Health
Marketing Unhealthy Foods Unfairly Targets Children
Unhealthy food (Courtesy Photo)
Special to the NNPA from Our Weekly
(NNPA) – It’s another David and Goliath story.
A small group of South LA parents, alarmed about companies advertising unhealthy foods to their children, has banded together to draw attention to the problem.
The parents recently roamed their own neighborhoods, shooting pictures of fast food restaurants, grocery store soda displays and candy at the checkout stand.
Virginia Parks, one of the parent-photographers, is a woman with a mission.
Virginia’s photos and those of other parents will be on display during a program focused on the marketing of unhealthy foods Thursday, April 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC) Phoenix Hall. Speakers will talk about the dangers of unhealthy foods. They will describe the marketing that makes these foods so attractive to children and difficult for parents to resist.
The parent-photographers will be present, talking about their children, unhealthy foods and their experiences documenting the marketing of these unhealthy foods. The project, called PhotoVoice, enables parents to voice their concerns.
Virginia and the other parents are members of the Choose Health LA Kids Parent Collaborative. Choose Health LA Kids is a childhood obesity prevention program of the County Department of Public Health funded by First 5 LA and implemented by South LA Health Projects and 19 other agencies.
When Virginia’s 4-year-old daughter, Ashlee, entered preschool at the Children’s Institute this fall, Virginia joined the parent committee and attended a presentation by Choose Health LA Kids staff.
When Virginia learned the parent collaborative addresses the challenges of unfair marketing practices, joining was an easy decision. She says the main reason she got involved was “to try to change some things for the better for our kids. To give a voice for our kids. Being healthy is so important. There are so many illnesses. I want my kids to be around for a long time.”
Virginia also attended a Choose Health LA Kids cooking demonstration at the school. “I learned that it’s important for our kids, even for us adults, to eat healthy. I learned that eating lots of unhealthy foods can make people too heavy and can lead to diabetes and other illnesses. It’s important to stay active and to eat more fruits and vegetables. This came as a shock to me—what certain foods can do for you,” Virginia said.
Ads and toy give-aways for unhealthy foods upset Virginia. She and her children see them on TV and wherever they go. “The advertisements have them begging and bugging us parents for those foods,” she said.
Virginia took a number of photos. One shows a McDonald’s toy display encouraging parents to purchase Happy Meals.
“The toys are important to any child. This month there’s a new children’s movie called ‘Home.’ It’s about a girl and a little alien.” Virginia and her daughter saw the movie. “The next day the McDonalds ad was on tv. McDonalds was giving away toys shaped like a little alien. Ashlee sees the McDonald’s TV advertisements. The toy draws them in. “
Virginia has modest expectations for restaurants. “I feel that they should have at least more nutritious options. They should have some vegetables on there, maybe with some dip. We aren’t trying to stop what they’re doing; we just want them to add more healthy items. Especially for our children.”
Choose Health LA Kids’ overarching goal is to prevent childhood obesity through a variety of strategies. If the obesity epidemic remains unchecked, experts say, one-third of all children born in the United States in the year 2000 could develop diabetes during their lifetimes. Obesity can lead to other significant health problems as well.
In 2009, companies spent $113 million on packaging and in-store marketing targeted at youth. This did not include other forms of marketing, such as promotional signs in Little League fields; contests and toys marketing candy, foods and beverages; apps; company-sponsored “advergames” and more.
Companies spend nearly $1 billion annually on advertising in schools, on food and beverage packages, in stores and at quick-service restaurants.
To read more about Choose Health LA Kids, visit www.slahp.org/choose-health-la-kids.
WLCAC Phoenix Hall is located at 10950 South Central Ave., Los Angeles 90059. To RSVP for the PhotoVoice event or for more information, phone (323) 757-7244 ext. 233.
