PO Box 1, Guelph, ON Canada N1H 6J6 Volume 42, #3 - October, 2014Telephone: 519 716 8273, Internet: www.guelphhiking.com

Other dates to remember

Thursday, October 16 - Trek & Tell - Newfoundland’s Viking Trail - Zhers Community Room, 7:00 pmth

Thursday, November 13 - Annual General Meeting - Zhers Community Room, 7:00 pmth

(which is the second Thursday, as the third is not available)Sunday, November 23 - Christmas Potluck - Union Hall, 611 Silvercreek Parkway N, 4:00 pmrd

- more details on these events later in this newsletter.

You are invited!GHTC is hosting the Hike Ontario Summit on Saturday, November 1.

Join with fellow hikers to celebrate 40 years of Hike Ontario – the umbrella organization of 25 hiking trailclubs/associations that acts as the voice for over 9 million Ontario hikers and walkers. GHTC is an inauguralmember (and our own Henry Graupner spearheaded the formation of Hike Ontario).

! Meet members of other hiking clubs.! Hear special presentations on Ontario's Waterfront and Grand River trails.! Participate in a choice of stimulating workshops, including:

- Updating Maps & Guides: should we go online, or re-print, or do both? - Kids Hikes: running and growing a successful program- The "Mood Walks" Initiative of the Canadian Mental Health Assoc. & Hike Ontario- Nature Photography - bring 2 printed photos of outdoor scenery - Kissing Bridge Trailway - an update on building the Guelph to Goderich extension- Nordic Walking Session (bring your own poles, and rubber tips, if you have any)- Demonstration of the Newest Gadgetry and Gear - by Adventure Guide (Kitchener)

! Join us for the 40 Anniversary Dinner with musical entertainment by Katherine Wheatley.th

! And don't miss the FREE Friday evening pub - 7:30-11:00 pm, October 31 (cash bar)Sunday hikes - 9:15 am, November 2 (see newsletter article about the hikes)

The Summit meets at Guelph Golf and Curling Club, 133 Woodlawn Road E, Guelph on the banks of the beautiful Speed River, October 31 through November 2.$26 – Saturday presentations, workshops and lunch$36 – Saturday evening 40 Anniversary Dinner and entertainmentth

FREE – Friday evening pub (cash bar) and Sunday hikes

Spaces are limited. Register early!Visit www.guelphhiking.com

or contact Kathy at 519 836-9147 or ksomers@uoguelph.cafor more information and registration.

Volunteers are needed to help with the Summit. Please contact these people if you can help:Registration Table – Kathy Somers, ksomers@uoguelph.caPub Night – Susan Atkinson, susanatkinson19@gmail.comSaturday program (welcoming/directing participants) - Bill Mungall, wmungall0809@rogers.comSunday hikes – Jane Shifflett, janeshifflett@hotmail.com

Be there and help us show the rest of Ontario who we are!

HO Summit Hikes

On Sunday, November 2, we are offering five different hikes for the summit. These free hikes are open not only for the participants at the summit but also for anyone who would like

to join us or for anyone who would like to try hiking. Bring friends!There are a variety of distances to choose from. Please see details below.

Meeting Place: Meet at Guelph Country Club (133 Woodlawn Road) at 9:15am to arrange car pools to thehikes. Bring: Good walking footwear, poles (optional), snack and water.

The Arboretum -Come explore a natural treasure, the Arboretum at the University of Guelph. You will see world classcollections of trees, many native plants in the gardens, an old growth forest and a wetland. A leisurely 1½ hr hikethrough a tranquil, green sanctuary.

The Grand River at Elora - One of the area's top natural wonders, the Elora Gorge has been likened to the NiagaraGorge – only smaller. Carved from the limestone by the Grand River over millions of years, its sheer cliffs, waterfalls,rushing water and mature forest are impressive. See the" tooth of time", "lover's leap", mysterious caves and rushingwater as you walk beside the Grand River and Elora Gorge on this 2-3 hr hike. Good walking footwear recommended.

Starkey Hill - Starkey Hill, located on Grand River Conservation Authority property just east of Guelph, is a favouriteGuelph hike. In a 1 to 1½ hr hike you will walk up and down gentle hills through both an evergreen and hardwoodforest. When you reach the top of Starkey Hill, the highest point in Puslinch township, you can see back to Guelph andthe famous landmark, the Church of Our Lady. Hiking boots are recommended on this 4k/1½ hr loop hike.

Speed River Trail - The Speed River travels through the City of Guelph and eventually meets the Grand River inCambridge. The Guelph Hiking Club maintains a 13k trail along the Speed River which links to other trails thatprovide a continuous route along this river. Walk the first section of this beautiful trail which follows the river and thenloops back through a dark cedar forest and wetland. It will take 2 hr.

Radial Line Trail - The Radial Line Trail starts in Guelph and ends in Limehouse where it connects to the Bruce Trail. It follows the route of the Guelph Radial Line Railway which ran from Guelph to Toronto. The line was discontinuedin 1931 and was developed into a walking trail in the 1970s. Using the Arkell Side trail and part of Section 2 we willwalk up and down hills and along the old rail bed. The hike will take 2 hr.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 3

On July 19 , 2014, the Halton County Radial Railwayth

celebrated its 60 anniversary and the Guelph Hikingth

Trail Club were there to join in the festivities andpromote the Club. Weset up our display boothand contributed two giftsto the silent auction: aclub membership plusguidebook and a signedcopy of "Twist ofOrchids", a crime novelwritten by Michelle Wanwho happens to be ourGHTC vice president!

Located between Guelph Line and 4 Lineth

Nassagaweya, the HCRRfeatures historic railcarso pe ra t ing o n t w okilometres of scenictrack on the original Toronto Suburban Rail line. GHTC's Radial Line Trail owes its origin to thiselectric interurban line between Toronto and Guelph,which was built almost entirely on private right of way. The existing hiking trail runs on, or closely follows theoriginal railbed.

The HCRR is owned and operated by the OntarioElectric Railway Historical Association, a non profit,educational organization, made up of active memberswho volunteer to maintain, restore and operate themuseum for its many visitors throughout the year. It isOntario's first and largest electric railway museum.(Visit www.hcry.org for further information).

Hiking Cookies

For the past couple of years,Terry Spittles has beenmaking a hiking cookie thatseveral members have shownan interest in. Here isTerry’s recipe. Ingredients2 cups unsalted butter1 ¼ cups white granulated sugar1 ½ cups brown sugar3 eggs1 tbsp. vanilla2 ½ cups cake flour1 ¼ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt3 ¾ cups large flake oats¾ cup poppy seeds1 ½ cups raw unsalted sunflower seeds1 ½ cups pumpkin seeds2 ½ cups chopped dates 1 Cream butter with white and brown sugar until light,add eggs one at a time. Beat well after each additionthen add vanilla.2 Sift cake flour with baking soda and salt into a largebowl, mix well. Stir into batter.3 Combine oats, poppy seeds, sunflower seeds,pumpkin seeds and dates. Stir into batter.4 Use 1/4 cup batter for each cookie and place onbaking sheets lined with parchment paper, about 2inches apart. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.5 Bake in preheated oven 350 F for about 25 minutesor until crisp but still chewy.6 Cool on racks Recipe makes about 64 cookies.

60 Anniversary Celebrationth

By John Fisher

On August 24 , a some avid hikers completed the Millth

Run and Speed River trails from Cambridge to Guelph. Jim Hoare captured the moment when Norm Sailian, alast minute substitute for Bill Mungall who shouldhave been leading, was interpreting Bill's notes.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 4

Designer Waters: Better Than theReal Thing?

It seems that everywhere you turn, there’s someonedrinking “new and improved” water enhanced withvitamins, electrolytes, and sweeteners — or watertaken directly from exotic fruits (e.g. coconut water).

Are these designer waters better than the real thing?In terms of weight management, the likely answer is no.That’s because most of these drinks, unlike water, havecalories. The leading brand of vitamin water (20 oz) has120 calories and roughly 30 grams of sugar, whilecoconut water (8 oz) has anywhere from 45 to 70 calories.

From a nutrition standpoint, there are some benefits anddrawbacks. For example, coconut water is a good sourceof potassium. It has also been found to have good-for-youantioxidant properties. What’s more, it’s also a source ofsodium and chloride that can help replenish losses thathappen when you exercise heavily or get sick.

