside peers for the past 8 years at Kuhn’s grocery store. As mothers, we both know that DePaul is truly a MIRACLE SCHOOL, and none of this would be possible without the phenomenal teachers at DePaul. We love you all and thank you from the bottom of our hearts!” – Dr. Bridget Chufo

to be more focused on their studies. Each teacher is equipped with a Roger Touchscreen Microphone, which is used in the classroom for direct instruction, classroom instruction, and small group work.

The Multimedia Hub is designed to interface with any audio source to stream the content wirelessly to the student’s Roger receivers. It’s used in the Learning Lab and with classroom Promethium boards, iPads, Android tablets, television, and computers. The sky is really the limit with this new, amazing technology!

Twelve years ago, when DePaul School relocated from Mount Lebanon to Shadyside (into the former Sacred Heart High School building), renovations at that time included installing a state-of-theart sound field system into every classroom, which included speakers in the ceiling to ensure equal distribution of sound throughout the room. That was before Bluetooth technology. Just as every other form of technology continues to advance, assistive devices for hearing have made major advances over the past decade. This is not only an important part of our education and instruction for our students while they are here; it is also necessary preparation for our students’ transition into the mainstream.

Our elementary students are really enjoying the new Roger sound system! After using the Roger Touchscreen for the first time, student Jackson Drake said with a big smile, “Miss Jenn, I hear you in my head.” While interfacing with computer technology, student Olivia Deardorff-Kushner said, “I like not having wires connected to the computer this year!”

Leo Vollbracht, DePaul School’s Elementary Department Chair, is excited to incorporate this new technology in the upper levels: “The Roger System has made an immediate and overwhelmingly positive impact in our classrooms. Being able to speak directly in each child’s ear has been amazing! Directions are understood, speech correction is immediately integrated into lessons, and lessons in the classroom setting are completed more fluidly than ever before. The children are excited about the technology as well. They immediately ask to be synced to each teacher’s microphone and they independently take care of their equipment.”

One other unique facet you will observe throughout our programs is the integration of self-advocacy and social skills. Children who are deaf or hard of hearing often need support and practice developing appropriate social skills. They often need additional time to process an interaction that the rest of the group is experiencing. As a way of preparing them to enter the mainstream, we have developed a full scope and sequence of social skills to help students make the transition. These skills include: competency in maintaining their equipment; conflict resolution skills; appropriate use of social media; discerning fact from opinion; making and choosing friends; communication & conversation, choices and consequences; and health and safety concerns. These are essential for children who are deaf. We are confident that by providing instruction and practice these skills, we are giving our students just one more advantage in preparation to transition to the mainstream. With strong academic and self advocacy skills, our students are highly self sufficient and typically require little additional support after transitioning to mainstream classrooms.

DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, formerly The DePaul Institute, was founded in 1908 by the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Sisters of

Charity of Seton Hill. DePaul is one of only 40 schools on the North American continent that provides LSL education to children who are deaf or hard of hearing and is the only such school within a 300 mile radius.

It is also one of only two schools in the country that provides Listening and Spoken Language education to students through eighth grade. DePaul is known nationally and internationally for its success in teaching children who are deaf or hard of hearing to listen and speak.

DePaul’s academic programs include: Parent-Infant Program, Toddler-Parent Program, Preschool Program (serving children three to five years old), and Kindergarten, Elementary and Middle School Programs. In addition, DePaul School provides the following related services on-site: speech-language therapy; Auditory-Verbal therapy; teletherapy; audiological services including cochlear implant habilitation and support; physical therapy; occupational therapy; counseling; and parent education and support.

It is interesting to note that for years, we have had families relocate to DePaul School from as far away as Florida, Tennessee, Hawaii, Virginia, and many foreign countries (Russia, India, Saudi Arabia to name a few). Our robust website has helped families to find us (www.depaulhearingandspeech.org). If you have a child who is experiencing a hearing loss, or deafness, you have some great choices in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This region offers families excellent medical care, innovative medical technology, and a fullscale educational program to habilitate the process for children.

For more information, or to make a donation to support the work at DePaul School, go to www. depaulhearingandspeech.org . If you are interested in taking a real-time tour of our school, we welcome you to reach out to DePaul School, give us a call at 412-924-1012 to request a tour. We welcome every visitor. We have a well-kept secret, but our ambition is to get the word out and no longer be a secret! l l l

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Feature FEATURE | November 2016

The Children’s Home Provides Three Unique Programs to Establish and Strengthen Families Children and families are at the center of everything The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center does. As an independent, non-profit organization, The Children’s Home founded and operates three programs: Adoption, Child’s Way®, and the Pediatric Specialty Hospital.

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ince 1893, The Children’s Home has placed more than 7,000 infants in permanent homes through the Adoption Program.

Through comprehensive services, the Adoption Program provides a lifetime of support by working with infants, birthparents, and adoptive families throughout all stages of the adoption process. In addition to infant-placement

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services, the Adoption Program is also a Statewide Adoption and Permanency Network (SWAN) affiliate, providing units of service to older children in Pennsylvania’s foster care system.

Child’s Way® is a Pediatric Extended Care Center (PECC) that offers an alternative to in-home nursing and therapy care for medically fragile children from ages birth to 21. Licensed

NC November 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

as the first PECC in Pennsylvania, this program was established to fill an identified need in the community. Child’s Way opened its doors in May of 1998 and has served 390 children and their families. The staff of registered nurses and child care associates care for the children at Child’s Way every weekday from 6:30am until 6:00pm. Each child receives individualized medical care and attention from the experienced nursing staff while participating in classroom lessons and activities.

The Pediatric Specialty Hospital - the only hospital of its kind in the state - provides family-centered care in a home-like atmosphere. Serving children from ages birth to 21, the Pediatric Specialty Hospital provides high-quality nursing care and hands-on caregiver education in order to create a safe transition from larger hospital to home. Since opening in 1984 (as Transitional Infant Care), the Pediatric Specialty Hospital has served more than 4,900 children and their families.

The Pediatric Specialty Hospital is pleased, as a result of a recent expansion project, to be able to serve even more children and families now and in years to come.

Every day, The Children’s Home’s three unique programs establish and strengthen families in the greater Pittsburgh community and beyond.

For more information about The Children’s Home & Lemieux Family Center, visit www.childrenshomepgh. org. l l l

Focus on National Adoption Month

BY PAULA GREEN

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ovember is National Adoption Month. You can change the life of an awaiting child; it is an important decision that needs to be well-planned.

According to Fr. Tom Burke, Pastor of St. James Church in Sewickley, “Adoption is a wonderful way to promote life and family in our world. I would suggest that families think about what are the benefits of adopting a child. Do they have enough room in their home? Can they financially afford adding an additional member to the family? Are they willing to take on responsibility of being a parent?”

“Another thing to consider is moral obligations. Are the parents able and willing to raise a child? If they already have children, can they talk to their children about welcoming a new member into the home and accepting them?

“One of the many positive aspects of adoption is for a couple to adopt a child to give them a loving home and safe environment. If a couple is unable to conceive and give birth to a child, then adoption is the answer. I have a cousin that was adopted into my family and is a wonderful part of my family. I have several parishioners that I know of that have adopted children and they are raising them in a very loving household.”

Dr. Jacqueline Wilson, Ph.D., CEO of Three Rivers Adoption Council (TRAC) also feels that “Adoption is a wonderful option for creating or expanding one’s family. Helping a child who needs a permanent, loving family is the strongest motivator for adoption. While our children have had life experiences that no child should have to endure, they are still young people who want love and stability in their lives.”

“The initial decision to adopt or foster may be emotional, families should consider some things prior to moving forward with the process. Most importantly is having room in your heart and home to accept the placement of a child. Are the parents willingness to raise the child long-term? While your child isn’t born from your body, they must be born in your heart. The time between being placed with your child and the adoption finalization can’t be a trial run. There will be bumps in the road and parents must be willing to go through those with their child.”

Most of the children placed by TRAC are over the age of five, and have some type of emotional challenge. Many families are comfortable parenting a child who will need therapeutic and educational supports, still others want to have a sibling group placed with them. You will be assisted in making this decision through the pre-service trainings and ongoing discussions with staff. All of these youth are great children, with so much potential. Like all children, they’re in need of parents who will provide unconditional love and support to guide them along the way.

Three Rivers Adoption Council [TRAC] is a full service adoption & foster care agency. What makes TRAC unique is the agency’s ability to work with a family throughout the entire process. TRAC offers exceptional training curriculum that educates families regarding the entire adoption and foster care process, and begins preparation for the placement of a child. All of

TRAC’s staff are informed in trauma and understand the impact traumatic experiences have on the healthy development of children. Because of this, the education families receive continues beyond the initial training, through and after adoption finalization. Perhaps, what makes TRAC most unique is the therapeutic aspect to our program.

These children will mess up and make inappropriate decisions like every other child and teenager, and they need to have the unconditional love that allows them to do so. It is often the small things that create the most precious memories for our children.

Being taught how to ride a bike, that first day of school, the funny stories around the Thanksgiving table, that excitement in their eyes when they open up that one special gift, that comforting hug when your team lost the game, or hearing your parent cheer you on as you walk across the graduation stage, are memories created within a family. Adopting a child will bring you the same pride that makes your heart smile for each milestone and accomplishment made. Knowing that you are able to do this with and for a child that might not otherwise have that opportunity, is the best of adoption.

To learn more about Three Rivers Adoption Council, call (412) 471-8722 or visit them at http://www.3riversadopt.org/ l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Schools

KIDS & EDUCATION | November 2016

The Glen Montessori School Community Celebrates 30 Years

T Tape a Teacher

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adison Ballew, a Shaler Area Middle School seventhgrader, wanted to give back to the neonatal intensive care unit where she spent the first weeks of her life after being born two months early.

For her 13th birthday, Madison asked family and friends for donations of preemie clothing and gift cards, which she will donate to the West Penn NICU. She decided to expand her impact by including Shaler Area Middle School in the fundraising efforts.

With the support of the school community, Madison and a group of her friends organized a “Tape a Teacher� event on September 30. Students had the opportunity to purchase a length of duct tape during their lunch periods and use it to tape a volunteer teacher to the wall. l l l

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NC November 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

he Glen Montessori School Community is preparing for a celebration as The Glen is marking its 30th year of Montessori Education. The Glen shares a similar genesis to many Montessori Schools; a group of parents, seeking an alternative option for their Children, established The Glen Montessori School in 1986. Over the past 30 years, The Glen has continued serving families in the Greater Pittsburgh area, providing a stellar education for children 8 weeks old through sixth grade.

