LiveWell Colorado 2009 Clipbook

LiveWell Colorado
Media Presence
2009

Table of Contents
April 2009.....................................................................................................page 3 to 18
May 2009....................................................................................................page 19 to 30
June 2009..................................................................................................page 31 to 34
July 2009...................................................................................................page 35 to 46
August 2009...............................................................................................page 46 to 53
September 2009........................................................................................page 54 to 63
October 2009..............................................................................................page 63 to 76
November 2009.........................................................................................page 77 to 88
December 2009.........................................................................................page 88 to 97

Oys Helped Establish LiveWell Organization | Radia Amari
April 3, 2009

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LiveWell Colorado Names Maren Stewart CEO | Playmakers
April 13, 2009

LiveWell Colorado, a non-profit committed to reducing obesity by providing every Coloradoan with access to
healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity, has named Maren Stewart as its first president and chief
executive officer. Stewart is responsible for leading the strategic direction and operational efforts of LiveWell
Colorado and will report to the organization’s board of directors.

Stewart has extensive experience in non-profit healthcare, including ten years of executive management.
Most recently, Stewart served as vice president of external affairs at The Children’s Hospital, where she
had responsibility for the strategic direction of advocacy, public policy, government affairs, public relations,
community outreach and marketing and was a member of the hospital’s executive leadership team. Prior to
that, she was a principal in the lobbying firm Bledsoe, DeFilippo Rees, LLC, which represented a variety of
clients on the local, state and federal levels.

Stewart holds a B.S. in Journalism from the University of Kansas and a J.D. from the University of Denver. She is
licensed to practice law in Colorado and is accredited by the Public Relations Society of America.

About LiveWell Colorado
LiveWell Colorado aims to provide every Coloradoan with access to health foods and opportunities for physical activity in the
places they live, work, learn and play. This non-profit organization will realize its vision by elevating health and wellness awareness,
augmenting funding for the most promising obesity reduction strategies and leveraging investments and resources. With the launch
of Colorado’s strategic plan, Fostering Healthy People and Places: The Power of All of Us, LiveWell Colorado and its board of directors
will implement an aggressive, coordinated statewide intervention to address the human and economic tolls of overweight and
obesity and improve the health and well being of Coloradoans. For more information, please visit http://www.livewellcolorado.com.

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LiveWell Colorado Names Maren Stewart CEO | People on the Move
April 15, 2009

LIVEWELL COLORADO: The nonprofit, committed to reducing obesity, named Maren Stewart as its first
president and chief executive. Most recently, Stewart was vice president of external affairs at Children’s
Hospital.

Battling Diabetes with Diet and Exercise | Michelle Andrews
April 15, 2009

Diabetes experts from around the world recently gathered in New York City to discuss various techniques
that alter patients’ digestive systems to help them lose weight and get their blood sugar under control. One
method, gastric bypass surgery, is approved only for weight loss but
also short-circuits diabetes in many cases. Another approach—for now,
experimental—involves an implanted “smart” gastric band that senses
food in the stomach and tightens or loosens its grip accordingly. And a
third lines part of the intestine with a gastric “sleeve” that, apparently
by interrupting the neural and hormonal communication between
the brain and the gut, promotes weight loss and better blood sugar
control, similar to gastric bypass surgery. Compared with surgery, the
endoscopic insertion through the mouth of this intestinal condom is
so patient-friendly, it was suggested, that someday visiting a doctor for
periodic replacements might become as routine as getting your teeth
cleaned.

While such procedures may seem like extreme measures to counteract overeating and its effects, there’s good
reason researchers are investigating them: Existing medical therapies for type 2 diabetes haven’t stemmed the
growing obesity-related epidemic, which now affects 24 million Americans. But while gastric bypass surgery,
new devices, and medications are important weapons in the fight against diabetes, winning the war requires a
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broader approach. It means not only treating those who already have the disease but also heading it off in
the 57 million Americans whose blood sugar levels put them at risk for developing it. It may seem obvious,
but prevention, many agree, is the key to succeeding against diabetes in the long run. “Our only hope is to do
prevention,” says John Buse, president for medicine and science at the American Diabetes Association.

Urgent task. The stakes are high and getting higher. The number of people with diabetes has increased 13.5
percent since 2005. At the current rate, 1 of every 3 people born in 2000 will develop the disease, putting them
at higher risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and nerve damage, among other medical
problems. The economic cost of diabetes-related medical care and lost productivity is enormous: $174 billion
in 2007, according to ADA estimates.

The diet and exercise changes that are the backbone of prevention are easier to make when neighborhoods
and schools encourage them. That’s why health insurer Kaiser Permanente started its Healthy Eating, Active
Living (HEAL) program four years ago. “We want to make the healthy choice the easy choice by changing the
environment our members live in,” says Loel Solomon, National Director of Community Health Initiatives
and Evaluation for Kaiser. The program, now operating in six states, focuses on developing community-
based initiatives that promote physical activity and eating well. Measures include ramping up the supply of
vegetables in local groceries, improving bike paths and pedestrian walkways, and replacing the sugary sodas in
school vending machines.

For the past year and a half, Helen Garcia has been volunteering with the Kaiser-founded LiveWell Colorado
program at a middle school and a high school near her Denver home. The program organizes regular walking
expeditions for parents around a lake near the school. Meanwhile, students planted vegetables on a vacant
plot of land nearby and hold a farmers’ market on Tuesdays to sell their produce to parents and students.
Garcia, 60, who was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes nearly 20 years ago, has five grandchildren attending the
two schools. “My goal is to make sure they don’t get it,” she says.

That kind of soup-to-nuts community approach has many fans, but more direct interventions are also helpful
for people who already have diabetes or are at high risk. The most frequently cited evidence is a large
clinical trial conducted by the Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group. It randomly assigned more than
3,000 pre-diabetic adults to one of three groups. One group received a placebo, another the oral diabetes
drug metformin, which decreases glucose production, and the final group took part in an intensive lifestyle
modification program of diet, exercise, and behavior modification counseling aimed at helping them lose 7
percent of their body weight. They were put on a low-fat, low-calorie diet, exercised 150 minutes a week, and
sat down regularly with a case manager for one-on-one behavior modification sessions. The results, published
in 2002, were impressive: Over nearly three years, people in the lifestyle intervention group were 58 percent
less likely to develop diabetes, while those on metformin shaved their risk by just 31 percent.

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People on the Move | Rob Larimer
April 17, 2009

Maren Stewart, J.D., APR, has been
named chief executive officer of
LiveWell Colorado. She most recently
was vice president of external affairs
at The Children’s Hospital in Colorado.

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Who’s the Fittest Exec in Northern Colorado? | Staff Article
April 17, 2009

FORT COLLINS - Now is the time to register for the Banner Health 2009 Fittest Execs challenge. This year the
Northern Colorado Business Report, Banner and LiveWell Colorado have teamed up to offer two ways to
improve your physical fitness -- and prove your overall commitment to the concept that good health is good
business.

Kroll Factual Data of Loveland was the first team of five to claim a spot in the TeamFit competition, and has
now been joined by a team from RC Special Events. Only 10 teams will be accepted -- one member must be a
CEO or manager, and the other four full-time employees. Other than that, there is no limit on age, gender or
fitness level, because the challenge is to see how much your team can improve over the three-month course of
the challenge.

The Personal challenge is an individual event open to 50 business owners, executives and managers in three
age groups: 25-40; 41-50 and over 50, separated into male and female categories.

As with the team competition, the goal is to see who can improve their performance on a number of
benchmarks set by a comprehensive health assessment performed by Banner Health staff at the beginning of
the challenge.

After 90 days, another assessment will be conducted, and let the fittest exec -- and team -- win. Results will be
announced at the Fittest Execs Power Breakfast at Bixpo, Sept. 17.

Registration deadline is April 30, so visit www.ncbr.com, click on Events on the lefthand side of the homepage
to go to the Fittest Execs area. Click on I’m Taking the Challenge or Our Team is taking the Challenge, and wait
for your confirming phone call and all the details on how to get fit, have fun, and earn some bragging rights in
the bargain.

For more information, contact NCBR Marketing Director De Dahlgren at 970-221-5400, ext. 202.

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April 20, 2009
LiveWell Colorado Names Maren Stewart as CEO

LiveWell Colorado, a non-profit committed to reducing obesity by providing every Coloradoan with access
to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity, today announced that it has named Maren Stewart,
JD, APR as its first president and chief executive officer. Ms. Stewart is responsible for leading the strategic
direction and operational efforts of LiveWell Colorado and will report to the organization’s Board of Directors.