But other enhanced waters, like water enhanced withvitamins C and B, have added sugar. These vitamins caneasily come from other foods or supplements without theadded sugar. Certain other water-based drinks arecalorie-free, and those are a better choice — but you’rereally just paying for extra flavor you could easily add towater yourself with some lemon or other fruit.

Doesn’t the flavor help people drink more water forhydration, though? Well, more water may not always beneeded. Changes in recommendations back in 2004 didaway with the idea that we need to drink a set amount of

2H 0 each day, and instead suggested that we use thirst asa guide to staying hydrated.

Of course, if you’re physically active or in a hotenvironment, you do need to focus on how well you’rehydrating. The American College of Sports Medicinerecommends water when you’re doing something activefor short-term fun, and sports drinks for enduranceactivities that last more than an hour.

One study looked at young men who exercised for 60minutes while having one of three types of drinks:coconut water, bottled water, or sports drinks.Researchers couldn’t find any significant differences inhow well they exercised or stayed hydrated.

Nancy Clark, author of Nancy Clark’s Sports NutritionGuidebook, offers her suggestions. “My advice forfitness exercises: Have a pre-exercise snack and drinkwater. For endurance athletes: Have a pre-exercise snack,drink water, and if you will be exercising for more than60-90 minutes, add a sports drink after the first hour tohelp maintain hydration and your blood sugar level.Athletes can get plenty of electrolytes from food, in mostcases!” I personally think Mother Nature got water rightthe first time. But if you feel inclined to try enhancedwaters, choose wisely. Read the ingredients, look beyondthe marketing hype, and ask yourself if the“enhancement” is something you really need.

By Maryann Tomovich Jacobsen, MS, RDFrom Web MD, Wednesday, September 3, 2014

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 5

Low-Carb Snacks

Sometimes, the whole world of snacking seems to bebased on carbohydrates, one of the main thing you’resupposed to limit. Unfortunately, even the "healthier"packaged items, like granola bars, smoothies, andcrackers, are full of them.

For a healthier alterative, pair apple slices with stringcheese. The combination of protein fat, and fibremakes it a filling and satisfying snack.

Mash one-quarter of a ripe avocado and spread it ontwo light rye crisps for a crunchy, creamy snack withminimal carbs but plenty of fibre and heart-healthy fat.

Use a half cup of low-fat, plain Greek yogurt as acreamy dip for a cup of refreshing cucumber spears. Itadds up to12 grams of carbs and a mega dose (20grams) of appetite-satisfying protein.

Deli turkey has uses beyond a sandwich filling. Roll upa turkey slice in lettuce leaves with mustard. Thislight, crisp snack has about three grams of carbs andwill get you through the afternoon.

Cheesecake doesn’t make for a healthy snack option,but you can mimic a little of the flavour in a healthierway. Pair a cup of low-fat cottage cheese with half acup of fresh or frozen blueberries and a little of yourfavourite no-calorie sweetener. The result? A

dessert-like, low carb snack.

Another option is to fill two medium celery stalks withtwo tablespoons of natural-style peanut butter for anibble with only nine grams of carbs.

Hard-boiled eggs are the original grab-'n'-go powersnack. Cut one in half and spread on a little hot sauceto make it as full of flavour as it is of protein.

Mixed nuts are an all-time snack classic for goodreason. They're just as satisfying at your desk as theyare on a hike. One ounce of crunchy, salty, mixed nutswill keep your energy up for hours with only five gramsof carbs per ounce.

Though they're often spotted together, hummus isn’tmarried to high-carb pita bread. Spread quarter cup ofhummus onto wedges cut from a red bell pepper foranother filling, tasty, low carb snack.

If you look past the vending machine you'll find plentyof other tasty options. The best part? They're as easy totoss together as they are delicious.

Most Adults Are Members of the'Clean Plate Club'

According to a study recently published in theInternational Journal of Obesity, the vast majority ofadults finish all of the food they put on their plate. Thisis true for adults from much of the world researchersfrom Cornell University revealed.

The project analysed almost 1,200 diners in eightdifferent countries, including the United States,Canada, France, Taiwan, Korea, Finland, and theNetherlands. Despite differences in gender andgeography, the result after each meal was almostalways a clean plate.

Although adults are likely to clean their plates, thesame is not true for children. After analyzing 326participants younger than 18 years, the researchersfound the average child only eats about 59% of what ison the plate.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 6

HIKING SCHEDULEOct 2014 through mid Mar 2015

Over the years the GHTC has enjoyed permission from the generosity of private landowners for footpaths through theirproperty. The friendship, respect and trust of these landowners are the Club's most important assets. Let us continue to care forand properly use their property while maintaining the objectives of the Club.

All hikers should check the GHTC web site www.guelphhiking.com for detailed advice and information on Terrain RatingSystem, Hike Speed, special seasonal instructions and other timely recommendations. Hikes from other clubs are listed. Please check their websites for their terrain and speed ratings, as they may be differentthan GHTC's.

• To avoid disappointment due to cancellation, please notify the hike leader if you intend to join a scheduled hike.• Cancelled or rescheduled hikes will be posted on the GHTC web site. The leader may choose to post a rain date here. Be sure

to check for updates and impromptu hikes!• Occasionally it proves more convenient for a hike leader to select a meeting place that is not in Guelph. If you cannot arrange

a ride to get there, call the hike leader who may know of someone who is willing to take you. In other out-of-town hikes theleader will meet at a local location to carpool. If the distance is considerable, it is customary to offer to help pay for thegasoline.

• It is important to stay with the group while hiking, alerting the leader of intentions to ‘drop-out' at the beginning a necessityand appreciated.

NOTE: HIKE Dates and TITLES in BOLD are conducted by the Guelph Hiking Trail Club.

Once again the GHTC hike leaders have put together a great hiking schedule that address different interests and hiking levels.If you have a hike location that you would like to see in a future schedule, please email me. GayleJ@Rogers.com

Hikes from other clubs are also listed. Please check their websites for details or cancellation notices.

******* The covered bridge parking lot is closed due to construction on W ellington street with the improvements ofthe main waterlines...to end of November. For hikes scheduled to meet at the Guelph covered bridge parking lot,the leader will be waiting on the west stairs of covered bridge. Suggested parking is plaza on corner of Gordan andW ellington, Royal City Park across from bridge or Hood street on east side of the covered bridge. *******

Be prepared for winter conditions on the trails by wearing appropriate footwear and bringing hiking poles.

And just a reminder that the times listed with hikes are departure times so please arrive 5-10 minutes earlier. We would bedisappointed if we left without you.

Sat Oct 04 ELMIRA RESERVOIR AT FLORADALE 8 km, 2 hrJoin us to celebrate Ontario Hiking Week. Flat ,varied topography including Lion's Club Sugar Bush operation around reservoiron Canagagiue River. Old order Mennonite farm country. Meet on Florapine Rd just west of Arthur St N for a 10am departure.Call leader for a Guelph carpool location.Leader: Stan Litch 519-843-5915 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Oct 05 STARKEY HILL SIDE TRAIL PHOTO HIKE 1.5 - 2 hrJoin us to celebrate Ontario Hiking Week. Meet at the Guelph covered bridge (west stairway) for a 2:30 PM carpool to theStarkey Hill parking lot. We will hike the side trail in section 2, starting at the Starkey Hill parking lot, and return to that point.A late afternoon shoot will give you a chance to try the effects of low angle lighting and shadows. Bring a camera that you arecomfortable using. We will explore the trail, at a slow pace, taking lots of time to find some great photographs, finishing in timeto be home for dinner.Leader: Bob Fanning 519 822-5181 or bobfan@idirect.com Level 2. Easy pace

Sun Oct 05 KIDS HIKE ON GUELPH LAKE GORBA TRAILS 90 minIntroduce the young people in your life to the fun of hiking as we celebrate Ontario Hiking Week with a 90 minute walk to seethe autumn changes on Guelph Lake trails! We will walk from Victoria Road to Guelph Lake. Meet prior to the 1:00 pm hikestart on the east side of Victoria Road N, on the south bank of the Speed River, parking at the curb where Victoria Road Northcrosses the Speed River (on Victoria Road North, between Woodlawn Road and Conservation Road). The rain date is Oct 19. Children must be accompanied by an adult on the Tortoise or Hare hikes. Dress for the weather. No strollers and no pets please. Refreshments provided.For details and to register, please call Kathy at 519 836-9147 or ksomersghtc@gmail.com.Leader: various GHTC certified leaders Tortoise and Hare speeds

