WalkingBuddies.com

Hello, Missouri State Park eFriends.

Welcome to the November issue of Missouri State Park eFriends. I would
like to relay to you the latest news from around the Missouri state park
system. First things first…see below. We want your input!

======Visioning Online — WE WANT YOUR HELP!!!======
The Missouri state park system is looking ahead to the next 10 years to
see what challenges and trends must be met and how to meet them. Its proud
history began in 1917 but to remain a viable state park system, it must
look ahead. To meet these challenges, the division began what it calls the
” visioning” process. The process began with meetings and workshops with
park staff and constituents. The ideas were collected under six main
topics: staff training and expansion; funding; new or expanded facilities;
programs and event expansion; diversity initiatives; and marketing and
promotions. This information is now available on the Web. Your input on
these ideas is important to us. Please go online at
http://www.mostateparks.com/visioning.htm and give us your comments on the
ideas. The Web site will remain active through Jan. 31, 2008.

We also invite your comments on eFriends and the state park system in
general. Your input is important to us and is used as a tool to provide
better services to all of our customers.

Thanks for keeping us on your mailing list and for participating in our
activities.

Douglas Eiken, Director
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Division of State Parks

======Find the Director and WIN A PRIZE!!!======
Congratulations to Melanie Smith, of Little Rock, Ark., who correctly
guessed the Katy Depot in Sedalia as October’s location of the Find the
Director. She has won a gift certificate that can be used for two free
nights of camping in any Missouri state park or historic site campground.
To view last month’s mystery state park or historic site and read comments
from the director, go to http://www.mostateparks.com/findthedir1007.htm

Each month, a photograph of a state park or historic site taken by Doug
Eiken, the division director, will be featured along with clues to its
identity. If you know or can guess the identity of the site, submit your
answer by Nov. 23 to qualify for a prize. For more details, go to
http://www.mostateparks.com/findthedirector.htm

======Featured Site======
Long Branch State Park, Macon
Nestled in the rolling farmland of northern Missouri is Long Branch Lake.
Three separate areas around the lake have been designated as Long Branch
State Park, providing public access to the lake and remaining natural
features of the area. Visitors can fish, camp and picnic along the lake
for some of Missouri’s finest views.

For more information on Long Branch State Park, visit
http://www.mostateparks.com/longbranch.htm

======Special Events======
Hanging of the Greens
Arrow Rock State Historic Site, Arrow Rock
Join residents on Nov. 24 as they decorate the village of Arrow Rock for
Christmas. Caroling and awaiting Santa’s arrival will happen on the
boardwalk, while other events are being planned at the site’s visitor
center. Activities include decorating an old fashioned Christmas tree,
making “natural ornaments” to take home and more.

For more information and a complete listing of special events in your
area, visit http://www.mostateparks.com/events/events.htm

======Sport Shows======
Visit our Missouri state park booth at one of the following sport shows:

Kansas City Sport Show, Bartle Hall, Jan. 9-13
St. Louis RV Show, America’s Center and Edward Jones Dome, Jan.10-13
Columbia Sport Show, Hearnes Center, Jan. 25-27
St. Louis Boat Show, America’s Center and Edward Jones Dome, Feb. 6-10

For more information, contact us at moparks@dnr.mo.gov

======2008 Katy Trail Bike Ride======
In June every year, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources sponsors
a five-day, four-night bicycle tour of the nation’s longest developed
rail-trail, Katy Trail State Park. More than 300 bicyclists from 27 states
participated in the 2007 ride.

For more information about the 2008 Katy Trail Bike Ride, visit
http://www.mostateparks.com/katytrail/2008ride.htm

====================================================================
Missouri State Park eFriends Newsletter
Change your e-mail address or unsubscribe: moparks@dnr.mo.gov
====================================================================
Missouri’s state parks and historic sites are funded primarily by the
one-tenth-of-one-percent parks-and-soils sales tax. The tax was first
approved by Missouri voters in 1984 and renewed by voters in 1988, 1996
and 2006.

_______________________________________________
Missouri State Park eFriends mailing list
moparks@dnr.mo.gov
http://www.mostateparks.com/efriends.htm

Hope we will see you at all our November walks on 11/3, 11/10 and 11/17.

Jacksonville - Atlantic Beach 11/3, 8:45 AM
Distance and Trail Rating: 5K & 10K 1+
Start Point Address / Driving Directions: Sea Turtle Inn, 1 Ocean Blvd., Atlantic Beach, FL 32233 904-249-7402 From the SOUTH – take I-95 north to J. Turner Butler Blvd, SR 202. Proceed east (right) on Butler to Kernan Blvd. Go north (left) on Kernan to Atlantic Blvd, SR 10. Turn right on Atlantic Blvd. Go approx. 5.8 miles. Free parking is available in a parking lot on the south side of Atlantic Blvd. between East Coast Dr. and 1st St. and in diagonal parking spaces along 1st St. and several other streets in the general area. From the NORTH – take I-95 south to State Road 9A. Proceed east on 9A to the Atlantic Blvd, SR 10 exit. Go east (left) for approx. 9 miles. Free parking is available in a parking lot on the south side of Atlantic Blvd. between East Coast Dr. and 1st St. and in diagonal parking spaces along 1st St. and several other streets in the general area.
Event Description: Daily dawn to dusk. Trail is rated 1+ on paved sidewalks/streets and sandy beach. Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Pets not allowed on the beach. Both the 5K and 10K walks will begin at the oceanfront Sea Turtle Inn. Ask for the special First Coast Trail Forgers room rate. The walk goes through charming residential areas of Atlantic Beach. Five K walkers will then stoll on the beach for the rest of the walk. The 10K walkers will go through the Atlantic Beach Selva Marina area before moving onto the beach,. This area is a delightful change of pace from much of coastal FL. There are hills and massive old trees. Restrooms, restaurants and shops are located in the Town Centre area where the walk begins and ends.

