November 2025 • Northern Connection Magazine

HolidayPackageCatering

$34.95 per person + tax and service charges. Minimum of 12 people.

Celebrate the season with an unforgettable holiday meal from Aviva Brick Oven!

Customize your feast with one selection from each of the following:

Salads: Fresh Italian House Salad • Classic Caesar • Signature Aviva Salad Appetizers: Savory Eggplant Rollatini • Homemade Meatballs • Stuffed Mushrooms • Stuffed Banana Peppers

Pasta: Penne alla Vodka • Penne Marinara

Main Courses: Grilled Salmon • Chicken Piccata • Chicken Marsala • Chicken Parmesan • Braised Short Ribs • Baked Ham • Fresh Sliced Turkey

Choice of: Roasted Red Potatoes or Scalloped Potatoes

All packages include:

Roasted Seasonal Vegetables & Rustic Italian Bread Tray

Additional options:

Meat Lasagna — $109.95 (Serves 12–15)

Cheese Lasagna — $89.95 (Serves 12–15)

NC Features

Health & Wellness

Kids

On Saturday, September 20, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (PSO) held its annual Opening Night Gala led by music director Manfred Honeck with guest artist Yuja Wang performing Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. The evening also featured performances by PSO concertmasters David McCarroll and Justine Campagna. This year’s sold-out Gala raised over $1 million.

“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. 724-941-6350 www.PittsburghTaxes.com

UPMC Passavant recently launched new blood administration in the field. The hospital is one of the first organizations in the region that is specially trained and equipped to carry blood on their advanced response unit (ARU) and administer blood in the field. Based at UPMC Passavant-Cranberry, the ARU is staffed with expert paramedics and pre-hospital nurses to respond to emergencies in Butler, Beaver, and Allegheny counties and provides 24/7 coverage to assist local emergency medical services (EMS) agencies.

The Pennsylvania Library Association recently recognized Senator Jay Costa and Senator Lindsey Williams as the Pennsylvania Library Association 2025 Elected Officials of the Year. This award is selectively given to an elected official or officials for exemplary support of library service in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) now offers a convenient way for customers to connect with the PA Turnpike through Miles, an AI-powered chatbot. Customers can access Miles, the PA Turnpike’s virtual assistant via  www.paturnpike.com. Accessed through its public website, this new chat experience is available at no cost.

THE OCEAN— FIVE YEARS

Paying Tribute to Ryan McCutcheon

By Paula Green

November is Children’s Grief Awareness Month, highlighting the impact of loss on families and friends. For the McCutcheon family, this became personal on September 30, 2017, when 19-year-old Ryan from Franklin Park died in a car accident. Grief reshaped the lives of his parents, Bob and Dana, and his younger brother, Brett.

Ryan and Brett shared a love of music. After Ryan’s passing, Brett began writing his own music, resulting in the creation of an EP, which then led to the production of a documentary film. Both projects, completed over several years, helped Brett remember Ryan and cope with his grief. Together, the music and film became known as The Ocean—Five Years, and this creative process naturally evolved into further tributes commemorating Ryan’s memory over time.

“The original EP was named The Ocean and was released on September 30, 2018, exactly one year after Ryan’s passing. The Ocean is an allegory for the stages of grief and the waves of emotions that someone feels on their grief journey. It’s not linear; it comes in waves. The rerelease of the music on the second EP, The Ocean—Five Years, was released exactly five years later, on September 30, 2023. The new album was expanded to include two new songs and was rearranged with full orchestration. The documentary film was made during the recording of the album and was subsequently completed in early 2024,” said Brett.

“The initial idea was to make a music video for the release of the second album. We approached Jennifer Schlieper, director of the film and co-founder of Flying Scooter Productions, about the concept. She suggested a documentary to tell our full story and highlight child grief. Flying Scooter has supported us throughout,” Brett said.

“My mother and father were also part of the production team. My father played an active role in the recording and mixing of the music and the film at our family’s recording studio, The Vault, on Neville Island. My mother is included throughout the film,” Brett added.

“Over time, The Ocean project drew in the wider community. Members of the Pittsburgh Symphony joined, as did Chris Jamison, a finalist from The Voice. Over the past 18 months, the film has received recognition at several international film festivals, including Best Documentary in Vienna and Audience Choice in Pittsburgh at the Three Rivers Film Festival. It was broadcast on WQED in July, which brought a wider audience, and it will soon be available to stream,” said Bob.

The foundation for this musical passion goes back even further. The journey began when Ryan and Brett discovered music early, following their father’s path.

Bob played trumpet before moving to guitar and built his first recording studio in his mother’s basement while in business school. This set the stage for a long career as a partner at PwC. As Ryan and Brett developed musically, the house brimmed with creativity. In 2016, the family built The Vault Recording Studio. It was a private space before Bob retired, and the Rhythm19 Fund at The Pittsburgh Foundation was created in Ryan’s memory. The studio then began commercial operations. Dana remains engaged at the studio and through the fund.

Brett is a band instructor for Mt. Lebanon High School. Ryan was a dedicated drummer and taught percussion at Hampton High School. For more information on The Ocean—Five Years, music and documentary, visit www.theoceanfiveyears.com. n

Discover Why Clients Trust

Deb Walton! Scan to Watch

• Over 25 Years of Expertise in Real Estate and Marketing.

• Award-Winning Realtor and Consistent Top Earner in the Region.

• Trusted Advisor with a Proven Track Record of Success.

• Dedicated to Providing Personalized Service Tailored to Your Needs.

• Expert Negotiator Committed to Getting the Best Results for You.

• Helping Families Find Their Dream Homes Throughout the Pittsburgh Area.

• Backed by the Power and Resources of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Deb Walton, SRES® Cranberry Office (O) 724-776-2900 | (C) 724-480-6690

TDebWalton@pittsburghmoves.com | www.DebWaltonRealEstate.com

Wishing you a happy Thanksgiving

During this time of giving thanks, my team and I want to express our gratitude to our customers and our community.

Piotrowski Insurance Agcy In

Pete Piotrowski, Agent 11565 Perry Hwy Ste 4 Wexford, PA 15090-8799

Bus: 724-935-6330

www.petesinsurance.com pete@petesinsurance.com

Where’s Your Happy Place?

Emily King

his past weekend we decided to pull the kids out of school for a day, forgo the multiple sports obligations and spend the weekend at a place we keep coming back to, Deep Creek, Md. It’s the place we return to again and again when we want a break from the stress of daily life. It’s only a two-hour drive, there are ample rental houses, and there’s a lake, mountains, and several beautiful state parks and forests within a 25-minute drive. Sometimes you just need to be surrounded by water and trees for a few days to catch your breath.

We started visiting the area with college friends, spending weekends on boats, staying up late around the bonfire with beer and s’mores. As we got older that transitioned to renting huge houses that could fit all of us and our growing families, watching our kids run wild while we reminisced about our years at Pitt. It becomes harder and harder to get everyone together as our kids grow older and weekends become packed with sports, activities, and social obligations, so now our trips are usually just myself, my husband, our three kids, and of course our dog, Ruth.

We know the best place (okay, only place) to get pizza, where to get bait, how to get into town when there’s no cell service. We love to travel to new places and try to do that as often as possible, but there’s something valuable about having a “home away from home” that you can go to with just a few days’ notice, where you know all the back roads, and do all the same things each time.

Last year, we made a last-minute decision to drive to Deep Creek on Christmas Day, right after we were done having dinner with family. We rented a small place right on the lake, with a hot tub. It was unseasonably warm, so we were able to be outside with sweatshirts even though the lake was frozen. We’re not skiers, so we didn’t have any activities in mind, but we spent a few days throwing rocks at the frozen lake and trying to break the ice, enjoying a cozy indoor fire, and soaking in the hot tub several times a day. It broke up the monotony of that weird week between Christmas and New Year’s and gave us a break from the constant visiting, hosting, and socializing. We created some great family memories, and when we returned home we felt refreshed and ready to take on the new year.

