Hardy hearts

Those who know want to remind you that it's National Heart Month. Among the companies promoting heart health awareness is the maker of Mrs. Dash. Go to mrsdash.com to join the Women's Heart Health Dash, an online race benefiting WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease. Post an inspirational story, participate in activities ­-- each action equals one mile in the race, with a goal of 12,000 miles by March 31. Each heart-healthy tip posted on the site kicks off a $1 donation by Mrs. Dash to WomenHeart.

Weekly prizes, including $100 gift cards, will be awarded, with a grand prize of a spa vacation for two at Red Mountain Resort & Spa in St. George, Utah.

Bakespace.com and KitchenAid have under way an Appliance-a-Day giveaway.

I love poetry.

Throughout February, the site and firm will award slow cookers, food processors, mixers, blenders and, at month's end, two Professional 600 Series stand mixers. On Valentine's Day, a pair of appliances will be given away. For details, go to bakespace.com/kitchenaid.

Lisa Donovan and Michael Hartzell of Ross.

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The Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce's "Appley Ever After" wedding contest concludes Saturday, Valentine's Day. Go to appleyeverafter.org to vote for one of three couples vying to win a wedding and a free one-hour, nonalcoholic reception during Applefest in Franklin on Oct. 3.

But will they get apples?"

Couples, all of whom have ties to Venango County, are Lisa Donovan and Michael Hartzell of Ross; Erin Stroupe and Benjamin Behm of North Olmstead and Sheffield Lake, Ohio, respectively; and Elizabeth Moreton and David Marcucci of Butler.

The 6th Glass Slipper Ball Featuring the Best of Chefs and Wine/Beer Purveyors will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Four Points Sheraton, Cranberry. Twenty chefs will prepare signature hors d'oeuvres and desserts, and fine wines and beers will be served. Proceeds benefit women's educational initiatives supported by Zonta professional womens service organization.

Jennifer Antkowiak will emcee and swing and jazz band Dr. Zoot will perform. Tickets are $100. Go to glassslipperball.com for more information.

The South Side Mid-Winter Soup Contest tees off at noon Feb. 21. Donate $5 and a canned good and sample soups all afternoon. Benefits the Brashear Food Pantry. More details: southsidepgh.com.