Our goal is to provide the learning experience that allow children to become successful learners within the classroom and more importantly, to develop critical learning skills, self-confidence, independence, compassion, and the sense of responsibility to become successful members of society long after their time at The Glen is over. To learn more, visit www.glenmontessori.org. l l l

Mrs. Mary Smolter’s seventh and eight graders welcome Holocaust survivor, Irene Skolnick.

Saint Alexis Prepares for Trip to Holocaust Museum

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n preparation for their field trip to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. this fall, the students in seventh and eighth grade at Saint Alexis Catholic School in McCandless Township, have been incorporating several learning aspects into their curriculum.

Mrs. Mary Smolter, Middle School Social Studies teacher, introduced the Holocaust to her students through a course of class discussions, historical videos and testimonies. To reinforce her classroom lessons, Smolter hosted Irene Skolnick, a Holocaust survivor.

Skolnick shared her story during an evening presentation at Saint Alexis Catholic Church. Skolnick was a Jew whose family’s only chance of survival was to obtain false papers and pass themselves off as Catholic Poles.

Skolnick’s family left the ghetto in Poland in 1942.

Students also heard a presentation from Jim Lucot, Seneca Valley High School Honors U.S. History teacher and father of eighth grader Tara Lucot. He shared his experiences and photos of his recent visit to Poland and to the concentration camps.

The culminating event for this unit is an annual field trip to the Holocaust Memorial Museum. “When you put what you learn in the classroom, and see the actual artifacts, students can better understand the importance of this historical event. It’s good to teach students that this is another part of what happened in our world in history,” says Smolter.

To learn more, visit http://www. stalexis.org. l l l www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Schools

KIDS & EDUCATION | November 2016

School Movers & Shakers North Allegheny

Seneca Valley

North Allegheny High School is proud to announce that seniors Madison Pavlick and Christopher Lofink both of McCandless Township were named Homecoming King and Queen. Pavlick and Lofink who each have Down syndrome were awarded this honor by their peers on Sept. 30 at Newman Stadium.

Seneca Valley High School is proud to announce that Markali Clancy was crowned queen and Brock Abramson named king at Seneca Valley’s Raider Football Pregame Homecoming Festivities on Friday, Sept. 30, at NexTier Stadium in Jackson Township.

Twenty-two high school students from the North Allegheny School District have been selected to participate in the 2016-2017 AIU Apprenticeship Program, which will provide them with hands-on experiences in a variety of career fields. They are: Alexandria Adams, Savannah Benko, Ashley Boehmke, Melanie Brkovich, Jiwoo Chen, Natalie Daninhirsch, Adelle Fernando, Alex Flagg, Joy Fu, Mackenzie Gongaware, Ethan James, Kira Klein, Allison Kollitz, Jack Lopuszynski, Elise Malette, Bethany Ricci, Daniel Rodgers, Laura Schwenderman, Rebecca Shaw, Tomer Shamir, Akshaya Sudhakar, and Roshie Xing.

Joshua Pantanowitz

Five Shaler Area High School students were recently recognized for their vocal talent by being accepted into the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 1 Honors Choir. The students selected for this honor include - Dan Bittner, Livia Kirasic, Andrew Lesnett, Talha Lone and Paige Milavec.

Fox Chapel The Fox Chapel Area High School Marching Band recently won second place at a Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) Competition. The Marching Foxes placed second in their division at the competition which was held Sept. 24 at Norwin High School.

Four members of the Fox Chapel Crew Team were recently named to the 2016-2017 US Rowing Scholastic Honor Roll. The students are - Sarah Hamilton, William Marsh, Alan McIvor, and Elizabeth Woodwell.

Pine-Richland

Richard Kwon

Shaler Area

Kendall Pomerleau

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation named three Pine-Richland High School students as semifinalists in its 2017 program. They include seniors Richard Kwon, Joshua Pantanowitz and Kendall Pomerleau.

Fox Chapel Area and Montour have been accepted into the National Network of Innovative School Districts. The districts join Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools and will partner with other leading educators, entrepreneurs, and researchers from across the country.

Dorseyville Middle School art educator Nanci Goldberg went on a special summer study seminar to Poland, from Jun. 26-Jul 4.

The 76 teacher and student participants studied history where it happened as part of Poland Personally a Study Seminar to Poland.

Goldberg spent 10 days in Poland with Classrooms Without Borders and the group, accompanied by a Holocaust survivor, focused on the history of the Holocaust.

Two Dorseyville Middle School students, Sanjay and Arvind Seshan, were invited to the U.S. Patent Office this summer for being top 20 out of 29,000 teams world-wide in the Global Innovation Award. The two brothers invented a novel way to improve the battery recycling process which is currently slow and expensive. Their invention is called Invisi-Sort.

Sanjay and Arvind already have a provisional patent for this invention. As part of their effort to raise awareness for battery recycling in the Fox Chapel community, the pair installed a battery collection process at Cooper-Siegel Community Library.

Fairview Elementary School in the Fox Chapel Area School District has been named a 2016 National Blue Ribbon School. United States Secretary of Education, John B. King Jr., announced that Fairview is one of among 279 public and 50 private schools from across the nation selected to receive this honor.

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Hampton The Hampton Township School District is pleased to announce that Hampton High School has been named a National Blue Ribbon School for 2016.

Cheerleaders from the North Hills and Hampton Township school districts teamed up for the first time to raise funds for the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh to help prevent violence against women. Donations for the charity event took place during the North Hills versus Hampton Township football game on Oct. 28 at Martorelli Stadium.

North Hills

Mars Area

North Hills High School seniors Kristen Collins, Eric Crownover, Alec Duquette, Madeline Evans, William Huffmyer, Kaitlyn Kurz, Nathaniel Salopek and Hannah Schilpp have been named 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program Commended Students.

North Hills Middle School American history teacher Joe Welch has been chosen to showcase his edtech prowess and knowledge to his peers from the tri-state region at the Three Rivers Educational Technology Conference.

Joe Welch

Mars Area High School has named its Renaissance Students of the Month for September.

They are: Grace Ryan, Kunjal Patel, Kaden Ebbert and Michael Carmody.

Mars Area seniors Evan Deddo, Zachary Kowalewski, and Claire Staresinic were named Semifinalists in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Two members of Mars Area High School Boys Varsity Golf Team competed in the 2016 WPIAL AAA Boys Varsity Golf Individual Semifinal Qualifier. Cody Killian tied for ninth place with a score of 90 and Adam Sweet tied for 16th place with a score of 90.

Mars Area sophomore Hunter Riemer is leading the race as the overall winner in the Super Mini Sr. (14-15) Bike Youth competition of the 2016 AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series.

Hunter Reimer

Mars Area junior Natalie Welsh competed in the 2016 WPIAL Class AAA Girls Varsity Golf Individual Championships held Oct. 5.

Welsh placed 13th with a score of 90.

(Continued on page 18)

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

The School at McGuire Memorial

Shady Side Academy

A Meaningful Approach to Communication

Ten Shady Side Academy seniors were named semifinalists in the 62nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program. The SSA semifinalists are: Brian Foster, Chirag Kulkarni, Jacob Lokay, William Lu, Jesse Plung, Rakesh Ravi, AnnaElaine Rosengart, Thomas Scherlis, Emily Winterhalter and Eric Zhang (O’Hara).

REBEKAH CHESKO, MA, CCC-SLP/L, SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Providence Heights Alpha School

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peech and language therapy is provided at The School at McGuire Memorial in order to improve every individual student’s abilities to communicate and interact in all environments, including the educational setting, home environment, and beyond.

Communication is a broad term that encompasses the method by which we share our thoughts, needs, desires, personal experiences with others.

Communication can be achieved in several ways, ranging from simple to more complex means. The goal of speech and language therapy is to help students develop the communication system that works best for them so they can be successful communicators in the educational setting and beyond.

Students at The School at McGuire Memorial are assessed by the team of speech-language pathologists who determine the specific speech, language, and communication needs of each student. The speech-language pathologists then develop specific goals based on the student’s individual needs.

The specific areas a student may need to improve upon to be an effective communicator in their environment vary from student to student. Some need to improve their speech, while others may need to improve upon their language skills. Language refers to the rule-governed system that determines how we use words, put words together, and what words mean. Language difficulty can exist both in using language to express one’s thoughts effectively, and in understanding what others are communicating to us. The team of speech-language pathologists focuses on improving the students’ abilities to express themselves and understand others so the students’ can have meaningful communication with others. Determining what the students need to express and understand is determined through collaborating with the teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, parents, and other frequent communication partners.

Some students do not communicate verbally or through spoken language.

Another focus of the speech-language therapy program is to determine alternative means for students to communicate if they are unable to talk. There are several modalities a student may use besides spoken language including sign language, picture cards, writing, and speech-generating devices. For each alternative means of communication, the speech-language pathologists focus not only on developing the communication system with the student, but also on educating the student’s family members, teachers, and other communication partners about the alternative means of communication.

We understand that communication is not easy for many students. We work to provide students with the tools they need so they are able to share their thoughts with those around them, and be an active participant in their lives.

The School at McGuire Memorial, located at 2121 Mercer Road in New Brighton, Pennsylvania is easily accessible to students from Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, and Mercer counties. If you would like more information about our School or our Speech Therapy programs, call 724-891-7222 or send an e-mail to rchesko@mcguirememorial.org. l l l

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Mars Area Middle School eighth-grader Kara Rocco met all graduation requirements of the 2016 AirCamp summer aviation program, held in Dayton, Ohio.

NC November 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Providence Heights Alpha School has been an enduring part of the community for 90 years.

Established in 1926 by the Sisters of Divine Providence, Alpha has been providing a nondiocese Catholic education ever since. They are a vibrant community of pre-k to 8th graders and a mix of multiple faiths and backgrounds. Alpha held a 90th Anniversary commemoration on Oct. 1 with a celebratory Mass led by Bishop David Zubik.

St. James The annual Blessing of Pets in honor of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi was Oct. 4 at St. James Catholic Parish in Sewickley.

The Rev. Thomas J. Burke, Pastor blessed over 75 pets, and their owners participated. Each family received a St. Francis prayer card and medal.

Saint Alexis Saint Alexis eighth grader, Tara Lucot finished first overall in the Girls’ Varsity Cross Country Championship with a time of 11:50. She will now begin to train to qualify for regional competition.

La Roche College According to The Princeton Review, La Roche College ranks among the nation’s best colleges.

La Roche College is announced a two percent increase in total enrollment, resulting in the College’s largest overall enrollment since 2005.

The naming ceremony of the Baierl Athletic Complex was held on Oct. 11 at La Roche College.

The Eta Psi chapter of Delta Mu Delta at La Roche College earned STAR chapter status from the International Honor Society in Business.

La Roche College is one nine national grantees of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health (OWH).

