Cotton Valley Rail Trail Club, Inc.

A message from the club president, Bruce Stuart:

It is with sadness that I bring news of a members passing. Arthur Hawkes received an "All Aboard" early this morning and departed Fernald for the final time. I stopped in and spoke with Arthur and Brenda this past week. Artie reminisced of his time with Cotton Valley, the friendships he made and great times he had shared. Artie's membership spanned twenty years. He spoke of his first ride with Norman and how much he had enjoyed the experience. He also told me how much he missed being able to come over to the Wolfeboro and share an afternoons worth of work with the crew. Arthur worked closely with and established a good working relationship with Maine DOT. This effort allowed club members to ride the rails on the former MEC Mountain Division between E Hiram and Fryeburg. The first run took place in 2004 and was an event club members always looked forward to. When the club was transforming the Gandy into a mower for the Wolfeboro line, Artie stepped up and donated a brand new Jacobson top of the line flail head. This donation was very much appreciated by all. Artie's conversation and mechanical knowledge will be missed by all of us. He wanted me to convey to all the members that he will truly miss all that the club represents. Friendships, camaraderie, club cookouts and gatherings, ridding the rails and keeping the line alive. Art asked me to tell everyone he sends a big hello and to say thanks for the good times had and the memories he held close. You will be missed Artie. (BDS)

Club President Bruce Stuart was on business travel and VP Jessie Mazzie took the gavel for today's meeting. It was cool so it was held in Fernald Station with the warmth of the wood stove. A card was passed around to sign for Art Hawkes who has been ill. Jessie re-iterated the dues increase voted on by the membership at the Octtober meeting. The dues for 2020 will be $50. The dual axle trailer discussed and approved by vote at the October meeting was picked up by Ron Mitchell and it's now stored in the engine house. This will facilitate moving the tractor easily for maintenance and with mowing operations over in Ossipee. More consideration was given to adding hy-rail gear to the tractor and some potential sources for used gear was discussed. The dates may slip into early 2020 to repair the roof on Fernald as "winter is coming". The meeting ended at 10:30. A few cars ran the line out to Rt 16. Left, Jesse and Liz enjoy a snow filled gauge ride at the season closer. (SPM)

Today's volunteer day went well with approx 21 volunteers. They spent about 4 hours out on the line cutting at three different locations. The curve as you leave the first wetland area after Cotton Valley is now completed. An area around Moxie Junction got some attention too. The last section along the river around the picnic table is also cleared. There are now one or two areas along the river section that we could place some benches for a nice riverside view. Several downed trees from the recent wind storm were cleared from the trail just east of Clark Road too. The Seven Lakes Snowmobile Club tackled that job. Thanks guys! Expect more published volunteer days next season with CVTC. See everyone at the next meeting. (SPM)

The storm damage was less than expected, but the chainsaws came in handy. Chris took this picture as we got ready to clear a tree near the Lochmere siding.

Received an email from the Hobo Railroad, saying "Thank you-- we really appreciate your assistance and support.". That really sums up the impact that our club members make! (JWM)