in-norwin-winter by IN Community Magazines

SPRING 2012

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

120 over 80.

What’s it worth to U?

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

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INSIDE

UNITY COMM SPRING

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

E MAGAZIN

2012

IN Norwin | SPRING 2012 |

ecotourism

FEATURES

Spring Kids Page ............................ | 19 Eco Tourism ...................................... | 20 Reduce Costs with Attic Insulation ............................... | 30

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Travelling Green Is Easier Than You Think

e all16 love our vacations North American Karate and Fitness when we can get them. TheBut Self-defense Quick Fix ................. | 12 ON THE COVER | Cast of Norwin High School musical’s “All Shook Up”. • Photos by Gary Yon while travelling may mean Duffy & Nichols leaving town for a dream Deciphering the Habendum Clause .... | 18 destination, it also means baggage and one the pitfalls that come with it – waste. All Kare Chiropractic & Laser Clinic From “travel-sized” tubes of toothpaste A Healthy, Happier and Slimmer You! .... | 23 and shampoo bottles to disposable razors Penn State Greater Allegheny and eating utensils, travelers often plan Do the FAFSA ...................................... | 27 to return home with less than they take in order to make room for souvenirs or Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge to simply lighten their loads., With a little Knowing Quality .................................. | 31 8 24 planning, however, one28 can achieve the same goal while putting less of smaller restaurants ten a burden on the environment. meats and cheeses. By COMMUNITY INTEREST For starters, many discount stores sell empty plastic flip-top you’re not only helpin containers that are perfect for shampoos and conditioners. Instead local farmers as well. Norwin School District News ............................................. | 3 of purchasing travel size versions of your favorite products, just get If you’ve chosen an Pressley Ridge School for Autism a few of these containers and fill them from products already in ecotours available. The Helping Your Autistic Child to Reach Full Potential ................................ | than 11 packing disposable razors, consider your bathroom. Rather planned around respo purchasing an electric| razor Norwin Hosts Winter Ensemble Competition ................ 14 for travel. Even after years of use, a quality They typically hire loc electric razor that’s been properly maintained will still deliver a close officials to plan operat COVER STORY Get All Shook Up at Norwin Musical ......... | 16 shave. ecology and social stru Norwin Chamber of Commerce News ............................. If you’re travelling |to 22 a major city or tourist destination, public they oftentimes allow transportation will almost certainly be available. Just like at home, sure have your camera Chili Cook-Off & Wing Thing Competition ...................... | 24 traveling by bus is the most environmentally friendly way of getting The last thing to kn Norwin Public Library News ............................................... | 26 around if you can’t walk the distance. Most port authorities in Many tours not only p destination cities have| routes Vietnam Veteran Overcomes Adversity ........................... 28 to all major tourist attractions already in as to what you can do place. If you need a car, many major rental companies have added flex generations to come. fuel and electric hybrids to their fleets. In the end, your va Upon arriving plan a grocery stop. Buying from a grocery store comfortable in a hotel for snacks and drinks is cheaper than eating every meal out. If you’re have options to minim on the go, packing a few sandwiches can also save you time, avoiding a conscientious travele long lines at lunch and dinner time. Your hotel room most likely will of you and the United have a refrigerator; why not use it? The grocery store also will save you’re not just a visito you from the enormous mark-up on food items in hotel lobbies, an ambassador.

S TA F F PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard

elcome to the Spring issue of Norwin Magazine! Hopefully, we are all enjoying the lengthening days as we forge on to summer. While spring usually brings more rain to the region than we normally get throughout the rest of the year, I’m glad we’ve had a few days of nice weather to get outside and remember what the snow covered up. We’ve grown once again over the winter, and have shifted some staff around to accommodate that growth. I want to point this out to you because you, the readers, give us many of the great story ideas that you see featured in these pages, and I want you to have the right point of contact so that your story can be heard. The editor for the East Region is Monica Haynes (m.haynes@ incommunitymagazines.com). Please forward your good news to Monica, and she’ll make sure it finds a place in the magazine. If you’re not sure whether you have a good story, give Monica a call at 412.254.8704 and ask! While our editors have realigned into better-organized zones, we still want everything in those zones to be 100 percent local to you. We also appreciate your feedback (good and bad) to let us know where we missed Wayne Dollard the mark and where we hit it out of the park. Publisher Lastly, it’s not too soon to start thinking about the rest of the year! I know we just got through the holidays, and are thawing out, but since we’re quarterly, we’re already looking ahead to summer and beyond. So if you have events planned and would like to promote them, call or email Monica. If you have an event coming up earlier, let us know so we can send our photographers and document the occasion! Here’s hoping that the start to your year has been a good one!

MANAGING EDITOR

Marybeth Jeffries m.jeffries@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS

Mark Berton [South and West] mark@incommunitymagazines.com Monica L. Haynes [East] m.haynes@incommunitymagazines.com N O R T H Z O N E C O O R D I N AT O R

Pamela Palongue p.palongue@incommunitymagazines.com S C H O O L & M U N I C I PA L C O N T E N T C O O R D I N AT O R

Megan Faloni m.faloni@incommunitymagazines.com OFFICE MANAGER

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com A D P L A C E M E N T C O O R D I N AT O R

Debbie Mountain d.mountain@incommunitymagazines.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Sharon Cobb Susie Doak

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda

WRITERS

Ashley Connor Heather Holtschlag Leigh Lyons Dana Black McGrath

Joann Naser Kathleen Rudolph Gina Salinger Judith Schardt

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ginni Hartle Brad Lauer

Kathleen Rudolph Gary Yon

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS

hile June may not be busting out all over yet, hope springs eternal for warmer weather, blooming flowers, and more occasions to walk in the sunshine, and more opportunities to get out and meet your fellow residents and neighbors. Speaking of meeting your neighbors ... in this edition of Norwin, we have a feature on Irwin resident Jim Crosson, a Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient, who shares his story of hope. We also have news about the Norwin School District and all the great things that have been happening there. And since it’s spring musical time, we got the scoop on Norwin High School’s spring musical, “All Shook Up,” taken from the title of the hit song, by, you guessed it, Elvis Presley. We talked to the musical’s director Erin Shrader. Norwin also stopped Monica L. Haynes by the Downtown Irwin’s Chili Cook-Off and Eastern Regional Editor Wing Thing to sample some mighty good chili and some mouth watering wings. We also have updates from the Norwin Chamber of Commerce and the Norwin Library. Remember, this is your magazine. It’s about what’s happening in your community. So let us know what you want to read about, what’s going on, what’s important to you. For now, it’s time to think spring, and time to enjoy this edition of Norwin Magazine!

2 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

Derek Bayer Tom Poljak

Tamara Myers

ADVERTISING SALES

Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Karen Fadzen Julie Graf Jason Huffman Lori Jeffries Connie McDaniel Brian McKee Gabriel Negri Aimee Nicolia

Robert Ojeda Ralph Palaski Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Jennifer Schaefer Michael Silvert Karen Turkovich RJ Vighetti Nikki Capezio-Watson Sophia Williard

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 2012. CORRESPONDENCE

Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN COMMUNITY MAGAZINES

Attn: Editorial 603 E. McMurray Rd. Ph: 724.942.0940 McMurray, PA 15317 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com Summer content deadline: 5/4 Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR RECOGNITION MONTH District Honors Norwin School Board Members

orwin School District honored the members of the Norwin Board of School Directors in January, which was School Director Recognition Month across Pennsylvania. During January, the staff and students of the district asked members of the community to take time in some way to thank a school director for the time and effort he/she puts into helping our schools. These individuals see the great value in standing up for public education. The Norwin Board of Education members include: Mr. Robert J. Perkins, President

Dec. 1999 – Present

Mr. Thomas J. Sturm, Vice President Feb. 1995 – Dec. 1995 Dec. 1997 – Nov. 2005, Dec. 2007 – Present Mr. Dennis J. Rittenhouse

Dec. 1999 – Present

Dr. Becky A. Gediminskas

Dec. 2001 – Present

Mr. Donald W. Rhodes

Dec. 2005 – Present

Ms. Barbara A. Viola

Dec. 2009 – Present

Mr. Jerry P. O’Donnell

Dec. 2009 – Present

Ms. Darlene J. Ciocca

Dec. 2011 – Present

Mr. Raymond Kocak

Dec. 2011 – Present

Norwin Board of School Directors

Front Row (L-R): Becky A. Gediminskas; Thomas J. Sturm, Vice President; Robert J. Perkins, President; Barbara A. Viola. Back Row (L-R): Darlene J. Ciocca; Dennis J. Rittenhouse; Jerry P. O’Donnell; Donald W. Rhodes, Jr.; Raymond Kocak.

