Meeting minutes from 8-3-07

Call To Order of Meeting
Friday, August 3rd, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM.

Present: Mrs. Pee, Carlos and Brandy
Present via telephone: Nicole, David, Van and Joanie.

• We discussed the overweight and obesity facts that Carlos provided.
• Mrs. Pee also shared some recent newspaper articles concerning obesity. One was about insurance premium increases for those that are overweight and the 2nd article was about family weight loss plans.
• I provided weigh loss booklets that my doctor gave me to share with the group.

Weekly Progress Reports: Out of the 3 members present at the meeting, we lost a total of 11 pounds. Carlos and Brandy lost 3 pounds each and Mrs. Pee lost a whopping 5 pounds this week. Way to go. Everyone seems to be doing okay with the exercise programs and water. As you can tell....there is going to be some stiff competition this 8 weeks. Get ready.

New Business:

• We have decided that we will also do measurements. So if you don't have a tape measure, try to get one. It was suggested by my doctor since we are African Americans that it would get be a great way to track our progress. She says that we normally lose inches before pounds. A goal for women's waist lines should be 32 inces. According to WebMd, we can aim towards 34. Fellas....aim for 38 (source: http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20050606/waist-height-ratio-may-show-heart-disease-risk).
• Remember that if you are following the food pyramid meal plan that women should be eating based on a 1500 calorie plan and men should be on a 1800 calorie plan (because they have more muscle mass).

Old Business:

• Mrs. Pee will be keeping record of all members’ weights each week so that we can better track each member’s progress.
• Our membership dues of $8 per person for the 2nd session was due today. If you have not already, please turn the money into our treasurer, Quishana. Out-of-towners: you may mail or submit your money to your friends or family members to turn in on your behalf.
• Instead of striving towards 10% of our body weight this 8 weeks, we have decided that our individual goals will be 2 pounds per week. This appears to be a great plan so far.
• Do you have a great low-fat recipe? Have great news? Have a problem? Stressed? Or just want to write or provide information? Share it on the blog.
• Drink water.....exercise.....eat healthy....Carlos, just eat.
• We will continue to add inspirational quotes and stress relievers to the blog.
• Drink at least 8 cups of water a day (total 64 ounces). You should also drink another 8 ounces (1 cup) of water for every 25 pounds that you are over your weight goal. And don’t forget if you are exercising (which you should be) you need to stay hydrated.
  Be sure to continue to keep track of your weight, water and exercise throughout the week.
• You should also keep a food journal to help you stay accountable for what you eat.
• Choose and use your free day out of the week that you can take a break and maybe go out to eat or just skip the daily walk.

I'm so proud of everyone for wanting to make a positive change in their lives. Remember.....we are behind you 100% and you can do it. If you have a bad day, get over it and continue on your journey to a healthy and happy lifestyle. We are all on the same boat and we will not leave you behind. This is going to be a great 8 weeks. Have a great week!!!