Editor:

If you were up and about last Friday morning, you may have noticed a stream of excited students, parents and volunteers walking to school and trying to keep up with two famous Fairhope dogs. It wasn’t your imagination — these kids were having fun on their way to school!

Smart Coast has been sponsoring monthly First Friday Fun Walks to School for students at the Fairhope K-1, Elementary and Intermediate schools since the beginning of the school year. Each walk has had a special theme to make the walks fun for the kids. On March 6, the students wore some Irish green and welcomed two surprise walkers.

Sonny Brewer and his dog, Cormac, joined in with the K-1 students to lead the walk. He told them about his special dog and the book he wrote about him.

Fairhope’s famous mayoral candidate, Willie Bean, was accompanied by his owner, Tress Turner. He was joyful as he accompanied students to the Elementary and Intermediate schools.

Parents reported that their children love the walks, and one parent commented that the monthly walks are one of the few days that his child literally jumps out of the bed ready to go to school.

Two local businesses gave discount coupons to participating parents to show their support for the Fun Walks. The K-1 parents received a surprise treat from LatteDa and Page &Palette. Coffee Loft also presented Elementary and Intermediate school parents with a special treat.

Smart Coast wants to extend a special “Thank You” to Sonny and Tress for bringing their enthusiastic dogs and participating in the March Fun Walk.

A special thanks goes to the principals, teachers and volunteers who regularly participate with the children in the fun walks. We also want to recognize the parents and grandparents who monthly get going early enough to walk with their kids, neighbors and friends to experience some community time.

Fairhope is indeed a good place to live!

Smart Coast