November 2017 issue - Northern Connection Magazine

YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2017

Shady Side Academy McIlroy Center for Science & Innovation • Holiday Happenings • Hosanna Industries Festival of Trees • Mustache Trivia Pages 30-31

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

1

Contents

8

36

NORTHERN CONNECTION

12

CONTENTS | November 2017

Features

Health & Wellness

8

Business Spotlight: Waffles, INCaffeinated Janice Lane Palko

6

9

Flipping Houses Without Flipping Out Vince Parrucci

10 Three Rivers Adoption Council and Bethany Christian Services Provide Support for Adoptive Families Janice Lane Palko 12 Cover Story: Shady Side Academy’s McIlroy Center for Science and Innovation 19 Business Spotlight: Komoroski Orthodontics Gives Thanks for 25 Years Janice Lane Palko

Kids & Education 14 School Movers & Shakers

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Observed in Pittsburgh Janice Lane Palko

20 Fit Families: So You Wanna be an Ironman? Joella Baker 21 Three Schools of Thought in Taking Essential Oils 21 Alzheimers: Why Is The Brain Deteriorating?

Dr. Michele M. Askar

Senior Living 22 UPMC Senior Communities 24 Town Crier: Hello November!

Joe Bullick 26 Happenings for Seniors 27 Dignity Home Care Professionals

44

Image & Style 30 Ideal Image 33 Holiday Gifts Stephanie Truchan

Holiday Happenings 34 Presents for Patients

In Every Issue...

4

From the Publisher: Marion Piotrowski

6

Movers & Shakers

7

Mover & Shaker of the Month: Mary Casamassa Paula Green

32 Where Was I?: Whoah, Somethin’ Bad Janice Lane Palko

2

35 Small Business Saturday 32 Support Our Troops: Masonic Village Unveils Veterans Garden Paula Green 40 November 2017 Happenings 44 Trivia Connection: Movember Trivia Paula Green

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

36 Hosanna Industries’ Festival of Trees 38 Cell Phones and the Holidays Marianne Anderson

Advertorials 5

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have Hope Dr. Shawn Richey

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

3

Welcome PUBLISHER NOTES | November 2017

Welcome to the November issue of Northern Connection magazine!

T

his month’s cover story is about Shady Side Academy and how they are taking science to a new level in their new McIlroy Center for Science & Innovation. Our “Innovations in the Classroom” series continues to grow month after month. As we continue to receive more information on our schools, this section has grown to become one of our most interesting and asked about features. We take great pride in presenting these excellent educational facilities and their curriculums to our readers.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, let us keep in mind all the blessings we have in our life and always be thankful for these special gifts. The greatest gift of all is family, and November is National Adoptions month. Many beautiful families have been brought together through adoption and adoption agencies. In this issue we promote some local adoption agencies that can help you to find the unique child that will complete your family.

On the lighter side, this month’s Trivia looks at the history of the mus“Feeling gratitude tache! See how many famous people and not expressing you can identify that have sported it is like wrapping some of the most popular mustaches. a present and not Enjoy reading this month’s special giving it.” articles and Northern Connection magazine’s regular monthly columns.

William Arthur Ward Thank you to all our Veterans for your sacrifice and service. Because of you, we can live in the land of the free and home of the brave.

Thank you for your support, and together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live and work! l l l

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

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

Janice Lane Palko 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 Janice Lane Palko ncmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com

Core Writers

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

Linda Watkins Lori Palmer 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.

Coming in December Holiday Guide & Happenings Coming in January 19th Annual Education issue Call Mary or Laura today at 724-940-2444 to reserve your space.

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/

4

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

HOPE Don’t GIVE UP!

DR. SHAWN RICHEY

“I tried all kinds of treatments and nothing worked for me until I met Dr. Shawn! So far I am 75 percent cured. It feels so good to walk again without pain!”

Pat, Ross Township

“I saw so many doctors and had so many tests.

But then I found Dr. Shawn! I am completely blown out of the water that this is working.”

Sheila, Latrobe

“It hasn’t even been a month and I’ve come a long way! I struggled with peripheral neuropathy for ten years.”

George, Beaver Co.

“I am 80 percent cured! I can’t wait to go hunting & fishing again!!”

Bob, New Castle

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. A specialized treatment protocol is available at the Chiropractic Family Health Center. It includes nine specific treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Our program utilizes state-of-the-art technology with combined therapies to restore life to the dead nerves.

Dr. Richey has seen thousands of patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy. Since 2013, his program has had a 90 percent satisfaction rate addressing the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy using a successful, non-invasive, PAINLESS, drug-free approach that includes the use of light therapy to stimulate tissue repair.

Dr. Richey has expanded his practice to include Westmoreland as well as Allegheny Counties. 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 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.

“I love this treatment because I noticed a real improvement.

I would absolutely recommend this.”

Ed, Ross Township

“Before I found Dr. Shawn, I suffered from peripheral neuropathy for 17 years. Now I’m HEALED!”

Paul, Pittsburgh

“Ninety percent of the pain is gone and my balance is good and getting better after just a few weeks.

Jim, Murrysville

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

5

“Saving Time to Make You Money!”

It’s time to make an investment in yourself, and your company It’s time to call

John Craig Bookkeeping is Pittsburgh’s top firm for professional tax and bookkeeping services!

Specializing in: Tax Preparation Small Business Accounting Bank Reconciliations Bookkeeping Budgeting Fair priced • Office appointments available or we can travel to you

John Neil Craig Jr.

412-628-5455 www.PittsburghTaxes.com

People

MOVERS & SHAKERS | November 2017

Movers & Shakers Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC has been designated as a Live Well Allegheny Workplace from the Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD), which aims to improve the health and well-being of Allegheny County residents.

The Block Northway welcomed 18/8 Fine Men’s Salon as a new tenant. The 1,500 squarefoot store located at 8011 McKnight Road, Ross Township, Pittsburgh, opened its doors on October 7.

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC has announced new leadership appointments in its Heart Institute and Division of Pediatric Cardiology. Jacqueline Kreutzer, M.D., professor of pediatrics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, is now appointed as chief of the Division of Pediatric Cardiology.

UPMC Senior Services honored Arthur S. Levine, M.D., senior vice chancellor for the health sciences and John and Gertrude Petersen Dean of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, as its 2017 Grand Champion for bringing worldclass senior services to Pitt. It is the highest honor awarded by UPMC Senior Services.

After tallying up the books, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is proud to announce the final results of their summer reading program. Between June 11 and Aug. 31, more than 16,000 readers logged a record 184,376 books, eBooks and audiobooks, which is a 13 percent increase from last summer.

The Cranberry Afternoon Rotary donated $500 in September to support Lifesteps’ Child Check program, a FREE program for families throughout several local counties. Lifesteps’ Child Check program provides free developmental screenings for children birth to age five and autism screenings for children beginning at 18 months.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Observed in Pittsburgh

BY JANICE LANE PALKO

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and this past September, The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) Pittsburgh Chapter celebrated with several events to raise funds for ovarian cancer awareness, and treatment and support programs such as the Teal Hearts Network.

E

ach year more than 20,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, with approximately 14,000 dying annually from the disease. It is the fifth-leading cause of cancer related deaths in women.

Unfortunately, most women are diagnosed when the cancer is already in stage 3 because ovarian cancer gives few early warning signs, and many women have little to no awareness about this type of cancer. The NOCC is determined to make women aware of the disease because the earlier it is detected, the greater the five-year survival rate. In fact, when diagnosed and treated early, the five-year survival rate is over 90 percent.

Participating in Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month were Prantl’s, Betsy Ann Chocolates and Bella Christie’s, who sold a teal bakery item throughout the month. Dan Burda of Studio Raw, a North Hills Salon, shared ovarian cancer survivor stories each day on his Facebook page, and Mayor

6

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Peduto declared the month of September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and September 12 as Susan Evans Day in Pittsburgh. On September 17, more than 2,200 people, including 150 survivors, came together for the 17th Annual Run/ Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer at North Park.

If you missed the walk, you can still donate at: http://runwalk. ovarian.org/Pittsburgh. To learn more about the NOCC, visit: www.ovarian.org/Pittsburgh.

lll

Mover & Shaker of the Month

Mary Casamassa

BY PAULA GREEN

A

mateur boxing is not about knocking your opponent out; rather, the focus of each contest is to score as many cumulative points as possible. This month we are introducing a local teen who is a familiar face on the amateur boxing circuit. Eighteen-year-old, Aquinas Academy senior Mary Casamassa has developed a true passion for this combat sport.

“I have been boxing for a little over two years now, and I got involved in the sport because my three older brothers all boxed.

I thought it would be a unique experience that I would never forget. I was also tired of the drama of girl’s high school basketball that I had experienced before. It was very cliquish and the program did not challenge me. I chose boxing because it is difficult and requires courage,” Mary said.

In October, Mary boxed a girl from Italy. Her boxing talents have been highlighted on YouTube.

When Mary is not busy in the boxing ring, she can be found on the basketball court. Her skills and athleticism in this sport have made her a D-1 prospect. “Basketball started for me in fourth grade, and since then I have played for numerous travel teams and AAU programs. I played for North Allegheny in grade school

and mostly for Drill for Skill in high school (an AAU program).

This year, I will be playing at Aquinas Academy,” said Mary.

“My school and my training keep me pretty busy, so I am not involved with many clubs at my school. I am a National Hispanic Scholar and I have already been offered large scholarships from three colleges because of this distinction. I am a part of our academic committee, and I have been considering joining the math club,” Mary added.

Mary resides in Franklin Park Borough with her parents John and Abigail Casamassa. She is the youngest of six children; her siblings are John, Michael, Robert, Catherine and Isabel.

Mary will graduate from Aquinas in the spring, and she plans on continuing her studies. As she noted, “My plan for after high school is to major in engineering--either architectural or civil, potentially with a second major of architecture or construction management. I hope to start my own design/building company someday.” l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

7

People

MOVERS & SHAKERS | November 2017

Business Spotlight:

Waffles, INCaffeinated

BY JANICE LANE PALKO

I

f the lines out the door are any indication, Waffles, INCaffeinated is doing something right. The breakfast eatery opened last November at 10339 Perry Highway in Wexford, in the shopping plaza in front of North Allegheny High School. This is the third location; others are located in Beaver and on the South Side, and another is on the way. “We have recently signed a lease at the former Kaufman’s Building downtown and hope to open in April of 2018,” said Gordon Sheffer, managing partner.

What distinguishes Waffles, INCaffeinated from all the other breakfast places is not surprisingly its exquisitely wicked waffles. “We use a sourdough waffle which is not overly sweet. As a result, both sweet and savory dishes are possible. We sought to combine great taste with excellent dish presentation and service for a gourmet breakfast/brunch experience at moderate prices. The name, specifically the word INCaffeinated, is a play on incorporated to let customers know that we offer a wide range of coffee drinks,” Sheffer said.

The most popular sweet waffle on the menu is the Megaberry—a waffle with raspberry and blueberry inside and out, topped with fresh strawberry, whipped cream and raspberry sauce. “Our savory Breakfast Magic is a must try with many of our first-time customers with bacon, scallions and cheddar cheese inside and out, topped with a fried egg. They are equally popular,” Sheffer said.

Waffles, INCaffeinated monthly features allow customers to experience more unusual flavor combinations. “Our monthly features are generally first derived from the season, e.g., we are using pumpkin and apples in our current waffle and crepe features. Summer tends to be more fruit related for example.

We then look to incorporate ingredients that we typically do not stock and to create nontraditional flavor pairings. Our employees and customers are always relating possible ideas for features that we use often,” Sheffer said.

In November, for the first time ever, they will repeat a monthly feature called Brandy and the Giant Peach. “It is a raspberry waffle topped with brandied peaches and honey mascarpone as a tribute to Lincoln Arts November production of James and the Giant Peach,” Sheffer said.

The restaurant is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Waffles, INCaffeinated does not accept reservations, but you can avoid waiting in line by using their free mobile app, NoWait, which allows users to enter the seating queue remotely. That’s something to remember when you are out working up an appetite while doing your Black Friday shopping.

