IN Norwin by IN Community Magazines

WINTER 2011

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

INSIDE

DANCING WITH THE STAFF IN NORWIN PAGE 3

HISTORICAL SOCIETY PRESERVATION AWARDS PAGE 10

CHRISTMAS IN IRWIN PAGE 28

safety-driven

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.

upmchealthyu.com

INSIDE

UNITY COMM

IN Norwin is a 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

2011 WINTER

INSIDE

WITH THE DANCING NORWIN STAF3F IN PAGE TION AL ASSOCIA HISTORIC TION AWARDS PRES10ERVA PAGE N AS IN IRWI CHRISTM

IN Norwin | WINTER 2011 |

PAGE 28

riven safety-d

FEATURES

IN Kids  | 25 The Best Holidays are Safe Holidays  | 29 Honeymoon Romance  | 30 ON THE COVER

Real Estate in Norwin  | 37

Dancing with the staff in Norwin

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

WINTER 2011

Duffy & Nichols  | 16

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

BundleUp,Baby

Why Did My Dues Increase? Flexible Common Interest Communities in the Wake of the Economic Downturn

Remember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands. Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

All Kare  | 35 Little Changes Made More Often Pay Big Dividends!

What’s Inside page 2

A Special Message to Our Community

page 3

When Your Body Talks ... Be Sure to Listen

page 4

Make a Date With Your Doctor Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5 page 6

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

Putting Fracture Care on the Fast Track Falls Are No Laughing Matter

North American Karate and Fitness  | 36 Resolutions time. What will you do?

COMMUNITY INTEREST

Dancing with the Staff 

Norwin School District 

Awards Dinner Recognizes Keepers of History 

Ladies Get Night Out in Downtown Irwin 

New Earned Income Tax Law Explained 

UPMC Today | Health and Wellness News You Can Use 

Murder Mystery Fundraiser—a S.H.O.R.E Thing 

Christmas in Irwin 

Norwin Public Library 

The Norwin Chamber of Commerce 

learn more on page 8

IN Norwin | WINTER 2011 |

elcome to the Winter issue of Norwin magazine. I hope you and yours had a wonderful fall, that the kids transitioned back to school well, and that you had an opportunity to catch a few Steelers games along the way. We all view winter differently—some see it as the holiday season, some see it as the gloomy period when we put away the swim trunks and patio furniture. Others see it as their opportunity to break out the skis and sleds and hit the slopes. No matter how you view it, winter is a time when we have to be the most diligent, despite our mood about snow, or our preoccupation with playing in it, for those who need us the most—our seniors. While it’s hard enough for many of them to get around in good weather, the winter months can be a trial of terror for the elderly. Who’s going to shovel the snow? How will I get groceries? Will I be home before it’s too dark for me to see the road well enough to drive? And for those who have transitioned to assisted living facilities, the questions might be of an altogether different, but equally unsettling nature. Will anyone visit me for Christmas? Wayne Dollard Hanukkah? New Year’s? These are our mothers, fathers, friends and Publisher neighbors, and they don’t like to ask anything of us. But they need us just the same. I know the economy is bad, and I’m not saying go out and spend money you can’t afford, but going caroling with a church group, or visiting someone who has no one is free to us all. Chances are, you’ll not only put a smile on their faces, you’ll be giving them something money can’t buy—the feeling that someone cares. Have a joyous holiday and a happy New Year!

PUBL ISHE R

 MAN AGIN G E DIT OR

   RE GION AL E DIT ORS

      OF F ICE MAN AGE R

  AD PL ACE ME N T COORDIN AT OR

  GRAPHIC DE SIGN

      W RIT E RS

       PHOT OGRAPHE RS

  

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  N 

This is is the season of hustle and bustle, Christmas carols, and most importantly good cheer. In this edition, you’ll find out how the Norwin Marching Band did at the Bands of America Grand National Championship in Indianapolis. We also have a feature on “Dancing with the Staff,” an event where teachers and administrators got to cut a rug and help raise money for PTA programs. It is also the season of giving, and we’ve got a feature on the S.H.O.R.E. Foundation’s annual murder mystery fundraiser in North Huntingdon. The nonprofit organization assists transplant recipients and their families. Ladies in the Irwin area got a chance to get their pre-Black Friday shopping on, at a special Ladies Night in downtown Irwin. The Westmoreland County Historical Society Monica L. Haynes held its annual awards dinner to recognize those involved in keeping Eastern Regional history and historical sites alive. We have that story in this Editor edition as well. Our spring edition is next and we’d love to hear from you regarding the people, places and events you’d like to see us cover. During this holiday season, we’d like to wish you peace and goodwill. And as always we hope you enjoy this edition of Norwin Magazine.

PROOF RE ADE R

  ADVE RT ISIN G SAL E S MAN AGE RS

   ADVE RT ISIN G SAL E S

                         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 2011. CORRESPONDENCE Direct all inquiries, comments and press releases to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Spring content deadline: 2/1

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

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    

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            

The fundraising event, held November 5 at Norwin Middle School, was sponsored by The Norwin Council of PTA which sponsors a number of family-oriented programs each year to bring the community together in support of the children in the school district. The programs include the Reflections Fair, Science Fair, Senior Scholarships, Newborn Packets and various other PTA activities. Hosts for the event were Billy Heh, Elena Antolik, Tobith Galembush and Mike Tusay.

Participants trained for about six weeks to pull off waltzes, cha-chas, sambas, hip-hop jitterbugs and jives in front of a packed house. “The routines are more technical than anything that I could ever have imagined they would be able to master in six weeks,” said Jo Ann Stoecklin, PTA president. “The participants were extremely excited – not only with their ‘newfound talents,’ but also with the fact that their efforts would benefit their students.” Just like in the TV competition there was a panel of judges, which included four people from the school district and one professional ballroom judge. They were: Mary Ann Budosh, Norwin Middle School; Barbara Popovic, Norwin Middle School; Barbara Greagard, Norwin administrator; Dr. Mary Anne Hazer, assistant superintendent; and Mark Yohe, musical choreographer. The audience members also got to vote for their favorite couple during intermission by making a donation in the appropriate container. While the competition was stiff, the mirror ball trophy went to Susan Schehr and her partner, Thom Swenson, who danced the cha-cha to “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz. Other participants included: Jan Hackett and partner Dwight Hackett who did the tango; Amanda Brunetto and her partner, Shawn Leonard, who did the waltz; Chelse Burzio and partner Sean Mainwaring who did the cha-cha, samba and hip-hop; Maria

Hanley and partner Drew Rutkowski who did the jitterbug; Kiersten Venderlic and partner Pat MacLaughlin who did the samba; Jennifer Lippmann and partner Devon Lippmann who did the cha-cha; Pam Carnes and her partner, Wes Carnes, who did the jive; Sara Costa and partner Jeﬀ Bouldin; and Rosemary Dvorchak and partner Brian Henderson. The dancers spent about a month training with instructors from The Elite School of Dance by Elena. The instructors, who also choreographed each couple’s dances, were Ashley Metz Leax and Elena Antolik.

Connecting People s Resources with People s Needs

Over the past 54 years, Brother s Brother Foundation has connected over $4 billion in people s resources with people s needs across 141 countries. BBF supplies hospitals with vital medication and equipment, supports hand-carried medical mission groups, funds the rebuilding of schools and fills them with donated books across the world. 1200 Galveston Ave. Pi ttsburgh, PA, 15233 Phone: 412-321-3160 http://www.brothersbrother.org

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 3

NORWIN SCHOOL DISTRICT

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS – WINTER 2012 COURSES To emphasize the importance of an ongoing and lifelong education, the District oﬀers classes for youth and adults through our Community Connections program. From opportunities in learning some new dance moves increasing physical fitness to exploring the Spanish language, our winter oﬀerings provide a wonderful chance to experience something new while meeting others who share your interests. We hope you will join us for a class this winter.

We are on the search for some community instructors interested in sharing their talents during the upcoming summer session. As the instructor, you decide the content, number of classes, and times. Please direct questions about the winter oﬀerings or course proposals to the program coordinator, Julie Painter, at 724.861.3010 x4123 or email at jpainter@norwinsd.org.

Spanish for Tweens Do you have a future linguist in the family? This is the class for your student interested in exploring Español. The course will focus on the skills of listening and speaking in the second language. Some writing and reading vocabulary words and dialogues will take place, as well as one or two cultural lessons. Learning songs to help remember the vocabulary will be a part of the learning process. Some of the topics covered in Spanish may include basic greetings, introductions, and farewells, likes and dislikes, foods and drinks, days of the week and months of the year, numbers 0-20, colors, and other phrases the students want to know how to say. Instructor: Danielle Connelly Dates: Wednesdays 3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Course cost: $44.00

Age range: Students in Grades 5-7 January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, 2012 Location: Hillcrest Room TBA

Parliamo L’Italiano Ten sessions in the Italian language! Students will focus on speaking and listening skills. Students will be exposed to basic greetings, including introductions and farewells, likes and dislikes, food and drinks, the days of the week and months of the year, numbers one through 30, colors, and other Italian phrases. Singing songs to help remember the vocabulary will be part of the learning process. Consider taking this class as a family! Instructor: Rosa Molina Dates: Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Course costs: $55.00

Age range: All ages welcome January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, March 7, 14, & 21, 2012 Location: Norwin Middle School Room 221

Zumba Class Is your New Year’s resolution to get into better shape? Are you looking 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. Please indicate on the registration which session you plan to attend. Instructor: Michele Dvorznak Session One: Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Session Two: Thursdays 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Course cost: $44.00 4

Norwin

Age range: Adults January 17, 24, 31, February 7, 14, 21, 28, & March 6, 2012 January 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1, & 8, 2012 Location: Middle School Cafeteri

