‘Walk to Tackle’ Heart Walk scores at game
The annual “Walk to Tackle” Heart Walk was held Friday night at North County High School prior to the Farmington Knights/North County Raiders football game.
Amy Emery of the American Heart Association said the event differed slightly from those in years past.
“The Raiders/Knights game took place so early in the season,” she explained. “This has left little time for the schools to do any fundraising.”
Instead, those attending the game learned about the American Heart Association (AHA) and its research during a pre-game ceremony. Also, this year’s top teams were introduced.
Three ambassador students returning as Heart Ambassadors for the walk were Farmington’s Shania Sweeney and North County’s Madison Halter. Bethany Zarcone represented St. Francois County.
The Heart Walk is AHA’s premiere event for raising funds to save lives from this country’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers — heart disease and stroke.
“Heart disease affects one in three people,” Emery said. “That’s more than all cancers, other diseases and accidents combined.”
According to the AHA website, Heart Walk is “designed to promote physical activity and heart-healthy living” while creating “an environment that’s fun and rewarding for the entire family.”
This year, more than one million walkers will participate in nearly 350 events held nationwide.
“We appreciate the donations and support of all our walkers who took part in Friday’s Heart Walk,” Emery said.
The event has become a friendly rivalry between the two school districts. North County won bragging rights last year — raising a grand total of $6,846. Farmington High School’s students did themselves proud by collecting $5,922 for AHA.
Emery said both schools will hold a pep rally later this month at which this year’s fundraising totals will be announced. The traveling trophy will also be up for grabs again this year.
According to Emery, the Heart Walk goal for 2014 is $30,000 — a reasonable and reachable increase from the $25,000 raised last year.
She added that T-shirts can be purchased at both North County and Farmington High Schools, Parkland Health Center and Mineral Area Regional Medical Center. This year’s theme for is “It’s Your Life.”
For more information about the American Heart Association, contact Emery at 417-259-9907.
“We appreciate the donations and support of all our walkers who took part in Friday’s Heart Walk.” — Amy Emery, American Heart Association
Tommy Burgan and his son, Colton, walk around the North County High School track at Friday’s Heart Walk fundraiser for the American Heart Association. This year’s theme is “It’s Your Life.”
North County High School cheerleaders show their support for the Heart Walk during Friday night’s football game against Farmington.
The community came together Friday night at North County High School to participate in the “Walk to Tackle” Heart Walk fundraiser. A friendly competition has developed between Farmington and North County High School students as each year they attempt to outdo the other in raising funds for AHA.