Gainesville, FL 11/10, 9:45 AM
Distance and Trail Rating: 5K & 10km 1
Start Point Address / Driving Directions: University Hotel (Holiday Inn), Gainesville, 1250 West University Ave, 352-376-1661. From I-75 take exit 384 east onto FL 24 (Archer Rd). Stay on Archer Rd to SW 13th St. (Note the VA Hospital on the right of Archer Rd as you approach town). Left onto SW 13th St. Holiday Inn is located on the right at the corner of West University Ave and SW 13th St. Pick up start box at front desk, register and drive to VA Hospital on Archer Rd. Park in visitor’s parking lot off of SW 16th Ave. Lot is accessible from Archer Rd. Start walk at the hospital picnic pavilion. City is crowded on Gator home game weekends. Please call ahead to check.
Event Description: Daily, dawn to dusk. Trail is rated 1 and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs but extreme caution must be exercised at busy street crossings. Pets must be leashed, under control. Part of this trail is on a boardwalk path to Lake Alice and is not recommended to be done alone or at near dusk. The walk is around the beautiful University of Florida campus, home of the Florida Gators. The University is the oldest in the state of Florida. The northeast quadrant of the campus is on the Register of Historic Places. This walk qualifies for the College Campus walking program.

Jacksonville - Riverwalk 11/17, 8:45 AM
Distance and Trail Rating: 5K & 11K 1+
Start Point Address / Driving Directions: Omni Hotel, 245 Water St,Jacksnville, FL 904-355-6664 Jacksonville Riverwalk FROM I-95 NORTHBOUND - take exit 352B (Forsyth St). Go about .9 mi to Pearl St. Turn right. Go two blocks to Water St. Turn left. Hotel on left. FROM I-95 SOUTHBOUND - take left lane exit 353B (West Union St.) Go left toward Riverfront/Sports complex. Go about .6 mile to Pearl St. Turn right. Go 9 blocks to Water St. Turn left. Hotel on left. Start box at front desk. Parking: Metered parking is free on weekends; the least expense weekday parking is at “The Jacksonville Landing” parking lot on Water St.
Event Description: Daily dawn to dusk. Trail is rated 1+ and is not suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. This event covers both shores of the Jacksonvlle riverfront. You will experience the Jacksonville Landing with its many shops and restaurants. You will go through the city with its tall buildings and see the sports complex with the Alltel Stadium (home of the Jaguars), the Jacksonville Baseball Grounds and the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. You will witness Friendship Fountain and the centuries old Treaty Oak. This event qualifies for the RiverWalk America, Railroad Heritage and Courthouses walking program.

Don’t forget our First Coast Trail Forgers Walking Club group walk at Fort Clinch State Park this Sat. 11/20. We will meet at the ranger station (entrance gate) at 8:45 AM, register and then drive to the Fort parking lot. New Walker Packets ($5) will be available.
See you all Saturday.

November Walks
Atlantic Beach - Sat. 11/3 9 AM
Gainesville - Sat. 11/10 10 AM
Jacksonville River Walk Sat. 11/17 9 AM
Details at: www.firstcoasttrailforgerswalkingclub.org

Fort Clinch State Park
Distance and Trail Rating: 5K & 10K 1+

Start Point Address / Driving Directions: (Ranger Station) 2601 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 904-277-7274. From I-95 take exit 373 heading east onto SR 200/A1A into Fernandina Beach. At Centre St/Atlantic Ave, turn right onto Atlantic Ave. Fort Clinch is on the left within 2 miles. Register at the front gate office. You will then drive to the start point.

Event Description: Open daily 8 AM until sunset. There is a park entrance fee. The trail is rated 1+ and is not suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Carry water and insect repellent. The walk includes a stroll on the beach providing views of Cumberland Island, GA as you approach the fort dating back to 1847. At the gift shop a $3 entrance fee will allow you to step back into time as you witness Living Union Historians reenacting life in 1864. The event qualifies for the Lighthouses USA, Civil War Battlefield, USA State Parks and RiverWalk America walking programs. A nature trail winds through a coastal hammock. No pets allowed on the beach.

SEMINOLE - MARCH OF THE MAMMOTHS

Saturday, August 4

NEW EVENT!!!!

