July 2011 - Allegheny West Magazine

It’s easy to make abuck. It’s a lottougher to makea difference.-- Tom BrokawPUBLISHER’SNoteSince 1975 . . . .In August we will celebrate the start of our 13th year serving theairport area communities where we have lived and worked since1975. My life as a local resident started in Kennedy Township.Eventually I moved to Moon Township and then settled in NorthFayette.Over these past 36 years, I have been so much a part of the fabricof this neighborhood that I call home. It’s been an amazing journey.I have watched this area change over time and have had theopportunity to take some part in sharing that change with you!When each bit of news comes our way and someone in theneighborhood asks us to print their child’s photo or their team’swinning story, I take it personally. It is important to me to get whatever possible thatcomes our way into each issue of the magazine. I know my neighbors count on me to telltheir stories.Thank you for 12 years of serving you, and I look forward to year number 13!Pat Jennette, Publisher & Editor4 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

OURAdvertisersAs with ever y issue, your community businesses a re the reason for the publication of Allegheny West Magazine. Please support these businesses. Theirsupport allows us to mail this magazine, free, into the households of Crescent and Moon as a community service.Affordable Tent & Awnings, p. 19, 412.299.8500,www.affordabletentandawning.comAll State Insurance-Jeff Myers, p. 13, 412.787.0710,www.allstateagencies.com/JeffMyers/welcomeAvon Retail Store, p. 4, 412.489.6440Beaver Animal Clinic, p. 13, 724.774.8047, www.beaveranimalclinic.comCarol Leone, p. 13, 412.262.1638, www.carolleones.comCarousel Kennel, p. 32, 724.683.0794, www.carouselkennelcomCtr. for Organ Recov. & Educ. (CORE), p. 37, 1.800.DONORS-7, www.core.orgClearview Federal Credit Union, p. 28, 1.800.926.0003,www.clearviewfcu.orgCool Home Improvements, p. 28,412.262.1140, www.coolhomeimprovements.comCovenant Family Church, p. 37, 724.263.7147, www.covdamchurch.orgCreative Bath & Kitchen, p. 15, 412.264.3445,www.creativebathandkitchen.comDDS Web Design, p. 37, 412.965.0688, www.ddswebdesign.comDiSanti, Dr. Judith, p. 37, 412.264.6229, www.coraopolisdentist.comEagle Medical, p. 9, 412.218.1051, www.pittmedicalsupply.comFirst Steps Pediatrics, p. 31, 412.788.1999, www.fspkids.comFitness for Life, p. 387, 724.695.2239, www.mkfitness4life.comFranchek HVAC, p. 12, 724.899.3474Geneva College, ins. bk. cov., 724.847.2715, www.geneva.edu/msolHeritage Valley Family Practice, ins. fr. cover, 1.877.771.4847,www.heritagevalley.orgHIghmark BC/BS, p. 9, 412.544.4900, www.highmarkdirect.comHoly Trinity School/Festival, p. 31, 412.787.2656, www.hthfestival.orgImperial Tax & Accounting, p.26, 724.695.7354,www.imperialtaxandaccounting.comJanoski’s, p. 12, 724.899.3438, www.janoskis.comLazarowicz, Ken - CPA, p. 9, 412.299.7390Mac’s Landscaping, p. 32, 724.612.2926Medical Group Robinson LLC, p. 8 & 13, 412.490.2500Moon Township, p. 10, 412.262.1700, www.moontwp.comMr. Rooter, p. 27, 412.566.5756, 877-ROOTER2, www.rooter2.comMTO Clean, p. 14, 1.866.21MAIDS, www.allegheny.mtoclean.comMy Laundromat, p. 32, 724.227.0513Padgett Business Services, p. 15, 412.458.0639,www.padgettbusinessservices.comParagon Homes, back cover, 412.787.8807,www.VisitParagonHomes.comPark West Supply, p. 6, 412.787.8235, www.parkwestsupply.comPaverite, p. 18, 412.264.8404, www.paverite.netPgh.’s PA Motor Speedway, p. 31, (724) 279.7223, www.ppms.comPgh. Airport Area Chmbr. of Commerce, p. 29, 412.264.6270, www.paacc.comPittsburgh Technical Institute, p. 20, 412.809.5100, www.pti.eduPittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, p. 31, 412.665.3640,www.pittsburghzoo.orgPlay Academy, p. 13, 412.299.0616, www.play-academy.orgRichard Felser Company, p. 36, 724.728.0988, www.richardfelser.comRudy’s Pest Control, p. 37, 724.678.1248, www.bugrudy.comScriva’s Dance Studio, p. 19, 412.787.8600Signs and Wonders, p. 37Thomas Studio of Perf. Arts, p. 14, 412.787.7686, www.thomasdance.comTri-State Plumbing, p. 33, 412.787.9177,www.tri-stateplumbingandheating.comValley Church, p. 37, 724.695.0300, www.valleychurchweb.comWillows, The, p. 35, 1.888.457.1150, www.integracare.comNOTE: We list each advertiser’s Web site here, too, where available, to provide access to additional information abouteach business. Look for each business on the Advertiser’s page on our Web site at www.alleghenywestmagazine.comJuly 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 5

on the horizonJUST FOR SENIORSMoon Township Senior Citizens meet at thecarriage house on the property of Robin Hill Park.For more information, call the township parks andrecreation department at (412) 262-1703.The Coraopolis Senior Citizens meet everythird Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. in theCoraopolis VFW, corner of Fifth and MulberryStreets in Coraopolis. Join for games, lunch, andconversation. Membership is $6 for the year. Lunchis $3 for each meeting. Questions may be directedto MaryAnn Stelbelsky, (412) 264-4981 or OliveHarvey, (412) 264-0613.2 TICKETS FOR SALE:Three Dog Night Concert!Saturday, July 16“EXCELLENT SEATS!”BOTH FOR $50TOTAL!724.695.0051The Kennedy Township Fire Department will host a Gun Bash at the station onSaturday, August 27. Doors open at noon. Food, games, and auctions begin at1 p.m. and end at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 and include buffet, refreshments, andbeer.Tickets also include: MINIMUM OF 12 - $100 dollar winners based off the ticketnumber; 12 guns to be given away.There will be numerous raffles, 50/50’s, money prizes, gift prizes, raffledprizes, chinese and silent auctions.Tickets must be presented for admission - Ticket holders only. All NICSregistration regulations apply. Guns are by Island Firearms. Name on the stubmust match winner’s identification. Winners need not be present.First set of numbers pulled by PA lottery officials are the winning numbers.Unclaimed winning numbers are voided after 30 days. ID must be presentedupon request at all times while at the function.Winners of the firearms that wish to not receive the firearm may get equalcash v alue.Only 1,000 tickets will be sold. Please see a Kennedy Township firefighter fortickets, or call (412) 331-6952.Carlynton Class of 1976 35th Class Reunion is Saturday, August 6,Rockefeller’s Grille Banquet Room, 1833 McKees Rocks Road, Kennedy Township,7-11 p.m. Questions, contact Gary Santel, (724) 218-1482 or by e-mail,santelgm@comcast.net.Garden site work day at the Pittsburgh BotanicalGarden is Saturday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to noon. Thoseinterested in helping out should callLinda at (412) 444-4464.6 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

