The Alternative Press

LIVINGSTON, NJ - The 5K Run for Health and Wellness was held Sunday morning at Livingston High School to promote healthy activity.

The event was sponsored by The Big ‘L’ Club, the Livingston Education Foundation (LEF) and the West Essex YMCA.

Second time runners in the race and close friends, Beth Merlin and Paula Zuckerman said they plan on making the Health and Wellness Run an annual event to participate in.

“We want to help encourage active lifestyles. Running is good for the body and mind,” Zuckerman said. She explained that she is a physical therapist at Inglemoor Rehabilitation & Care Center in Livingston and Merlin is a Psychotherapist at Roseland Psychotherapy Associates.

“We want to try and beat our times from last year,” Merlin said, adding that she won 2nd place and Zuckerman won 3rd for their time division.

Before the race began, Livingston Public Schools’ physical education teachers motivated children to be active, by running children’s track-and-field activities including hurdling, soccer dribbling and a mini obstacle course.

Information booths from companies such as Care One, Saint Barnabas Health Care System, JAG Physical Therapy and Inglemoor Rehabilitation & Care Center provided information about health and wellness.

Wayne resident Ted Mussano won first place, completing the run in 17:43.59 minutes,
according to www.compuscore.com.

Town council candidate Michael Silverman, participated in the race and placed 5th in the 8 minute mile division.

Volunteers were located throughout the running route providing water and EMT care for participants if needed.