Candy exchange for Halloween
Cole's pediatricians launch healthy eating program

Charles Cole Memorial Hospital's pediatrics practitioners have launched a unique project to promote healthy eating practices. They've planned a Halloween Candy Exchange for their patients.

Dr. Marlene Wust-Smith came up with the plan.

"Children can still enjoy the fun of trick-or-treat night," she pointed out. "It provides an opportunity for parents and kids to discuss eating habits and perhaps pick out their favorite snacks. Then they can bring the rest of the candy to our office and exchange it for a gift and a chance to win an awesome prize basket."

Each child will be asked to complete a pledge to stay healthy and will be entered into a drawing for prize baskets filled with toys and games that encourage physical activity, as well as healthy snack choices.

Candy can be turned in at the Coudersport and Port Allegany pediatrics offices from Oct. 29 through Nov. 9. The candy will be turned over to the Port Allegany Senior Citizens Center to forward to American military troops deployed abroad.

The Candy Exchange is sponsored by Drs. Mary Ann Rigas and Wust-Smith, Physician Assistants Victor Jackson and Terri Joyce, and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Becky Seefeldt. They're associated with Cole Hospital's pediatrics offices in Coudersport and Port Allegany.

Additional information is available at 274-9198 or 642- 7205.