Norwin Board of Education 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

Open Swim The Norwin Aqua Club oﬀers occasional open swim times on Saturdays at the Norwin High School pool for a nominal fee. Please check out www.norwinaquaclub.org for specific dates and times. Registration Winter 2011 Please complete the registration form and send with payment to Norwin School District; the address is listed below. Due date for registration is January 6, 2012. Our classes for this session will be held during January through March. Each description lists specific dates, times, and locations. 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. Complete participant contact information is essential for notification of a cancellation. Courses have a minimum and maximum number of participants, so please register early. If you have any questions, contact Julie Painter 724-861-3010 X 4123, jpainter@norwinsd.org. Community Connections • Norwin School District • 281 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon, Pa. 15642

WINTER 2011 REGISTRATION FORM Name Address Preferred Phone

Alternate Phone

E-mail Course Request

Course Cost

Due date for registration is January 6, 2012. Please make checks payable to Norwin School District

Total

Additional registration forms are available on the District’s website at www.norwinsd.org. Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

Sometimes fact is stranger than fiction. It would seem reasonable that with millions of sperm and only one egg that the majority of infertility problems would lie with the female. Not true, according to the National Library of Medicine which tracks national statistics kept by fertility clinics. Difficulties with fertility are evenly split, with the source of fertility problems being linked to the male one third of the time and the female also having difficulties one third of the time. The final third is a mixture of situations where both parties have infertility issues and those cases where the cause is indeterminate. The good news is that there is hope for males who wish to start a family. Director of Male Reproductive Medicine Surgery at UPMC, Thomas Jaffe, MD, an urologist, offers a hopeful perspective for males experiencing difficulties with reproductive issues. “Because of many technologies and treatments, many men who previously had no hope of fathering a child now have treatment options that can be [effective.]” One important advancement in reproductive research is a relatively new diagnostic test called the DAZ test. The DAZ test detects a genetic mutation in the Y chromosome for sperm production.

Norwin

This test is ordered when sperm production is unusually low. Another important factor in analyzing the quality of the sperm is its motility or movement. Generally, sperm with greater motility are able to more easily fertilize an egg. One common problem among men with fertility issues is type 1 or juvenile onset diabetes. Individuals with diabetes may experience what’s called retrograde ejaculation. Simply put, this is when the bladder stays open with ejaculatory fluids washing back into the bladder rather than exiting the body as with normal functioning. “This problem can be treated with Sudafed which helps the bladder to stay closed during ejaculation,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Retrograde ejaculation can also be a problem with spinal cord injuries, nerve damage or certain medications that contain alpha blockers such as high blood pressure medications. Another problem Dr. Jaffe sees among his patients are men who have little to no sperm production. “Even with no sperm, we have found that these men still produce limited numbers of sperm within the tissues of the testicles.” This sperm can be extracted from the tissue and remains viable to fertilize an egg.

One of the most common problems associated with male infertility is when an enlargement of a vein in the scrotum forms. These veins are specially equipped with one-way valves which insure that blood flows upward. When these veins become compressed, they crush the gonadal vein and heat and toxins build up in the scrotum inhibiting healthy sperm production. The vein can be surgically repaired however to promote normal function with increased sperm production and better quality with sperm motility increased. Finally, male cancer patients may experience fertility problems due to chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “Ideally ,we [harvest] sperm prior to treatment. We work with the Pittsburgh Cryobank to store the sperm until needed,” explains Dr. Jaffe. Although no treatment is an absolute guarantee, male infertility can often times be overcome with the right evaluation and treatment. For more information about Dr. Jaffe and treatment of male infertility, call 412.692.4100.

Norwin Marching Band MAKES ITS MARK AT

Grand National Championship

Norwin Marching Band made its mark at the Bands of America Grand National Championship in Indianapolis, taking third place in AAA and placing 19 out of 93 bands in an event some call the “Super Bowl” of band competitions. It was Norwin’s first time back at Grand Nationals since 1997—the year most of the band freshmen were born! The road to Indiana had been arduous. At the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Band Association (PIMBA) Championship on Oct. 29, Norwin and 18 other bands braved the snow, sleet, cold and fog to compete. In spite of the weather, Norwin finished first in the National Class, also winning High Visual and sharing the top spot for General Eﬀect. The band’s competition piece is called “Salvation: Every Act of Creation is First an Act of Destruction” which is a surprisingly fitting title. They have persevered through 40mph wind gusts at the Bands of America competition in Akron and still placed fourth. They’ve practiced for hours in the extreme heat of August and splashed through puddles in rainy September, not to mention marching at several rainy football games. Their preview show was cancelled due to a freak storm. In the face of all this, they have perfected two shows (a halftime ‘80s medley show and a competition show). Even with all the destructive weather, the band students have consistently continued to create impressive musical performances that still manage to entertain.

Becca Megan Tonasic, on Smith Krimer, and Allis

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

The employees of Peoples Natural Gas – more than 650 strong – are bringing a new sense of energy to Western Pennsylvania. With Peoples now fully Pittsburgh based and run, decisions are being made locally -- with an eye to investing for the energy future of the region. We're making $100 million in infrastructure, service and technology upgrades to better serve our more than 360,000 customers. Customer service is becoming fully local, too... with a dedicated new service center staffed by experienced people who thoroughly know the region and its people. Our vision: to help Western Pennsylvania move forward by creating new jobs and serving our customers well. It's a commitment we're proud to make.

In the photo: DAVE BERTONI / FITTER LEADER

y o u r e n e r g y p a rt n e r

peoples–ga s.com

safety-driven Peoples Natural Gas is embarking on an extensive program to modernize our infrastructure. More than $100 million will be invested to replace pipelines throughout our 16 county service territory. In 2011 and 2012, this means replacing 40 miles of old cast-iron pipes wherever they exist. This year and next, Peoples Natural Gas is hiring 60 new pipeline workers. And, we’ll need to employ almost as many local contract workers. Last year, we brought back 200 jobs to the region. These are not temporary jobs, but family sustaining jobs – the type of jobs that generations build on. Through the end of 2012, you will see Peoples Natural Gas employees hard at work on this project. They will be working in the snow and sun to improve the infrastructure for our communities. Our goal is to replace all the cast iron pipe in our entire system. This is an extensive project and we will need your patience and understanding as we work to complete it. In 2010, Peoples Natural Gas was purchased from anI out-of-state company. We are now a Western Pennsylvania managed company. All our management lives in the region. Our sole priority is serving our local communities. Our new company has refocused its total efforts right here. This pipeline replacement program is the first major construction initiative of Peoples Natural Gas and it has been made for your safety, and the need to modernize our infrastructure for the future.

Safety is the number one priority of Peoples Natural Gas. Every day, we strive to keep our customers, our employees and our communities safe. Here are 3 Sensible Words about Natural Gas to help keep you and your family safe. Natural gas leaks are rare. But they can happen. Your senses will alert you if a leak occurs. SIGHT Escaping gas affects the nutrients in soil, so discolored soil or dead vegetation near a pipeline may indicate a leak. Dirt or water blowing up from the group may indicate a natural gas leak. SOUND Natural gas leaks may make a hissing or a high-pitched whistling noise. Noises will vary based on the line pressure.

SMELL A strong odor of natural gas can indicate unburned fuel in the air. Because the gas is odorless, a sulfur based odorant is added to give it a rotten-egg smell that warns of its presence. Be alert for this odorant or any petroleum smell. If you believe a natural gas leak is occurring, leave the area immediately and notify Peoples Natural Gas by calling 1.800.400.4271.

y o u r e n e r g y p a rt n e r

peoples–ga s.com

 RD EV A W R O F T I Y PLA

              ENT



o the delight of wine and music enthusiasts, the Norwin Play it Forward Fund, Inc. held its second Wind-Up, Wine-Down event at the Greenhouse Winery in Rillton on Saturday, November 26. Attendees enjoyed live jazz entertainment, wine sampling, refreshments, a 50/50 raffle, and Chinese auctions. The event sold out with approximately 100 people in attendance and with a portion of all wine sales benefiting the fund, the evening raised $4,000. “People are starting to tell their friends, which is exactly what we need to build a network of support,” said event coordinator Paula Ziemski. “Our next consideration is to decide whether to keep Norwin Play it

Forward's Wind-Up, Wine-Down an exclusive event at Greenhouse Winery, or expanding to a larger venue, which is a good problem to have! We felt badly having to turn people away who wanted to come at the last minute. Regardless of venue, our plan is to continue to partner with Greenhouse Winery. Next up, the third annual Suite Cafe on May 5, 2012.” The Norwin Play it Forward Fund, Inc. was created to enrich the Norwin School District band and orchestra programs and raised over $10,000 in its inaugural year. The fund is currently providing free and subsidized private music lessons to approximately 15 Norwin students, and last summer the fund provided grants for four students to attend music camps. Tax deductible gifts may be made to: Norwin Play it Forward Fund, Inc., 531 Cedar Glenn Drive, North Huntingdon, PA 15642.

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Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

The Export Borough Centennial Committee, K. Melanie Litz (receiving)



Awards Dinner Recognizes

Keith C. Pealstrom, receiving award for renovations of the 1914 Westmoreland City Elementary School and the United Presbyterian Church of the Covenant, originally built in 1869, rebuilt in 1914.

 

The Westmoreland County Historical Society’s Arthur St. Clair Historic Preservation Award Dinner has grown from a small luncheon affair to the organization’s signature event.

Unity Chapel Committee member receiving the award for renovations and preservation of the Unity Chapel.

