in norwin

snowsnowmuch fun! School District News

Page 23

Special Section Health & Wellness

1WINTER 2013i c m a g s . c o m

Healthy digestion is something we all

take for granted — until something

goes wrong. From heartburn, diarrhea,

and bloating, to constipation, nausea,

and vomiting, gastrointestinal woes can

wreak havoc with your life.

Sudhir Narla, MD, chief of gastroenter-

ology at UPMC McKeesport and

director of the hospital’s Center for

Digestive Health, says prompt diagnosis

is key to resolving digestive problems.

“An early diagnosis usually means we

can cure it,” says Dr. Narla. “But if you

wait too long, all we can do is treat it.”

At UPMC McKeesport’s Center for

Digestive Health, board-certified gastro-

enterologists use the latest tests and

technology to prevent, diagnose, and

treat a wide range of digestive conditions,

including colorectal cancer and disorders of the esophagus,

stomach, small bowel, colon, pancreas, liver, and biliary tract.

Providing comprehensive care As a comprehensive inpatient and outpatient unit, the center

offers a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal

(GI) procedures. Featuring the latest technology, the center was

designed with the comfort and privacy of patients and family

members in mind.

Each month, gastroenterologists perform hundreds of procedures

in the fully equipped GI unit — certified by the American Society

for Gastro-intestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) for promoting the highest

standards of safety and quality. Because the center is located

within UPMC McKeesport, many therapeutic procedures can be

performed immediately.

“We can take care of anything, from a simple polyp to bleeding or

cancer,” says Dr. Narla. “As a full-fledged GI unit, we can provide

immediate treatment.”

Preventing colon cancer “When caught early, colon cancer

is curable,” says Dr. Narla, who

recommends colonoscopy screening

for everyone age 50 and older.

“Screening enables us to remove

polyps before they become cancerous.”

One of the most powerful tools

available for preventing cancer is the

colonoscopy, which uses a small

camera to examine the colon.

Colon cancer often has no symptoms,

which is why screening is so important.

A colonoscopy detects polyps —

abnormal growths in the colon or

rectum, which are removed and tested.

Most forms of colorectal cancer are

slow growing, taking five to 10 years to

develop, he adds.

A wide range of tests In addition to colonoscopy screenings and polyp removal, the

center offers a wide range of diagnostic tests and procedures to

evaluate and treat problems of the digestive tract, including:

• Upper intestine — abdominal pain, gastroesophageal reflux

disease (GERD), difficulty swallowing, ulcers, and intestinal

bleeding.

• Colon and rectum — lower abdominal pain, rectal bleeding,

hemorrhoids, rectal spasm or pain, and diverticular disease.

• Gallbladder and pancreas — diseases of the pancreas, gall

bladder stones, tumors, and blockage of bile ducts.

To learn more about UPMC McKeesport’s Center for Digestive

Health, call 412-664-2119.

Dealing with Digestive Disorders

This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC

UPMC McKeesport’s Center for Digestive Health offers the latest technology for early detection and treatment of digestive disorders.

INCommunity_UPMC_McKeesport_Winter_2013_Final.indd 1 11/8/13 1:30 PM

IN Community Magazines is seeking an energetic salesperson to sell print advertising in your area.

Full-time is preferred, but part-time will be considered.Please contact our General Sales Manager, Tamara Myers, at

[email protected] for more information.

Turn Your CommuniTY inTo a Career

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Join in Community magazines’ Team of Professional Sales reps

Overbrook Pointe offers new concept in senior living

Volant Mill Winery Brings a Taste of Tuscany to MarsPage 30

Special Section: EducationTop 5 Classroom TrendsPage 17

Fall 2013i c m a g s . c o m

freshfor everyone

something


HeadlinePage 34

Headline7

see page 14

Special Section: Education

Page 23

Butch Truitt, South Fayette's new parks and recreation

director (right), with township manager Ryan Eggleston

Dynamic Duo:


Special Section: EducationPage 7

School and Township NewsPage 29


School NewsPage 16

Special Section: Education

Page 6

School!Back to

CONTENTSw i n t e r • 2 013

It’s the most wonderful time….to stay fit. Winter sports abound in western Pennsylvania, but if you prefer indoor workouts, we’ve provided several local fitness centers and classes in our Health & Wellness section so you can stay fit, motivated and warm this season.

IN Community is a publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Norwin area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

11

20

departments

4 From the Publisher

6 IN the Loop

8 IN Person

10 Norwin Public Library

23 School News

32 INCognito

features11 Special Section: Health & Wellness

How to live a healthier, happier, longer life.

15 O Christmas TreeChoosing a live evergreen in Norwin.

16 The HauntedNew documentary explores paranormal activity at Larimer Mansion.

20 For the Love of Dance Owner of Janet’s Dance Studio has been inspiring and encouraging local performers for nearly four decades.

on the cover

Norwin | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 3

Send Us Your Story Ideas!We’d love to hear from you if you know someone in your community who is making a difference or has done something extraordinary. We’re also looking for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history or other news) within your community.

If you have suggestions, email us at [email protected].

To AdvertiseAs the largest magazine publisher in Western Pennsylvania, IN Community Magazines are direct mailed to more than 518,000 households, reaching 1.15 million readers. If you'd like to partner with us, please contact our general sales manager, Tamara Myers, at [email protected].

Top-notch health care, education, banking and technology are what make Pittsburgh known, but our communities are what make us home. Home – where you live, go to school, shop, work and play – is what IN Community Magazines is all about. Each quarter, we bring you the latest news and information about schools, businesses, nonprofits and the people who make them exceptional. We also bring you coverage of interesting events and articles about historical sites you may pass every day without even knowing. We like to surprise you with little-known facts about your community and profile intriguing people who’ve made their mark locally – and sometimes even globally.

One thing that makes our communities in western Pennsylvania special is the beautiful seasons. As autumn comes to an end and the snow begins to fall, we hope you take some time to enjoy the many winter activities our area has to offer and hit the slopes, sled ride, cross-country ski or ice skate at one of our many beautiful parks. Or simply build a snowman in the backyard!

The staff at IN Community Magazines wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

At Seven Springs with my wife Lisa and our three sons.

PUBLISHERFROMTHE

PUBLISHERWayne DollardEDITORIAL DIRECTORJulie [email protected] EDITORSMark Berton [South, West and Erie][email protected]

Pamela Palongue [North and East][email protected] MANAGERLeo [email protected] COORDINATORDebbie [email protected] DIRECTORMichael [email protected] BrkichAnna BuzzelliSharon CobbJan McEvoy

Jim PaladinoMelissa St. GilesTamara Tylenda

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSJonathan BarnesJennifer BrozakEarl BugaileTracy FedkoeBrenda Haines-CosolaElvira HoffHeather Holtschlag

Leigh LyonsJoanne NaserMelanie PaulickMelissa RayworthMarilyn WempaMandie Zoller

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERSGinni KleinEvan SandersPrimetime Shots

Kathleen RudolphJennifer SteensonGary Zak

GENERAL SALES MANAGERTamara [email protected] MANAGERBrian [email protected] SALESSophia AlfarasPamela ArderNikki Capezio-WatsonJennifer DahlemTina DollardJulie GraffRobin Guest

Holly Hicks-OppermanAimee Nicolia Connie McDanielGabriel NegriVincent SabatiniMichael SilvertRJ Vighetti

ICM PRINTING SALES MANAGERTom Poljak

©2013 by IN Community Magazines. All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse of any part of this publication is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Direct all inquiries, letters to the editor and press releases to:IN Community Magazines603 East McMurray RoadMcMurray, PA 15317724.942.0940; Fax: 724.942.0968icmags.com

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.4 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Norwin


l aunching fir st i ssue December 2013

Pittsburgh’s premier guide to stylish living, sophisticated design and the best resources in Pittsburgh

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PiTTsburGh hoME & lifestyle magazine

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introducing

COOKIE TOUR

The Irwin Business and Professionals Association (IBPA) will sponsor its annual Cookie Tour on Dec. 6. Come join friends and neighbors on a cookie-gathering mission through the streets of downtown Irwin. An event guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit and to leave your tastebuds tickled.

The IBPA is an all-volunteer organization which endeavors to promote the vitality of Main Street in Irwin.

NORWIN HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND PERFORMS “RISE OF THE KNIGHT”

The Norwin High School Marching Band featured their school’s symbol, the Knight, in its 2013 competitive show, “Rise of the Knight.” The band performed an exciting show that expressed the underlying theme and quote, “The block of granite, which was an obstacle in the pathway of the weak, becomes a stepping stone in the pathway of the strong!” The dramatic ending to the show featured a “knighting” and revealed the new Norwin Band symbol, a shield, and the motto, “Presence, Pride and Artistry.”

The band is led by new high school band director, and former Norwin Band member, Tim Daniels.

The Norwin Band had an award-winning season competing in local and regional competitions. It was named the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) State Champions for a third year in a row, and captured Best Music Performance, Best Visual Performance and Best General Effect.

The band traveled to two Bands of America (BOA) Regional Championships this season. It competed with 28 bands from Georgia, North Carolina, Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, and placed third overall in the BOA Regional held in Towson, Maryland.

Congratulations Norwin Band on a great season!

HONORING OUR MILITARY

The Rotary Club of Norwin is accepting applications from Norwin area residents who are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, or from any of their family members, to honor them on a banner to

What’snews in Norwin?

inthe

LOOP

6 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Norwin

be displayed along Main Street in Irwin and Norwin Avenue in North Huntingdon beginning May 2014.

