News

SIMCOE, ON, MARCH 31, 2010 – A section of Main Street will be closed off in Port Dover on Sunday, April 11, to allow pedestrians to celebrate World Health Day.

From 2 to 4 p.m., residents and visitors will be able to walk, run, bike, stroll and skateboard on a car-free section of Main Street between Clifford and Clinton streets. In addition, Powell Park will have live music by local band Crooked Giraffe and a Zumba demonstration. Human hamster ball races and children’s activities are also being planned. All these events are free.

The street party is being sponsored by the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit and Norfolk Pathways for People as their contribution to World Health Day, an annual event promoted by the World Health Organization. This year’s theme is 1,000 Cities, 1,000 Lives – Urban health matters. Cities around the world are registering for events that will open up streets for pedestrians during the week of April 7 to 11.

“Communities around the world are putting people first and so is Port Dover,” said Michele Crowley, Physical Activity Promoter for the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit. “The event truly will be the first of its kind in the area. We are trying to raise awareness about the importance of using active forms of transportation and its impact on the health of people and the environment.”

A five-kilometre run/walk, called the Global Human Race, is being organized by Scot Brockbank, owner of the Port Dover Runner’s Den. There is a $10 registration fee and proceeds will be donated to the United Way of Haldimand and Norfolk.

“Anyone who knows me knows I jump at the chance to further the exposure of health and vitality in Norfolk County,” said Brockbank. “Port Dover is the perfect location for this event. It’s a fast-growing, active community and you would be hard pressed to go a day without seeing someone fitness-walking, running or cycling.”

Brockbank noted that “wholesome exercise in the free air, under the wide sky, is the best medicine for body and spirit. I am proud to be a part of the Global Human Race and doing my part in promoting healthy, active living.” To register, contact Brockbank at 519-583-3100.

The following road closures will take place from 1 to 5 p.m., to allow for set-up and take-down as well asthe festivities themselves:

·Main Street (Hwy 6) from Clifford Street to Clinton Street.
·Market Street East from Main Street to St. Andrew Street.
·Park Street from Main Street to St. Andrew Street.
·Chapman Street West from Main Street to St. George Street.

Crowley said organizers are hoping the novelty of the day will draw people out of their homes and their cars and inspire a sense of community.

“Hopefully, people will make a habit of leaving the car at home more often. Local businesses are encouraged to join in the celebrations. Research shows that people in cars don’t spend money, but people walking do.”

For more information about World Health Day in Port Dover, Crowley may be contacted at the Health Unit at 519-426-6170 Ext. 3239.

The Health Unit is also sponsoring celebrations in Caledonia on April 11.

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Media Contact:
Michele Crowley
Physical Activity Promoter
Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit
Ext. 3239 at either 519-426-6170 or 905-318-6623