IN Norwin by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2010

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Norwin Rotary to Help Fill Up Kids this Season and Beyond ALSO INSIDE:

Norwin School District Information

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This managed care plan may not cover all your health care expenses. Read your contract carefully to determine which health care services are covered. If you have questions, call Member Services at 1-888-876-2756.

Contents Norwin | WINTER 2010 |

12/13/10 11:18 AM Page 1

W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

Publisher’s Message COMMUNITY INTEREST

page 2

25 13 |

2 |

Local Benefit for Helping Hands Foundation | 3

Norwin School District

Health and Wellness News You Can Use | 13

Norwin Chamber of Commerce

Over 60 years of Business and Community Development | 28 Cover Story:

Norwin Rotary

Helping Hunger-Struck Students with the Backpack Project | 30 INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Dr. Sabatini Family Dentistry

Are you embarrassed by your smile? | 33

ON THE COVER

The Difference a Number Can Make Colonoscopy The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5

Vangura Teams with Hines Ward

UPMC Today

The First Line of Defense Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3

Norwin Rotary Backpack Project volunteers ensure that no local students go hungry.

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

Meet Our Physicians

WINTER 2010 Welcome to our winter issue! At this time of year, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for taking that journey with us that was 2010. This year was one full of blessings for Community Magazines, as we’ve grown to serve 32 communities throughout Western Pennsylvania. While it’s been a challenge for us, it was one that we met head-on, and with great success. For that, I would like to thank my staff. I’d also like to thank two other groups who make this magazine what it is—you, our readers, and our advertisers. Firstly, it’s our readers who help shape this magazine into what you see in your hands right now. Those of you who took the time to call, e-mail or write in with your ideas and events are the ones who set our table of contents. We pride ourselves on the fact that we listen to you and your ideas because, in the end, this is your community and you know it best. So I continue to encourage you to send in your ideas to our editor at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. Secondly, to our advertisers, I thank you for your continued support of Community Magazines. I’ve heard from so many of you that advertising with us is working for you, and I’m proud that our magazines are a great vehicle for you. But what is also important is that by advertising with us, you’re also supporting your community. You’re giving those who read these magazines the content that they enjoy and look forward to each issue. Because of you, our readers can be entertained and informed. So, readers, in this last issue before 2011, I urge you to take a second or third glance at the advertisers who support your community magazine before you make your holiday gift lists. If you like this magazine, let them know, and make a point to stop in their businesses. They’re not just trying to sell you something, they’re also your neighbors and community sponsors. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and the best that 2011 has to offer!

Wayne Dollard Publisher As the holiday season approaches, I hope you’ll step away from the list making and cookie baking for just a few minutes to enjoy the information we have compiled for this edition of Norwin. As always, our goal is to offer a bit of insight into the community. Some of our most interesting features focus on residents and their passion in all things “community.” As you are going through your busy days (and holiday parties) please don’t forget to let us know about any person or organization who you feel would be interesting for us to feature. We get some of our best story ideas and are so inspired by our readers! The amount of good will and charitable activity that seems to flow from the Norwin community is amazing and awesome. From all of us at Community Magazines, we hope your holiday will be filled with a good dose of of peace and a little bit of joy, and that you’re surrounded by the love and companionship of those who mean the most to you.

IN Norwin is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Norwin Area School District 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. PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Jonathan Barnes Kelli McElhinny Pamela Palongue GRAPHIC DESIGN

Michael Andrulonis Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Bill Ivins Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Rebecca Bailey Garyyonphotography.com One Way Street Productions A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Nicholas Buzzell David Mitchell Brian Daley Tamara Myers Gina D’Alicandro Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Robert Ojeda Rose Estes Annette Petrone Beatriz Harrison Tara Reis Jason Huffman Vincent Sabatini Jessie Jones Michael Silvert Connie McDaniel RJ Vighetti Brian McKee This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2010. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

Spring content deadline:1/21 Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor 2 724.942.0940 to advertise

Norwin

www.incommunitymagazines.com

Vangura Teams Up With Hines Ward Steelers fans came together for the ultimate “tailgate” party at Vangura Surfacing Product’s showroom in North Huntingdon. It was a fun, casual evening of games and prizes including lots of autographed Steelers memorabilia, giveaways, great music, loads of delicious tailgate food and refreshments. And, everyone got a chance to meet one of the all-time greatest wide receivers — Hines Ward! This event also served as an Open House for guests to tour Vangura’s awesome showrooms including their new granite “Quarry,” which is considered to be one of the world's largest and most unique granite displays. It was a fabulous fashion show of countertops!

Renee Schaper, Melissa Codol, Ashley Gapinski

The evening came to a close as Etta Cox treated guests to jazzy holiday tunes as they left for home. A perfect ending to great night out! Locally-owned Vangura is a supporter of Hines’ charity, the Hines Ward Helping Hands Foundation. Raised in a single-parent home and understanding many of the difficulties these children face, his foundation is all about helping kids! The charity promotes literacy and provides programs and services to help inner-city and underprivileged children succeed in life. Born in Seoul, South Korea, to a Korean mother and an African American soldier, Hines devotes much time and resources to the struggle to end biracial discrimination both in the U.S. and South Korea. For more information on Hines Ward’s Helping Hands Foundation, visit www.hinesward.com/helping-hands-foundation.php.

Rhonda & Russell Snoznik Hines Ward

Paulette Harrison with her brother, host Ed Vangura

Fall Events Scheduled for Downtown Irwin

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

281 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania 15642 | 724.861.3000 | www.norwinsd.org

The Norwin School District Center for 21st Century Learners This isn’t your ordinary online learning center--it’s learning for the 21st Century, and students don’t have to take all classes online. The Center for 21st Century Learners at Norwin School District is an initiative slated to begin in the 2011-2012 school year for students entering grades 7-12. It will provide students with a blend of online learning and on-site coursework, along with the opportunity to participate in all Middle and High School activities. The goal is to bring flexibility and options to Norwin students, while building necessary 21st Century skills for success. Students who participate will enjoy all the benefits of being a Norwin student, including earning a Norwin School District diploma and walking in graduation ceremonies, while receiving a customized, student-centered education that meets their educational and social needs. The Center acknowledges that the traditional bricks-and-mortar school may not be the best option for all children at given points in their lives. Blending learning options will provide students and families with a choice in the academic schedule and activities in which they participate. For some students, taking all coursework online may be the best option, but for others, attending some classes on campus as well as online may work best. Students will be able to choose from math, science, social studies, English, world languages, and a myriad of electives. Each course will integrate the use of different multimedia tools designed to engage students in the course content, as well as with their peers. This way, students will build critical social skills. All courses offered will be taught by Pennsylvania-certified teachers from Norwin and surrounding school districts in Westmoreland County, as necessary, who have received comprehensive training in the best practices for online teaching and learning. The Center is part of a consortium, which means students will have the option of taking a wide range of online courses in all areas of the curriculum, with the option to use extended-hour computer labs on campus. Students can take advantage of blended learning opportunities like advanced placement courses, the College in High School program, vocational-technical programs, dual enrollment programs, and career and college planning programs. If you would like additional information about the Center for 21st Century Learners, you can contact Dr. Tracy McNelly, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education at 724-861-3022.

Norwin

District May Save $2.9 Million Through Bond Refinancing Refinancing the bond issue that paid for renovations to Norwin High School and construction of Sunset Valley Elementary School could save Norwin School District as much as $2.9 million over two years. The actual amount saved would depend on interest rates in effect when the District decides to do the refinancing, which cannot occur before January 4, 2011. The original amount the District borrowed to complete the projects was $45 million, collected through a 30-year bond issue in 2000. The interest rate was originally 6.03 percent. In 2001, the District took advantage of lower interest rates and refinanced the 2000 bond. The interest rates have dropped even lower, to about 3.3 percent, according to a November estimate from the District’s financial adviser, Public Financial Management. Currently, the District pays $6.7 million each year in debt service for all outstanding bond issues. That could decrease to $5.2 million in the 2010-11 year and $3.8 million in the 2011-12 year if the District were to sell the 2001 bond and receive a 3.3 percent interest rate. “Because the interest rates are so much lower now than they were in 2001, the potential savings to the District could be as much as $2.9 million,” says Business Manager John Wilson, “It's like we’d be reducing our mortgage payment by 7 percent over the life of this issue.” Starting in the 2012-2013 school year, the debt service payment would increase back to $6.7 million per year. For that reason, Mr. Wilson cautioned that this potential savings would only be “one-time” money. Superintendent Dr. William Kerr noted that Norwin School District continues to have second-lowest tax rate out of the 17 school districts in Westmoreland County. “Through prudent fiscal management, the Norwin School District Administration expects to continue to streamline operations and maximize delivery of instructional services, striking a balance between what’s best for students educationally, and what is fiscally responsible for taxpayers,” says Superintendent Dr. William Kerr. “The priority goal is to reallocate human and financial resources to meet the changing needs of the School District.” Norwin School District’s annual operating budget is approximately $58.4 million.

Norwin Board of School Directors Front Row (left to right): Del P. Nolfi, Jr.; Becky A. Gediminskas; Barbara A. Viola; Ronald R. Giuliana; Dennis J. Rittenhouse Back Row (left to right): Jerry O’Donnell; Donald W. Rhodes, Jr.; Robert J. Perkins, President; Thomas J. Sturm, Vice President

Norwin School District May Save Millions Through Energy Program

FAST Facts WESTMORELAND COUNTY SCHOOLS MILLAGE COMPARISON

Energy Manager to Encourage Energy-Saving Habits

RANK RANK 2010-2011 2009-2010

SCHOOL DISTRICT

MILLAGE 2010-2011

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

1 2 3 4 7 5 8 6 14 10 11 9 12 13 14

Franklin Regional Burrell Kiski Jeannette Greensburg Salem Yough Mt. Pleasant Derry Greater Latrobe Penn Trafford Belle Vernon New Kensington-Arnold Hempfield Southmoreland Ligonier

84.68 83.50 82.41 80.04 76.34 75.60 75.38 74.50 73.50 73.25 72.93 71.90 70.15 69.40 69.00

Norwin

65.80 *

Monessen

65.20

*Does not include 1.2 mills designated for Norwin Public Library approved by public referendum and collected by Norwin School District

2011 Graduate Plans 4-Year College 2-Year College Armed Forces Other Employment

26% 7% 2% 7%

58%

Norwin School District has embarked upon a new energy-saving venture designed to reduce energy consumption by 20 to 30 percent, which could save the district a total of $3.9 million during the next ten years. The District has entered into an agreement with Energy Education, Inc., of Wichita Falls, Texas, which has a 24-year record of helping school districts save money through sound energy management. Their strategy is to use a locally based Energy Manager (EM) who can encourage people to change their energy habits for long-term benefits. The EM will survey classrooms, halls, kitchens, athletic facilities and boiler rooms of the District’s buildings, mostly after hours and on weekends, looking to improve energy efficiency for an optimum school environment. In this regard, he or she will work with school principals, maintenance personnel, custodians and teachers to encourage changes which, multiplied over all district buildings, could save substantial money. The energy manager is expected to be named in the near future. The program uses third-party energy accounting software to track savings in lighting, heating, cooling, mechanical and appliance systems and other areas. The software helps the EM analyze energy use and identify further savings opportunities. The program also encourages keeping tabs on the District’s utility bills and looking for energy rebate programs. After costs of the program are considered, the company projects that Norwin School District could potentially save a total of $3.9 million during the next ten years -- money that would otherwise be paid to utility companies. Norwin School District’s contract with Energy Education guarantees t hat the District will save at least the cost of the program or the company will reimburse the District for the difference, so there’s no possible loss to the District. Superintendent William Kerr said the energy savings will keep more dollars in the classroom for textbooks, software and other instructional materials that directly benefit students.