Residents will have the opportunity to recognize an active military member in good standing by having his/her face, name and rank printed on a banner that will hang in Irwin and North Huntingdon from May – November.

This Military Banner Program was initiated by Frank and Mary Aiello, members of the Rotary Club of Norwin, who saw the banner program in a small California town while on vacation. The Aiellos felt that our local military heroes should be similarly supported. The project was unanimously approved by Rotary with sanctions given by the Irwin City Council, North Irwin and the North Huntingdon Township Commissioners.

To enter a military service member, applicants should fill out an online application at NorwinRotary.com/MilitaryBanners. Be sure to include a photo of the service member. Applications may also be picked up at area businesses. For more information, call 724.864.6982.

2013 ANNUAL HOLIDAY MIXER

The Norwin Chamber of Commerce is holding its Annual Holiday Mixer on Wednesday, December 4, at the Shidle Lodge in Downtown Irwin, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. The cost is $5 per person and includes a food buffet, desserts, wine and beverages. It's a great way to meet members of the community, so bring your employees, co-workers, family and friends! RSVP for the event at [email protected].

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR

Norwin Historical Society is hosting its Annual Holiday House Tour on December 7 from 3 – 8 p.m. The tour will feature seven different historic locations in the area which will be decorated for the holidays. Tickets are $17 each. For more information on the historical society, visit the website at NorwinHistoricalSociety.org.

ON THE ICE IN GREENSBURG

The Kirk S. Nevin Arena offers Public Ice Skating Sessions the following days and times:

Mon. - Fri., 10 a.m. – 12 noon.Wed. & Fri., 1:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Fri., 8 – 10 p.m.Sat., 8 – 10 p.m.Sun., 2 – 4 p.m.

The prices for public skating sessions are $5 for adults (18 and over), $4 for youth and seniors (17 and under) and $2 for skate rentals (both hockey and figure skates).

Another Learn to Skate program will be held January 2 to February 6, for ages 5 to adult and classes will be held on Thursdays. For more information on these and other

programs at the arena, visit the website at GreensburgPA.org and click on Recreation Department.

NORWIN AREA MEALS ON WHEELS 15TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The Norwin Area Meals on Wheels celebrated its 15th anniversary on November 3 at Stratigo’s Banquet Center in North Huntingdon. Approximately 120 people turned out to show their support for the organization which provides meals for homebound elderly and disabled.

Lee Alverson, a tribute musician and talented pianist and vocalist, provided the entertainment for the event. In addition to the banquet, a Chinese auction was held along with drawings and table prizes.

The Norwin Area Meals on Wheels receives no government funding and provides meals to residents in the Norwin area for $4 per day. For more information on the organization or to get involved, call 724.861.9202 or visit the website at [email protected].


INPERSON

The year was 1951. Don Kattic had just graduated from high school and was working in a steel mill in his

hometown when he decided that he needed a change. The United States was embroiled in a conflict with Korea, so Kattic enlisted in the Marines.

His decision to join the Marines launched a lifetime of commitment and service not just to his country at large, but to his local community as well.

After completing boot camp at Parris Island, S.C., Kattic was sent to California and then to fight on the front lines in the Korean War.

“I didn’t mind getting shot at,” says the veteran. “What I didn’t like was being in a

foxhole in 50-degrees-below-zero weather while the Chinese and North Koreans were playing Christmas music. That I’ll never forget.”

After the conflict with Korea ended, Kattic joined the prestigious Marine Corps shooting team at Camp Lejeune, N.C. After his enlistment ended however, he knew he didn’t want to return to work in the steel mills. Moreover, he remained affected by reports of U.S. soldiers who had defected to the enemy’s side in the middle of battle, referencing a research study that was conducted by military captains after the war ended.

“[The study] found that they defected because they lacked the knowledge to fully appreciate our country,” he explains. This

information spurred Kattic’s desire to pursue a career teaching U.S. history.

He earned his teaching degree at St. Francis University in Loretto, Pa. In his senior year of college, he married his wife, JoAnne, after completing his student teaching at Lilly High School in Lilly, Pa. He found a teaching job in Barberton, Ohio, and a few years later, he was hired for a position at East McKeesport Junior High and moved back to Pennsylvania. Kattic and his family settled in North Huntingdon, and two years later, he was hired by Norwin Senior High School, where he spent the next 30 years teaching social studies classes. He retired 21 years ago.

NationalTreasure

Norwin resident Don Kattic dedicates a lifetime of service to his

country and community.

BY JENNIFER BROZAK

My career as a veteran

made me proud to

teach history.


“My career as a veteran made me proud to teach history,” says Kattic, who will turn 81 this January.

Throughout his career, he has belonged to both the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 781 in North Huntingdon and the American Legion in Irwin. Approximately 12 years ago, he was elected commander of the North Huntingdon VFW by the 450-member organization, a position he resigned from in October so that he could spend more time with his family, which includes his wife, five daughters, 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

As a veteran, he makes every effort to support both active and returning troops. In 2007, he worked with Staff Sergeant Michael Batdorf and Reserve Officer Dave Davis to collect and donate more than 1,000 soccer balls and approximately 800 stuffed animals to the children of Iraq. The collection was designed to give Iraqi children a moment of peace while in the midst of destruction—but it also had an unexpected result.

“The Iraqi children would get so excited about the soccer balls, they would run home and tell their parents. Then, the parents would be so thankful they would give our soldiers intel about the enemy,” says Kattic, grateful and humbled that he could help influence the enemy’s defeat from half a world away.

Along with former Norwin High School principal and retired Marine Corps Colonel Ronald Peduzzi, Kattic has also been instrumental in the fundraising and restoration of the Veterans Memorial in front of the North Huntingdon Township building, as well as the memorials on Main Street in Irwin and near the post office in Ardara.

In addition, Kattic makes presentations to Boy Scout troops periodically and volunteers to deliver donated library books to veterans hospitals. He serves as the master of ceremonies for the area’s Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades.

“Mr. Kattic is a true Norwin icon, not only devoted to his family but also to veterans past and present,” says Barbara Flynn, the children’s librarian at Norwin Public Library. “He’s gone above and beyond to ensure the Norwin area remembers its veterans and their dedication to our country. And, speaking as just one member of the Norwin community, I truly treasure him for his efforts...and they are always done with a smile.”

True to his nature, Kattic humbly says, “In my own way, I just want to do what I can to help veterans.” ■

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Top 14 Reasonsto Use the Norwin Public Library in 2014

N O R W I N P U B L I C L I B R A R Y1 0 0 C a r u t h e r s L a n e • I r w i n , P A 1 5 6 4 2

w w w . N o r w i n P u b l i c L i b r a r y . o r g7 2 4 / 8 6 3 - 4 7 0 0

1. Getting a library card is FREE. Checking books out of the library (unless you forget to return them…but you wouldn’t do that) is FREE! Where else does this occur? We’ll wait while you think…and NOWHERE ELSE is the answer.

2. With your library card, you can browse the online catalog and place books on hold from all over Westmoreland County. That’s over 20 libraries’ worth of materials…that you can access in your bunny slippers and pajamas.

3. Smartphone users, we didn’t forget you! There’s a mobile site too; it’s easy to place holds when you are on the go!

4. Don’t have a computer at home? We have 28 public computers. (Leave the bunny slippers and pajamas at home, please!)

5. Need to LEARN how to use a computer? Don’t know a JPEG from a GIF? Just want to email your grandkids? We have people to teach you.

6. No matter how obscure the question, we’ll help you find an answer. We love a challenge.

7. What else is free? Ebooks! Download your favorite!

8. Using our genealogy resources (and classes!) you just might be able to find out where your Great Aunt Genevieve’s youngest brother Henry is buried to finish climbing a branch on that family tree.

9. We have much more than books! We offers music CDs and tons of movies (but you have to supply the popcorn). All free!

10. Look Ma, no wires! We’re wireless! Bring your own device!

11. Looking for something to do? This is the place. From cooking to genealogy to local authors to local history to children’s storytimes, we offer TONS of FREE programs.

12. Would you rather do research from home? Check out our DATABASES tab. By clicking on POWER LIBRARY, you can even chat with a librarian 24/7 utilizing ASK HERE PA! (You won’t reach one of Norwin’s librarians. Don’t be sad. We assure you they are still awesome and skilled, just like us. But we are home in our bunny slippers and pajamas.)

13. We are open SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! In fact, we are the only library in the county open on Sundays!

14. You can renew your books over the phone OR online…let’s keep that FREE thing going! Make overdue fines a thing of the past with just a few clicks!

We believe there are many MORE reasons to use our library. Make it a New Year’s Resolution to discover your own!

The Friends of the Norwin Public Library’s Famous Holiday Basket Sale is going on now!

Choose from hundreds of book gift baskets and bundles for all the readers on your shopping list! All proceeds benefit the library!

Great Ways


Though finding the fountain of youth (or miracle product) is unlikely, you can embrace

the following ways to feel and look younger. Gleaned from age-defying experts

this list is a must-keep for your desk or refrigerator.

So turn the page — hack into the havoc that aging can wreak on your body! ››

Great Ways

BY MICHELE THOMPSON

Norwin

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SECTION

to Live a Healthier, Happier, Longer Life in Norwin


EAT HEALTHYEAT AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET. Holistic guru Dr. Andrew Weil recommends eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and minimal processed foods to reduce inflammation in your body.

