in-norwin-summer by IN Community Magazines

SUMMER 2012

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

OL O H C S H HIG N I W NOR

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120 over 80.

What’s it worth to U?

Introducing HealthyU from UPMC Health Plan. Reaching your goals is worth more than ever. It’s worth money. That’s because HealthyU offers financial incentives for making healthy lifestyle decisions. Now when you do things like quit smoking, work with a health coach, or even get a flu shot, we put money into your very own Health Incentive Account. Money that can be used to help pay for doctor visits, prescription drugs, and even surgery. To learn more about this new, one-of-a-kind plan, talk to your employer or visit UPMCHealthyU.com.

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INSIDE

UNITY COMM

IN Norwin is a non-partisan community 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.

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IN Norwin | SUMMER 2012 |

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FEATURES

Home Improvement Section ...... | 25 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

All Kare Chiropractic & Laser Clinic I Can Live With That! ............................. | 31

ON THE COVER | Norwin High School Graduation • Photos by Brad Lauer

UPMC TODAY

Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge Where do I begin? ............................... | 35

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

What’s Inside 2 3 4

The Need for Speed Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6

Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss Meet Our Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC McKeesport

COMMUNITY INTEREST

UPMC222169_UPMC Today_McKeesport_Summer_2012_Final.indd 1

5/25/12 4:26 PM

Norwin School District News ............................................. |

Resident Profile: Restoring the Shine ............................. |

5th Annual Race For Grace ................................................. | 10 A World-Class Season for the Norwin High School Color Guard ...................................... | 12 Fund Helps Norwin Musicians “Play” it Forward ........ | 14 UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use ................. | 17 Norwin High School Poetry ................................................ | 30 The Norwin High School Boys Lacrosse Team Has Promise and Optimism .................... | 32 Norwin Public Library ........................................................... | 36 Dogs & Babies ........................................................................ | 39 Norwin Chamber of Commerce .......................................... | 40

STAF F PUBL ISHE R

elcome to the summer issue of Norwin Magazine! This year, it seems summer started in early March. However, the warm days have given people a reason to get outside early and often. Bulbs bloomed earlier and joggers are out in force. So I hope you’ve had a chance to get out there and take advantage of the early summer, and while you’re at it, let us know what you’re up to. We try to feature as much local content as we can in each issue and hope that you enjoy that content. Now, we want to get even more local and ask you directly for your stories in each issue. These features don’t have to be about you or someone you know doing something extraordinary like climbing Mt. Everest or swimming the English Channel. We want to know what makes our readers tick. It could be that you’ve always wanted a classic Thunderbird and have been restoring one for the past few years. We’d like to see it, and I’m sure others would too. So let’s start off with that, since we’re coming into car cruise season: If you or someone you know has a pretty interesting restoration project going on in the garage, let us know! Email our editor, Wayne Dollard Pamela Palongue, at p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com or call us at Publisher 724.942.0940. We’ll be happy to hear your story and may even send one of our photographers out to capture your work for the next issue. Keep in mind, the project doesn’t necessarily need to be current—if you’ve been cruising in your restoration project for some time now, that’s OK, too. But we’d like to know what you did at the nuts-and-bolts level to get your baby roadworthy. If you’re just not sure one way or the other whether you have a good story, call Pamela and she’ll be happy to help you out! Looking forward to seeing some whitewalls and chrome in the fall issue!

Wayne Dollard RE GION AL E DIT ORS

Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] mark@incommunitymagazines.com OF F ICE MAN AGE R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com AD PL ACE ME N T COORDIN AT OR

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com SCHOOL & MUN ICIPAL CON T E N T COORDIN AT OR

Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DE SIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak W RIT E RS

John Barrera Jonathan Barnes Jennifer Brozak Matt Fascetti Tracey Fedkoe Mike Ference Jacob Flannick Britt Fresa Heather Holtschlag

Aimee Nicolia Nick Keppler Chelsie Kozera Leigh Lyons Dana Black McGrath JoAnne Nasser Melanie Paulick Gina Sallinger Judith Schardt

PHOT OGRAPHE RS

Mark Fainstein Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer

Have a great summer!

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

Len Pancoast Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon

ADVE RT ISIN G SAL E S MAN AGE RS

D Derek Bayer Tom Poljak T

Do you have a classic car that you’ve restored? If so, we’d like to hear about it. Email your name and contact information to p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com.

Tamara Myers

ADVE RT ISIN G SAL E S A

S Sophia Alfaras Brian Daley B Tina T Dollard Karen K Fadzen Julie J Graf Connie McDaniel C Brian B McKee G Gabriel Negri

Aimee Nicolia Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson

T magazine is carrier route mailed to all district This h households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2012. CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com Fall Content Deadline 7/13

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

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Norwin

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

MRS. PAULA GIRAN NAMED PENNSYLVANIA TEACHER OF THE YEAR FINALIST Hillcrest Teacher One of 12 Finalists in the State

Mrs. Paula Giran, center, leads Hillcrest Intermediate School students in an experiment involving bacteria. She has been named one of 12 finalists for Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year.

illcrest Intermediate School teacher Mrs. Paula Giran has been named one of 12 finalists for Pennsylvania’s 2013 Teacher of the Year award. “This is definitely an honor,” Mrs. Giran said. “Norwin is such a great District to work in, with so many great teachers, families, and student achievements that it makes me feel somewhat awkward to be in the limelight. However, representing Norwin across the state is a big accomplishment.” In late fall or early winter 2012, the Pennsylvania Department of Education will announce the 2013 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year at a special awards ceremony. Mrs. Giran and the other finalists were nominated by students, parents, colleagues and members of their local community who recognized their achievements in and outside the classroom. She traces her career back to the encouragement of her step-father, Sam Pomposelli, whose sister was a teacher at East Allegheny. Mr. Pomposelli’s influence reached more than one person, because Mrs. Giran’s brother, Dan Pomposelli, is now a sixth-grade keyboarding /gifted math teacher at Carson Middle School, North Allegheny School District. Experiences Mrs. Giran had as a Norwin High School student solidified her calling, including a child development class with teacher Mrs. Cecelia McCorkle, who gave

her experiences writing lesson plans; and job shadowing a Norwin teacher, the late Mrs. Nancie Deslam, whom she credits with the development of her loud speaking voice – “so that the students in the back of the class can hear me,” Mrs. Giran said. After graduating from Norwin High School in 1996, she pursued an education degree from Seton Hill College, graduating in 2000. She worked as a teacher at Mother of Sorrows School in Murrysville for two years. Norwin School District hired her as an instructional aide in 2002, then, the following year, Norwin hired her as a fourth-grade teacher at Stewartsville Elementary School, a role she filled for six years. In 2009, she was transferred to Hillcrest Intermediate School, where she has taught fifth grade for the past three years. This year, Mrs. Giran teaches fifth-grade math and science, which are the two subjects that have been her passion since she was 10 years old. Teaching science and math suits her inquiry-based style of teaching, which features almost daily hands-on student activities and restructuring her lesson plan so that students will end up formulating—

and later answering—their own questions. This year, for example, she has led students in hands-on experiments involving bacteria studies, testing how high golf balls can bounce off of different surfaces, and a lab investigation that each student could design under her supervision. Her advice for other teachers is to collaborate with everybody with whom they work. “Don’t reinvent the wheel,” she said. “I collaborate a lot with Mrs. Sharon Welty across the hall. Two heads are better than one. At beginning of the year, we ask kids to draw a picture of a scientist. They draw Albert Einstein wearing a lab coat with pocket protector, holding a beaker. Our job is to break that stereotype and show them that anyone can be a scientist.” Her advice for new teachers: “You have to not be afraid to think outside the box,” she said. “Being a risk-taker makes you a better teacher. If something doesn’t work, you have to figure out how to make it work. You have to be open minded. Nowadays, we’re not just teachers; we might be the only positive person a child sees in a day, so you have to leave your troubles at the door.”

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

News You Can Use

PRELIMINARY BUDGET PRESENTED

orwin School District has raised taxes only once during the past four years and currently has the lowest tax rate—65.8 mills —out of the 17 school districts in Westmoreland County. The District’s tax rate has been the lowest or second-lowest in the county for each of the past 10 years. However, because of reduced state funding and primarily because of increased costs in state retirement contributions, healthcare, and bond issue repayments, the School District’s preliminary budget for the 2012-13 school year calls for a 1.45-mill tax increase in Westmoreland County and a 0.17-mill increase in Allegheny County. For Norwin School District, the value of one mill of tax is $365,000 in Westmoreland County and $1,625 in Allegheny County. School districts must adopt a final budget by June 30. Mr. Robert Perkins, President of the Norwin Board of Education, said that this is the second year the state has reduced the total dollars provided to school districts, in addition to increasing the pension contribution amounts that school districts are mandated to pay and pass along to taxpayers. “The Board and Administration have worked diligently to reduce costs in many areas without affecting the quality of education provided to our students,” Mr. Perkins said. “If the trend of reduced funding from Harrisburg continues, we will have the difficult choice of cutting educational programs that are provided to our students in future years.” The preliminary budget currently calls for expenditures of $59.28 million, which would be an increase of $2.56 million, or 4.5 percent, from the current District budget. Norwin School District serves approximately 5,200 students in grades K-12. “Again this year, the proposed state budget put forth by Governor Corbett required significant time, effort, and input

Norwin

The Norwin Administration budget presentation is available online at www.norwinsd.org under “About Us” and “Administrative Reports.”