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

News You Can Use

BIG

Things Happening for the Norwin High School Band Program

50th Anniversary of the Norwin band Festival

Music For All - Bands of America Regional Championship

September 18, 2010 marked the 50th Anniversary of the Norwin Band Festival. An ensemble made up of almost 100 Norwin Band alumni performed signature Norwin melodies including: Simple Gifts, When You Wish Upon a Star, Salvation, and Nobody Does it Better. Alumni ranged from the class of 1966 all the way up to 2010, including several members of the 1982 Grand National Champion Band. The band was led on the field by former Drum Majors Bethany Hardy (2005) and Chuck Siegel (1968).

Norwin School District recently hosted the Music for All – Bands of America Regional Championship. On September 25, 2010, Dr. William Kerr, Superintendent of Schools, had the pleasure of welcoming a crowd of participants that included Norwin School Board Directors, administrators, faculty, the Norwin Marching Band, the Norwin Band Boosters and Alumni, and members of the community in hosting the event at Norwin Stadium. Dr. Kerr noted, “The Norwin School District is a national model for supporting and advancing music education and the arts. It is an allegiance based on tradition and community pride and a commitment to academic excellence and music education and the arts.”

Percussion Ensemble chosen to perform at National Conference The Norwin Percussion Ensemble was selected via a CD audition to perform at the Music Educators National Conference All-Eastern Convention. The convention will take place in early April in Baltimore, Maryland. This is the first group from the Norwin School District to ever be selected to perform at this prestigious event. The directors, students and the entire Norwin Band program would like to thank the administration, teachers and community for all their support. The Percussion Ensemble is honored and proud to represent such an outstanding school district that strives for excellence every day. Directors: Mrs. Kimberly Glover and Mr. Greg Cicco.

Wind Ensemble to Perform at YSU The Norwin High School Wind Ensemble has been selected to perform at the annual Youngstown State University Wind & Percussion Day in Youngstown Ohio on Friday, February 25, 2011. Each year, one western Pennsylvania band is selected to perform at this event. Students will have the opportunity to work with the Dana School of Music applied faculty during the day and perform in Stambaugh Auditorium for that evening’s concert alongside Liberty High School Band from Ohio and The Youngstown State University Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

Congratulations to the Norwin Marching Band!

Pictured here from left to right are (front row) Alexi Frederick, Steve Daniels, and Alexa Kostelnic (middle row) Eric McDonald, Johnny Murray, Maura Ziemski, Nick Cirucci, Ed Calhoun, Kevin Bartuska, and Louis Veitz (back row) Melissa Hensler, Randy Roycroft, Eileen Kane, Brooke Urban, Kayla Ihrig, Jill Fanty, Jenna Bucklew, Tim McKinney, and Breanne Hartos. 6

Norwin

Field leaders, section leaders, and officers of the band are shown here with their newly awarded trophies and medals. This season, the band participated in three regional competitions where they competed against bands from Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky and Pennsylvania. Norwin was awarded first place in their class in the North Huntingdon Bands of America Regional (BOA) Competition and was recognized as having the best music performance, best visual performance, and the best general effect in their class. The band captured second place overall and best visual performance overall. Norwin was awarded first place and best general effect in their class in the University of Akron BOA Regional Competition and third place overall. Norwin placed third in their class at the Indianapolis Regional, taking the best visual caption. They placed seventh overall at one of the most competitive events in recent years.

Veterans Norwin Trails Expanding Day Salute Norwin School District students learned about Veterans Day and veterans’ sacrifices for the United States in a series of educational lessons presented Thursday, November 11, 2010. In many schools, veterans visited and were recognized by the students and staff. It was a stirring, emotional tribute to those who have served their country. All Norwin schools participated.

Left: Hillcrest Intermediate School students and World War II veterans share a moment together. Front row, L-R: Students Sierra Wilson, Kayla Williams, Lauren Kachman, Jeremy Bass, Jessica Stolinski, Abigail Mayhue. Back row: Julius Dolney, Cliff Beirne, Jerry Parisi, Paul Stolinski, Robert Haber, and Principal Rosemarie Dvorchak.

The Tinkers Run Outdoor Education Trails are an ongoing development of trail improvements, trail expansions and numbered information stations between Norwin Middle School and Tinkers Run Park. “About four years ago, a committee was formed within the District to plan the creation of trails for environmental study, historical study, fitness and recreation,” says Dr. Jack Boylan, President of the Norwin School District Community Foundation. The committee partnered with North Huntingdon Township to make this dream a reality. “Four volunteers cut the first trail,” says Boylan, “and local boy scouts completed projects to help grow the trail system.” In addition, the Walking Trail Project, completed by Eagle Scout and grade 11 student Kevin Duncan, created three separate walking paths, each of which starts in front of Norwin Knight Stadium to provide varying paths of length and difficulty. “Kevin saw a need for those who walk on our campus to know how far they walk and to have options for those who prefer a change of pace and scenery from time to time,” adds Boylan. Duncan was not the only Norwin High School student who completed his Eagle Scout Project on and around the Norwin Campus. The trails have fostered four young men on their way to earning the rank of Eagle, including David Major (bridge construction), Ben McCormick (limited mobility trail), Donald Rhodes (construction of trail-end signs), and Carl Kurinko (installation of fitness equipment). Corey Henderson (development of Hahntown extension and placing of posts) and David Minnicks (development of the west end trail) have completed their projects and are in the process of completing the final requirements to earn their Eagle Badges. Informational stations are located along the main trail through the use of numbered posts. Using either the environmental brochure or the historical brochure, interested persons can use these stations to become more informed and aware of the area from an environmental or historical perspective. Each brochure can be found in the trail end signs or obtained by visiting the Norwin School District Web site at www.norwinsd.org under “Information.”

These trails were made possible by two EITC (Educational Improvement Tax Credit) grants totaling $19,500 from The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County through donations from Irwin Bank and a partnership between North Huntingdon Township and Norwin School District. The Outdoor Fitness Center was funded through a $9,500 EITC Grant from The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County and S & T Bank. The Norwin Historical Society was also a valuable contributor to the trail project.

Aerial view of the Norwim Campus Walking Trails.

Kevin Duncan stands in front of the new trail map.

David Minnicks

Corey Henderson

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Schools and Administration Norwin High School 251 McMahon Drive North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3005 Principal: Edward J. Federinko, Ed.D.

Norwin Middle School 10870 Mockingbird Drive North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3010 Principal: Robert A. Suman

Hillcrest Intermediate School 11091 Mockingbird Drive North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3015 Principal: Rosemarie V. Dvorchak

Hahntown Elementary School 791 Entry Road North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3020 Principal: Daryl R. Clair Sheridan Terrace Elementary School 1219 Morris Avenue North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3025 Principal: M. Joanne Elder, Ed.D. Stewartsville Elementary School 101 Carpenter Lane North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3030 Principal: Doreen H. Harris Sunset Valley Elementary School 11605 Dickens Drive North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3035 Principal: Natalie A. McCracken

Norwin School District Administrative Offices 281 McMahon Drive North Huntingdon, PA 15642 724.861.3000

Norwin

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION Superintendent: William H. Kerr, Ed.D 724.861.3039 Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education: Mary Anne Hazer, Ed.D. 724.861.3021 Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education: Tracy A. McNelly, D.Ed. 724.861.3022 Director of Pupil Services and Special Programs: Maggie F. Zimmer 724.861.3037 Director of Human Resources: Thomas H. Wrobleski 724.861.3029

ONLINE PAYMENTS FOR FOOD SERVICE As a convenience to parents, the Norwin School District now provides parents an easy way to add money to their child’s food service account. Online payments can be made through the Skyward Family Access parent portal. Parents will be charged a fee of $1.75 per transaction to offset the District’s cost. We have contracted with RevTrak, a national credit card payment processor, to provide a secure site for making payments. If you have not already done so, you can sign up for Skyward Family Access by visiting the Norwin web site at www.norwinsd.org. Online Payments Are Easy and Convenient!

Parents can make online payments from home or work 24/7. If your child’s food service balance is low, it only takes a few minutes to add money using your VISA or MasterCard credit or debit card. Payments are made through the student’s Skyward Family Access account.

Board Secretary/Business Manager: John H. Wilson 724.861.3033

To make online payments:

Director of Student Activities/Transportation: J. Randall Rovesti 724.861.3006

• Log in to Skyward Family Access (you will need your Parent Login and Password)

Tax Office Supervisor: Barbara Lyman 724.861.3004 Coordinator of School and Community Relations: Jonathan Szish 724.861.3000 ext. 1150

Notes:

x Office hool District Ta The Norwin Sc 2010 December 24, will be closed se use ea y 2, 2011. Pl through Januar left of e th to x located the drop off bo t is ip ce re a If nce. Tax Office entra lfenclose a se needed, please ped envelope. am st addressed

Additional school district information may be obtained by visiting the Norwin website at www.norwinsd.org.

• Visit https://student.norwinsd.org • Click on the “Parents & Families” tab and scroll down to Skyward Family Access

• Use your VISA or MasterCard (credit or debit)–card number & expiration date required Payments made through Skyward Family Access will immediately be posted to the student’s food service account. Please call the Food Service Department at 724-861-3038 if you have any questions.

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

In Our Schools

UNDERSTANDING BY DESIGN

PINWHEELS for PEACE

On August 19, 2010, all teachers from grades 7-12 participated in training in Understanding by Design, a new professional development initiative for teachers this year in the Norwin School District. Understanding by Design is a framework for planning curriculum, instruction, and assessment to improve student achievement. It emphasizes the teacher’s role as a designer of student learning. Understanding by Design works within the standards-driven curriculum to help teachers clarify learning goals, devise assessments of student understanding, and craft effective and engaging learning activities. Understanding by Design is based on some of the following key ideas: • A primary goal of education should be to Understanding by Design – develop and deepen Three Stages student understanding of concepts. Stage Identify the desired results • Student understanding (what should students know and be able to do as a result is best revealed when of the unit, lesson, etc.) based students are provided on standards and enduring opportunities to show understandings and big ideas. understanding through complex and authentic tasks. • Collaborative unit design Stage Determine acceptable evidence among teachers helps to that demonstrates student identify agreed-upon understanding of the desired results. Through what classroom concepts that students need tasks and other assessment to master in order to gain evidence will students understanding of a subject. demonstrate learning? How

Imagine…“Whirled” Peace

Led by a team of teacher leaders who will act as professional development trainers, Norwin teachers in grades 7-12 will be learning about and using the Understanding by Design framework over the next 4 years.

will students reflect upon and self-assess their learning?

Stage

Plan learning experiences and instruction that is aligned to the desired results.

