Sean, visiting Lebanon from Portland, Oregon, enjoyed discovering the piano on his walk through the tunnel with baby Io. He appreciated the tunnel’s acoustics!
Just a reminder that the MRG is a shared-use path; it is a place for EVERYONE, from the preschooler on a tricycle or balance bike, to a hard-of-hearing elder walking a dog . . . and everyone in between. It is not the place for speed training on skates or bikes. Slow down, say hello, and help make it enjoyable for everyone.
Hugging the edge between the MRG and the wilds beyond, this beauty was making herself at home and paused for a pose while photographer Charles Chapman was walking by.
Care should be given to snapping turtles, observing from a distance so as to not stress the animal. It may be obvious that they move slow, but that neck articulates a long way, so it’s best to not try to handle a snapper, because, you know, they can snap at ya.
You may have noticed details added to the benches on the Mascoma River Greenway. Thank you to volunteer Todd Caruso, from Hypertherm North America, for giving his time to the community. We hope you enjoy the newest installation on the MRG.
“As we were pedaling through the tunnel, four clarinetists, John, Amy, Dan and Chris, were setting up their stands: we stayed to hear them play Haydn’s St. Anthony’s Chorale. It filled our day with joy to hear music under the mall!” – Rainie and Larry Kelly
We often hear the hoots and hollers as children enjoy their echos in the tunnel – imagine the delightful reverberations of Haydn and these clarinets!
In spite of the day’s heat and humidity. a goodly crowd gathered to celebrate the Grand Opening of the MRG tunnel. Lebanon Recreation, Arts, and Parks Director, Paul Coats, served as Master of Ceremonies.
The biggest surprise of the event was the call of a bugle . . . and a crowd of Lebanon “Raiders” bursting through the banner stretched across the tunnel opening.
They were followed by a parade of young children from the Bike Rodeo riding their bikes. All seemed excited to be part of the explosive surprise!
Inside the tunnel was a display of some of the art work submitted for consideration for the tunnel walls. And there was active art in the making – chalk art. (These artists were totally engrossed as dozens and dozens of people walked by.)
Free bicycle helmets were distributed by the Lebanon Planning and Development Department’s Rebecca Owens, on behalf of the Pedestrian and Bicyclist Advisory Committee, and with assistance from FNRT and UVMBA volunteers. The helmets were donated by CHaD and, in addition to various safety stickers and guidance, were eagerly received by over 30 children between the ages of 2-14. The remainder will be used tor Lebanon Recreation programs. If you missed out, contact Rebecca.Owens@lebanonnh.gov about extras that may be available via CHaD or APD.
People viewed the various tables, had their bikes checked at the Omer and Bob’s tent, and were encouraged to walk through to view the Pocket Park at the far side.
Messages were sent from our New Hampshire and U.S. Senators and Representatives:
“We should all take a moment to recognize the efforts of everyone who worked to turn the vision behind this project into an exciting reality. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement and my best wishes for a great celebration.” Sen. Jeanne Shaheen
The Mascoma River Greenway 