LiveWell Colorado, which has been funding local community initiatives across the state since 2006, recently
became a stand-alone 501(c)(3) and this is the first full-time CEO.

Ms. Stewart has extensive experience in non-profit healthcare, including ten years of executive management.
Most recently, Ms. Stewart served as Vice President of External Affairs at The Children’s Hospital in Colorado,
where she had responsibility for the strategic direction of advocacy, public policy, government affairs, public
relations, community outreach and marketing and was a member of the hospital’s executive leadership team.
Prior to that, she was a principal in the lobbying firm Bledsoe, DeFilippo Rees, LLC, which represented a
variety of clients on the local, state and federal levels.

Ms. Stewart currently serves on the board of directors for the Colorado Business Committee for the Arts and
the Aurora Economic Development Council. She was appointed by Governor Ritter to the Advisory Committee
on Covering All Children in Colorado and participated in a national effort to revamp pediatric residency
programs with the American Board of Pediatrics Residency Review Redesign Committee.

Previously, Ms. Stewart served on the National Association of Children’s Hospitals council on child advocacy
and the Colorado Hospital Association legislative committee, as well as the board of directors for the Denver
Metro Chamber Foundation, Donor Awareness Council, Colorado Association of Nonprofit Organizations,
Aurora Chamber and Colorado Bright Beginnings.

Ms. Stewart holds a B.S. in Journalism from the University of Kansas and a J.D. from the University of Denver.
She is licensed to practice law in Colorado and is accredited by the Public Relations Society of America.

LiveWell Colorado aims to provide every Coloradoan with access to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity in the
augmenting funding for the most promising obesity reduction strategies and leveraging investments and resources. With the
launch of Colorado’s strategic plan, Fostering Healthy People and Places: The Power of All of Us, LiveWell Colorado and its board of
directors will implement an aggressive, coordinated statewide intervention to address the human and economic tolls of overweight
and obesity and improve the health and well being of all Coloradoans. For more information about LiveWell Colorado, visit www.
livewellcolorado.com.

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April 20, 2009

page 10

Also appeared in the
Neighbors Community
Forum

LiveWell Colorado Names Maren Stewart as CEO | Blog, Colorado PR
April 20, 2009







obesity and improve the health and well being of all Coloradoans. For more information about LiveWell Colorado, visit http://www.

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April 20, 2009
Physical Activity and Wellness Experts Encourage Coloradoans to Turn Off TVs for a
Week to Promote a Healthier Lifestyle

The Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition Program is encouraging families and communities across Colorado
to participate in “Turnoff Week,” by turning off their televisions and video games for seven days, April 20
through 26. The event is designed to fight obesity, improve literacy and encourage stronger community
involvement.

Eric Aakko, director of the program that is based at the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment, said, “The average American spends nine hours each day in front of electronic-screened
media. In the course of a year, Americans spend more time in front of a screen than in school, at work or in
bed asleep. Turning off the television is one small step individuals and families can take toward a healthier
lifestyle.”

Aakko said the purpose of Turnoff Week is to take an extended break from screens, which consume so much
of our free time. “It’s a chance to read, be more physically active, converse, think, create and do. We want to
link people back into their communities by reminding them to utilize their local resources such as parks, trails,
playgrounds and recreation centers,” he said.

Turnoff Week is an annual event, with schools, libraries and community groups participating around the world.
The event is coordinated by the Center for SCREEN-TIME Awareness, an international nonprofit organization
that empowers people to take control of the electronic media in their lives, reduce overall screen time and
promote healthier lives and more vibrant communities.

Appeared in Denver, Denver
North, Denver South, Aurora.
April 20, 2009



page 12





obesity and improve the health and well being of all Coloradoans. For more information about LiveWell Colorado, visit http://www.

April 21, 2009
Don’t Blow Up Your TV, Just Turn it Off For Awhile

In 1973 John Denver sang a song written by John Prine called “Blow Up Your TV.” Last week, many public health
departments asked people not to blow up their TVs but just to turn them off, along with video games and
computers, for seven days as part of National TV Turnoff Week . If somehow you missed it — it wasn’t well
advertised on TV for obvious reasons — don’t worry, you’ll have another chance Sept. 20-26.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment encouraged families to get off the couch, turn off
their TVs and computers and hide the remotes, go outside, read a book and spend time with their families and
communities.

There are good reasons behind this push. According to the international Center for Screen Time Awareness,
the average American spends nine hours a day in front of a screen. This is recreational screen time and doesn’t
include the hours many poor slobs, including your’s truly, spend in front of a screen at work.

The site says: “On average, people watch 4 hours of television and then spend another [4-plus] hours with
computers, games, video, iPods and cell phones.”

In 2006 Nielsen Media Research estimated that the average American household has more TVs than people
— 2.73 TVs versus 2.55 people per household. page 1

Almost everyone agrees that TV can be harmful in certain ways. Several different health information sources
link large amounts of screen time to obesity, higher stress, fearfulness — too many crime shows — and a
variety of attention deficit disorders.

For the very young — ages 1-4 — screen time can be even more detrimental than it is for adults. For each hour
of TV watched a day a child’s risk of being overweight increased by 6 percent and, if the TV is located in the
child’s bedroom, the obesity risk jumps by 31 percent and the risk of developing an attention related problem
increases by 10 percent. These statistics came from articles in Pediatrics and Children’s Digital Media Centers.

Another report from the Journal of Communications states that the more TV preschoolers watch, the less well
they do academically and socially in first grade.

Your preschooler could have a problem if he or she can’t tell the game from real life. Do they cry that the game
keeps “killing” them? Would they rather play video games or watch TV than eat?

Turning off the screens in our lives might make us healthier by getting us moving more but it might also be a
way to fight insomnia, which according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has become an
epidemic in this country.

A study conducted by a group of scientists in Osaka, Japan, and reported in an AARP magazine article last year,
found that people who watched TV or used a computer for more than three hours per evening were more
likely than others to report insufficient sleep. The difference in sleep time between screen and non-screen
watchers was only 12 minutes so the scientists speculated that screen time increased the need for sleep and
undercut quality.

If you have to get up at 5 a.m. to get to work and you’re still up at midnight watching TV, surfing the Net or
playing games, you have a problem that not only cuts into your Zzzz time but also into the productivity you
owe the people who sign your paychecks.

Even if there were no health or social benefits in tuning out the screens, imagine what we could do with an
extra nine hours each day — read books, go for walks, clean out the attic, play board games with your kids or
help them with homework. Turn off the TV and we just might have more time for a real, rat-race-free life.

For more information, visit www.screentime.org . For information about obesity prevention, physical activity
and nutrition, visit LiveWell Colorado, www.livewellcolorado.org.

People on the Move | Rob Larimer
April 22, 2009

Karen Kemerling Ph.D. has joined the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses as vice president of
information technology. She has more than 20 years of business advisory and information management
experience.

Dr. Felicia Knightly has been promoted to senior veterinarian of the Denver Zoo. She has worked for the zoo
since 1997.

Dirk R. Hobbs has received the Circle of XCLLNC Award from Sunshine Media Group for achievement in
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custom/vertical publishing for 2008. He is publisher of M.D. News magazine and CEO of Medical Voyce Inc.

Doreen Merz has been promoted to supervising tax senior at Stockman Kast Ryan and Co.

Liz Stokes has been promoted to supervising tax senior at Stockman Kast Ryan and Co.

Melody Hall has been promoted to supervising tax senior at Stockman Kast Ryan and Co.

Craig Beyrouty has been named dean of the College of Agriculture Sciences at Colorado State University. He
currently heads the Department of Agronomy at Purdue and also serves as a professor.

Vicki Caldwell has received the President’s Service Award for 2008 from the Leading Real Estate Companies of
the World. She is director of global relocation for Rusinak Real Estate Inc.

Maren Stewart J.D., APR, has been named chief executive officer of LiveWell Colorado. She most recently was
vice president of external affairs at The Children’s Hospital in Colorado.

Tom Zurenko has been named president of the Bob Telmosse’ Foundation. He has served a member of the
board of directors since 2008.

Lonna Borden has been named chief financial officer of Bella Energy. She previously was CFO of IZZE Beverage
Co.

Gary Loo has been selected to receive the inaugural Business Lifetime Entrepreneurship Award from the
College of Business at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. He is president and CEO of High Valley
Land Co. and chairman of High Valley Group, and was president of Current Inc.

Health Grant Will Encourage Diet, Exercise, Fund Projects | John Norton
April 23, 2009

The Pueblo City-County Health Department has received a $180,760 grant from LiveWell Colorado to
encourage healthy eating and exercise.

