News Archives - 2005
Significant health related issues and events that appear in newspapers and other media.

December

Boil Water Advisory Lifted for the Town of Walkerton
Release Date: December 30, 2005
Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hazel Lynn, has lifted the Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Walkerton (Municipality of Brockton) as of Friday December 30, 2005 at 4:00 p.m.

Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI) Announces Environmental Public Health Week 2006
Release Date: December 29, 2005
The Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors is pleased to announce the celebration of Environmental Public Health Week 2006 in Canada the week of January 2-8.

Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Walkerton
Release Date: December 23, 2005
Walkerton- Be advised that as of 8:15 a.m. December 23, 2005 the Grey Bruce Health Unit issued a Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Walkerton (Municipality of Brockton). The advisory is in response to a major water main break resulting in low or no water pressure in the treated water distribution system. The Grey Bruce Health Unit cannot guarantee the water system is safe and secure.

Wiarton Winner for Pedometer Lending Library Project
Release Date: December 16, 2005
Lorrie Miller of Wiarton, is the winner of a new SW 200 Digi-Walker pedometer in a Grey Bruce Health Unit sponsored draw held December 16, 2005. She borrowed a pedometer package from the Wiarton Branch Library, which is part of the Bruce County Public Library system, and entered the draw for a free pedometer. 

Dr. Shiv Grewal Appointed Associate Medical Officer of Health
Release Date: December 13, 2005
Dr. Hazel Lynn, Medical Officer of Health is pleased to announce provincial confirmation of the appointment of Dr. Shiv Grewal, BSc, MD, CCFP, MPH as Associate Medical Officer of Health for the Grey Bruce Health Unit effective immediately. 

Boil Water Advisory Lifted for the town of Markdale
Release Date: December 5, 2005
Markdale- Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hazel Lynn has lifted the boil water advisory for the Town of Markdale as of Monday December 5, 2005 at 12:30 pm. The results of two consecutive audit samples by the Public Health Unit showed that the water is safe for drinking  

Numbers Double at Community Flu Clinics
Release Date: December 2, 2005
Community flu immunization clinics held by the Grey Bruce Health Unit vaccinated 3,800 people this year. That compares to 1,897 who attended clinics in 2004. It is not too late to receive your flu shot. They are available through doctors’ offices, local pharmacies, and Grey Bruce Health Unit clinics.

November

Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Markdale
Release Date: November 30, 2005
Please be advised that as of 12:00 p.m. today the Grey Bruce Health Unit issued a Boil Water Advisory for the Town of Markdale (Municipality of Grey Highlands). The advisory is in response to a laboratory confirmed sample showing the presence of both E.coli and Total Coliform bacteria in the treated water system.

Mung Bean Sprout Alert
Release Date: November 25, 2005
In response to a recent province-wide advisory concerning Salmonella illnesses associated with the consumption of bean sprouts (also known as mung beans), the Grey Bruce Health Unit has initiated inspections of specific area food premises to ensure the affected bean products are not served / sold locally. If in doubt, throw them out.

Media Advisory Drug Workshop Nov 24 2005
Release Date: November 24, 2005
An up-coming workshop answers the question what is really happening with drug use in our community.

Eat and Learn Gets $106,500 in Provincial Funding (Updated)
Release Date: November 22, 2005
(Subs Previous- adds photo attachment) Breakfast programs feeding over three thousand students in 53 schools across Grey and Bruce received funding with a cheque presentation Monday Nov 21.

Eat and Learn Gets $106,500 in Provincial Funding
Release Date: November 21, 2005
Grey Bruce Eat and Learn program received funding, a cheque for $106,500 presented today, November 21, from the Ministry of Children and Youth Services.

Photo Op: $106,500 Grant to Grey-Bruce Eat and Learn
Release Date: November 16, 2005
In support of the Grey Bruce Eat and Learn program, M.P.P Bill Murdoch will be presenting a cheque for $106,500 during a representative breakfast on Monday November 21 at Wiarton Public School.

Breakfast: Pregnancy and Reproductive Health in the Workplace
Release Date: November 9, 2005
The Grey Bruce Health Unit invites representatives from local workplaces to the Healthy Workplace Executive Breakfast Series The Impact of Work on Pregnancy and the Reproductive Health of the Worker: Protecting Our Future.