In today’s world, peace needs to become more than just a word. On September 21, 2010, the art department of Norwin High School took part in the international art and literacy project Pinwheels for Peace by “planting” pinwheels with messages of peace in front of the High School. Pinwheels for Peace is an art installation project started in 2005 by two art teachers, Ann Ayers and Ellen McMillan, of Coconut Creek, Florida, as a way for students to express their feelings about what’s going on in the world and in their lives. In the first year, groups in over 1,325 locations throughout the world were spinning pinwheels on September 21st - there were approximately 500,000 pinwheels spinning throughout the world. In 2009, over 3 million pinwheels were spinning in over 3,000 locations, including the United States, Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada, the Middle East, Africa and South America. Locally, Norwin art teachers Loni Anders, Christine Satterfield, and Debra Roberts coordinated the Pinwheels for Peace project this year. This project is non-political – peace doesn’t necessarily have to be associated with the conflict of war, it can be related to violence/intolerance in our daily lives, to peace of mind. To each of us, peace can take on a different meaning, but, in the end, it all comes down to a simple definition: “a state of calm and serenity, with no anxiety, the absence of violence, freedom from conflict or disagreement among people or groups of people.” The students who participate in the art program at Norwin High School created pinwheels of all shapes and sizes – as part of the creation process, the students wrote their thoughts about “war and peace / tolerance/ living in harmony with others” on one side. On the other side, they were able to draw, paint, collage, etc. to visually express their feelings. The students assembled these pinwheels and on International Day of Peace, they “planted” their pinwheels in front of the High School as a public statement and art exhibit/installation. Organizers hoped that the spinning of the pinwheels in the wind would spread thoughts and feelings about peace throughout the country and the world. For more information, go to http://www.pinwheelsforpeace.com

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Community Interest

Norwin Athletic Hall of Fame Presented by C Harper Auto Group Names 2010 Inductees Make that two-for-two. After a highly successful first year in 2009 when the Norwin School District inaugurated its Athletic Hall of Fame, a second stellar class, including former athletes, one coach, one team, and a prominent community member who served as head of the Norwin Boosters Program, has been named. Inductees, including players from both pre- and post-1958 district merger years, were honored during a dinner coinciding with Homecoming festivities in September. Inductees: Marci Bodner: In the pool and in the classroom, 1990 grad Marci Bodner epitomized the concept of student/athlete. By the numbers: 4: Bodner earned four letters as a member of the Knights swimming team and was team MVP all four seasons; 3: she was a 3-time WPIAL Champion, winning gold in the 200 IM and 100 backstroke in1989 and repeated in the 100 backstroke in 1990; 2: she was a 2-time PIAA Champion in 1990, winning state gold in the 200 IM and 100 backstroke and, in 1989 and 1990, she was a high school swimming All-American and Academic All-American at the same time. In 1990, she received Norwin’s Kass Kovalcheck Award as Best Female Athlete, and received the county-wide Judge Charles E. Marker Scholar Athlete Award. Bodner received an athletic scholarship to the University of Nebraska. Shelly Klinek: In only three seasons of varsity basketball, 1980 grad Shelly Klinek scored 1,225 points, becoming the first Norwin girls basketball player to surpass the 1,000-point plateau. On her way to being named Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Class AAA Player of the Year, she set Norwin’s single-game scoring record of 41 points (against Westinghouse), earning Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Fab Five, Pittsburgh Press Finest Five, all-section, all-district, and all-state honors. In three seasons as shortstop on the Lady Knights softball team, she was team MVP, recorded the highest batting average (.567), and was the only female to hit back-to-back homeruns in a sectional playoff game. Fred Pollier: 1960 grad Fred Pollier culminated a stellar four-year pitching career with the Knights baseball team, during which he won 18 games against only six losses, with a stunning 1-0 10

Norwin

complete game win in the 1960 WPIAL championship against Aliquippa at Forbes Field. In pitching the Knights to the only WPIAL baseball title in school history, Pollier surrendered only three hits to the Quips. In his 1960 season, Pollier, who received an athletic scholarship to Duke University and would be drafted by the New York Yankees, struck out 79 batters in 70.2 innings, compiling a brilliant 1.68 earned run average, while winning eight games against only two defeats. Heather Carrick: Three-sport star Heather Carrick earned 10 letters for the Knights in basketball, volleyball, and track. In basketball, she scored a school-career-record 1,260 points, averaging 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and four steals per game, earning all-section honors. On the volleyball court, she earned all-section, all-WPIAL (second team), and PIAA honorable mention honors, leading the Knights to WPIAL and PIAA championships. In track, she was MVP at the Westmoreland County meet, and the top county point scorer in 1988 and 1999. She was the county 400-meters champion and took second-place honors in the 100- and 200meters events. As a freshman, her fifth-place showing in the high jump earned her a trip to the PIAA championships.

Coach Richard Polczynski: In 13 seasons as Norwin’s head boys basketball coach, Rich Polczynski led the Knights to six section titles. In those six seasons 1976, 1977, 1978, 1981, 1986 and 1988 – he was also named section Coach of the Year. Pole’s 1986 team copped the WPIAL title with a perfect 25-0 record. Pole led the Knights to a second WPIAL title two seasons later. His overall record was a stunning 238 – 102, as he won 70 percent of the games he coached. In 1977, his Knights finished fourth in the PIAA championships. He was selected to coach in the Pittsburgh Dapper Dan Roundball Classic in 1977. 1963 Norwin High School Boys Basketball Team: Unlike any other team in Norwin history, the 1963 boys basketball team literally put Norwin on the map. Led by Big John Naponick, an inductee in Norwin’s initial Athletic Hall of Fame Class in 2009, Norwin grabbed the WPIAL title with a 69-64 victory over Aliquippa at the Civic (now Mellon) Arena. That WPIAL title was the first for a Norwin basketball team since the 1958 merger. A mere mention of “Big John,” who scored 33 points and hauled in 21 rebounds in defeating the Quips, and basketball fans throughout the state knew Norwin was on the move. After winning the WPIAL title, Norwin, led by coach Lyman Stough (a 2009 Hall of Fame inductee), and assistant coach Frank Markosky, fell to Plymouth-Whitemarsh by a 74-54 score in the PIAA championship game. Norwin finished the season with a 24-4 record. Team members were John Naponick, Jack Gibson, Jay Resetar, Bruce Thomas, Steve Slotnick, Bill Bennett, Jack Obruba, Marty Gaskell, Chuck Mann, Ron Diehl, John Onderisn, Rod Ruby. John Danchik and Herbert “Herky” Holder served as team managers.

Contributor: Ken Tray: If any community organization was responsible for the success of Norwin athletics, it was the Norwin Boosters Club, led by Ken Tray, of Irwin, who served as the organization’s president for 17 years. Employed as a drill press operator at the Westinghouse Airbrake Company, Tray also served as a member of the Norwin School Board for eight years and as mayor of Irwin for 12 years. Known for his tireless efforts with the Boosters and in his political endeavors, Tray, instrumental in the construction of the high school weight room, passed away in 1986.“Ken Tray was the Boosters Club,” said Ron Peduzzi, Norwin High School principal from 1971-1996 and a Norwin Athletic Hall of Fame inductee in 2009. “Others played a significant role in the organization, but he was the Boosters Club. As a member of the school board, he always supported not just Norwin athletics, but the entire school system. Ken was also a great family man and member of the Marine Corps, a patriot who served as a radio operator on Okinawa in World War II. He was community minded in every way, as mayor of Irwin, president of the school board and president of the Boosters. It is an awesome honor that he has been selected as the contributor inductee this year.” Peduzzi, instrumental in nominating Tray as the contributor inductee, recalls the time the Norwin Baseball Team was in need of warmup jackets. “Ken Tray and the Boosters provided those jackets for the players,” added Peduzzi, who was hired as principal when Tray was a member of the board. “Ken was a great individual in every way.” Tom Shirley, retired Norwin teacher and baseball and cross country coach, recalls that “Mr. Tray led the Boosters in organizing yearly athletic banquets and providing jackets for the letterwinners. The Boosters awarded trophies and other awards to team MVPs and Hustlers, and offered assistance to coaches regarding clinic attendance and/or equipment. As a member of the Board of Education, he was always supportive and fair.”

Pre-1958 players: Robert “Bottles” Cervi: Irwin High School. Cervi, who ranks eighth in Irwin High School career scoring with 619 points, received all-section, all-county, and All-WPIAL honors, and was a second team all-state selection. In his junior and senior years, Irwin was section, WPIAL, and PIAA champions. Don “Pickles” Good: Irwin High School, Class of 1954. Irwin’s seventh all-time leading scorer with 704 points, Good earned all-section, all-county, where he was named Most Valuable Player, All-WPIAL, and first team all-state honors as a junior. Irwin concluded the season as section, WPIAL, and PIAA champions that year. As a senior, he again received all-section, All-WPIAL, all-PIAA honors as Irwin repeated as section, WPIAL, and PIAA champions. Colin “Fish” Norberg: Irwin High School, Class of 1954. Ranked second in Irwin High School scoring history with 885 career points, Norberg was an all-section, all-county, and All-WPIAL selection as a junior. As a senior, he was all-section, All-WPIAL, and a second-team all-state selection. A teammate of Good, Norberg was a member of back-to-back section, WPIAL, and PIAA championship teams.

Lloyd “Simmie” Simpson: Irwin High School, Class of 1955. With 1,110 career points, Simpson ranks as Irwin High School’s all-time leading scorer. In 1955, he was named to the allsection team, All-WPIAL first team, All-PIAA second team, and was named Player of the Year by the Pittsburgh SunTelegraph. Simmie was a member of three section, two WPIAL (1953, 1954), and two PIAA (1953, 1954) championship teams. 1953 Irwin High School Basketball Team: En route to a 33-1 record, the 1953 Irwin High School Basketball Team finished the season as section, county, WPIAL and PIAA champions. Under the leadership of coach Joe McMunn, Irwin’s Black Knights capped their run to the WPIAL championship with a thrilling 71-70 victory over Wampum, led by future University of Pittsburgh All-American Don Hennon. In the PIAA final, Irwin defeated Ashley, 73-51. Leading the way for the 1953 Knights were four starters who ended their careers as four of the top 10 scorers in school history: Lloyd “Simmie” Simpson (first with 1,110 career points), Collin Norberg (second, 885 points), Chuck Hursh (third, 813 points), and Don Good (seventh, 704 points). Additional team members were George Gongaware, Jay McFarland, Chuck Patton, Edward Plues, Mike Shea, John Waugaman. Serving as team managers were Jack Bowers and Larry Milburn.

Rich Polczynski with his son, Drew.

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

General Information

Business-Education-Community Program

Cassia Sakmar

Samantha DeFlitch

Lee Scandinaro

Corey Tokar

Norwin School District recognized student leaders at a Business-Education-Community Program, which was the signature event during the district’s celebration of American Education Week. Some 150 community and business leaders were invited to the District’s first Business-Education-Community Program, which was held at Norwin High School on Friday, November 19, 2010. The Norwin High School Show Choir, led by Ms. Cheryl Walter, as well as the String Ensemble, led Mr. Mike Szymanski, provided entertainment. Both Ms. Walter and Mr. Szymanski are music teachers at Norwin High School. Twelfth-grade student leaders representing Student Council, Interact Club, National Honor Society, and Show Choir spoke about their respective community service and the outreach projects that have contributed to improving the quality of life for children, youth, and families. The importance of student leadership and community service was emphasized throughout the program. This year’s theme was “Inspiring Leadership Through Community Service.” Class officers were recognized at the program, and the student speakers were: • Ms. Cassia L. Sakmar, representing Show Choir. She is the daughter of Lori and Andrew Sakmar. She is Show Choir president, newspaper senior editor, theater club vice president, and a member of yearbook staff, Spanish club, National Honor Society, chorus and International Thespian Society. • Ms. Samantha A. DeFlitch, representing National Honor Society. She is the daughter of Constance and Michael DeFlitch. She is a co-captain of the field hockey team, president of the National Forensics League, and member of National Honor Society, Quiz Team, Student Council, and Health and Wellness Committee. She is also a tour guide for Ft. Necessity National Battlefield, a trip leader for Venture Outdoors, and a volunteer for St. Agnes Church.

