Local mayors get physical for grant

As mayor of East Lansing, Vic Loomis’ days are full of challenges.

With a schedule often crammed with meetings, finding time to squeeze in a walk or 15 minutes on the treadmill isn’t easy.

Still, Loomis is trying to meet a challenge that bears little resemblance to his usual mayoral activities.

Along with three Mid-Michigan leaders, including Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero, Loomis is competing in the Mayor’s Winter Warm-Up Challenge.

The event pits the local leaders against one another to see who can log the most aerobic miles of physical activity in a 10-week period.

The winner will receive a $3,500 grant from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for parks or recreational facilities in his city.

Loomis is spending his free time swimming laps and squeezing in as much walking into his days as possible.

“My energy level is really enhanced from what it was,” he said. “It helps your heart, your attitude and your weight.”

While the health benefits are appreciated, the possibility of winning money for the city’s parks and recreation facilities also is a strong motivation, Loomis said.

“The stakes are high,” he said. “$3,500 is a nice prize, and there are a lot of things we can do for our fitness facilities throughout the city.”

Jon Ogar, spokesman for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, said his organization’s goal for the contest is to foster interest in health and fitness.

Because of their prominence within their community, mayors are in a good position to influence their citizens, he said.

“We’re using the mayors as role models to promote health and fitness,” he said. “Healthier people are going to have fewer medical problems.”

While Joe Drolett, Delta Township’s supervisor, said he has always led an active lifestyle, he is kicking it up a notch for the challenge.

Since the competition was launched in early January, he’s spent mornings on his treadmill and walking when he gets a chance.

“It sets a goal for you and makes you do things you might not do on a regular basis,” Drolett said.

Although the contest is among friends, it’s still fostering a small rivalry, Loomis said.

“We’re steeped in some deep competition,” he said.

Published on Wednesday, February 6, 2008