WALK CAPE BRETON

CB Island Hoppers First Event For 2012

2012-02-06T22:36:00.002-04:00

Come out and shake off the winter "Blahs"!
2012 FIRST EVENT
The CBIH first event for 2012 will take place:
Sunday, 12 February
Registration begins at 1:30pm
Start Time: 2:00pm
Location:
Albert Bridge, 439 Brickyard Rd., B1K 2R9, Mira Provincial Park.
Depending on weather conditions this will be a:
XC skiing/Snowshoeing/ Walk Event
(if the weather remains the same the park should have ideal conditions for snow shoes and or XC skiing!!)
Your choice of 5k or 10k
Contact Info: Elsie Buck 562-3117

ANNUAL SCHEDULES
Paper copies of the clubs annual schedule plus the Atlantic "Blue Book" are available at all events
In edition All walk events are now published on the club website: http://www.capebretonislandhoppers.com/
Our events and other Canadian Volkssport club events are published online at http://www.walks.ca/

ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION
Some other exciting news happening in the CB Regional Municipality-
Grand Lake Road Multi Use Trail, a signature project of the CBRM Active Transportation program" linking the Communities of Sydney and Glace Bay to the Cape Breton University will be unveiled at:
An Open House explaining the project on Wednesday 08 February from 4-8pm with a presentation at 6:30pm.
Location: Cape Breton University - Credit Union Boardroom next to the Art Gallery and the Great Hall

HOLIDAY GREETINGS

2011-12-16T20:55:00.001-04:00

The Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos)

On behalf of the Executive Members of the Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a "Very Merry Christmas" and a "Happy New Year"!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO OUR MEMBERS AND ALL FRIENDS OF THE CB ISLAND HOPPERS!

Elsie Buck, President, CBIH

Walking for Fun, Fitness and Friendship!

Nativity scene in Spain

LAST GROUP WALK FOR 2011

2011-11-20T22:03:00.001-04:00

The CBIH annual walk schedule for 2011 has come to an end as of Sunday, 20 November.

Photos of today's events that began at the Cambridge Suites in downtown Sydney and through Wentworth Park and into a portion of Rotary Park along Wentworth Stream.

Two angels!!!

3 new walkers join the CBIH for the days walk event.

We stop at the Tennis Court before heading on to the trail.

Along the trail in Rotary Park

Nip Hillier and Joe MacKinnon

Wentworth Park

On the return trip through Wentworth Park we meet up with our good friend(s) Phil Irons (forefront with Joe MacKinnon). In the background is (L) Anne Irons with Nip Hillier.

COXHEATH HILLS TRAILS 6 NOVEMBER 2011

2011-11-06T21:44:00.001-04:00

A great day for a walk on the Coxheath wilderness trails:

A very sunny day with a light breeze at our backs.

Above: Joe MacKinnon President CBIH welcoming walkers to the 10k event.

Above: (L) Bruce Clark walk leader for this event introduces Andy Pitman chairmen of the Coxheath Trails Association. Andy welcomes the group and gave a short comment on the trail and other activities taking place now and in the future.

Up the hill we go! Carmel Coffin and Phyllis MacLeod enjoying the surrounding view.

Our newest member just below the Pitman Cabin enjoying the stroll along the newest loop trail.

The new picnic kiosk along the North loop.A very scenic area with a small stream nearby. On the far right between Bruce Clark and Elsie Buck is our latest visitor,Holger Kirkman who comes from Germany. This was Holger's first walk with the CBIH and unfortunately he will be returning to Germany on Monday. Holger will be back in Cape Breton next June and promises to join us again.

Above: (L) Cal Thistle (R) Barb Thistle

Barb Thistle standing on the bridge and next to the badge of the 45 Field Engineers who constructed the bridge. The 45 Field Engineers are located in Victoria Park, Sydney.

Our sincere thank you to the troops who spent their time here to ensure we all have a safe bridge to cross.

Bruce shares his Hallow' en treats with the gang!

The view of Sydney River area as we head down the hill and say "farewell to the Coxheath Hills" for another year.

--- ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - - - ANNUAL PARTY - - - LAST WALK EVENTS FOR THE SEASON

2011-10-27T21:15:00.001-03:00

IMPORTANT NOTICES "Please mark on your calendar"

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The CB Island Hoppers Annual General Meeting will now take place on:
Saturday, 26 November
From 3:00 - 5:00 PM
McConnell Memorial Library
50 Falmouth Street, Sydney

The 2012 Schedule of Events will be available at the AGM and will be posted on the website thereafter.

Joe MacKinnon who is the fourth President of CBIH has indicated that he would now like to step aside after 4 very distinguished years as our club president.

Under Joe's stewardship we have had the Nova Scotia Marathon event arrive in CB for the first time (the CBIH is now on the annual list for this event) and we have hosted the Canadian Volkssport Federations National Convention and Annual General Meeting here as well, no mean feats as anyone who has worked at the national level can attest to.

Nominations for this position and other executives position can be sent to the past-president Rollie Coombes by email/phone or given to me at the next walk event.

We will also need nominations for Vice President, secretary as these positions have been occupied with distinguish by the same persons for more then 4 years or more.

Our Treasurer Lucy Nardini has re-offered for this position and it is recommended that Lucy continue to do the job in the excellent manner that we have become accustomed too. Thank You Lucy, this is most appreciated.

It is now time for others to come forward and keep this club going beyond our 15th year and to ensure that Cape Breton has this very unique walking club that is not found anywhere else, lets keep this club going for many more years to come.

Other ways in which you can help out is by volunteering for: "Walk coordinator/scheduling" or "ways and means" committees, membership and various other very important position that keep the club working as smoothly as possible. If you have the desire, just want to learn how the club works or the expertise in a specific field then please come forward and help your walking club.

ANNUAL END OF SEASON PARTY

The CBIH Annual Seasonal Pot-Luck Dinner will be hosted by:

Ann & Rollie Coombes

364 York Street, Glace Bay

Saturday, 3 December 2011 @ 6:30pm

Please bring your favorite style of cuisine or dessert to share with fellow walkers

Your favorite wine & soft drinks are optional to bring as well

Directions to 364 York Street, Glace Bay from Sydney:

For those with GPS the postal code is B1A 2N1

Follow the four-lane # 4 Hwy going East (Sydney/Glace Bay Hwy) continue through the community of Reserve Mines

where the #4 Hwy narrows to 2 lanes and continues as Reserve Street through the town of Glace Bay.

At the end of Reserve Street (Union St. Deli and a hairdresser are located at this T- Junction) turn right at Union Street, then left on Byng Street. 364 is located at the intersection of Byng and York.

Also note York and Union run parallel to each other, so any side street will take you to York.

Parking is limited in the driveway on Byng Street, you may park along York Street at the front of the house and use the front entrance.

We still have two great walk events remaining for the 2011 season, come join your friends at:

Coxheath Hills, Sunday, 6 November and Sydney Year Round Alternate Route on Sunday 20 November, see details on your schedule or on the website under Events.

Roland (Rollie) Coombes, past president, website&email coordinator

FOR JOE MACKINNON, PRESIDENT

Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club

Walking for Fun,Fitness & Friendship
www.capebretonislandhoppers.com

www.walks.ca

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

2011-10-22T15:32:00.000-03:00

SPECIAL NOTICE:
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The CB Island Hoppers Annual General Meeting will now take place on:
Saturday, 26 November
From 3:00 - 5:00 pm
McConnell Memorial Library
50 Falmouth Street, Sydney

Volkssporters On A Whale Of A Tour!

2011-10-19T19:36:00.001-03:00

Sunday, 9 October the Volkssport Groups from Atlantic Canada take to the High Seas for a whale watching tour.

The large group required two boats for this exciting leisurely afternoon

Above: Gordon Aucoin Tour guide gives a briefing about whales and safety on board; Gordon also proved to be a great singer as well.

Whales at 3 o'clock!!

CHETICAMP - CAPE BRETON'S HIGHLANDS NATIONAL PARK, OCTOBER VOLKSSPORT EVENTS

2011-10-12T22:12:00.007-03:00

SEE PHOTO GALLERY
http://cbislandtrailphotos.blogspot.com/

Volkssporters from many parts of Atlantic Canada, USA and Germany attended the CBIH and DVC combined walking events in the CB Highlands National Park from 7 -10 October during the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend.

Heading north into the highlands of Cape Breton

Friday morning, 7 October, the storm from the night before continues to bring high waves onto the shoreline in the park.

Fantastic Scenes along the Cabot Trail in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

SEE A LOT MORE IN PHOTO GALLERY
http://cbislandtrailphotos.blogspot.com/

Fishing Cove Trail & National Park Safety Seminar

2011-09-23T21:17:00.001-03:00

The trail head sign at Fishing Cove & Looking down into the cove

All Members Atlantic Volkssports,

The CBIH and DVC continue to ensure that you will have a safe and wonderful experience of memories long after this 2011 trip to Cape Breton has been completed and to that end as the October long weekend of activities are fast approaching we look forward to having all of you visit the Island, for a fun safe filled weekend of adventure in the CB Highlands National Park.

Safety Seminar

To ensure your safety the HNP staff have arranged a Trail Safety and Coyote Seminar for 1:00pm Friday 7 October at the HNP West Gate Information Center or as commonly known as the Cheticamp Entrance to the park.

The CBIH walk leaders and the National Park staff invite you to attend this most informative seminar that has been arranged solely for the volkssport members attending this weekends activities.

Due to the large numbers of walkers on the trail, we should not have any problems, however a seminar of this type will be a good learning experience for all of us whether a novice walker or a seasoned volkssporter that you could use when developing walk events in other areas as well. Please make an effort to join us

For those persons who have not taken advantage of the "early bird pass",this will be your opportunity to pick up a weekend park pass.

The DVC and CBIH cannot be held responsible for any violations of parking tickets incurred for the weekend.

The seminar will take about 45 -60 minutes and will give us plenty of time to proceed to the first trail/walk event for the weekend.

Hike to Fishing Cove

The CBIH Walk Leaders have recently completed a pre-walk to Fishing Cove!

Again, they want to impress on all walkers that this is not a trail for the casual walker, at best the walk will take at least 5 hours plus, therefore you will not be back for the whale tour at 2pm!

Fishing Cove participants should carry extra water and a lunch including snacks! Be prepared for weather conditions such as rain!

From Phyllis MacLeod, Walk Leader:

"With regards to Fishing Cove-please note the following:

- The estimated time includes having our lunch when we get to the Cove

- Folks should be reminded to wear sneakers/hiking shoes - sandals not recommended

- Due to the terrain, the use of walking poles is recommended. There are some areas that require careful maneuvering due to washouts etc.

- There are 2 entrances to Fishing Cove and we usually park some vehicles at the second

entrance and shuttle back/forth. We will work that out when we meet in the morning.

- The trip out is mostly uphill-we take our time...it is not a race!!

Fishing Cove offers a beautiful cobblestone beach and breathtaking scenery. The trail starts at the top of MacKenzie Mountain and continues on an 8km descent. The Cove was once the site of a Scottish Fishing Community."

EAST MARGAREE WALK AND LUNCHEON

2011-09-21T20:52:00.001-03:00

Fall adventure on the Marsh Brook Trail, photo is not dated, but could be about 2003!!

CBIH MEMBERS:

Kathi and Phil Rice have invited the group to their home after the next walk.

Message from Kathi and Phil Rice

"We'll be around and happy to help with anything in this neck of the woods for the walk on the 25th. Also would like to invite the group to our place afterwards for lunch, if that works out. ( We'll take care of the food and whatever as our way of showing our appreciation to the club and we'll keep it simple.)"

Kathi and Phil are located at 76 Hilltop Road, "Margaree Forks" less then 10 minutes from our Walk Start Point

For the most adventurous amongst us here are the directions or simply follow the carpool group or ["convoy"] to Hilltop Rd:

When departing St Michael's Church, turn right (N) on the East Margaree Rd then left on E. Margaree Crossing Rd continue over the bridge,

then left (S) towards Margaree Forks and watch for the sign on the RIGHT - S.W. Margaree (Coady) Rd. (there is a Scotsburn Store/Outlet at this corner as well.

Follow Coady Rd until you see the sign for Hilltop Road on the RIGHT, and continue to the "top" of the hill !

Please see details below on the Group Guided Walk Event

EAST MARGAREE

Marsh Brook Road/Trail
Date: Sunday, 25 Sept, 2011
Time: 2:00pm, Registration begins 1:30pm
Location: Rear of St. Michael's RC Church, T-junction of East Margaree and Marsh Brook Roads
B0E 1Z0
How to get to East Margaree!
From Sydney or Port Hawkesbury take the Trans Canada Highway (105), between Baddeck and Nyanza,turn at the "Red Barn" EXIT 7 - North on the Cabot Trail towards:
Middle River and to Margaree Forks about 43K then cross Doyle's Bridge and continue to East Margaree.

Note also if you miss Doyle's Bridge there are two other bridges going across the Margaree that will get you to East Margaree!

Simply, Just the fun of being an "Island Hopper" exploring this great little island!

Rollie Coombes for Joe MacKinnon, President

SUNSETS ACROSS THE CONTINENT!

2011-09-14T21:41:00.001-03:00

Lee & Suzanne Lazaro sent the following photo near their home in Oregon:

Mary's Peak - Sunset River Float

Willamette River, Oregon, USA

From Lionel Conrad, Dartmouth, NS:

Sunset on the Salt Marsh Trail, near Dartmouth, NS

And not to be out done here is Cape Breton:

Fishing Cove, Cape Breton Island as seen from a "look off" from the Cabot Trail

Dominion - Lingan Beach Cape Breton, submitted by Suzanne Lazaro

Michael Haynes "The Business of Trails"

2011-09-14T20:46:00.001-03:00

Dear members:
Nova Scotia's trail guru, Michael Haynes will be giving a presentation on Sept. 27, 2011 as per message below. All are welcome!
Bethsheila Kent
Office Administrator
_________________________________________________________________________
Cape Breton Island Pathways Association
P.O. Box 328, Rear 65 High Street
Baddeck, NS B0E 1B0
Ph. 902.295.3177 |Fax. 902.295.1582 | www.pathwayscb.ca
--- On Wed, 9/7/11, Heather MacDougall <hgmacdougall@cbrm.ns.ca> wrote:

From: Heather MacDougall <hgmacdougall@cbrm.ns.ca>
Subject: FW: outline
To:
Cc: "Michael Haynes (activetransportation@rogers.com)" <activetransportation@rogers.com>
Received: Wednesday, September 7, 2011, 3:36 PM

Michael Haynes will be doing a presentation on “The Business of Trails: Policy that Works,” in the 2^nd floor boardroom of the Civic Centre on Tuesday, September 27, at 7:00 p.m. His presentation will look at trails as they pertain to tourism, environment, recreation, health and transportation. It will be the keynote address that he presented to the Australian Tracks and Trails Conference in Sydney, Australia a few weeks ago. The presentation should be quite interesting to trail builders.
Please confirm with me by September 23^rd if you’ll be attending this presentation.
Thanks!
Heather
Heather MacDougall, BPR, BTHM
Program Coordinator
Cape Breton Regional Recreation Department
320 Esplanade, Sydney, N.S. B1P 7B9

1-902-563-5512
hgmacdougall@cbrm.ns.ca

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND WALKS 7 - 10 OCTOBER

2011-09-12T20:23:00.001-03:00

PLEASE SEE SPECIAL NOTES REFERENCE THE CHETICAMP AND THE CAPE BRETON HIGHLANDS NATIONAL PARK VOLKSSPORT EVENTS 7-10 OCTOBER, 2011

1. Correction for the Atlantic Blue Book – Delete Cheticamp Island Trail

Insert Cap – Rouge Trail Friday, October 7, 3:00pm 5k, Rated 3B – 12k, Rated 3B

(See more details on the weekend’s brochure)

2. DVC will be hosting a Meet and Greet on Friday 7 Oct from 6:00 to 8:00 pm

Location: Pilot Whale Chalets, 15775 Cabot Trail, Cheticamp

(Come hungry but not all at once!)

3. For the Corney Brook Trail and Le Buttereau Loop on Sunday morning, Lionel suggests participants bring a lunch to enjoy between the two walks. (We'll be walking the 8 km Corney Brook Trail first, followed by the 4 km Le Buttereau Loop)

4. An Additional Special Whale Watching Tour Adventure has been added to the already exciting weekend.

The tour takes about 2 - 2.5 hours; Cost is $20.00 per person, includes tax, if we have 30 or more (55 max) committed persons. Warm clothing such as jackets or sweaters is advised when at sea.