• Mr. Lee A. Scandinaro, representing Student Council. He is the son of Tom and Kathy Scandinaro. He serves as vice president of Student Council, president of Select Choir, and is a member of Show Choir, National Honor Society, Theater Club, International Thespian Society, Boy Scouts, and the Interact Club. • Mr. Corey Tokar, representing Interact Club and Students Caring About Families. He is the son of Catherine and Robert Tokar. He is a member of Interact Club; Students Concerned About Families; Family, Career and Community Leaders of America; varsity soccer team; National Honor Society; Robotics Club; and Math Team. He is a Westmoreland Suzuki piano student and also works as an employee at Greensburg Country Club. In addition, the guest speaker was Ms. Jennifer Miele, Westmoreland County Bureau Chief for WTAE-TV 4 Action News and a resident of North Huntingdon Township. Miele was born and raised in Westmoreland County, where she lives with her husband, Dr. Jason Cinti, a chiropractor in Penn Township. She has a master’s degree in politics from Virginia Tech, and an economics degree from the McKenna School of Business, Economics and Government at St. Vincent College, with a minor in communications. Also at the Business-Education-Community Program, Dr. John C. Boylan, president of the Norwin School District Community Foundation, spoke about the mission and goals of the Foundation. Additionally, Ms. Dina Denning, president of the Norwin Rotary Club, spoke about a service project which benefits district students in need. Dr. William H. Kerr, Superintendent of Schools, made closing comments. American Education Week is a national observance which was held this year from November 14-20. Nationwide, it is an initiative of the National Education Association, and it spotlights the importance of providing every child in America with a quality public education from kindergarten through college, and the need for everyone to do his or her part in making public schools great.

Parents Advisory Committee Norwin School District has formed a new Parent Advisory Committee. Membership was drawn from the Administration of Norwin School District, the President and Vice-President of organized parent groups such as Parent Teacher Association (PTA), parents of students with special needs, and parent representatives from the elementary and secondary grade levels. Back row, L-R: Kristen Rigone, Sue Knopp, Maria Doyle, Kris Horvath, Patricia McGowan, Teresa Kerestes, Dawn Albright Front row, L-R: Tracy Dean, Linda Jacob, Julee Lindberg, Michelle Manning, JoAnn Stoecklein, Vicky McClain Not pictured: Susan Condrasky, Barbara Flynn, Kelly Jerina, Laura Kochasic, Sue Schehr, Lynn Tarosky, Kim Weber, Doug Worrall. 12

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W I N T E R 2 0 1 0 -1 1

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Here’s to a Happy, Healthy Winter If winter isn’t your favorite season, look inside for some great ways to keep your health and spirits intact.

What’s Inside

page 2

The First Line of Defense Start the Year Off Right with a Visit to your Primary Care Physician

page 3

The Difference a Number Can Make Colonoscopy The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer

page 4

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

page 5

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

page 6

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready

page 7

Meet Our Physicians

The First Line of Defense Start the year off right with a visit to your primary care physician When you put together your New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget to include a visit to your primary care physician (PCP). Navigating the health care system without an established relationship with a PCP is like playing football without a coach — you may have the ball, but no one knows what to do with it. Having a primary care physician is one of the most important things you can do to ensure quality health and wellness for yourself and your family. With a PCP, you’re assured continuity of care from a doctor who knows you and sees the big picture, says David A. Harinstein, MD, an internist at UPMC McKeesport and Health First Medical Associates–UPMC in McKeesport. “We’re the first line of defense in good health. We look at the whole person, and we focus on preventing problems,” Dr. Harinstein says. “When a problem does arise, we coordinate the patient’s health care and make sure everyone is communicating.”

www.UPMC.com/Today

The important role of your PCP As your partner in health, your PCP: • knows you, your lifestyle, and your family history • provides non-emergency treatment for common medical conditions from strep throat to bacterial infections and simple viruses • maintains your health records • focuses on preventive care • screens for diseases or conditions that may not present symptoms in early stages • updates vaccinations • checks blood pressure, blood sugar, and/or cholesterol, and establishes regular monitoring if those numbers are high • provides referrals to the right specialist or support program when needed

How do you find a PCP? Word of mouth from people you trust can be a great tool for finding a doctor. Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor for a recommendation. You also can visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) for more information. To contact a UPMC McKeesport physician’s office directly, see our listing on page 7.

Finding a PCP Who Is the Right Fit for You There are several areas in which primary care physicians can focus: Family Medicine: Physicians who typically treat patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. Because family practitioners can care for the whole family, they have training in a number of medical disciplines, including internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. Internal Medicine: Physicians who treat adult patients, usually ages 18 and up. Internists diagnose and treat diseases in adults without surgery. They may have a subspecialty in a specific area, like the heart or lungs; a specific disease, such as diabetes; or a particular age group, such as the elderly. Pediatrics: Physicians who care for and treat newborns, infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatricians focus on preventive care for healthy children and treat children who are injured or ill. They specialize in childhood diseases, growth, and emotional health.

The Difference See a Number Can Make how your numbers stack up for See how your numbers stack up for peace of mind — or a wake-up call peace of mind — or a wake-up call! Many numbers are part of your daily life, from your cell phone to your ATM code. But do you know the numbers that are critical to your physical health? Here are the three top numbers you should remember and monitor regularly:

120/80: Optimum blood pressure There’s a reason high blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer.” You can have it for years and never know it. As it damages the walls of your arteries, it also can wreak havoc on your heart, kidneys, and brain. High blood pressure can lead to a heart attack, kidney failure, or stroke. When you have high blood pressure, the pressure of blood within the arteries — which carry blood from the heart throughout the body — is persistently elevated. Optimal blood pressure in an adult is under 120/80. The range for prehypertension is 120 to 139/80 to 89. High blood pressure is any reading of 140/90 or higher.

99: Blood sugar level It’s a good idea to have your blood sugar checked. High blood sugar — diabetes — can lead to a host of other medical problems if left unchecked, including vision and circulatory problems. Your optimal blood sugar level should be 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood or less. A count of 100 to 125 mg/dL is a pre-diabetes wake-up call; a level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

200: Optimum cholesterol Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made by the liver — and not all forms of it are bad. Sometimes, our bodies create too much cholesterol, which then circulates through the blood stream. To check your cholesterol levels, your doctor will ask you to fast before having blood work drawn. Your test results will show the amount of cholesterol in your blood.

It’s the bad, arteryclogging cholesterol (LDL) that puts you at risk, so shoot for an LDL of under 130 mg/dL. Conversely, the higher your good cholesterol (HDL) the better, because it helps remove harmful LDL from your arteries. An HDL of 50 mg/dL or higher is ideal. You should aim for a total cholesterol number (HDL + LDL) under 200 mg/dL. A count of 200 to 239 is considered borderline, while levels of 240 and above double your risk of coronary heart disease. Your doctor can help you learn and manage these numbers. To schedule an appointment with one of our primary care physicians, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). For more information about important lifesaving numbers like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, grip strength, and thyroid level, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

Colonoscopy: The Best Way to Prevent Colon Cancer When caught early, colon cancer is beatable in nine out of 10 cases. That’s why everyone age 50 and older should have a colonoscopy, advises Sudhir K. Narla, MD, chief of Gastroenterology at UPMC McKeesport and director of the hospital’s Center for Digestive Disorders. “The colonoscopy is a good preventive tool, reducing the incidence of cancer and increasing longevity,” says Dr. Narla, who recommends regular screenings (every 10 years for low-risk patients, two to five years for high-risk patients). A colonoscopy lets your doctor: • examine the inside of the entire colon, looking for polyps and signs of cancer • explore possible causes of abdominal pain and intestinal problems, such as rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, and diarrhea • remove polyps or biopsy suspicious growths and send samples to a lab to check for cancer

New technology makes the procedure much easier. The colonoscopy itself is quick and painless. Patients are sedated and the procedure normally takes about 15 minutes. For most people, the cleansing that empties the colon of stool prior to the procedure is the tough part — but it’s well worth the inconvenience for its lifesaving impact, says Dr. Narla. For more information, contact the Center for Digestive Disorders at UPMC McKeesport at 412-664-2119. Did You Know? • Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. • Colon cancer has no symptoms (in most cases) and can be diagnosed at any age. • Polyps (precursors of colon cancer) are found in one-fourth of all colonoscopy procedures. • Having a colonoscopy can reduce your risk of dying from colon cancer by 90 percent.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Be Happy and Healthy This Winter Is your favorite winter activity staying indoors under a warm blanket in front of the television with a bag of snacks in hand? You’re not alone. Getting through the cold weather with your health and spirits intact is difficult but not impossible. Follow these suggestions for a happier, healthier winter.

Fight the flu Cold and flu season is fast approaching. Here are some ways to avoid the sniffles. • Washing your hands for 15 seconds using soap and warm water is your best defense against germs. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based antibacterial product. • Getting a flu shot can reduce your risk of infection by 90 percent. If you don’t like needles, a nasal spray vaccine is available. • Eating plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help boost your immune system.

Winterize your skin As the weather turns colder, the dry air causes itchy, dry skin. To keep skin more comfortable during the winter months: • Switch to oil-based moisturizers with a minimum SPF of 30 for your face and body, and use them frequently. • Protect your hands from the elements with a heavy-duty hand cream, and always wear gloves outdoors. • Lips need extra protection, too. A moisturizing lip balm with vitamin E will help prevent chapping. • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Banish the winter blahs with exercise Don’t pack your exercise gear away with your summer clothes. Staying active during the winter months can lift your mood, help your immune system, and keep you from gaining weight. Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program. • Walk indoors at a local mall. Need extra motivation? Join a walking group. • Check out an exercise video at your local library or borrow one from a friend. • With proper planning, walking outdoors in winter can be fun and exhilarating. Walk during daylight hours, dress appropriately, and wear skid-resistant shoes.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Are You Sad? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

If the darker, shorter days of winter really get you down, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that begins in the fall and gets better in the spring. “Seasonal affective disorder is directly related to a decrease in sunlight during the winter months,” says Edward S. Friedman, MD, a psychiatrist at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. The lack of sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock, which can lead to feelings of depression. In addition to seasonal onset, SAD sufferers experience what Dr. Friedman describes as a kind of hibernation. “They stay indoors, conserve energy, eat more, and sleep more,” he explains. Those behaviors can distinguish SAD from other types of depression. And individuals who already suffer from clinical depression may feel worse in the fall. If you are diagnosed with SAD and your symptoms are severe enough to affect your daily life, your doctor may recommend antidepressant medications, light therapy, or psychotherapy. While it’s normal for anyone to have a down day occasionally, don’t brush off those feelings. “Anyone with symptoms of depression that last more than two weeks should see their doctor,” advises Dr. Friedman.

