Author: Tom Ales

Greenways Ink

Fostering the Development and Preservation of Trails and Greenways in the Greater Fox Cities Region

Board of Directors
Chery Zadrazil
President
Andrew Dane
VP Action
Tim Jones
VP Programs
John Cuff
Treasurer
Loren Dieck
Julie Gregory
Michael Kading
Melissa Kraemer-Badtke
Bill Moore
Paul Stinson
Linda Stoll
Advisors
Pete Coons
Marilyn Gardner
Rob Gusky
Jan Heifner
Katie Heling
Debbie Jansen
Gordy & Linda McDaniel
Vickie Milde
Dave Muench
Connie Roop
Tom Walsh

www.foxcitiesgreenways.org Spring 2016

New Event— Top Fox Run or Bike Ride
September 25, 2016

Become a Top Fox
Become a Top Fox by participating in the 5k run/walk or the 8 mile bike ride. The Top Fox 5k run/walk has both competitive and family-friendly divisions. Top Fox features a diverse course along the Fox River on a glorious wooded trail, through Peabody Park and quiet residential streets.
You can also choose to do the Top Fox 8 Mile Bike Ride starting at the Refuge -1000 N. Ballard Road (formerly Monte Alverno ) onto Little Chute River Trail, to the Little Windmill and ending at the Bakers outlet for some really good "dutch treats."
About this Fundraiser
ALL proceeds benefit Fox Cities Greenways. For those of you familiar with the Happy Trails event, we’ve built on its to create an even better event—Top Fox. Greenways members will receive discounted entry fees. Look for more details on our website or dotrirun.com.

Article	Pg
Top Fox	1
President’s Letter	2
Mike Kading Tribute	3
Annual Meeting	4
Bike Challenge/Bike Week	5
Fox WI Heritage Parkway	6
Photo Contest	7

The Refuge

Scenery along the new Top Fox Run

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Hello from your Fox Cities Greenways, Inc. President!
Trails and Greenways provide a connection to nature people need, whether by hiking, biking, paddling or for the shear enjoyment benefit. My background in mental health supports the belief nature keeps us grounded, provides nourishment for our souls, and an opportunity to fully experience life’s beauty. I am honored to serve as president of Fox Cities Greenways.
Excitement is in the air! We have completed the mapping of 50+ miles of the expanded Fox Cities Paper Trail. With future developments, it may link as many as 28 different parks in the Fox Cities Region.
Planning for the June 3th, 2017 Paper Trail Grand Opening Celebration is underway. This will be a community wide celebration involving many organizations, Park and Recreation Departments and businesses. Save the date!
We recently approved funding to replace faded signs along the Fox River for Fox Wisconsin Heritage Parkway. The work for replacing the signage will be completed for this year’s paddling season. Enjoy the water trails!
Fox Cities Greenways Inc. is partnering with Fox Cities Cycling Association and Brewster Village to bring “Cycling Without Age” to the Fox Cities. This project supports our initiative to have trails accessible to all users regardless of age and ability. Learn more at: cyclingwithoutage.org. This program was successfully launched in 2015 by Lutheran Homes of Oshkosh. Our motto: The right to wind in your hair!
If this isn’t enough, Fox Cities Greenways and an anonymous do nor are challenging you to donate towards the Loop the Little Lake: Trestle Project. Fox Cities Greenways and the anonymous donor have dedicated $10,000 each and now are challenging you to donate in the name of Fox Cities Greenways. Your donation will be matched dollar for dollar up to $20,000. That is $40,000 of donations in the name of Fox Cities Greenways!
Finally, “A Tip of The Hat” to Mike Kading, Past President of Fox Cities Greenways, who has done extraordinary work on behalf of Fox Cities Greenways for over six years. His dedication, leadership, vision and endless support propelled our nonprofit Greenways group forward by leaps and bounds.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Zadrazil
President
Fox Cities Greenways, Inc.

Photo by Stephanie Vos

THANK YOU MIKE KADING!
Mike Kading, member of Fox Cities Greenways Board of Directors 2008-2016, Action Vice President 2011-2012, President 2012-2016.
Please join us in giving Mike Kading a huge thank you for his years of outstanding service and commitment to Fox Cities Greenways. As Director of Parks and Recreation in the Town of Menasha, Mike had been instrumental in the success of the Friendship Trail and the Trestle Trail projects, as well as promoting facilities and programs to enhance quality of life throughout the Fox Valley. He embodied the advice he often offered to others: to “show up, stand up, and speak up” for the health of our communities.
Fox Cities Greenways was fortunate to have him join the Board of Directors in 2008. He capably served as Action Vice President, and stepped into the position of President when a new leader was needed a bit sooner than expected. Mike fulfilled the role of President with thoughtful efficiency, confidence, and good humor, inspiring many others to give their best, as he did. He exhibited compassion and understanding when difficult situations arose, and strove to include area youth in projects and programs. He worked tirelessly to expand the influence of Fox Cities Greenways with many hours working and advocating for bicycle lanes, reaching out to communities and businesses for completion of the Trestle Trail, CB Trail extension, signage of Water Trail Portages, bringing together a group to finalize the signage of the Paper Trail, supporting Happy Trails and Trails for Tomorrow events, and much more. In time of transition, Mike extended his commitment as President, allowing FCGI to retain its strong and stable foundation.
Thank you, Mike, for your dedicated service, significant accomplishments, and inspiration. Your continued advisement and friendship will be welcomed. We wish you well in your new endeavors.