Local resident Trent Clayton, 8, raised $330 forthe Hemophilia Walk that will occur onSeptember 17 at North Park. For his birthdayparty on June 12, on his invitations he askedhis friends to make a donation to the hemophiliawalk rather than bring gifts. The walk will beheld at North Park. Registration starts at 9 a.m.,and the walk is at 10 a.m. To learn more, http://www.hemophilia.org/walk/ and choosePennsylvania from the drop down menu.Through this Web site, people can join the walkor make a donation to a walker.Pittsburgh Technical Institute Massage Clinics bystudents continue. Massages are one hour longand cost $30. Offered are Swedish, Deep Tissue,Sports, Reflexology, Pregnancy, Pediatric,Geriatric, and a limited number of Hot Stone, (412)370-6719.The Moon Township Garden Club announces thefollowing events at Robin Hill: July 13 - 11:30a.m., “Brace Yourself, Here Comes “Mrs. Knowit All”! - Denise Schreiber, greenhouse managerfor the Allegheny County Parks. Lunch will beserved; and August 10 - “Lights, Camera,Action: MAGC Juried Flower Show 2011.”Members and the public will have the opportunityto enter home grown flowers, vegetables, andpotted plants. For information and reservations,(412) 262-4719.The Robinson Township Area Chapter ofWomen’s Business Network meets the secondand f ourth Tuesdays of each month at 7:30a.m. at Giant Eagle Market District, 100 SettlersRidge Center Drive. The group is open to areawomen business owners and those in sales whowould like to meet to network and share ideas toexpand their business, Denise Carr, (412) 490-2204 or d.carr14@yahoo.com or visit ourwebsite at w ww.wbninc.com. Next meetings areTuesdays, July 12 and 26, August 9 and 23.The Allegheny County Special EventsDepartment, as a way to promote communitywithin the county, is sponsoring a screening of“Duck Soup” at Settler’s Cabin Park, Gilbert LoveShelter, on Thursday, July 21 when the sungoes down around 9 p.m. The event is free andopen to the public.Ohio River Trail Council (ORTC) and WesternPennsylvania Wheelman (WPW) have formeda partnership to develop a Trail Ride Seriesfor t he t ri-state region. Twice-monthly rideswill be held along rail-trails. A ride on theMontour Trail will be held on September 3.Call (724) 728-2625, or visit the Web site atwww.ohiorivertrail.org.Coraopolis Kiwanis Annual Steak Fry isTuesday, July 12, Rotary Shelter, MoonTownship Park, 5-7:30 p.m. Steak dinner withall the trimmings are $16; or hotdog dinnerswith all the trimmings are $7. Proceedsbenefit Kiwanis service projects. ContactJackie Smith, ESB Bank, (412) 264-8862 orJohn Miller, (412) 264-8553.West Hills Symphonic Band presents a concerton Friday, August 5, North Fayette CommunityPark, 7 p.m. The WHSB performs outreachconcerts for many local events. Organizationsinterested in hosting an outreach concert,contact Principal Conductor/Music DirectorClem Rolin, (412) 788-4713.The Early Learning Institute’s Ohio ValleyLearning Center, Kennedy Township, isenrolling for fall. Programming is available forchildren ages two to five. Parents are able tochoose specific days on a full or half dayschedule. Potty-training not required. Summercamp programming is also available. Call (412)331-3560 or e-mail barbarapergar@telipa.org.Collier Friends of the Panhandle Trail Rock theQuarry 2011 annual fundraiser is Friday,August 26, 5 to 10 p.m., and Saturday,August 27, noon to 10 p.m., on thePanhandle Trail between Walker’s Milland Rennerdale. Information, visitwww.panhandletrail.org.helping othersLet us know about a project orevent that helps others. We willpost it here. These are alwaysfree listings. (724) 695-3968 ore-mail:alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.netJuly 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 7

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on the horizonPittsburgh Airport Area Chamber of Commerceannounces an evening of casual elegance with friends,clients, and coworkers at the inaugural “Summer Gala” atthe Historic Roselea Farms, Thursday, July 14 from 6 to 9p.m.At this VIP event, relax and enjoy Chairmen’s Select winesand spirits from around the world, along with gourmet treatsfrom The Olive Press and Giant Eagle Market District. Unwindto music under the pines by Pittsburgh’s own female vocalist,Vida. Explore the grounds and discover the history ofRoselea Farms.For tickets ($75/person), contact the Chamber at (412) 264-6270 or visit www.paacc.com to register. This event is heldrain or shine. No one under 21 admitted. (All sales are final).Vacation BibleSchoolCrossroads Church - (412) 494-9999, July 11-15, 6 to 9 p.m.,“Pandamania...Where God is Wild About You,” children enteringkindergarten-completed fifth grade with limited space for children who willbe four years old before July 11, 2011, or e-mail:ginny@crossroadsumc.org.Crafton Heights Presbyterian Church - (412) 921-6153,throughJuly 28, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Summer Camp, “Cross-Trainers,” ages6-13, includes worship, art, recreation, Bible time. Breakfast and lunchserved daily, weekly field trips.Kenmawr UP Church - (412) 331-2863, August 23, 10 a.m. to 2p.m., “Fun in the Sun Day,” four year olds-sixth grade, please call toregister, or e-mail: kenmawrchurch@comcast.net; “Hometown Nazareth,” July25-29, 6 to 8:30 p.m., four years old through middle school.First Assembly of God - (412) 264-8665, July 11-15, “Journey to theSon,” ages 3-10; Vertical Kids, Wednesday nights, 7 p.m., ages 3-10 atthe church; Junior High Group Wednesday nights, 7 p.m., at the youthcenter, (930 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis); Senior High Group, Thursdaynights, 7 p.m., at the youth center.Riverdale UP Church - (724) 457-0207, “Parable Quest,” agesthree-grade five, July 18-22, 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., e-mail:hp@riverdalechurch.org or office@riverdalechurch.org.The ROCK - (724) 693-2777, Daycamp, six weeks through July 29, 9a.m. to 4 p.m. Extended hours available 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Themedweeks, cost is $70 per week for ROCK members, $85 per week for non-ROCKmembers; extended hours, add $15 per week, located at 150 West StateStreet, Oakdale, or e-mail: rock_oakdale@yahoo.com.St. Columbkille - (724) 695-2146, Dr. Josie Crame, “SonSurf BeachBlast,” August 1-5, 9 a.m. to noon, ages kindergarten through grade six,or e-mail: stcolumbkilleparish@comcast.net.Sharon Community Presbyterian Church - (412) 264-7400,July 10-14, 6-8:30 p.m., “Pandamania: Where God is Wild About You!”Ages 4 through grade 5.Westridge Christian Community Church - (724) 695-7500,“Son Surf Beach Bash,” July 14 and 15, 7-8:30 p.m., July 16, 10 a.m. to1 p.m. (with lunch at 11:30), July 17, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. during thechurch service.GOLF!Moon Tigers High School Bowling Team’s 8th Annual 4 ManScramble Golf Tournament, Sunday, July 10, The Club atShadow Lakes, registration 7:30 a.m., (412) 269-9787.GPFOA Golf Outing, Sunday, July 24, Shadow Lakes Golf Club,Hopewell, 12:30 p.m., Bob Dornenburg, (412) 427-2878.Friends of AVS Golf Open, in honor of Regis G. Champ and his38 years of service to Allegheny Valley School, Monday,August 15, Churchill Valley Country Club, 10 a.m. registration,11 a.m. lunch, Noon shotgun start, 6:30 p.m. dinner, (412) 299-2229 or visit www.avs.net.The Fourth Annual Bradley Classic, Wednesday, September14, Quicksilver Golf Club, 9:30 a.m. registration, lunch, dinner,(412) 788-8219.12 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

