We are thrilled to announce the resounding success of the 50th anniversary of the Parlor City Trot, which saw a remarkable doubling of participants from the previous year! This event was a proud moment for us as it was a Fort Wayne Track Club point series event and the Road Runner Club of America’s Indiana State Championship half-marathon event. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Fort Wayne Orthopedics for their invaluable support as our presenting sponsor and to Adams Wells Internet Telecom TV, the First Bank of Berne, the Wabash River Heritage Corridor Commission and the Wells County Visitor & Information Bureau for their generous sponsorship.
We would also like to thank Greg Reynolds for leading the runners on his bike, the Bluffton High School Football Team for getting up early to man all the water stops, the Bluffton PD for helping at the start and on the course, the Bluffton Street Department for setting up barricades and EACH AND EVERY volunteer who helped along the course and at check-in. (Amy Johnson, Kara Frank, Torrie and Jonah Baumgartner, Evan Baumgartner, Kirk Baumgartner, Ayla Rossworm and Megan Hunter and friend).
As we eagerly anticipate the completion of the new section of the Interurban trail, we feel it’s time to remind everyone of trail use etiquette. By adhering to these safety tips, we can all contribute to a positive and enjoyable trail experience for everyone.
Safety Tips:
• Obey the provided street signs and use the pedestrian signals at road crossings. Stop, look and listen for vehicle traffic before proceeding across the road.
• Walkers should use the right side of the trail; the slowest traffic should be kept right.
• Pass others on the left. Just like out on the road, faster trail users should pass slower users on the left. Give an audible warning with a bell, or call out “Passing on your left.” Bicycle speeds can startle other trail users, so don’t wait to give your warning until you are right next to the walker or runner.
• If you use earbuds while on the trail, ensure the volume is low enough to hear others.
• Pets on the trail should always be under control, and pet waste must be removed immediately.
• Don’t litter along the trails.
• At busy areas on the trail, avoid walking three abreast. Two people walking side by side fill up a lot of trail. When faster traffic comes up from behind, switch from walking abreast to in-line to give them room to pass you safely.
• High-speed bike riding is inappropriate for the trails and should be done on public roadways. Please slow to appropriate speeds to share the trail with slower users.
Trail Use for Parents
with Small Children
Keep an eye on children on the path. Be mindful that kids sometimes veer into the path of oncoming traffic, especially cyclists who cannot slow down quickly. If your child is cycling, be sure they are skilled enough to control the bike and maneuver as needed to share the trail and safely pass.
It’s time to book your fall and winter parties. Dates are filling up for the Indoor Pavilion at Washington Park, and the NEW Lancaster Park pavilion is currently open while the weather stays nice, so call the park office at 824-6069 to reserve.
Have a great week!
