Well, no one actually ran, but the January 11, 2004, Twilight Trail Walk event certainly was successful! Between 200 and 300 trail enthusiasts, many with pets and children, stepped briskly into the clear, 27-degree night. Entry fees gave everyone personal "glow necklaces," raffle tickets, and lighted magnet pins to accompany their one-mile luminaria walk. The walk helps celebrate the growing connection between the Peters Township Arrowhead Trail and the non-profit Montour Trail since the initial dedication at the Bethel Park Branch last June.

Trailwalk hosts, Scones and Cones proprietor Dennie Laughlin and his friend Jennie Smith, provided free drinks, roasted marshmallows and good cheer at his establishment from 5 to 7 p.m. on that Sunday. Co-hosts for the evening, "Friends of the Montour Trail in Peters Township," had set up over 40 raffle prizes on their tote board. Scones' outdoor cafe, delightful in summer, was brightened by Peters High School's singing group, Lyricube's, a cappella rendition of "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay" and several other selections. Thanks to performers Rick Browell, Nick Domachowski, Liz Harza, Lindsay Klimcheck, Ryan Noonan, Chris Obarski, and Katie Stratico for their fine work!

Thanks also to sponsors Eat 'n Park, The Market Place and Subway, for their support. With event fees and community help, the new Friends group netted over $700 for the evening. "Friends" groups help heighten community relations as well as maintain and develop the Trail experience. Mark Imgrund, Peters Friends President, invites interested persons to attend their monthly meetings at the Peters Twp. Parks and Rec building and would also appreciate help when work parties are announced.

Admittedly, a January night Trail walk is unusual, but organizers thought the season would add to its appeal. It all started when Jennie Smith and Denny Laughlin were enjoying a stroll last fall when they met up with a hard-working Trail gardener, Berenice Hooton, and began exploring ways to bring attention to the new Trail activity in Peters. Jennie suggested a winter luminaria walk, and it quickly sprouted supporters. Now we hear of a summer version tentatively scheduled for Friday, July 30. Although such events do require planning and leg work, they can be readily adopted by other Trail groups as a fun, family-oriented activity. Could this be the beginning of a National Event rivaling the posture of Mother's Day? Who knows!

Thanks to all who participated and especially to all the volunteers who gave us a memorable winter's excursion.

- Mark Imgrund