2017 Michigan Fitness Ambassador Application Update

As previously posted, I applied to be a 2017 Fitness Ambassador for the Michigan Fitness Foundation.

I received the response below on 12/31/16 via email.

On behalf of the Michigan Fitness Foundation, we would like to thank you for demonstrating your commitment to promoting health and wellness in Michigan. With a record amount of outstanding applicants this year, our decision making process was not easy. Considering the few spots we had available, we were unable to add you to our team of 2017 Fitness Ambassadors. However, we do recognize and admire your passion for physical fitness and health and sincerely hope to work with you to create a healthier Michigan in the future. Thank you so much for applying to our Fitness Ambassador program.

Best wishes and warmest regards in the coming year,

I guess 2017 isn't my year to be a Fitness Ambassador.

Test Ride on the New Troy Big Beaver Shuttle

The City of Troy is asking for comments or suggestions for the new Big Beaver Shuttle. After taking a "test" ride on 12/23/16, here are my suggestions:

1. As soon as possible, have the red line shuttle stop at the Troy Marriott


2. Eliminate any stops on Big Beaver unless there's a shelter or if it's at an off-street location (office building, restaurant, etc.)


3. Phase out the small buses and acquire more of the traditional trolleys


4. As soon as possible, roll-out a mobile app so that riders can see where the shuttle buses are located

2017 Michigan Fitness Ambassador Application

I'm applying to be a Fitness Ambassador for the Michigan Fitness Foundation. Here's the text of my application:

I believe I would make an excellent Ambassador for three reasons. First, I ran in my first 5K in my mid-50s to improve my health. Now that I’m in my early 60s, I’ve run in several events including seven half-marathons. I continue to run and have joined several organizations that promote running such as the US Track and Field Association and Half Fanatics.

Second, I serve on the City of Troy Zoning Board of Appeals. During my eight plus years of service, I’ve developed an interest in municipal planning that promotes community wellness. Poor community planning may be partially to blame for America's obesity crisis.

And third, a little over a year ago I made a career change and began working in the health insurance industry. During that short period of time I’ve observed that workplace wellness can have a positive impact on health care costs.

I should hear whether I've been selected sometime in the next 2 weeks.

1/2/17 UPDATE: I wasn't selected.