Boynton Forum, Mike Rothman on November 10, 2009
Boynton Beach has become a Commit 2B Fit community and residents can expect to see more fitness-related activities within city limits.
Commit 2B Fit is a nonprofit organization out of Boca Raton working against childhood obesity by promoting health and wellness. The program was founded in 2005 by Elly Zanin and Michelle Schecht.
The program has helped children become physically active, eat healthier foods, receive rewards for progress and learn how to avoid obesity. But the program is not just for the children. Mayor Jerry Taylor said the program's intention is to reach children as well as their families to promote better health and more activity throughout the city.
City spokesman Wayne Segal said the program will use the services of the Chamber of Commerce, schools and recreational programs to reach residents. Segal also said that the program is one in which Commissioner Jose Rodriguez has put a lot of time and effort.
“As far as I know, it is a project the city has been talking about for quite a while and a pet project of Jose’s,” Segal said.
Rodriguez said as part of the Leadership of Palm Beach County year-long program in which he is taking part, he was given the option of numerous projects and thought the Commit 2B Fit was perfect. “As chair of the Youth Violence Prevention Program, I think it is a great fit,” he said. “It promotes ideas such as
having at least 60 minutes a day of exercise and five servings of vegetables a day.”
For information, visit www.icommit2bfit.org.
Mike Rothman can be reached at mkrothman@tribune.com.