EAT ALL NATURAL. Avoid high-calorie foods full of sugar, fat and artificial ingredients and concentrate on eating high-nutrient, high-flavor foods such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

EAT MANY SMALL MEALS. Eat something every three hours to keep your metabolism high and your blood sugar and insulin levels steady.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST. The easiest meal to skip but the most important. Eat something small, even if you aren’t hungry.

READ LABELS. Opt for products with at least three grams of fiber, low sugars and no hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.

EAT LESS AND LIVE LONGER. Maoshing Ni, author of Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to be 100, suggests the “three-quarters rule,” essentially not eating any more after you feel three-quarters full.

DRINK TEA. Ni recommends daily tea because tea is a proven preventive and treatment for hardening of the arteries and has potent antioxidant powers.

SLIM DOWN WITH SOUP. People who eat soup before a meal reduce the total number of calories they consume.

SINK YOUR TEETH INTO SUPERFOODS. Experts say superfoods can help ward off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, cholesterol, bad moods, high blood pressure, and improve digestion, skin, hair, nails, bones and teeth. Superfoods recommended by WebMD.com are beans, blueberries, broccoli, oats, oranges, pumpkin, salmon, soy, spinach, green and black tea, tomatoes, turkey, walnuts and yogurt.

EAT MORE HEALTHY FATS. According to University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, healthy fats to include in your diet are monounsaturated fats, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and some plant foods as well as polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3s found in fatty fish and omega-6s found in nuts.

EAT AND DRINK COCONUT. The type of saturated fat in coconuts does not contribute to heart disease and it is rich in lauric acid, which boosts your immune system.

AVOID BAD FATS. Bad fats include saturated fats, which are primarily derived from animal products, and trans fats, which are used in commercial fried foods, margarines, and baked goods like cookies and crackers.

SPICE IT UP. Dr. Wendy Bazilian, author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients, recommends high-antioxidant spices and herbs such as cinnamon, ginger, curry, rosemary, thyme, oregano and red pepper.

DRINK UP. Drinking water throughout the day can decrease your urges for sweets, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, minimize pain associated with arthritis, migraines, and colitis, hydrate your skin, and help with your digestion.

LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE TO ONE OR TWO DRINKS PER DAY. According to the Centers for Disease Control, too much alcohol can increase your risk for developing various diseases and physiological and social problems.

SIDELINE THE SODA. The phosphoric acid in carbonated beverages, particularly colas, can put you at risk for osteoporosis.

DRINK RED WINE. Red wine is renowned for its many health benefits, primarily for the heart. However, new research from the Institute of Food suggests that wine may also protect you from potentially fatal food-borne pathogens, such as E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and H. pylori.

MARINATE YOUR MEAT. Research from the Food Safety Consortium recommends marinades with rosemary, thyme, peppers, allspice, oregano, basil, garlic and onion to cut down on carcinogens.

EAT A VARIETYEating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, and omega-3 fats better ensures you get all the nutrients your body needs.

P

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / Norwin


H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / Norwin

STRESS CONTROLSMILE. Smiling lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and the stress hormone cortisol.

AROMATHERAPY. Essential oils improve your mood, reduce stress and even improve your memory. Try lavender, lemongrass, cinnamon or cedarwood.

LET NATURE TAKE YOUR STRESS AWAY. Being outdoors with green plants, fresh air and the sounds of nature is a proven stress buster.

YOGA. The Mayo Clinic recommends practicing yoga to reduce stress and anxiety.

GET KNEADED. Research from the Touch Research Institute indicates that regular massage lowers heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety levels, depression, hostility, and the stress hormone cortisol.

SEE A THERAPIST. Mental health professionals can help you deal with stress.

BEGIN WITH BREATHING. The first thing you ever did for yourself was breathe. And consciously focusing on your breath remains the epitome of self-care throughout your entire life.

HUMOR YOUR STRESSLaughing improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, releases tension, and improves your immune system.

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Orthopedic Associates of Pittsburgh 412.349.8190www.oapgh.com

Orthopedic Associates of Pittsburgh was established over 40 years ago. Originally in Oakland, the Monroeville office opened in 1978 and White Oak in 2002. We have evolved from a general orthopedic practice into a sub-specialty practice encompassing hand & upper extremity, foot & ankle, total joint replacement, sports medicine and spine. We will strive to provide the finest service and care for your orthopedic needs.

HEALTH &WELLNESSDIRECTORYProtect

symptoms of a concussion

YOUNG ATHLETES

Difficulty concentrating

Difficulty completing tasks

Changes in behavior

Worsening headache

Persistent double vision

Excessive drowsiness

Stroke-like symptoms

SOURCE: UCF PEGASUS HEALTH/UCF COLLEGE OF MEDICINE

The risks of sports-related traumatic brain injuries among professional athletes are making national headlines. However, prevention should begin at childhood, especially among those involved in contact sports.

Each year, approximately 300,000 people in the United States experience sports-related concussions.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury most often caused by a sudden bump or blow to the head or other parts of the body. It also can be caused by a fall. As a result of the sudden impact, the brain moves around in the skull causing chemical changes. These changes make the brain more sensitive to stress and other injuries until it fully recovers. In addition, the immature brain of a young athlete is known to take longer to recover.

Most people who have experienced a concussion realize that something is wrong, however, the symptoms can be tricky, so those around the injured person must pay close attention for the warning signs. This is especially apparent among football players who are conditioned to being knocked down and getting back up again, only to realize later that they’ve been hurt.

Many athletic directors for public schools require that athletes who participate in “high-risk” sports must have a baseline

neurocognitive test before their first contact football practice, within the first week of cheerleading or before the first game for other sports.

Although treatment for concussions is individualized, almost all physicians recommend physical and mental rest immediately after the injury. This includes no texting, video games, TV, reading or physical activity. It’s also important to understand that medications will mask the pain and do not heal the brain. In fact, anti-inflammatory medications can be dangerous because they increase the risk of bleeding. However, there are situations where medications are warranted.

It is paramount to have an evaluation and obtain clearance by a physician experienced in diagnosing and treating concussions before returning to sports activities.

SURGERY OF THE FUTURE IS NOW

A relatively new approach to gynecological surgery is revolutionizing the standard of care in obstetrics and gynecology.

daVinci is a technology that enhances a surgeon’s capabilities while offering patients the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, such as less surgical trauma, smaller incisions and a faster recovery time.

“daVinci is like an extension of the surgeon’s hands,” said Shannon McGranahan, MD, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at St. Clair. “It can mimic the natural movements of my hand while causing less bleeding, less pain and fewer complications than traditional surgery.”

Gynecological procedures being performed with daVinci include hysterectomies, which is the most common utilization; complicated hysterectomies; pelvic pain present with endometriosis; and myomectomies, or removal of fibroids. daVinci also is being used across many other disciplines as well, including urology, colorectal surgery and thoracic surgery.

“In the past, surgery such as hysterectomy would require an extended recovery period of several weeks or more, which is a large reason why many women procrastinated with their care. The long recovery interfered with their daily responsibilities,” Dr. McGranahan said. “Surgery performed with daVinci, however, usually requires only one overnight stay in the hospital, and the woman can return to work in about one to two weeks.”

A common patient misconception, however, is that daVinci is a programmed robot that will be performing the surgery. “That’s simply not true,” Dr. McGranahan noted. “Board-certified surgeons are still managing and performing the operation. daVinci is there to enhance their capabilities.”

Choosing a live evergreen tree in Norwin


Choosing a live evergreen tree in Norwin

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and choosing a real Christmas tree is a season highlight for many families. Wheth-er you make the trek to a tree farm to cut down your own, or

head to your neighborhood tree lot, the smell of fresh pine in your home signals the beginning of the holiday season. Your tree selection is often the result of personal preference and budget, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Perhaps the most popular type of tree is the Fraser Fir. It has one-inch needles that are silvery-green and soft to the touch. Because there is space between the branches, the Fraser is easier to decorate and the firm branches hold heavier ornaments. Also very popular is the Noble Fir, with a deep green color, soft needles and well-shaped, sturdy branches. Other varieties include the Colorado Blue Spruce, known for its blue foliage and pyramidal shape with strong limbs that can hold heavy ornaments. The Grand Fir has glossy dark green foliage and is soft to the touch, however it may not hold heavier ornaments. The Balsam Fir is a wonderful dark-green color with airy, flexible branches and a pleasant fragrance. The branches are not as sturdy so it’s not the best choice for heavy decorating.

The White Fir has a pleasing natural shape and aroma and good needle retention. The Eastern White Pine is known for making garlands, wreaths and centerpieces due to its long, feathery-soft needles. Though it’s a beautiful tree, the branches can be a bit too flexible to use as a Christmas tree. Finally, the Douglas Fir makes a visually appealing tree with soft, shiny green needles and wonderful aroma. If you purchase your tree at a lot, keep in mind some pre-cut Christmas trees may have been cut weeks earlier. Try to buy your tree early to extend its freshness. Check the tree for brown needles and perform a “drop test.” Raise the tree a few inches off the ground and then firmly place the tree trunk on the ground. If green needles drop, it could indicate the tree may have been cut for some time. Once you get your tree home, make a straight cut at the bot-tom of the trunk, removing about one inch. This will improve the tree’s ability to absorb water. Place the tree in a container that holds at least one gallon of water and add more as needed. The base of the trunk should always be in water which will help sustain the beauty of the tree for as long as possible.