from the District staff to reduce what began as a nearly $3 million shortfall,” said Superintendent William Kerr. “The amount of funding provided by the Governor in his budget is inadequate to keep pace with normal operating costs for the District. As a result, programs have been restructured and funds reallocated, and in some cases, eliminated to avoid placing any additional burden on the taxpayers of the District.” The Administration has held budget and staffing meetings each week during the past year to review all areas for possible savings, including staffing, health insurance, tuition costs, transportation, extra-curricular programs, revenue enhancements, a millage increase, and use of the fund balance. Administrators started with a budget deficit of $2.9 million when the Governor’s budget proposal was released in February. By following Dr. Kerr’s Seven Guiding Principles for Academic and Financial Success, the Administration reduced that shortfall to $462,000 by May. The District will continue its focus on reallocating resources to thrive in the current challenging economic times. Director of Business Affairs John Wilson said Norwin School District has demonstrated good stewardship of financial and educational resources compared with other school districts in Pennsylvania. For example, Norwin School District’s total expenditures per student is the ninth-lowest in the state out of 500 districts, and the lowest in Westmoreland County. Norwin’s actual instructional expenditures per student

is the 26th-lowest in the state, and the second-lowest in Westmoreland County. Norwin’s average annual millage increase has been the third-lowest in the county during the past 10 years. That means that a $100,000 home in Norwin has paid $2,025 less in real estate taxes than the same house in other Westmoreland County districts at the “average” taxing level during the past 10 years. That same home in Norwin has paid $4,350 less in real estate taxes compared to the same house in the highest-taxing district in Westmoreland County during the last 10 years. Dr. Kerr commended current and previous Boards of School Directors for effectively managing budget and financial matters and for providing investments in quality educational programs and services and teacher effectiveness, resulting in increased student achievement and highperforming schools. “Collectively, the Board and Administration are making every effort to follow the same philosophy of continuous, responsible fiscal management,” Dr. Kerr said. The Board and Administration is keeping a watchful eye on Harrisburg, where the Pennsylvania Senate has approved a $27.7 billion state budget that would restore some cuts proposed by Gov. Corbett. Superintendent William Kerr and Director of Business Affairs John Wilson’s preliminary budget presentation is available online at www.norwinsd.org under “About Us” and “Administrative Reports and Presentations.”

L-R: Dr. Lawrence Mussoline, keynote speaker, and Norwin High School Senior Danylko Hankewycz, at Norwin School District’s first STEM Education Summit March 12, 2012.

STEM SUMMIT AT NORWIN PROVIDED FOCUS FOR 350 EDUCATORS AND BUSINESS LEADERS Save the Date for Next Norwin STEM Summit: Monday, February 18, 2013

early 350 educators and business leaders from Westmoreland and Allegheny counties attended one of the first regional Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) summits in Westmoreland County on March 12, 2012 at Norwin High School. Hosted by Norwin School District, with Excela Health serving as a Gold Sponsor and C. Harper Auto Group as a Blue Sponsor, the event brought together southwestern Pennsylvania educators and experts to explore new ways to prepare students to be globally competitive in a future where STEM skills will be in demand. To view a slideshow of photos from the event, please visit www. norwinsd.org/StemSummit. Keynote speakers Superintendent Dr. Lawrence Mussoline and Headmaster George Fiore, from Downingtown Area School District, spoke about their new Downingtown STEM Academy in Chester County that opened in fall 2011. It features a project-based learning environment where students are exposed to the kinds of design and implementation practices that scientists and engineers use regularly. Other experts served on a STEM Education panel discussion with representation from Westinghouse, Kennametal, Hamill Manufacturing, PDS Industries, Excela Health, and the Pittsburgh Science and Technology Academy. The panel was moderated by Mr. Mike Choby, Coordinator of STEM Education for Norwin School District. After the general session, teachers went into smaller breakout sessions to learn about relevant STEM topics. To review some of the presentations that were provided at the STEM Summit, please visit www.norwinsd.org/StemSummitOnline. (NOTE: Click “Login as a guest” and then “Click to Access STEM” on the right side of the page). Norwin High School Senior Danylko Hankewycz provided introductory remarks at the summit. He has distinguished himself in Norwin High School classes in electronics and engineering, and in his spare time, Danylko designed and built his own version of a CNC router that can make precision metal parts – a scaled-down version of machinery used at tool-and-die companies in the region. The concept for the event came from Superintendent Dr. William

A panel of industry leaders discusses STEM Education. L-R: John Caverno, Excela Health; Glenn Skena, Hamill Manufacturing Company; Dr. Robert Scherrer, Pittsburgh Science & Technology Academy; Mr. Todd Fleming, PDS Industries; Mehgan Riley, Kennametal Foundation; Jean-Dominique Le Garrec, Westinghouse Electric Company; Mike Choby, Norwin STEM Coordinator.

Kerr and was put into motion by a steering committee led by Dr. Tracy McNelly, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education. “If our students are going to be productive, responsible, and contributing members in a knowledge-based and technological-based global economy, we believe there isn’t anything more important than to expand K-12 learning opportunities for all students and to create a greater awareness of STEM Education as part of our own professional learning community and others,” Dr. Kerr said in his opening remarks. “Also, sharing best practices relative to STEM is a great way to learn what others are doing throughout the region.” District officials are planning for the next Norwin School District STEM Summit, which is scheduled for Monday, February 18, 2013 at Norwin. To build upon the momentum of STEM education at Norwin School District, the District is offering several upcoming camps and activities featuring fun and educational hands-on activities for students. Full details and applications are available at www.norwinsd. org/STEM. Here are a few details: 1.

SUMMER ROBOTICS CAMPS. Open to students entering grades 6, 7, and 8. • Advanced-Level Summer Robotics Camps: 9 a.m. to Noon June 18-22, 2012, Norwin Middle School Technology Education Lab. Cost: $100 per camper. • Beginner-Level Summer Robotics Camp: 9 a.m. to Noon, July 16-20, 2012, Norwin Middle School Technology Education Lab. Cost: $100 per camper.

SUMMER ENGINEERING CAMP. Open to Norwin students entering grades 3, 4 and 5. Summer Engineering Camp will be held from 9 a.m. to Noon, July 16-19, 2012, Hillcrest Intermediate School (Project Room). Cost: $80 per camper.

CAMP INVENTION. Open to students who will be entering grades one through six in the 2012-2013 school year. Camp Invention will be held June 11-15, 2012 at Hillcrest Intermediate School.

THIRD-GRADE ROBOTICS LESSONS START THIS FALL. The Grable Foundation has awarded Norwin School District $16,000 to provide hands-on robotics lessons to all thirdgrade students starting in fall 2012. The District has purchased LEGO Education WeDo Robotics Construction Sets, which introduce students ages 7 and up to robotics. The program emphasizes teamwork, building movable models, and using drag-and-drop computer software. Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Graduation 2012 “Share Similarities, Celebrate Differences” Norwin School District graduated 406 students at a ceremony Friday, May 25, 2012, at Norwin Knights Stadium. The graduating seniors are clearly focused on the future and they are truly the leaders of tomorrow. Of the 406 members in the Class of 2012, 88 percent will be attending a four-year college, twoyear community college, business, trade, or technical school; 2 percent will be enlisting in the armed services; 6 percent will directly enter the world of work; and 4 percent are undecided, but they are determined to follow a productive and contributing pathway for future success. At commencement, the valedictorian and salutatorian, along with all honor graduates, were recognized. National Honor Society members were also visible as they wore honor cords representing the service hours they completed during their high school careers. Scores of graduating seniors earned some type of scholarship for their academic or athletic excellence. These honors, as well as the list of all graduates, are published in the Class of 2012 Commencement Program. A copy of this is available online at www.norwinsd.org under “About Us” and “News” (see the hyperlink within the Graduation article). NUMBER OF GRADUATES: 406 VALEDICTORIAN: Ryan Boccabella

“MOST OUTSTANDING SENIORS”: Rachel Geizura and Ryan Boccabella. This is an annual honor decided by a majority vote of the faculty with criteria being excellence in academics, leadership, community involvement and citizenship. 6

Norwin

BRAD LAUER

JOHN BAYARD RODGERS SCHOLARSHIP: Ryan Boccabella

PHOTOS BY

SALUTATORIAN: Kevin Bartuska

SID

by Brady Ashe

Shine Restoring the

hen Gary Kee looks out his window at his picturesque property, he can’t help but be reminded of his father, Warren Kee. Gary is a third-generation Irwin resident and he currently lives on the same property where his father’s house, which was built in 1875, used to sit. Gary tore down Warren’s house in 1968 and built his own home where he and his wife, Kathy, raised their three children, Terry, Tim, and Cindy. Gary’s Irwin pride is evident when you talk to him, and he happily describes the role of his paternal grandfather, James Kee, as one of the original founders of Duffsville, which is now Ardara. James was a local merchant and the Ardara postmaster at Duff’s Post Office for 17 years. Gary recalls that James was generous and well-liked in the area. Gary followed in his family’s tradition of hard work and service. After graduating from North Huntingdon High School in 1958, he served his toolmaker’s trade apprenticeship at Mason/Shaver & Rhodes, which later became Nuclear Automation. He received his toolmaker’s certificate with credits from Penn State University. Gary became employed as shop supervisor and quality control supervisor at Nuclear Automation and then took a position with Irwin Automation Inc. as shop supervisor for seven years. After suffering through throat cancer, a quadruple bypass, and prostate cancer, Gary retired from Irwin Automation Inc. in 2000. Since then, he has thankfully remained cancer-free. His main hobbies have been trap shooting and indulging his lifelong love of cars. Gary is the proud owner of a 1956 Bel Air, which is the third 1956 Chevy convertible he’s owned in his lifetime, as well as a 1965 Impala SS Convertible. He is currently in the process of restoring a 1967 SN 10 Camaro Convertible that he purchased in Pittsburgh in 1982.

RO F

ILE

Not only does Gary collect and restore his own classic cars, he also organizes the Norwin Hills Cruisers, a popular car cruise in the Irwin area. The Cruisers’ success is mainly due to his hard work along with Kathy’s help and dedication. Gary held his car cruises at several locations throughout Greensburg and Jeannette before finally finding a permanent home in the Norwin Hills Shopping Center every Saturday night after 5 p.m. starting in April and lasting “until the snow flies.” Anywhere from 450 to 500 cars are on display each week, and the collectors and car enthusiasts who attend also enjoy music and a DJ courtesy of Music Power 104-FM. Gary’s talents were recognized in September of 2005 when the U.S. Postal Service asked him to unveil its new line of classic car stamps at his car cruise. The stamps featured a 1953 Studebaker Starliner, a 1955 Ford Thunderbird, a 1953 Chevrolet Corvette, a 1954 Kaiser Darrin, and a 1952 Nash Healey. Gary and his cruisers were able to have the first three cars on site for the historic event. Along with the many trophies he’s been awarded for his classic cars, Gary keeps the plaque given to him by the USPS close to his heart. Like the classic cars he is so fond of, Gary continues to cruise along without any signs of slowing down. He remarked, “Seeing members of my community enjoy my car cruise brings me so much joy. It has become more than a hobby to me and I will continue the Cruisers for many years to come.”

