Well, the door has cracked open into the new year and hopefully you have a twinge of excitement as I do.
There are definitely plans for continued growth and trying to better myself, both as a person and someone who enjoys our natural and consumptive outdoor activities. To me, our outdoor resources have something for everyone and when we enjoy them, it makes us happy and that should be on everyone’s resolution.
One of the first things to do during this time of year is a gear check. If something didn’t perform well, then get rid of it. If clothing, guns or equipment are muddy from your last hunt, now is the time to get them clean. Most hunting seasons are winding up and ice fishermen have had to keep their equipment stowed so there is no time like the present. When completed, that alone makes you happy.
They say variety is the spice of life or life is all about experiences. Maybe this is the year to try something different. Personally, I love trying new things. Those first time experiences often end up being the most memorable. If you want to double your fun, invite someone you enjoy being with.
I have some friends that hunt the exact same property every year in the exact same deer stands. They sit there all season and that is about all they do. Sure, they take deer but variety can add some spice to the fall hunting seasons.
Personally, I love hunting deer and will take the first mature buck I am afforded, then move on to bird hunting. Upland birds as well as migratory waterfowl. These activities are more social. It’s hard to beat walking a field with family or friends with a dog quartering back and forth in front of you. Maybe it’s sitting in a duck blind as day breaks, then, after a few minutes the stories begin flowing.
If you are considering something different to do, consider visiting the toboggan run at Pokagon State Park, near Angola. In past years, the run has hosted about 90,000 riders. With the 30-foot tower and dips and valleys, the total vertical drop is 90 feet over the course of a quarter-mile. The top recorded speed is 42 mph. It’s a 20-30 second thrill ride.
The run is open until Feb. 25. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Fees are $20 per hour and there is a $7 park entrance fee.
The slide got its start in 1935 when the Civilian Conservation Corps Company 556 built a wooden toboggan run for its own fun. The first run had a huge curve halfway down and then, near the inn, curved toward Lake James. The next year, the track was straightened to increase speed. In 1938, Company 556 erected a taller tower of about 20 feet. A second track was added in 1940.
In 1971, the slide became refrigerated. The design at that time now seems a little primitive compared to today. The old wooden tower and concrete began to deteriorate, and the current 30-foot tower and track were added in 1974.
In 1984, work started on renovating the two tracks. At the same time, a new rental and warming center were built. The new track did not reopen again until Thanksgiving 1998.
They say happiness is the only true measure of personal success. Making other people feel good is the highest expression of success, but it’s almost impossible to make others happy if you’re not happy yourself.
To all who read this column I sincerely hope you’re able to do whatever is necessary to make 2024 your happiest and best year ever.
