Moon Township by IN Community Magazines

Special Section: Health & Wellness Page 21

Olympic Gold Medalist Skater Elena Valova Teaches Locals to Go for Their Dreams WINTER 2013 icmags.com

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CONTENTS winter

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features 10 “My Life is on the Ice” Olympic gold medalist skater Elena Valova teaches local kids and adults to go for their dreams.

18 O Christmas Tree Choosing a live evergreen in Moon Township.

21 Special Section: Health & Wellness How to live a healthy, happier, longer life.

36 Building to Grow Eagle Scout Tyler Farr builds an outdoor garden that will teach kids for years to come.

on the cover

Moon Area senior Ian Kelly helps the team pick up some yardage, but they ended up short of the goal for the season. Despite the loss, it was a great season and team effort by the Tigers. Photo by Primetime Shots.

departments 4 6 10

From the Publisher IN the Loop

14 40

IN Events INCognito

IN Person

sponsored content Business Spotlights 26 FASTER 33 Dr. Judy L. DiSanti & Associates

Industry Insights 15 Your Child: The Goddard School 16 Pain Management: Ohio Valley General Hospital 23 Your Health: Vital Health Chiropractic (Choice Chiropractic) 31 Your Child’s Health: Children’s Community Pediatrics

In Community is a publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Moon Township 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.

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 3

FROM THE

PUBLISHER PUBLISHER Wayne Dollard EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Julie Talerico j.talerico@icmags.com REGIONAL EDITORS Mark Berton [South, West and Erie] m.berton@icmags.com

At Seven Springs with my wife Lisa and our three sons.

Top-notch health care, education, banking and technology are what make Pittsburgh known, but our communities are what make us home. Home – where you live, go to school, shop, work and play – is what IN Community Magazines is all about. Each quarter, we bring you the latest news and information about schools, businesses, nonprofits and the people who make them exceptional. We also bring you coverage of interesting events and articles about historical sites you may pass every day without even knowing. We like to surprise you with little-known facts about your community and profile intriguing people who’ve made their mark locally – and sometimes even globally. One thing that makes our communities in western Pennsylvania special is the beautiful seasons. As autumn comes to an end and the snow begins to fall, we hope you take some time to enjoy the many winter activities our area has to offer and hit the slopes, sled ride, cross-country ski or ice skate at one of our many beautiful parks. Or simply build a snowman in the backyard! The staff at IN Community Magazines wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year!

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Send Us Your Story Ideas!

To Advertise

We’d love to hear from you if you know someone in your community who is making a difference or has done something extraordinary. We’re also looking for interesting story ideas (little-known facts, history or other news) within your community.

As the largest magazine publisher in western Pennsylvania, IN Community Magazines are direct mailed to more than 518,000 households, reaching 1.15 million readers. If you’d like to partner with us, please contact our general sales manager, Tamara Myers, at sales@icmags.com.

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4 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

Pamela Palongue [North and East] p.palongue@icmags.com OFFICE MANAGER Leo Vighetti l.vighetti@icmags.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Debbie Mountain d.mountain@icmags.com DESIGN DIRECTOR Michael Miller m.miller@icmags.com DESIGNERS Cassie Brkich Jim Paladino Anna Buzzelli Melissa St. Giles Sharon Cobb Tamara Tylenda Jan McEvoy CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jonathan Barnes Leigh Lyons Jennifer Brozak Joanne Naser Earl Bugaile Melanie Paulick Tracy Fedkoe Melissa Rayworth Brenda Haines-Cosola Marilyn Wempa Elvira Hoff Mandie Zoller Heather Holtschlag CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ginni Klein Kathleen Rudolph Evan Sanders Jennifer Steenson Primetime Shots Gary Zak GENERAL SALES MANAGER Tamara Myers t.myers@icmags.com SALES MANAGER Brian McKee b.mckee@icmags.com ADVERTISING SALES Sophia Alfaras Holly Hicks-Opperman Pamela Arder Aimee Nicolia Nikki Capezio-Watson Connie McDaniel Jennifer Dahlem Gabriel Negri Tina Dollard Vincent Sabatini Julie Graff Michael Silvert Robin Guest RJ Vighetti ICM PRINTING SALES MANAGER Tom Poljak ©2013 by IN Community Magazines. All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse of any part of this publication is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Direct all inquiries, letters to the editor and press releases to:

IN Community Magazines 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724.942.0940; Fax: 724.942.0968 icmags.com Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

TIME FOR OUR AREA VOLUNTEERS SEEKING NOMINATIONS FOR 2014

COMMUNITY AWARDS FOR SERVICE EXCELLENCE (C.A.S.E.) What makes communities great are the special people who volunteer their time, talent and effort in order to help others. At IN Community Magazines, we would like to honor these special people who have made a positive impact in their community and whose philanthropic leadership sets an inspiring example for us all.

2013 Master of Ceremony

Andrew Stockey

WTAE Channel 4

IN Community Magazines’ second annual C.A.S.E. Awards will recognize volunteers from each of ICM’s 35 magazines. Awardees will be selected in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger) Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more)

SPONSORED BY

Awardees will be honored at an awards dinner in Spring 2014.

PLEASE FILL OUT FORM BELOW AND SEND IN YOUR NOMINATION

Name of Nominee_______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Category (check one)

❍ Volunteer of the Year ❍ Youth Volunteer of the Year (21 years and younger) ❍ Small Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 10 people or less) ❍ Large Nonprofit of the Year (staff of 11 or more) Which community is this nomination for?___________________________________________________________________________ Name of person submitting nomination_____________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________Email_________________________________________________________ Why are you nominating this person or nonprofit organization? Please submit a typewritten statement of no more than 600 words. Send nomination form and statement to: Wayne Dollard, IN Community Magazines, 603 E. McMurray Road, McMurray, PA 15317. If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Mountain at 724.942.0940. Deadline for nominations is February 1, 2014.

in the

LOOP What’s news in Moon Township?

PARKS AND RECREATION ACTIVITIES

Volunteer opportunities are available for all ages and abilities at Moon Park. If you are interested in volunteering at any special events like Family Fun Nights, Rec Basketball or the Halloween Spooktacular event please contact the Moon Parks office at 412.262.1703 or email info@moonparks.org.

KARATE: ADULTS AND CHILDREN (AGES 6 AND UP)-KIDS-TEENS-ADULTSSENIORS

Dates: Mondays and Wednesdays Ongoing through May 2014 Times: 6 p.m. (Beginners) and 7 p.m. (Advanced) Location: Moon High School Wrestling Room Cost: $45 Moon School District residents per month. Online registration and mail-in form available. This is a unique karate system tied together to cover all ranges of self-defense. The classes are led by Ken Wolf along with experienced instructors who hold black belts in Okinawan Kenpo and Wa Shu Mudokwan, as well as experience in law enforcement and tournaments.

FAMILY NATURE PROGRAMS WITH AUDUBON SOCIETY(FAMILY PROGRAM-ALL AGES) KIDS-TEENSADULTS-SENIORS

Dates: Jan. 11 - Great Backyard Bird Count Times: 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Location: Coventry Log Cabin at Robin Hill Park Cost: Free! Please register online at www.moonparks.org or call the Parks office at 412.262.1703. Instructor: Audubon Society Special Session: The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are. Happening over the Presidents’ Day weekend, this fun project allows participants to count birds seen at their home feeders or location of their choice. This session will cover bird identification, common birds of Western PA and the data collection and submission process. 6 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

DRIVER’S EDUCATION/ KENNEDY SCHOOL OF DRIVING-TEENS

Dates: Tues. & Thurs., Feb. 25 - March 27 Time: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Location: Moon Township Municipal Building Cost: Registration - $25 Moon residents/ $30 non-residents, Course Fee $350 Moon Parks and Recreation is sponsoring a Driver’s Education course. The course will be instructed by the Kennedy School of Driving. Upon successful completion of the 30 hours of theory and 6 hours of in-car training, a certificate will be given that is accepted by most insurance companies. Participants must be 16 and have a learners permit for the onthe-road portion of the program. The balance of $350 is paid to Kennedy School of Driving at the first class.