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Norwin

Now in its 12th year, the awards “came about because of the Westmoreland County Historical Society’s efforts to be involved in all of the county – not just in the capital of the county,” said the society’s executive director Lisa Hays. “We wanted to reach out to the neighboring communities in all areas

of the county and pat them on the back for the efforts they’re making.” The award is named for Arthur St. Clair, an important figure in the founding of Westmoreland County. It is awarded annually to individuals, organizations, businesses or educational institutions “that have made significant contributions to the

preservation of our historic places, documents, records or stories, and by doing so are keeping alive Westmoreland County’s rich history and heritage for future generations,” according to the society’s website. This year, the society is honoring: Keith Pealstrom for renovating two historic structures in Irwin – Covenant Hall, Irwin Center for the Performing Arts and The Pealstrom Place, which is the former Westmoreland City Public School built in 1914; The Export Centennial Committee, chaired by K. Melanie Litz, for celebrating Export’s coal mining history and cultural heritage in a well-received two-

Board members who are working on the project to build the visitors center at Historic Hannastown

  –LiSA HAyS Executive Director, Westmoreland County Historical Society

day event in August; and the Unity Chapel Committee for preserving and maintaining the Unity Chapel and the surrounding area. “We ask people from the community to nominate worthy projects from their community that we don’t know about,” Hays said. Nominations are solicited through the society’s website, press releases and letters sent out to all the local historical societies. A small selection committee from within the society’s board of directors wades through the nominations. “It’s gratifying to us to see the multiple worthy nominations,” Hays said. “They tend to sort themselves out into what’s really outstanding and what’s really good.” The number of awards presented each year varies. “I think everybody likes history; some people just don’t know it,” Hays said, adding that history is really just stories. “And those stories are told through places and artifacts and it’s important that we preserve those things.”

Rev. Clark Kerr of the Unity Chapel Committee

Master of Ceremonies Philip B. Light giving the opening remarks

Proposed floor plan for the historic Hannastown Visitors Center

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

  

        It is the annual ladies night that is organized by the Irwin Business and Professional Association (IBPA). Amanda Fisher, who names herself an unofficial chair of the event, said that this event is a special night for the ladies and showcases the stores in downtown Irwin. This is a time when the stores are able to kick off their holiday shopping season. The ladies in Irwin and surrounding areas are able to shop, eat, drink and enjoy the entertainment offered at the local restaurants and bars. As the ladies entered the Shidle Lodge, where registration was held, they were greeted by the volunteers for the event and entered into the grand prize drawing which was a free overnight stay at the Hidden Valley Resort, donated by the resort. There were also two round-trip airfare tickets   donated by Promise   Hospice and Carol Peitz   Cruises and Travel. The   ladies also had the opportunity to purchase —Michelle Diclaudio, Owner of Michelle’s Bella Boutique & Day Spa tickets for the Chinese auction(all the gifts were donated by the IBPA) and the money will benefit the organization's future events held throughout the year.

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Norwin

There were numerous gift baskets for the ladies to choose from. Sponsors of the event inside were happy to be a part of the ladies night. Owners of Promise Hospice Eileen Malesky and Beth McGough said, “We are very happy to be here this evening.” “The ladies love it and it is fun,” says Michelle Diclaudio, a second year sponsor and owner of Michelle’s Bella Boutique & Day Spa. “I welcome any women who are interested in volunteering and helping to make community events like this a success.” The ladies night is an annual event and growing each year. Last year there were a total of 700 women who attended the event. “I hope there were even more this year,” says Fisher. When asked why they came out to ladies night, all the women shared a common theme. “It’s our hometown,” says Cathy Bittner. “Because it’s Irwin,” says Marsha Rayman. From men dressed as Santa Claus at the entrance of the Shidle Lodge to the smiling faces on all who were in attendance, it’s safe to say Ladies Night was a success and the holiday season is underway in Irwin. “I want to say thanks to all the women who attended and made the event a success,” says Amanda Fisher.

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WEBSITE www.incommunitymagazines.com

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

     For as long as some Pennsylvania residents can remember they have sat down four times a year and filled out a small postcard. This small postcard asked you to list your wages, calculate approximately 1 percent of your earnings and mail a check to your local earned income tax collector in your community municipal building. But in 2012, every Irwin and North Irwin borough and North Huntingdon Township taxpayer can cross one more chore off their to-do list thanks to a new state mandate. Beginning Jan. 1, all employers who have work sites in the commonwealth are required by Act 32 of 2008 to withhold all earned income taxes from every employee. And all employees have to do is make sure they have filled out a residency certification form. “The legislation affects every single municipality and school district in Pennsylvania,” says Mitch Hoffman, local government policy manager at the state Department of Community and Economic Development. “That in itself is huge. In addition, it also affects every single taxpayer and every single business that operates in Pennsylvania.”

 Zona Plumbing will celebrate their 22nd birthday next year! With almost a quarter of a century experience in serving the Norwin community and Western Pennsylvania, Zona Plumbing provides honest and diligent service that is second to none.Owner, Tim Zona, is a licensed and insured Master Plumber. The benefit of this certification allows registered plumbers to enhance their high standard in plumbing. Tim, as an insured Master Plumber, takes his own ability to a height associated with Mastery of the art, craft, science and practice of plumbing. Tim also has his DOT certification, which means he is a certified gas line installer. He also has his ASSE backflow certification. ASSE, which stands for American Society of Sanitary Engineering, certifies professionals, like Tim, who pass their test for safe, effective and proper preventive measures for safe public plumbing. No job is too small and Tim offers emergency services on a regular basis. Senior citizen discounts are available and workmanship is guaranteed. Born and raised in Norwin School District, Tim roots himself in the community in which his business is based and invites your call next time you need his services. Zona Plumbing has years of experience in both commercial and residential plumbing solutions and look forward to another 22 years in helping others.

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Norwin

Earned income taxes have been a fixture in Pennsylvania since 1965. At the time, state lawmakers imposed the levy to allow local entities such as school districts and municipalities to raise more funds. “It provided an avenue for local taxing bodies to impose a tax to help fund their operating costs, and it was only imposed on people who actually had earned income, not those who were retired or were not working,” says Hoffman. Earned income tax is unique to Pennsylvania. Neighboring states have similar structures in place, but they are not identical. In theory, the tax is simple. Anyone who works in the state pays on average a 1 percent tax four times a year. Some townships, boroughs and school districts tax a bit higher and some a bit lower. And to pay their bill, an employer could withhold the tax from an employee’s pay or the employees themselves could calculate their tax and send it to their local earned income tax collector. But from the start, issues arose. Pennsylvania has one of the highest numbers of local municipalities in the country, and at one point, there were up to 560 different earned income tax offices in the state, says Hoffman. “It was very fractured and very convoluted. There was no consistency in collections, no consistency in annual returns and no consistency in transfer of records from one tax collector to another.” Confusion about where to send taxes also abounded for companies that are headquartered out of state but have a plethora of work sites and thousands of employees in Pennsylvania. “Many of these companies did withhold the tax, but with so many different collectors it was difficult for them to comply with all the expectations,” says Hoffman. The cumbersome structure also was not attractive to new business endeavors as it created one more regulation

d e n i a l p Ex     interested companies had to comply with when they opened a site in Pennsylvania. Within decades, people started to question the structure used to collect earned income tax.

 By 2002, various organizations sought change and restructuring. Their pleas were supported by a study commissioned by the Pennsylvania Economy League among other entities. The study found that millions of dollars across the state were not being accounted for correctly and millions of potential tax dollars were not being collected at all. The actual amount always remained uncertain, says Hoffman. “I talk to employers every day who have had work sites in Pennsylvania for years and have never collected the tax. We are not just dealing with Pennsylvania businesses though; this hits businesses across North America.” Change was slow to come, but in 2008, state lawmakers passed Act 32 and its effects were so far reaching it gave local municipalities and school districts three years to implement its regulations. Under the new law, the burden related to the tax has shifted from employees to their employers. Every employer in Pennsylvania is required to have each employee fill out a one-page local earned income tax residency certification form by year’s end. On the form, employees list their address, municipality and county of residence. This information matches to a municipality specific code ensuring the tax dollars are automatically withheld and end up at the correct tax collector. Throughout Pennsylvania, except in Allegheny County, earned income tax collector positions were eliminated or altered as taxes will go to a county level tax collector chosen by a tax collection district made up of representatives from every municipality and school district in the specific county. In Allegheny County, four collection districts were chosen to better serve the area’s unique demographics, says Hoffman. “The four collection districts are separated by the rivers. Allegheny County is different than anywhere else in the state due to its diverse populations and number of corporations.”

  In addition to the more centralized structure, the law has other oversight and accountability features. There are explicit time frames set out for the distribution of dollars as well as training and certification for all tax officers. There also are penalties for late payments and annual auditing, says Hoffman. “All of these are built in to guarantee the amount of monies being collected are collected properly, remitted properly and distributed properly.” Filing returns also will be more uniform throughout the state.

“Some local returns were several pages, some half a page and some had none at all. Now there is a standard form for all of Pennsylvania and all the tax collectors are required to use it. We now have consistency.” In North Huntingdon, Irwin and North Irwin communities, Norwin School District handles the earned income tax collection and reallocation. John Wilson, Norwin’s director of business affairs, expects the positive outcomes predicted to come to fruition in time. The district and its municipalities will partner with Westmoreland County collector Berkheimer Associates. In 2011, Norwin and its municipalities collected $9.1 million in current and delinquent earned income taxes. “I think the changes will be good. More individuals will pay through withholding, allowing taxing bodies to receive funds sooner, and the cost to collect should decrease with fewer self-payers and delinquent accounts. “After the first few years, collections should be moderate and increase at a more historical pace.” The new law also should ensure more funding makes its way to local municipalities. “Norwin, like all taxing bodies should see an increase in earned income tax collections in 2012 because more taxes will be withheld by employers than previously, while 2011 balance due payments are still coming in and delinquent taxes from prior years are still being collected.”

