Friends, co-workers and neighbors gathered Wednesday for the annual Healthiest State Walk. The goal of the walk was to mobilize Iowan to walk 1 kilometer – about seven blocks – to spark excitement for healthier lifestyles for all Iowans.
In Greene County, walks were held in Jefferson and in Churdan. The Jefferson walk was led by Hy-Vee manager Lori Subbert. Hy-Vee is a corporate partner in the privately-led public Healthiest State initiative.
Gov Terry Branstad announced the Healthiest State initiative in response to the 2010 Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, which showed Iowa as the 19th healthiest state. His set a goal of Iowa being the healthiest state by 2016. The 2013 index showed Iowa has moved up to the 10th healthiest state.
In Jefferson, Moo Meat provided lean hamburgers for a lunch at the Greene County Community Center after the walk. The route began at the depot on E. Lincoln Way, and Subbert stretched the walk from one kilometer to one mile.
In Churdan, adults and children gathered at the school, walked to and around the park, and then returned to the school. The library served refreshments for adult walkers afterwards.
