I have written several articles this year about the wonderful state parks in our area. After reading an article by Lara Hamme, the Albany Motherhood Examiner, I am incredibly saddened. In her article, she links an article from the Times Union, written by Fred LeBrun. Mr. LeBrun, outlines several state parks, including Thacher, that have been put on a list as potentially being closed as part of Governor Paterson's budget solution. In Ms. Hamme's article, she addresses how to contact your local congressman as well as the Governor to seek action. I encourage you to visit her page and do so.
State parks are so important to our communities. In a time when people are becoming increasingly inactive due to ever-advancing technology, parks encourage fitness and health. They also teach us to respect and care for our environment. Thacher Park holds a special place in my heart because this is where my husband and I took our son for his very first hike. It's where he first strapped on snowshoes. He loves to point at the waterfalls and run through the snow. Thacher Park is where we go to just be a family. There are no distractions- no cellphones, no laundry, no computers, no television. We can simply be together and feel grateful that we are able to experience such a beautiful place. Did I mention that my beagles love it too?
The overlook at Thacher Park is stunning year round. I can't imagine how many marriage proposals have happened here. Will we really not be able to walk Indian Ladder Trail during peak foliage season? It's ironic because my uncle, who is a big outdoors guy in Montana, just told me that he was so glad to see us taking our child hiking and using the outdoors. He said that if we stop using the outdoors, people stop seeing a need to protect it. We had this conversation just over a week ago.
Please view my attached slideshow- I'm including a few family pictures to show how important this park is to me.
Also, a petition has been set up online. Visit this link to sign and have your voice be heard:
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/savethacherpark
Comments
I can't imagine the area without our parks. Thacher is especially dear to our family. My four year old daughter was as disgusted with the news as we were. I can only hope that this was posturing. But, it looks pretty bleak.
I'm most saddened by the fact that my son will miss out on these beautiful places. Patterson must go.
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