Superintendent William Kerr acknowledged the Board of Education for its leadership and dedication toward improving the quality of education in a special presentation at the regular board meeting on Monday, January 16, 2012. Directors were given a certificate of appreciation, as well as a copy of the book That Used to Be Us: How America Fell Behind in the World it Invented and How We Can Come Back. Dr. Kerr studied the 2011 book with the Western Pennsylvania Forum for School Superintendents, and he is also leading a professional development study of the same book with Norwin principals and administrators. The book’s coauthors, Michael Mandelbaum and Thomas Friedman, explain how continued on page 5 Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

News You Can Use NATIONAL BOARD CERTIFIED TEACHERS AT NORWIN

Norwin National Board Certified Teachers, from left: Ms. Danae Brentzel-Martina of Norwin High School; Ms. Trisha Brunazzi of Stewartsville Elementary; Mr. Thomas Swenson of Hillcrest Intermediate; Ms. Melissa Houston of Sunset Valley Elementary; and Mr. Matt Anticole of Norwin High School. Ms. Brentzel-Martina and Mr. Anticole earned their certification in November.

wo Norwin High School teachers, Mr. Matt Anticole and Ms. Danae Brentzel-Martina, recently achieved National Board Certification, which is considered by many to be the gold standard of advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Three other Norwin teachers previously earned the same distinction. They include: • Ms. Trisha Brunazzi of Stewartsville Elementary, who earned certification in 2009 • Mr. Thomas Swenson of Hillcrest Intermediate, who earned certification in 2009 • Ms. Melissa Houston of Sunset Valley Elementary, who earned certification in 2010. National Board Certification is an advanced teaching credential that complements, but does not replace, a state’s teacher license. It is valid for 10 years. National Board Certified Teachers are considered to be among the nation’s most accomplished teachers who help students develop the necessary skills to thrive in school, in the workplace, and in the 21st century global economy. Ms. Brentzel-Martina and Mr. Anticole were the only ones from Westmoreland County who earned the certification this year. They join 6,200 other teachers from across the United States, including 133 from Pennsylvania, who earned certification in November. According to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, teachers achieve certification after voluntarily completing an assessment program in 10 areas designed to recognize effective

Norwin

and accomplished teachers who meet high standards based on what teachers should know and be able to do. The assessments, which are reviewed by trained teachers in their certificate areas, include four portfolio entries that feature teaching practice and six constructed response exercises that assess content knowledge. Ms. Brentzel-Martina said a colleague in the Norwin High School English department encouraged her to attend an informational meeting through the Center for Teaching Excellence—and she was intrigued. She was ready for a new professional challenge, and she wanted to see how this process could help develop her teaching skills. “I can say with absolute confidence that I am a better, more deliberate, more reflective teacher now,” Ms. Brentzel-Martina said. “Adhering to the National Board Standards encourages more rigor and reflection on the part of both students and teacher, and that helps my students to maximize their learning potential.” Mr. Anticole was encouraged by his brother, who is also a teacher who earned National Board Certification, as well as Mr. Swenson. Mr. Anticole agreed with the goals of the program, which include advancing content knowledge, improving classroom delivery, and increasing interaction with students, families, the local community and the professional community. “To me, achieving certification is a welcome acknowledgement of my efforts to meet those goals so far,” Mr. Anticole said. “However, the goals of the program are set very high and it is a reminder that National Board Certified teachers have a responsibility to continue

SCHOOL DIRECTOR RECOGNITION MONTH continued from page 3

to improve across all aspects of the teaching spectrum. Sounds a bit cliché, but it feels like more of a beginning than an endpoint. To my students, it means that I have bought into the idea that teaching is a process that can be improved through experiment, effort, and reflection. I hope to motivate the best in them as they hopefully see me trying for the same in my own efforts.” Mr. Anticole and Ms. Brentzel-Martina would both like to thank their students from last school year who were very patient and cooperative as they experimented with new lessons in response to requirements for the program and brought a video camera into the classroom time after time. They thank their families, colleagues, and administrators at Norwin for their support during this process. “I especially want to thank my 2010-2011 English 10 classes,” Ms. Brentzel-Martina said. “It was their work I put forward as evidence of student learning, and they were immensely supportive of me during the entire process. I literally could never have done this without them.” In addition, both of their spouses deserve a round of applause, Mr. Anticole said, “for putting up with the long hours where we’d abdicate our parental responsibilities to instead sit in front of the computer analyzing videos and typing essays!” Since 1987, nearly 100,000 teachers have achieved National Board Certification. Research, including the 2008 congressionally-mandated National Research Council report, documents that students taught by National Board Certified teachers make higher gains on achievement tests than students taught by those who are not National Board Certified.

“I can say with absolute confidence that I am a better, more deliberate, more reflective teacher now.” MS. DANAE BRENTZEL-MARTINA

America lost its competitive edge and the formula that made the nation a success – much of which hinged on a strong commitment to public education. The book That Used to Be Us teaches that even good schools with decent facilities, adequate class sizes, quality teachers and students who pass standardized tests are not producing students who are living up to their intellectual or personal potential. The authors point out that the “three R’s” are important, but students need to be more than test takers. Twenty-first century skills and the 3 C’s – critical thinking (asking the right questions), effective oral and written communication, and collaboration – are essential to unleash innovation and creativity in students who live in a world of hyper connectivity.

“Transforming K-12 education will better prepare our students for the jobs of the future. Thus, Norwin – our corner of the world – has to lead with transformational change to better prepare our students with, as the book states, not more education, but with a better education.” DR. WILLIAM KERR Superintendent of Schools “The 21st century requires change,” Dr. Kerr said. “Transforming K-12 education will better prepare our students for the jobs of the future. Thus, Norwin – our corner of the world – has to lead with transformational change to better prepare our students with, as the book states, not more education, but with a better education.” “Norwin School District is a shining example of all that is good in public education,” Dr. Kerr said. “The credit goes to the current Board of School Directors, as well as to previous boards, for effectively managing budget and financial matters, implementing cost-cutting measures, and completing renovation / construction projects which provide modern, safe, and energy-efficient facilities. Equally important, the board has taken the necessary steps to provide investments in quality educational programs and services and teacher effectiveness, resulting in increased student achievement and high-performing schools.” Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

News You Can Use FREE COMPUTER COURSES FOR SENIOR CITIZENS Class on “Searching the Internet” Begins Tuesday, March 20, 2012

or the second time this school year, Norwin School District is offering senior citizens who are Norwin residents the opportunity to take free technology courses. In these classes, residents aged 65 and older can learn how to search the World Wide Web, use Microsoft Word 2007, create a Facebook page, use Skype to make voice or video calls over the Internet, use the new Apple iPad, or manage their digital photos. The first class in the series, “Using Skype,” will be offered Tuesday, March 20, 2012, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Norwin High School. To see all the courses and their start dates, please visit the Norwin School District website at www.norwinsd.org and look under “headlines” for an article about Free Computer Courses in March/April. Norwin School District first offered the courses in the fall of 2011 to say “thank you” for the support that senior citizens have given to the school community over the years, according to Dr. Tracy McNelly, assistant superintendent of secondary education. This second offering features more courses in more school buildings across Norwin School District. “Norwin School District is delighted to

offer free technology courses to senior citizens, and we appreciate the enthusiasm that was generated by the classes we first offered in the fall,” Dr. McNelly said. “Giving back to the community is always a goal at Norwin.” Anyone who took the Norwin classes in fall 2011 is asked to not attend the same class in spring 2012. For instance, a person who took the class “Searching the Internet” in

GOLD CARD REQUIRED FOR FREE TECHNOLOGY CLASSES AT NORWIN To be eligible for these classes, apply for a Norwin School District Gold Card. Current Gold Card holders need not reapply. Norwin Gold Cards are available for free to people aged 65 or older who live in North Huntingdon, Irwin or North Irwin. The Gold Card also allows its holders to take advantage of free general admission at home football and basketball games. To apply for a Norwin Gold Card, please visit the Norwin Administration Building at 281 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon, on the Norwin School District campus. Apply in person weekdays from 8 to 11 a.m. or from 1 to 4 p.m. Proof of age, such as a driver’s license, is required. It takes five to 10 minutes to apply.

