Walk2Connect

The public is invited to participate in four Walk2Connect events across Garrett County this weekend. Event locations will include McHenry, Oakland, and Kitzmiller.

In partnership with the Maryland Department of Health, Walk2Connect Walking Movement Leaders are leading walks across the state during the last week of August. Ranging from 1 to 5 miles, these walks are designed to connect you to yourself, to your neighbors and unique places in and around your neighborhood.

The first Walk2Connect event in Garrett County will take place at the Wisp on Friday, August 24, from 5-6 p.m.

“The WISP trail is a 1-mile walk showcasing year-round activities the WISP has to offer,” said Amy Ritchie Registered Dietician at the Garrett County Health Department, and local Walk2Connect coordinator.

The next event will take place in Oakland from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 25, beginning and end at Community Action.

“The Oakland walk is approximately 3 miles and is a historical walk with John Rathgeb providing information about historical landmarks,” Ritchie said. “The walk also passes thru the town parking lot where the Farmer’s Market will be taking place. Participants will be reminded to shop local on Wednesdays and Saturdays through October and at Community Action November through May, where the Winter Farmer’s Market is held.”

A Walking Movement Leader Training will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Community Action Mary Browning Senior Center for those interested in becoming a leader and motivating others to walk. Visit Walk2Connect.com/WalkMaryland for more information or to RSVP for the training.

“The final event will be in Kitzmiller on Saturday evening,” Ritchie continue. “It will be a 2-mile Glow in the Dark Dance Walk to tunes from the 80’s along the river bank in Kitzmiller.

Each event will be led by Ana Lucaci, a member owner of the Walk2Connect grassroots movement. For more information about the movement visit walk2connect.com. For more information about the local Walk2Connect events, call the Health Department at 301-334-7730 or 301-895-3111.

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department