PCPFS E-Newsletter Fall 2005 |
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-------------------------------------------------------------- FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR This is an exciting time for the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports (PCPFS), as we prepare to celebrate the Council’s 50th anniversary in 2006. We are using this opportunity to highlight the advancements in the promotion of physical activity, fitness, and sports for health and to publicize the role individuals, schools, organizations, businesses, and government can play in our effort to get Americans moving. To highlight the good work others are doing to promote active lifestyles, we are launching a new kind of partnership, the 50th Anniversary Partners to Get America Moving (http://www.fitness.gov/news-partnerinvitation.htm). We hope you will consider becoming a 50th anniversary partner. Bringing together the public and private sectors to promote health is an important part of our mission and one of our key messages. Collaborative efforts are essential in combating the obesity epidemic. We look forward to learning what you are doing to promote physical activity, fitness, and sports in your business, community, school, place of worship, park, or home, and we look forward to celebrating our 50th anniversary with you! I am proud to highlight the accomplishments of a very good PCPFS friend, Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee (http://www.state.ar.us/governor/) . As Chair of the National Governor’s Association (http://www.nga.org/), Governor Huckabee is drawing attention to the importance of physical activity through his Healthy America initiative. Targeting wellness in the home, worksite, and schools, the initiative will help elevate the importance of physical activity and good nutrition among our nation’s governors and business leaders through partnerships and collaboration. On behalf of the members and staff of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, I wish all of you a peaceful and joyous holiday season. I look forward to the start of the New Year, when we look back proudly on 50 years of working with our partners to help Americans be active for life, as we forge partnerships and plans for an active, fit and healthy future. Melissa Johnson BECOME ONE OF OUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY PARTNERS President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Invitation: The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports (PCPFS) celebrates its 50-year anniversary in 2006 and invites you to join the celebration! We welcome individuals, organizations, and public and private entities that promote physical activity, fitness and/or sports participation to become 50th Anniversary Partners to Get America Moving! Background: PCPFS was founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 as the President's Council on Youth Fitness and was later expanded to include Americans of all ages and abilities. President George W. Bush reinvigorated the Council in 2002 with a focus on inspiring Americans to be physically active through the President's Challenge Awards Program (http://www.presidentschallenge.org). The President maintains an active lifestyle himself and encourages all Americans to live a healthy lifestyle. Purpose: With the celebration of the Council's fifty years, the tenth anniversary of the Surgeon General's landmark report on physical activity (1996) (http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/sgr/contents.htm), the support of a President who maintains an active lifestyle and promotes healthy living, and the staggering rates of overweight and obesity that continue to plague this country, 2006 presents an opportune time to bring more visibility to the importance of physical activity, fitness, and sports for improving and maintaining health. Throughout 2006, we want to recognize the valuable contributions and efforts of our friends and colleagues who have dedicated themselves over the last fifty years to improving the health and fitness of Americans. We also want to look forward and invite partners to respond to a Call to Action to fortify efforts to get more Americans active, as we move into the future. Therefore, by engaging in this partnership, you will join us in celebrating where we've been and where we're going as a nation. We commend all who are working hard to be part of the solution to the challenges our nation is facing - challenges caused by sedentary living. Collaboration is the key to making the changes we all want to see. By becoming a 50th Anniversary Partner to Get America Moving, we will pledge to work together to move the meter! Criteria: Partners shall include individuals, professional societies, private corporations, not-for-profit organizations, coalitions, corporate leaders, schools, health care providers and others that: (1) support physical activity, fitness and/or sports participation as a primary mission; (2) have potential for significant impact; (3) are inclusive, or aimed at under-represented groups; (4) promote positive, healthy behaviors; (5) disseminate materials free of charge; and (6) do not imply approval or endorsement of unhealthy behaviors or products. As a partner, organizations will receive the official PCPFS 50th Anniversary logo; a link and notable mention on the PCPFS web site (www.fitness.gov) and President's Challenge web site (www.presidentschallenge.org); invitations to participate in celebratory activities at the national, state, and local levels; tools and messages to incorporate into your own programs; and the opportunity to work with collaborative partners ready to direct national attention to the importance of adopting and maintaining an active lifestyle in order to improve the quality of life for Americans of all ages and abilities. When: The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports seeks to launch this landmark partnership opportunity in January, 2006 and track participation throughout the calendar year. Contact: For further information, please contact either Melissa Johnson, Executive Director at 202-690-5187 or mjohnson@osophs.dhhs.gov or Christine Spain, Director, Research, Planning, and Special Projects at 202-690-5148 or cspain@osophs.dhhs.gov. COUNCIL MEMBERS' ACTIVITIES