First Lady Michelle Obama talks about her year old "Let's Move!" campaign at North Point Community Church Wednesday, February 9, 2011, in Alpharetta, Georgia. (Photo: John Amis/AP Images)

Let's Move! Turns One

First Lady visits Georgia to celebrate anniversary

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Let's Move! has been on the job for a year now, fighting to end childhood obesity in America. First Lady Michelle Obama celebrated her pet program's anniversary this month at an event in at the Northpoint Community Church in Alpharetta, Georgia.

"Let's Move! is far more than a campaign," Mrs. Obama said in a speech before about 300 people. "It is so much more than just a slogan. It's a nationwide movement."

Mrs. Obama kicked off Let's Move! a year ago by organizing commercials, starting her own Let's Move! website, and giving interviews for news, magazines, and TV stories. Her goal is to deliver the message to parents and children all across America to eat healthier, to eat better, and to exercise more.

"We've worked to give them opportunities that we never dreamed of for ourselves," Obama told parents about kids in America today. "And ultimately, that's what we're aiming to do with Let's Move!"

When Mrs. Obama was young, kids played outside more and ate less junk food. Things have changed since those days.

"My brother and I got pizza a few times a year," Mrs. Obama said. "[And it was] as a reward for good grades when report cards came out."

Mary Beth Pierucci, who works at a women's health organization, is getting the message.

"I grew up with physical education and a lot of getting out in the community," Pierucci said. "Lots of kids aren't getting the proper physical education that they need."

Let's Move! has come a long way in a year—but the program still has a long way to go to reach its ultimate goal.

"As parents, we want nothing less for our kids," the First Lady said. "And as Americans, we want nothing less for this country, so let's keep on working."

HEALTHY KIDS

What's it take to live a healthy lifestyle? It's not as hard as you think! Kid Reporters talk to celebrities, athletes, chefs, and First Lady Michelle Obama about how healthy living leads to happy living. Gets tips, recipes, and more in the Healthy Kids Special Report.

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