Legislators Walk Toward a Common Cause
Lawmakers from across the country trade the campaign trail for the race track PHILADELPHIA - More than 150 legislators, staff and members of the National Conference of State Legislatures will promote fitness and healthy living by participating in a 5K fun run in downtown Philadelphia. The Walk for Wellness will take part at 6:30 a.m., Wednesday, July 22, and is part of the NCSL Legislative Summit in Philadelphia July 20-24, 2009. "State legislators take health initiatives very seriously across the country," said William T. Pound, executive director of the National Conference of State Legislatures. "Lawmakers are committed to helping set an example of leading a healthier lifestyle both inside and outside of the legislature." This is the fourth annual NCSL Walk for Wellness. The event is dedicated to raising awareness of the devastating effects of heart disease, diabetes and obesity, while drawing special attention to the health disparities that exist in minority and underserved communities. "The Walk for Wellness is a great opportunity for state legislators to exercise while connecting with their peers. It's an opportunity to focus on the importance of physical activity and healthy living," said Representative Karen Awana of Hawaii. Awana is also treasurer of the National Caucus of Native American State Legislators. Some 20 million people have Type 2 diabetes. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. Risk factors for both of these can be reduced by increasing physical activity and eating healthy foods. The Walk for Wellness will start at 6:30 a.m. Participants will gather at Lloyd Hall in Fairmount Park beginning at 6:15 a.m.. The walk will wind through Fairmount Park. The walk is a collaboration between: Come join us at the starting line on Wednesday, July 22 at 6:30 a.m.!