Commentary
NPRC Elder Justice Symposium Invites Community to Join Effort to Protect Alameda County Elders
“Two of our most vulnerable populations are elders and the disabled, and many times that combination resides in one individual,” said Tanya Dennis, lead facilitator of NPRC. “At our symposium, NPRC will bring decision makers and elders together in one space for a day to develop strategy and policy to protect and empower.”
The National Probate Reform Coalition (NPRC) will host an Elder Justice Symposium on Friday, Sept. 25, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Oakland City Hall, bringing elders, families, advocates, policymakers and community leaders together to address elder abuse, financial exploitation and problems within probate and conservatorship systems.
The symposium is designed to inform and empower the community while developing strategies and policies to better protect Alameda County’s vulnerable elders and disabled residents.
“Two of our most vulnerable populations are elders and the disabled, and many times that combination resides in one individual,” said Tanya Dennis, lead facilitator of NPRC. “At our symposium, NPRC will bring decision makers and elders together in one space for a day to develop strategy and policy to protect and empower.”
Dennis said NPRC has drafted proposed legislation intended to make conservatorship a true last resort by adding safeguards before and after a petition is filed. Proposals include mandatory private mediation before entering probate and placement of an ombudsman in probate proceedings to advocate for the rights and interests of prospective or current conservatees.
The coalition also wants stronger protections for elders’ estates and assets, arguing that money accumulated over a lifetime should be preserved for elders, families and intended beneficiaries rather than unnecessarily depleted by court-related expenses.
NPRC meets monthly through Zoom and has expanded into a national coalition because elder abuse, financial exploitation and guardianship and conservatorship concerns extend well beyond Alameda County.
“Members share horror stories of being isolated from their parents and children, many times physically abused and overmedicated; seeing estates drained for court costs, and assets that parents spent decades saving to leave a legacy depleted instead and going to strangers,” said Venus Gist, an NPRC co-facilitator and former victim of the probate system. Gist said she spent more than $80,000 trying to protect her parents’ estate.
“Eighty thousand dollars is nothing compared to the people in our group losing millions and having to sell their businesses and homes to pay court fees,” she said.
The symposium will also examine forms of elder exploitation including telephone scams, bank fraud, identity theft, family financial abuse and exploitation by trusted individuals. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs involving caregivers, financial professionals, health and social service workers, attorneys and guardians.
NPRC is seeking a California lawmaker willing to champion legislation that strengthens elder protections and increases accountability in the conservatorship process.
The symposium follows Supervisor Nate Miley’s 23rd Annual Healthy Living Festival on Thursday, Sept. 24, at the Oakland Zoo. The free event for adults 55 and older will feature health screenings, vaccinations, nearly 100 community resource booths, lunch, entertainment and complimentary zoo admission for eligible attendees.
Dennis said the two events offer a comprehensive two-day focus on elder well-being.
“The health fair will cover the physical care of our elders, and the next day NPRC’s symposium will cover the mental and social health,” Dennis said. “Together, we are offering a comprehensive two days of care for Alameda County elders.”
Both events are free, and advance registration is recommended because space is limited. Community members, elders, families, advocates and public officials are encouraged to participate. Breakfast and lunch will be served at both events.
For registration: Sign-up is required via Supervisor Nate Miley’s Eventbrite page NPRC registration is https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elder-justice-symposium-tickets-1998385423597?aff=oddtdtcreator
Commentary
Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50
INDIANAPOLIS RECORDER — Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast features hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon in conversation with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health. Hungate, a biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, discusses reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health beyond age 50.
Strength doesn’t disappear when you turn 50- it evolves. Just as growth is a lifelong journey, becoming stronger happens every day. The second half of life is not the beginning of decline; it is the horizon of a stronger, healthier, more confident, and happier version of yourself.
In Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast, hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon sit down with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health, biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, for a compelling conversation on reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health after 50.
Drawing from his professional expertise and extraordinary life experiences, Joel challenges many of the myths surrounding aging and demonstrates that the years after 50 can be filled with purpose, adventure, and renewed strength.
