
As we start our winter Trail Guard projects, we begin our 34th year of work and fun with hope, optimism, and sustained energy. The future of Trail Guards looks bright!
We have talked a lot over the past number of years about what happens with Trial Guards as the years go by. I'm not getting any younger, but the concept, system, and structure of the Trail Guard organization is becoming more self-sustaining every year. We receive tremendous support, and it fuels us. It tells us we are heading in the right direction and making a difference that is noticed and valued.
We are deepening our staff pool and volunteer base, and building on the successes we have enjoyed over the years.
One of those successes has been the very popular Moonlight Meander we host every winter. See ads in this week's Paynesville Press for details, and join us on the evening of February 8th. This is one of our favorite events of the year, and we appreciate the help and support of so many local churches and organizations in putting it together for the 14th year. What a great run!
We are also getting a good start on our winter My Room project, a bedroom makeover for one of our hardworking young Trail Guards. This year's recipient is a very steady Saturday morning park worker who shows up at my house nearly every week to drive a mower to the park and help with trail work. We so appreciate that kind of enthusiasm, and can't think of a better way to recognize it. This will be our 28th bedroom project - a track record we are proud of. Thanks to our volunteers for again making this happen.
There is much more coming for 2025. Our May bike trip and June whitewater rafting trips have been booked, our BWCA entry permit was reserved just this morning, and youth fundraising has begun for an international bicycle expedition to Norway in July for two excited Trail Guard youths. The kids have to earn their way on this trip both financially and through their Nature Park work. Please support them by purchasing pizzas at the Moonlight Meander if approached.
And thanks to everyone for the great response to last fall's Trial Guard solicitation letter. Your support is heartwarming, energizing, and so very appreciated. Together, we will make this all happen over and over again. Happy 2025, everyone!
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