EHPAC launches plan for healthy community

By TOM STANKARD

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Ironwood - The newly formed Eating Healthy and Physical Activity Coalition announced its plan Wednesday to encourage healthy living throughout the area.

For the past year, Andrea Newby, from the Iron County Human Services Department; Amy Nosal, from the University of Wisconsin Extension office; Megan Martell, from the Michigan State University Extension office; and Jackie Powers, a local health advocate, have been meeting to establish the core of the coalition.

Together, their mission is to promote physical activity and healthy eating across the lifespan and the Gogebic Range.

Mary Bennett, from the Roadmaps to Health Action Center in Madison, Wis., said Iron and Gogebic counties have a high incidence of obesity, inactivity and other health risks, such as child poverty.

Concerned about chid obesity in the area, Newby said the community should support daily physical education in schools, improve access to outdoor recreational facilities and eliminate children's access to sugary drinks.

Bennett said social and economic factors - employment, education and income - have the biggest influence on a person's lifestyle.

She said good schools are critical for a healthier community. Bennett said those who received a high school diploma typically are healthier because they usually have a better education, tend to be more employable and usually make more money.

Bennett said the community can work together to make a positive change in the area.

"All of us have a stake in the health of of our community," she said.

Paul Kostelnik, of the Miner's Memorial Heritage Park, said awareness of community events, like group walks and marathons, is important to support a healthier community.

For more information about EHPAC, visit their Facebook page, or contact Nosal at the UW Extension office at 715-561-2695.