For the second consecutive year, the Eta Psi chapter of Delta Mu Delta at La Roche College earned STAR chapter status from the International Honor Society in Business.

CCAC CCAC adjunct faculty member Bilita McIntosh has been awarded the title of Ms. Pennsylvania Plus America 2016. She competed for the title of Miss American Beauties Plus Elite Queen at the national pageant, which was held Oct. 5–9 in Atlanta, Ga.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Chic

IMAGE & STYLE | November 2016

Wardrobe Pieces to SKIMP or SPLURGE

BY KELLY SMITH

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e all love a touch of luxury in our wardrobe. Who wouldn’t want to see their closet beautifully appointed with designer duds? I would be a phony if I said otherwise. While quality clothes definitely look and feel better, don’t get caught in the trap of overspending on a piece that you will only wear once or twice. Sometimes it can be hard to decide which items of clothing to splurge on, and which you can buy on the cheap, so to speak. Here’s my take on what items are worth the investment and what can be bought at a cut rate without sacrificing style. Let go skimp or splurge?

Jeans… SPLURGE You will definitely want to invest in a few good pair of jeans. Denim is just one of those wardrobe staples that are a mainstay. They are versatile as well as classic. Look for styles that are traditional such as a straight leg. Because the look is timeless, they will last for years to come. Do choose a dark wash as this will ensure staying power wash after wash. Go with a good designer brand because the fabric will be of much better quality than cookie cutter/ copycat brands. If you want to try a new style or distressed fabric, cheaper is the way to go.

Black pants… SPLURGE Another piece that will be used regularly, black pants are a girl’s go to item when all else fails. When cared for properly, these versatile must have’s will stay stylish and keep their black color for years. Like denim, a classic straight cut is best. You don’t need to have a luxury designer but you’ll want to make sure you stick with a reputable brand that uses quality fabric.

Another tip when shopping for quality black slacks- buy after the holidays when most dark or “winter” apparel is deeply discounted. Designer brands can be snagged up at quite the deal.

Trend wear… SKIMP Trends are fleeting, sometimes only lasting a single season before being replaced by yet another hot trend. Try amping up your wardrobe by sticking to lower priced retailers such as Target. It’s best to test drive new trends while not investing too much of your hard earned dollars. And, if for some strange reason the trend has staying power the next season, then good for you! Now you’ll know if it’s a trend in which you want to indulge.

Winter coats…SPLURGE We see our share of sub zero winters so when you’re choosing outwear, choose quality. Choosing a good winter coat means ensuring higher quality materials such as down versus a poly based fill. Winter coats are another great item to shop for during the off season as retailers need to make room for next season’s styles.

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Evening/special occasion…SKIMP For fun and fancy nights out, chances are, you’ll be putting that little black dress to good use. Whether it’s a formal dress, strappy shoes or a bejeweled bag, these are pieces that you most likely won’t be wearing with great frequency. Skimpy sundresses and summer sandals are usually one hit wonders so don’t put too many pennies into this category. Timeless jewels are always in style but for nights on the town, costume jewelry is the way to go. Final touches can be added with a stack of bangles or a sparkly statement necklace, all within budget.

Bras…SPLURGE Bras are quite literally the foundation of our wardrobe so it makes sense to invest. It’s best to get fitted before you buy and if you go to a better department store they can do just that. Lingerie stores are also a good option but again, make sure you get fitted. Online shopping can be tempting when shopping around for pretty little things but they aren’t always true to size and they are marketed to be visually appealing without regard to fit so for this reason, it’s best to buy your bras in person. For everyday bras, find an elegant neutral color that will disappear under clothing.

Workout wear…SPLURGE & SKIMP Yes, this category is a bit of a conundrum but let me explain! When it comes to work out clothes, you don’t need to resolve yourself to throwing on a ratty old t shirt and sweat pants that wish you would just end their misery and toss them into the nearest trash can. For a while, expensive workout wear was all the rage but I think that tide has turned. Target, Old Navy and Marshalls / TJX all sell good workout wear with an even better price tag. These clothes need to be washed after every wear so it’s a given that even the most top notch brands will fall victim to this cycle. Athletic shoes, on the other hand, are in a completely different category. You want to invest in a very good quality shoe. Your whole body is dependent on your feet and this is not the place to cut corners. Like bras, you’ll want to buy your athletic shoes in person and really try them out to make sure they offer great support. Your back will thank you for it!

It’s always best to go the route of quality but not all of us can have that personal stylist just waiting to greet us every morning with the best of the best, style wise. If you focus on building a classic wardrobe that fits your lifestyle, you will be sure to get more mileage out of your clothing. l l l

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Health

HEALTH & WELLNESS | November 2016

Fit Families

The Holiday Downhill Spiral

BY JOELLA BAKER

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hhhhhh, November! It gets cold out, it rains, it can snow and all we want to do is stay inside and curl up on the couch, binge on Netflix and football and eat. We all know November is the month that often starts the downhill spiral of giving up on our nutrition, we don’t stay active and we use every excuse we can as to why we don’t.

What are your excuses? Here are the most common one’s I’ve heard from my athletes over the years…

• I need a break from my regular routine.

• I have too many holiday things to do, shopping, cooking, parties, etc.

• I am too busy with the kids, school plays, events, choir, etc.

• I am tired, the stress of the holidays keeps me up too late. I can’t wake up early and get my workout in.

• I was at a party late and I had one too many drinks.

• It’s way too cold outside.

• It’s too dark in the morning before work and too dark when I get home.

• There was simply too much good food. I couldn’t resist.

The problem with all these excuses, when January comes around, is that I hear, “If I just would have stayed active.” No one wants to get into a rut over the holidays, but it happens to so many every year. The problem is, some do get back on track; but, every year there are those people who don’t get back into a routine. Then twenty pounds later, they don’t know how to get their fitness level back. A few things to keep you out of the Holiday Downhill Spiral…

• Focus on eating healthy, drinking water and doing what you can to avoid the cookies this winter.

• Stay in a routine. Sign-up for classes at your gym, meet a friend to walk, run or take a class. Get up early and start your day with exercise so you aren’t having to do it at the end of the day.

• Get creative with workouts, get outside, hike through snow. Shovel your walkway and find a friend who may need help and shovel theirs.

• Remember, just because you work out, doesn’t mean you’ve earned an extra cookie, an extra piece of turkey or an extra drink. Stick to your nutrition plan and eat smart. Say no to the extras.

• The holidays may require extra planning. Get a calendar, put all the kid’s activities on it for the family to see. Then add in your workouts or fitness classes to the schedule so your family can see what you have planned. There may be times when you may have to change something, but the calendar will help to keep you accountable.

• If it is cold outside, head inside to workout. Don’t let the weather discourage you. Remind yourself, after I finish my workout, I will reward myself with 10 minutes in the sauna or hot tub.

The key is to not give up on you, just because the holidays are approaching. You have two months of holiday fun to get through. You don’t want to spend the next 10 months working off those two months.

Happy Thanksgiving! Don’t eat too much, definitely workout a lot and enjoy every moment with friends and family. Even better, encourage your friends and family to join in on your new Holiday Uphill Spiral! l l l

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

HOPE Don’t GIVE UP!

DR. SHAWN RICHEY

Are you being told, “There’s nothing to be done?” or that, “You need to learn to live with the pain?” Are you being over-medicated with pain medicines that don’t cure? Have you been through test after test with no result, explanation or treatment? Are you becoming discouraged?

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specialized treatment protocol is available at the Chiropractic Family Health Center.

It includes 9 specific treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms.

Once thought to be incurable, peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. Unlike laser therapy that does not address the involved damaged small nerve fibers or home light therapies that do not offer all the frequencies needed to heal them, our program utilizes state of the art technology with combined therapies to restore life to the dead nerves.

Approximately 20 million Americans suffer from this debilitating disease. Many patients are suffering from symptoms of painful cramping, burning and tingling, difficulty walking, numbness and even interruption of sleep. Over the years, Dr. Richey’s program has a 91 percent success rate in helping sufferers feel 75-100 percent better.

Dr. Shawn Richey (a member of the NeuroTCA) has seen hundreds patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy. He has treated patients that have tried everything including potentially harmful medications and other painful testing and treatments. This can leave patients still struggling and wondering down the long road of endless disappointment. Now we are able to address the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy with a successful, non-invasive, drug-free approach that includes the use of light therapy to stimulate tissue repair.

Dr. Richey has helped hundreds of sufferers of peripheral neuropathy throughout the region, he has expanded his practice to include Westmoreland as well as Allegheny Counties.

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Here’s What Dr. Shawn’s Patients Say...

“I’m HEALED! And I’m doing great! I completed all my treatments with Dr. Shawn and my life is night and day from the way it was. Before I found Dr. Shawn, I suffered from peripheral neuropathy for 17 years. It felt as if someone was constantly torturing my feet with electric shocks. Night time was even worse. No position eased the pain and I couldn’t stand the sheet or blanket to touch my feet. I was even told, ‘There’s nothing to be done; you’re just going to have to live with it.’ But then I had seen Dr. Shawn’s ad in Northern Connection magazine and I made the call for my free consultation and assessment.

After the first treatment, I was actually able to take a shower and have a good night’s sleep. It was fantastic and it filled me with hope!! Now, I’m sleeping nights, doing things I’ve missed and things I’ve never done before. I can even sit and watch television and not be in pain. I would hate anyone to have to live with such pain. I highly recommend Dr. Shawn and encourage other sufferers to call him.” – Paul, Wexford “A dear friend of mine from Pittsburgh saw Dr. Richey’s ad in Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazine, the sister magazine to Northern Connection magazine. She sent it because one of the stories was just like I was experiencing. I had a reaction to my cholesterol medication where my feet were constantly burning and it was getting worse. They switched up my meds.

They took me off the meds. Nothing helped. All the doctors said there was nothing they could do and that I was just going to have to live with it. Once I saw the ad, I had hope. I came up to Pittsburgh to be assessed by Dr. Richey and felt relief after the first treatment. I stayed in Pittsburgh for six treatments and then Dr. Richey helped me get a home kit for the rest of the treatments. I have continued on and I continue to get better. Now, my brother in Sacramento, who also has peripheral neuropathy is going to get help too.” – Ron, North Carolina Two Years Later...

“I was in pain from peripheral neuropathy for 12 years before I found Dr. Shawn.

I noticed a difference after the first treatment. I even danced my way into his office for my second appointment. I so believe in the treatment that I have become a neuropathy specialist and assist Dr. Shawn and I am so pleased to see wonderful results in patients. Relieving them of the pain that I once endured myself.” – Lynne, Jeannette

Chiropractic Family Health Center now has offices in both Sewickley at 2591 Wexford-Bayne Road, Suite 207 and Latrobe at 1901 Ligonier Street. For a FREE Consultation contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000

NC November 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

and your appointment will be made at the location that is most convenient for you. To learn more, visit www. backnline.com.

