Thursday night is the big “day” for the Pike County Chapter of the American Heart Association and the community that has been so generous in its support of the efforts to reduce the number of deaths from heart disease and stroke.

The Pike County Heart Walk is the culminating event for the fundraising campaign and will be from 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18 at Cattleman Park.

“We invite everyone to come out and enjoy the fun and fellowship of the Heart Walk,” said Elizabeth Mitchell, Pike County Heart board member.

“The Cub Scouts will get things under way at 5 p.m. with the presentation of colors. Everyone will be invited to participate in the Heart Walk around the heart track and enjoy all the other activities we have planned.”

Entertainment will be presented by the Alabama Jubilee, a women’s chorus under the direction of Catherine Allard, and SheBANG! Championship Cloggers.

A feature of the Heart Walk will be a Health Fair with free blood pressure checks and information about heart diseases and stroke and “recipes” for heart-healthy eating.

“The Heart Board will provide pancakes and turkey bacon for all participants,” Mitchell said. “There will be no charge for the supper but donations will be accepted and greatly appreciated.”

Mitchell expressed appreciation to Piggly Wiggly, Troy Snax and Sisters Restaurant for donations to the pancake supper.

The 2010 Pike County Heart Walk is open to everyone, not just to Heart Walk team members.

“We invite everyone to join us Thursday night as we celebrate the lives of those who have survived heart disease and stroke and come together in an effort to reduce the number of deaths from heart disease through research and treatment,” Mitchell said.