Poultry Workers Urged to get Flu Vaccination
Release Date: November 3, 2005
Public Health recommends a flu shot for everyone working in the poultry industry. Vaccination is especially important for those working in direct contact with avian influenza-infected birds during culling operations.

Media Advisory/Photo Op - Avoiding Workplace Falls/Injuries Workshop
Release Date: November 2, 2005
A workshop on "Avoiding Workplace Falls and Injuries" will be held on November 18, 2005 at the Royal Legion in Durham.

Boil Water Advisory Lifted for the town of Teeswater
Release Date: November 1, 2005
MOH, Dr. Hazel Lynn has lifted the boil water advisory for the Town of Teeswater as of Monday October 31, 2005 at 4 pm. Two consecutive samples by the Public Health Unit showed that the water is now safe for drinking. 

October

More Deadly Than SARS
Release Date: October 31, 2005
Flu can be more deadly than SARS. Flu affects more Canadians than did SARS and in comparison is more deadly.

Injuries cost 14.7 billion dollars annually; can you afford it?
Release Date: October 28, 2005
Dr. Robert Conn the head of SMARTRISK Canada’s national injury prevention program is keynote speaker at an upcoming workshop Stay on Your Feet ~ Avoiding Workplace Falls/Injury ~ Safety for You and Your Client.  The workshop is designed for health care workers, volunteers and health and safety committees.

Report released on new Sexual Assault Service for Grey and Bruce
Release Date: October 27, 2005
The Bruce Grey Sexual Assault Program Planning Committee released its report and recommendations for the reestablishment of sexual assault services in Grey and Bruce.

Clarification of Boil Water Advisory and Orders
Release Date: October 25, 2005
Media reports of boil water notices improperly attributed to the Grey Bruce Health Unit prompts the Health Unit to clarify its role in monitoring and assessing local water systems.

Flu Protection With Flu Shot Clinics
Release Date: October 21, 2005
Public Health drop-in community flu clinics begin October 24. All clinics run from 4-8 pm and no appointments are necessary. It is suggested you wear a short sleeve shirt to the clinic. For more information.

Boil Water Advisory for the Village of Teeswater
Release Date: October 20, 2005
The Grey Bruce Health Unit issued a Boil Water Advisory for the Village of Teeswater (Township of South Bruce). The advisory is in response to high bacteria levels measured in the treated water distribution system.

Three year olds get ready and get set to learn
Release Date: October 19, 2005
Kindergarten registration for Grey and Bruce Counties is now underway for all children born in 2002. Parents and guardians should call their local school to book an appointment.

Nursing Students Learn About Public Health Opportunities
Release Date: October 18, 2005
On October 19, 2005, students from Georgian College’s new Nursing program will visit and tour the Grey Bruce Health Unit. Then attend an information session to look at Public Health and the role of a Public Health Nurse

Board of Health Appointment
Release Date: October 14, 2005
The Grey Bruce Health unit is seeking candidates from Grey and Bruce to fill an upcoming vacancy as the provincial representative on the Board of Health. Interested individuals must apply through the Ontario Government’s Public Appointments Secretariat (PAS) web site.

Media Advisory - 4th Annual Falls Prevention Tea in Port Elgin
Release Date: October 13, 2005
The Community Coalition for the Prevention of Falls in Older Adults is holding their fourth annual Stay on Your Feet Tea. Please join us from 2:00 - 4:00 PM, Thursday October 20, 2005 at the Port Elgin United Church, 840 Bruce Street, Port Elgin.

Drew Ferguson Press Release
Release Date: October 7, 2005
The Grey Bruce Health Unit is pleased to announce that Mr. Drew Ferguson is now working with us as Public/Media Relations Coordinator. 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2005
Release Date: October 6, 2005
October is breast cancer awareness month ...being 'aware' is not enough.

September

GVBA Press Release - Sept 28, 2005
Release Date: September 28, 2005
The Grey Bruce Veterinary Association, Public Health and Merial Canada are proud to announce Rabies Awareness Month. We aim to reduce the incidence of rabies in our community by raising awareness of this lethal disease and encouraging pet owners to visit their veterinarians.

August

Car Seat Safety Check-up Coming to Meaford
Release Date: August 31, 2005
A car seat safety check-up will be held at Brad’s Automotive (Hwy 26, east of Meaford) on September 10, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Second Positive Bird for West Nile Virus Found in Grey Bruce
Release Date: August 26, 2005
A blue jay from the Township of West Grey has tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). This indicates that we do have increased WNV activity in the area.