Norwin

fall cannot take “Searching the Internet” in spring. However, seniors who took courses in fall 2011 can enroll in a different course in spring 2012. “These skills are important for senior citizens because we all live in a technologyrich world, and there is an ever-increasing expectation that everyone has similar access and skill with technology,” said Ms. Kathy Curran, coordinator of educational technology, who will serve as the instructor of the classes.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT HUNTER MCGOWAN RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD

orwin High School 10th grade student Hunter McGowan has been selected as one of 21 students from across the United States who will receive the Yes I Can! Award from the Council for Exceptional Children. This national award honors children and youth with disabilities who excel. Hunter has deaf-blindness, and he attended DePaul School for Hearing and Speech in Pittsburgh until he entered the ninth grade at Norwin High School. “Hunter brings to mind the word ‘determination,’ yet it is determination with a sense of humor and a resilient, confident attitude,” said Ms. Maggie Zimmer, Norwin School District director of pupil services and special programs, who nominated him for the award. Hunter transitioned from a small, specialized setting at DePaul School, and came to Norwin High School, which has approximately 1,700 students in grades 9-12, Ms. Zimmer said. This would have been a challenge for any student, but Hunter managed it well. During Hunter’s ninth grade year, he became involved with the Norwin High School swim team, where he practiced and swam competitively for the school. By the second nine-week grading cycle, Hunter was on the Honor Roll and remained on the Honor Roll for the rest of his ninth grade year, Ms. Zimmer said. This year, Hunter has truly become an active participant in high school activities, she said. He attended football games and homecoming events. It was important to Hunter to talk to his classmates about his deaf-blindness as he had sensed that his peers had questions, particularly about his extensive use of technology. To answer their questions, Hunter prepared a PowerPoint presentation that he has used with classmates, teachers and members of his support services team. Hunter has a schedule typical of any high school student, with all general education classes such as English, chemistry, social studies, and geometry. He gets help from Ms. Melissa Boyd, who serves as his intervener, which is someone who helps to provide access to visual and auditory information for individuals with deaf-blindness. He also spends time with Norwin’s teacher of the visually impaired, Mr. Bill Closson, and with other support service providers. “Hunter makes it look easy, but behind his success is hard work and resolve,” Ms. Zimmer said. “He takes his academic work very seriously and spends many hours completing homework each night. The summer before his freshman year, he listened to digital recordings of the literary works he would encounter in his upcoming English class.”

“Hunter embodies the phrase, ‘Yes I Can!’” said Ms. Alison McNary, one of his teachers. “With his amazing sense of humor, eagerness to understand, and relentless work ethic, Hunter has not only survived high school – he has thrived academically.” Candidates for this prestigious award could be nominated in just one of several different categories HUNTER MCGOWAN including academics, athletics, school NATIONAL AWARD WINNER and community activities, selfadvocacy, technology, or transition. In Hunter’s case it was difficult to choose just one category as he has excelled in all areas. The selection committee reviewed each nominee’s achievements and the severity of the disability in relation to the achievements. The awards will be presented in April at the CEC Convention in Denver, Colo. The Council for Exceptional Children is an international community of professionals who are the voice and vision of special and gifted education. CEC’s mission is to improve, through excellence and advocacy, the education and quality of life for children and youth with exceptionalities and to enhance the engagement of their families. Hunter is the son of Mike and Patti McGowan, and is the brother of Paige and Connor of North Huntingdon.

“Hunter makes it look easy, but behind his success is hard work and resolve. He takes his academic work very seriously and spends many hours completing homework each night.” –MS. MAGGIE ZIMMER, Norwin School District, Director of Pupil Services and Special Programs

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

News You Can Use

ELEMENTARY SPANISH AS EASY AS UNO, DOS, TRES! High School Students Teach Elementary Students Basics of Spanish Language

Norwin High School Spanish IV students teach Hahntown Elementary School students lessons about Spanish words for colors. The four “student teachers,” standing, from left to right are Maureen Delle Donne, Leah Desantis, Kristina Begonia, and Mallory Kern. At far left are Hahntown Elementary School fourth grade students.

orwin High School students are teaching Spanish to fourth grade students on a rotating basis. The program, which began this school year, has been integrated into Enrichment and Remediation time at the end of the elementary school day. The student-led classes last 25 minutes and focus on Spanish vocabulary, expressions, and basic conversational skills. Some Spanish culture is also taught surrounding Latino celebrations. Songs, activities, and some crafts are part of the lesson planning. Interested students in Ms. Danielle Connelly’s Honors Spanish IV classes at Norwin High School were asked to volunteer to teach for nineweek periods. All told, 19 of 36 Honors Spanish IV students stepped forward to take the assignment. They are enjoying working with fourth grade students at the schools that they attended six or seven years ago. For high school students Kristina Begonia and Mallory Kern, it has been a great experience. “Now we have a perspective from both the student and the teacher side,” they said. The idea for the pilot program came about through a team effort of the World Languages department and two administrators: Dr. Mary Anne Hazer, assistant superintendent of elementary education, and Dr. Tracy McNelly, assistant superintendent of secondary education. “What a fantastic opportunity this is for our students,” Dr. Hazer said. “The Spanish name the fourth grade students get during the first session, coupled with the enthusiasm of the high school students, has made the

Norwin

program take off. Our elementary students look forward to each session. Ms. Connelly makes certain the high school students are well prepared.” Dr. McNelly said she believes this is unique because it involves high school seniors and elementary students. “It also helps meet several goals: preparing students for a global society, creating internships/ mentorships for students, and introducing community service and service learning concepts.” The student instructors teach about 16 classes during a nine-week period. They rotate to a new elementary school after the nine-week period is over. The program began the first nine weeks at Hahntown Elementary. During the second nine weeks, it will move to Sheridan Terrace Elementary; third nine weeks, Stewartsville Elementary; and fourth nine weeks, Sunset Valley Elementary. These “student teachers” receive community service hours for this teaching experience. They meet with Ms. Connelly each week to review the lesson plans and procedures. “I’m very excited we are piloting the program this year,” Ms. Connelly said. “My Spanish IV students report back to me after each lesson stating how quickly the elementary students are picking up the language. Hopefully it serves as a stepping stone to start world language learning at a young age here at Norwin. Second language learning that begins at an early age helps create more proficient speakers and a better understanding of diverse cultures.”

NORWIN STEM EDUCATION SUMMIT ANNOUNCED Inaugural Event for Westmoreland, Allegheny County Educators Set for Monday, March 12, at Norwin High School

orwin School District is hosting its first-ever STEM Education Summit to bring together business and education partners to share ideas and identify new college and career pathways to create advanced educational opportunities that will encourage our students to become an integral part of tomorrow’s leading workforce. STEM is the education acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and it’s a “national call to action” in K-12 education and at colleges and universities designed to increase America’s chances of attaining a strong, competitive edge on the international stage. The Norwin STEM Summit will be held on Monday, March 12, 2012, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Norwin High School. It is open to any Westmoreland or Allegheny County teacher or administrator, as well as select business and community leaders by invitation only. The special guest presenter will be Dr. Lawrence Mussoline, superintendent of the Downingtown Area School District in The Norwin School District website at Chester County, Pa. Dr. www.norwinsd.org/StemSummit has Mussoline will speak details about the STEM Summit on about the Downingtown March 12, 2012. STEM Academy that opened in fall 2011. The school features a project-based learning environment where students are exposed to the kinds of design and implementation practices that scientists and engineers use regularly. There will also be a STEM Panel Discussion, facilitated by Mr. Michael Choby, Norwin School District STEM Coordinator, to answer questions and discuss how students can be successful in tomorrow’s careers. The panel includes: • Mr. John Caverno, Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Chief Human Resources Officer, Excela Health • Mr. Jean-Dominique Le Garrec, Engineering Services Growth, Westinghouse Electric Company • Mr. Todd Fleming, PDS Industries • Dr. Robert Scherrer, Principal, Pittsburgh Science & Technology Academy

• Mr. Glenn Skena, Manager, Methods Engineering, Hamill Manufacturing Company • Ms. Mehgan Riley, Kennametal Foundation Coordinator, Kennametal Inc.