A 5/10K Walk to Boca Ciega Millennium Park

HOSTED BY THE SUNCOAST SANDPIPERS

DESCRIPTION

Enjoy a mid-summer morning walk with the Suncoast Sandpipers, a walking club which hosts walks throughout the Tampa Bay area, as they stroll in the trail of ancient mammoths. From HERS, it’s an easy trek (rated 1+ for some rough surfaces) to Boca Ciega Millennium Park where fossils of mammoths, saber toothed tigers and giant sloths were recently found. While the Sandpipers can’t promise fossils, walkers will be able to catch sight of 6 sculptures hidden in the brush along side the park boardwalks. Sorry, no pets! Wheel chairs and strollers can be accommodated.

For more information, contact Alice Lawrence: 727-595-2173 or pipers@tampabay.rr.com.

START LOCATIONS AND TIMES

HERS Exercise & Weight Loss, 12985 Park Blvd., Seminole. You can start the walk anytime between 7:30-8:30 a.m. You will receive written directions to the park and back. Please finish by 11:30 a.m.

FEES

An ash lemon tank top or yellow t-shirt featuring an ancient mammoth is $12 which includes the walk fee. To walk for volkssport credit is $3. To walk only, no shirt or volkssport credit, is $2. Kids 12 and under are free!

REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES

Enjoy fruit and bottled water supplied by the host, HERS, a women’s exercise facility. Registration will be outside so gentlemen are welcome! Rest rooms will be available at HERS and the neighboring Winn Dixie supermarket. After the walk, take a tour of HERS (ladies only), then enjoy breakfast or lunch at the next door Portabella Diner. Participants will receive a coupon good for a soda.

DIRECTIONS

From I-275, take exit 28/Gandy/Park Blvd (SR 694). Head west about 10 miles to the beaches. HERS will be on the right after 125th St. and just prior to the light at 131st St. PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE OF OUR SPONSORS: PARK IN CENTER OR STREETSIDE ROWS.

REGISTRATIONS & RESERVATIONS

Preregistration is not necessary. However, if you’d like a shirt, mail a check for $12 to the Suncoast Sandpipers, P.O. Box 2514, Largo, FL 33779. Indicate whether you want a tank or t-shirt and the size and provide phone number or email address. Orders are needed by July 28, 2007! The Portabello Diner would like a headcount if you’re planning on eating there after the walk.

Please call Alice at 727-595-2173 or email her at pipers@tampabay.rr.com to be included in the headcount.

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Downtown Orlando

Sunday Morning, August 5

Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

Year-Round Event

Start address: Orlando Regional Medical Center, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Orlando.

Time: Start any time between 8:00 & 8:45 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: The walk is on sidewalks in downtown and residential Orlando. View Colonial Town historic area, Lake Eola, and the County Courthouse. The trail is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Pets are allowed if on a leash (though not in the hospital).

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions: From I-4 take Exit 82A, SR 408, east to the first exit, 10B, Orange Ave. Circle to right and turn left onto Orange Ave. and at the 3d light, turn right on Columbia. See #

From Tampa on eastbound I-4 take Exit 81B, Kaley, turn to right (east) and at Orange Ave. turn left to Columbia; then turn left on Columbia. See # OR From westbound SR 408 exit at Rosalind, turn left to Orange Ave. Turn left and go 5 lights to Columbia and turn right.

#After turn go one block and turn left on Kuhl Ave. Go right on Copeland and turn left into 2nd entrance of parking building. Parking is $3.00. Walk 1/2 block to ORMC hospital main entrance.

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Mt. Dora

Sunday Morning, August 5

Hosted by the Happy Wanderers

Year-Round Event

The Happy Wanderers will host a group walk of their Mt. Dora year-round trail on Sunday, August 5. The walk will start at the Sunshine Mountain Bakery, 115 West Third Ave., Mount Dora, at 9:00 a.m.

Trail: Rising on wooded Terraces to a height of 184 feet above sea level, Mount Dora overlooks Lake Dora. A city of festivals, parks and shops. Mount Dora boasts antique shops, unique restaurants, historic train ride, some of the most lovely and historic buildings in central Florida. Uncut curbs and hilly streets with no sidewalks make this route unsuitable for wheelchairs/strollers.

Directions: Take Exit 101C (SR46) and drive west on North Highland St. in Mt. Dora. Turn right onto N. Highland St. and drive to traffic light at 5th Ave. Turn left onto 5th Ave. and drive 6 blocks to Donnelly St. Turn left onto Donnelly St. and drive 2 blocks to W. Third Ave. Turn right onto W. Third Ave. and Sunshine Mountain Bakery will be on your right. There is a public parking lot down the street from the bakery.

Contact: Marvin Stokes, marvst717@cfl.rr.com 386-788-4026 or 386-871-0506

Website: www.happywanderersfl.org

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Altamonte Springs

Saturday, August 11

Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

New Event!!!!!!

Start address: Albertsons parking lot, 503 E. Altamonte Dr., Altamonte Springs

Time: Start any time between 8:00 & 8:45 a.m.; plan so you can finish by 11:00 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: The walk is in the Mall area and through the Rolling Hills residential area. Suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Pet permitted on a leash.

