Jumping for health's sake

The fact that Jefferson Elementary School's "Jump Rope for Heart"

event took place on Valentine's Day was purely coincidental, but it did

get students' hearts in the right place. About 200 Jefferson students

participated in a fund-raiser for the American Heart Assn. Thursday by

jumping rope in the school's auditorium. Prior to the event, each student

had raised money by asking friends and family to sponsor them. Students

managed to raise about $400 for Thursday's event. Those who didn't

participate Thursday will do so at the March 7 "Jump Rope for Heart"

event at Jefferson. Linda Jones, Jefferson's school nurse, said the goal

is to raise a combined $1,500 between the two events. Jones said the

event also keeps students aware of heart disease and health. Students

also made red, paper hearts with messages written on them like "my heart

beats for you" and "I love mom."