*NEW CLASS* INSANITY WORKOUT (ADULTS AND TEENS 16+) TEENSADULTS-SENIORS

Dates: Thursdays, Jan. 9 - Feb. 13 Time: 7:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m. Location: Moon Township Municipal Building Cost: $45 Moon residents/$50 nonresidents Instructor: Neda Story The hardest workout ever put on a DVD is now available in a live class led by INSANITY certified instructor Neda Story. No weights or equipment needed. Your body is your equipment! This class uses Max Interval Training in three- to five-minute blocks using plyometrics, cardio conditioning, core work and much more. You will be pushed past your comfort zone and may want to sign up with a friend!

ZUMBA FITNESS (ADULTS AND TEENS 13+) TEENSADULTS-SENIORS

Dates: Tuesdays, Nov. 5 - Dec. 10; Jan. 7 - Feb. 11 Time: 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Location: Robin Hill Center Cost: $45 residents/$50 non-residents per 6-week session - *$15 Discount available, call for details. Instructor: Marci King Dates: Thursdays, Nov. 7 - Dec. 19; Jan. 7 - Feb. 11 Time: 6:30 p.m. - 7 :30 p.m.

TOTALLY TONED (ADULTS & TEENS 15+) TEENSADULTS-SENIORS

Location: Moon Township Municipal Building – Auditorium Cost: $45 residents/$50 non-residents per 6-week session- *$15 discount available; call for details. Instructor: Christie Covelli Moon Parks and Recreation is sponsoring Zumba classes. These six-week classes are designed to have fun while you burn calories. Zumba Fitness is a combination of Latinbased dance moves: salsa, cumbia, soca, flamenco, samba, hip-hop and more that will really make you sweat! Dance experience is not required. Please bring water.

BEGINNER ZUMBA (ADULTS AND TEENS 13+) TEENS-ADULTS-SENIORS

Dates: Jan. 6 - Feb. 10 Time: 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Location: Moon High School Fitness Room Fee: $45 Moon Rresidents, $50 nonresidents, per 6-week session Instructor: Catherine Hollien This class is designed to have fun while you burn calories. It is a great way to begin an exercise regimen. Zumba Fitness is a combination of Latin-based dance moves: salsa, cumbia, soca, flamenco, samba, hip-hop and more that will really make you sweat! Dance experience is not required.

KARDIO HIP-HOP (ADULTS AND TEENS 15+) TEENS-ADULTS-SENIORS

Dates: Wednesdays, Nov. 13 - Dec. 18; Jan. 8 - Feb. 12 Time: 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Location: Rhema Christian School, 1301 Coraopolis Heights Rd. Cost: $8 drop-in fee – discount for full 6-week session: $40 Moon residents/$45 non-residents Instructor: Kam Niskach Let this instructor’s energy and enthusiasm take your workout to the next level. The instructor uses today’s hottest music to a design a jam-packed hour of high-intensity interval training. You’ll be sweating and smiling!

Dates: Mondays, Nov. 11- Dec. 16; Jan. 6 - Feb. 10 Times: 7:15 p.m. - 8:15 p.m. Location: Moon High School Fitness Room Fee: $45 Moon residents/$50 nonresidents, per 6-week session Instructor: Karla Tobias This class is designed to help tone your entire body including abs, thighs, back, arms, and glutes. It is appropriate for all fitness levels. Bring hand weights, a mat and water.

YOGA BASICS (AGES 15+) TEENS-ADULTS-SENIORS

Dates: Tuesdays, Nov. 5 - Nov. 26 Time: 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Location: Moon Township Municipal Building Fee: $40 Moon residents, $45 nonresidents – per 4-week session Instructor: Bonnie Ottaviani Dates: Tuesdays, Jan. 7 - Jan. 28 Time: 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Location: Moon Township Municipal Building Fee: $40 Moon Residents, $45 NonResidents – per 4 week session Instructor: Jen Stratakis Great class for the yoga-curious! No experience required! If you have ever wanted to try yoga, this is the course for you. Hatha Yoga includes poses, breath work, and guided relaxation. With regular practice, it can improve lung capacity, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, mental calm, and more. Participants should bring a yoga mat or towel and water to class.

Moon Parks and Recreation is sponsoring a Pilates class. Join our certified instructor, Judy Elias, for Pilates! The exciting benefits of this class are improved posture, weight loss from exercise, a renewed positive sense of self and much more! It is designed for all fitness levels and we ask that you provide a towel/mat to class.

MAHS SENIORS NAMED COMMENDED STUDENTS IN THE 2014 NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Two Moon Area High School seniors were named Commended Students in the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program – Ashley Hall and Advith Govindarajan. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise. Although they will not continue in the 2013 competition for National Merit Scholarship awards, Commended Students placed among the top five percent of more than 1.5 million students who entered the 2014 competition by taking the 2012 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT).

MAHS JUNIOR HONORS 9/11 PLAYING “TAPS”

MAHS junior John Cameron Richardson, a member of the organization Bugles Across America, played “Taps” standing next to the high school flagpole during the times that four aircrafts were downed due to terrorist attacks in 2001.

PILATES (ADULTS & TEENS EAGLE SCOUT RECOGNIZED The board presented a proclamation to 15+) TEENS-ADULTSAndrew Blaine Horvath recognizing his SENIORS Date: Jan. 8 - Feb. 12 Time: 8:45 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Location: Robin Hill Center Cost: $45 residents/$50 non-residents – per 6-week session Instructor: Judy Elias

achievement of Eagle Scout rank. Horvath is a member of Boy Scout Troop 310 where he earned 34 total merit badges and held many leadership roles. He is the son of James and Kathy Horvath. Horvath’s Eagle Scout service

continued on next page

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 7

in the

LOOP

project involved building a fire pit for use by the youth ministry at Sharon Community Presbyterian Church where he led a group of scouts and adults in the design, planning, clearing, excavation and construction of a fire pit and benches around the fire pit.

MOON PARKS ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENT

The board appointed Moon Township resident Cindy Johnston to fill a vacant position on the Moon Township Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, term to expire the first Monday of January 2016.

TREE LIMB DROP OFF

The Public Works Department offers tree limb drop-off year round. Drop-off is open at Downes Fire Station located near the intersection of Beaver Grade Road and Ewing Road between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Tree branches should not exceed six feet in length and four inches in diameter and should not be bundled or tied. The township asks that residents do not discard of any materials at the composting site after hours unless special arrangements have been made with the township. To schedule a drop-off during non-operating hours contact the Moon Township Administration Office at 412.262.1700.

The township asks that residents do not discard of any materials at the composting site after hours unless special arrangements have been made with the township. To schedule a drop-off during non-operating hours contact the Moon Township Administration Office at 412.262.1700. Violators will be fined. Moon Township encourages residents to try composting at home. Composting food and yard waste diverts organic waste from the landfill and creates a rich soil additive for landscaping projects. A home composting guide is available on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection website at depweb.state.pa.us.

TOWNSHIP OF MOON RECOGNIZES BOY SCOUT TROOP 310

The Township of Moon Board of Supervisors conducted the following business at its regular public meeting on Wednesday, September 4, 2013: Troop 310 Proclamation Presentation The board honored the members, both past and present, of Boy Scout Troop 310 for their commitment and dedication to bettering the lives of young men in the community by guiding them to become leaders. Eighty-six scouts of Troop 310 have attained the highest rank in scouting, Eagle Scout, earned by only about five percent of all Boy Scouts. Troop 310 has been active in Moon Township for 57 years, sponsored by Sharon Community Presbyterian Church.

