Assemblyman Cusick founded the Fitness challenge last year. While children who continue to read during the summer perform better academically in the fall, he said it is also important for children to be physically active as part of a healthy lifestyle. The inaugural year of the Total Fitness Challenge was a huge success and based on the requests already from almost 20 schools, it has clearly gained popularity with parents, teachers and students. To date, almost 10,000 brochures have been requested.

"Young children should not use summer vacation as an excuse to be inactive both physically and mentally," Assemblyman Cusick said. "I established the Total Fitness Challenge last year and continue it again this year to encourage children to exercise both their mind and body during the summer months."

Participating children must read at least 15 minutes every day and perform as many physical activities as they want. Cusick said the different physical activities are assigned varying point values, which count toward each student's total score. A Total Fitness medal will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place top scorers from each grade among the island-wide entries.

According to 2005 statistics compiled by the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System - which is part of the Centers for Disease Control - 37 percent of New York State's children self-reported that they did not participate in vigorous physical activity in three or more days out of seven. Further, 78 percent stated that they did not participate in moderate physical activity in five or more days out of seven. And almost 85 percent of New York State youth self-reported they did not have daily physical education. Studies also show preschool and childhood obesity is rising.

Cusick will be sending brochures to local schools containing all the necessary information parents and kids need to get started. The brochures will also include suggested readings that are available at the local library and physical activities that are appropriate for children K-5 to do with their parents and friends. For additional information, contact Assemblyman Cusick's district office at (718) 370-1384.