Pair from Hempstead to dine at White House

Two food service workers from the Hempstead school district are expected at the White House Monday for a luncheon hosted by first lady Michelle Obama to honor schools across the United States that strive to make children healthier.

Before heading to Washington, Sharon Gardner, Hempstead's food services director, said she was excited about the chance to meet the first lady, but wasn't sure what she would say or what she would wear.

"It's the opportunity of a lifetime," said Gardner, 44, of Lindenhurst.

"I can't imagine my career hitting a bigger peak. I'm thrilled," she said.

The luncheon is an outgrowth of The HealthierUS School Challenge, a voluntary initiative established in 2004 to promote a healthier lifestyle among children.

The initiative recognizes those schools in the National School Lunch Program that have worked to improve students' nutrition and boost their physical activity, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the program.

Melissa Garvin, Hempstead's assistant food services director, said it's a great honor to be recognized for her work.

"I see children every day who are suffering from it," Garvin said of childhood obesity.

"As adults, we have to guide them in the right direction so they know the proper nutrition and can live to see their own children," she said.

The HealthierUS School Challenge ranks winners in four categories: Gold Award of Distinction, Gold, Silver and Bronze. Hempstead was labeled "Gold."