Nov 2013 pride by ojrdsd

Wildcat PRIDE

November 2013

What’s Inside LIFE

Welcome New Blessings Staff Fitness Programs Wellness Coaching Coming to OJR Live Well, Work Well COPD Facts GERD Information United Concordia Mobile Apps CULTURE Candid Photos HS Fall Play: Bull in a China Shop Fundraisers Local Turkey Trotting

SUCCESS AND INSPIRATIONS *Noteworthy Staff Accomplishments are nestled within this month’s candid photos

Candids

EC Pink Out for Make a Difference Day

Congrats to Philadelphia Half-marathon participants (not all pictured): Ed Smith, Jean McMenamin , Kelly Storti, Johann Davis, Alaena Silva, Adria Creswell, Ryan Monaghan, Kelly Dugan Shawn Morris, Anna DePaol and Francesca Alexander finished the full marathon

Before the start of the 2013 Philadelphia Marathon

Congratulations to runners in the Rock & Roll Las Vegas Marathon: Melissa Kent and Lori Koury finished the Half and Sarah Allander finished the full.

EC Pink Out for Make a Difference Day

Owen J. Roberts Teachers Transform High School into Halloween Extravaganza Children to Walk the Halls Not the Streets at “Safe Trick-or-Treat Night”

Announcing...

Ashlyn Grace Lanyon Born on 10/31/2013 to Beau and Andrea Lanyon 9 lbs. 21 inches

Earn A+ School Rewards every time you shop between October 6, 2013 and March 22, 2014 . Log on to www.giantfoodstores.com/aplus to designate one of our schools using your Giant Bonus Card. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy!!!

Yoplait is donating 10Â˘ for every lid to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

The collection this year will be going through June 30, 2014 (instead of the separate fall and spring campaigns before), so you can send in your CLEAN PINK lids to Karin Suzadail at the High School any time this school year.

Junior Classical League (Latin Club) is collecting materials for local animal shelters. The club is accepting both dry and moist cat and dog food, cat litter, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, towels, toys, really anything for the care and feeding of cats and dogs. Monetary donations are also gladly accepted since the shelters have many bills to pay. If you would be interested in contributing to our materials drive you can donate in any of the following ways:  Drop off the items in room 1115 in the north wing of the high school.  Let Karin Suzadail know where you are and a JCL’er will come by to pick up the items.

Leave the items in the HS mailroom, or interoffice mail them (thanks, Terry!) The collection is through this Monday, November 26.

Warming Communities..... one coat at a time! French Creek Elementary K-Kids is collecting new and used coats for women, men, and children. Collected coats will be donated to the Pottstown Cluster. They provides assistance to families in our own community. The coats we collect will be distributed to the families living in the Bright Hope Community as the cold weather approaches. The K-Kids thank you for your generosity and kindness!

November 18th-December 2, 2013 Collection tables will be located in the French Creek Elementary Lobby.

Staff Fitness

Contact person: JRechtin@ojrsd.com

What about ME????? To bring a fitness program to your building at your preferred time, you need:

5 friends (and some space) Vendors may be set up with a minimum of 6-8 participants Volunteer coordinator needed

STAFF BOOT CAMP on Central CAMPUS Special Employee Pricing Coordinator: Maria Braca, MBraca@ojrsd.com

2:45 PM on Mondays and Thursdays New Session to Begin in January Meets in the MS fitness room (TBD)

November 2013 Brought to you by: The Reschini Group

Food Safety Tips for Turkey Time water. Allow 30 minutes of submersion per pound of turkey and change the water every 30 minutes. For microwave thawing, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for defrosting. Plan to cook the bird immediately after microwaving thawing to prevent bacteria from developing on the meat.