Denise Austin joined Vice Admiral Richard H. Carmona, U.S. Surgeon General, at the 3rd National Prevention Summit, where they presented the awards at the Secretary’s Innovation in Prevention 2005 Awards Luncheon, held on October 24, 2005, in Washington, D.C. Council member Dr. Dot Richardson and PCPFS executive director Melissa Johnson attended the White House Conference on Helping America’s Youth, held at Howard University on October 27, 2005, in Washington D.C. Hosted by the First Lady, Mrs. Laura Bush, the conference brought together educators, faith-based and community leaders, researchers, students and parents, who shared stories of programs and methods that are working to make a positive difference in the lives of children. The purpose of the conference was to encourage researchers, educators and private foundations to develop ways to measure the success of their many programs, since results are key to determining what works best and makes positive differences in children’s lives. Following the conference, the President and Mrs. Bush hosted a reception at the White House. Council member John Burke was a guest speaker at the evening reception of the Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK), Second Healthy Schools Summit, held September 27-28, 2005, in Washington, DC. Over 550 participants attended, including State Team delegates, Partner Steering Committee members, and national experts in education, fitness and children’s health. The Summit theme, ‘Raising the Bar,’ addressed new challenges and, therefore, new opportunities in the fight against childhood obesity. Other distinguished speakers included Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN), U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns, Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), and Duane Alexander, MD, Director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN Senior Medical Correspondent, was a keynote speaker and moderated a candid panel discussion among representatives of industry, government, education, health and philanthropy. PCPFS executive director Melissa Johnson participated in the panel. PCPFS staff members Chris Spain, Jane Wargo, and Janice Meer attended the conference. FEATURED ACTIVITY: SNOWSHOEING Snowshoeing can be done in the back yard, on rail-trails, at Nordic centers or in a park. The American Hiking Society’s (http://www.americanhiking.org/) Trail Finder tool can help you find trails for snowshoeing, hiking, climbing, and cross country skiing. According to the Snowsports Industries America (http://www.wintertrails.org/wintertrails.php?section=learn&page=snowshoe), many people shy away from snowshoeing because they are intimidated by the equipment. Snowshoes are available with frames made from lightweight aluminum, plastic, or traditional wood. All styles have some type of lacing or webbing in the center for support and a binding system to hold the foot in place. Snowshoes are sized in inches, and the size you need depends on your weight and the snowshoe terrain. Both new and used snowshoes can be purchased (use caution when buying pre-owned equipment) or rented from your local ski or outdoor/sporting goods store. Before purchasing or renting snowshoes, consider how often you will use them and under what circumstances (for fun with friends/family on groomed trails, for a serious cardiovascular workout, or for hiking in the backcountry or in powdery conditions). You will also need shoes. Hiking or waterproof boots are best if you are going out for a leisurely hike with friends or snowshoeing in the back country. If you are using your snowshoes for very brisk walking or for running, you can wear your walking/running shoes. To manage moisture, be sure to wear silk or wool-blend socks and avoid cotton socks. Some people use poles for balance or to help maintain rhythm. Although poles are not necessary, alpine, cross-country or back-country poles are best. Finally, dress in layers; remember to apply sunscreen; and wear sunglasses. Taking along a waist or back pack that can carry water and/or nutritious snacks is also important if you are going to be out for longer than thirty minutes or you are going to a remote location. During the 2004 school year, the Winter Feels Good (http://www.winterfeelsgood.com/winterfeelsgood.php?section=helpful&page=info_curriculum_fairfax) program worked with physical education teachers in Fairfax County (VA) public schools to implement a snowshoe curriculum. The program introduced children to snowshoeing and to the benefits of being physically active even when it’s cold outside. If you are an educator or group leader and are interested in learning more about how you can introduce children to this enjoyable winter activity, be sure to visit the Winter Feels Good website. MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH Grant Applications: Please visit the NCPPA E-newsletter (http://www.ncppa.org/enewsletters.asp) for information on available grants from a variety of organizations. PRESIDENT'S CHALLENGE: NEWS AND PARTNERSHIPS The President’s Challenge partnered with LIVE IT! (http://www.liveitprogram.com/index.html), a program of the Coca-Cola Company and its Bottling Partners, to help promote physical activity and healthier eating to middle school students. The free on-line resource contains “fun ideas and activities to help students get moving, while enlightening them on the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.” Other partners with the LIVE IT! program include the School Nutrition Association and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education. Application for the 2006 General Mills Champions Grants (http://www.generalmills.com/corporate/commitment/champions.aspx) will be available on December 1, 2005. As in the past, eligible entrants include community based non-profits implementing a program that improves the physical activity and nutrition habits of children and teens between the ages of 2 and 20. Eligible programs must include an evaluation component to help ensure sustainable change. Existing physical activity and nutrition programs that organizations can use in programming are highlighted in the Background and Resource Information piece. PROGRAMS LEADING THE WAY TO CHANGE Faith-based and Community-based Initiatives: Provena St. Mary’s Wellness Center (http://www.provenastmarys.com/content.aspx?id=203) in Kankakee, IL partners with local organizations to provide fitness and general inclusion activities to individuals with disabilities. Groups of 6-15 individuals meet twice a week for 45 minutes of fitness instruction at the wellness center. The twice-weekly sessions include cardiovascular and resistance/strength training exercises. Health Care Delivery System: Healthy Workplace (500 or more employees): Healthy Workplace (less than 500 employees): Non-profit: Public Sector: Eat and Play the Native Way (http://www.coconino.az.gov/heartbeat.aspx?id=1991) provides physical activity and nutrition education to students in grades K-3 at Navajo reservation schools in Coconino County (AZ). The program is finalizing a physical activity and nutrition curriculum that is related to the Native American culture and includes traditional Native American games. The lessons that are a part of the curriculum are intended to help children understand the importance of being active and eating well in the Native American culture. Schools (K-12): Delta HOPE (Health Options for People through Extension) uses creative messaging and characters to promote lifelong healthy behaviors to school children in the Delta Regions of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas. The classroom-based intervention uses the OrganWise Guys (http://www.organwiseguys.com/) to teach children about physiology and nutrition and encourages short bouts of physical activity integrated into academic lessons using TAKE 10! (http://www.take10.net/). In 2005, HOPE received a Gold rating from the Cooper Institute (http://www.cooperinst.org/) for the program’s potential to help reduce childhood obesity. (No website available for Delta HOPE). SCIENCE NOTES The period for nominating a person to receive the 2006 President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Honor Award (http://www.fitness.gov/news-honorawardprocess.htm) ends December 1, 2005. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the promotion of the science of physical activity and whose work supports the mission of the council. Anyone can nominate an individual to receive the award. Winners are selected by the PCPFS Science Board and Executive Director. Past recipients include Dr. Timothy Lohman; Steven Blair, PED; B. Don Franks, PhD; Margaret (Jo) Safrit, PhD; Ed Howley, PhD; Robert Pangrazi, PhD; Charles Corbin, PhD; and Wynn Updyke, PhD. Two new members will begin terms on the PCPFS Science Board in December, 2005. Gregory Welk, PhD, from Iowa State University and Weimo Zhu, PhD, of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign replace outgoing members Margaret (Jo) Safrit, PhD, and Chuck Corbin, PhD. Dr. Safrit and Dr. Corbin have supported the Council and its program, the President’s Challenge, for many years. The Council has benefited greatly from their contributions, including the role each played in the development of the Presidential Active Lifestyle and Presidential Champions awards and the continual guidance they have given on the President’s Challenge physical fitness test. WHAT'S NEW AT HHS To make the advice easier to find, the new book will be offered in places where people usually look for diet and exercise books, including retail bookstores. However, the federal government does not profit from the sale of the book -- under law, it can only cover its costs…The book also will be available on the Web at www.healthierus.gov/dietaryguidelines and in bookstores in November. A Healthier You offers healthy doses of understanding and encouragement along with its practical advice and easy recipes. It was written based on research into what consumers have said they want to know.” Smallstep.gov Helping America's Youth (HAY) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports (http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/weekcvol.html): Oct. 7, 2005/Vol. 54/No. 39. Trends in Leisure-Time Physical Inactivity by Age, Sex, and Race/Ethnicity—United States 1994-2004. Sept. 30, 2005/Vol. 54/No. 38. International Walk to School Week, October 3-7, 2005. Barriers to Children Walking To or From School—United States, 2004 Sept. 23, 2005/Vol. 54/No. 37. Competitive Food and Beverages Available for Purchase in Secondary Schools—Selected Sites, United States, 2004. Perceptions of Neighborhood Characteristics and Leisure-Time Physical Inactivity—Austin/Travis County Texas, 2004. Sept. 2, 2005/Vol. 54/No. 34. Children and Teens Told by Doctors That They Were Overweight—United States, 1999-2002. The October issue of Preventing Chronic Disease (http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2005/oct/toc.htm) contains the following articles on physical activity including: Health Care Charges Associated with Physical Inactivity, Overweight and Obesity; Perceptions of Environmental Supports for Physical Activity in African American and White Adults in a Rural Community in South Carolina; and Trends in Walking for Transportation in the United States, 1995 and 2001. The CDC Division of Adolescent and School Health (http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/) is continuing its work with the USDA and US Department of Education to help State child nutrition and education agencies with the implementation of the local school wellness policy in local education agencies. Informational meetings and seminars are scheduled in the near future. These include a tele-seminar on Wednesday, November 16, 2005 during which information will be provided on the availability of USDA non-competitive grants for States to support training for and/or implementation of the local wellness policies. On January 12-13, 2006, a School Health Wellness Policy Institute will be held in Atlanta, GA. Information about the meetings has been distributed directly to State Child Nutrition (CN) Directors. If you are interested in learning more, contact your State CN Director’s office or a member of your State’s Action for Healthy Kids team. More information on the local school wellness policy and resources to help with the development and implementation of these policies can be found on the USDA website (http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/Healthy/wellnesspolicy.html). Health Resources and Services Administration National Institutes of Health |