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Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

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 

Certain Pennsylvania statutes permit developers to develop condominiums and/or planned communities (collectively, “Common Interest Communities”). Common Interest Communities contain common areas and shared services and/or maintenance obligations (collectively, “Common Facilities”). Common Facilities are areas within a Common Interest Community that exist for the common use and enjoyment of all unit owners within the community and are owned and maintained by a homeowner’s association (“Association”). Common Facilities may include lobbies, stairwells, parking facilities, parks, walking trails, open spaces, and certain exterior portions of a dwelling (such as the roof, exterior walls, and/or balconies). The cost of maintenance, repair, and insurance of Common Facilities is paid by unit owners through monthly assessments of common charges (collectively, “Assessments”). The Association is managed and operated through an executive board initially comprised of the developer or representatives appointed by the developer. As units in the Common Interest Community are sold to independent owners, control of the Association is transitioned from the developer to the independent unit owners. Assessments are set by the executive board and are based on an annual budget (each, a “Budget”) adopted by the Association for each year. As discussed below, it is critical that unit owners receive and carefully review the method upon which the Budget and ultimately the Assessments are based. The CIOC Statutes require that the Budget disclose the method upon which Assessments are based. A Flexible Common Interest Community (“Flexible CIC”) is a Common Interest Community that is proposed to be completed in several phases of development. Accordingly, the master plan approved for a Flexible CIC may provide for 200 total units to be developed in five (5) separate phases. This permits a developer to develop certain phases while excluding proposed future phases from the community until such time as a sufficient number of units in the active phase have sold (develop the community in response to market demand). To be sure, in a slow market (like the existing real estate market), the developer retains the right to exclude from the Flexible CIC all those proposed future phases of the community not required due to market conditions (lack of sales). The ability of a developer to exclude future phases of a Flexible CIC due to slow sales and/or adverse market conditions can result in an otherwise unintended increase in monthly Assessments for Common Facilities. In order to understand whether the Flexible CIC in which you live is exposed to a potential increase in Assessments, you must first understand the formula utilized by the Association (and set forth in the Budget) to calculate existing Assessments. Often times, a Flexible CIC is marketed based on the proposed master development plan including, but not limited to, the successful development of the proposed number of phases and units. The question that you must answer in reviewing the initial Budget is—“Are current Assessments calculated based on the number of units comprising the existing phase of the Flexible CIC or are they calculated based on the total number of proposed units in the master development plan of the Flexible CIC?” The CIOC Statutes permit a developer to utilize either method so long as it is disclosed in the applicable Declaration of the Common Interest Community. Using the above example of a Flexible CIC with a proposed master development of 200 units, the resulting Assessments for each unit owner may be calculated by dividing the total common expenses by the total proposed units in the Flexible CIC (to wit, 16

724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

200). The resulting monthly Assessment required from existing unit owners assumes completion of the master development and the additional units in the future phases. Often times the developer will pay the resulting shortfall until existing phases are added and proposed additional units are completed. So what happens to those Assessments when a developer excludes some or all of those proposed future phases from the Flexible CIC? The answer is they increase (often significantly) and often times can subject existing unit owners to special assessments (to meet budgeted reserves or pay for unexpected repairs or maintenance). Therefore, in order to ensure that the costs associated with your Common Interest Community will remain as originally advertised, make sure that you review the Budget or engage an attorney that is familiar with the organization and operation of Common Interest Communities in Pennsylvania. 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.

WINTER 2011

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

BundleUp,Baby Remember how Mom made you bundle up before going outdoors in the winter so you wouldn’t get sick? She was right. So be sure you dress for the weather — and that means covering your head, ears, mouth, and hands. Turn to page 4 to learn why your ears, nose, and throat need extra care in winter.

What’s Inside

page 2

A Special Message to Our Community

page 3

When Your Body Talks ... Be Sure to Listen

page 4

Make a Date With Your Doctor Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat

page 5

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals

page 6

Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC

page 7

Putting Fracture Care on the Fast Track Falls Are No Laughing Matter

A Special Message to

Our Community Dear Friends of UPMC McKeesport, Over the past several months, you’ve likely heard rumors about the future of UPMC McKeesport. We’ve heard them too, and I want to take this opportunity to say that UPMC McKeesport is — and commits to continue to be — your community hospital. For 117 years, residents of McKeesport and the surrounding historic Monongahela Valley have counted on our hospital’s physicians, nurses, technicians, and staff for quality and compassionate care. Our merger with UPMC in 1998 only served to strengthen our resources. Patients of UPMC McKeesport now benefit from the latest in state-of-the-art diagnostic and interventional capabilities, including UPMC Cancer Centers at UPMC McKeesport. We’re also able to offer access to expert care from UPMC’s extensive roster of medical specialists.

“UPMC McKeesport is — and commits to continue to be — your community hospital.”

Our 1,000-plus employees — your friends, neighbors, and family members — are proud and dedicated professionals who truly care about this community. They are passionate about the work they do. They are compassionate and thoughtful caregivers. And, they are deeply committed to the ongoing growth and vitality of UPMC McKeesport.

“Since its founding in 1894, our hospital has evolved to meet the changing needs of the residents of the Monongahela Valley. Patients of UPMC McKeesport now benefit from the latest in state-of-the-art diagnostic and interventional capabilities.”

Since its founding in 1894, our hospital has evolved to meet the changing needs of the residents of the Monongahela Valley, through times good and bad. Today, we recognize our presence is more vital than ever before. You have our pledge — and that of UPMC’s senior administration — that we are here to stay. With my best regards,

Cynthia M. Dorundo CEO, UPMC McKeesport

Did You Know?

• New patient services, including a Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program (see story on page 7) and a Palliative and Support Institute, are expected to launch before the end of this year.

Here are just a few of the many examples that help to illustrate UPMC McKeesport’s long-term commitment to the Monongahela Valley:

• In 2010, more than $8 million was invested in improvements to the hospital’s infrastructure. In the coming year, an additional $12 million will be invested in further enhancements.

UPMC.com/Today

• Emergency visits to UPMC McKeesport have increased by 17 percent in the past two years. • Hospital admissions at UPMC McKeesport rose 23 percent in the past two years. An 18-bed unit was added to the fourth floor of the Shaw Building to serve the increased volume of patients.

When Your BodyTalks…

Be Sure toListen Being attuned to changes in your body can help in the early detection and treatment of cancer and other serious medical problems Is your body trying to tell you something important? It can be an excellent communicator — if you pay careful attention to its symptoms. There are numerous warning symptoms for cancer, many of which also can point to other serious medical conditions. That’s why you should call your primary care physician (PCP) if you have any unusual or persistent symptoms lasting longer than two or three weeks, says Edward Chu, MD, chief of the Division of Hematology/ Oncology at UPMC and deputy director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. “The vast majority of patients will get a clean bill of health from their doctor,” says Dr. Chu. “But when it comes to cancer, time is often of the essence. Early detection can help keep cancer from spreading, allow for faster treatment, and improve your chances for recovery.”

Symptoms that reveal Most of us know to be on the lookout for such important cancer warning signs as a sore that does not heal; a thickening or lump in the breast, or other parts of the body; blood in the stool or urine; or changes in the size or color of a mole.

Dr. Chu says it’s also important to be aware of more generalized body changes (also known as constitutional symptoms) that can compromise your physical performance and overall well-being. By getting to know what’s typical for your own body, you’ll be better able to recognize unfamiliar changes when they occur. They can include: • Extreme tiredness (fatigue) • Unexplained weight loss (typically 10 pounds or more) or loss of appetite • Changes in how food tastes • Fever and chills • Night sweats • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing “These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have cancer,” he emphasizes. “But if they linger or worsen, it’s important for your doctor to rule out — or treat — possible problems.” If you are interested in locating a PCP or specialist in your area, visit UPMC.com/FindADoctor or call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762).

Did You Know? The University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), based at the Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, is the only National Cancer Institutedesignated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania. Learn more about UPCI and its partnership with UPMC Cancer Centers at UPCI.UPMC.edu.

Cancer Screenings: Are they right for you? Another important tool in the early detection of cancer is screenings. “When combined with regular checkups with your family doctor or specialist, screenings like mammograms, PAP smears, and colorectal exams have proven to be invaluable in the fight against cancer,” says Kevin Kane, MD, of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC McKeesport. “Your personal and family medical history, risk factors, age, and other considerations will help your physician recommend the right tests — and frequency — for you.” To learn more about the program and services of UPMC Cancer Center at UPMC McKeesport, visit UPMCMcKeesport.com.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Make a Date With Your Doctor You take your car to the mechanic for an annual inspection to be sure it’s running properly. So why aren’t you giving your body the same kind of attention? When you’re in good health, it’s easy to put off going to the doctor. But regular checkups can help you stay healthy, and avoid disease and disability. That’s why scheduling a physical is the one New Year’s resolution you should keep! “Your annual exam is the perfect time to talk with your doctor about illness prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and any screenings,” says David Harinstein, MD, a physician with Health First Medical and UPMC McKeesport. “That information helps you and your doctor create a plan to maintain your health, or get you started on making changes to improve your health.” Building an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) also means peace of mind. “There’s real value to being seen by someone who knows you and your health history — someone you trust to guide you through an illness or emergency,” adds Dr. Harinstein.

Your exam checklist How can you make the most of your annual exam? Here are four things to do before you see the doctor:

1. Make a list of all medications you are taking Include all prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements that you currently take, how often you take them, and why.

2. Update your family history Your family history can provide important clues about your risk for certain diseases, including diabetes, some cancers, and heart disease.

