Lindell celebrates two decades of food, fun and fitness

“Eat well, stay, fit and have fun doing it" is the mantra of the annual Food Fun and Fitness Fair at Lindell School in Long Beach. To promote health and wellness as a way of life, parents and community members presented workshops on yoga, spinal fitness, dance, anti-smoking, athletic challenges and stretching.

The children were encouraged to bring healthy foods to share with their schoolmates. Kindergarteners were asked to bring cheese and crackers, first grader brought carrots and popcorn, second graders shared salad fixings, third graders provided fresh fruit, fourth graders supplied yogurts, and fifth graders brought in lots of healthy drinks. The Food, Fun and Fitness Fair was launched nearly 20 years ago at Lindell School, as a joint effort between physical education teacher Michele LaBiento and then PTA President Lynn Gergen, who enlisted parents and other community members to encourage children develop healthy, active lifestyles.

“Our celebration this year seems especially significant as First Lady Michelle Obama launches the Childhood Obesity Task Force,” said Ms. LaBiento.