For more information on Waffles, INCaffeinated, visit the website at: http://www.wafflesincaffeinated.com/locations-wexford lll

8

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Homes

REAL ESTATE | November 2017

Flipping Houses Without Flipping Out

BY VINCE PARRUCCI, LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT/REALTOR AND PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT

Y

ou’ve probably seen television programs or heard real estate moguls touting “flipping houses” as a means to make a profit in the real estate market. Flipping a house is when a person buys a house at below-market value, invests money in the property to repair and/or update it, and then sells it at a profit. Simple, right? The TV shows and real estate tycoons make it seem easier than it often is in real life. There is risk involved and the process can be stressful, especially if you don’t have a team in place to help you flip the home.

The most valuable player on your team should be a realtor—and not just any realtor, but one who Is qualified and who prefers to work with investors in the market, not just those desiring to purchase a home, and who has the experience and expertise to help you flip a home successfully.

While you need contractors, plumbers, electricians, etc., you need a qualified realtor first because the costliest mistakes often occur at the time of purchase of a property. The most important tool when flipping a home is to know the real estate market in your area so you don’t overpay, and a realtor is the one who has the latest and most extensive information on the housing market because they have access to the Multi-List.

Knowing the market and what a home is worth is the key. If a purchaser misvalues the home and overpays for the property, it will be very difficult to recoup the investment and make a profit. For example, if you purchase an over-valued home at $100,000, estimating that with repairs

Real Estate Services

Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC

and renovations of $40,000, you will be able to sell the home for $160,000 and net a $20,000 profit, but later discover that the homes in that area are only worth $130,000, you will be out $10,000 in repairs and $20,000 in projected profit—not to mention the time involved. A realtor can help you to avoid costly mistakes like that.

I have taught numerous people over the past ten years how to flip homes in Pennsylvania and Ohio, and I tell my clients that you make your profit when you buy the property. I can advise a client as to whether a property is a bargain or a bust. Fortunately, the Pittsburgh area has been a stable market with properties appreciating 2-3 percent per year, making it a desirable place to flip homes. However, there are still some other things to keep in mind. It is much easier to flip a home in a desirable neighborhood than in one that is blighted. Also, it is wise to upgrade the home to make it comparable to the others in the neighborhood. Your aim is to make it the nicest home in the neighborhood but only slightly nicer. A realtor has the knowledge to advise on what amenities will give an investor the most for their money. For instance, for a home worth $100,000, you don’t have to spend $10,000 on granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances when white appliances and less costly countertops are the norm for that neighborhood.

I also recommend novice flippers to start small with more affordable properties because it limits your exposure.

If you start by investing $100,000 instead of $600,000 in a home and make a mistake, you’ve got a lot less money tied up in the property.

VINCE PARRUCCI If you are interested Residential/Commercial Realtor in flipping homes, I can vincent.parrucci@pittsburghmoves.com help you to locate the 724-776-2900 Ext. 259 Office best properties, assist 724-776-2930 Fax 724-612-3770 Cell you in the buying process and advise you on how to 20510 Route 19, Suite 100 Cranberry Township, PA 16066 invest your money wisely when refurbishing the www.smartbuystrongsale.com home. Then I can help

you to sell that home at the best prices possible so that you can flip that house without flipping out.

Considering a move? Whether it is buying or selling, have an expert work for you. Contact Vince Parrucci, Licensed Real Estate Agent, Realtor and Professional Real Estate Consultant, at Vincent.parrucci@ pittsburghmoves.com, call (724) 612-3770 or visit: www.smartbuystrongsale.com.

In addition to being a Licensed Real Estate Agent/Realtor and Professional Real Estate Consultant, Vice Parrucci is author of Smart Buy, Strong Sale: The Consumer’s Guide to Buying and Selling Your Next Home is available through Amazon.com. His extensive experience includes VP of Mellon Bank, VP of Allegheny Financial Group, Real Estate investor, mentor and coach to thousands on investment real estate and flipping of houses and property. l l l

P.A. ERBE & Associates Inc.

Accounting & Tax Preparation Service for Personal & Business Income Taxes

Penny Ann Erbe

Enrolled Agent Federally Authorized Tax Practitioner

412-487-1009

4767 William Flynn Highway Allison Park, PA 15101-2456

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

9

Feature NC FEATURE | November 2017

Three Rivers Adoption Council and Bethany Christian Services Provide Support for Adoptive Families

BY JANICE LANE PALKO

November is National Adoption Month. Just as each child is unique, so is each adoption situation. However, what is common is that there is a plethora of support from local adoption agencies that helps to ensure that whatever the circumstances of your adoption, that your new family becomes the healthy, happy, loving one that all involved envision.

T

wo local adoption agencies go the extra mile to create happy homes for adopted children and their parents. Since 1979, Three Rivers Adoption Council has been providing family-focused adoption services with emphasis on finding loving homes for African-American and special needs children. Ja-Neen Jones, MSOL, Adoption Resources Supervisor, stated that, “The time is now to help our hurting children heal through permanent

10

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

connections and support from a family.” TRAC believes that the ideal person to adopt a child is someone who is committed to making the difference in the life of a child or children. “You can be married or single, rent or own your home, and you don’t have to be rich! You just need to have a heart and a home. Ideal individuals are 25+ years old of any sex, race and culture,” said Ms. Jones.

TRAC also helps to place special needs children who are in the child welfare system. These children include: all children of color, youth five years and older as well as sibling groups. TRAC also assists with the adoption of children of traditional special needs regarding physical, mental and emotional disabilities. “Families interested in fostering and adopting these children will be eligible for financial and medical assistances,” said Ms. Jones.

In addition, TRAC provides post-adoption services to assist families after the adoption has finalized. “These services consist of respite, case management and support groups and are available to any

family that has adopted regardless of whether their adoption occurred through TRAC,” said Ms. Jones. “Other services available to all families is our Family Connection Program (outpatient therapy) which provides: individual and family therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching just to name a few of the services.”

If you are thinking of fostering or adopting a child, Ms. Jones suggest that you call (412) 471-8722 or visit their site at www.3riversadopt.org.

Bethany Christian Services has been a leader in adoption and family services since 1944. Located in Wexford, Bethany offers numerous post-adoptive support services in addition to their Pregnancy Support, Domestic Foster Care, Infant Adoption and International Adoption programs. “As we say here,” said Maureen Ticich, MSW, Post Adoption Social Worker at Bethany, “if someone calls and asks: ‘Can you help me?’ We say,’Yes!’” Bethany provides three areas of support: Case Advocacy, Respite Care and Support Groups. With Case Advocacy, Bethany helps to support all involved in the adoption from parents to nonadopted siblings. They help to address issues and identify services.

One of which is Respite services. “This type of service allows the family and child to take a break and recharge so that the parent and child can return to each other healthier and stronger,” said Ms. Ticich. “We arranged for one child to receive dance lesson, and the mom reported that those classes did more for her child than years of therapy.”

Support groups is another other of the ways that Bethany helps adoptive families to adjust to their new life. “One of our longest-running support groups is our Teen Group for 9th-12th graders. We talk about issues related to adoption and help teens to develop social skills. We have kids who have been in the Teen Group return now that they are in college to share their experiences,” said Ms. Ticich. The group meets every other month for dinner at Bethany’s office and during the intervening months, they usually do some sort of activity such as horseback riding, bowling, visiting a corn maze or participating in a 5K. They also have a Tween group. “After the first year of our teen group, we thought that perhaps if we formed a Tween group for kids 5th-8th grade, maybe the high school years wouldn’t be as rocky,” said Ms. Ticich. This group meets at Bethany’s offices.

Happily, Bethany was recently awarded a grant to form an Adoptive Children’s group which supports children in 2nd-4th grade.

For those who can’t come to Bethany for support, Bethany comes to them. “We now have a Virtual Parents’ Support group that is available to those in the state and across the U.S. via Skype. We have a sister office in Meadville, and it’s difficult for some of those living in rural areas to attend groups in person.

This bring support to them,” said Ms. Ticich.

An adoptive parent herself, Ms. Ticich knows how valuable support is to adoptive families. “I’m an adoptive parent and went through the support groups, and it helped all of us.”

To learn more about Bethany Christian Services, call (724) 940-2900 or visit the website at: www.bethany.org/westernpennsylvania.

Whether you are considering fostering or adopting a child or sibling group, there is a wealth of support to make the creation of your new family a smoother one. l l l

You Can Help...

Gregory’s Gift is a local organization whose hearts’ desire is to help bring waiting orphans into the homes of loving families.

Their mission is to increase the feasibility of adoption for waiting families through the development of financial partnerships which will assist in overcoming the financial hurdles encountered during adoption. For National Adoption Month Gregory’s Gift has been offered a matching challenge - for every donation made to Gregory’s Gift during the month of November, a donor will match the donation dollar-for-dollar...up to a maximum of $10,000. If you want to be a part of a local movement to care for orphans and the families longing to adopt them, go to Gregory’s Gift website (gregorysgift.org), click on the Donate tab, and make your contribution during November. Not only will you be a part of a local effort to bring awareness to the needs of orphans worldwide, but you will have your donation “doubled” thanks to a local donor. It is our hope that every individual realizes their capacity to make a difference in the life of an orphan… we all can help bring ONE CHILD, using ONE GIFT, into ONE FAMILY! l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

11

Cover

COVER STORY | November 2017

Shady Side Academy’s McIlroy Center for Science and Innovation Taking Science Education to a New Level Shady Side Academy is taking science education to a whole new level with the construction of the McIlroy Center for Science and Innovation on its 130-acre Senior School campus in Fox Chapel.

The 22,000-square-foot, Gold LEED-certified building is scheduled to open in Fall 2018.

T

he McIlroy Center will serve as home to the Senior School Science Department, with 10 flexible classroom/labs for biology, chemistry and physics; large, responsive spaces for research, collaboration and independent study; and an outdoor amphitheater for classes, lectures and events.

Science is fast becoming a distinctive strength at Shady Side, where the academic program is driven by collaboration, research and hands-on inquiry. Students are building robots, winning Science Olympiad titles and conducting independent research

12

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

under the expert guidance of teachers with advanced degrees and real-world experience. Seventy-five percent of the Senior School science faculty holds advanced degrees, including four PhDs. “The McIlroy Center for Science and Innovation will enhance our inquiry-based approach to teaching science,” said SSA Senior School Head Sophie Lau. “The design of the building will support students as they engage in the work of research scientists – collaborating with each other and their teachers as they collect, analyze and present data to further their understanding of the most current issues facing scientists today.”

“We have always been a department committed to handson learning,” said chemistry teacher Tom Rossi. “Science is not something theoretical that you read about in a book. It’s something that’s hands-on, it’s data-based, it’s empirical.”

As the academic program has grown in strength, however, it has outgrown its facilities, which now limit what teachers and students can do. Senior School science classes currently share one large multi-purpose lab, often concurrently. Classrooms are separated from the lab, meaning teachers can’t move from concept to demonstration without walking across the building – sometimes across campus. The McIlroy Center’s flexible learning spaces serve as classroom and lab in one, allowing teachers to present a concept and move right to a demonstration.

“Right now, there are periods where we have three classes on top of each other trying to use the same equipment, and it works

if we stick to a certain schedule,” said Rossi. “But in the new facility, if we get an idea to do an experiment, we can just turn the tables around and it’s a 30-second transition from classroom to lab.”

“A lot of active teaching happens in our labs,” said chemistry teacher Richard Gable. “All of our labs are open-ended – kids have to make adaptations and change things on the fly. And the teacher is actually instructing in the lab, talking to the students about what’s happening.”

The faculty is particularly excited about the state-of-the-art, college-level lab equipment that is planned for the new facility, which will open up a world of possibilities – equipment such as a gas chromatography (GC) machine, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) machine, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machine, materials testing bench, fluorescent microscope, scanning electron microscope, gel documentation system and -80 lab freezer.