Join us at Straub’s Seafood, conveniently located across SR 436 from the walk’s Altamonte Springs start/finish! We’ll gather for our annual meeting/luncheon at 11 a.m., and enjoy a luncheon menu specially prepared for the Milers. Cost is $13.00, which includes tax and tip. Checks may be made payable to Mid-Florida Milers. Please email Jackie your RSVP by August 4.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions: From Orlando or Daytona use I-4 to Exit 92, Altamonte Springs. Turn left from Daytona and right from Orlando and proceed through 5-6 lights to Palm Ave. Turn left and then right into Albertsons after the gas station. Look for registration in the Parking Lot. From SR 436 pass Florida Hospital and turn right on Palm Ave to Albertsons.

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Hello Florida Walkers!

I’m sending this special E-News in order to send you the brochure giving all the exciting details about the Walk Around Florida event in Ocala on October 5-7. You won’t want to miss this walking extravaganza called the Ocala Walk Derby.

I’ve attached the brochure as a PDF file of 2 pages. Open the brochure and print it out! You will need Adobe Reader to open the pages.

If you cannot or do want to print the brochure from this message, you can access the brochure at the Suncoast Sandpiper website:

home.tampabay.rr.com/sandpipers/sndpiper.html Click on the 2 pages under Ocala Walk Derby to view each side of the flyer.

Happy Trails,

Letty

Sanlando Park, Altamonte Springs

Saturday, July 14

Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

Year-Round Event

Start address: Sanlando Park, 401 W. Highland St., Altamonte Springs

Time: Start any time between 8:30 & 9:15 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: The walk is on the Seminole Wekiva Trail and in the towns of Altamonte Springs and Longwood. The trail is shaded in many parts and the 15K walk is entirely on the trail. The 10K walk uses the trail and visits the towns’ residential areas. The walk is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Pets are not allowed in Sanlando Park, but can use the trail outside the park.

Distance: 10K (6 miles) or 15K (9 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions:

Altamonte Springs is north of Orlando. From Orlando drive on I-4 East toward Daytona and exit at SR 434, Exit 94. Turn left and then turn left again at the 1st street, Douglas Ave. Drive 0.9 miles to Highland. Turn right and the park is located at the end of West Highland Street.

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DeLand

Sunday Morning, July 15

Hosted by the Happy Wanderers

Year-Round Event

The Happy Wanderers will host a group walk of their DeLand year-round trail on Sunday, July 15. The walk will start at the Volusia County Public Library parking lot, 1300 E. Howry Ave., Deland, at 8:00 a.m. (Register at 7:30 a.m.) The distance is 11K (6 ½ miles).

Trail: This walk winds around the beautifully restored downtown district including the old Athens Theater. It goes through the historic district with many homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places including the old Stetson Mansion. Passes the National Champion Red Cedar Tree estimated to be over 350 years old. Winds through the campus of Stetson University and past the Henry DeLand House.

Directions: From I-4 take Exit 118 and follow road signs to DeLand. Drive approximately 4.3 miles to Amelia Ave. Turn left onto Amelia Ave and drive one block to Howry Ave and drive about two blocks and the Library will be on your left.

Contact: Marvin Stokes, marvst717@cfl.rr.com 386-788-4026 or 386-871-0506

Website: www.happywanderersfl.org

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Central Park II, Ormond Beach

Wednesday Evening, July 18

New Event Hosted by the Happy Wanderers

“Going North for the Summer” Series

Start address: Central Park II, Hammock Lane, Ormond Beach. See the directions below for the walk’s start location.

Time: Register between 5:30 & 6:00 p.m.

Trail: The walk takes you through Central park, past an Indian Burial Mound, and along the banks of the lovely Halifax River and through quiet residential neighborhoods. The route is easy for strollers, some difficulty for wheelchairs. Dogs must be on a leash and picked up after.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) route will also be available.

Cost: $3 for all walkers.

Directions: From I-95 take Exit 268. Drive east on SR40/Granada Blvd approx 2.8 miles to S. Kings Rd. Turn right onto S. Kings Rd. Drive approx 0.6 mile to Hammock Lane. Turn left onto Hammock Lane and drive short distance to Entrance to Central Park II on your left.

Contact: Marvin Stokes, marvst717@cfl.rr.com 386-788-4026 or 386-871-0506

Website: www.happywanderersfl.org

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Palatlakaha Park, Clermont

Saturday, July 21

Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

New Event!!!!!!

Start address: Palatlakaha Park, 1250 12th Street, Clermont.

Time: Start any time between 8:30 & 9:15 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: Walk on residential streets from Lake Minnehaha to Lake Minneola. It may be difficult for strollers & wheelchairs due to narrow streets. Pets on leash permitted.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions: From Orlando use Highway 50, SR 408 (toll) or I-4 to the Turnpike and go north to exit 272, Winter Garden /Clermont. At the Exit turn left (straight if on SR 50) and drive into Clermont, passing US 27, East St, and 5th St to the light at 12th St./ CR 561. Turn left and the park is one block on the right. The start is in the Park, see signs.

West Orange Trail, Winter Garden
Saturday, June 23
Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

New Event!!!!!

Start address: Killarney Station on the West Orange Trail, 17914 Old SR 50, Killarney (Winter Garden).

