Bernards To Host 'Biggest Loser' Style Weightloss Competition

It's not too late to get into summer shape, and thanks to a new program offered in Bernards this year, eating right and exercising could lead to even bigger rewards.

Jennifer Gander, the Parks and Recreation Director, announced at Monday's Parks and Pathways committee meeting that the township received a grant last Friday to participate in the Toxic Waistline Competition, which she says "mimics The Biggest Loser." Citizens in all age brackets can join the competition to lose weight and engage in a healthier lifestyle. The top contenders in each age bracket who lose the biggest percentage of their body weight in one hundred days will receive prizes.

The grant of $18,000, which will be given to the Mayor's Wellness Campaign, will be used by the department to hold nutrition classes and other classes for activities such as yoga to help citizens to reach their weight-loss goal. The anticipated start date for this competition is June 1.

The committee also spent time finalizing their Charter Day plans, focusing on preparing for the art show. They noted that they need volunteers to set up the exhibit in Westminster Hall, then take down the show after Charter Day and deliver the art pieces back to the school. The 250th Anniversary Task Force has coordinated with schools in the district to make the artwork in the show focus on the town's special events and places.

Additionally, samples of the award ribbons that students will receive for their artistic contributions were passed around for members to review.

The summer months fill up with plans from the Parks and Recreation Department, as they announced that the schools' summer activities programs have all filled up. The waitlist continues to grow, and currently, the only open program is one for children from kindergarten to first grade at Mount Prospect Elementary School.

The committee also plans to resume their plays, movies, and concerts in the park programs starting July 4. On July 16, the department plans to hold a community picnic at Pleasant Valley Park where there will be a concert for residents to enjoy.

But stock up on food when attending this event, as Gander says, "When I say community picnic… I mean bring a [picnic] basket and enjoy the concert."

The Parks and Recreation Department also reviewed the overall success of Youth Week and the dedication of the Sons of Liberty Farm. The committee noted the strong turn out during Youth Week and that "cars were parked up and down the street" at the new park's dedication.