MCA-TV SEEKS AMBITIOUS COMMUNITY – TURN AN COMPOST DROP-OFF SITE PRODUCERS IDEA INTO A TELEVISION October 26 - December 8; Saturday & SERIES TODAY Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Residents are welcome to drop off yard waste including tree limbs, leaves and plant matter to be composted at the Downes Fire Station located near the intersection of Beaver Grade Road and Ewing Road. Brush should not exceed six feet in length, four inches in diameter and should not be bundled or tied. 8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

Moon Community Access Television is seeking new productions to add to its programming schedule. Now is the perfect time for ambitious residents to turn their long-awaited show idea into a television series on MCA-TV. One of the most active volunteer groups in Moon Township, MCA-TV provides high-quality

local programming to the township and its neighboring communities. Several MCATV original shows have won national and statewide awards including “The Doctor Is In,” produced by Dr. Marc Schneiderman, and “Soak it Up: A Storm Water Documentary.” These award-winning shows express the evident value of community-produced programming. The steps to become a community producer are simple. Any adult Moon Township resident meets the criteria to become a producer and MCA-TV volunteer, no television or production experience is required. Production and camera training is provided for free at the MCA-TV studio. Also, any current MCA-TV volunteers who are Moon Township residents are highly encouraged to take their talents to the next level and sign on as a producer. Some show ideas include but are not limited to: health and fitness; cooking; education; Moon Township or Pittsburgh tourism sites; home improvement; children’s programming including crafts, learning, reading or exercise; musicians and singers; comedy; community events. Contact MCA-TV today at 412.269.1191 to get started; the staff will gladly assist aspiring community producers throughout the process. Moon Community Access Television is a community-based network of public access, educational and governmental programming owned and operated by the Township of Moon. MCA-TV is shown locally on cable stations Comcast channel 14 and Verizon FiOS channel 35 reaching more than 40,000 households in Moon, Coraopolis, Crescent, Findlay, Neville, North Fayette and more communities north and west of the city on Verizon. MCA-TV’s employees and volunteers work to provide high-quality, non-commercial television programming. Call MCA-TV at 412.269.1191 for a DVD or Blu-Ray of any program aired on the station or watch online at mca-tv.org.

225TH ANNIVERSARY MEMORIES

In celebration of Moon Township’s 225th Anniversary the township is asking residents, both past and present, to share their favorite stories and memories of people, places and how the township has changed through the years. Email stories and photos to asergeant@moontwp.com and then read the memories of others in the community online at moontwp.com.

NEW SUPPORT GROUP STARTS FOR AT-HOME MOMS

The MOMS Club of Pittsburgh West hosted a chapter kickoff event this October and is encouraging at-home moms to join them. “With so many mothers working outside the home, it can be extremely hard for stayat-home mothers to meet each other and network,” said Brandi Hugar, founder and president of the new local group. “The MOMS Club allows at-home mothers, including those who have home-based businesses or who work part time but are home with their children during the day, to get together in a supportive atmosphere.” What makes the group unique – aside from the fact that it is the only international nonprofit organization specifically for at-home mothers – is the wide range of activities allowed under the MOMS Club banner, Hugar said. “For example, we’re going to have monthly member socials and meetings with interesting speakers and topics for discussions, outings around town and playdates for mothers and their children, a monthly moms’ night out, holiday and seasonal activities and crafts, and service projects benefiting needy children in the community,” she explained. Because the MOMS Club is a support group specifically for the mother at home, all meetings are held during the day and mothers may bring children to anything the club does. “We believe that a woman shouldn’t feel isolated just because she has children,” Hugar continues.

All at-home mothers and children in the Robinson, Moon, and surrounding airport areas are welcome at MOMS Club activities. For more information please email: momsclubpghwest@gmail.com, or visit the website www.momsclubpghwest.org.

MAHS STUDENT PUBLISHED IN CREATIVE WRITING PUBLICATION

Congratulations to MAHS student Sophia Palmer, whose short story was chosen for publication in the 2013 Ralph Munn Creative Writing Anthology, which represents the work of Allegheny County high school students and is a publication of Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. Sophia’s work was selected from over 200 submissions and judged by creative writing professors, artists, and published authors. A copy of the book is available in the Moon High School library.TH

ON THE CALENDAR: MOON TOWNSHIP GARDEN CLUB GREENS & THINGS 2013 HOLIDAY SALE

Centerpieces, wreaths, swags and seasonal treasures! Beautiful, elegant, whimsical, pretty and delightfully fun things for your home and gift-giving. Be sure to register for the door prize. Proceeds benefit the Garden Club philanthropies. Saturday, December 7, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Robin Hill Park, 949 Thorn Run Road. n

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 9

INPERSON

“My Life is on the Ice” Olympic gold medalist Elena Valova makes her home in Pittsburgh teaching kids and adults to go for their dreams.

n February, the world will turn its focus to the 2014 Winter Olympic Games and figure skating, which has the most visibility and consistently receives the highest television ratings of any other Olympic sport. Exactly 29 years ago, a Moon Township resident was preparing herself for the ultimate goal in figure skating. Elena Valova was just 21 when she and her partner Oleg Vassiliev were chosen to represent Russia, then known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) in the Olympics. The young Valova was confident and determined as she headed off to Sarajevo for the 1984 Games. “We were there to win,” says Valova. Her strong determination to achieve victory was met with success as she and her partner won the pairs competition handily, with a strong performance in the final phase of competition, 10 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

I had never seen the arena,” says Valova. “I fell in love with a picture! the long program. Vassiliev and Valova completed jump after jump. He raised her gracefully in extraordinarily difficult overhead lifts and they spun in perfect unison as if they were a single unit. The performance can still be viewed on You Tube. In her career, Valova and Vassiliev racked up Olympic gold in 1984, Olympic silver in 1988 and three World Championships in pairs skating. Though Valova’s competitive career ended years ago, she has never left the ice. After

competition, she skated professionally in several ice shows, including shows with Brian Boitano and Katerina Witt. Fourteen years ago, when Robert Morris University Island Sports Center was still under construction, the ice arena recruited Valova to Pittsburgh as a figure skating instructor and coach. “I had never seen the arena,” says Valova. “I fell in love with a picture! The photos of the building on the island with the river running by were so beautiful!”

I really enjoy watching the adult students accomplish their goals. But how did she adjust to her new surroundings after leaving St. Petersburg? “I loved it here!” she says, pointing out that one of the things she likes best about the area are the people. “People here are really nice. I also enjoy the nature. There are deer and little chipmunks and squirrels...It’s so nice.” After a recent trip to her native Russia this summer, Valova jokes that she looked around and remarked, “How did I ever live here?” Pittsburgh is clearly home for the skater and her husband and son. Although most students would give anything to have an Olympic gold medalist as their skating instructor, Valova’s 17-year-old son, Roman, is more inclined to swim and play soccer. But Valova has plenty of other people lining up to take lessons from her at the RMU Island Sports Center. She coaches small children and adults. “I really enjoy watching the adult students accomplish their goals,” says Valova, adding it’s more difficult for them so their accomplishments are cherished markers in their skating. Valova herself began training at age six, but says children can start as young as three in group lessons. “We have a really great ‘Learn to Skate’ program at the sports center,” she says. At the time of this printing, Valova helped choreograph holiday routines for the Theatre on Ice show which was presented Nov. 22 at The Rink at PPG Place. She did not appear in the show, but several of her students performed. Although Valova teaches and coaches many children, there are few skaters competing in pairs, with only a few male skaters. Many boys in the area participate in hockey or football instead, but there is always hope that the sport of pairs skating will one day be as popular as it is in Europe. What other hobbies does she enjoy? “My life is on the ice. That’s it.” Clearly, it’s been more than enough. For more information on figure skating at Robert Morris University Island Sports Center, visit rmuislandsports.com, or call 412.397.3335. n

It’s all right here.

Join us this holiday, and – for

a donation to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation you can join Santa for a carriage ride. Rides are offered every Saturday and Sunday in December leading up to Christmas from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Call 412.809.0800 or visit Settlersridgepa.com for details.

