The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
It's been seven years since the Town of Creighton has held their own winter festival, but that's all going to change next weekend. "I think it's time to have a celebration in Creighton," said Recreation Director Channa Senyk. "We're celebrating the end of winter and the welcoming of spring." The Town is gearing up for Chilly Willy with fun activities planned for the whole family at the Creighton Sportex. The opening ceremonies, which will feature remarks from Senyk as well as Creighton Mayor Bruce Fidler, are slated for Saturday afternoon at the Sportex Ð with bingo to follow as well as free chili, hot dogs and hot chocolate. Geared towards children, the festival will offer plenty of games like bubble gum blowing contests, snow art, mutt races and face painting. Mutt races are new to the festival and they encourage children to bring their family pet and a sleigh out for a fun race. But don't worry Ð there's plenty for the rest of the family as well. Smooshing was such a hit at the Bust the Winter Blues Festival that it will be offered at Chilly Willy as well. The first few races will be local celebrities Ð including the Media Devils, Enforcers and Municipal Mayhem. Following those races, Senyk says all are welcome to give it a try and have some fun. "Once people watch it, they want to try it," Senyk said. The smooshing, as well as snowshoe races and other snow activities will take place on the Creighton Community Soccer Field. Snow golf, snow castles, boot hockey, a bonfire and fireworks are also on the agenda for the festival. The weather has been unseasonably nice, but Senyk says not to worry. If all the snow is gone, for some reason, by Friday, there will be events and activities replacing the snow events. Either way, the festival will go on. "I think the residents of Creighton want something Ð they want something to do," Senyk said. "It's just a way to give back." Though the festival is still a week away, Senyk says she has heard talk of it already. "We're just happy to see it back," Senyk said. "We're glad the weather is warm and we're just letting everyone know that we will adjust to the lack of snow." Before the Chilly Willy festival gets underway, Senyk will also be putting on a fishing derby on Phantom Lake. For more information, contact Channa Senyk at 688-8254.
