Healthy turnout expected at annual wellness fair

By APRIL GUILMET
Union Leader Correspondent
LONDONDERRY -- With 25 local businesses and organizations already on board, the Londonderry School District’s Wellness Fair on April 14 will truly offer something for everyone.As part of the school district’s Lower Insurance Fees Effectively (L.I.F.E.) program, the event, held in the front lobby of Londonderry High School, is aimed at educating staff members on ways to stay healthy and consequently ensuring district health insurance costs stay down, though members of the general public will be welcomed as well. Over 300 people attended last year’s fair, which was held in the front lobby of Londonderry High School. Around 70 fairgoers also donated blood as part of an American Red Cross blood drive held at the same time. Human Resources Manager Suzie Swenson said the blood drive proved extremely popular, with some donors waiting up to two hours to roll up their sleeves. 
“The word is definitely getting out,” Swenson said. “This year, visitors will see a lot of interactive booths and activities.” 
The free event, now approaching its third year, will feature healthy cooking demonstrations, several massage areas, and screenings for stress, cholesterol, sun damage and high blood pressure, among other things. 
Guests will have the chance to try out some night vision goggles, which simulate their ability to drive at night, and also serve as a warning to motorists of the consequences of drinking and driving. 
Representatives from the Local Government Center will return to this year’s fair with their Wii Fit system, which was popular with guests at last year’s fair, while newcomer Janet Rodgers of Wiki’s Kitchen will demonstrate healthy cooking techniques in the home economics room, offering tempting treats like Kashi salad and a roasted corn, black bean and mango salsa. 
Embroidery Creations of Londonderry is also providing free T-shirts for the first 100 donors at the Red Cross Blood Drive. 
This year’s Wellness Fair, open to the general public, is set for April 14, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. The blood drive is from 3 to 6 p.m. at Londonderry High School.