Wed Oct 08 FULL MOON HIKE 2 hrJoin guest leader, Myra, Woodlawn Memorial Park horticulturalist on a rare night excursion of the Woodlawn Memorial Park.Meet at the office parking for a 7p.m. start. Bring water and lights.Leader: Susan Bard 519 836-6570 Level 2. Speed Casual.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 8

Sat Oct 11 BRUCE TRAIL AND PALGRAVE SIDE TRAIL 18kmMeet at the Guelph Covered Bridge (west stairway) on Gordon St. for a 9 am departure. Car pool to parking lot on the BruceTrail and then car shuffle to Palgrave to hike the Palgrave Side Trail. This side trail joins the main Bruce Trail at Glen HaffyCA and then we hike the back to the cars. Bring Lunch, snacks and water. A park entry fee may be required.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 3, speed moderate

Sun Oct 12 CONNECTING LINK TRAILS 7km, ~2 hrsRelatively easy Sunday morning walk along the Eramosa and Speed rivers – see some of the nice parts of Guelph, where youcan walk every day. Meet at the Guelph covered bridge (west stairway) east of Gordon street at 10:00 AM.Leader: Jana and Stan Stanek 519-821-7996 Level 1. Speed casual to moderate

Sun Oct 12 CRAWFORD LAKE CONSERVATION 10km, 4-5hrsLoop hike from Crawford Conservation, along the Nassagaweya Canyon to Rattlesnake Point. Exceptional views andcharacteristic escarpment countryside dressed in fall colours. We will meet at the Guelph Covered Bridge (west stairway) eastof Gordon St. for 10am carpool departure to Crawford Lake. Bring water, snacks, lunch and sunscreen. Park entry fee applies.Leader: Gayle 519-856-1012, Susan Bard 519-836-6570 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Tue Oct 14 METCALFE ROCK / MAIN TRAIL / CHUCK GRANT ST LOOP HIKE 12kmMeet at 9:15am, (for a 9:30 departure), at the Duncan Crevices Nature Reserve parking lot, (Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Km33.2Km), for a 12Km loop hike. Wonderful views of the valley. Bring lunch, snack & water. No dogs please. Terrain is very rocky so boots are essential.Leader: Susan Atkinson 519-831-9474, before 9pm or email formerbrit@hotmail.com. Level 2. Speed Moderate

Thurs Oct. 16 Trek and TellThe Viking Trail (Newfoundland’s Western Peninsula) - Norma & Gordon KingZehrs Community Room, Imperial & Paisley, Guelph 7:00 to 9:00 pm

Sat Oct 18 RLT SECTIONS 3 5kmDeparture from Guelph covered bridge (west stairway) 1pm or meet at trail head First Line Nassagawey (County Rd 29) atintersection of Arkell Rd for a 1:30 start. This is an in and out hiking west to east through RLT sections 3woodlands, gentleterrain across private lands and the new bridge. Recommend parking on 1st Line SOUTH of Arkell Rd.Leader: Jim Hoare James.W.Hoare@gmail.com or 519-835-5284 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Oct 19 ELORA GORGE AREA (GVTA TRAIL) 4km, 1hrSpectacular views of the Grand. Meet at parking lot of ball diamond on west side Ct.Rd7 (Elora Rd) and Middlebrook Rd. for a2pm departure. Call leader for a Guelph carpool location.Leader: Stan Litch 519-843-5915 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Oct 25 TORONTO BT SPEYSIDE LOOP 10 km.Here is a lovely area close to home for a loop hike along Bruce main and side trails with variable terrain, rocky sections as wellas a great lookout. Wear proper footwear and seasonal protective clothing. Bring water and snacks. Meet 1pm at the Guelphcovered bridge (west stairway) east of Gordon Street for carpooling to trail head. Possible pub stop in ActonLeader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 3. Speed Moderate

Sat Oct 25 RADIAL LINE TRAIL SECTION 6 1.5-2hrsEnjoy the blaze of colours and a panoramic view from the top of Kong Hill as we hike from Sixth Line to Dublin Line and carshuttle back to Sixth Line. Meet at the corner of Pineridge Drive and Sixth Line at 1pm. Wear hiking shoes and bring water.Leader: Victoria 519 362-2783 victoriajoymacphail@hotmail.com Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sun Oct 26 ARKELL SIDETRAIL 7.5km 2-3hrLoop hike along this popular side trail and best parts of section 2 Radial Line Trail. We'll meet 1p.m. at the Starkey Hillparking lot, 1KM east of Arkell. Bring water and snacks.Leader: Jim Hoare James.W.Hoare@gmail.com or 519-835-5284 Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Fri Oct 31 HIKE ONTARIO SUMMIT PUB NIGHT All trails meet in Guelph for the 40th annual Hike Ontario Summit this weekend. Join fellow hikers for the Friday Pub thatkicks off the Summit. Free admission, music and snacks. Cash bar. Trailhead lager available. Halloween costumes optional. Visit with other GHTC members and hikers from across Ontario. The pub is at the cozy Fireside Lounge, Guelph Golf andCurling Club, 133 Woodlawn Road E, Guelph. All welcome 7:30pm to 11pm.

Sat Nov 01 HO SUMMIT See newsletter article or GHTC website for details

Sun Nov 02 HO SUMMIT HIKES See newsletter article or GHTC website for details

Wed Nov 05 Wed Adhoc hikes held during the day begin. Hikes will be 1-2 hours long and within or close to Guelph. Thesehikes are not in club newsletter or club emails. If you are interested in participating please email gaylej@rogers.com. Starting inNov on the Sunday night I will email the following Wed hike location and start time to those on my email list.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 9

Thu Nov 06 FULL MOON HIKE 2 hrsGuided by the light of a full moon, we hike around Guelph's core plus the two rivers Royal Recreational Trails. Park alongCardigan Street or in the Youth Music Centre parking lot opposite London Road for a 7 p.m. start at Goldie Mill Park. Bringwater and lights.Leader: Susan Bard 519 836-6570; Peter Jaspers-Fayer 519-835-0829. Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Thu Nov 06 WALKERS WOODS LOOP, NEW HAMBURG 8kmSee gvta.on.ca for more detailsGVTA hike leader Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sat Nov 08 SMITHS SIDE TRAIL 4 kmMeet at 1:00pm at the trail head on Watson Rd. just south of Stone Rd. This is a loop along the Eramosa River past the dam,through woods and meadows. Bring water and snacksLeader: Norm 519-831-3657 Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sat Nov 08 ELORA - FERGUS LOOP 13kmSee gvta.on.ca for more detailsGVTA hike leader Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sat Nov 08 AMAZING RACE PHOTO CHALLENGE 2.5 hrMeet at U of G Main Arboretum Parking lot at 1:30 PM. Each participant, or team, if numbers warrant, will be given a list of10 clues to objects to be found in the central area of the Arboretum. First to correctly find all 10 items will be the winner. If noone finds all 10 within 90 minutes then the closest to the total will win. Scoring in this case will include bonus points for themost artistic picture for each object. Those who do not find the designated objects, but can make a convincing case for theirfound object to be a good fit for the clue will be given credit towards their score.Short distance, 90 minutes for finding objects and 60 minutes for review of pictures and declaration of winner(s).Leader: Bob Fanning 519 822-5181 or bobfan@idirect.com Level 1,Pace at participants' discretion.

Sun Nov 09 GRAND VALLEY, TRAIL MAP 9 GLEN MORRIS 16kmSee gvta.on.ca for more detailsGVTA hike leader Level 2/3. Speed Moderate.

