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As spring sets in, the Mayor’s Wellness Committee has planned a number of health focussed events for Asbury Park residents.

The brainchild of Mayor John Moor, the ad hoc committee works to bring a healthier lifestyle and choices to city residents in the advancement of active living and to improve the overall health within the community.  

Launched during summer 2017, their events have included yoga in the park, community bike rides, CPR training, Healthy Corner Store & Health Screening events, and participating in American Heart Association Walk.

Committee members include Moor, Councilman Jesse Kendle, Transportation Manager Mike Manzella, Lisa Lee of EZ Ride and the Alliance for a Healthier Asbury Park, Lena Siddiqi  of the American Heart Association, Allison Cerco of Hackensack Meridian Health, Doug Eagles, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Monmouth County, Vishal Sood of Home Drug Store, and resident Wendi Glassman.

“We are going to focus on all aspects of wellness; physical, social, emotional, health, and well being,” Committee Chair Manzella has said. “That’s how we define wellness here.”

They generally meet 1 p.m. on the second Friday of each month in the City Manager’s Conference Room.

Here’s what’s on the schedule:

From 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, the free Aqua Zumba class returns. Led by certified fitness instructor Tracy Salvesen, the low impact ‘party in the pool’ interactive class will be held at the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, located at 1201 Monroe Ave. All ages and abilities are welcome to participate in this water resistance class aimed at building strength and flexibility. Bring a towel and drinking water. To register, email wellness@cityofasburypark.com.

On April 11, the Healthy Corner Store & Health Screening moves to Prime Convenience Store, located at 1221 Asbury Ave. The EZ Ride and Hackensack Meridian Health co sponsored event runs from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. and is aimed at educating both venue owners and those who rely on the corner store as a primary grocery source on choosing healthier options.

The Healthy Corner Store & Health Screening moves to Sheffield’s Market, located at 1106 Bangs Ave, on April 19. The hours are 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Aqua Zumba returns from 11 a.m. to noon on May 5 at the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, located at 1201 Monroe Ave. To register, email wellness@cityofasburypark.com.

Super Safe Summer, sponsored by the Greater Asbury Park Community Development Initiative and Shiloh Community Fellowship Ministries, returns on May 19. Launched in 2014, the health conscious fest will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and spotlights summer programs available to the city’s youth. Attendees can expect a number of family friendly games against a backdrop of music and entertainment. Food vendors and information on jobs, housing, healthcare, public safety, social services, and education are also being planned.

In recognition of National Bike Month, the team has planned an Extravaganza. Co sponsored by Second Life Bikes [on Main Street] and the award-winning Asbury Park Complete Streets Coalition, bicycle maintenance, safety and a community ride in on the bill. The event runs from 5:30 p.m to 8 p.m. on May 24.

And, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 2, a Community Wellness Screening & Fitness in the Park event, co sponsored by Hackensack Meridian Health, is being planned at Springwood Avenue Park.

Mark your calendars and visit the City’s website for more details or email wellness@cityofasburypark.com. 

[Feature photo courtesy of Doug Eagles, executive director of The Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County]

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