DR. MUSSOLINE

DOWNINGTOWN AREA There will also be 30-minute and SCHOOL DISTRICT one-hour breakout sessions to share best Keynote Speaker STEM education practices from around Westmoreland and Allegheny counties. Educators and STEM organizations are invited to submit proposals to lead these breakout sessions and share the innovative things happening with STEM education within their school district or organization. Dr. Tracy A. McNelly, assistant superintendent of secondary education, Norwin School District, is leading the district steering committee that is coordinating the summit. The idea for the STEM summit grew out of administrative discussions led by Superintendent William Kerr, who introduced the concept in his annual written report to the Norwin community in August 2011. Dr. Kerr and many educators are keenly aware of the importance of education, workforce quality, and economic development as they relate to preparing Norwin students for the future. For example, the total number of STEM employees predicted to be needed during the next 10 to 15 years is approximately 35,000 to 50,000 in southwestern Pennsylvania alone. This is according to a 2008 report titled Pennsylvania STEM Initiative and the Southwest PA STEM Network from The Education Policy and Leadership Center. This past fall, Dr. Kerr heard Downingtown Area School District’s superintendent, Dr. Lawrence Mussoline, and that district’s STEM Academy headmaster, Mr. George Fiore, both speak at the Western Pennsylvania Forum for School Superintendents. “I realized that they would be perfect for the Norwin STEM Summit,” Dr. Kerr said.

STEM is a “national call to action” designed to increase America’s chances of attaining a strong, competitive edge on the international stage. Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Sports

SPRING SPORTS - HOME GAMES Baseball

BOYS VARSITY 3/23 3/30 4/2 4/4 4/13 4/18 4/27 5/2 5/7 5/9

Penn Hills North Allegheny Woodland Hills Hempfield Albert Gallatin Latrobe Connellsville Laurel Highlands Penn Trafford Pittsburgh Central Catholic

BOYS JUNIOR VARSITY 3/28 4/11 4/12 4/16 4/20 4/24 4/25 4/30 5/1

Derry Connellsville Gateway Laurel Highlands Penn Trafford Franklin Regional Hempfield Albert Gallatin Latrobe

BOYS FRESHMAN 3/27 4/3 4/12 4/16 4/18 4/24 5/1 5/3 5/10

Hempfield Franklin Regional Greensburg Salem North Allegheny Gateway Mt. Pleasant Kiski Plum Penn Trafford

GIRLS JUNIOR HIGH

4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM

4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM

Softball

GIRLS VARSITY

3/26 3/29 4/3 4/10 4/14 4/16 4/19 4/24 4/28 5/3 5/8

Gateway H. S. Bethel Park Hempfield Kiski Latrobe Franklin Regional Yough Albert Gallatin Connellsville Penn Trafford Penn Hills

GIRLS JUNIOR VARSITY 3/26 3/29 4/3 4/10 4/14 4/16 4/19 4/24 4/28 5/3 5/8 10

Norwin

Gateway H. S. Bethel Park Hempfield Kiski Latrobe Franklin Regional Yough Albert Gallatin Connellsville Penn Trafford Penn Hills

4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 12:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 12:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM

5:30PM 5:30PM 5:30PM 5:30PM 1:30PM 5:30PM 5:30PM 5:30PM 1:30PM 5:30PM 5:30PM

3/28 4/2 4/11 4/16 4/20 4/25 4/30 5/4

(N Allegheny White ) Woodland Hills Franklin Regional Kiski Penn Trafford Gateway Penn Hills McKeesport

4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM

Tennis

BOYS VARSITY

3/14 3/19 3/23 3/30 4/10 4/12 4/13 4/18 4/19 4/24 4/26 4/27 4/30 5/3 5/4

South Park Kiski Hempfield Connellsville Latrobe Section Singles Section Singles Franklin Regional WPIAL Singles Butler Section Doubles Section Doubles Penn Trafford WPIAL Doubles WPIAL Doubles

BOYS JUNIOR VARSITY 3/21 Latrobe 3/26 Franklin Regional 4/2 Penn Trafford

3:30PM 3:30PM 3:30PM 3:00PM 3:30PM TBA TBA 3:30PM TBA 3:30PM TBA TBA 3:30PM TBA TBA

3:30PM 3:30PM 3:30PM

LaCrosse

BOYS VARSITY 3/23 3/28 4/5 4/12 4/25 4/30 5/1 5/3 5/10 5/14

Vincentian North Allegheny Greensburg C. C. Baldwin High School Canon-Mcmillan Quaker Valley High School Moon Area High School Winchester Thurston School Fox Chapel Shaler

BOYS JUNIOR VARSITY 3/23 3/28 4/5 4/12 4/25 4/30 5/1 5/3 5/10 5/14

Vincentian North Allegheny Greensburg C. C. Baldwin High School Canon-Mcmillan Quaker Valley High School Moon Area High School Winchester Thurston School Fox Chapel Shaler

3/14 FoxChapel/PghCC/Shaler 3/24 (Norwin Tournament)

Latrobe Penn Hills Hempfield Gateway H. S. North Allegheny Plum Penn Trafford

BOYS JUNIOR VARSITY 3/14 3/29 4/5 4/12 4/26 4/30 5/3 5/10

FoxChapel/PghCC/Shaler Latrobe Penn Hills Hempfield Gateway North Allegheny Plum Penn Trafford

GIRLS FRESHMAN 3/8 3/15 3/27 4/3 4/10

Greensburg Salem Hempfield Latrobe Indiana Area Senior HS Penn Trafford

GIRLS 7TH-8TH BLUE 3/15 3/20 3/22 3/29 4/3 4/4

Harrold - Hempfield Penn Middle-PT Yough Gateway Connellsville Junior High West Connellsville Junior High East

GIRLS 7TH-8TH GOLD 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:15PM 7:30PM

6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM

3/6 3/8 3/13 3/23 3/27 4/10 4/12

Wendover-Hempfield West Hempfield - Hempfield Greensburg Salem Fox Chapel Derry Indiana Area Junior HS Trafford Middle-PT

COED VARSITY 4/4 4/11 4/25 5/2 5/8 5/25

Indiana/Hempfield Franklin Regional Norwin 9/10 Invitational WPIAL Semi Finals WPIAL Qualifier PIAA Championships

COED 7TH/8TH GRADE 3/29 4/3 4/18 5/2

Yough Penn Middle-PT Indiana Area Junior HS Latrobe

7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 7:00PM

5:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM

3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM

3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM

3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM 3:45PM

4:00PM 4:00PM 3:30PM TBA 2:00PM TBA

4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM 4:00PM

For the most recent sports schedule, please visit highschoolsports.net.

Volleyball

BOYS VARSITY

3/29 4/5 4/12 4/26 4/30 5/3 5/10

5:00PM 9:00AM

Helping Your Autistic Child to Reach Full Potential at School

Autism education expert Rebecca Moyes says the region’s large autism community requires a range of learning environments. She recently wrote a book called “Building Sensory Friendly Classrooms to Support Challenging Behavior.” Moyes Her book has come to life in the form of the new Pressley Ridge School for Autism located in the Emsworth section of Pittsburgh where she is the program director.

ore than one in 78 children in Allegheny County is diagnosed with autism every year, and the number is growing.With so many choices in autism education, it is important to connect a student’s potential with the right type of classroom environment and program. While Pressley Ridge has been serving children and families in Southwestern PA for more than a century, the new Pressley Ridge School for Autism focuses on helping each child reach his or her full potential – in the classroom and in life. The new program’s approach is data-driven, utilizing evidencebased practices known to be most effective in helping children with autism progress through key learning milestones. With a ‘pull-out and push-in’ model of speech and occupational therapy throughout the day, our trained instructors are able to meet the needs of each child in multiple environments throughout the school day.

The new school features a vocational training program on-site that enables students to explore and train career areas including: horticulture, retail management, culinary arts, and business. Families and teachers are invited to visit this new school and program to experience Pressley Ridge School for Autism firsthand, or to take a virtual online tour, or to contact us to discuss your child. It may be the first step in ensuring your child or student is on the right path to realizing their full potential.

