The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
The City of Flin Flon and the NOR-MAN Regional Health Authority paired up to provide a range of information for young families. Geared at those with children seven years and younger, as well as expectant parents, the Family Wellness Jamboree was a diverse showing of local organizations last Wednesday, May 12. "The idea was to invite organizations and services from the community that have resources that provide young parents with information relative to the care and well-being of their children," said City of Flin Flon Recreation Director Brenda Russell. Available to the estimated 200 people who passed through the doors at the Whitney Forum was information on being active and keeping healthy. Parents were able to get information on things like swimming lessons at the Aqua Centre, tips on healthy eating from dietitian JoAnne Ledoux, and programs in the community like Read to Me and Aboriginal Head Start. "The exhibitors were set up with the purpose to be a fun and educational component in a safe and professional environment," said Russell. As a member who also sits on the health authority board, Russell says it was a good day. "I was very happy with the response and the support of the community. As a committee, we were happy with the outcome," she said. As the parents gathered information, the children were encouraged to play on a number of items at the jamboree. MPI brought Car Town into the City, a course for children to ride motorized cars and learn some safety tips. Keeping on the track of safety, the Flin Flon Fire Department was on hand to show children their fire truck and answer any questions. Also, children spent time on the bouncy slide Ð a hit at many functions. There was also a chance for the children to colour, read, play quiet games and even play with a parachute. "People (not only) enjoyed the information, but the social (aspect) for their kids," said Russell. This was the first year for the Family Wellness Jamboree and Russell says the committee will be discussing the event to see if it will be hosted again. "It was very positive in a sense that is an idea to pursue again," she said, noting that they received a positive response from those who attended. But nothing has been decided yet.
