You never think it will happen to you.
Yup, I thought it was just going to be another normal day…
Whew – that was intense!
(and yes, all photos in the video were taken by me. :)
Avoid a Hostage Situation for Your Visit!
If you’re headed to the Capitol, check out the current MENU and prices at the Cafeteria!
Right now: “Whole Fruit” is at the very end, lumped in with desserts, snacks and candy – wouldn’t it be cool if fruit were the first item mention? :)
Here’s the current list of prohibited items: sadly, “Food or beverage of any kind” is on there.
Remember:
It’s all about making smart and healthy food choices! What do you KNOW will be good for you? :)
Also:
- Instead of eating big meals, you could go in and strategically snack at the cafeteria.
- Each piece of fruit will only cost you $1.25, compared to $10 or $15 for a meal and drink.
Let’s Take Action + Change This!
Who oversees the food at the cafeteria?
I’d be thrilled to get in touch and discuss what the options are!
If you find a name, or know the person – let me know! :)
Contact your elected officials!
After all: we are going to “their house” – it’d be awesome if they had healthy food in the “refrigerator!” :)
- Find your Senator and Representative
- Write/Call/Email/Text – talk to them in person if you can!
Others who might care:
Michelle Obama
“The physical and emotional health of an entire generation and the economic health and security of our nation is at stake.” (Michelle Obama, 2/9/10)
- Check out her Let’s Move! initiative – giving children a healthy future!
- Follow the first lady on
Jamie Oliver
“We’re losing the war against obesity in the US. It’s sad, but true. Our kids are growing up overweight and malnourished from a diet of processed foods, and today’s children will be the first generation ever to live shorter lives than their parents. It’s time for change. It’s time for a Food Revolution.” (from the site)
- Check out his Food Revolution
- Follow and connect with Jamie on
The Slow Food Movement
“Slow Food is an idea, a way of living and a way of eating. It is part of a global, grassroots movement with thousands of members in over 150 countries, which links the pleasure of food with a commitment to community and the environment.” (from their site)
- USA
- Here’s the local chapter for DC – find yours!
- International
Who else?
These are just a few names, and I know there are TONS of people out there who care about our health, nutrition, and well-being!
If you know someone else who’d care about this, consider sharing this video with them – and let us know about their work in the comments!
***
Have you ever been held Food Hostage? I want to hear how you survived! (and how can we improve THAT spot, too!)
I’d love to hear your response + any other thoughts you have below.
Looking forward to learning more!
###
Yo, Nathan! Powerful article!!! I’m glad you are advocating for healthy food at tourist destinations!! Love it. When I go to amusement parks with my children the food almost always sucks! At the zoo in Syracuse its mainly fried and sweetened food. I just ate some fruit, some fries, and tons of water. It is super tough though.
thanks mozart!
and i hear ya buddy! the fruit and water route seems to usually be the best to go – and definitely cost effective!
If you can bring in small amounts of food, go nuts – literally: almonds, walnuts, pecans are also super healthy, plus nutritionally dense!!
or since you’re at the zoo: hop over one of the fences and grab the veggies they give the animals!
(let me know how that goes!) :)