Where do you go when you need an escape from daily life? n

Caulin Grant, a Sewickley native, met his wife, Paris, in high school, when he was introduced to her by a teammate on his soccer team. They dated for a while, went to college, and then reunited in 2017, finally marrying in June of 2023. Paris and Caulin’s love is pure and uncomplicated. Luckily, so was picking out engagement and wedding rings. With all the difficult decisions that need to be made for a wedding, choosing Trinity Jewelers came easily.

Your Jeweler Next Door

Emily King

Caulin knew Trinity’s sales manager, Amy (Passavant)

D’Ambrosio, through a few degrees of separation, much like most people in Pittsburgh find they know each other. Amy’s father was the pastor of a local church, one that Caulin happened to work at for several years. He had met Amy briefly and knew of Trinity’s reputation as an honest and values-driven family business. Their connection was created through word-of-mouth, which is how most customers tend to hear about Trinity.

If you’ve ever driven down 279 and have seen a small and charming white building with green trim that doesn’t quite fit in with the rest of the suburban area, you know where Trinity Jewelers is. The building on Mt. Nebo Road was once a one-room schoolhouse, built in the late 1880s. Its charming structure, complete with cupola that once held a bell, housed several businesses throughout the years. The building is surrounded by large windows that climb almost to the ceiling, providing the perfect natural light to let diamonds sparkle.

Trinity Jewelers would take over the building in the late 90’s, but that wasn’t the beginning of their story. The story begins with owner Mark Helgerman’s father, who was a diamond setter in the Clark building in downtown Pittsburgh. Initially, Mark set diamonds like his father, but he also branched out by carrying some merchandise.

When Mark decided to relocate the business to better accommodate his family life, it was a bold move. At this time, it was customary to go downtown to shop for jewelry, and many doubted how successful a jewelry store could be in the suburbs, especially one relocating from the city’s Jewelry District to an old schoolhouse. But Mark’s priority was his family, and moving the business to the suburbs meant cutting his commute time and spending more time with his family.

In the new building, Mark had space to carry more inventory and Trinity became a full-fledged jewelry store. They also do repairs and appraisals by appointment. Fifty years after Trinity Jewelers was founded, business is thriving in the cozy historic building on Mt. Nebo Road. The business’s dedication to prioritizing family, faith, honesty, and expertise remains the same.

During their first visit to Trinity to look at their rings, Paris and Caulin were met with warm welcomes and congrat-

ulations. They were led through the first room, which displays gold jewelry, precious gemstones, pearls, and estate jewelry, and into another room solely dedicated to diamonds and wedding bands. Natural light poured through the tall windows of the cozy building, bouncing off the myriad of diamonds in their cases.

Amy guided them through the process of selecting a ring. The store has dozens of rings on display, but for those who can’t find exactly what they want, Trinity offers full customization services. The couple met with Zach, Trinity’s customization specialist. Paris had a specific idea of what she wanted, and with Zach’s expertise, she was able to get the ring she dreamed of. With hand drawings, CAD software, 3D-printed models, and interchangeable magnetic settings, she could see and feel exactly what her ring would look like.

Trinity offers both natural and lab-grown diamonds, which have become popular in recent years. Lab-grown diamonds are completely indistinguishable from natural diamonds. They are identical in chemical composition, physical properties, and optical characteristics. Diamond labs can replicate the natural conditions that produce diamonds, so though the growing process is different, the results are identical. Mark personally travels abroad to source their natural diamonds, ensuring quality and ethical standards.

Caulin was surprised by how much he enjoyed the process.

“It didn’t feel like shopping, it felt like celebrating,” he explained. It wasn’t just about buying rings, it was about creating a memory.

This isn’t by accident; it’s instilled in Trinity’s core values to make selecting jewelry a milestone event. Jewelry tells a story, whether it’s a diamond engagement ring, a first communion gold cross, or a Mother’s Day ring adorned with the birth stones of her children. They specialize in creating custom jewelry, allowing customers to design the perfect one-of-a-kind piece for any occasion. Trinity sells jewelry that can be passed down to generations, connecting family for decades to come.

Interestingly, Trinity’s employees do not work on commission. Everyone works toward the same goal: helping customers find the perfect piece of jewelry, regardless of budget. For customers, this means no pushy salespeople, just honest recommendations and genuine guidance. They work together like a family, helping each other and lending their skills to one another. Their different skill sets complement each other, rather than compete.

Most of the employees have been at Trinity for ten years or more; there is very little turnover. When you bring your jewelry in to be cleaned or inspected (which is all done in-house), you’re dealing with the same people every time. The relationship between Trinity’s team and its customers is built on trust.

Trinity’s goal isn’t to make a sale, it’s to make a customer for life who comes back time and again to celebrate life’s milestones with them.

“We have a philosophy of meeting people where they are,” says Amy. They treat every purchase, no matter the price, with the same care and excitement. Trinity isn’t just a jewelry store; it’s a part of people’s lives, through every stage and celebration.

Paris and Caulin have settled into married life, and every time they look down at their wedding rings, they remember the precious vows they made together. That is Trinity’s ambition: to celebrate love, family, and the connections we make over a lifetime. In a fast-paced, digital world, small family jewelers like Trinity keep traditions alive and remind us that some experiences are best shared face-to-face. n

Balloons: Shelb’s Party Styling | shelbsballoonstyling@gmail.com @shelbspartystyling

Flowers: Align and Bloom | Alignandbloom.com | thealignandbloom

Small/Family-Run Local Businesses

A Legacy of Craftsmanship, Faith & Family

Over 50 years ago, master goldsmith Rich Helgerman founded Trinity Jewelers in the heart of Pittsburgh’s jewelry district—the historic Clark Building downtown. His skill as a goldsmith and diamond setter earned a trusted reputation that quickly grew beyond the city skyline.

When Rich’s son, Mark Helgerman, took over the family business, he brought his own artistic vision to life— creating stunning original designs and growing Trinity into something truly special. Eventually, Mark moved the business to the North Hills, closer to home and family, where it has since flourished into one of Pittsburgh’s premier fine jewelry destinations.

Today, Trinity Jewelers features an elegant, expanded showroom filled with breathtaking jewelry lines, a stateof-the-art custom design department, and a full workshop staffed by three expert goldsmiths—the best of the best when it comes to diamond setting and jewelry repair.

Glenshaw Auto Service is family-owned and operated and has served the area for over 30 years. We have two locations: Mt. Royal Blvd. in Glenshaw and Route 8 in Allison Park. Our priority is total customer satisfaction and quality work at reasonable rates.

Our team is committed to providing timely, highquality auto repair and maintenance services. We work on various types of vehicles, including electric and hybrid vehicles. We also provide several courtesy services, such as Pick-Up/Drop-Off, Loaner Vehicles, and Shuttles.

We understand you have options when it comes to caring for your vehicle, and we welcome you to experience our customer-first approach. If it’s your first time, be sure to ask about our New Customer Discount!

GLENSHAWAUTO.COM

But at its core, Trinity is about more than jewelry—it’s about celebrating life’s most meaningful moments. Every ring, necklace, and bracelet tells a story of love, faith, and connection, destined to be cherished for generations.

Giving back is also woven into the fabric of who they are. Trinity proudly supports local ministries such as Urban Impact and Light of Life, as well as global missions that dig clean-water wells for communities in need around the world.

At Trinity Jewelers, it’s not just about what you wear—it’s about what you treasure.