According to Cathy Dehn, LiveWell Pueblo project coordinator and health educator at the Pueblo City-County
Health Department, “The program is working in the community, with schools, work sites and health care
providers to address the chronic diseases associated with obesity and providing resources to those in Pueblo at
risk for being overweight or obese.”

She said that money will allow the department to continue the work begun under Steps to a Healthier Pueblo,
a five-year grant program that ended last fall.

Pueblo is one of 25 communities in Colorado that received funding from LiveWell Colorado .

LiveWell and PACE are seeking applications from businesses, nonprofit agencies, organizations, neighborhood
associations, clubs or collaboration of multiple groups in Pueblo County to implement infrastructure projects
that encourage walking and biking in Pueblo. Request for applications (RFA’s) can be picked up from April 27 to
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May 8 at the Health Department Annex, 205 N. Santa Fe Avenue, or requested by e-mail to the address below.
Applications are due by June 8.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit e-mail inquiries regarding the Infrastructure Project Grants.
Direct all inquiries to Roz White, purchasing agent at the Pueblo City-County Health Department.

LIVEWELL PUEBLO
Programs included will be:
Pueblo Active Community Environments (PACE) a community advocacy group working to improve walkability
and bikeability in Pueblo.
Obesity counseling and referral training for health care providers.
Coordinated school health programs on physical activity and nutrition for Pueblo County School District 70 and
Pueblo City Schools through staff training.
Healthy eating and physical activity classes for employees at work sites.

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Mom Was Right; Kids Need to Go Outside and Play | Katherine Warren
April 24, 2009

O’Brien sits on the board
of LiveWell Colorado, a
nonprofit organizations
devoted to improving the
health of Coloradans, and
has worked on children’s
health and wellness
issues throughout her
career.

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Don’t Blow Up The TV; Just Turn It Off | Norma Engelberg
April 29, 2009

For more
information, visit
www.screentime.
org . For
information about
obesity prevention,
physical activity
and nutrition,
visit LiveWell
Colorado, www.
livewellcolorado.
org.

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Ran in all markets.
May 7, 2009
LiveWell Colorado Gets $17M Grant for Anti-Obesity Push

LiveWell Colorado, a nonprofit focused on reducing obesity in the state, said Thursday it has received a new
$17.1 million grant from the Colorado Health Foundation.

LiveWell said it plans to use the new funds and earlier grants to work with public and private groups, including
the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, to “address the behavioral, environmental and
social roots of obesity,” according to a press release.

The nonprofit Colorado Health Foundation, part-owner of the HealthONE hospital system, has committed
$17.1 million to LiveWell over a three-year period.

In 2007, Kaiser Permanente, a nonprofit insurance plan and a health care delivery system, pledged $16 million
over five years. And LiveWell also has received $1 million from the Kresge Foundation.

LiveWell was established as a joint venture of the health foundation, Kaiser and the Colorado Department of
Public Health and Environment’s Physical Activity and Nutrition Program.

According to information from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 55 percent of
Colorado adults could be classified as obese or overweight in 2008.

Obesity leads to health problems including diabetes and heart disease that are straining the health care system
locally and nationwide.

CEO
SELF
LiveWell Colorado Gets $17M Grant for Anti-Obesity Push | John Paulson
May 7, 2009


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Funding | Eric Whitney
May 7, 2009

**Throughout the day, one-minute spots regarding funding ran on their station.

May 7, 2009
LiveWell Colorado Gets $17M Grant for Anti-Obesity Push


LiveWell said it plans to use the new funds and earlier grants to work with public and private groups, including
the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, to “address the behavioral, environmental and
social roots of obesity,” according to a press release.

The nonprofit Colorado Health Foundation, part-owner of the HealthONE hospital system, has committed
$17.1 million to LiveWell over a three-year period.

In 2007, Kaiser Permanente, a nonprofit insurance plan and a health care delivery system, pledged $16 million
over five years. And LiveWell also has received $1 million from the Kresge Foundation.

LiveWell was established as a joint venture of the health foundation, Kaiser and the Colorado Department of
Public Health and Environment’s Physical Activity and Nutrition Program.

According to information from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 55 percent of
Colorado adults could be classified as obese or overweight in 2008.

Obesity leads to health problems including diabetes and heart disease that are straining the health care system
locally and nationwide.

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‘Walkability’ tests end today | Jeff Tucker
May 7, 2009

About a dozen people took their lunch hour Wednesday and walked one of Pueblo’s oldest neighborhoods.

The second of three planned walking tours in Pueblo, “Walkability,” it’s titled, took place along five square
blocks between Abriendo and Orman avenues and Colorado and Broadway avenues.

The tour is part of LiveWell Pueblo’s work to assess the ease of walking and bicycling in neighborhoods
throughout the community and apply those lessons to new neighborhoods and redevelopment projects, said
Cathy Dehn, health educator for LiveWell.

The walk also had a heritage tourism feel.

The group walked the old neighborhoods and were given the histories of some of the homes by Pueblo Plan-
ner Wade Broadhead. The neighborhood developed before cars were easily available, so it focused on walking
and bicycling.

But it’s also old, and the group talked about improvements that might be needed as well.

The group will start an hourlong walk from the Loft Coffee House, 119 Broadway Ave., today at 5 p.m. For more
information, call Jennifer Ludwig at 583-4511.

Anyone who attends will be asked to evaluate the walk route and its accessibility on a scoring sheet. That infor-
mation will be used to make recommendations in the future on how to make improvements.

What’s cooking? Events at cooking schools | Patricia Calhoun
May 7, 2009

What’s cooking? Mise en Place Cooking School, at 1801 Wynkoop Street #175, is hosting the kick off of
LiveWell Colorado’s five-year plan to end obesity in Colorado today. At 9:30 a.m., Dr. Collins, the “Cooking
Cardiologist,” will offer a cooking demonstration, followed by speakers at 10 a.m. For more information, go to
www.livewellcolorado.org.

And this evening, the Culinary School of the Rockies, 637 South Broadway in Boulder, is hosting a free open
house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Meet the chef-instructors, watch their demonstrations, enjoy complimentary
hors d’oeuvres and drinks, and sign up for discounted classes. For more information, call 303-494-7988.

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At the other end of town, Fromage to Yours will offer a Cheese Beer Event from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the South
Metro Chamber of Commerce, 6840 South University Boulevard. Tickets are just $10 - and half of that goes to
Food Bank of the Rockies. For details, call 720-220-3210.

Denver and Boulder

LiveWell Colorado to Reduce Obesity in Colorado | Erik Keith
May 7, 2009

With Initial Funding Established and New Board of Directors and CEO in Place,
LiveWell Colorado Evolves into Statewide Leader in Obesity Prevention

LiveWell Colorado ( http://www.livewellcolorado.org), a non-profit organization committed to reducing obesity
in Colorado by inspiring healthy eating and active living, today announced the launch of an aggressive five-year
strategy to improve the health of Coloradoans. Supported by a new, generous three-year, $17.1 million grant
from The Colorado Health Foundation, as well as five-year funding of $16 million from Kaiser Permanente,
and a $1 million grant from the Kresge Foundation, LiveWell Colorado today steps into a leadership role in
Colorado’s commitment to obesity prevention.

In April, LiveWell Colorado named its first president and CEO, Maren Stewart. Stewart and the newly appointed
board of directors will begin leading obesity prevention efforts across the state, guided by the organization’s
five-year strategic plan, Fostering Healthy People and Places: The Power of All of Us ( http://www.
livewellcolorado.org/about-us/strategic-plan).

“Driven by a compelling mission and supported by an impressive board of directors, generous funders and
engaged stakeholders, LiveWell Colorado has the potential to positively impact the lives of all Coloradoans,”
said Stewart, president and CEO of LiveWell Colorado. “I am excited to lead this organization through its
evolution into an independent non-profit that has the unique opportunity to truly make a difference in our
communities.”

LiveWell Colorado’s strategic plan sets forth an aggressive agenda for obesity prevention. LiveWell Colorado,
the central coordinating body for statewide obesity prevention efforts, will work in concert with public
and private entities, including the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, to address the
behavioral, environmental and social roots of obesity. A compendium of input from experts in a variety
of fields, the strategic plan lays out a comprehensive, results-oriented approach to the development of
sustainable programs and policies that will work to reverse obesity trends.

“Our commitment to LiveWell Colorado is built on our belief that this organization can drive positive change
across all sectors of business, government and community,” said Anne Warhover, president and CEO of
The Colorado Health Foundation. “Combating this obesity epidemic will take a collaborative movement of
individuals and organizations across the state and it will get us closer to achieving our vision that, together, we
will make Colorado the healthiest state in the nation.”

