Pathways to Fitness Day drew members of the community from all age ranges on Saturday. Activities ranged from community and youth races at Al Simpler Stadium to tobacco cessation and a groundbreaking for new ICARE fitness equipment in the Fifth Street Playground Park.

A Pathways to Healthy Kansas Grant grant totaling approximately $30,000 and private donations will fund the $45,000 needed for the ICARE equipment and a pair of benches in the park. Spokesman Harold Macumber said there will be six pieces of equipment for use by anyone, all ages. “it will also be handicapped accessible for a couple pieces of equipment. ”

Macumber noted the project was primarily started to provide exercise equipment for the elderly who bring their children and grand children to the Park. It would give the older residents an activity they could participate in instead of just sitting on a bench. Macumber estimated it will be two to three weeks before work begins to install the equipment. ICARE Executive Director Vicki Bobbitt Executive Director Vicki Bobbitt said once the equipment is installed they want the community to use it.

A tobacco resolution was read by Junction City Commissioner Phyllis Fitzgerald. A tobacco free zone sign was unveiled. “Just going to encourage everybody not to smoke in the park, children come and play. Just do your part and help to leave a fresher cleaner life and fresher air.” The signs will be posted in parks throughout the city with the exception of Heritage Park. While there are no formal penalties, the public is encouraged to self police the no smoking concept.

Other information on the purpose of Pathways to Fitness effort was provided during a program in the park and there were vendors also set up with their displays.