647 Mt. Nebo Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Phone: 412-367-7131

www.TrinityJewelers.com

Small/Family-Run Local Businesses

Laura Ellis Bridges Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine

“Transformative” isn’t usually a word that’s associated with either healthcare or business, but that’s exactly the kind of healthcare business that Laura Ellis runs. The medicine of ancient East Asiawhich includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and more - sees health as not just the absence of disease, but as the ability to move from imbalance back to balance. That’s what transformation is: the ability to move from one state to another. Health is not just giving you a medication or a supplement to fix a lab number: it’s reminding your body how to function so well that you don’t need those medications and supplements in the first place. That is the kind of transformative healthcare that Bridges Acupuncture does and sees on a daily basis. Since opening its doors in 2016, the clinic has provided over 11,000 treatments and offers the only sliding-scale-based Community Fund for acupuncture in the greater Pittsburgh area to support patients on fixed or limited incomes. Laura also uses the principles of acupuncture to run her clinic behind the scenes: staff are trained on systems that support their work rather than burden them; they’re compensated well so they have freedom to enjoy and engage with their work; and everyone has a voice in company projects and direction to strengthen trust and collaboration. As one patient put it: “This place feels like healing from the moment you walk in.” Because when a healthcare practice is built on integrity, accessibility, and ancient wisdom, transformation isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.

2469 Evans City Road Harmony, PA 1603

724-453-4335

info@bridgesaom.com www.bridgesaom.com

Eichner’s Farm Market & Greenhouses

Eichner’s Family Farm and Greenhouses has been known as “Wexford’s Best Kept Secret.” Our family farm is nestled in a valley, off Route 19 on Richard Road. The family roots started in 1897 when we purchased 22 acres. We had a log cabin with first-floor living quarters, and the basement was a stable for livestock. We built a barn in 1899 to house livestock and add an outer buildings. Over the next decade, we added masonry buildings for poultry and processing. In the 1970s, we built a greenhouse to replace the hotbeds.

Having livestock and poultry makes for yearlong daily care. One benefit of our family farm is having multi-generations of family members working together and making sacrifices.

Our year-round farm and market is broken into four seasons. The first season is winter. It’s time to prepare for the coming year, organize the seed orders, perform equipment maintenance, and sow seeds in the greenhouses. The second season is spring, and everything comes to life in the greenhouses and fields. The third season is summer, the start of seasonal harvesting in the fields and dealing with daily weather challenges. The fourth season is from fall to winter, and we celebrate Oktoberfest and our German heritage.

We offer homemade meat production, six types of lean sausages, slab and Canadian bacon, bratwurst, and fermented sauerkraut. For Thanksgiving and Christmas, we process our farm’s fresh turkeys and fully-cooked hams. We have homemade cookies and candies year-round.

As a year-round family farm, we welcome you to make our farm market and greenhouses a year-round destination and experience our farm products on your table. Stop by our family farm, bring a friend, and be a friend to our farm. Visit us at 285 Richard Road, Wexford.

Small/Family-Run Local Businesses

Smart gift givers know—a gift that delights both kids and parents is a big win all around.

With Goldfish Swim School’s Holiday Packages, you can swap the clutter for something truly priceless: confidence, fun, and safety skills that last a lifetime. Don’t miss the chance to wrap up a great deal and be the MVP of this gift-giving season.

Rothrock’s Kung Fu & Tai Chi

Rothrock’s Kung Fu & Tai Chi was started by Master Rothrock in 1972 in Scranton, PA. Through the years, we have expanded to five facilities. We offer classes for men, women, and children. Kung Fu class is a fast-paced workout, while kids’ classes focus on developing discipline and focus. In contrast, Adult Tai Chi classes are for stress relief and relaxation.

Many people are unsure about whether to try Kung Fu or Tai Chi, or they know they want to do it but are not quite sure how to get started. Is it going to be too hard? Am I in shape enough to do it? How long do I have to do it? Am I going to get hurt? That’s why I always recommend trying our trial offer. That is an excellent way for you or your child to try out a few classes risk-free.

Supporting Local Growth: WesBanco’s Flexible Business Lending Options

Running a small business comes with many challenges, and having the right financial support can make all the difference. WesBanco is committed to helping local entrepreneurs succeed by offering lending products that are flexible, fast, and transparent.

One of WesBanco’s most popular options is the Small Business FlexLine, which provides a safety net to cover expenses such as payroll, inventory, or unexpected costs. The bank also offers vehicle and equipment loans with a quick turnaround time so clients can access funds when they need them most.

WesBanco typically works with businesses that have been operating for at least two years, but also offers some loan products for those still getting established. During the loan process, the team reviews tax returns, business plans, financial projections, and current year-to-date financials to ensure the best fit for each client.

From application to approval, WesBanco’s lending team works together to keep clients informed every step of the way. Clear, honest communication is at the heart of their approach. For startups and newer businesses, WesBanco also has an SBA department that offers additional resources to help new companies grow with confidence.

First National Bank Support Local Business

Leslie R. Harrison Vice-President

Manager and Business Development

NMLS# 1549809

harrisonL@fnb-corp.com | 412-369-5700

Specializing in personal and commercial loans for consumers and business clients.

Where Dreams Find Direction

Providing guidance and clarity to shape your goals and career direction

jwcommunicate.com | (878) 626-2828 janet@jwcommunicate.com

Marketing & Account Executive Northern Connection & Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazines

Connecting You to the Community for over 26 years!

Providing high quality print advertising and digital marketing opportunities to help you grow your business and connect to the community.

724-940-2444

www.northernconnectionmagazine.com marysimpson@northernconnectionmag.com

Michael Angelo Maccagnan, Esq.

Angelo & Angelo, LLC law offices serves clients in solving complex real estate matters, estate planning and the probate process.

724-444-0888

michael@angelolawfirm.com www.angelolawfirm.com

412-364-4466

sherri@kotwicamcelroy.com www.kotwicamcelroy.com

Navigating Sweater Weather’s Food Climate Giving the Incoming New Years Resolution — a “Revelation”

By Elexis Kozik, Registered Licensed Dietitian – Revelations Counseling & Wellness

‘Tis the season for more of our Favorites – Football, Family, Friends, Food, Fellowship, and Faith. It’s that time of year again where we swap landscaping for leaf raking, sunny rays for snowy days, and our summer trips for classic movie marathons.

Our schedules adjust to make room for holiday activities, family traditions, and memory building. This is a time of year when many have the chance to be present, to reflect,

and to express gratitude for the things in life that mean the most. In other words, to be mindful. However, many experience a mind full of anticipation for the back-to-back gatherings and for the snowball effect this can have on overindulgence of food. Those eager to start or maintain wellness journeys tend to experience added stress, anxiety, shame, and guilt with this new change of pace and all the food-tivities to come.

Concerned You’ll Bite Off More Than You Can Chew? Here are a Few Suggestions:

1. GIVE YOURSELF GRACE: Your concern is valid! You want to maintain a balance, and that is a commendable thing. However, know that an important part of maintaining balance is making peace with food and normalizing those occasions where you go outside of your typical routine.

• Splurging on occasion does not mean that you have failed to maintain your “wellness”; it means that you have succeeded. Incorporating flexibility (within identifiable limits) into your dietary plan promotes less rigidity and greater adherence in the long run.

2. SILENCE THE NOISE: Steer clear of diet culture and food myths that promote fasting before feasting. It is best to eat well-balanced, portion-controlled meals prior to your scheduled festivity. By doing this, you create less of a fixation and hyperfocus on the “feast” to come, and less of a tendency to trade a comfort food experience for an uncomfortable experience.

• This prevents the cyclic nature of restrictive eating and overeating many experience throughout the holidays that contribute to undesirable weight gain.

• Game plan: Take a survey of the table spread/variety before you start plating your food. Decide what you plan to “savor,” “sample,” “skip,” or “serve.”

• Savor foods that you plan to get a sizable helping of.

• Sample foods that you’d like to be able to at least try.

• Skip dishes that are not very appealing to you, or that you come across or have access to on a regular basis.

• Serve dishes you have prepared, if you’d like to account for dietary preferences.