O Christmas Tree

Find it here... e Grandview Nurseries 119 Tolvinski Lane

e The Home Depot 102 Aldi Dr.

e Pitt Rental Center 7670 Route 30

By Matthew J. Fascetti


Since the beginning of time, scientists and philosophers alike have attempted to answer the question, “Is there life after death?” A new documentary examining the extensive

paranormal activity at a local historic mansion hopes to shed more light on this existential debate.

New documentary explores paranormal activity at

Larimer MansionThe HAUNTED HAUNTEDBY JENNIFER BROZAK


HAUNTEDcontinued on next page

HAUNTED


The film, “The Haunting of Larimer Mansion,” is the result of a three-and-a-half-year investigation into the paranormal phenomenon present at the Larimer Mansion Bed and Breakfast. The 223-year-old home stands near the corner of Maus Drive and Clay Pike in North Huntingdon.

The documentary’s premiere took place at a private screening at the Oaks Theater in Oakmont on Oct. 19. For the past 30 years, owners Lynne and Larry Moisey, along with many of their guests, have reported a multitude of visual and auditory ghostly phenomenon, such as hearing voices, seeing inanimate objects move and full-body images of ghostly figures.

“The message in this movie, in my mind, is that there is life after death,” says Lynne Moisey. “We may never see our loved ones again in our lifetime, but we know that they are still in and around our lives. The important message of the film is that life does continue.”

According to Moisey, the documentary is scientific and educational, and not sensationalized for entertainment purposes. To make the film, the filmmakers relied on evidence collected by

Hauntings Research, a local paranormal organization founded by renowned paranormal expert Ed Ozosky.

“We are not ghost hunters or ghost busters. This is not our goal,” explains Ozosky, who has been researching and studying paranormal phenomenon for 30 years. “This documentary is an attempt to educate the public in an unbiased way about the findings of our study. The goal is to help reinforce current concepts in the science of parapsychology and life after death.”

“The mansion’s high degree of paranormal activity is extraordinary,” Ozosky continues. “Normally, the activity tends to be cyclical – it ramps up, it peaks and then it calms back down. The Larimer Mansion is one of the only places where the activity is constant. We’re hoping that this film shows the significance of the Larimer Mansion in the field of parapsychology.”

Moisey said that the electronic voice phenomenon (EVPs) captured by Ozosky’s team enabled her to begin tracking down the mansion’s “lost years” – a period of time for which she could find no documentation about the home. She said that one of the names the research team heard was “McFarlane,” and Moisey was able to follow

The HAUNTED HAUNTED


up on the data to help her put the pieces of the puzzle together. After doing some research of her own, she was able to corroborate the names taken from the EVPs with historical records dating back to 1777.

The film’s supervising coordinator and member of Hauntings Research, Brad Pedersen, was instrumental in helping launch the documentary. Pedersen, also a local reporter, says he was introduced to the Moiseys after writing a story about the mansion approximately three years ago. He spent an evening with the Hauntings Research team and after repeated visits, became intrigued not only with tales of the paranormal, but also with the history of the mansion itself and the extensive restoration efforts.

Since the Moiseys purchased the mansion, they have completed every single restoration project by themselves. When Pedersen stopped by to visit one day, he saw Moisey on a ladder, scraping paint off of the side of the house. He knew he had to do something to help with the home’s continued restoration and maintenance efforts.

“We made this film to raise awareness of the mansion itself and as a way to help raise funds for its upkeep,” explains Pedersen. “It’s a way

to showcase this bit of history that is present right in the middle of North Huntingdon.”

Moisey acknowledges that she had been approached by major cable networks about filming the mansion’s story, but she refused because they wanted to turn the hauntings into “something evil and ugly.” Instead, she and her husband decided to work with a local team.

Pedersen was responsible for finding the film crew, which includes local director Blase Ward and editor Katie Palamara. All of the proceeds from the film and subsequent DVD sales will be directed toward the continued restoration of the home.

Despite their own experiences, both Moisey and Ozosky insist that they’re not attempting to change anyone’s views on the afterlife.

“We don’t want to change anyone’s beliefs,” says Moisey. “You can believe whatever you want to believe. We’re just trying to put the truth out there.”

Copies of “The Haunting of Larimer Mansion” are available for sale at the mansion. For more information, call 724.863.9150 or visit larimermansion.com. ■

The mansion’s high degree of paranormal activity is extraordinary.

–Ed Ozosky Paranormal Expert


Love of BY JENNIFER BROZAK

OWNER OF JANET’S DANCE STUDIO HAS BEEN INSPIRING, ENCOURAGING LOCAL PERFORMERS FOR NEARLY FOUR DECADES

hen Janet Naughton opened her dance studio 38 years ago, female business owners were few

and far between and even a little snubbed. Still, from an early age, Naughton knew she had to be in the entertainment business. “Much of my family was in show business. It was a way of life for me.”

She has been dancing since the age of two and began taking dance lessons at the age of three under

the instruction of Garnet Heverly. She later studied with Virginia Toth and considers her to be her

mentor and friend. Today, at 77, Naughton still straps on her dancing shoes on occasion.

“I learned a lot from Virginia,” says Naughton. “Her choreography was way

beyond the time period. She wasn’t afraid to be risky or daring.”

At 14 years of age with her mother serving as her manager, Naughton began performing as a solo dancer, opening for some of the era’s biggest names,

including Red Buttons, Tommy Dorsey and Steve and Eydie Gormé. She worked as a solo performer for eight years until she met her husband Jack and started a family. The family then moved from Braddock to Irwin in 1975.

Following the birth of her daughter, Naughton worked as an instructor with Virginia’s School of Dance, Hank Romero in Greensburg and with the Norwin YMCA. It was then that she decided to open her own studio in Irwin. Despite being looked upon as an outsider by some, she persevered, buoyed by her talent and drive. Nearly 40 years later, her studio is a thriving and enduring establishment in the Norwin community.

Janet’s Dance Studio is a family business, with daughter Leisa Maghery also working as an instructor. Maghery left a flight attendant job to join the studio staff. She also teaches Zumba classes at the studio.

For the

Dance


“I owe everything to my mom,” Maghery says. “If it wasn’t for her, none of us would be here.”

Leisa’s daughter, Kaitlyn Maghery, 21, has also found her calling as an instructor and choreographer at her grandmother’s studio. She initially resisted getting involved in dance, but around the age of 18, something just “clicked.” When she would hear music, she couldn’t resist thinking about what movements would go with it. She also works as a costume designer and has earned numerous teaching awards, receiving the highest-scoring routine at a recent talent competition.

“Having a granddaughter in her 20s has brought the business back to life,” says Naughton affectionately. Naughton understands that to stay competitive, you must constantly reinvent yourself. “Working with Kaitlyn and with the children forces me into staying young.”

Naughton says that the dance industry has changed radically since she opened her studio.

“The music has changed dramatically, and so have the costumes,” Naughton notes. Her students often appear to be more mature, both emotionally and physically, than they were several decades ago.

She also feels the kids today are better dancers. “They find songs on YouTube and learn the routines before they even set foot in the door.” While her students might be able to perform the steps, they still need fine tuning. “They might have the routine down, but not the technique. Technique is where we come in. I give them the absolute best dance education I can give them.”

The studio, located at 407 Oak Street in Irwin, offers classes in many genres, including tap, jazz, ballet, hip-hop, modern and lyrical dance. The students perform a recital every other year at Norwin Middle School and during the in-between years they focus on technique,

Dance “Dancing is a community thing—we wouldn’t be in this business if

it wasn’t for the community.” –JANET NAUGHTON

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE


Business Directory

bringing in outside coaches and special trainers from all over the country. Naughton says that approximately 180 students are enrolled in the studio each year from September through June. The studio also offers an intensive summer session which attracts students from other local schools and an adult tap and jazz program.

There are recreational students and competitive students at the school, and the instructors make it a priority to strike a

delicate balance between the two. The studio participates in two formal competitions per year, one in Pennsylvania and the other in Charlotte, N.C.

“We have fantastic talent,” says Naughton proudly, who explains that many of her students have moved on to roles in movies, on Broadway and in Los Angeles.

Still, Naughton insists that teaching dance is not about credentials. “It’s about giving

each child a chance to be their best,” she explains. “The most important thing is to make a difference in a child’s life and in the community. Dancing is a community thing – we wouldn’t be in this business if it wasn’t for the community.”

Dancers from Janet’s Dance Studio routinely perform at nursing homes and for community events, such as Light Up Night. The instructors encourage the dancers to give their all every time, just as they would for a recital or competition.

The words “Imagine the possibilities” adorn the cover of the brochure for the dance studio, and for Naughton, they’re not just a slogan, but her life’s philosophy.

“Dance is not just a job, it’s a lifestyle,” says Naughton. “Once it gets a hold of you, you can’t let it go.” ■

Dance Love of For the

For more information about Janet’s Dance Studio, Call 724.863.8727 or visit

danceatjanets.com.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE


School NewsNORWIN

Norwin School District

24 Norwin STEM Innovation Center Steering Committee Begins Work

24 School District Awarded for Energy Conservation Program

25 Marching Band Highlights

25 High School Student Named Commended Student

26 Norwin School District Observes Red Ribbon Week

27 High School Branch of Norwin Teachers Federal Credit Union Sees Growth

28 Middle School STEM Girls Camp a Success

29 Norwin High School Winter Concerts

29 Norwin High School to Host Let Freedom Sing! Concert

29 Freshman Academy Begins at High School

30 Winter Sports Schedule

30 Norwin School District Announces New Athletic Director

31 Norwin Fall Sports Highlights

Norwin School District received an award for its energy conservation program that has resulted in a savings of $532,314 during the past two years.

