The Focus on Wellness and Lighten Your Load programs were developed to address the need in our community and area to increase physical activity and reduce the incidence of obesity. In it’s first year, Lighten Your Load had over 125 participants, with contestants representing both genders and ranging in age from young adult to the elderly. Last year’s individual winner lost an amazing 49 pounds in just 8 weeks! Based on contestant surveys, we are extending this year’s challenge to 3 months or 13 weeks. We have eliminated the team competition, but have added winners for genders and ages, as well as runner-up prizes. Prizes awarded to winners in 4 categories (female under 35, female 35 and older, male under 35, male 35 and older).