3. ADOPT A HUNGER-FULLNESS SCALE: Use a scale of 1-10, with (1) indicating starvation, (3) indicating close to starvation, (6-7) indicating that you are satisfied, and (10) indicating lack of hunger. This scale will alert you when you may be close to overdoing your meal intake to the point of discomfort.

• Allow yourself 15 minutes after finishing your meal before you go back for seconds. This gives your stomach some time to communicate to your brain that you are satiated.

to properly digest and absorb the food you consume. Therefore, it’s important to consume fluids with meals. However, do not fill up on fluids more than solids at mealtimes and during special occasions. Also, do not attempt to drink fluids in replacement of meals. If you are not sure whether you are thirsty or hungry, have some water and wait a little while to see if that changes your hunger signals. The body sends hunger signals as an indication it needs more substantial nutrients than can be found in sugar sweetened beverages!

Season Greetings:

In this season of reflection and gratitude, it’s important to remember to be kind to yourself. It’s important to be grateful for the triumphs and shortcomings along your journey, as they serve as a roadmap to self-efficacy (a person’s belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task). Know, however, that you do not need to approach this journey or these seasons alone. With proper support and guidance, your New Year’s Resolution will shift away from needing to reverse the effects of the holiday food burden, and more towards how to sustain quality of life overall. At Revelations

Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting: Helping You Be Mentally Healthy

WExpertise is Essential Treatment for acute sprains, fractures, and musculoskeletal injuries require immediate care. Avoid the long emergency room wait and stop in to Tri-State’s Ortho Urgent Care, where patient care is the top priority. We diagnose and treat the following:

• Broken Bones

• Sprains

• Upper Extremity Injuries

• Spinal Injuries

• Foot and Ankle Injuries

• Knee Pain and Injuries

• Hip Pain and Injuries

• X-ray and Bracing available if necessary

e are fortunate to live at a time when mental health is talked about openly. Even celebrities share their mental health struggles. More importantly, people share about the relief they’ve experienced after getting help: their renewed strength, healing, restoration, and improved overall health.

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s worth hearing again: mental health IS health, too. At Samaritan, we offer compassionate, expert care to help people regain mental, relational, and spiritual health. All adults and children are welcome, regardless of ability to pay. Everyone deserves a chance to be wholly healthy in mind, body, and spirit.

“I am truly grateful for the financial help enabling me to receive counseling. It has literally changed my life for the better. I’ve learned how to accept and love myself and how to protect myself and my heart in caring for others.” – Ed, former Samaritan client.

Beautiful Dreamer

By Janice Lane Palko

“Beauty is eternity gazing at itself in a mirror.” – Khalil Gibran

Sixty years ago, First Lady Lady Bird Johnson joined the Keep America Beautiful movement, which strived to prevent littering plant flowers, trees, and shrubs; and clean up public places and beautify them by installing murals and artworks.

I recently traveled to Central Europe, visiting the cities of Munich, Prague, Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava, and Salzburg. The beauty of these cities and the smaller villages was something to behold. From magnificent castles to glorious cathedrals, beauty abounded and delighted the senses. It seemed that everything from parliament buildings to bridge abutments were either painted, ornamented, or gilded. Even the sewer lids were decoratively embossed.

When I went back to school for my degree nearly 20 years ago, I did a study on beauty as part of my coursework. Beauty is an ephemeral thing. It’s hard to define; it’s one of those “you know it when you see it” phenomena.

The poet John Keats concluded his famous poem “Ode on a Grecian Urn” with these lines: “Beauty is truth, truth beauty— that is all Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.” Keats may have thought that was all that we on earth need to know, but unfortunately, the concepts of beauty and truth are difficult to define and prompt the questions: What is beauty?

While researching beauty for this term paper, I discovered some of beauty’s traits that inherently speak to us. Beauty inspires awe or wonder. It has patterns or harmony. It is proportional, simple, symmetrical, and prompts a desire to replicate it or create more of it.

In fact, Nancy Etcoff, psychologist and Harvard researcher, wrote in her book Survival of the Prettiest: The Science of Beauty that beauty is necessary for our existence. She states that “beauty is one of the ways life perpetuates itself, and love of beauty is deeply rooted in our biology.”

Beauty is also a sign of a thriving society.

When we arrived in Budapest, we took an excursion to a small village called Szentendre (St. Andrew’s in English) to learn how to make goulash. On the way there, we saw the opposite of beauty. Our guide pointed out the enormous “panel blocks.” Massive, prefab cement high-rise complexes of apartments that the Communists erected and forced thousands of people to live in during the Soviet occupation of Hungary. These drab, uniform buildings inspired nothing but a sense of depression and dread.

It was enlightening to see such a stark contrast between the buildings constructed during the country’s Imperial era, when everything gave glory to humanity and the Divine with the Communist buildings that dehumanized its inhabitants and denied any connection to the Divine.

Saying that beauty is vital to our survival is not an exaggeration. In fact, according to a 2023 article in BBC Science Focus that studied the effects of beauty on individuals, it stated that: “When the participants experienced beautiful images or music, the researchers saw activity in a region of the brain called the medial orbitofrontal cortex, which plays a role in our feelings of reward and pleasure. Other studies have identified that part of the region known as the striatum—also involved in reward and judgment—responds to beautiful faces.”

We are preprogrammed to desire beauty. We are designed to respond to beauty so much so that it is the pursuit of beauty that spurs us to procreate and continue the species.

If I’m being honest, I think many parts of our city and country could use some spiffing up. I think we’ve long lost the plot on Keep America Beautiful. Many of our places are rundown or are in disrepair. In urban areas in particular, litter and graffiti abound, and it seems our architecture does not inspire.

We hear a lot these days about Making America Great Again or Making American Healthy Again, but I think we could add a third objective and that would be to Make America Beautiful Again. Our survival may depend upon it. n

The Power of Friendship Leads to Appreciation!

By Sofya Stearns

As I’m writing this, I’m enjoying myself in Charleston, a place I have been obsessively wanting to visit for a few years now. I have heard and read so much about the place, a beautiful southern charm city with a lot of history, architecture, colorful buildings. and quite marvelous array of phenomenal restaurants. What I absolutely love though is the Southern dialect and a form of thanking people. Instead of “Thank you” they say, “I appreciate you.” And as I hear this repeatedly, it dawns on me, it is absolutely the best way to thank someone. As a chef and educator, appreciating someone for their service, patronage, and gratitude is SO important, it’s what is keeping us going. Appreciating someone sounds so much nicer than just thanking them. Furthermore, this month is the beginning of the holiday season with everyone’s favorite, Thanksgiving, a month during which we celebrate friendship and family, planning Friendsgiving and family feasts. I’m also thrilled to report, that I was asked to co-author, with a dozen wonderful authors, a book called Daily Gift of Friendship, which is the fifth book for the Daily Gift book series and will be coming out in mid-November by the Authentic Endeavors Publishing and owner Teresa Velardi, just in time for the holidays. The book gathers stories of different types of friendships, friends who helped each other during the darkest days, friends who are there for each other for better or worse. Lost friendships that were lost over the years but then luckily were rekindled, or a friend who from the first second of a meet up, became the closest confidant.

For me personally, I’m blessed to have an amazing circle of friends who are always there for me and vice versa, without whom my life wouldn’t be complete. That circle is tight and my rock, and we truly appreciate each other. This is when oldie but goodie expressions “Less is More” and “Quality vs. Quantity” come in handy. Friendship cannot be faked; it comes naturally to our existence. Friendship cannot be forced and must be agreed by both sides. I want to wish every single one of you to feel appreciated by your friends, friends who truly care for you and appreciate you for your existence. I’m leaving you with this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, “Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.”

Happy friendships and Happy gobble gobble day! Cheers! Until next month!

