I am very pleased with the success we have enjoyed with WinterFest after only two seasons. My family and grand-kids have really enjoyed the walks through the park and chasing the dancing laser lights through the park. Jeannine and I have enjoyed walking through the park evenings while representing the famous couple from the North.

The Parks and Recreation department, with support from the Council, spent $20k for our first year festival. I was happy to sponsor budget increases for this effort in the current biennium. The second year extended the success of the first year. I look forward to continuing to expand this to become a premier winter destination for everyone. Using the budgeted money as seed money, WinterFest could grow significantly with corporate and individual donations to rival Mountain Days in size.

WinterFest is an example of 'real' economic development. As a city we've spent significant dollars and countless hours in meetings creating strategies, budgets, and plans for economic development. WinterFest wasn't created as part of those plans. But it provides another opportunity for people to come, stop, stay, and shop in our community - and that is what drives retail development!

Top-left: Entrance to Meinig Park, Bottom-left: Standing in for the couple from the North, Above: My extended family