By SHELBA NIVENS / Community Columnist

“The South Shelby Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping our community lead productive and healthier lives,” said Stacy Walkup, executive director.

As a means to this end, the Chamber and Liberty Baptist Church Health and Wellness Committee will team up for the Chamber’s fourth annual Health Fair on Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m.-noon at the church.

Health care personnel from the area will be on hand to offer free health checks, including blood pressure, body mass index and screenings for glucose, scoliosis and vision and dental problems. The fair will also include a blood drive and wellness classes, door prizes and food vendor.

According to Walkup, creation of the health fair was prompted by the growth of health and wellness businesses in Chelsea, along U.S. 280 and other areas of south Shelby.

“This is a great opportunity for people to find out what resources and health care providers are in their community, enabling them to build relationships and get free health screenings,” said Dr. Ben Smith of Smith Chiropractic.

Shelby Baptist Medical Center is Title Sponsor and Narrows Podiatry is a Silver Sponsor, Walkup said. The City of Chelsea, with the cooperation of Mayor Earl Niven, is a community partner. Smith is one of the Chamber’s board members and chairman heading up the fair, along with Diana Johnson, health and wellness coordinator for Liberty Baptist Church.

Walkup said they had 30-plus businesses last year and have a lot of wonderful health and wellness businesses signing up this year.

However, they do still have space for more to sign up, she said. Interested persons may contact the Chamber office at 669-9075; Smith Chiropractic at 678-6884; Walkup’s cell at 267-8872, or email soshelby@bellsouth.net.

“The Health Fair is a terrific way for people to learn about health care in a fun, supportive environment,” Walkup said.

Shelba Nivens can be reached by e-mail at Shelbasn@juno.com.