Good morning.
It’s great to see all of you here.
Before I begin, I’d like to recognize Robin Hicks of DOT and the multi-agency planning committee for organizing this great event for Raleigh-based state employees.
I can tell by looking around that a lot of time and hard work went into this.
I’m sure I speak for all state employees when I say "thank you" for everything you’ve done to make this event possible.
I’m excited to join you today to help kick off the 2001 State Agency Wellness Fair—and I can think of no better way to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day.
As Transportation Secretary, I am very interested in the wellness and safety of our employees.
Wellness can really impact the attitude and performance of employees in all aspects of state service.
That’s why I’m glad we’ve set aside this day to highlight wellness, safety and health issues.
Whether you build roads, collect taxes or provide health and human services—wellness is the key to a productive work life.
After all, a healthy workforce is a happy workforce.
Your presence here this morning tells me that you are interested in leading a happy, healthy lifestyle.
You understand as I do that overall healthy living is a key ingredient to wellness.
Healthy living must start with you.
We know that we contribute to our own health by the choices we make—by the food we eat, whether we smoke or drink, and whether we lead active or sedentary lifestyles.
And we can help ourselves by living healthy lives that include preventive measures that go a long in avoiding illness and disease.
The State Agency Wellness fair gives us a chance to look at ourselves and become more responsible about our own health.
It is also a way to let state employees know that we care about you—and that we appreciate the great work you are doing on behalf of the citizens of North Carolina.
I urge you to take advantage of what’s here for you today—and to continue your resolve to make safety and wellness a priority in your life and the lives of your families.
Thank you all for being with us today.