MAYOR MASO’S JOURNEY TO FITNESS

The Let’s Move campaign, started by First Lady Michelle Obama, cites “over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children in America are overweight or obese.” Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control reports same findings, adding that “in 2009, only Colorado and the District of Columbia had a prevalence of obesity less than 20%.”

No doubt, obesity can lead to other health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood and asthma. These are just a few reasons why I believe the fitness in our community is more important now than ever.

With a population of more than 121,000 (July 2011) and an anticipated ‘build out’ of approximately 280,000, we have an opportunity to make fitness part of who we are. I am committed to helping our residents have all the tools they need to make good lifestyle choices and make fitness part of their life. Fitness will be a fabric of our community — from the ways we design our streets, sidewalks and hike and bike trails to education, community events and exciting programs to help our citizens get off a diet and on a lifestyle.

Check out this website for updates promoting fitness opportunities provided by the City of Frisco and other civic organizations. Our ‘Be Fit Frisco’ initiative is not just about a program, a press release or even a web site. My goal is to build a foundation for fitness in Frisco and put in place the building blocks so fitness and good lifestyle choices become who we are as a community. With your help, we will teach our children the importance of being active — and we’ll teach our adults how to be great role models. I’m starting with myself. In January 2011, I committed to a ‘weigh in’ and began a daily exercise program, utilizing our Frisco Athletic Center. In January 2011 and 2012, the City of Frisco partnered with CBS 11/TXA 21 for Get Healthy Texas Day in Frisco, which started with a 5K/1 Mile Fun Run.  I completed a 1 Mile Fun Run and made it a goal to complete a 5K.

It is never too late to start being fit. Join me as we set an example for our children as we tackle this serious issue together as a community.

Regards,

Mayor Maher Maso
City of Frisco