Published by David Benson in The Gazzette of Middle Township

STONE HARBOR – The borough has been named the “2016 New Jersey Healthy Town” by the state’s Mayors Wellness Campaign, according to the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute.

The Mayors Wellness Campaign was begun in 2006 in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities to work with local leaders to prioritize health and wellness in communities statewide. Over the last 10 years, the campaign has grown to more than 380 municipalities – two-thirds of the state’s 565 municipalities, officials said.

Mayor Judy Davies-Dunhour has worked with the campaign since her days as a councilwoman, and as chairwoman of the beach, recreation and tourism committee, according to the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute.

“So many of our towns are marshaling their resources to improve the health of their residents – from organized community walks to yoga on the beach to healthy farmer’s markets,” said Linda Schwimmer, president and CEO of the institute.

“We know the strong leadership of our mayors can help build healthier communities and engage residents to lead healthier lives.”

According to the statement, Stone Harbor received the top award for a variety of activities, including:

Weekly walks – A weekly, low-impact walk around different locations in Stone Harbor explores various routes on the island, including the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary.

Free fitness center passes – Six free passes were given to MWC participants to help them get comfortable with gym equipment and to receive a free nutritional consultation.

Healthy restaurants – Local restaurants participated in the MWC by offering healthy menu specials weekly, and by listing nutritional content and calorie counts.

Two other towns, Highland Park and Hanover Township, were named “Healthy Towns to Watch.”