An esteemed who’s who of leaders, the new LiveWell Colorado board of directors includes the following
individuals: Ned Calonge - Chairman, Neil W. Bertrand, Tom Clark, Thomas G. Currigan, Jr., James O. Hill, John
Hopkins, Grant Jones, Kurt Kennedy, Joyal Mulheron, Barbara O’Brien, Marguerite Salazar, Anne Warhover and
Reginald L. Washington. Visit http://www.livewellcolorado.org/about-us/board-of-directors for complete bios.
improve the health of all Coloradans. For more Kaiser Permanente news, visit kp.org/newscenter.
page 22

“Kaiser Permanente is focused on funding organizations and initiatives whose efforts are aimed at producing
sustainable results and LiveWell Colorado is a solid example,” said Jandel Allen-Davis, MD, vice-president,
government and external affairs for Kaiser Permanente of Colorado. “With a dedicated board of directors, a
visionary strategic plan, a strong focus on evaluation and funding that allows for consistency, LiveWell Colorado
is on track to take a leadership role in its commitment to reverse obesity trends across the state.”

According to data released May 1, 2009, by the Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition Program and the
Centers for Disease Control, Colorado’s 2008 adult obesity rate remained steady at 19.1 percent. In 2007, the
adult obesity rate was 19.3 percent. The CDC data also show that in 2008, 55.3 percent of Colorado adults fell
within the categories of overweight or obese, leaving only 44.7 percent of Coloradoans at a healthy weight.

LiveWell Colorado has funded local community initiatives across the state since 2006. Today, LiveWell Colorado
funds and provides technical assistance to 25 local community initiatives focused on implementing programs
and policies that support healthy eating and active living.

LiveWell Colorado aims to provide every Coloradoan with access to healthy foods and opportunities for
physical activity in the places they live, work, learn and play. This non-profit organization will realize its vision
by elevating health and wellness awareness, augmenting funding for the most promising obesity reduction
strategies and leveraging investments and resources. With the launch of Colorado’s strategic plan, Fostering
Healthy People and Places: The Power of All of Us, LiveWell Colorado and its board of directors will implement
an aggressive, coordinated statewide intervention to address the human and economic tolls of overweight
and obesity and improve the health and well being of all Coloradoans. For more information about LiveWell
Colorado Community, visit www.livewellcolorado.org.

About Kaiser Permanente Colorado
Kaiser Permanente Colorado is the state’s largest nonprofit health plan, proudly working to improve the lives
and health of Denver, Boulder, and Southern Colorado area residents for 40 years. Kaiser Permanente Colorado
provides comprehensive health care services to 480,000 members through 17 medical offices and a network
of affiliated hospitals and physicians. The health plan was recently named “Highest in Member Satisfaction”
among Commercial Health Plans by J.D. Power and Associates. It is also the top-ranked commercial and
Medicare health plan in Colorado, according to U.S. News World Report/National Committee for Quality
Assurance. In 2007, Kaiser Permanente directed more than $42 million to community benefit programs to
improve the health of all Coloradans. For more Kaiser Permanente news, visit kp.org/newscenter.

About The Colorado Health Foundation
The Colorado Health Foundation works to make Colorado the healthiest state in the nation by increasing
the number of Coloradans with health insurance, ensuring they have access to quality, coordinated care and
encouraging healthy living. The Foundation invests in the community through grants and initiatives to health-
related nonprofits that focus on these goals, as well as operating medical education programs to increase the
health care workforce. The Foundation’s assets of more than $900 million include an investment portfolio as
well as an ownership interest in Denver’s HealthONE hospital system. For more information, please visit www.
ColoradoHealth.org.

About The Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition (COPAN) Program
An initiative of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Colorado Physical Activity
and Nutrition Program’s mission is to prevent obesity and related chronic diseases and to promote healthy
lifestyles for all Coloradans. A driving force of COPAN is its coalition-a group of more than 450 public and
private partners working together to design, implement, coordinate and evaluate statewide interventions that
are effective, widely accepted and culturally appropriate throughout the state. COPAN seeks to achieve these
goals by building a comprehensive community approach to good health that supports individuals throughout
the lifespan and involves all sectors of the community.

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Nonprofit Aims to Cut Citizens’ Fat | Kristen Browning-Blas
May 8, 2009

A nonprofit backed by $34.1 million aims to reverse weight gain and increase fitness among Colorado residents
over the next five years.

Funded by $17.1 million from the Colorado Health Foundation, $16 million from Kaiser Permanente and $1
million from the Kresge Foundation, LiveWell Colorado is the only standalone nonprofit in the state dedicated
to fighting obesity, LiveWell chief executive Maren Stewart said Thursday.

“We have a laser focus,” Stewart said. “We’re ready to put words into action and measure what we
accomplish.”

With a well-connected board of directors from academia, business, politics and health care, the nonprofit will
coordinate, streamline and promote obesity-prevention programs statewide.

While Colorado still ranks as the fittest state, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the
obesity rate has doubled since 1995 and 19 percent of adults here are obese, Stewart said.

LiveWell began in January 2007 as a joint effort of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment,
the Colorado Health Foundation and Kaiser Permanente.

Kristen Browning-Blas: 303-954-1440 or kbrowning@denverpost.com

Focus on healthy food and active living
LiveWell’s “laser focus” aims at the following areas:

Promoting awareness of healthy eating and active living among families, schools and communities.

Addressing the lack of fresh and healthy foods in poor neighborhoods. Coloradans earning above $75,000 a
year had a 16 percent obesity rate, while nearly a quarter of those making below $25,000 are obese.

Analyzing healthy eating and active-living policies, or lack thereof, across the state. Lobbying for walkable
streets, school fitness programs and safe, accessible parks.

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Colorado not immune to fighting battle of the bulging waistlines | Amy Gillentine
May 15, 2009

Obesity is considered an epidemic in the United States - and Colorado has not been immune to the problem.

Although the state is the thinnest in the nation, with an obesity rate of 19.1 percent (compared to 26.6 percent
nationwide), the problem is growing - contributing to increasing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and
asthma rates.

But there’s a new nonprofit organization whose goal is to halt the rise of obesity - LiveWell Colorado has
received $34.1 million to help prevent obesity.

“We plan to use this money for a variety of efforts on the local level,” said Maren Steward, chief executive
officer and president. “We want to have access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity. Focus on
things we know work: proven, evidenced-based ideas.”

The group plans to reduce the health disparity in the state related to nutrition, physical activity and obesity.
Men are more likely to be overweight than women, and blacks and Hispanics are slightly more likely to be
obese.

LiveWell pays for two programs in El Paso County: LiveWell Fountain and LiveWell Colorado Springs. The
Fountain program has been funded for four years; Colorado Springs is still in the planning stages for its grant.

Stewart has been on the job for slightly more than a month, and said the group’s strategic plan is “at a high
level, but I’ll be working to break those goals down to measurable, proven actions.”

The grant money - $17.1 million from the Colorado Health Foundation, $16 million from Kaiser Permanente
and $1 million from the Kresge Foundation - will serve to place the organization in a “leadership position,”
Stewart said.

“We don’t want a one-size-fits-all approach, one that works in one area might not work in another,” she said.
“We want each community to make the plan their own - some are working with school districts, others are
working with community organizations.”

Officials at the Colorado Health Foundation said the money was given to create a “collaborative effort.”

“Together, we will make Colorado the healthiest state in the nation,” said Anne Warhover, president and CEO.

Information from the Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition Program and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention shows that only 44.7 percent of people in Colorado are at a healthy weight.

But the fight to prevent obesity could be an uphill battle. An examination of efforts to prevent obesity in
England, Australia and the United States shows that most efforts focus on providing the public with education
and behavioral skills, not on environmental change.

And those efforts, studies show, don’t work.

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Four studies that focused on six to 12 education sessions, information about dietary change and physical
activity show that educational intervention alone doesn’t produce long-term effectiveness in preventing
weight gain, said David Crawford, associate professor in the School of Health Sciences at Deakin University in
Victoria, Australia.

“The few weight gain prevention studies that have been attempted have had only limited success,” he said.
“Given the threats to the health of populations posed by obesity, why have greater efforts not been made
to prevent it? It is only in the past five years that obesity has become recognized as an issue that warrants
preventive action.”

He said health care providers don’t yet understand what determines whether someone is prone to obesity or
where it is best to intervene.

