Dick Works hit the mark dead-center when he praised the legion of volunteers responsible for creating the Southwind Rail-Trail, between Iola and Humboldt, and Neosho River Park at the west edge of Humboldt. THE OUTCOME of these projects should be a catalyst for others to make themselves available whenever a community project arises.
Works, Allen County Commission chairman, attended dedications of both. He noted how impressed he was with what can occur when a group of people establish a goal and go about reaching it.
Last week County Counselor Alan Weber mentioned how hundreds of hours were involved in clearing undergrowth from the eight miles or so of old Santa Fe right of way from just south of Iola to the north edge of Humboldt.
A tour of the route a few months ago found it nearly impassable. Today, a smooth surface of compacted fine limestone screenings make an ideal path for bikers and those who do distance walking.
In the weeks and months ahead the trail promises to be a popular exercise route, even a way to work for Iolans who like to bike and work at B&W Trailer Hitches, just a stone’s throw from the south end of the trail, and Humboldt employees of Gates Corporation.
Thrive Allen County, the epicenter these days for volunteers, had a role in the trail’s development, organizing and directing volunteers. Don’t be surprised if some enhancements of the trail, as well as the Prairie Spirit that meanders 51 miles north to Ottawa, occur.
Humboldt’s river park is another example of what volunteers can do.
The park occupies several acres on the west side of the Neosho River, where early settlers of the area often met up, and where fisherman and picnickers congregated since.
Vada Aikins, who embraces any opportunity to make her town better, talked about how young men cleared a place to make fishing easier, even installed a light to pierce the pitch darkness of night.
A few years ago talk about making the area into a full-fledged park surfaced, and a number of local folks picked up the baton.
A story elsewhere in today’s Register tells about the park’s dedication, which came about because volunteers were bound and determined to make it an adjunct that will benefit residents and encourage others to make it a destination.
Volunteering is good for the community, as well as for those who do.
And as we continue to recruit business, industry and people to our area, the results of volunteerism are high on the list of advantages we can crow about.
— Bob Johnson
Volunteers make all the difference