THE PATH TO FULL AT PRESSLEY RIDGE The new Pressley Ridge School for Autism was designed by leading autism education experts known for their insights and achievement with children across the autism spectrum. With a new facility featuring sensory-friendly lighting, furniture and space, and small class sizes, we help each child to learn in an environment that suits them best. A classroom is just the beginning of a world of opportunity for your child. That’s why our new autism program includes vocational training labs. So each student can also experience a career path, and learn skills in areas such as horticulture, culinary arts, office work and retail. Learn more about us. Take a virtual tour, call or come visit.

pressleyridge.org/school-for-autism 1-877-905-4291

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

The Self-defense

Quick Fix I

f you watch the news you might come to a scary conclusion. Every year the world seems to be more dangerous than the last year. Is it safe to walk down the street or in town? What could you do to give yourself and your family peace of mind? There are a few quick fix ideas I will go over and analyze for their true self-defense worth. The first thing that jumps into an American’s head might be that you need to buy a gun. Sounds like a quick fix to me. I used to carry a gun for self-defense, and it definitely gave me peace of mind at first. I guess I was unlucky, but I have had a gun pulled on me while I had my gun on me. Sorry to say that it was useless against an already drawn gun. Pulling my gun out in this situation would have just gotten me killed. Guns are a useful self-defense tool, but not by themselves. There are too many variables in self-defense to cover for a gun. I get calls all the time for self-defense courses. You know, 6 weeks and you’ll have the tools you need to defend yourself. They are not totally lying, but there is a problem. Since I said tools, I’ll use a tool analogy. I own all the tools necessary to fix my car, but could I do it in a heightened situation, like in NASCAR pit crew conditions? Not a chance! The NASCAR pit crews practice every day to be as good as they are. To use the tools that you get in a self-defense class, you would have to practice them at least a couple of times a week. Will learning traditional martial arts do the trick? Well, it’s not a quick fix, but it can definitely do the job. When all living creatures are born, they have a natural defensive capability. These capabilities differ with each creature. This response is known as the fight or flight response. Martial arts class replaces your natural capabilities with finely honed, sometimes devastating capabilities. This can only be achieved through many hours of studying and practicing though. Martial arts is your best option for peace of mind, and it is available to men, women and children of all ages. Is there a self-defense quick fix? No. As they say, nothing in life worth having comes easy.

John Yaremko, a Norwin Alum, class of 1989, is a certified 5th degree Master Instructor in Tang Soo Do (traditional Korean empty hand art) and a 4th degree Master Instructor of Haidong Gumdo (traditional Korean sword art) at North American Karate and Fitness, Norwin branch. He has been training for over 15 years, instructing for 12 years and has received many awards for teaching and competing in the martial arts. 12 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

Relay for Life Norwin Kicks Off 2012 Campaign

elay For Life of Norwin wants area residents to see that “There’s No Place Like Hope” while helping fight cancer and honor survivors and caregivers. The “Relay year” kicked off Jan. 20, and more than 20 teams already are registered for this year’s event. More than $10,000 has been raised, with this year’s goal set at $96,170. After two years at Irwin Park, Relay For Life of Norwin is returning to Norwin Knights Stadium for its 2012 event, slated for July 14-15, 2012 from 11 a.m to 11 p.m. During the 24-hour event, teams work to continue fundraising efforts through games, raffles and food sales. This year marks the eighth annual event in Norwin. This year’s theme, “There’s No Place Like Hope,” was suggested by a participant in last year’s event and selected through a vote at the 2011 Relay. Organizers said the theme is a perfect fit with Relay because people can make a lot of connections between the characters in The Wizard of Oz and the cause: the scarecrow’s brain represents cancer research, the tin man’s heart is like the hearts of caregivers and the lion’s courage is like the courage of survivors. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is an overnight community celebration where individuals and teams camp out and take turns walking around a track relay style to raise funds to fight cancer. At nightfall, participants will light hundreds of luminaria around the track in a moving ceremony to honor relatives and friends who are fighting or have died from the disease. The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, those who face cancer will be supported and that one day cancer will be eliminated.

For more information on Norwin’s event, including how to start a team or raise funds, go to the website WWW.RELAYFORLIFE.ORG/PANORWIN.

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

IN Community Magazines:

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

Norwin Hosts

Three Rivers Winter Ensemble Association COMPETITION

Find out how our 36 direct-mailed, community-sponsored, quarterly magazines can grow your business.

Norwin High School hosted the Three Rivers Winter Ensemble Association competition Feb. 4. Colorguards, dance teams, majorette twirlers, mixed ensembles, and percussion units perform in TRWEAsanctioned contests. A number of high schools, middle schools and independent organiza-

tions participated in the event.

724.942.0940

Norwin A Guard came in second place with a score of 59.2 in Scholastic A competition for their show “How They Shine.” Norwin World Guard scored 66.8 and had no other competition in their class for their show “Human Nature.”

Christ Centered

Biblical Counseling TheGraceWellnessCenter.com

“So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” -John 8:36

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Norwin

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Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

GET

• Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story • C

AT NORWIN MUSICAL

BY HEATHER HOLTSCHLAG

PREPARE TO GET ALL SHAKEN UP AT THIS YEAR’S MUSICAL, “All Shook Up,” at Norwin High School. The production will take place at 7 p.m. from Thursday, March 22 to Saturday, March 24, and at 2 p.m. on

16 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story • Cover Story

For more information about the musical or for tickets, call Kelly Kneiling at 724.861.0318 or visit www.norwintheatreclub.com

Sunday, March 25, in the Norwin High School Center for Performing Arts Auditorium. “We are very excited about this year’s production because there will be a lot of singing, dancing, and just having fun,” said Erin Shrader, director and choreographer of the musical. “We have a double cast, which means one cast will be performing on Thursday and Saturday, and another cast will perform on Friday and Sunday. We encourage everyone to come to see both casts in action.” Tickets for the event are $10 for adults and $6 for senior citizens and students. On Thursday, opening night, tickets will be discounted $1. The plot of the production is loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and is set in the 1950s. It is inspired by and features the songs of Elvis Presley. It features a guitar-playing roustabout who changes everything and everyone he meets in the surroundings of a small town. The production will have everyone in the audience dancing to such classics as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Don’t Be Cruel.” “We chose the production over the summer and announced our choice to the students in August,” said Shrader, who is a 1999 graduate of Norwin High School. “The reason we picked this particular production is because there would be a lot of roles, a lot of singing and dancing and many different types of characters, which gives us a chance to feature the diverse talents of our students.” The students, who hail from a mix of grades from sophomores to seniors, performed auditions in December, and the cast was announced right before holiday break. They began rehearsals upon returning to school and have been hard at work ever since. “This production features students in several different areas of school,” Shrader noted. “We have hockey players, volleyball players, student council members and a number of other areas, so we are happy to include this wide mix.” This is Shrader’s third year choreographing Norwin High School’s musical and her first year serving as director. “The previous director was not able to do the directing this year, and because I had worked with the students for the prior two years, I was able to step in to direct,” said Shrader, who, upon graduating from the School for Musical Theater at Point Park University, went to New York where she got her start as a performer. She went on to serve in other capacities as well, including as show captain, show choreographer and also taught dance at various dance studios. “My work with the students on the annual musical performance is my way of giving back to my high school,” Shrader acknowledged. “I had such great musical experiences when I attended Norwin, and I wanted other students to be able to experience that, too.” Shrader, who had her 15 minutes of fame when she was an extra on Saturday Night Live in 2004, said that the cast they have in place for “All Shook Up” is the largest one since she has been there, featuring 62 students and having auditioned more than 80. “The thing that makes this such a rewarding experience for “We are very excited about this me is watching the students grow and seeing their enthusiasm year’s production because there will when they realize that they got it,” Shrader said. “I have been be a lot of singing, dancing, and working with some of these students since I came here three just having fun.” years ago, so it is amazing to watch them from year to year.” Shrader said she would love to continue the work on the - Erin Shrader, musicals at Norwin High School, mainly because of the great Director and Choreographer production crew and the support the production receives from everyone involved.

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

DECIPHERING THE HABENDUM CLAUSE IN PENNSYLVANIA

OIL & GAS LEASES

s I’m sure everyone is aware, the Marcellus Shale phenomenon in Pennsylvania has resulted in a surge (this may be an understatement) in oil and gas leasing. It seems that almost every week we are being asked to review and/or evaluate for or on behalf of our clients an offer or multiple offers to enter into an oil and gas lease. Typically, these offers come in the form of a standard base lease. Depending on numerous factors, the landowner will have the ability to negotiate certain provisions of a standard form lease. While the results of those negotiations are client and property specific, there are certain standard clauses set forth in all form leases that should be considered. One such provision is the Habendum Clause. This is legalese for “Term.” Generally, a standard form lease separates the term into an initial or “primary” term during which the lessee has the option, but not the obligation, to operate and/or explore for oil and gas on the subject property. In exchange for this right, the gas company pays an upfront delay rental payment of a certain dollar amount per net acre. At the end of the primary term, the lease will then terminate by law unless (i) there exits a well that is “producing in paying quantities”, or (ii) the gas company provides or complies with a contractual substitute for production in paying quantities (such as payment of delay rentals or commencement of drilling operations). In Pennsylvania, whether or not a well is producing oil or gas in paying quantities does not mean paying quantities to the lessor. It means paying quantities to the lessee. In fact judicial deference is given to the lessee so long as its determination of this factual issue is made in good faith. Therefore, so long as a well is producing enough to cover the costs of operation (even at an overall loss), the standard of “producing in paying quantities” will be met and the primary term of the lease will continue unless or until the lessee decides to discontinue operations. If, at the end of the primary term, the lessee has failed to develop a well that is producing in paying quantities, most form leases provide that the term of the lease will nevertheless continue and extend into a secondary term once the oil and gas company has commenced drilling operations. Of course (and on purpose) this term is not defined in the lease itself. Pennsylvania has no definitive case law in which “operations” have been clearly defined in the context of a gas lease. In

It is always advisable to consult an experienced legal professional with an expertise in the particular field prior to entering into a legal contract. 18 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

other words, this term can be and often is very loosely interpreted. As you can see, it could be detrimental to apply a logical or common sense interpretation to even the most basic terms of legal documents (especially gas leases). It is always advisable to consult an experienced legal professional with an expertise in the particular field prior to entering into a legal contract. This Industry Insight was written by Mathew M. Nichols, Esq. Duffy & Nichols, Attorneys at Law, have dedicated their attention to understanding your individual needs and planning for a successful outcome. They work to keep your long-term interests in mind, not just the problems of the moment. Their extensive professional profiles are available at www.duffynicholslaw.com.