With that caliber of equipment, students will be able to do more in-depth experimentation with more reliable results, and advanced classes can engage in higher-level research.

For example, the current lab has a standard PCR machine that allows advanced biology students to amplify and replicate DNA, but they can only observe the end product after the process is complete. A real-time PCR machine will allow students to observe DNA fragments being amplified and replicated as the process actually occurs.

“Not many high school labs have this type of equipment,” said science department chair, Dr. Joe Martens, who previously taught and did genetic research at the University of Pittsburgh and Hamilton College.

“When our kids go on to study science in college, this is the kind of equipment and methodology they’ll be using.”

“From a college application standpoint, the ability to start doing some independent research with this instrumentation is going to give our students such an advantage – they can say that they’ve actually used a real-time PCR or an NMR,” said biology and chemistry teacher Dr. Devon Renock, a former assistant professor at Dartmouth College.

The new facility also will allow SSA to better support student independent research. One of the current challenges for students wanting to do independent studies is finding a free period in their schedule when the lab is free and a teacher is available to super-

vise them. The McIlroy Center will have a special projects room adjacent to the faculty office suite, separated by a glass partition, giving students supervised access to research space throughout the day, with storage for long-term projects.

“The special projects room will be a really important space for us,” said Martens. “It is designed to be a dedicated place where students can go to do independent research, and with the window into the faculty office, there will always be somebody there to provide supervision. It also will serve as a ‘drop-in center’ for students to finish or make up lab work from class.”

The building’s sustainable features will Learn more about Shady Side not only reduce its environmental impact Academy Senior School and its but also create new academic programs at an open teaching opportunihouse on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at 6:30 ties, such as a rain garden that collects p.m. For more information, call storm runoff and 412-968-3180 or RSVP online at rooftop solar panels www.ShadySideAcademy.org/Visit. that supply a percentage of the building’s electricity.

“We talk about green design in class, but soon our students will be able to see those features in action, from the rain garden to the solar roof panels,” said environmental science teacher Leah Powers.

The school’s technology programs will also benefit from the construction of the new building. Once the McIlroy Center is open, the current science spaces will be renovated into a new technology center and maker space, giving the school’s Computer Science Department and programs such as Robotics and Science Olympiad a dedicated home.

Check out the McIlroy Center’s live construction webcam at www.shadysideacademy.org. l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

13

Schools

KIDS & EDUCATION | November 2017

School Movers & Shakers North Allegheny North Allegheny School District is proud to announce that Kaitlyn Root and Matthew Dorsey were named Homecoming King and Queen. Root and Dorsey, who each have Down syndrome, were awarded this honor by their peers on Oct. 6 at Newman Stadium. This is the second year in a row, that special needs teens have garnered this accolade at NASH. During the first two weeks of October, the Spanish Club at North Allegheny High School raised money for Hurricane Maria victims in Puerto Rico. Thanks to the generosity of students and staff, over $3,000 was raised to help the 3.5 million people impacted by Maria.

North Allegheny Intermediate High School ninth-grader Meghna Behari is among 30 national finalists for the Broadcom MASTERS® — the nation’s most prestigious competition for middle school students in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics held at the Carnegie Science Center.

The North Allegheny School District is pleased to announce that Carson, Ingomar, and Marshall Middle Schools have each been recognized as Apple Distinguished Schools for 2017-2019 for the implementation of iPads in grades six through eight through FOCUS 2020.

For the third year in a row, Seneca Valley had almost 30 percent (26 students total) who made the Westminster Honor Choir.

Making a difference is constantly on the mind of Seneca Valley Middle School seventh grade student Corbin Edge, a resident of Evans City. Corbin was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes when he was 18-months old. Through his fundraising efforts, he has donated $17,500 in total to date – to the American Diabetes Association.

Fox Chapel Fox Chapel Area High School hosted 11 students and their English teacher, David Walters, from Colegio Virgen de Europa (CVE) from Madrid, Spain, Sept. 30-Oct. 14.

These visiting eight girls and three boys (ages 14-16) lived with families in the Fox Chapel Area School District community and attended school with their host “brothers/ sisters” for two weeks.

Fox Chapel Area High School junior Sofia Porter Bacon had her original artwork selected for the “Art.Write.Now.Tour 201718.” Only approximately 50 of the best works from the national competition were selected for the traveling exhibition.

Fox Chapel Area High School technology education teacher Ken Grimm has been awarded a $6,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation. The foundation awards grants and scholarships for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinist training to high schools, community colleges, and trade schools.

Franklin Elementary School has been named a 2017 National Blue-Ribbon School.

Franklin is one among 292 public and 50 private schools receiving this honor, and one of only 18 schools in Pennsylvania.

14

Seneca Valley

Fox Chapel Area High School freshman Sanjay Seshan has been selected as a finalist in the 2017 Broadcom MASTERS®, the nation’s premier and most prestigious STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) competition for middle school students.

Hannah Knapp was crowned queen and Paul Lopiccolo king at Seneca Valley’s Raider Football pregame festivities on Friday, Oct. 6 at NexTier Stadium.

The Fox Chapel Area elementary bands commissioned a band piece that was premiered at the combined elementary fifth grade band concert in February 2017. The piece was funded through money from the district’s Gala Fund and is entitled “Bringer of War.”

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Ninth-graders at Fox Chapel Area High School and Shady Side Academy are among 30 national finalists for the Broadcom MASTERS® — the nation’s most prestigious competition for middle school students in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics held at the Carnegie Science Center.

Shady Side Academy Seven Shady Side Academy seniors were named semifinalists in the 63rd annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented students will continue in the competition for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million that will be offered next spring. The SSA semifinalists are: Ashvin Dhawan, Charlotte Everett, Seungwon “Jackie” Kim, Maxwell Kurke, Jeanne Lauer, Robert Sveda, and Justin Yuan.

Nora Navid, a freshman at Shady Side Academy and resident of Fox Chapel, was named one of 30 national finalists in the 2017 Broadcom MASTERS, the nation’s most prestigious science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) competition for middle school students.

Catholic Schools of the Pittsburgh Diocese REGISTER NOW for the 2017-2018 School Year Blessed Trinity Academy (Glenshaw)

Nora Navid

(Formerly St. Bonaventure, St. Mary, St. Ursula schools) Principal: Mrs. Jessica Rock 412-486-7611 http:/nhrces.org/trinity

Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy Principal: Mr. Mark Grgurich (412) 781-7927 www.cdtca.org

A team of Shady Side Academy students has developed and launched a new custom mobile app for iOS and Android that helps SSA Senior School students manage and share their class schedules and more.

The SSA Student app was developed by members of the Senior School Computer Science Club. The members are: Rain Du, Henry Friedlander, Thomas Jordan, Tom Scherlis, Aidan Shilling, Peter Wang, Fuad Youssef and Nick Zana.

Central Catholic High School (Oakland)

Principal: Brother Tony Baginski, FSC 412-621-7505 www.centralcatholichs.com

Holy Cross Academy

(Saint Sebastian School / Saint Teresa of Avila School) Principal: Mr. John Benzing 412-364-7171

Holy Sepulcher Catholic School (Middlesex Twp)

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

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

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

Vincentian Academy (North Hills, PA)

Principal: Mrs. Rita Canton 412-364-1616 www.vincentianacademy.org

North Hills North Hills School District has hired Michelle Spingola as the new interim assistant principal for the district’s four elementary schools.

Michelle Spingola

Earlier this year, McIntyre Elementary School in North Hills School District began an expansion project that required the demolition of their playground.

Led by the building’s PTSO, students, staff and McIntyre families came together to fundraise more than $50,000 to purchase new playground pieces and refurbish some existing pieces in less than one year. Thanks to The Allstate Foundation and 12 local Allstate (Continued on page 16)

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

15

Schools

KIDS & EDUCATION | November 2017

agency owners who provided the McIntyre PTSO with $22,000 in grants the PTSO was able to purchase new playground equipment and refurbish some existing playground pieces.

North Hills High School seniors Jordyn Hronec, Giovanni Meiser, Connor Milavec and Neville Wolff have been named 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program semifinalists.

Mars Area Mars Area seniors Bria Cratty, Meredith Furl and Alec Skomo were named Commended Students in the 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Two members of Mars Area High School Girls Varsity Golf Team placed in the 2017 WPIAL Girls Varsity Golf Qualifier, held

16

Sept. 20 at Conley’s Golf Course. Senior Natalie Welsh took first place and Victoria Witouski earned fourth place.

Mars Area High School’s “Renaissance Students of the Month” for September 2017 are junior Maxwell Stewart, senior Ashlee Schlegel, sophomore Olivia Lockette and freshman Gabrielle Joyce.

Mars Area seniors Deepayan Patra and JonPaul Plesniak were named Semifinalists in the 2018 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Mars Area High School Marching Band took first place in Class 3A competition at the Moon Area Marching Band Festival, held Sept. 23 at Moon Area High School.

Mars Area High School graduate Philip Armstrong (Class of 2006) was recently featured in the Animal Planet television pro-

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

gram, “Blood Ivory.” The show follows the work of VETPAW (Veterans Empowered To Protect African Wildlife), a group of veterans that trains park rangers and reserve owners to prevent the poaching of Phillip Armstrong elephants and rhinoceroses in Tanzania. Armstrong was as member of the VETPAW team during the filming of the program.

Aquinas Academy Aquinas Academy fourth grade girls raised funds to help Houston victims of Hurricane Harvey. The students, who call themselves the Extreme Loomers, came up with the idea of making and selling rainbowcolored rubber band bracelets, they raised $328 for the hurricane victims.

La Roche College On Oct. 7, the La Roche College soccer teams had a special guest on the sidelines.

Leo Zambori, a first-grade student battling leukemia, served as honorary captain for the men’s team for the second time.

Leo met midfielder Conner Hagins in April 2016 when the men’s soccer team visited

the oncology ward at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC during the Cuddles for Kids second Kickin’ it With the Kids event.

Founded by Hagins, Cuddles for Kids is a nonprofit that has donated over 107,000 items or $500,000 worth of goods to children’s agencies around the world. They recently sent toys to Texas in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

BC3 Butler County Community College recently recognized two distinguished alumni - Lucille Shapiro and Lucille Shapiro Ray Steffler Ray D. Steffler.

The two graduates have been called “true Pioneers” and “pillars of BC3.”

Students representing Butler County Community College clubs have donated to the American Red Cross $3,600. The monies raised will be used to help victims of recent hurricanes.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

17

18

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Business Spotlight:

Komoroski Orthodontics Gives Thanks for 25 Years

BY JANICE LANE PALKO

Thanksgiving is a time of reflection and gratitude, and at Komoroski Orthodontics, Michael Komoroski, D.M.D., is looking back on 25 years in practice with appreciation. “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to practice in my hometown for 25 years,” said Dr. Komoroski, who is affectionately referred to by staff and patients as “Dr. K.”

L

ocated in Arcadia Court at 9370 McKnight Road in McCandless, Komoroski Orthodontics has treated thousands of patients, but Dr. K desires not to dwell on numbers but on individuals. “I prefer to concentrate on delivering my best effort to the patient I am working on at that moment. I am grateful for those who have entrusted their children’s care or their own care to me, and I am dedicated to using my years of clinical experience to help future patients,” said Dr. K. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and the School of Dental Medicine, Dr. K also served in the military. “As I get older, I’m proud that I served as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force as a dental officer. My training has helped me in my specialty practice,” he said. In his orthodontic career, he is most proud of his treating many cleft lip and palate patients. “A generation ago, these patients often received very extensive dentistry at young ages. This often created a lot of dental problems into mid/late adulthood. My patients have mostly been treated very conservatively, have their own natural teeth and should not have all the issues associated with too much dentistry at young ages,” said Dr. K. As technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of our world, it has also changed Dr. K’s practice. “When I started my practice, personal computers were in their infancy. So, I never would have guessed that I could afford a program and hardware that allows me to scan a patient’s dental arch, move the teeth on the computer screen and then print out a series of models on a 3D printer to make a set of progressive retainers,” he said.

