Andy Close
CLARENDON, Pa. – It was cold, but the sun was out and the snow was fresh for Winterfest 2022 at Chapman State Park.
And after a slow start on Friday, it was a big hit, with hundreds attending on Saturday.
“It’s exciting to have Winterfest back,” said Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry Director of Operations and Tourism John Papalia. “We’ve had plenty of snow which is great for the sled dog races, the canine dog pull, and a lot of people out sled riding and enjoying the vendors, as well as the YMCA kids’ games.”
As Papalia alluded to, there was plenty for all, including the 27 brave souls who took part in the Salvation Army Polar Bear Plunge. They had to take turns, going five at a time, with an assist from the Glad Volunteer Fire Department.
Some ran in, while some were a little more timid, but they all did it for a great cause.
See the Polar Bear Plunge here:
Salvation Army Major Keith Jache welcomed spectators beforehand, thanked the plungers, as well as Hooktown Holidays, which matched donations raised up to $500.
There was also the fat tire bike ride, which was helped along by the effort of Andy Georgakis of the Warren Cycle Shop.
“We had a great backyard to enjoy, Chapman is a great venue, and we got about 15 people out on our fat bikes on the trails and we had people bring there as well to come out and enjoy the snow. “We had some first-timers and some more experienced riders, so it was a good mix.
See Georgakis’ full interview here:
All-in-all, it was a great event to get the community out, something that brought a smile to Papalia’s face.
“It’s always great to see people smiling,” he said. “It’s February and it really helps to break up the winter when you can come out and have a little fun. I love just seeing the families and the community come together.”
See Papalia’s full interview here.
