Jeff Hajny

    One of the main concerns of this country as a whole is maintaining a healthy lifestyle for our children. We do this through discouraging smoking and drinking and encouraging exercise and eating healthy.
     On Oct. 5, Seward Middle School worked with Concordia University to put on its first annual Health Safety Day at Plum Creek Park.
     The event involves SMS students walking the Plum Creek Trail from the middle school to the park and participating in clinics by athletic teams from CU.
     Every athletic program from Concordia was represented with the exception of golf, which was participating at a meet.
     Along with being put through these clinics, the students participated in seminars which centered on nutrition and eating right.
     "The goal behind this is to cover bases about living healthy and fulfilling lives," Bill Sloup, who put the event on, said.
     The event started as a walk on the Plum Creek Trail, and this year the organizers decided to expand it into a whole day dedicated to eating right and working out.
     "I figured that along with the walk, we could make a whole day out of this event," Sloup said.
     Sloup was enthused about the turnout this year.
     "It touches my heart to see these athletes and coaches take time to work with our students," Sloup said.
     This event had participation from not only the schools, but also from many people and businesses throughout the community.
     "I really want to thank CU athletic director Grant Schmidt and all of the coaches, athletes and instructors from Concordia; Cattle Bank; Pac 'N' Save; Chris Haberling of York Physical Therapy; and to the Seward Park and Recreation Department," Sloup said.
     "This is a win-win for Seward. Kids from the middle school can match their skills with the athletes and coaches from the college. It really unites both schools."