MCRF Celebrates 1000th Tram Rider
Harold Fox (left) and Rex Blom (right) talk before heading out for a tour of the recreation trail on Friday. MCRF celebrated it’s 1000th rider that day.
Oskaloosa, Iowa – Charles Argo is a volunteer driver for the MCRF trail tram program that boasts 6 such volunteers.
The three trams now serve riders most of the year, giving tours of the recreation trail to those who might not otherwise be able to enjoy the outdoors and the opportunities it provides.
The first tram came online three years ago. The two newer trams, just like the original tram, each carry 8 individuals per tram, which gives more opportunities for even larger groups to be able to experience the trail together.
This past Friday the MCRF trail tram celebrated it’s 1000th rider with a group of residents and staff from the Oskaloosa Care Center, who took time off to enjoy the sun and wildlife.
Argo thought it was great to be able to hit that milestone in the program. “It shows that there’s interest and a need.”
He spoke about the group of riders and others like them at nursing homes, saying how much they enjoy the opportunity.
Argo said that during an earlier trip they had observed geese on the pond, a ground hog, squirrels and, of course, the wonder that comes every fall with all the vibrant colors on the trees.
Mike Miller is a resident at the Oskaloosa Care Center, he was joined by Amy Spiker, Oskaloosa Care Center Activities Director .
Spiker said, “I think this is a wonderful activity they provide for our residents and the residents love it.”
Spiker usually tries to schedule tram rides twice a year for the residents, once in the summer and again in the fall. She commented that, “This is their favorite activity of the year.”
Harold Fox is another resident that was greatly looking forward to the tram ride. He’s ridden the tram before, “and I like it very much, I loved it”.
Fox was hoping to see some deer, or maybe a turkey, “you’re liable to see most anything”.
Even though the exact 1000th rider was impossible to determine on Friday, to the residents of Oskaloosa Care Center, they were all the winners.
Volunteer drivers are available to give the tours and MCRF will make a reservation for you or your group with just one phone call to (641) 672-2499.