For a FREE Consultation contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000 and your appointment will be made at the location that is most convenient for you. To learn more, visit www.backnline.com.

Health

HEALTH & WELLNESS | November 2016

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Local Therapist Instrumental in New Technique

etting back into your game post-injury without stops at the physical therapist’s office can leave you more time to get ready for your next golf swing, tennis tournament or just a pain-free walk. Now a Pittsburgh-area physical therapist is offering in-home services using a cutting-edge technique that saves both time and money.

“People of all ages should be able to enjoy their sports or day-to-day living without pain or restrictions caused by injury or surgery,” explains Alicia Kaiser of SPRT Rehab, which stands for Specialized Performance and Rehabilitation Training. “The technique I employ, called ASTYM, is based on a regenerative approach to solving a wide range of soft tissue issues. And best of all, it involves no injections, drugs or long, drawn-out therapy sessions.”

Kaiser is uniquely qualified to take the lead as the only Pittsburgh-area therapist to offer the safe and reliable ASTYM regime on site at athletic venues and patients’ homes. With over 20 years of experience working in outpatient private practice, Kaiser is an Orthopedic and Sports Board-Certified Specialist. She counts professional Pittsburgh teams, clubs, high school and college athletes and “weekend warriors” among her patients. She has also served as an adjunct professor at both Duquesne and Slippery Rock Universities. Kaiser is one of only fourteen therapists in the country qualified to instruct and certify others in the ASTYM method.

“I recognized the need for a more personal approach to physical therapy and recently started my own practice,” she explains. “Since I come to you, I save you time and money. I work with the patients one-on-one, as opposed to traditional therapy clinics where the therapist hands you off to an assistant after having given you merely ten to fifteen minutes of personal attention.” The ASTYM therapy is one way Kaiser gets patients back on track more quickly than with conventional methods. It is a regenerative therapy and is designed to restore soft tissue at the cellular level. Ergonomically designed Instruments are used to stimulate healing by painlessly gliding over the patient’s skin, causing old dysfunctional tissue to be absorbed and converted to new healthy tissue. The treatment course is short, with a decrease in pain noticeable after two to three sessions.

Orthopedic surgeon Gary C. Canner, MD of Reading, Pa treats athletes at many Pennsylvania colleges and high schools and believes in regenerative medicine. “It is a wonderful technique for making tissue that has been traumatized by repetitive overuse or injury pliable, therefore causing less pain. Tennis elbow, shoulder injuries from throwing footballs

and other sports injuries can benefit.”

But it is not only athletes who benefit from the therapy.

Kaiser explains, “Many women following mastectomy for breast cancer are left with tight scars, swelling and decreased range of motion. Equally devastating to women are resulting clothing restrictions. I can, with ASTYM, remodel the scar tissue, thus restoring not only function but also self-esteem.”

Kaiser is also well qualified to help adults and children avoid injuries in the first place. She uses performance and functional screening to test for limitations in mobility, stability, balance and coordination and can predict the risk of injury for a person’s particular sport. She recently used such screening on athletes in the Quaker Valley area.

“I can jump-start the healing process and get people back to doing what they love,” Kaiser affirms.

To learn more, visit www.sprtrehab.com. l l l

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Happenings for Seniors Free Services for Seniors through North Hills Community Outreach. Help with rides to medical appts., grocery stores, yard work. For info, call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or Kerry at (412) 449-0151 to schedule an in-home registration visit.

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

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

North Country Meal on Wheels provides home delivered meals to the elderly, homebound & disabled. Services Marshall, Pine, Richland, Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, parts of McCandless, West Deer, Cranberry, Adams, Seven Fields, Mars & Valencia. Operated out of Cross Roads Presbyterian in Gibsonia. Call (724) 935-1877.

Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program is seeking volunteers (50+) to tutor in Pittsburgh and Woodland Hills School Districts in grade K-4. A two-day training class will be 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Nov. 16 & Nov. 18, at 411 Seventh Ave., Suite 525 (Duquesne Light Building) downtown Pittsburgh. To register, contact John Spehar, at (412) 393-7648 or jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

charge. A business meeting follows the light lunch and includes a review of upcoming events and trips. Membership applications will be accepted at these meetings.

Allison Park AARP Chapter 3736 meets at 7:30 p.m., 2nd Thursday of each month, Sept. thru May, St. Ursula School, Kirk Ave., Allison Park. For details, call Ruth at (724) 443-0647, or Mary Ellen at (412) 486-3019 or Mike at (724) 444-8772.

Cranberry Senior Citizens Club for residents 55+ meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. Call (412) 4151892 or (724) 538-4408 for info and programs.

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

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

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

UPMC Senior Communities offers independent

Volunteer Opportunities:

living & personal care. For details, call 1-800324-5523.

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit

Support Groups

Neighborly Gnomes assist seniors with

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

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

disabilities with yard tasks. For info, visit NeedsbyNeighborhood.org.

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

North Hills Community Outreach’s In Service of Senior program matches volunteers

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

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

Entertainment & Social St. Alexis Over 50 trips: Nov. 18, Light-UpNight on the Gateway Clipper. For info on the ballgame & Cleveland, call Rose, (724) 728-2563 or (412) 908-0124. For details on Samson or Light-Up, call Janet, at (724) 869-5339.

Seminars Legacy Theatre senior seminars; 11 a.m., Nov. 8, Dr. Knowledge: Fascinating Facts & Interesting Stories; Nov. 22, The Strange Death of Eben Byers, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless Twp. Call, (412) 635-8080 or TheLegacyLineup.com.

Health & Wellness Healthy Start Café, 8:45 a.m., every Mon & Thurs, St. John Lutheran Church of Highland, 311 Cumberland Rd. Presented by Lutheran SeniorLife & St. John Lutheran Church of Highland. For info, call (412) 364-1606 or (412) 307-1797.

Counseling & Support 6-week Powerful Tools Class for Caregivers, Nov. 7-Dec. 12. Required registration, (412) 369-4673 or info@hopegrows.net.

Senior Meetings AARP Chapter 2991 meets at noon, 3rd Thursday of each month, Sept.-May (Nov. 17), no meeting in Dec., Northmont UP Church on Perry Highway. Refreshments served for a nominal

w/seniors to provide rides to the doctors, help w/ groceries or yard work. Volunteer orientation is 3:00 p.m., Nov. 15 at NHCO, Allison Park. Register by calling Cathy, (412) 307-0069 x3313 or clpschirer@nhco.org.

Olive Branch non-profit fair trade shop located at 11160 Perry Highway, Wexford is seeking volunteers. For info, call (724) 799-8700 or email info@ olivebranchwexford.org.

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

Recruiting Volunteers, the Caregiver Garden Connection Program, Think Caregiver Program.

Inquire at (412) 369-4673 or info@hopegrow.net.

Ursuline Services’ Checks and Balances program assists those who have difficulty with financial affairs. To register, call (412) 224-4700 x113 or ktobin@ursulinesupport.org.

Social Groups Amazing Singles, for singles in the Pittsburgh region, visit, http://www.amazingsingles.com/ pittsburgh.html.

Association of University People (AUP), singles meet at social spots. They meet up at social spots. For details, visit http://www.aupsinglespittsburgh.org/about-us/.

Catholic Alumni Club of Pittsburgh, this group has dances, retreats and plays various sports and other great events. Check out their website at http://www.cacpittsburgh.org/..

Visit Pittsburgh Events & Festivals, this website is for everyone. It gives a list of upcoming events for singles, kids, and married folks. The info enlightens Pittsburghers on where to eat, where to shop, and other recreational events.

Go to http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/eventsfestivals.

ADVERTORIAL

Caring for Concussions

BY DR. SHANNON THIEROFF

C

oncussions are being diagnosed at higher rates than ever.

Getting back to normal can be a struggle for anyone who’s affected. Many people suffer with post-concussion syndrome where their symptoms linger for a long time.

A concussion occurs when there is a force that damages the neurons of the brain (nerve cells). Sometimes a concussion is called a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI). Causes of concussion include: • Hitting your Head • Car Accidents • Sports Injuries The research is growing. Having more than one concussion is dangerous and can result in permanent impairment.

The symptoms of a concussion can include: • Headache • Forgetfulness or lack of concentration • Balance problems • Depression, fatigue, irritability or anxiety Chiropractic plays a unique role in the healing of a concussion. Chiropractors have helped people recover MTBI. The chiropractic perspective considers: • The injury often causes swelling of the neurons of the brain which perpetuates symptoms.

• A trauma strong enough to concuss the brain will cause misalignment and “locking” of the cervical vertebra.

• The fixation can cause improper nerve input to the positional system of the body.

• The misalignments affect the blood flow to the brain resulting in lower oxygen delivery and lower healing rates.

The goal of chiropractic is to restore alignment to the spinal structures so the nervous system can return to normal and speed up the healing process. I have seen clients struggle with ongoing problems even in spite of following the instructions of their doctor. Adding chiropractic to their team of doctors has often made a huge difference in how they feel.

If you would like to see if we can help you, please just make an appointment. An exam will help us determine if we can help you. We are an “in-network provider” with convenient hours. l l l

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center, P.C. Dr. Shannon Thieroff and Associates 8199 McKnight Road (412) 364-9699 www.choicechiropractic.net

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Seniors

SENIOR LIVING | November 2016

Town Crier

Nudging Through November

BY JOE BULLICK

H

i November, the eleventh month of the year! It is a time of community suppers and the feast of Thanksgiving. We also have a presidential election this month. Will we have our first woman president – maybe or maybe not? I remember I could not wait until I was 21 so I could both vote and have a cold beer at Cole’s Tavern in Wexford. For many, it is “summers end” a time to bid good-bye to warmth and light. That may be why so many people head south to Florida.

Another thing celebrated in November is All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1. I remember that Nov. 2 the feast of All Souls’ Day was a day of prayer at our house. Mom always set aside a time for us to remember our loved ones and friends who had passed away.

As the weather gets colder and wild food becomes scarcer field mice are looking for a warm place to spend the winter. Do what you can to make your house as unappealing as possible to them.

November is also a time to take care of your garden, empty

out all of your outdoor containers, take care of power equipment. We always stored root crops and tree fruits that we grew over the summer. We stored potatoes, carrots, apples in the basement because it was always cold down there. Always use garlic, onions, thyme, sage and vitamin C on a regular basis to prevent colds and infections. Don’t forget to eat plenty of hot chicken soup.

November, of course, brings us Thanksgiving; your holiday turkey is likely to be the biggest single food item you will buy all year. The bird you chose merits careful consideration.