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

Pressley Ridge Autism Expert Shapes Classrooms for New Autism School

hen it comes to autism spectrum disorder and classroom analysis, Rebecca Moyes wrote the book. Actually, she’s written several of them on the topic and has shaped how the new autism school at Pressley Ridge can succeed where traditional public school classrooms fall short. Moyes, a former teacher in both public and private schools, is the author of five books in the field of autism education. She has been a consultant/trainer for school districts throughout the country. Rebecca is

about what services their child is getting in public school so the cycle of problem behaviors can be short-circuited before an outside referral has to be made.” The reason behind why students with autism tend to struggle in public school environments is because of the nature of the disorder itself. All children with autism spectrum diagnoses have some form of language and social impairment. Many have sensory processing disturbances as well. Autism spectrum disorder isn’t a selfcontained diagnosis. It’s more of a continuum of extremes that students fall into. As an example, some children are verbal, others aren’t. Some children are hypersensitive to sensory stimuli, others are hyposensitive. Those who are hypersensitive live in a world of heightened alertness. Sounds, smells, and touches are often overly pronounced. They may be overaroused by lights being too bright in the classroom, sounds echoing down the halls from other classrooms, or even by the way their clothing feels. Those on the other end of the spectrum might seek out sensory stimuli because they are underaroused. They may a nationally and internationally recognized not feel pain when they are hurt, or they may speaker on the subject of autism education. crave certain textures or smells. These Currently she serves as the Director of the disturbances can result in unexpected and new Pressley Ridge School for Autism odd-like behaviors. located in the Emsworth neighborhood Moyes’ book, Building Sensory Friendly of Pittsburgh. Classrooms to Support Challenging Behavior, The key to a student with autism’s addresses the needs of these children and success is careful planning on the how school teachers and administrators can students’ behalf by parents and school evaluate their classrooms and create administrators. environments which are “sensory friendly.” “In our field, we talk about the ‘least But the strategies therein don’t just benefit restrictive environment.’ Ideally, we kids with autism spectrum disorder! All would want every child’s least restrictive children can benefit in classrooms where environment to be their home school. they can be more attentive and comfortable. However, reality tells us that this is not Rebecca believes that sensory friendly always feasible because some children classrooms create better learning have very intensive needs. There’s environments for all students. always going to be a subset of children that are going to need specialized classroom environments.” Moyes said. “Sometimes, when students with autism aren’t provided with appropriate supports, they can become anxious, depressed, aggressive, and even violent. These are often the students that are referred to Pressley Ridge School for Autism. Parents need to be very vigilant

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Norwin

“The book talks about the importance of data collection when sensory strategies are implemented. The wrong strategy can worsen behavior and that’s often when teachers give up. But, all this means is that a

new strategy needs to be tried and the previous one discarded,” she said. “Educators need to adopt a flexible attitude when it comes to working with kids with autism spectrum disorder.” In addition to sensory challenges, children with autism may also react poorly to change. “In a normal classroom, change happens all the time. Students go from one classroom or activity to another. Sometimes there are weather delays. Sometimes events happening in the school cause schedule changes. Those really affect our children,” Moyes said. “Our executive functions allow us to adapt quickly and easily to the changes of everyday life. But our children often cannot shift between one thing or another, and they perseverate on routines or rituals. Keeping things as structured as possible for them is very important. A visual schedule of the days’ events is helpful not only because of transition difficulties; it is necessary because the students also experience language deficiencies. Forthis reason, “show teaching” is always better than “talking teaching.” Moyes joined the organization in 2010 to manage its new autism education program. In addition, she leads Pressley Ridge’s autism initiative to provide professional development and consultative services for district staff, community agencies and parents. She has been instrumental in designing Pressley Ridge’s new School for Autism, which opened in 2011. For more information on Pressley Ridge’s School for Autism, call 412.322.0140, or go to www.pressleyridge.org/school-for-autism.

Norwin Band Students Excel in

PMEA Region 1 State Band

even musicians from Norwin were chosen to perform in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) Region 1 State Band Concert. PMEA promotes and supports quality music education in schools and communities across Pennsylvania. Select students from five counties in Region 1 including Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Washington, and Westmoreland were chosen by audition to participate in this music education experience and perform in the concert. The Norwin Band Program, under the direction of Mr. Robert Traugh hosted the three day event. Dr. Donald McKinney, director of wind ensembles and associate professor at Louisiana State University School of Music, was the guest conductor. Dr. Kerr, superintendent of Norwin School District, welcomed the audience and congratulated the students at the Friday evening concert. The ensemble performed six musical selections before a packed house at Norwin High School.

Pictured from left to right are Dylan McCurdy (trumpet), Anthony Princeton (euphonium), Stevie Pachesky (percussion), Brooke Urban (clarinet), Johnny Murray (saxophone), Alyssa Haradzin (trumpet), Brandon Guillot (bass clarinet) and Nick Seman (clarinet).

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

5th Annual

THE 5TH ANNUAL RACE FOR GRACE, held at Norwin High School on March 31, proved once again to be a hugely popular and inspiring event. With a turnout of over 2,100 runners and walkers as well as hundreds of volunteers, spectators, and business sponsors, this year’s race raised over $101,000 for the Reflections Of Grace Foundation which supports families with children suffering from pediatric brain cancer. Mike Clark, WTAE-TV News anchor, returned once again to serve as the master of ceremonies for the Race For Grace. Participants had the choice to run the 5k, walk the 5k, or walk a 1-mile course. This year’s 5k overall winner was 18-year-old Ryan Boccabella of North Huntingdon with an impressive time of 16:50. Autumn Rose Greba, age 18, of North Huntingdon came in first place among female runners with a time of 20:00. This year’s Race For Grace was especially poignant as it marked the fifth year of the race, which matches Grace’s five short years of life before losing her battle with brain cancer. Race Director Ashley Metz Leax remarked, “This being the 5th Annual Race For Grace was a difficult and emotional milestone for us, but yet the overwhelming success of the event has exceeded our expectations once again. Looking around yesterday, it was obvious that Grace was at work. I am deeply humbled to see that this labor of love for Grace continues to grow year after year. These extraordinary accomplishments would not have been possible without the tremendous help of our dedicated volunteers and the unwavering support of the community. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!” The Reflections Of Grace Foundation was established in December of 2008 by Brian and Tamara Ekis in honor of their daughter, Grace Elizabeth Ekis, who died at age five in 2008 due to brain cancer. The organization is dedicated to raising awareness about pediatric brain tumors (particularly Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas or DIPGs), providing support to families affected by pediatric brain cancer, and joining with other organizations in aiding, educating, and funding a search for a cure. Because of the Race For Grace and other fundraising efforts, the Reflections Of Grace Foundation has been able to give $95,000 to 66 families with children fighting brain cancer. Furthermore, the foundation has donated $65,000 toward research grants to find a cure and to raise awareness for pediatric brain cancers.

PHOTOS: 1) Emma Guldin; 2) Abby Pristas, Jenna Nguyen, Lindsay Eckersberg; 3) Lauren Kratzenberg, Lindsay Smith, Katie Kratzenberg; 4) Tammy and Taylor Gladkowski; 5) Tom and Frankie Altieri; 6) Joe and Christian Kubacka; 7) Hanna Patalsky, Jamie Orosz; 8) Ari and Athena Baglio; 9) Amy Peters, Jill Gimeno; 10) Mike Tusay, Autumn Greba; 11) Elizabeth and Julia Bojalad; 12) Autumn Miller, Erin Findlay, Alex Senic, McKenna Bressler with Steeler Charlie Batch; and 13) Josh Catalano, Paige Bosich, Bri Pocratsky

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Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

s s a l C d l r Wo SEASON

Norwin World Guard and their floor World Championships

crew celebrating after the Finalist

Awards Ceremony at the 2012

ten Stupansky, Kayla Cline , bers (front row) Cailin Calub, Kris Norwin World Color Guard Mem ra Vietz, and Caitlin Guillot; sand Cas ush, Sami Passarello, Izzy Petr Courtney Crupie, Chelsea Smith, Daugherty, Ashley Grasee, Angie e Shrump, Heather Urban, Ashley (middle row) Payden Meyers, Ryle Courtney Kresic, and Jessica asic, Tom ray, Jenna Burd, Megan Mayhue, James Gabonay, Josey Mur Turkovsky, Anthony Princeton, k row): Brandon Guillot, Tommy Weishorn. Floor Crew Members (bac Jesionowski. Missing from photo Jake and idt, ny Murray, Austin Schm Davis Herchko, Antonio Croes, John Jon Hale. d, Adam Tomas, Kevin Atkins, and floor crew members Eric McDonal

he Norwin World Guard ended its successful 2012 winter season by placing 12th out of 270 guards from across the United States. Winter Guard International (WGI) Sport of the Arts World Championships held at the University of Dayton also included Canada, Europe and Japan. Competing at the highest level of competition, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;World Class,â&#x20AC;? Norwin had to place well in

