SALINAS, Calif.- The Big Sur International Marathon is partnering with the Monterey County Office of Education to try and get children in shape.

According to a news release, the Marathon and the Office of Education will present a free,  award winning youth fitness program called "JUST RUN®." All elementary teachers, administrators and interested parents are welcome to attend the one-hour informational session on Tues., Jan. 31, 2012 from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the MCOE offices located at 901 Blanco Circle in Salinas. Refreshments will be provided.

The goal of the JUST RUN program is to promote healthy lifestyles while combating childhood obesity and its related illnesses.  Many local schools are participating in JUST RUN and have posted higher academic and fitness scores.

“JUST RUN is easy to implement and is an excellent solution for teachers seeking to provide free, quality physical activity for their students.

This weeks choices are:

• Aptos vs. Watsonville
• Soledad vs. North Salinas
• Monterey vs. Alvarez

The Transportation Agency for Monterey County is now accepting applications for the Bicycle Protection Program.  The program provides free bicycle racks and lockers to businesses and agencies that agree to install the equipment and monitor its use.  The program is intended to encourage bicycle use for commuting purposes.  Applications are due to the Agency office by July 11, 2011.  

The Transportation Agency modeled the Bicycle Protection Program after the Santa Cruz Regional Transportation Commission’s Bike Secure Program.  The program was previously awarded with Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control District grant funding during the 2002, 2006, and 2007 grant cycles, making available a total of 185 bicycle racks and lockers and providing secured bicycle parking facilities for 506 bicycles.  With new funding awarded to the Transportation Agency from the Air District, this program has been extended.

The grant program guidelines