Heart of Wisconsin
Business & Economic Alliance and
Community Foundation of
South Wood County
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A Joint Initiative Between Heart of Wisconsin Business & Economic Alliance and Community Foundation of South Wood County |
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Breaking News February 7, 2006 - Cheers for successful snow sculpting By: Editorial, Daily Tribune Competitors already are talking about strategies for the second annual Wisconsin Rapids Snow Sculpture Spectacular. "Next year, we'll bring a bucket to haul snow and water to get it to pack easier," says 16-year-old Sarena Conley. "We're going to do something a little more difficult next year and gradually build on that," says Jeff Steinweber, 35, of Plover. Those kind of comments are a sure sign of success for the first-ever event, put together Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Wisconsin Rapids. And it's a good lesson for others who wonder how this community can market itself as a fun place for young adults to live, work and visit. Heck, all it took was a little imagination, early and frequent promotion, and finally some snow to make the sculpture event truly spectacular. The community owes its gratitude to five members of the Leadership Class, an annual program of the Heart of Wisconsin Business & Economic Alliance. Each year, class members are required to create and organize a community improvement project. This group of five wanted to plan an event that would increase tourism in Wisconsin Rapids and bring people downtown. Organizers must have been pleased with their creation on Saturday. Dozens of amateur sculptors competed for cash prizes. Hundreds of spectators wandered past. A professional sculpting team displayed its cranberry-theme creation and offered tips. One group of teenagers who learned about the Snow Sculpture Spectacular on the Internet drove from Chicago to see it. Just as impressive were the number of local teenagers, twentysomethings and thirtysomethings who stuck around in Wisconsin Rapids for the weekend to participate. Organizers are talking about ways to expand the event -- ice sculptures and later hours, for example. A back-up plan in case of a lack of snow would be good, too. Until two very recent snowfalls, it looked like the first Snow Sculpture event would have to be canceled. That would have been sad, especially now that we've seen how fun this event can be. And the Snow Sculpture Spectacular eventually might be just one part of a winter weekend full of fun, affordable downtown activities. Wisconsin Rapids' winter festival could be the alternative for those who do not compete in the Badger State Games, or the local events could complement the Games. Give a pat on the back to the Leadership Class members who organized the Snow Sculpture Spectacular: Phil Hartley, Carol Olson, Denise Orr, Angie Paulsen and Terry Whitmore. Then join them in creating more fun ways to attract young adults to Wisconsin Rapids. All you need is a little creativity and a willingness to get involved. Oh, and some fresh snow helps, too. |
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