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Heritage Valley NewsSix Heritage Valley Health System physicians recently received recognitionfrom the Allegheny County Medical Society as well as Pittsburgh Magazine’sAnnual Top Doctors 2011 edition.This spring, John A. Straka, MD, FACS, otolaryngology, was presented withthe Ralph C. Wilde Award from the Allegheny County Medical Society (ACMS)Foundation. The Ralph C. Wilde Award is presented to a physician whoexemplifies the personal and professional characteristics of the late ACMSPresident, Dr. Ralph Wilde, as a physician, teacher, leader, and human being.Additionally, five Heritage Valley Health System physicians were named inPittsburgh Magazine’s annual Top Doctors 2011 May edition. Top doctorsare selected through a survey of regional health professionals and peerswho are asked to share whom they would entrust the care of their familymember when faced with a specific medical condition. The recognizedphysicians from Heritage Valley include:· Paul Dubner, M.D., Tri-State Pediatrics Associates, caring for childrenin Beaver, Chippewa, Hopewell and Sewickley;· Michael A. Karp, M.D., Sewickley Valley Medical Group, caring forfamilies at the Ambridge Area Healthcare Services location;· Michael M. Sherry, M.D., Sewickley Medical Oncology/HematologyGroup, providing cancer care from his Moon Township office;· John C. Wright, Jr., M.D., Wright Gynecology & Associates, deliveringgynecology care to women in Bridgewater, Calcutta and Beaver;· Paula S. Youngdahl, M.D., Tri-State Obstetrics and Gynecology,providing obstetrical and gynecological care to women fromoffices in Bridgewater, Chippewa and Beaver.Cardiac computed tomography, or Cardiac CT, services are available forpatients at Heritage Valley Beaver and Heritage Valley Sewickley. The servicerepresents collaboration between the Heritage Valley Heart and VascularCenters and Radiology departments to bring the most advancedtechnology to people in the community.A Cardiac CT is a painless, non-invasive test that uses an x-ray machine toimage the heart in order to reveal important structural abnormalities thatmay relate to disease. CT angiography is used to evaluate narrowing, orstenosis, of the coronary arteries. Heritage Valley uses 64-slice CTScanners with the latest technology that includes reduced radiation dosagesand high quality image acquisition and processing. Detailed evaluation ofthis digital data can enhance diagnosis and management strategies.The Heritage Valley Healthcare Foundation announces the Tito FranconaGolf Classic, Honorary Chair Tito Francona, Event Chair: Terry Francona,Monday, August 15, 8:30 a.m., Connoquenessing Country Club & OldeStonewall Golf Club.For more information about these events, send an e-mail tofoundation@hvhs.org or call (412) 749-7050.Heritage Valley Sewickley is seeking volunteers to provide support inseveral areas of the hospital. The need for volunteer help is immediate inthe following areas: Surgical Waiting Area, Physical Therapy, Storeroom,Information Desk. To schedule an interview, please contact Irene Dailey,Director Volunteer and Community Services at (412) 749-7052.July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 15

STORY BY KAITLIN BUSCHPHOTOS BY JJSome people collect certain items, such as Beanie Babies, magnets, orTeddy bears. Others accumulate collector’s items, such as holiday Barbiedolls or baseball cards. But very seldom do you find someone who collectseverything and anything, from Mickey Mouse items dating back to the1930s, to Log Cabin Syrup tins, to antique, hard-to-find books datingback to the 1700s…and more!Mike, a Moon Township resident, who is a collector and self-proclaimed“walking history book,” asked to be referred to as Akicita, his Indianname. Akicita is from Native American descent, particularly the Shawnee.He even has a self-designed tattoo in honor of Crazy Horse on his wrist, atribute to his Native American lineage.Every room in his house is decorated differently than the next, andeach room has a theme.The great room is dedicated to Akicita’s Native American heritage. Thefloor in the room is made of heart pine and is over 200 years old.Hanging from a basket is a stuffed eagle, its wing span reaching six feet.Numerous Indian dolls, dream catchers, and photos of animals line thewalls of the room. And, in the corner of the room, is an area where acouple of taxidermy animals call home.“I am not a hunter because I respect animals,” Akicita said. “ButI bought them knowing they’d have a good home.”Akicita designed the fire place in the great room. It has a realbar-beam, which had to be cut in half in order to fit in a van tobring home, and is encased in cobblestone.The room also contains George Catlin etchings from 1832,books, and maps as well as an arrow-back bench worth about$3,000. Akicita bought it at an auction 17 years ago for $500.He said the bench was in rough shape and had seven coats ofpaint on it. He paid $300 to have the bench stripped, thenanother $300 to have it refinished. The bench itself is one solidplank, and with its unique back, Akicita said it’s something “you’llnever see again.”Akicita has an extensive collection of old books, which include aseries of books called The Horn Papers from the 1700s. There arethree volumes to the collection, all of which Akicita found inWaynesburg. The books tell the biography of a family fromGreene County, and include the original atlas of Fayette County.Akicita also has the “Memoirs of La Fayette,” which were writtenin the 1800s, a series of Francis Parkman books from 1887, andan original book on the resurvey of the Mason-Dixon Line, also16 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

FAR LEFT: Among hiscollections are severaltaxidermy animals Akicitahas purchased in order togive them a home.LEFT: Antique toys line ashelf in one of the rooms.from the early 1800s.Numerous maps hang on the walls of Akicita’s house, many ofthem originals from the 1700s. The most interesting map he ownsis an authentic map of Maryland where the date, 1781, is hiddenin the crest in the upper right-hand corner. “If you have the rightmaps, they could be worth a ton of money,” Akicita said. “But youhave to have a real appraiser come in and look at the map.”The master bedroom contains some of Akicita’s most prizedpossessions, including the very first Mickey Mouse toy. There is arocking chair from 1710 in one corner, and pieces from picketsfound in Gettysburg behind the chair. On both sides of the bedare wooden shelves, one which pushes away to reveal the walk-incloset, which Akicita designed himself. The shelves are lined withLog Cabin syrup tins which were circulatedbefore World War II.A huge history buff, Akicita used to take tripsto Williamsburg and Gettysburg numeroustimes a year. He can spit out facts from waybefore his time. He even traced his familyhistory back many generations. He discoveredhis great grandfather fought in the civil warwith Ulysses S. Grant and William T. Sherman.“I have all his military records to prove it,”Akicita said. “He was wounded twice and hehad some brothers that fought for the northwhile other brothers fought for the south. Onedied in Andersonville and I was able to get hismarking number.”Akicita has been collecting artifacts for over 30years. “I have dealt with antiques since 1979,”Akicita said. “I got started when I didn’t have a lot of money, so Iwent to an estate sale and purchased a table which started to createin interest in antiques. My interest started to elevate, and eventuallyI became a dealer and traveled all over the East Coast.”“I collect primary antique toys, and I have boxes of toys I haven’topened since 1981,” Akicita said.Akicita’s favorite piece in his collection is his stuffed wolf, TwoSocks. He named the animal after the character in Dances withWolves.“Two Socks feels like a protector to me,” Akicita said. “I have diedtwice, almost three times, and I feel as if Two Socks watches over meevery night. I’m not religious by any means, but I’m very spiritual.You look at life a little differently after dying twice.”Doc Holiday also has had an impact on Akicita’s numerous healthrecoveries. A small shrine to one Akicita’s most favorite people lies in hisstudy.“I have a fighting spirit, what they call the warrior, and I can’t quit,”Akicita said. “Doc Holiday became one of my heroes, he knew he wasgoing to die but had courage to fight anyway. I watched that movie overand over again and it gave me courage to go through the battle.”Although Akicita has an entire house full of artifacts, he has no ideahow many he actually has, or how much everything is worth. Besidesthe items in his house, he has even more is a safety deposit box andhidden in various places. He guesses his collections are worth a lot ofmoney, over six figures. But he has never had his items professionallyappraised.Akicita does not invite strangers into his home to show off hiscollection and therefore has not received anyawards or recognition for his extensivecollection of artifacts. But, he is going to startwriting for the American Indian Council andreviewing books as well. His writings will bepublished in “The Smoke Signal,” whichcontains a lot of different articles about NativeAmerican history and the numerous tribes.“I concentrate on all tribes,” Akicita said. “Asa Native American, we are all brothers and Iwant to learn about all of them.”Without question, Akicita is very passionateabout artifacts and history, both personal andfactual.“I love history, I love the warm feeling itABOVE: Some of Akicita’s antique toys from gives me,” Akicita said. “I spend a lot of timehis collection.by myself, but I never feel alone.”So, the big question is, where will all of Akicita’s collection go when heis gone? To a museum? Or will each piece be sold off to the highestbidder? Even Akicita doesn’t know.“My turtle shell medicine bag will go with me when I die,” Akicitasaid. “But what happens to my collection is up to my friend andattorney Ed, who is like family to me. I left my estate to him withspecific instructions. I want to make sure the Native Americans are takencare of as well as my close friends. He knows who has taken care of me,but the rest is up to his discretion.”Before he became an avid artifact collector, Akicita was an accountant,a tax preparer, and dabbled in title work in the real estate field, workingin 27 counties at one time. He wanted to thank his dear friend Leslie,who, “without her help, all of this couldn’t have happened.”July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 17