When shopping for a turkey, a quick rule of thumb is to allow one pound of raw turkey for each person. This provides plenty for the holiday meal plus one serving of leftovers. My Mom would not waste food.

The single largest source of food waste is individuals in the home. According to the Department of Agriculture, the amount of food waste costs a U.S. family of four $1,000 per year. The amount of produce eaten is 48% the amount discard is 52%. We eat 78% of our meats and thrown-out 22%.

According to food processing companies, the weight of what’s wasted in the United States is 63 million tons per year. So, as we enjoy our Thanksgiving turkey, let’s try to enjoy ourselves and be thankful for what we have.

When I was a kid, November was a time for radio, newspapers, and magazines. We used to get the Saturday Evening Post; Norman Rockwell’s relationship with them lasted 47 years. Rockwell was Mom’s favorite. Mom also always loved Better Homes & Gardens. When we rank magazines, there are some great ones that I always loved. One was the National Geographic, it helped me for school work, and there was also the Reader’s Digest. For us old timers, AARP The Magazine was first published in 1958 known as Modern Maturity until 2002. Watch Tower magazine first published in 1879 and it is published in 209 languages around the world with a monthly circulation of 45 million copies.

Well enjoy your turkey and November. God Bless and I leave you with this – “Please watch out for each other and love and forgive everybody. It’s a good life, enjoy it.”

Jim Henson

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Seniors

SENIOR LIVING | November 2016

Seneca Hills Village residents Anne Meritzer (left) and Corrine Clendening (right) look over student projects with teacher Terry Solomon (standing).

UPMC Senior Communities

Keeps the “Active” in “Activities”

When Marie Downs Deasy moved into Cumberland Woods Village, an independent living environment for seniors on the UPMC Passavant Hospital campus, she had no expectation of replicating the active, engaged lifestyle she had enjoyed with her husband when he was still living.

Now three years later, she is effusive about the array of opportunities to socialize, remain active and broaden her horizons. “We don’t miss anything!” Marie exclaims.

M

arie credits Christine Cassese, Life Enrichment Coordinator at Cumberland Woods Village. “She’s so caring and resourceful. And everything she does is in good taste. Christine is a true leader.”

Christine, who taught elementary school at an earlier point in her life, puts her creativity to good purpose in bringing to fruition worthwhile programming on the residents’ behalf. She makes an important distinction in the way she interacts with the residents versus her years in the classroom. “People have a tendency to treat seniors like children,” says Christine. “I speak to them and interact with them as accomplished adults with a lot of living still to do.”

Christine meets with the residents monthly to discuss potential activities and adventures both on campus and off that translate into a social calendar that anyone would envy. On campus, movies, live entertainment, exercise, lectures and the creative arts are just some of the offerings available. Off-campus trips include boat rides at Moraine State Park, performances at local universities, and casino and outlet shopping excursions. “I’ve seen more of Western Pennsylvania than I ever imagined I would,” Christine laughs.

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One of the residents’ more memorable trips was to the Flight 93 Memorial in Shanksville, Pa shortly after its opening last fall.

The group toured the museum, explored the walking trail and crash site, and paid homage to those who lost their lives at the Wall of Names that follows the flight path. “Our residents were very moved by the whole experience,” recalls Christine.

When asked what activity is most important to her, 90-yearold Marie is quick to answer, “Zumba!” Christine herself teaches two classes a week, and Marie is pleased by the recent addition of weekend classes. Additionally, Marie takes advantage of the ongoing offerings of the Legacy Theatre, the state-of-the-art performance space adjacent to Cumberland Woods Village that features a full calendar of live productions and free educational seminars and movies.

Both Marie and Christine recognize the therapeutic benefit of meaningful activity. Says Marie, “My blood pressure is lower now than it was before I moved in!” Deanne Thomas, Christine’s counterpart on the UPMC Senior Communities Seneca campus in Penn Hills, concurs. “I recently heard a resident express how grateful she was to be 99 years old and still making a contribution to society.” The resident was referring to her 10 years spent as

a “Grandbuddy” to teacher Terry Solomon’s third grade class at O’Hara Elementary School, part of the Fox Chapel School District.

Now entering its eleventh year, the “Grandbuddy” program began with a conversation between Deanne and Terry, whose mother-in-law had resided at Seneca Hills Village. Terry suggested setting up a pen pal program to help the children with their writing. The idea grew, with residents traveling to the school to play a game of “Are You Smarter than a Third Grader?” The next year, they returned for a spelling bee.

The program evolved into Grandbuddy visits to Terry’s classroom, capped by a student field trip to Seneca Hills Village at the end of the school year. Approximately 16 residents participate each year, pairing up with students at a September “meet and greet.” In addition to letter writing and playing games, the Grandbuddies and students work together on writing and art projects, reading books, putting on a talent show, and a spring carnival.

“The Grandbuddies are such great listeners and ask great questions. And the kids are equally interested in what they have to say,” says Terry. “They truly care about each other. It helps the children become more sensitive, kinder and more patient.”

Corrine Clendening, a retired teacher from the North Hills School District, has been a Grandbuddy for the past four years.

“Teachers are constantly being evaluated. But of all the evaluations I received over the years, the one that matters most is the love I get from these children,” she says.

Anne Meritzer became a Grandbuddy shortly after she moved into Seneca Hills Village two years ago. “I wanted to be busy. I didn’t want to just sit in my room,” she says. She instructs the children to call her “Granny Annie” and believes they fill a need by giving students “grandparents” they can visit with a few hours at a time. “These children are so special. I just love them so much,” says Anne, who became so close with one little girl that she was invited to her birthday party.

While it takes no small amount of coordination to sustain a program like “Grandbuddies” year in, year out, Deanne points out that not all activities require a lot of planning and resources to be successful. “One of the biggest surprises to me has been the success of the creative writing program,” explains Deanne. “I give the residents a one-sentence prompt, something like ‘It was a snowy day in Pittsburgh…’. You cannot imagine the range and expressiveness of their writings.”

At Sherwood Oaks, the UPMC Senior Communities campus in Cranberry, the residents decide upon and direct activities themselves, consistent with the philosophy of self-governance unique to that community. One of the most well-received events in recent years is the annual Veterans Day commemoration, which has filled Sherwood Oaks’ 300-seat auditorium every year since its inception four years ago.

Founded by resident Harriet Burress, whose husband is an Air Force veteran, and organized by her and a committee of approximately ten fellow residents, the Sherwood Oaks residential community attends an hour-long ceremony to honor and thank the living and the deceased veterans who call this UPMC Senior Community home.

Cumberland Woods Village residents made a memorable trip to the Flight 93 Memorial shortly after its opening in September 2016.

One of the most impressive aspects of the commemoration is a huge display of memorabilia in the lobby outside the auditorium including uniforms and medals. Assembled that morning, the value of the items is inestimable, to the point where special security is hired for the day.

Music is an important element of the program, and this year a quintet from Seneca Valley High School’s band and a quartet from their choir will fill that role. Representatives from the local Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Seneca Valley ROTC will participate. A wreath ceremony will honor the deceased veterans from the prior year according to branch of service.

Every year, the program features a keynote speaker. This year’s presenters are residents George and Mary Kay Wallace, co-founders of the only official repository of historical artifacts from the American defenders of Bataan and Corrigador, which speaks to the World War II campaign in the Philippines. They have cultivated a large collection of artifacts, worth an estimated one million dollars, that is housed in a museum in the Brooke County Public Library in Wellsburg, West Virginia, where Mary Kay once served as director.

Harriet feels she was called to undertake this endeavor, literally and figuratively. She remembers vividly an email she received identifying the thousands of World War II veterans dying every year. She feels compelled to act in a manner that would bring these men and women honor. She says she is “thrilled and proud” of the success of the event and of the committee that brings it to fruition every year.

To learn more about UPMC Senior Communities, call 1-800324-5523 or visit UPMCSeniorCommunities.com. For more information about upcoming events at The Legacy Theatre adjacent to Cumberland Woods Village, visit TheLegacyLIneup.com. l l l

Sherwood Oaks resident Joe Schewe is pictured here with his service memorabilia, part of a priceless display assembled each year at that community’s Veterans Day commemoration.

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2016 Holiday Guide

Celebrating the Festival of Trees with Hosanna Industries

Thursday thru Saturday, November 17 from 5-8 p.m., November 18 from 5-8 p.m., and November 19, 9-3 p.m. at Quality Gardens, 409 Rt. 228 in Valencia

BY NAOMI OWENS

F

or most Americans, the Holiday Season represents a time for families to gather in their homes and enjoy meals, warmth, and time together. But for those with no heat, running water, or homes at all, the holidays can be more of a stressful nightmare than as opportunity for celebration.

This is where Hosanna Industries has stepped in for 26 years, benefiting those in need by providing home building and improvement services to the Greater Pittsburgh area and beyond. Hosanna literally translates to “Rescue me now, Lord!” The organization has taken this as their call-to-action to serve members of their community in need. Their outreach ranges from educational home improvement seminars to home repairs and even full-blown home “Blitz-Builds” that take only a week or less to complete. Hosanna Industries is active in its mission year round because of the overwhelming amount of requests for aid they receive every year, which also means they are always seeking volunteer sources and donations of all types. The organization’s main campus is located in Rochester, PA and was founded in 1990 after Rev. Donn Ed visited an impoverished family on Christmas Eve with gifts from the church. The family’s home was in great disrepair, and the pastor knew that there was work to be done beyond donations of food and toys. This moment sparked the mission of Hosanna.

The nonprofit is devoted to spreading their belief that “God’s work is everyone’s business!” in every way possible.

They have worked to this end by providing aid in the wake of natural disasters and have gone beyond the local need for help in this effort. In 2011 they were able to send a team to Haiti after the earthquake that caused extreme damage and displaced thousands from their homes and communities.

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Hosanna Industries was able to build two houses in four days complete with water, electric and sewage capabilities.

Hosanna relies completely on donations and fundraisers to keep the mission going. One of their biggest fundraising events is their annual Festival of Trees. This three-day event happens annually during the Holidays and features small-scale Christmas trees that have been decorated by individuals and groups from all over Pittsburgh. The donated trees can be bid on or purchased outright, with 100% of the proceeds going back to local families in need through the efforts of Hosanna Industries. Each year the event has grown to embrace more donations and higher attendance. This year will be the event’s fifth year running, and will take place on Thursday thru Saturday, November 17 from 5-8 p.m., 18 from 5-8 p.m., and 19, 9-3 p.m. at Quality Gardens, 409 Rt. 228 in Valencia. You can find out more details about the event on the organization’s website, hosannaindustries.org, or register to attend through their Facebook page and event at facebook.com/HosannaIndustries.

