Registration for the Town of Oyster Bay's popular, free Co-Ed Mall Walking Program will be open from Jan. 3 through Jan. 25, 2001, Town Councilman Leonard B. Symons announced.

"According to the experts, walking is one of the best forms of exercise," Symons said. "It promotes good circulation, builds muscle and, if you join the town's Co-ed Mall Walking Program, it's also a terrific way to meet new friends.

"Many of us exercise regularly in the summer, but when the cold weather hits, ice, snow and low temperatures often make walking too difficult. The town instituted the Co-ed Mall Walking Program so everyone will have an opportunity to participate in this healthy form of exercise regardless of the weather."

The town's Mall Walking Program will be held from Monday, Jan. 29, through Thursday, March 29, 2001.

"On Mondays and Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 29, walkers will meet at the main entrance to the Broadway Mall, Hicksville, for a 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. walk," Symons said. "On Tuesdays and Thursdays, beginning Jan. 30, walkers will meet at the main entrance to the Sunrise Mall, Massapequa, for a 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. walk. If you're feeling really energetic, you can sign up for both courses."

Registration forms can be obtained at all Town Hall and community park facilities and at all local libraries. They should be returned to the park managers or to the Parks Department, 977 Hicksville Road, Massapequa 11758.

"If you have been thinking about beginning a new exercise routine, the town's Co-ed Mall Walking Program may be the perfect way to start," Councilman Symons said. "It is a positive step for your general good health and may give you the opportunity to make new friends in the process."

For further information, contact the Parks Department at 797-4126.