[CSM]

"Does anyone other than me believe that growth methods used in meat and crop production may be an issue in the fattening of America. Less excercise + Genetic Tampering = FAT?"

I have heard the same thing with regards to hormones in chickens and breast size (not the chicken)!

Seriously, I am sorta on both sides of the fence with regards to kids getting out and exercising, and the parents concerns about their safety. I would find it interesting to see the ration of "country" kids and "city" kids and the rates of obesity. I would guess, with no documentation, that the city kids are more often obese than the country kids.

I remember, in a small town, heading out after school, checking in with mom and not coming home until the street lights came on. It would be an all day romp in the summer too. Now, living in a city, I would be worried sick all day if my kids never came home until the street lights came on (I am not a parent, just theorizing). The inherent dangers on the streets are playing a part in the parenting. Add to that simple laziness of parking the kid in front of the TV.....

Anyway, we can solve this problem by taxing the heck out of these fat causing foods! Better, have the cops patrol the FF restaurants instead of the neighborhoods.

[Conspiracy Guy]

To all the women, "Eat more chicken!"

Urban crime is a problem. Organized outdoor activity can help. Even in suburban and rural settings, parental supervision is desired. I used to practice on the cross country trail at the high school with my kids. 3 miles of hills, gullies, and creeks were a real challenge for a smoker like me. But I'm not overweight and don't smoke while running, (it makes the cigarette burn uneven).