3. Ask about health screenings Screenings can be important tools in preventing some illnesses and diseases. Get a list of recommended screenings and talk about them with your doctor.

4. Make a list of questions or health concerns Asking questions and sharing your concerns about health issues helps your doctor improve your care. One final piece of advice: Be honest. “Never be afraid or embarrassed to tell your doctor something,” says Dr. Harinstein. “What you don’t disclose could be important for your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis or prescribe the best treatment plan.”

UPMC.com/Today

Three Cheers for Your Ears, Nose, and Throat Winter is the season for sniffles, scratchy throats, and earaches — often all at once! And with good reason: our ears, nose, and throat all are connected and affect each other greatly. Otolaryngologists (also known as ear, nose, and throat doctors or ENTs) are physicians who specialize in caring for this complex, interrelated system. Test your ENT knowledge with this quick quiz:

Who gets earaches more often — children or adults? Nearly every child experiences at least one ear infection between infancy and the age of five — something weary parents know firsthand. Because children have shorter, straighter Eustachian tubes (which connect the nose to the ears), it’s easier for bacteria to migrate into their ears.

Why are you more likely to get a nosebleed in winter? The same heated indoor air that makes your home cozy in winter also can dehydrate the inside of your nose. It can become crusted or cracked, or can even bleed. A dry nose makes you more susceptible to germs, so exercise good nose care. Lightly coat the inside with petroleum jelly. Overthe-counter saline mists and sprays (not decongestants) also are helpful.

Will antibiotics cure laryngitis? Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections that make the vocal cords swell — so antibiotics are ineffective. Your best course of action? Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and cut back on talking. Straining your voice when you have acute laryngitis can damage your vocal cords. Source: American Society of Otolaryngology

Technology for 21st Century Hospitals How technology is working to transform the quality of your care during hospitalization If you ever have to be hospitalized, you’ll certainly want to be cared for at a place that delivers quality health care using the latest technology available. That’s precisely what patients find when they are admitted to a UPMC hospital. “UPMC’s vision of quality is for every patient to receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way — every time,” says Tami Minnier, RN, and chief quality officer for UPMC. “Technology lets us serve patients more efficiently and accurately. Most of all, we’re able to give patients greater control of their health care.” Here are just two of the ways UPMC hospitals are delivering on that goal.

SmartRoom® technology brings it all to you Launched three years ago by UPMC in partnership with IBM, SmartRoom is an impressive technology. First used at UPMC Shadyside and UPMC Montefiore, it is gradually being introduced in other UPMC hospitals. All patient rooms at the new UPMC East will be equipped with SmartRoom technology. SmartRoom brings all essential data related to your care to your bedside. Its computerized software programs give caregivers fingertip access to all the information essential to your care — from your electronic medical records to the tests you’ll need that day.

The SmartRoom concept simplifies workflow and makes documentation of your care faster and easier. Each room has two screens: one for your caregivers, and another for you to access email, entertainment, and a vast library of patient education videos and information.

The right meds at the right time “It is our goal to make the hospitalization and discharge experience as stress-free as possible for our patients and their families,” says Jacqueline Dailey, UPMC’s vice president for Solutions for Medical Science, Research, and Patient Centered Accountable Care. “Not surprisingly, by the time patients leave the hospital, they’re often confused and overwhelmed by changes in their medications and how to take them.” “We begin when you’re admitted with an electronic assessment of your current medications and how they’re being taken,” explains Ms. Dailey. “As medications are adjusted or eliminated during your stay, this information is instantly available to all your physicians — from your family doctor to the specialists caring for you. That’s especially important if you transition from one level of care to another, such as intensive to acute care.” An added layer of safety: both a pharmacist and the nurse administering the medications verify any new medication orders from your doctors. Throughout your stay, you’ll receive comprehensive instructions on your medications. “We know that people learn in different ways, so this information will be shared multiple times and in multiple ways,” notes Ms. Dailey. “We also urge patients to contact their doctors for help with any questions they may have on their return home.”

1-800-533-UPMC

Taking on Tourette Controlling a life in motion at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC That’s especially difficult for adolescents who want to fit in. Tics, such as throat clearing, turning, or shaking, also can cause pain.

Seven Barnishin was just 11, playing with action figures alone in his Pitcairn home, when the tics began — involuntary arm flicks, head jerks, and sounds. “I freaked. It seemed like something else was controlling me,” he says.

At the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, patients have access to a trio of experts: two pediatric neurologists with training in neurodevelopmental disorders, and an adult neurologist trained in movement disorders who provides transitional care for older teens.

Tom and Amy Barnishin first thought their son’s behavior was linked to the start of the school year and peer pressure. When symptoms grew worse, and other tics emerged, their doctor sent Seven to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC where he was officially diagnosed with Tourette syndrome (TS) in January 2009. “We were blindsided,” says Amy.

Be in the know about TS Treatment varies.While there’s no cure, medication sometimes helps control tics. Psychologists can teach habit reversal and relaxation techniques to help patients cope with stress and reduce symptoms. But the most important treatment is education, says Dr. Coffman. “That includes educating families, educators, and the general public about TS.”

Diagnosing Tourette syndrome TS is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting one in 100 people, says Keith Coffman, MD, a pediatric neurologist and co-director of the Tourette Syndrome Clinic, part of the Brain Care Institute at Children’s Hospital. Most cases are diagnosed between ages 3 and 12; the majority are boys. The main symptoms are sudden, repetitive, uncontrollable movements and sounds called tics, including throatclearing, sniffing, blinking, gestures, and head jerking. For a true TS diagnosis, tics must start before age 18, include two or more motor tics and at least one vocal tic, and last at least one year. Tics peak at the onset of puberty. Approximately 60 percent of children outgrow the tics, or the tics become so subtle only that person knows when they occur.

Did You Know? An estimated 200,000 Americans have TS, but misconceptions still surround the disorder. For example, TS is not an emotional or behavioral condition. It is an inherited neurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormalities in the brain.

UPMC.com/Today

Coping with Tourette “People with TS cannot control their tics. They experience a sensation that makes them feel like they have to move — like having to sneeze,” Dr. Coffman says. The earlier the diagnosis, the sooner children can benefit. Movements can interfere with school work. Children with TS often are bullied, teased, or viewed as being disruptive.

Other TS facts include: • TS patients have the same IQ range as the general population. • People in every walk of life, including professional musicians, athletes, authors, and scientists, have TS. • Less than 15 percent of TS patients swear or use inappropriate expressions.

“Knowledge is power. I’d be unnerved if I didn’t know what it was,” adds Seven, now age 14. Although he cycled through almost every tic, the movements and sounds have subsided with treatment. The Barnishins credit the team at Children’s for helping them understand TS, guiding them through treatment options, and providing support. “Children’s gave us answers and helped us gain control over an uncontrollable situation. Instead of being spectators, we were part of the process. That helped lower Seven’s anxiety, which helped ease the tics,” says Tom. To learn more about the Tourette Syndrome Clinic and the Movement Disorders Clinic at Children’s Hospital, visit chp.edu, choose Neurology as the service, then click the Clinics and Services button on the left.

Putting Fracture Care on the Fast Track UPMC McKeesport’s new Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program is designed to improve outcomes for older patients With 206 bones in the human body, bone fractures are fairly common. They can happen to anyone regardless of age or health. Specialized care for bone fractures and joint replacement needs for patients of all ages is the focus of the new Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program at UPMC McKeesport.

A faster fix for hip fractures

Designed to accelerate the treatment of geriatric fracture patients, this evidence-based program is modeled after a similar one in use nationwide. “It clearly demonstrates that geriatric fracture patients who are fast-tracked through the ED have a speedier recovery and fewer complications, and require less pain medication,” explains “ Faster Dr. Tranovich.

fracture repair means a quicker return to mobility.”

With any bone fracture, the doctor’s primary goal is to get the pieces back into position and keep them from moving until they are healed — and to do it as quickly as possible. That’s especially important for older adults whose age and complex medical problems often can complicate a fracture. Hip fractures in the elderly usually occur as the result of a fall, and can pose special challenges. (See story below for tips on preventing falls.) “Any bone fracture in an elderly person is serious, but hip fractures are the most serious,” says Michael Tranovich, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at UPMC McKeesport. “Faster fracture repair means a quicker return to mobility. That’s essential to reducing a patient’s risk of life-threatening complications, such as blood clots, drug-induced dementia, and pneumonia.” Dr. Tranovich was instrumental in developing the new Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program at UPMC McKeesport.

Falls Are No Laughing Matter Pratfalls on TV sitcoms may make us chuckle, but in real life, they’re deadly serious. Falls are the leading injury-related reason people go to the emergency department. Each year, more than a million Americans suffer a slip, trip, or fall injury, resulting in more than 17,000 deaths. If you’ve taken a fall and suspect a serious injury, such as a fracture, seek medical attention immediately.

– Michael Tranovich, MD

Most hip fractures in elderly patients are treated surgically. If underlying health issues such as diabetes or heart failure delay the procedure, the risk of complications increases. “Our immediate goal is to get a patient into surgery within 24 hours,” says Dr. Tranovich. “Ultimately, we’d like to get that down to 18 hours.”

Key benefits aren’t just for seniors Anyone over the age of 18 who comes to UPMC McKeesport’s ED with a fracture to the hip, ankle, wrist, or hand will be treated quickly. The program also provides a comprehensive continuum of care before, during, and after surgery for patients in need of joint replacements. “This program, but it is definitely a win-win for the entire community,” says Dr. Tranovich. To learn more about the Comprehensive Orthopaedic Program at UPMC McKeesport, visit UPMCMcKeesport.com.