Time: Sunday 9th Oct @ 2pm (depending on weather conditions)

Location: Quai Mathieu located across from the NS Liquor Commission, Canada Post Office & the Irving Service Station.

Whale Tour Website: http://www.loveboatwhalecruises.ca/

Please contact CBIH for the Sunday whale tour at: bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

5. Fishing Cove Trail Sunday 9 October please be advised that you will meet at the Northwest Gate Main Entrance parking lot of the Highland National Park.

After Signing-in for Fishing Cove, the group will follow or car pool to the trail head with the walk leaders Phyllis MacLeod and Karen MacNeil.

The trail head is approximately 30 minutes from the Main park entrance.

The parking area is located on the right (south side) of the Hwy and the trail head is located on the opposite side of the road!

This is a 16K, 4C walk event and is estimated to be a 4 hour return trip or more due to the terrain involved. (See more details on the weekend’s brochure)

DO NOT EXPECT TO BE ON THE WHALE TOUR IF DOING FISHING COVE.

SHIRLEY BOUTILIER ANNUAL WALK EVENT

2011-09-05T19:39:00.001-03:00

The CBIH Memorial Walk Event, Sunday 4 September, 2011 was attended by 25 members of the CBIH.

The father and son team of walk leaders Bill and Glen Boutilier's' led us along the roads and trails of Ben-George Road and out to the Mira River to German Point.

After the 5 &10k trail members were invited to attended a potluck style dinner at Bills home where the walk started and ended.

Bill Boutilier with Joe MacKinnon welcoming walkers to the annual Shirley Boutilier Memorial Walk.

More photos available in "photo gallery"

SEPTEMBER WALK EVENTS

2011-09-02T19:43:00.001-03:00

(1.) MIRA PINES TRAIL

Shirley Boutilier Memorial Walk Event

Date: Sunday, September 4, 2011

Time: 2:00pm with registration beginning at 1:30pm

Location:B1K 2H9, Marion Bridge, Ben-George Road off Trout Brook Road

There will be a potluck dinner immediately after the walk event.

(2.) OFF ISLAND EVENT

Marathon Walk Event with Central Nova Volkssport Club

Truro Nova Scotia

Holiday Inn Select, 437 Prince Street

Saturday, 10 Sept,2011

Various times and various walk distances, please see schedule

(3.) EAST MARGAREE

Marsh Brook Road/Trail

Date: Sunday, 25 Sept, 2011

Time: 2:00pm, Registration begins 1:30pm

Location: Rear of St. Michael's RC Church, T-junction of East Margaree and Marsh Brook Roads

B0E 1Z0

How to get to East Margaree!

From Sydney or Port Hawkesbury take the Trans Canada Highway (105), between Baddeck and Nyanza,turn at the "Red Barn" EXIT 7 North on the Cabot Trail towards:

Middle River and to Margaree Forks about 43K then cross Doyle's Bridge and continue to East Margaree.

An interesting bit of Trivia: Exit 7 and the Red Barn area is known as ???

Answer: Buckwheat Corner

LOUISBOURG EVENT

2011-08-28T20:02:00.003-03:00

There's a storm called Irene coming up the eastern coast but this did not deter the CB Island Hoppers from completing our scheduled 10k walk event at the Louisbourg lighthouse, Sunday 28 August.

As seen in this photo the ocean along Havenside Drive was calm while the clouds drifted by. Only a light breeze made for a a very relaxing walk along the coastline and we were delighted not to be rained on for the duration of the walk.
The walk leaders Shirley Pettigrew and Carol Hiscock lead us from the picnic area at Kennelly Point then along Havenside Drive for a return trip to Kennelly Point, a distance of 5k.
After a short break we headed towards the Louisbourg light and then along the fairly new and much improved Coastal Trail for the additional 5k. to makeup for our 10k event. The coastal trail continues to Gun Cove, where General Wolf disembark large cannons that eventually were dragged along this same area to the lighthouse to be used against the fortress.
Normally, there are great views along the coast but the infamous fog banks at Louisbourg soon rolled in to take over and hide the small islands, and small outcrops of rocks that are numerous in this harbour. Unfortunately Fortress Louisbourg, that can normally be seen from different points along the trail was shrouded in the fog as well.

Elsie Buck & Lucy Nardini emerging from the forest and through the fog!

You Can See More At Photo Gallery!
located at upper right side of this page!

HIKING/WALKING UP AND DOWN HILLS

2011-08-25T21:29:00.001-03:00

HIKING/WALKING UP AND DOWN HILLS

Here are some helpful hints found on the website:

http://footmatters.posterous.com/hiking-up-and-down-hills

Up Steep Hills: The biggest mistake climbing the hills is to get up on their toes. Keep your heels down; this will stretch out your calf muscles and Achilles tendons and reduce cramping and strains and keep your soles on the ground where they belong for more traction. Slow down by shortening your steps, don’t try to race up the hill, slow down and enjoy the view.

Down Steep Hills: Like going uphill, shorten your stride and slow your pace. Bend your knees slightly to lower your center of gravity downward but not back. Too much leaning back and your feet will slide out from under you. Be careful not to turn your feet at an angle to the trail; it will increase your chances of rolling over on your ankle. Keep your toes pointed down for the best grip and stability.

WHALE WATCHING TOUR IN CHETICAMP

2011-08-24T22:17:00.001-03:00

7th - 10 OCTOBER, 2011 WEEKEND ADVENTURE: GROUP WALK EVENTS, THANKSGIVING DINNER AND NOW A WHALE WATCHING TOUR http://www.loveboatwhalecruises.ca/

CB Island Hoppers and friends!

Please help by distributing to our members who do not have email or access to the web as quickly as possible.

As the Thanksgiving long weekend (7-10 October) in Cheticamp Cape Breton, walking events will soon be upon us the CBIH (Cal Thistle) has been following up on an additional adventure for the weekend activities.

If you are interested in a Whale Watching Tour we have negotiated a 2 - 2.5 hour tour with a discount price of $16 per person, however we need/must have 30 or more (55 max) committed persons to ensure we have the discount!!

Our discount Whale Watching Tour will be (depending on weather conditions) Sunday 9th Oct @ 2pm with a possible alternate date Monday 10 Oct @1pm.

Please contact CBIH for reservations ASAP on or before this Sunday 28 August at:

bretonhoppers@hotmail.com or rajcoombes@ns.sympatico.ca

After this date we cannot guarantee a suitable discount price!

More details of the tour are available at:

http://www.loveboatwhalecruises.ca/

A brochure for the weekend activities in October is available at all walk events or may be sent as an attachment upon request.

Rollie Coombes, email website coordinator for

Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club

Walking for Fun,Fitness & Friendship
www.capebretonislandhoppers.com

www.walks.ca

HIKING AT DUNDEE

2011-08-22T21:32:00.003-03:00

Sunday 21 August, 2011 Dundee Resort and Golf Course

Kathi at Dundee!

More photos are found on "Trail Photos" http://cbislandtrailphotos.blogspot.com/

The adventure for this event began when driving from Sydney to St Peter's with road construction and then turning off HWY 4 in St Peters. The road to Dundee when not traveled very often seems quite long and has many SSSS turns! However there are excellent views along the way and once at Dundee there is a very nice beach area.

Today's walk was our first event at Dundee and was attended by 21 adventurous walkers who enjoyed the excellent weather conditions for hiking along the nature trail that borders on the Dundee Golf Course. The first part of the trail is a natural path through the woods with small bridges across two streams and continues uphill to the very edge of the golf course.

Where did they go?
After departing the forest the trail meanders along a gravel road with views of the Bras d" Or Lakes and the greens of the course ending near the club house.
This is a great walk for everyone of all ages and could be modified for all abilities.
Immediately after the event most of our members and guest enjoyed dinner on the patio deck at the club house and a surprise birthday cake was served in honoring our long time friend Shirley Pettigrew.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIRLEY!

Congratulations to your club for this accomplishment!

2011-08-17T21:38:00.001-03:00

The Island Hoppers on the trail at Albert Bridge, Mira Provincial Park during the annual National Walking Weekend.

The following message has arrived from BenoÎt Pinsonneault, President of the Canadian Volkssport Federation

Joe MacKinnon,
I finally made my choice concerning the 2011 President's Challenge winner. My choice was the Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club. Your club's name will be added on the trophy. This recognition will be published in the next Volkssport Canada issue.
Congratulations to your club for this accomplishment!
Benoît

BenoÎt Pinsonneault, President CVF, National Convention, Whistler BC

After the walk!

2011-08-16T22:14:00.001-03:00

After the walk event in Glace Bay on Sunday 14 August some the Island Hoppers enjoyed a dinner at "Dock Y'ur Dory" in Port Morien about a 15 minute drive from downtown Glace Bay.

The sign above says it all and everyone is happy after the meal!

Elsie Buck, Lloyd Bailey,Norma Skinner and Elsie and Ann on the patio deck overlooking Morien Bay.

Johnny Miles Volksmarch, Sydney Mines 07 August

2011-08-07T21:35:00.001-03:00

A small but enthusiastic group of club supporters ventured out to Sydney Mines for the Annual Johnny Miles Walk Event on Sunday,07 August 2011.

The event was completed in two stages of 5ks each along the streets of Sydney Mines and out to the beaches at Lloyd Cove and then onto the area known as Cranberry

Above: the beach at Lloyd Cove

Above: we take a short break at the beach, in the area known as Cranberry!

GLACE BAY SEASONAL EVENT CVF -192

2011-08-02T22:13:00.001-03:00

Notice TO VOLKSSPORTERS:

You may have seen on the news that NS is having gas shortages, Gas Bars, service station are running out of fuel due to an accident at our largest refinery.

Therefore as of Yesterday 01 August, the CO-OP Gas Bar that houses CBIH SEAS Event - CVF -192 is closed until more fuel arrives.

The hours of operation for this business will be sporadic over the next few weeks or month!

Volkssporters, local and from outside of the area should call before heading to Glace Bay.

Call me at 902-849-0747 and I will do my best to get you signed in and provide copies of our walk directions.

I will make arrangements to have your IVV books or insert stamped, once this little crisis is over!

I have tried to recover the walk box to no avail, however it would not be of much advantage anyway.

Rollie Coombes, Glace Bay, CVF - 192 Seasonal Walk Contact Person

bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

AUGUST WALK EVENTS

2011-08-01T21:05:00.002-03:00

August is a great month for Walking for fun, fitness and friendship with the Island Hoppers.

First Event:
Annual Johnny Miles Volksmarch
Sunday 7 August
Registration begins @ 1:30pm
Start Time: 2:00pm
Location: Sydney Mines, Recreation Field on Pitt Street
Distance: 5k & 10k
Trail Rating: 2B
This is a figure "8" Walk Event within the streets of Sydney Mines, through a park, a beach area and past the Johnny Miles statue. "This is not a parade event!" All club members and local enthusiastic walkers are invited to join the community of Sydney Mines and the local Johnny Miles Association on this leisurely walk for Fun, Fitness and Friendship!

Second Event:
Annual Seasonal Group Walk Event in Glace Bay
Sunday 14 August
Registration begins @ 1:30pm
Start Time: 2:00pm
Location: 99 Reserve Street, Glace Bay, parking lot adjacent to COOP Gas Bar
Distance: 5k & 10k
Trail Rating: 2B
Our walk will take us through a series of parks, Renwick Brook/Queen Elizabeth and The Cameron Coal Bowl, a quick stopover at the Miners Museum, and along a portion of the coastline of Glace Bay, plus a view of the GB Harbour and the fishing fleet located here!

Third Event
This event will get us back out on the trails in the beautiful setting of the ....
Dundee Golf Course Trails
Sunday 21August
Registration begins @ 1:30pm
Start Time: 2:00pm
Location/Directions to Start Point: From Sydney take Hwy 4 to the village of St Peters. Continue over the canal bridge and then turn right at the signs for Sampsonville/West Bay and Dundee.
Distance: 5k & 10k
Trail Rating: 3C

Fourth Event

The walk will begin at Kennelly Point picnic area on Havenside Road, Louisbourg - B1C 1P5

Louisbourg Lighthouse Trails

Sunday 28 August

Registration begins @ 1:30pm

Start Time: 2:00pm

Trail Rating 2C

A fabulous coastal walk including the site of the oldest Lighthouse in Canada and the second oldest in North America

For further information on all of the above walk events you may contact the club President Joe MacKinnon: joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca or the club e-mail address: bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

WANTED

2011-07-26T20:53:00.000-03:00

WANTED

Volunteers for Haunted Woods Walk

Actors, Parking lot attendants, and others are needed

Evening of October 28^th and 29^th – Adult walk at dusk to dark

Daytime of October 29^th and 30^th - Not so scary walk for small kids

This is a fundraiser for the Southend Community Center in partnership with the Baille Ard Trail Association

Contact rafraser@cbrm.ns.ca or call 562-8192 and leave a message.

MARATHON EVENT IN TRURO SEPTMBER 10th

2011-07-25T20:49:00.001-03:00

Take in the Nova Scotia Marathon Event with the Central Nova Volkssport Club in Truro. Please note the Date of the Marathon is 10 September. Some of our members will have done a portion of this trail during the 20th Anniversary celebrations for CNVC. You can expect a great time with the Central Nova club at all events

2011 COBEQUID TRAIL 42KM MARATHON

Saturday September 10 - Start point Holiday Inn Select, actual parking in the Prince St parking lot to the right of the Holiday Inn

8:30 am 42km Marathon people will start Registration at 8 am

The marathon will be self guided. There will be signs, check points and a bicycle patrol. From the hotel we will go to the Cobequid trail (rail bed) to the Old Barns church. We will have a check point at the church which will be open (lunch, your back packs, bathroom etc). Then we will walk the Shore Road (gravel road) to the turn around spot and retrace your steps

9:00 am - the 15 km and 21km will start. Registration at 8:30 am Also self guided. The turn around spots will be marked.

10:00am - 5km and 10km will start. Registration at 9:30am These will be guided walks.

There will also be a Truro summer alternate walk on Sept 10^th at 2 pm. featuring Victoria Park.

Post Marathon Celebration Supper- Turkey Supper $15 per person

7:00pm (Happy Hour 6:30pm)
Horsemen’s Club, Bible Hill

Name-

Address-

Are you planning to walk: 5km_ 10km_ 15km_ 20km_ 42km_

Is this your first 42 km Marathon Yes_ or No_

Please come and enjoy a great meal and some Celebration Surprises!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mail Turkey Supper Cheque to: Bettie Spence

28 Thomas Ave

Truro, N.S B2N 3V3

** Deadline for supper reservation is August 15, 2011

FRAMBOISE - CROOKED LAKE WALK EVENT

2011-07-18T23:24:00.001-03:00

There is a barbecue taking place in Framboise on 24 July from 11am to 2pm at the Framboise Community Hall.

Walkers may wish to go out early to enjoy a hotdog or hamburger before our scheduled walk.

The Volunteer Fire Department,who are sponsoring the event, would appreciate our support.

CBIH WALK EVENT:

Please be prepared for the weather conditions as the walk will take place regardless of rain or whatever!!

Sunday, 24 July, 2011

Registration starts @ 1:30pm

Walk Start Time 2:00pm

Guided Walk 5k or 10k

Rated 2B

Walk Leader Shirley Pettigrew 737-1006

Directions to Start Point:

From Sydney take Hwy 327 to Marion Bridge area and continue passed Gabarus on the scenic Fleur - de - Lis Trail/Hwy and on to the Community of Framboise. Crooked Lake Road is located on the East side (left) of the Hwy a short distance from the single lane Bailey Bridge.

This is the time to car-pool with friends!

Description of trail:

The road/trail will pass by cottages,farms, along Crooked Lake, and down to the beach at English Cove. We will be able to explore a pioneer cemetery. Also in this area you will note a coastal trail going south towards Capelin Cove and beyond.

