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Community Corner

Community Gathers to Make A Difference

Hundreds of families attended the 16th annual Make A Difference Day Saturday in downtown New Baltimore.

The New Baltimore was packed Saturday as more than 30 different local groups and businesses set up tables at the 16th annual Make a Difference Day.

Hundreds of families showed up to receive free information, gifts, food and medical care like inoculations and flu vaccines.

"I love seeing all the people here," said New Baltimore City Councilwoman Florence Hayman. "It's a great opportunity for people without insurance to get immunizations for their kids."

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Hayman is the event chairwoman and has played an active role in Make A Difference Day since it first started in New Baltimore 16 years ago.

"All the money comes from the community, so everything is no charge. Flu shots can be expensive and it's a good way to protect the kids of the community," said Hayman.

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More than 100 local businesses, organizations and individuals donated to the event this year.

"They are more brave than I was," joked New Baltimore Police Chief Tim Wiley about the children getting vaccinated at the event. "When I was a kid, you wouldn't see me anywhere near these shots."

In fact, Hayman said she moved the date of Make A Difference to an earlier time after talking with Anchor Bay Schools Superintendent Leonard Woodside to ensure student turnout.

Other free health services included glaucoma testing, vision testing, blood pressure, diabetes screening and, new this year, a podiatrist. 

Charitable Event Brings Community Together

People attending the event could also donate items through to the VA hospital. A receptacle to properly dispose prescription and non-prescription medication to prevent it from getting into the water system is also available.

"It's so they don't get into the lakes," Hayman said of the medication disposal. "The fish are mutating and the World Health Organization is looking into the effects it can have on kids. A lot of this stuff can't be filtered by the water department."

Many local groups were present, including the Lions Club, , Civic Club and . 

"I love all the services they provide for the kids," said Mariah Tremlett, a paramedic with MedStar who was working the booth for the event. Tremlett was handing out activity books that taught kids how to use the 911 emergency phone line and provided free child bicycle helmets.

Petting Farm, Other Activities Entertain

Mixed among the health and safety goodies were food and entertainment. The Lions Club was giving out free apple cider, hot dogs and snacks. Joe Kozlowski, also known as Mr. Joe the Magician, provided entertainment. A petting zoo featuring goats, ducks and rabbits was outside the recreation center.

"Everyone loves the petting farm," said Hayman. "Before they leave I'm setting them up for next year."

"Most groups come back each year. When people set up here, they always ask me to save them a spot for next year," she said.

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