The ESL Health Fair held Wednesday at Maywood Park Campus gave students the opportunity to hear presenters discuss health issues ranging from nutrition and exercise to fire safety and emergency preparedness.

Students learned about healthy lifestyle choices and services in the community that they may not have been aware of.

Representatives from the Red Cross, New Seasons Market, the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine, Western States Chiropractic College, Portland Parks and Recreation, 24 Hour Fitness and Multnomah County Health Resources all were available to give a presentation and answer students’ questions. Students were given the chance to attend two of the eight presentations that lasted 30 minutes. Tables were set up in the halls with information on heart health, diabetes and quitting smoking. After the presentations were completed, all the attendees gathered in the lobby for a raffle.

Nutritionists Ann Marie Tarr and Karen Seibert from New Seasons Market were available to talk about foods that are healthy, how to prepare fruits and vegetables, the importance of eating correct portion amounts and drinking plenty of water. When a student asked if it is better to drink fruit juice from concentrate or juice not from concentrate, Tarr said, “Not from concentrate. Or, even better, eat the fruit and drink a glass of water.”

Representatives Jonathan Clow and Brent Wall from Western States Chiropractic College educated students on the importance of good posture, and explained how poor posture can lead to backaches, headaches and weak muscles. Wall and Clow then demonstrated an exercise people can do when sitting for long periods of time.

“(The fair was) very successful. We had a really good attendance (of students) and turnout from the community; the Oriental School of Medicine, Western States Chiropractic, New Seasons, and diabetes (presentations) were really popular. It’s important to get the information to students, so they can get involved in the community and let them know the resources that are available,” said ESL instructor Patricia Phelps.