My campaign is gaining traction! Since raising my concern about the contribution of "trick or treat" to the childhood obesity and diabetes epidemic, a syndicated comic strip has jumped onboard. "Big Nate" has been running a series since 10/25/10 featuring a parent who decides to bring responsible sanity to Halloween "trick or treating" by handing out healthy treats. Begin with the previous link and follow the daily episodes. See, it can be done!

I have been thinking that forcing ordinary Americans to face the reality of the impact of increasingly encroaching government regulations may be the only way we can head away from the central planning phenomenon. When citizens become aware of just how ridiculous, inconvenient, and dangerous government interference in our daily lives is becoming, they will finally get the message.

Are childhood obesity and diabetes bad things? Of course they are. But are we to turn helplessly to Big Government for solutions? If your answer is yes, then you need to join my "trick or tofu" bandwagon.

On the other hand, if you think that parenting responsibilities rest with - well - parents, then you need to take simple steps that your own children, grandchildren, and/or other children in your sphere of influence are getting proper nutrition and adequate exercise.

Personal responsibility: WOW! What a concept!

Trick or Tofu!