Norwin School District was presented with The Award for Energy Stewardship at the September 16, 2013, Board of Education meeting for the District’s energy conservation program, which is based on small changes in employee behavior. The program is administered through Cenergistic, a national company whose energy conservation programs have saved more than $3.2 billion for educational and ministerial organizations since 1986.

During the past 25 months that Norwin has had an energy conservation program, the actual cost for electricity, gas, water, and sewer obtained directly from District utility bills was $1,881,677. However, had there been no energy program in effect during those 25 months, it is estimated that the School District’s expected energy costs would have been $2,413,991.This means that because of the energy conservation program, the District has saved $532,314, which equates to a 22 percent savings.

The program also delivers an environmental benefit from reduced carbon footprint. Energy not used prevents the emission of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. According to EPA/EGrid figures, in the first 25 months of the program, Norwin School District saved 26,893 MMBTU, the equivalent of 3,946 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions being prevented, 708 cars removed from the road, or 100,937 pine trees grown for 10 years.

Norwin’s energy conservation program is overseen by Mr. Christopher Baker, Supervisor of Energy Conservation and Custodial Services.

The Norwin STEM Innovation Center Steering Committee has begun its work to provide crucial input for a proposed building on the Norwin campus called “The Norwin STEM Innovation Center for Teaching and Learning.”

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The proposed STEM Innovation Center is being designed to help Norwin students meet the fast-growing demand for knowledge, skills, and abilities through internships and mentorships on campus.

Cost and location are yet to be determined, but the District’s goal is to construct the Center without the use of local real estate tax dollars. The Norwin administration has been working on the preliminary steps of a business plan by exploring funding from state government, corporations, non-profit foundations, and Norwin alumni.

The Steering Committee held its first meeting on Friday, September 20, 2013, at Hillcrest Intermediate School, and also met October 29 and 30 so that members could share design

School District Awarded for Energy Conservation ProgramProgram Has Reduced District Energy Expenses by $532,314 During Past Two Years

Norwin School District was presented with The Award for Energy Stewardship at the September 16, 2013, Board of Education meeting for the District’s energy conservation program. From Left to Right: Board of Education President Mr. Robert Perkins and Dr. Tim McNamee, representing Cenergistic.

Norwin STEM Innovation Center Steering Committee Begins Work

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A group photo of the Norwin STEM Innovation Center Steering Committee.

Congratulations to the Norwin Band. Norwin won first place at the 2013 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Marching Band Association (PIMBA) Championships, held Saturday November 2, 2013, at Gateway High School. The Norwin Band also won in the categories of High Music, Visual, and General Effect.

The Band also earned third place in one of the nation’s most prominent Bands of America championships – the Towson, MD

Regional, presented by Yamaha, at Johnny Unitas Stadium (Towson University) in Towson, Maryland on October 26, 2013. Norwin also earned the honor of Outstanding Visual Performance. Some

27 outstanding high school marching bands from throughout Maryland, Massachusetts, Virginia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Connecticut competed.

The Marching Band also defended their Regional title at the Bands of America Monroeville Regional on September 21, 2013.

They won first place overall, and also won High Visual, High General Effect and tied for High Music (with Fairfax,

VA). Bands from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and North Carolina competed.

The band also hosted the 52nd Norwin Band Festival on October 5, 2013, at Norwin High School.

Norwin High School’s Marching Band show this year was entitled, “The Rise of the Knight.” Band directors include

Mr. Tim Daniels, Mr. Greg Ondayko and Mrs. Kim Glover. Color guard directors are Mr. Tommy Allen and Mrs. Heather Shrump.

ideas. Hayes Large Architects, which is conducting a feasibility study about the proposed Center, facilitated the meetings.

The September 20th session focused on "big picture" issues, such as developing the programmatic vision for Center, setting goals, and exploring the many ways that the facility could be used to further STEM education at Norwin. The group also discussed other parameters that will influence the design of the facility and its location on the campus. An enthusiastic and diverse group of educators, business leaders, community members, university representatives, STEM teachers and High School students participated. Throughout the day-long session, participants engaged in discussions and shared their opinions via a Web-based recording tool known as Padlet.

The October 29 and 30 sessions focused on further refining the program, spaces and equipment that will be supported by the new Center as the Steering Committee works to create a conceptual design for the facility. The group explored site options in greater detail with the goal of selecting the best location for the Center on the Norwin campus. Architect Mr. Gary Nevius, who served as architect and planner for the Blue Valley Center for Advanced Professional Studies (Overland Park, Kansas), provided an overview of the Blue Valley facility, highlighting the types of spaces that were created to support business-education partnerships. Learning more about the approach at Blue Valley sparked ideas for the design of the STEM Innovation Center.

The Steering Committee also reviewed the program and space needs of the three anchor programs to be included in

the STEM Innovation Center: SEEDS (PreK STEM Program), ASSET STEM (a national STEM education improvement nonprofit), and the Air Force Junior ROTC. The District also shared information about educational programs to be offered at the Innovation Center. They discussed how the remaining portions of the building will be organized to support each program by returning to four central planning questions:

1. What SKILLS will students and businesses need?2. What EXPERIENCES will you provide to transfer those skills?3. What TOOLS will all parties need?4. What SPACES will accommodate those experiences?

The Steering Committee has two additional meetings—one each in November and December—and then Hayes Large Architects will present a final report to the Board of Education in January 2014.

Marching Band Highlights

Norwin High School student representatives to the Steering Committee are, from left to right: Mason Bryan, Stephanie

Hutchinson, Brandon Meier, and Marina Novotnak.

To learn more, please visit www.norwinsd.org and view information under “Academics” and “Norwin STEM Innovation Center.”

Norwin High School Senior Sarah R. Kerr has been named a Commended Student in the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program. A Letter of Commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation will be presented by Principal Timothy Kotch to this scholastically talented senior.

About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2014 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2014 competition by taking the 2012 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

High School Student Named Commended Student


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Norwin High School Sports Schedules

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention campaign, and it was observed with a series of educational lessons at all seven Norwin School District schools from October 21 to November 1, 2013. “A Healthy Me Is Drug Free” was the theme of Red Ribbon Week 2013.

Norwin Superintendent of Schools Dr. William Kerr distributed a letter dated October 21, 2013 to all Norwin parents to highlight the importance of Red Ribbon Week, which is more important than ever because Westmoreland County is experiencing a drug overdose epidemic. Westmoreland County is on pace to experience more than 110 deaths this year. This is a serious public health problem that affects all residents.

“There is no family, school, or community that is immune from the drug problem,” Dr. Kerr said. “Norwin School District is doing all it can to help students become aware of the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.”

Children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42 percent less likely to use drugs than those who don't – yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations, according to the Red Ribbon Campaign Web site at www.redribbon.org.

During Red Ribbon week, the School District shared information about several educational programs and

efforts aimed at raising awareness.

For example, the School District promotes the North Huntingdon-based Reality Tour. This is a volunteer-driven substance abuse prevention program geared toward ages 10 and up, which students and parents must attend together. It is sponsored by the Norwin Lions Club and has a strong connection to Hillcrest Intermediate School because of the commitment of Principal Rosemarie Dvorchak. It is beginning its second year at its North Huntingdon location (JB's Bright Beginnings, Brush Hill Road, North Huntingdon). The Reality Tour is held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month. Since the Norwin Reality Tour began in September 2012, 320 adults and 225 youths have attended. For details and a registration form, please visit www.norwinsd.org and look on the bottom right of the School District’s home page for Reality Tour information.

Because of the rising misuse of prescription medications, especially among youths, the Norwin Lions Club and North Huntingdon Police Department have teamed up to install a prescription drug lockbox. The lockbox allows the public to drop off their unused prescription drugs, 24 hours per day, seven days a week, in the lobby of the North Huntingdon

Norwin School District Observes Red Ribbon Week

26 Norwin

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The St. Vincent Prevention Projects education program visited Stewartsville Elementary School on the first day of the school’s Red Ribbon Week observance. Photos by Erin Anticole

Norwin High School juniors Alyssa Minko and Corey Supel stand near the logo they created for the Credit Union located within Norwin High School. Corey created the logo using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator; Alyssa painted the logo in the student branch office.

Township Police Department. During the nine weeks that the lockbox has been there, the police have collected 40 pounds of unused prescription drugs. Please remember the lockbox as a resource to help get prescription drugs out of the hands of our young people.

The District hosted a prescription drug abuse summit for parents and the community on November 7, 2013 in partnership with Southwest Medical Center at the Norwin High School auditorium. A panel of medical experts, law enforcement agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration, and parents presented real-life stories and shared signs and symptoms of abuse. Also, during the school day on November 7, 2013, Norwin High School and Middle School students participated in assemblies with a similar awareness message.

The North Huntingdon Police Department has a regular presence in all seven Norwin schools, and at Norwin High School and Middle School, Detective Sgt. Jeffrey Bouldin teaches students the unvarnished truth about how lives have been destroyed by drug use. Mr. Kevin Lintner, a school-based Westmoreland County Juvenile Probation officer, also teaches Norwin High School students about the horrors of addiction to opiate drugs, pain medication, and heroin.

Earlier this year, the Norwin School District received a $1,000 grant from Communities In Schools of Pennsylvania (CISPA) to promote the My Life, My Choice, Drug Free campaign in the District. It is providing scholarships for a select number of students in Grades 5 and 6, and their parents, to attend the Norwin Reality Tour; and it also helped promote a “Postcard Pledge” for students in Grades 4 and 5.

