Health Fair in Holley for community

Because the school is the hub of the community, School Nurse Julie Kirby figured it would be the best place to host a Community Health Fair. "Healthy habits are important not only for the children in the schools but to their parents, grandparents and the whole community," she said.

Kirby, who was recognized by the Holley Board of Education and presented the Soaring to New Heights Award on May 1, said the district has been very proactive in addressing health concerns with the students in many ways, from offering healthier lunch alternatives to sponsoring a Walk at Lunch Day event. "We need to get people talking about health issues and steps they can take to change their lifestyles to embrace a healthier way of living," she said. "So many chronic conditions could be prevented or mitigated with healthy living."

She feels a responsibility for not only keeping Holley students healthy but has taken on the task of raising the level of awareness of health issues throughout the community. On May 23 and 24, Kirby is heading up a Health Fair for kindergarten through senior high students during the day, then on May 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Holley Middle School/High School there will be a health fair that will be open to the community. "I don't think people realize all that this community has to offer in the way of healthy living alternatives," she said.

At the Community Health Fair there will be health-age assessments offered; Holley Karate demonstrations; samples of healthy snacks that have been donated by Wegmans; information from the Orleans County Health Department; dental health tips and other health-related opportunities.

May 20, 2007