“Undoubtedly, the need to prevent obesity is urgent,” he said. “Similarly, there can be no doubt of the need for
research to underpin the development of population strategies.”

Kaiser Draws Upon its Resources to Create a Better Community | Ryan Peacock
May 18, 2009

page 2

Summit Prevention Alliance Gets Grant to Inspire Healthy Lifestyles | Caitlin Row
May 22, 2009

page 2

May 30, 2009
Obesity Program Gets More Funds

page 2

May 31, 2009
CanDo receives $336,898 grant

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June 17, 2009
Webinar: “Keys to Sustainable Community Change”

LiveWell Colorado (www.livewellcolorado.org), a non-profit organization committed to reducing obesity
in Colorado by inspiring healthy eating and active living, today announced an upcoming webinar, “Keys to
Sustainable Community Change: Highlights from the LiveWell Colorado Community Initiatives Report.” The
webinar will be held Friday, July 10, 2009 at 9 a.m. MDT. To register, visit https://www2.gotomeeting.com/
register/685548563.

“Keys to Sustainable Community Change: Highlights from the LiveWell Colorado Community Initiatives Report”
will offer an overview of LiveWell Colorado’s Community Grants program, which currently awards $4 million
dollars in funding to 25 community programs focused on obesity reduction. Panelists will discuss processes and
procedures utilized in the implementation of this program and offer best practices and insights for successful
community grant program management.

Based on knowledge gleaned from community implementation, panelists will demonstrate how LiveWell
Colorado put public health theories into practice. Illustrating concepts with real-world examples, this webinar
will explore keys to effective technical assistance, comprehensive evaluation and sustainable change.

The free, one-hour webinar will feature Corina Lindley, MPH, community health manager, Kaiser Permanente;
Khanh Nguyen, senior program officer - healthy living, The Colorado Health Foundation; Stephanie Stevens,
community coordinator, Colorado Physical Activity and Nutrition Program and Bonnie Leeman-Castillo, PhD,
senior evaluation manager, Kaiser Permanente.

The webinar is filling up quickly, so sign up today at https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/685548563. For
more information about LiveWell Colorado, please visit http://www.livewellcolorado.org.

augmenting funding for the most promising obesity reduction strategies and leveraging investments and resources. With the
launch of Colorado’s strategic plan, Fostering Healthy People and Places: The Power of All of Us, LiveWell Colorado and its board of
directors will implement an aggressive, coordinated statewide intervention to address the human and economic tolls of overweight
and obesity and improve the health and well being of all Coloradoans. LiveWell Colorado is funded by The Colorado Health
Foundation, Kaiser Permanente and the Kresge Foundation. For more information about LiveWell Colorado Community, visit www.
livewellcolorado.org.

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June 17, 2009
10 Ways to Enjoy a Healthier Summer

LiveWell Colorado Announces Upcoming Webinar | Twitter Status Update
June 17, 2009

LiveWell Colorado Announces Upcoming Webinar, “Keys to Sustainable ... http://bit.ly/154E60

Webinar: “Keys to Sustainable Community Change” | Twitter Status Update
June 19, 2009

Don’t miss this webinar, “Keys to Sustainable Community Change” presented by LiveWell Colorado: http://tiny.
cc/7aAaI

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Webinar: “Keys to Sustainable Community Change” | Twitter Status Update
June 19, 2009

RT @CUgirl481: Don’t miss this webinar, “Keys to Sustainable Community Change” presented by LiveWell
Colorado: http://tiny.cc/7aAaI

Soak Up Summer Tackle Obesity | Twitter Status Update
June 19, 2009

Soak Up Summer and Tackle Obesity: LiveWell Colorado, a nonprofit organization committed to reducing
obesity in .. http://bit.ly/QDrBw

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June 18, 2009
Soak Up Summer Tackle Obesity

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Colorado Leanest In U.S. | Peter Marcus
July 2, 2009

The obesity rate in Colorado posted a slight increase over last year, but the state is still the leanest in the
nation, according to a report released Wednesday.

That being said, Colorado health experts say the annual report by Trust for America’s Health and the Robert
Wood Johnson Foundation should be considered alarming, for if the state continues increasing in the obesity
category, it might soon find itself kicked out of the exclusive leanest state in America club.

The percentage of obese adults in Colorado climbed to 18.9 percent, an increase over last year’s number of
18.4 percent. The state still comes nowhere close to most Southern states, such as Mississippi, which had the
highest adult obesity rate at 32.5 percent, as well as West Virginia, at 31.2 percent; Alabama, at 31.1 percent;
and Tennessee, at 30.2 percent. Eight of the 10 states with the highest percentage of obese adults are in the
South.

Karen DeLeeuw, director of the state’s Center for Healthy Living, says the report actually only touches upon the
obesity epidemic in Colorado. In fact, over 55 percent of adults in Colorado are either obese or overweight,
and 30 percent of children are obese or overweight, she said.

Adult obesity rates increased in 23 states and did not decrease in a single state in the past year, according to
the “F as in Fat: How Obesity Policies Are Failing in America” report.

Former Denver Bronco Bill “Romo” Romanowski, now the founder and chief executive of Nutrition53, a
California-based nutritional supplement company, told the Denver Daily News Wednesday that part of the
problem is a lack of emphasis on physical education in schools.

“One of the big issues we have is that our kids are spending too much time on computers and video games,
they need to get out and get active,” he said. “In our school districts, gym is becoming an elective. I remember
all through school, gym was a requirement, everybody was in gym class. Now, more and more, there’s just so
many different options.”

The former Pro Bowl linebacker says he is concerned by the impact the recession is having on people’s eating
habits, noting that more and more people are eating fast food instead of cooking healthy meals. He says having
a busy schedule is also no excuse, adding that his company produces a nutritional supplement, Lean1, which
is a weight loss supplement shake that includes organic fruit and vegetable extracts, fiber, protein and healthy
fats.

Never too late to get fit

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Former Mr. America, Tom Terwilliger, who is now a Denver-based fitness and “body rapport” expert, says the
best thing people can do to fight obesity is to simply stay fit. And if they’re not currently fit, it’s never too late
to start, he said.

“Part of the symptom right now is that people are, from what I’m seeing, they’re doing a little less right now
than they were,” said Terwilliger. “They’re spending more time in front of the television, and they’re spending
more time at home.”

The report released Wednesday points to the economic crisis as a contributing factor. Terwilliger agrees,
pointing out that in his fitness community, trainers and gyms are seeing a decrease in participation and
membership by as much as 25 percent.

But he says the economy should not be considered an excuse, adding that it doesn’t cost money to go out
during lunch and take a walk, or perform yoga at home, or ride a bike up into the mountains.

“It has to be a priority, because those other things suffer, particularly during these times of stressful economic
challenges,” said Terwilliger. “The body will start to succumb to those stress symptoms, it manifests in the
physiology. So, if you don’t exercise and you don’t eat right, that stress starts to build up and will eventually
come around and slap you right in the face.”
Obesity rate doubled since ’95

Maren Stewart, president and chief executive of LiveWell Colorado, a nonprofit dedicated to healthy living that
recently launched a five-year program to reduce obesity, pointed out that Colorado’s obesity rate has more
than doubled since 1995. She says that puts a large percentage of the population at risk for cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension and asthma.

“Obesity is the single greatest health threat to our nation,” she said. “It is our responsibility to take action.”

LiveWell Colorado’s campaign will include education, as well as public policy initiatives as part of its fight.

Meanwhile, DeLeeuw simply encourages adults to get out with their children as part of the fight against
obesity.

“Colorado is so great because there are so many parks, and walking trails, and playgrounds, and things like
that,” she said. “So, to parents I would say, just get outside and play with your kids. You need to be active and
enjoy what the state has to offer.”

FITNESS CONTACTS:
• Terwilliger Fitness — TerwilligerFitness.com, 303-404-9241
• Nutrition53 — Nutrition53.com
Distributed by Colorado Capitol Reporters

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Colorado Leanest In U.S. | Peter Marcus
July 2, 2009

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News: Monday, July 6, 2009 | Janine Mayfield
July 6, 2009

The obesity rate in Colorado posted a slight increase over last year, but the state is still the leanest in the
nation, according to a report released last week by the Trust for America’s Health and Robert Wood Johnson
Foundation.

Colorado may be the leanest state, but obesity remains the single greatest public health threat to our state and
the nation. Some alarming statistics:

–According to the CDC, obesity rates in Colorado have nearly doubled since 2005.
–According to The Colorado Health Foundation, if trends in obesity and overweight rates continue at their
current pace, only 35 percent of Coloradans will be at healthy weights by 2017.