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Norwin

both preliminary and semifinals competitions to be able to advance to the prestigious World Finals competition. The group performed in front of a sold-out arena, and experienced a full color guard retreat as well as an awards ceremony and a spectacular confetti extravaganza. Norwin is the only high school in Pennsylvania to have a color guard ranked as World Class. Throughout the 2012 winter guard season, Norwin competed in

h g i H n i w r o N e for th d r a u G r o l o C l Schoo WGI regional competitions in Pittsburgh; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Muncie, Ind. Locally, Norwin competed in the Three Rivers Winter Ensemble Association (TRWEA) circuit and performed to standing ovation crowds. At the TRWEA championships held at Gateway High School, Norwin World Guard was voted “Fan Favorite.” Winter guard is the sport of indoor color guard. Color guard has a combination of equipment, such as flags, sabers and rifles, as well as dance and other interpretive movement. Under the direction of Robert Traugh, the Norwin Band is proud to have two winter guard ensembles at the high school including the “World” Guard and the “A” Guard, both of which are directed by Tommy Allen. The Norwin High School World Guard is an audition-only ensemble that is composed of the most advanced performers. Their award-winning 2012 show, “Human Nature,” began by depicting nature and the environment being destroyed by human activities. It is beautifully transformed throughout the performance to show nature being appreciated for its beauty and what it can do for all of us. The Norwin High School A Guard was a new, however necessary, addition to the band program this year. It gave all members of the growing Norwin Band, as well as any student in the high school, the opportunity to participate in a winter guard ensemble. The Norwin A Guard impressed local judges and spectators with their 2012 show, “Look How They Shine.” Norwin students can get involved with winter guard as early as seventh grade by joining the Middle School Guard. The Norwin Middle School Guard also had a successful 2012 season, becoming the Middle School Class Champions with their show, “Two Birds.” This is the second consecutive year that the Norwin Middle School Guard has been the Middle School Class Champion. n

Sami Passarello

Photos on left margin (top to bottom): Courtney Crupie as “Mother Nature;” Flag Feature; Norwin World Guard Captains receiving World Class Finalist Award; Ashley Gracee, Josey Murray, Cailin Calub, and Kalyla Cline Photo to left: Senior World Guard Members holding World Championship Finalist Trophy: Megan Tomasic, Chelsea Smith, Sami Passarello, James Gabonay, and Payden Meyers

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

s n ia ic s u M in w r o N s lp e H Fund

t i y a ” l P “

d r a w r o F K MCGRATH

BY DANA BLAC

spiring musicians at Norwin have the opportunity to develop their skills thanks to a fund that encourages them to “play” it forward. The fund, which helps to provide private lessons as well as financial support for summer camps, was started two and a half years ago by Mike and Paula Ziemski. The Ziemskis have three children, two of which were members of the Norwin band and have since graduated. “It was such a valuable, life-changing experience for them that we wanted to give something back,” says Paula. Working with director Robert Traugh, they started out wanting to make a charitable gift to the band, such as helping students to attend summer music camps. “We found that there was more of a need for private music lessons,” explains Paula. Established a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, the Norwin Play It Forward Fund has been helping to provide private instruction for instrumental music students in

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Norwin

grades five through 12, as well as to send some students to summer music camps. Awards are granted based on need. “We hope that through the opportunity these kids have, they have more opportunities. Some have even received music scholarships,” says Paula. The hope is that the students who receive support through the fund will in turn help support others by giving either financially or by donating their time to help other band students. Students may apply for the awards, which are granted based on need and participation in the band. An advisory committee has been established and recommendations are made by the band directors. “For a small organization, we have been very successful,” says Paula. “People have really rallied around us.” The community, she says, has been very supportive and has turned out to support the fund’s two annual signature fundraising events. On May 5, the fund hosted its “Suite Café,” a coffeehouse-style event that featured performances by students and instructors, along with an extensive dessert buffet, chocolate fountain, candy buffet, and even a nacho buffet to honor the Cinco de Mayo holiday. “Students come in their prom

wear and have an opportunity to perform in a more professional setting,” says Paula. This is the third year for the event, which has outgrown the space of its former location at Shafton Fire Hall. Instead, this year’s event was held at Mack Hall at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Another signature fundraiser for the fund is “Wind Up Wine Down” held in the fall at Greenhouse Winery, which had partnered with the fund for the event. The fund also is supported by private donations—some very significant, according to Paula—as well as some corporate donations. She is hoping eventually to be able to apply for grant funding as well. So far, about 20 students have or are still taking private lessons supported by the fund. And, this year, the fund will help six students to attend summer music camps at Music for All’s Summer Symposium at Ball State University and Penn State University’s Music Camp. “It just feels good and it’s wonderful to see how people feel about this,” says Paula. “We have a lot of need.” And, all of her hard work has been a rewarding experience. “It has been a labor of love,” she says. “We hope to continue as long as possible,” Paula says of the Play It Forward Fund. For more information about the fund or to make a donation, visit the website at www. norwinplayitforwardfund.com.

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Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

NORWIN NS STUDENT WI ace 2nd Pl

L A N O I S S E R G IN CON ION T I T E P M O C T AR

aksa Kevin S

“Lighter” 2nd place, al sion 2012 Congres tion ti e p Art Com

Murphy, U.S. Congressman for the 18th District of Pennsylvania, T imannounced Tuesday, May 8, that Kevin Saksa of Norwin High School was awarded second place in the 2012 Congressional Art

Competition with his entry entitled, “Lighter.” The U.S. House of Representatives sponsors the yearly competition which recognizes art from students across the nation, who are then given the opportunity to exhibit their works in Congress. The competition, which was held at The Galleria in Mt. Lebanon, included artwork submitted by 32 students from 16 different area high schools. A panel of professional, local artists in the community judged the artwork on the elements of composition, creativity and artistic skill. Saksa’s work featuring an enlarged portrait of a lighter with an interesting angle was praised for its original look at an ordinary object.

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Norwin

UPMC TODAY

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | Summer 2012

Here Comes the Sun It’s definitely summer, and you’re ready to enjoy every minute of it. Before you grab your sunglasses and head outdoors, check out our skin protection tips on page 4.

What’s Inside 2 3 4

The Need for Speed Exhausted and Sleepy? Pamper the Skin You’re In Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

5 6 7

Your Health Care Goes Mobile Talent + Imagination + Learning = Events You Won’t Want to Miss Meet Our Physicians What’s Happening at UPMC McKeesport

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

The Need for Speed New UPMC McKeesport Cardiac Catheterization Lab improves critical “door-to-balloon” care for heart attacks.

Nell Cupps was just 39 when she had her first heart attack. The McKeesport resident never felt the “classic” crushing chest pain — just a burning sensation in the base of her neck and right shoulder. She even refused to take an ambulance to the hospital. When an EKG revealed she was having a heart attack, Nell was airlifted to UPMC Shadyside where doctors restored blood flow with a balloon angioplasty and stent.

“Reducing that wait time is extremely important,” says Stephen Bowser, MD, medical director of the UPMC McKeesport Cardiac Catheterization Lab. “The faster we can restore blood supply, the better the chances of survival and with less damage to the heart muscle.”

New cath lab The hospital will soon open a new catheterization lab with state-of-the-art technology that will enable the staff to make better, quicker diagnoses, says Dr. Bowser. The new technology offers “amazing image quality” that allows doctors to see more clearly if stents are deployed properly to open blockages and increase blood flow. “The better we can see, the better the decisions we can make,” he says. “Having a dedicated cath lab with door-to-balloon teams on call 24/7 in McKeesport is vitally important for the community,” adds Dr. Bowser. But nothing is more important than knowing the warning signs of a heart attack and calling 911 immediately.

Heart attack warning signs Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but most start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Signs that can mean a heart attack is happening include: • Breaking out in a cold sweat, • Upper body discomfort in one nausea, or lightheadedness or both arms, back, neck, jaw, • Chest pain or discomfort or upper stomach • Shortness of breath Six years later, a pulling sensation in her chest prompted Nell to go for a stress test at UPMC McKeesport where doctors discovered another blockage. This time, the stent procedure was performed at the hospital’s catheterization lab — just five minutes from her home and family. “If you’re having a heart attack, you don’t want to have to go to a hospital 30 minutes or an hour away,” Nell says. “Quicker treatment means less damage.”

Calling 911 is the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out. Fast action can save your life and limit damage to your heart. Visit UPMCMcKeesport.com to learn more about cardiovascular services at UPMC McKeesport.

Door-to-balloon time

Did You Know?

For heart attack patients, every second counts. But the clock doesn’t stop ticking at the Emergency Department door. For doctors and nurses, the race is on to perform the artery-opening angioplasty procedure within 90 minutes of arrival — a national standard known as “door-to-balloon” time. At the UPMC McKeesport Cardiac Catheterization Lab, which began offering emergency heart catheterization services two years ago, the door-to-balloon time now averages less than 70 minutes.

UPMC McKeesport is part of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, which means we offer patients in need of more complex cardiovascular care easy access to a broad range of high quality services. U.S. News and World Report ranks UPMC as one of America’s best hospitals for heart care and heart surgery.

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Exhausted and Sleepy? At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, doctors can diagnose and treat sleep apnea, often with surprisingly fast results.

Overweight and diagnosed with high blood pressure, diabetes, and an irregular heartbeat, Robert Guthrie underwent a sleep study at UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center to evaluate his pulmonary function and suitability for gastric bypass surgery. He was shocked to discover he had sleep apnea so severe he actually stopped breathing 147 times per hour. Affecting 12 million Americans, sleep apnea doesn’t just disrupt sleep. Untreated, it can cause serious health problems and lead to deadly accidents due to exhaustion. “I was totally clueless. It was serendipity that took me to a sleep expert, and it probably saved my life,” says Robert, 65, who immediately began using a nighttime breathing apparatus known as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Within a week, he was sleeping soundly for the first time in six years. “It was life changing,” says the Hopwood, Pa., resident. “I feel 20 years younger.” Most people don’t know they have obstructive sleep apnea, usually caused when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep. People with sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly. With each interruption, the drop in oxygen levels prompts the brain to send a surge of adrenaline to kick-start breathing, which also leads to a spike in blood pressure. “This can happen 600 times a night. It’s a burden on the cardiovascular system and affects the quality of sleep,” says Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD, medical director of the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center. According to Dr. Strollo, if you snore loudly, wake up exhausted despite a “good night’s sleep,” or feel tired or sleepy during the day, you should talk to your primary care physician. Since sleep apnea cannot be detected while you’re awake, your doctor may ask you to participate in an overnight sleep study.

At UPMC’s Sleep Medicine Center, patients stay in a private bedroom where a sleep technician applies sensors that measure breathing, heart rate, brain activity, and other body functions during sleep. A team of specialists diagnose sleep apnea by looking at the test results and reviewing medical history. Treatment options may include a CPAP machine like Robert uses, which blows air through a special mask worn over the nose. “I wasn’t wild about wearing the mask. But staying on it was a no-brainer — it’s worth it for a good night’s sleep,” says Robert. For information about the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center, visit UPMC.com and click Our Services for an alphabetical listing of departments and services.

