On Tuesday, July 8, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz brought in some real “heavyweights” (well, not anymore!) and fitness-minded Brooklynites to kick off the seventh year of the anti-obesity and healthy lifestyle campaign, Lighten Up Brooklyn.

Joining BP Markowitz at the Borough Hall launch of this year’s campaign was Brooklyn-born actor Joseph Gannascoli (“Vito” on The Sopranos), who shed 100 pounds, and Bed-Stuy resident Gerald Davis, who has lost nearly 400 pounds (after hitting his top weight of 718 pounds) because the Borough President and Lighten Up Brooklyn inspired him to leave his house and take the weight off.

Following a health scare two years ago—which resulted in a stent procedure—BP Markowitz turned to vigorous walks through Prospect Park and a healthier diet to get his fitness goals back on track and lose 26 pounds.

This year, Lighten Up Brooklyn will feature two “Get Started” walks guided by knowledgeable fitness experts:

Saturday, July 12 at 10 a.m.

Betsy Head Park

Dumont and Strauss Streets

Sunday, July 13 at 10 a.m.

Prospect Park

Grand Army Plaza

Partners in the Lighten Up Brooklyn campaign include the American Heart Association, Aetna and the New York Emmy® Awards.