Three things you can do to avoid falls Falls don’t have to be an inevitable part of life. There are many proactive strategies you can take to prevent them from happening to you and others, including: Check your surroundings: Clutter-proof your home, especially steps. Make sure carpets and handrails are secure. Use a nonskid mat in your bath. If you have small children, use safety locks on windows and be sure cribs, infant swings, and other pieces of equipment are placed securely. Older children and adults should always wear protective gear when biking, skiing, or skating.

Exercise: Exercises that promote strength, balance, and body coordination are especially important to prevent falls. Many doctors recommend the martial art of tai chi, especially for older adults. See your doctor regularly: Schedule annual physical and eye examinations to uncover underlying medical problems that could lead to falls. Notify your doctor if you feel unstable or experience problems like dizziness due to medications.

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.

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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 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.

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

WINTER

                         

  

    



2011



               

 

 

Did you do a fantastic art project at school this year? Have your mom or dad take a picture of you and your project and send it to us! We think everyone should see what a great artist you are! E-mail your pics to: m.jeffries@icmags.com

  Z Z C M X N E Z T I L B C O K

O Z S C P D Z W O K V I U T I

Dasher Dancer

Y P X C O R U D O L P H P K O

D U E N O H A N A K E Y I E O

Y W N T B M I N D T Z V D G C

Donner Blitzen

U E V K I D E P C A B O I C S

R J B I A D T T N E N D T Y P

N D Y S C J Q Q Z E R C J M N

B D H C L J R C V D T S E L G

Comet Cupid

U E B I M G P N Q O B S R R V

R O L J P Y F M P Q K H L W U

F E Z V W X H N M J Q M A L B

B C T U R G K W K R B T J S R

Prancer Vixen

W L E E I G R B V I X E N K R

J E F B U R J J K V E V G F L

Rudolph

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25



 raiser  a S.H.O.R.E. Thing

Fund

n June 24, 2007, Brian and Janis West faced a parent’s worst nightmare – the loss of a child. Their 19-year-old daughter, Sarah Lynn Budd, died suddenly in a car crash. At that time, Sarah’s two kidneys, a cornea and five heart valves were donated for research. Still, the family wanted a way to keep Sarah’s memory alive while helping others. “For a few years, we debated where we were going, what we were doing,” said Brian West. After a cousin underwent a heart transplant in 2009, the family was able to see things from an organ recipient’s perspective, and decided that helping recipients and their families would be the way to honor Sarah’s memory and provide much-needed assistance.

Robert Tierney, foundation treasurer

The SHORE (Sarah’s Helping hand for Organ Recipient Expenses) Foundation is the nonprofit organization Sarah’s family and friends established in March, 2010, to help organ recipients who have been given a new lease on life but cannot enjoy it because of the strain of medical debts and related financial concerns. Since then, the foundation has raised $25,000 via its fundraising eﬀorts, which included a Spring Jewelry Cash Bash (proceeds were split with the Circleville VFD) and a murder mystery dinner.

Laura Budd (Sarah's sister) and Sabrina Minyon

“Actually, my wife and I had gone to a few murder mysteries in the past. It’s a nice event for couples. Also, it’s a little diﬀerent from a lot of other fundraisers,” Brian West explained. On November 5, the SHORE Foundation held its second annual Murder Mystery Dinner fundraiser, called “Mobsters, Molls & Marinara,” at Stratigo’s Banquet Centre in North Huntingdon. In addition to the mystery, the event included silent and Chinese auctions oﬀering signed Steelers items and custom-made jewelry by Rachel Matta who was a good friend to Sarah. About 150 people turned out for the fundraiser. One of them was Robert Tierney, the foundation’s treasurer. “Our goal is to help,” Tierney said. “People don’t realize the costs (after a transplant).” The foundation helps with expenses not covered by insurance, including providing monetary aid for housing, food, gas, child care expenses, anti-rejection medications—just to name a few of the items. The SHORE Foundation also works with other organizations to fund expenses after a patient’s needs have been assessed, and raises donor awareness.

724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

Allison Peers and Bill Beymon

Janis and Brian West (Sarah's parents)

Robert Felkay, attorney for the foundation, and his wife, Margaret, foundation secretary

ReneĂŠ Carr (Sarah's sister)

Nancy and Bill Sombo, foundation's corporate fundraising chairman

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

                           

 

724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

                                                             

The

Best Holidays are Safe Holidays By Pamela Palongue No one wants their holiday spoiled by an accident, fire or tragedy. The following tips will help keep your holiday bright and full of cheer. Never mount lights with nails or tacks which may damage the wire insulation inside. Thread the light strings through hooks or insulated staples. Before hanging lights outdoors, make sure they are certified for outdoor use. If you have small children or pets, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to avoid breakable ornaments altogether. Make sure all ornaments are hung high enough on the tree to be free from the reach of small children. Check to make sure that your artificial Christmas tree is fire-resistant. If you are buying a real tree, choose one that is fresh by checking the needles to make sure they are pliable and not brittle. Choose a place for the tree that is a safe distance from radiators, fireplaces and space heaters. Be sure to put plenty of water in the tree stand to keep the tree from drying out and becoming a fire hazard. Marc Rasschaert of Landmarc Products.com has invented a Smart Tree Keeper watering device which plays â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jingle Bellsâ&#x20AC;? when the tree becomes low on water. Rasschaert says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A watered tree is the safest tree.â&#x20AC;? Never use electric lights on a metallic tree as the branches can become electrically charged if the lights are faulty. Avoid Christmas decorations that resemble candy or food, since small children may try to eat or swallow them. Remember that poinsettias are poisonous when ingested, so avoid decorating with them if pets or small children will be attending your celebration. Never burn wrapping paper in the

fireplace. The wrapping paper burns intensely and can cause flash fires which have the potential to destroy a home. If you are using any ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction such as nuts or seafood, be sure to let your guests know before they eat the dressing with the oysters. Although itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tempting to abandon the kitchen to hang out with your guests, unattended cooking accounts for a majority of home fires in the U.S. during the holidays. Keep an eye on the mulled cider. Finally, test your smoke detectors to make sure that they are all working properly. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday celebration!

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Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

     

  



hen it comes to making travel plans, there’s probably no trip that will be more meaningful to you than your honeymoon. Making memories that last a lifetime at this special time in your life shouldn’t be done on a whim. It takes forethought and planning to make a honeymoon a romantic getaway. Anything less, could leave you high, dry, and searching for alternatives that may cause your first bout of marital stress. The best way to start is by setting a budget. Once you’ve determined how much you can aﬀord, you will know if New Zealand, Hawaii or Florida is in your future –and all three have spectacular beaches, resorts and amenities for you to enjoy. If you’re not a surf and sun couple, we can certainly help you find the right package for you.



If money is no object, first, we congratulate you on your good fortune! The destinations open to you include Hawaii, the South Pacific and the French Riviera. Luxurious resorts such as the Mauna Lani Hotel in Kona, Hawaii, the Aman Resort in Bali, and the Hotel Cipriani and Palazza Vendramin in

Venice are common names known for their over-the-top service and movie-set grandeur. Trips such as these can easily start in the $10,000 range and escalate in price from there. However, for those who can aﬀord it, there’s no price tag to be placed on the memories you’ll bring back with you and the experiences you have at these resorts.

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While we may not all have $10,000 or more to spend on a honeymoon, most couples will splurge on this trip more than any other future vacation because of the gift money from the wedding, and the fact that it’s a once-in-alifetime celebration. So if you’re in the $5,000 to $10,000 range, you’re still going to find great resorts in Hawaii and the Caribbean. The Meridian Club in Turks and Caicos, Peter Island in the British Virgin Islands, and the Four Seasons on Nevi or Sandy Lane in Barbados are a few that come to mind. While not all-inclusive, you will still

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In the $3,000 to $5,000 range, honeymooners can find all-inclusive, luxury resorts in the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera Maya. Sandals has numerous resorts in the region, with private beaches, pristine water, and myriad activities to keep you busy when you’re ready to pick up your beach towel and find the nightlife.



If you’re willing to plan around sales and travel around the resorts’ oﬀ-peak seasons, you can still find your perfect honeymoon on the beaches of Mexico

while keeping some money in the bank for your first mortgage. Having a travel agent can help you navigate the resorts and figure out how to save money the most. With their help, you can still find many four- and five-star resorts at aﬀordable rates, as well as reasonable airfare to those destinations. Your travel agent has up-to-the-minute rates and dates the world over, not just on the beachfront, so call them if you’re considering Europe, mountain retreats or a trip to the Big Apple. Chances are, they’ll be worth their weight in aspirin when it comes to the headaches you’ll avoid, and your honeymoon will be a trip you’ll want to take again and again. Auto & Home Insurance Serving Our Community For Over 20 Years

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                                                                                           

 



f you haven’t yet caught on to the ebook craze, the time couldn’t be better than right now. Amazon has now allowed its popular ebook reader (Kindle) to access free ebooks. As always, most of

the other ebook readers can continue to access our county-wide collection of downloadable ebooks. To access the database, go to our website at www.norwinpubliclibrary.org and click on the “Downloadable ebooks and audiobooks” link. In addition to ebooks, you can also download audiobooks to your

iPod or other mp3 digital music player and play through any set of headphones or a compatible car stereo. They can also be burned to a CD. This has been extremely popular since the collection was introduced this summer, and it is only going to grow. We plan on adding hundreds of books each year, so have no fear! You’ll be reading free downloadable content for years to come!

Amnesty Coupon Bring this coupon and your overdue items to the Norwin Public Library and receive amnesty for your fines.

   Thinking about renting that house that’s been sitting on the market since June? Or maybe selling a car instead of trading it in to a dealer? Making a will or a power of attorney? Why does it always seem like the simplest agreements are the ones that tend to go horribly wrong?

