BARBARA L. JOHNSTON / Inquirer Staff Photographer
On a stroll at Ridley Creek State Park with their golden retrievers , Frank Baer (left), and Mel and Valerie Burgis were musing yesterday on where they'll walk their dogs if Pennsylvania's state parks are closed today because of a government shut-down.
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Silenced slots would irk gamblers
A hike in a state park is out, however.
Campers were warned that they would have until tonight to clear out in the event of a shutdown. Many parks closed their gates or erected barriers at the end of business yesterday. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which runs the park system, will lose $1.5 million a week during a closure, a spokeswoman said.
At Ridley Creek State Park in Delaware County yesterday, walkers, joggers, bike riders, dog owners and fishermen griped about Harrisburg and considered their options. "It's politics as usual," said Mel Burgis of Edgmont, who was walking two golden retrievers with his wife, Valerie.
"If it really disrupts things, we'll remember it at election time," vowed Frank Baer, of Media, whose own golden retriever, Molly, had just gone for a swim in the creek.
As an alternative, the Burgisses said, they might take their strolls at Valley Forge Park or along Kelly Drive.
Chuck Shanko, of Garnet Valley, who was standing knee-deep in the sun-dappled creek, said he depends on the park for his relaxation. He fishes in the trout-stocked stream several times a week.
"So many people come out here," said the electrician.
If he can't get to his favorite spot, he'll move downstream, Shanko said. Hanging up his rod is not a consideration. "This is my getaway," he said.
At Nockamixon State Park in Bucks County, 1,500 people jammed the huge pool yesterday while staff members waited to hear if they should report for work today.
"The people here love their jobs," said park manager George Calaba. "For them it's not a matter of the money."
When the furloughs go into effect, he said, only four of 38 employees will be scheduled today, just to keep watch on the place.
Working, Not Working
A look at how the budget impasse will affect state services.
Functioning
Inspections for food and animal safety.
Slot-machine casinos, pending a court hearing.
Processing of birth and death certificates.
Health care for the poor, food stamps, and cash assistance.
Drinking-water inspections.
Inspections of hospitals and nursing homes.
