Patchogue Kicks Off Weight-Loss Challenge

Most New Year's resolutions revolve around getting healthy and losing weight.

This year, you're not alone.

The Patchogue Chamber of Commerce recently kicked off its Weight Loss Challenge -- a two-month program that gives participants free access to the

New Patchogue Village Fitness & Spa (formerly Finest Fitness) throughout the eight weeks.

Thirty people, including Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri, are participating in the challenge, which kicked off on Jan. 15 with an official weigh in at Nole Cafe on Main Street.

Other notable participants include the chamber's director, David Kennedy; Young Professionals Board Members Courtney Weber, Benny Migliorino and Michele Cayea; Mark Miller, a co-owner of Harbor Crab Co. and Dublin Deck in Patchogue.

Anyone can enter the free competition, but contestants are being asked to seek a minimum of five sponsors to raise $5 for every pound lost, with the final weigh-in March 14 at Nole Cafe.

The winner — determined by the greatest percentage of weight loss — will donate the combined proceeds (from all the participants) to a charity of his or her choice.

Participants will also work with Mackenzie Miller, Nole Café’s health and wellness coach to receive a free health consultation including a total body analyzer, and a personalized program tailored to each individual.