(Only one coupon needed per family. Not valid on previously accrued fines.) Coupon valid through March 31, 2012

724.942.0940 to advertise |

There are many reasons why people need legal forms without wanting to go through the expense of a lawyer. With

Norwin

the Legal Forms Library, you can browse through hundreds of legal forms created by attorneys especially for Pennsylvania residents. Just log on to the Norwin Public Library website and download and fill out everything for free! Just click on the “Databases” link on our homepage at www.norwinpubliclibrary.org.

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 



ith winter rapidly approaching, why not try a fun experiment of sorts with your kids this winter? Check out a book that has been turned into a movie, such as the classics of CHARLOTTE’S WEB or STUART LITTLE by E.B. White, or something more contemporary such as THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX or BECAUSE OF WINN DIXIE by Kate DiCamillo, read a chapter or two together each night and then pop some popcorn and watch the movie! What was left out? What was true to the book? A movie based on THE INVENTION OF HUGO CABRET by Brian Selznick was recently released and THE LORAX by Dr. Seuss and THE HUNGER GAMES by Suzanne Collins are in the works now. Grab a copy today, get reading and compare!

   



he Norwin Public Library is joining the Westmoreland Information Network (WIN). This advance will integrate our catalog with the rest of the libraries in

Westmoreland County, utilizing catalog software called POLARIS. With this change, Norwin library patrons will gain access to over 500,000 additional items from any library in the county with a few clicks of the mouse! The expanded catalog will allow Norwin library patrons to easily and quickly request

materials from participating WIN libraries and have them delivered to the Norwin Public Library for convenient pickup. It will also provide our users with easy access to thousands of additional Large Print Books, DVDs, Music CDs, and those older, out-of-print titles. In addition, Norwin patrons visiting other Westmoreland County libraries will also be able to browse and check out materials at that library using their Norwin Public Library card. And the best news of all: Norwin residents will automatically be jumped to first in line when they place a hold for a book owned by the Norwin Public Library! Be sure to keep your eye out for more changes coming soon. We’re excited; aren’t you?

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

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 

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

es, ELVIS was at the library! Elvis the African penguin, that is. Elvis visited along with a Eurasian Eagle owl and a Black vulture as part of a program from the National Aviary entitled "Mythbusters!"



ocal author Nancy Martin, author of 48 fiction titles, joined us for a fun evening in September! Some of Nancy's titles include the popular BLACKBIRD

SISTERS series and Pittsburgh crime-fighter Roxy Abruzzo!

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ur program TEA WITH THE FIRST LADIES, featuring actress Ann Traeger as Bess Truman, actress Janet Robb as Eleanor Roosevelt and actress

Phyllis Gerber as Mary Todd Lincoln, filled the community room! In the past, the library has hosted historic portrayals of Benjamin Franklin and Abraham Lincoln. Watch our website for this popular program again in the spring; we can’t wait to have them back!



udy Parker and Bruce Adamson from The Children’s Institute, along with the KIDS ON THE BLOCK puppets, stopped by to teach children about different

disabilities in children. Three disabilities, blindness, deafness and cerebral palsy, were discussed.

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 

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Wow, it is so hard to believe this is the fourth issue of In Community Magazine that I am writing right now! A whole year has come and went and it seems like yesterday that I decided to reach out to the community to educate them about how All Kare Chiropractic and Laser Clinic is helping people just like them, to live healthier, happier lives! We do this by working on improving people’s lives, not just their Pain! We address the issues that are causing them to have pain, gain weight, be exhausted, and lose the joy of life! Actually, the way I started this article is a stark reminder of the fast paced life that we now live as Americans! Research shows that the average American family no longer sits at the dinner table for the evening meal, that the average family eats meals on the run (fast food restaurants), and skips meals like breakfast or lunch because “We just don’t have time,” or so people think. Multiple studies have shown that all these poor choices are causing the average American family to eat more calories, and poorer quality foods (highly processed foods, high in sugar, corn syrup, and fat). Other important things we are not doing- we are skipping needed exercise and physical play time with our families. A recent study from the National Survey of Children’s Health showed that 2 out of every 3 adolescents in America are living a low level of physical activity, and that it was more common for the parents of those children to also not exercise and participate in sports. This finding is worrisome because teens are likely to maintain similar levels of physical activity into adulthood, and because physical inactivity is associated with a host of negative health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity, as well as low self-esteem. We need to slow down, de-stress, learn to take time for ourselves and for our families! We need to learn to make better choices when it comes to eating, exercising, stretching, and family activities! On the surface that sounds self-evident! But you may be surprised how often my patients come in complaining of one problem or another. Often it is neck pain, low back pain, weight gain, and fatigue. They don’t know why they are feeling the way they are. Often there has been no accident, no incident even! Just a slow steady progression of pain, or weigh gain, or fatigue, or all the above! Now, you may remember I wrote in my first article that research shows that 70 percent of the conditions that affect us as humans relates back to lifestyle. That means we have a huge amount of control over the things that have been robbing us of quality of life! It also gives hope to those dealing with life threatening conditions like heart disease, diabetes, stomach and liver conditions. Through better lifestyle choices (eating better, less drinking, not smoking, more exercise), we can fight these conditions with our own actions not just the medicine! At All Kare Chiropractic and Laser Clinic we put together treatment plans for improving not only the health of a person, but also improving well being and quality of life of our patients. We do this by first taking the time to Listen to the patient and find out what is really bothering

For more info, 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.

them about their life! We then do a thorough exam, and come up with a plan to address the patient’s problems. We have many tools at our disposal. I have been listed in America’s Top Chiropractors which is put out by the Consumers Research Council of America 6 of the last 8 years for wellness and rehabilitation care! We use chiropractic adjustments, massage, exercise and stretching, physical therapy modalities, as well as nutritional, lifestyle and weight loss counseling and coaching to treat our patient’s conditions that are causing them pain, weight gain, and fatigue. These back to natural approaches are bringing about Life changing results in our patients by treating their current conditions and helping to avoid future disease processes. Finally, I have to remind everyone about the phenomenal results we are getting with the Zerona Lipo Laser. For those of you that are looking to jump start your weight loss goals, we cannot only help, we can make the changes come faster. Our average patient is losing 6 to 8 inches off their toughest target areas (the stomach, hips and thighs) in just 4 weeks’ time! This helps people feel better about themselves, motives them to continue with the lifestyle changes that will bring about a better quality of life for the rest of their lives!

Smart Phones Click Here

William H. Roscoe, D.C. Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

  I

originally sat down to TELL people what to do for a resolution this year. My cat pee’d on it… I guess she didn’t like my idea. After letting it dry, I have decided that I don’t like the idea either. Resolutions should be at your own discretion or there is little chance that you will keep it. It has to be something YOU want to do. What I can do is help you, by bouncing some ideas oﬀ you and see if something sticks. Hope I can help some of you with some good ideas for the New Year. A lot of people quit something for a resolution. Is there something that you would want to quit? Smoking is a common quit plan for a resolution, but hard to stick to. If this is your choice as many will probably be, get help. There are many quit smoking aids on the market to choose from. They may be pricey but I bet they are cheaper than what you spend on cigarettes. Dieting is a quit plan for resolution time. Cut out or cut back on fatty foods and replace them with something that is a little user friendly so to speak. Maybe you could cut out fast food all together or at least cut back. Heavy drinkers may want to cut back or quit this year. You could try planning family outings in place of normal drinking time. Maybe join a non drinking activity. If your drinking is a deeper issue your resolution could be to finally seek help. Your liver and family will thank you. It seems that New Year’s resolutions tend to revolve around health. So maybe instead of quitting something, you could add a fitness regimen. Joining a gym could be helpful in your healthy endeavors. Join a yoga class, an aerobics class, or Pilates class which could all be fun and good for your stamina and overall health. Staying or getting healthy is always a good idea, but in today’s society will already seem to have little time for our families. Couldn’t that be a good resolution, to spend more time with family? What if you can find a family activity that promotes good health? Some yoga classes include kids to promote family and health at the same time. I’m not sure about gyms, aerobics and Pilates, but since I haven’t heard of them including your kids, I doubt that it is very common. It doesn’t hurt to ask if the local gym oﬀers a program that includes all reasonable ages and genders. if they read this article, they might add such a program for those of you that would like that. I know a program that promotes good health, flexibility, and stamina, and weight loss if you need it, that is

724.942.0940 to advertise |

Norwin

available to anyone that is school age and up. You know or can assume that I’m biased, but Tang Soo Do or most other martial arts training, whether I’m biased or not, does offer these things I have mentioned and more. My resolution is going to be to find fun and healthy activities to do with my two year old. Maybe you can help me with that one. I hope some of my ideas were helpful in your decision making process. Remember, in my unbiased opinion, whatever you choose as your resolution, because you chose it, will be the right one for you. Happy Holidays to all! Good Luck!

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.

REAL ESTATE

NORWIN

Make Your Home

Cleaner & Greener F

inding ways to go green in the home does more than help the planet. It helps your home’s environment, as well. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, levels of indoor air pollution can be two to five times higher than outdoor levels. These pollutants — as well as chemicals found in many products today — can irritate allergy and asthma sufferers. “More people than ever are looking to make natural changes in their home to help improve their family’s environmental health,” said Dr. Shannon Thyne, Associate Professor of Pediatrics at UCSF and Medical Director of the Pediatric Asthma and Allergy Clinic at San Francisco General Hospital. “It only takes a few extra steps to make a home healthier, cleaner and greener.” To that end, the maker of Green Works® products, HGTV personality and green living expert Carter Oosterhouse, and Lowe’s have teamed up to showcase ways to give your family a cleaner, greener home. “Whether you could use help enhancing the look of your child’s playroom, or you’re looking for ways to reduce chemicals and their fumes and residues in your kitchen, there are simple steps you can take to make your home environment healthier, while still keeping it stylish and beautiful,” said Oosterhouse. While every home is different, here are some ways to make any home naturally beautiful and healthier.