La Dolce Vita!! n

Take Note : The Frank Farina Foundation Welcomes Donations of Music Instruments

Consider donating your musical instruments to the Frank Farina Foundation. Your generous contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of those passionate about music but unable to afford the proper equipment. Your kindness can help inspire and nurture the next generation of talented musicians.

Established in 2015, this nonprofit organization carries on the legacy of Frank J. Farina Jr., a beloved music icon in the North Allegheny area. Through its Play-It Forward program, the foundation aims to provide underprivileged children in the Tri-State region with access to music education by accepting donated instruments. By donating your instrument, you can help these children fulfill their dreams of learning to play an instrument and discovering the joy of music.

The Farina Foundation accepts almost any playable instrument, but they are particularly interested in brass and woodwind instruments. The foundation partners with various organizations, such as the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, the Children’s Hospital Music Therapy Department, and Goodwill Industries, to distribute the instruments to those who most need them. All donated instruments are repaired and sanitized before distribution, ensuring they are in good condition for the children who receive them.

To donate your musical instrument, you can drop it off at Brighton Music Center, which is located at 2110 Babcock Boulevard in Ross Township. For more information on how you can help make a difference in a child’s life through this excellent program, please visit farinafoundation.org n

School Movers & Shakers

Aquinas Academy

Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh has been nationally recognized as one of the Best Schools in America by Niche, the country’s leading college and school search platform. Aquinas achieved recognition in the following categories: #1 Co-Ed Catholic High School in Pennsylvania; #1 Co-Ed Catholic K-12 School in Pennsylvania; #26 Co-Ed Catholic K-12 School in the USA. These rankings reflect Aquinas Academy’s exceptional performance across numerous factors analyzed by Niche including academic performance, extracurricular activity opportunities, data from sources like the U.S. Department of Education and user input from current students, alumni, and parents.

North Hills

The Kushkushkee Trail Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, presented Excellence in American History Awards to students at North Hills High School. Recipients are: 9th Grade American History - Don D’Alessandro, Julia Torok and McKenna Cote; 11th Grade US Government - Anya Roy and Alex Alder; Contemporary History - Dhevyn Taylor and Lydia Downs; AP US History - Faith McAtee; AP U.S. Government - Ava Weber

Seneca Valley

Seneca Valley Senior High School students recently had an unforgettable educational experience as they heard from 96-year-old Holocaust survivor, Howard Chandler. Mr. Chandler, who endured Auschwitz, spoke to students at an assembly on Friday, Oct. 10. He shared his firsthand experience as a slave laborer in concentration camps.

Officials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced that Seneca Valley seniors Elizabeth Browne, Adrian Wrubel, and Autumn Zacherl are Semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

Mars Area

Mars Area School Board has appointed Hope Schreiber to fill the position of assistant principal at Mars Area High School

Mars Area High School seniors

Madeline George and Andersen Palmer were named Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Mars Area Middle School eighth-graders

Emma Johnston and Everly Henderson were selected as winners in the 2025 Young Writers’ “Integers: Stories Inspired by Numbers” creative writing contest.

Fox Chapel

A recent Fox Chapel Area High School graduate won a writing award, and two other graduates had their writing published as part of the 2025 Ralph Munn Creative Writing Contest.  Meera Reddy won second place, and a $100 prize in the poetry category. Meera also had a prose piece, “I’m Not Good Enough” qualify for publishing in the anthology. Additionally,  Anna Delale-O’Connor had a short prose piece, “Dinner for One” and  Devon McDonald had a short prose piece, “Lying in a Puddle” published as well.

The Fox Chapel Area High School Marching Band won first place in the Class AA division at the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) competition held September 27, at Yough Senior High School. Additionally, the band also received awards for the highest music, general effect, and visual scores in its division.

Fox Chapel Area High School art teacher  Joan Marangoni was selected to serve on the first-ever Junk Kouture Teacher Advisory Board from the United States. She is one of only six educators from across the nation who will serve on the board

for the 2025-2026 school year. Marangoni was selected for being “an influential and passionate Junk Kouture Educator.”

In October, The Rotary Club of Fox Chapel Area donated “Peace Poles” to the Fox Chapel Area School District to display at its schools. According to Rotary International, “Rotary Peace Poles are powerful catalysts for bringing communities together.” Each Peace Pole is a monument that displays the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in the language of the country where it is placed.

BC3

Butler County Community College (BC3) was recently ranked as the No. 1 community college in Pennsylvania. Niche.com, Pittsburgh, reviewed and evaluated data from the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Census Bureau, and FBI, and weighed student and alumni reviews in recognizing BC3 as the best community college in Pennsylvania for 2026. BC3 was also ranked No. 1 by Niche.com for 2025, for 2023 and for 2022; by BestColleges.com for 2023, for 2022, for 2020 and for 2017; and by  Schools.com in 2019, in 2017 and in 2015.

Rick Barger and Tom McConnell received Distinguished Alumni honors during an Oak Hills Celebration. The event was held Oct. 4 in Founders Hall on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township.

Butler County Community College trustees approved an agreement that will allow a downtown coffee shop to operate, manage and provide food services at a cafeteria and café on BC3’s main campus in Butler Township through May 2029. Trustees authorized a motion from the board’s finance committee to select Vintage Coffeehouse, 209 S. Main St., Butler, to succeed CRH Catering Co., Connellsville.

TRAC Helping Families Despite Challenging Times

By Janice Lane Palko

“Celebrating National Adoption Month is challenging this year especially when outside forces are overshadowing our mission and our celebration,” said Ja-Neen Jones, CEO, TRAC Services for Families.

Founded in 1979 as Three Rivers Adoption Council so that no child would have to face a life without permanency, TRAC has expanded to provide a range of services and resources for children, youth, adults, and families to ensure stable relationships and strong community connections.

Unfortunately, social and governmental issues have made supporting vulnerable members in our area that much more difficult for TRAC.

“The number of families willing to foster a child or teen has fallen in recent years, while at the same time we are bracing for a rise in children and youth who are at risk

due to neglect from strain on financial resources,” said Ms. Jones. “In addition, mental health issues have exploded, especially anxiety and depression.”

Complicating those factors is the lack of governmental funding. “We have not received any funds from the 15 counties including Allegheny County we support since July for fiscal year 2025/2026 said Ms. Jones. “Now with the shutdown of the federal government due to the inability of Congress to pass a budget, we are facing even more hardship if the budget is not passed by November 1.”

Nevertheless, TRAC aims to keep on providing services. In addition to providing adoption and foster care services and support, TRAC has strived to address the mental health crisis, by opening its clinic to anyone in the community.

“We have a variety of staff members who understand complex needs as well as a psychiatrist for more significant challenges,” said Ms. Jones, who stated that she is “beyond proud of my staff. We couldn’t provide the help that we do without their passion, dedication, and innovation.”

If you would like to support TRAC, Ms. Jones urges those to go to their website, tracpgh.org, and click on the DONATE button. She also asks readers to contact their governmental officials to urge them to support TRAC. “I’m not on one side or the other, I’m an advocate for humanity,” said Ms. Jones, “and TRAC and the people we serve need help.” n

Giving Back, Close to Home

Emily King

The Giving Tuesday movement was started in 2012 as an effort to create a day that encourages people to do good. It has grown into a global movement that inspires people around the world to celebrate generosity and help their community year-round. With Giving Tuesday falling on December 2 this year, now is a great time to learn about some of the organizations that are doing amazing work right in our community. Scan the QR codes to learn more about each organization and how you can help.

VOICE is an organization that provides services to support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other crimes in Butler County. Services include crisis intervention, emergency domestic violence shelter, transitional housing, counseling, legal advocacy, medical advocacy, social services advocacy, support groups, children’s advocacy, community outreach and prevention. Services are free and they operate with complete confidentiality.

VOICE provides advocacy services to the community regardless of age, race, gender, color, religion, culture, national origin, sexual orientation, economic status, or the presence of any mental or physical disability.