Lake Eugenia (Town Beach) Posted as Unsafe for Bathing - Aug 26, 2005
Release Date: August 26, 2005
Lake Eugenia (Town Beach) Posted as Unsafe for Bathing and will remain posted, until two consecutive samples indicate that the water is safe for bathing.

Positive Bird for West Nile Virus Found in Grey Bruce
Release Date: August 18
A West Nile virus (WNV) positive crow has been identified in Owen Sound. This is the first WNV positive bird this year in Grey Bruce, indicating that we do have increased West Nile virus activity in the area.

New Ontario Booster Seat Law Announced
Release Date: August 16
New Ontario Booster Sea Law Announced on children weighing 18 kg to 36 kg (40 - 80 lb. or with a standing height of less than 145 cm (4 ft. 9 in.), maximum age of 8 years old.

Second Human Probable Positive for West Nile Virus in Grey Bruce
Release Date: August 15, 2005
The public health unit has received lab results indicating a second probable human case
of West Nile Virus. The person is vacationing in the Inverhuron area but was recently living in a region of California that is reporting multiple positive cases.

Mosquito Samples Return Negative Results
Release Date: August 5, 2005
Lab tests on mosquito samples taken from Chesley, Owen Sound, and Oxenden in response to a Human case of West Nile Virus have found no trace of the potentially dangerous virus.

Lurgan Beach now safe for bathing, Aug 3, 2005
Release Date: August 3, 2005
Lurgan Beach is now deemed safe for bathing.

Not To Kids Cinema Ads - August 3, 2005
Release Date: August 3, 2005
The Not to Kids coalition helps children to stay smoke free and will provide anti-smoking messages in local theatres in the coming weeks.

July

First Human Probable Positive for West Nile Virus in Ontario This Year
Release Date: July 29, 2005
Initial tests indicate that a resident of Owen Sound has contacted West Nile Virus. This is the first probable human case identified in Ontario this year.

Lurgan Beach, July 27, 2005 - Unsafe for Bathing
Release Date: July 27, 2005
Lurgan Beach has been tested and has been posted as unsafe for bathing, and will remain posted, until two consecutive samples indicate that the water is safe for bathing.

McGowan Falls (Durham Conservation Area) Posted as Unsafe for Bathing
Release Date: July 13, 2005
Water sampling revealed that McGowan Falls had two consecutive samples that exceeded Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care standards for acceptable bacterial levels. As a result this area will be posted, and remain posted, until two consecutive samples indicate that the water is safe for bathing.

Middle Dam (Durham Conservation Area) Posted as Unsafe for Bathing
Release Date: July 11, 2005
Water sampling revealed that Middle Dam had two consecutive samples that exceeded Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care standards for acceptable bacterial levels. As a result this area will be posted, and remain posted, until two consecutive samples indicate that the water is safe for bathing.

June

Who Says You Can’t Beat City Hall?
Release Date: June 23, 2005
You can beat City Hall. The staff of Jolley’s Alternative Wheels proved this by outwalking and outbiking Owen Sound City Hall staff during the week of Monday, June 3rd to June 12th, 2005. The 3rd Annual Bike Walk to Work Challenge, launched on May 16, runs until June 24.

Winners of Turn Off the Screens Challenge
Release Date: June 20, 2005
Winners have been announced in the annual Turn Off the Screens challenge. This annual campaign helps raise awareness of the amount of time kids spend in front of the television and computer screens.

Public Health steps up fight against tobacco
Release Date: June 13, 2005
Tobacco use is the number one cause of premature disease and death in Ontario. Health Units across Ontario have received basic funding to support tobacco enforcement and education initiatives.

Car Seat Safety Check-up Coming To Bruce Power Visitor’s Centre
Release Date: June 7, 2005
A car seat safety check-up will be held at The Bruce Power Visitor Centre (Sideroad 4 - off Highway 21) on June 18, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Winners Announced in Turn Off the Screens Week Challenge
Release Date: June 3, 2005
Participation in the third annual Turn Off the Screens Week challenge increased in both the number of schools participating and the number of students taking part. This year, 36 schools in Grey Bruce took part in this annual campaign. Student involvement was up, with 2, 897 participation logs, which is an increase of 446 logs over 2004.

