IN Norwin Winter 2016 | Page 8

What’s news in NORWIN Norwin Play It Forward Fund Accepting Applications Norwin Play It Forward Fund, Inc. is accepting applications from motivated Norwin School District instrumental students to receive funding for private subsidized instrument lessons. Students must be in grades four through 12, participate in Norwin’s orchestra or band programs, and must have a GPA of C or above. The fund’s mission is to provide grants for students in grades four through 12 who participate in the Norwin School District’s instrumental music programs. Funds raised provide subsidies for students to take private music lessons and for educational music camp and related experiences, with a preference for students with demonstrated financial need. The goal for students who benefit from the Norwin Play It Forward Fund is for them to “play it forward” with their time and talent to mentor other instrumental music students or support the fund financially when they are able. Through special events that engage members of the community and gifts and grants from individuals and organizations, the enhanced educational experience not only improves a student’s musicianship, but also accentuates teamwork, discipline, and 6 724.942.0940 to advertise | Norwin a commitment to excellence in academics, performance, service and philanthropy. To apply, students must complete an online application, providing basic information about their instrument, instructor and lesson rate, and respond to essay questions that describe why they should be considered and how they think they will “play it forward” in the future. While financial need is one criteria, the fund organizers recognize that family financial circumstances may be unique and need may be explained by the family. No financial data is collected. An independent evaluation committee reviews the applications on a rolling basis and renders decisions. Both beginners and students currently taking instrumental lessons are eligible to apply. If a student is considering lessons, the family should gather some basic information on the instructor, rate, etc. This is a great opportunity for students who wish to develop or further their instrumental musical skills. Online applications may be found at the fund’s website: norwinplayitforwardfund.org. For more information, email norwinpiff@ gmail.com. Tickets are $18 and may be purchased at the Norwin Public Library. At 3 p.m. on the day of the tour, ticket holders should return to the library with their ticket(s) to receive a wristband or a corresponding number of wristbands, according to the number of tickets purchased. Also at that time, tour booklets will be provided that include all of the information as to which homes are on the tour, the addresses, directions and a map, as well as histories and points of interest about each home. The Norwin Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that exists to educate and preserve history in the area. The Annual Holiday House Tour is the Norwin Historical Society’s major source of income for the year, and the organization truly appreciates the community’s support. For more information, contact Geralyn DeFelice at 412.523.3222 or 724.861.8215. Enjoy a Walk with the Western PA Mushroom Club Annual Holiday House Tour Norwin Historical Society’s Annual Holiday House Tour is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 3, from 3:30 to 8 p.m. The Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club offers group walks and meetings throughout each month at various local locations. For more information and a complete list of upcoming meetings, email cs4wpmc@gmail. com or visit wpamushroomclub.org. n