Anne's Arts & Activities Blog

More than 8,000 Facebook users are supporting Senator Catharine Young’s (R,C,I – Olean) efforts to keep the Quaker Lake area of the Allegany State park open, and many supporters are expected to attend a rally there on Saturday, she said. Sen. Young said Governor Paterson has issued plans to close or restrict services at 55 parks and historic sites across the state. Allegany State Park would have sharply reduced recreational programs, including closing of the beach area and cabins, and elimination of winter trails in the Quaker section of the park. The Facebook group, “Save Allegany State Park”, has attracted over 8,000 followers since it was created a week ago and is being used to discuss the rally and petitions and share news about the budget cuts, which could also impact Long Point State Park on Chautauqua Lake. Sen. Young, who will host the rally scheduled at noon on Saturday, said that while the proposed closure would do little to help the state’s budget d...

The New York State Parks System is working on its plan for Allegany State Park, and officials got input from the public during a meeting at Salamanca High School last night. Tom Alworth of the New York State Parks Department says having a master plan makes sense from a financial standpoint because good planning means once they make a decision, they stick with it and don't have to spend money to alter it. The master plan is expected to call for more recreational and educational opportunities at Allegany State Park, while also protecting the character of the park's natural resources.