Starting today, November 14, walking enthusiasts can get out of the rain and walk in ShoWare Center, 625 West James Street, Kent.  ShoWalk is presented by Kent4Health and ShoWare Center and is a free indoor walking opportunity on Mondays and Wednesdays, 9-11 am, running (or walking) through April 25,2012.

ShoWare Center provides “ShoWalkers” two levels for walking according to Pamela Clark, Kent4Health Coordinator.  “There’s a full loop on the upper level for walkers and a horseshoe on the lower level for those with strollers or walking aids.  There are also stairs for those interested in getting additional cardio or working their glutes,” Clark said.

Other features of ShoWalk include an area to stretch, warm up and cool down; free blood pressure and sugar screenings on the second Monday of every month provided by Valley Medical Center.

There is no charge to participate but registration is appreciated for planning purposes.  Please register at Kent4Health.com or at the door on walk days.  More information is available at Kent4Health.com or by calling 253-856-4968.

Elementary students can win P.E. equipment for their school and healthy treats throughout the summer by participating in the Cruzin’ Passport Challenge put on by Kent4Health with support from local business donations.

“The Passport Challenge includes a calendar of local free or low cost events where children can journal their activities.  Whether it’s walking, hiking, biking, going to the library, swimming, or eating healthy meals, kids can get credit,” Clark said.

Kicking off June 1, students are encouraged to “Eat Smart, Play Hard & Learn”.  According to Kent4Health liaison Pam Clark, students and their families can participate in a lot of different activities and programs and get credit for them.

The Passport Challenge also features the following events:                 

June 11 - The Cruzin’ Passport Challenge Kick Off, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Kent Station, FREE interactive booths, raffles, prizes and demo’s.

• July 15 – Kid’s Cooking Class, 10:00 a.m. – noon, MultiCare Covington Clinic
• August 13 – The Cruzin’ Passport “Walk and Roll” 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  Kohl’s (Covington location) parking lot, FREE 1 mile fun run/walk, bike rodeo, games, prizes.  Fun Run/Walk registration opens at 9:30 a.m.
• September 18 – 1 Mile Junior Run, 5K Run/Walk, 10K Run, Kentwood High School.  Registration required.

Cruzin’ Passports will be distributed by participating elementary schools before June 1.  They are also available at any official Passport site. Call 253-856-4968 or visit www.cruzinpassport.com for a complete list of activities and participating schools and sites.

The cities of Kent and Covington along with donations from MultiCare Health System, Kohl’s, Univar, Kent Community Foundation, Valley Medical Center, Valley Bank, Pinnacle Medical Wellness, Barclay Seafoods, and over 80 local businesses and organizations, have pitched in to present healthy topics and incentives for children to get healthy.

Kent4Health sees the potential to make Kent a healthier community. They share opportunities for personal wellness at group meetings, join a committee to promote healthy lifestyles, help create awareness of existing programs by participating in activities, make new friends, and advocate Kent4Health (physical, spiritual, emotional and environmental wellness).

At Kent4health.com, you can find recipes for healthy eating, health and fitness tips, activities and interests, and links to wellness. To submit a recipe, health and fitness tip, or to have Kent4Health linked to your business group, please contact Kent4Health.

Kent4Health meets bi-monthly for community discussions. At these meetings, they have leaders and experts relating to healthy living. To get involved, call 253-856-4YOU, or via email.
Thanks to Kent4Health for this info!

The City of Kent is activating Severe Weather Shelter at Kent Lutheran Church.

Kent Lutheran Church, 9 P.M. to 7 A.M.
336 2nd Avenue South
Kent, WA 98032-5849

9 P.M.  – Check-in and registration
7 A.M. – shelter closes, clients must vacate

The severe weather shelter (SWS) will be in operation Monday night 12/07/09 and Tuesday night 12/08/09. Priority is given to homeless families with children who are living on the streets or in vehicles, but the SWS will also be available for single women and men.  The SWS will be operated by Catholic Community Services staff, and volunteers from Kent Lutheran Church.

Doors for the SWS will open at 9 P.M.  Clients must register at the door.  As with all shelters, rules for the health and safety of all clients and staff and the broader community will apply.

Please spread the word

The City of Kent is hosting a free Sustainable Living Fair later this month at the Kent Senior Activity Center, 600 E. Smith St., Kent, WA.

April 25, 2009, 10 am – 2 pm
Kent Senior Activity Center
Admission is free.
Learn more about:

• Being eco-comfortable – save water, energy and money
• Reducing your carbon footprint – destress your commute
• Health & wellness – reduce chemicals in your home
• Gardening tips – save money and enjoy gardening more