LiveWell Colorado, a newly formed 501(c)3, is committed to reducing obesity in Colorado by inspiring healthy
eating and active living. We serve as a funder, a partner and a hub of information on the many facets of
obesity. As you approach pieces on obesity, healthy eating and active living, LiveWell Colorado is here to
provide helpful resources, colorful examples and expert commentary.

Visit www.livewellcolorado.org to learn more about LiveWell Colorado’s mission to inspire Coloradans and
advance policy, environmental and lifestyle changes that promote health in a variety of sectors.
Source: PSA (Posted 11:26a)

LiveWell to Fight the Pounds | Janine Mayfield
July 8, 2009

A recent study found Colorado to be the leanest state in the country. But, health officials say that doesn’t mean
we are free of the obesity problem.

According to the Center for Disease Control, obesity rates in Colorado have climbed steadily since 2005.
page

The Colorado Health Foundation says if obesity and overweight trends
continue at their current pace, by 2017 only 35% of Coloradoans will
be at a healthy weight.

For several years, Live Well of Mesa County has been trying to teach
the Western Slope about healthy lifestyle choices. They say even small
changes can get you on the road to better health.

“Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, packing a healthy lunch when
you go to lunch instead of eating out. Some of those little everyday
changes do add up and really make a big difference,” Mesa County’s
Prevention Chronic Disease Manager, Tawny Espinoza explains.

About 1200 people are currently enrolled in Live Well or Mesa County. The program is free to county residents.

Members can take part in health and fitness challenges, learn more about nutrition, earn prizes and get
support in reaching their health goals.

“Our challenges through the Live Well program run year round. They encourage people to get physical activity
every day, to eat a little bit better and we outline what those changes can be,” Espinoza says.

Experts say with long days during the summer, now is a great time to get outside and start some new healthy
habits. From going for a walk, riding a bike, or even just parking farther away from the store next time you go
grocery shopping.

For more information about Live Well of Mesa County call 683- 6612 or go to: www.liveWell.org

Health Officials Promote Healthy Dining | John Norton
July 8, 2009

Pueblo diners soon may have some healthier options promoted on the menu if local restaurants sign up for
Colorado’s Smart Meal Seal program.

Shana Patterson, nutrition coordinator for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment obesity
prevention program, said Tuesday that several local restaurants have expressed an interest in the program.

For about five years, the state health department has been promoting the idea in Denver and it’s gradually
spreading to mountain areas. Patterson was one of the speakers at the quarterly meeting of the LiveWell
Pueblo coalition. The LiveWell program is the successor to the federally funded Steps to a Better Pueblo and
has aided a number of local initiatives to encourage exercise and better nutrition.

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Cathy Dehn, LiveWell project coordinator for the Pueblo City-County Health Department, said that any
restaurant owner interested in participating in the Smart Meal Seal program should call her office at 583-4315.
Dehn said she’s also encouraging caterers to take part and soon will be hosting a meeting with them to discuss
the program.

To qualify for the program, eateries must have more than one item on their menu that meets the standards
for low salt, carbohydrate and fat content, based closely on American Hearth Association standards. They then
can put a decal on their front door and mark those items on their menus with the seal. They also must provide
proof that the food item meets the criteria. Patterson said that her department has found two firms that will
do analyses for $90. The cost of marketing the listing and printing new menus or inserts is the responsibility of
the restaurant.

About 200 restaurants have taken part in the program, Patterson said, including McDonald’s in the Denver area
which turned out to have 11 items that qualified, the largest number of any participant.

“Shocking, isn’t it?” Patterson said, adding that it took her a year and a half to broker the local franchisee’s
participation, dealing with McDonald’s legal offices as well as some resistance in her own agency because of
the fast-food chain’s reputation.

McDonald’s joining the program has paid off, though. In comparisons to another metropolitan area where
similar items were available but did not carry the seal, the Denver restaurants sold more smart meal items and
more items overall, she said.

Asked if she thought Pueblo’s well-known Mexican restaurants could qualify considering the fat and salt
content associated with the cuisine, she said that a family-owned restaurant in Denver, Rosa Linda’s, has seven
items that meet the standards.

“It’s possible but it takes a little work,” she said.

The next step for the program will be expanding it into schools where currently standards are below the
criteria that can earn a smart meal designation. She said her office is working with the Colorado Department of
Education to tighten those standards.

Meanwhile a number of local schools are running programs to encourage exercise and nutrition.

Ann Junk, school health facilitator for the LiveWell program, told coalition members that 18 Pueblo City
Schools and this year five more from Pueblo County School District 70 have set up individual programs.

Each has undergone a school health index exam developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
and then staff members have put together school health improvement plans that range from breakfast in the
classroom to exercise programs.

Mike Cuppy, chairman of the Pueblo Active Community Environments committee, also gave the group an
update on a new bicycle path map for the city and Pueblo West. The new map would be published after
comments from recent public meetings are incorporated into it. He also said he hoped that by the end of the
year the city would adopt a bicycle and pedestrian ordinance that would require new developments to provide
bicycle parking and access as well as better pedestrian walkways.

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July 16, 2009
LiveWell Grant Supports Community Gardens in Fort Collins Loveland

Poudre Valley Health System’s Coalition for Activity and Nutrition to Defeat Obesity (CanDo) is helping to
“grow” a healthier community. Thanks in part to grant funding from LiveWell Colorado, both Fort Collins and
Loveland now have wonderful community gardens that are helping residents to eat healthier.

In Loveland, the High Plains Environmental Center has put in a 1.2 acre garden to grow produce for the Food
Bank of Larimer County and the House of Neighborly Services. They’ve harvested their first crop already!
They’ve also developed a “Wild Zone” – a natural outdoor space for kids to be active and creative in nature.
The initiative is called Nourishing Children through Nature. Volunteers are needed to help with garden
maintenance and harvesting. If interested, contact Susan Singley, garden coordinator, at susan@suburbitat.
com

In Fort Collins, the Gardens on Spring Creek is putting in
a 3/4 acre Garden of Eatin’. Food produced will also go
to the Food Bank of Larimer County. Unfortunately, this
garden was hit by a lot of the hail that came to the Fort
Collins area earlier this summer, so they’ve been really
busy replanting. The Gardens on Spring Creek also takes
volunteers. If interested, contact Mary Miller, garden
coordinator, at mmiller@fcgov.com.

Another Fort Collins garden is in the Coachlight Plaza
neighborhood. Last year’s garden was bountiful and
provided plenty of fresh produce for residents. This
year, they also got a lot of hail, but residents are coming
together to replant.

Community gardens that provide fresh fruits and vegetables are just one way CanDo is helping residents of
Fort Collins and Loveland to combat obesity and live healthier lives. Stay tuned for more updates on how
CanDo is using its LiveWell Colorado grant funding.

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July 18, 2009
Sustainability
Two weeks ago, this column featured the 2009 Western Colorado Sustainability Roundtable hosted by the
Alliance for Sustainable Colorado with local assistance from Green Guides of the Grand Valley and Western
Colorado Congress.

I wrote about many of the projects local governments have undertaken to create sustainability.

Now, let’s look at some of the other interesting ideas that bubbled up from the cauldron of discourse.
The first task of small groups at the roundtable was to explore what efforts are in place and working.

The Drought Response Information Project, a collaboration among Grand Valley water providers and CSU
Cooperative Extension, is doing an excellent job of providing information about a drought response plan, the
importance of water conservation and how to reduce water use. Look on today’s Home Garden pages for
DRIP’s educational column.

Another effective organization is the Mesa Land Trust, which has conserved more than 55,000 acres for local
food production, large working ranches and wildlife and riparian habitat. Learn more at www.mesalandtrust.
org.

The availability of locally grown food and a consumer-friendly distribution network were identified as major
strengths in the quest for sustainability. Contributors include the various farmers markets, Cameron Place
Community Supported Agriculture and the community garden at 10th and Main streets in Grand Junction, as
well as all other local growers and ranchers.

Another successful model is the Downtown Development Authority partnership with LiveWell Mesa County,
which rewards program participants who meet their goals with vouchers for healthy, local food.

Mesa State College was commended for constructing new buildings to Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design standards and facilitating recycling on campus.

Local energy conservation and efficiency efforts are getting a boost from individuals taking energy rater courses
and investing in equipment to conduct energy audits. Residential builders are building more Energy Star new
homes.

Kudos were also given to GJ CRI, Curbside Recycling Indefinitely, for providing curbside recycling service to
Grand Junction residents and staffing an innovative drop-off facility.

After identifying what is already in place, we discussed what is ripe for development.

