The first annual ITS Trail Committee Appreciation Picnic was held Sunday, October 21 at Staunton Fireman’s Park for the Members, Sponsors and Donors of the organization. A group of around 60 enjoyed a picnic lunch and heard from several speakers.

Jarid Ott, Executive Director of the Committee thanked several individuals for their efforts in preparing for the picnic.  Dr. Poonam Jain, President of the Committee brought everyone up to date on the accomplishments of the Committee.

Macoupin County Board Charman Andy Manar said “The ITS Trail Committee has accomplished so much in just a short period of time and serves as an example of how we can all work together to make Macoupin County a better place to live. For that, I congratulate everyone who has joined together to support this project.” He went on to mention that the ITS Trail Committee is the first volunteer organization to partner with the county for the development of a public recreational project. In concluding his remarks, Mr. Manar pointed out that Macoupin County was recently included as part of the Metro-East Parks and Recreation District through legislation passed at the state level and signed by the governor, and that this action is an important step in the development of parks and recreation facilities throughout the county.

Mayor Fred Stein addressed the group, congratulating them on their successful efforts. He pointed out that Staunton has always had a wealth of volunteers and that the ITS Trail Committee is a good example of that volunteer spirit.

From its inception in March of 2006, the Committee has promised to give a bicycle to one lucky Member, Sponsor or Donor.  John & Susan Caldieraro donated a new hybrid bicycle, purchased from The Cyclery in Edwardsville at a discounted price.  New members Patrick and Melanie Wineburner were the lucky winners of the bicycle this year.  The Committee would like to thank everyone who had a part in the success of the picnic.