A healthy community depends on its residents

Cedar Rapids is embarking on a journey to build and enhance the health and well-being of citizens by applying to become a Blue Zone Community.

A Blue Zone is a term used by National Geographic writer Dan Buettner to describe some of the world's communities with the longest-living residents. His research found certain qualities these communities had in common - places where diet, movement, faith, community and purpose are vital to longevity and happiness.

In conjunction with the Healthiest State Initiative in Iowa, Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Healthways Inc. are choosing

10 communities in this state to become Blue Zones.

Cedar Rapids is competing with more than

50 other communities that have applied. The winner will receive the expertise of professionals in areas of health, community policy, developing connections, etc.

Any changes, however, will have to come from residents. The advisers will not fund or make policies or provide money to build things such as trails and sidewalks. Individual commitment is a key part of the selection process. Please pledge to make Cedar Rapids a Blue Zone Community at www.blue

zonesproject.com or text “BZP” to 772937.

Leland Freie

Cedar Rapids