Good times on Reflection Lake

To the editor:

On Jan. 16, Alaskans for Palmer Hay Flats held its 5th annual Winter Family Fun Day at Reflections Lake. Thanks to the support and participation of many partners, volunteers and supporters, it was a heart- and hand-warming success.

Over 400 people came out to enjoy their refuge on a wonderful winter day. Ice skates were generously provided by the Mat-Su Borough Parks & Recreation Department and Brett Memorial Ice Arena, with instruction provided by ice arena program director Sheree Hugli. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing were made possible by the generosity of REI and with able assistance from APH Board Member Lisa Jaeger and volunteer Alison Cojocar. All equipment was free of charge, and volunteers were available to help everyone find the right sizes. Warming barrels and benches helped make for easy on-and-off of equipment.

Reflections Lake, protected from the fierce winds of the previous few days, provided the perfect playground and backdrop for a fun-filled day of healthy outdoor winter activity. Once again, APH provided hot cocoa and apple cider, coffee, tea and cookies. Teaming with folks from Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley, Reflections Lake was the wintry scene of much enjoyment as skaters, skiers, snowshoers and hikers explored the lake and its surroundings. Even the canine set had a wonderful time.

Some folks brought picnic lunches, kids played on the high snow berms, and lots of people took advantage of the new trail around the lake, utilizing the recently constructed boardwalk section generously funded by Conoco Phillips. Many visitors expressed surprise that such an incredible place existed so “close to home,” and were excited about returning to enjoy more of the refuge.

A sincere thank you to Mat-Su Borough Parks & Recreation, Brett Memorial Ice Arena, REI, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Carrs, Wayne Renz, Margie Campbell, the Junior Nordic Ski Club, Mat-Su Ski Club, Alaska Trails, and to all the volunteers who helped make the day such a success. We couldn’t have done it without the participation of all involved, and look forward to working with our partners again at our Summer Family Fun Day at Reflections Lake in July.

Randi Perlman

Executive Director

Alaskans for

Palmer Hay Flats