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From firetrucks to fruit snacks, summer starts at East Lake
Sunshine, story walks, and hands-on activities brought families to East Lake Park for the annual Stride into Summer event
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT — Children sprinted through obstacle courses, clambered into fire trucks, and pedaled away with new bike helmets on Sunday, June 1, as East Lake Park came alive with the energy of families gathering for the annual Stride Into Summer Family Walk.
Hosted by Henry County Public Health and Healthy Henry County Communities, the event offered more than just a pleasant stroll around the lake. Families stopped at over 20 booths set up by local organizations offering games, giveaways, and vital health and safety information. The afternoon combined movement, education, and community engagement to give summer a meaningful start.
At the beginning of the trail, Henry County EMS Director Heather Kleemeyer welcomed families with free sunscreen and seasonal giveaways. Henry County Public Health provided information on sun and water safety, reminding attendees to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, apply it 20 minutes before exposure, and reapply every two hours. Families were also encouraged to seek shade during midday hours and wear hats and sunglasses for extra protection.
Children raced through an obstacle course organized by The Family Connection’s Zuly Jimenez and Emmy Rodriguez. At another popular stop, Mt. Pleasant Fire Department cadets Aiden Blint and Jared Dorothy, along with firefighter Tyson Kreiss, helped kids climb aboard the department’s ladder truck and try on gear.
Parents had the opportunity to speak with Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician April Riley of Henry County Public Health about how to properly install and use car seats.
According to the Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau, three out of four car seats are used incorrectly. Iowa law requires children under 6 to be secured in a child safety or booster seat appropriate for their age and size, and infants under 1 year and under 20 pounds must ride in a rear-facing seat. Families can schedule a free safety check by calling 319-385-0779.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office distributed more than 150 helmets and completed over 100 Child ID kits. Nearby, a representative from Lee County Conservation reminded families that life jackets are essential for children kayaking or near open water.
The event also highlighted healthy living. Chris Kempker, tobacco prevention coordinator for Henry County ISU Extension and Outreach, led a game about making healthy food choices. Martha Hernandez-Lopez, a registered dental hygienist with Washington County Public Health, shared tips on oral hygiene, and Tessa Schroeder from Lee County Public Health provided early childhood development resources.
Children were invited to follow a story walk hosted by the Mt. Pleasant, New London, and Winfield libraries, while local agencies such as WIC, ADDS, Iowa State Patrol, the Iowa DNR, Elevate, and DVIP staffed booths with additional information and fun activities.
Funding from the Enhance Henry County Community Foundation and donations from Hy-Vee, Walmart, and the Walmart Distribution Center made the event possible. Walmart Distribution Center also donated bikes and other prizes for giveaways.
As families wrapped up their walk, many left with sunscreen on their skin, safety gear in hand, and new knowledge to carry into the warmer months. Henry County Public Health reminds residents to stay hydrated, use insect repellent when outdoors, avoid the heat of midday, and never leave children in parked vehicles — even for a moment.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