Thurs Nov. 13 GHTC Annual General MeetingZehrs Community Room, Imperial & Paisley, Guelph 7:00 to 9:00 pm

Sat Nov 15 KISSINGBRIDGE TRAIL 10/20 kmThis can be an easy ten, 2.5 hours, or moderate 20 km, 5.5 hours, stroll between Ariss and the Grand River. Ten gets you to theGrand River crossing Katherine Street. Twenty gets you back to Ariss, your pick! Meet 9:30a.m. on the trailway at the Arissparking lot Kiosk south of Wellington Road 51. We will walk into Waterloo to the Grand River, pause, eat and return to Ariss.Children, dogs and cats all under moderate control are welcome since Petie, an Australian Shepherd will be assisting me.Leader: Mike Curtis Erin 1-905-877-4134 Level 1/2. Speed Casual

Sun Nov 16 SPEED RIVER TRAIL - SECT 1 7.2km, ~2hrAnother easy Sunday morning walk. Meet in front of Guelph Humane Society at 10:00 AM for a loop hike on the popularSection 1 of our Speed River Trail.Leader: Jana and Stan Stanek 519-821-7996 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sun Nov 16 HOCKLEY VALLEY 14kmHike the Bruce Trail in beautiful Hockley Valley. Meet at the Guelph Covered Bridge for a 9am departure. Bring water,snacks and lunch. Suitable hiking footwear is necessary.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 3 Speed Moderate

Thu Nov 20 RIM PARK, WATERLOO 8kmSee gvta.on.ca for more detailsGVTA hike leader Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sat Nov 22 LIMEHOUSE LOOP 2 hrMeet 1pm at the Guelph covered bridge on Gordon Street for a loop hike, come see the Hole in the wall, and heritage lime kilnsrestored. Bring water and snacks.Leader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 3. Speed Moderate

Sun Nov 23 GHTC CHRISTMAS POTLUCK See newsletter article for details

Sun Nov 23 LAFARGE TRAIL 10kmHike from Concession 6 of West Flamboro to Gore Road. Crossing over the Westover drumlin field, and then through parts ofthe Beverly Swamp. Excellent gravel or stone-based trailway. Depart 9:30am from the Guelph covered bridge parking lot onGordon St. Dress warmly as it could be windy on the hilltops.Leader: Bill Mungall wmungall0809@rogers.com Level 2. Speed Moderate

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 10

Sun Nov 23 ST. IGNATIUS TRAILS 1.5 hrPrior to our Christmas Potluck walk the beautiful trails on the St. Ignatius property. Food can be left at the Hall.Meet 2 pm at the C.A.W. hall (an old school house) located at 611 Silvercreek Parkway North, just north of Woodlawn Rd. to carpool for a short hike at St. Ignatius and return to hall for Christmas get together. Leader: Contact Jane Shifflett 519 822-3229 or janeshifflett@hotmail.com Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sat Nov 29 RADIAL LINE TRAIL SECTION 6 2-4hrSection 6 is most interesting and attractive along the Radial Line Trail any season, especially with the Kong Hill lookout. Meet12:15p.m. at the Guelph Covered Bridge parking lot east of Gordon Street to carpool to Nassagaweya 6th Line for a 12:45pmhike starting east. Depending on the weather this could be an in and out of ~8km or car shuttle to just hike one way.Leader: Gayle 519 856-1012, Sue 519 836-6570 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Dec 06 O. R. SIDE TRAIL LOOP FROM GUELPH COVERED BRIDGE 10kmHike along the Eramosa river to Stone Rd then the O. R. Loop and hike on north side of the river back to the Covered Bridge.Meet at the Guelph Covered Bridge for a 10am departure. Bring water and snacks.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sat Dec 06 FULL MOON HIKE 2 hrGuided by the light of a full moon, we hike the Speed River Royal Recreational Trail between Speedvale Avenue and VictoriaRoad. Park in the lot past the fire station parking lot off Riverview Drive for a 7p.m. start. Bring water and lights.Leader: Susan Bard 519 836-6570; Peter Jaspers-Fayer 519-835-0829. Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sun Dec 07 SRT SECT 1 2-2.5hrMeet at 1:00 pm at the Guelph Humane Society for a 2hr. Loop hike along the Speed river and the John woods side trail. Dressfor the weather bring water and snacks. Dogs welcomeLeader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Dec 14 SCOTSDALE FARM 10kmWe will do a loop using the main trail and side trails of the Bruce Trail. Meet at the Guelph Covered Bridge for a 9:30amdeparture. Bring water, snacks and lunch. Suitable hiking footwear is necessary.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Dec 14 KID'S HIKE AT GUELPH LAKE CONSERVATION AREA 90 minIntroduce the young people in your life to the fun of hiking as we have a holiday hike in the woods and meadows near GuelphLake. Meet prior to the 1:00 pm hike start at the entrance kiosk to Guelph Lake Conservation Area, 7743 Conservation Road,Guelph. The rain date is Dec 21.Children must be accompanied by an adult on the Tortoise or Hare hikes. Dress for the weather with hat, mittens, and winterboots. No pets or strollers please. Hot chocolate provided after the hike. For details and to register, please call Kathy at 519 836-9147 or ksomersghtc@gmail.com.Leader: various GHTC certified leaders Tortoise and Hare speeds

Sat Dec 20 SPARKLES IN THE PARK 2hrTonight offers a great chance to catch Riverside Park aglow with the wonderful displays, hear Sparkles stories offered by guestleader, Paul Taylor along with a hike around the neighbouring Woodlawn Memorial Park. Meet 7p.m. at the Evergreen SeniorsCentre parking lot, 683 Woolwich Street. Bring water and lights.Leader: Susan Bard 519 836-6570; Peter Jaspers-Fayer 519-835-0829. Level 1. Speed Casual.

Sun Dec 21 ELORA CHRISTMAS HIKE 2hrAvoid the malls on the busiest shopping day of the year by joining us on the trails for a winter hike around Elora. Dress for theweather, including winter walking footwear-there is often more snow in Elora than there is in Guelph. Pub stop afterwards isoptional. Meet 1:30 pm at the parking lot off Carlton Place/Metcalfe street, across the road from the liquor store in Elora. Forcar pooling from Guelph meet in Canadian Tire parking lot on Woodlawn Rd. for a 1pm departure.Leader: Jane Shifflett 519 822 3229 or janeshifflett@hotmail.com Level 2. Speed Moderate

Fri Dec 26 BOXING DAY TRADITION – STARKEY HILL 4 km/ 1+ hrJoin in some post-Christmas exercise on the nineteenth annual Boxing Day Hike! This starts by 1:30 p.m. at the Trailhead,south side of Arkell Road approximately one kilometre east of Arkell VillageLeader: Jim Hoare James.W.Hoare@gmail.com or 519-835-5284 Level 2. Speed Casual.

Thu Jan 01 CLEAR THE COBWEBS HIKE – PRESERVATION PARK/HANLON CREEK CA 1.5-2hrA President's hike...where you start your resolution to get out more. Meet at the Preservation Park parking lot on the north sideof Kortright Ave, west of Edinburgh Rd. We will wander the maze of trails throughout the forest on the south side. It will beflat, but it can be icy depending on weather. Call me ahead of time for information on conditions or to arrange a ride. Leader: Dave Culham 519-716-8273 dculham@gmail.com Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Jan 04 YORK RD PONDS PHOTO HIKE ~2hrMeet at 1:30 p.m. at the Baseball Diamond parking lot off York Rd. across from the York Road Kitchen. This hike will featurethe new Ontario Reformatory side trail of the Radial Line Trail, Section 1 as well as some visiting of the O.R. ponds and area.Bring a camera that you are comfortable using, and we will look for some interesting winter photographs.Leader: Bob Fanning 519 822 5181 bobfan@idirect.com Level 1,Easy pace

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 11

Mon Jan 05 FULL MOON HIKE 2 hrBy the light of the full moon, we will hike along the Speed River on the Royal Recreational Trails from Goldie Mill Park toEdinburgh Road and return through Royal City Park. Park along Cardigan Street or in the Youth Music Centre parking lotopposite London Road for a 7 p.m. start at Goldie Mill Park. Bring water and lights.Leader: Susan Bard 519 836-6570; Peter Jaspers-Fayer 519-835-0829. Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sat Jan 10 ELORA CATARACT TRAILWAY 3 hrAt this time of year it will be a weather-dependent hike. We could cross country ski or hike or both on the trail between Erinand Cataract. Start time is 1p.m. Call Mike for details.Leader: Mike Curtis Erin 1-905-877-4134 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sun Jan 11 GUELPH LAKE GORBA TRAILS 2 hrMeet at 1:00pm at Guelph Lake trail head on Victoria Road. Enjoy the scenic trail along the lake. Bring water and snacksLeader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 2. Speed Moderate

Thurs Jan. 15 - Phil and Kathy Kidston in Africa Zehrs Community Room, Imperial & Paisley, Guelph 7:00 to 9:00 pm

Sat Jan 17 IGNATIUS JESUIT CENTRE 2hrIf there is snow we will X-C ski the west trails at Ignatius Jesuit Centre, Highway 6 north of Woodlawn in Guelph. Meet at 10a.m. in Ignatius Workshop parking lot. You will need $5 for "honour" box to ski. If poor or no snow we will cross Hwy. 6 andhike East trails at no cost. Contact leader if you need to verify ski vs. hike.Leader: Suzanne Gates 519-265-3962 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Jan 18 ROYAL RECREATION TRAIL 2 hrMeet 1:00pm at the Guelph covered bridge parking lot on Gordon Street for a loop hike around the Eramosa River fromGordon street to Victoria Road then back.Leader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 2 Speed Moderate

