Hilton students jump to serve community

Ninety-three students of the Hilton Central School District jumped rope on March 3 to help the community. The annual Jump Rope-A-Thon For Heart raised money for the local chapter of the American Heart Association. The students raised $4,204.50 during the three hour event. This is Hilton's 18th year for holding the Jump-A-Thon and, although participation is somewhat smaller than in the past, participants had a great deal of fun at this family-oriented event.

Top money earned this year was first grader, Wesley Rivais. He brought in $180 for the Heart Association. Both he and second place earner, Brenna Helfer, were entered in a drawing for a free trip to Disney World. Every participant received door prizes compliments of the American Heart Association, Hilton Ben Franklin Store, and the Hilton Branch of M&T Bank. Incentive prizes based on amounts raised will arrive in about four weeks.

Hilton's physical education teachers have used this event as an enrichment activity to stress the importance of the heart health education. It also gives students an opportunity to showcase the jump rope skills which they have learned. In return for hosting the event, the district receives free educational multimedia materials and cardiovascular fitness equipment.