Preparing a turkey for Thanksgiving is a lot of work, and as the big day approaches it can be tempting to cut corners. However, one area where you should never do things in half-measures is food safety. The last thing anybody wants to deal with during Thanksgiving aftermath is food poisoning. The "danger zone" is between 40° F and 140° F—the temperature range where foodborne bacteria multiply rapidly. When preparing a turkey, be aware of the four main safety issues: thawing, preparing, stuffing and cooking to adequate temperature. Thawing. There are three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, in cold water and in a microwave oven. For refrigerator thawing, place the turkey in a container to prevent juices from dripping on other foods. Allow approximately 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds in a refrigerator set at 40° F or below. To thaw in cold water, seal the turkey in a watertight bag and submerge in cold

Preparation. After preparing the turkey, thoroughly wash your hands and disinfect utensils or surfaces to avoid bacteria from the turkey spreading to other foods. Stuffing. For optimal safety and uniform doneness, cook the stuffing outside the turkey in a casserole dish. However, if you place stuffing inside the turkey, do so just before cooking, and use a food thermometer. Make sure the center of the stuffing reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165° F. Cooking. Be sure the turkey is completely thawed, and set the oven to a minimum temperature of 325° F. Place the turkey breast-side up on a flat wire rack in a shallow roasting pan 2 to 2-1/2 inches deep. Use a food thermometer to ensure the stuffing, breast, thigh and wing joint reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165° F. Cooking times will vary by size and oven. When finished, let the turkey stand 20 minutes before removing all stuffing from the cavity and carving the meat.

Lung Cancer Risk Awareness

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and the second-most diagnosed cancer in both men and women in the United States. Lung cancer begins in the lungs and may spread to lymph nodes or other organs in the body, such as the brain. Cancer may also spread from other organs to the lungs. Because there are very few nerve endings in the lungs, many people with lung cancer do not show symptoms until the disease is in its later stages. There are two main types of lung cancer: small cell and non-small cell. Non-small cell lung cancer makes up about 80 percent of cases and spreads to other parts of the body more slowly than smallcell lung cancer does. Small-cell lung cancer is almost always associated with smoking. Cigarette smoking is the number one risk factor for lung cancer. The lifetime risk of lung cancer in non-smokers is very small. Not smoking is the single best thing you can do to avoid lung cancer To further minimize your risk of developing lung cancer, test your home for radon and your workplace for industrial compounds. Also be sure to avoid air pollution whenever possible.

DID YOU KNOW Lung cancer causes more deaths than the next three most common cancers (colon, breast and prostate) combined.

A Good Night’s Sleep Long an afterthought in the public health community, the importance of sleep is rapidly gaining recognition as a key driver of wellbeing. Lack of sleep is now associated with a host of hazards and maladies including reckless driving and chronic illness. Here are some tips to ensure you get the proper amount of rest you need to maintain good health: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

7. Don’t lie in bed awake longer than 20 minutes. The anxiety of being awake can make it harder to fall asleep. Instead, get up and do a relaxing activity until you get tired.

Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Avoid caffeine and nicotine after noon. Avoid large meals and alcohol right before bedtime. Relax before bed with a book or with music. No electronic screens! Exercise is great, but no later than two to three hours before bed. Make sure your bedroom is a quiet, dark and relaxing environment, and is neither too hot nor too cold.

Giving Thanks for Savings

Cranberry Stuffing

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and togetherness, but it’s also about abundance—and that can get pricey. While it may seem out-of-place to budget your feast, hosting a get-together you can afford while avoiding the stress associated with cost and waste will guarantee you a more enjoyable holiday.

This homemade stuffing is a healthier and better-tasting alternative to most store-bought brands, and baking it separately from the turkey reduces the amount of calories and fat per serving. Use it to lighten up this year’s Thanksgiving.

