Reprinted with permission of
the Journal-News
From the JournalNews
It’s right around the corner — IceFest 2004. The event, in
its third year, continues to grow and has become a must-see downtown Hamilton spectacle.
Mark down Jan. 23-24 on your calendar. It’s something that shouldn’t be
missed. Downtown will be transformed as
ice sculptures will adorn the historic Butler County Courthouse and Journal
Square. Presented by the City of Sculpture, IceFest is expected to draw nearly
15,000 people during its two-day span, event coordinators said. “This event continues to grow,” said IceFest
Chair Trudy Marcum of the Hamilton City of Sculpture. “It’s free and
family-oriented and with so much planned I hope everyone will be there to enjoy
the weekend.”
Centered around the ice sculpture competition on Jan. 24,
the event will showcase Olympic ice sculptors Matt Williams and Jeff Stahl, as
well as other sculptors from around the nation. “When you combine chain saws, ice and art, now that’s a must-see
event,” said Hamilton Vice Mayor Patrick Moeller.
One new highlight includes appearances by eight-time
international champion ice sculptor Junichi Nakamura of Japan.
Nakamura is scheduled not only to compete during the Jan. 24
competition, but perform a special master workshop outside the courthouse. Also new this year is the Great Miami Valley
YMCA Sled Race. Featuring teams of at least five, crews will traverse through a
downtown obstacle course that will combine “skill and wit,” organizers
said. The race is scheduled for 3 to 5
p.m. Jan. 24 and teams can register at all Great Miami Valley YMCA locations.
Deadline for registration is Jan. 16.
In addition to judges awards, Marcum said a people’s choice award also will be given. And heated tents will hold a food area. So don’t let the cold deter you. We’re excited about the event and want to thank City of Sculpture volunteers for all their hard work. We think visitors to downtown will be amazed and entertained.”