Other health consequences of sleep apnea According to Euhan John Lee, MD, a pulmonologist and sleep specialist at UPMC McKeesport, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, memory problems, weight gain, and daytime sleepiness. “Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea — but almost everyone with sleep apnea snores,” notes Dr. Lee. “This is not a problem to keep from your family doctor. Sleep apnea can have significant health and safety consequences, but it usually can be treated effectively and inexpensively.” For information about the UPMC Sleep Disorders Clinic at UPMC McKeesport and its services, or to schedule a sleep study, call 412-664-2790.

1-800-533-UPMC 19 3 Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com

Pamper the Skin You’re In Your skin is a multitasking marvel. Soft, pliable, and strong, it protects your organs, regulates body temperature, detects and fights off infection, and even repairs itself.

Goodbye Spider and Varicose Veins

But most of us take our hard-working skin for granted. A little TLC will help keep it healthy and looking good from the inside out.

They’re more common — and easier to treat — than you think.

Keep it clean Daily cleansing can take a toll on your skin, so be gentle. Take shorter baths or showers using warm water, choose a mild cleanser, pat or blot skin dry, and apply a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type.

Eat, drink, and be healthy Feed your skin from the inside for a healthy glow on the outside. Experts recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Drinking plenty of water keeps skin hydrated.

Get moving Regular exercise promotes circulation that energizes skin cells and carries away waste products. It also promotes the restful sleep that’s needed to rejuvenate skin.

Be sun smart Small amounts of daily sun exposure add up, so protect skin from the sun’s rays whenever you’re outdoors — even in wintertime. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and apply it liberally and often. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants provide even more protection.

Check it out Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. More than 90 percent of all skin cancers occur on parts of the body exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, and hands. Mohs micrographic surgery has proven to be an effective treatment for most skin cancers. This type of surgery removes as little normal tissue as possible and is often used to remove skin cancer on the face. Regularly checking your own skin can help find cancers early, when they are easier to treat. You’ll find the American Cancer Society’s skin self-examination guide and other sun safety tips at cancer.org. Sources: American Cancer Society, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

UPMC.com/Today

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Norwin

They can be tiny or bulging, painless or throbbing. But nearly half of us can expect to get spider or varicose veins, especially after age 50. “The good news is that many techniques now make vein treatments more safe, comfortable, and effective,” says Ellen D. Dillavou, MD, a vascular surgeon at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC.

What new treatments are available? Among the newest is the injection of polidocanol for the treatment of spider veins. “It’s a cosmetic procedure that works much better than saline to collapse surface veins,” says Dr. Dillavou. “Spider veins do reoccur, though, so expect to do ‘touch ups’ periodically.” Injections also are used for larger veins and may replace older procedures like a “vein stripping.” For treating varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation (a minimally invasive procedure in which radiofrequency energy seals the vein closed) is a popular treatment among her patients, says Dr. Dillavou, “because it’s comfortable and effective.”

Are varicose veins dangerous? “Varicose and spider veins typically don’t pose a health risk, but they can point to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI),” says Madhusudanan Nair, MD, a vascular surgeon at UPMC McKeesport. “It’s a visual cue that blood may not be optimally flowing to and from the feet and legs to the heart, which can lead to more serious problems.” Other CVI symptoms include painful, tired, restless, achy, itchy, or swollen legs or ankles. In more advanced cases, skin changes and ulcers can develop. “The problem becomes more difficult to treat as it advances, so it’s important to always share your symptoms with your doctor,” says Dr. Nair. To learn more about all the vascular services at UPMC McKeesport, visit UPMCMcKeesport.com.

Your Health Care Goes Mobile It’s now easy to manage your medical records or get automatic access to select test results — because HealthTrak has an app for that.

Need to keep track of your elderly parents’ appointments and test results? Want instant access to your children’s immunization records? Run out of medicine while traveling and need a refill? Have a follow-up question for your doctor after office hours? All are available with a click of your mouse — and most with a tap on your iPhone®, iPad®, or Android™ — via UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that allows patients, and approved family members, to receive and manage information about their health. Recent upgrades include a new mobile HealthTrak application that provides patients with secure access anytime and anywhere.

HealthTrak also provides patients with automatic access to certain test results, including x-rays, lab, and pathology tests, with links they can use to help interpret information. This makes it easier for patients to keep track of their cholesterol, blood pressure, sugar levels, and other important health numbers. UPMC hopes to add cardiology test results in the near future. Also on the horizon are plans to use photos to identify some skin conditions or diseases.

“We’re giving people what they want — even when they’re on the go. It’s a convenient, safe, and free way to manage their own health,” says G. Daniel Martich, MD, UPMC chief medical information officer.

Going mobile is fast and easy To access HealthTrak data using a mobile device, you must first secure a HealthTrak account through UPMCHealthTrak.com. You should then download the free “MyChart app” from the App Store, iTunes Store, or Google Play (formerly Android Market). The mobile app provides access to everything except eVisits, or online doctor visits. According to Dr. Martich, more than 100,000 patients have signed up for HealthTrak — and nearly 6,000 are mobile app users. Online medical care is seen as the wave of the future. The number of HealthTrak users is expected to increase dramatically once word spreads about its overall convenience and newest features — including access for authorized family members.

More patient-centered solutions HealthTrak gives users immediate access to a wide range of personal medical information, which allows them to take a more active role in managing their health.

Adults juggling the health care of their children and aging parents can use the “proxy access” feature to keep track of health records and appointments, refill prescriptions, communicate with doctors, and ask billing questions.

Easy, direct signup for HealthTrak is available online by going to UPMCHealthTrak.com and clicking “Sign up now” under New User. Follow the steps to complete an online application and answer personal questions designed to ensure that you, and not another person, are creating the account.

Parents will especially appreciate having instant access to a child’s immunization record when they need it. Approved caregivers find eVisit, the online doctor visit service, very useful for the diagnosis of common, non-urgent ailments in their elderly relatives.

If you have difficulties, email healthtrak@upmc.edu or call the UPMC HealthTrak Support Line at 1-866-884-8579.

1-800-533-UPMC

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

Talent + Imagination + Learning =

Events You Won’t Want to Miss UPMC Senior Communities’ year-long calendar of entertainment, movies, and educational seminars aims to enrich the lives of seniors — and delight the public, too.

What do Jimmy Beaumont and the Skyliners, a Meryl Streep movie, and acupuncture have in common? All are among UPMC Senior Communities’ upcoming 2012 Legacy Lineup. “We’re committed to providing residents at all our senior communities with activities that will capture their interests, generate conversation, and stimulate their minds,” says Nanci Case, vice president for sales, marketing, and activities for UPMC Senior Communities. “Through The Legacy Lineup and other programs, we’re bringing seniors — and people of all ages — together to relax, laugh, and learn.” Open to the public, The Legacy Lineup programs are offered at UPMC Passavant Hospital Foundation’s Legacy Theatre at Cumberland Woods Village, UPMC Senior Communities’ independent living facility located on the UPMC Passavant campus. “You can attend a Legacy Lineup event every week of the month, with many events offered at no charge,” says Greta Ceranic, marketing director for Cumberland Woods Village. The Legacy Theatre is part of a state-of-the-art conference center and 247-seat amphitheatre funded through a generous $16.5 million grant by the Passavant Hospital Foundation. One of the Foundation’s primary goals is public education and outreach. UPMC physicians, nurses, and other medical staff members also use the facility for professional development training. “And funds raised through The Legacy Lineup support UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund,” adds Ms. Case, “providing financial assistance and other support services to residents in need at all 17 UPMC retirement communities.”

UPMC.com/Today

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Productions showcase local and national talent “Each month, The Legacy Lineup features at least one major production featuring a band, soloist, or performance troupe,” says Ms. Ceranic. “Earlier this year, the Tamburitzans appeared to a sell-out crowd. Later this year, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand impersonators will perform with a full orchestra.” The 2012 lineup also includes the Jaggerz and the Fabulous Hubcaps, as well as a major holiday production in December. Because seating is limited, advance tickets are recommended. Group discounts and ticket packages are available.

Spend Mondays at the movies From cinematic classics like Citizen Kane to recent blockbusters like Iron Lady with Meryl Streep, seniors can enjoy free matinee movies every Monday at 2 p.m. at the Legacy Theatre.

Explore your interests at learning seminars On alternating Tuesdays at 11 a.m., The Legacy Lineup offers educational programming that covers a wide range of subjects, from tips on aging, caregiver support, health and nutrition, history, and local topics of interest. The seminars are free and open to the public, but advance reservations are requested. For the full 2012 calendar of activities, or to make reservations, call 412-635-8080 or visit TheLegacyLineup.com.

To learn about the independent living, personal care, assisted living, and skilled nursing options offered by UPMC Senior Communities, call 1-800-324-5523 to schedule a tour. Locations include Allison Park, Cranberry, Fox Chapel, Greensburg, Lawrenceville, McCandless, Monroeville, Penn Hills, Scott Township, and Washington, Pa.

Norwin

Meet Our Physicians Please visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information about any of our physicians. To contact the UPMC McKeesport physicians listed below, please use the office phone number provided.

