National TV Turnoff Week is April 21-27 2008.  This week, Americans are encouraged to spend no time in front of a TV, a video-game console, or a computer screen. On average, every American child spends more time every year watching TV (1500 hours) than being in school (900 hours).  Excessive screen time is linked with negative behavior, obesity, and problems with reading and math. 

In order to acknowledge TV Turnoff week in Jacksonville, The Healthy Jacksonville Childhood Obesity Prevention Coalition, in conjunction with other community partners, is having an ARTS CONTEST.

The Contest is open to all school-aged children in Jacksonville and entries can be in any format the student wishes. We ask that they incorporate the theme (Turn OFF the TVs; Turn ON the Magic), contain no computer-generated art, and illustrate what you can do while you’re not watching TV. Prizes will be awarded to the winning entries in each age range. Last year’s prizes included Disney CDs, tickets to Wild Adventures, and various popular toys.

• TV Turnoff Art Contest Rules

• TV Turnoff Information

Entries will be accepted through April 30, 2008 and there are various drop-off points around the county. Contact Lowrie Ward, of the Duval County Health Department, at 253-2278 for more info.

Duval County Health Department
Main Office
515 W. 6th Street
Jacksonville, FL 32206
253-1000

Copyright ©  2003 Duval County Health Department. All rights reserved.