Dr. K and his hard-working staff are dedicated to serving their patients the best they can. This includes special needs patients. Dr. K describes his practice a small boutique practice.

“We may not be the biggest or fastest practice in the North Hills, but in our 25 years, I believe we’ve done great work and have served our patients well. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with our patients and referring offices in delivering the highest quality of orthodontic care to each and every patient.”

For more information on Komoroski Orthodontics, visit the website at: www.komoroskiortho.com or call: (412) 366-0776. l l l www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

19

Health

HEALTH & WELLNESS | November 2017

Fit Families

So You Wanna Be an Ironman?

BY JOELLA BAKER

W

ouldn’t we all love to fly around and save the world like Tony Stark? Yes, he is Ironman, but for many people who strive to swim, bike and run to stay fit or active, becoming an Ironman is something completely different.

I spent October 15 at the Louisville Ironman watching five of my amazing athletes race to become an Ironman. It’s always inspiring to watch someone race 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles in under 17 hours. This year was the first time I stayed to watch some of the final finishers cross that line and hear the announcer say those coveted words: “You are an Ironman.”

So, what does it take to become an Ironman?

Every year, I have people who approach me to coach them for this amazing challenge, but sometimes people don’t truly understand the full commitment involved in getting to the start line and more importantly to the finish line. Here are a few

questions you should ask yourself before starting down this path to the Ironman finish line.

1. Why do you want to do an Ironman?

Some people don’t feel like they are truly a triathlete unless they complete the Ironman. But you need a better reason than that. Why do you really want to go on this journey?

2. Are you capable of doing an Ironman?

If you are considering the Ironman, think of what you’ve done so far. Can you swim? Can you swim in open water?

Have you ridden a bike longer than 15 miles? It’s important to be able to do some of these things before considering doing this.

3. Will you have the time for an Ironman?

In peak training periods, you may spend 15 to 20 hours per week or more swimming, cycling, running, lifting weights, doing yoga, stretching and just getting race ready. Then add in massages, doctors’ appointments, meetings with your coach, spending time reading and analyzing your workouts and training.

4. Am I financially able to do an Ironman?

It’s not cheap to train and race an Ironman. The race fee alone is $500 to $1,000. Not to mention the new equipment you may need to invest in.

5. What do my family, friends and employer think?

Making sure your family, friends and employer understand the commitment you need to put forth is key. Unfortunately, when you train for an Ironman, you will spend less time with the people above.

6 Lastly, do you have people who will help you along the journey?

That means, do you have people who will swim thousands of yards with you? Do you have people who will go out on a 100-mile bike ride with you? Do you have someone who will run 10, 15 or 20 miles with you?

So, there you have it. The questions you must ask before you take the Ironman journey. Of course, in the end, when those people are standing on the sidelines on race day and they are there for you at the finish line and you hear the words, “You are an Ironman,” every sacrifice you made will be worth it.

This just doesn’t apply to an Ironman. This can also apply to running a marathon. The hours are not quite as long, but there is still a lot of time, money and energy that go into training for and running a marathon.

I hope this article inspires some of you to try this and maybe helps others understand what it really takes to complete the journey. l l l

20

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Three Schools of Thought in Taking Essential Oils The German “The German school emphasizes inhalation is the best way to receive the benefits of essential oils.

Inhalation puts oil molecules directly into the bloodstream through the alveoli up the lungs as well as directly to the brain through the olfactory nerves which connect to the central brain.”

The English “English emphasize massage with neutral carrier oils containing 2 to 5% essential oils is the best practice of applying essential oils. In the English school, skin is the primary organ of absorption for essential oil applied diluted in low concentrations. “

The French “The French emphasize taking essential oils orally but in practice they utilize all four methods of administrations, including oils applied neat (undiluted) on the skin. In reality, all four ways (through lungs, through skin, through digestive tracts, through body orifices) are valid, each with their advantages and disadvantages. In rare cases, those of the French school may also administer essential oils directly into living tissues via hypodermic injections, but only done by licensed physicians only.

The best way to optimize the benefits of aromatic oils is to be open to administering them by any and all pathways—by nose, skin, mouth, intestine, rectum, and or female organ depending on the situation.”

“In the United States and Canada only the French and British schools predominate.

If you are not involved with American aromatherapy or have been involved only a short time, you might not be aware of the competition between British and French schools around the world. To understand the nature of the conflict some explaining is in order. This will help you understand why there are some contradictions between books of different schools.” (Next month to be continued.)

For more information or for sample requests, contact Fe Tubio at (724) 6016628 or www.youngliving.org/fetubio. l l l (Ref. The Chemistry of Essential Oils Made Simple by Dr. Stewart Ph.D., D.N.M.)

ALZHEIMERS: Why is The Brain Deteriorating?

By Dr. Michele M. Askar Board Eligible Chiropractic Neurologist

The latest documented evidence after considerable research explains why the human brain is deteriorating faster than the rest of the body.

To begin, a common blood pressure medication called calcium channel blockers has been proven on X-ray and MRI to cause brain shrinking. Within five years of use, research has shown these drugs to lower ones I.Q. Lipitor a medication used to reduce cholesterol is another known cause in the decline of brain function. What is important to know is that statin drugs like Lipitor used to lower cholesterol poison the liver’s ability to breakdown/process cholesterol. The negative side effect of this is that it starves the brain of cholesterol that is needed to repair the brain, rebuild worn out membranes, and ward off Alzheimer’s.

Even with all this hard evidence, yet another medication was developed called Atorvastin/Amlodipine (Caduet). This potent drug combines both the calcium channel blocker and a statin. Talk about a double whammy to optimal brain function!

Now another documented contributor of Alzheimer’s are the unavoidable heavy metals. We all have them in us and they destroy the brain repairing enzymes which leads to Alzheimer’s.

Unfortunately, everyone has aluminum in them. For example, aluminum can come from eating out, cookware, baking powders used in breads, processed restaurant foods cooking in aluminum, deodorants and many other sources.

So you may be asking yourself what can I do? Well, one solution that is strongly recommended to perk up your memory is green tea. Real organic green tea has been found to be a potent preventer of brain deterioration. Green tea has been found to prevent amyloid deposition in the brain. One that was strongly recommended in my research was Sencha Premium Organic Green Tea. The take away from today’s article is to be more proactive in your care by understanding the long term side effects of all prescribed medication.

To schedule an appointment please call 724-709-7709

BEAVER COUNTY SPINAL DISC & NEUROLOGY CENTER

3582 Brodhead Rd., Suite 108, Monaca, PA 15061 This offer does not apply to Federal Insurance Beneficiaries & Participants. 2017 www.northernconnectionmag.com | ACN NC November

21

Seniors

SENIOR LIVING | November 2017

Q

UPMC Senior Communities is proud to be part of UPMC — one of the most innovative and patient-centered health systems in the country. This affiliation brings valuable benefits to our residents and staff of the kind found in a world-class health system.

22

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

uality care is the direct result of outstanding education and training. Here are two ways education and training are making a difference at UPMC Senior Communities.

The Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh is nationally known for its pioneering educational programs, such as Ageless Wisdom™, an interactive and experiential geriatric sensitivity training program that simulates the loss older adults experience in hearing, vision, touch, taste, smell, and memory. Additionally, the Aging Institute recently presented neuroscientist Dr. Robert J. Koester, a renowned expert in the search and rescue of persons with dementia, to an audience of more than 130 professionals from health care, elder care, and law enforcement.

“By helping individual health care providers better understand the aging process, we’re opening the door to better communication and care,” says Betty Robison, MSN, RN-BC, geriatric educator with the Aging Institute.

At on-site health fairs recurring each fall, residents of UPMC Senior Communities give tomorrow’s health care professionals a greater understanding of the unique and challenging health care needs of older adults.

More than 300 residents voluntarily participate in health assessments for fall risk, osteoporosis risk, caregiver stress, frailty, medicines, end-of-life wishes, cognitive function and memory, and depression, conducted by aspiring doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and physical therapists from the University of Pittsburgh’s Schools of the Health Sciences. “Being able to see older

We’re Part of Something Big! adults in their own surroundings is something we don’t experience in the clinical setting,” observes Daniel Hedayati, a University of Pittsburgh medical student.

UPMC and its academic partner, the University of Pittsburgh, are known for collaborative, groundbreaking research, bringing $475 million in National Institutes of Health funding annually to our region — No. 5 in funding among research institutions nationally. Here is one way cutting-edge research is making a difference at UPMC Senior Communities.

The UPMC Palliative and Supportive Institute and UPMC Senior Services pioneered the use of certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNPs) to lead the care management of skilled nursing residents. Studies show that the specialized skills and training of CRNPs help to ensure early identification of changes in a resident’s health and improve the lines of communication between the health care team, staff, and families.

At four of UPMC Senior Communities’ skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities, the involvement of CNRPs — delivered through the Institute’s Community Supportive Services — has helped to significantly reduce hospitalizations by providing care where residents live. “By having an onsite presence every day, we get to know our residents well and can act quickly if their condition changes. We become their safety net, able to identify shifts and gaps in their care,” explains Susan R. Saxon CRNP, MSN, FNP-BC, director of community and home based care with UPMC’s Palliative and Supportive Institute.

UPMC’s commitment to delivering the right care, in the right way, at the right time is evident in the care residents at UPMC Senior Communities receive daily. Here are two ways direct resident care is making a difference at UPMC Senior Communities.

Remember the good old days when doctors made house calls to see patients? Assisted living residents at UPMC Senior Communities can still count on that same personal touch from UPMC doctors. At Cumberland Crossing, for example, internist John P. Uribe, MD, rounds every Monday and Thursday, accompanied by Saralinda Haskell, CRNP, his nurse practitioner.

Together, they provide personal care to nearly half the residents. “Our assisted living residents and their families appreciate the added peace of mind and convenience of having a doctor come right to one’s door,” says Greta Ceranic, director of marketing with UPMC Senior Communities.

Some residents may need additional support due to advancing age or declining health so they can continue to “age in place” at their independent living or assisted living home. Life Enhancement Services, part of UPMC Senior

Communities, offers services that range from helping with laundry or shopping, to running errands and assisting with dressing, walking or taking medicines, and even handling daily walks for a beloved pet. Says Jacqueline Kubican, care supervisor with Life Enhancement Services, “What we do is really needed.

It’s the extra support residents want so they can remain close to their spouses, families, and friends.” l l l

For more information about UPMC Senior Communities, visit UPMCSeniorCommunities.com or call 1-800-324-5523.

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

23

Seniors

SENIOR LIVING | November 2017

Town Crier

Hello November!

BY JOE BULLICK

H

i November! Boy, you have your work cut out for you after September and October. They were some catastrophic months. Mother Nature had plenty to say as she caused a lot of damage all over the world. And plenty here in the good old U.S.A.--not to mention the killings in Las Vegas.

November was named for the old ninth month in the Roman calendar. The ancient Celts began this month with Samhain, Gaelic for “summers end.” It was a day to bid goodbye to warmth and light.

Mom always had candles ready, and she had all our woolies out ready to wear. Most of the gardeners’ outdoor tasks are over now, but there’s still time to rake leaves and heap them on

24

the beds along with this year’s compost. November is a highly social time for many communities. Football is in high gear; baseball is over. I hope your team won. Hockey is now in full swing.

There’s always great sports to offer in November. Horse racing has the Breeders’ Cup on Nov. 3-4.

The World Weightlifting Championship will be held in Anaheim, Calif., Nov. 28-Dec. 6. The World Senior Chess Championship will be held in Acqui Terme, Italy, from Nov. 6-19. For us churchgoers, there’s All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1. We always had doughnuts on the menu that day. Their round shape was said to symbolize eternity—a nod to the saints whose lives are celebrated.

The next day is All Souls’ Day. Mom

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

always had a blessed candle that she left burning to honor all people who have died.

