Benton principal Ann Welborn, right, gets students excited about the gift the school received for their walking path. Athletic Director Bill Faflick and GFFT Chairman Marvin Fisher were also part of the announcement. Photo by Susan Arensman

Benton's future walking path gets boost
Benton Elementary's plan for installing a walking path on its playground received a financial boost on May 11. Benton received a $2,500 grant from the Genesis Foundation for Fitness and Tennis (GFFT). The GFFT grant will be used to help fund the construction of a half-mile long walking path on the playground. Benton received the first grant given by the GFFT, which was established by Genesis Health Clubs to encourage physical activity for young people.

"This is a wonderful gift," said Ann Welborn, Benton principal. "Our kids are excited about having a walking path on our playground."

Benton has a school-wide walking program to “start the day the healthy way.” The entire school walks for fifteen minutes at the beginning of each day. The school is currently looking for other donations to help fund the walking path before construction begins.