Time: Start any time between 8:00 & 8:45 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: The walk is on the paved West Orange Trail, a rails-to-trails project, and city streets. The “West Orange Bikes and Blades” shop located at the station has rentals and sales of bikes, rollerblades, and bike equipment, and assorted refreshments. The trail is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Pets allowed on a leash only.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions:

From Orlando use I-4 to the Turnpike and exit towards Wildwood. Use Turnpike exit at #272, Clermont/Winter Garden. Turn left onto SR 50 go to the 3rd light at Deer Island Rd, SR 438, and turn Right. Take 1st left at sign to the WOT (Killarney) Station

Going west on SR 50 turn north (right) just past the Bus Parkyard at Deer Island Rd (light). Take 1st left at sign to the WOT (Killarney) Station. Going east from Clermont on SR 50 note WOT on left & turn left at Deer Island Rd. Take 1st left at sign to the WOT (Killarney) Station.

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Port Orange, YMCA
Sunday Morning, June 24
Hosted by the Happy Wanderers

Year-Round Event

The Happy Wanderers will host a group walk of their Port Orange year-round trail on Sunday, June 24. The walk will start at the YMCA, 4701 City Center Pkwy., Port Orange, at 8:00 a.m. (Register at 7:30 a.m.) The distance is 10K (6.2 miles). A 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Trail: The trail takes you through the beautiful new campus of Palmer Chiropractic College; around and through the lovely City Center Complex and into quiet, shaded neighborhoods. Loops around Jackson Lake Park and through the historic Sugar Mill Gardens where you may encounter a dinosaur or two as well as the ruins of an old sugar mill and the lovely gardens.

Directions: Drive east on Dunlawton Ave (SR421) to City Center Pkwy (approximately 1.2 miles). Turn left onto City Center Pkwy and drive approximately 0.5 mile to YMCA which will be on your right just past the new Palmer Chiropractic College.

Contact: Marvin Stokes, marvst717@cfl.rr.com 386-788-4026 or 386-871-0506

Website: www.happywanderersfl.org

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Hillsborough River State Park
National Trails Day
Saturday, June 30

Rescheduled Date!!!!!

New Event Sponsored by Hillsborough River State Park & Suncoast Sandpipers Volkssport Club

GENERAL INFORMATION: On June 30, 2007, Hillsborough River State Park/ Florida Park Service and the Suncoast Sandpipers invite you to a 5K (3.1 mile) or 10K (6.2 mile) walk in one of the oldest state parks in Florida. The walks are noncompetitive, good for all ages, and open to everyone. The Sandpipers promise to explore the park’s miles of trails to come up with the best possible routes to please everyone. While there, visitors can enjoy picnic areas, pavilions, canoes, biking and the Spirit of the Woods Pool Side Cafe and Gift Shop. An irresistible spot to cool off after the volkswalk will be the ½ acre swimming pool (fee required).

Camping is available at one of the 111 campsites. For camping reservations, call toll free: Reserve America 1-800-326-3521. For more information on the walk, contact Alice Lawrence at 727-595-
2173/pipers@tampabay.rr.com. For additional information on Hillsborough River State Park, contact the Ranger Station at 813-987-6771.

LOCATION/TIMES: From the entrance (park fee is $4.00 per carload, up to eight people; extra persons are $1.00 per person), drive to parking lot #3. Register at Pavilion 3. Start walks any time from 8:15-9:30; finish by 12:30 PM.

TRAIL DESCRIPTION: Walkers will enjoy a rated 1+ (unpaved surfaces) walk through hammocks of live oaks, sabal palms and hickories which border the scenic Hillsborough River. Sturdy strollers will be ok but not wheelchairs. While water will be available on the route, carrying water (and bug spray) is a good idea!

NATIONAL TRAILS DAY: (http://americanhiking.org/events/ntd/). The Sandpipers look forward to celebrating National Trails Day (NTD). Now in its 15th year, the American Hiking Society’s NTD continues to bring the public to beautiful parks to discover, learn about and celebrate trails and participate in educational exhibits, trail dedications, gear demonstrations, workshops and trail work projects. The society and the NTD sponsors provide event hosts with posters, brochures, give-aways and attractive T-shirts at reasonable prices.

WALK FEES: A patch commemorating our walk in the park is $5 (includes walk and volkssport fees);
volkssport credit only is $3; walk only (no patch or volkssport credit) is $2. KIDS WALK FOR FREE! Also for sale are NTD shirts for $10. Call Alice for available shirt sizes.

DIRECTIONS: The park is located at 15402 US 301N, Thonotosassa, 9 miles north of Tampa, 6 miles south of Zephyrhills. From I-75S, take SR 54/exit #279. Left and east 12 miles to Hwy 301. Right and south 6 miles; park is on right. From I-75N, take Fowler Ave (exit #265) 1.7 miles east to Hwy 301; left & north for 9 miles; park is on left. From Pinellas County and Tampa, take I-275N to I-4E to exit 10. Left on CR 579 to US 301 and north 7 miles; park is on left.

Enjoy coffee, hot chocolate and a Mexican pastry before your walk!

