Governor Commends Saddleback Initiative to Promote Education and Physical Activity
September 9, 2009
AUGUSTA – At a State House event, Governor John E. Baldacci today joined Warren Cook, CEO and General Manager of Saddleback Maine, and others for the announcement of the PEAK Program, an initiative of Saddleback to encourage Maine children to excel in their studies and get outside to engage in physical activity. PEAK stands for Promoting Education and Activity for Kids, and promises to provide discounted season passes for all Maine honor roll students. Each honor roll student in Maine will be eligible to purchase a season pass for $49.
“Saddleback's PEAK Program is a great incentive for Maine kids and recognizes how lucky we as Mainers are to live in a state rich with natural resources,” said Governor Baldacci. “Saddleback's program encourages our youth to not only work hard at school, but to get outside and have fun.”
The Governor said that he was excited early in the summer when Saddleback CEO Warren Cook told him about the program. The Governor has promoted family outdoor activities and experiences through the Take it Outside program, which has been supported by a number of initiatives developed by the Maine Department of Conservation under the leadership of Commissioner Patrick McGowan.
The Governor said getting outside has important health benefits.
“Obesity is a serious health problem in the United States and in Maine,” said the Governor. “Being obese or overweight puts you at risk for many serious health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and more. In Maine, a full 30 percent of youth are obese or overweight. Addressing this issue is vital to the health and welfare of our most valuable resource, our children.”
Bob Crowley, the winner of the Survivor: Gabon reality television show and retired teacher, was also on hand to talk about the merits of the Saddleback program.
The Governor and Crowley presented the first pass to 10 year-old Grant Tobias, a 5th grade student at Yarmouth Elementary School.
For more information about Saddleback’s PEAK Program, visit www.saddlebackmaine.com
