Updated: Wed., Feb. 2, 2011 11:00 a.m. MST
Originally Published: Wed., Feb. 2, 2011 10:30 a.m. MST

Cherry Creek, NY – A western New York State ski area that first planned to reopen today following a devastating fire that destroyed its base lodge last week has now postponed its reopening until Friday. It will do so, however, without a National Guard tent originally scheduled to arrive Monday to serve as a temporary warming shelter.nSki area owner Jack VanScoter blames “government bureaucrats” for scuttling plans for the tent after determining that Cockaigne ski area in Cherry Creek didn’t qualify to receive one.

Jamestown Awning has donated a 40 by 60-foot tent to serve as a temporary base facility. A food service wagon will provide food and beverage.

VanScoter also expressed his appreciation to operators of nearby Holimont, Holiday Valley and Peek’n Peak ski areas for their assistance in getting Cockaigne back up and running.