See you all on Sunday 24 July

PORT HOOD DAY PARK WALK EVENT & DRIVING DIRECTIONS

2011-07-05T22:47:00.002-03:00

This is what our club, The Cape Breton Island Hoppers, are all about "exploring and traveling throughout the island", finding those special places where most CB's and visitors may not see when driving across the island.
The Walk Event will continue Rain or Shine, so please be prepared for the conditions.
Come join us for a group Guided Walk, and bring along a friend.
Come early, bring along your own picnic lunch, and enjoy the Port Hood Day Park before the walk event.
Date: Sunday, 10 July 2011
Time: Registration begins 1:30pm, Walk Event Starts 2:00pm
Walk Leader(s): Julie Dziach with co-leader Elsie Buck
Walk Distance: 5k & 10K
Rated: 2B (moderate hills and on well groomed trails with very little difficult terrain).
DRIVING DIRECTIONS:
The walk event in the Port Hood area will begin at the "Port Hood Day Park"
From CBRM or other locations:
If you are traveling from the Causeway and Port Hastings area going north, the park is located on the west side of Highway 19 (water side and Port Hood Island is across from the park) and about 200 meters before the "WELCOME TO PORT HOOD" sign.
Traveling from the Mabou area (south) along Highway 19 continue past Port Hood and the park is located on your right (west side of the road).
For those participants who did the 42K marathon you may recognize the area, as it is very near the finish point of that extraordinary walk event.
ALL DRIVERS, Special Note on Directions using Google Maps/ or simply use an old fashion paper map
Check out Google maps! According to map directions it is a shorter route (30kms less) from CBRM to travel to Mabou and then follow Hwy 19 to Port Hood: On the "map section" , "Directions", of Google, simply type in your home Postal Code and the GENERAL POSTAL CODE for Port Hood B0E 1X0 (Note, this will give you the general directions to Port Hood, not the Day Park) this will give you 3 optional routes to the Port Hood area!
If you need more information please email bretonhoppers@hotmail.com
Come on out for a walk! Everyone is Welcomed at our walk events!
Join The Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club for fun, fitness and friendship!
Healthy Feet:

Now I know! Why I was never and will never be a proponent of the ~~ugly~~ flip flop, especially for short or long distance walking!! RFC!

A Quote from Doctor Sutera, D.P.M.
"Most flip-flops don't have adequate arch support, cushioning, or shock absorption," says Manhattan-based foot doctor Jacqueline Sutera, D.P.M. Wearing them all summer, every summer could lead to pinched foot nerves, heel pain, tendinitis, and strained arches. If you can't quit flops entirely, buy ones that have at least a three-quarter-inch semi-cushioned sole and built-in arch support. Even better, go for a strappy sandal; simple thongs force your toes into an unhealthy clenched position when you walk, encouraging hammertoe growth. Or try cute, beachy wedges (three inches high or less), which offer more support in just about every foot area and help distribute your body weight more evenly.
A Quote from Doctor Sutera, D.P.M.

WILD COVE TRAIL & GOOSEBERRY COVE

2011-06-23T19:59:00.001-03:00

Location: Wild Cove/Gooseberry Cove

Directions to Start Point:
From Sydney follow Hwy 22 going towards Louisbourg,
turn left (East) onto Little Lorraine Rd.
Continue for approx 5K and park on the left side of the Hwy
Please try to get off the shoulder of the road as much as possible.
This is a good opportunity to car pool due to the limited parking on this stretch of highway

SUNDAY, June 26
Registration begins at 1:30pm
Walk Start Time: 2:00pm
GW, 10k, 3C
Walk Guide/Leader is Elsie Buck

During this walk event participants are asked not to wander off the trail and to remain with the group as much as possible. The Eco-system in this area is very fragile and weather conditions such as wind and fog will change very rapidly.

Here is a quote from Wayne McKay a local writer and hiking/walking enthusiast:

". Gooseberry Cove is one of those rarely visited, magical places on the island. There are a few places like this but Gooseberry Cove has a special feeling all its own. It is the perfect place to take your family and explore. There are beaches in protected coves, impressive rock formations and cliffs, amazing views of the Atlantic coast between Louisbourg and Little Lorraine, loads of seabirds and wetlands full of interesting “small life” – including the bug-eating pitcher plant. The landscape is stark and beautiful upon first glance but teeming with life upon closer inspection. It’s very easy to putter away hours exploring at Gooseberry Cove. It’s a relaxing place that soothes the soul. Time falls away unnoticed and distance has little meaning. It’s a place for slow exploration and filling up on the wonder of the world." Wayne McKay

OPEN MEETING TOPIC 2012 WALK SCHEDULE

2011-06-10T23:28:00.000-03:00

There will be a General Open Meeting for all CBIH members to discuss the WALK SCHEDULE for the 2012 season.

LOCATION: Cape Breton Regional Library, McConnell Library, 50 Falmouth Street, Sydney

Date: Wednesday, 22 June 2011

TIME: 18:30Hrs (6:30pm)

TOPIC: 2012 Walk Schedule

The meeting is sponsored by the Trails Committee.
Trail Coordinator Elsie Buck
This is your chance to have an input into the schedule for 2012.

West Mabou Trails and West Mabou Beach Walk Event Start Point Change

2011-06-09T22:39:00.001-03:00

Please note that our Start Point has changed slightly.

West Mabou Trails and West Mabou Beach Walk Event

Call and invite a friend to this event!

Everyone of all ages and all abilities can join us for a walk at anytime!
"CAR POOL" and save!!

DIRECTION TO START POINT:

From Sydney take Hwy 105 to Whycocomagh and take Exit 5 to the right (near Vi's Restaurant and a service station) other point of reference is "The Farmer's Daughter"!

Using a GPS here is the Postal Code B0E 1X0 (not guaranteed)

Continue on Route252 and watch for highway signs (on the left) indicating to Mabou. Follow route 19 through the Village of Mabou in a southwest direction and then turn right on Colindale Road.
After 5km and just before the pavement ends the Start Point is on the right; Trail and CBIH signs will be on the right.

Please note that our Start Point has changed slightly.

DO NOT go to Beach Road as it is under major construction work.

SUNDAY, 12 June
Registration begins at 1:30pm
Walk Start Time: 2:00pm
GW, 5-10k, 2B

Walk Leader for this event: Rollie Coombes 902-849-0747 or bretonhoppers@hotmail.com
We will have a guest walk leader Nadine Hunt from Mabou; Nadine has been out on the trails scouting a new route for us as there are trails under construction and some windfalls as of last week.

In addition to these changes, the toilet facilities are not available due to construction on Beach Road!!

Note: For those interested there is a lighthouse that we will see across the Harbour in Mabou. A good photo opportunity.

REMINDER FOR OCTOBER EVENT

2011-05-19T23:03:00.000-03:00

Weekend Event 7-8-9 October, 2011

National Park Fees

Cape Breton Highlands National Park “Annual Early Bird Passes” available from 1 Nov. to 30June, contact CBHNP at 1-902-224-2306 or e-mail: information@pc.gc.ca for more details. Early Bird fees for an Adult is $19.60 and Senior pay $17.60. The Regular fees per day for an adult are $7.80 and seniors pay $6.80. A senior is 65 and over.

In addition please note the:

Social Event

Thanksgiving Dinner

Sunday, 9 Oct, 6:30pm

Salle Des Retraites (Senior Citizen Hall)

Located to the rear of

Ѐglise Saint Pierre (Saint Peters Church)

15086 Main Street, Chéticamp

The menu is a traditional Thanksgiving turkey dinner with vegetables, dressings and includes coffee and tea with a strawberry shortcake dessert. A wet bar will be available.

Dinner is $20.00/person and includes gratuity, taxes, hall rental, catering fees.

Register for the dinner prior to Thur. 22 Sept. 2011 and send to:

CB Island Hoppers, c/o Roland Coombes 364 York Street, Glace Bay, NS, B1A 2N1

Cheques and M.O.’s must be made out to CB Island Hoppers and marked “Dinner”.

A BROCHURE IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST AT ALL WALK EVENTS OR BY E-MAIL

Invitation To Join us for a Walk

2011-05-09T23:08:00.001-03:00

Joe MacKinnon, President of the Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club invites and challenges all members of the CBIH and the general public to participate in the two (2) Year Round and the three (3) Seasonal Self-Guided walk events that the Island Hoppers sponsor throughout Cape Breton Regional Municipality and in the Village of Baddeck.

Year Round Events (YRE’s) are routes set up by the local volkssport club to showcase our town or city. Registration is generally at a local start point such as a hotel or tourist attraction. These walks can be done with the local Volkssport walking group, (walk) with a friend or walk on your own.

At the designated Start Point simply ask for the "walk box", sign-in and fill out the registration log and follow the map or directions found in the box. You may select to walk 5k or 10k. Walk at your own pace and leisure.

"The challenge for Club Members/Volkssporters is to complete all of these walk events at least once before 30 June of this year and then to do all of the walk events once again on or after 01 July and before 28 October 2011".

The goal is to have your "EVENT BOOKS" stamped with the Canadian Volkssport Federations registered trademark number, or Sanctioned number in your book with the plus ("+") sign on, and then again with the plus "+" sign removed.

The clubs 3 Permanent Seasonal Walk Events opened on 5th May and close 28 October 2011.

Walk Events are located at:

1. CVF - 247, Telegraph House House, 479 Chebucto Street, Baddeck

2. CVF - 192, CO-0P Gas Bar, 99 Reserve Street, Glace Bay

3. CVF - 243 Pecks Convenience Store, 2 Wolfe Street, Louisbourg

The 2 Year Round Events are located at:

The CBIH has two permanent or Year Round Events, these are open annually from 2nd January to 31st December.

4. Cambridge Suites Hotel, 380 Esplanade, Sydney - CBRM

5. Clansmen Motel, 9 Baird Street, North Sydney - CBRM

The Next Group Guided Walk Event And The Last One For May

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club invites you to join us for a Group Guided Walk on Monday 23 May, 2011.

Registration will begin at 1:30pm.

Walk Start Time is 2:00pm

The CB Island Hoppers will be walking on trails, near beaches and country roads in the Mira Provincial Park, located at 439 Brickyard Road, Albert Bridge, B1K 2R9.

Participants have the option of 5k or a 10k route with a walk leader to guide you along the trails.

These are very easy well groomed trails and Rated as 1B as per our CVF rating system, easily accessible for a baby stroller or even motorized wheelchairs with some minor changes!

Your walk leaders for this event are Shirley Pettigrew and Rollie Coombes.

The CB Island Hoppers are a group of walkers who welcome new participants and are part of the international Volkssport group.

What is Volkssport? It is a non-competitive sport that encompasses biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Our goal is to promote a healthy outdoor activity for fun, fitness and friendship. Walking is by far the most popular activity. Volkssport was started in Germany in the 1960’s to encourage people to exercise and migrated to Canada in 1984. The CVF is a member of the International Federation of Popular Sports (IVV) and now has over 35 walking clubs throughout Canada including the North West Territories. (www.walks.ca)

The most popular distances for a walk are 5 km and 10 km although optional longer routes are available. Year Round Events (YRE’s) are routes set up by local clubs to showcase their town or city. Registration is generally at a local start point such as a hotel or tourist attraction. These walks can be done with the local Volkssport walking group, with a friend or on your own. There are YRE’s in every province and territory in Canada.

Local Volkssport clubs also schedule guided group walks (called “events’) that only take place on a specific day. This might be hiking a trail at Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia, ambling along a path on Saltspring Island or walking in a provincial park in Manitoba. As well, there are walking festivals hosted by local clubs such as the yearly Mountain Majesty weekend in Alberta and the International Walking festival in Ottawa. All walks cost a nominal fee which is determined by the local club.

There is an optional awards program that adds an incentive to be active. Every YRE or event walk has its own unique stamp and each time you complete a walk you can stamp your appropriate award booklet. There are special programs here in Canada such as walking in all the Capital cities, walking by Waterfalls, Cenotaphs or Lighthouses to name just a few.

For those whose wanderings take them further afield there are many YRE’s in every state in the United States, throughout Britain and in 49 countries in Europe and Asia. You can meander through Greenwich Village in New York, tackle the hills of San Francisco or follow in the footsteps of the Beatles in Liverpool, England.

A world of beautiful walks and new friendships is just a footstep away – why not join us on our walk Monday, 23 May, 2011 starting at Mira Provincial Park at 1:30pm.

SUNDAY, 01 MAY, ST. PETERS RAIL TRAIL

2011-04-26T21:09:00.002-03:00

St Peters Rail Trail & Battery Park Trail Walk Event
Call and invite a friend to this event!
Everyone of all ages and all abilities can join us for a walk at anytime!
"CAR POOL" and save!!

Walk Event is Sponsored by:
Kin-Excel Fitness Centre, 9961 Grenville, St Peter’s, Marvin MacLean Call for an appointment at 902-535-2488

From Sydney take Hwy 4 to St. Peters just before the canal bridge turn left into Battery Park. Using a GPS here is the Postal Code B0E 3B0
Come early and bring along a picnic lunch before the walk event
SUNDAY, 01 MAY
Registration begins at 1:30pm
Walk Start Time: 2:00pm
GW, 5-12k, 2B
Walk Leader for this event: Carmel Coffin
Note: For those interested there is a very quaint, picturesque lighthouse in Battery Provincial Park. A good photo opportunity.

If you can't make this walk event and are traveling, this or any other weekend, then check the Atlantic Blue Book for other walk events across Atlantic Canada.
Example: The Atlantic Directors Meeting in Moncton, NB will feature a walk event on Saturday 30 April and on Sunday 01 May.
The Dartmouth Club will be on The Lake Charles Trail at 10am Sunday 01 May. Again see the Atlantic Blue Book for details.
The Permanent or Year Round Events are opened in Sydney and North Sydney, see details on our website: www.capebretonislandhoppers.com

Baille Ard Trail Beat the Clock Walk/Run Race

2011-04-22T21:35:00.000-03:00

Beat the Clock:

Tomorrow, Saturday, 23 April 2011, at 9am

the Baille Ard Nature Trails Association will

present a 5k walk/run. in Baille Ard. Registration

is at the Sherwood Park Education Centre at 9am. Start

time is 10am. Fee $10 with all proceeds going to the

Whitney Pier Youth Club. The countdown timer starts at 50 minutes. You

leave whenever you want after the timer starts.

Saturday, April 23, Registration 9 AM, Race Start 10 AM
Start/Finish at Sherwood Park Junior High School, Terrace Street, Sydney
Registration fee $10 with proceeds to the Whitney Pier Youth Club
Open to anyone of any age who can walk or run 5K's in 50 minutes or less. Start at any time after the 50 minute countdown timer begins. The winner is the one who finishes closest to 0 minutes on the clock. No watches permitted!

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=153583134706540

Carol White’s Ozark Cake

2011-04-16T11:31:00.001-03:00

Recipe from the CNVC Newsletter.

If you have a recipe you want to share please send it along and I will gladly post it for you.

Carol White, from the Central Nova Volkssport Club, Truro, made this dessert for the "Ring in the New Year Walk event". It was very popular and members asked for the recipe.

Carol White’s Ozark Cake

1 cup sugar

¼ tsp salt

1 cup flour

1 beaten egg

1 tsp baking soda

1-11oz can Mandarin oranges-chopped

Combine all ingredients and beat with a mixer
Put into 8x8 inch pan and bake at 350 for 40 minutes
Let cool
In a saucepan, mix ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp milk. Heat on stove for 10 minutes. Add ½ cup chopped pecans
Pour over top of cake, place under broiler until mixture bubbles and is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool

2011 MARATHON EVENT

2011-04-11T21:31:00.001-03:00

2011 COBEQUID TRAIL 42KM MARATHON

Saturday September 10 - Start point Holiday Inn Select,actual parking in the Prince St parking lot to the right of the Holiday inn

8:30 am 42km Marathon people will start Registration at 8 am

9:00 am - the 15 km and 20km will start. Registration at 8:30 am

Also self guided. The turn around spots will be marked.

10:00am-5km and 10km will start. Registration at 9:30am

These walks will be guided walks.

There will also be a Truro summer alternate walk on Sept 10^th at 2 pm. in Victoria Park with Ibel Scammell leading.

