The Walking Example Group began 2006 with a little more spring in its step thanks to the continued support of Coca Cola. Coke was an early WE GO supporter, providing the financial support that got us on our feet. They have remained a steadfast benefactor.

Inevitably, there are a few quizzical looks about why a pro-activity organization accepts money from a soft drink company. For one thing, there is historical precedent for it. Coke began supporting another physical activity proponent back in 1928. If Coke is acceptable to the US Olympic team, then WE GO can surely follow their lead.

On another point, inactivity and the resulting obesity it causes is a huge and growing problem. WE GO gratefully accepts Coke's generosity in our efforts to arrest it in our area.

What about the sugar in Coke? Yes, what about it? Original Coke does indeed contain sugar and calories. So do bake sale brownies, vanilla grand lattes, fundraiser chocolates, Tollhouse cookies, ice cream sundaes, birthday cakes and apple pie. As to the calories, that needs a bit of perspective (and some personal responsibility.) Ounce for ounce the calories in Coke are equivalent to those in lemonade, orange juice, skim milk or apple cider. Though not nutritionally equivalent, any of these products, consumed in excess, will contribute to weight gain.

Coke, in response to consumer demand, also offers Dasani water and no-calorie soft drink alternatives.

Sugar is everywhere in American culture and we are unlikely to start doing without it. But consuming and abusing it are two different things and education is the key to healthy and balanced eating. Coca Cola addresses this crucial issue and the benefits of activity with sixth graders nationwide in their new "Live It!" program. They provide kids with pedometers, nutrition information and fun. By the way, the program never mentions the Coke brand name.

It is simplistic and naive to say that one product is causing the obesity epidemic.

Coke has been around over a hundred years. The obesity epidemic took off around 1980. Perhaps there are other reasons making us waddle? Maybe the vast increase in motorized vehicle use, the lack of walking and cycling accessibility, the decline in physically demanding jobs, suburban sprawl, the technological age, the lack of physical education in schools and the sheer volume and availability of food all contribute to our nationwide inactivity and resulting obesity.

The answer isn't quite so easy as a soft drink. And does anyone truly believe that American would be fit and trim today if Coke didn't exist?

It would be a pity if it didn't. Like baseball, Coca Cola is inextricably woven into American culture. Next to the egg, their six-ounce bottle is the world's most perfect package. Coke's advertising creativity gave us our modern image of Santa Claus. Even more importantly, Coke has supported our troops and athletes throughout their history. They provided Dasani water to the responders after 9-11 and they've provided aid and products in a myriad of other, lesser-known situations.

Coke's long and illustrious history of championing community programs is rock solid. WE GO is fortunate to be among them.

Brenda Berstler is the founder of the Walking Example Group (WE-GO) a non-profit organization encouraging walking and walkable communities. Visit their website at www.we-go.org.