Did You Know? • People with SAD are more likely to have a blood relative with the condition. • More women than men are diagnosed with SAD. • Exercise can help boost your mood, and relieve stress and anxiety.

Innovation at UPMC

New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients Robotic technology revolutionizing Whipple surgery When Coy Smith* found out he had pancreatic cancer and needed a Whipple procedure, he started getting his affairs in order. He even considered going without surgery. “It occurred to me that I might not come back home,” says Mr. Smith. Although he left most of the worrying up to his wife, a licensed practical nurse, he knew enough to realize the surgery would not be a simple task. Whipple surgery — one of the most complex surgeries performed — involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, part of the stomach, and small intestine. But the 58-year-old Altoona-area resident was lucky. He was one of the first patients at UPMC Cancer Centers to undergo a non-invasive version of the Whipple procedure using state-of-the-art robotic technology. He was operated on in October 2009 by the surgical team of A. James Moser, MD, and Herbert J. Zeh, MD — co-directors of the Pancreatic Specialty Care Center and two of just a handful of surgeons worldwide who perform the Whipple procedure using robotic surgical technology. Mr. Smith woke up in recovery and immediately began joking with the nurses. After a week’s stay in the hospital, Mr. Smith began six months of chemotherapy. One year later, he is cancer-free. “I’m healthy and very fortunate,” Mr. Smith says. * Mr. Smith’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

“This is pioneering technology — the first major innovation in pancreas surgery in more than 100 years — and UPMC is considered among the world’s leaders,” says Dr. Moser.

Potential Benefits of the Robotic Whipple Procedure • smaller incisions • minimal scarring • reduced blood loss and need for transfusion • less pain • shorter hospital stays • faster recovery time and start of treatment

Precise robotic technology Surgeons use the da Vinci® Si Surgical System, a robotic surgical device that allows them to operate through a series of small incisions (including one to accommodate a miniature camera) with greater dexterity and range of motion, plus a magnified threedimensional view of organs on a large, high-definition screen. Instead of the “chopsticks” used in laparoscopy, robotic surgery equipment allows for more natural movements, including wrist function, explains Dr. Zeh. “It has a 360-degree range of motion, which has much more freedom of movement than your own hand,” says Dr. Zeh. “You can get into places where your hand can’t go.” The robotic technology enhances the surgeon’s ability to see detail and manipulate anatomical parts with great precision. Like conventional laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery is minimally invasive.

Patients benefit The two surgeons have published papers on the robotic Whipple procedure and have spoken at conferences around the world. They are now compiling data on patient outcomes.

While it is not yet clear whether this approach produces better surgical outcomes, both surgeons say it is clear that patients may benefit in many ways, including less pain, reduced recovery time, minimal scarring, and reduced need for blood transfusions. That means patients can begin chemotherapy sooner. “We are pleased to be able to offer this new technology,” Dr. Zeh says. “The data shows that as a whole, patients who undergo the robotic-assisted Whipple procedure do as well as patients who have the traditional open surgery.” Perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing fear in patients. According to Dr. Moser, as many as one half of all pancreatic cancer patients choose not to have surgery to remove their tumor because they are afraid of a large incision and the long recovery time associated with traditional surgery. “We hope that by minimizing the trauma of surgery we can get more people to select this treatment and continue on with chemotherapy,” Dr. Moser says. “Not everyone with pancreatic cancer is doomed. This procedure is giving patients hope.” For more information about the robotic Whipple procedure or any of UPMC's pancreatic cancer treatments, call 1-888-623-PANC (7262).

1-800-533-UPMC

When Kids Get Hurt, We’re Ready Children’s Express Care Centers open in Pittsburgh’s North and South Hills It never fails. Just as you settle in for a relaxed evening or weekend, your child suddenly develops a painful earache or takes a nasty tumble and breaks an arm. Thankfully, parents in the North Hills and South Hills now have convenient “after hours” access to the pediatric specialty care found at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The new Children’s Express Care Centers in Wexford and Bethel Park offer expert care for minor injuries and illnesses. “All we do is take care of kids — that’s our specialty. That’s important because kids are different from adults. Their illnesses and injuries are different and their medicines and treatments are different,” says Raymond D. Pitetti, MD, medical director of Children’s Express Care.

Urgent care just for children Some pediatric health concerns are urgent but not life threatening. Those are exactly the types of cases that the Children’s Express Care Centers are designed to handle, says Dr. Pitetti. The Express Care Centers provide exclusively pediatric-focused treatment in offices that are specially designed for children. Staffed by pediatricians, emergency medicine physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurses who are specifically trained to care for kids, the Centers operate evenings and weekends when pediatricians’ offices are closed. “The entire experience is geared toward kids — from the size of the equipment, to the medications and staff, and even the décor. We also know how to interact with kids and their parents to make them feel at ease,” Dr. Pitetti says.

After-hours service, convenient locations The new centers in the North Hills and South Hills — Children’s North in Wexford and Children’s South in Bethel Park — are open 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. Parking is free. A third location will open in the Monroeville/Murrysville area next spring.

www.UPMC.com/Today

Children’s Express Care Centers Can Help The pediatric specialists at the centers can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries in children and teens, including: • animal bites • bronchitis, pneumonia, and asthma attacks • colds, fevers, flu, and other viral illnesses • cuts, bumps, lacerations, abrasions, and splinters • ear, throat, and sinus infections • incisions and abscess drainage • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration • rashes, poison ivy, and allergic reactions • simple fractures, twists, sprains, strains, and dislocations • splinting • cyst removal The Express Care Centers also offer on-site x-ray services, EKGs, blood tests, urine and throat cultures, and urinalysis.

If necessary, children with more serious conditions will be fast-tracked to the Emergency Department at Children’s Hospital, or referred to pediatric specialists. If follow-up care is needed, children will be referred back to their own pediatricians along with a report on their visit to the Express Care Center.

Children’s Express Care Wexford Children’s North 2599 Wexford Bayne Road Sewickley, PA 15143 Phone: 724-933-3644 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome. Children’s Express Care Bethel Park Children’s South 1300 Oxford Drive Bethel Park, PA 15102 Phone: 412-692-3145 Monday through Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Weekends: Noon to 8 p.m. No appointments needed. Walk-ins welcome.

Benefits of the Express Care Centers include: • access to treatment when your primary care physician is not available • quality pediatric care for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries for children and teens • convenient locations • free parking • no appointments needed • referrals for further evaluation and treatment • access to lab tests and diagnostic imaging

Meet Our Physicians UPMC McKeesport has many primary care physicians on staff. Start the New Year off right by making an appointment with one right in your own community.

BRADDOCK Internal Medicine

McKEESPORT Family Medicine

Radhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-351-6300 Paul Donegan, MD ................ 412-351-6300

Daphne Bicket, MD................ Tracey Conti, MD.................... Essam Demian, MD .............. Martin Johns, MD .................. James Johnson, MD .............. Harry Lanauze, MD................ William Markle, MD.............. Cathleen McGonigle, DO .... Emeil Shenouda, MD ............

CLAIRTON Internal Medicine Madhusudan Menon, MD .. 412-267-6307

DUQUESNE Family Medicine Clifford Chen, MD .................. 412-469-3627 Isaac Levari, MD .................... 412-469-3627 Todd Zimmerman, MD ........ 412-469-3627

Internal Medicine Radhalakshmi Aluru, MD .... 412-466-6300 Mubashar Chughtai, MD .... 412-469-4100

EAST McKEESPORT Internal Medicine Sean Choi, MD ........................ 412-824-4015

ELIZABETH Family Medicine James Campagna, MD.......... Edward Goralczyk, MD ........ Irene Lomeda, MD ................ Douglas Skinner, MD ............

412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-664-4141 412-672-2877 412-673-5504 412-673-5504 412-673-5504

Internal Medicine Rudolph Antoncic, Jr., MD .. Rudolph Antoncic III, MD.... Ibrahim Ghobrial, MD .......... David Harinstein, MD .......... Nadeem Islam, MD................ Reena Karnik, MD .................. John Parry, MD........................ Robert Pavlak, MD ................ R. Curtis Waligura, DO ........

412-672-1000 412-751-4400 412-664-2782 412-672-1000 412-672-1000 412-664-2782 412-664-2782 412-664-2782 412-678-7717

MONROEVILLE Family Medicine Kuang Ou, MD ........................ 724-327-0212

412-751-0200 412-751-4661 412-751-4661 412-751-4661

FOREST HILLS Family Medicine Laura Arnold, MD .................. Clifford Chen, MD .................. Gordon Handelsman, MD .. Inna Lamm, MD ...................... Isaac Levari, MD .................... Douglas Skinner, MD ............

WEST MIFFLIN Family Medicine

Internal Medicine Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 724-327-0212

MUNHALL Family Medicine Gordon Handelsman, MD .. 412-462-7700

412-351-6090 412-247-3222 412-241-7700 412-351-6090 412-247-3222 412-247-3222

Internal Medicine

Seetha Chandra, MD ............ 412-271-5220

RANKIN Internal Medicine

R. Curtis Waligura, MD ........ 412-461-2790

PLEASANT HILLS Internal Medicine Kathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-877-7387

Internal Medicine GLASSPORT Internal Medicine

Radhalaskshmi Aluru, MD .. 412-351-4555

Sean Choi, MD ........................ 412-672-6133 Kathleen Reyes, DO .............. 412-678-0783 V. Edgardo Reyes, MD .......... 412-678-0783

SWISSVALE Family Medicine

HAZELWOOD Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

Joseph Santiesteban, MD .. 412-462-1800

HOMESTEAD Internal Medicine Jose Caballe, MD.................... 412-678-7711 Vera Sherman, MD ................ 412-462-6001

Kuang Ou, MD ........................ 412-351-3088 Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-271-7333 Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-271-7333 Der-Long Tong, MD .............. 412-351-3088

TURTLE CREEK Internal Medicine Elmer Apaga, MD .................. 412-823-7390 Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-823-7390 Aiysha Chatha, MD .............. 412-823-7390

Darcy Giger, DO...................... 412-650-9700 Mamta Patel, MD .................. 412-650-9700 Lynn Potts, MD........................ 412-650-9700

Internal Medicine Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ 412-466-0670 Oliver Herndon, MD.............. 412-460-1111

WHITE OAK Family Medicine Elmer Apaga, MD .................. Raja Chakrapani, MD ............ Louis DiToppa, DO ................ Samuel Kupfer, MD .............. Jan Pomiecko, MD.................. Farial Rawji, MD......................

412-672-8311 412-672-8311 412-664-0720 412-673-8140 412-678-8740 412-672-3633

Internal Medicine Rudolph Antoncic Jr., MD.... David Arisumi, MD ................ Joseph Caballe, MD .............. David Harinstein, MD .......... Mohammad Idrees, MD ...... Nadeem Islam, MD................ Rahila Khwaja, MD ................ Muhammad Mukhtar, MD .. Prabhat Seth, MD ..................