The School District also partners with the St. Vincent Prevention Projects to increase student awareness about harmful drugs. St. Vincent Prevention Projects provides in-class presentations called Realistic Education About Life (REAL) in the elementary grades and also through Project ALERT lessons in Grades 7 and 8 at Norwin Middle School.

The Westmoreland County Overdose Task Force is a multi-year project to identify the root causes and find solutions that will dramatically reduce the number of overdose deaths in our community. Norwin School District serves on this task force, which includes 145 representatives from education, recovery, medical, law enforcement and the legal community, service providers, and concerned members of the public.

When the Norwin Teachers Federal Credit Union opened a student branch office within Norwin High School in February 2013, it was believed to be the first of its kind in Westmoreland County.

Now in its second school year, this student branch office of the credit union has attracted a total of 57 student members who have created accounts, and the branch office is looking forward to expanding opportunities to increase financial literacy among students.

According to Norwin High School Principal Mr. Timothy Kotch, increased financial literacy is one of the prime benefits of having a credit union located within Norwin High School. That’s important because soon many students will be heading off to college, where they will receive free credit card offers.

“They have a convenient place to open an account and manage their money,” said Mr. Kotch, who also serves as president of the Norwin Teachers Federal Credit Union Board of Directors. “This is a real-world, practical application.”

The student branch is open Tuesdays and Thursdays during student lunch periods in a place where student traffic is high: In the Norwin School Store at the cafeteria. Students from teacher Mr. Douglas Aftanas’ Money Matters classes volunteer as student workers who are responsible for branch operations under the supervision of credit union employee Ms. Amanda Wagner.

The credit union held a logo contest, and 40 students submitted logos for consideration. Eleventh-grade student Corey Supel designed the winning logo using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator software, which he has used for Web design purposes for the past couple of years.

Eleventh-grade student Alyssa Minko, a member of the art club and a stage crew scenic artist, painted the logo on a wall of the student branch office in October. Alyssa aspires to become a professional animator and has been serious about creating artwork since fifth grade, when one of her entries in the PTA’s Reflections art contest made it to the state level.

Students from Mrs. Kristen Kelly’s Marketing Apps classes created a commercial for KWIN student TV broadcasts and numerous signs that were hung throughout the school to promote the student branch.

Ms. Amy Lichwa, CEO of the Norwin Teachers Federal Credit Union, said that she is thankful that Norwin School District sees the value of financial literacy for students.

High School Branch of Norwin Teachers Federal Credit Union Sees GrowthNorwin Student Branch of the Credit Union Believed to Be First of Its Kind in Westmoreland County


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Girls from Norwin Middle School and Hillcrest Intermediate School made their own lip gloss, met a research chemist, made a Rube-Goldberg Machine, created a solar-powered race car, and grew an indoor garden without soil at a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) camp for girls.

Titled the “STEMettes Camp for Girls,” the camp was designed to excite Intermediate School and Middle School girls in Grades 5 through 8 about STEM Education and teamwork. Materials for the camp were funded through a grant by the Female Alliance STEM Excellence Center, which is affiliated locally with the Penn State Electro-Optics Center.

Fourteen girls participated, and they ranged in grade levels from 5-8. The camp ran four consecutive Saturdays starting September 14, 2013. The girls explored cosmetics engineering, a CSI lab, engineering, sustainable energy, and hydroponics.

During the first session, the girls explored cosmetics engineering and created their very own natural lip gloss complete with personalized labels. In the second session, they built solar-powered race cars and began working on their Rube Goldberg machines. In week three, the girls planted flowers and added nutrients to the hydroponics system. Session four started off with a CSI-style lab, complete with artificial blood samples, and the session ended with the final testing of the Rube Goldberg machines.

Ms. Veronica Check, a Middle School technology education teacher, applied for the grant that provided the funding for the camp.

“Running this camp was a very exciting couple of weeks,” Ms. Check said. “It was great to be able to give these young girls extra opportunities outside of the classroom to exercise their math,

science, design, and problem-solving skills. Everything we did was very hands-on, so they were able to apply math and science concepts they learned in class to real-life situations.”

Ms. Kayla Lloyd, a former Norwin student who is currently working as a research chemist for the University of Pittsburgh, joined the students during the final week as a guest speaker. She shared with the girls how she became interested in her field and the path she took to become a research chemist.

“After she left, it was great to hear the girls talking to each other about STEM careers that interest them,” Ms. Check said. “All in all, I think the camp was a success and I am looking forward to hosting another in the near future.”

Eighth-grade student Marti Mandella said the camp was a lot of fun.

“All the activities were interesting, even for an older student like me,” Marti said. “My favorite was building the solar-powered race car.”

Ms. Check said this camp’s focus on girls was important, because many STEM careers are male dominated. “This camp allowed young girls to come together and be themselves, while exploring a variety of different fields,” Ms. Check said. “It was a great way for girls to put their math and science skills to use in hands-on situations and also to connect with positive female role models.”

Future camps will be announced on the Norwin School District Web site at www.norwinsd.org under “Academics” and “STEM Education.” Click on “STEM Camps.” A photo slideshow from the first camp is available there as well.

Middle School STEM Girls Camp a Success“STEMettes Camp for Girls” Drew 14 Students in Grades 5-8 for Four-Week Camp

Photos from “STEM-ettes” camp for Middle School and Intermediate School Girls. Photos by Veronica Check

28 Norwin

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Freshman Academy Begins at High SchoolA new Freshman Academy has been created for select ninth-

grade students at Norwin High School. This new program focuses on supporting the academic, social, and emotional needs of first-year High School students still needing to pass the Algebra 1 Keystone Exam.

The Freshman Academy consists of a core group of four teachers in the subject areas of Mathematics, Science, English, and Social Studies. Teachers provide instruction in the content area and also help students develop the necessary academic skills to be successful throughout their High School experience. This group of dedicated teachers is working almost exclusively with the selected group of students in the Academy to build deeper relationships and to provide students with targeted instruction.

The Freshman Academy schedule provides more focused time in both Algebra I and Biology, with courses having an every-other-day

lab/application period. Additionally, students’ schedules include U.S. and PA II (social studies) and English 9/Communications II along with their elective selections. “This opportunity to build deeper relationships, support the academic needs, and transition students from the Middle School to the High School will positively impact students’ academic achievement and continue to build a successful foundation for college or career readiness,” said Assistant Principal Mr. Michael Choby. “Research shows that the ninth-grade year is the most important year in High School for building the foundation of academic success. It’s a transition year.”

Parents have been giving the program great reviews thus far, Mr. Choby said. The program builds upon the teaming concept used at the Middle School. Ninety-six students are enrolled.

Norwin High School Band, Choral, and Orchestra students are inviting the general public to a series of holiday or winter concerts. We invite you to see and hear firsthand the stirring harmonies and musical artistry that have been a tradition of excellence at Norwin’s music program for years.

Please find below a listing of the days, times, and admission details for the 2013-2014 holiday concerts that are open to the general public.

LOCATION AND TITLE OF CONCERT DAY AND DATE TIME

ADMISSION / TICKET COST DETAILS FOR GENERAL PUBLIC

Norwin High School Orchestra Concert

Friday December 6, 2013

7 p.m. $3 for adult, $2 for students and senior citizens at the door.

Norwin High School Winter Choral Concert (featuring Freshman Choir, Concert Choir, Bel Canto, Chamber Choir, and Show Choir)

Sunday, December 15, 2013

2:30 p.m. $3 for adult, $2 for students and senior citizens at the door.

Norwin High School Band Winter Concert

Thursday, February 13, 2014

7 p.m. $3 for adult, $2 for students and senior citizens at the door.

PMEA Junior High District Band East at Norwin High School (featuring 130 student musicians in Grades 7 through 9 from schools in Westmoreland, Allegheny and Fayette counties)

Saturday, February 1, 2014

1 p.m. $5 for adults, $3 for students and seniors.

The Norwin High School Choral Department is honored to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King by hosting the 2014 Let Freedom Sing! Choral Festival at Norwin High School.

Several area choirs will join forces at 7 p.m. on Monday, January 20, 2014 at Norwin High School, to celebrate the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Let Freedom Sing! will include the musical talents of church, community and school choirs, as well as featured jazz artists and prominent orators.

Rev. Dr. Herbert V.R.P Jones, Director of the Pittsburgh Gospel Choir, will conduct combined choirs at the concerts.

Through choral selections and oratory, the event will demonstrate the importance of becoming actively involved in community affairs, working toward a common goal, and how local action can make a contribution to a national effort.

The Norwin Select Choir began participating in Let Freedom Sing! in 2011, and student interest has grown in it each succeeding year, according to Mrs. Bridget Faulk, Norwin High School Choral Director.

“It was my students’ favorite experience all year last year,” Mrs. Faulk said. “I hope that we can really get this community on board with the mission of this concert. It is such a great way to celebrate Dr. King and his message.”

Norwin High School to Host Let Freedom Sing! Concert

WHO: Norwin Choirs, Other High School Choirs, and the Pittsburgh Gospel Choir

WHAT: Let Freedom Sing! public concert

WHEN: 7 p.m. Monday, January 20, 2014

WHERE: Norwin High School Auditorium, 251 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon, PA 15642

COST: FREE! However, donations will be accepted at the door and will benefit the Food Bank of Greater Pittsburgh and the Westmoreland County Food Bank.