around your townClearview Pavilion Dedicated at ParkLEFT TO RIGHT: Moon Township Supervisor Andrew Gribben, Supervisor FrankSinatra, Ralph Canterbury, vice president, marketing and technology, ClearviewFederal Credit Union; Jim Vitale, chairman, Moon Township Board of Supervisors;Christianne Gribben, assistant vice president, marketing, Clearview Federal CreditUnion; Dana Kasler, director, Moon Parks and Recreation.Moon Township and Clearview FederalCredit Union unveiled Moon Park’s newClearview Federal Credit Union Pavilion tothe community on May 25. Representativesfrom the Moon Township Board ofSupervisors and Clearview Federal CreditUnion cut the ribbon on the pavilion andwelcomed residents to the new picnic area,which is now open for reservations.The newly-developed picnic pavilion ispart of a new ten-year partnership betweenMoon Township and Clearview Federal CreditUnion, which will also continue itssponsorship of Moon Township’s AnnualIndependence Day Celebration.“We would like to thank Clearview FederalCredit Union for their continuedrelationship with the township,” said JimVitale, chairman of the Moon TownshipBoard of Supervisors. “Clearview hasbeen a tremendous partner.”Located next to Moon Park’s tenniscourts, the picnic pavilion is the latestproject in Moon Township’s long rangeparks improvement plan, which willcontinue to evolve in Moon Parkthroughout the next several years.The pavilion, which was constructed witheco-friendly building materials, canaccommodate as many as 100 people andis furnished with new picnic tables andoutdoor grills as well as water and electricservice.Community ProjectMoon Area High School senior Emme Kelly recentlycompleted a community service project that benefits theFamily Hope Connection, a licensed adoption and fostercare agency located in Squirrel Hill. Along with apartner, she organized a dance at Moon Middle Schoolthat raised more than $1,400. Emme donated her portionof the profit to the Family Hope Connection.Emme chose the Family Hope Connection because hermother works at the agency, and her grandparents wereformer foster parents. While she does not know most ofthe individuals her grandparents foster-parented, hermother became very close to one of them, and she hasalways been regarded as “family.”Said Emme, “I know how hard life is without the extrathings that they go through thrown in. I thought that if Icould help out just a little bit by donating money to helpthem, that is the least I can do.”Emme requested that the majority of the money shedonated to the Family Hope Connection be used forbooks to be given to the foster children with whom FamilyHope Connection staff work. So far more than 70 bookshave been bought.RIGHT: EmmeKelly with some ofthe books thatwere purchasedfrom the proceedsof her communityservice project.PHOTO SUBMITTED18 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

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OLSHOLSH Snags Two Gene KellyHonors, Seven NominationsStudents at Our Lady of the SacredHeart High School took home twohonors this spring from thePittsburgh CLO's Gene Kelly Awards inPittsburgh.The school's production of "LittleShop of Horrors" won in the BestLighting Design and Best ScenicDesign categories. The productionwas nominated in seven categoriesthis year.Students from the 60-member castalso took to the stage at the BenedumCenter for the Performing Arts toperform a number from the musical.The annual Gene Kelly Awards celebrate high school performing arts in the Pittsburgh area.Little Shop of Horrors is the story of Seymour Krelbourne, a poor orphan who collects strange andunusual plants. His most recent acquisition, a plant he calls “Audrey II” after his co-worker (for whom he’sheld a long-time crush), has an appetite for blood. Romance, hilarity, and drama ensued as OLSH actorsperformed his story.20 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

Celebrating AnnualHonors ConvocationOur Lady of the Sacred Heart HighSchool celebrated over 150 instances ofexcellence at the school’s annualHonors Convocation.Annie Kayser was named theValedictorian of the OLSH Class of 2011.Sean Fitzpatrick was named theSalutatorian. Rounding out the list of topten seniors were Sherry Greek, KathrynGasior, Sandra Cahalan, TaylorBelloma, Katherine Christoff, AnthonySmith, RebeccaBosetti, and LeahLinarelli.Anthony Smithwas this year’srecipient of theBlessed AngelaAward, which ispresented to thesenior who mostexhibits the spirit ofMother Angela(foundress of theFelician Sisters)and the Feliciancharism. It was awarded to Smith by Sr.Mary Justice Przybocki, local minister atthe OLSH Central Convent.Kathleen Stewart was recognized withthe OLSH Spirit of Caring Award forearning the most service hours throughher four years at OLSH. Stewartcontributed 800.75 hours during hertime at OLSH.Mrs. Christina Brooks, OLSH principal,initiated the Shining Star Awards to thankfaculty and staff members for theiroutstanding service to OLSH. Mr. JeffreyHulbert and Mr. Jeff Thomas were thefirst recipients of these awards. Brookssaid that Hulbert, a social studiesteacher, never ceases to “serve wherehe is needed.” She added that “he is awonderful role model to our youngpeople.” About Mr. Thomas, the head ofmaintenance, Brooks said, “he servesquietly and humbly, never ceasing to putOLSH first.”Parkway West Career & Technology CenterStudents of the Year RecognizedSophomore Derek D’Amore from West Allegheny High School was named Sophomore of the Year. He isenrolled in the Auto Body Repair Program.Junior Chad Limbruner from Moon Area High School was named Junior of the Year. He is enrolled in theInformation Technology Essentials Program.Named Senior of the Year was Abigail Auria, home schooled from Keystone Oaks High School, who isenrolled in the Public Safety Technology Program.Summer Camp Introduces Programs to Seventh/Eighth GradersOn June 20 and 21, seventh and eighth graders from the 12 sending school districts that work inpartnership with Parkway had an opportunity to see and experience a variety of programs available tothem when they begin their high school studies.Students attended morning and afternoon sessions of their choice in the areas of AutomotiveTechnology, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Digital Multimedia Technology, Health Assistant, RoboticsTechnology, Public Safety Technology, and Welding Technology.Lunch was served both days, and the program costs were paid for by Allegheny County Tech PrepConsortium.Robert Morris UniversityRMU Launches Master’s Degree in Special EducationRobert Morris University has launched a master’s of education degree in special education,responding to the growing demand of students and of an industry hungry for teachers qualified towork with children with special needs.Over the past 30 years, the number of students with special educational needs has far outpaced thenumber of instructors certified to serve them. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has forecast fasterthan-averagegrowth in demand for special educators, increasing 17 percent between 2008 and 2018.In Pennsylvania, even general education students are now required to take at least two specialeducation courses.“In the past decade, Pennsylvania has seen a 15 percent growth in need for special educationteachers,” said Dr. Vicki J. Donne, assistant professor of secondary education and graduate studies,who led the program’s development. “Even with budget cuts that’s likely to continue, because specialeducation instruction is federally mandated.”The School of Education and Social Sciences’ program officially begins in the fall, although twostudents earned their degrees in May. It requires 30 credit hours (10 courses), which may becompleted in an accelerated format through evening classes offered in eight-week sessions twice asemester. Field visits and a student-teaching practicum round out the coursework.For additional information about the program, contact Dr. Vicki Donne at donne@rmu, or (412) 397-5465, or check out http://www.rmu.edu/Graduate/programs/SpecialEducation.Community College of Allegheny CountyLargest Number of Nurse GradsThe Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) graduates the largest number of registered nursesamong the nation’s two-year institutions, according to a report by “Community College Week.” CCAC alsoawards the second-largest number of associate’s degrees in health careers.In the annual rankings, CCAC is first among two-year institutions awarding associate’s degrees in thecategory of Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research, and Clinical Nursing. CCACpresented degrees to 412 nursing graduates in the 2009–2010 academic year, the period included inthe current study. In the current rankings, nursing has been split into two categories; CCAC rankedsecond among two-year institutions in the combined category last year. CCAC remains the onlyPennsylvania institution in the top 10.“Community College Week” also ranks CCAC second among two-year institutions in the number ofdegrees awarded in the Health Professions and Related Programs, the same position as last year. In2009–2010, the college awarded 633 degrees in the category.July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 21