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute Cardiologists at UPMC McKeesport

UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute Ihsan H. Awan, MD Chief, Division of Cardiology Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Liaquat Medical School, Pakistan Residency: UPMC McKeesport Fellowship: Cleveland Clinic 412-664-4124 Stephen A. Bowser, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Residency: UPMC Shadyside Fellowship: UPMC Shadyside 724-258-3966 Simon H. Chough, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Hahnemann University Medical School, Philadelphia Residency: UPMC Mercy Fellowship: UPMC Shadyside 724-258-3966 Francis Ergina, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Northwestern Ohio University Residency: Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh Fellowship: Montreal Heart Institute and McGill University, Montreal, Canada 412-664-4124

Matthew E. Harinstein, MD Starting July 1, 2012 Board Certification: Internal Medicine Medical School: Loyola University, Chicago Residency: McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, Chicago Fellowship: UPMC 412-664-4124

Joseph J. Secosky, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Residency: UPMC Montefiore Fellowship: UPMC 412-672-9781 Stuart G. Tauberg, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Residency: Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh Fellowship: Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh 412-469-0600

Avinash Linganna, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine Residency: Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Fellowship: UPMC 412-664-4124 Jan Nemec, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic Residency: Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, Rochester, Minn. Fellowship: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. 412-664-4124

Horacio S. Aure, MD Medical School: University of Santo Thomas, Manila, Philippines Residency: UPMC McKeesport Fellowship: St. Francis General Hospital, Pittsburgh 412-672-9782

Heart of Pittsburgh, PC

Alliance Cardiology Group

Jerome M. Itzkoff, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: New York University School of Medicine Residency: UPMC Fellowship: UPMC 412-621-3131

Ramesh R. Chandra, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Bangalore Medical College, Bangalore, India Residency: UPMC Shadyside Fellowship: UPMC Shadyside 412-823-3113 Vasantha C. Madhavan, MD Board Certification: Cardiovascular Diseases Medical School: Government Medical College, Mysore, India Residency: Jewish Hospital and Medical Center, Brooklyn, N.Y. Fellowship: Good Samaritan Hospital, Dayton, Ohio 412-469-0600

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Happening at UPMC McKeesport Lions Auction for Diabetes Friday, June 15 6 to 10 p.m. Youghiogheny Country Club 1901 Greenock-Buena Vista Road, McKeesport, PA 15135 For more information about the auction or the invitational, call 412-664-2590.

The 35th Annual UPMC McKeesport Invitational Youghiogheny Country Club 1901 Greenock-Buena Vista Road, McKeesport, PA 15135 Tennis Event Saturday, July 14 11:30 a.m.

Fashion Show Sunday, July 29 Noon

Golf Outing Monday, July 30 Tee Times: 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

1-800-533-UPMC

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

UPMC McKeesport 1500 Fifth Ave. McKeesport, PA 15132

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

To get world-class care, your heart’s in the right place. The UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute is one network of Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, and Vascular professionals right here in western Pennsylvania. With experts who are internationally renowned. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks UPMC among the best hospitals in the country for cardiology and heart surgery. But more important than these accolades is the trust thousands of people place in UPMC every year, for everything from simple screenings to highly advanced heart care. Put your heart in the hands of the experts. Call 1-855-UPMC-HVI for information or to make an appointment, or visit UPMC.com/HVI to learn more.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

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PART OF THE UPMC HEART AND VASCULAR INSTITUTE UPMC.com/HVI

HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION

hether your house is older and had a library already constructed when you moved in or you have plans to construct the library of your dreams in your new home, one thing is for sure: home libraries are no longer just a room of the past. When planning new construction of a library, it is important to plan ahead and determine what the purpose of the room will be and what items, beyond books, would be displayed. There are several different library styles to choose from, depending on the overall appeal of the room. A library that is to be used for simple display purposes only often contains unique, rare and first-edition books and artifacts to showcase. These are items that are primarily only for display purposes and not actually used for anything, as such items are irreplaceable. Because of the valuable

By Heather Holtschlag

possessions contained in this room, The basement, on the other hand, may it should also include some type of be at risk for flooding which could be security measures to protect the problematic for storage. displays. And, because of the rarity In addition, determine a of the books, this type of library may classification system for the books be best suited for people who already so that you will be able to easily find own the books, as it will be hard to find what you are looking for. You may them to purchase. choose to alphabetize the books, or Liven up the room a bit with a go by the Dewey Decimal System touch of decoration. Adding uniquely whereby each category of books is handcrafted books and various other assigned a number. items, as well as some colorful paint, The furniture that will be housed can make an otherwise dull-looking in the library can range from room look warm and inviting and freestanding bookshelves to built-in, encourage individuals to sit and relax or recessed, bookshelves that run with one of their books. from floor to ceiling, or glass cases. Mixing these two styles also can Depending on the height of the create an interesting room. If choosing shelves and the growing number of this option, be sure to separate the books you plan to maintain, a wall rare collectibles from the items that do ladder may serve a useful purpose as not hold much worth in value, using well. Coffee tables, framed pictures separate pieces of furniture to display and desks might also go well in the each type of item. library and will create opportunities Take time to consider the room to store other items. Large that you will use as the library and comfortable sofas and pillows can where that room is located in the serve as the invitation to come and house. A room with lots of light and browse and sit with a book. windows can be inviting, but also dream can kitchens 1.6_Layout 9:58 AM Page 1 wreak havoc on 1the5/1/12 books.

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W e C a n M a k e Yo u r D r e a m s C o m e Tr u e Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION

IN Community Magazines:

With ads starting at less than per household, local businesses agree that direct mail remains the most cost-effective method of advertising.

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724.942.0940

he front porch may rank near the bottom on the list of favorite rooms that people mention when talking about their homes, but it ranks near the top in terms of importance. Considered a home’s “welcome mat,” the front porch offers a home’s first—and oftentimes only—impression to family, friends, and passersby. The friendlier it looks, the more appealing the home. So how can you dress up your front porch so that it contributes to the charm of your neighborhood, or, if a front porch is still just a dream, how can you add to your house but stay within budget? If your goal is to add a front porch onto your home, you may first want to take a good look at the front of your home and plan a porch that matches your home’s style. Think about whether you want the porch area to be a simple transition into your home, or whether you want to create an entirely new living space. Also, determine how much space you will have to dedicate to a front porch area. If it’s a small, transitional area, you may not be able to give the area a complete overhaul, but rather enhance the space that is already there with charming accents. When it comes time to decorate the front porch, consider what room the porch leads to within the house. If it leads to a traditional living or dining room, for example, you likely will not want to decorate the porch in a tropical theme. Also, choose a type of paint for the front door that contains a high gloss and a color that will be noticeable. Consider changing the hardware as well. Go for house numbers that appear strong and bold, which could give your entire exterior a new look, and add a door knocker for a touch of elegance.

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Norwin

By Heather Holtschlag

Windows • Roofing • Siding Soffit and Fascia • Gutters and Downspouts Bathrooms • Basements • Kitchens Doors • Porches • Enclosures

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Before adding furniture to a roomier porch, make sure to attend to the paint on the sides and floor. Repair any paint that is peeling and add a fresh coat to the sides and floor first. And when adding the furniture, look for a piece such as a loveseat that can hold two people, and an ottoman that can double as storage space. The largest piece of furniture should face outward, with smaller pieces surrounding it. Artwork that is made to handle the elements of the outdoors can add attention and attractiveness if hung above the sitting area, and look for rugs and pillows that can finish off the space. Blinds or curtains can help prevent sun damage to the furniture and artwork, and can be of aid when people are sitting there. One final note to keep in mind when designing and decorating your porch is to decorate for the seasons. Add pumpkin décor during Halloween or floral accents during the spring and summer. A harvest wreath in the fall and an evergreen wreath in the winter also can add to the beauty of the season.

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

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A Quality Home

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“Creating a home with the lifestyles of the clients in mind gives home buyers not just a house, but a vacation, making every turn into the driveway a peaceful retreat from the world” – Jeff Costa

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Norwin

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Timeless Beauty

412.849.8225 www.pella.com Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29 Matt Guido â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 724.448.5876

POETRY Norwin High School POETRY Norwin High School POETRY Norwin High School POETRY Norwin High School

A Momentum to the Past

Pointless

What it is, what I seem to be

How are we to distinctly define the past? Each breath, each passing word, each moment In the present becomes a second in the past. As we move through life, we are constantly shedding The featherlight skin of time and flinging it Carelessly into the vault of past memories. We try to show a change from the “Person we used to be” Who was merely the person we all were Before the completion of that sentence. We hold a terrible disdain for past mistakes, Which we forget were once Present desires. The past is the past, the present is the Rapidly approaching past, And all we have in this world is the inspiration To change these two in the future.

Thin and weak, I stay frozen I can only move if I am chosen Time draws out as I wait and lay A dull life, I dream in shades of gray

My name is Vanessa and I am a daughter, a sister, a granddaughter, a niece, a cousin, a friend, I am a partner, a student.

BY JESSICA YACKO

Jessica Yacko, a senior, enjoys long distance running, reading, writing poetry, and singing. She is a member of the Norwin Show Choir and plans to attend the University of Pitt-Greensburg to study English literature and writing. She was inspired to write this poem upon reflection of her future, and her past four years of high school.

Bliss

BY MORGAN RUPERT

You’ve taught me so much, In the little time I’ve known you. I’ve never met a person, Who makes me feel the way you do.

BY RACHEL REYNOLDS

Pick me up with your able hand Only with your help can I stand Across the white stage, we glide I dance with you as my guide I’ll leave my print to be known Before you write me off and I’m alone We spin and twirl with great haste Important now, but soon I’ll be replaced Your skill strains me with each turn and tap On the wrong end of the force, I snap I fall fast like the weight of lead Worthless again I lay, dead Forgiveness to my bitter end I’ll always be your true friend I hope you feel the same Simply myself I will blame Rachel Reynolds is a senior at Norwin High School and has lived in the Norwin community all her life. A member of the Norwin High School soccer team, Rachel also enjoys reading, cooking and writing—especially creative writing like poetry whenever she has the chance! The inspiration for this poem actually came to her while she was procrastinating, writing something else. She plans to continue her interest in writing by studying English at Duquesne University in the fall.

Yellow Lily

BY SARAH BURDELSKI

I’m not perfect, I don’t claim to be. Somehow you don’t care, You can see right through me.

Happiness is not a budding flower It cannot be found in lust or power Cannot be plucked, roots and all Pure happiness is humble and small Powerful still, unlike the blossom For it can take root even in venom The flower, instead, withers and fades Hardy roots can’t be displaced with mere spades For though it takes flowers much time ‘fore they ope’ Happiness blooms and blossoms in hope.

I’m so vulnerable, You’ve broken down my walls. I’m not scared this time, I know you’ll be there if I fall. I will love you, Until the day I die. For you’ve turned my life around, And shown me what it’s like to fly. Morgan Rupert has been an editor of Norwin School District’s high school yearbook for three years as well as the captain of the Lady Knights volleyball team. She is a classical pianist and her interests include music, reading and writing poetry. She was inspired by the people she loves to write this poem. Her future plans include attending Duquesne University and majoring in integrated marketing communications.

