HEARTWALKERS TO KICKOFF FOURTH YEAR MONDAY

Heartwalkers, a walking program for adults 50 and older, is set to begin its fourth year in Cape Girardeau and Jackson.

Sponsored by Southeast Missouri Hospital, St. Francis Medical Center and the American Heart Association, Heartwalkers is a 16-week program that combines exercise with the companionship of a group activity. The program annually attracts 150 to 200 participants.

Kickoff for the 1994-95 program will be Monday at the Southeast Missouri State University Student Recreation Center in Cape Girardeau and at Main Street Fitness in Jackson. Registration will continue until Nov. 7.

Participants must pre-register for Heartwalkers. To register or choose a walking site, call Southeast's Wellness Center at 334-9355.

While participants may walk anywhere they choose, two indoor sites are available. The goal of Heartwalkers, according to Virginia Heston, wellness specialist, is to encourage people to consistently walk two or three times a week.

Participants celebrate the conclusion of the program with a special party and recognition ceremony.