Heartland Trail Tracks - October 1999

We hope that this lovely fall weather finds you out on the newly paved section of the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail. Two major bicycle rides used this section of the trail this summer and fall. In July, the Michigander sent 800 riders down the unpaved section of the Trail from Edmore to Stanton and onto the paved section from Stanton to Sidney. The hardy souls then camped at Montcalm Community College for the night and continued on their way the next day. Labor Day weekend found 300 riders on the DALMAC (Dick Allen Lansing to Mackinaw) ride camping on the lawns of Montcalm Community College and then riding the paved section from Sidney to Stanton the following morning. They were able to enjoy seeing the "Dalmac Bridge" over Fish Creek, complete with a memorial plaque that recognizes the help received from this organization. The Friends group sees these as only the first of many such rides on the Trail. We hope that you take the opportunity to ride, walk, or skate this section of the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail. Wear you helmets, practice your trail politeness skills, bring a friend , and enjoy - It is wonderful!.

As you drive through Stanton on Main Street (M-66 by McDonalds) you will see the new Trailhead sign and the Announcement Board. These were built by the Construction School at the St. Louis Correctional Facility. As you ride the Trail, take time to read their message and look for current announcements.

PARKING FOR TRAIL USE

	at the ISD, north on New Street (the Trail begins behind the building)
	at the Sidney State Bank in Sidney (weekends only)
	on any side street in Stanton or Sidney
	parking lot in Stanton, on Maple Street, South of M-66

With the new section of Trail open and more paving anticipated for next summer, the FFMHT could use your help with some necessary equipment. If you have any of the following and would like to donate the item, or funds to purchase it, please contact us at any of the addresses on this page. remember, all donations are tax deductible!!

	a small utility tractor for trail maintenance
	a strobe light for a trail tractor
	a chainsaw
	a weed-whacker
	an extendible trimmer or saw
	shoves, posthole diggers, brooms
	a 4' x 8' single axle utility trailer

The FFMHT meets once a month on the 4th Tuesday at Montcalm Community College. Meetings are in Instruction West, Room 204 and begin at 7:00 p.m. For more information contact: 517-235-6170; dkstearns@cmsinter.net or 517-427-5555; ckane@remc8.k12.mi.us or write to : FFMHT, P.O. Box 455, Edmore, MI 48829.