Join the fight against obesity

Editor:

There is a growing trend of obesity and chronic disease in our cities and towns, states, and the nation as a whole. According to a CBS Video: “Where America Stands on Obesity,” the evidence of an epidemic is everywhere.

Two-thirds, more than 190 million Americans are overweight or obese.

Obesity related diseases are a 147 billion dollar medical burden every year. Childhood obesity has tripled in the last thirty years.

A recent study found that obesity could be an even greater threat to the nation’s health than smoking.

The causes of obesity are poor nutrition and lack of physical activity.

The town of Sahuarita and United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona are challenging residents to do something about the lack of physical activity problem with the “Keeping Kids Fit Challenge” and the “2010 Sahuarita Get Fit Challenge”.

Come by the parks and Recreation Booth to pick up a flyer at the celebrate Kids Festival on April 24, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Sahuarita Lake Park.

For the Keeping Kids Fit Challenge, all youth who participate in one or several fitness activities offered on site will receive a special certificate of recognition signed by the Mayor!

For the “2010 Sahuarita Get Fit Challenge” do at least 15 minutes of physical fitness activity at least 3 days per week (for youth) or at least 20 minutes of physical activity for at least 5 days per week (for adults)

The Challenge time period is 12 weeks and begins on April 24.

Completed logs must be submitted by July 23 (go to www.ci.sahuarita.az.us to print out the logs) or call 520-625-2273 X37.

All participants who complete the challenge will receive special recognition at the July 24 “Family Fun Night” in Sahuarita and will also be receiving a special prize.

Dave Clark, vice chairman, Sahuarita Parks & Recreation Commission