By this time next year, Milwaukeeans will be able to access the Hank Aaron State Trail winding from Miller Park to Summerfest, thanks to a dedicated group of individuals.

The Friends of the Hank Aaron Sate Trail, headed by Milwaukee native and attorney Bruce Keyes, is a non-profit organization working to develop the seven-mile trail in the Menomonee Valley. It will host the annual 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Aug. 13 at 8:30 a.m. at Miller Park.

Information booths, vendors, raffle prizes and post-race refreshments will enhance the experience, and top finishers will receive awards. The entry fee is $18.

"Funds from the event support trail activities and help create special points of interest along the trail, efforts which will become increasingly visible as it's completed over the next year," says Sally Attwood, secretary for the group.

The trail runs along the river and through a former industrial valley, providing environmental and economical improvements. Specifically, it starts at Lakeshore State Park and links on the west end in Doyne Park/The Oak Leaf Trail. Eventually, it will link to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and the Military Ridge State Trail.

More than 500 people participated last year, with twice as many expected to attend this year.

Josh Adams' 80-minute documentary entitled "Henry Aaron's Summer Up North" is one of this year's highlights. The film, DVDs of which will be for sale at the event, takes place in 1952 and chronicles Aaron's minor-league career in Eau Claire. The documentary was well received at the Wisconsin Film Festival and Independent Black Film Festival.

"The annual Run/Walk provides an opportunity for neighborhoods to connect and bring together the many facets of the magnificent Menomonee Valley," says Attwood.

Adams' Web site is summerupnorth.com

The Hank Aaron State Trail Web site is hankaaronstatetrail.org