PHOTO COURTESY MOON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTMoon Area School DistrictMoon in County Math 24 Challenge24 Math Challenge is a difficult card game in which students use thefour numbers on a given card to create 24. All middle school studentswere invited to participate in this four-week after-school program.Students learned how to play the game, practiced at school and athome, and then competed in a school competition.Winners of the school tournament went on to represent Moon at theAllegheny County 24 Math Challenge in April at the Jefferson HillsMunicipal Center.Eighth grader Hannah Adams won a table round and earned anindividual medal. Seventh graders Tamer Fahmy and Andrew Zbihleyand sixth graders Nikhil Maheshwari and Austin Welsh alsorepresented Moon at the tournament.Class of 2011 Graduates From New High SchoolCongratulations to the 292 members of the Moon Area High SchoolClass of 2011, who graduated on Friday, June 10.This is the first class to graduate in the new Moon Area High School.Distinguished class members who addressed the audience includedAaron L. Johnson, Mengjia April Peng, and Emilie E. Davignon.Other students who spoke included Stephanie Nam, TylerPannebaker, Rachel Morris, Jon Lee, and Lindsay Haslett.Superintendent Dr. Donna Milanovich and MAHS Principal MichaelHauser also addressed the audience.A moment of silence was held for deceased classmate Phillip Walker.The Moon Area High School band, orchestra and chorus performedduring the ceremony.Middle SchoolCelebrates Promising Young WritersCongratulations to Moon Area Middle School eighth graders VictoriaCycak, Pam Rutherford, and Aashka Shah for earning Certificates ofParticipation in the 2011 NCTE Promising Young Writer’s program.According to the National Council of Teachers of English Web site, “ThePromising Young Writers program was established in 1985 to stimulate andrecognize student’s writing talents and to emphasize the importance ofwriting skills among eighth-grade students.”“In this year’s program, 380 eighth-grade students were nominated fromschools across the country. Of that number, 111 received Certificates ofRecognition and 269 received Certificates of Participation. Each studentsubmitted two pieces of writing, which were read by two judges. Paperswere judged on content, purpose, audience, tone, word choice,organization, development, and style.”22 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011LEFT: Hyde Elementary second-graders in Mrs.Welsh’s class put on a play titled “It’s a Bug’s World” asan extension of the Science Curriculum unit onIntegrated Pest Management! The play was in June andbrought in dozens of parents.Senior Project Presentations269 Moon Area High School seniors presented their senior projects to301 judges over two daysin May. Of those, 232 students used PowerPointand Promethean Board as visual aids in their presentations.Students presented in a wide variety of areas, including six in art anddesign, 19 in business, computers and services careers; 42 in medicaland health issues; 30 in education; 12 in science and environmental; 12 infamily consumer sciences; 23 in performing arts; 12 in photography, mediaand literature; 36 in social issues; 10 in social studies; 48 in sports andrecreation; and 19 in technical arts.Senior Projects are made possible through the generous participationof the community and the teachers as judges and mentors. Over two days,there were 301 judges including 187 from the community, 92 from the highschool, and 22 from the rest of the district.Moon Area School District will operate under summer hours fromthrough July 31: Monday y - Thurhursdasday y 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.p.m.All district buildings and facilities will be closed on Fridays,Saturdays and Sundays with no exceptions, during those weeks.MOON AREASCHOOLDISTRICTMOON HONORS ALL AROUNDBon Meade first-grader Emily Zomp won the PBS KIDS GO! WritersContest out of 500 entries with her story, “Magically Mixing Animals.” Shewas invited to the 11th Annual Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s SummerReading Extravaganza to read her winning story.RMU Professor Dean Manna, Department Head of Marketing in theSchool of Business, presented a plaque to a marketing team of threeMoon Area students for their competitive participation and achievementin the Massey Business Innovation and Sustainable DevelopmentWorkshop held at Robert Morris this spring.Congratulations to the following Moon Area High School Orchestrastudents: Alex Talkowski, Bass; Danielle Muise, Violin; Kristin Sneisek,Violin; and Juan Saylor, Cello. They were selected to perform with thePittsburgh Symphony Orchestra as part of their Student Side by SideProgram. After several rehearsals, these students performed with thePittsburgh Symphony Orchestra at a concert in April at Heinz Hall.

PHOTOSCOURTESY MOONAREA SCHOOLDISTRICT

24 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011PHOTOS BYCHRISTOPHER ROLINSON

Whether walking the trails, picnicking, camping, or taking advantage of the lake at RaccoonCreek State Park, users of this gem of nature just outside Clinton in Beaver County will findcountless ways to enjoy this outdoor playground. The park boasts a 101-acre lake, 44 acres ofwalking and hiking trails, 17 miles of trails for mountain biking, and 16 miles for equestrianuse. Add to the options a wide array of camping, a swimming area with beach, and awildflower preserve, and there’s simply something for everyone.With the warmer weather now here, park users will find beauty at every turn.Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as it is often said. For photographer Christopher Rolinson (manywill remember his photo spreads as part of a multiple-part story on the Montour Trail during its 20thanniversary in “Allegheny West Magazine”), beauty lies in the magic of those simple icons of nature. Itmight be the way water gently cascades from a rock, or how a meadow bursts with wildflowers. It maybe as miniscule as a frog sitting on a log or a raindrop ready to drop from a ledge.Enjoy the images of Raccoon Creek State Park featured on these pages, as captured by Christopher’slens.Anyone is welcome to take part in the many activities and events at the park. As always, of course, thepark is open to anyone who simply wants to while away a summer afternoon under tall trees, whiskacross the lake in a kayak, or sun and swim at the park’s publicswimming area.For more information about Raccoon Creek State Park, and acomplete list of activities and programs, visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us,and click on Raccoon Creek State Park.OPPOSITE PAGE:FAR LEFT, Wildflowers along a trail in the W ildflower Preserve.LEFT, Stone basin at the Mineral Springs, Frankfort Mineral Springs,the waterfall at the Mineral S pringsTHIS PAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT, Waterfall at the Mineral Springs,Longtailed Salamanders live in the crevasses at the MineralSprings.Christopher Rolinson is aprofessor of photojournalism atPoint Park University and is afreelance photographer fornumerous publications, including“Allegheny West Magazine.”His book, “Our S tate Parks” wasreleased in 2010.This collection of images shows –through photography and experientialtext, the magnificent beauty andweather that still abounds in ourbackyard. Western Pennsylvania’simmense geographic size is richwith w ild n ature, s cenery, andspace. Between Lake Erie and theMaryland border, a nd b etweencentral Pennsylvania to the Ohio/West Virginia borders, there areseveral climate zones andlandscapes – offering a wideswath of outdoor activity tobirdwatchers, hikers, kayakers,mountain bikers, photographers,and astronomers during all fourseasons.Christopher’s book is availableonline at:http://bit.ly/ourstateparkswpa,the Commonwealth of Pennsylvaniabookstore, or the Fallingwater giftshop.July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 25

