Pella residents got out and walked for their health during the start somewhere walk yesterday. Around 50 people headed to West Market Park to be part of Hy-Vee’s walk. But it wasn’t just people walking in the park, many businesses encouraged their employees to take time to walk, and Pella and Pella Christian students took part in the walk on their campuses throughout the day. The Healthiest State Initiative that sparked this walk last year aims to make Iowa the healthiest state in the nation by 2016.

Many businesses in Knoxville also joined in Start Somewhere walks. Teachers and students from Stepping Stones joined Hy-Vee employees at the Knoxville Recreation Center for a 12-minute stroll. Hy-Vee who couldn’t leave the store were encouraged to walk within the building when they weren’t busy. Many other businesses held walks too, including Knoxville Hospital and Clinics. Marion County Public Health encourages employees to take walks during work to encourage healthy living.