Cultural programs across Alabama threatened to go away with slashed federal funding have received a significant lifeline with gifts totaling $500,000.

Many of the district’s elementary schools have engaged with the American Heart Association to focus on whole-body well-being while also raising funds for the non-profit organization.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Arkansas. The Natural State has the fourth highest death rate from cardiovascular disease in the country. The Heart Walk has already raised over $160,000 ...