Area Legislatorors s Inform ResidentsLegislation sponsored by Rep. Mark Mustio to create a freestanding act to regulate and establish minimumstandards for Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) unanimously passed the state House.“Just like any other job-creating industry, House Bill 1055 provides both a regulatory framework and uniformityfor PEOs by requiring annual registration with the Department of Labor and Industry,” said Mustio. “This legislationalso specifically clarifies regulator relationships and responsibilities pertaining to PEOs.”PEOs are organizations that partner with small businesses, employing an average of five to 20 employees, toprovide human resources, employee benefits management and many other valuable support services necessary toattract and retain high-quality personnel. PEOs enable small business clients to better focus their time and energyon day-to-day operations. Currently, 35 states regulate PEOs.STATE SEN. JOHN PIPPY1009 Beaver Grade RoadMoon Township, PA 15108(412) 262-2260www.senatorpippy.comSTATE SEN. ELDER VOGEL488 Adams StreetRochester, PA 15074(724) 774-0444http://senatoreldervogel.comLegislation sponsored by Rep. Mark Mustio to simplify and clarify the definition of an “independent contractor”under Pennsylvania’s Workers’ Compensation Act to allow sole proprietors, partners of a partnership, and officersof a Limited Liability Company (LLC) to purchase workers’ compensation insurance was unanimously enacted by theHouse. House Bill 440 moves on to the Senate for consideration.Rep. Mark Mustio would like to let residents know that the deadline to apply for the state’s Property Tax/RentRebate program is being extended from June 30 to December 31.Eligible participants can receive a rebate of up to $650 based on their rent or property taxes paid in 2010. Theprogram benefits eligible Pennsylvanians who are 65 years or older, widows and widowers 50 years or older, andthose 18 years or older with disabilities.Eligibility income limits for homeowners are set at the following levels, excluding 50 percent of Social Security,Supplemental Security Income, and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits:· $0 to $8,000, maximum $650 rebate (Homeowners and renters)· $8,001 to $15,000, maximum $500 rebate (Homeowners and renters)· $15,001 to $18,000, maximum $300 rebate (Homeowners only)· $18,001 to $35,000, maximum $250 rebate (Homeowners only)The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is one of many initiatives supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery, whichdedicates its proceeds to support programs for older Pennsylvanians. Since the program began in 1971, more than$4 billion has been paid to qualified applicants.Residents are reminded to provide all the necessary income, property tax, or rental information required toprocess claims quickly and accurately.Property Tax/Rent Rebate claim forms are available by contacting Rep. Mustio’s Moon Township district office oronline at RepMustio.com.STATE REP. MARK MUSTIO1009 Beaver Grade RoadMoon Township, PA 15108(412) 262-3780www.repmustio.comSTATE REP. ROB MATZIE1240 Merchant StreetAmbridge, PA 15003(724) 266-7774www.pahouse.com/Matzie26 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

Race to Benefit Area Charity Named in Moon Couple’s s HonorThis past Easter, Moon Township residents Ralph and DorothySwain were presented with a unique gift by their five children -- a5K race in their honor. The Inaugural Ralph Swain Queen’s Racefor Love & Life on July 16 is in honor and support of family.Ralph and Dorothy’s five appreciative adult children, Rebecca,Kathy, Ralph, Jenna, and Christopher, along with their ownfamilies, wanted to do something significant and honorable torecognize their parents.Their decision to host a race was theresult of watching their dad, Ralph, onhis journey to good health when hestarted running in 1976 at the age of 42,one year after he stopped smoking andgained weight.His wife, lovingly known as “Queenie,”has supported Ralph in his journey overthe years.Their daughter, Jenna Stivoric, said,“Besides supporting Ralph’s runninghabit for over 30 years, Dorothymaintains the home-front as he logs inmiles on roads, trails, and even pools.Queenie also stands by her man by serving up high-carb mealswhen needed, acquiring her massage therapy license to aid his soremuscles, providing much needed snacks at stops along raceways,while cheering him on throughout and always giving him thatfinish line kiss!”Ralph, who completed the New York City Marathon in 2006 atthe age of 71, started his journey at the Moon High School track. Hewould jog a quarter of a mile at most, then walk a quarter mile, to try andcomplete one mile.Soon Ralph met a running mate, Doug Macphail, 24 years old backthen, who was also jogging on the track. The two became friends. Theyran longer and longer distances on the track, often with others whowould join them.Since then, Ralph completed an ultramarathonof 50 miles when he was 60,and the two men have run in marathonstogether in Boston and Pittsburgh. He’salso completed triathalons and competedin the Senior Olympics in Pittsburgh in2005, besides numerous other local andregional races.Today, the two men still run together,and have forged a lifelong friendship.Said Jenna, “Throughout his racingcareer, my parents have been models offaith and love and together have alwayssupported life! This race is in honor oftheir tireless commitments to God andfamily.”Proceeds will benefit the Women’s Choice Network, a 100% privatelyfunded pregnancy help center with five locations in the Pittsburgh area.The event will take place on Saturday, July 16 at North Park’s BoatHouse. To sponsor, volunteer, run, or walk, visitwww.raceforloveandlife.com or contact info@raceforloveandlife.com,412.366.0813.July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 27

30 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

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around your townTemple, WPAHS EstablishMedical School CampusThe Temple University School of Medicine (TUSM) and West PennAllegheny Health System (WPAHS) will establish a new four-year medicalschool campus on Pittsburgh’s North Side.The Temple University School of Medicine at West Penn AlleghenyHealth System will enable WPAHS and TUSM to address the critical shortageof physicians in Western Pennsylvania by educating and retaining highlytrained doctors to serve the local community for many years to come.Based in Philadelphia, TUSM is one of seven schools of medicine inPennsylvania conferring the doctor of medicine (MD) degree. WPAHScurrently serves as a clinical campus of TUSM for third- and fourth-yearmedical students. The expanded relationship will enable WPAHS to provideall four years of undergraduate medical education to TUSM students.Thirty students will be accepted in the first class of the new medicalschool program, scheduled to begin in 2013.New General ManagerHyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airportannounces Nancy Dudak as the new General Managerwho will oversee all hotel operations.Dudak started her career with Hyatt in 1987 in SanDiego, California, as an Assistant Restaurant Managerand Banquet Manager.OVGH Opens Hospital UnitOhio Valley General Hospital celebrated the grand opening of WillowBrook Geropsychiatric Unit in June with an open house. Participants metthe staff and got a personal tour of Willow Brook.Willow Brook Geropsychiatric Unit provides short-term (8 – 10 days)inpatient psychiatric services to adults 65+ who have mental healthneeds. The program is recovery-centered in its approach and strives tohelp individuals to not only address their mental health needs, but alsoreconnect with their hopes and personal motivations. Willow Brook willprovide a safe, therapeutic environment which allows people to maintainas much normalcy in their everyday routines as possible.32 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