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Celebration
Saturday, June 30
Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

Year-Round Event

Start address: Starbucks, 715 Bloom St. in Celebration.

Time: Start any time between 8:00 & 8:45 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: The walk route weaves by areas showcasing the homes, schools, parks, medical facilities, and businesses of the town of Celebration. Restrooms are available at the Start/Finish and Golf Club. Tour this unique showcase community. The route is on residential sidewalks and shaded boardwalks. The town will be decked out for the 4th of July. The trail is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Pets allowed on a leash only.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions:

From Tampa go east on I-4, take Exit 64B, US 192, east to Celebration Ave.

OR From Daytona/Orlando go west, take Exit 65A, Osceola Parkway, east toward Gaylord Palms to International Drive. Turn right on International Drive to US 192. Turn right on US 192 and quickly go to left lane for a turn at the first light. Turn left on Celebration Ave.

From Kissimmee on US 192 turn left on Celebration Ave.

From Cocoa & east Orlando on SR 417 take exit 2, Celebration Ave. and turn left.

Enter Celebration and go to 1st stop sign at Sun Trust Bank, turn left to Front Street. Turn right on Front St. and Starbucks is ahead at Bloom St. Park in any available place. Lots past Starbucks off Campus Ave are normally available.

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New Smyrna Beach
Sunday Morning, July 1
Hosted by the Happy Wanderers

Year-Round Event

The Happy Wanderers will host a group walk of their New Smyrna Beach year-round trail on Sunday, July 1. The walk will start at the Publix Supermarket, 709 E. 3rd Ave., New Smyrna Beach, at 8:00 a.m. (Register at 7:30 a.m.) The distance is 10K (6.2 miles). A 5K trail will be available.

Trail: The walk is on paved surface, boardwalk, and hard packed sand beach. Founded in 1877, New Smyrna Beach is at the mouth of Ponce de Leon Inlet. The US Coast Guard Station is located at the northern point of the beach across from the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse on the opposite side. New Smyrna Beach attractions include Riverside Park and Shops of Canal St. Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Directions: From I-95: Take Exit 249 onto Highway 44. Drive east on Hwy 44 for 5.8 miles. Just past the Sun Trust Bank turn Right into the shopping center and drive to the Publix Supermarket.

Contact: Marvin Stokes, marvst717@cfl.rr.com 386-788-4026 or 386-871-0506

Website: www.happywanderersfl.org

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Barber Park, Orlando
Saturday, July 7
Hosted by the Mid-Florida Milers

New Event!!!!!

Start address: Barber Park, 3701 Gatlin Ave., Orlando.

Time: Start any time between 8:30 & 9:15 a.m. This will be a “quick-start” event.

Trail: The walk is in nearby residential areas. The trail is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Pets allowed on a leash only.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) trail will also be available.

Cost: $3 for IVV/AVA credit; free for non-credit walkers.

Directions:

From Colonial Drive (SR 50), go 4.2 miles south on Semoran, SR 436, to Gatlin Ave. Turn Right to Barber Park about 1/2 mile on the right.

From SR 528 drive 3 miles north on Semoran, SR 436, to Gatlin Ave. Turn left to Barber Park about 1/2 mile on the right.

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­­­­­­­­­­­Sunrise Park, Holly Hill
Sunday, July 8

New Event Hosted by the Happy Wanderers

“Going North for the Summer” Series

Start address: Sunrise Park, 1131 Riverside Dr., Holly Hill.

Time: Register at 8:00 a.m.; the walk will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Trail: Enjoy this beautiful walk through the riverside town of Holly Hill and along the banks of the Halifax River. Easy for strollers, some difficulty for wheelchairs; dogs must be on leash & picked up after.

Distance: 10K (6 miles); a 5K (3 miles) route will also be available.

Cost: $3 for all walkers.

Directions: From I-95 take Exit 265 (Holly Hill and Daytona Beach); go East to end (Riverside Dr.). Turn left on Riverside Dr. and then an immediate right into the Sunrise North Park parking lot.

Contact: Marvin Stokes, marvst717@cfl.rr.com 386-788-4026 or 386-871-0506

Website: www.happywanderersfl.org

Hi Florida Walkers!

You can start making plans to attend WAF-XVIII (Walk Around Florida 18) a weekend event planned and hosted by 3 Central Florida walking clubs: Suncoast Sandpipers, Mid-Florida Milers and Happy Wanderers! Below is a special bulletin from Mike Lanpher, Mid-Florida Milers Trail Master:

A Special Article on Walk Around Florida 5-7 October 2007
Ocala Walk Derby
For the eighteenth time a multi-event fall weekend, Walk Around Florida will be hosted by the Happy Wanderers, Mid-Florida Milers and Suncoast Sandpipers. Using positive feedback from WAF XVII, the event will be repeated at a single location - Ocala - in Florida’s Horse Country. Moving to a potentially cooler month, the clubs selected the first weekend in October, 5-7 October.