Mike’s press photo

Mike’s casual photo

What’s New with Loop the Little Lake:Trestle Project ?
The local effort to connect a 5K trail loop around the southern half of Little Lake Butte des Morts has garnered phenomenal support and has raised more than $2.8 million of the $3.2 million needed so far. Loop the Little Lake encompasses the existing popular Fox Cities Trestle Trail and constructs two new trestles across the Fox River to complete the loop.
Initial planning and design work is underway and Future Neenah is working to fundraise the remaining amount needed to begin construction. Construction is slated to begin in 2017.
Greenways is offering a matching grant! Be part of making this trail loop happen! Greenways’ members donations to Loop the Little Lake are being matched dollar for dollar (up to $20,000). Use the donation form with this newsletter or donate on our website and indicate Loop the Lake to have your donation doubled.

Blue = existing trail
Red = new trail section

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2016 Fox Cities Greenways Annual Meeting: Passing the Torch-
Celebrating a Vision
In 1996, Jim Duncan, Sue Kinde and Val Wylie came together with a dream, that dream is now a reality, Fox Cities Greenways, Inc. These individuals formed a small and passionate group with a mission, “Fostering the development and preservation of trails and greenways in the Greater Fox Cities Region.” Today the Fox Cities enjoys many miles of trails that owe their existence to the founders of Fox Cities Greenways who have kept the work alive through passing the torch to others who have continued the dream, and built upon each successful venture.
On Thursday, January 28th, 2016 the torch of leadership was once again passed on. Mike Kading passed the torch of leadership to Cheryl Zadrazil. Cheryl comes to Fox Cities Greenways with a passion for trails and people. Prior to accepting an invitation to join the Fox Cities Greenways board, Cheryl spent many hours advocating and learning about bicycle pedestrian issues in the Fox Cities. Upon accepting a position as board member, Cheryl rolled up her sleeves, dedicated herself to learn, and act to further the dream of a Fox Cities where bicycle/pedestrian transportation choices are easily accessible for all.
The evening of celebration included the announcement of the first ever photo contest winner, community awards, and an informative entertaining presentation “Fox-Wisconsin Heritage Water Trail- Past, Present and Future” by Tom Young, the Water Trail Coordinator of Fox-Wisconsin Heritage Parkway.
The Fox Cities Greenways Photo Contest Winner – Best of Show: Trestle Trail Bridge by Peter Hensen
Fox Cities Greenways Awards

Annual meeting photo

Partnership Awards / Scheels Kimberly-Clark / VF Outdoor Clearwater Paper	Community Leadership Awards / Town of Grand Chute / Town of Greenville
Outstanding Service Award / Dave Muench	Rising Star / NEWT (North East Wisconsin Trails)- Joshua Ball, President
Outstanding Volunteer Award / Kyle Balda	Youth Volunteer Award / Zeke & Zeb Punzel

...

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NATIONAL BIKE CHALLENGE
Before you know it the 2016 National Bike Challenge will be upon us!
The challenge is a fun, friendly way to compete against others at national, regional and local levels by tracking your cycling activity. This event is for people of all ages and ability levels, not just spandex clad cyclists! The challenge promotes better health and creates a cleaner environment by encouraging everyone to get out and ride their bike.
How it works: The challenge runs from May 1—Sept. 30.
You earn 20 points for every day you get out and ride and additional points per mile on top of that. Logging your miles can be done manually on the website (www.nationalbikechallenge.org) or by connecting to one of several mobile apps (Strava, MapMyRide, Endomondo).
Roots in the Fox Valley: The challenge started as a workplace wellness initiative among Kimberly Clark Corporation employees in 2009. It has since grown to over 92K participants in 2015 who logged a total of 37.6M miles! Locally we have a lot to be proud of as we had several 2015 winners in different categories including Freedom(Class 1), Combined Locks (Class 2), Neenah (Class 3), Madison (Class 5), Wisconsin (State), and James Madison Middle School.
Ride with us! The FCCA will be hosting a 10 mile challenge kick off ride from the Fox River House in Appleton (meet at 11:15 and depart at Midnight on April 30th) We hope to see you out there!

May 14-May 21

You have lots of exciting opportunities to participate in Fox Cities Cycling Association Bike Week Fox Valley.
How about joining a group for some of the daily activities such as Bike for Beer! Several establishments are running daily specials for patrons that ride in.
Get your Bike Bingo cards before the week starts for chances to win great prizes for using your bike to get around.
Like BikeWeekFV on Facebook for the latest information.

