Change takes place a step at a time, and Cooperstown is starting a transformation.

Stride With Pride will kick off this Sunday from 1-4 p.m. at Pioneer Park. The program, coordinated by Brenda Berstler, is aimed at turning Cooperstown into a walking village by "literally taking steps to reverse the nationwide epidemic of obesity and unfitness," according to a press release for the event.

"Begun as an answer to the modern American dilemma of `where do we park?' walking this picturesque village has emerged as one solution to another hallmark of modern America: obesity and inactivity. With obesity about to overtake smoking as the leading cause of preventable disease and premature death, Cooperstonians have found the solution right at their feet. Daily walking in their appealing village and its pastoral surroundings addresses a laundry list of modern problems: excess weight, stress, depression and, as a boost to economic health, it also invigorates the local merchants and farmers," states the press release.

Berstler said she is overwhelmed by the support of the community.

"People know about it now and when I'm out walking they stop me and ask if I want a ride," said Berstler, who has lost eleven pounds since she starting walking and said she has never felt so energetic.

Berstler is on the village's new Business Advancement Committee. At the first public meeting of the committee, the Stride With Pride program was introduced.

Polly Renckens, executive director of the Cooperstown Chamber of Commerce, said this is the most promising program she's seen in the village in a long time.

"We're just very excited about it," she said.

Dr. Allan Green, director of the Bassett Research Institute, said that anything that gets people up and walking is a great idea. The Bassett Research Institute has focused tremendous efforts on obesity, and Stride With Pride complements their studies.

Bassett Healthcare will be on hand to provide heart screenings and The Clark Sports Center will measure body mass index. The Thor-lo Sock Company will be on hand to exchange their socks for your old ones (the old ones will be laundered courtesy of Metro Cleaners and donated to charity.) The Fly Creek Cider Mill, Essential Elements and Winnie's Catering will also be there to encourage good health from head to toe. SAS Shoeworks has donated two pairs of walking shoes as one of the many raffle prizes.

Pedometers are available for $15 and can be programmed on the spot.

Renckens said, "The Stride With Pride program is a win-win for area residents and our community. I think the pedometer is the key to success for those who may have trouble getting motivated. It counts your steps and allows you to compete against yourself. For that reason we are going to be offering pedometers for a below retail price of $15.00 at the Kick Off Event."

Berstler said using the trolley can also be an integral part of a walking program because people can walk one way and ride the other, and use of the trolley frees parking spaces.

For further information call Berstler at 544-1885 or the Chamber office at 547-9571.