The central point for 2007 activities will be Ocala, “Horse Capital of the World.” This Marion County city, easily accessible by major Florida highways, is surrounded by rolling hills and majestic tree-lined scenic country roads and is home to more than 400 farms. Events planned for the “Ocala Walk Derby” are a Friday evening walk (the post parade) starting at the impressive Veterans Park and walk the Ocala Historic District; two Saturday walks (the daily double), one on the Cross Florida Greenway and one at Silver River State Park; and one Sunday walk (the photo finish) again on the Cross Florida Greenway. More data on the walks will be provided in a couple weeks.

There are a variety of dining, socializing, and prize-winning opportunities. RSVPs for dinner on Saturday are needed by 30 September.

There is an A Award of a whiskey glass (for the mint julep of course) and pre registration is required for the A Award by 30 September. Pre registration is to the POC below for the Award and dinner.

A block of rooms at the Comfort Suites, 3825 NW Bonnie Heath Blvd, Ocala 34482 has been reserved. The rate is $89.99 + tax per night per room & includes deluxe continental breakfast. Reservations are to be made directly with the hotel: 352-482-0800 and ask for the Walk Around Florida group rate.

The event is a team event with volunteers from all three clubs working together at events and social activities. For information contact Alice Lawrence, 727-595-2173/pipers@tampabay.rr.com.

China Volkssport Association (CVA) is IVV’ s national club in China. We are experienced in organizing general walking tours and expedition tours or special tours according to walkers’ certain requirements. We could offer walking tours throughout China, especially Great Wall walk in China. Actually, we have conquered almost all sections of Great Wall around Beijing. Through taking part in our events, you may not only enjoy China¡¯s beautiful scenic spots but also have a better understanding about China’s Culture and history. Our walking tours include:

~Great Wall walk
~Adventurous walking tour
~Scenic spots walking tour
~Historic-route walking tour
~City sightseeing walking tour

Our plan of walking events in 2007 is available bellow. Hope to cooperate with your esteemed club and enhance the understanding between the members of the two clubs.

The 6th Beijing International Great Wall Walking Convention

Date: 19th May. 2007

The 1st international Changbai Mountain walking convention

Date: 28 th June 2 nd July.2007

Location: Changbai Mountain, Yanji City, Jilin Province

The 2nd international Inner Mongolia Prairie walking convention

Date: 7th & 8th July 2007

The 3rd China Source of Yellow River Walking Exploration Convention

Date: 21st to 28 th July.2007

The 2nd International Walling Event round Namtso Lake in Tibet

Date: 4th to10 th Aug.2007

Ten Years Great Walk on Ancient Silk Road, the 3rd station—Pingliang , Ningxia, Linxia, Gannan

Date: 16 th to 23 th Aug.2007

Ten Years Great Walk on China Great Wall The 5th Station—Datong ,Shanxi

Date: 15 th to16 th Spe.2007

Beijing and Tianjing international Great Wall Camping and Walking Convention

Date: 1st to 2 nd Oct. 2007

Location: Hangya Guan Great Wall, Tianjing

The 3rd IVV Walking Convention in Guilin, Lijiang, Yangshuo

Date: 17th to18 th Nov. 2007

The Journey for Exploring Civil Cultural Heritage—The hometown of Tong opera and Tong Minority¡¯s Culture

Date: 20 th to 23th Nov. 2007

If your club is interested in participating CVA walking events or have other ideas for cooperation, please contact us for more information, and also please take your time to check our website below for more information.

China Volkssport Association

Beijing Today Walk Center

Add:17D Building 1 Century Mansion

45# Xiaoguan Beili Chaoyang District

Beijing, China 100029

Tel:86-10-84896319/20/21

Fax:86-10-84896317

E-mail: ivv@mrqh.com

Website: www.chinawalking.net.cn

David Toth and the Trinity Trekkers from Texas will be hosting a 2 Event weekend, Nov 25-26, 2006 in Disney World. It seems that all of the kinks have been worked out with the Disney people and the brochure has been finalized. I have attached that brochure for your information and dissemination.

This will be a “first” in that Disney has never co-sponsored an AVA event before. The Mid Florida Milers have a couple of terrific walks around Disney but none inside the Theme Parks. As you will notice, there is a significant cost involved if you take the whole package. If you have anyone interested, please advise them to contact Disney Sports Travel for information on packages. The basic cost is actually quite reasonable when you consider the “regular” costs at Disney.

So when someone asks you, “Where are you going, now?” You can answer, “I’m going to Disney World!!”

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Information written by Amy Laboda - Visit Florida

In the Florida Keys, U.S. Highway 1 is a ribbon stringing together pearl-like islands. Follow the ribbon and you’ll find wet, wild and unique activities sure to please kids young and “old,” and their parents, too!

How to begin? Just drive until the mangroves seem to fall away from the highway to reveal the placid playground of Florida Bay. Let Highway 1 be your guide – watch the mile markers to find nearly anything along the island chain.

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Information courtesy of Morgan @ Country Inns Along the Trail

Vermont is a state unlike any other – a magic place where the birds outnumber the people, the walking trails outnumber the roads, and the country inns are themselves a vacation experience. That’s why the best way to explore the beauty of the Green Mountain State is on foot from inn to inn. You’ll know this when, after taking a turn in the trail, the sounds of distant traffic disappear entirely, leaving only the sounds of nature and your own footfalls. You’ll know it as you wander through meadows of wildflowers, hike along wooded paths or climb to panoramic views and mountain waterfalls. And you’ll know it when you are welcomed back to that special inn after your day’s adventure.

