Hackensack Riverkeeper Celebrates Healthy Kids Day at YMCAUses kayak to introduce kids & parents to paddling opportunities, Explains fish advisories 
By Hugh M. Carola On April 3, more than 240 children and their families participated in “Healthy Kids Day” at the YMCA of Greater Bergen County in Hackensack. Good nutrition, exercise and environmental health were just some of the topics addressed by the presenters. “The day fits quite nicely with the Y’s mission to provide for people’s physical, social and spiritual development,” said Sue Kettren, YMCA associate executive director. Hackensack Riverkeeper showcased one of our brand-new, bright yellow Old Town Loon kayaks, complete with paddle and personal flotation device. Kids got a chance to suit up, sit in the boat and learn how to use the double-bladed paddle while their moms and dads found out about our Canoe/Kayak Project and guided tours. We also distributed information about fish consumption advisories – especially the ban on crabbing in waters of the Newark Bay Complex. (See “Be Re-Warned, Do Not Eat Your Neighborhood Crabs” on Page 10.) I explained that despite how they seem, all the fish in our local waters carry a toxic burden. In fact, according to the brochure, all women of childbearing age and all children should refrain from eating any fish from those waters. For over a century, the YMCA of Greater Bergen County has been a vital part of Bergen County, providing high-quality, affordable programs for children, adolescents, adults and seniors. The YMCA offers something for nearly everyone, including three summer camps, swimming, pre- and after-school childcare, a modern adult fitness center, senior fitness programs, karate and basketball. For more information, call 201-487-6600 or visit www.ymcagbc.org. Picture at right: |