Health beat: A really local focus to healthy living

[Star Tribune, April 27, 2012] Headaches, lack of sleep, stress -- anyone who's ever had a bad neighbor could probably testify to the toll it can take on a person's health. But a new Allina Health initiative hinges on the idea that having a really good neighbor can produce just the opposite effect.

The nonprofit family of Twin Cities hospitals and clinics is launching Neighborhood Health Connection, a program that encourages neighborhoods across Minnesota and western Wisconsin to work together to support wellness with activities such as community gardening, potluck dinners and walking groups.