Governor orders N.D. to get healthy

BISMARCK — Gov. Jack Dalrymple ordered North Dakotans to get out and play 60 minutes a day “or else” during an event April 19 promoting student nutrition and activity.

“This is a commandment coming directly from your governor,” Dalrymple joked. “I think we could use a little recess around this Capitol building at times.”

Dalrymple gathered with state officials and students at the Capitol to talk about the importance of helping children achieve better nutrition and fitness for life.

The event promoted Fuel Up to Play 60, an in-school health and wellness program that encourages kids to choose nutrient-rich food and get out and play at least 60 minutes a day. The program is sponsored by the National Dairy Council and the NFL.

Children make up nearly 25 percent of North Dakota’s population and are 100 percent of the state’s future, Dalrymple said.

“We need to think of their time in school as not just about academic learning or the ABCs, but it’s also a place to nurture and support young people and that includes their health and a healthy lifestyle,” he said.

Efforts in Valley City include a walking club for students and adults, smoothies as a breakfast option and encouragement of healthy options for snacks, said Beth Beckers, a family and consumer sciences teacher.

In West Fargo, students at the Sheyenne Ninth Grade Center have organized dodge ball and badminton tournaments and worked with the cafeteria staff to offer healthier options, said student Logan Ahern.

The Fuel Up to Play 60 program not only allows students to be leaders but to leave a lasting impression on their peers about healthy lifestyle and well-being, said West Fargo student Bailey Aanenson.

The Midwest Dairy Council has provided more than $30,000 to North Dakota schools to support the program. Richardton, N.D., dairy farmer Jerry Messer said it gives children the tools to make lifestyle changes that will last forever.

Most of North Dakotas schools participate in the program, Dalrymple said.

“Together, we can make significant headway helping all of our North Dakota youth lead healthier lives, encouraging them to eat healthy, get active and make a difference,” he said.

Teri Finneman is a

multimedia reporter for

Forum Communications Co.

Tags: news, health, dairy, politics