Naomi Owens is currently in her third year at Point Park University pursuing a Public Relations Bachelors of Arts degree. Born in Montana and raised in Maryland, she has found her academic home in Pittsburgh and hopes to launch her career in the city as well.

Northern Connection magazine is proud to be the media sponsor of The Festival of Trees for Hosanna Industries. l l l Naomi Owens is currently in her third year at Point Park University pursuing a Public Relations Bachelors of Arts degree. Born in Montana and raised in Maryland, she has found her academic home in Pittsburgh and hopes to launch her career in the city as well..

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2016 Holiday Guide Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland Returns To Big Butler Fairgrounds This Holiday Season

I

n partnership with Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland will once again be held at the Big Butler Fairgrounds this holiday

season. The award-winning Christmas light and music extravaganza is unlike any other. Guests tune their radios and watch the magic unfold as they drive through hundreds of thousands of brilliant LED lights dancing in perfect synchronization.

Hours are dusk to 10 p.m. nightly and extended hours on weekends. The kick off date is Friday, Nov. 18 and runs thru Sunday, Jan. 8.

In addition to the light show, guests can visit Santa’s Village for photo opportunities with Santa as well as a letter writing station to write Christmas letters to Santa through Dec. 24.

Refreshments, crafts and other activities will also be available and festive holiday décor displays.

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is $25 per car or family van, $40 for a mini-bus, limousine or activity van and school and tour buses are $80.

The Big Butler Fairgrounds is located at, 1127 New Castle Road, Prospect, PA 16052. For details, visit ShadrackChristmas.com or VisitButlerCounty.com. l l l

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Singers Wanted for Cahal Dunne’s Pop Music ChoirPlay

T

he famed Irish singer and entertainer, Cahal Dunne, is forming a new choral group concept.

This choral group is for anyone over 21 that enjoys singing and will feature pop, rock, country and gospel music and songs.

“I put myself through college in Ireland teaching choirs, so I’m getting back to what I love,” explains Cahal.

“The songs are arranged in three-part harmony; sopranos, altos, and men. The key is I will give each member a practice CD so they can learn their parts on their own, plus the music, of course. There won’t be any solo auditions ‘cause people get nervous. I just want people to have fun. Music has been proven to be a terrific stress reducer, especially choral singing. The neat thing is we will sing to orchestral professional backing tracks specially arranged for ChoirPlay. When you hear the orchestra behind you, it’s exciting, and it lifts you up.”

ChoirPlay rehearses Tuesday nights thru November at St. Ursula’s Church Hall, 3937 Kirk Ave, Hampton, just off Rt 8 and Duncan Ave. from 7 to 8:30 p.m. “Just show up, see if you like it, and if you do, then you are welcome to join. It’s just $12 per rehearsal. This hopefully will cover the costs of the arrangements, music copying etc.”

ChoirPlay will be performing seven songs: A Billy Joel Medley Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen I Hope You Dance by Lee Ann Womack Climb Every Mountain Home by Michael Buble It’s All About That Bass by Megan Trainor Galway Girl by Steve Earl.

The first concert will be performed in St Ursula’s Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 6. Cahal will be singing some Christmas songs, as well. Tickets will be available at the door.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. 100% of proceeds will go to St. Ursula’s church fund.

“If you love to sing and can carry a tune, please check us out. There will be no solo auditions, and you don’t have to read music. Or, if you’ve been in a church or classical choir before, and just want to have fun singing great songs with no pressure, in a fun, relaxed social setting, this might be for you. Come join us,” said Cahal Dunne. l l l

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www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Starting the Conversation

Should Retail Stores Be Open for Thanksgiving?

BY MARIANNE REID ANDERSON

F

or decades, retail stores know that they need to be “out of the red” and “into the black” in other words, financially profitable, by the end of Thanksgiving weekend to survive another year. This fact gave rise to retailers offering tremendous discounts and sales the day after Thanksgiving which has become known as “Black Friday.”

However, over the past few years, more and more stores have begun their Black Friday sales early, on Thanksgiving itself. When stores do this, it means that their employees can no longer be with their families on Thanksgiving. As one retail employee said to me, “Do people really need to run out to buy a can of paint on

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Thanksgiving? I would be even a better employee over the heavy shopping days of the weekend if I had the chance to be with my family and enjoy the holiday.”

Even early-bird shoppers aren’t happy about it because they feel the need to give up being with their families to hit the stores before the crowds.

Of course, with so many shoppers foregoing the stores and shopping online, thereby opting for “Cyber Monday” over “Black Friday,” is being open for Thanksgiving a necessary evil?

But as always, what do you think? Let’s continue the conversation on my blog at http://northernconnectionmagazine.blogspot. com, email me at NorthCon@consolidated.net or send me a “Letter to the Editor” at P.O Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722 attn: Marianne Reid Anderson. l l l

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Gift Certificates Available Call 1-800-342-2349 or www.coachride.com Online discount available on some tours at www.coachride.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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Events

HAPPENINGS | November 2016

November 2016

Happenings

North Happenings

& the Halos. For tickets, 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com.

Mondays

Pittsburgh Children’s Theatre presents Dog Loves Books, Nov. 13-20, downtown. For

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table meets the 3rd Monday of every month 7 p.m., (Nov. 21) topic “Siege of Vicksburg,” Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Free & open to the public. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329.

info (412) 456-6666 or trustarts.org/kids.

Health & Wellness Dance Fitness, 9:30 a.m., Mon; 5:30 p.m.,

9-Apr. 27. Register by Nov. 4, Orientation Dec. 1.

Contact lauren.ameris@laroche.edu.

Amputee Support Group, 4-5:15 p.m.

Outreach Donate Your Car to Community Auto and help a low-income family. For details, visit www.communityauto.org or (724) 443-8300.

Nativity Lutheran Church, 4517 Mt. Royal

Bereavement Support Group (for widows/

Arts & Entertainment

Free Screening for Colon Cancer & other conditions, Nov. 12, UPMC Cancer Center at

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

UPMC Passavant. Ages 50-75 years. Register

by Nov. 10, at (412) 748-5762.

North Hills Food Bank, 10 a.m.-1:45 p.m.

Barnabas Kean Theatre annex, Mt. Vernon Room, 5847 Meridian Rd. For reservations and questions, call (412) 366-1035.

Legacy Theatres shows: 7:30 p.m., Nov. 5, Bo Wagner’s Tribute to Frank Sinatra; Dec. 2, Pittsburgh Doo Wop Big Band Christmas Show; Dec. 11, Christmas Memories Featuring The Latshaw Pops Orchestra; Dec. 17, Johnny Angel

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Fresh produce from gardens is being accepted at North Hills Community Outreach.

Visit AmpleHarvest.org for info on locating NHCO’s three pantries.

Passavant Hospital Foundation & La Roche College is initiating a free program called Get Healthy at La Roche. The program runs Jan.

NC November 2016 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Bereavement Support Group, Beyond

through December 31. For details, visit nhco. org or (412) 487-6316.

Nov. 7, Dances with Wolves; Nov. 14, Chicago; Nov. 21, The English Patient; Nov. 28, Shakespeare in Love, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

Jazz Cabaret, 7-9:15 p.m., Nov. 9, St.

(dates vary month-to-month), HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley, 303 Camp Meeting Rd., Sewickley. For info, call Michelle at (412) 749-2388.

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

Financial donations to North Hills Community Outreach can be matched

Thurs. (beginners only); 6:30 p.m., Thurs; 2 p.m., Sun. (special needs only) at Woodland Valley Church, Mars; 6:30 p.m., Tues., North Way Christian Community, Wexford; 9 a.m., Sats., Lighthouse Foundation. Tues & Sat classes benefit the foodbank. Contact heather. simplynatural@gmail.com.

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m. Mondays,

Support Groups

every Tues & Thurs, rear parking lot of Hiland Presbyterian Church, 845 Perry Highway. Call, (412) 366-7477 or www.northhillsfoodbank. com. Donations always welcome.

WorkAble provides free career consulting and employment mentoring to unemployed and underemployed job seekers in Allegheny County. For details, call (412) 904-5993.

widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., St. Sebastian Parish, Haber Hall. To register, call Anchorpoint at (412) 366-1300.

Bereavement Support Group in the North Hills, 10-11:30 a.m., 2nd & 4th Thurs. of each month, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd., Allison Park. Call Heritage Hospice (724) 334-6600.

Brain Injury & Stroke Support Group, noon-1:15 p.m., 3rd Weds., HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Sewickley, 3rd Floor Board Room. For info, call Michelle at (412) 749-2388.

Breast Cancer Support Groups, 5:30-7 p.m., 3rd Mon., AGH Hospital; 7-8:30 p.m.,1st & 3rd Weds, UPMC Passavant Cranberry; 6-7:30 p.m., AHN Health & Wellness Pavilion, Wexford. Free & open to cancer patients & caregivers over 18, no students. Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center. Register at (412) 622-1212.

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

Phone, (412) 748-5120 or Bridge2Hope.org.

General Cancer Center Support Groups, 5-6 p.m., 4th Mon., AHN Health & Wellness Pavilion; 6:30-8 p.m., 2nd & 4th Weds, UPMC Passavant Cranberry. Free & open to cancer patients & caregivers over 18, no students.

Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center.

Register at (412) 622-1212.

Grief Support Group for widows and widowers over fifty, 2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., of the month, St. Sebastian Parish, 311 Siebert Rd. Visit http://www.saintsebastianparish.org/

Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30 p.m., every 3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. Call (412) 2615886 or ccallen92@aol.com.

Mind Matters Brain Injury Support Group, 7-9 p.m., every 3rd Thurs., of the month, Butler Memorial Hospital, East Brady St. in the Dimmick Center. Call (724) 283-6666.

MISS Foundation (Mothers in Sympathy and Support) for those grieving the loss of a child – includes miscarriages, still birth and prematurity. Meetings held 7:30 p.m., 1st Tues of the month, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Cumberland Rd., McCandless. Contact Laurie.

Jackson@missfoundation.org.

Parkinson’s Support Group, 1-2:30 p.m., last Wed of each month, HealthSouth Harmarville, 320 Guys Run Rd. Contact Jessica, at (412) 828-1300 x7710.

Group 6-8 p.m., Tues., Family Only Group 7:30-9:00 p.m., 2nd Tues, Psycho-educational Support Group 7-9 p.m., 4th Mon. Contact Anita (412) 215-7967, pened1@aol.com, or www. anitasinicropemaier.com.

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

AM Spirit Pittsburgh North Chapter, a business networking group, meets 8 a.m. every Thurs, at Panera Bread, Cranberry. Call Glen (412) 916-8699.

AM Spirit Wexford Chapter, a business networking group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Mon, at Eat N’ Park, Franklin Village. Visit https://www. amspirit.com/chapter.php?chapter=Wexford.