_--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Post Marathon Celebration Supper- Turkey Supper $15 per person

7:00pm (Happy Hour 6:30pm)
Horsemen’s Club, Bible Hill

Name-

Address-

Are you planning to walk: 5km_ 10km_ 15km_ 20km_ 42km_

Is this your first 42 km Marathon Yes_ or No_

Please come and enjoy a great meal and some Celebration Surprises!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mail Turkey Supper Cheque to: Bettie Spence

28 Thomas Ave

Truro, N.S B2N 3V3

** Deadline for supper reservation is August 15, 2011

WALK(s) NORTH SYDNEY

2011-03-23T20:58:00.001-03:00

Save some dates on your calendars for the next walk events with "The CB Island Hoppers":

Sunday, 27 March 2011

Registration:1:30pm

Start Time: "We step off at 2:00pm"

Location of Start and Finish Point: Clansman Motel, 9 Baird Street, North Sydney, B2A 3M2

Distance: For this walk event you have a 10k route or an optional 5k route, if desired

Rating: Both routes are designated at 2B

Walk Leaders: Isabel Grant and Elsie Buck

Contact: bretonhoppers@hotmail.com for any additional info, if required

Sunday, 10 April 2011

Registration:1:30pm

Start Time: "We step off at 2:00pm"

Location of Start and Finish Point: Indian Beach, parking lot, 411 Purves Street, North Sydney, B2A 3M3

Distance: For this walk event you have a 10k route or an optional 5k route, if desired

Rating: Both routes are designated at 2A

Walk Leaders: Joe MacKinnon and Elsie Buck

Contact: bretonhoppers@hotmail.com for any additional info, if required

OTHER NOTES:

The CBIH annual calendar of events are available at the Start Point and in addition to this you can check out our website www.capebretonislandhoppers.com for the online calendar of events.

Everyone of all ages and all abilities, are always welcomed to join us for a scheduled walk and why not bring along a friend as well.

Please don't forget to sign in before the walk.

Pre-Registration for all walks begin 30 minutes (ie:1:30pm) before we step off, Start Time means "when we step off" (ie: 2:00pm).

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS can be paid at the Start Point to our "Membership Committee Chairperson" Carmel Coffin.

Copies of Discover Atlantic Canada Through VOLKSSPORTS, 2011 edition (the "Blue Book") are also available at the Start Point.

Come join us for Fun, Fitness and Friendship

Citizen Representation on CBRM Active Transportation Advisory Committee

2011-03-10T23:00:00.000-04:00

The following information has been sent out by Cape Breton Regional Municipality.

It would be a great opportunity to have one of our CBIH members apply for this position, at the present time Elsie Buck and Rollie Coombes have been serving on a similar committee mapping the walking trails within CBRM and it would be more advantageous to have others within the CBIH to work on this newer committee; please see the instructions below, the more volunteers the better for the walking community within our region.

CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

by: CBRM's Department of Culture, Recreation and Facilities

Citizen Representation on Cape Breton Regional Municipality Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Council of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality is seeking the volunteer services of five (5) citizens who would be willing to have their names considered for service on the Cape Breton Regional Municipality’s Active Transportation Advisory Committee.

Interested residents of the Cape Breton Regional Municipality should forward a letter of application, together with a resume, noting their interest and experience with issues relating to active transportation, to the undersigned by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 18, 2011.

The successful candidates will be appointed by the Cape Breton Regional Municipal Council.

The AT Advisory Committee will be comprised of five Members at Large and two members of CBRM Council. Members may be appointed as individuals or as representatives of registered non-profit organizations.

In selecting members, CBRM will seek to ensure that the committee reflects the geographic and ethnic diversity of the community, and if possible the committee shall include representatives from the following: Mobility challenged persons, Youth, Cyclists/cycling organizations, Walkers/walking organizations, Business and Seniors. A background in transportation engineering, preventative health care, or physical education would be considered assets.

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee should have a minimum of four meetings per year. The Committee shall designate one of the meetings as an Annual Meeting.

The Committee’s role is to advise Council on the implementation of the CBRM Active Transportation Plan, and on active transportation matters generally.

The CBRM departments of Planning, Engineering, Public Works, Recreation and Police shall appoint a minimum of one staff person to attend meetings of the Committee in an ex officio capacity. These staff persons shall also be members of a staff AT Plan committee which will meet monthly to oversee day to day activities related to implementation of the AT Plan. In addition, various government departments, governmental organizations and NGOs shall be invited to appoint one person to attend the meetings in an ex officio capacity.

Signed:
Department of Culture, Recreation and Facilities

Cape Breton Regional Municipality

320 Esplanade, Room 204

Sydney, NS B1P 7B9

2011 First Walk Event

2011-03-06T13:17:00.002-04:00

Group Guided Walk Event: Sunday, 13 March, 2011
Time: Registration begins @ 1:30pm and we step off at 2:00pm
Start Point: 380 Esplanade, B1P 1B1, CBRM - Sydney, Cambridge Suites Hotel
Walk Leader: Elsie Buck

There will be an opportunity to enjoy some hot soup after the walk.
Judy Lorway has invited us to her home at 89 Shandwick Street, Sydney, following this walk event.

Dianna Mac Donald, Lucy Nardini,Carmel Coffin and Judy Lorway are your new social committee.

Also please note: there is now paid parking at the Cambridge Suites parking lot; however they will validate your ticket if using the restaurant after the event.There are lplenty of downtown parking spaces along the street on Sunday in nearby locations!

Snowshoes, Chocolate and Weekly Walk Event

2011-01-24T21:31:00.001-04:00

Snowshoes, Chocolate and Weekly Walks

A SPECIAL VALENTINE SNOWSHOE EVENT

Sunday, 13 February, 10:00 am to 12:00 noon
A snowshoe (rental fee) and trail pass package, is available for $12.00
Pick up and register before 10:00 am
Ski Ben Eoin, Hwy 4
Elsie and Micheline will be the guides for this event

WEEKLY WALK EVENT CONTINUES

The club President Joe MacKinnon and the VP & Trails Coordinator Elsie Buck provide a weekly 10k walk event every Thursday at 10:00am.
Please register between 9:30 and 9:55 so we can be on the trail by 10:00am.
Walk begins at 308 Esplanade, the Cambridge Suites.
Event and Distance books may be stamped as per IVV/CVF rules.
Depending on weather conditions and the trails/sidewalks, Joe and Elsie will continue to use our Sydney Year Round Trail as much as possible.
Also note the Cambridge Suites now requires a parking fee; it is their lot and we must abide by their rules!!!
Participants are responsible for their own parking fees or an alternate parking area.

HELP THE COXHEATH TRAILS RECREATION ASSOCIATION AND ENJOY AN AFTERNOON CHOCOLATE DESSERTS AND OTHER DECADENT TREATS!

These are the great folks who look after the Coxheath Wilderness Trail
Sunday, 20 February, 1-4pm
$5.00 per person
Knox United Church Hall
Intersection of Coxheath & Blackett's Lake Rd's.

Our Story!

2011-01-15T11:19:00.001-04:00

Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club

A Brief History:

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club was established as an island wide walking club in 1997.

In 1996 two members of The Dartmouth Volksmarch Club (DVC) Judy and Gerry Everard, friends of Wayne Howie of Glace Bay held a community meeting at First United Church, Whitney Ave. in Sydney. The enthusiasm of the 125 or more persons who attended this meeting convinced the organizers that a volkssport club on Cape Breton Island was a viable proposition. Our very first walk event, known as “Anne’s Walk” was held on 21 April 1997. This group walk began at St Joseph Parish Hall, George Street with 24 participants. After this very successful walk many of our new members were hooked on volkssporting and subsequently headed off to the opening ceremonies and Volksmarch across the then new “Confederation Bridge” from PEI to NB.

The original club executive included Wayne Howie as the club president and Phil Irons as vice president. The club secretary was Jo Anne Curie and Judy Lorway was our first Treasurer; Rollie Coombes, trails coordinator, Barb & Cal Thistle volunteered for our Ways and Means committee. Ann Irons and Shirley Boutilier worked with both ways & means and the trails committees in the first start up years.

Our first Year Round Event was established in 1998 at The Cambridge Suites, 380 Esplanade in Sydney and continues to the present day. Eventually four more YRE’s were added in locations around the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. These permanent map walks are located in Glace Bay and North Sydney. Louisbourg and Baddeck host Lighthouse Walk events that are part of the National Lighthouse program.

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers celebrated its 10^th anniversary in and around the Community of Louisbourg. A weekend of five walk events, a picnic and candlelight dinner at Fortress Louisbourg took place Friday 20 July to Sunday 22 July 2007. CVF President Graham Fawcett was in attendance.

In 2007 Joe MacKinnon became the 4^th club president taking over from Rollie Coombes who became the first member of the CBIH to hold an executive position with the CVF Board of Directors as the Atlantic Regional Director.

In September of 2009 the club held its first 42k marathon event, taking our turn with the mainland clubs.

Rilla McLean from Port Hawkesbury and a member of CBIH was the first person to complete a CVF Year Round Event in a wheelchair and has also carried the Olympic Torch in 2010.

May 28-31, 2010 the CBIH hosted the national CVF Convention and Annual General Meeting at Victoria Park, CBRM – Sydney, NS. The 2010 Convention Chairperson was Elsie Buck who also held the position of Vice President and Trails Coordinator.

INTERNATIONAL HISTORY

Volkssport evolved from public running races (Volkslauf) sponsored by the sports clubs in southern Germany which were held in the early 1960s. In 1963 the sports club of Bobingen, a small town near Augsburg, Germany, organized the first Volkslauf or run of the folks, to stir interest in the club among the general public.

The idea caught on quickly in Bavaria and within a couple of years, Volkslaufs were being sponsored by sports clubs throughout southern Germany. In 1968 the International Volkssportverband (IVV) was founded by West Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Austria and their crests are on the IVV emblem.

One year later, fifteen Volksmarches were held in Southern Bavaria. These were the first events that resembled the Volksmarch event as we know them today. These events caught on with the urban dwelling German who welcomes a chance to get a little exercise on the weekends, a chance to breathe country air and a chance to receive some recognition for his/her efforts. These events had no time limit or classifications and wanderers young and old could participate as they pleased and as they were able. Since 1968 and the establishment of the IVV (International Federation of Popular Sports), many countries have joined and are now participating in Volkssports.

The IVV originally sponsored only walks, which are still the predominant event but has steadily grown to include other sports: bicycling, cross country skiing, swimming, in line skating and snow shoeing.

Volkssporting made its début in Canada in the early 1980’s and has grown steadily ever since. The Canadian Volkssport Federation (CVF/FCV) was formed in 1986 and now has over 35 member clubs throughout most regions of Canada, plus provincial organizations in Alberta and BC. Hundreds of volkssporting events are sponsored each year in Canada.

WHAT IS VOLKSSPORT?

The term Volkssport literally means ‘sport of the people’. Participants are from the general public and this means everyone, grandfathers, aunts, uncles, children, mom's and dads, and even your pets. Anyone who pays the registration fee and completes the required distance (at their own pace) is declared a winner. Volkssports are held in all weather conditions.

A Volkssport is an organized event designed to appeal to everyone, people of all ages. It is not a contest of speed or endurance. Participants go at their own pace but must complete the Volkssport before the finish time. Adequate time is available to complete the Volkssport event. There are usually several distances to select from.

One of the bonuses of Volkssporting is that each participant that pays the fee and enrolls in the IVV awards program by purchasing an IVV Event and/or Distance Record Book, is entitled to a certificate, hat pin and patch upon completion of milestones. Awards are earned by completing 10, 30, 50, and thereafter every 25 IVV sanctioned events and for every 500 kilometres (approximately 310 miles) completed at an IVV sanctioned Volkssport. There is no time limit for completing these books and they are good worldwide for sanctioned IVV events.

YRE – Year Round Event/Permanent (circuit) walk developed by a club

GW – Guided Walk event, lead by a club member or walk leader.

THURSDAY WALK PROGRAM 10:00am

2011-01-11T22:39:00.000-04:00

Island Hoppers,

As most of you are aware the Group Guided Walk Schedule for 2011 is now posted on our website.

The scheduled bi-weekly walk events will begin in March 2011 as per the schedule.

For those of you who want to keep in shape throughout the remainder of the winter or to at least get out once a week please note:

Our club President Joe MacKinnon and the VP Elsie Buck will now provide a weekly 10k walk event every Thursday at 10:00am.

Walk will begin at 308 Esplanade, the Cambridge Suites.

Please arrive in time to register and step off at 10am.

Event and Distance books may be stamped as per IVV/CVF rules.

Depending on weather conditions and the trails/sidewalks, Joe and Elsie will continue to use our Sydney Year Round Trail as much as possible.

Also note the Cambridge Suites now requires a parking fee; it is their lot and we must abide by their rules!!!

Participants are responsible for their own parking fees or an alternate parking area.

Rollie Coombes for Joe MacKinnon, President CBIH

Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club

Walking for Fun,Fitness & Friendship
www.capebretonislandhoppers.com

www.walks.ca

BEST WISHES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

2010-12-20T21:33:00.001-04:00

CAPE BRETON ISLAND HOPPERS AND FRIENDS,

At this time of the year I would like to take a moment to wish all of the Island Hoppers and our friends a Holiday Season blessed with Peace, Love and Joy!

Sending you my heartfelt wishes for a Joyful Season!

May you have a Safe and Happy New Year!

May you walk with Friends and have Fun!

Joe MacKinnon, President CBIH

WINTER WALKING PROGRAM

2010-12-13T17:24:00.000-04:00

The Canadian Volkssport Federations Special Winter Walking Program started 15 October.

The program was set up to encourage everyone to get out and walk or participate in all the CVF programs during the winter months.

You are encouraged to do at least 60 walk events or snow shoe/cross country skiing until 31 March during the winter season.

This coming Wednesday 15 December, 1:30pm, you are invited to attend the Sydney, Year Round Event starting at the Cambridge Suites.

On this occasion our club President Joe MacKinnon will have already reached the maximum challenge of 60 Winter Events for the season.

Come Join Joe on this 10k walk as he reaches his 60 Event quest!

Members and guest may opt to do a 5k walk if so desired.

Some of our members who have already joined the program such as Carmel, Elsie, Judy and Lucy are not far from catching up with Joe.

So come on out and challenge yourself to keeping fit for the winter.

Winter Walking Program

Location: Local, regional, national.

Cost: $5.00 for special registration card and pin; IVV credit

Awards & recognition: Pin upon registration; certificate & mention in Volkssport Canada upon completion. Multiple levels of achievement possible. IVV credit & Awards.

Special characteristics: any walk type [except RLDW] sanctioned by the CVF

Dates:Annual program from Oct 15 each year and closes March 31 the following year.

Applications for the CVF Special Walking Events Program can be found on the website: www.walks.ca

For Sale:

Cape Breton Island Hoppers Walking Sticks

Walking sticks are engraved with CBIH logo

Contact Elsie for details 562-3117

NOVEMBER EVENTS FOR THE CB ISLAND HOPPERS

2010-10-26T21:19:00.001-03:00

November marks the end of our season for 2010 with 2 walk events in November and our Annual General Meeting (AGM)

BROUGHTON WALK EVENT

Start Point: 2108 Broughton and Morrison Road B1B 1M9
Reg: 1:30pm, Sunday 7 November
Walk Starts: 2:00pm
GW lead by Shirley Pettigrew
Distance: 5-10k
TR: 1B

Walk takes place mostly on country roads with very little traffic if any and through wooded trails to the former Broughton Arms Hotel and the ghost Town of Broughton. Find out about this fascinating but short history of this long almost forgotten community. There is also a remediation program taking place nearby at the former Broughton Coal Mine

Directions from Sydney, Hwy 125 Exit 8 to Rte 22 and turn left on Morrison Rd, continue to the end of Morrison and Broughton intersection.

Annual General Meeting

Joe MacKinnon President of Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club Invites all members to Attend the Annual General Meeting

The AGM for the Cape Breton Island Hoppers will now take place on

Saturday 20 November, 2010, 3pm - 5pm

Members are encouraged to attend these most important meetings to ensure that you have a say in club matters. Location for the 2010 meeting: The Cape Breton Regional Library Headquarters, MacConnell Library, 50 Falmouth Street, Sydney

NEW DATE:

Saturday 20 November, 2010, 3pm - 5pm

LAST WALK OF THE SEASON!

BAILLE ARD NATURE TRAIL

The CBIH will be on the Baille Ard Trail as a Guided Walk Event

Sunday, 21 November

Registration takes place at 40 Cabot Street, St Joseph's RC Church parking lot at 1:30pm

We step off as a group at 2:00pm

The total distance will be 10k with an optional 5k event

Some of the distances covered will be along city streets as well as the nature park.

