ADOPTER SPOTLIGHT – Out-Standing on their Trail: Sue Ehrgood and Bettye Wallace - June 2009

In 2004, the Arkadelphia Hikers adopted 3.5miles of trail from Hwy 7 east to Sugar Creek in Section 7.  Since then, they have remained diligent with their maintenance and received many kudos from grateful hikers over the years who enjoy the fruits of their labors.  These volunteers often check the Trail Condition Report or check in with FoOT to see what un-adopted areas need work.  During this past year, members Sue Ehrgood and Bettye Wallace, decided to adopt an orphan in Section 5 that had been neglected for some time and needed lots of TLC.  They are currently installing some mile markers and doing some blazing in various areas on the trail.      The FoOT wants to recognize their commitment and efforts on the OT by telling you some interesting highlights about this dynamic duo!     (click photo for larger version)

Every weekend for many years, Sue and Bettye hiked somewhere on the Ouachita Trail.  They have section hiked the entire trail almost twice now with only 24 miles remaining for the second completion.  Sue retired this June after 35 ½ years of teaching so they will no doubt have that second round completed this year.  Bettye, who has been retired from teaching and coaching since 1988, will celebrate her 80^th birthday this October.  Since retirement she has been walking to stay healthy and in 1993, set some impressive goals for herself.  She began walking on paved roads and trails in her neighborhood and then added hiking on forest trails, in particular the OT, every Saturday with friend, Sue.  Her initial goal was to walk 15,000 miles in 10 years.  When this was accomplished easily in less than the 10 years, she upped the mileage to 20,000 miles in 15 years.  With this goal reached two years ago, Bettye has decided she may as well just walk the circumference of the earth - 24,908 miles!  She’s well on her way to that achievement with only 2,800 miles remaining in her quest.

FoOT wants to thank and applaud these two volunteers and wish them well in all their endeavors!

Loretta Melancon
VP – Recruitment