Butler County Chamber of Commerce Meet-N-Move with the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber of Commerce & Pittsburgh, 11:30 a.m., Nov. 7, at Pittsburgh Marriot North. For details, email Jennifer@ ButlerCountyChamber.com or (724) 283-2222.

Cranberry High Noon Toastmasters Club meets at noon every Mon., Pella Windows Training Center, 230 Thorn Hill Rd., Warrendale. Visit http://cranberryhighnoon. toastmastersclubs.org/.

North Allegheny Special Education Parent Networking Group, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Nov. 10, NASH, Multi-Purpose Library. Topic: Transition to Adulthood. Visit http://www. nasepng.org.

Western PA Professional Business Association Network Breakfast, 7:15 a.m., Tuesdays, King’s Restaurant, Rt. 8, Gibsonia.

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

Passavant Hospital Foundation Free Community Events at CCAC-North Campus:

Volunteer Opportunities

How to Obtain the Most from Your Next Doctor’s Office Visit, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 15.

Register at (412) 788-7546.

American Cancer Society is looking for

Passavant Hospital Foundation Wellness Wednesdays at Club Julian, Low-Down on

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

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

Friends of North Park are looking commit-

Homework Buddies needed at Anchorpoint,

tee volunteers for communication & Outreach, stewardship, water tower restoration, deer management and history. Call Gary at (724) 544-7284.

7-8 p.m., 1st & 3rd Weds of the month to help SPIN students w/homework. For info, call Sandy at (412) 366-1300 x 123.

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council

their patients. Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time, just have the heart! Call (412) 367-3685.

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

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteer for

Mission Vision needs volunteers to help with Provide vision–Give hope. Call (724) 553-3114 or www.mission-vision.org.

(Continued on page 40)

Exercise & Incontinence, 1 p.m., Nov. 2; Vertigo, 1 p.m., Dec. 7. Required reservations, call (412) 366-1931. Free & open to the public.

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

Stroke Support Group, 1-2:30 p.m., once a month on Weds., HealthSouth Harmarville, 320 Guys Run Rd., For info, contact Valerie at (412) 826-2784 or valerie.bucek@healthsouth.com.

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

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

Group Services, Intensive Outpatient Program, 5:30-8:30 p.m., M,W,Th.,Therapy

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Events

HAPPENINGS | November 2016

North Hills Community Outreach Volunteer Orientations, 10 a.m., Nov. 10 in NHCO Allison Park. Call (412) 408-3830 ext.

3204 or hzgibbs@nhco.org.

North Hills Community Outreach has Speakers available, staff or volunteer speakers will speak to your congregation, business, civic group or school. For info, contact JLKissel@nhco.org or (412) 487-6316 x3112.

Olive Branch, a fair trade boutique and outreach center at 11160 Perry Hwy. in Wexford, is seeking volunteers for their gift shop. No experience necessary. Training is provided.

Stop in or call the shop at (724) 799-8700 if you are interested in volunteering.

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

Volunteers needed at The Emmaus Community of Pittsburgh, 282 Sarah Street on the Southside. Help make a difference in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities. For details, call (412) 381-0277 or www.

EmmausPgh.org.

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

School The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age, 7 p.m., Nov. 9, in the Hillman Center at Shadyside Academy, 423 Fox Chapel Road in Fox Chapel. Open to the public. Visit www.shadysideacademy.org/parenteducation, http:// www.shadysideacademy.org/parenteducation.

Digital Boot Camp Series, Digital Privacy, 9 a.m., Nov. 12, CCAC North Campus, Room 3002; Jan. 21, Digital Identity. Register at www. northlandlibrary.org.

Dorseyville Middle School fall musical,

Disney’s The Lion King Jr., 7 p.m., Nov. 17 & 18, & 10 a.m., Nov. 19, middle school auditorium. Tickets are $8 each + $1.50 service fee.

Ordered tickets online at https://www.showclix.com/event/the-lion-king-jr. Tickets $10 at the door (cash only).

La Roche College’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) & Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs: DNAP Virtual Information Session, 4:30 p.m., Nov. 2; MSN Virtual Information Session, 7 p.m., Nov. 10.

Register online at laroche.edu or call (412) 5361260 or email graduateadmissions@laroche.edu.

La Roche College Open House, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Nov. 12. For info, visit http://www.laroche.edu/

Mars Area School District Parent Training Seminar: School-based Evaluation: Why, How & What? 6:30-8 p.m., Nov. 16, Mars Area Centennial School. For info, call (724) 625-1518.

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Pine-Richland High School International Thespian Society presents The Hobbit, 4 p.m., Nov. 17 (complimentary show for senior citizens); 7 p.m., Nov. 18; 1 & 7 p.m., Nov. 19; at the high school, 700 Warrendale Rd., Gibsonia.

For info, call (724) 625-7773 or pinerichland. org.

Saint Alexis School Athletic Association, A Night at the Races, 6:30 p.m., Nov. 11, Knights of Columbus. For info, visit www.makemoneywithraces.com.

Saint Alexis School Vendor Event, 1:303:30 & 5-8 p.m., Nov. 1, Saint Alexis School cafeteria. Food truck 5-8 p.m. Benefits Saint Alexis School Gala. For info, email jensalac@ gmail.com.

Reunions Shaler Area High School Class of 1972: Join our Facebook group or website (shalerarea1972.org) as we gather plans for a 2017 (45 yr. reunion). Questions? (412) 996-8813 or kbrnorth@gmail.com

Seminars Catholic Common Ground Conversation, 7 p.m., Nov. 9, at La Roche College. Topic is With the Help of Your Mercy: God’s Mercy and the Demands of Social Justice. Pre-register at, laroche.edu/socialjustice or call (412) 536-1085.

Fundraisers Dance for a Cause, 7-11 p.m., Nov. 12, Sieb’s Pub, 3382 Babcock Blvd., featuring DJ Rich Martin the Oldies King. Sponsored

by Passavant Hospital Foundation. All proceeds benefit Jaime Martinez Eagle Scout Service Project. For info, visit PassavantHospitalFoundation.org.

Soldiers & Sailors’ Cannon Ball Fundraiser, Red, White & Blue Jeans Celebration, Nov. 12, 4141 Fifth Ave. Visit http:// soldiersandsailorshall.org/.

Unique Boutique, fundraising event for Heritage Valley Sewickley Hospital, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 12, Edgeworth Club, 511 East Dr., Sewickley. Vendors, artists, clothing, gourmet food, home décor & jewelry. $10 admission or $35 admission & lunch. Benefits Heritage Valley BreastCare Program. Visit http://www. heritagevalley.org/

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

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

Veterans Breakfast Club Meetings, held every month throughout the Pittsburgh region. For details, visit http://veteransbreakfastclub.com/.

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

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

Veteran HOPE, support group for women Veterans recovering from mental illness, meet 6-8 p.m., every Tues., VA Butler Healthcare, Room 217WS, Building 1. Call (724) 996—8892 or (724) 285-2756 or butlerva.gov.

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

2498.

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

Dancing & Recreational Events Country Knight Line Dancers host a line dance 7-10:30 p.m. every Wed., in St. Athanasius Hall, cost $5 per person. Call, Janine (412) 931-6971 or janine.beley@gmail.com.

Handicapable Square Dancing, 7-8 p.m., weekly on Thursdays, Dorseyville Alliance Church, 3703 Saxonburg Blvd. For ages 18 & older. Register at (412) 915-8486 or (724) 443-2616 or beatty3@ consolidated.net.

Saturday Singles Dance, for ages 40+, 8 p.m. to midnight, Nov. 12, Free Pizza Party; Nov. 26, Pumpkin Pie & A Perfect Pair, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy. Free dance lesson 7:30 p.m. Call (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

Environmental & Gardening

Holiday

Friends of North Park host the North Area Environmental

Glade Run Holiday Events: Private Screening of the

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

Council’s Annual meeting, 7 p.m., Nov. 2, Rose Barn in North Park. Speaker Caren Glotfelty, executive director of the Allegheny County Parks Foundation. For details, call (724) 544-7284.

Polar Express, 11 a.m. & 2 p.m., Dec. 3, The Strand Theatre in Zelienople. Glade Run is sponsoring a Christmas Angel Program.

To participate in either event, contact Cheryl at cmartin@gladerun.org or (724) 452-4453, ext. 1277.

Greybrooke Garden Club meeting 9:30 a.m., Nov. 9, Parkwood

Holiday Open House & Sale, Olive Branch Gift Shop, 10 a.m.-5

United Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd., Hampton Twp. Topic: Attracting Beneficial Bugs to your Garden. Neighboring garden clubs are invited. Vendor Market and Pumpkin Patch Bake Sale. Reservations are requested Nov. 4. For info, contact Barbro at (412) 296-0538.

p.m., Nov. 11 & 12, 11160 Perry Hwy., Shop for fair trade gifts and receive a 10% discount off everything in the store during the open house. For info, call (724) 799-8700.

program for teens (16+). Participants meet one hour on Sundays at DancExplosion Arts Center in the North Hills or Steel City Ballroom in the South Hills. Participants are paired with a trained volunteer dance mentor. Call (412) 999-3998 or info@ yesyoucandance.org.

Fall Fun Fall into Fashion, 10 a.m. doors open, lunch 12:30 p.m., Nov. 12, Doubletree by Hilton Cranberry. Sponsored by the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Deadline for reservations, Nov. 4. For info, call (412) 487-1309 or annwca@aol.com.

Join St. Barnabas Charities, as they honor the former Mayor of New York City, Rudy Giuliani, Thurs., April 27, Pittsburgh Marriott North, Cranberry Township. Seating is limited. Proceeds benefit St. Barnabas Free Care Fund. For info on corporate sponsorship packages, call (724) 625-3770 or email St. Barnabas Charities.

Rid Your Home of Unwanted Chemicals, Electronics & Freon Appliances, Nov. 19 & Dec. 17, 129 Ash Stop Rd., Evans City. Pre-registration if required 1-866-815-0016.

Noon Year’s Eve, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Dec. 31, Pine Township Community Center. Join us for a special celebration to ring in the New Year! For ages 3-10. Our “midnight” will be at noon with a balloon drop. Register by Dec. 24. For details, visit twp. pine.pa.us.

North Hills Community Outreach Holiday Toy Drive runs

Library

Nov. 9-Dec. 14. For details, visit nhco.org or (412) 487-6316.

Friends of Shaler North Hills Library present Napa Valley

Online Holiday Auction, Nov. 2-15, sponsored by Pittsburgh Mercy. For info, visit http://biddingforgood.com/pittsburghmercyauction.

Lupus Foundation Murder Mystery Dinner, Saturday, Nov.

