Trail Committee sets sights on annual fundraiser

By Keith Knepp

Staff Writer

During its regular monthly meeting on Monday evening, the Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee discussed its plans for the second annual “Life is Better on the Trail” fundraiser. The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1, at Blue Barn Berry Farm, 9139 N. 300E, Syracuse.

Executive Director Erlene Yentes informed the committee that formal invitations were sent in the mail earlier this month. Tickets are still available to anyone who would like to learn more about the trail projects and proposed expansion. Individual tickets are $75 each, while tables of eight are available for $500.

The event includes a cash bar, heavy appetizers, an update on the trail and silent auction. To RSVP or for further information, contact Yentes at (260) 668-1815 or ed@syracusewawaseetrail.com.

In other business:

• The committee discussed its options to repair and replace boards in the Conklin Bay boardwalk area. Numerous boards are in various states of disrepair. The board opted to purchase the necessary materials but wait until spring to begin the repairs, so the new boards would not be subjected to winter weather.

• Yentes informed the committee a replacement informational sign has been purchased and will soon be installed at Conklin Bay. The committee discussed criteria for any future signs that might need to be purchased or replaced.

• The next newsletter is being finalized and will be put in the mail by next Monday.

• Vandalism updates at Conklin Bay were provided by Yentes. The option of purchasing and installing trail cameras in the area were discussed. Committee member Chad Jonsson, who also serves as Syracuse Parks director, said his experience has shown that trail cameras are virtually useless and are likely to be stolen. He noted only a more expensive security camera system would be of any value.

• A Tour des Lakes update was provided, noting there were 480 registrations and 400 riders. A fallen tree on one of the routes created some problems, but they were resolved.