Worker health program cited

Pacific LightNet is one of 400 companies nationally to be recognized by the American Heart Association for encouraging employees to eat healthier and exercise more.

The Hawaii-based telecommunications company was named as Hawaii's first and only "Start! Fit-Friendly Company" by the AHA.

It earned a "Gold-Level" award for promoting a fitness atmosphere, offering its 95 employees healthy eating options at work and physical activity support.

Lynne Meyer, the company's marketing manager, said: "It's difficult to find time to eat right and exercise outside the workplace, so we thought, 'Why not bring health and wellness into the workplace?'

"We're proud of our staff for taking charge of their health and aspiring to reach their personal fitness goals."

To earn the AHA distinction, the company formed weekly walk groups, designated monthly "Sneaker Days" to encourage walking during work, offered healthful snacks and beverages in the office and at company-sponsored events, sponsored walk teams for Hawaii charity events and subsidized health club memberships.