Sarah Burdelski has loved writing since she could hold a pen. She has been involved in journalism classes in the past year and aspires to go on to study at the University of PittsburghJohnstown next year. She enjoys writing, reading, playing the violin in the Norwin orchestra, track, and doing competitive gymnastics. She has lived in the Norwin area with her two younger brothers since before her days at Stewartsville Elementary. She was inspired to write this poem after being frustrated with the generally gloomy endings of books. She hopes that “Yellow Lily” will bring as much joy and hope to the reader as the flower represents.

BY VANESSA FUMERO

A young girl, and a grown woman. I am confident and unsure, terrified and excited. I am loving and caring. Thoughtful and hopeful. I am shy and friendly, and careful and careless. I am broke and whole. I am misunderstood, misguided and misled. I am hard working and determined, but a little scared on the inside. I wish on stars and dream my dreams. I pray to God and cry my tears. I smile on the outside, while dying on the inside. I listen to those who won’t listen to me. I walk on eggshells, and I walk on fire. I believe in passions and even true love. I believe in beautiful disasters and perfect lies. I speak, see, and hear only truths. I am unstoppable yet naïve. I have high expectations, and low self-esteem. I have the perfect childhood, to someone else’s eyes. I am positive and do not know what to do with my life. But I know I’m going somewhere. My heart is on my sleeve, my secrets far from my heart. I am the stars at night, the shadow throughout the day. The first leaf and snowflake to fall. I am a black hole, a wishing star, The cosmic. I am everything and nothing at once. My name is Vanessa Fumero, originally from Caracas, Venezuela. I moved to Irwin a year ago. I am 17 years of age and a junior. I love reading, photography and being part of the Norwin Marching Band. I want to go to UCF and major in English literature to become a professor. I get inspired by everything my life adds up to, growing up is an eventful road. So I just write on what I have reflected about on a particular day or just overall.

POETRY Norwin High School POETRY Norwin High School POETRY Norwin High School POETRY Norwin High School 30 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

I Can Live With That! H

ello “In Community” Readers! I hope your summer is going well. In preparation for this quarter’s article, I’ve been doing a lot of reading and research as usual. And the more I read, the more worried I become for our future in America. Let me say right now as I’ve said before I don’t play the shame or blame game I just want to help people. An article that really struck me to the core was in the May 14, 2012 Newsweek cover story. The picture on the cover was a, beautiful, blond, blue eye, baby holding a container of French fries, and the headline read, “When I Grow Up, I’m Going to Weigh 300 lbs. Help!” The author, Gary Taubes, doesn’t give us any statistics about the growing epidemic of obesity in America. For that, I’ll bring in statistics from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their recent report estimates that 42 percent of adults will be obese by 2030. And that today, approximately 33 percent of American adults are obese. That’s one in three people. Worse the already obese are getting heavier. Severe obesity is projected to double by 2030 and is estimated to hit 11 percent of American adults. While being overweight increases everyone’s risk of Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other less intense problems like neck pain and headaches, the severely obese are the most at risk and most expensive to treat. Current estimates suggest that obesity related problems account for 9 percent of our Nation’s yearly healthcare spending or approximately $150 Billion per year. So not only is America’s weight problem affecting us individually, it is potentially shaping up to be a problem that could bankrupt Americans both individually and as a Nation. In Taubes’ article, he makes an argument that, (and this argument is very much against most experts in the field of obesity, such as the CDC and the National Institutes of Health as well as the nonprofit Institute of Medicine) all maintain the message “Calories In Calories Out” that overweight and obesity result from an energy imbalance. Taubes puts forth the idea that it is part of the problem but a bigger part of the problem comes from the type of calories we consume, not just the number of calories. The main culprits he points to (and the experts that he uses points to) are refined sugars and grains because of their effect on the hormone, insulin. The affects insulin has on our bodies has something to do with the glycemic index that I have mentioned in other articles. Foods such as refined sugars and grains are some of the worst on the glycemic index meaning they turn to sugar quickly and spike a person’s blood glucose levels. The body secrets insulin and that causes the body to turn those sugars to fat. The hard scientific facts support Taubes position, but if we only stopped eating those offending types of food, that alone is not enough though a step in the right direction. At All Kare Chiropractic and Laser Clinic, we are constantly trying to keep up with what the world’s experts in wellness and health say about a healthy lifestyle and bring that information into our practice for the community’s benefit. We suggest a balanced approach of better choices more often that is sustainable for the long term resulting in a lifestyle that the patient can live with and benefit from for the rest of their lives. People would be surprised how often patients

For more information, call ALL KARE Chiropractic & Laser Clinic at 724-864-3310. You can either come in for a free consultation or come to one of our free monthly seminars. William H. Roscoe, D.C.

come in for our free consultation, and after hearing about our recommedations, say ”oh, I could live with that! You want me to eat less of certain foods, (like pasta, potatoes, bread, rice, sugar, and high fat foods) and more of green leafy vegetables, lean proteins (such as fish, shrimp, crab, chicken, eggs, turkey, lean cuts of beef, and pork). And Dr. Roscoe you are going to educate me about healthier carbs that I can add to my diet that is ok for me to eat in moderation. For the exercise part, you want me to move a whole lot more, be that in the gym or just adding more hobbies that get me moving, and off the couch, like biking, hiking, walking, dancing, swimming, etc. That is so much better than a lot of other places that want me to give up certain foods, or starve myself, or go on a liquid only diet for a certain period of time! “I Can Do This!” they say! This type of reaction always makes me smile, because I know that I have started to help one more person make the change to a healthier lifestyle and in the coming weeks and possible months to come, coach, mentor and encourage them to be successful. This one patient at a time approach not only makes our community healthier and happier but is one more step in the right direction to help America with it health care and economic problems!

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Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

The Norwin High

LACROSSE â&#x20AC;&#x153;My team is learning and growing together as a team. I think this year we are showing poise and mental toughness.â&#x20AC;?

32 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

School Boys

TEAM Has Promise

and Optimism

ome wasn’t built in a day. The same can be said for a new sports program. Building a program takes time if you want to do it right…and that is exactly what the Norwin High School boys’ lacrosse team is doing. Under the guidance of head coach Jeff Braid, the program completed its fourth season. The first season they were a club team, and are now enjoying their 3rd season in the WPIAL Division 2. Th 2012 roster consisted of 35 players, down from the 50 players in previous seasons. The coaches made continued on next page

By Matthew J. Fascetti

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

The Norwin High School Boys

LACROSSE TEAM Has Promise and Optimism continued from previous page a conscious decision to trim the roster in order to give better individual attention to players. That philosophy worked to their advantage as the team showed improvement. In fact, the most exciting aspect of the program is that the team keeps getting better every season. “The team is making strides. This year we had tremendous senior leadership, and some really talented freshman and sophomore athletes, “ said Braid. “I believe our future is very bright despite the disadvantage of not having a youth feeder system like other districts do. Some other districts have leagues for 3rd and 4th grade kids.” He adds that lacrosse has really taken off in popularity in this country over the past decade, particularly along the eastern seaboard where New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore are hot beds for the sport. Braid praised Athletic Director Randy Rovesti for providing outstanding support to the newly formed program, which is particularly vital in a program’s early stage. A new addition to the staff also helped out significantly this season as well. Marcus Croley, a former player at Saint Vincent

College, was quite a positive for the player’s development. “It is great to have a dynamic former player like Marcus to help out with the team. He was a great asset,” adds Braid. Unfortunately, the first game of the season was postponed shortly after it began due to lightning. In their next two games the team challenged themselves by moving up to Division 1 and facing powerhouses Pittsburgh Central Catholic and North Allegheny. Norwin lost both games, but Baird believes they gained much in the process. “My team is learning and growing together as a team. In past seasons we got down on ourselves. I think this year we showed better poise and mental toughness, “ he said. Braid is a native of Ohio and played on a club team while attending the University of Toledo. He lives in North Versailles with his wife Traci who is a teacher at Norwin High School.

For more information about the lacrosse team and all other school district news, visit www.norwinsd.org.

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34 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

Where do I begin How to be a smart longterm care

hopping for a Personal Care Community for a loved one can be one of the most difficult tasks to do. When faced with this, not only are you dealing with a rollercoaster of emotions, but it can also be a very confusing process. You may find yourself saying “WHERE DO I BEGIN?”. Personal Care Homes are communities which are licensed through the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare to provide assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals, managing medications, and correlating healthcare. Although not required by regulation, many homes or communities may staff a licensed nurse to oversee the healthcare needs of their residents. In the state of Pennsylvania there approximately 1,326 licensed personal care homes which are then subdivided into regions and counties. Choosing the perfect home for your loved one can be extremely overwhelming , so here are a few helpful tips when touring communities: 1. What is your First Impression? When you walk into a home for the first time you must pay close attention to your first impression. How do you feel? Were you greeted in a friendly manner? What does the community smell like? What does the community look like? No matter what time of the day you arrive you should have the same good feelings!

shopper

Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge invites you to visit us anytime. Join us for lunch and a tour and see for yourself the very real difference that quality brings! Call us at 724-863-2300. cally, mentally, and socially involved is critical to their quality of life. Also, look to see if they appear groomed and well kept. After all, the better we look the better we feel! 5. How is the Community’s Report Card? Each personal care home is required to undergo an annual inspection by the Department of Public Welfare. All results to the surveys are then posted for the public both in the community as well as on-line. Review the survey results. What were the community’s violations? Were they care related? The survey results will paint a 3.625x4.875 HR ad:Layout 1 2/6/12 5:32 PM Page 1 true picture as to how that community operates.

