Dr. Erdmann thanked Kiwanis for being active in promoting physical fitness with local children.
In 1988, Kiwanis provided funding for children to get bussed to the YMCA for fitness testing. In addition to Macomb Kiwanis, funding sources include the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance; Joe Decker Children's Health-Related Fitness Research Award; and the Western Illinois University Foundation.
He said "Kiwanis helped launch this project and kicked some money in to get started."
Dr. Erdmann said the U.S. prevalence of overweight children ages 6-11 has increased dramatically since 1963 when it was less than 5%, it's now over 15%. "Part of the problem is portion size served at restaurants" he says. "We've gone from an 8 oz. bottle of soda to a Big Gulp size."
"Our physical educators need to be commended for their efforts to maintain physical fitness and reduce time in front of TV or playing video games" Dr. Erdmann told members and guests. "There needs to be consistent testing programs and parents need to make sure their children participate in life saving physical activity. There needs to be fitness for a lifetime."
You can visit mypyramid.gov for more information on nutrition and activity suggestions for children and their parents.
Dr. Erdmann concluded by answering several questions and congratulated George Hermann on all his work in organizing and coordinating Kiwanis/McDonough County Youth Olympics and encouraging physical fitness in the community.
We had a visit from the Burlington, Iowa Kiwanis Club. Joining us were Jerry, Sharon, Michelle, Mary, Dave and Tom. Glad to have all of you here.
Next Week:
June 30 - Dr. Shana Porteen - Sociology and children
Tim Moss has a variety of special programs for us to enjoy in July.
July 7 - Induction of new members with a special guest speaker.
July 14 - Treasurer Jeremy Benson will update us club finances.
July 21 - A Civil War re-enactor.
July 28 - Paula Pepmeyer from Ponderosa will hold a Q and A session about the possible move to Ponderosa for weekly club meetings.
President Tim Moss presided. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and Kiwanis Pledge, John Moon led us in singing "You're In Kiwanis Now" and Chuck Nicholson gave the invocation.
Tim announced that the Macomb Heritage Days committee is looking for people to assist with the parade on Saturday, June 27. We have volunteered in the past to help people find where they are supposed to line up and help prevent children from running into the street to collect candy. Tim, Herb and Rick have signed up to help.
Membership Committee Chairman Ken Harp said the Yellow Team has 24 points and the Blue Team 8 points in our current Membership Drive. Time is running out and we need to continue inviting prospective members to be our guest and encourage former members to return. So far we have two new members as a result of the drive.
Tim reminded us about the Kiwanis division special night at a Chicago White Sox game.
Tim thanked the Board of Director members for their patience at a long session held last week. He said the board approved certain changes to be brought to the membership for consideration. They include moving our meeting location to the Ponderosa and revising our dues structure. It was also approved that we will take steps to attain 501(c) status through partnership with the Moline Foundation. We will be selling Kiwanis benches at the upcoming division convention. The board also approved moving forward with replacing playground equipment in Chandler Park which will be a major club project.
Tim honored Hassan Espahbodi for his work in overseeing the funding for the Macomb Schools Snack Program. Tim presented Hassan with a coveted coaster from the Macomb School Board. Tim said "if it wasn't for Hassan, it wouldn't get done."