Saturday, May 14 / Bike week warm-up—Alley Cat Bike Races	Wednesday, May 18 / Ride of Silence—to honor those injured or killed and raise awareness that we all share the road.
Sunday, May 15 / Bike to Worship / Bike to the Movies— 2:00 at Lawrence University	Thursday, May 19 / Bike Safety Day / Off Road Day— FV Mountain Bikers will lead rides
Monday, May 16 / National Bike Challenge Day	Friday, May 20 / National Bike to Work Day / Moonlight Ride
Tuesday, May 17 / History Day— organized rides in Neenah and Appleton to see local landmarks	Saturday, May 20 / Family Ride Day

FCG Board Secretary Katie Heiling brings her students from Project Green at Kimberly High School to assist participants at the Little Chute windmill.

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Fox Wisconsin Heritage Parkway News
North Eastern Wisconsin Paddlers (NEWP) is a natural affiliate for the Fox Wisconsin Heritage Parkway (FWHP). Among the goals of the Parkway are increased recreational use of the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers and increased knowledge of our history via our historic sites. Kayaking is a growing water sport and a great way to get outdoors and enjoy our rivers, either alone or with a group. NEWP hosts paddle trips and day outings on our area rivers. For newbie’s, in the spring of each year, NEWP offers Kayaking classes at the Appleton YMCA. The classes teach kayaking skills for those ready to get out and enjoy this water adventure.
Each year in concert with the FWHP the paddlers host a series of kayaking trips on the upper and lower Fox River. The 2016 Heritage Paddle is open to the public for a small fee ($10.00). However you may elect to join the club and participate in this series and on the other paddles and activities the club features throughout the boating season.
For more information: wisconsinpaddlers.org or heritageparkway.org
2016 Heritage Paddle Series
May 7 - Wolf River Paddle. New London to Shaw’s Landing.
May 21-22 - (Overnighter) Upper Fox Paddle. Princeton to Berlin and Berlin to Omro.
June 25-26 - Peshtigo Flowage. Caldron Falls and Big Falls
July 23-15th annual Park-to- Park Paddle. Shattuck Park, Neenah to Lutz Park, Appleton
August 6 - Tall Ships Paddle: Bomier Landing, DePere to Metro Landing, Green Bay
Sept. 24 - 6th annual Appleton Locks Paddle: Lutz Park Appleton, to Sunset Park, Kimberly. This morning paddle allows time to enjoy Appleton’s Octoberfest in the afternoon.
2014 Lock to Lock Paddle. Locks opening

Calling all parks and trails supporters in Appleton!
Now is your opportunity to share your thoughts and ideas for enhancing the City's Trail System and providing input on parks and recreation opportunities.
City residents, property owners, and visitors are invited to help the City and its consultant identify issues and opportunities as they update the City's 2010- 2030 Comprehensive Plan. In addition, the City is developing a Trails Master Plan with a focus on connecting existing trails and developing a long range vision for off street trail system development.
You are invited to leave a specific comment by visiting http://www.envisionappleton.org/ and clicking on the Get Involved tab. Using a map based on-line tool participants can share their hopes and concerns for the future of the City by clicking on a google map and leaving a comment.

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“Together for Trails” 2016 Photo Contest
Put your photography skills to work by demonstrating the many ways we use the trails, greenways and waterways in the Fox Cities Region.
Here’s how it works:
photo contest begins August 1st and ends no later than 5pm on October 30, 2016.
Choose one of the 3 contest categories and complete the entry form found on our website: foxcitiesgreenways.org.
Each photo must All residents and visitors 13 years and older are eligible to participate.
The be submitted with a separate entry form to photosforgreenways@gmail.com.
5. Prizes include $50 cash, $25 and $10gift certificates, and membership to FCGI.
6. A complete list of rules and prize information can be found on our website foxcitiesgreeenways.org.

Need photo credits

Tell Us A Story!
We’d like to hear from our members! We know you have great stories to share about your experiences on trails, greenways and parks. Tell us about them! We’re looking for stories on:
1. National Parks—Have you visited a National Park? This year marks the 100th anniversary of National Park Service and we’d like to help celebrate. Send us a paragraph or two and photos highlighting your National Park experience. Let’s discover our parks together!
2. Why you support Greenways— Write a testimonial we can share in our newsletter or website.
Email us your stories/photos at fcgreenways@gmail.com.
Want to take your writing a step further? Please consider serving on the newsletter committee to share your ideas on content, design and articles. Contact us at fcgreenways@gmail.com

2285 Butte des Morts Beach Rd
Neenah, WI 54956
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Scan this QR code with your smartphone to access FCGI’s website!

~ Fostering the Development and Preservation of Trails and Greenways in the Greater Fox Cities Region ~

Join Fox Cities Greenways Today!
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Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Annual Membership:
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Mail this form to Fox Cities Greenways, P.O. Box 5, Menasha, WI 54952-0005
You may also join or donate online with Pay Pal at www.foxcitiesgreenways.org.
Fox Cities Greenways, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Your gift is tax deductible to the extent
provided by law. Email us with any questions at fcgreenways@gmail.com
Thank you for your support!

Spring 2016

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