2. The Food Ask to see a menu, take a tour of the dinning room during a meal time, and possibly ask for a sample. Meals are major part of all of our days! 3. Staffing Take a look at the community’s staffing patterns as well as the qualifications of their staff. How many residents are currently residing there? How many direct care staff are on duty each shift? Watch the interaction between the staff and the residents as you walk through the community. 4. How Do the Residents Look? As you are touring the community, watch to see if the residents are engaged. What type of programs are they providing for their residents? Keeping physi-

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Nurturing the spirit of life

Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

1 0 0

N O R W I N P U B L I C L I B R A R Y 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 g 7 2 4 . 8 6 3 . 4 7 0 0

Summer Reading 2012 Everyone loves a great dream, right? With this year’s Summer Reading theme of DREAM BIG … READ!, we are hoping to learn not only about the night sky, but also nighttime animals and meet with people who are living their own personal dreams. We encourage you to make the library part of your summer routine. Many studies have shown that reading over the summer prevents “summer reading loss.” Summer reading loss is cumulative. It builds up. Children don’t have the opportunity to “catch up” in fall because the other children are already moving ahead with their skills. By the end of 6th grade, children who lose reading skills over the summer are two years behind their classmates. Summer is the perfect opportunity to let your kids select their own reading materials. Self-selection of reading materials is an extremely important factor in motivating struggling readers. Maybe it’s a graphic novel, or even a magazine. Maybe they’d prefer to listen to a book on tape or to download a title using our downloadable service. It’s still reading, and they are

36 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

much more likely to stick with a book or reading materials they have personally selected. Children who see their parents and families reading are much more likely to model that behavior, so pick up a book yourself! Or read something together; maybe you read a chapter aloud, and then have your child read you the following chapter. Free, voluntary reading is essential to helping students become better readers, writers, and spellers. Eight out of 10 studies indicate students who read recreationally outperformed those who don’t. Students read more when they can choose materials based on their own interests. So let THEM choose! And why not round out the experience by joining your kids at the library to check out a book for yourself, let the kids choose a few books and attend a program? Every summer, we host over 20 programs devoted to our Summer Reading theme. This year we will be hosting Mad Science of Pittsburgh, the Animal Rescue League, the Carnegie Science Center, Stage Right, a specialist on the moon and a magician. Add a live pig, some lively music and a few other fun programs, and our summer lineup looks out of this world!! Stop by today to pick up a schedule and visit our website for more information. Start dreaming big and READ!

Amazing care is right around the corner.

The Hospital at The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh provides pediatric rehabilitation to children, adolescents and young adults who have experienced an illness, injury or developmental delay that impacts their daily functioning at home, school or in their recreational lives. We’re committed to offering high-quality outpatient services in locations that are easily accessible to patients and their families.

Outpatient services include: • Evaluations

• Therapies for Activities of Daily Living

• Speech and Language Therapy

• Functional Feeding

• Sports Medicine

• Torticollis Treatment

• Concussion Management • Autism Treatment

• Therapies for Developmental Delays • Orthopedic Care

• Equipment and Adaptations

• Pain Rehabilitation

• Assistive Technology

• Treatment for Sensory Processing Disorders

• Aquatics

For your convenience, we offer outpatient therapy services at all of our locations. Squirrel Hill • Bridgeville • Norwin Hills • Wexford

www.amazingkids.org • 412.420.2400 Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

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BY HEATHER HOLTSCHLAG

For more information about her classes, instruction or how to introduce dogs and babies, visit Penny Layne’s website at www.myauntpenny.com, call 724.515.7790, or email info@myauntpenny.com.

38 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

& BABIES BA IES A Nurtured Relationship T

he key to any loving, caring relationship may be to give it time to grow and develop, to cautiously allow it room to breathe and blossom. Such is the case of relationships between dogs and babies, yet this is just the beginning, as there is much more to know about how to commence this relationship before a couple even brings their newborn home from the hospital. “[One of] the biggest issues facing new parents is how to introduce their dog to the new baby when they come home from the hospital. What they need to remember is that adult awake supervision is always needed with dogs and babies, and babies can NEVER be left alone with dogs, not even for a minute,” said Penny Layne, a certified professional dog trainer and licensed expert presenter for the International Dogs and Storks Program and the National Dog and Baby Connection Program, and owner of Aunt Penny’s pet sitting and dog training in Irwin. According to Layne, there are several things that the parents can do to help foster the relationship between the dog and baby, even before they bring their baby home. These include getting to know their dog’s senses and body language, decreasing attention-seeking behaviors, firming up basic manners and beginning the management of new routines. “The relationship between a dog and a baby is just like any other relationship and should be done gradually with adult supervision,” Layne advised. “Every dog is different, but all dogs need adult supervision, and each family should evaluate, with a professional, the needs of the individual dog.” Just like parents need to prepare for the arrival of their newborn, so do dogs. Layne advises that parents engage in role playing with their dog using a baby doll, or play a CD of baby sounds such as “Preparing Fido,” to try to desensitize the dog. “Parents also should introduce the baby equipment to the dog and reward all calm behaviors and prepare where the dog will be while changing a diaper, feeding the baby or while the baby is sleeping,” she said. “In addition, parents can work on implementing management success stations such as crates, gates and tethers that will help include the dog in the baby’s life. Above all, remember that the dog will need time to bond with the baby.” To help ease parents’ concerns, there are some things that they can keep in mind when preparing for the big day. For starters, Layne advised that dogs do NOT need to lick the baby, nor should parents place the baby’s carrier on the floor for the dog to see. “Dogs would prefer to check out the baby from a distance, in a safe area,” Layne explained. “We suggest that the baby is brought in the house in the car seat or carrier, then the carrier can be placed in the LOCKED position in the center of a dining room table with the chairs pushed in. Mom can sit in a chair at the table, and the dog can greet Mom and smell the baby safely from a distance. “Once the greeting is over, Mom or Dad can lift the baby from the car seat or carrier and go to another room. They will be able to have

the dog in the same room with them as long as the dog is on a tether, behind a gate, or in a crate while it goes through the bonding stage,” she said. “The dog can be given a special treat, such as a KONG toy stuffed with peanut butter to keep the dog busy and help with his positive emotions about the baby.” According to Layne, with these proper management tools in place and some parental education, most dogs will learn to acclimate, habituate and bond with the baby. Also, using the doll in role play and the CD for desensitization will help the dog to be less nervous. “Implementing the crate, gates and tethers in ideal spots will allow parents to include the dog in their baby’s life.” Layne suggested that 100 percent of newborn dog bites are preventable, though there is a strong need for Pittsburgh hospitals to offer parental education classes on introducing dog and baby during their prenatal programs. “We can reach the most parents and help make their efforts most successful through the hospitals,” she noted. To help ease the introduction process between dog and baby, Layne offers a variety of classes for parents, their baby and dog. The Dogs and Storks class takes place at Penn Trafford High School, Westmoreland Community College and her training room in Irwin. The audience for these classes is expecting parents, adopting families, grandparents and babysitters. Layne also offers group classes with just parents and private consults for parents, children and dogs at the parents’ homes, during which she focuses on the dog’s needs. She also offers custom suggestions for the family’s routine and that of the family members. The group classes are two hours, and the cost is set by the hosting facilities but averages around $40. The private consults also are two hours and average about $160, depending on location and other custom needs. “Parents can sign up for a Dogs and Storks class and can then sign up for the Dog and Baby Connection class, which includes children ages 4 months to 3 years,” Layne suggested. “We also offer parent webinars and continued support. Parents also can visit our website to view a FREE webinar on how to introduce dog and baby. We want to get all parents off on the ‘right paw.’” Layne also offers free class vouchers for local veterinary hospitals to give to needy families. She educates the staff at the hospitals on dogs and babies and how to handle fearful dogs. There is no charge for the veterinarians to have Layne train their staff. She also provides education and trainings to local doggie day care programs, pet stores and boarding facilities. Norwin | Summer 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

The Norwin

Chamber of Commerce The Norwin Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to our community and is always looking for ways to support continuing education. SCHOLARSHIP #1: NORWIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EDUCATION FOUNDATION – The Foundation awards one $2,500.00 scholarship each year to a Norwin Senior. The senior and their parents are honored at the Chamber’s Norwin Networking Luncheon in June. The Foundation is funded by the sales of an annual Lottery Calendar which the Chamber sells each year from October to March. Norwin Chamber members and local businesses from the community advertise on the calendar. SCHOLARSHIP #2: A $2,500.00 scholarship is awarded each year to a child or grandchild of a Norwin Chamber of Commerce member or an employee of a Norwin Chamber of Commerce member. The scholarship is awarded to a high school senior and there is no stipulation on the school district that the child attends. Funds for this scholarship also come from the sale of the annual Lottery Calendar mentioned above.

SCHOLARSHIP #3: New this year, the Norwin Chamber of Commerce will be awarding two $250.00 scholarships to members of the Norwin Chamber of Commerce. We understand that our members want to continue their education, attend conferences related to their business or must maintain certifications for their particular careers. These $250.00 scholarships will help members to defray the cost of attending these continuing education endeavors. UPCOMING EVENTS: June 1, 2012 Annual Norwin Chamber Golf Outing at The Madison Club June 28, 2012 Norwin Chamber Spirit Night at Chick-fil-A Greengate Centre August 1, 2012 80th Annual Norwin Community Picnic at Idlewild

What Are Members Saying About Their Norwin Chamber of Commerce Membership Investment? “The Norwin Chamber has assisted me with growing my business, by providing great seminars that are applicable to my business and as a result I grew more than I expected in my first year. It has allowed me to explore avenues to market that I would not have considered, build business and personal relationships. It also provides a great place of sharing ideas at C.A.R.E. and listening and learning from other business owners! Thank you Norwin Chamber and its members for all you do and helping each other to grow!” –TINA MCHUGH, Enchanted Destinations

RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS

Grandview Nurseries New Location Ribbon Cutting

40 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin Chamber Member of the Year Award – Gus Slack of AccountingTechs, Inc.

Norwin

NEW

Website Addition

Is your organization looking for a speaker on a particular topic to present at your next event? Would you like someone to educate your staff and employees on a certain area of expertise? Visit WWW.NORWINCHAMBER.COM and check out our Speaker’s Bureau page. Our members have expertise in a variety of topics and have experience in speaking to groups. They have a wealth of knowledge to share and will speak to your group for a reasonable fee or sometimes even for free.

Norwin Chamber Community Volunteer of the Year Award – Kelly Fennessy

Vargo’s Hallmark New Location Ribbon Cutting

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