Kansas Governor Sam Brownback signed a proclamation declaring Nov. 3 “Fuel Up to Play 60” Day in recognition of the statewide commitment to child health and wellness at Wilbur Middle School in Wichita. Kansas Agriculture Secretary Dale Rodman, former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Eddie Kennison, Kansas City Chiefs mascot KC Wolf as well as Midwest Dairy Council staff, Wilbur students and teachers joined the Governor for the signing.

Launched by the National Dairy Council and the National Football League, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school health and wellness program that encourages kids to choose nutrient-rich food first, and get out and play for at least 60 minutes a day. It has activated more than eight million students in 70,000 schools nationwide, including more than 450,000 students in 1,261 Kansas schools to be healthy, get active and make a difference. Through Fuel Up to Play 60, Midwest Dairy has awarded more than $500,000 to schools in 10 states, including nearly $75,000 to Kansas schools, to help them jumpstart their wellness efforts.

“As dairy farmers, we have always cared about legacy and the importance of passing on a better future to the next generation,” said dairy farmer Steve Strickler, from Iola, Kansas. “Fuel Up to Play 60 is a positive way to help Kansas students achieve better nutrition and fitness for life.” PD

—From Midwest Dairy Council news release