Sat Jan 24 SCHNEIDERS WOODS 2.5-3hrXC Ski (only)– The best local skiing in our area is on hilly private lands just west of Waterloo. Meet at Guelph covered bridgelot at 8:30am.Leader: Bill Mungall wmungall0809@rogers.com Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sun Jan 25 WATSON ROAD TO ARKELL SIDE TRAIL AND RETURN 1.5-2hrEnjoy a snowshoe hike (or regular hike, depending on amount of snow) through open fields and forested areas. Meet alongWatson Road by the gate (civic address#0688) and stiles by 1pm. Bring water and dress for the weather.Leader: Victoria 519 362-2783 victoriajoymacphail@hotmail.com Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Jan 31 ARKELL SIDE TRAIL & RLT SECTION 2 2-3hrHike along this popular side trail. We'll meet 1p.m. at the Starkey Hill parking lot, south side of Arkell Road, east of Arkell.Some steep hills so good footwear and poles helpful at this time of year. Bring water and snacks.Leader: Gayle 519 856-1012 Level 2 Speed Moderate

Wed Feb 04 FULL MOON HIKE 2 hrWith the light of the full moon, we explore trails along naturalized areas in woods along hills and valleys mixed with streetpassage in well-developed westside of town. Meet for a 7p.m. start at the Margaret Green Park main parking, off WestwoodRoad next to St. Peter school. Bring water and lights.Leader: Susan Bard 519 836-6570; Peter Jaspers-Fayer 519-835-0829. Level 2. Speed Moderate.

Sat Feb 07 SPEED RIVER TRAI, SEC 1 2hrHike or snowshoe section 1 of the Speed River Trail. Meet at the Guelph Humane Society for a 1pm departure. Bring water,snack and appropriate footwear.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 1 Speed Slow

Sun Feb 08 IRVINE GORGE 2.5hr(snowshoe or XC) – thaws have flummoxed holding this trip up Irvine Creek in Elora the past 2 years, but we will try again.(Alternative trip to be held on same date if it's again a no-go.) The most beautiful winter scenes in this area, featuring the EloraGorge, numerous icefalls, and the Triple Drop Cascades. Optional lunch stop after. Meet at Guelph covered bridge lot at9:30am or Victoria Park in Elora at 10:00am.Leader: Bill Mungall wmungall0809@rogers.com Level 3 due to tricky stairs and footing.

Sat Feb 14 ELORA CATARACT TRAILWAY 3 hrThis time we will travel the opposite direction to January's hike. Again at this time of year it will be a weather-dependent hike.We could cross country ski or hike or both on the trail between Erin and Cataract. Start time is 1p.m. Call Mike for details.Leader: Mike Curtis Erin 1-905-877-4134 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sun Feb 15 KID'S HIKE AT ERAMOSA RIVER TRAIL 90 minIntroduce the young people in your life to the fun of hiking as we celebrate family weekend by exploring the winter landscapealong the Eramosa River, from Gordon Street to Victoria Road. Meet prior to the 1:00 pm hike start at the Guelph covered

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 12

bridge parking lot on Gordon Street. The rain date is Feb 22.Children must be accompanied by an adult on the Tortoise or Hare hikes. Dress for the weather with hat, mittens, and winterboots. No pets or strollers please. Hot chocolate provided after the hike. For details and to register, please call Kathy at 519 836-9147 or ksomersghtc@gmail.com.Leader: various GHTC certified leaders Tortoise and Hare speeds

Thurs Feb. 19 - Susan Atkinson, England’s Coast to Coast, Part TwoZehrs Community Room, Imperial & Paisley, Guelph 7:00 to 9:00 pm

Sat Feb 21 CUTTEN CLUB X-C SKI TRAILS 2-3hrX-C ski adventure close at hand. Meet at 1 p.m. at Guelph Covered Bridge parking lot on Gordon St. with ski equipment for ashort walk to ski area. We will hike the Royal Recreation Trail from Gordon Street to Victoria Road and back if snow is poor.Leader: Suzanne Gates 519-265-3962 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Feb 28 ELORA TO FERGUS LOOP 8kmHike the Cataract Trail between Elora and Fergus. Meet at the Guelph Canadian Tire Store on Woodlawn Ave for a 1pmdeparture. Carpool to Fergus and hike the loop. Bring water, snack and wear appropriate footwear/ clothing for snow and ice.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sat Mar 07 MOUNT NEMO 8kmMeet 10am at the Guelph covered bridge parking lot on Gordon Street for car pooling to the trail head for a loop hike on theNiagara Escarpment. Bring snacks and water.Leader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 3. Speed Moderate

Sun Mar 08 GUELPH LAKE CONSERVATION TRAILS 2hrThe Trails at Guelph Lake are very beautiful in the winter.Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Guelph Golden Griddle Parking Lot offWoodlawn Rd. E. to carpool to the Guelph Conservation Park (Conservation Rd.) and we will hike for about 2 hours.Leader: Suzanne Gates 519-265-3962 Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Mar 14 BREAKFAST AT BONNIE LOU'S CAFE, FLORADALE 7kmMeet at Bonnie Lou's Cafe in Floradale for an 8:30am breakfast to enjoy homemade Mennonite food. We will then do the 7kmloop around the Woolwich Reservoir. Bring water and wear appropriate footwear.Leader: Terry Spittles 519-265-6203 Level 1. Speed Moderate

Sun Mar 15 ROYAL RECREATION TRAIL 2 hrMeet 1:00pm at the Guelph covered bridge parking lot on Gordon Street for a loop hike around the Eramosa River fromGordon street to Victoria Road then back.Leader: Norm 519-831-3657 cell Level 2. Speed Moderate

Sat Mar 21 CALEDON TRAILWAY 15-20 km, 5-6 hrWe will explore the Caledon Trailway, part of the National Trail, an abandoned rail-line between Caledon East and Terra Cotta.This will be an easy hike over 5 or 6 hours. Bring water and a lunch. We will meet near Georgetown around 9:30am. Call Mikefor details of the rendezvous place. Optional drop out after 8km at Ingelwood needs to be arranged in advance with leader.Leader: Mike Curtis 1-905-877-4134 Level 2. Speed Moderate

For more hikes go to other Clubs website: • Maitland Trail Association - maitlandtrail.ca/upcoming.htm • Halton Hills Bruce Trail Chapter - on a link at media6.magma.ca/www.torontobrucetrailclub.org/indexhttps.php • Halton Outdoor Club - outdoor.spectranet.ca/index.html • Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club - iroquoia.on.ca/hikes.html • Thames Valley Trail Association - tvta.ca • Dufferin Bruce Trail Club - dufferinbrucetrailclub.org

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 13

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting - November 21, 2013

President Bill Mungall convened the GHTC's 42 AGM with Christine Bando, secretary, taking the minutes. nd

Thirty-nine members were in attendance at Zehrs' Community Room on Imperial Road.

Dave Wallace moved to accept last year's AGM minutes, seconded by Dave Hull. Carried.

President's Comments: Bill Mungall reported: Welcome to the 42nd Annual Meeting of the Guelph Hiking Trail Club. It is a pleasure to welcome each of you to receive the reports ofthe members of your executive committee, and to elect the officers of the Club for the next year.

It has been quite a productive and satisfying year for the Club. As you might have heard, membership numbers are nicely up. We areleading hikes at the record rate of 160 per year, featuring lots of interesting, special interest and just plain unusual hikes that have nowbecome a hallmark of our Club (such as our popular kids hikes). We have more trained hike leaders than ever before. We have addedsome exciting mileage to our trail network. And we are looking ahead, lining up a number of interesting projects for next year and years tocome.

The 11 edition of the Trail Handbook came off the presses in June, thanks to a small sub-committee of the 3 trail coordinators, plus Daveth

and Margaret Hull. Not only was the cartography donated to us by the local MNR staff, but as a bonus we also will get to use MNR's stateof the art GPS unit to map our trail, merely in exchange for MNR entering the data of our trail locations onto a provincial trail data base.

Your executive completed a risk management plan, filed it with Hike Ontario, and promoted it to the trail captains, section leaders andhike leaders. It includes such simple procedures as an annual trail inspection documented on a form filled out by each trail captain. Theplan is one of a number of steps the club has taken that have made a big difference to our liability insurance bill, as it has dropped from$2200 to $780 –over 60%!