Weight LossQ: Dr. Doug, My vet told me my dog is overweight. How do I get him toshed a few pounds?A. I have found that feeding pets twice daily, instead of only once, ishelpful for weight loss. If a pet eats one meal a day, his stomach getsstretched which makes him feel even hungrier by his next meal time.Feeding an animal twice daily keeps his satiety level on an even keel.Minimize treats! This pet “junk food” is often just as unhealthy as is thehuman counterpart. Instead, give him a fiber-filled veggie (like a carrot orgreen bean) to chew on. Giving him a treat when he begs or gives you “thelook” only re-enforces that behavior.Another problem to address is our modern, sedentary lifestyles. It is important to realize that ourpets’ wild counterparts do not get a free ride; they have to hunt for their food. To maintain anappropriate weight, pets need lots of activity. Make time to play fetch with your dog and go for walksas often as possible. Cat owners can use a laser pointer and other toys to help with kitty calisthenics.Be aware that obese pets may need to build up their exercise tolerance slowly.Finally, I would suggest weighing your pet every two weeks. Keep track over time and adjust theanimal’s food quantity and activity level as needed to reach his weight goal.As with people, weight issues in dogs and cats seriously affect their health. Fat is a metabolicallyactive tissue and promotes inflammation. Excess fat may predispose your pet to arthritis, diabetes,heart problems and other diseases. If you find that your pooch has packed on a few pounds, you canhelp get him back on track in a healthy way so you both can live a long, happy life together.NEXT ISSUEDEADLINE:AUGUST 15,2011Dr. Doug Knueven is a veterinarian who practices both holistic and conventional medicine at Beaver AnimalClinic. Address your questions to “Ask the Vet” at info@beaveranimalclinic.com or send them to 357 State Street,Beaver, PA 15009. Select questions will be answered in this column.WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!Since 1999, we have served the airport area. We publish three distinct communitymagazines, all mailed free into the homes across 14 area communities, a total of42,000 copies every other month. To learn more about our publications, call724.695.3968 or visit our Web site at: www.alleghenywestmagazine.com.July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 33

Ground WorkBY NANCY MILLSAll of us dream about a beautiful garden but are often stumpedwhen it comes time to create our masterpiece. The idea of an“instant garden” seems to be unrealistic, but with a little bit ofingenuity, the dream can come true.The first order of business is to decide where you want thegarden and what you want to plant. Maybe you want an herbgarden near your kitchen; perhaps you want a salad garden closeto the deck. Whatever you decide is possible with a few easysteps.SITE PREPARATIONThe site you pick must be prepared before you install yourgarden. Place seven (7) layers of newspapers over closelyclipped grass or freshly dug soil. Make sure that the site is theexact size of your garden plan. Remember that site preparationsaves time in the long run.RAISED BEDSThe secret to the instant garden is to create a raised bedgarden. We have all heard about “double digging” and otherdifficult procedures that deter us from attempting a raised bedgarden. The concept can be accomplished with much less effortand in a shorter time; as a matter of fact, you can do this in anafternoon.SUPPLIES AND MATERIALSA raised bed garden can be 8, 10, or 12 inches deep. Thedepth determines what you can plant in the garden as somevegetables take more depth than others. For example, potatoesneed more root space than lettuce. After you make the decisionabout your plant materials, you can decide the depth of thegarden. The “instant garden” concept is accomplished bypurchasing the right materials. Gardener’s Supply Company(gardeners.com) offers products that will make your gardening adelight!The “Instant” Garden· Raised Bed Corners - The raised bed corners are designed to siton top of the ground; the corners are configured toaccommodate 2" boards. The boards slide into the cornerbrackets and four corners make a square or rectangle gardenframe. All you have to do is decide what size you want thegarden to be. We chose the 10" corners for an 8x8’ bed.· Framing: Cedar vs. Pine - The frame for the garden should beprotected from rot or deterioration. This can be achieved bypurchasing cedar boards; a cedar board is $4.00 a ft. and thelength of the board will determine the cost. Pine boards are$8.00 for an eight foot board. The difference is $32.00 or$8.00. We chose the pine boards and put three coats of sparvarnish on each board to protect it from rot.FINAL PRODUCTThe grand finale is now in sight! Our plan is to build four 8x8’raised beds. We have purchased corners, set of 2 at $21.95 (we need 8 sets) and 16 pine boards: 2x10’x8’ at $8.00 each.Our total cost per bed is $75.90 in materials. The spar varnishis an additional cost.FILL THE BEDSYou can fill the beds with potting mixture, peat moss,mushroom manure, potting soil, or leaf mulch. We are doing amixture of leaf mulch and mushroom manure to get started.After filling the boxes, we will decide if we need to supplementthe soil or top it off with a shredded mulch to keep down theweeds.You can now begin to plan your plantings. Our gardens will bean enclosed herb garden; we are planting four types of herbs:culinary, tea, medicinal and aromatic herbs. The sky is the limiton what you plant in your new raised bed gardens. Andremember, this garden can be disassembled and placedsomewhere else if you don’t like your original idea.Presented by the Moon Garden ClubNON-PROFIT GROUPS!We offer a significant discount off ofadvertising rates (call for details). It’s one way we help you get your message out to the entire communityaffordably! CALL: 724.695.3968 or e-mail:alleghenywestmagazine@comcast.net.34 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

COMING UP . . .FROM THE PAGE TO THE BIG SCREENSnow Flower and the SecretFan by Lisa See will bediscussed on Saturturdaday,August 20 at 10:30 am. Thismovie opens on July 15.The he Help by Kathryn Stockettwill be discussed on Saturturdaday,September 17 at 10:30 am.This film opens on August 12.Which is better the book or themovie? Here is your chance toread a book, see the movie and discuss which is better. Thediscussions will be held at the library. Between now and the dateof the discussion you are responsible for reading the book andseeing the movie. The library can help you to get a copy of thebook and has discounted movie tickets for sale. Please help usto make this program a success!BOOKVisit the Web site to learn all about how youcan be part of a book club.CLUBS1700 Beaver Grade Rd., Moon Twp. PA(412) 269-0334TEEN ACTIVITIESAFTER HOURS LIBRARY SCAVENGER HUNTFriday, August 19, 7 - 9 p.m.Students entering 6th-8th grade are invited to learn about all the resources that thepublic library has to offer you as the library hosts “Battle of the Sexes: A LibraryScavanger Hunt” on Friday, August 19th from 7-9 p.m. Teams of boys and girls willcompete to find the clues hidden in the library that will lead to a secret message.The first team to decode the message wins a mystery prize. Pizza and drinks will beprovided after the hunt.ALSO COMING UP: Body Art Bonanza, August 4, 6-7 p.m.; Mixed Media Totebags,August 11, 6-7 p.m.; Back to School Fashion Fest, August 23, 6-7:30 p.m.YOUTH ACTIVITIESGlaxoSmithKline Science in the Summer, August 1-4Kids in 2nd through 5th grades can once again participate in Science in theSummer this year. This year’s topic is chemistry. Students will investigate howchemistry can cause changes in states of matter. They will grow crystals, experimentwith dry ice, and perform various experiments with reactions that will amaze anddelight! Student will receive safety glasses, lap aprons, and activity books.Thesessions are at 9:30 a.m. for grades 2 and 3 and 11:00 a.m. for grades 4 and 5.This is an extremely popular and in-demand program. Students must attend all fourclasses. Registration is first come, first served and is available online onlybeginning July 1.www.moonlibr.moonlibrarary.or.org{Hours:Mon.-Thurhurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.,Fri.& Sat.10 a.m.-5 p.m.,Sun. 1-5 p.m. pVisit the Web site atwww.moonlibrary.orgfor TONS of otheractivities and info!{July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 35

