By Ally Lanasa, Staff Writer

(Nov. 19, 2020) The Worcester County Health Department is inviting people to participate in the free “Just Walk” fall scavenger hunt this weekend from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The scavenger hunt was originally scheduled for last weekend, but it was postponed because of rain.

Crystal Bell

“[Walking is] a great way to get the physical activity needed to reach your health goals,” said Crystal Bell, the chronic disease and tobacco supervisor at the health department. “It doesn’t require special equipment or skills and no gym membership is required. It’s also great for our mental health. Walking can improve sleep, memory, and the ability to think and learn, and it also reduces stress and anxiety.”

Walkers can choose between Byrd Park in Snow Hill, Cypress Park in Pocomoke and Stephen Decatur Park in Berlin.

Participants will walk through a park, searching for 20 “Just Walk” wellness rocks.

“A total of 60 rocks were created with messages that relate to physical activity, healthy eating, stress management and covid-19 safety tips,” Bell said.

The scavenger hunt is a self-directed event and social distancing and CDC safety guidelines should be followed.

“The Berlin Fall Walk was canceled this year due to covid-19,” Bell said. “This walk is something that was added to encourage residents to be physically active during these unprecedented times.”

Participants are encouraged to report to Bell how many wellness rocks they found with photos of them walking to be included in a raffle drawing.

The prize is a wellness basket with a cookbook, water bottle, T-shirt and hat.

The scavenger hunt was organized through the Worcester County Health Department.

“We collaborated with the town of Berlin, Pocomoke City and town of Snow Hill to make this event possible,” Bell said. “We appreciate their continued support and partnership.”

To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-just-walk-scavenger-hunt-tickets-127743882391 or worcesterhealth.org.

For more information, call 410-632-1100, Ext. 1108.