Another sub-committee completed a review of our bylaws, in order to plan these out in advance of the impending provincial legislationgoverning non-profit organizations. The recommended revised bylaws were sent to all members several weeks prior to this meeting andare now before you tonight for your consideration.

A dozen or so trail building volunteers from the Club completed 2.5 kilometers of new trail, "The O.R." Sidetrail. This trail opens upcompletely new ground on the east bank of the Eramosa River in Guelph next to the Guelph Correctional Centre and the Cargill plant. Forthis work, we caught a nice break from Infrastructure Ontario, who agreed to relax their usually stringent insurance requirements for us,thus removing the last obstacle to getting the job done.

As an organization and as individuals, we are all keenly aware that hiking builds and sustains health. That is why we featured achiropractor, Dr. Sarah Farwell, for our Annual Members Night. She demonstrated many valuable tips on preventing and recovering fromhiking and walking related injuries to a very engaged audience.

We have been consciously trying to build relationships and collaboration with key organizations in our communities. It has been our 4thyear working with the Guelph Arts Council in mounting Trails Open within the Doors Open Guelph event. It was our second year inhosting riverside hikes as part of the Two Rivers Festival in Guelph. And Jalna Colquohoun and Christine Wenzler concluded a series ofhikes in cooperation with The Homewood Health Centre for its outpatients. We are working with GORBA and the running clubs on atruly exciting initiative to design a network of new trails within the City's Arkell Spring Grounds property. We have been out talking withsome keen individuals on the Trails Committee of the Township of Guelph/Eramosa, and hope this bears fruit in a joint initiative infuture. And we have started to collaborate on some joint projects with our neighbouring trail clubs, Elora-Cataract and Grand Valley.Thanks to all members who have volunteered for these special events and activities.

This has been a most inspiring year of heightened member involvement with the Club. Our first potluck Christmas party was hosted by thesocial committee and was a smash hit with the membership, one we now believe will become an annual event. And an astonishing numberof non-executive members have stepped forward and delivered some truly significant achievements for the Club. At the certain risk of notnaming other key individuals, let me name just a few: Rita Ladjansky of Acton, who applied her many graphic design talents to producingthe new rack card and the Covered Bridge to Bridge badge (2 people traveled from Ottawa for the badge); Jim Hoare of Fergus, fordeploying his theater set-building skills to leading a team that completed a monumental new wooden bridge on the Radial Line Trail;Norm Saillian, for the inspired concept of a covered bridge to covered bridge hike, and the leading of 47 participants on it; VictoriaCulham, for her steadfast support of husband Dave as the unofficial "shadow" membership secretary; Bob Fanning, for his generouscoaching of budding photographers on his series of photography hikes…and I could and I should go on….

Finally, I am very happy to report that GHTC has been invited by Hike Ontario to host the 2014 Hike Ontario Summit next fall. I knowthat many individuals from the club will be keen to help out with the many large and small tasks that the conference involves, such ascoming up with an informative and fun program, including lining up a keynote speaker and series of presenters, and managing the venue,the registrations, exhibits, the dinner, and leading several hikes. Got a good idea for the conference? Pass it on to any executive member,or member of the organizing committee, soon to be formed.

I want to be able to commit quality time to the planning for the Hike Ontario Summit, and also to tackle some of the key landownerrelations opportunities and trail development issues, which include the possibility of linking Guelph to the Kissing Bridge Trail and to theTransCanada Trail. To focus better on these several challenges, I have decided to step aside as your President, and to welcome a newPresident …and I understand we have some excellent nominees whose names have been put forward for this and the other Officerpositions!

It is your continued memberships and volunteering of time that make the Club work so well. Thanks also to the executive, to the trailcaptains and their assistants, and above all, to our 47 landowners who make possible the trails system.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 14

Membership: Report on Membership and Merchandise Inventory by David Culham: As at August 31, 2013, the different categories of membership stood at:

Aug 2013 Aug 2012Total Individual memberships at year end… 123 (109)…renewed through August 31, 2014 53 (33)…expired August 31, 2013 70 (76) Total Family memberships at year end… 126 (127)…renewed through August 31, 2014 56 (41)…expired August 31, 2013 70 (86)Total Organization memberships at year end… 2 (1)…renewed through August 31, 2014 1 (0)…expiring August 31, 2013 1 (1)Total paid memberships 251 (237)Life memberships 4 (4)Grand Total Memberships 255 (241)Complimentary listings on mailing list 50 (48)

75% (72%) of membership at August 31, 2012 renewed their membership through August 31, 2013.Total membership numbers grew 6% (1%) between August 31, 2012 and August 31, 2013.

New memberships taken out in the year:From September 1, 2012 to August 31, 2013 74 (68)There was a 9% (-4%) increase in new memberships compared to previous membership year.

Inventory of membership supplies in care of David Culham:Guidebooks (New 11th Edition) 280 (0)Club badges 118 (132)End to End badges 16 (14)One Day badges 2 (2)Bridge to Bridge badges 62 (0) Paypal is most common method used by general public to purchase handbooks which has increased sales.Paypal has also increased accounting and reporting efforts, but has proven worthwhile for ease of renewals and added purchases.Feedback from public has been positive.We do not pay merchant fees only 2.7% straight fee.

Treasurer's Report: Henry Graupner presented the Guelph Hiking Trail Club Financial Statements for the fiscal year ended August 31,2013, previously signed by the Treasurer, Henry Graupner, and President, Bill Mungall.To start with, I would like to thank Nick Wenzler and his company EMBREE CO. LLP, for their analysis of our year-end financial

statements and preparing them in the format required by professional accounting standards.Please turn to the page headed "Statement of Operations and Net Assets". This year, the bottom line shows that expenses exceeded revenues and sales by $562. In my report to you, I will explain how this was

allowed and encouraged to come about.Revenues and sales are $600 higher than last year but expenses are $4,000 higher than in 2012. There is a good reason for this: we have

used more of our available funds for worthwhile projects. Despite the excess of expenditures over total revenues, our total assetsincreased by almost $2,000, and because we spent more, Revenue Canada owes us more reimbursable HST.

Our cash and investment assets remain at over $20,000 which has historically been seen as a sort of precipitous watershed. We haveguidebooks and badges worth $1,468, at cost, in our inventory.

To expand on these general comments, I would like to highlight some of the details as follows:Donations were down by $800 but this was partially offset by close to $500 in higher Membership Fees revenues. Newsletter Advertising revenues were up by $400. This is becoming a very valuable component of our revenues.Events expenses of $1,418 are $600 higher than last year. This item includes the B2B hike bus, $180, Zehr's room rental and snack costs

throughout the year of $350 and the SRT 40th Anniversary cost for the rental of the pavilion and the BBQ was around $285. Theremaining $600 is made up of many smaller items.

Office costs of $900 consist of many smaller items but include around $500 for stamps used by the Membership Secretary, the"executive" memory sticks at $86 and Adobe Acrobat software for $82.

The cost of mailing 253 copies of the updated bylaws to all current members totaled $565. Included in Publicity costs of $1,100 are the Club banner at $160, "Trails Open" participation at $150 and around $600 for the new rack

cards.The major expenditure in Trail Maintenance is the much heralded and publicized Bridge, for which the accumulated costs came to $2,932.

The remaining $1,500 in this item consists of a number of more routine items such as signs, equipment related costs, photocopying,title searching.

Bank and PayPal Charges represent the fees of $138 charged by PayPal for handling the approximately $5,000 worth of electronicpayments made by our members and others during the year, which works out at 2.76%. There are no bank charges.

Turning now to the "Statement of Financial Position, the $10,000 investment consists of a three year escalator term deposit issue by theMeridian Credit Union, with compounded interest rates of 1.6% in year 1, 1.7% in year 2 and 2.3% in year 3, maturing on August 6,2016. The capital is guaranteed by the Deposit Insurance Corporation of Ontario. The BMO was paying us only about 10 cents permonth interest on our funds.

A major component of our significantly higher inventories than at this time last year, is the recent edition of the guidebook. We were ableto get it without the need for cartography at a considerable saving. After we had sold all out previous stock of guidebooks (around$1,000), the new guidebook sold well ($1,200) including our bulk sales through the Bookshelf Bookshop, who took 40 of the books.

