By AMY DAVIS
Moapa Valley Progress
Valentine’s Day in Mesquite was all about heart: Heart Health, that is.
On Friday, Feb. 14, the City of Mesquite Athletics and Leisure Department and the Mesa View Regional Hospital hosted the 16th annual free “Heart Walk” event. Registration began at 8:30 a.m. at the Mesquite Rec Center East Gym.
The 5K walk began at 9 a.m. with a route leading west towards Grapevine then to Mesquite Blvd leading to the Mesa View Regional Hospital for the finish line.
A few refreshment stations with water, oranges, chocolate kisses and medical personnel were stationed along the way and at the finish line. The Silver Rider bus provided free rides back to the Rec Center for participants.
“Heart disease kills the most people second only to cancer,” said Nick Montoya, Director of Athletics and Leisure Services. “We are looking at 500 plus participants, the largest yet to participate. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day.”
Montoya thanked Rob Fuller and Doris Baeza from Mesa View for being so great to work with.
“They were happy and cheerful and added to the success of our event,” he said.
Mesquite local Curt Nienhuis participated for the first time this year.
“It was such a nice beautiful day for a walk,” he said.
Fellow participant Cheri Harriet agreed.
“This really was a good time with great people,” she said. “We really enjoyed the walk. It was just the perfect mileage.”
Even Captain America joined in on the fun. TC Morgan, a stand-up comedian who just moved to Mesquite, dressed in full Captain America gear to delight and inspire the crowd of walkers.
“I am just so happy to be here and to be a part of this event,” Morgan said.
Several middle school students left campus to enjoy the morning walk.
“This is way better than being in class,” said Kenneth Richmond, a student of Charles A. Hughes Middles School.
Student Council Advisor Jaime Worthen joined the students.
“This was good; totally worth it,” Worthen said. “The Heart Walk was a fun opportunity for students and teachers from Hughes Middle School to participate in a community event.”
Montoya expressed appreciation for volunteers and sponsors.
“Everyone’s support and efforts were truly amazing,” he said. “We appreciate all the support from the community and from the local businesses.”