Tips for Graduates: Only One Life; Don’t Waste ItGo on a Christian mission trip to India or Mexico orAfrica.Learn a couple languages – be sure one of them isEnglish.Don’t make excuses. A victim mentality will makepeople feel sorry for you but never respect you.Don’t give up too soon – on yourself or on others.Don’t misinterpret hard times. God is good no matterwhat difficulties the day may bring. He can make it allwork together for your good.Don’t be afraid. Fear will paralyze you. Attempt greatthings for God. And expect great things from God.Repent. Learn how and practice often. It is the mosthope-filled word you’ll ever know. It means you don’t haveto stay like you are.If you want your life to count – you don’t have to have anI.Q. of 180. You don’t have to have good looks or money orcome from a dysfunctional-free family.But you do have to know a few great things and bechanged by those things, caught by them, turned-on bythem, set on fire by them.Like: “For wisdom is a defense, and money is adefense: but wisdom gives life to them that have it.”(Eccles. 7:12)“Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a womanwho fears the Lord is to be praised.” (Prov.31:30)“By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, andhonor, and life.” (Prov.22:4)“Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not havethe Son of God does not have life.” (1 Jn 5:12)Now you may not care if your life really makes adifference. You just want people to like you and havesome fun along the way. Maybe land a good job, drive anice car, and have a house filled with blinking prettythings - that would be enough. In fact, corporations areinvesting millions to get you to believe that is exactly thebest thing you can do with your life.But that is a tragedy in the making. Be set free fromsmall dreams and little vision. Place your life in thehands of God and He will show you great and mightythings that you have yet to consider. Make a differencethat lasts.‘Only one life, ‘Twill soon be past; only what’s done forChrist will last.’ Only one life. Don’t waste it.36 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

Community CardsADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS, ORGANIZATION,PRODUCT, OR SERVICE HERE!Just $115 for a black and white business card, and $125 for a business card in color. No contract required. Run onan “as-needed” basis. Reach all homes and and businesses in your community each time. For more information,call (724) 695-3968.July 2011 www.alleghenywestmagazine.com 37

Crescent Township225 Spring Run RoadCrescent, PA 15046(724) 457-8100www.crescenttownship.comMoon Township1000 Beaver Grade RoadMoon Township, PA 15108(412) 262-1700www.moontwp.comChar-West Council of Govts.1 Veterans Way, Ste. 202Carnegie, PA 15106(412) 279-3333Community ConnectionsMUNICIPALITIESPUBLIC & PRIVATESCHOOLS K-12Montessori School1627 Brodhead RoadMoon Township, PA 15108(724) 457-5437Moon Area School District8353 University BoulevardMoon Township, PA 15108(412) 264-9440www.masd.k12.pa.usOur Lady of theSacred Heart High School1504 Woodcrest AvenueCoraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-5140www.olsh.orgParkway West Career &Technology Center7101 Steubenville PikeOakdale, PA 15071(412) 923-1772www.parkwaywest.orgRhema Christian School1301 Coraopolis Heights RoadMoon Township, PA 15108(412) 269-9555www.rhemachristianschool.orgThis list includes only those public and private schoolslocated within the municipalities served by the MoonEdition of Allegheny West MagazineEMERGENCIES:Dial 911CHURCHESChurch of Christ-Coraopolis1644 State Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-4185http://www.coraopolischurchofchrist.comCoraopolis Church of the Nazarene386 Shafer Road, Moon Township, PA 15108(412) 264-4582Coraopolis UM Church1205 Ridge Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-3727www.coraopolisumc.orgCovenant Family ChurchMeets at Springhill Suites(412) 263-7147, www.covfamchurch.orgFaith Journey Alliance Church1705 Beaver Grade Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-7125, www.faithjourneyac.orgFirst Assembly of God1321 State Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-8665www.comeandseeag.comFirst Baptist Church of Coraopolis1443 Coraopolis Hts. Road,Moon Twp., PA 15108, (412) 264-2520www.firstbaptistmoon.orgGrace Lutheran Church1798 Brodhead Road, Crescent, PA 15046(724) 457-7470Impact Christian Church (formerlyWest Hills Christian Church)965 Thorn Run Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-9392www.westhillscc.orgJehovah’s Witness Assembly Hall1630 Spring Run Road Ext.,Moon Twp., PA 15108, (724) 457-9460Living Water FellowshipMeet at Bon Meade Elementary School, 1595Brodhead Road, Moon Township, PA 15108(724) 513-8805, www.lwf-church.orgMooncrest Baptist Church100 Duffy Drive, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 269-1472http://www.mooncrestbaptistchurch.com/Mount Olive Baptist Church1413 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-3125Praise Center Ministries120 Mooncrest Drive, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 299-9484Presbyterian Church of Coraopolis1201 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-0470www.coraopolispresbyterian.comRiverdale Presbyterian Church1555 Brodhead Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(724) 457-0207www.riverdalechurch.orgSharon Community Church522 Carnot Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-7400www.sharoncommunitychurch.orgSt. Andrew Lutheran Church987 Beaver Grade Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-4551www.standrewmoontwp.comSt. Catherine of Sienna Church199 McGovern Blvd., Crescent, PA 15046(724) 457-7026, www.scatparish.comSt. Joseph Roman Catholic Church1304 Fourth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-6162http://www.saintjosephparish.net/St. Margaret Mary ChurchOne Parish Place, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-2573http://st.margaretmary.org/St. Philip Episcopal Church1629 Beaver Grade Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-0169www.stphilipsonline.orgVance Avenue Community Church1101 Vance Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 262-1030www.vanceaveccog.comWest Hills Baptist Church259 Shafer Road, Moon Twp., PA 15108(412) 264-4061www.westhillsbaptist.comZion Evangelical Lutheran Church1305 State Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108(412) 264-6420COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER, SOCIAL, YOUTH & CIVIC GROUPSAmerican Legion Post 924 Coraopolis, (724) 457-9709Boy Scouts, Grtr. Pgh. Council-Frontier, (412) 325-7995Choices Pregnancy Care Center, (724) 457-1220Coraopolis Sportsmen’s Association, (412) 264-9920Coraopolis/Moon Lions Club, (724) 457-1612Crescent Civic Club, (724) 457-8100Crescent Senior Citizens, (724) 457-8100Elks BPO #1090, (412) 264-0846Girl Scouts, WPA, (724) 774-3553Hollow Oak Land Trust, (412) 264-5354Kiwanis Club of Coraopolis, (412) 264-8862MCA-TV Community Access Television, (412) 269-1191Montour Run Watershed Association,(888) 205-5778Montour Trail Council, (412) 257-3011Moon Aqua Club, www.moonaquaclub.orgMoon Area Support Organization, (412) 264-9334Moon Garden Club, (412) 262-3484Moon Gymnastics, (724) 457-6618Moon Rotary, (412) 264-8252Moon Senior Citizens, (412) 262-1703Moon Softball, (412) 264-0992Moon Twp. Little League Baseball, (412) 299-6564Mooncrest Neighborhood Assn., (412) 264-2890Moose Club, Lodge 696, (412) 269-7673Neville’s Arc Food Pantry, (412) 427-8564Our Lady’s Food Pantry OLSH, (412) 264-5140Parkway West Rotary, (412) 287-9273Pgh. Airport Area Chamber of Commerce,(412) 264-6270Ruffed Grouse Society, Inc., (412) 262-4044VFW Coraopolis Post 402, (412) 264-3335West Hills Area Women’s Club, (724) 775-0097West Hills Food Pantry, (412) 262-4930West Hills Meals on Wheels, (412) 262-5973Women in Christian Ministries, (412) 262-327638 Allegheny West Magazine July 2011

Jennette Communications Group15 Walnut Street, Suite 101Imperial, PA 15126-1226PRSRT STDU.S. PostagePAIDIMPERIAL, PA15126PERMIT NO. 83Now in Our 12th YearPublishing in the Airport Area