FITNET is a short daily e-mail message promoting physical activity, good nutrition and wellness concepts. The program was developed by Tim Lane and provided by the Iowa Department of Public Health-Bureau of Health Promotion.

These messages include daily quotes, historical observances and humor and are enjoyed by thousands across North America and Europe. If you wish to receive these messages you may subscribe by e-mailing Tim Lane at tlane@idph.state.ia.us.

There is no cost for FITNET!

MONDAY APRIL 23, 2001

The world's greatest playwright, William Shakespeare, was "probably" born on this date in 1564. The bard specific activities you can celebrate the occasion with include fencing (the epee variety), dancing, walking, horseback ridding, and sailing among others.

"This above all: to thine own self be true."
William Shakespeare

TUESDAY APRIL 24, 2001

It is a day of reading history. In 1704, the Boston News Letter became the first American newspaper to be published on a regular basis. In 1800 President Adams signed a bill appropriating $5,000 for the purchase of "such books as may be necessary for the use of Congress." How about reading some history. If you do visit your library, consider walking there and back.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 25, 2001

The Wellness Councils of America (WELCOA) reports that 72% of Americans experience frequent stress-related physical or mental conditions that greatly increase health care costs. Those costs, workers' compensation, and absenteeism exceed $300 billion per year. WELCOA also feels that it is a laughing matter. More and more research points to the use of positive humor as a way of reducing stress, increasing a productive environment, promoting good health and, encouraging creativity.

THURSDAY APRIL 26, 2001

On this day in 1785, John James Audubon, was born and in 1822 Frederick Law Olmsted. In addition to designing Central Park, the grandparent of all American parks (and many others), Olmsted is considered the father of landscape architecture. Prior to Olmsted the only places to get away in the cities were cemeteries. In 1857 he believed city dwellers needed a break, some fresh air and a green space to walk and relax. Imagine what he would think today.

This is a great week to take a walk or go for a bike ride in a park. In New Orleans you could choose Audubon Park. Doing so would muster support for your most crucial supply center, your heart.

"For every action there is an equal and opposite criticism."

Where do forest rangers go to get away from it all?"
George Carlin

"I'll tell ya how to stay young: Hang around with older people."
Bob Hope

FRIDAY APRIL 27, 2001

On April 27, 1868 the men of the Central Pacific Railroad laid 10 miles and 56 feet of track. It is a feat that had never been done before or since. The crew consisted of Irish and European immigrants, Native Americans, Hispanics, Chinese, former slaves, and white native born Americans. This diverse group worked like a machine lying track across northern Utah. There were others "on deck" to take the place of the crew that had started the day, but the proud crews declined the offer. For 12 hours teams of 4 Irishmen hauled 560 pounds rails and laid them in place as a thousand other men along a two-mile line went about their choreographed tasks. In Stephen E. Ambrose's book we even see the names of the Irish crew. They were Michael Shay, Patrick Joyce, Michael Kennedy, Thomas Daley, George Elliot, Michael Sullivan, Edward Killeen, and Fred McNamara. The story has many lessons: racial harmony, teamwork, goal setting, planning, pride - take your pick.

I will not suggest that you put in 12 hours today (or that you lift 140 pounds to sample the effort) to mark the occasion, but I did feel it is appropriate to remember the spirit of those men on this day.

Have an active and productive weekend.

"If a cat spoke, it would say things like 'Hey, I don't see the problem here.'"
Roy Blount, JR.