May

2005 West Nile Virus Mosquito Trapping
Release Date: May 31, 2005
During the summer of 2004, four birds submitted for testing from Grey-Bruce were positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). Since mosquitoes feed on birds it is possible that now mosquitoes in this area have the virus. Public Health will be trapping mosquitoes to test for WNV from June 6 until September 16, 2005.

Trackfest Media Advisory, May 27, 2005
Release Date: May 27, 2005
2005 Track Fest. This meet is for all children of Grey and Bruce Counties in grades three to eight. They compete against a “standard” for each sport, not against each other. 

Bike/Walk - May 24 Winners
Release Date: May 26, 2005
The staff of Jolley’s Alternative Wheels are out to prove that "Size isn’t every thing" by issuing a Challenge to City Hall during the week of Monday, May 30th to June 3rd. They believe that they can out-walk or out-bike the staff of City Hall for one week. With only eight employees, this definitely makes the staff of the bike shop 'David' to the 'City’s Goliath'. 

iDrive Road Safety Program Launches Locally
Release Date: May 25, 2005
The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario created a new video called iDrive, which helps young drivers to recognize factors that contribute to unsafe driving and to develop strategies to avoid them. You are invited to see the launch of this program...

Third Rabid Skunk in Dundalk
Release Date: May 19, 2005
Today, a skunk was confirmed rabid in the village of Dundalk. This is the third rabid skunk in the Dundalk area this month.

A Risky Mix: Medications, Alcohol and Other Drugs
Release Date: May 11, 2005
Tuesday, May 24, 2005 - A workshop is offered for frontline health care workers on the topic “Heightening Our Sensitivity and Awareness: Understanding Older Adults’ Substance Use and Misuse”.

Rabid Skunk in Dundalk
Release Date: May 10, 2005
There have been several skunks seen in the village of Dundalk. One skunk is confirmed rabid and test results on a second skunk are pending. For your safety, please remember the following...

Bike/Walk to Work Challenge Celebrates 3rd Year
Release Date: May 9, 2005
5 p.m., Monday, May 16, 2005 - Join Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hazel Lynn, Owen Sound Mayor Ruth Lovell, City of Owen Sound councillors, organizers and participants for a celebration to kick off the 3rd annual Bike Walk to Work Challenge.

Keeping Tobacco Products Out of Sight
Release Date: May 6, 2005
Dear Editor, I am writing with regard to Bill 164 – Smoke-Free Ontario Act – currently before the Ontario Legislature. I have a concern, however, that the Act may allow the tobacco industry to continue advertising through retail displays known as “power walls”. Power walls are large displays of cigarettes, placed at eye level behind the counter at convenience stores and other retail establishments. If you agree that tobacco products should be out of sight, it’s not too late to write to Premier McGuinty or the Honourable George Smitherman, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, to ask for the complete retail ban of tobacco displays in Bill 164.

Growing Older Bolder - Media Advisory - Kincardine
Release Date: May 5, 2005
With an aging population and concern over health care costs, keeping older adults well-informed and healthy is a hot topic. Local agencies and volunteers have come together to offer two exciting days of activities promoting safety for seniors for Kincardine and area residents in a novel and effective way.

Lake Huron Mineral Oil Spill Cleared
Release Date: May 4, 2005
Medical Officer of Health Hazel Lynn is pleased to advise that the mineral oil spill into Lake Huron (April 15) is now cleared. Recreational use of power boats and other water activities will no longer expose people to risk from the mineral oil and may be resumed.

Car Seat Safety Checkup Coming to Flesherton
Release Date: May 4, 2005
A car seat safety checkup will be held at Bernard’s Quality Cars and Service (Hwy 10, West of Flesherton) on May 14, 2005 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Free tether bolt installations will be available.

Response to Dead or Sick Birds
Release Date: May 4, 2005
Beginning Monday, May 9, 2005, the Public Health Unit is collecting dead crows, blue jays and ravens, as well as dead squirrels/small mammals, for the purpose of West Nile Virus (WNV) surveillance.

April

The Bike/Walk to Work Challenge Expanded to Saugeen Shores, Dignitaries to Help Launch New Location
Release Date: April 25, 2005
The newest location in the growing Bike/Walk Challenge is being launched. Dignitaries are invited. Food and refreshments will be served. 10 a.m., Friday, April 29, 2005. To qualify for prizes, participants are encouraged to walk or bike to work or school, at least one way.

