Running head first, arms wide open, and smiling all the way, this is how I arrived in Norcross, Georgia on August 11, 2012. Well, not exactly running, more like driving but nonetheless, happy to be living back in the south. I moved to Georgia from Everett, Washington, which is about 30 minutes from Seattle, to work for the Robert D. Fowler YMCA. I’m originally from Birmingham, Alabama…..which means that by nature I love Chick-Fil-A, SEC football and a good cook-out, right?! It’s just my heritage. I’m Kushuna Exford, the new Membership & Marketing Director for the Robert D. Fowler YMCA in …

A great thing happens to families when they play together - they talk and laugh, memories are built, jokes are shared, and bonds are strengthened.  Kids may think that playtime is all fun and games, but there's a lot more to it.  Play may be the best way to prevent childhood obesity. Play Together Every Day! Staying healthy is easier, and more fun, if you’re in it together.  Next time you go to the park, don’t just push them in a swing, get on the swing next to them and fly together!  Whether you jump rope, fly a kite, take a walk, play catch, swim, dance or shoot hoops at the Y - as long as …

Just because a drink is orange, does that mean it’s orange juice? Kids in Spring Break Camp at Fowler YMCA were entertained by perky veggie and fruit characters from Kaiser Permanente's Educational Theatre group.  The interactive show made learning about the virtues of healthy eating and the benefits of physical activity fun!   "We know kids learn best when they are engaged and live theater is a great tool to inspire them to develop lifelong healthy habits," said Keisha Smith, childcare coordinator.   Childhood obesity rates have soared over the last few decades. According to the Center for …