Why Coloradans need to get fatter

A new survey finds that Colorado has the lowest percentage of overweight adults in these United States, and the tenth lowest percentage of obese children. But is that a good thing? Not according to student Shane Neely, who in late 2007 presented a speech in a Boulder classroom entitled, "Why...

By Michael Roberts

July 2, 2009

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A new survey finds that Colorado has the lowest percentage of overweight adults in these United States, and the tenth lowest percentage of obese children. But is that a good thing? Not according to student Shane Neely, who in late 2007 presented a speech in a Boulder classroom entitled, "Why Obesity Is Good for Society," and posted the results viewable above on YouTube. His politically incorrect arguments: Fat people live like kings, are comfortable, jolly and good for the economy, because of all the diet-related items and/or Oreos they buy. No wonder he lamented the dearth of such folks in the health-conscious community. "It'll probably be months before you see a fat person in Boulder," he says. "But next time you see one, just say, 'Thank you.'"

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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