Walk Leader is Elsie Buck 562-3117

joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca

CAP - AUGUET ECO- TRAIL, ISLE MADAME

2010-10-17T22:02:00.000-03:00

CBIH AT CAP - AUGUET ECO TRAIL 2007

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers will be on the Cap-Auguet Eco - Trail, Isle Madame, in Boudreauville,
B0E 3C0.

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers Guided Walk Events take place in all or most weather conditions, rain, fog, wind or sunshine will normally not stop the walk event!

Sunday, 24 October, 2010
Walk Starts at 2:00pm
Registration begins at 1:30pm

Participants have a choice of 5k or 10k walk event.

The Trail is Rated at 2C, there are significant groomed portions of the trail such as boardwalks and there are footpaths that may not be groomed with some minor hills.

The trail features beaches, nature trails through old forest, coastline and views of mainland Nova Scotia, fishing boats in the harbours, several rest area and shelters along the trail.

Walk Leader is Karen MacNeil

Driving directions to Boudreauville:

Cape Auget Eco Trail, Hwy 104 to E46 to Isle Madame and Arichat. Follow Rte 320 and continue over bridge and turn right on 206, thru Arichat and continue to Petit de Grat/Sampson’s Cove B0E 3C0 Stay to the right in Boudreaville and continue to trail head. Watch for CBIH signs.

There are only three more walk events remaining in the CBIH calendar of events for 2010, so don't miss this opportunity to walk for Fun, Fitness and Friendship in this very unique part of our fabulous island.

Besides walking For Fun, Fitness and Friendship this is the original intentions of our organizations, our mandate is also all about, exploring the island we call Cape Breton!

Call and invite a friend(s) to this walk event and save by car pooling to the walk start point.

CBIH Walk Events are also featured in the online news site:

Cape Breton News Site
What's Going On WGO
http://www.whatsgoinon.ca/

Winter Walking Program

2010-10-14T21:36:00.000-03:00

The Canadian Volkssport Federation's Winter Walking Program is available as of 15 October

Members can sign up for this program through the CVF Office

Go to www.walks.ca and print off the "Special Walk Programs application form and send to:

Canadian Volkssport Federation

PO Box 2668, Station "D"

Ottawa, ON

K1P 5W7

The club president Joe MacKinnon or the Atlantic Director can provide you with this application as well.

THE WINTER WALK PROGRAM

Location: Local, regional, national.

Cost: $5.00 for special registration card and pin; IVV credit

Awards & recognition: Pin upon registration; certificate & mention in Volkssport Canada upon completion. Multiple levels of achievement possible. IVV credit & Awards.

Special characteristics: any walk type [except RLDW] sanctioned by the CVF

Dates: Annual program from Oct 15 each year and closes March 31 the following year.

Our Friend "Jim" McLean

2010-10-05T22:29:00.002-03:00

James Harold "Jim" McLean

1945-2010

The family are deeply saddened to announce the death of James Harold “Jim” McLean, who passed away, Sunday, October 3, 2010 at the Victoria General Hospital, Halifax, after a 16 month battle with lymphoma. Born in Niagara Falls, Ont., on April 30, 1945 he was the son of Mamie (Jones) and the late J. Douglas McLean. After spending his school years in Sault Ste. Marie, he attended UNB in Fredericton, graduating as an electrical engineer. He worked for Union Carbide in Welland, Ont. Sysco in Sydney and StoraEnso in Point Tupper where he retired after 26 years of service.

Jim was an active member of St. Mark’s United Church, the Rotary Club of Port Hawkesbury who honored him in 1997 as a Paul Harris Fellow, the Strait Area Community Curling Club, the Port Hastings Historical Society and the Cape Breton Island Volkssport Club.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Rilla (Tapley), his mother, Mamie McLean of The Grass Home in Riverview, N.B., ten cousins and their families, sisters-in-law, Shirley Tapley, Fredericton, NB, Joan (David) Cass and their children, Vancouver, BC.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff of the VG, floor 8A, for their compassionate care of Jim.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, 724 Granville St., Port Hawkesbury. Funeral service will be held at St. Mark’s United Church, 504 Bernard St., Port Hawkesbury on Friday at 11 am with Rev. Sheldon LeGrow officiating. Cremation has taken place. Interment in Burntland Brook Cemetery in New Brunswick at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Lodge That Gives, 5826 South Street, Halifax, N.S. B3H 1S6, or a charity of choice.
Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at: www.haverstocks.com

Celtic Colours Walk Event - Canoe Lake

2010-10-04T20:43:00.001-03:00

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers VC will be walking, rain or shine, on Sunday 10 October @ 2pm

This is our one and only Celtic Colours Walk Event for 2010.

Registration begins @ 1:30pm

Location: Canoe Lake Rd

Walk Leaders Barb and Cal Thistle

Contact Info: 567-6702 or cbthistle@yahoo.com

This is a linear style walk "in and out" on the same trail

Distances available 5k & 10k

Rating 2B

Directions: Follow Hwy 327 to Marion Bridge and continue past the bridge for 10ks to the Community of French Road.

The CBIH Walk Event will start at the "T" junction of French Road(Hwy 327) and Canoe Lake Road.

CBIH "WALK EVENT" sign will be posted at the intersection.

Park off Hwy 327 along Canoe Lake Road

The Canoe Lake Road/Trail has proven to be one of our most popular events with all club members, a stroll along an old road provides access to all of our members and continues past two or more small lakes with loons and ducks and lots of wildlife including Bald Eagles soaring above, and what remains of the village of Canoe Lake and a few minor hills in between plus the ever changing fall colours will make this a great walk event.

There are only four more official walk events left on our calendar of events for the 2010 season, so lets get out and make these last walks count before the official end of our walk season.

Come on out, and enjoy a walk with Friends, have some Fun and keep Fit at the same time!

NORTH RIVER FALLS CHALLENGE EVENT FOR 2010

2010-09-20T21:45:00.000-03:00

NORTH RIVER FALLS A DEFINITE CHALLENGE EVENT

One of the many (6) brooks we crossed going to North River Falls.(this was the easy one) Please continue reading if you intend to do this HIKE EVENT!

The next walk/Hike event for the CBIH will take place at North River Bridge on Sunday September 26th, 2010.

PRE - WALK ASSESSMENT:

The ~~wal~~k HIKE EVENT must start promptly at 10:00 am

Registration will take place at 09:30 and end at 09:55

HIKE LEADER: Rollie Coombes

There is construction work taking place on the Cabot Trail after St Anne's Gaelic College even on Sunday so please give yourself additional 15 minutes of travel time.

We must be walking asap so that we can be off the trail before dark!

There is no shorter route to North River Falls except by helicopter.

Trails signs along the route, "TRAIL, Keep it Wild" , is definitely true of this dramatic rugged trail.

Our Annual Schedule of Events has rated this trail in error at 2B, in fact this trail should be RATED 4D

As an organization our club has been to North River Falls on three occasions with various results depending on weather conditions and the time of year and as of today this is my 5th trip to North River Falls and this has been the most challenging yet, and again due to weather and wet trail conditions.

This is our Annual Challenge Event and due to heavy rains and fallen trees the event can no longer be considered a simple leisurely Volkssport event or what we would normally consider a walk event for all of our club members. The hike to the falls is not for everyone!!!

The hills we encountered are not extremely high but can be very slippery during and immediately after a rainfall.

If you have any doubts about your ability to cross rivers or scamper across wet rocks or move along a narrow ledge, then you should reconsider going all the way to the falls.

THERE IS AN OPTION CONTINUE READING:

You must be prepared for an 8 Hour Hike to the falls!!

Two of our members Phyllis MacLeod and Diane Clarke had been to the North River Falls immediately after the storm that hit Meat Cove and encountered difficulties and averaged about 8 hours on the trail.

Three of our members Carmel Coffin, Lucy Nardini and Rollie have just returned on Sunday 19 September and we had taken about 7 hours to do the round trip.

Both parties of explorers have indicated we should drop this trail (to the Falls) off of our schedule of events for the foreseeable future.

There are only two bridges remaining across the brooks and streams that are now small rivers, we were forced to make 6 water crossings in order to get to the falls.

We counted over 8 dead falls that we had to maneuverer around causing some delays as well as the water crossing.

Due to the heavy rains the trail is 60% wet with streams flowing along the trail.

If we have more rain this coming week the trail will deteriorate even more and looking at the long term forecast this is a definite possibility.

YOUR OPTIONS:

The schedule of events has given all walkers an option to do 5K, 10K and 18K.

For those members wanting to do 5 & 10 Ks we can offer you a reasonable safe but possibly wet trail with some cautions.

Any members wanting to do the entire 18K to the North River Waterfall must be prepared for an 8 hour demanding HIKE!

WHAT YOU SHOULD TAKE ON THIS TRAIL:

DO NOT WALK ALONE ON THIS TRAIL, EVERYONE MUST KEEP THE PERSON BEHIND OR IN FRONT IN VIEW; WALK IN PAIRS.

All Participants should wear Hiking Boots or good sturdy hiking sneakers.

You must carry water and for those continuing to the falls extra water and definitely a snack

All participants should carry a walking stick to help get across the brooks and along a 400m stretch of a rock face or cliff.

Carry or wear a rain suit/jacket

Carry a whistle in case of injury (the sounds from the river drowns out voices)

Small First Aid kits if you have one, the walk leader will carry a larger FA kit.

A small flashlight would be a smart idea as well just in case we are on the trail after dark.

Dry clothes and shoes upon return, its along drive back home.

The ~~wal~~k HIKE EVENT must start promptly at 10:00 am

Registration will take place at 09:30 and end at 09:55

We must be walking asap so that we can be off the trail before dark!

Our Annual Schedule of Events has rated this trail in error at 2B, in fact this trail should be RATED 4D

Some photos of the pre-walk event:

http://cbislandtrailphotos.blogspot.com/

SEPTEMBER WALK EVENTS AROUND THE PROVINCE

2010-09-14T21:54:00.001-03:00

The next walk event for the CB Island Hoppers:

Sunday 26 Sept., 2010
Scroll down to see more information on this and other walk events!

Discover Atlantic Canada Through Volkssports
Or "The Blue Book!"

Saturday Sept. 18th 09:00 am
5/10k, 2B
Dartmouth Volksmarch Club presents the:
The 12th Annual IVV Walk Event will take place at Greenwood Village Commission Office, Central Ave., Greenwood
Contact DVC for further details:
Ron Kent President 902-462-2743
website info: www.dartmouthvolksmarchclub.com

Sunday, Sept 19th 10:00am
12k, 3D
Dartmouth Volksmarch Club
Chezzetcook River
Dan Haycock 479-2817 for further details
Hwy 107, exit 21, left to Conrod Settlement

The next walk event for the CB Island Hoppers:

North River Falls

Sunday 26 Sept., 2010

Registration: 9:30am

Start Time: 10:00am

18K return

Also available 5/10K

Walk Leader Rollie Coombes

849-0747

bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

This is our Annual Challenge Walk Event; participants must be ready for at least 6 hours or more on the trail.
Carry extra water, and pack some snack or trail type food but do not overburden yourself.
Good Hiking Boots, Rain gear and walking sticks and a whistle if you have one.

From Sydney follow Hwy 125 to the 105 and take Exit 11 to the Community of North River Bridge and follow the signs to the Provincial Picnic Park at North River Bridge PP.

At this time we are planning to use the North River Trail to the falls, however if the weather conditions continues (rain) we will use the Oregon Road and Trail to the summit that overlooks the water fall.

There will be an exploratory walk or pre-walk event, to the falls on Sunday 19 September to ensure that the trail is passable for our group event.

If you would like to join this first walk please contact me asap as I want to limit the amount to no more then 4 - 6 walkers going on this early walk.

The Bus Tour

2010-09-07T22:49:00.000-03:00

After the trip to Gaspe area I thought you might like this:

The following was extracted from "Readers Digest" submitted by Roy Thirweill Warner, Burlington, Ont.

Insert Gaspe in place of Holland

A tour group of Canadian seniors is travelling by bus through ~~Holland~~ Gaspe.
When the bus stops at a cheese farm, the young guide by the name of Lynda, leads the tourists through the fine process of cheese-making, explaining that goat's milk is used.
Pointing to a lovely hillside where many goats are grazing, the guide explains, these are the older goats. They're put out to pasture when they no longer produce milk.
"What do you do in Canada with your old goats?" She asks.
A spry gentlemen, by the name of Rick answers,
" They send us on bus tours!"

Gaspe Hiking tour photos will be published over the next few weeks in our Photo Section.

2010 Marathon Event w/Valley Trekkers VC New Date

2010-09-06T09:56:00.000-03:00

NOTE: The Marathon Event Takes Place on Saturday, September 11, 2010.
The CBIH Annual Walk Schedule has the incorrect date.
Please Note the 42k Marathon Event hosted by the Valley Trekkers Volkssport Club will be held at 97 Palmer Road, Harmony, NS.
Take Exit 16 off Hwy 101 to Aylesford.
Details are found in the Atlantic Blue Book.
My sincere apologies for any inconveniences that this may have caused.

Rollie Coombes

COMPLIMENTARY VOLUNTEER BREAKFAST

2010-08-01T23:22:00.000-03:00

All club members and all those who volunteered to help make the 2010 CVF Convention and Annual General Meeting such a wonderful and successful event are invited to attend a complimentary breakfast on Sunday, 8 August 2010.

Location: Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 83, Florence

Please meet in the Legion Hall parking lot at 10:45 for an 11:00am sitting.

A breakfast menu of 2 fried or scrambled eggs, with a choice of Bacon, Ham, sausges, Toast - white or brown, and Juice- apple,orange, tomato

All those attending are asked to call Elsie Buck or e-mail by Wednesday 04 August to ensure we have a place for you at the table(s).

562-3117, joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca

After breakfast/brunch members can proceed to North Sydney, Clansman Motel, if they so desire, for the start of a complimentary walk event using the Year Round Event.

Please pass this message on to any of our members, that you are aware of, who do not have an email address or may be away at this time.

Joe MacKinnon, President CBIH

Elsie Buck, VP CBIH and 2010 Convention Coordinator

Fun, Fitness, Friendship, Food!

Volkssport Special Walk Event - Capital City Programs

2010-07-09T22:57:00.001-03:00

For Club Members Interested in how other volkssporters respond to the IVV awards program here is an example of dedicated Volkssporters who take our non-competetive sport of Fun and Friendship to another level of enthusiasim for our many special walk programs. Thought this was interesting and wanted to share it with our membership!

Our Special Walk Programs can be found on the website: www.walks.ca

Hi Roland! My wife, and I have completed the 51 US Capital Walks and are

on doing the Canadian ones. With my brother, the three of us are planning

on departing, From the US, area via car during the last week of Aug. to do

the Atlantic and Maritime Providences' Capital Walks. Last Sept, we did

Alberta and Victoria, and on this trip, we hope to complete NL, NS, PE,

NB, and maybe QC.

I saw on the CVA [nb;Canadian Volkssport Federation (http://www.walks.ca/ )] Internet site the "Special Note" regarding the St. John's, NL walk and that we needed to contact you for directions and stamp. I'm not exactly sure of the process that I should follow. Do we do something via mail, or is it done over the Internet?
We would appreciate information on the process we should use.

NB: As the CVF Atlantic Director I look after the walk event in St John's NL and all walkers going to that province who want the Capital City Walk Stamp must contact me before proceeding to Newfoundland, I in turn send all info to the participant, this is open to all volkssporters. So far from our club I have given out six stamps for St John's CVF -188.

Also, if you have any suggestions on the best way to do the loop of those

capitals, that would be great. Someone suggested taking the ferry from N.

Sidney to St. John's, either with or without the car, and another person

suggested leaving the car in Halifax and flying to St. John's. What would

you recommend?

From Rollie: At this point I gave them the pros and cons of driving to St John's and ferry information if they did not intend to stop for sghtseeing in other areas of NS or NL!! Not being familiar with the area I also explained about the Confederation bridge to PEI and the ferry into NS etc.

We are looking forward to our first trip to those parts of Canada and

thank you for any additional ideas you might have. Thanks.

Doug & Jackie

Post Messages CVF 2010 Convention

2010-06-09T20:59:00.001-03:00

Some of the Post Messages CVF 2010 Convention and Annual General Meeting

Hello from Florida.

I just wanted to thank you for your hospitality while at the convention.

I enjoyed the People and the Area.

