We hope that the village will do a far better job readying this site in the future--with enough public notice between storms, winter school breaks, cold snaps, etc. so that more residents can actually enjoy this resource. Croton's officials cannot rely on volunteers indefinitely in the management of the parks they already have--and our high priced village staff must pay more attention. With thanks to Croton United's Dan Chesnard for lighting the fire at the last board meeting that motivated our officials for at least one day of skating during winter recess.
You may also have an interest in http://everythingcroton.blogspot.com/2015/01/skating-croton-duck-pond.html
I have very little doubt that if the board had not been questioned on this, the pond would have never been cleaned during the winter school holiday week. A poster somewhere said it best. Too busy "managing change thoughtfully" instead of paying attention to the real nuts and bolts of the village.
ReplyDeleteWhen we were growing up that pond was always ready for skating. We had lots of races too.
ReplyDeleteBack in the 60s and 70s, I seem to remember the skaters often did the snow cleaning themselves. Hockey players cleaned an area for hockey and free skaters cleaned their spots. Many "figure 8s" were cleaned into the ice. Same system at all area ponds. It would not have occurred to most to expect the government to do it for us. We also all owned our skates and I'm guessing not many do anymore. The Village rec dept. had an annual skate and ski swap where families would trade out grown skates and skis. It hasn't been cold enough for frequent ice freezing and skating so people may not think about skating. With the coming cold cycle we may have a few good skating years. Sadly, kids are no longer allowed to walk to the local skating pond by themselves after school. A different era.
ReplyDeleteHi Susan, yes some of it we did ourselves but the recreation department was very hands on in the 50's, 60's and 70's because of insurance issues which is probably even more the case now. All you have to do is look at the old newspapers to see what I mean. Also I beg to disagree. It crertainly has been cold enough for many many weeks now and was certainly last year for a very extended period when it wasn't done AT ALL. There were at least four or five Gazette letters on the subject, maybe everything croton has copies of them, and many many comments, articles and photos posted on the "you know your from croton" fb page from way back when. Linda
DeleteI'll check the files.
DeleteSusan, a new sign has been posted at the pond that says NO ICE HOCKEY ALLOWED.
DeleteI wish I could say I'm surprised about the No Hockey sign but it seems to be in keeping with life these days. Perhaps we could use the pond for Passive recreation and everyone can just stop by and stare at the ice for a bit.
ReplyDelete