Officials with the Blue Zones Project today selected Muscatine to advance in its efforts to become a demonstration site next year for the initiative.
“This is by no means the end of the process, but rather just the beginning,” Healthways officials said in an email. “Your community is already preparing for the next big step — the community site visit.”
The visits will take place Oct. 29 through Nov. 16, and winners will be announced early next year.
Go here to read more about Muscatine’s selection.
Muscatine was a finalist in May for a Blue Zone designation. The recognition, however, instead went to Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Mason City and Spencer. Since then, organizers in Muscatine have been working to be designated early next year in the second round of the project.
The Blue Zones Project, based on the principles of National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner, is the centerpiece of Gov. Terry Branstad’s Healthiest State Initiative. The project’s ultimate goal is the help Iowans live longer, healthier and happier lives.
Brome Hill 
Even though the city (I think) is paying someone a full-time (I think) salary to advance Muscatine’s quest to become a Blue Zones Community, I have heard and seen almost nothing about it in any of the local media. Shouldn’t that person be putting out something every week? Publicity, suggestions, encouragement, etc.?
Thank you Chris!
Jane, you’re welcome. And congratulations. I hope we make it this time.