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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Times Advocate, 2004-10-06, Page 88 Exeter Times–Advocate Wednesday, October 6, 2004 MacNaughton-Morrison Trail official opening By Mary Simmons TIMES -ADVOCATE STAFF EXETER — It's official. After 30 years of plan- ning, hard work and per- severance, the MacNaughton-Morrison section of the South Huron Trail is officially open to the public. A ribbon cutting ceremo- ny was held at the opening of the trail in MacNaughton Park Sunday afternoon. Committee member Pete Armstrong thanked every- one for coming to the opening and said while everyone involved is proud of what has been accom- plished so far, the work is not over yet. Plans are still in the works for another section of trail to connect to Elliott Park and Hay. Armstrong said it didn't take long for the word to get out about the trail. "Once the project start- ed, people were using it," he said. "It was to the point where the workers had to stand aside and let the people go through." According to figures esti- mated by the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), 35,000 people have already used the trail and 50,000 are expected to take advan- tage of the picturesque hiking area in the next year. Armstrong added the trail adds to the physical, mental and economic health of the community. Trail committee co - chairperson George Godbolt introduced the members of the committee and thanked everyone for their involvement in the project. Superintendent Kate Monk was given special recognition for her part in the project. "Without her hard work, this would not have been accomplished," Godbolt said. Co -chairperson Gord Strang said many gener- ous donations have been received to complete the $400,000 project. Another $30,000 still has to be raised. Committee member Ernie Miatello took the opportunity to recognize everyone who contributed their time, labour and money to the completion of the trail. He reminded everyone of the health benefits of walking and asked them to make use of the trail as part of their daily or week- ly routine. Huron County Warden Bill Rowson said it is a pleasure to see how the efforts of individuals can pay off. "People were willing to dig deep and put in their time," he said. "It gives the volunteers a great lift to see the project will be used." South Huron Mayor Rob Morley admitted he was skeptical about the project at first, but was glad to be proven wrong. He also acknowledged the trail has been bringing people from out of town into the municipality. "We all take nature for granted," he said. "Nature's wonder here is just unbelievable." Rev. Marilyn Carter of Thames Road Elimville United Church blessed the trail. "We hope this trail will be a blessing for you when you walk on it," she said. "Feel the blessing of the creator around you. "Let's give thanks to the creator and be still in this moment." After the ribbon cutting everyone was invited to walk to Stirling Bridge. Refreshments were pro- vided by the Lions Club. After many years of planning, the official opening of the MacNaughton-Morrison section of the South Huron Trail was celebrated Sunday.Above left, Rev. Marilyn Carter of Thames Road Elimville United Church blesses the trail.Above right,ABCA employee Wayne Ford, committee member Pete Armstrong,ABCA chairperson Teresa Ondrejicka, co -chairper- son Gord Strang, South Huron Mayor Rob Morley, co -chairperson George Godbolt and ABCA employee Tony Drinkwalter cut the ribbon. Below left, Bob Knox leads the way along the trail to the Stirling Bridge. Below right, Kate Monk is honoured for her commitment to the project with a plaque presented by Strang and Godbolt. (photos/Mary Simmons) f f r r riS ,ill -E When you could be cruising at lightning speeds INT Quadro delivers high quality, HIGH SPEED INTERNET to meet your needs: UADRO $35. 00 $44 95 NEW REDUCED RATE / A new high speed service for redsidents of the towns and cities surrounding Quadro's telephone exchanges. (Minimum service contract of 12 months required) Quadro's reliable high speed service, available only to the telephone customers of Quadro Communications. RE T (Granton, Kirkton, Sebringville & Uniondale)a) now to subscribe... 229-8020 www.quadro.net email: info@quadro.net SIGN UP NOW & RECEIVE YOUR FIRST 3 MONTHS FOR ONLY $24.95 bzUADRO• COMMUNICATION$ . .......... ..