REI

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CInEmaRk THEaTRE

P.F. CHang’S & moRE

200 Settlers Ridge Center Drive • Located off Campbells Run Road in Robinson Township • SETTlERSRIDgEPa.Com a Project of The Wilder Companies

Like us on Facebook • www.facebook.com/SettlersRidgePA

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 11

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 13

INEVENTS

ANOTHER TIGERS FOOTBALL SEASON FOR THE HISTORY BOOKS

Anyone who lives in the district can tell you that Moon Football is contagious, and this season was no different. While the season ended too soon, the Tigers continued to bring everything they had to the field, which, in the end, is what really makes us proud of them. PHOTOS BY PRIMETIME SHOTS

14 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Child

SPONSORED CONTENT

G N I L E V TRA

Here are some traveling tips for your next family vacation:

INFANT TO ONE YEAR • Plan for an active stretch. A rest stop break or a playground – let them walk or toddle for 20 or so minutes before climbing back in the car. • Bring music, mobiles, bubbles and books. • Pre-measure formula into bottles and carry a room-temperature bottle of water to mix on the go. • Be prepared for a mess – snacks, diapers, spit-up, etc. – small trash bag, wipes, hand sanitizer (for the adults), spare water, tissues, bib and a blanket. • Even if you are traveling by plane, a car seat can double as a feeding chair or nap location. Call ahead for a crib to be added to your hotel room. • Be prepared and do not overload yourself. If time allows, buy what you can when you get to your destination. FIRST STEPS (12-18 MONTHS) • Many of the infant travel tips apply here. • Use “links” to keep toys within your child’s reach. • Even in the cool weather, crack a window for fresh air. Stale air may make your little one grumpy. Remove heavy jackets and shoes for comfort. • Bring music, books, stuffed animal, play mirror and foam shapes that will “stick” to the car seat. In an airplane – bring/purchase headphones for music and rest it on your child’s shoulders instead of over his/her ears. • Have some active playtime just before leaving and plan for frequent stops. In an airplane, let children walk down the aisle periodically at their own pace. • Airports can be a bustling place. This may be the one time you check your luggage at the curb. That way you can focus on your little one’s needs without the hassle of luggage in tow.

• Ask your child to keep score – gas prices, mileage or count out toll money. • Play “I’m thinking of an animal.” Provide age-appropriate hints to help your child guess a particular animal. • If you’re using a hotel babysitter: 1– Check the sitter’s credentials, including criminal and/or child abuse clearances. 2 – Check the room and the equipment in the room. 3 – Carry your phone and check your phone service when you arrive at your destination.

This Industry Insight was written by Dina Speranza & Carol Maier. They are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 800 Commerce Avenue in Moon Township. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/ Preschool/Kindergarten programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschool.com or call 412.262.1821.

TODDLER AND GET SET (18-36 MONTHS) • Many of the First Steps travel tips apply here. • Play window games – count the silos, trucks or red lights. • Attach a mirror to the front passenger visor so you can see and interact with your toddler without having to spin around. • Buckle up a toy bin right next to the children so they can help themselves – books, links, stuffed animals and puppets. • Have your child help you pack a picnic lunch or snack and then serve it to everyone. • A blanket can make a quick play space in any lobby, airport, etc. PRESCHOOL TO PRE-K (36 MONTHS +) • ‘I Spy’ a blue car, a white truck and other objects you can see while moving. • Laptop desk for drawing with paper and crayons. • Car-Ride Checklist – make a picture itinerary of landmarks you will see along the way. Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 15

IndUStrY InSIGHt

Pain Management

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Joint Injury Prevention: “Use it or Lose it” As the colder months approach, so do stiff and achy joints. Joints come in a variety of shapes and sizes allowing us to move and carry out daily activities of life. Without joints, we would be immobile. Unfortunately, joints are often injured, causing pain or discomfort. Most common injuries are to the knees, shoulders, ankles, and spine. Approximately 30 million doctor visits a year are due to knee and shoulder injuries alone. Some 150 million to 200 million cases of back pain send people to a doctor every year – and many of those are joint related. How do I keep my joints in good shape? The movements that you perform on a daily basis are critical to longterm joint health, as are proper nutrition, a healthy exercise regimen, and a healthy lifestyle. Moving a joint through its full range of motion is important. Joints are not supplied directly with blood like other organs in the body, so the saying, “Use it or lose it” applies to joint function. Proper diet and nutrition contribute to joint health by providing the joints with enough healthy nutrients for long-term stability and resistance to wear and tear. A healthy lifestyle free from tobacco products and other toxins helps to ensure proper blood supply to tissues surrounding joints and speeds up healing of joint injuries when they occur. How are joints injured? Most injuries to joints occur because of abnormal stresses. A joint can be injured acutely from a single traumatic event. An ankle sprain is a classic example. The ankle joint is protected by ligaments on the inside and

outside. When the ankle moves excessively inward, the ligaments on the outside of the joint are torn. The ankle swells, leading to bruising and pain. In some cases, small pieces of bone and cartilage may be torn away. The tibia and/or fibula (ankle bones) can also be fractured. Other joint injuries are called repetitive-stress injuries or cumulativetrauma disorders. These injuries are the result of repetitive, small, abnormal stresses on joints. The stresses placed on joints by poor posture, poor joint position during a task, and/or poor workstation ergonomics make these joints more likely to be injured. Workplace Lifting Tips for Joint Health When we use our bodies for tasks that are different from the norm, such as lifting a heavy box, de-conditioned joints may break down. Protect your joints by following these simple suggestions: 1. When lifting anything from the floor, keep the spine straight and lift with the legs. Do not bend over at the waist and lift with the muscles of the low back. Injuries to the low back are often the result of poor lifting habits. 2. Keep the object that is being lifted close to your body. 3. Keep your elbows flexed. 4. Keep your head up and your neck straight as you lift. Get vertical! If your body feels stiff when you stand up after working at the computer for awhile, you have been sitting too long. Spending hours working at a computer helps keep the finger joints in good shape, but it can be hard on all of the other joints in the body—especially those joints that make up the spine. The body was designed to move. Experts tell us that we should optimally get up and stretch at least every 20 minutes. The best way to protect our joints is to use them properly and often. What can a chiropractor do? Chiropractors help primarily with the mechanical causes of joint dysfunction. Spinal subluxations (misaligned spinal bones) interfere with your nervous system’s ability to communicate normally with the tissues of your body—resulting in pain, abnormal function and sickness. Chiropractors eliminate or reduce spinal interference to maximize your natural ability to heal. If you are struggling with joint pain and want to see how chiropractic care can help, call 412.424.0019 for your consultation today. This Industry Insight was written by Dr. Leah Gallucci. Dr. Leah Gallucci is the owner of Vital Health Chiropractic in Moon Township. She attended the University of Pittsburgh with a strong focus in neuroscience and chemistry. Upon graduation from Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida in 2009, Dr. Gallucci became licensed in the state of Pa. Her mission when working with patients is targeted specifically to meet their needs, and reach their health goals.

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 23

Robinson Chiropractic

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24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / Moon Township

COGNITIVE BOOSTERS MUSIC THERAPY. Music can regulate mood, decrease aggression and depression, improve sleep, and, because old songs are stored in memory, even create new brain cells. BRAIN FOOD. Keep your mind sharp by eating salmon, nuts, olive oil, soy, meat, eggs, dairy, leafy greens, beans, oatmeal and dark skinned fruits.

TRAIN YOUR BRAIN Working a daily crossword, Sudoku puzzle or another brain teasing game can help improve your mental fitness.

ORAL HEALTH & HEARING BRUSH AND FLOSS YOUR TEETH. According to research, chronic inflammation caused by periodontal disease has been linked to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. TURN IT DOWN. According to the House Ear Institute, noiseinduced hearing loss is a leading cause of permanent hearing loss that can be prevented by turning down the volume on your TV, radio, or headsets to a level that you can comfortably hear.

P PRACTICE HEALTHY SLEEPING HABITS. Not getting enough nightly rest puts you at risk for accidents, depression and other illnesses, and it decreases your quality of life.

