GULF SHORES, Ala. -- The American Heart Association and Kaiser Realty, Inc. announce the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony of a brand new, clearly marked 1.5 mile walking trail in Gulf Shores on April 4.

“We couldn’t be more excited to offer this first step in our efforts to help our community in raising awareness for heart healthy living, “ Leonard Kaiser, president and CEO said.

After ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony there will be, in conjunction with the American Heart Association’s National START! Walking Day, a group walk. This will start at 11 a.m. and will feature a group walk around the 1.5-mile course immediately following the dedication ceremony.

Upon completion of the group walk, all attendees are invited to a reception in the Blue Heron ballroom of the Kaiser Realty, Inc. offices in Gulf Shores.

As a local manifestation of the national “START! Walking Day” program, created by the American Heart Association, the goal of this upcoming event and the walking path, is to provide the community with a well designated walking path in a centrally located area to encourage health and fitness.

Beginning at the intersection of West Commerce Drive and West Second Street in Gulf Shores behind the Kaiser Realty, Inc. offices and stretching around the Bodenhamer Recreation Center, the 1.5-miles course will feature a safe and convenient flow to ensure that those using the path for recreation can do so with confidence.

As the 2012 “My. Heart. My Life,” Platform sponsors, Kaiser Realty, Inc. works closely with the American Heart Association, throughout the year, to help implement events and programs to help educate the community on the benefits of heart healthy living.

“This is an easy way to get started and we hope that everyone will grab a friend and join us at this kickoff to a heart healthy lifestyle,” Kaiser said.