Dear Friends,

As I write this letter, I reflect back on a winter which set new records. We experienced the warmest December and January on record, and to date, have had the least amount of snowfall shown in any record book. Fortunately in February we returned to more seasonable weather. With the colder temperatures we were able to make snow on our snowmaking loop and the sliding hill. The skating on Walton Pond was the best I have seen in twenty years. I would like to acknowledge our entire maintenance staff for the outstanding job they did during the winter season. They kept Walton Pond resurfaced daily and provided incredible conditions for general skating and pickup hockey. You cannot find natural ice surfaces with pristine conditions like we had. They also worked endless hours to make snow so those skiing and sledding enthusiasts could still enjoy their favorite winter past time.

I have just completed my second full year as Executive Director. I have two messages I want to promote during this up-coming year. First and foremost, we are a non profit organization that accomplishes some exceptional work with children and families. Being involved with Winding Trails for two decades, I am embarrassed that this message is not more widespread throughout the community. Last fall through our newsletter, we started to share the “story” about Winding Trails. It is an extremely beautiful and unique organization that offers many wonderful opportunities. The second message is the importance of quality family time that occurs when people come to Winding Trails. Everyone’s lives are so busy these days that less and less time is spent together as a whole family. Winding Trails’ provides the opportunity for families to hike, play numerous sports, swim, sit on the beach, or attend organized family programs. These events are what create family memories that last a lifetime. The time we have with our children is short and precious. It seems like a blink of the eye and our kids are in high school, driving and doing their own things. Winding Trails is a special place that is safe, beautiful, and so important to help generate quality family time.

This newsletter combines both our spring and summer programs. There are programs for youth, families, and individuals. Take the time to read the entire newsletter. The first quarter of this publication continues to tell our story. The final three quarters is filled with programs including some exciting ones involving our new high elements on the outdoor adventure course. Please be sure to keep this handy as it will be suitable for several months. We will be sure to continue to communicate with you through email, handouts at the gate, postings at Dunning Lake, and our website.

Please take the time to take full advantage of your membership. The entire staff works very hard to provide you with programs that interest you. Register early, relax, and enjoy the best Winding Trails has to offer. If there are any questions or comments regarding the park, programs or staff, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 677-8458 or email me at scott@windingtrails.org.

Sincerely,

Scott Brown, CPRP
Executive Director