POSTURE AVOID SITTING CROSS-LEGGED. Pain management specialists at New York Chiropractic warn that crossing your legs puts excessive stress on your knees, hips and lower back. SIT UP STRAIGHT. When you slouch or strain to look at the screen, these patterns stick and posture learns these positions. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. See a chiropractor, physical therapist or post-rehabilitation specialist for postural exercises to reduce pain and risk of injury. STRETCH. Stretching your neck and chest can prevent short and tightened muscles that can lead to injury. A simple stretch involves bending your head to your shoulder, holding it there and slowly bringing it back to the mid line and then switch sides. BELLY BUTTON TO SPINE. Not only will this exercise help you stand taller, it will take five pounds off your waistline! HEAD UP. Instead of scrunching your head to your shoulder to hold the phone, get a headset and avoid injury to your neck and shoulders. Health & Wellness continued on page 27

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 25

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Hey MOM & DAD – It Starts With YOU!

hirty years ago, most people led lives that kept them at a healthy weight. Kids walked to and from school every day, ran around at recess, participated in gym class, and played for hours after school before dinner. Meals were home-cooked with reasonable portion sizes and there was always a vegetable on the plate. Eating fast food was rare and snacking between meals was an occasional treat. Today, children experience a very different lifestyle. Walks to and from school have been replaced by car and bus rides. Gym class and after-school sports have been reduced or cut; afternoons are now spent with TV, video games, and the internet. In fact, eight- to 18-year-old adolescents spend an average of 7.5 hours a day using entertainment media, including TV, computers, video games, cell phones and movies, and only one-third of high school students get the recommended levels of physical activity. Parents are busier than ever and families eat fewer home-cooked meals. Snacking between meals is now commonplace. Thirty years ago, kids ate just one snack a day, whereas now they are trending toward three snacks, resulting in an additional 200 calories a day. Portion sizes have also exploded—they are now two to five times bigger than they were in years past. Beverage portions have grown as well. In the mid-1970s, the average sugar-sweetened beverage was 13.6 ounces compared to the 20-plus ounces today. Kids think nothing of

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Make Healthy Living a Household Concept drinking 20 ounces of sugar-sweetened beverages at a time. In total, we are now consuming 31 percent more calories than we were 40 years ago—including 56 percent more fats and oils and 14 percent more sugars and sweeteners. The average American now eats 15 more pounds of sugar a year than in 1970. Now that’s the bad news. The good news is that by making just a few lifestyle changes, we can help our children lead healthier lives, and we already have the tools we need to do it. We just need the will. The main contributing factor for lack of physical activity among children and youth is inactive role models such as parents or caregivers. There are opportunities every day to change these trends, and MOM & DAD, it all begins with you! Physical activity, in combination with healthy eating, is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Although nutritional issues play a significant role in healthy living, physical activity is vital in making the concept of healthy living a household word. So, as Michelle Obama says, “Let’s Move!” An active family should engage in physical activity each day: a total of 60 minutes for children and at least 30 minutes for adults, at least 5 days a week. Make physical activity a part of your family’s routine. Establish goals that all family members can achieve, schedule activity time that fits everyone’s schedule (don’t cancel— always reschedule instead), track progress, and most importantly celebrate the achievements. There are countless ways to enjoy physical activity together as a family. Below are just a few easy, affordable ideas:

n Play tag, swim, toss a ball, jump rope, hula-hoop, dance to

music or even play a dancing video game. It doesn’t have to be sports—just get your family moving! n Walk the dog, go for a jog, go on a bike ride, take the stairs or head to the park. n Celebrate special occasions—like birthdays or anniversaries— with something active, such as a hike. n Get the whole family involved in household chores like cleaning, vacuuming, and yard work. n Walk instead of drive whenever possible. If you must drive, find a spot at the far end of the parking lot and walk to where you’re going. n Train as a family for a charity walk or run. n Issue a family fitness challenge.

If you would like additional ideas and guidance on how to make healthy living your household concept, contact Jason DeRose, owner of FASTER, LLC. He offers a wide variety of programs dedicated to promoting a healthy way of living, such as QUIX – a youth fitness program for kids ages five - 11 that keeps them in constant motion, while providing a platform to succeed and have fun; FAST – individualized fitness/sports training programs for ages 12 - senior; CHALLENGES – fun-filled eight-week fitness and nutrition challenge for ages 18 - senior; and so much more! FASTER, LLC is a one-stop shop for all of your family’s fitness and nutrition needs. So, MOM & DAD: Start Now, Don’t Wait, Take the Challenge! Become an active, happy, healthy family today. 26 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / Moon Township

STRESS CONTROL SMILE. Smiling lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and the stress hormone cortisol.

AROMATHERAPY. Essential oils improve your mood, reduce stress and even improve your memory. Try lavender, lemongrass, cinnamon or cedarwood. Being outdoors with green plants, fresh air and the sounds of nature is a proven stress buster.

YOGA. The Mayo Clinic recommends practicing yoga to reduce stress and anxiety.

GET KNEADED. Research from the Touch Research Institute indicates that regular massage lowers heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety levels, depression, hostility, and the stress hormone cortisol.

SEE A THERAPIST. Mental health professionals can help you deal with stress.

BEGIN WITH BREATHING. The first thing you ever did for yourself was breathe. And consciously focusing on your breath remains the epitome of self-care throughout your entire life.

P HUMOR YOUR STRESS Laughing improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, releases tension, and improves your immune system.

Reprinted with the permission from SeniorsForLife.com

LET NATURE TAKE YOUR STRESS AWAY.

GET FIT IN MOON TOWNSHIP Here are just some of the fitness classes available:

Moon Parks and Recreation 1350 Ewing Rd., Moon; 412.262.1703 • moonparks.org Winters in Pittsburgh can sometimes cause the winter blues, and also the winter pounds! Take a break and treat yourself to the wide variety of affordable fitness classes, from yoga, to cardio, to the new insanity program offered by Moon Parks and Recreation at convenient locations. For more information, call or visit the website.

Latin RhythmZ Studio 5500 Steubenville Pike, Robinson; 412.498.5406 • latinrhythmz.net

Moon Area School District Public Swimming Program Moon Area High School Pool • 8353 University Blvd., Moon; 412.264.9440 ext. 1142 • rrich@moonarea.net Open swimming sessions are available on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 8 p.m. - 9 p.m., except on few occasions when a swim meet may be scheduled at the same time. Sessions are open to residents of the Moon Area School District. Cost is $2 per person. For more information, call or email. Pittsburgh Botanic Garden Site 1082 Pinkerton Run Road, Oakdale; 412.444.4464 pittsburghbotanicgarden.org

ZUMBA is the exciting fitness class sweeping across the country! It combines a high-energy cardiovascular workout with pulsating Latin music into a fun, calorie-burning experience. For information on a $7 drop-in fee for one class, call or visit the website.

The Botanic Garden is offering Peek and Preview Tours in December. “Each tour consists of a 1-hour walk (moderately difficult) through the newlydeveloped Woodland Garden Trails. Reservations are required and visitors are asked to reserve a place on the tour at least two days prior to the scheduled date of each tour. For more information, call or visit the website.

Montour Trail Access Point on Montour Road, Moon; 412.257.3011 montourtrail.org

Robert Morris University Island Sports Center 7600 Grand Ave., Neville Island.; 412.397.4454 rmuislandsports.org Approximately 5-1/2 miles from Moon, enjoy an ice skating workout at a public skating session while the kids are at school! Admission is $6 for adults with skate rental costing $3 during the week. Check for available days and times on the website.

Dust off your hiking boots, snow shoes or cross-country skis and enjoy the picturesque, multi-use, non-motorized, recreational rail-trail that extends 46 miles from Moon Township to Clairton.

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 27

H E A L T H & W E L L N E S S / Moon Township

EAT HEALTHY EAT AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DIET. Holistic guru Dr. Andrew Weil recommends eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and minimal processed foods to reduce inflammation in your body.

EAT ALL NATURAL. Avoid high-calorie foods full of sugar, fat and

EAT AND DRINK COCONUT. The type of saturated fat in coconuts does not contribute to heart disease and it is rich in lauric acid, which boosts your immune system. AVOID BAD FATS. Bad fats include saturated fats, which are

artificial ingredients and concentrate on eating high-nutrient, high-flavor foods such as fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices.

primarily derived from animal products, and trans fats, which are used in commercial fried foods, margarines, and baked goods like cookies and crackers.

EAT MANY SMALL MEALS. Eat something every three hours

SPICE IT UP. Dr. Wendy Bazilian, author of The SuperFoodsRx

to keep your metabolism high and your blood sugar and insulin levels steady.

Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients, recommends high-antioxidant spices and herbs such as cinnamon, ginger, curry, rosemary, thyme, oregano and red pepper.

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST. The easiest meal to skip but the most important. Eat something small, even if you aren’t hungry.

READ LABELS. Opt for products with at least three grams of fiber, low sugars and no hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.

EAT LESS AND LIVE LONGER. Maoshing Ni, author of Secrets of Longevity: Hundreds of Ways to Live to be 100, suggests the “three-quarters rule,” essentially not eating any more after you feel three-quarters full.

