MCHD sets new agency record for Scale Back Alabama participation

MCHD employee Sheila St. Onge takes part in the Scale Back Alabama program

 on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014 at the Mobile County Health Department.

 Registered dietitian Margaret McCulloch fills out a weigh-in card for St. Onge.  

MOBILE, Ala. -- More than 100 people have signed up to join the Scale Back Alabama program at the Mobile County Health Department, beating a goal of 80 workers on 20 teams, health officials said.

"We are thrilled to have 104 employees sign up to participate in the program," said MCHD registered dietitian Margaret McCulloch. Teams, which consist of four members, have until the end of this week to weigh in with McCulloch.

By 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at least half the teams had already weighed in, she said. Many teams expressed an interest in having a chance to win some coveted comp time, as well as other chances to win cash prizes through the state. Those weighing in received a bottle of water and a card to keep track of their weight loss during the 10-week program.

Teams who registered last week with McCulloch will have three opportunities to earn one hour of comp time during the weight loss initiative. Winners will be announced through email and this blog, health officials said.