Vaccine Information on the Internet - Can You Trust What You Read?
Release Date: April 20, 2005
Immunization has saved more lives in Canada in the past 50 years than any other health intervention. It is the single most cost-effective health investment, and it truly is a cornerstone of efforts to promote and protect health. Many people use the Internet for vaccination information. Coburn cautions that some websites display misleading information. “They are designed to look scientific but may not have scientifically valid information.”

Possible Human Health Effects from Oil Spill on Lake Huron
Release Date: April 19, 2005
The Medical Officer of Health advises that people refrain from boating and recreational activities in Lake Huron, in the oil sheen along the shoreline between MacGregor Point and Kincardine.

Growing Older Bolder… steps for aging with confidence and control
Release Date: April 15, 2005
Two days of activities have been organized in Kincardine, for adults 50 years and older and for those who care for older relatives. The “GROWING OLDER BOLDER …steps for aging with confidence” events are coordinated by the Falls Prevention Program of the Public Health Unit, and sponsored by Bruce Power. 

Growing Older Bolder… steps for aging with confidence and control
Release Date: April 13, 2005
KINCARDINE: Two days of activities have been organized for adults 50 years and older and for those who care for older relatives. Ten local agencies worked together to offer a variety of interactive exhibits and informative workshops.  

Free Public Forum on Active Transportation
Release Date: April 9, 2005
With the trend towards higher and higher gasoline prices, there couldn’t be a better time to hold a forum on alternative transportation. So dust off that bicycle and pull out those running shoes.

Boil Water Advisory Lifted for the Village of Dundalk
Release Date: April 8, 2005
DUNDALK - Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hazel Lynn has lifted the boil water advisory for the Village of Dundalk, as of Friday, April 8, 2005. The results of two consecutive audit samples by the Public Health Unit showed that the water is safe for drinking.

Active Transportation: Creating a plan to increase walking, biking, wheeling
Release Date: April 5, 2005
Media Advisory / Photo Opportunity: Free public forum on Active Transportation at Council Chambers, City Hall, Tuesday, April 12, 2005, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Find out how community design and active transportation affect our health and our environment.

Winner Announced in Library Pedometer Draw
Release Date: April 4, 2005
SOUTHAMPTON – Jean Field of Southampton is the first winner in the Pedometers in the Library program draw.  

Meningitis C Vaccine Campaign for Teens Launched
Release Date: April 1, 2005
A campaign is being launched this month to offer free meningitis C vaccine to Grey-Bruce youth between the ages of 15 and 19 and Grade 7 students.

March

Injury rate of Grey-Bruce residents improving but still higher than provincial average
Release Date: March 31, 2005
Injury rates have come down almost 10% over the past 5 years, but we need to recognize the impact injuries are still having on our community. Many factors come into play on our roads and in our homes - we have to remember that we have some control over these situations. 

Turn off the Screens Events – April 18 to 22
Release Date: March 30, 2005
The third annual Turn off the Screens Challenge takes place from April 18 to 22 in Grey-Bruce. Students, along with their families, are encouraged to participate in alternative activities and just say ‘No’ to screen time. 

Boil Water Advisory for the Village of Dundalk
Release Date: March 31, 2005
DUNDALK – Please be advised that as of 3:40 p.m. today the Grey Bruce Health Unit issued a Boil Water Advisory for the Village of Dundalk (Township of Southgate). The advisory is in response to high turbidity levels measured in the treated water system.

Is Ontario Playing Spin the Bottle with Public Health & Safety?
Release Date: March 24, 2005
Recently, local experts in alcohol issues from Grey-Bruce attended a forum in Toronto to discuss the implications of alcohol privatization. This forum was in response to the government’s formation of a panel of experts to review the sale and distribution of beverage alcohol in Ontario. 

Forty-one year smoker butts out to win Quit Smoking 2005 contest
Release Date: Mar 23, 2005
Butting out 41 years after getting hooked on smoking has earned Ron Herd of Wingham Ontario a sparkling new Ford Mustang, the grand prize in the Ontario Quit Smoking 2005 contest. Over 300 Grey Bruce residents entered the contest.