Estimate—Have a plan before going to the store. Assume one pound of turkey per person. Use the serving size information on side dish recipes. You can use an online meal calculator to help you determine how much food you need. Estimate a little more if you want to have leftovers. Make a list based on your calculations so as not to overbuy. Buy generic brands in bulk—If you’re going to feed a large crowd, it’s worth it to make a trip to a warehouse retailer for nonperishable items like canned goods, paper products and alcohol. Using store or generic brands for staple items like seasoning and stock will save you a lot of money without affecting taste. Store promotions—Keep an eye out for special coupons and promotions around Thanksgiving. Some stores offer a free turkey if you spend a certain amount of money. Also, be on the lookout for coupons in the weeks before Thanksgiving. BYOD (Bring Your Own Dish)—If you’re hosting, it isn’t stingy to ask your guests to bring food. Your guests will not fault you for asking them to bring a dish or beverage, especially since you are already doing so much. Just be sure to request types of dishes, not specific ones. For instance, ask people to bring an appetizer, side dish or dessert.

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth 1 cup chopped celery ½ cup chopped onion 10 slices of toasted whole wheat bread, cut into cubes ¼ cup chopped parsley 1 tsp. dried tarragon ½ tsp. paprika ⅛ tsp. ground nutmeg ½ cup chopped fresh cranberries 1 cup whole water chestnuts 1 cup chopped apple Preheat the oven to 350° F. Lightly coat a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray. In a large skillet, heat the chicken broth over medium heat. Add the celery and onion and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, parsley, tarragon, paprika, nutmeg, cranberries, water chestnuts and chopped apples. Add the onion and celery mixture. Stir to mix evenly. Spoon stuffing into the prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more minutes. Serve immediately. Yield: 6 servings. Each serving provides 147 calories, 2g of fat, 0.5g of saturated fat, 1mg of cholesterol, 263mg of sodium and 5g of fiber. Source: Mayo Clinic

HealthHealth and wellness and wellness tips for tips your forwork, your work, home home, and life— and brought life—brought to you by the to you insurance by theand insurance specialists and at healthcare The Reschini specialists Group at The Reschini Group.

GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Frequent heartburn, evidence of esophageal irritation or inflammation, blood or weight loss may be associated with a more severe problem known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. What is GERD? GERD is a physical condition in which stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and produces a burning sensation behind the breastbone that moves up toward the neck and throat. It can also create a sour taste and the sensation of food re-entering your mouth. The main symptom of GERD is an uncomfortable feeling of burning, warmth, heat or pain just behind the breastbone, commonly referred to as heartburn. GERD may also cause chest pain, hoarseness, nausea in the morning or trouble swallowing. What Causes GERD? When you swallow, the lower esophageal sphincter – a circular band of muscle around the bottom part of your esophagus – relaxes to allow food and liquid to flow down into your stomach. If it

weakens or relaxes at any other time, stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus, even if you are in an upright position. Certain foods that can relax this valve and make reflux more likely to occur include chocolate, onions, peppermint, coffee, highsugar foods and possibly highfat foods. Spicy foods, citrus products and tomato products may cause heartburn if the esophagus is already irritated. Alcohol, tobacco and some medications can also cause problems.

experience any of the following: 

No improvement in your symptoms after two weeks of home treatment, different or worse symptoms, or if symptoms are interfering with normal activities



Choking or difficulty swallowing



Significant weight loss

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Heartburn occurring frequently over several years that is only partially relieved with lifestyle changes, nonprescription antacids or acid reducers

Whom Does GERD Affect? GERD can affect people of any age, including infants and the elderly. The exact number of people with GERD is unclear because so many people treat these symptoms on their own, and most are not actually diagnosed by a doctor. When Should I Call a Doctor? Call your doctor if you

Did You Know...? Persistent symptoms of heartburn and reflux should not be ignored. By seeing your doctor early, the physical cause of GERD can be treated and more serious problems can be avoided.

Health and wellness tips for your work, home and life— brought to you by the insurance specialists at The Reschini Group

COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Reduce your risk with lifestyle change Currently the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, Chronic Obstructive

pollution can cause irreversible lung damage. Genetics – Studies show that some people may have a genetic predisposition to the development of respiratory conditions, including COPD. History – People who have a history of frequent or severe lung infections, especially during childhood, may be at an increased risk.



Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has no cure and the damage it causes is irreversible. Fortunately a majority of

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COPD cases can be avoided through simple lifestyle change. The Basics COPD is a lung disease in which the airways are partially obstructed, making it difficult to get air in and out. Over time it will make breathing increasingly difficult. COPD develops slowly, and it may take many years before symptoms are noticed. It is usually diagnosed in those middle-aged or older. COPD is not contagious; however, there are several risk factors that greatly increase your chance of developing it. Risk Factors  Smoking – Former or current smokers are at the greatest risk and account for 90% of those suffering from COPD.  Pollution – Intense or prolonged exposure to air

Symptoms Common symptoms associated with COPD include a phlegm-producing cough that won’t go away, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and frequent throat clearing.

secondhand smoke. Reduce your exposures to other lung irritants such as pollution, dust and certain cooking or heating fumes. Try to stay inside when the outside air quality is poor. Treatment COPD’s effect on your lungs cannot be reversed, but there are things you can do to feel better and slow future damage. Medicine and pulmonary rehabilitation are often used to help relieve symptoms, allowing patients to breathe easier and stay active.

Prevention Not smoking is the single most effective way to prevent the development of COPD—and also the best way to slow or stop its progression. It is also important to stay away from

Understanding COPD... 

Chronic means it won’t go away.



Obstructive means partially blocked.

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Pulmonary means in the lungs.

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Disease means sickness.

3rd Annual Mid Atlantic Dairy Toss Your Turkey 5K Road Race 1 mile Kids’ 12 & under Fun Run

Thursday, November 28, 2013. 8:30 AM. Fun Run will start at 9:10 (40 min after start of 5k)

NEW FOR 2013: LONG SLEEVE TECH SHIRTS AND CHIP TIMING! LOCATION: Montgomery County Community College Parking Lot, Pottstown, PA. Across from Riverfront Park. Registration / packet pick up starts at 7:00 am.

GIMMICK ALERT: Saucony Turkey Toss. All entrants will have one opportunity to “toss” a frozen turkey (which will be provided) from 7:30 until 8:15. We will also allow time after race up until start of awards to get in throws. The male and female who tosses the turkey the farthest and competes in the 5K will win a pair of Saucony shoes from Chester County Running Store!

AWARDS: Top 3 M/F in each age group (see list on back) will receive a pie! Perfect for TG dessert you didn’t make since you were running this race. Medals to all kids’ race finishers.

COURSE: VERY flat, wheel measured 5K. Each K will be marked, splits given at 1 and 2 mile. ENTRY: $25.00 if postmarked by Mon, Nov 1, 2013. After this and on race day the cost will be $30.00. Kid’s 1 mile Race: $5. T-shirts will be provided for all pre-registrants and on race day as supplies last. Family price: $100.00 pre-registered (max. of 6) for all members of an immediate family (send in family entries together to receive discount). $120.00 family rate for day of entries. Fun Run race fee includes a short sleeve cotton t-shirt and medal.

CKECKS PAYABLE TO: “Pottsgrove Cross Country”. Send to Larry Rechtin, Pottsgrove High School, 1345 Kauffman Rd, Pottstown, PA 19464. Email to: lrechtin@pgsd.org Print Clearly ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Last Name: __________________________ First Name: _____________________ Address:_________________________ State: _______ Zip: ________ Sex: M 5K Long sleeve:

Youth L

5K _____

mile _____

City: __________________ Email:________________________ F

Race day age: ____

Adult S

Fun Run short sleeve: Youth S M L Sign waiver on back of form!

Date of Birth ___/____/____ L

Adult S M This form may be photocopied.