How you can help:

VOICE is always looking for support from the community and there are lots of way to contribute around the holidays. The organization always appreciates donations of any kind, including monetary,

gift cards, donations of cleaning supplies, school supplies, hygiene products, and more. Before donating, please check their website for their greatest need and items they are not accepting.

The Izzie Fund

When Victoria Chester Rose received her beloved dog Izzie’s diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension, she resolved to do anything she could to keep Izzie comfortable and give her more time to live. This meant seeing a team of specialists, including a cardiologist, prescription food, medications, hospital stays, ultrasounds, echocardiograms, and oxygen therapy. The vet bills were staggering, and Victoria realized how lucky she was to be able to provide Izzie with everything she needed. The Izzie Fund was established to honor Izzie, who passed away in February of 2021. The Izzie Fund is an all-volunteer nonprofit that relies entirely on donations to help responsible dog owners make the best medical decisions for their pets without the worry of financial burden. Its vision is simple: no

family-owned dog should ever be surrendered or euthanized because of the cost of treatment. In just three years, The Izzie Fund has provided close to $60,000 in grants, giving families access to lifesaving specialized veterinary care.

How you can help:

The Izzie Fund is kicking off the holiday season with a festive Ugly Sweater Mixer on December 3 at the Rivers Club in downtown Pittsburgh. Party guests can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cocktail tasting, plus a cash bar. Enter to win a 50/50 raffle and raffle baskets. Don your tackiest holiday threads for a chance to win the Ugly Sweater Contest. All proceeds from the event will benefit The Izzie Fund.

The Foster Love Project

For kids in the foster system, the idea of “home for the holidays” can be a complicated one, especially when kids must move with little warning and time to prepare. The Foster Love Project aims to help provide children who are impacted by foster and kinship care with dignity and comfort. They help meet the basic needs of children as well as providing them with comfort objects and experiences. The Foster Love Project has several initiatives that support foster children and families. Their Back2School program provides kids with new brand-name shoes, clothes, backpacks and school supplies. Their Excellent Hair Care program helps teach foster families how to care for the unique hair and skin needs of black children.

They also provide opportunities for support and community, including teen connection groups and family support weekends for foster, kinship, and adoptive families. These opportunities allow children and families to bond and connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

How you can help:

Foster Love Project is currently promoting two fundraising campaigns ahead of the holidays. Their signature FLP bag drive kicks off November 11. Many times, when kids are placed into foster care, their few belongings are thrown into a garbage bag to take with them. The bag drive provides foster children with a bag filled with new belongings for them, specifically for their age group. Bags may include items like comfort items, stuffed animals, self-care products like bodywash and toothbrushes, clothing and other items. Check the website for info about how you can donate and where and when to drop off bags.

Foster Love Project will also be hosting their annual Angel Tree Gift Drive in November. This program helps grant holiday wishes to more than 200 children in the foster care system locally. The program is unique in that anyone can participate, from anywhere, as a donor because it is all done online.

North Hills Community Outreach

If you want to see your donations benefit those directly in your community, North Hills Community Outreach is a great place to start. The organization was formed in 1987, after a devastating flood ravaged parts of the North Hills. Local community and religious leaders came together to provide support and meet the needs of families that were affected by the flooding. This process revealed the great need for an organization dedicated to meeting the basic needs of people in our community. Soon after, North Hills Community Outreach was formed.

rental assistance, education assistance, and other programs that serve those in need.

How you can help:

NHCO will be hosting their 12th annual Holiday Bazaar at Wildwood Golf Club in Allison Park on November 9 starting at 10 am.

NHCO helps out in many ways. They host a food pantry, provide volunteer services for older adults, free tax preparation, transportation assistance, utilities and

The holiday market will feature more than 30 local businesses, artisans, and craftsmen selling clothing, artwork, jewelry, holiday décor, and more. The Bazaar is open to the public and free. Wildwood will also be hosting a Sunday Brunch Buffet, available from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and reservations are required. Pricing is $28 for adults and $15 for children. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit NHCO and their efforts. n

The 2026 Legacy Lineup offers something for everyone, including concerts, free movies, and free seminars. Join the thousands of patrons who have enjoyed the variety of offerings and who continue returning for more. Parking is free for all events, and the theatre can accommodate 251 patrons.

Legacy Lineup at Cumberland Woods Village 700 Cumberland Woods Drive Allison Park, PA 15101 (Off of Cumberland Road in the Town of McCandless)

Seniors enjoy a variety of free matinee movies every Monday at 2 p.m. No reservations required — first come, first seated. Seminars are every other Tuesday at 11 a.m. RSVP at 412-635-8080 or for weather cancellations.

Emily King

Carols, Crafts, and Cocoa!

With a mission to empower young voices through a transformative choral experience, PYC offers a comprehensive and inclusive program that fosters musical literacy, discipline, collaboration, and cultural awareness. Singers ages 6–18 participate in progressive ensembles that emphasize healthy vocal technique, strong music literacy skills, a wide-ranging repertoire, and performance opportunities at the highest level.

We invite you to kick off the holiday season at “Carols, Crafts, and Cocoa,” hosted by Pittsburgh Youth Chorus on November 16, from 1:00 to 3:30 at Pine Township Community Center. After last year’s huge success, the event has been moved to this larger indoor space with even more opportunities for holiday fun!

The event will feature fun activities for kids and grownups.

Kids under age 12 can participate in holiday crafts, face painting, story time and games. Santa will even be making a special appearance for visits and photos!  Children will enjoy a cup of hot cocoa with their cookie compliments of Walnut Grill.

Outside of the kids’ area, adults can browse from a curated selection of vendors to get a start on their holiday shopping with unique and handmade gifts such as hair accessories, adorable pet products, beautifully crafted custom cookies, chocolate covered pretzels, homemade fudge, and other artisan items from diverse local businesses. Guests can try their luck in winning raffle baskets created and donated by local organizations and Pittsburgh Youth Chorus families.

Don’t miss the GIANT cookie walk, sponsored by Collective Brands Catering, where patrons can purchase a box and fill it with a huge selection of homemade cookies baked and donated by PYC families. Proceeds from the cookie walk will help support the organization’s scholarship and tuition assistance program.

Northern Connection magazine will be on hand, hosting “Cards for a Cause,” a creative effort to thank our local medical heroes who go above and beyond in their jobs every day. Adults and children can stop by our station to make and decorate cards for the AHN Wexford Hospital staff. Children from PYC will hand deliver these cards to doctors, nurses, and other professionals in the coming weeks. A special thank-you to AHN Wexford Hospital for sponsoring this event and for their continued dedication to caring for local families. As a proud community partner, they provide exceptional care while actively supporting programs that bring our neighbors together, demonstrating their commitment to health, compassion, and connection throughout the region.

Key Bank, a valued partner of PYC and the broader community, will also be supporting this event with an on-site presence. Key Bank is dedicated to making a meaningful impact by listening to members’ needs and ideas, developing thoughtful plans, and taking decisive action.

The afternoon will close out with a joyful performance and carol sing-along by the youth chorus.

In bringing friends and families together to celebrate with holiday merriment, Pittsburgh Youth Chorus hopes to introduce the community to its robust program offering. You’ll meet instructors and children from the area’s training choirs, which is the first step in PYC’s music education program for children in first and second grade. The experience of singing together as a group creates a deep sense of belonging and connection, which is vital to children.

PYC has four neighborhood training choirs located in Shadyside, Coraopolis, Allison Park, and Upper St. Clair, and one school training choir at Dilworth Traditional Academy, so everyone can find a chorus close to home.

Guests are asked to register in advance for Carols, Crafts and Cocoa by scanning the QR code or visiting https://form.jotform.com/252013959779167 . This event is by donation which will be accepted during registration or at the door on the day of the event. All donations will help offset the cost of the event and support PYC programming. We hope to see you there! n

Little patients have little patience.