I also enjoyed the cooler weather. Take care and continue walking,

Jim Leitch

Hi Rollie and Elsie!

I just wanted to thank you for putting on such a wonderful convention.

I had a really good time. Everything was so wonderfully organized.

I enjoyed the banquet (the chicken was delicious) and the entertainment so much.
The walks were great as well.

I particularly enjoyed the Historical 5km walk in Petersfield park - what a wonderful idea!!!
Thanks again.
Laurie Ross (Saskatchewan)

From Nova Scotia:

The Convention was great. You guys did a fantastic job. It was welcoming-felt right at home. The walks were excellent. I did the historic one on Sun and we all enjoyed it. Very interesting. I liked the Sat walk also-nice to get off the busy streets.
Thank all your people. You all deserve a pat on the back.
How is Elsie?? Hope she's feeling better. Give her our best.

Thanks again from Sheila, Bettie, Ineke and Karen

From Alberta:

Thank you for a great AGM. Keep up the great work. Enjoyed all of the walks, talks and weather. Also thank the gals who put together the bag of goodies which was presented to me when number 47 was drawn on the first walk.

Pauline Mann, Volkssport Club of Medicine Hat.

Doug and Kathy Grant Farewell to Cape Breton

2010-04-20T20:59:00.000-03:00

CB Island Hoppers:

As promised, we would like to advise all our friends in the Islandhoppers that, as of May 13, we will be resident at 8 Stanmore Avenue, Kitchener, Ontario N2B 3W2 .

As yet, we have no new telephone number. Both Kathy's e-mail kathygrant498@msn.com and mine douglass_grant@cbu.ca will remain the same for the foreseeable future.

We thank all of our friends for the wonderful sendoff at Terry's last Saturday, and hope to have the pleasure of entertaining many of the same friends whenever they may be in the Kitchener area. Best wishes to all,

Doug Grant

Rebecca Susanna (Betty) Sutherland

2010-04-20T20:38:00.002-03:00

Cape Breton Island Hoppers Members and Friends,

Regretfully, Our Vice President and 2010 Convention Chairperson Elsie Buck has informed us about the passing of her Mother Rebecca Susanna (Betty) Sutherland

Mom passed away on the 16 May 2010.

Visitation at Alex Morrison Funeral Home

in St. Peters on Sat 24 April 2010. 2pm - 9pm.

Funeral at a later date.

Cape Breton Post

& Chronicle Herald obituary has been posted for Tuesday, 20 April.

Take Care,

Elsie

Dear Rollie:

Kathy and I am sure that we join with all our members and friends in expressing our heartfelt sympathy to Elsie in the loss of her mother.

CVF Annual General Meeting And Convention 2010

2010-04-13T23:06:00.000-03:00

CBIH Members please check your calendars for a Date Change reference the Convention General meeting and please give this message to any member you know who does not have a computer:

http://walkcapebreton.com/

GENERAL CONVENTION MEETING Will Now Be Held On:

WEDNESDAY, 21 April, 6:30

Subject: Convention 2010,

Time is beginning to catch up with us only 45 days before the big event

Cape Breton Regional Library Headquarters

McConnell Memorial Library

Meeting Room

50 Falmouth Street, Sydney, NS

For further details please contact:

President CBIH Joe MacKinnon, 562-3117

Elsie Buck, VP, Chairperson 2010 Convention

E-mail joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca or bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

APRIL - UP COMING EVENTS WITH THE ISLAND HOPERS

2010-04-12T22:39:00.003-03:00

POT LUCK! FAREWELL! FUN, FRIENDSHIP! FOOD!

Saturday, 17 April, 4 - 7 PM

Terry Crawley tgcrawley@bellaliant.net from Ways and Means Committee invites all members of Cape Breton Island Hoppers to attend a Pot Luck Supper on the occassion of saying our "Farewells to Kathy and Doug Grant who will be leaving Cape Breton on or about the 7th of May.
Doug and Kathy will be taking up residents in Kitchener, Ontario.
The party will take place at Terry Craley's home on "The Mira" http://www.onthemira.com/

35 Pledge Drive, off Hillside Road, B1K 3J6

tgcrawley@bellaliant.net

http://www.onthemira.com/

WALK EVENTS:
PRE-CONVENTION WALK

All members of CBIH are invited to walk on:

SUNDAY, 18 APRIL, 1:30 pm and step off at 2:00 pm

Location: Ortona Drive, (off the Esplanade) meet in front of the gates at Victoria Park Armouries.

This will be a pre-walk event for the CVF Presidents Walk that will take place during the Annual General Meeting and Convention 2010.
The CBIH walk committee would like as many Island Hoppers as possible to know some or most of this route to help our visitors get around the trail as easily as possible.
There will be direction signs on the route or trail but it is still nice to have someone know the trail to be of assistance to our visitors.
The "presidents walk event" will officially take place on Saturday 29 May, 2010. Please see the convention website for more details http://www.walkcapebreton.com/

WALK EVENT:

The Walk Committe invites all members to also Walk on:
COXHEATH HILLS TRAIL, "POST CONVENTION WALK"
1330 Coxheath Rd., Coxheath Trails, CBRM – Coxheath, B1L 1B3
Saturday, 24th April 10:00 AM
5KM and 10KM, Trail Rating 3D

This walk event will be offered on the scheduled for the 2010 Convention on:
Monday 31 May; the walk committee want to have some of our members familiar with the trail before the convention.

NOTE:
Guided Walk Event through the newly developed Coxheath Trails with views of Sydney Harbour and surrounding areas; the trail extends through a pine and spruce forest area with a brook and small waterfall and there will be lots of rest stops along the way. This is a slightly more challenging walk then the previous convention walks so please be prepared with good hiking shoes or boots.

WALK EVENT:

CVF- 59 SYDNEY - YEAR ROUND OR PERMANENT WALK EVENT

The regular Calendar of Walk Events for April:
Sunday, 25th April
Registration: 1:30 pm
Start Time: 2:00 pm
Location: 380 Esplanade, Cambridge Suites, Sydney

NOTE:

The above walk event will also be offered for Friday, 28 May the 2010 Convention with a minor exception, on Friday 28 May, we will meet at the "Big Fiddle" or the kiosk nearby as you enter the Joan Harris Pavillion area, marine terminal where the cruise ships dock!
The Canadian Volkssport Federation (CVF) has introduced a new program for volkswalkers or volkssporter who just happen to be aboard cruise ships. When their ship arrives at a participating club location dock, and have made prior arrangements with the host club the walkers aboard ship can now start their "Sydney Walk" from the docking area.

See Walk Directions (the walk directions are being modified or under construction at this time but the basic info will remain the same)

http://cbihwalkdirections.blogspot.com/

APRIL WALK EVENT

2010-04-07T23:26:00.000-03:00

The Island Hoppers will be in North Sydney for a 5/10k guided walk event.
Start point is 9 Baird Street, Clansman Motel parking lot.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Registration Time: 1:30pm
Walk begins promptly at 2:00pm
The walk event is our, Year Round Event, (YRE), this is our permanent year round route in North Sydney.

Come join Nip Hillier and the Island Hoppers for a fun walk in North Sydney!

CVF 2010 CONVENTION, ISLAND ACTIVITIES

2010-03-17T23:37:00.004-03:00

Lots of fun with the Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club and Friends!
Above 'another "Big Fiddle" at the Celtic Music Centre, Judique, Cape Breton Island'
CVF AGM and CONVENTION 2010 CAPE BRETON ISLAND
28, 29, 30 and 31 MAY
http://www.walkcapebreton.com/

For those persons staying at the Cambridge Suites, 380 Esplanade, B1P 1B1, walk or drive north along the the Esplanade, or follow the boardwalk, with the water and "Big Fiddle" on your left, you are a 12 minute or less walk from the convention venue at 5 Garrison Road, Victoria Park Armories and even closer if staying at the Delta Hotel.
Go to Google maps and street maps to take the tour!
Members of the CVF Board of Directors your first meeting on Friday, 28 May is next door to the Cambridge Suites, 320 Esplanade, Civic Centre/City Hall.
The IVV flag will be flying from the City Hall for the Convention and the week preceding the CVF arrival in Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
What to do on the Island:
During your visit to the Island, tour the Community of Louisbourg and Fortress Louisbourg, do the Seasonal Walk Event to the Lighthouse.
The Seasonal Walk in Glace Bay will take you to the Cape Breton (Glace Bay) Miners Museum, underground tours are available!
The Seasonal Walk (Lighthouse Event) in Baddeck will take you to the Alexander Graham Bell Museum; Baddeck is the site of the first flight in Canada and the Commonwealth.
Rita MacNeil Tea Room on Route 4 is available and a very popular location to visit.
After or before the convention take a private tour of the Cabot Trail Highway that encircles the north of the island and the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, one of the best golf courses in Canada is located here including 10 or more other courses on the island.

There are several whale watching tours available.
Go to http://www.novascotia.com/ for more attractions and things to do on on our island.

Please tell other volkssporters about the 2010 CVF Convention and AGM, this will be the last Annual CVF Convention as the CVF may not have another Convention until 2012 as no other clubs have come forward to hold a convention in 2011.
It may be possible that CVF Conventions will now be held on the even years, however this will have to be approved by the members at an Annual general Meeting.
An Annual General Meeting for the CVF may possibly be held in 2011 by electronic means, not a very exciting prospect but a legal necessity.
So take this opportunity to visit an exciting part of Canada while you can!
GO TO OUR CONVENTION WEBSITE FOR FURTHER DETAILS, PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO ALL VOLKSSPORTERS!
http://www.walkcapebreton.com/

MARCH 2010 FIRST GROUP WALK EVENT AND CVF 2010 CONVENTION MEETINGS

2010-03-11T23:10:00.001-04:00

a 2009 walk at Baille Ard Trail

The First Group Walk Event for 2010

Start Point: 380 Esplanade, Sydney - Cambridge Suites Hotel

Date: Sunday, 21 March

Time:

Registration begins at 1:30 PM

Walk Time: 2:00 PM (step off at 2pm sharp)

This is The Cape Breton Island Hoppers 5k and a 10k walk event using our Year Round trail in Sydney. The trail begins at Cambridge Suites continues through Wentworth Park, Baille Ard Trails, George Street to Victoria Park, the Big Fiddle and return along the boardwalk to Cambridge Suites.

The "big fiddle" at the Joan Harris Pavilion, cruise ship docking area, location of our first convention walk on 28 May, 2010. This is the Start Point for the new CVF National "Dock and Walk Program", where cruise ship passengers who are volkssporters can do a Year Round Walk Event starting from a cruise ship docking area.

Come out and learn the the entire route as this will be the first walk event we will be doing for the 2010 Convention on Friday, 28 May. We need as many members as possible to be familiar with all of the Convention walks to assist our visitors along the trails.

Other routes will be rehearsed/pre-walked as well and there will be a schedule published at the next Committee Meetings for the 2010 Convention.

GENERAL MEETING/ALL COMMITTEES FOR THE 2010 CONVENTION

This is a National Convention where we will be hosting members/walkers from all parts of Canada and the USA and participants from Europe and possibly other nations.
All are welcome to attend
Let's show our Cape Breton hospitality.

GENERAL CONVENTION MEETING:

THURSDAY 25 March, 6:30
Subject: Convention 2010
Cape Breton Regional Library Headquarters
McConnell Memorial Library
Meeting Room
50 Falmouth Street, Sydney, NS
For further details please contact:

President CBIH Joe MacKinnon, 562-3117

Elsie Buck, VP, Chairperson 2010 Convention

E-mail joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca or bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE MEETING:

For those members on the WAYS and MEANS FUNDING COMMITTEE , your next meeting is:

Monday, 22 March 7PM

Contact Terry Crawley for further details tgcrawley@bellaliant.net
or Judy Lorway judylorway@hotmail.com

Entrance to Victoria Park, Ortona Drive

Victoria Park will be the 2010 Convention Centre for further details go to www.walkcapebreton.com

2010 Convention Meetings and Silent Auction Fund Raiser

2010-02-20T12:27:00.001-04:00

Cape Breton Island Hoppers and Friends:

Canadian Volkssport Federation 2010 Convention and Annual General Meeting
2010 Convention Meeting for Committee Members and anyone interested in helping to make this a successful Convention

This is a National Convention where we will be hosting members/walkers from all parts of Canada and the USA and participants from Europe and possibly other nations.
Drop in an volunteer, lets make this a successful convention!
More challenging work has to be done to show off the best we have to offer! Let's show our Cape Breton hospitality.

GENERAL CONVENTION MEETING:

THURSDAY 25 February, 6:30
Subject: Convention 2010
Cape Breton Regional Library Headquarters
McConnell Memorial Library
Nova Scotia Room
50 Falmouth Street, Sydney, NS
For further details please contact the club President Joe MacKinnon, 562-3117 or e-mail joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca or bretonhoppers@hotmail.com
Joe MacKinnon, President CBIH

Elsie Buck, VP, Chairperson 2010 Convention

WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE MEETING:

For those members on the Ways and Means Committee, your next meeting is:
WAYS and MEANS COMMITTEE MEETING:
Monday, 01 March 7PM
89 Shandwick Street, Sydney
Contact Terry Crawley for further details tgcrawley@bellaliant.net
or Judy Lorway judylorway@hotmail.com

SILENT AUCTION FUND RAISER

The CVF Annual General Meeting and Convention 2010 organizers have begun the process of organizing a "Silent Auction" to take place as part of the fun activities of the convention weekend.
Individual Club Members and All clubs and organizations within the CVF who wish to donate an item can now do so by contacting the CB Island Hoppers Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Terry Crawleytgcrawley@bellaliant.net
and/or Judy Lorway judylorway@hotmail.com
Terry and Judy will be quite happy to let you know when and where to send the item(s) or they can let you know who to give these to when you arrive at the Convention Registration sign-in area.
This is a good way to promote your club or association, an excellent way to show support for your club, please feel free to add a label onto the item marked "Donated by CLUB NAME" and we would suggest something that also promotes your province, city, town or region.
We thank you for your support and look forward to seeing you all in Cape Breton on 28-31 May, 2010.
Terry Crawley, Judy Lorway"

Snowshoeing Program & HEAL Cape Breton Walk Event

2009-12-21T21:12:00.005-04:00

Winter Fun with The Island Hoppers
SNOESHOE EVENTS:
Come join Elsie Buck and the Island Hoppers in 2010 on the snowshoe trails in Ben Eoin starting 10:00am, Wednesday 6 January 2010 and every Wednesday thereafter until the snow disappears.
You can also join this group at 10:00am, on Sunday 10 January and every second Sunday thereafter as well.

A DAILY, NOON HOUR WALK:

HEAL Cape Breton, (Healthy Eating, Active Lifestyle) Walk Program begins at noon hour, Tuesday, 05 January 2010 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital at the cafeteria entrance, at the rear entrance of the hospital. This is a 6 week walking program and would be an excellent program for the busy or novice walker to help get in shape for our spring and summer walk events. Program is sponsored by the CBR Hospital, HEAL Cape Breton, Heart and Stroke Foundation, and the CB Island Hoppers.

Message From Shirlee Cruickshanks - Cat Rescue Program

2009-12-21T20:07:00.001-04:00

A File photo, sorry not one of Shirlee's Cats! But I'm sure she has one just as cute!

Dear Joe and Elsie,

Thank you for thinking of us and wishing us happy holidays. We also wish you both a very Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

We enjoyed the Christmas get together and meeting everyone. We know we are going to enjoy playing and walking with all you good folk. Merry Christmas from "The Shanks" - Shirlee and John and all our critters.

"Shirlee's Cat Rescue Program"

Please remember if you will. I do cat rescue and have many cats up for adoption looking for good homes.

Please pass this on to those you know if you hear of anyone looking for a cat. My cats have all been restored to good health and are spay and neutered. I have some lovely ones. It helps to get the word out there. You never know who you could be talking to or hearing of someone looking for a cat. My number. is 564-6216.

Healthy Eating Active Living

2009-11-24T21:38:00.001-04:00

HEAL CB has entered the national AVIVA Community Fund Competition to win
$250,000 for three important programs: HEAL Closet, HEAL Locker Room
and HEAL Food Basket.

This could be huge for Cape Bretoners - we need everyone to get involved
and vote online to get HEAL Cape Breton to the 'national' semi-finals.