DRINK TEA. Ni recommends daily tea because tea is a proven preventive and treatment for hardening of the arteries and has potent antioxidant powers.

SLIM DOWN WITH SOUP. People who eat soup before a meal reduce the total number of calories they consume.

SINK YOUR TEETH INTO SUPERFOODS. Experts say superfoods can help ward off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, cholesterol, bad moods, high blood pressure, and improve digestion, skin, hair, nails, bones and teeth. Superfoods recommended by WebMD.com are beans, blueberries, broccoli, oats, oranges, pumpkin, salmon, soy, spinach, green and black tea, tomatoes, turkey, walnuts and yogurt.

EAT MORE HEALTHY FATS. According to University of Michigan Integrative Medicine, healthy fats to include in your diet are monounsaturated fats, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and some plant foods as well as polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3s found in fatty fish and omega-6s found in nuts.

P EAT A VARIETY Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, and omega-3 fats better ensures you get all the nutrients your body needs. 28 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

DRINK UP. Drinking water throughout the day can decrease your urges for sweets, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, minimize pain associated with arthritis, migraines, and colitis, hydrate your skin, and help with your digestion.

LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE TO ONE OR TWO DRINKS PER DAY. According to the Centers for Disease Control, too much alcohol can increase your risk for developing various diseases and physiological and social problems.

SIDELINE THE SODA. The phosphoric acid in carbonated beverages, particularly colas, can put you at risk for osteoporosis.

DRINK RED WINE. Red wine is renowned for its many health benefits, primarily for the heart. However, new research from the Institute of Food suggests that wine may also protect you from potentially fatal food-borne pathogens, such as E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and H. pylori.

MARINATE YOUR MEAT. Research from the Food Safety Consortium recommends marinades with rosemary, thyme, peppers, allspice, oregano, basil, garlic and onion to cut down on carcinogens.

Health & Wellness continued on page 30

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Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 29

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Protect YOUNG ATHLETES The risks of sports-related traumatic brain injuries among professional athletes are making national headlines. However, prevention should begin at childhood, especially among those involved in contact sports. Each year, approximately 300,000 people in the United States experience sports-related concussions. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury most often caused by a sudden bump or blow to the head or other parts of the body. It also can be caused by a fall. As a result of the sudden impact, the brain moves around in the skull causing chemical changes. These changes make the brain more sensitive to stress and other injuries until it fully recovers. In addition, the immature brain of a young athlete is known to take longer to recover. Most people who have experienced a concussion realize that something is wrong, however, the symptoms can be tricky, so those around the injured person must pay close attention for the warning signs. This is especially apparent among football players who are conditioned to being knocked down and getting back up again, only to realize later that they’ve been hurt. Many athletic directors for public schools require that athletes who participate in “high-risk” sports must have a

symptoms of a concussion Difficulty concentrating Difficulty completing tasks Changes in behavior Worsening headache Persistent double vision Excessive drowsiness Stroke-like symptoms

baseline neurocognitive test before their first contact football practice, within the first week of cheerleading or before the first game for other sports. Although treatment for concussions is individualized, almost all physicians recommend physical and mental rest immediately after the injury. This includes no texting, video games, TV, reading or physical activity. It’s also important to understand that medications will mask the pain and do not heal the brain. In fact, anti-inflammatory medications can be dangerous because they increase the risk of bleeding. However, there are situations where medications are warranted. It is paramount to have an evaluation and obtain clearance by a physician experienced in diagnosing and treating concussions before returning to sports activities. SOURCE: UCF PEGASUS HEALTH/UCF COLLEGE OF MEDICINE Health & Wellness continued on page 34

30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Your Child’s Health

Your Child’s Oral Health Y

ou might be wondering why your child’s doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are asking you about your kids’ teeth and their oral hygiene habits. Isn’t that the dentist’s job? Actually, healthy teeth are a very important part of your child’s overall health. Kids need strong healthy teeth to chew their food, to develop speech and language skills properly, and to look good! Dental problems can start in infancy before babies have any teeth. And, since many kids do not have their first visit to the dentist until they are 1 year of age, the pediatric health care provider is in a unique position to assess their oral health issues. In the first three years of life your child will visit his/her health care provider for checkups 12 times! These are terrific opportunities to check the mouth, educate everyone about how to care for their teeth, and support the efforts of the dentist. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that dental caries (cavities) are the number one chronic disease of early childhood! Caries in early childhood is 5 times more common than asthma. Four important factors contribute to your child’s oral health: DIET Dietary sugars are the bad guys! These sugars cause the growth of bacteria in the mouth that make the acid that causes tooth decay. The longer and more often teeth are exposed to dietary sugars, the higher the risk there is for cavities. The most important thing you can do is cut down on the sweets in your child’s diet. Instead, provide fresh nutritious foods for your child. Make it easy on yourself…don’t bring sweets into your home. Allow your child to make snack choices from healthy options, not junk. For example: “Would you like an apple or some pretzels?” “Would you like crackers or yogurt?” Limit eating and drinking between meals. Allow just one between-meal snack a day. This cuts down on exposure of the teeth to bad sugars. Foods/beverages that are BAD for your child’s teeth include: ★ Fruit drinks, sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks (all have added sugars) ★ Candy ★ Sticky foods like dried fruit/raisins, fruit rollups ★ Cookies, cakes, snack foods Foods/beverages that are GOOD for your child’s teeth include: ★ Dairy foods like milk, cheese, yogurt ★ Protein rich foods like meat, chicken, fish, eggs (help to rebuild tooth enamel) ★ Water!

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Fluoride is also found in toothpastes and topical gels applied by the dentist at routine dental visits. DENTAL VISITS The American Association of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that the first visit to the dentist occur at or near one year of age. This visit is primarily to evaluate dental problems like caries, and provide education about dental hygiene, fluoride, and diet. FINALLY, SOME GENERAL TIPS Be a good role model for your child! Eat healthy and take care of your teeth too. Only breast milk or formula in bottles. Never put your child to bed with a bottle or food. Wean completely from bottles by 1 year of age. This means you can start introducing the cup at 10 months. Do not allow your child to have any sugar-containing beverages in a sippy cup for long periods of time. Make it water instead. Use regular glasses and cups (without lids) instead of sippy cups when giving beverages to your toddler/preschooler. Visit this web site for some fun interactive activities, games and information related to oral health: www.mouthhealthykids.org Pamela Heald, MSN, CRNP from the University of Pittsburgh; Board Certified in Pediatrics by ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center). Practicing as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner for 26+ years. Has done many things in pediatric practice including research and education, school health, private and hospital based practice. Currently adjunct faculty in the graduate programs of the University of Pittsburgh, Robert Morris, and Duquesne University Schools of Nursing.

TOOTH BRUSHING Birth to 2 years: Brush twice a day (after breakfast and bedtime) using water and a baby toothbrush with soft bristles. 2 years and older: Brush twice a day and after sticky foods using a childsized toothbrush and a pea sized smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure they spit it all out! Some kids love brushing their teeth and some do not. Bottom line, it has to be done; so do what you have to do! Try to make tooth brushing fun. Maybe you could sing or hum a song, set a timer while brushing, or allow your child to pick character toothpaste and a brush featuring Spiderman or Dora. Be creative! *I recommend parents brush their children’s teeth after they’ve brushed (especially at bedtime) until they are at least 6 years of age. This way you will know their teeth are really getting clean until they are good at brushing efficiently. FLUORIDE Fluoride strengthens children’s tooth enamel and reduces tooth decay. Fluoride comes in several different forms that all do a good job of helping to protect kids’ teeth from cavity formation. Most of us have fluoridated drinking water with enough to protect teeth. Make sure your kids are getting water from the tap. Most bottled water products contain only small amounts of fluoride. If your community drinking water is not fluoridated contact our office. Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 31

32 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

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Judy DiSanti, DMD – New Location,

New Doctor, Same Great Dentistry for the Whole Family

Unless your dentist is your personal friend, it’s hard to keep up with him/her when you only visit every six months. So if you haven’t seen Dr. Judy DiSanti in a while, or are looking for a quality dentist and thinking about making an appointment, here’s what’s been going on. Judy DiSanti, DMD, is now located on the third floor at 1009 Beaver Grade Road in the Edgetowne Commons building in Moon Township, just a short mile down the road from her previous location. The new facility gives the practice more space and technological capabilities than the former location was able to provide. It also offers plenty of on-site parking and an elevator to accommodate people with disabilities or mobility issues.