If there are any questions about any of the above comments or other matters contained in this financial report, please let me know.Henry announced this is the last time he will stand before the club as club treasurer since he has now completed his term and will be

retiring.

Phil Kidston moved that the financial statements for YE Aug 31 2013 be adopted as presented. Seconded by Susan Atkinson. Carried.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 15

Henry Graupner moved that the firm of Embree Co. LLP be appointed to carry out the review of the Club's financial statements for thecurrent fiscal year, subject to their convenience.Seconded by David Wallace. Carried.

Radial Line Trail: John Fisher, Coordinator:The Radial Line Trail (RLT) is in good shape and we have had some significant trail maintenance projects over the last year. We continueto encourage more feet on the trail as it makes maintenance much easier.

Trail Re Routing/Maintenance: I will only talk about those sections that have had significant activities on them but, as you appreciate, allsections require ongoing maintenance and review by section leaders to maintain their safety and passability. The wet spring and summermade maintenance more of a challenge this year as undergrowth kept growing outside of the normal growing season.

Section 1: We talked at the last 2 AGM's about prospects for a loop trail to run from Stone Rd to York Rd along the river past the Cargillplant and Reformatory lands. I am glad to say that Bill Mungall was able to bring negotiations with the relevant parties to a conclusion thisyear and we have formally taken on custody of "the Reformatory" trail. Thanks to the volunteers Bill Mungall organised to make the trailoperational. For work load purposes we have decided to include this section under the administration of the Speed River Coordinator.

Section 2: Last AGM I reported that the club was included in meetings with the city parks department to work with stake holders todevelop a plan for the Arkell Springs property since the dam reopening was no longer "on the table". The City of Guelph's WaterworksDepartment continues to keep us involved and updated on the plan but we are still some way from a conclusion.

Starkey Hill: Starkey Hill was the featured hike on "Doors Open/Trails Open" Guelph in April. We continue to work well with GRCA onday-to-day maintenance and special projects on Starkey Loop. Recently, our main contact, Martin Neumann, left GRCA to becomeManager of Forestry for the City of Guelph. We look forward to working with him in his new role but need to re-establish a strong liaisonwithin GRCA.

Last year I reported on the establishment of QR communication signposts on the trail to further enhance the hiking experience . We hadwanted to update the Starkey Hill interpretive brochure with the QR references. GRCA (through Martin Neumann), gave us permission totake a stab at the updating. We are currently trying to organize a group to work on this project. Starkey Hill is also the site of a newinitiative that Jim Hoare, the section leader, is heading up. Jim obtained 2 trail counters, on loan for a year, which he has installed atStarkey Hill and Smith Property. The counters record trail usage. Data collection began in May. We are still contemplating how thisinformation can best be used to advance marketing of trails and influencing city and regional trail policy.

Section 3: Last AGM I described the plan to replace the bridge in this section which spans a tributary to the Blue Springs creek. I statedthe work would be completed in 2 phases and that the first phase, building cedar cribs, was already completed. Phase 2 involved buildingthe bridge off site and then dismantling it and moving it to the permanent location where it would be reassembled and installed. As manyof you already know, we were lucky enough to be given a very large drive shed by theIshoy family on Fifth Line where we took delivery of lumber and built the bridge. In May, Leathertown Lumber of Acton moved thesub-assemblies to the Parker farm and the Parkers moved the parts to the creek site. We had a very enthusiastic and hardworking volunteerwork party made up of a Kitchener outdoor "meet up "group , Guelph Victors running group and ourown members and installed the bridge in a timely and efficient manner.

On June 2nd we had an "official opening" of "Cove Valley Bridge" attended by three generations of the Parker family and the bridgedesigner, Allan Ferguson. Special thanks to Phil Kidston and Jim Hoare whose skills, hard work and attention to detail ensured awonderfully satisfying community and club experience.

Section 6: Thanks to the Nellis family, who are already supportive landowners on this section, we were given permission to take a 300yard road section on Sixth Line, off road through cedar woods paralleling the road. Thanks to section leaders Bob Fanning and SandraMorrill for installing the new trail.

Landowners: We would like to acknowledge and thank the landowners for their permission and ongoing support of the trail. We arecurrently reviewing landowner contact procedures with a view to increasing consistency and contact frequency.

Trail maintenance captains: I would like to acknowledge the efforts of our trail maintenance leaders, who take the initiative to maintainand keep the trailway safe and deal directly with the landowners. Trail captains are very appreciative of the response received when theyhave advertised "maintenance help requests" on the web site. This has been very effective in getting work done on the trails.Thanks to,Section 1: Steve Mercer Section 2/Arkell Side trail: Dave Hull /Wayne HillmanSection 3/Starkey Hill: Jim Hoare Section 4: Gusti MatteisSection 5: Phil Kidston Section 6: Bob Fanning/Sandra MorrillSection 7: Joe Jany /Harold Koehler (new) Section 8: Mike CurtisBlue Springs and Sugar Shack trails: John Duthie Smith Property Trail: David Scott ThomasWarm welcome to Harold Koehler who joined us after his satisfying experience inbuilding the section 3 bridge.We appreciate any input on trail condition by hikers so that we can address concerns promptly.

Speed River Report: Bill Mungall, Coordinator:• Many thanks to our stalwart Trail Captains: Section 1 - Stan and Jana Stanek; Section 2 – Jane Haack and Lynn Glover; Section 3 – Paul

and Florence White, Terry Spittles, Dave Culham, Al Couture; O.R. Sidetrail – Norm Sailian, Mary Henderson• Trail Captains have only just recovered from record and repeated flooding and a wet and buggy summer on the trail. Many long hours of

weed whacking and tree clearing from windstorms.• First annual trail captains meeting held for the SRT• New steps down Road 32 embankment at S. 3 trailhead and a sidetrail plank over the big muddy creek…courtesy of trail captain Paul

White. • Plywood was laid down in 2 foot by 8 foot strips on springy spots in S. 3 in lieu of building boardwalks, as an experiment that seems to

be working.• Erected prominent red Trail Closed signs for seasonal closure due to hunting on S. 2

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 16

• All 8 sidetrails were assigned names, as given in new guidebook edition, and standard blue sidetrail signs were erected for each by thetrail captains

• The Staneks improved the plank that forms the crossing over the Imperial drain in S. 1 … i.e. it's now a "brank" or a "plidge"• Waterloo Wellington Canoe Club assisted in litter removal on S. 1 riverbanks for a 7th year.• 40 Anniversary end to end hike and BBQ on June 1 in Silvercreek Park. (Also celebrating International Trails Day.) All 15 SRTth

landowners were invited. Mayors from Guelph and Puslinch (Karen Farbridge, Dennis Lever), Wellington County Warden ChrisWhite, and MPP and Minister of Education, the Hon. Liz Sandals were in attendance and brought supportive greetings

• Provided strategic advice to City staff team planning the RRT extension between Edinburgh and Imperial Roads, which would alsoupgrade part of Section 1 to City trail standards

• Assumed maintenance responsibility for The OR Sidetrail to balance out workload between the 3 trail coordinators• Filed comments with Cambridge (environmental assessment) on the proposal for a roundabout at Blackbridge and Townline, and with

Guelph on proposal to replace Niska Road bridge with a 2 lane bridge • temporary reroute planned, around upcoming large biosolids tanks, through the Guelph Humane Society…thanks to the GHS and City

parks planning staff• Met with Samantha Lawson, GRCA, to lobby for the opening of their former Niska Waterfowl Park lands (opposite Section1) to trail

users

Kissing Bridge Trailway: Mike Curtis, Coordinator: The trailway continues to be very well used, especially between Marden Road and Ariss. The Township of Guelph/Eramosa has installedten benches alongside the trailway, which provides walkers with a place to pause on their walks. Minor maintenance has been done onsections of the trailway, thanks to our section leaders: Joy Killen, John Buttars, Jane Shifflet, Terry Spittles and Al Couture.

The County of Wellington has continued to cut the verges of the trailway in Wellington, which has made the trailway much easier to travelalong, and the Club has used a bush hog to cut back the vegetation in Waterloo. The stairs at Katherine Street are installed, but we awaitthe completion of the handrail and bike trough (donated) before the stairway can be opened. Unfortunately, the Ariss Takeout has closed. This small eatery was a pleasant stop for a light lunch along the trailway.

The counties of Perth and Huron are now in the final stages of signing a lease agreement with the province to start work on thecompletion of the trailway and hopefully, within the next five years there will be a G to G trailway 157 km linking Goderich with Guelph!