I would really appreciate your help in pushing this idea to the finals.
Please vote for us at http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf4536

Please note you will have to register your email address and a password.
Please circulate and be sure to cast your vote for HEAL Cape Breton
today and everyday until Nov 29. You can vote once a day until Nov.29th.

We have set up a "HEAL Cape Breton"
page on Facebook as well to promote this important initiative.
Let's work together to HEAL Cape Breton.

Thank you.
Contact Information:

Lisa MacDougall
Executive Director
HEAL Cape Breton (Healthy Eating Active Living)
TEL: 902-567-7799
EMAIL: macdougalll@cbdha.nshealth.ca

Baille Ard Trail Meeting

2009-11-20T18:10:00.001-04:00

From Baille Ard Trail Representative Kim Larade

This month our meeting will be this Thursday, Nov. 26/09 at 7PM at Sherwood
Park. Our numbers have be dwindling, so it would be good to see some new faces
there.
Topics to be discussed include:
-Committees
-Dogs on the trails
-Signs
-Trail Maintenance & bridges
-Website
-Park Status
-Walking Program
Thanks.
Kim

MESSAGE FROM LEE AND SUZANNE LAZARO

2009-11-20T18:07:00.001-04:00

A couple items of note: We belong to a hiking club here in Oregon, the Mary's Peak Group of the Sierra Club. Our club president, Barry Wulff, is a Newfie, born and raised on "the Rock" (as he calls it) before relocating to the West Coast. When he learned that Sue and I were "part-time Cape Bretoners", and planning a trip to his homeland in 2011, he took to us. He has offered the attached reading list of books about Newfoundland, which I have attached for your reading interest.

Second, I noted in Shirley's report that you all did a tour at Gettysburg Battlefield in Pennsylvania. You may not know that seven generations of my family, the Lazaro's, were born and raised in Pennsylvania. If during your battlefield tour, you visited "Little Round Top", at the end of Cemetery Ridge at Gettysburg ( the site of the fiercest fighting of the three-day battle, made famous in the movie "Gettysburg" and book by the same name, by Michael Shirra), you may have seen the "Pennsylvania Monument", a tribute to the Union troops from Pennsylvania who fought there. Inscribed on the monument are the names of the troops, and included is the name of my great, great-grandfather, Charles A. Lazaro, who fought for the Union and held the line against massive Confederate assault, at Little Round Top (and fortunately, survived to tell about it, or I guess I wouldn't be here ! :-)

Just wanted to share that with you all. Happy November and a Merry Christmas !!

Lee & Suzanne Lazaro

Olympic Torch Relay

2009-11-16T22:11:00.000-04:00

The Olympic Torch arrives tonight, Monday, at 8:00 pm in Port Hawkesbury.
On Tuesday November 17 at 10:35 am Rilla will be wheeling the Olympic Torch from McDonalds to the Civic Centre along Reeves Street in Port Hawkesbury as it leaves Town on its way to Antigonish.
She was called about 5 weeks ago and told her name had been given as a community representative.
She agreed to carry the torch, has received her uniform, had it slightly altered and will use her new wheelchair with the emergency lights flashing!

Cheers
Jim

END OF SEASON PARTY AND OTHER TIDBITS

2009-11-15T23:14:00.000-04:00

The Annual Club Meeting:
Some notes from the meeting, this is not the formal minutes!
The CBIH held its Annual General meeting on Saturday 14 November 2009.
All members of the club executive agreed to continue in their respective positions for the 2010 season.
This is good news as all executive members have been outstanding in these positions and they will now be able to focus on the upcoming CVF 2010 Convention and Annual General Meeting to be held in CBRM-Sydney.
This is not to say that the general membership should allow all of the convention work be shouldered by these hard working group of indivduals. The convention organizers and the club will always need your support to ensure we continue as a viable club and that the convention is second to none in the CVF organization.

Winter Fun:

Are you interested in snow-shoeing this winter and would like to participate with the group, then contact our Vice-President/Trails Coordinator Elsie Buck as she is organizing events for us at Ski-Ben Eoin or other locations. Give her a call or e-mail and let her know you are interested in this type of winter activity. joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca

2010 Schedule Cancellation Notices:

The 2010 schedule is now posted on line at http://www.capebretonislandhoppers.com/
Anyone who has a paper copy that was given out at the AGM please check the website for corrections.
Please note that the AGM has agreed to drop 3 of the Celtic Colours Walk events due to poor participation this past year and the slow decline over the past several years.
We will retain only the Canoe Lake Walk on Sunday 10 Oct 2010. Details are on the website.

CBIH Members End of Season Party!

This years' party will be a pot luck affair at Judy Lorways home, 89 Shandwick, Sydney. Pot Luck suppers have continued to be a favourite amogst our club members, so bring something hot or cold your choice.
6:30pm Saturday, 28 November
Come join us for Fun, Food and Friendship!

LAST EVENTS FOR 2009

2009-10-20T19:10:00.002-03:00

Bridge on The Marconi Rail Trail

The wild life is returning to the ponds at the former heavy water plant
Guided Walk Events and CBIH Annual General Meeting
The 2009 walking season for the Cape Breton Island Hoppers is drawing to a close with two walk events and the clubs annual general meeting remaining for November. The 2010 schedule is now available by contacting the club President Joe MacKinnon at the next walk event, at the annual general meeting or you can see the schedule (a work in progress) online at http://www.capebretonislandhoppers.com/
EVENT # 1
Sunday 01 November, Guided Walk Event
Registration: 1:30pm, Start Time: 2:00pm
Marconi Towers Trail (My name for this portion of the S&L Railroad)
This trail is also part of the future development of the DEVCO MEMORIAL TRAIL.
5/10k Rated 1C, note our original assessment of this trail was 2C however the new SP for this year has made it much easier then previous walk s on this trail.
Start Point: 755 Hwy 255 (Donkin/Glace Bay Hwy)
The start point for this walk event is the “former Heavy Water Plant” parking lot in front of building #1 and please note that there are signs indicating the highway is closed except for “local traffic”. The road is open to the former plant and we will have signs directing you to the parking lot.
Walk Leader: Rollie Coombes, 849-0747, bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

EVENT # 2
Saturday 14 November, 1:30 – 4:00pm MEETING
CBIH Annual General Meeting
Cape Breton Regional Library Headquarters
McConnell Memorial Library
50 Falmouth Street, Sydney, NS
http://www.cbrl.ca/
For further details or to suggest an item on the agenda please contact the club President Joe MacKinnon, 562-3117 or e-mail joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca or bretonhoppers@hotmail.com

EVENT # 3
Sunday, 15 November Guided Walk Event
The Last Guided Walk for 2009
Registration: 1:30pm, Start Time: 2:00pm
MacKeigan Road/ Trail
Marion Bridge
5/10k Rated 2C
From Sydney take Hwy 327 to Marion Bridge, MacKeigan Road is a short distance after the bridge off Hwy 327. CBIH signs will be posted to the Start Point.
Walk Leader: Lucy Nardini, bretonhoppers@hotmail.com
Don’t forget our two Year Round Events in Sydney and North Sydney will remain open until DEC 30^th. Members can support the club by doings these walk events on your own or with friends and other club members whenever you want to get out for a walk. YRE’s are an excellent way to accumulate distances in your awards books and to help the club as well.
Hope to see as many club members as possible at these last events for 2009.
Check out all the information on the Canadian Volkssport Federation (CVF) 2010 Convention to be held here in Sydney 28-30 May, 2010 http://www.walkcapebreton.com/

NEW WALKING TRAIL PROPOSED

2009-10-15T21:53:00.001-03:00

THE DEVCO RAIL TRAIL

This is a follow up meeting from a workshop attended by the CBIH walk committee.

The proposed conversion of the DEVCO rail line that runs from Sydney to downtown Louisbourg needs vocal support. This is part of the divestment plan of the defunct DEVCO facilities on Cape Breton Island and of CBRM's Active Transportation Plan to turn the old railroad through Glace Bay and Dominion into an active transportation (walking, biking, etc.) trail. This is part of the original Sydney&Louisbourg Railroad.

The officials at DEVCO and at CBRM are still considering the issue, but is fearful of moving forward without a tangible amount of support.

Presently, there is debate about whether or not motorized vehicles should be included. If you care about this issue one way or the other, please attend these meetings. If you live along the trail in Glace Bay or Dominion, this is your opportunity to have your say as to what that trail will look like and what types of uses will be included.

PUBLIC MEETINGS on the proposed DEVCO rail trail are planned for the following locations and dates:

Wednesday, October 21 at the BayPlex in Glace Bay

Thursday, October 22 at the Dominion branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Both meetings are scheduled for 7-9 pm and Jim Neale will be facilitating

Please add this on your "To Do List" to show your support for this initiative. It would provide a recreational trail that would bypass the notorious Trunk 4 traffic, and allow kids and adults a way to safely commute to work, meet friends, go shopping, run errands, go to events and the like.We cannot afford to let this opportunity pass us by!

Island Hoppers Annual General Meeting

2009-10-15T21:28:00.001-03:00

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club's Annual General Meeting (AGM)

DATE CHANGE: SATURDAY, 14 November 2009, 1:30 - 4:00pm

Members are encouraged to attend these most important meetings to ensure that you have a say in club matters.

This years meeting is definitely very important due to the upcoming Canadian Volkssport Federation Annual General Meeting and Convention to be held here in Cape Breton 28-30 May, 2010.

Location for this years 2009 Annual Club Meeting will be The Cape Breton Regional Library Headquarters, MacConnell Library, 50 Falmouth Street, Sydney
http://www.cbrl.ca

SATURDAY, 14 November 2009, 1:30 - 4:00pm

Joe MacKinnon, President CBIH

Celtic Colours Walks

2009-10-09T08:39:00.001-03:00

The Cape Breton Island Hoppers Volkssport Club present an annual series of walks during the Celtic Colours International Music Festival:

Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 2:00pm French Road/ Canoe Lake Trail

Walk Leader Carmel Coffin, Distance 5 and 10k Rated 2B

Directions To Start Point: From Sydney take Hwy 327 to Marion Bridge and continue for 10k to the Community of French Road. Canoe Lake Road is on the right.

Sunday, October 11, 2009 at 2:00pm Grand River/Heather Hill

Walk Leaders Barb and Cal Thistle, Distance 5 and 12k Rated 2B

Directions to start Point: Follow Hwy 4 to Soldiers Cove, take road to Grand River, continue to Fire Hall in Grand River.

42K Marathon CD Available

2009-10-08T20:03:00.001-03:00

A very special CD featuring the 42K Marathon walk event has been developed and is available by contacting Terry Crawley of our Ways and means Committee. crawleyterry@gmail.com
The CD was developed by the creative touch of Clare MacNeil in collaboration and partnership with the recreation director for Inverness County, AnnaLee MacEachern.
Clare MacNeil clare.macneil@ns.sympatico.ca will have some CD's available on the bus tour.
The DVD was produced by professionals at The Judique Interpretive Center in Judique using their creativity. They produce music DVD's for the well known local musicians such as Kinnon Beaton featured on this DVD. The music on this DVD is terrific. It is worth the $10.00 just to listen to the music. The scenes are beautiful scenes of the Trans Canada Trail. The people in the pictures of the marathon are fantastic.
A large number of photos have been produced as a souvenir on our Sept 12 event from Troy to Port Hood.
Music Credits: Kinnon Beaton and musicians on the Eoghan Dubh CD.

Cover and Disc Design: Angela MacNeil

Photo Credits: Cal & Barb Thistle, Roland Coombes, Wendy Snook, Jean MacLean, Ellen Wilcox, Shauna & Clare MacNeil

2010 Convention Meeting

2009-09-28T21:07:00.001-03:00

All Club Members and interested groups are invited to attend:
General Meeting of Committees and Volunteers for the 2010 Canadian Volkssport Federation:
Next meeting will be held 6:30pm,Tuesday, September 29th 2009
The McConnell Library, CBR Library Headquarters, 50 Falmouth Street, CBRM, Sydney.

More volunteers are needed and are welcomed to attend
Come help make this a great convention

The meeting is restricted to 2010 Convention details

www.walkcapebreton.com

Joe MacKinnon President CBIH, Elsie Buck VP, Chairperson Convention 2010

CAPE BRETON ISLAND HOPPERS FLEA MARKET AND YARD SALE!

2009-09-20T19:35:00.001-03:00

HELP SUPPORT YOUR CLUB, COME OUT AND DONATE OR BUY SOMETHING :

WHERE: SPANISH RIVER COMMUNITY CENTRE, HOWIE CENTRE, HWY 4

WHEN: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3rd, 2009

TIME: 9am - 12 Noon

All proceeds will be used for The Canadian Volkssport Federation (CVF) Annual General Meeting and Convention, the convention will be hosted by the Island Hoppers and will be held in CBRM - Sydney, 28 -30 May, 2010.

WAYS AND MEANS Committee and all those volunteers who want to make our 2010 National Convention a Great Success please note:
We will setup Friday night at 9:30 PM as the hall is used prior to that time. Volunteers are needed to set up the hall as well

We are asking that members and friends of the club look for items they would like to donate for the flea market. People can make a monetary donation if they wish.
Some suggestions are to have Tea, Coffee, sweets at the event for a small donation; as well fudge can be sold just to mention a few.

Final details will be made at next Tuesdays Ways and Means Committee Meeting, Time: 7:00pm at Lucy Nardini's home,located at 106 Carmichael Drive.

You can find Lucy's by going up Fatima Drive to the top of the hill where Carmichael is, then turn left and go to the far end of the street to Lucy's place.

NOTE: You can also help by spending $2 at one of our self-guided tours of Glace Bay, Louisbourg, Baddeck, Sydney and North Sydney. See details at our website: www.capebretonislandhoppers.com

Annual Nova Scotia 42K Marathon Walk Event

2009-09-16T21:45:00.002-03:00

The "Early Bird Walkers" at the 0 Km Mark These young ladies did 5K achieving their goal!

Saturday Sept 12^th, 2009
The Cape Breton Island Hoppers have been, for the first time, the host club for the Annual NS 42K Marathon Walk Event. The 2009 marathon was held in Inverness County, Cape Breton. The Island Hoppers offered multi-distance event throughout the day. Those walkers wanting to do the full marathon began their walk at 8am and the more anxious and very enthusiastic adventurers were at the Start Point as the sun came up and the registration desk and tent were being erected. Once signed in at Troy Station parking lot, the walkers headed out on a one-way walk to Port Hood Station. During the event the volksmarchers were aware of the fabulous scenery along the route with mainland Nova Scotia and the Strait of Canso on the west side, and the green hills of Cape Breton on the east side of the trail including Hwy 19 that is referred to as the Ceilidh Trail. The participants were in for a great walk on the Trans Canada Trail that winds its way across Inverness County. The Trans Canada Trail on the west side of Cape Breton is looked after by the Inverness County Trails Association and in turn the trail is divided up and looked after by the different communities that it travels through. The walkers for this marathon began on the Ceilidh Coastal Trail continuing onto the Judique Flyer Nature Trail, and finishing up on the Chestico Rail Trail in Port Hood Station. These are excellent trails and we would like to take this time to thank all the trails community volunteers who helped to build and maintain the trails and to those who came out from each community to assist wherever possible along the route. Some local citizens even offered their homes as rest stops along the way.
Besides the marathon walkers, local walkers and even some families and many other volkssporters from across NS participated in shorter routes along the trail during the day and no matter what distances they traveled, all reported, that this was a great scenic trail. The care that was put into developing this multi use trail could be used for persons of all abilities and all ages.
The event was topped off with a dinner that evening in the Community Hall at Judique, the Celtic Music Centre of Cape Breton. This is one of the “Great Halls” that the CB International Celtic Music Festival is held in each year. During the dinner the Atlantic Director took the time to present Tanya McNutt, the president of Central Nova Club with her well deserved 5 year volunteer pin. An award that was overdue and hopefully we have corrected that error.
This was the 20^th Annual Nova Scotia Marathon Event and it was my great pleasure as the Atlantic Director and as a member of the CBIH to welcome Lily Conrad to Cape Breton. Lily has now completed her 20^th consecutive marathon event and it is our privilege here in Cape Breton to have her accomplish this feat on our island. Lily has been presented with a CVF Presidents Certificate, signed by President BenoÎt Pinsonneault. As the Atlantic Director it was also my distinct pleasure to present Lily with a plaque to commemorate this occasion as well.
This event would not have been as successful as it was without the many volunteers who came forward to help out. Our Trails Coordinator Elsie Buck arranged all of the materials necessary for such an undertaking. Clare MacNeil, who provided her home, drove the support ATV, and also hosted an evening wine and cheese; Ann Coombes and Joe MacKinnon both of whom maintained the Start Point for the entire day. Kathi and Phil Rice who maintained a check point along the trail. Many others who helped out such as Heart & Stroke Foundation, St John Ambulance, Trails Committees along the route, we thank you all for your assistance and any others who participated in any way.
A total of 85 walkers participated in all of the walk events for the day and a record number of 52 completed the 42Km NS Marathon Event. Congratulations to all walkers who completed their goals for the day’s activities.