412-673-5020 412-673-0214 412-678-7711 412-673-5020 412-672-6800 412-673-5020 412-673-0214 412-672-9000 412-678-0219

Pediatrics Kamlesh Pandy, MD .............. 412-673-2200 Leslie Silberman, MD............ 412-673-2200

WILKINSBURG Family Medicine Yee Ho, MD .............................. 412-243-4500

WILMERDING Family Medicine Veena Dhar, MD .................... 412-816-1818

Meet our Gastroenterologists Ragunath Appasamy, MD .. Samir Ayasso, MD ................ Leonard Baidoo, MD.............. Parth Bharill, MD.................... Satish Kanakamedala, MD.. Hossam Kandil, MD .............. Pradeep Kumar, MD .............. Wendy Mikulski, MD ............ Sudhir Narla, MD.................... Hitendra Patel, MD................ Vijay Singh, MD ...................... Adam Slivka, MD.................... Mahesh Varindani, MD ........ Dhiraj Yadav, MD ..................

412-488-7474 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-232-7572 412-683-2488 412-672-5766 724-205-3318 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-621-7777 412-672-5766 412-672-5766 412-828-0100 412-672-5766

1-800-533-UPMC

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 informational 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.

Time to Take Care of You Holidays are for celebrating all of the things that make life special. Don’t let a major illness, injury, or even a sore throat keep you from enjoying them. UPMC McKeesport physicians’ offices are open and conveniently located near you. Our physicians are accepting new patients, and in most cases even offer same-day appointments. Just call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762) or visit www.UPMC.com/PatientCare, and we’ll get you an appointment with one of our doctors. It doesn’t matter why you need us; it matters that we’re here if you do.

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

New Faculty 2010-2011

Amanda Zajac, Spec Ed Sheridan

Amy Stone, Elem Stewartsville/Sunset

Angela Evans, Music High School

Christopher Federinko, English Middle School

Drew Rutkowski, Elem Hahntown

Elizabeth Stephens, Music Hahntown/Sheridan

Jamie DePew, Elem Hahntown

Katherine Holmes, English High School

Lauren Rusinko, Nurse Hillcrest/Sunset

Luke Cicconi, Physics High School

Nicole Stoops, Spec Ed High School

Scott Patrick, Elem Hillcrest

Stephanie Reilly, Math/Physics High School

Steven Smith, Elem Hahntown

Portrait Project Challenge Norwin School District

Stewartsville Elementary School students pose with their George Washington portrait.

As Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, George Washington led our nation to independence. As President of the Constitutional Convention, he presided over the creation of our new instrument of government. And, as the first president of the United States, he led our country through the early, turbulent years of nationhood. George Washington’s leadership, character and civic responsibility remain examples to follow today. Norwin School District students are celebrating Washington’s legacy by hanging a beautifully-framed replica of Rembrandt Peale’s Porthole Portrait of George Washington in each school central office, library, main hallway, or auditorium by Presidents’ Day, February 21, 2011. The specially sized (30”x36”) portrait was provided for free to each school by George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens. The organization also sent a George Washington Celebration Kit with suggested activities to commemorate the dedication of the portrait, as well as suggested lesson plans for classroom use. The Forum for Western Pennsylvania School Superintendents, based at the University of Pittsburgh, is encouraging schools across western Pennsylvania to join in this effort. Nationwide, the George Washington Portrait Project is sponsored by the Mount Vernon Ladies Association. Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

General Information

National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Two Norwin High School seniors are semifinalists in the 2011 National Merit Scholarship Competition.

Gregory Mannerberg

Dylan Quintana

The semifinalists are Gregory Mannerberg, son of Mary and Les Mannerberg, and Dylan Quintana, son of Beth and Roberto Quintana. Dylan also had a perfect SAT score of 2400. These two students are part of a nationwide pool of semifinalists that represent less than one percent of high school students. According to National Merit, about 16,000 students are semifinalists in the 56th-annual competition. The high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,400 National Merit Scholarships nationwide, which are worth a total of more than $36 million and will be offered in the spring. To become a finalist, a semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the high school principal, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. The semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes the student’s essay and information about the semifinalist’s participation and leadership in school and community activities. Edward Calhoun

To be considered, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of competition. About 90 percent of them are expected to attain finalist standing, and about half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship and earn the title of Merit Scholar. Congratulations also to these Norwin High School seniors for earning Commended Student status in the 2011 National Merit Program: • Nicholas Cirucci, son of Lisa and Mark Cirruci; • Sean Kuhn, son of Colleen and Walter Kuhn; • Edward Calhoun, son of Janice and Edward Calhoun; • Marina Clementi, daughter of Paula Martino and Robert Clementi; • Samantha DeFlitch, daughter of Constance and Michael DeFlitch. These students were among the top 5 percent of the students who took the 2008 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

Nicholas Cirucci

Marina Clementi

Samantha DeFlitch Sean Kuhn

100-Year-Old Flag, Breast Cancer Awareness Focal Points at McKeesport-Norwin Game While there is an on-field rivalry between the Norwin Knights and the McKeesport Tigers, the teams from bordering communities and their fans came together to celebrate breast cancer awareness and veterans of the McKeesport Area School District. The two-fold event was staged by the Norwin Kastle Krew, an informal student group of spirited Knights football fans, and Walter B. Yager, II, whose 100-year-old flag saw soldiers off as they rode the train to the battlefields of WWI. “The significance of the flag is the fact that I had two greatgrandfathers that participated in the Civil War,” Yager said. “One bought a piece of property adjacent to McKeesport and Norwin along the B&O Railroad tracks. In WWI, they hung this flag between two oak trees and saluted the troop trains. They did this for WWII as well. Yager’s father, Walter B. Yager, was killed in action as an 88th Division Blue Devil during a major attack on Nazi forces in Italy. He was a 1938 graduate of McKeesport High School. 22

Norwin

The Norwin Kastle Krew holds a 100-year-old flag and wears pink for the October 15 "Pink-Out game." After the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of WWII at Pearl Harbor, the Yager family brought the historic flag out of storage and has been touring with it ever since, taking it to locations such as local municipal flag poles, sporting events, and even at the National Football League Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Yager toured with the flag with his late son, Sean, who was active in Norwin’s track and field program and football. Sean’s Eagle Scout project was to create a tribute to Sam LaRosa and his 11 McKeesport Boy’s Club members killed in Vietnam over a 2 ½ -year period. The flag display was only one of two community services at the Oct. 15, football game. The Kastle Krew also rallied support for a “Pink Out” to raise funds for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and support efforts to find a cure for breast cancer. Rachel Geizura, an 11th-grade student at Norwin High School, organized the “pink out,” which raised more than $400 for breast cancer research through sales of specially designed T-shirts.

Winter

Concerts

Performing Arts

Open to the General Public

Norwin High School, Norwin Middle School, and Hillcrest Intermediate School • 7th and 8th grade Holiday Band Concert: 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, December 14 at Norwin Middle School. The 7th grade band will be performing “My Country ‘Tis Of Thee,” “Starship Overture,” and two Christmas pieces. The Norwin Middle School Jazz Band will follow with the “Charlie Brown Christmas” and “Hark the Herald Angels Swing.” The 8th grade band will finish the concert with beautiful arrangements of “O Come all Ye Faithful,” “The Christmas Song,” and more. • Hillcrest Intermediate School Band Concert: 6 p.m. (Grade 5) and 7:30 p.m. (Grade 6) Thursday, December 16, 2010. • Holiday Choir Concert: 2 p.m. December 19, Norwin High School auditorium. The Select Choir, Show Choir, Freshman Chorus & High School Choir will all be in concert. Each group will perform separately and then combine for the Finale. The Norwin High School Orchestra and members of the Norwin High School Band will be there to accompany the choir. There is an annual tradition of having alumni join the students for “A Rhapsody of Christmas,” which is the final number. • Students of the Norwin High School Select Choir are going to be part of the 2011 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration mass Choir for the Greater Pittsburgh Let Freedom Sing! Choral Festival. This is the first year the Select Choir is participating. The performances will be 7 p.m. Saturday, January 15, 2011, at Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Church, East Liberty; and 7 p.m. Monday, January 17, 2011 at Franklin Regional High School, Murrysville. Several area choirs will join forces to celebrate the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. More information at www.letfreedomsing.net. • PMEA Junior High School District Band East Concert: 2 p.m. Saturday, January 22, 2011, at Norwin High School. Junior High District Band East includes all middle school and high school students in grades 7-9 in Westmoreland, Fayette and half of Allegheny County. The festival is sponsored by PMEA, the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association. Students submit applications through their band director and the host director, and a committee selects the group based on the applications. 140 students from 61 different schools will be working together to perform. The host school this year is Norwin High School, and the host director is Mrs. Denise Bilott, Norwin Middle School chorus and band director.

Norwin School District has formed a new

Nutrition Council The goal of the council is to discuss and share information on nutrition, food choices, and laws surrounding the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The council members have the opportunity to meet with Mr. Rod Stewart, Norwin School District Director of Food Service, and ask questions about the menu as well as express concerns. The Nutrition Council will have a direct impact on the menu items and on the direction of the upcoming menus. Led by Mr. Stewart, the topics discussed include food choices, nutrition, and laws affecting the food service industry. “The ideas we share will hopefully help students to consider healthy options by being educated on nutrition and how nutrients affect their well being,” Mr. Stewart said. The November meeting covered the definition of a “Type A” meal and its role in school food service. The council members learned what requirements are followed by the Food Service Department and the process behind developing menu items. The Norwin Nutritional Council is always looking for any students, parents, or staff who would like to join the council. Anyone interested is asked to please contact Mr. Stewart at 724.861.3000, ext. 1131, or at rstewart@norwinsd.org.

The students will practice on Friday, January 21 and Saturday, January 22, 2011, and will present a concert on Saturday, January 22 at 2 p.m. The concert is open to the public; admission fee is $5 for adults and $3 for students/seniors. Mr. James Swearingen, noted band composer and head of the department of music education at Capital University, will be the guest conductor. • High School Winter Band Concert: 7 p.m. February 17, High School Auditorium. This will showcase the High School Concert Ensembles. NOTE: All the High School Concerts – Chorus, Orchestra & Band – require admission fees: $3 adults, $1 students, free for Senior Citizens. Tickets are available at the door. All 7th grade concerts (chorus/band) at the Middle School are open to the public. The concerts are free; however, donations are welcomed. Hillcrest Intermediate School Concerts: Donations are welcomed. Parents of Hillcrest students can park at Hillcrest. No on-street parking allowed near school; overflow parking for the general public is at the Middle School (within walking distance, or shuttle bus from the Middle School available for all Hillcrest concerts).

The group meets quarterly. The next meetings are from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. on February 8 and April 6, 2011, both in the Project Room at Hillcrest Intermediate School.

