Slice of Nice

Celebrate someone who has quit smoking or wants to quit by taking part in the Kick Butts 5k Run/Walk March 24. Southwest Missouri State University Bears Basketball Coach Barry Hinson supports the run sponsored by the American Lung Association of Western Missouri. "The big thing for me is that any participation that goes into public health and personal health is extremely important," Hinson said. He said he has been touched by the deaths of friends from smoking or second-hand smoke. Jo Thompson, ALA regional director, said, "This is our first year but we just hope to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking. I'm going to walk for my dad. He passed away last November of a combination of heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease." Runners may pre-register for $12 by calling 883-7177 or 1-800-586-4877. Registration on race day begins at 7 a.m. in Phelps Grove Park where the race begins for $15.