Selma girl to represent state at Washington dinner

Published 8:12 pm Saturday, July 6, 2013

Kindall Murphy (center) poses with her mother, Taylor Murphy (far left), sister Toby, and Selma Mayor George Evans Wednesday in recognition of her achievement in the First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative. -- Sarah Cook

Kindall Murphy (center) poses with her mother, Toby Murphy (far left), sister Taylor, and Selma Mayor George Evans Wednesday in recognition of her achievement in the First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative. — Sarah Cook

Tuesday, 10-year-old Kindall Murphy will represent Selma and the state of Alabama in Washington D.C. in the second Healthy Lunchtime Challenge & Kinds’ State Dinner.

In an effort to combat obesity, First Lady Michelle Obama launched the initiative to get kids excited about healthy eating. When Murphy saw an advertisement for the program on Disney Channel, she immediately called her aunt and began concocting a healthy recipe.

“We made a kale, broccoli, apple and chicken salad,” Murphy said. “I love eating healthy.”

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It was this recipe that landed her a lunch date with the first lady.

Selma Mayor George Evans said he couldn’t be happier for Murphy, who is a true testament to developing healthy eating habits at an early age.

“I’m excited about the fact that she’s not only representing Selma, but also the state of Alabama,” Evans said. “We’re so happy for her; it’s a joy and a pleasure to know her. She’s a very special girl.”

Selma native U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell said she was thrilled to hear that a “young, budding chef” from the 7th Congressional District and her hometown would represent Alabama.

“At such a young age, Kindall is already a testament to the importance of eating healthy and exercising regularly. It is so critically important that we promote a healthier next generation of Americans, and I applaud First Lady Obama’s efforts to ensure that our kids make healthier choices,” Sewell said.

Murphy will join more than 50 other children from around the country who submitted healthy recipes. Eating healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, she said, is something she’s always loved to do.

“I’m excited to go to Washington and meet the first lady,” Murphy said.