By Cynthia H. Craft
The Sacramento Bee

A wide-ranging, interactive exhibit called “Health Happens Here” opened today at the California Museum, with free admission to the first 100 visitors.

The exhibit is comprised of 10 interactive stations with animated videos and hands-on touch screens. It is designed to get people thinking about the vast array of factors that determine their health.

In the big picture, where people live turns out to be a major determinant of their well-being. The 2010 U.S. Census established links between residents’ zip codes and their expected life-spans.
Click here to find out more!

Communities without good parks, safe places to recreate and without grocery stores with fresh, whole foods end up being detrimental to residents’ health.

On the other hand, neighborhoods that are well-lit, kept-up and full of healthy food choices and people working together can mean a longer, healthier lives.

The exhibit, geared toward fourth-graders, also makes a point that bullying on the internet or in person is an unhealthy choice. And it demonstrates the importance of having supportive teachers, parents and a safety net.

For more information: www.CaliforniaMuseum.org.