Then there’s Veterans Day. I hope you all have a great Thanksgiving Day. I will always remember the big snowstorm of 1950. It is etched in my memory. Pittsburgh received 27.4 inches of snow, crippling the city. It snowed for three days.

November is also known as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and American Diabetes Month. Why not take a one-day trip this month? There’s some great places for baseball fans like the Peter J. McGovern Little League Museum in Williamsport, Penna. Take a ride on the Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad. There’s the Carnegie Museum of Art right here in Pittsburgh.

Well, have a great November.

Happy birthday to all you Scorpios and Sagittarii. I leave you with this:

The first duty of love is to listen.

– Paul Tillich

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

25

Seniors

SENIOR LIVING | November 2017

Happenings for Seniors

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.

Call (412) 364-1606 or (412) 307-1797.

Meals on Wheels McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home-delivered meals

Collections North Hills Community Outreach is collecting safety items for seniors. For details, visit nhco.org or call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 x3313.

Entertainment & Social Fox Chapel Area High School fall play, Radium Girls, senior citizen performance 3:45 p.m., Nov. 8, in the high school’s auditorium. Refreshments served prior to the event at 3 p.m.

Reservations are requested at (412) 967-2410.

2nd Act, adults 55 & older gather monthly for music, inspirational speakers & outreach projects, 10 a.m.-noon, 2nd Thurs thru May, Orchard Hill Church. For info visit, https://www. orchardhillchurch.com/.

St. Alexis Over 50 trips: Light-Up Night, Nov. 17; Spring

Flower Show to Phipps, Mar. 27; Niagara Falls, Erie, Salamanca Casinos, Apr. 4-6; Little Switzerland, May 17; Gateway Clipper & Fireworks, July 4; Mackinac Island, Sept. 9. Contact, Rose (724) 728-2563, or (412) 908-0124, or Janet, at (724) 869-5339.

Health & Wellness Free Services for Seniors through North Hills Community

Outreach. Help with rides to medical appts., grocery stores, yard work. Call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or Kerry at (412) 449-0151 to schedule an in-home registration visit.

to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkeley Hills, Swan Acres, McCandless, Shaler & Hampton Townships. 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. Call (724) 935-1877.

Seminars Legacy Theatre Seminars: Maps Matter: How Gerrymandering Affects Our Elections, 11 a.m., Nov. 14; Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant, 11 a.m., Nov. 28; Here, There and Far Away (Frank Lloyd Wright seminar), Dec. 12. For info, visit http:// thelegacylineup.com/

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

Senior Meetings 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) 415-1892 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.

Gateway North AARP #3586 meets at 1 p.m., the 3rd Monday

of the month, at West View Banquet Hall at 398 Perry Hwy. Short meeting with entertainment, and cake & coffee. Everyone is welcome.

Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the month, Christ Church

Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. Call (412) 741-4900 or visit http://www. ccgf.org.

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

Catholic Alumni Club of Pittsburgh, has dances, retreats and

plays various sports and other great events. Visit their website http://www.cacpittsburgh.org/.

Have fun and meet new people with the Association of University People/AUP. They’re looking for single, college

graduates over 50 to join monthly dinners, meet at social spots, book club, play bridge or scrapple and social gatherings. Call (412) 734-8445 or visit www.aupsinglespittsburgh. org

Visit Pittsburgh Events & Festivals lists upcoming events

for singles, kids, and married folks. It enlightens Pittsburghers on dining, shopping and recreational events. Go to http://www. visitpittsburgh.com/events-festivals.

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

month, St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 2554 Wildwood Rd. Call Suzie, at (724) 799-7049.

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.

Home Instead Senior Care® has a program to help families

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

Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets 2 p.m., the last Friday.

Contact Pam, at (724) 779-5020.

Volunteer Opportunities Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit Hospice patients. Call (412) 367-3685.

Neighborly Gnomes assist seniors with disabilities with yard tasks. Visit NeedsbyNeighborhood.org.

North Hills Community Outreach offers registration for

volunteering to help seniors. Visit http://nhco.org/volunteeropportunities/volunteer-help-seniors/, or call (412) 307-0069 x3313.

North Hills Community Outreach urgently needs volunteers

in the upper Route 28 corridor to help seniors. Visit http:// nhco.org/volunteer-opportunities/volunteer-help-seniors/. For details, call Kerry, (412) 449-0151.

Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program seeks

volunteers (50+) to tutor in Pittsburgh & Woodland Hills School Districts in grades K-4. Trainings are 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Nov. 6 & 9, at 411 Seventh Ave., Suite 525 (Duquesne Light Building) downtown Pittsburgh. For info or to register, contact John at OASIS at (412) 393-7648 or jdspehar@oasisnet.org.

Ursuline Services’ Checks and Balances program assists

those who have difficulty with financial affairs. Register at (412) 224-4700 x113 or ktobin@ursulinesupport.org.

26

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Seniors

SENIOR LIVING | November 2017

Dignity Home Care Professionals There’s a different type of in-home care company in town. Veteran-owned and family-run, Dignity Home Care Professionals infuses kindness in all they do.

And they care about their clients and their caregivers equally. Owners, former Marine sergeant Tom Schad and his wife Bethany, recruited Bethany’s mother, Hana Haatainen-Caye, to join them in running the company in December 2016. Bethany’s father, Bill Caye, has worked as a caregiver for Dignity since its inception in 2015. Add Bethany’s sister, Jessica Taylor, as a caregiver, and this truly is a family business.

bers are unavailable to visit often. Wherever seniors in Allegheny County live, Dignity Home Care Professionals is there to offer support and partner with their families to enrich their lives. After all, kindness matters. l l l

Dignity Home Care Professionals 547 Lincoln Ave. Suite 1, Bellevue, PA 15202 412.415.3168 info@dignityhomecarepgh.com www.dignityhomecarepgh.com

T

he day-to-day operations in the Bellevue office are run by the mother/daughter team, who are both certified caregivers. Their vision is simple: to help make these final chapters in people’s lives the very best they can be. Kindness and dignity are the hallmarks of the company and they settle for nothing less.

Dignity HCP is a non-medical in-home care company affording seniors the opportunity to remain in their homes and maintain as much independence as possible. Services include basic companionship – reading together, playing games, watching a movie; grocery shopping and meal preparation; escorting seniors to appointments and events; assisting with hospital or rehab discharge and transporting clients to their homes following in-patient care; bathing and providing personal care; laundry and light housekeeping; and more. Recent changes in the law in Pennsylvania now allow non-medical caregivers to assist with medications as well. Additionally, Dignity HCP provides occasional respite care to family caregivers who simply need a break, whether it’s overnight so they can get some rest, or during the day or evening so they can go on outings without having to worry about their loved ones. Caregivers are also available to accompany seniors to special events, like weddings or funerals.

When it comes to in-home care, Dignity HCP broadens the term. Caregivers are available to spend time with seniors confined to nursing homes or assisted living facilities. While the facility staff provides direct care, the Dignity caregivers help to ease loneliness and add some fun to the long days when family memwww.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

27

28

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

29

Don’t Miss Our

BLACKFRIDAY

BLOWOUT Treat Yourself for the Holidays!

Join us for: • Food & Refreshments • Free Consultations & Assessments • Giveaways & Raffles • Live Demos • Amazing Promotions!

30

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

T

November 24, 2017 9am-5pm You don’t want to miss our BIGGEST & BEST Event of the YEAR!

CoolSculpting 25% off!

$200 off Fillers

Laser Hair Removal 70% off!

$100 off Botox

$250 off ALL Skin Rejuvenation

Join us to learn all about what Ideal Image, The Advanced MedSpa has to offer.

Go ahead, ask us anything about...

CoolSculpting • Laser Hair Removal BroadBand Light Therapy • Ultherapy • Kybella Wrinkle Relaxers & Fillers (Botox, Dysport, Voluma, Restylane, Juvederm)

Please RSVP directly to the center at (724) 759-2620 Located in the Village at Pine (by the Wexford Market District) 2000 Village Run Dr., #204 Wexford, PA 15090 www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

31

Editor

WHERE WAS I? | November 2017

Whoah, Somethin’ Bad

BY JANICE LANE PALKO

I

t was the fourth of July, and I was probably six years old. We’d bought a flag for our new house, and this was the first holiday to come along to display our new purchase.

As my dad assembled the flag pole, we kids pulled the flag out of the plastic bag.

“Careful,” my dad said, “you should never let the flag touch the ground.”

“Why?” I asked.

“Because it’s the symbol of our country; and it’s disrespectful.”

“But what will happen it if touches the ground?”

I’m sure by this time my dad was wondering where he’d gotten this little inquisitor.

“Bad things. Just don’t let it touch the ground.”

“What bad things?”

“I don’t know. Just bad things.”

I was still at that age where magical thinking colors your world.

I did believe that my clapping real hard saved Tinkerbell’s life. I did believe that Miss Sally on Romper Room could see me through her magic mirror. I did believe that my tongue would turn black if I told a lie. Therefore, I never, ever let the flag touch the ground.

But as I grew older and the magic faded. I learned that fairies weren’t real, that Miss Sally’s mirror was only a piece of glass, and when I told a fib, that my tongue didn’t turn black.

I never tested disrespecting the flag to see if bad things happened. I didn’t have to. I spent my childhood in the 1960s and my teen years in the 1970s, and people only a few years older than me put the flag to the test. They burned flags in Central Park, on college campuses, outside political conventions and wiped their feet on it. From those acts of desecration, I learned that the flag had no power, that it was only a cloth, that nothing bad would happen if you abused it.

At least I thought so back then.

During the 39 years since I was a teen, I’ve seen a lot of a lot of “thou shall nots” fall, things you wouldn’t dream of doing only a few years ago become the norm, and I don’t think we are the better for it.

The website ushistory.org keeps a list of legal cases involving flag abuses. And from 1943 to 1968, there were no federal cases involving flag desecration. But from 1968 until the present, there has been an explosion of legal cases regarding desecration.

Like a slow-growing cancer, I think our disregard for everything that is sacred is finally catching up with us. Did disrespecting the flag cause bad things to happen? No, it is just another symptom of a deadlier disease, the result of tossing out everything held dear. What we are witnessing with the NFL players taking a knee during the National Anthem is the trickle-down disintegration of civil society. Every institution in our nation is under attack and being disassembled. Our country is fraying because the cords that once bound us are snapping one-by-one. Let’s hope we find a way to knit this country back together before something truly bad and irreversible happens. l l l

32

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Support Our Troops

Masonic Village Unveils Veterans Garden

BY PAULA GREEN

M

asonic Village at Sewickley dedicated a Veterans Garden on Oct. 7 during its annual Community Festival. The veneration project took six months to complete, and it added some splendor and beauty to the 60-acre campus.

The multi-leveled garden includes a canal of water that cascades down to a lower level pond. The area features benches, a life-sized bronze statue of George Washington in his military regalia, and engraved pavers inscribed with the names of donors, veterans and service members.

“We have about 350 residents at Masonic Village, and out of those, we have nearly 100 veterans. We felt this would be a great way to honor those who so valiantly served our country,” said Masonic Village’s executive director, Eric Gross.

“The planning stages for the Veterans Garden began three years ago. The Grand Master behind the project was board member Ray Dietz. He wanted to create a powerful and lasting legacy for our armed forces. Two veteran residents who helped initiate this military tribute included Nick Tisak and John Haught,” said Gross. Tisak served in the U.S. Marines from 1946-1948 and in the U.S. Army Airborne Rangers from 1950-1953 during the Korean War. The Veterans Garden dedication also included a tribute to fallen Canonsburg police officer Scott Bashioum. “It was a powerful tribute, and Scott’s family was in attendance for this honor,” Gross said.

Bashioum, 52, was a seven-year veteran of the Canonsburg Police Department. He was shot and killed on Nov. 10, 2016, when he was responding to a domestic violence call. He served his community not only as a police officer and firefighter, but also as a member of the armed forces.

