MARYSVILLE — HBO is taking a shot at America’s obesity problem with a multipart TV series and public health campaign called “The Weight of the Nation,” which they’re sharing at the community level to inspire solution-seeking discussions.
The city of Marysville, the Marysville YMCA and the Snohomish Health District are inviting the public to attend screenings of the free four-part documentary series, featuring case studies and interviews with leading experts, as well as individuals and families struggling with obesity. The series spotlights the facts and myths of this public health issue, and shows not only how obesity impacts the nation’s health and cripples its health care system, but also what individuals and communities can do.
Screenings will run 6:30-8 p.m. in the Youth Development Center at the Marysville YMCA, located at 6420 60th Dr. NE, on these Thursday nights, followed by discussion periods:
• March 7, Part 1: Consequences — How America arrived at this point, with a section of statistical data aimed to inform viewers.
• March 14, Part 2: Choices — What people can do to change their lifestyles.
• March 21, Part 3: Children in Crisis — Youth obesity.
• March 28, Part 4: Challenges — Bonus video shorts, with a focus on policy development and local resources making efforts to promote change.
“This is a series you don’t want to miss,” Marysville Parks and Recreation Director Jim Ballew said. “The obesity crisis has dire consequences for our community and nation if left unresolved. Be a part of the discussion to determine how we can improve the overall health of our community for the people who call it home.”
Healthy refreshments will be served, with each evening facilitated by Snohomish Health District experts. For more information, contact Marysville YMCA Health and Well-Being Director Ronda Hardcastle by phone at 360-651-1605 or via email at rhardcastle@ymca-snoco.org. Attend at least three screenings and receive a three-month family membership at the YMCA, for which you must sign up between April 1-30.