We continue to work with the City, the County and landowners to find a completion link so that the trailway can be connected to the cityand a major link to the Trans Canada Trail can be connected.

Our club participated in the planning and operation of a Trails Forum this past September held in Aboyne at the County Museum. Thisevent included seminars and presentations on trail development and planning for trail linkages in the province.

Hike Ontario: Mike Curtis reported: The Board of Directors for Hike Ontario met once again three times this year. Led by Tom Friesen, Hike Ontario co-ordinates theactivities of this volunteer organization dedicated to hikers and their concerns. The annual meeting (Summit) was held in London in November, attended by Bill Mungall and myself, on behalf of the Club. Next year'sSummit will be hosted by OUR club. We last hosted this meeting around 1983!! We will need many volunteers to assist with theorganization committee, most being small jobs as greeters and organizers for the hundred or so participants. The date of the Summit willbe in late October or early November at a site, yet to be determined, in the city. The event will include presentations and seminars forhikers, and in the evening, a dinner followed by a speaker.

We are looking for speakers for the summit: keynote, morning presenters, or after-dinner entertainment. Please share any ideas andsuggestions with any of our executive.

Publicity: Susan Atkinson reported:This year I have continued in my role as Publicity Officer by posting posters for special events, for example our Kids Hikes, (which havecontinued to be extremely popular), in various places around Guelph. This process was assisted by Dave Culham. I also put notices in thelocal newspapers to publicize all our regular hikes and any special activities, such as our Kids Hikes and anniversary celebrations. Specialevents are also sent as news releases to the local radio & TV stations. Also, I compile and send to Pat, our webmistress, the biweekly emails which everyone receives, giving updates and reminders ofupcoming hikes and club activities.With the help of Rita Ladjansky, we have designed new rack cards to hand out and promote the club.

Newsletter: Gordon King reported:Publication format was unchanged from previous years with issues, as usual, distributed in March, June and October. An increasingnumber of members are now opting to obtain their newsletters on-line providing a saving in printing and mailing costs. Those electing forInternet delivery can access a newsletter with colour photos. If a hard copy is desired, one can always download and print from the clubweb site.The most recent newsletter is always available through our club web site and issues from the past few years are posted and will remain onissuu.com.

Thanks to all contributors of text and photos. This is your newsletter so please continue to provide material for publication. If you have a service of interest to members and friends, contact Ben Polly or Gordon King about placing an advertisement in ournewsletter.

Hike Activities: Gayle Jeffery unable to attend. Her submitted report read by Christine Bando:Once again the 22 GHTC certified hike leaders scheduled an amazing variety of hikes. From October 2012 to November 2013, 153 hikeswere advertised, 2/3 on weekends and the rest through the week. Excessive rain resulted in several hike cancellations.

The first of seven photo hikes started in October 2012. The leader pointed out photogenic scenes and gave tips on composing interestingpictures. This was followed in July by a full day workshop for those wanting to learn more.

The four "Kids Hikes" were enjoyed by children, parents and leaders. Three "Theatre" hikes saw presentations at Guelph Little Theatre, followed by a short hike to a local restaurant for dinner and concluded

with a backstage tour.The cold winter days didn't stop hikers who participated in the evening "Full Moon" hikes.

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 17

The holiday season saw large numbers joining in our traditional Elora, Boxing Day at Starkey Hill and New Year's "Clear the Cobwebs"hikes.

Weather cooperated so there was enough snow for a few cross-country ski hikes that were held in February and March.Hikes were held on the Dufferin, Caledon, Scottsdale, Limehouse, Hockley Valley, Forks of the Credit, Crawford Lake and Rattlesnake

Point numerous sections along the Bruce Trail.The Kissingbridge, Elora Cataract and Cambridge to Paris rail trails were also visited.The GHTC Speed River, Radial Line Trail and new O.R. trail were also destinations. Starkey Hill was the venue for several hikes for

GHTC's "Trails Open" to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of this trail.A series of five Monday evening hikes were offered to explore the many trails at Ignatius Jesuit Centre.Interesting trails were visited in Stratford, Perth, Cambridge, Woodstock, Preston, Listowel, New Hamburg, Mitchell, Waterloo and

St.Marys.Special interest hikes wandered through historic Fergus, viewed a dozen locations in Elora painted by A.J. Casson, passed kettle lakes,

weaved through coral reefs and gazed upon the birds of prey at Mountsberg Conservation.The first "Bridge to Bridge" hike was a great success. 47 hikers were bussed to the West Montrose covered bridge and walked back to the

Guelph covered bridge. They received refreshments at 2 checkpoints along the way and were rewarded with a uniqueBridge-to-Bridge badge upon completion. Hikers included two who came all the way from Ottawa, just to get the badge!

And the winner of the most unusual hike …. the Acton Go bus hike! The 7:10am Go bus took hikers to Acton where they walked theRadial Line trail back to downtown Guelph -a distance of 28km.

Three members passed the Hike Ontario Certification course to qualify as hike leaders, and one has been leading hikes for GHTC over thepast year around Elmira and Elora.

Thanks again to all the GHTC leaders and all the members that joined our hikes for a great year of hiking.

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES: Jane Shifflett unable to attend. Her submitted report read by Gitta Housser:On Sunday December 2, 2012 at the CAW Hall on Silvercreek Parkway we held our first Potluck Christmas party. Everyone had an

opportunity to do a long or short hike and then over 40 people enjoyed a delicious meal. People enjoyed talking with new and oldfriends. It was recommended to make this an annual event.

January 12, 2013 skating party was cancelled because of weather. On January 26 the weather turned our ski party into a moonlight hike and approximately 20 people attended. There was no need for

flashlights on this clear night. After the hike we roasted hotdogs and marshmallows around the campfire and enjoyed hot chocolate.The social committee planned the food and did the setup for the 40th anniversary celebration of the Speed River Trail held June 1. We

also provided the refreshments at 2 stations along the Bridge to Bridge Hike held on June 8.Cookies and drinks were provided for all Kids Hikes.

NEW BUSINESS/COMMENTS: GHTC President, Bill Mungall presented the following:Honoured the longtime contributions in various capacities, of Henry Graupner, who has been involved with the club since 1972-73.Henry was the Club's longest serving membership secretary, a founding member of the Federation of Ontario Hiking Trail Associationsin the early ‘70's that was the forerunner of Hike Ontario, a member of the founding of the Ontario Trails Council in 1975, a ClubPresident, trail captain, HO rep, an excellent Treasurer and many other roles . In formal recognition of his many years of service within the GHTC, an honourary Lifetime Membership was awarded to Henry and hewas presented with an engraved beer mug.

Bill paid tribute to efforts of a subcommittee comprising Mike Curtis, Kathy Somers, Dave Hull, Henry Graupner and Ann Waller forreviewing bylaws in order to conform with impending changes to the Province's legislation governing non-profits. Bylaws were lastamended in 2006. Key changes for GHTC are: vote by proxy, review of financial statements formalization, the concept of a reviewengagement, clarifying there is no class distinction for voting, and duties of elected officers clearly defined.

General discussion and questions about bylaws opened to members with the following conclusions:1. Provision for club terminating membership of individual or exec member for misbehavior or conduct unbecoming etc., when reviewedwith ONCA recommendations, was found to be too complicated and detailed. Decided to leave out of bylaws and handle each situationindividually.

2. Club does not have provision for removing president in case of conduct unbecoming position.Noted that suggestion should be reviewed in future.

Bill presented an amendment to include a clarification in the revised Bylaws, sec. 1 Governance: that each Director and each Officer whois not a Director present shall have one vote on the executive committee.Gordon King moved to accept amendment. Phil Kidston seconded. Carried.

Henry Graupner moved to accept the GHTC Bylaws 2013 as amended. Gordon King seconded. Carried.

Elections: David Wallace presented the following slate of officers for 2013/14:Past President: Bill Mungall (ex-officio)President: David Culham Vice President: Michelle WanTreasurer: Anne Waller Secretary: Christine Bando

There were no nominations from the floor. Mike Curtis moved that nominations be closed. Seconded by Sue Atkinson. Carried. Positions were elected by acclamation.

Bill Mungall formally welcomed the incoming executive.

Mike Curtis thanked outgoing executive board members for their years of service: Susan Atkinson, Henry Graupner and Bill Mungall.

Dave Wallace adjourned the 42 AGM.nd

GHTC Newsletter - October, 2014 - Page 18