Pioneers Wine Tasting with local wine connoisseur John Eld, 7-9 p.m., Nov. 12, 1822 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. Seating is limited to 30. For adults over 21. For info, contact Sharon at (412) 486-0211.

5, Salvatore’s 5001 Curry Rd. For details, call 1-800-800-5776.

Northland Library Events: The Golden Age of Radio, 7 p.m.,

Painting with a Twist painting session 7-9 p.m., Nov. 9, at

Nov. 3; Holiday Hand Selections by Ring Pittsburgh, 3 p.m., Nov. 27 (please register); Trolley Trails Through the North Hills, 7 p.m., Nov. 28; A Dickens Wine Christmas, 7 p.m., Dec. 2. Call (412) 366-8100 x103 or www.northlandlibrary.org.

Center. Pre-sale tickets $3 (til Nov. 18), $5 day of the event. For info, visit http://twp.pine.pa.us/.

The Woodlands Foundation, 134 Shenot Rd., Wexford. Required reservations, https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/pittsburghnorth or (724) 227-0039.

PolishFest – noon-5 p.m., Nov. 13, The University of Pittsburgh Cathedral of Learning, 5th Ave. & Bigelow Blvd. Ethnic foods, folk dance, holiday gift mart & more. For info, visit https://www. facebook.com/polishfest.pgh?fref=ts or email lgk505@aol.com or (814) 969-5940.

Southwest PA History Authors Night, 7 p.m., Nov. 9, Community Presbyterian Church of Ben Avon, 7501 Church Ave. For info visit, http://cpcba.squarespace.com/meet-the-authorsnight/ or call (412) 766-1233.

Thanksgiving

Pine Holiday Dazzle Show, 4-7 p.m., Nov. 19, Pine Community

Photos with Santa & His Penguin Pals, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10 & 17, National Aviary. Included with admission. For info, visit www.aviary.org or (412) 323-7235.

Reindeer Ball, 4-7 p.m., Dec. 4, the Westin Convention Center

North Hills Community Outreach food collection runs thru

Pittsburgh Hotel, 1000 Penn Ave., For tickets, visit www.pittsburghmercy.org/events.

Nov. 16 at all NHCO offices. For info, visit nhco.org or (412) 487-6316.

Shop through AmazonSmile this season and support North

Turkey Bingo for Special Olympics, 7 p.m., Nov. 17 (doors open 6 p.m.), Undercliff Volunteer Fire Hall, 700 Mt. Royal Blvd., Shaler.

Hills Community Outreach. Prices are the same, but Amazon donates a portion of each purchase to NHCO, helping local families in in need. Visit http://smile.amazon.com/ch/25-1553057 to switch.

WeihnachtsMarkt (Christmas Market), Nov. 12-13, Harmony Museum, Harmony Twp. For details, visit harmonymuseum.org.

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Pets

ALL THINGS PETS | November 2016

Building Hope for Struggling Pet Owners

BY KATHLEEN BEAVER, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, ANIMAL FRIENDS

I

f you’ve been to the Animal Friends campus lately, you have undoubtedly noticed there is something exciting going on!

It’s the construction of our new Howard Ash Animal Wellness Center.

The Center, expected to open in early 2017, will be a lifechanging and lifesaving destination for hundreds of thousands of animals and the people who love them. It is our commitment to do better for the pets who are struggling most in our region.

All too often we see pets relinquished to Animal Friends simply because their owners couldn’t afford basic vet care or food. We receive call after call about stray cats who are relegated to a life on the streets continually adding to the overpopulation problem.

We believe affordable resources are the answer. And that’s

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just what our new Center will provide.

Soon our ability to provide affordable spay/neuter will grow from 10,000 surgeries each year to 15,000. We will be able to provide tens of thousands of low-cost vaccines. Our pet food bank will expand to serve more hungry pets and our Humane Police Officers will be able to help more animals in crisis.

In just a few short months Animal Friends will be affecting the lives of so many more pets and delivering on our commitment to keep pets in their homes – healthy and supported – where they belong.

Visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org or call us at 412.847.7000 to learn more about the Howard Ash Animal Wellness Center and how you can get involved. l l l

Business Spotlight

Affordable Pet Care is Available at the Spay Neuter Clinic The dedicated staff at the Spay Neuter Clinic provides high quality spays, neuters, microchipping, and vaccinations at the lowest possible cost. “We believe that there shouldn’t be a high price for a healthy pet. Making veterinary services affordable for pet owners is our goal in everything we do,” states Erica Daniels of the Spay Neuter Clinic of Wexford.

“H

aving your pet spayed or neutered has tremendous health benefits for your pet, decreasing their risk of cancers and increasing their chances of a long and healthy life,” explains Ms. Daniels.

“In the case of puppies and kittens, spaying and neutering can help create a calmer temperament and easier training of your new pet. In the case of females, the risk of uterine cancers and infections are eliminated and if done prior to her first cycle, it reduces the risk of mammary tumors to 0.03%.

Likewise, with males, the chances of testicular cancer is removed and significantly limits that chances of developing prostate disease.”

At the Spay Neuter Clinic, dogs and cats can be spayed or neutered as early as four months and as old as ten years (although other clinics may spay or neuter older pets).

Prior to surgery, every pet receives a pre-surgical exam to make sure your pet is healthy enough for surgery and pets five to ten years of age receive pre-anesthetic bloodwork. As Ms. Daniels further explains, “should your pet require additional care prior to surgery, which is rare, we will develop a proposed plan for your pet.”

In addition to providing low-cost spay and neutering services, the Spay

Neuter Clinic offers a whole array of affordable wellness and preventative care and services including: • Vaccinations • Dental cleanings • Micro-chipping • Parasite screening • Heartworm and Lyme Disease testing • And much more…

The Spay Neuter Clinic is conveniently located on the Wexford flats at 10441 Perry Highway. They are open from 7am for surgery drop off and until 6pm for pickup. Appointments

are available until 3:30 p.m, Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri. Tues appointment hours run until 5:30 p.m. They even provide care for farel cats with walk-in services Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-12 p.m.

When you call the clinic to make your appointment, make sure to ask for the check in times for surgery and vaccinations and pre-surgery instructions To learn more visit, www.spayaz.com or call (724) 719-6233 for an appointment. l l l

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Trivia

TRIVIA CONNECTION | November 2016

Presidential Campaign Slogans Trivia

BY PAULA GREEN Since we have presented you with presidential rhetoric for America we must now delve into this campaign slogan query. Get set to wave those banners and don those campaign hats because it’s time to get a little trivial.

1. In 1900, this candidate gave us “Four more years of the full dinner pail.” He was re-elected but was assassinated six months into his second term.

2. Theodore Roosevelt ran against Alton B. Parker in 1904. He won the election in a landslide. What was he his campaign catchphrase?

3. What year did Calvin Coolidge run with his “Keep cool with Coolidge” platform?

4. Besides Lincoln, who else used the “Don’t swap horses in the middle of the stream?”

5. Contrary to newspaper headlines, Harry Truman defeated Thomas Dewey in 1948 what was his campaign saying?

6. Who used the slogan “A time for greatness?”

7. This 1968 presidential candidate campaigned with, “To begin anew.”

8. In 1976, his phrase was – “He’s making us proud again.”

9. This candidate posed the question, “Are you better off than you were four years ago?”

10. Ross Perot ran as an independent candidate in 1992 what was his party affiliation?

11. In 1996, who campaigned with “The better man for a better America?”

12. “Leadership for the new millennium,” was this candidate’s slogan in 2000.

13. Which independent candidate used the motto “Government of, by, and for the people...not the monied interests?”

14. Name the 2016 presidential candidate who used the slogan, “Heal. Inspire. Revive.”

15. This year, Gary Johnson’s slogan is, “Our best America yet!” what slogan did he used in his 2012 presidential bid? l l l Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._presidential_campaign_slogans, https://campaignhistory.wordpress. com/slogans/, http://www.presidentsusa.net/campaignslogans.html; www.dictionary.com/browse-tippecanoe-and-tylertoo, http://www.ranker.com/list/2016-presidential-campaignslogans/ Answers: 1. William McKinley 2. Speak softly and carry a big stick 3. 1924 4. Franklin Roosevelt 5. Give’em hell Harry! 6.

John Kennedy 7. Gene McCarthy 8. Gerald Ford 9. Ronald Reagan 10. Reform party 11. Bob Dole 12. Al Gore 13. Ralph Nader 14. Ben Carson 15. The people’s president

B

y now you recognize “Make America Great Again” as Donald Trump’s campaign slogan and Hillary Clinton’s – “Stronger Together,” but have you ever heard of “Tippecanoe and Tyler Too?” That slogan is 176 years old and belonged to William Henry Harrison of the Whig party. Harrison was a hero of the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811, and John Tyler was his vice presidential candidate.

Abraham Lincoln’s first presidential run in 1860 utilized the saying, “Vote yourself a farm,” which referred to the Republican Party promise which granted homesteaders land in the west. “Don’t swap horses in the middle of the stream,” was Lincoln’s 1864 reelection theme. It means once a candidate has been chosen, then it’s not possible to “swap” for a better candidate.

Woodrow Wilson campaigned in 1916 with the catchphrase, “He kept us out of war.” Ironically, five months later Wilson brought America into war with Germany after they launched unrestricted submarine warfare. After World War I in 1920, Warren G. Harding’s election promise was “Return to normalcy” campaign.

Herbert Hoover’s bid for the White House in 1928 used the motto, “A chicken in every pot and a car in every garage.” This claim meant that everyone would be prosperous under a Hoover presidency.

A short, appealing catchphrase came from Dwight Eisenhower in 1952, with “I like Ike.” A few other short ones were – Richard Nixon’s “Nixon now” (1972); Ross Perot’s “Ross for boss” (1992); in 2008 – Barack Obama’s “Hope”; and John McCain’s “Country first.” In 2012, Obama utilized the slogan, “Forward.”

In 1964, there was interesting bantering going on between Lyndon Johnson and his opponent Barry Goldwater. Goldwater’s slogan was, “In your heart, you know he’s right.” Johnson rebutted with “In your guts, you know he’s nuts,” which left the country to believe that perhaps Goldwater was unfit for the White House.

“Grits and Fritz,” was heard in 1976, it referred to Jimmy Carter’s southern roots and his running mate Walter Mondale’s nickname. In 1984, Walter Mondale ran against incumbent Ronald Reagan. He used the phrase, “Where’s the beef?” which was a take-off from a famous Wendy’s® commercial. Reagan’s re-election slogan that year was, “It’s morning again in America.”

In 1988, George H.W. Bush vied for a “Kinder, gentler nation.” His son George W. Bush in 2004, called for “A safer world and a more hopeful America.”

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2016

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