CHESTERMERE – Although this year’s Winter Festival was at risk for going down in history as the mildest winter celebration ever, the temperatures dipped down just enough on Saturday, Jan. 14 for the community to get into the spirit of the season.
The ice sculptures didn’t melt and the water for the polar bear dip was still ice cold, so this year’s festival went off without a hitch.
Community members enjoyed numerous winter-themed indoor activities at the recreation centre, while others enjoyed the great outdoors at Anniversary Park.
The fourth annual YELL Polar Bear Dip was one of the events that saw the biggest turnout at this year’s festival. The crowd gathered round a pool of frigid water to watch some brave souls take the plunge.
The Polar Bear Dip raises funds for YELL, a youth council in Chestermere that provides a voice for young people in the community. They organize and participate in many local events in order to provide leadership opportunities for youth in Chestermere and SE Rocky View.
This year’s “polar bears” included five local RCMP members, Staff Sgt. Glenn Henry, Cpl. Shane Fletcher, Cst. Chris Penney, Cst. Matt Thurston and Cst. Trevor Edelman. Mark Romaniuk of the local fire department also participated along with YELL members Oliver and Elliot Cook. Ann Vo of Chestermere Community Services and local resident Steve Bozman also stepped up to brave the elements.
“We got off quite lucky in terms of the weather,” said Henry, a first-time Polar Bear Dip participant. “It could have been a lot worse, but it was still pretty cold.”
“Overall we were pleased to be a part of it, it’s a good community event. I’m glad I could be there to support my team, and to support a great group like YELL.”
Overall, the Polar Bear Dip raised approximately $700 for the group, which YELL Coordinator Serena Shokar said was great to see.
“We really appreciate the support and donations from the community,” she said. “We would like to thank the “polar bears” for being part of the event, as well as the community for donating and coming out to cheer everyone on.
“We’re already looking for people to participate next year, so anyone who is interested can contact Chestermere Community Services.”
Although the sun was shining for the event, it didn’t do much to keep the “polar bears” warm in the slightest. However, everyone agreed that it was an entertaining event, and will make a return appearance for the fifth time at next year’s festival.
The second annual charity hockey game that took place during the Winter Festival was another well-attended event. Local mens team the Wannabe’s faced off against members of both the local RCMP and fire department.
The Wannabe’s headed into the game looking for redemption after last year’s match, as they fell 6-5 after a shootout. They were successful in maintaining the lead for most of the game, and ended up winning 10-6.
The game generated donations for both the food bank, as well at $600 in cash to go toward a local boy who is currently battling cancer.
“It was a huge success, I’m really proud of the fact that all of the players got into it,” said Nancie Huneault, event coordinator for the town of Chestermere. “It was supposed to be entertaining and I think we achieved that for sure.”
The lantern walk as well as a fire works display at the Recreation Centre wrapped up the 2012 celebrations. Although such great weather is no guarantee for 2013, organizers say that the annual Winter Festival will definitely be making a reappearance.
