PELHAM – Like many battles, obesity is fought on various fronts. From medical professionals, to governmental officials, school health advocates, all the way to parents, this epidemic is being approached at all levels – all with the same goal: to reduce obesity.
In the United States, more than one-third of adults and approximately 17 
percent of children are obese, according to theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention, and Alabama routinely ranks near the top for most obese states.
To share solutions for creating a healthier environment to live, learn, and play, the Alabama Obesity Task Force andAlabama Action for Healthy Kids have joined together to sponsor a one-day summit, “Alabama’s Wellness RX: Healthy Families, Healthy Schools, Healthy Communities,” from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2013 at the Pelham Civic Complex.
Donald Williamson
Featured summit speakers include State Health Officer Donald Williamson, M.D., State Superintendent of Education Tommy Bice, Ed.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham adolescent obesity expert Stephenie B. Wallace, M.D., and Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox. School professionals, community and government leaders, health care providers, health professionals and concerned citizens are encouraged to attend.
“The Alabama Obesity Task Force’s mission is working toward the prevention and reduction of obesity for a healthier Alabama, and this summit allows key players and programs across the state to be recognized in their efforts towards this mission,” explained Sheena Quizon Gregg, R.D., M.S., Task Force
Sheena Q. Gregg MS, RD, LD
Chair.
“I am confident that those in attendance will be able to bring back ideas and programs to improve their families, schools and overall communities,” Gregg added.
Mary M. Nordness MS, RD, LD
“This event is an excellent opportunity for networking and collaboration,” added Mary Martin Nordness, R.D., Task Force Planning Committee Chair. “Many notable experts and local heroes will share how we can become healthier through even the smallest of steps, like eating breakfast, or rethinking your drink.”
Cost for the event is $10 per person. Due to limited seating, it is highly recommended to register in advance to ensure a spot and lunch choice by visiting http://www.
About the Alabama Obesity Task Force
The Alabama Obesity Task Force was established to address overweight and obesity issues through advocacy, policies, environmental changes and programs that support healthy lifestyle changes. It is a volunteer organization comprised of 172 members that represent a diverse variety of organizations.
About Action for Healthy Kids
Action for Healthy Kids is a national nonprofit that works with state teams throughout the country to fight childhood obesity, undernourishment and physical inactivity by helping schools become healthier places so kids can live healthier lives. Our work is possible because of our legion of dedicated volunteers, from within the ranks of our more than 50,000 members.