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

eco tourism

Travelling Green Is Easier Than You Think

e all love our vacations when we can get them. But while travelling may mean leaving town for a dream destination, it also means baggage and one the pitfalls that come with it – waste. From “travel-sized” tubes of toothpaste and shampoo bottles to disposable razors and eating utensils, travelers often plan to return home with less than they take in order to make room for souvenirs or to simply lighten their loads., With a little planning, however, one can achieve the same goal while putting less of a burden on the environment. For starters, many discount stores sell empty plastic flip-top containers that are perfect for shampoos and conditioners. Instead of purchasing travel size versions of your favorite products, just get a few of these containers and fill them from products already in your bathroom. Rather than packing disposable razors, consider purchasing an electric razor for travel. Even after years of use, a quality electric razor that’s been properly maintained will still deliver a close shave. If you’re travelling to a major city or tourist destination, public transportation will almost certainly be available. Just like at home, traveling by bus is the most environmentally friendly way of getting around if rmation on fo in re o you can’t walk the distance. Most m r Fo r traditional o , sm ri u to port authorities in destination o ec nning, call cities have routes to all major vacation pla Travel today tourist attractions already in Three Rivers 41, or visit at 724.260.53 avel.com. place. If you need a car, many verstr www.threeri major rental companies have added flex fuel and electric hybrids to their fleets.

Upon arriving plan a grocery stop. Buying from a grocery store for snacks and drinks is cheaper than eating every meal out. If you’re on the go, packing a few sandwiches can also save you time, avoiding long lines at lunch and dinner time. Your hotel room most likely will have a refrigerator; why not use it? The grocery store also will save you from the enormous mark-up on food items in hotel lobbies, restaurants and room service. Dining out can also be a vacation highlight – no need to eat every meal in the room! If you really want to be an eco-tourist, find local restaurants that reflect the culture of your destination. Local cuisine is part of the experience, so treat yourself, and avoid chainrestaurants until you’re back at home. Eating locally also has ecological advantages; smaller restaurants tend to take advantage of locally grown produce, meats and cheeses. By patronizing these mom-and-pop eateries, you’re not only helping to sustain “mom and pop,” you’re helping the local farmers as well. If you’ve chosen an exotic locale, chances are that there are ecotours available. These unique and exhilarating sojourns are planned around responsible tour routes to preserve the local ecology. They typically hire local employees and guides, and will engage local officials to plan operations to minimize negative impacts on the ecology and social structure. Another advantage to ecotours is that they oftentimes allow unprecedented access to the

::: Three Rivers Travel 724.260.5341 ::: www.threeriverstravel.com ::: 20 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

eco destinations to consider in

2012

local wildlife, so be sure have your camera ready. The last thing to know about ecotours is that they are educational. Many tours not only point out fauna and wildlife, but will inform you as to what you can do to keep your favorite destination pristine for generations to come. In the end, your vacation is your dream. Whether you’re more comfortable in a hotel room or in a tent in Madagascar, you always have options to minimize your impact during your stay. And by being a conscientious traveler, you also leave the locals with a better opinion of you and the United States as a whole. When it comes to tourism, you’re not just a visitor, you’re an ambassador.

MAKE 2012 your year to visit an eco-friendly destination with your family. Here are four places where GREEN is good:

Oregon. This northwestern haven for all things green is possibly the most eco-conscious state in the nation. With more than 300 miles of stunning coastline preserved as public land, families can visit pristine beaches, bike in two-wheelfriendly cities like Portland and Eugene, and raft on wild and scenic rivers. You can also explore high deserts, farm and wine country and the Columbia River Gorge, all within one grand holiday.

3 Utah. Robert Redford is the eco-

minded force behind this mountain resort that provides a high-altitude lesson in good fun and environmental stewardship. Join guides for a snowshoe trek under the night sky in search of owls. By day, enjoy skiing, hiking, horseback riding, art projects and music. The resort operates on wind power, recycles its own glass and offers organic linens, amenities and vegetables. Carpoolers receive $5 off lift tickets for their energy-saving efforts.

Visit this exotic island to see 2theBorneo. world’s largest flower and to discover 4 St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. sparsely populated beaches, caves, lush jungles and an expansive list of endemic plant species. Trek through the virgin jungle to Mount Kinabalu and explore the Kinabatangang River region. Be on the lookout for wild boars, orangutans, macaques, elephants, kingfishers and proboscis monkeys. Stay in awardwinning eco-lodges featuring solar power, the harvest of rainwater and wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

Follow the underwater trail and enjoy one of the few fully protected marine areas in the world. Run by the National Park Service, the 176-acre island and surrounding coral reef ecosystem form Buck Island Reef National Monument, a nature lover’s paradise. Intensely colored fish and coral thrive in a turquoise sea, providing a visual treat for both novice and experienced snorkelers and divers. The preserve can be reached via halfand full-day charters.

::: Three Rivers Travel 724.260.5341 ::: www.threeriverstravel.com ::: Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

The Norwin

Chamber of Commerce The Norwin Chamber of Commerce strives to develop opportunities for area businesses. Besides providing a variety of networking and marketing avenues, the Chamber offers programs to help members cut down on operational expenses through the following services. ENERGY ASSISTANCE – Affordable energy is a growing concern for many businesses and residential consumers. As a member of the Norwin Chamber of Commerce, learn how you can save money by joining a chamber energy pool through an exclusive program with OnDemand Energy Solutions – a program affiliated with ChamberChoice. OnDemand Energy Solutions will help you and your business choose the right electricity supplier. The energy experts at OnDemand Energy Solutions have experience working with energy supply, utilities and utility rate structures with specific expertise in deregulated electricity markets. They can analyze your electricity usage patterns, evaluate available supply options and recommend the supplier that will save you and your business money on your electric bills. BUSINESS INSURANCE DIVIDEND PROGRAM – Chambers of Commerce Service Corporation recently partnered with Penn

National Insurance to provide a group program with opportunity to earn dividends. All chamber members are eligible for the dividend program, subject to individual risk characteristics, loss experience, and current underwriting guidelines. The program offers members a full range of property and casualty insurance, as well as the opportunity to earn a divided depending on group premium volume and claims experience. Eligible lines include Business Owners, Property, Package Policies, Commercial Auto, General Auto, General Liability, Inland Marine and Worker’s Compensation. HEALTH INSURANCE – Health insurance is offered to Norwin Chamber members through ChamberChoice. Special programs through ChamberChoice include healthcare, dental and vision, health savings accounts and reimbursements, life insurance and short-term and long-term care.

Program Spotlight C.A.R.E. (CHAMBER ASSOCIATES REFERRAL EXCHANGE) NETWORKING GROUP – exclusively for Norwin Chamber members. C.A.R.E. meets every other Thursday morning from 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. at the Chamber office. Each participant has an opportunity to give a 30-second commercial and is scheduled to be a speaker-of-the-week. Referrals within the group and the Norwin Chamber are reviewed and a different business topic each meeting is discussed. The C.A.R.E. group is free to members.

NEW

Website Addition The Norwin Chamber has a NEW page on its website – Local Job Openings. Norwin Chamber members can post their job openings on the Chamber’s website. This gives members a free way to advertise their available job openings to fellow members and the community at large. Job listings post the company name, contact person, phone number and brief job description. To view available jobs, visit www.norwinchamber.com/jobs.

