Library Showcase

Led by two Miami Heat dancers, the hip-hop presentations stressed the importance of warming up and drinking plenty of water during exercise. Perhaps most importantly, the young presenters were able to communicate comfortably with the teens on topics of interest, making these sessions the most popular of the library’s offerings.

The nutrition-related presentations included sessions entitled “Practical Nutrition” and “What Foods Should I Choose?” These sessions were run by a dietician who opened participants’ eyes to the pitfalls of fried chicken, chips, soda, M&Ms and other tempting foods. She stressed healthy alternatives and discussed portion sizes, hidden calories and fast-food ingredients.

In the end, over 227 teens and family members directly participated in the Get Real, Get Fit! programming at the library. Since many of the speakers donated their time and resources, the library was able to purchase a large number of new health and fitness resources, including interactive nutrition software that has extended the impact the Get Real, Get Fit! program will have on the community.

The Miami Heat Dancers
lead a hip-hop presentation
at the North Miami Public Library

Library Staff: Joyce Pernicone, Library Director

Community Partners: Friends of the Library Organization, Publix Supermarkets, City of North Miami Parks and Recreation, 4-H, Parkway Regional Medical Center, Miami Heat Organization, and others.

Program Dates: June 2005, July 2005, September 2005