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Sports News

FRESHMAN BASKETBALL (GIRLS)

VARSITY ICE HOCKEY Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Oct. 28 Nov. 12 Dec. 02 Dec. 06 Jan. 07 Jan. 21 Feb. 03 Feb. 07

Seneca Valley Fox Chapel Canon McMilan State College Pittsburgh CC Hempfield State College Penn Trafford Mt. Lebanon Shaler

6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 8:15 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 7:50 p.m. 8:15 p.m. 6:15 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

VARSITY/J.V. BASKETBALL (GIRLS) Dec. 13 Dec. 16 Jan. 03 Jan. 10 Jan. 17 Jan. 24 Jan. 31 Feb. 07

Bethel Park North Allegheny Connellsville Kiski Penn Trafford Latrobe Albert Gallatin Hempfield

6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

VARSITY/J.V. BASKETBALL (BOYS) Dec. 17 Dec. 20 Jan. 04 Jan. 07 Jan. 18 Jan. 25 Jan. 27 Feb. 04 Feb. 08 Feb. 14

Connellsville Penn Hills Laurel Highlands Latrobe Penn Trafford Hempfield North Allegheny Albert Gallatin Kiski Greensburg Salem

6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

VARSITY SWIMMING (COED) Dec. 14 Dec. 21 Jan. 13 Jan. 27 Feb. 01 Feb. 03 Feb. 15

Kiski Derry Laurel Highlands Connellsville Penn Hills Hempfield Gateway

6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

J.V. WRESTLING (BOYS) Dec. 22 Jan. 19 Jan. 26

Plum Greensburg Salem Gateway

7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

FRESHMAN BASKETBALL (BOYS) Dec. 15 Jan. 04 Jan. 11 Jan. 18 Jan. 19 Feb. 01 Feb. 08 Feb. 18

Penn Hills Latrobe Kiski Hempfield Gateway Connellsville Albert Gallatin Penn Trafford

Norwin

3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m.

Dec. 10 Dec. 21 Jan. 13 Jan. 27 Feb. 03 Feb. 09 Feb. 10

Kiski Shaler Plum Hempfield Indiana Area Jr. HS North Allegheny Latrobe

4:00 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m. 3:45 p.m.

JUNIOR HIGH WRESTLING (BOYS) Dec. 11 Dec. 22 Jan. 19 Jan. 26

Knights Jr. High Duals Plum Greensburg Salem Gateway

8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m.

7TH/8TH GRADE BLUE BASKETBALL (BOYS) Jan. 04 Jan. 10 Jan. 13 Jan. 21 Jan. 24 Feb. 01 Feb. 18

Greensburg Salem Wendover-Hempfield Gateway Trafford Middle-PT Franklin Regional Harrold - Hempfield Penn Middle - PT

4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

Norwin High School Homecoming October 1 & 2, 2010 Theme: "A Knight Out of This World" October 1 Football game Parade: October 2, 2010, in Irwin. More than 70 vehicles and/or floats participated. Dance at high school followed from 7-10 P.M. 1,100 students attended DJ: Wenning Entertainment Advisor: Lynn Clark Float Winner: Freshman Class Royal reception: China Garden, North Huntingdon, for Homecoming Court King: Rocco Amendola

7TH/8TH GRADE GOLD BASKETBALL (BOYS) Dec. 14 Dec. 17 Dec. 21 Jan. 03 Jan. 11 Jan. 18 Jan. 31 Feb. 08 Feb. 11 Feb. 15 Feb. 17

Penn Hills Gateway Mt. Pleasant Penn Middle - PT Harrold - Hempfield Latrobe Greensburg Salem Wendover - Hempfield Greensburg C.C. Penn Hills Trafford Middle - PT

4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

Queen: Morgan Dolinar Court: Sara Benedict, Hope Yuhas, Lee Scandinaro, Christian Williams (seniors)

Congratulations to Norwin Knights Fall Sports Teams! We take this opportunity to congratulate all fall sports teams for their successful seasons. We are also pleased to share information about the seven teams that made it to the post-season. Team

Head Coach

Noteworthy post-season accomplishments for team or individuals

Field Hockey

Laura Peery

Three WPIAL All-Stars: Natalie Merz, Sam DeFlitch, Katelynn Miller. Also, the field hockey team placed second in WPIAL section play and made it to the semi-final round of the WPIAL championship play-offs.

Girls Soccer

Jeff Palm

The team was a WPIAL finalist and also made it to the semi-final game of the PIAA tournament. All-Section Players: Elizabeth Debo, Molly Peddicord, Maria Lanyi, Alex Kalup, and Casey Harsch. All-WPIAL Players: Elizabeth Debo, Molly Peddicord, and Maria Lanyi.

Boys Soccer

Kevin Chitester

The team was section co-champs and made it to the WPIAL Semifinals. All-WPIAL: Jon Best, Dave Kozak (also participated in all-star game at Moon High school Nov 27). All-Section: Jon Best, Dave Kozak, Adam Shaffer, Jay Jarrett, Sam Chapman. Honorable Mention: Ben Gallina

Varsity Football

Art Tragesser

The team finished third in the section and qualified for the WPIAL play-offs. All-Conference First Team: Christian Bryan, multiback; Andrew Carter, wide receiver; Ben Baird, tight end; Tyler Bailey, punter. All-Conference Second team: Tim Petro, quarterback; K’Hari Singleton, running back; Jon Gray, guard; Drew Smith, defensive line. All-Conference Honorable Mention: Ron Dornin, center; Steve Marinko, guard; Josh Horsman, running back; Chris Marghella, linebacker; Kenny Berryman, defensive line; Tom Quealy, defensive back.

Girls’ Tennis

Ryan Hornick

Morgan Dolinar advanced to the WPIAL Singles Tournament.

Boys’ Cross Country

Geary Tray

Finished second in their section. Ryan Boccabella qualified for the individual cross country championship, which was run at Hershey on November 6.

Girls’ Cross Country

Geary Tray

Section champions. Autumn Greba qualified for the individual cross country championship, which was run at Hershey on November 6.

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Community Connections Winter-Spring 2011 Courses To emphasize the importance of an enriched and ongoing education, the District offers classes through our Community Connections program. From opportunities in strengthening computer skills, practicing new moves in an exercise dance class, to learning about the theater, our winter and spring offerings provide a wonderful opportunity to learn something new while meeting others who share your interests. Courses are available for both adults and students. We hope you will join us for a class or two this winter and spring. Please direct questions to the program coordinator, Julie Painter, at 724.861.3010 x4123 or send an email to jpainter@norwinsd.org.

Microsoft Word 2007 Maximize your technology proficiency through learning the basics of Word. Topics will include mouse basics, task and tool bars, creating and saving documents, basic file management, copy-cut-paste functions, clip art, graphic formatting, tables, and printing. Your instructors will lead you through hands-on practice with the Word program. Comprehensive packets will be provided as a resource.

Microsoft Excel 2007 Update your computer skills and learn the basic navigation and functions of Excel, including menus, worksheets and workbooks, downloading templates, entering data, and formatting cells. Your instructors will guide you through a practical steps to help you gain experience and confidence with the Excel program. Comprehensive handouts will be provided as a resource.

Microsoft MovieMaker 5 The goal of this class is to familiarize participants with the Microsoft Movie Maker version 5. During this class, we will create ‘movies’ using existing digital media such as audio, video, or still pictures. After editing the audio and video content in Windows Movie Maker, which can include adding titles, video transitions, or effects, you will learn to save your final ‘movie’ and share it by e-mail, the Internet, and/or recordable CD/DVD.

Instructors: Norwin School District Technology Trainers Age range: Adults Dates: Mondays & Wednesdays 6 - 8:30 p.m. April 4, 6, 11, & 13, 2011 Course Cost: $70.00 Location: High School Computer Lab Room 120

Instructors: Norwin School District Technology Trainers Age range: Adults Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6 - 8:30 p.m. March 1, 3, 8 & 10, 2011

Microsoft Publisher 2007 Microsoft Publisher is a powerful desktop publishing application that allows for the creation of professional looking documents such as catalogs, newsletters, flyers, brochures, among many other options. Participants experiment with various wizards and the basics of navigation. You will learn how to personalize the projects once the wizard creates the basic set up, how to work with textboxes, and how to insert pictures and clipart. Participants will create a personalized newsletter or other document that would be specific to their own interests. Comprehensive handouts will be provided as a resource.

Norwin

Age range: Adults Dates: Wednesdays 6 - 8:30 p.m. March 2 & 9, 2011 Course Cost: $35.00 Location: High School Computer Lab Room 120

Participants should be comfortable word processing users who want to learn how to make more professional and advanced publications. Novice computer users are not encouraged to take this class.

Course Cost: $70.00 Location: High School Computer Lab Room 120

Instructors: Norwin School District Technology Trainers Age range: Adults Dates: Wednesday 6 - 8:30 p.m. February 16, 2011 Course Cost: $18.50 Location: High School Computer Lab Room 124

Zumba Class Is your New Year’s resolution to look for ways to include exercise into your routine? This fun class provides an opportunity to improve cardio fitness while learning popular Latin dance styles such as Merengue, Salsa, Cumbia, Calypso, and Ragaeton. Tone your glutes, abdominals, legs and arms and burn between 500-800 calories per session. Work-out clothing is suggested. As with all exercise programs, interested individuals should consult a doctor prior to participating.

Youth Acting Class Let your drama star shine as you gain appreciation of literature, the fine arts and the theater. An introduction to acting basics and character development is followed with team efforts in staging, costuming and props. Students will develop volume and body language skills and have the opportunity to try-out for parts and learn acting terms and stage direction. The class culminates with a videotaped performance on DVD for students to share and show off their theatrical talents with family and friends. Class size is limited so register soon.

Instructors: Norwin School District Technology Trainers

Instructor: Michele Dvorznak Age range: Adults Dates: Tuesdays 6 - 7:00 p.m. February 15, 22, March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, April 5, 12, & 19, 2011 Course Cost: $60.00 Location: Middle School Cafeteria

Instructor: Michele Dvorznak Age range: Grades 4-6 Dates: Mondays 6 - 7:00 p.m. March 21, 28, April 4, 11, 18, May 2, & 9*, 2011 *May 9, 2011 class will run from 6 to 8 p.m.

Course Cost: $52.00 Location: Middle School Cafeteria and Classrooms

Registration - Winter-Spring 2011 Registration Form Please complete the registration form and send with payment to Norwin School District; the address is listed below. Due date for registration is January 29, 2011. Our classes for this session will be held February through April. Please note that each description lists specific dates, times, and locations. Complete participant contact information is essential for notification of a cancellation. Please note that if Norwin School District cancels school, there will be no evening activities. Occasionally inclement weather also causes the cancelation of evening activities; please check the District website for updates. If a class is canceled, the day of the week and time when the make-up class is held will remain the same. Courses have a minimum and maximum number of participants, so please register early. If you have any questions, please contact Julie Painter 724.861.3010 X 4123, jpainter@norwinsd.org. We look forward to you joining us during this session!

Community Connections Norwin School District 281 McMahon Drive North Huntingdon, PA 15642 Due date for registration is January 29, 2011. Please make checks payable to Norwin School District

Name

Course Request 1

Course Cost

Address

Course Request 2

Course Cost

Home Phone

Course Request 3

Course Cost

E-mail

Course Request 4

Course Cost

Cell Phone

Course Request 5

Course Cost

Additional registration forms are available on the District’s website at www.norwinsd.org.