RECENT CHAMBER EVENTS

Holiday Mixer featuring the Chick-Fil-A Cow

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Norwin

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts and More Ribbon Cutting

Ribbon Cutting at Walmart, N. Huntingdon

A Healthy, Happier and Slimmer You! I

hope everyone had a great holiday season, and that your winter so far has been enjoyable! It is now, that most people start to think about a New Year and a maybe, a New You. Have you been thinking about spring coming and summer just around the corner? Well, you’re not alone. Weight loss and starting a healthier lifestyle are in the top 3 most common New Year’s Resolutions! Some of you may have even started to give up on those HOPES for a New You. It’s never too late, and there’s no time like the present! I’m writing this issue to motivate people to start making little but consistent changes that would lead to a healthier, happier, and slimmer you! And, to discuss the many resources that are at your disposal to help you on your way! First, let’s not play a blame or shame game. Research shows that jobs in the United States that are more lucrative, are becoming more and more sedentary! In an article that I regularly reference from Men’s Magazine, “The most dangerous thing you can do all day” the average American is sitting well over eight hours a day. That includes drive time, work time, and leisure time. But at a cost of increases in Heart Disease, Diabetes, and Cancer! Not only is our lifestyle making us all fatter it literally is starting to kill us! Another article I refer to a lot “Your Muffin Top May Kill You” brings home the fact that the belly fat that we are putting on in America due to our lifestyle can be deadly! One of the largest studies to examine the dangers of abdominal fat suggests men and women with the biggest waistlines have twice the risk of dying over a decade compared to those with the smallest tummies. Surprisingly, bigger waists carry a greater risk of death even for people whose weight is “normal” by the body mass index, or BMI, a standard measure based on weight and height. “Even if you haven’t had a noticeable weight gain, if you notice your waist size increasing that’s an important sign,” said lead author Eric Jacobs of the American Cancer Society, which funded the study. “It’s time to eat better and start exercising more.” Now what can we do about it? Well, it’s time for a change and because we are such a specialized society and because you are too busy between trying to take care of family, home and work, YOU NEED HELP! That is where wellness doctors like me, great health care doctors and physical trainers become important. Research shows that those who are successful with the transition to a healthier lifestyle that LASTS, are those who invest Time and Money! The average American that does not invest time and money is not successful long term in their weight loss and health and wellness goals. For more information, call ALL KARE Chiropractic & Laser Clinic at 724-864-3310. You can either come in for a free consultation or come to one of our free monthly seminars. William H. Roscoe, D.C.

of That is why doctors’ offices across the country are investing resources to learn about new, innovative ways to help their patients in combating this growing epidemic of obesity in America. At All Kare Chiropractic & Laser Clinic we are continuing to add life services and research new ways to make the transition to a healthier lifestyle easier and more successful for our community! That is why we have added Robert Metz (a master degree nutritionist, working on his PhD.) to our staff. He is available one day a week in our office for a private in-depth consultation on your nutritional needs! We’ve added the HCG hormone diet to our arsenal of ways to help people lose weight faster. And of course, we are still going Strong with the Zerona Lipo Laser. It has been very effective in motivating my patients because of the rapid results. The average patients has been loosing 6 to 8 inches of off their target area’s in just one month! In fact, we guarantee a 5 inch loss, so why put if off any longer? Call our office today to schedule a free consultation, so that we can decide which tools will work best for you.

Smart Phones Click Here

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

6ANtNUhAL

24 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

& T

he Irwin Business and Professional Association sponsored the 6th annual Chili Cook-Off and Wing Thing competition. The annual event was sure to leave everyone who attended stuffed. A cup of chili was free and the wings were 50 cent. This event attracted hundreds of people to Main Street in Downtown, Irwin. It was a guaranteed fun night for everyone who attended. The event is also used to encourage everyone to shop at the local business in Downtown Irwin. The town has a lot to offer residents. Clothing stores, salons, hardware stores and more lined Main Street. Restaurants on Main Street that participated included Café Supreme, Colonial Grille & Taproom, and Cheesecake Caffe. They are

the returning champions for their chili for the past four years. Holy Trinity Lutheran Church hosted Romanos Café, Fontanas Café, Jacktown Ride & Hunt, and Twin Oaks. Those are restaurants that lie right outside the downtown Irwin area. Chris Aley, owner of Café Supreme, said about the event, “It really helps to bring people out.” When asked about the winner of the event he said, “Bragging rights for a whole year and a trophy!” To choose a winner the people voted by text message to a specific number for each different restaurant competing. Winners of the 6th Annual Chili Cook-Off and Wing Thing is Jacktown Ride & Hunt for chili and Colonial Grille for their wings.

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

1 0 0

N O R W I N P U B L I C L I B R A R Y C a r u t h e r s L a n e • I r w i n , P A 1 5 6 4 2 w w w . N o r w i n P u b l i c L i b r a r y . o r g 7 2 4 . 8 6 3 . 4 7 0 0

Norwin Public Library Makes it Easier than Ever to Enjoy Books, DVDs and More!

As Easy as 1-2-3!

STEP 1

HOW TO PLACE A HOLD It’s SO easy AND it allows YOU access to over 500,000 items throughout Westmoreland County, all delivered RIGHT HERE to YOUR library!

Step 1: Click on over to www.norwinpubliclibrary.org and browse the online catalog for titles. Find a title you like? FIRST

STEP 2

check to see if it is on our shelves by looking for AVAILABILITY. If it says LOCAL AVAILABILITY, then NORWIN has a copy! Check the STATUS, is in IN? Head to the shelves to get it! If we don’t have it OR it’s checked out here, click the PLACE REQUEST button under the title.

Step 2: Enter the number on the back of your library card (no spaces!) & your PASSWORD will be the last 4 digits of your phone number associated with your library card.

Step 3: At the next screen, select NORWIN as your pickup library location and...

STEP 3

We will contact you and let you know YOUR item is HERE! We’ll hold it for 5 days. And it’s FREE!

Yes, it’s THAT easy!

“My son needed a biography for a school assignment. We were able to search the Norwin Public Library catalog from home. Norwin’s copy was checked out, but the catalog showed another library in Westmoreland Library System did have a copy. We requested it online. The whole process took less than five minutes – and we saved time and gas!” 26 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

–KAREN GLASS

Do the FAFSA Don’t forget, we have to do the FAFSA. Hey mom, it’s time to do the FAFSA. Honey, let’s file our taxes so we can do the FAFSA. If these lines sound like the refrain to the most popular song playing in your house, you probably are the parent of a high school senior. FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a crucial application you must complete for assistance in financing a college education. Many colleges even require it of students who are not seeking federal or state funding but rather campus academic scholarships and other awards. We recommend that the parents of every college student complete the FAFSA. For Penn State students and for students at many other universities, filing the FASFA is all that is required to apply for financial aid. Competitive scholarships may be the one exception to this and families are encouraged to visit the individual college website for more information. It is important to note that most private scholarships require separate applications as well.

Filing the FREE Application Keep in mind that the first word in the application’s name is “FREE” and you should not pay to submit the FAFSA. There is only one site that provides families the opportunity to file your FASFA for free: www.fafsa.ed.gov.

provides some good guidance for families: www.nasfaa.org/students/ Tax_Breaks_for_Higher_Education.aspx

Meeting the Deadline Every school establishes its own filing deadline so visit the school’s website to be sure you know it. Penn State provides our students with the following recommendations for submission. • March 1 for future Penn State undergraduate, graduate, and transfer students • April 15 for all current Penn State undergraduate and graduate students • May 1 (deadline) for Pennsylvania residents who are interested in applying for the Pennsylvania State Grant* Lou Anne Caligiuri serves as the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at Penn State Greater Allegheny, a position she has held since October 2005. Prior to that, Caligiuri served as the Executive Director of Good Schools PA.

IRS Data Retrieval Tool Helps Simplify the Process To make life easier, parents should file their 2011 federal income tax return prior to submitting the FAFSA. You can save time and increase the accuracy of your form by taking advantage of the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. It enables you to view and securely transfer your tax information directly from the IRS to your FAFSA.

Make Penn State Greater Allegheny Your Home

Didn’t File Your Taxes – What to Do? Don’t delay submitting your FASFA. It is better to use estimated tax information and meet all established deadlines than to postpone the FASFA until you complete your taxes. However, as soon as you file your taxes you should use the actual information to update your FASFA. If you choose to use estimated information, it is likely that a college may contact you to request documentation and verify information. Such contact requires quick responses from the family to ensure the timely disbursement of aid to the student.