DETAILS: This is a choral concert with Norwin Choirs, other area high school choirs, and the Pittsburgh Gospel Choir.

Norwin High School WINTER CONCERTS

AT THE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS


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For the most up to date schedule, visit www.highschoolsports.net.

Date Time Opponent Facility

12/3/13 5:00PM Shaler/Penn Hills Shaler High School12/4/13 4:00PM Pine Richland Pine-Richland H.S.12/6/13 5:30PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Mt. Pleasant Penn Trafford High School12/7/13 4:30PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Hampton Penn Trafford High School12/10/13 TBA Franklin Tournament Franklin Regional H.S.12/11/13 TBA Franklin Tournament Franklin Regional H.S.12/13/13 7:30PM Hempfield Hempfield High School12/17/13 7:30PM Kiski Norwin H.S. New Gym12/20/13 7:30PM Latrobe Latrobe High School12/23/13 7:30PM Baldwin Norwin H.S. New Gym1/2/14 7:30PM McKeesport Norwin H.S. New Gym1/7/14 7:30PM Albert Gallatin Norwin H.S. New Gym1/10/14 7:30PM Connellsville Connellsville H. S.1/14/14 7:30PM Penn Trafford Norwin H.S. New Gym1/15/14 7:30PM Woodland Hills Norwin H.S. New Gym1/17/14 7:30PM Hempfield Norwin H.S. New Gym1/21/14 7:45PM Kiski Kiski High School1/22/14 7:30PM Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem H. S.1/24/14 7:30PM Latrobe Norwin H.S. New Gym1/27/14 7:30PM Franklin Regional Norwin H.S. New Gym1/31/14 7:30PM Albert Gallatin Albert Gallatin High School2/4/14 7:30PM Connellsville Norwin H.S. New Gym2/5/14 7:30PM Clairton High School Clairton High School2/7/14 7:30PM Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School

11/30/13 9:00AM Chartiers Valley Mega Scrimmage Chartiers Valley H. S.12/6/13 4:30PM E.A.I.W.T. Gateway H.S.12/7/13 10:00AM E.A.I.W.T. Gateway H.S.12/11/13 7:00PM Latrobe Norwin H.S. Old Gym12/12/13 7:00PM Kiski Kiski High School12/18/13 7:00PM Hempfield Hempfield High School12/27/13 8:30AM Powerade Christmas Wrestling Tournament Canon McMillan High School12/28/13 10:00AM Powerade Christmas Wrestling Tournament Canon McMillan High School1/8/14 7:00PM Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem H. S.1/10/14 TBA WCCA Wrestling Tournament TBA1/11/14 TBA WCCA Wrestling Tournament TBA1/16/14 7:00PM Penn Trafford Norwin H.S. Old Gym1/20/14 7:00PM Indiana Area Senior HS Norwin H.S. Old Gym1/25/14 9:00AM Char Valley Duals Chartiers Valley H. S.2/8/14 9:00AM William Jenkins Memorial Duals Penn State/Fayette Campus2/10/14 7:00PM Baldwin Baldwin H. S.2/27/14 TBA WPIAL AAA SW Regionals TBA2/28/14 TBA WPIAL AAA SW Regionals TBA3/1/14 TBA WPIAL AAA SW Regionals TBA

12/3/13 6:00PM Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem H. S.12/6/13 6:00PM Mt. Pleasant Norwin High School12/10/13 6:00PM Blackhawk High School Norwin High School12/12/13 6:00PM Indiana Area Senior HS Norwin High School12/16/13 6:00PM Derry Derry High School12/19/13 6:00PM Elizabeth Forward Norwin High School1/7/14 6:00PM Laurel Highlands Laurel Highlands1/9/14 6:00PM Hempfield Norwin High School1/16/14 6:00PM Franklin Regional Franklin Regional H.S.1/21/14 6:00PM Uniontown Norwin High School1/23/14 6:00PM Connellsville Norwin High School1/27/14 6:00PM Penn Hills Penn Hills High School1/30/14 6:00PM Kiski Kiski High School1/31/14 TBA WCCA Swim Tournament TBA2/1/14 TBA WCCA Swim Tournament TBA2/6/14 6:00PM Latrobe Norwin High School2/11/14 6:00PM Gateway Gateway H.S.2/13/14 6:00PM Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School2/27/14 TBA WPIAL Championships Trees Pool, Pitt Univ.2/28/14 TBA WPIAL Championships Trees Pool, Pitt Univ.

11/23/13 10:00AM Pine Richland Norwin H.S. New Gym12/3/13 4:00PM Blackhawk High School Norwin H.S. New Gym12/6/13 7:00PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Shaler Penn Trafford High School12/7/13 3:00PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Plum Penn Trafford High School12/9/13 7:30PM Bethel Park Bethel Park H.S.12/12/13 7:30PM Latrobe Norwin H.S. New Gym12/16/13 7:30PM Hempfield Hempfield High School12/19/13 7:30PM Connellsville Connellsville H. S.12/23/13 7:00PM North Allegheny North Allegheny High School12/27/13 4:30PM Betsy Tournament Elizabeth Forward H. S.12/28/13 4:30PM Betsy Tournament Elizabeth Forward H. S.1/2/14 6:00PM Albert Gallatin Norwin H.S. New Gym1/6/14 7:30PM Laurel Highlands Laurel Highlands1/9/14 7:45PM Kiski Kiski High School1/14/14 6:00PM Penn Trafford Norwin H.S. New Gym1/15/14 6:00PM Woodland Hills Norwin H.S. New Gym1/16/14 7:30PM Latrobe Latrobe High School1/20/14 7:30PM Hempfield Norwin H.S. New Gym1/23/14 7:30PM Connellsville Norwin H.S. New Gym1/27/14 7:30PM Albert Gallatin Albert Gallatin High School1/29/14 7:30PM Gateway Norwin H.S. New Gym1/30/14 7:30PM Laurel Highlands Norwin H.S. New Gym2/3/14 7:30PM Kiski Norwin H.S. New Gym2/7/14 6:00PM Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School

Boys Varsity Basketball

Boys Varsity Wrestling

Coed Varsity Swimming

Girls Varsity Basketball

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Mr. Brandon Rapp is the new Director of Athletics & Student Activities for Norwin School District. He is a 2008 graduate of Slippery Rock University, where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Sport Management. Prior to his tenure at Norwin he held the following positions: Assistant Football Coach at Keystone

High School; Head Football Coach at Redbank Valley High School; Executive Director of the Clarion County YMCA and Director of Athletics and Transportation at Derry Area School District. Mr. Rapp resides in Derry Township with his wife Sheena and son Logan.

Norwin School District Announces New Athletic Director

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30 Norwin

Congratulations to the Norwin High School Girls Varsity Volleyball Team! The Norwin Girls Volleyball team finished their regular season with a record of 11-1, which put them in first place in their section. The team finished third overall in the WPIAL and advanced to the state championships for the first time in many years. The girls defeated Erie McDowell, but lost to Bethel Park in the state quarterfinals, which placed them in the top eight teams in the state.

Congratulations also to the varsity Boys Soccer Team and the Girls Cross-Country Team, both of which won a section title. Freshmen student Kelley Giles qualified for the state meet and was the first finisher from Westmoreland County for the AAA girls at the PIAA Championships at Hershey.

Norwin Fall Sports Highlights

For the most up to date schedule, visit www.highschoolsports.net.

Date Time Opponent Facility

12/3/13 5:00PM Shaler/Penn Hills Shaler High School12/4/13 4:00PM Pine Richland Pine-Richland H.S.12/6/13 5:30PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Mt. Pleasant Penn Trafford High School12/7/13 4:30PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Hampton Penn Trafford High School12/10/13 TBA Franklin Tournament Franklin Regional H.S.12/11/13 TBA Franklin Tournament Franklin Regional H.S.12/13/13 7:30PM Hempfield Hempfield High School12/17/13 7:30PM Kiski Norwin H.S. New Gym12/20/13 7:30PM Latrobe Latrobe High School12/23/13 7:30PM Baldwin Norwin H.S. New Gym1/2/14 7:30PM McKeesport Norwin H.S. New Gym1/7/14 7:30PM Albert Gallatin Norwin H.S. New Gym1/10/14 7:30PM Connellsville Connellsville H. S.1/14/14 7:30PM Penn Trafford Norwin H.S. New Gym1/15/14 7:30PM Woodland Hills Norwin H.S. New Gym1/17/14 7:30PM Hempfield Norwin H.S. New Gym1/21/14 7:45PM Kiski Kiski High School1/22/14 7:30PM Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem H. S.1/24/14 7:30PM Latrobe Norwin H.S. New Gym1/27/14 7:30PM Franklin Regional Norwin H.S. New Gym1/31/14 7:30PM Albert Gallatin Albert Gallatin High School2/4/14 7:30PM Connellsville Norwin H.S. New Gym2/5/14 7:30PM Clairton High School Clairton High School2/7/14 7:30PM Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School