Bashioum was a member of the U.S. Air Force and served during the Persian Gulf War in Operation Enduring Freedom. After 29 years of service, he retired as a senior master sergeant. It was fitting that Masonic Village honored this fallen veteran.

For more information on Masonic Village of Sewickley, visit www.masonicvillages.org/sewickley/. l l l

Chic

IMAGE & STYLE | November 2017

Holiday Gifts

BY STEPHANIE TRUCHAN

The holidays are right around the corner. Some people spend their whole year pre-shopping, selecting personalized gifts to give to loved ones.

O

thers think to themselves . . . only a few weeks to go and not a clue what to get. Think about how well do you know those you are closest to — what could they possibly want to receive? Think about their lifestyle, their hobbies and their dreams. Instead of giving the same gifts that are safe, dig deeper. Is there someone who only wants to spend time with you or their friends? Anyone you know do a craft so professionally but does not retail it? What about a person who is reluctant to spend money on something new or different in fear they won’t like it?

At Salon Nolas, we build friendships with new clients daily while keeping a steady clientele with decades of history, so much so that we consider them family. A favorite experience of mine during the holiday season is when a client brings dear friends

or family into the salon to spend time together enjoying their treatments of choice. A gift of relaxation and time spent together!

Perhaps you have a friend who makes amazing crafts or independently sells art, clothing or wine? Why not book a social at Salon Nolas and host Beautycounter products while your friends host their trade, craft or company? It’s a wonderful way to give the gift of experience and showcasing different talents.

When a group of skilled friends come together and highlight each other’s expertise, the support is overwhelming. This allows people to try new products that they may not do so by themselves.

Giving a gift certificate for a service or product is always appreciated. Having the ability to try new services or products that have been referred by trustworthy friends or family is absolutely heartwarming. Making memories, sharing time and delivering holiday cheer should be at the top of your gift-giving list this holiday season. Call Salon Nolas today to schedule your holiday memorable moments. l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

33

Holiday Happenings Presents for Patients® – Make a Visit, Make a Friend

N

othing brightens the day of elderly patients in nursing homes more than the surprise of visiting neighbors and friends. Individuals, families and groups have helped PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS® spread Christmas cheer to thousands of area patients since 1984. The upcoming holiday season is a great way for you, community groups or businesses to become involved.

PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS® was founded in 1984 by St. Barnabas Health System, with the goal to help patients cope with the loneliness they often feel during the holidays by providing them with a gift and visitor. The secondary goal was to provide members of the public with an opportunity to visit their local nursing homes to witness the acts of goodwill and compassion that occur every day. Now a year-round community outreach campaign,

34

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS® is celebrating its 34th season.

PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS® has received numerous awards from local and national civic organizations, including a 1988 Citation from President Ronald Reagan. Because of the heartwarming value to patients and participants alike, PRESENTS FOR PATIENTS®continues to grow and touch people’s lives.

It is easy to get involved: Visit a patient and deliver your gift in person, sponsor a gift by donating money or host a giving party and/or volunteer to help deliver donated gifts and make someone smile.

New this year, the Neighborhood Ford Store team and WPXI-TV are sponsoring PRESENTS FOR VETERANS, helping to raise gifts specifically for area veterans. Unwrapped gifts can be dropped off where you find the official truck of the Pittsburgh Steelers and at all Steeler home games.

For more information and to learn how you can donate and/or participate, please visit PRESENTSFORPATIENTS.com, call 724-443-0011 or text “GIVE” to 41444. l l l

Small Business Saturday Make sure you stop by these local stores on Small Business Saturday, November 25 for all of your holiday shopping!

All That Jazz

Modern Piano

All That Jazz, Dance and Fitness Wear, is your place to go for clothing and accessories for “Stars of all Stages!”

We carry shoes, clothing, accessories & more for dancers, gymnasts, skaters, cheerleaders and ballroom dancers.

We have products for children through adults - men and women! Stop by our Holiday Sale from Nov. 24 – Dec. 23.

Modern Piano opened the Wexford store in 2003 and has provided pianos and piano tuning service to music and arts communities including schools, universities, churches, studios, and educators.

2017 launches a new era for Modern Piano with fresh promotions for the Holiday season. Stop in the store to meet Buddy and while you are here enjoy playing one of the beautiful pianos in our showroom.

With owner having over 40 years in the piano business we remain the only piano technician/ tuner owned store in the market. That allows us to give the highest quality service to our valued clients. Modern Piano is the exclusive Yamaha and Schimmel Dealer in Western PA.

www.allthatjazzpa.com 2000 Village Run Road, Suite 208, Wexford, PA 15090 (724) 933-0555

Apropos

1701 Duncan Avenue Allison Park PA 15101 Phone 1.800.785.4438 Apropos, formerly Contemporary Concepts North, located in Allison Park is perfect for one stop shopping this holiday season!

Apropos is not just an Allison Park retail store. We are a shopper’s haven, a retail destination, a place where the most discriminating shopper can get lost in an array of unique, quality products, friendly smiles and excellent customer service.

We have carved a niche in the gift store industry: offering the most exceptional products, at the best value, with superior customer service. Forging relationships with our clients, and in turn getting to know their friends, provides us with the unique ability to find that perfect gift. We are a phone call away from a stress-free shopping experience: selecting the gift, wrapping it and shipping it, if necessary.

Katie’s Clay Studio www.katiesclaystudio.com 3812 William Flynn Hwy Suite 100 Allison Park, PA 15101 (412) 486-2184

Katie’s Clay Studio is Pittsburgh’s most unique pottery, glass and clay studio. We offer a variety of programs, ranging from Summer Camps and Adult and Children Pottery Wheel Throwing, to Canvas painting! Are you looking for the perfect venue to have a party? You can host your special event at Katie’s Clay Studio. Pick the perfect package to meet your needs, along with a private room to host parties of all ages! If you would like a more personal party, we will come to you with our Mobile Pottery Studio Services, bringing the fun to your location. We designed our store to be Pittsburgh’s one stop shop for the arts!

www.mymodernpiano.com 11883 Perry Hwy Wexford, Pa. 15090 (724) 934-5397

The Art Expose www.theartexpose.com 120 Church Road Wexford, Pa. 15090 (724) 900-6325

The Art Expose is a genuinely unique, boutique shopping experience. “The kind of art boutique that you look for and are lucky to find when you are on vacation, is now available right here in the Village of Wexford,” explains owner and founder Carolyn Dorazio.

The shop contains four rooms with different themes.

The renovated, 100-year-old farmhouse is filled with original and distinctive, hand-crafted artwork and fashion accessories created by hundreds of artisans from destinations around the world including locally here in Western Pennsylvania, throughout the continental United States including but not limited to New Mexico, South Carolina, Michigan, Vermont and Ohio, and around the world from such exotic locales as Europe, Haiti, Jamaica and Madagascar. Many of our island crafts have a social mission intending to assist the poor, underprivileged and women in particular!

Hours are Tuesday through Friday 11-6 and Saturday 11-5. Stop in for a 20% off coupon. l l l

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

35

Holiday Happenings Hosanna Industries’ Festival of Trees

H

osanna Industries, Inc. was founded in 1990 as a faith-rooted, 501c-3 non-profit.

Their work involves a variety of charitable initiatives aimed at helping our impoverished neighbors. By the grace of God and through the mechanical and aesthetic arts, mission workers at Hosanna Industries build and repair homes for needy households; mobilize relief workers to areas of disaster; teach and lead workshops in art and spirituality; train young people in construction skills; and lead volunteers of all ages. Their typical single client household last year had an income of less than $20,000 a year. Hosanna relies on donations to help hundreds of needy neighbors per year. Hosanna’s next fundraising event is the Festival of Trees.

In 2017, Hosanna Industries marks its 6th annual Festival of Trees. Hosanna will have unique and beautifully decorated (mostly small) artificial Christmas trees at Quality Gardens Inc. (located on Rt 228W). During this event, guests can come shop through the one-of-a-kind trees, where guests can either “buy now” or place a bid on their favorite.

The highest bidders of each individual tree will win the completely decorated tree.

Last year’s event raised $13,000 and saw some 600 people. This year’s fundraising goal is $20,000.

Hosanna is kicking off the event with an Opening Reception on Thursday, November 16. During the Opening Reception there will be wine from KingView Mead and heavy hors d’oeuvres from The Pines Tavern. Guests can enjoy red carpet photos from Storybook Studios Photography and entertainment from Pittsburgh Philharmonic musicians. Tickets for the Opening Reception are available at hosannaindustries.org. Only 100 tickets will be sold, and Hosanna expects to sell out.

The Festival continues on Friday, November 17 from 5-8 p.m., with complimentary light fare from Tin Man Sweets and Grande Pizza, and entertainment from First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown Bell Choir. This evening is free and open to the public.

Saturday, November 18 is also free and open to the public, starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 3 p.m.. There will be complimentary refreshments from Bloom Cafe, Valencia Donut Co., Smoothie King, and Peach Tree Bakery & Creamery. Bring the kids for photos with Santa, and enjoy entertainment from the Greater Cranberry Men’s Chorus, Sing Sing Sing, School of Rock Wexford, and more.

During all three days of the event, attendees can choose a tag off the Giving Tree and make a corresponding donation. For example, guests can give a $20 donation to provide for a volunteer hammer, or a $200 donation to provide a new energy efficient window for a household in need. Tags will range from $10-$500. Hefren-Tillotson, Inc. has graciously agreed to match total donations from the Giving Tree up to $5000.

For more information or questions about the event or Hosanna Industries’ mission, please visit hosannaindustries.org or check out the event on Facebook. l l l

36

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

37

Holiday Happenings Creative Courtesy: Everyday Manners with a Modern Twist

Cell Phones and the Holidays

BY MARIANNE ANDERSON

E

very time I throw a dinner party, I surprise myself with how much I am on my cell phone just before the time of the event, giving directions, looking up recipes, consulting check lists, etc.

Once most of the guests arrive and the party gets started, I eventually get ahead of all the last-minute texts and calls and then set down my phone--only to notice that my guests are still on their phones.

So, it prompts the question: How do you discourage guests from accessing their phones without

Get More Holiday Business

by advertising in Northern Connection’s 18th Annual Holiday Guide featured in the December issue.

Discounted rates apply

Featuring:

Holiday Gifts • Specials • Events • And much more!

Call: 724-940-2444

or email: NCmagazine@northernconnectionmag.com www.northernconnectionmag.com

38

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

being rude or appearing as the phone enforcer?

I try to have a musically-inclined friend showcase their talents, play a party game or use some “conversation starters” to distract guests from their phones. Conversation starters are perfect for smaller gatherings where everyone is sitting around the table. In this instance, you can take turns listening to each other’s answers to such questions as: • What are you most grateful for?

• What New Year’s resolutions are you considering?

• What was the best vacation you ever took?

You’ll be amazed at how quickly the phones get set down.

I am blessed to have many “tweens” and teenagers at my parties. There is no way to unhook them from their phones. So instead, the rules are no headphones, and I declare them to be my official “ones-who-lookthings-up” (such as movie titles, actor names and other trivia). The tween or teen who is most engaged in helping to look things up is declared the winner and is exempt from helping to cleanup.

I believe these little tips of modern common courtesy can help you to connect personally instead of digitally and make the holidays more enjoyable.

What are your thoughts on cell phone etiquette? Email us at northcon@consolidated. net. l l l Source: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/scientists-studynomophobia-mdash-fear-of-being-without-a-mobile-phone/

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

39

Events

HAPPENINGS | November 2017

Happenings

November 2017

Arts & Entertainment All Quiet On the Western Front, runs from Nov. 3-12, at

The New Hazlett Theater Center for the Performing Arts at Allegheny Square on the North Side. Tickets are available at PrimeStage.com.

Join the Pittsburgh Symphony North and help broaden music appreciation & raise funds in support of the Pittsburgh Symphony. Meetings are 11 a.m., the 3rd Tues of each month, thru May. For details, email infopsnorg@ gmail.com or visit Facebook at Pittsburgh Symphony North.

Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m., Nov. 6, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword; Nov. 13, Everything, Everything; Nov. 20, A Quiet Passion; Nov. 27, The Big Sick; Dec. 4, The Little Hours; Dec. 11; The Beguiled, Dec. 18, Love Actually, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup.com/movies/

Legacy Theatres shows: 7:30 p.m., Nov. 18, The Vogues; Dec. 2, Johnny Angel & the Halos Christmas; Dec. 9, Doo Wop Big Band Christmas. For tickets, 1-877-987-6487 or thelegacylineup.com.

Wexford Acting Studio presents Beauty and the Beast, 1:30 p.m., & 5:00 p.m., Nov. 11 & 12, Masonic Lodge Theatre. For info, visit http://wexfordactingstudio.com/

40

Wings & Wildlife Art Show, Nov. 3-5 at the National Aviary. Opening Soiree and Benefit Auction on Nov. 3, followed by a two-day public show and marketplace Nov. 4-5. For info, visit www.aviary.org/ArtShow or call 412.258-9433.

Pittsburgh, 3 p.m., Dec. 3, Northland Library. Directed by

Community

Anchorpoint Events: SPIN for Single Moms & their Kids,

North Hills Community Outreach offers multiple pro-

grams aimed at helping people attain self-sufficiency including employment help. For details, email jmboggs@ nhco.org or (412) 408-3830 x3217.

Concerts Beaver Valley Choral Society holiday concert, The

Light of Christmas Morn, 4 p.m., Dec. 9 at Dutilh United Methodist in Cranberry Township; Dec. 10 at St. Cecilia Parish in Rochester Township; Dec. 16, Christ Evangelical Lutheran in Beaver Falls; Dec. 17 at Sts. Peter & Paul Church in Beaver. For info, visit http://www.bvchoralsociety.net/

EduNations Benefit Concert, 7 p.m., Nov. 30, Park

Church Sanctuary. For more info, visit http://www.memorialparkchurch.org/ or call (412) 364-9492.

Ringing in the Season: Handbell Selection by Ring

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Jim Rossetti. Required registration, visit www.northlandlibrary.org or (412) 366-8100 ext.113.

Counseling 6-8 p.m., two Weds a month Oct.-May, call (412) 366-1300 x105; Professional counseling for individuals, families & kids, call (412) 366-1300.

Ask the Attorney, free counseling for qualified individuals, the 3rd Wed. of every month, 7 p.m., Nov. 15, at NHCO North Boroughs. Pre-register at jmboggs@nhco.org or (412) 408-3830 x3217.

Berkeley Hills Lutheran Church is offering it’s 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) 4864010 or www.bhlc.org.

Group Services, Intensive Outpatient Program, 5:30-

8:30 p.m., M,W,Th.,Therapy Group 6-8 p.m., Tues., Family Only Group 7:30-9:00 p.m., 2nd Tues, Psycho-educational Support Group 7-9 p.m., 4th Mon. Contact Anita (412) 2157967, pened1@aol.com, or www.anitasinicropemaier.com.

Ember & Vine

T

he holidays are a special time of year to make memories and spend time with loved ones. Gather the family and relax this Christmas at Ember & Vine, located inside the DoubleTree Cranberry. Enjoy a delicious and festive prix-fixe menu featuring prime rib with whipped goat cheese potatoes, handmade pappardelle with sweet Italian pork sausage and flourless chocolate torte for dessert, all crafted by Executive Chef, Sam Castrale and available 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Christmas Day. New Year’s Eve at Ember & Vine promises to ring in the New Year in style. Live entertainment begins at 6 p.m. and will continue until 10 p.m., topped off with a celebratory champagne toast. A prix fixe menu featuring Ember & Vine favorites such as prime tenderloin filet beef with gratin dauphinoise potatoes and wild mushroom risotto topped off with bananas foster trifle for dessert. Dinner will be served starting at 5 p.m. Begin a new tradition and celebrate 2018 with Ember & Vine. When the party winds down, take the elevator home to a guest room at DoubleTree Cranberry. Enjoy an unforgettable, convenient and safe holiday season with Ember and Vine and DoubleTree Cranberry. Call 724-776-6900 to make reservations. www.emberandvinecranberry.com. l l l

Craft Shows Mars Fall Craft Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov 18, at both

Mars Middle School & the High School. Shuttle buses will provide transportation. Admission $2 for adults and $1 for students. Proceeds benefit the AFS exchange program, the language departments and a student scholarship program. For info, contact Maureen at (724) 625-3472.

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.

Royal Blvd. Raffles & refreshments, admission $10. For info on the Turkey Bingo, contact Loretta at djoeski@ aol.com. For info on Special Olympics, Allegheny County, contact Kathy at kathysoac@verizon.net.

2018 Lucky Number fundraiser runs Jan. 1 thru Dec. 31, 2018. Cost $25 ticket, based on the day & evening Pick 3 PA daily numbers. Sponsored by The Sisters of Divine Providence, For info, visit cdpsisters.org/LuckyNumber or call (412) 635-5401.

Wildwood Golf Club Fall Fashion Show, noon-3 p.m.,

Nov. 19, 2195 Sample Rd., Hampton Twp. Benefits North Hills Community Outreach. For reservations, call (4120 486-1200.

Gardening

Book signings by author W. Stephen Coleman of his book Discovering Gettysburg: An Unconventional Introduction to the Greatest Little Town in America and the Monumental Battle that Made It Famous, 7 p.m., Nov. 8, Castle Shannon Library; 7 p.m., Dec. 7, Upper St. Clair Township Library; 1 p.m., Jan. 13, Andrew Carnegie Library.

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Round Table usually

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

Greybrooke Garden Club meeting, 9:30 a.m., Nov. 8,

Thursdays, Dorseyville Alliance Church, 3703 Saxonburg Blvd. For ages 18 & older. Register at (412) 915-8486 or (724) 443-2616 or beatty3@consolidated.net.

Fellowship Hall of Parkwood Presbyterian Church, 4289 Mt. Royal Blvd. in Allison Park. For details, contact Barbro at (412) 296-0538.

Saturday Singles Dance, for ages 40+, 8 p.m. to mid-

Health & Wellness

night, Nov. 4, Free Pizza Party. Free dance lesson 7:30 p.m., Nov. 18, Pumpkin Pie & Perfect Pair, West View VFW, 386 Perry Hwy. Call (724) 316-5029 or www.dancetonight.weebly.com.

Historical

Our Clubhouse offers a survivorship program in

Western, PA for those touched by cancer. Runs thru December, located at 2816 Smallman St. For details, visit http://ourclubhouse.org/.

meets the 3rd Monday of every month 7 p.m., Hampton Township Community Center, 3101 McCully Rd., Allison Park. Free & open to the public. This month the meeting will be the second Monday, Nov. 13, Gettysburg Rebels: Five Native Sons Who Came Home to Fight as Confederate Soldiers. Call, Bob or Margie (724) 625-2329.

Holiday Cranberry Artists Network Holiday Art Show & Sale runs thru Dec. 20, Cranberry Township Municipal

Pennsylvania Geriatrics Society Western Division

Dec. 19, Butler County Community College main campus.

Call (724) 287-8711 ext. 8355.

is seeking nominations for the Geriatrics Teacher of the Year Award. Nominations must be received by Jan. 4. For questions, email npopovich@acms.org or (412) 321-5030.

Building, 2525 Rochester Rd.in Cranberry Twp. For info, visit https://www.cranberryartistsnetwork.com/

Rid Your Home of Unwanted Chemicals, Electronics & Freon Appliances, Nov. 18 & Dec. 16, 129 Ash Stop Rd.,

Revelations Fitness® Fusion (cardio, strength &

Glade Run Hosts Free Polar Express Event, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m., Dec. 2, at The Strand Theater, Zelienople. FREE, private showing The Polar Express. Kids wear your pajamas. Refreshments and a visit w/Santa. A donation of a gift card or toy (unwrapped) for a Glade Run child or family in need is requested. Visit www.gladerun.org for info. Reserve seats by calling Cheryl at (72) 4524453 x1277 or by email at cmartin@gladerun.org.

Environmental EIC Worksite Safety Course, noon-4 p.m., Nov. 28 &

Evans City. Pre-registration if required 1-866-815-0016.

Fall Events Soldiers & Sailors Cannon Ball Event, Nov. 10, 4141 Fifth Ave. For info, (412) 621-4253.

Fundraising Special Olympics Turkey Bingo Fundraiser, doors open 6 p.m., Nov. 16, at Undercliff Volunteer Fire Hall, 700 Mt.

flexibility) classes, 9:30 a.m., Mon; 6:30 p.m., Thurs., 2 p.m., Sundays, Get Moving for those with special needs, Woodland Valley Church, Mars; 6:30 p.m., Tues., Revelations Fitness® Fusion, North Way Christian Community. Contact heather.simplynatural@gmail.com.

VA Butler Healthcare will be offering flu vaccination clinics to Veterans at the main campus, CommunityBased Outpatient Clinics, and other community locations this fall. For a list of date and times, call (724) 287-4781 or 1-800-362-8262.

Holiday Events and Programs at the National Aviary:

Wings & Wildlife Art Show & Marketplace, Nov. 4 & 5; benefit auction, Nov. 3, Photos with Santa & His Penguin Helper, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 25, Dec. 2 & 9; Holiday Shopping Day, Dec. 8; Penguin Painting, 3 p.m., Dec. 10; Brunch with Santa featuring Atria’s, 9 a.m. or 11:30 (Continued on page 42)

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

41

Events

HAPPENINGS | November 2017

a.m., Dec. 10; Kids Holiday Penguin Camps, Dec. 27 & 29; Holiday Owl Camps, Dec. 28 & 30. For info, visit www.aviary.org or call (412) 323-7235.

AM Spirit Pittsburgh North Chapter, a business

North Hills Community Outreach Holiday Gift Collection runs Nov. 13-Dec. 13. For details, visit www.

AM Spirit Wexford Chapter, a business network-

nhco.org or (412) 487-6316 opt. 1.

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

Library

Amity Lodge #45 affiliated with Italian Sons & Daughters

Northland Library, Genealogy Lock-In, 6:30-10 p.m.,

Nov. 17, Buying & Selling Your Home: Tips from Local Realtors, 7 p.m., Nov. 20; Christmas Markets: A European Tradition, 7 p.m., Nov. 30; Cookbook Club Interest Meeting, 10 a.m. Dec. 2. For info, visit www.northlandlibrary.org or (412) 366-8100 x103.

Olive Branch Fair Trade Store Christmas Open House, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 11. All are welcome for holiday shopping, refreshments, and a tour of our new outreach and available meeting space. Located at 11160 Perry Hwy. in Wexford (turn onto Fieldview Rd.

by Jiffy Lube).

Networking AM Spirit Cranberry Chapter, a business network-

ing group, meets 7:15 a.m. every Wed, at North Park Deckhouse, Rt. 19, Cranberry Twp. Call Glen (412) 9168699.

AM Spirit McCandless Chapter, a business networking group, meets at noon every Wed, at Bistro 9101, Rt. 19, McCandless Twp. Call Glen (412) 916-8699.

networking group, meets 8 a.m. every Thurs, at Sports Grille at Cranberry. Call Glen (412) 916-8699.

of America is welcoming new members. Meetings are held the 2nd Sunday of the month with a social & refreshments. If interested, call Joanne at (724) 443-8303.

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

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

UPMC Passavant Auxiliary is looking for dedi-

cated people who wish to support UPMC Passavant McCandless & Cranberry. The group meets 10 a.m., the 2nd Mon. of each month. (Sept-thru Jun.) For details, call (412) 748-6640 or burkea2@ph.upmc.edu.

Sales & Flea Markets

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

Mission Mall, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Nov. 18, St. Paul’s United

Restaurant, Rt. 8, Gibsonia. Call Mary Ann, at (724) 9352221 or www.wpabusiness.com.

Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd. Handcrafted and fair trade items. For info, visit http://www.stpaulsumc. com/.

