Area pediatrician named to state fitness council

Gov. Bob Holden recently announced his appointment of 20 members of the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Health, including one from Cape Girardeau.

Dr. Connie Simmons is a pediatrician with Cape Girardeau Physician Associates. She received her medical degree from the University of Missouri at Columbia in 1991 and became board certified with the American Board of Pediatrics in 1994.

The council was first named in 1986 and is being renewed by executive order. The governor appoints council members to two-year terms, in addition to the executive director.

"The council's main goal is to help Missourians adopt a healthier lifestyle," Holden said. "It's a big job and an important one. Improving the quality of life for Missouri's citizens is so important, and I know that this council will work hard to see that happen."

Other new and reappointed members of the council, all residents of Missouri, are: Dr. Joyce Bailey, Warrensburg; Sheri Beeler, Joplin; Mari Ann Bihr, Jefferson City; Jimmy E. Clay, Chesterfield; Briana L. Fields, Columbia; Nanci Gonder, Jefferson City; Doris J. Grevillius, Springfield; Jeanne Henry, Jefferson City; William Howard Kincaid Jr., Columbia; Kristin Metcalf-Wilson, Columbia; Charles E. Mitchell, Crystal City; Mark C. Musso, Jefferson City; Jerry D. Osborn, Clinton; Priscilla Reed, Cedar Hill; Dr. Rhonda R. Ridinger, Springfield; Jessica L. Samson, Chesterfield; Joanie Shover, Blue Springs; Jacquelyn White, Jefferson City; and Michael Yarbrough, St. Louis.

The Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Health's mission statement is to promote physical fitness and health throughout the state by implementing programs, fostering communication and cooperation and developing statewide support that will help the citizens of Missouri develop and maintain healthier lifestyles.