You can choose where you will and still have all the advantages of an

RE WE A N PEN E! STAT

Enjoy the of a with the benefits of a

Ǧ ǡ Ǥ

Tax Incentives Can Defray Costs There is good news for every family. A variety of tax incentives may be available which help defray the cost of higher education. The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA)

Feeling a Little Overwhelmed? Call Penn State Greater Allegheny at 412-675-9010 to find out about our “hands-on” workshops. Information provided from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and the Pennsylvania State University Office of Student Aid

Penn State’s ranking in Ǥ

Penn State Greater Allegheny 4000 University Drive McKeesport, PA 15132 412-675-9010 ga.psu.edu

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

VIETNAM VETERAN Adversity, Hope

Overcomes Shares Message of D BY DANA BLACK MCGRATH im Crosson laughs when he tells you that he should have been dead three times. “My brother says, ‘God is not ready for you yet and the Devil is afraid of you,’” laughs the Irwin resident with a wicked sense of humor. But what he doesn’t laugh about is his dedication to sharing his story and spreading his message of how he overcame the adversity in his life. Crosson survived three near-brushes with death: overturning a freezer truck on a mountain road, a landmine explosion in Vietnam, and gunshot wound to the eye. “I can’t understand why God saved me three times, but I’m still here, still walking around.” Born in the North Side, Crosson grew up in a dysfunctional family situation that led him to leave home at just 13 years old. He headed to New York City to live with his sister, but later found himself living in Central Park. Eventually his stepfather’s mother took him in, and he ended up enlisting in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War er a. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam. With just 38 more days to go on his final tour, Crosson was behind the wheel of a truck and ended up driving over a land mine. The six men who were on the ground flanking the truck all were killed. Crosson sustained serious injuries from the explosion. Both of his ankles were shattered, his knees were dislocated, his ribs were broken and part of the truck was lodged in his mouth. His injuries were so severe, and because the history of such accidents nearly always results in a fatality, he was mistakenly issued a death certificate, which he discovered upon his discharge. “When I got out, I really got out,” he laughs. He returned home in a body cast and continued his long recovery. “I kept thinking: Why would God let me survive?” Although he was awarded three Purple Hearts for injuries sustained during his service in Vietnam, Crosson modestly insists that he is not

a war hero. “I survived. I’m not a hero. I never wanted the label of ‘town hero’.” After returning home, Crosson landed a job as a shipper in McKees Rocks and got married. But, he once again found himself fighting for his life. He was shot in the eye and suffered severe brain damage. He returned to the VA Hospital for treatment and made an amazing recovery. The injury left him legally blind, but he says he can see somewhat, just not well enough to read. Through all his brushes with death and other challenges, Crosson says, “God saved me, and I believe I survived to spread the word of God.” He has written a 30-minute testimony that he offers to present to churches and others about his experience. “It is a true testimony

Keep going, keep trying. God is in charge.

28 724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

“I survived. I’m not a hero.”

of God’s mighty works in the extreme,” he explains. “I don’t claim to be a preacher,” he says, again modestly, “I am not good enough.” He also has penned a book that he has self-published, My Walk through the Valley, which includes photos from the explosion he survived that were sent to him by friends after he returned home. “The book is action-packed,” he promises. Crosson summarizes that the book is a story about how he was transformed from victim to victor. The work took him 26 years to write. “I am not trying to be a war hero,” he says modestly. “I just want to give lessons about life.” To spread the word, he gives his book away, but will accept offerings. “In the book, I tell people to keep going, keep trying. God is in charge. It took me a long time to realize that.” Crosson found his way to Irwin because his cousin lived there. He liked the neighborhood and decided to move there too. He now is active with the Lions Club of Irwin. “I love being involved with a club that helps people. I really want to help people, especially the disabled.” He also hopes to help people by offering his 30-minute long program to churches and other groups, free of charge. “Just get me there, and I’ll do it,” he promises. His mobility is impaired and he now relies on the use of a power chair. But, be warned. “I have a wicked sense of humor,” Crosson says. “It really got me through everything. Some people think I’m a little crazy, but that’s okay.”

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Project1_Layout 1 1/23/12 11:59 AM Page 1

By Heather Holtschlag

More than half of the energy used in the average American home goes toward heating and cooling, and if your house is not properly insulated, much of that expense can go to waste. Insulation, particularly when installed in an area such as the attic, requires less work from the air conditioning and furnace systems, translating into less expense and fewer repairs. There are a number of things to note to properly install attic insulation, the first of which is called R-value. R-value measures the effectiveness of types of insulation; the higher an insulationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s R-value, the more effective it is. The recommended R-value for walls and floors in a mild climate is R-11; for ceilings and attics, it is R-19. In moderate climates, R-values should be a minimum of R-19 for walls and floors and R-30 for ceilings and attics. And, in cold climates, R-values for walls and floors should be R-19, and R-38 to R-49 for ceilings and attics. If you use your attic as living space, it is a good idea to install insulation in the walls and ceiling. If it is not used, you should still insulate, and the empty space will provide ample room for installation. If your attic is being insulated for the first time, it should include a vapor barrier, which is any material that does not absorb moisture and through which vapor will not pass. After it snows, it is recommended that you check the roof to see where the snow has fallen. If you notice specific areas on the roof where the snow has melted, this may signal an area that needs to be insulated or where the insulation is damaged. When installing insulation in the attic, the best method is to install it from the eaves toward the center of the room so as to leave more headroom when you need to cut or fit the insulation properly. If, upon installing the insulation, you discover that you need an extra layer, you can simply lay blankets on top of the insulation already there. To reduce fire hazard, cover the panels with wallboard or use fiberglass panels if you must install panels between the rafters in a ceiling that slopes. Also,if you use cellulose insulation, which is the most common type of loose-fill insulation, be sure that it has been treated with a fire retardant. dream kitchens 1.6_Layout 1 2/4/12 9:26 AM Page 1

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Norwin

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Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge

Knowing Quality

uality is knowing an individual and being attentive to their needs and wishes! We at Juniper Communities strive to nurture the spirit of life in each individual we touch through the various Signature Programs we have to offer. At Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge we let our residents and their families define quality---quality of life. To understand an individual and their choices, you need to know them, have a relationship with them. We work hard on building those relationships at Juniper Village from the first call, to setting up a personalized schedule of activities the week you move in to communicating with your family monthly. We facilitate and coordinate getting information from and to your doctors’ offices. We assure you have a caregiver who consistently serves you and who can notice and help with those little things. After all, it is all about nurturing the spirit of those whose life we touch! Quality is best measured by our friends and family. There are many ways to measure quality. We think the best way is to ask people who use our services what they think. “My mother-in-law, Phyllis, has been a resident of Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge for the last year, and I can say with all honesty that my wife and I, as well as Phyllis, could not be happier with the care she has received there. Juniper Village is not just a place to live; it is a community and a place where people can feel like they belong. As a physician I have had the opportunity to hear firsthand the experiences people have had with various nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities, unfortunately not all the stories are as happy as ours. Juniper Village offers many activities that my mother-in-law can take part in and she is always cared for on a personal level. A few people in particular have played vital roles in the care of Phyllis, such as Heather DiazGranados, Bob, Danielle, and well actually everyone there is vital. There have been many times when Heather has called my wife just to let her know what kind of day Phyllis was having, or to tell us Phyllis has been craving some of her favorite pizza. I would have no reservations in recommending Juniper Village; the staff is attentive and truly cares about their residents as individuals.” David Weber, MD; Infectious Disease Specialist

Juniper Village is not just a place to live; it is a community and a place where people can feel like they belong.

Juniper Village at Huntingdon Ridge invites you to visit us anytime. Join us for lunch and a tour and see for yourself the very real 3.625x4.875 HR ad:Layout 1 2/6/12 5:32 PM Page 1 difference that quality brings!

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724.863.2600

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Nurturing the spirit of life

Norwin | Spring 2012 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Business Directory

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Mark your Calendars for our Monthly Event! We will explore such topics as:

■ Understanding Levels of Service ■ How to Access Services ■ Navigating Payer Sources ■ The Non-Profit Difference ■ Maintenance Free Living ■ Clubs & Activities ■ Fitness Programs

Join us for Hot Topic Tuesday. On the 4th Tuesday of each month, a guest speaker will present a specific “hot topic” outlining programs and services available at Redstone Highlands. A question and answer period will follow the presentation. Tours will be available.

Senior Living Communities

www.redstonehighlands.org

Refreshments will be served. N O R T H H U N T I N G D O N C A M P U S 724-864-5811 12921 Redstone Drive ■ North Huntingdon, PA 15642

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