Total Enclosed

Substitute Positions Available Interested in earning some extra money? Norwin School District is accepting applications for the following positions for the 2010-2011 school year: Substitute Teachers .......................................................................... $98.00/day Substitute School Nurses - RN certification required ................ $98.00/day Substitute Health Room/Office Assistant RN or LPN certification required .................................................... $11.25/hour Substitute Cafeteria Workers (3 ½ to 4 ½ hrs/day) ...................... $7.25/hour Substitute Cafeteria Monitors (Approx. 2 hrs/day)...................... $7.25/hour Substitute Custodian - all shifts - (4 to 8 hrs/day) ........................ $9.30/hour Substitute Secretary ........................................................................ $8.80/hour Substitute Non Instructional Aide .................................................. $8.50/hour All positions require Act 34, 151 and FBI clearances. Interested individuals should log onto the District website at www.norwinsd.org and click on the Online Job Application link, then select the appropriate job category (school nurse, secretary, etc.) to apply on-line. Questions about any of these positions should be referred to the Human Resource Office at 724.861.3029.

Non-Discrimination Statement: It is the policy of Norwin School District not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, race, handicap or disability, ancestry, national origin, marital status, religion, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, or political affiliation in its educational or employment programs and activities. For inquires regarding the non-discrimination policy, contact the Human Resource Department, Norwin School District, 861 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon, PA, 15642, or at 724-861-3029.

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

About The Norwin Chamber The Norwin Chamber of Commerce was established in 1942 and has been serving businesses and the community at large for over 60 years. Instituted first in Irwin as a business association, the Norwin Chamber expanded in 1958 to include North Huntingdon and now also represents business in Penn Township, Jeannette, Greensburg, Monroeville and Pittsburgh. The Norwin Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the growth and establishment of the Norwin Community as a superior location in which to live, work, vacation and conduct business. All sizes and types of businesses are represented and members range from the sole-proprietor and home-based business to large health care facilities, banks and manufacturers. Together, the members of the Norwin Chamber of Commerce work to make the businesses and the community thrive.

Ribbon Cutting

Norwin Community Picnic

Networking Luncheon Golf Outing

Norwin Chamber Member Benefits Events And Programs For Education: For Business: Partners In Progress The Annual Dinner and Business Expo Ribbons Cuttings

Job Shadowing Career Fair

Women In Business Initiative

Excellence In Education Luncheon

Monthly Networking Luncheons

Education Foundation

Evening Business Mixers

Leadership Westmoreland

Annual Golf Outing

For Community:

Annual Member Appreciation Day

Annual Norwin Community Picnic

Young Professionals Group

Good Friday Breakfast Beautification Committee Annual Thunderbucket Classic Softball Game

28 724.942.0940 to advertise

Norwin

Member Benefits:

Contact Information:

C.A.R.E. (Chamber Associates Referral Exchange) Referral Group

Norwin Chamber of Commerce 321 Main Street, Irwin PA 15642

Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities Membership Directory and Community Guide Member-2-Member Discount Program Monthly VocalPoint Newsletter Chamber Website Health Insurance Resource Area

Phone: 724-863-0888 Fax: 724-863-5133 Website: www.norwinchamber.com Email: info@norwinchamber.com President: Rosanne Novotnak Vice President: Chris Miller

T:4.875”

Introducing our newest doctors We are pleased to announce the opening of Wahal, Ariff, Margolis, and Associates–UPMC in Delmont.

Honest Dignified Caring

Drs. George Wahal, Kabir Ariff, and Andrew Margolis specialize in the diagnosis and management of adult health care needs. Services include wellness physicals, on-site laboratory, and preventative care. Our physicians received a Certificate of Recognition for Delivery of Quality Diabetic Care from the American Diabetic Association/National Committee for Quality Assurance.

George A. Wahal, MD Internal Medicine

John F. Ott, Supervisor 504 Oak Street Irwin, PA 15642

724-863-8900

Dr. Wahal is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and completed residencies in internal medicine at UPMC Presbyterian, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, and the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, a member of the American College of Physicians, and the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society.

Kabir Ariff, MD Internal Medicine

Andrew Margolis, MD Internal Medicine

VISIT THE BEST AND FORGET THE REST BECAUSE A BEAUTIFUL SMILE BEGINS WITH HEALTHY TEETH AND GUMS Fontana Dental 8791 Barnes Lake Road Suite 203 Irwin, PA 15642

(724)863-5077

Dr. Margolis earned his medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed his residency at Presbyterian-University of Pennsylvania Medical Center in Philadelphia. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and a member of the American College of Physicians and the American Medical Association.

Extended hours available Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. To schedule an appointment, or for more information, call 724-468-6477. Wahal, Ariff, Margolis, and Associates–UPMC 6530 Route 22, Suite 110 Salem Plaza, next to McDonald’s Delmont, PA 15626 724-468-6477

Dr. Fontana was Voted

#1 Dentist in Westmoreland County

UPMC.com

by Tribune-Review Readers Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

T:10”

Dr. Ariff is a graduate of the Madras Medical College, University of Madras, India. He completed his residency at the Western Pennsylvania Hospital and gained experience as a senior house officer in orthopaedics in England. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and a member of the American College of Physicians and the American Association of Physicians of India.

Norwin Rotary to Help Hunger-struck Students with Backpack Project When Norwin Rotary President Dina Denning heard stories from the Westmoreland County Food Bank about students who would leave school on Friday and not have anything to eat until they returned to school for lunch on Monday, she was heartbroken. “The food bank does a backpack program for other communities, and I thought we need to raise the money and it needs to benefit the children in our community, here at Norwin,” Denning said. So in June when she was sworn in, her goal for her year as president was to get the backpack project off the ground. “I wanted to bring Norwin back into Norwin Rotary, and this project deals with our children and can bring the community back together as one,” Denning said. After meeting with local police, principals, pastors and the school superintendent, Denning said the need is definite, but the number of students who can’t afford or don’t have access to food over the weekend can’t be defined because of privacy issues. It can be loosely estimated between 25 and 135, she said. Frank Aiello, former Rotary district governor, said because the program works with impoverished children in need, it needs to be administered in an extremely sensitive manner. “One of the things Dina’s concerned about is being able to identify, trying to network this in a manner that doesn’t stigmatize the child or the family that ends up being the recipient of the project,” Aiello said. “We have to find a way of doing that where they’re able to receive the benefits of the project without it being labeled as such.” To administer the program through the food bank, an afterschool program has to be founded to distribute meals to children. Denning said that without working with the food bank, local churches could be points of distribution.

Denning said the deciding factor as to whether she works with the food bank or not is administrative cost. “I am very apprehensive about paying administrative fees,” she said. “I want every penny to go to the kids, not to pay salaries, so we are exploring other venues.” Denning said the food bank initially quoted her a cost of $30,000 annually to run the program. It later dropped that quote to $20,000, she said. Denning still isn’t convinced that that’s the best way to go, and Aiello supports her rationale. “The reason for Dina’s focus is there already are many programs to help with the hunger issues in the county throughout our district. All 44 Rotary clubs have a hunger project that donates funding for goods to their local food banks. It’s done annually as a scheduled project,” he said. “Knowing that, we don’t know what happens with these children in particular. That’s why the outreach and the passion is there to focus on these children. That’s why this program is so special.”

Denning and the Norwin Rotary are looking to raise $30,000 to establish and maintain the program for years to come. The money would be used to feed deserving children. Each backpack would contain non-perishable, kid-friendly, preferably microwavable meals. “We’re talking juice boxes, applesauce and fruit, and soup that you can pop off the lid and heat in the microwave,” Denning said. “I want every business to challenge me to raise money. You never know when you’re the one who will be in need,” Denning said. “This project could grow. My focus is about the kids. The future [Rotary] presidents down the road, they can expand and we can help families if we get to that point. Rotarians support students throughout their academic career. In third grade, we give every student a dictionary, and every year we give seniors scholarships. If we have a child with an empty belly, they may not make it to that third grade class and get that dictionary. They may not get a chance to get that scholarship.”

For more information on the Norwin Rotary or to get involved with the Rotary Backpack Project, go to: www.norwinrotary.org, or call 724.863.4104 Ext. 114.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT! Please submit your information, including a phone number and e-mail information to: marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com or call 724.942.0940

30 724.942.0940 to advertise

Norwin

Connecting Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Resources with Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Needs

BBF, a 52-year old Pittsburgh-based international charity, has provided over $3.4 billion of medical supplies, textbooks, food, seeds, and other humanitarian supplies to people around the world in over 140 countries. In the !rst nine months of 2010 alone, BBF sent product contributions to those in need in 48 countries including Argentina, Dominican Republic, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Malawi, Nicaragua, Peru, Philippines, Rwanda and Vietnam. These shipments were the equivalent of 175 tractor trailer loads with an estimated value of over $175 million. Also in 2010, BBF furnished supplies for 175 medical and humanitarian hand-carry mission trips that served 33 countries.

Auto & Home Insurance Serving Our Community For Over 20 Years

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Norwin | Fall 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Welcoming new patients

1-800-BANKRUPT

UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is now accepting new patients at our offices in Monroeville and Greensburg.

(800) 226-5787 or (412) 765-3606

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Medical Bills Tax Levies Utility Shut-Offs Collection Calls Lawsuits

Jeanne Doperak, DO Primary Care Sports Medicine Dr. Doperak received her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Orthopaedic Medicine in Philadelphia. She completed a residency at Excela Health Latrobe Hospital and a fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh.

Gregg Goldstrohm, MD Orthopaedic Surgery Dr. Goldstrohm received his medical degree and completed a residency in orthopaedics at the University of Pittsburgh. After completing a hand fellowship at the University of Florida, Dr. Goldstrohm went into private practice in Greensburg where he had been practicing for over 20 years before joining the UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery.

To schedule an appointment at UPMC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, or for more information, call 412-687-3900 or 724-832-6490. UPMC at Oxford Drive 600 Oxford Drive Monroeville, PA 15146 412-687-3900

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32 724.942.0940 to advertise

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Are You Embarrassed by Your Smile? Teeth wear and discolor over time and those changes can give the appearance of aging. It can be argued that crows feet around the eyes show character or wisdom, but a lackluster smile can give a less than favorable first impression. Fortunately, technology today has made it easier than ever to restore a youthful smile without breaking the bank. Many people can make simple but dramatic changes through whitening or crowns. Others may need more extensive treatments. The path towards the best treatment option begins when you consult a dentist who has had extensive training in cosmetic dentistry. The newest digital technologies help the doctor to access the current state of a patients oral health and determine the final ideal tooth positioning. General health and lifestyle questions will also be taken into consideration. It is important that the patient be candid and express their expectations for the outcome. That is the only way that the dentist can fully understands the aesthetic objectives and concerns. One favored treatment in dentistry today is porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers can mask undesirable defects of the teeth. They are thin pieces of porcelain cemented over the front of teeth to change their color or shape. They can be used on uneven surfaces or oddly shaped teeth. Veneers might be the right choice for someone who wants to make a dramatic change in a short period of time. Veneers can serve many purposes. They can be used as instant orthodontics to hide gaps or crooked teeth. An improper bite can affect speech, jaw pain, headaches and other general health issues. Veneers can be used to adjust the tooth length, restore chipped teeth, and brighten smiles. They are smooth and glazed so they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stain easily. When porcelain veneers are placed by a properly trained cosmetic dentist, they will look and feel natural.

How the process can help you Before Treatment

After Treatment

Before Treatment

After Treatment

Choose a dentist who is highly trained and experienced in cosmetic dentistry. Ask questions and explore your options. These informed decisions are the kinds of changes that lead to confident smiles. How can a confident smile enhance your life?

Norwin | Winter 2010 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

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