11/30/13 9:00AM Chartiers Valley Mega Scrimmage Chartiers Valley H. S.12/6/13 4:30PM E.A.I.W.T. Gateway H.S.12/7/13 10:00AM E.A.I.W.T. Gateway H.S.12/11/13 7:00PM Latrobe Norwin H.S. Old Gym12/12/13 7:00PM Kiski Kiski High School12/18/13 7:00PM Hempfield Hempfield High School12/27/13 8:30AM Powerade Christmas Wrestling Tournament Canon McMillan High School12/28/13 10:00AM Powerade Christmas Wrestling Tournament Canon McMillan High School1/8/14 7:00PM Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem H. S.1/10/14 TBA WCCA Wrestling Tournament TBA1/11/14 TBA WCCA Wrestling Tournament TBA1/16/14 7:00PM Penn Trafford Norwin H.S. Old Gym1/20/14 7:00PM Indiana Area Senior HS Norwin H.S. Old Gym1/25/14 9:00AM Char Valley Duals Chartiers Valley H. S.2/8/14 9:00AM William Jenkins Memorial Duals Penn State/Fayette Campus2/10/14 7:00PM Baldwin Baldwin H. S.2/27/14 TBA WPIAL AAA SW Regionals TBA2/28/14 TBA WPIAL AAA SW Regionals TBA3/1/14 TBA WPIAL AAA SW Regionals TBA

12/3/13 6:00PM Greensburg Salem Greensburg Salem H. S.12/6/13 6:00PM Mt. Pleasant Norwin High School12/10/13 6:00PM Blackhawk High School Norwin High School12/12/13 6:00PM Indiana Area Senior HS Norwin High School12/16/13 6:00PM Derry Derry High School12/19/13 6:00PM Elizabeth Forward Norwin High School1/7/14 6:00PM Laurel Highlands Laurel Highlands1/9/14 6:00PM Hempfield Norwin High School1/16/14 6:00PM Franklin Regional Franklin Regional H.S.1/21/14 6:00PM Uniontown Norwin High School1/23/14 6:00PM Connellsville Norwin High School1/27/14 6:00PM Penn Hills Penn Hills High School1/30/14 6:00PM Kiski Kiski High School1/31/14 TBA WCCA Swim Tournament TBA2/1/14 TBA WCCA Swim Tournament TBA2/6/14 6:00PM Latrobe Norwin High School2/11/14 6:00PM Gateway Gateway H.S.2/13/14 6:00PM Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School2/27/14 TBA WPIAL Championships Trees Pool, Pitt Univ.2/28/14 TBA WPIAL Championships Trees Pool, Pitt Univ.

11/23/13 10:00AM Pine Richland Norwin H.S. New Gym12/3/13 4:00PM Blackhawk High School Norwin H.S. New Gym12/6/13 7:00PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Shaler Penn Trafford High School12/7/13 3:00PM Tip-Off Tournament Norwin vs Plum Penn Trafford High School12/9/13 7:30PM Bethel Park Bethel Park H.S.12/12/13 7:30PM Latrobe Norwin H.S. New Gym12/16/13 7:30PM Hempfield Hempfield High School12/19/13 7:30PM Connellsville Connellsville H. S.12/23/13 7:00PM North Allegheny North Allegheny High School12/27/13 4:30PM Betsy Tournament Elizabeth Forward H. S.12/28/13 4:30PM Betsy Tournament Elizabeth Forward H. S.1/2/14 6:00PM Albert Gallatin Norwin H.S. New Gym1/6/14 7:30PM Laurel Highlands Laurel Highlands1/9/14 7:45PM Kiski Kiski High School1/14/14 6:00PM Penn Trafford Norwin H.S. New Gym1/15/14 6:00PM Woodland Hills Norwin H.S. New Gym1/16/14 7:30PM Latrobe Latrobe High School1/20/14 7:30PM Hempfield Norwin H.S. New Gym1/23/14 7:30PM Connellsville Norwin H.S. New Gym1/27/14 7:30PM Albert Gallatin Albert Gallatin High School1/29/14 7:30PM Gateway Norwin H.S. New Gym1/30/14 7:30PM Laurel Highlands Norwin H.S. New Gym2/3/14 7:30PM Kiski Norwin H.S. New Gym2/7/14 6:00PM Penn Trafford Penn Trafford High School

Boys Varsity Basketball

Boys Varsity Wrestling

Coed Varsity Swimming

Girls Varsity Basketball

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Norwin Girls Varsity Volleyball TeamPhoto by Norwin High School Journalism Production Students

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INCOGNITO

With the approaching holidays, the Pennsylvania Turnpike will once again be filled with cars from every state, desperate to get home for family celebrations. Every year,

more than 150 million motorists travel along the Pennsylvania Turnpike, perhaps taking for granted the timesaving convenience it offers. Seven decades ago, however, the opening of the turnpike—which took place right here in Irwin—was cause for great celebration.

Although today it stands as exit 67, the Irwin interchange was originally Pennsylvania Turnpike Exit 1, and at midnight on October 1, 1940, more than 100 anxious motorists waited in line to drive the turnpike’s first route: a 160-mile trek from Irwin to Carlisle (and vice versa). Visitors came in droves, sometimes hundreds of miles out of their way, to travel the new highway, and with good reason: after years of grueling construction, the turnpike was considered an engineering marvel referred to as “America’s First Superhighway.”

According to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s website, once word got out that the turnpike was set to open, travelers came in droves, waiting hours or even days to be among the first to ride the futuristic highway. Despite the jostling for pole position, the honor went to Carl A. Boe of McKeesport, who purchased his ticket from attendant Morris Neilberg of Pittsburgh and became the first motorist to cross through the Irwin interchange and onto the turnpike.

The scene was charged with excitement. Once the road opened, drivers passed through the tollbooth honking their horns and cheering, and attendants waved them through as if they were starting a car race.

The first day approximately 1,550 drivers in Irwin and 1,900 in Carlisle traveled the turnpike, with most drivers maintaining average speeds between 70 and 80 miles per hour. But with no worries about cross traffic—and no set speed limit—some drivers clocked speeds of between 90 and 100 miles per hour without fear of a speeding ticket. Even at moderate speeds, most drivers made the trip in about two-and-a-half hours—a trip that used to take them more than five-and-a-half hours via the Lincoln or William Penn highways. No accidents or injuries were reported, although several drivers miscalculated fuel requirements and subsequently ran out of gas.

In its first year, more than two million cars made the Irwin to Carlisle drive for the modest fee of $1.50. Today? The same route will cost you $16.45, and would likely include much less fanfare. ■

Irwin Interchange is Turnpike’s Original ExitBy Jennifer Brozak

DID YOU KNOW?

Did You Know? We are looking for little-known facts, history or other interesting stories about your community. Please send your ideas to [email protected].

Sources:www.paturnpike.com/geninfo/history/history.aspxwww.pahighways.com/toll/PATurnpike.html


Whether you have a minor concern or a more serious medical issue, your primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense in getting well and staying well. If you don’t already have a PCP, it’s best to find the right one before you get sick.

A trusted partner in your good health

“It’s important to have a relationship with a PCP you trust and are comfortable with, even when you feel great,” says David Harinstein, MD, chair, Internal Medicine and a physician with Health First Medical-UPMC McKeesport. By getting to know you and your health history, your PCP can provide you with the best care possible.

Someone to watch over you

Research indicates that people who have an ongoing relationship with a PCP are healthier than those without one. “Personalized care leads to patient trust, and that is vitally important in the doctor-patient relationship,” says Dr. Harinstein. Patients who trust their doctors are shown to have improved outcomes, such as better control of their diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

If you need advanced care, your PCP is the most effective and efficient link to medical specialists, or advanced services or treatments. “For patients and their families, having a PCP to coordinate their care with specialists and other providers is a huge relief,” adds Dr. Harinstein.

Since early detection can minimize the impact of many illnesses, your PCP will recommend screenings, including annual physicals, ap tests, breast examinations and mammograms; prostate screenings, and colonoscopies. “Without a PCP, you might ignore important health maintenance issues,” he says.

Make a date with your doctor

When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to the doctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, and avoid disease and disability. “Your annual exam is the perfect time to talk with your doctor about illness prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and any screenings,” says Dr. Harinstein. “That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on making changes to improve your health.”

One final piece of advice: Be honest. “Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something,” he advises. “What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harinstein or another UPMC physician, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit UPMC.com/FindADoc.

Your Doctor and You: A Healthy Relationship

This advertorial has been provided by UPMC. © 2013 UPMC

INCommunity_UPMC_McKeesport_Winter_2013_Final.indd 2 11/8/13 1:30 PM

What makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort in order to help others. At IN Community Magazines, we would like to honor these special people who have made a positive impact in their community and whose philanthropic leadership sets an inspiring example for us all.

IN Community Magazines' second annual C.A.S.E. Awards will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 35 magazines. Awardees will be selected in the following categories:

Volunteer of the Year Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger)

Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more)

Awardees will be honored at an awards dinner in Spring 2014.

SponSored by

Seeking nominationS for 2014Community awardS for ServiCe exCellenCe (C.a.S.e.)

Time for our area VolunTeers

to Shine!

Name of Nominee_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________

Category (check one)

❍ Volunteer of the Year ❍ Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger )

❍ Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) ❍ Large Nonprofit of the Year ( staff of 11 or more)

Which community is this nomination for?___________________________________________________________________________

Name of person submitting nomination_____________________________________________________________________________

Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________

Why are you nominating this person or nonprofit organization? Please submit a typewritten statement of no more than 600 words. Send nomination form and statement to: Wayne Dollard, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317. If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Mountain at 724.942.0940. Deadline for nominations is February 1, 2014.

PlEAsE fIll out foRM bEloW AND sEND IN youR NoMINAtIoN

Andrew Stockey WtAE Channel 4

2013 Master of Ceremony

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDPITTSBURGH, PAPERMIT NO. 887603 East McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317

724.942.0940www.icmags.com

in norwin

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