Outreach

School & Classes

Donate your car to Community Auto, a program of

Digital Boot Camp Series, Digital Etiquette, 9-10 a.m.,

North Hills Community Outreach. For details, visit communityauto.org or (724) 443-8300.

Nativity Lutheran Church, 4517 Mt. Royal Blvd. in

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

North Hills Community Outreach has speakers available for congregations, businesses and civic groups. To

find out more email JLKissel@nhco.org or (412) 487-6316 opt. 1 x3112.

Nov. 11; Talking About Tech With Your Student, Jan. 20; Cyber Safety, Feb. 17; Digital Identity, March 10; Social Media: What Parents Need to Know, Apr. 21, Room 3002 at CCAC North Campus. To register, visit www.northlandlibrary.org or (412) 366-8100 ext. 113.

Fox Chapel Area High School fall play, Radium Girls, 7 p.m., Nov. 9-11, in the high school’s auditorium. For info, visit fcasd.edu.

La Roche College Discover Days for high school

students, 8:30 a.m., Nov. 11, Zappala College Center.

Register online at laroche.edu/discoverdays or (412) 536-1272, transfer students, visit transferadmissions@ laroche.edu or call (412) 536-1260.

La Roche College Performing Arts Department will present The Messiah at the Byham Theater 2-8 p.m.,

on Saturday, Nov. 18. Tickets can be purchased online through the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust or by phone at (412) 456-6666.

North Hills Community Outreach Let’s Cook Workshops, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Nov. 18, Christ Lutheran Church, 917 Evergreen rd., Millvale. Register at (412) 408-3830 x3225.

North Hills School District is accepting nominations

for the 2018 North Hills Distinguished Alumni Award thru Nov. 15. For info, email mannarinop@nhsd.net or call, Dr. Mannarino at (412) 318-1004.

Support Groups Amputee Support Group, 4-5:30 p.m., 3rd Wed. of

every month, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley, 3rd Floor Boardroom, 303 Camp Meeting Rd., Sewickley. For info, call Michelle at (412) 749-2388.

Bereavement Support Group, Beyond Bridge to Hope,

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

Bereavement Support Group (for widows/widowers

over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., 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. To register, call (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.

42

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Brain Injury Support Group, Mind Matters, 7-9 p.m., every 3rd Thurs., of

Jessica, at (412) 828-1300 x7710.

the month, Butler Memorial Hospital, East Brady St. in the Dimmick Center.

Call (724) 283-6666.

S.P.I.N. For Single Moms: 6-7:30 p.m.,

Brain Tumor Support Group, 6:30-8

Stroke Support Group, 1-2:30 p.m.,

p.m., 3rd Thurs., AHN Health & Wellness Pavilion. Free & open to cancer patients & caregivers over 18, no students.

Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center.

Register at (412) 622-1212.

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., 2nd & 4th Wed., AHN Health & Wellness Pavilion. 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 p.m., every Wed., of the month, Passavant Hospital Conference Center, at Cumberland Woods Village, McCandless Twp. For drug & alcohol addiction. Visit bridge2hope.org, or call (412) 748-5120. bridge2hope.org.

Divorce Care, 7-9 p.m., Thurs., thru Dec.

7 (no meeting Nov. 23), Orchard Hill. For details, visit orchardhillchurch.com.

General Cancer Center Support Groups, 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 Share, 7 p.m., Thurs, Sept. 7-Dec. 7 (no meeting Nov. 23), Orchard Hill Church, Room 205, upper level. For details, visit orchardhillchurch.com.

Grief Support Group for widows and

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

Lupus Foundation meetings, 7-8:30

p.m., every 3rd Tues, UPMC Passavant Hospital, 9100 Babcock Blvd., Donor Hall. Call (412) 261-5886 or ccallen92@ aol.com.

Metastatic Cancer Support Group,

5-6:30 p.m., 1st Thur. of each month, UPMC Passavant Hospital-McCandless. For cancer patients and survivors with metastatic disease. Caregivers are welcomed. No cost to attend. Led by Wendy Myers, MSW, LSW. Free parking & light refreshments.

Sponsored by the Cancer Caring Center.

New members register at (412) 622-1212.

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

4th Monday of the Month in Bellevue.

For details, call (412) 366-1300.

once a month on Weds., HealthSouth Harmarville, 320 Guys Run Rd., For info, contact Valerie at (412) 826-2784 or valerie.bucek@healthsouth.com.

Thanksgiving North Hills Community Outreach Thanksgiving Food Collection Drive

runs thru Nov. 10. For details, visit nhco. org or (412) 487-6316, opt. 1.

Turkey Bingo, 7 p.m., Nov. 17, St. James

School cafeteria. Hosted by St. James Church & the Knights of Columbus Queen of Peace Council. Early Bird specials at 6:30 p.m. Win a turkey or a chicken gift certificate. Adults, children& families are welcomed. Cost is 20 games for $10. Specials & a 50/50 Raffle. Located at 200 Walnut Street in Sewickley. For info call (412) 741-6650 or www.saintjames–church.com.

Veterans Area military veterans in the North Hills are invited to participate in a

special educational event at North Hills Middle School on Nov. 17. For info, contact NH Middle School teacher Nate Wilkinson at wilkinsonn@nhsd.net.

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

Pennsylvania Community-Based Programs Awarded VA Grants to

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

Special Event to Honor Veterans, 1

p.m., Nov. 5, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum. Sponsored by the Veterans Breakfast Club & Soldiers & Sailors. RSVP to todd@veteransbreakfastclub.com or (412) 623-9092.

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) 7798323, 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.

necessarily have the time, just have the heart! Call (412) 367-3685.

Veterans’ Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Support Group, 10 a.m., Fridays,

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

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/.

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

Global Links Family Volunteer Days,

10 a.m.-noon or 1-3 p.m., Nov. 18, Dec. 9 & Dec. 16, 700 Trumbull Dr., Green Tree.

Presented UPMC / UPMC Health Plan & Global Links. Register at www.globallinks. org/voulnteer/family-volunteer-days.

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council volunteer tutors needed to work with

adult literacy students on basic literacy skills, 4 hour/week commitment. Free tutor training provided. Call (412) 3937600 or http://www.gplc.org/become-avolunteer.cfm.

Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers for their patients. Volunteers don’t

Mission Vision needs volunteers to help

North Hills Community Outreach is

looking for bell ringers, for Nov. & Dec. Register with Harriet at hzklatte@nhco. org or (412) 408-3830 x3204.

North Hills Community Outreach Volunteer Orientations, 10 a.m., Nov. 9, in NHCO Allison Park. Register with Harriet at hzklatte@nhco.org or (412) 408-3830 x3204.

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.

Tutoring volunteers needed for Anchorpoint’s Fall Tutoring Mentoring Program.

For details, call (412) 366-1300 x123.

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. Call (412) 3810277 or www.EmmausPgh.org.

Workshops The Humanities Go Digital: The 6 Degrees of Francis Bacon Project, 9:30

a.m. (coffee), 10 a.m. meeting & program, Nov. 14, Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church (corner Fox Chapel & Field Club roads).

For info, email lbtotten@comcast.net

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

43

Trivia s

TRIVIA CONNECTION | November 2017

er 2017

Movember Trivia Movin’ Thru Famous Mustaches

BY PAULA GREEN

44

NC November 2017 | www.northernconnectionmag.com

Danny Glover, David Niven, Brad Pitt, Robert Redford, Burt Reynolds, Cesar Romero, Richard Roundtree, Peter Sellers, Will Smith, Denzel Washington, and Billy Dee Williams.

U.S. Presidents that had mustaches included – William Taft, Teddy Roosevelt, Benjamin Harrison, Grover Cleveland, Chester Arthur, James Garfield, Rutherford B. Hayes and Ulysses S. Grant.

In the animated realm – we saw some nice stashes on The Lorax, Julius Pringle (Pringles chips), Super Mario and Captain Crunch.

Since we crunched in those famous folks with mustaches, we must now test your knowledge on this hairy query. Get set to trim those answers because it’s time to get a little trivial...

1. This actor dons a Chevron mustache. He played a private detective on CBS from 1980-1988.

2. What type of mustache did Looney’s character Yosemite Sam wear?

3. Name the musician who sings the song Pencil Thin Mustache.

4. This common, everyday beverage can give folks a mustache after they drink it.

5. Which one of the Marx brothers famously sported a mustache?

6. Gomez Addams had this type of mustache in The Addams Family.

7. This news anchor ended his nightly broadcast with, “And that’s the way it is….”

8. Famous physicist that discovered the theory of relativity.

9. Civil rights leader who “had a dream.”

10. Name the neighbor on The Simpsons who has a mustache.

11. In the board game Monopoly, what’s the mascot’s name that dons a mustache?

12. This reporter, author and talk show host had his own show from 1987 to 1998.

13. Former film and book critic and used to appear on the Today Show.

14. Current talk show host that invites guests to confront their problems.

15. Consumer television personality, author and known for his career on both ABC News and Fox Business Channel.

Sources: https://us.movember.com/, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Movember_ Foundation, http://www.brainjet.com/random/5466/13-official-types-ofmustaches/; http://www.onecountry.com/11-mustaches-men-should-considerthis-movember-1648188548.html; http://www.complex.com/style/2013/10/10moustaches-you-should-grow-this-movember Answers: 1. Tom Selleck 2. walrus 3. Jimmy Buffet 4. milk 5. Groucho 6. pencil 7. Walter Cronkite 8. Albert Einstein 9. Martin Luther King Jr. 10. Ned Flanders 11. Rich Uncle Pennybags 12. Geraldo Rivera 13. Gene Shalit 14. Dr. Phil McGraw 15. John Stossel

M

ost people are familiar with the NHL’s tradition of growing beards during the Stanley Cup run, but did you know that the month of November is dedicated to mustaches?

The tradition began back in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia, with the Movember Foundation. This global organization is committed to changing the face of men’s health.

During November, participants start out clean-shaven then throughout the month, they grow mustaches to raise funds for men’s health such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

In honor of this tradition, we’re going to look at some famous mustaches.

The Chevron is a wide, thick mustache worn by Sam Elliott and Freddie Mercury. An English mustache has long whiskers that are pulled to the side, and it’s narrow at the middle and upper lip.

Vincent Price and Walt Disney sported this style.

The Dali mustache is quite narrow, while the ends are pointy and long. The Fu Manchu is a full mustache that goes straight downwards, and it usually goes below the chin.

The handlebar mustache is very bushy with small points at the end, and it resembles a bicycle’s handlebars. It was worn by Wyatt Earp, William Taft and former baseball star Rollie Fingers. A horseshoe mustache consists of vertical extensions that go from the corners of the mouth down to the man’s jawline. It can be found on former wrestler Hulk Hogan.

An imperial mustache consists of whiskers that grow from both the upper lip, as well as the cheeks and it curls upwards, like on Kaiser Wilhelm. A lampshade mustache is closely-cropped directly above the person’s lip – example of this is Eddie Murphy.

The width of the mouth is where the painter’s brush mustache is worn, and it kind of resembles a paint brush. The pencil mustache looks like it was drawn with a pencil. It was found on Clark Gable, Errol Flynn and John Waters.

A pyramid mustache has a wide base, but it narrows as it reaches your nose. It was seen on Charles de Gaulle. The toothbrush mustache is a thick mustache, but it is only about 2.5 cm, and the hair is left in the center. It is mostly associated with Adolf Hitler. This style was also worn by Charlie Chaplin and Oliver Hardy.

The walrus mustache is very thick and bushy and it drops right over the mouth. Mark Twain, and Wilford Brimley showcased this type of stash.

There were plenty of famous musician that had mustaches. A few include – Sonny Bono, Sammy Davis Jr., Robert Goulet, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Lionel Richie and Frank Zappa.

Actors that sported mustaches were – Charles Bronson, Dabney Coleman, Dennis Farina, Dennis Franz, James Franco, Errol Flynn,

www.northernconnectionmag.com | NC November 2017

45

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.