It’s the largest school nutrition and physical activity program in the country, and the positive impacts that Fuel Up to Play 60 has on students across Oregon were celebrated at a school assembly and on local television in Bend last month.

Former NFL player Anthony Newman and Elk Meadow Elementary students teamed up to recognize the school’s student health and wellness efforts. Organized by Fuel Up to Play 60 program advisor Grant Mattox and his student team, the special assembly honored community partners and “Wellness Warriors” for their contributions to student and staff health.

More than 500 students and staff cheered on teams as they raced to create healthy plates with the help of the Bend Nutrition Services team. The local NBC television news affiliate covered the event on the afternoon and evening news:

Former NFL star pays visit to Bend school KTVZ

Later that day, Anthony Newman joined Oregon Fuel Up to Play 60 student ambassador Lily Sweet, a sixth grader from Bend, on Central Oregon Daily. Lily attended the National Fuel Up to Play 60 Summit at Purdue University where she learned more about wellness, leadership and public speaking. Their interview aired on the local ABC and CBS television news affiliates:

Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Made Easier for School-age Children Central Oregon Daily

Is Fuel Up to Play 60 active in your school? Would you like more information about the program, organizing an assembly or nominating a 2017 Oregon Student Ambassador? The national Fuel Up to Play 60 program is administered locally by the Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council. Contact Erin Hirte, Manager of School Programs, at ehirte@odncouncil.org.