XXL L

RACE AWARDS: The top 3 in each age group (M/F) will receive a pie or baked good (except 14 and under). There will be a variety of baked goods from which to choose. Age groups: 14 and under trophies to top 3; 15-19; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60+ Post-race food and drink will be provided. The race will be professionally timed by Chester Co. Running Store, and results will be posted at ccrs.com A portion of race proceeds will be donated to Trinity UCC Community Meals Program and Ministries at Main St. in Pottstown

Waiver: I know that running a race is a potentially hazardous activity. I should not enter and run unless I am medically able and properly trained. I assume any or all other risks associated with running or attending the race or Turkey Toss, including but not limited to falls, contact with other participants, the affects of weather and the condition of the course, all such risks being known and appreciated by me. Knowing these facts, and in consideration of your accepting my entry fee, I hereby for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, or anyone else who might claim on behalf, covenant not to sue, and waive, release and discharge Pottsgrove XC, Pottsgrove School District, Chester Co. Running Store, Montgomery County Community College, Pottstown Borough, or any other municipalities in which the event is held, all organizers, officials, and any other organization or individual associated with this event from any or all claims or liability for death, personal injury or property damage of any kind of nature what so ever foreseen or unforeseen, known or unknown arising out of or in the course of my participation in this event. By entering this race, I am granting permission to the PGXC program to use any pictures or likenesses of me secured at the event in any way they see fit without my review, restriction, or compensation. I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS WAIVER! If under 18, a legal guardian must sign. Signature _____________________________________________ ____________

Date: _______ / ___________ / 2012

West Vincent Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk & 1K Kids Run Friday November 29, 2013 Location: Andrew Evans Park, Route 401 and St. Matthews Rd. Chester Springs, PA 19425-at the Gazebo Times:

Registration 9:00 am Kids 1K 10:00 am 5K 10:30 am

Course: Begins and finishes at Andrew Evans Park. The course will take runners and walkers out St. Matthewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road, left onto Horseshoe Trail Road, left onto Fellowship Road and onto the path leading back into the Park. The Kids 1K Run is a paved course around the Park. Entry Fee: 5K Run/Walk West Vincent Students

$15.00 or $20.00 the day of the race No Fee for 1k or 5K and Free T if registered by 11/14

Features: 5K and 1K Individual Timing and Results. Long sleeve T-shirts to all pre-registered(11/14) and while they last on race day. Awards: Cash award for Top overall Male/Female. Top 3 Male and Female for each group in 5K: Grades K & under, 1st-2nd, 3rd-4th, 5th-6th, Ages 13-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & over. Top 3 Boys and Girls in 1K race: K & younger, 1st-2nd ,3rd- 4th, 5th-6th. Race Contact: Kelley Defibaugh defibaugh01@comcast.net or 610-223-6487 Register: 7th grade and above register for the 5K at https://www.runtheday.com/registration/race_info/21478 or complete the form below and mail to township. WVE registrations can be returned to school.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Name_________________________________________________________M_____ F_____ Grade (circle) K 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th or If older - Age on race day _________ Event 5K______ or 1K______ T-shirt Youth M L Adult S M L XL Address ______________________________________________________________ City_________________________________________State__________ Zip_______________ Phone_____________________ E-mail_______________________________ In consideration of the acceptance of this entry, I hereby, for myself, my heirs, executors and administrators, waive and release all rights and claims for damages I may have against the organizers, sponsors, volunteers, officials and any other individuals associated with this event and will hold them harmless from any injury suffered by me. Also, none of the above are responsible for the loss of personal items nor any other form of aggravation in connection with said event. I understand that road racing is a potentially hazardous activity. I verify that I am physically fit to participate in this event. Signature(Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s if under 18)__________________________________________________________________________________________

Mail form along with cash or check to: West Vincent Turkey Trot 729 St. Matthews Road Chester Springs, PA 19425 Checks payable to West Vincent Township Proceeds benefit The Fellowship Trail-West Vincent Township

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NEW APPS FOR MEMBERS AND KIDS Our mobile apps make it easier than ever to keep your mouth healthy and manage your benefits.

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