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Information from the Virginia Tourism Corporation

Celebrate Black History Month in Virginia

Black History Month in Virginia is celebrated with special tours of historic sites, in concert, drama, film, soul food and exciting events. For example, the Buffalo Riders of Hampton Roads honors the memory of the Civil War’s Buffalo Soldiers on a 6-mile ride through Portsmouth. The Virginia War Museum salutes the Tuskegee Airmen of WWII and Opera Roanoke presents a tribute concert to Marian Anderson. Special tours highlighting African-American influence are planned at Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, the National D-Day Memorial, Monticello and other historic sites during the month of February.
~ Black History Month Attractions
~ Black History Month Events
~ African Americans in Virginia
~ Famous African Americans from Virginia!

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Information courtesy of National Park Service

A sea of lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush describes this “weird and scenic landscape” known as Craters of the Moon. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve contains three major lava fields covering almost half a million acres. These remarkably well preserved volcanic features resulted from geologic events that appear to have happened yesterday and will likely continue tomorrow… Crater Cam - Area Map - Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve - Detailed Map

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Information courtesy of National Park Service

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s unique and spectacular landscape was formed slowly by the action of water and rock scouring down through hard Proterozoic crystalline rock. No other canyon in North America combines the narrow opening, sheer walls, and startling depths offered by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

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Information courtesy of National Park Service

Most of the Fort Pickens and the Santa Rosa areas remain closed due to damages caused by Hurricane Ivan on September 16, 2004. Please click on the Hurricane Ivan link at the bottom lefthand corner of the screen for detailed information and photographs.

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Information courtesy of National Park Service

Canaveral National Seashore is on a barrier island which includes ocean, beach, dune, hammock, lagoon, salt marsh, and pine flatland habitats.
The barrier island and adjacent waterways offer a blend of plant and animal life. Records show that 1,045 species of plants and 310 species of birds can be found in the park.

Endangered species include, but are not limited to, loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles, West Indian Manatee, Southern bald eagle, wood stork, peregrine falcon, eastern indigo snake, and Florida scrub jay.

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Information courtesy of National Park Service - U.S. Department of the Interior

The shores of Georgia and Florida offer much more than rolling waves and warm sand. You can now explore their rich and varied history in Along the Georgia-Florida Coast, a travel itinerary produced by the National Register of Historic Places and the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers with the financial assistance of the American Express Company. Along the Georgia-Florida Coast uses the area’s historic sites, buildings, structures, objects, and districts to reveal many of the most important developments in America’s past: encounters between Europeans and indigenous peoples, European occupation and settlement, plantation agriculture based on African slavery, African American culture, and tourism. All 51 properties featured in the itinerary are listed in the National Park Service’s National Register, the United States’ official list of places important in our history and worthy of preservation. Visitors may be interested in Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, located in the vicinity of this itinerary.

Information courtesy of Washington State Parks

Appointed by President Thomas Jefferson 200 years ago, Captain Meriwether Lewis was assigned to explore the unknown Northwest Territory and find a navigable passage to the Pacific Ocean. Lewis selected William Clark as his co-commander. Near the end of their westward journey (during the autumn of 1805), they traveled through one of the most scenic and spectacular parts of their expedition - present-day Washington state from the Snake River to the Columbia River Gorge region and the Pacific.

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Information courtesy of Carpe Diem Travel Ltd

The indigenous peoples of the Tampuen tribe in North Eastern Cambodia say that the Yaklom Crater Lake is a gift from the spirits, and sitting in the fading light of day looking over its tranquil, crystal-clear water it is easy to see why. No one knows when or how this circular lake, surrounded by jungle, came into being, so perhaps the locals are right - either way, it is an exquisite and deeply spiritual place.

This part of Cambodia is about as far removed from the spectacular temples of Angkor Wat as you can get - a wild, jungle territory with spectacular waterfalls, lava fields and rolling hills. The huge Virachey National Park, stretching up to the Laos and Vietnam borders is still largely unexplored, and elephants, tigers and leopards are thought to roam within its isolated splendour. This was the setting for the jungle kingdom ruled by Marlon Brando in the film “Apocalypse Now”, and movie-grade atmosphere abounds - lazy brown rivers, steamy jungle, trailing creepers, and small tribes with their own unique customs and languages.

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Information courtesy of California State Parks

JENNER - Many visitors to Fort Ross State Historic Park, 12 miles north of Jenner on Highway 1, are surprised that Russians, along with Native Alaskans, established a place for themselves in California history.

The park is one of the first five state parks in the California State Park system and was known as Settlement Ross when it was established by the Russian American Company, a commercial hunting and trading venture chartered by the tsarist government. Ivan Alexandrovich Kuskov established this colony in California as a food source for Alaska and to hunt profitable sea otters. Kuskov arrived at Ross in March of 1812 with a party of 25 Russians, many of them craftsmen, and 80 native Alaskans from Kodiak and the Aleutian Islands.

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