AHN Wexford Hospital has kids care close to you, including an ER with short wait times. Because the sooner they get seen, the sooner you’ll both breathe easier. See all our pediatric services at ahn.org/wexfordkids.

Art

Beaver Valley Artist Show, featured artist Lynn Jacques, Nov. 6, Merrick Art Gallery, 1110 Fifth Ave, New Brighton. For details, visit beavervalleyartists.weebly. com/.

Cranberry Artists Network

Holiday Show, 6-8 pm, Nov. 13-Jan. 2, Cranberry Township Municipal Building, 2525 Rochester Rd., Cranberry. Opening reception 6-8 pm, Nov. 13. For info, visit www.cranberryartistsnetwork.com/.

Concerts

Handbell Recital, 7 pm, Thurs., Nov. 20, Wexford Community Presbyterian Church, 10645 Perry Hwy, Wexford. Works By: Gustav Holst, Estonian Composer, Arvo Pärt, Samuel Barber, and Sir Edward Elgar Familiar hymn tunes. A Free Will Offering. For details, visit wexfordcpc.org.

HAPPENINGS

Crafts

Indoor Holiday Craft Show, 10 am-4 pm, Nov. 9, Pittsburgh Syria Shrine, 1577 Shriner’s Way, Cheswick. Chinese auction, 50/50 raffle, concession stand. Admission $3 per person. Proceeds benefit Daughters of the Nile. For vendor info, email peggyaddleman@gmail.com or (724) 709-9916.

Historical

Greater Pittsburgh Civil War Roundtable, Rick Condon presents “The Rebels Are Coming: The Department of the Monongahela,” 7 pm, Monday, Nov. 17, at Hampton Township Community Center, 3200 Lochner Way, Allison Park. Presentation is free and open to the public.

The North Hills Genealogists Conference, 9 am-4 pm, Nov. 8, Sechler Event Center, 500 Coomonwealth Dr., Warrendale. Also on Zoom. Celebrating 35 years. Guest speaker, Blaine Bettinger, Ph.D., J.D., on Genetic Genealogy (DNA) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) topics. The public is welcomed. For info and registration, visit northhillsgenealogists. org/.

Library/Reading

Northland Library has numerous events scheduled for November. For a complete list of events, visit northlandlibrary.org.

Vintage Market is a non-profit store in Shaler that benefits The Blessing Board. Open 10 am-3

pm every Th/F/Sat in the Shaler Plaza, 880 Butler Street & Rt. 8 (look for the gray door between Rite Aid & Planet Fitness).Meals

Nutrition / Teas

Free Community Meal First Monday Meal, 5-7 pm each 1st Monday of the month at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1719 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. Meal includes entrée, starch, vegetable, salad, homemade dessert, and drink. Open to the public. For info, call (412) 486-0550.

Movies / Plays

Free Matinee Movies on Mondays: 2 pm, Nov. 3, Plane; Nov. 10, Hit Man; Nov. 17, Heads of State; Nov. 24, The Good House; Dec. 1, Wild Oats, at the Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village in McCandless Twp. For details, visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

Movie Matinee – 1:30 pm, 3rd Wed of the month, Nov. 19, Penguin Lessons; Dec. 17, Qatar/Lake Tahoe, Northland Library, 300 Cumberland Rd., McCandless Twp. For info, visit www.northlandlibrary.org.

Our Town, 7 pm, Nov. 6-8, in the Fox Chapel Area High School auditorium, 611 Field Club Rd., O’Hara Twp. Tickets for adults $10, students are $5.  Tickets will be sold at the door.

Networking / Social

Cranberry Township 55+ Club meets 1 pm the 2nd Tuesday of the month at the Cranberry Township Municipal Center.

atMOON PLA ZA

Brighton Hot Dog Shop

Burger King

DiCesaro Spine & Sport

Excel Dental

Fancy Nails

Fine Wine and Good Spirits

Giant Eagle

GNC

Great Clips

H&R Block

Karen’s Hallmark

Michael’s Hair Loft

Mike & Tony’s Gyros

Pizza Fiesta

Pop & Beer for Less

Tokyo Hibachi

UPS Store

Wingstop

Your CBD Store

Coming Soon! 7 Brew

Offering a variety of beverages including coffee,teas, smoothies and energy drinks

Members must be residents of Cranberry Township. The Club features activities, social opportunities, and visits to nearby points of interest. For info, contact Frank at (724) 316-5807.

Glenshaw AARP 3744 meets at Elfinwild Presbyterian Church, Mt. Royal Blvd. 2 pm, second Tuesday of the month. Call (412) 487-1041 for more info.

UPMC Passavant Hospital Auxiliary Membership Opportunities! Are you looking for a stimulating opportunity for social interaction with other dedicated people in support of our community hospitals— UPMC Passavant McCandless and Cranberry? Then join the Passavant Hospital Auxiliary’s long tradition of caring. The Auxiliary meets at 10 am the 2nd Monday of each month

(Sept. through June). New members are always welcome!  For more info, visit passavanthospitalfoundation.org/. Call (412) 748-6639 if you plan to attend a meeting.

Young at Heart 60+ Singles luncheons meet at 1:30 pm on the 3rd Wed each month at Cracker Barrel, Cranberry Twp. To reserve a seat, text or call (724) 8310798 by Monday the week of the luncheon.

Military

“Fill the Hill” campaign sponsored by Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall. With every $20 donation, a flag will be placed on Soldiers & Sailors’ front lawn, with a special illumination the week of Veterans Day. For details, visit www.soldiersandsailorshall.org/ or call (412) 621-4253.

Performances

Birthday at Tiffany’s, A dramedy by Christine CMC Bethea, Nov. 20-21, The New Hazlett Theatre, 6 Allegheny Square, Pittsburgh. For details, visit newhazletttheater.org.

Retreat

Hope Grows, Telling Our Story – Caregiver Retreat,  10 am-2 pm, Sat., Nov. 8, or 4-8 pm, Wed., Nov. 12, at the Iris Respite House, 183 Shafer Rd, Moon Twp. For info, visit hopegrows. org.

Sales

Treasures & Furniture Sale, 9 am-2 pm, Nov. 8, St. Matthew, Holy Spirit Campus, 608 Farragut St., Millvale. Six rooms of collectibles, religious items, holiday

treasures, linens, framed art work & furniture. If you have furniture to donate, call Deb at (412) 3371713.

Special Ed

Parenting for Different Needs; “Supporting Children with Physical or Intellectual Disabilities,” 6 pm, Thurs., Dec. 4, at Northland Library, 300 Cumberland Rd., McCandless Twp. Visit www.northlandlibrary. org.

Spiritual

Magnificat Prayer Breakfast for Women, 9 am-noon, Sat., Nov. 15. Prayer-filled breakfast at the Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center-O’Connor Hall, 2900 Noblestown Rd, Pgh, PA 15205. Guest speaker Fr. Daniel Roberts, a recently ordained

priest, who previously had a career as an actor in Los Angeles. Registration $35, visit www.magnificatpittsburgh.org/.