Intriguing ideas included the Architecture 2030 Plan, the promotion of creative home financing to encourage
increased energy efficiency, taking advantage of stimulus funds for job retraining in energy efficiency and
renewable energy industries and tapping into abundant local sunlight for solar power.

page

Special attention should be given to encouraging education and innovation for the younger generation.

Perhaps the next wave of inventors will be inspired by the Western Colorado Math and Science Center.

Many aspects of the construction industry seem poised for sustainable improvements. One proposal involved
creating a network for reuse and recycling of construction and demolition waste, collaborating with current
resources such as Habitat for Humanity.

Builders and construction industries would benefit from additional educational opportunities about building
more sustainable homes and buildings. They can also learn how to upgrade efficiency in existing structures.
Another suggestion was the establishment of a sustainable comprehensive land use code taking into account
energy efficiency, green space and open space.

Mortgage lending for sustainable development also is ready to take off.

As the conversation turned to the steps we would take to foster these opportunities, roundtable participants
agreed a centralized body is needed to coordinate sustainability efforts in the Grand Valley.

We decided there is no need to reinvent the wheel since an existing nonprofit could house an organized
sustainability group and utilize credible local expertise. The trick will be getting local leadership, nonprofits and
local government working together.

Part of the mix will consist of setting long-term goals and implementing definable projects to foster
collaboration.

Good communication, including a Web-based forum, is essential. It will also be important to use language that
will garner broad support. The Carbondale group, Clean Energy Economy for the Region, was suggested as a
successful model.

As the roundtable came to a close, we agreed to take advantage of support from the Alliance for Sustainable
Colorado for another meeting in six months. A local nonprofit is looking into serving as an umbrella
organization for a centralized sustainability group. I’ll keep you posted on progress.

Special thanks are in order to Kelly Landau, program assistant for the Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, who
compiled a comprehensive report of this energizing event.

To learn more about the alliance, go to www.sustainablecolorado.org.

Adele Israel is a Grand Junction writer who has been involved in sustainability efforts for some 20 years. Have a
question or column idea for Adele? E-mail her at msdeli@bresnan.net.

Sustainable Fashion Here is an amazing and fun tidbit. My daughter lives on the upper peninsula of Michigan
and brought this link to my attention a while back. Thanks to The Mining Journal in Marquette for approving
use of the following link in my column. Go to www.miningjournal.net/page/content.detail/id/529041.
html?nav=5006 for a fascinating story and photos regarding use of second-hand clothes and recycled materials
such as a tent. My only question is, “How do you wash that dress?” - Adele Israel

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Community Gardens Sprouting Up Across Weld | Adrienne Saia Isaac
July 23, 2009

It’s easy for Nancy Varner to talk about her garden but difficult for her to remember everything she’s planted in
it over the season.

“I’m growing tomatoes, peppers, okra, black-eyed peas,
squash, cucumber, carrots, beets, sweet peas, fava beans,
green beans, onions ... oh, and fennel.”

Varner grows all of these vegetables and flowers on a plot in
the community area of the Houston Community Gardens, a
project of Assistance League at 23rd Avenue and 4th Street.
For a small annual fee, Varner gets her own rectangle of land
to tend.

“I don’t get paid a dime for this,” she said of her volunteer
position as community garden chairwoman.

Rather, she’s personally rewarded by the communal aspect of gardening, of seeing generations tend to the
same plot of land and being part of the rich 20-year history of the Houston community garden.

Varner is one of many Weld County residents growing their own organic produce this year. Fifteen other
community gardens, partially funded by the private nonprofit Live Well Weld County, are sprouting up around
the county, and they’re getting more popular every year.

Deb DeBoutez oversees the community garden at the University of Northern Colorado. She manages 24 plots
of land, each one taken this year by a community member or local nonprofit organization.

“This is the first time there’s been a waiting list,” she said.

Two of those plots belong to Envision, a non-profit that provides services to people with developmental
disabilities. Envision helps all ages learn skills to help them integrate into the community.

“The people working in the garden are learning job skills,” said Brian Hughes, development and community
coordinator at Envision.

“They learn about quality of work, good work habits. They’re getting the experience of gardening, getting fresh
air and exercise. And then they can see the fruits of their labor,” he said.

Community gardens signify another step in the direction of healthy living promoted by Live Well Weld County.

Bobbie Pickett, project coordinator for Live Well Weld County, said that she would continue the community
garden grants and expand them if possible.
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“I’m proud to be a part of a community that really embraces community gardening and takes it to new levels,”
she said.

Live Well also focuses on increasing access of healthy food and activities to low-income community members
to increase their quality of living.

“We want the healthiest choice to be the easiest choice,” said Pickett.

The benefits of community gardens beat the difficulty of farming, at least in the case of Nancy Varner.

“Some of the most delightful people in the world are gardeners. I love learning from them and sharing our
successes and our failures,” she said.

“It’s a delightful experience, except for the weeds!”

School Meals to Increase 25 to 50 Cents, District 51 Says | Emily Anderson
August 5, 2009

Student meal prices will increase by 25 to 50 cents this school year because of increasing food and labor costs,
according to School District 51 Nutrition Services.

Schools are able to offer breakfast and lunch for less than it costs a family to get the same items at a local
grocery store because the district buys and serves in bulk, said Dan Sharp, District 51 Nutrition Services
director. But a spike in food costs over the past couple years and a steady climb in food-service labor costs led
the school district to increase the price of school breakfasts and lunches, he said.

Lunch prices are increasing from: $1.50 to $2 for elementary school students; $1.75 to $2.25 for middle school
students; and $2.25 to $2.75 for high school students. For breakfast, elementary school students will pay $1.25
instead of $1, and sixth- through 12th-grade students will pay $1.35 instead of $1.10.

School employees will now pay $3.25 for lunch and $1.75 for breakfast. An additional carton of milk will now
cost 65 cents.

Students who qualify for free lunch and breakfast will continue to receive free meals. Reduced-lunch-only
students in third through 12th grades will pay 40 cents for lunch.

The Federal Income Chart decides which families are eligible for free or reduced lunch. A household with one
adult and one child can make no more than $25,900 a year in order to qualify. School districts add $6,660 a
year to that wage figure for each additional person living in a home to determine which families qualify for free
or reduced-cost meals.

Last school year 38.8 percent of District 51 students qualified for free or reduced lunch, a rate more than 3
percent higher than the state average. Sharp said the number of students receiving free and reduced-cost
meals in the district does not affect meal prices.
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New this year, elementary school cafeterias will have the same salads and whole-grain sandwiches featured at
middle schools and high schools, and menus will be coded for nutritional value with the Go, Slow, Whoa plan.
LiveWell helped design the program, which codes low-fat, highly nutritious foods as “Go” foods. Foods that are
nutritious but higher in fat and calories are labeled “Slow” foods. High-fat or high-sugar foods are designated
“Whoa” selections.

August 9, 2009
On The Move

-Michael Bustamante has been named mortgage consultant for Home Team Lending of Greeley. Most recently,
he was the transaction coordinator for the company. He has been with Home Team Lending for four and a half
years.
He may be reached at (970) 336-1185 or by e-mail at Michael@hometeam-lending.com.

-The Insurance Professionals of Weld County has elected the following officers to serve for the 2009-2010 year:
Becky Reckard, president; Marissa Cook, vice president; Jill Rettele, treasurer; and Jen Royal, secretary. The
Board of Directors consists of Margaret Hernandez, Carrie Spinks and Roxanne Dixon.
The Insurance Professionals of Weld County is a local chapter of the National Association of Insurance Women.
For information, call Reckard at (970) 301-3545 or Royal at (970)302-4848.

-Travis Goeglein, vice president with FirstFarm Bank of Greeley, recently competed the 2009 Agricultural
Lending School in Topeka, Kan. The school is sponsored by the Kansas and Nebraska Bankers Associations and
is endorsed by the Colorado, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming
associations.
Course content is designed to instruct students in agricultural lending concepts and practices to enhance their
effectiveness as agricultural loan officers.

-Carley Peif has joined Home Team Lending of Greeley as the transaction coordinator.
She joins the team after working for New Frontier Bank for three and a half years in the home mortgage
division.
Peif is a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado with a business management degree. She may be
reached at (970) 336-1185 or by e-mail at Carley@hometeam-lending.com.

-Kathy Hopper has joined Tailwaggers as a new groomer. Tailwaggers is located at 3616 10th St. Greeley, has
added full-time grooming Call (970) 353-3736.

