'Fresh and Healthy' vending machines placed by club

— The Boys & Girls Club of Western Benton County has placed “Fresh and Healthy” vending machines in units located in Gravette and Siloam Springs.

These machines provide children with fresh, healthy snacks and drinks as an alternative to the typical junk foods found in traditional vending machines.

“These machines offer young people the option to purchase perishable products such as juices, smoothies, yogurts and fresh fruits and vegetables, along with natural/organic nonperishable products such as chips, bars, crackers and beverages,” said Ethan Pendergraft, B&G Club spokesman.

“With nearly a third of the children in this country overweight and at riskto suffer from diabetes at some point in their lives, it is important to show children that there are healthy and delicious alternatives to a traditional vending machine. Placing ‘Fresh and Healthy’ vending machines in our clubs was a perfect fit and falls within one of our core focus areas of healthy lifestyles,” said Chris Shimer, chief professional officer for Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Benton County.

News, Pages 7 on 05/23/2012