Judique Hall after the dinner. They did it!

BASICS OF VOLKSSPORTING

2009-08-31T20:39:00.000-03:00

THE BASICS:

1. One basic principle of Volkssporting is that sanctioned events take place regardless of the weather. However, severe weather conditions may cause cancellation or postponement of these events. All these changes must be reported to the CVF office for appropriate action while time is of the essence

2. All individual participants must sign the registration form at the Start Point.Print your name clearly and then your regular signature. My interpretation of this ruling is that,Couples regardless of marital status cannot sign each other in for the walk event.

3. All CVF clubs must register and pay a sanctioned fee for each Guided Walk (GW) event.

Guided Walks registered for the Canadian Volkssport Federation and IVV awards stamp program cost your club $30 plus $10 for insurance for a total of $40.

The Year Round Events or YRE's are more costly, Registration fee is $100 plus a $10 fee again for insurance.

At the present time the Canadian Volkssport Federation has authorized the national and local clubs, that they may charge a fee of $2.00 to help recover the cost of the sanctioned walk event, therefore our goal should be 20 or more walkers at each Guided Walk event.

The Year Round Events (YRE's) are not only for visitors, these have been developed for club members as well. YRE's are a good way to get exercise, walk with friends, relatives and to accumulate event and distances for the IVV awards program. They also break up the monotony of walking the same area each day or week. Why not make a habit of supporting your club by entering a YRE at least once or twice a month.

LOUISBOURG LIGHTHOUSE CELEBRATES 275 YEARS

2009-08-17T23:24:00.001-03:00

COME JOIN THE CELEBRATIONS: Do the Louisbourg walk on your own or with friends and get to the lighthouse on time for a BBQ with the Lighthouse Society and the Coastal Connection Trails Association.

On August 22, the Louisbourg Lighthouse Society and the Coastal Connection Trails Association, with the co-operation of the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site of Canada, invite the public to celebrate the 275^th anniversary of the first lighthouse in Canada at Lighthouse Point, Louisbourg, Nova Scotia

Schedule of Events

11:00 AM - Large shoulder swivel gun firing and remarks by dignitaries

11:15 AM - Cannon firing

11: 20 am - 12:10 Talks on Navigation and the Lighthouse – 18^th and 20^th Centuries

12:15 PM - Cannon firing followed by launch of boats by Louisbourg Youth Group

1:30 PM - Cannon firing with drummer

1:35 PM - Remarks and tours - archaeological, botanical and geo-caching.

3: 00 PM - Closing cannon firing

The Louisbourg Lighthouse Society will also host a Barbecue between 11:00 am and 3:00 PM and will provide live music. Images of period plans of the first lighthouse and the original lead plaque from the lighthouse will be on display.

SUNDAY 16 AUGUST, CAPE CLEAR WALK EVENT

2009-08-17T18:39:00.002-03:00

The CBIH Members at Cape Clear.

The weather was great, lots of sunshine for this group of intrepid adventurers who made their way to one of the finest panoramic views in the highlands of Cape Breton. The walking was fairly easy on the well groomed roads until about the last one kilometers where the road becomes a narrow one-lane that a car or SUV could drive on fairly easily, slowly and cautiously but passable. There is a couple of long grades along the route however everyone managed these with determination to get to the look-off area at Cape Clear.

There was plenty of advertisement for this walk event but unfortunately only 14 walkers showed up for this very special event. IF YOU MISSED IT then you missed out on one of Cape Bretons best kept secrets and we will not be putting this walk event on again for at least 2-3 years from now!

Carrol Obianwu, all the way from Texas! made it to our walk event; Thank You Carrol for visiting Cape Breton and participating in our walk event.

See more photos in our Trails Photo Gallery.http://cbislandtrailphotos.blogspot.com/

CAPE CLEAR WALK EVENT SUNDAY, 16 AUGUST 2009

2009-08-14T07:25:00.001-03:00

Directions to The Start Point For The Cape Clear Walk Event:
From Hwy 105 Exit 7, (at the "Red Barn") on to the Cabot Trail Highway . Continue along the Cabot Trail up Hunters Mountain and turn right on "Highland Road"/ Crowdis Mountain; from this junction it is 45km along Highland Road to the Start Point for our walk event.
Please give yourself sufficient time to drive the Highland Road, a well maintained gravel road but dusty on clear sunny days.
Not sure of where you are going? Then how about Car Pooling or Convoy with the Club Members:
12:30pm Meet at the intersection of Cabot Trail and Highland Road and Car Pool and/or convoy to the START POINT. We will leave the meeting area/car pool lot at 12:45pm sharp
and arrive at the start point by car at approximately. 1:40pm.

Sunday 16 August, 2009
Registration: 1:30pm.
Walk Time: 2:00pm
GW: 5/10k
TR: 2B
The Cape Clear precipice's is a spectacular view of the Northeast Margaree and Margaree Rivers.
this is an in/out style walk on an excellent graveled road, a 5k walk to the natural viewing area and return for a total of 10k.
This maybe a first and only time for many of you and our visitors to see this area, therefore we will spend some time at the halfway point (at least 20min) to enjoy this fantastic natural wonder in the heart of our Island.

Rollie,

Walking for fun,fitness & Friendship
www.capebretonislandhoppers.com

CVF PLANNING DOCUMENT FOR CONVENTION COMMITTEES

2009-08-05T22:23:00.001-03:00

CVF CONVENTION & MINI CONVENTION

PLANNING DOCUMENT

Section 5 APPENDICES

APPENDIX A SAMPLE PLANNING ORGANIZATION

Each convention is unique thus the planning organization will vary. The Convention Host will determine assignment of tasks. Names of Committees may vary and the assignment of tasks to a Committee is dependent on the Convention Coordinator.

It is expected that the planning committee will meet to brainstorm, plan and monitor activities up to the date of the AGM. Checklists should be developed for all aspects of convention planning with a record of who is required for the task, what materials are required and by whom, etc.

The Convention Coordinator, Facilities / CVF Liaison and other pertinent volunteers are to be on the premises during the hours that the Convention is open.

A follow-up meeting of the convention organizers should be held following the Convention to compile a report for the Coordinator of the next Convention. Copies of the report should be forwarded to the CVF office.

The host club(s) and Convention Committee decide what happens to any profits from the convention. The host club and Convention Committee are responsible for any losses.

Suggested Convention functions are:

1) Convention Coordinator / Convention Committee Chair:

-overall planning, delegation, coordination and reporting

-establishes planning organization

2) Facilities and CVF/FVC Liaison:

-develops elements of the overall AGM program.

-liaison with CVF to see that needs of both the AGM Committee and CVF are met

-co-ordinates with facilities managers and participants

3) Publicity and Communications:

-contacts local, regional and national media to publicize the event, finding ways to include information about Volkssporting

-develops a brochure / flyer for the AGM

-establishes and maintains an informative web page

-responds to mail and e-mail requests for information. (In 2001, 930 e-mails were logged for 352 registrants)

-provides French / English translations services for convention schedules and information

NOTE: Developing handout material and activating an informative website prior to the preceding year convention should eliminate many e-mail requests. In order to answer Who/What/Why/Where/When/How questions, the goals should be:

-Set up a one stop website early and communicate its existence

-Keep information short and simple

-Develop convention promotional material from the website

-Set up a plan to distribute material to other Volkssport clubs (Canada/US)

4) Fund raising / Ways and Means Committee:

-searches for and establishes acceptable sponsors and partners

-organizes money raising events eg Silent Action, raffles, after checking with provincial authorities to learn rules and guidelines of such activities

5) Walks / Trailmaster:

-develops and organizes routes and route instructions and maps

-provides French / English instructions and / or easily read maps / or guided walks

- establishes and maintains checkpoints, marking of routes

6) Registration:

-develops and distributes registration forms. Personal information, such as name, address, phone number, email address, event options taken, are required for the preparation of receipts, delegate badges, email lists, etc. Deadlines and refunds must be clearly stated

-keeps registration records and record of monies received

-acknowledges registration by e-mail (preferably) or letter if no e-mail address

-maintains registration desk during the Convention

-completes a registration form for all individuals attending

-tracks the actual receipt of registration forms for a later report. It would be reassuring to a future organizing committee, for example, to know when to expect the return of registration forms so it can set and encourage deadlines.

7) Souvenirs / Sales:

-develops unique or representative symbols to be used on certificates, patches and / or pins

-makes souvenirs available for purchase (include CVF, Regional Associations and local Clubs materials)

8) Volunteers:

-recruits volunteers for all aspects of the AGM program, including walks, silent auction, etc

-creates a plan for the effective use of volunteers (some 80-100 duty slots will need to be covered in the 3 days)

-ensures volunteers have materials required for their duties

9) Financial / Treasurer:

-develops a budget

-keeps all financial records

-opens bank account separate from host club’s

-approves all expenditures and reimburses committee chairs for approved and on- going expenditures

-assumes responsibility for cash boxes and ensures adequate floats during the AGM

-provides Revenue and Expenditure Report following AGM

THE NOVA SCOTIA 42K MARATHON WALK EVENT IN CAPE BRETON 2009

2009-08-05T22:13:00.001-03:00

A REMINDER:

The 42k Marathon Walk Event will take place at Troy,(the new parking lot, and at the new sign, for the Trans Canada/Ceilidh Trail) Cape Breton 12 Sept 2009 and the time is fast approaching to get your reservations in for the dinner that will be held that evening at the hall in Judique.
WE MUST KNOW HOW MANY DINNERS TO ORDER FOR THIS OCCASSION SO PLEASE REGISTER ASAP BEFORE 23 AUGUST.

Please find attached the brochure and registration form, please print off and give a copy to your friends.
We want to also remind everyone that there are multiple distances and timings available as well, you are not restricted to try and walk the whole 42K event.
Come on out and do the shorter walk events then continue to the Finish Point to encourage the marathon walkers as they complete the event.
Come show your support for your club members! Even if you are not walking that day you can still join us for a social evening of fun at the Judique Hall, cultural center for Celtic Heritage and Music!!
Have more questions then contact us at this e-mail address or call 902-562-3117
Joe and Elsie
or Rollie 902-849-0747
ADDITIONAL UPDATE NEWS REFERENCE THE 2010 CVF CONVENTION WILL BE PUBLISHED SOON! STAY TUNED FOR DEVELOPING NEWS..........COME! PUT YOUR HEEL AND TOES ON OUR ISLAND

CONVENTION 2010 AND 12 SEPT MARATHON EVENTS, VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO ASSIST WITH CLUB ACTIVITIES

2009-08-04T23:24:00.001-03:00

General Meeting of Committees and Volunteers for the 2010 Canadian Volkssport Federation:

Next meeting will be held 6:30pm,Tuesday, August 25th 2009 at the McConnell Library, 50 Falmouth Street, CBRM, Sydney.

The 24th of August that was originally planned has been changed as the library is not open on Mondays.

If you have volunteered for a committee or want to consider volunteering for any of these important functions please contact Elsie Buck: joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca or Rollie bretonhoppers@hotmail.com , duties and responsibilities of committees are available upon request.

These will also be published later on this site.

12 SEPT MARATHON EVENT NOTES:

Information Regarding the Marathon and Walk event for Saturday12 Sept

REGISTRATION FOR THE DINNER MUST BE IN BY 23 AUGUST, WE MUST INFORM THE JUDIQUE HALL HOW MANY DINNERS WILL BE REQUIRED. YOUR COOPERATIONS IN THIS MATTER IS QUITE IMPORTANT, SO PLEASE REGISTER ASAP.

We have St .Johns Ambulance on site at the Start Point and at locations along the trail throughout the day, EMO personnel will also be available and they will be located at the Judique Hall.

Walkers should make us aware of any health issue upon registration.

If you are not walking the 20, 30, 42k events we are seeking 8 volunteers to work the (4) manned water/check point at each 10 km. These locations should have 2 people each; Personnel at these locations should have cell phones available in case of emergencies plus a fold up chair for your own convenience. You should also have Sun Block protection, bug spray rain gear just in case.

Please note that anyone who volunteers one hour or more with the club at any walk event can get an EVENT STAMP for that particular walk. Example if you can't walk for any reason but want to come out and help you are now entitled to the event stamp only.

At Registration, each 20km, 30km & 42k participant will be given a number. That # will be stuck on the left hand side of his or her shirt. If that walker has any backpack etc. placed in our care, the same # will be on that item. This may help with lost items.

As each walker passes the 10k, 20k etc. check points, their # will be checked off.

This should help us locate any strays.

Do you have a large Water Cooler that you can loan to us for this event.The coolers will have ice, from the different motels, to keep the bottle water cool.

Everyone is to be off the trail by 1800hrs, Dinner is at 1900hrs

3rd Johnny Miles Volksmarch

2009-07-30T17:19:00.001-03:00

Johnny Miles Statue Main Street, Sydney Mines, NS

The Island Hoppers will participate in the Johnny Miles Festival weekend in Sydney Mines, NS

Our walk event will take place on SUNDAY, 02 AUGUST, 2009

TIME: 1:30pm Registration, Walk Time 2:00pm

LOCATION: S&S Meat Market parking lot Pit Street, Sydney Mines

CONTACT INFO: Joe MacKinnon or Elsie Buck 902-562-3117, joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca

Baille Ard Trail: Concerns About Signs, Dogs

2009-07-27T23:01:00.003-03:00

Message From David Gabriel:
Signs have been posted over the years advertising our policy concerning
keeping dogs under control and cleaning up after them. They have been
routinely ripped down as was the case recently.
Our association cannot act as police to enforce this legitimate and
reasonable policy but everyone must accept that it is the policy of the CBRM
and the Baille Ard Recreation Association. If there are incidents caused by
an uncontrolled dog, all concerned must understand our position.
Recently someone has painted markers on trees along the trails. If you know
anything about this could you let me know.
David
David can be contacted at the following:
David Gabriel davidgabriel@ns.sympatico.ca Larade Kimberly KLARADE@dal.ca

Just a reminder that the next Trail Day at Baille Ard is on
Wed.,August 5 10AM when David Gabriel will give a tour of the Baille Ard Trail
System.

Latest Messages

2009-07-27T22:28:00.001-03:00

CBIH MEMBERS AND FRIENDS:

1.See today's walk event photos Sunday, 26 July Wild Cove and Gooseberry Cove.
http://cbislandtrailphotos.blogspot.com/

Our sincere thank you to Terry Crawley who invited all walkers to his home at Hillside Mira for a BBQ after this great walk experience.

Thanks Terry!

2.Terry is also taking orders for a new lighter weight club t-shirt; Terry recommends these for the 42K Marathon to be held 12 Sept of this year. Further details can be found on the web site or ask for a brochure at the next walk event. A REMINDER: multiple choice routes of shorter lengths are available at various times throughout the day/ dinner is at 7:00pm at the Judique Hall. Again please check the web site www.capebretonislandhoppers.com for further details.....

3. General Meeting reference CVF 2010 Convention Friday 31 July McConnell Library, 50 Falmouth St., Sydney. Contact Elsie or Joe for further info: 562-3117 or joeandelsie@ns.sympatico.ca

4. Next Walk Event: Sunday, 03 August, 3rd Annual Johnny Miles Volksmarch.
Registration: 1:30pm and we step off at 2:00pm
Start Point: S&S Meat Market, Pitt Street, Sydney Mines.
Contact and walk leader: is Rollie 849-0747 or this email address
PLEASE NOTE THE BRUNCH served at the Sydney Mines Fire Hall is cancelled.

A walk around the block by yourself is healthy and fine but lonely! A walk with friends in the wild glen will make you healthier, happier and wiser! Roland

Rollie,

Walking for fun,fitness & Friendship
www.capebretonislandhoppers.com