The heat is on during the dog days of summer, and it brings plenty of thirst! But fear not, there's a world of exciting thirst-quenchers waiting to soothe your palate and keep you hydrated.

For young adults who are considering a military career, the ROTC program presents a promising opportunity for them. ROTC, which stands for Reserve Officers' Training Corps, is a leadership training and development program that equips full-time, college-enrolled students for service roles in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force. A similar program, the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI), is available in the Coast Guard. 

In a stunning triumph, students from The Music Note, a leading Pittsburgh music studio, have won top prizes at the International Youth Music Competition (IYMC). Their achievements will culminate in a recital and awards ceremony in New York City. The event takes place at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music on August 31.

Staples once ran an entertaining television ad showing an excited father and his reluctant kids shopping for supplies to the soundtrack of “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Back-to-school shopping can be both exciting and full of opportunities. With the right approach, it can be an enjoyable, affordable, and positive experience for everyone.

When I think back to the earliest days of the COVID-19 pandemic, so many things come to mind. My husband and I had just returned from a weekend visit to Toronto, narrowly making it over the border crossing before the world shut down.

You may have heard someone refer to vacation with kids as just parenting in a different location. It’s true—traveling with small (or big) kids can be exhausting and stressful, but it also offers the opportunity to see the world through your children’s eyes.

For many people dealing with chronic pain or post-injury recovery, conventional care offers a limited set of tools: medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. These approaches can be life-changing; but what happens when they don’t go far enough?

What is the fourth of July? And why do we celebrate? Of course, the obvious answer is that it is the day that the United States gained its independence from England. But sometimes the meaning of the day gets lost in the fireworks and celebrations.

As a born-and-raised Pittsburgher, I never take summer for granted. I hate the winter—like, daydream-about-moving-to-California kind of hate. I’ve made more than a few empty threats to pack up and head somewhere with year-round sunshine and bougainvillea. But deep down, I know I’d miss the rhythm of the seasons—and the way summer here feels like a reward we’ve truly earned.

Staying in a hospital often evokes a sense of uneasiness. One thing that helps ease the angst is warmth and friendship. This month, we’re sharing a doggone good tale about three therapy dogs that visit hospital patients and brighten their days. Oliver, Lucy, and Finnegan are three miniature goldendoodles whose job is to share love and companionship. The Kautzman family of McCandless Township has dedicated themselves to this heartwarming cause.

This month, the "happiest place on earth," Disneyland theme park in Anaheim, California, marks a significant milestone-its 70th anniversary. Disneyland, a unique creation supervised and built by Walt Disney, opened its gates to the public on July 18, 1955, offering a one-of-a-kind experience and creating magical memories for generations. 

July marks the heart of summer, kicking off with Independence Day on July 4, celebrating America's birth. This month also brings Parents' Day, celebrated on the fourth Sunday (July 27 this year) to honor the hard work of parents and caregivers. No matter where our parents may be, this day serves to celebrate their important role in each of our lives.

Helping Adults Bridge the Gap Between Rehab and Real Fitness

One local man who dutifully served his country in the Vietnam War was Norbert P. Teklinsky of Ross Township. Teklinsky was wounded in the line of duty and was honored with two Purple Hearts for his bravery.

When most people set a goal of transforming their bodies or improving their health, they focus on two things: diet and exercise. And while those are important, they’re not the full picture.

The beginning of summer is also a time to mark Father’s Day—a day meant to honor the father figures in our families and beyond.

It's that time of the year when you grab your flip-flops, towel, and sunscreen and hit the beach for some sun and fun!

This year is exciting for the United States military as we celebrate a trilogy of anniversaries; all three mark 250 years of dutifully serving our country.