In addition to doubling the number of exam rooms available, Dr. DiSanti’s new office will continue to offer the newest technology available to make patients’ dental work as comfortable and noninvasive as possible. This includes digital x-rays, a Cerec machine for same-day crowns, and intra-oral pictures. The new location also will allow Dr. DiSanti to offer in-house root canals, dentures, night guards, veneers, bridges, teeth whitening and more. Another innovative service being offered at Dr. DiSanti’s office is the new Six Month Smiles program, which involves clear braces that straighten teeth in about six months for cosmetic appeal. The process differs from conventional orthodontic braces in that the goal is straight teeth, not a perfectly aligned bite. The process can be completed on average in six months, leaving you with a beautiful smile without the need for long treatment or metal. In addition to Six Month Smiles braces being clear, the tooth colored wires are very small so you can avoid the metal-mouthed look. Best of all, Six Month Smiles braces are usually less expensive than traditional braces and most adults can benefit from their use. Dr. DiSanti also offers Invisalign, clear aligners for straightening teeth. Call the office for a consultation to see which option would be best for you. Finally, Dr. DiSanti has welcomed a new associate to her practice. Dr. Lindsay Jodon joined the practice in September and has enjoyed meeting some of the patients. She has a wide variety of skills and is perfectly suited to the type of quality, patient-focused dentistry provided at Dr. DiSanti’s office. Dr. Jodon graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 2009. Originally from eastern Pennsylvania, Dr. Jodon moved to Pittsburgh in 2001 to pursue her undergraduate degree in biology. After graduating, she worked in a hospital-based residency program in St. Petersburg, Fla. Dr. Jodon brings her love of dentistry and passion for healthy teeth to the practice. Outside of the office, she and her family love to travel, with Florence, Italy, being one of their favorite destinations. She’s also an avid cyclist and Steelers fan. For more information, or to set up your appointment with Dr. DiSanti’s office, call 412.264.6229, or go to coraopolisdentist.com online for a complete list of all her services. Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 33

HEALTH &WELLNESS DIRECTORY Judy L. DiSanti, D.M.D, & Associates coraopolisdentist.com

Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center 412.424.0019 www.vitalhealthchiro.com

HealthSouth healthsouth.com

Dr. Judy L. DiSanti is dedicated to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile through state-of-the-art procedures that produce beautiful, long-lasting results. Prior to becoming a dentist, Dr. DiSanti was a licensed dental hygienist. She and her staff pride themselves on offering high quality dentistry in a friendly atmosphere. Please call 412.264.6229 or go to www.coraopolisdentist.com for an appointment today.

New name...same faces. Dr. Leah Gallucci of Choice Chiropractic & Wellness Center is launching the new name “Vital Health Chiropractic.” Dr. Gallucci graduated from University of Pittsburgh and then Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida in 2009. Her mission when working with patients is targeted specifically to meet their needs, and reach their health goals.

Designed to return patients to leading active, independent lives, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley is a 44-bed rehabilitation hospital that provides a higher level of comprehensive rehabilitation services. Our team of experts has extensive experience in today’s most advanced therapeutic methods and technology. We lead the way, consistently outperforming peers with a unique, intensive approach to rehabilitation, returning patients to maximum potential in less than average time.

West Hills Pediatrics 412.624.6117 whpeds.com

Gabriel Pain and Spine Center 412.490.0400 gabriel@painandspine.com

Pittsburgh Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 412.373.4270 www.pghaudiology.com

Theresa Crocenelli, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician who has been practicing in the Moon area for over 13 years. She is a local graduate of Moon High School and attended undergraduate school at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pa. Her medical training was completed at Penn State College of Medicine and Ohio State for pediatric residency. She currently has her own practice, West Hills Pediatrics, in Moon.

Gabriel Pain and Spine Center offers the latest cutting edge in non-surgical treatment of serious chronic pain and cancer pain. Our staff offers a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to the management of acute, chronic, and cancer pain. A unique characteristic of our pain management practice is our focus on the full-time comprehensive treatment of your type of pain.

Pittsburgh Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Inc. specializes in hearing assessment, hearing rehabilitation and hearing aids. We are an independent private practice working with over 10 hearing aid manufacturers, providing the highest quality of care to our patients. Dr. Laura Di Pasquale-Gregory, Au.D., and Dr. Lori A. Howard, Au.D., are both Board Certified Doctors of Audiology and offer a complete hearing health care plan to each patient.

The Skin Center 1.800.429.1151 Theskincentermd.com

Dr. Bradley A. Levinson Cranberry 724.741.6020 Pittsburgh 412.777.4352

The Medicine Shoppe 724.539.4565 latrobepharmacy.com

Recognized as one of the top cosmetic surgery medical spas in the country and the largest in the region, The Skin Center Medical Spa is the premier destination for facial rejuvenation, body contouring and the treatment of vein disorders. All surgical and nonsurgical treatments are performed with precise artistry and compassionate care under the direction of our founding medical director and boardcertified cosmetic surgeon, Dominic Brandy, MD.

Dr. Brad Levinson is a board-certified colon and rectal surgeon with over 30 years of experience. Dr. Levinson performs most procedures in his office or on an outpatient basis. Some procedures such as for hemorrhoids are painless and can take only seconds. Others can prevent colon and rectal cancers. He and his staff give each patient all the time they need, making themselves available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For appointments, please call: Cranberry 724.741.6020 or Pittsburgh 412.777.4352

At The Medicine Shoppe in Latrobe we are now offering our extended generic discount program where you can get a six-month supply of certain generics for as low as $37 or a one-year supply for $70. We offer free shipping to your door anywhere in the state of Pennsylvania; in addition, this program offers many new generics that are discounted through us and better priced than the big box chains. Call today. 709 Ligonier Street, Latrobe, PA 15650.

Children’s Community Pediatrics 412.262.2415 childrenspeds.com

Ingram Family Dentistry 412.922.9292 ingramfamilydentistry.com

Established in 1974, CCP – Moon & Wexford’s mission is to provide high-quality pediatric and adolescent medical care. In addition, we provide preventive health care which includes developmental, behavioral and nutritional assessments and age appropriate counseling with a strong emphasis on patient and parent education. We offer a variety of specialty services right within our practice including behavioral health, weight management and sports medicine services. To schedule an appointment, call 412.262.2415 or visit www.childrenspeds.com.

Our team aims to provide the highest quality dentistry possible by exceeding our patient’s expectations through excellent service and innovative dentistry. Our goal is to provide each individual with comprehensive planning and treatment as if each patient were a beloved family member. This allows us to complete exceptional dentistry that will last a lifetime. We aspire to make every appointment relaxing, comfortable, and life changing by providing our patients with a caring, loving, and professional team!

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Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 35

Building to

Grow

Tyler Farr builds an outdoor garden that will teach kids for years to come. By Mark Berton

he Eagle Scout project is the crowning achievement of scouting, pitting a scout against a problem in the community that he is charged with solving. Using creativity, ingenuity, networking and problemsolving skills, the Eagle Scout project not only gives scouts a chance to obtain the Eagle Scout designation, but it also gives them a chance to cultivate those skills that they will use for the rest of their personal and professional lives. Moon’s Tyler Farr recently completed his Eagle Scout project at the Mooncrest Knowledge Connection, an afterschool community library which is housed in the same building as the Felician Sisters in the historic Moon neighborhood.