The Door Doesn’t Shut at Your Second Half
One of the most memorable moments from the conversation came when Joel Hungate shared a simple yet profound truth:
“The door doesn’t shut at 50.”
Far too many people believe that once they reach the second half of life, opportunities begin to disappear. Joel offers a refreshing perspective, reminding viewers that age does not determine potential. Instead, the years after 50 present an opportunity to reflect on your experiences, redefine your purpose, and confidently pursue new goals.
Whether you’ve always wanted to travel, learn a new skill, improve your health, or simply become the best version of yourself, your second half is not a limitation; it’s an invitation.
Watch the first short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uTp_tFVgb55Ux1GWmQnLRHp2YTVdl68k/view?usp=drivesdk
Find a Version of Strength Training That Works for You
When people hear the words strength training, many immediately picture lifting heavy weights in a gym. Joel Hungate believes strength looks different for everyone.
You don’t need an expensive fitness membership to become stronger. Walking after dinner, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, hiking with friends, cycling, resistance exercises, or simply staying physically active can all help build strength and preserve independence as you age.
Joel encourages people 50 and over to find a form of movement they genuinely enjoy because consistency not intensity, is what transforms health over time. One practical habit he recommends is taking a walk after dinner, a simple routine that benefits both physical health and overall wellbeing.
Watch the second short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/188dzfMoEbNOxzjXxde2-j4xochFL8lHQ/view?usp=drivesdk
A Way Out of the Frailty Epidemic
Frailty has become one of the greatest health challenges affecting those over 50, yet many people don’t realize that it is not an inevitable part of aging.
During the conversation, Joel explains how maintaining muscle strength, staying active, and making intentional lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of frailty while supporting healthy weight management.
Rather than accepting weakness as a normal part of growing older, he challenges listeners to adopt habits that preserve mobility, resilience, and independence for years to come.
If you’ve ever wondered how to stay strong and capable well into your later years, this conversation offers practical insights that could change the way you think about aging.
Watch the third short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/13BJIGBE68IsEoA3sVaAT8UIBEpepq6A7/view?usp=drivesdk
Eating Better Isn’t the Goal for a Healthy You- Here’s What Is
One of Joel’s most thought-provoking statements during the episode was:
“When we think health is an end goal, it never works.”
Health is not a destination that we eventually arrive at, it is a lifelong journey shaped by daily decisions.
Joel explains that while nutritious eating is important, lasting health is built through a combination of purposeful movement, meaningful relationships, quality sleep, continual learning, and embracing new adventures. Healthy living is about creating a lifestyle that allows you to enjoy life, not simply following another diet.
This refreshing perspective encourages viewers to shift their focus from chasing perfection to building sustainable habits that support long-term wellbeing.
Watch the fourth short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PjaysWUmBOTQunVBqQb6KcgKPHEUL5qM/view?usp=drivesdk
More Than a Conversation- A Blueprint for Living Stronger
Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast is more than an inspiring discussion- it is a practical guide for anyone determined to thrive after 50.
Joel Hungate shares expert insights, personal experiences, and actionable advice that challenge outdated beliefs about aging. His message is clear: strength doesn’t fade with age unless we stop investing in it.
If you’re ready to eliminate the fear of frailty, build lasting confidence, and embrace the adventure that awaits in the second half of life, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
Watch the full episode now and discover how to grow stronger after 50.
For more, visit indianapolisrecorder.com.
The post Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50 appeared first on Indianapolis Recorder.
Based on reporting by Indianapolis Recorder.
Commentary
Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50
INDIANAPOLIS RECORDER — Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast features hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon in conversation with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health. Hungate, a biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, discusses reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health beyond age 50.
Strength doesn’t disappear when you turn 50- it evolves. Just as growth is a lifelong journey, becoming stronger happens every day. The second half of life is not the beginning of decline; it is the horizon of a stronger, healthier, more confident, and happier version of yourself.
In Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast, hosts Thomas Griffin and Andrea McGordon sit down with Joel Hungate, Assistant Vice President of Strategy & Integrated Wellbeing at Hancock Health, biomedical engineer, health adventurer, and Netflix-featured survivalist, for a compelling conversation on reinvention, personal reflection, confidence, and building lasting health after 50.
Drawing from his professional expertise and extraordinary life experiences, Joel challenges many of the myths surrounding aging and demonstrates that the years after 50 can be filled with purpose, adventure, and renewed strength.
The Door Doesn’t Shut at Your Second Half
One of the most memorable moments from the conversation came when Joel Hungate shared a simple yet profound truth:
“The door doesn’t shut at 50.”
Far too many people believe that once they reach the second half of life, opportunities begin to disappear. Joel offers a refreshing perspective, reminding viewers that age does not determine potential. Instead, the years after 50 present an opportunity to reflect on your experiences, redefine your purpose, and confidently pursue new goals.
Whether you’ve always wanted to travel, learn a new skill, improve your health, or simply become the best version of yourself, your second half is not a limitation; it’s an invitation.
Watch the first short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uTp_tFVgb55Ux1GWmQnLRHp2YTVdl68k/view?usp=drivesdk
Find a Version of Strength Training That Works for You
When people hear the words strength training, many immediately picture lifting heavy weights in a gym. Joel Hungate believes strength looks different for everyone.
You don’t need an expensive fitness membership to become stronger. Walking after dinner, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, hiking with friends, cycling, resistance exercises, or simply staying physically active can all help build strength and preserve independence as you age.
Joel encourages people 50 and over to find a form of movement they genuinely enjoy because consistency not intensity, is what transforms health over time. One practical habit he recommends is taking a walk after dinner, a simple routine that benefits both physical health and overall wellbeing.
Watch the second short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/188dzfMoEbNOxzjXxde2-j4xochFL8lHQ/view?usp=drivesdk
A Way Out of the Frailty Epidemic
Frailty has become one of the greatest health challenges affecting those over 50, yet many people don’t realize that it is not an inevitable part of aging.
During the conversation, Joel explains how maintaining muscle strength, staying active, and making intentional lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of frailty while supporting healthy weight management.
Rather than accepting weakness as a normal part of growing older, he challenges listeners to adopt habits that preserve mobility, resilience, and independence for years to come.
If you’ve ever wondered how to stay strong and capable well into your later years, this conversation offers practical insights that could change the way you think about aging.
Watch the third short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/13BJIGBE68IsEoA3sVaAT8UIBEpepq6A7/view?usp=drivesdk
Eating Better Isn’t the Goal for a Healthy You- Here’s What Is
One of Joel’s most thought-provoking statements during the episode was:
“When we think health is an end goal, it never works.”
Health is not a destination that we eventually arrive at, it is a lifelong journey shaped by daily decisions.
Joel explains that while nutritious eating is important, lasting health is built through a combination of purposeful movement, meaningful relationships, quality sleep, continual learning, and embracing new adventures. Healthy living is about creating a lifestyle that allows you to enjoy life, not simply following another diet.
This refreshing perspective encourages viewers to shift their focus from chasing perfection to building sustainable habits that support long-term wellbeing.
Watch the fourth short clip here:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PjaysWUmBOTQunVBqQb6KcgKPHEUL5qM/view?usp=drivesdk
More Than a Conversation- A Blueprint for Living Stronger
Episode 4 of the Second Half of Life Podcast is more than an inspiring discussion- it is a practical guide for anyone determined to thrive after 50.
Joel Hungate shares expert insights, personal experiences, and actionable advice that challenge outdated beliefs about aging. His message is clear: strength doesn’t fade with age unless we stop investing in it.
If you’re ready to eliminate the fear of frailty, build lasting confidence, and embrace the adventure that awaits in the second half of life, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
Watch the full episode now and discover how to grow stronger after 50.
For more, visit indianapolisrecorder.com.
The post Episode 4: Grow Stronger After 50 appeared first on Indianapolis Recorder.
Based on reporting by Indianapolis Recorder.
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