Partners in public safety respond to high injury rates in Grey-Bruce
Release Date: Mar 18, 2005
Representatives from Public Health, O.P.P, St. John’s Ambulance and the Hanover Fire Department will gather for a photo opportunity and to discuss data released in late 2004 showing that injury rates for Grey-Bruce are much higher than provincial averages.  

Public Health Unit and Hepatitis C Clinic Team Up for Information Series
Release Date: Mar 18, 2005
“I just found out that I have hepatitis C! What does this mean for me? How long have I had it? Can I give it to my family?” To help answer questions like these, the Public Health Unit and the Hepatitis C Clinic have teamed up to offer information sessions for people who have hepatitis C and for their families

Building Healthy Communities One Person At a Time!
Release Date: March 15, 2005
The 8^th annual  “Health For Life!” health fair is happening at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre in Owen Sound this Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The event aims to educate the residents of Grey and Bruce counties about their health and well-being.

Parents, Protect Your Teens! Free meningitis vaccine now available
Release Date: March 7, 2005
As of January 1, 2005, meningitis C vaccine is free to anyone born between January 1, 1985 and December 31, 1990, to students in Grade 7, and to one year olds.

February

Have you received your purple envelope yet?
Release Date: February 25, 2005
The purple envelopes are part of a campaign designed to educate parents and caregivers that smoking indoors – at home, at a relative’s house, at daycare or in a car – increases their child’s risk of getting sick.

Winners of the 11th Annual Beat Goes On Awards Announced
Release Date: February 17, 2005
The Beat Goes On Awards program judges would like to acknowledge the tremendous effort put forth by the Grey-Bruce community. As demonstrated by this impressive list of winners, our region has many students, teachers, municipalities, members of the workforce, and the general public who live, work and play in heart healthy environments.

Gastrointestinal Illness in Travellers
Release Date: February 9, 2005
The Public Health Unit received reports of severe gastrointestinal illness (diarrhea and vomiting) in local residents returning home from travelling to the Dominican Republic. This illness is not uncommon in travellers to foreign countries, where it can be acquired from eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with fecal matter.

Not To Kids - Important Campaign at the Bayshore Community Centre
Release Date: February 8, 2005
The Not To Kids campaign is in full swing at the Bayshore Community Centre with signage, pamphlets, and mini hockey stick give-aways. The message is clear- it’s not okay for youth to smoke!

Posting of Warning Signs in Licensed Establishments: Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy Can Cause Birth Defects and Brain Damage
Release Date: February 4, 2005
On February 1, 2005, Sandy’s Law, Regulation 718 from the Liquor Licence Act, came into effect in Ontario for establishments that are licensed to serve or sell alcohol. The establishments will be required to post specific warning signs about the risk of alcohol use during pregnancy.

Find Out if Your Child is Buckled In Properly
Release Date: February 1, 2005
You can make sure your little ones are buckled in correctly at the free car seat safety check on Saturday, February 12, 2005 at Hanover Chrysler Dodge Jeep, 664-10th Street, Hanover.

January

Movin’ On Challenge Answered by Schools
Release Date: January 20, 2005
In the recent Movin’ On physical activity challenge to schools, a winner was announced. Movin' On promotes physical fitness and healthy living in schools in Grey and Bruce counties. Ms. Hellyer’s Grade 6 class at Hillcrest Elementary School in Owen Sound was awarded first place. They completed the most kilometres per student in the Bluewater District School Board Movin’ On Challenge during the week of November 22-26, 2004.

Pedometers Available in Libraries
Release Date: January 17, 2005
You can now borrow a pedometer from your local library, thanks to the Public Health Unit, the libraries of Grey and Bruce counties, and Grey Bruce Partners in Health.

Wanted: Health Heroes and Champions!
Release Date: January 10, 2005
It is time for the 11^th annual “The Beat Goes On… Awards.”  These awards are given in recognition of residents, schools, towns, groups and workplaces in Grey-Bruce Counties that have taken their own health, and the health of others, to heart.

Everybody loves a quitter
Release Date: January 7, 2005
If you are tired of being left out in the cold because you smoke, then the Ontario Quit Smoking 2005 Contest offers a great incentive to help you kick the habit. How about revving up the New Year in the car of old that’s new again: a 2005 Ford Mustang? Entries must be received by midnight January 31 and smokers must remain smoke free February 1 to March 1 inclusive to qualify for the prizes.