2025 Holiday Event Schedule

Family Hospice Dove Tree, Nov. 7-Dec. 29, 10 A.M. - 8 P.M., South Corridor - Upper Level (Near Sesame Inn)

TRYPO Orchestras & Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh, Sat., Nov. 22, 1 P.M.-3 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

Gingerbread Display, Nov. 28-Jan. 4, 10 A.M. - 8 P.M., South Corridor-Lower Level

Donna O, Sat., Nov. 29, 2 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

Slippery Rock University Clarinet Choir, Sun., Nov. 30, 3 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

North Hills Cares—Musical performances and “Fill the Sleigh”, Friday, Dec. 5, 6 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

North Hills Cares/SANTA/ Kid’s Day, Sat., Dec. 6 10 A.M.-3 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

Michele’s Dance Center, Sat. Dec. 6, 5 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

Propel Performing Arts Academy, Tues., Dec. 9, 6 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

Shaler Area High School - Jazz Band & Chamber Choir, Fri.,Dec. 12, 6 P.M., South Corridor - Upper Level

North Allegheny Middle School 8th Grade Orchestras, Thurs., Dec. 18, 11 A.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

North Hills Middle School Orchestra, Fri., Dec. 19, 6 P.M., South Corridor-Upper Level

Katie’s Clay Studio is a locally loved paintyour-own pottery and art studio where creativity brings people together. During the busy holiday season, reservations are highly recommended, especially for groups planning festive outings or gift-exchange gatherings with friends and family. Many families have made it a cherished tradition to paint ornaments together year after year, creating lasting memories. The studio also offers wheel-throwing lessons—a fun, hands-on experience for teens and adults over the holidays. Visit www.KatiesClayStudio.com to view upcoming monthly events or call 724-502-4700 to reserve your spot!

SEASON PASSES

The United States Marine Corps Celebrates 250 Years — Semper Fidelis

By Paula Green

This year marks a momentous milestone: 250 years of the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps—institutions predating the nation. We honor the legacy and proud contributions of each branch. As we reflect on “The Few, The Proud, The Marines,” let us honor the spirit and service that define the Marine Corps.

During the American Revolution, the Continental Congress authorized two Marine battalions as landing forces for the Continental Navy. The resolution of November 10, 1775, created the Continental Marines, now honored as the Marine Corps’ birth date.

The original Marines showed bravery on land and sea. Their first landing, in March 1776, was led by Captain Samuel Nicholas, who captured New Providence Island in the Bahamas—a feat for which he is remembered as the first commandant. After the war and disbandment of the Navy in 1783, the Marines were also demobilized.

On July 11, 1798, President John Adams signed an act to reestablish and organize a Marine Corps. Since then, the Marines have answered the nation’s call in every U.S. conflict, often being the first in and always exemplifying unmatched dedication, valor, and pride in service—qualities we salute today on their anniversary.

German soldiers called Marines “Teufelshunden,” or “Devil Dogs,” after their heroism in France in 1918. A famous photo captures the Corps’ courage: on February 23, 1945, during World War II, six Marines—Harlon Block, Harold Keller, Franklin Sousley, Michael Strank, Harold Schultz, and Ira Hayes—raised the American flag atop Mount Suribachi, on Iwo Jima. This iconic moment continues to inspire pride in the Marine Corps.

“Semper Fidelis,” or “Semper Fi,” is the official motto of the United States Marine Corps. It means “Always Faithful” in Latin. The Marines’ Hymn (“From the Halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli…”) is the oldest official song in the United States military.

These accomplished individuals proudly served as Marines: Drew Carey, John Glenn, Gene Hackman, Mike Farrell, Glenn Ford, Ed McMahon, Steve McQueen, George C. Scott, and Shaggy.

We also recognize Bea Arthur, who served in the Women’s Reserve during World War II under her given name Bernice Frankel. She worked as a truck driver and dispatcher and rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. Robert Keeshan, known as Captain Kangaroo, served at the war’s end. Our Vice President JD Vance served four years in the Marines and completed a tour in Iraq.

The Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary celebration will be held from November 7 to 11 in Philadelphia, with several ceremonies and festive events open to the public. The main event, the Marine Corps 100th Birthday Ball, will take place on November 10 in Philadelphia. Additional Birthday Balls are also scheduled that week in Washington, DC; Albany, Georgia; Virginia Beach, Virginia; and Anaheim, California.

Northern Connection salutes all who have served in the United States Marine Corps. Your legacy of courage and unity inspires our nation. Happy 250th birthday, Marines! n

Sources: www.history.com/this-day-in-history/november-10/birth-of-the-u-s-marine-corps, www. britannica.com/topic/United-States-Marine-Corps, www.uso.org/stories/3211-10-facts-about-marinecorps-history-and-traditions, www.imdb.com/list/ls070865334/, www.whitehouse.gov/administration/ jd-vance/

Grand Ole Opry Trivia Celebrating 100 Years

By Paula Green

This month, Nashville erupts in celebration as the Grand Ole Opry commemorates its 100th anniversary. For a century, its music and traditions have shaped country music, binding generations of fans and artists in shared memories.

Radio announcer George D. Hay introduced the WSM Barn Dance, debuting on November 28, 1925, with 77-year-old fiddler Uncle Jimmy Thompson. This moment welcomed audiences to a new genre of music. In 1927, the show became the Grand Ole Opry and began its legendary run as America’s longest-running radio show.

The Opry’s growing popularity soon demanded more space. Over the years, the show has had six homes. In 1943, it settled at the historic Ryman Auditorium. By March 1974, the Grand Ole Opry moved to its current location: the Grand Ole Opry House.

The show features renowned and emerging singers, as well as performances in country, bluegrass, Americana, folk, gospel, comedy, and skits. Hundreds of thousands flock to the Opry, and millions tune in on SiriusXM radio and online.

Throughout the past century, numerous country megastars have graced the Opry stage. A few artists include Bill Monroe, Ernest Tubb, Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, George Jones, Willie Nelson, Clint Black, Brad Paisley, Trace Adkins, Vince Gill, and Carrie Underwood. Famous comedyoriented acts that performed at the Opry included Minnie Pearl, Grandpa Jones, and David “Stringbean” Akeman.

Joining this elite group is by invitation only. Opry membership remains one of country music’s highest honors, with only about 225 acts ever inducted. As of 2025, the Grand Ole Opry proudly counts 76 current members among its ranks.

Since we have aired our way through the Grand Ole Opry, we must now score our answers on this country music query. Get set to don those cowboy hats because it’s time to get a little trivial..

1. On August 11, 1952, this male country music performer was fired from the Grand Opry, and was permanently stripped of his membership.

2. This famous rocker took the Opry stage in 1954. He performed “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” He bombed because the audience didn’t care for his pelvic gyrations.

3. On March 16, 1974, during the grand opening of the new Opry House, this former US President played the piano on stage as he sang “Happy Birthday” to his wife.

4. Known as the “Man in Black,” this country music star made his debut at the Grand Ole Opry on July 7, 1956 and met his future wife backstage.

5. She was an Opry member renowned for her straw hat banded with artificial flowers and a dangling $1.98 price tag. Her signature greeting was “How-dee!”

6. This country comedy show aired from 1969 to 1993. For 11 of those years, 1982-1993, the series was filmed weekly at the Grand Ole Opry House.

7. Another TV series shot some scenes from the Opry House. This show aired from 2012-2016. It chronicled the lives of fictitious country music singers.

8. This is the most common nickname for Nashville, Tennessee, and it is due largely to the talent of numerous country singers.

9. On January 21, 2017, this “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue” lady received her Opry membership.

10. This famous singer is known as the “Queen of Country.” She was inducted into The Grand Ole Opry on Jan. 4, 1969, and she’s an amusement park founder.

11. In 2010, the Opry House closed for five months, and performances were held elsewhere due to this natural disaster.

12. Garth Brooks was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on October 6, 1990. His wife received her Opry membership on March 13, 1999.

13. Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs were inducted into the Opry on January 1, 1955. They performed the instrumental music for this television series.

14. This Australian native and “Somebody Like You” singer received his induction on April 21, 2012.

15. Since 1963, the Grand Ole Opry has always had concerts on this day of the week. n

Sources: www.opry.com/about/history, theboot.com/grand-ole-opry-facts/, kids.kiddle.co/Grand_Ole_Opry,

My PCP is there in sickness and in health. My PCP specializes in me.

UPMC primary care providers (PCPs) are part of the largest, most convenient, and most advanced network of nationally recognized care in the region. As your partners in staying healthy, they can catch little things before they become big things to keep you at the top of your game in the kitchen and everywhere else.

Scan the code to find your PCP and connect with the region’s most advanced network of care.