36 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

“Recently, there was a building expansion by the Felician Sisters who occupy part of the building,” Farr said. “My project was to landscape the backyard area and construct a raised garden bed. The project will serve kids who attend the Knowledge Connection Center, and (teacher) Lisa Shaughnessey can work with the kids

then and teach them about gardening in the raised garden bed that I created.” Like any Eagle Scout project, Farr may have been the main foreman on the job, but he utilized a team of 27 volunteers and recruited the help of local businesses as well. “Inches Nursery was a very generous donor for the project,” he said. “My project

The kids were really interested in what we were doing for the Knowledge Connection since a bunch of them go there after school.

coach was Bill Merow, who is a leader in our troop and works as a landscape architect with Inches. Home Depot, Lowes and even my grandparents contributed.” Farr said that there was never any question that he wanted his project to help Moon Parks, and when he approached them for ideas, the Mooncrest project struck him as one that could benefit the most kids for the labor and cost. While some projects have additional components or features left out with the intent of adding them at a later time, Farr’s garden project is complete and fully functional.

“There wasn’t anything left out of the project. All that is left is maintenance,” he said. “The Knowledge Connection wanted it that way so it can use the garden bed as a learning tool with the kids.” Despite wrestling with stubborn tree roots that needed to be removed to prepare the site, Farr said the hardest part of the project was actually planning it. “I have never done anything like this before so it was a learning experience,” he said. “But the digging was hard too!” Not only was there a lot of digging to complete the project, but there was the addition of heavy river rock to the landscaping, which serves as decoration as well as guidance for rain runoff around the building, Farr said. For his efforts, Farr said the response from the neighborhood kids has been tremendous. “When we were working on the project, a ton of neighborhood kids kept stopping by. They even helped out on the project by shoveling river rock into wheelbarrows,” he said. “The kids were really interested in what we were doing for the Knowledge Connection since a bunch of them go there after school. Moon Parks has been really happy with the

results. [The department] even recognized me at the last Board of Supervisors meeting.” After his project’s completion, Farr was evaluated by a scouting board of review on his results. Not surprisingly, Farr passed with flying colors, and is proud of his achievement. “I am now officially an Eagle Scout,” he said. “I am the 88th Boy Scout from Troop 310 who earned Eagle Scout to date.” n

Moon Township | Winter 2013 | icmags.com 37

SHARING THE HARVEST If you’re a hunter but your freezer’s full, please consider donating your deer to Hunters Sharing the Harvest Hunters Sharing the Harvest is a program that’s been helping to feed Pennsylvania’s hungry for more than 22 years. The program is simple and rewarding – you go hunting, you arrange with your nearest participating processor to donate the deer (or elk, moose and caribou where applicable), and you make a tax-deductible $15 donation to help cover the cost of processing. All donations, whether monetary or deer meat, are recognized by a letter for your taxes and a window decal to let people know that your hunt helped feed the hungry. From the processing plant, your deer meat will be butchered and distributed to area food banks and charities throughout the state. Your average-sized deer can provide up to 200 meals to help those in need. The program is a dedicated, 501(c)(3) charity supported through public and private entities. As a hunter, you probably already know that deer meat is an extremely healthy food source that’s low in cholesterol and saturated fat. It has more protein and fewer calories than other processed meats, and is on par with other meats for nutritional content such as vitamins and minerals. For more information, call 866.474.2141 or email info@sharedeer.org.

The meat processors serving the region for 2013 are: Allegheny County

Kip’s Deer Processing Paula Padgelek 3 Saint John’s Drive Carnegie, PA 15106 412.279.6527

Butler County

Bims Boloney Bim Slater 145 Morris Road Petrolia, PA 16050 724.894.2569 McKruit’s Custom Meat Cutting Tracy McKruit 1011 Bear Creek Road Cabot, PA 16023 724.352.2988

38 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

Washington County

Bobeck’s Deer Processing Mary Bobeck 139 Craig Road Monongahela, PA 15063 724.258.2298 Lenik Deer Processing Ron Lenik 204 Railroad Street Finleyville, PA 15332 724.348.7019

Romes Meat & Deli Ronald Rome Sr. 312 Bonniebrook Road Butler, PA 16002 724.285.1236 TA Giger Deer Processing Tim Giger 121 Kyle Road Valencia, PA 16059 724.898.2244

Erie County

Shuba’s Processing Steve Shuba 1116 Allison Hollow Rd-Shop Washington, PA 15301 724.255.4861

Westmoreland County

Custom Deer Processing Samuel J. Monteparte 131 Flowers Road New Alexandria, PA 15670 724.668.8950

McDonald Meats, Inc. Neeli McDonald 10445 Ridge Road Girard, PA 16417 814.774.3507

Espey’s Meat Market Joe Espey Jr. 319 Espey Meat Market Lane Scottdale, PA 15683 724.887.3226

Pacileo’s Great Lakes Deer Processing John Pacileo 8890 Wattsburg Road Erie, PA 16509 814.825.3759

G. Karas Packing Sharon Karas 606 Story Road Export, PA 15632 724.468.5811

Scott’s Custom Deer Processing Scott Mills 212 S. Main Street Albion, PA 16401 814.449.5335

Hoffer’s Ligonier Valley Packing Denise Zimmerman 582 Darlington Road Ligonier, PA 15658 724.238.7112

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INCOGNITO

DID YOU KNOW?

Local boy’s encounter with a copperhead was un-bee-lievable?

n the summer of 1957, four-year-old Alan Croft and his brother Frank were playing in the yard of their Ewings Mill home, when their mother, Carol, heard a scream. Frank was the first to the house to tell her Alan had been bitten by a copperhead. He knew because he had been tracking snake trails in the grass as a hobby. Neighbors quickly convened at the house and confirmed Alan did indeed have a snake bite. Alan and Frank’s father was a pilot with the 42nd Fighter Interceptor Squadron stationed at the Greater Pittsburgh Airport, so the base infirmary was the first stop. There, the doctor gave Alan antivenom serum and sent him to Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh. With Alan’s life in the balance, a motorcade of police and EMS cleared the way as they travelled fullspeed into the city. The Liberty Tunnel was evacuated as the motorcade approached, and Alan made it to the hospital in record time, where he was kept under close watch throughout the evening. His stay wasn’t long, however, as nurses noticed his swelling was receding instead of growing. Further examination revealed Alan’s copperhead bite was actually a double bee sting, and he was discharged. While it was an honest mistake, and emergency professionals were right to err on the side of caution as they are trained to do, it left one Moon Township boy with a thrilling story of a lifetime.

Did You Know? We are looking for little-known facts, history or other interesting stories about your community. Please send your ideas to editors@icmags.com. Thank you! 40 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Moon Township

Helping a Senior Loved One This Winter W

inter is a season of many delights for young and old, but it can also be especially tough on independent seniors. If you’re providing care for a senior loved one, friend or neighbor this winter, Giant Eagle Pharmacy provides services and resources that make your job easier — and his or her quality of life better.

one-on-one consultations to discuss general senior health and nutrition needs, or offer more specialized advice pertaining to specific conditions or treatment regimens.

It’s always a good idea to periodically speak with a pharmacist about prescriptions. Our Pharmacists offer free consultations during which they can check for possible drug interactions and side effects, and to determine if generic alternatives are available. Bring in any expired medications as well — they can safely dispose of them. This is also a good opportunity to make sure the senior under your care is registered in ePharmacy — an automatic prescription refill service that helps to ensure continuity of care.

• Offer to run errands or deliver meals, especially on cold days, or when road conditions are poor.

As we age our nutritional needs change, and these needs may be further affected by conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure or osteoperosis. Giant Eagle’s Registered Dietitians are also available in select stores, or by e-mailing nutrition@gianteagle.com, for

Just a few simple considerations like these can make a huge difference in the life an independent senior this winter. For more information, about making life easier for seniors, search “seniors” for related articles at GiantEagle.com.

Following are a few more ideas about how you can help seniors weather the coldest months:

• Make sure walks and driveways are promptly shoveled and de-iced. • Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for working batteries. • Replace furnace filters and/or check that fireplace flues are open and unobstructed.

Medicare Prescriptions Now Earn fuelperks!®

Earn fuelperks! on out-of-pocket expenses*

For more information please visit GiantEagle.com/Medicare *Medicare fuelperks! rewards may only be earned on out-of-pocket expenses (i.e., deductibles and co-payments). PACE prescriptions are excluded from earning fuelperks! due to Pennsylvania state law. Certain fuelperks! programs or offers may not be applicable and other restrictions apply. See store for complete details. Giant Eagle reserves the right to discontinue or modify these programs at any time.

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