Tubing is back, other events planned by Friends of Glimmerglass

Glimmerglass was one of several state parks that had to cut or eliminate programs in the fall and winter last year because of a statewide cost-cutting effort.

Snow-tubing was one event that had to be eliminated. However, it is back and several other events are planned to take place at the park. According to Karen Sheckells, spokesperson for Friends of Glimmerglass State Park, the state announced funding for snow-tubing would not be available again this year, but because so many people expressed interest in having the tubing program return, the not-for-profit group held the Festival of Trees in December to help raise money for programming at the park. Karen said because the festival was a success, tubing could be brought back.

``One of the reasons our non-profit group was formed is to bring recreational and educational programs to Glimmerglass State Park for the public,’’ wrote Karen in an e-mail.

``We hope to have success with the program this year so we can bring tubing back next year,’’ she added.

Rich Sheckells, Karen’s husband, who became manager of the Glimmerglass State Park in 2007, said he received hundreds of phone calls from many people, including those living in other states such as Pennsylvania, South Carolina, New Jersey and Connecticut, wanting tubing to return.

``I’m happy to offer tubing and winter recreation at Glimmerglass State Park this year,’’ he wrote in an e-mail. ``I’m aware that tubing has been very popular and appreciated the assistance of Friends of Glimmerglass State Park in bringing back this activity.’’

Glimmerglass State Park snow-tubing hours are held on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. until Feb. 28. There is a $5 a day fee per person, which included the use of tubes provided by the park. Only park tubes are permitted on the hill. Tubing is planned during school break from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 19.

On Feb. 16, the park will host an ice fishing instruction/ demonstration with Tom Hughes, New York State Parks Natural Resource Steward biologist.

According to a Friends of Glimmerglass media release, the winter activity can be enjoyed by everyone _ whether they are just getting started, struggle with a few skills or are serious ``ice heads.’’

People are asked to meet in the Lakeview Room at 10 a.m. for the free educational program. According to organizers, the day will begin with fishing and instruction on the ice in order to take advantage of the morning fish bite. Participants will get a break for lunch and cocoa from noon to 1 p.m. Following lunch, there will be an inside program with informal presentations on winter lake ecology and ice safety, fish filleting demonstrations and a free raffle for ice fishing tackle. More fishing will follow the indoor program.

Fishing gear and bait will be available and lunch will be provided. Participants may attend all or a portion of the program and are encouraged to dress warmly. If fishing conditions are not favorable, the indoor program will begin at 10 a.m. Those 16 and older must have a New York State fishing license.

Pre-registration is appreciated, but not necessary, by sending an e-mail to friends ofglimmerglass@gmail.com or calling the park office at 547-8662.

The Friends of Glimmerglass State Park will host their second Winter Chill Out event at the park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17. The event will begin with registration in the Lakeview Room followed by ``silly’’ winter games, according to organizers. There will also be snow painting, a winter hike, wagon rides and an awards ceremony.

Dr. Brian Williams, who works with the department of family medicine with Bassett Healthcare Network, will be the key presenter. He will speak at noon, and will focus on outdoor winter safety survival.

There will be a warming area for those that would just like to watch the fun. The cost is $5 per person, $3 for Friends of Glimmerglass State Park members. The cost includes lunch and all supplies.

Glimmerglass State Park also has a new ice skating rink under the West Shelter.

According to Karen, the ice rink was built because it is safer and easier to maintain than the pond. She said there is not enough staff, because of state budget cut backs, to monitor and maintain the pond.

The ice rink and trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are open daily from 9 a.m. until dark. There is no charge for the use of trails, the rink or for parking.

For more information on programs or events coming up at the park call the office at 547- 8662 or e-mail friendsofg limmerglass@gmail.com.

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