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By Jill Brown

Who else but the Monessen Tobacco Free Coalition could hold an annual Walk in the Park for fun and health? On Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., they held the event at Monessen City Park, having done so for 20 years now.

Vickie Oles, secretary and tobacco cessation coach, is pictured with Penn State Ext. Maurice Rice, chairperson with Monessen Tobacco Free Coalition; Carrie Callahan rep. for Mt. Calvary Baptist Church; and Roxanne Weekley, Private Industry Council. Are all members of the Coalition.

"Each year at this walk, the Monessen Tobacco Free Coalition provides 'How to Quit' information to those who use tobacco and want to quit. Doing anything to become busy instead of picking up a cigarette is a key to a successful quit," said Vicki Oles, Tobacco Prevention Coordinator.

The first 100 walkers received free t-shirts. There were drawings for two bikes, later won by Kinsey Wilson and Ronald Godla, door prizes, jump rope and hula hoop contests, and crafts, such as a home-made afghan for raffle at Denise Ford's booth.

A health booth featured blood pressure tests given by Donna Hatalowich, RN from Mon Valley Hospital, and free health item giveaways.

Tasty food, including hamburgers, hot dogs, kielbasa, and soda, was at the Wayman–Quinn Church booth, Monessen. Serving them was Warren Wheeler and daughter Cara Wheeler.

The Belle Vernon Reality Tour had a booth with Lesley Kubasiak, volunteer, and Celeste Trilli Palamara, director. Their job is to "educate kids and parents early enough about drugs so they won't make the decision to use them," said Kubasiak.

All in all, the event was enjoyable, educational and a great day to be outdoors in the sun, exercising and walking in the park!

Celeste Trilli Palamara, director, and Lesley Kubasiak, volunteer, raise awareness about drugs.

Free info about receiving help with quitting and patches from the Dept. of Health is available from Penn State Cessation Program at 724-837-1402.

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