Check the back of the paint can for VOC levels — those with fewer than 150 grams per liter are often labeled “low-VOC” or “no-VOC.”  Buy only the amount of paint you’ll need for the project. If you wind up with leftover paint, store it safely or dispose of it according to local municipal regulations.  Open windows while painting and use fans to vent fumes.  When sanding or removing old paint, wear a dust mask or respirator to prevent particle inhalation. Keep the area well ventilated. 

PAINT A fresh coat of paint is a great, low-cost way to bring new life to a room. But that new paint smell comes from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which derive from vapors released from toxic compounds. Use non-VOC paint to create an inviting, comfortable and beautiful room.

Clear the air Here are a few tips for clearing the air in your home.  Open the window. Clean with windows and doors open so you don’t trap air pollution inside.  Go barefoot. Take off your shoes when you come inside. That way you’ll bring less dust, dirt, mold and pollens inside, and you won’t track them all over the house.  Buy a plant. Plants serve as natural air purifiers. African violets and ferns are beautiful ways to help clear the air.

Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

REAL ESTATE

NORWIN



CLEANING PRODUCTS It used to be that buying a natural cleaning product meant paying more money for worse performance. No longer. Natural cleaning products can provide great performance without leaving behind harsh chemical fumes or residues. Plus, they are increasingly cost effective. Green Works naturally derived cleaners offer a variety of products for the whole house, including naturally derived laundry detergent and bathroom cleaners that are priced very competitively.

If the carpets and rugs must stay, vacuum frequently, using a vacuum cleaner with an allergen-trapping HEPA filter. Change the filter regularly to keep it working efficiently.

FURNITURE AND WINDOW COVERINGS Curtains and upholstery can trap dust, dust mites and pollen.  Blinds are a good, contemporary-looking alternative to drapes, but must be dusted occasionally.  Vacuum upholstered furniture — under the cushions, too.

APPLIANCES

Upgrading to a more efficient washer and dryer can provide lifetime water and energy savings.  Run only full loads. Full loads FLOORING use energy Carpets trap dirt, dust and other and water more allergens. If possible, remove wall-toefficiently than wall carpeting and replace it with smaller loads. natural wood flooring, such as sustainable Adjust the water bamboo or cork flooring. levels according to  Sweep and vacuum floors regularly to control dust. the load.  Wet mop with a microfiber mop to remove dust and dirt more  Wash in cold efficiently. water. Most of the  Clean up spills right away. energy used to wash clothes comes from heating the water. Only the most stubborn stains really need hot or warm water.

NEVER Clean Your Home Again! 9 Important Reasons why you should let us clean your home 1. You have better things to do with your time. 2. We clean it your way.

For more tips on getting a cleaner, greener home, visit www.greenworks.com, and watch Oosterhouse’s “Green It Yourself ” web series at the Green Works Facebook page, www.facebook.com/greenworks.

3. Consistently thorough. 4. Responsible, insured & supervised personnel. 5. We bring our own ENVIRO SAFE equipment and cleaning supplies. 6. We visit. We do not move in.

The Natural Products Association (NPA) recently developed the Natural Standard for Home Care Products, making it easier than ever to tell what makes a product natural.

7. Flexible scheduling. 8. Great service. Fair price. 9. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!

Visit us @ ecshousecleaningservices.com or call 412-292-6756 to schedule your free house cleaning consultation

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What does it mean to be natural?

Norwin

Here are the NPA’s core criteria:  Natural: Ingredients that are at least 95 percent natural (excluding water) in addition to appropriate manufacturing processes.  Responsible: No animal testing during the development process.  Safer chemistry: Avoid ingredients from the NPA’s list of prohibited ingredients.  Sustainable: Use biodegradable ingredients with environmentally sustainable packaging whenever possible. For more about which Green Works® products are NPA certified natural products, visit www.greenworkscleaners.com.

REAL ESTATE

NORWIN

 

By Pamela Palongue

old winter weather is inevitable in Pennsylvania, but you can make sure your home is warm and toasty by getting your home ready now for the snowy season. One important thing to do is to purchase some nonperishable food items that can be eaten without heating in case of a winter power outage. Also, make sure those flashlights have fresh batteries and are in a handy place. Make sure that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors have fresh batteries. CO detectors become especially important in the winter months because of increased use of kerosene and gas space heaters, leaking chimneys and furnaces, wood stoves and gas stoves – all sources of carbon monoxide. CO detectors are inexpensive and install easily. Next, insulate all exposed water pipes to prevent freezing pipes in the coldest part of winter. Be sure to leave your heat set to at least 55 degrees if you are going to be away from home for a few days. Consider adding extra insulation to the attic. The U.S. Dept. of Energy recommends approximately 12 inches of insulation in attics in Zone 5. One important thing to remember when adding insulation is to avoid insulation with paper backing which will act as a vapor barrier and may cause moisture problems. Seal up foundation cracks and any entry points into your home such as crawl spaces. This will deter mice and insects from coming into your house and also help with heating bills. Use weather resistant caulking for exteriors and masonry sealer for brick areas. Weather stripping around doors and caulking around windows will help prevent cold air from pouring into your home. Plastic may be used in basement windows for added protection.

If your home has a fireplace, yearly cleaning by a chimney sweep is essential; twice a year if the fireplace is used frequently. The buildup of wood resins forms creosote and can create a combustible fire in the chimney that can destroy an entire home. Make sure that the chimney top has a grate to prevent small animals such as squirrels from entering your home through the chimney. A furnace inspection will not only ensure safety, but help lower heating bills by more efficient use of your furnace. Cleaning the ducts and replacing filters monthly helps your home to have cleaner, healthier air. Dirty filters restrict air flow and can potentially cause fires. One area of your home that may go unnoticed is the gutter spouts. These should be cleaned thoroughly and hosed down before temperatures drop. Leaving gutter spouts clogged with leaves will lead to snow and ice building up in the gutters with no way for melting snow to drain, causing possible water damage to your home. A really easy tip is to reverse your ceiling fan so that the blades turn in a clockwise direction. This will help force warm air down into living space, rather than collecting near the ceiling. With a little planning, your home can be safe and warm all winter long, no matter what the temperature outside.

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Norwin | Winter 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

The Norwin

Chamber of Commerce In September, the Norwin Chamber of Commerce held its 5th Annual Member Appreciation Day at the Norwin High School. Over 130 members and guests attended the event. Forty Chamber members showcased their businesses by setting up vendor tables. Chair massages were provided by All Kare Chiropractic Clinic, hand massages were provided by Michelle’s Bella Boutique & Day Spa and blood pressure screenings were provided by Excela Health. Tote bags for all attendees were provided by State Farm Insurance – Brian Winfield Agency and a variety of Norwin Chamber members were gracious enough to donate all of the food that was available for participants throughout the evening. The Annual Member Appreciation Day honors the reason why we are here – our members. Any Norwin Chamber member and their employees, co-workers and family members

can attend. This event has already outgrown two locations as its popularity keeps increasing. It originally started out at the Chamber office and quickly outgrew that space after two years. The event was then moved to member Circleville Fire Hall for the next two years and that space was outgrown. The Norwin High School is now the “official” location. Students from the Student Council and Future Business Leaders of America assisted the Chamber staff with setting up the event and helped vendors set up their tables. Students also welcomed guests, toured them around and made sure the event flowed well. The students were a tremendous help. Although this event is not open to the general public, next year’s event will welcome prospective members, members’ clients and customers, members from other networking groups and organizations and owners of area businesses.

MEMBER BENEFITS HIGHLIGHT The Norwin Chamber Website keeps members up-to-date on all Norwin Chamber and community information. The website includes a complete and current listing of our membership directory including direct links to members’ websites. Also included is a calendar of events with the ability to RSVP, newsletter archives and membership information. The website recently received an all new facelift thanks to member BNS Web Creations. Learn more about the Norwin Chamber and its members by visiting www.norwinchamber.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS The Annual Holiday Mixer will take place on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 and is always another well attended event with close to 200 members and guests. Like Member Appreciation Day, the Holiday Mixer has outgrown the Chamber office and has moved to the spacious Shidle Lodge in downtown Irwin. This casual, two-hour evening event is filled with fabulous food, friendship and business relationships. Contact The Norwin Chamber of Commerce 321 Main Street, Irwin PA 15642 Phone: 724-863-0888 • Fax: 724-863-5133 www.norwinchamber.com • info@norwinchamber.com 40

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What Do Members Have To Say About Their Norwin Chamber Membership Investment? “The Norwin Chamber is a wonderful and caring group of members who truly support each other professionally as well as personally. Through my membership I have had the opportunity to develop many contacts that have proven to be great sources of referrals, information, education and centers of influence for my business.” –Donna Cheswick, BPU Investment Management “Membership in the Norwin Chamber of Commerce keeps us abreast of community life in the Norwin area and changes in the community. New businesses opening, mixing with fellow business owners, schedules, updates, emails, opportunities to volunteer, advertising, and joining together for the Annual Dinner are only a taste of what is done through the Chamber. All these activities and more could not happen without the tireless and dedicated staff that we have at the Chamber. Then, add the hosting of the Annual Community Picnic for which the whole community can partake in and enjoy. Care and concern for others has built us up into the great community that we are. We are proud to be a member of such a grand, unselfish organization.” –Carole Painter, Painter Tool

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