PORTFOLIO
-Flood Peterson Insurance, Front Range Internet, and Miramont Lifestyle Fitness have all received the Well
Workplace Award.
The awards process is an innovative initiative that recognizes quality and excellence in worksite health
promotion, according to the Wellness Council of America. The process is driven by a pre-defined set of
worksite wellness criteria, organizations of all kinds compete to be recognized as one of America’s Healthiest
Companies. page

The awards process is facilitated by the Coalition for Activity and Nutrition to Defeat Obesity, which is
sponsored by LiveWell Colorado and Poudre Valley Hospital Foundation.

-Cottonwood Travel, 1923 59th Ave., has joined Altour, a leader in worldwide luxury travel and one of the
largest travel management companies in the United States.
Founded almost 30 years ago by Kay Kosmicki, Cottonwood specializes in leisure, corporate, incentive and
meeting group travel. It is the official travel agency for the University of Northern Colorado athletics.

UPCOMING
-Computer meeting ... The Front Range PC Users Group will meet 7-9 p.m., Sept. 1 at the Fort Collins Senior
Center, 1200 Raintree Drive, where presentations on web cameras will be given.
Front Range PC Users Group is a registered non-profit organization. All knowledge levels, from novice to expert
are welcome. Meetings are free. For more information, go to www.frpcug.org.

August 14, 2009
People on the Move

page

August 15, 2009

in America | Maren C. Stewart
Control Obesity, Control Costs: Prevention is the Cure for the Rising Costs of Obesity

page

West Denver Residents Get Free Produce | Libby Smith
August 19, 2009

At Rude Park in Denver, tents were set up and signs pointed the way to free food. This was the scene at July’s
Taste of the Garden Produce and Health Fair. Participants got information about programs and community
resources that promote healthy living, but most importantly they got a bag of free produce.

“I love this event,” said Beverly Tafoya-Dominguez, Health Education Specialist for Denver Public Health and
event organizer. “It’s so important because so many people do not receive the number of fruits and vegetables
in a day in order to be healthy.”

Volunteers bag up the produce which includes potatoes, squash, spinach, tortillas and yogurt. The fresh
vegetables are extras from the Food Bank of the Rockies and instead of spoiling; they’ve become the spoils for
families in need.

“We’re targeting low-income families who need extra help with food,” said Rocio Perez, a volunteer with the
event.

“It helps us with extra food at the end of the month. My husband gets paid just at the first of the month, so it
helps us stretch our food bill a little bit,” said Cindy Milner, a food recipient.

Participants don’t just walk away with a bag of food; they also get a lesson in how to prepare that food.
Operation Frontline Colorado does cooking and nutrition demonstrations for the community. They were on
page 2

hand to cook up this particular day’s vegetables into tasty quesadillas. And they give away recipes to help
families use the free food at home.

“People are generally very pleased,” Tafoya-Dominguez added.

The Taste of Garden Produce and Health Fairs are put on as a collaboration between Denver Public Health,
LiveWell West Denver, Food Bank of the Rockies, Denver Parks Rec, and Operation Frontline Colorado. They
only run through the summer months and the last one is coming up on Friday. It will be held from 9 a.m. to
11:30 a.m. at Iglesia Cristo Rey Church on Raleigh Street in Denver.

August 14, 2009
People on the Move

August 21, 2009
Newsmakers

page

New School Program Counts, Rewards Walkers | Libby Smith
September 1, 2009

A new report from the Institute of Medicine and National Research Council shows local governments how
to fight childhood obesity. Researchers say that local government plays a crucial role in promoting healthy
communities.

Recommendations in the report include the following:
-- Zoning restrictions on fast-food restaurants near schools and playgrounds
-- Taxes on high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and drinks
-- Making sure sidewalks, bike paths and playgrounds are available and safe

In Denver’s Westwood neighborhood, a new program rewards elementary school students for walking to
school.

“The goal of the program is to increase the number of kids to walk to school, to get the exercise they need to
be healthy,” said Rachel Cleaves, LiveWell Westwood Community Coordinator.

LiveWell Westwood is part of the larger LiveWell Colorado non-profit organization committed to reducing
obesity in Colorado. They sponsor the program at Monroe Elementary School called “Mustangs on the Move.”
Each student can sign up to get a tag they hang on their backpacks. When they walk under a solar-powered
computer installed in the playground, they’re automatically counted for walking to school and they’re eligible
for prizes.

“The technology helps because it’s a lot to keep track of 600 children, so everyday this computer is doing the
job of 10 volunteers allowing us to see which kids walked,” Cleaves told CBS4.

The technology comes care of Freiker, a program based out of Boulder. Freiker stands for “Frequent Biker” and
they developed the computer and hang tags that makes keep track of 600 young walkers manageable.

“Mustangs on the Move” started on Monday and students were lined up to get counted for walking to school.

“I walk every day to school,” said Miyra Padilla, 10, a 5th grader at Monroe Elementary School. “I didn’t need
to walk for the prizes because we need to walk to get energy and to get some exercise.”

That’s an important lesson in a neighborhood where the majority of students live within a half-mile of school,
but don’t walk. Westwood has no grocery store and lots of fast food restaurants. There is no recreation center
and few parks. It’s exactly where students and families need some motivation to take the steps toward healthy
living.

“We’re hoping this program allows kids to see that walking to school is a lot of fun. It’s a great convenient way
to get to school and it helps them stay healthy,” Cleaves added. page

IOM Childhood Obesity Report; Interview with Maren Stewart Interviews | Maeve
September 2, 2009

Conran

**Please see the CD at the back of the clipbook for complete audio of this interview.

Childhood Obesity Rates Grow | Megan Jurgemeyer
September 3, 2009

The number of kids with growing waistlines is on the rise, and a new report says local government is part of
the solution. In the last few decades, obesity in American adolescents has more than tripled from 5% to 18%.
A report released by the Institute of Medicine this week says local government programs are key in preventing
weight issues among children. Here in Mesa County, the Live Well program focuses on creating healthy habits
in kids to prevent future weight gain.

For more information on helping your child make healthier choices, visit http://www.LiveWell.org.

Kepner Middle School Students Minding Their Peas Cukes | Kristen Browning-Blas
September 14, 2009

page

September 14, 2009
How Walkable is Your Neighborhood?

**Please see the DVD at the back of the clipbook for complete audio of this story.

page

Colorado Not Immune to Obesity Epidemic | Maren Stewart
September 18, 2009

page

Tests Focus on Feet, Wheels | John Norton
September 27, 2009

More tests of Pueblo’s friendliness toward pedestrians and cyclists, along with some history lessons, are
scheduled during the coming week and early October by the Pueblo Active Community Environments
organization.

Joined by LiveWell Pueblo, a program of the Pueblo City-County Health Department, PACE will hold East Side
Walkability Challenges at noon Tuesday and at 4:30 p.m. Thursday.

The free walk will highlight the history and diverse architecture of the East Side, as well as solicit page

feedback for a new Fountain Creek Greenway park now in the planning process. Walkers should meet at Nick’s
Dairy Cream, 528 E. Eighth St., and should park along Erie Avenue.

On Saturday, the groups will hold a Bikeability Challenge, an 8.7-mile ride around Downtown. The ride will start
at 9 a.m. at the Pueblo City-County Health Department building, 101 W. Ninth St.

After a short class on safe cycling in traffic, participants will get maps and survey sheets, then tour designated
bike routes and the River Trail before returning to the health department building. Another “walkability”
challenge will be held Oct. 7 survey pedestrian routes around the future County Judicial Building at Sixth and
Elizabeth streets.

The walk will assess pedestrian issues PACE members believe should be considered in the planning process and
connectivity to other Downtown business areas.

Walkers will meet at Lake Elizabeth Pavilion near Elizabeth Street and Victoria Avenue to start the walk.

The walks and bike ride are free and open to individuals, families, and groups. For more information, call 583-
4315 or visit the Health department Web site to download the Walkability or Bikeability checklist.

Program Helps Restaurants Modify Menu Items into Healthier Food Choices | Karla
September 30, 2009

Sluis
Hmm ... crispy chicken or pasta in cream
sauce?
If restaurant patrons pick menu items with
the new Smart Meal Seal, the choice is ...
neither.

Instead of cooking at home, some people
choose to eat out nearly every meal.
Restaurant food is often full of flavor, but
many entrées taste fantastic because they
include fat, salt and extra calories. Day after
day of “cream” this and “crispy” that can add
up to a ring around the waist.

Is it possible to eat out frequently and stay
slim?

Of course.

It’s all about choices.
page 0

LiveWell Colorado 2009 Clipbook

LiveWell Colorado 2009 Clipbook

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