Times Advocate, 1994-02-16, Page 17TA( Times -Advocate, February 16, 1994 Page 17 , _ NI
1994 Winter Carnival concludes
Monsters, myths and magic - fun for all
Waving hello during the pa-
rade
Zurich Optimist Linda Mark-
ham
Nessle, an ice sculpture at the Oakwood Inn was truly a work of art.
Siinuner
Jun in the
sun was
turned into
winter is
truly
wonderful
Nearly 30,000 visit Grand Bend
Story and photos
by Fred Groves T -A staff
GRAND BEND - Why would anyone in their right mind want to put on several layers of
clothing, go outside for hour upon hour, and play football and sno-pitch?
The reason - it's the Grand Bend Winter Carnival. And while this com-
munity resort is known for its festivities in the summer, what with it's fun
in the sun, the streets and taverns were crowded bn the weekend.
A chance to shake the cabin -fever type winter blues and
get out and mix and mingle.
The biggest hit on Saturday was the crowd pleasing parade
'which featured some interesting and creative floats. Among
them were the Huron Country Playhouse's Peter Pan
display and Grand Bend Council's version of Magnifi-
cent Men.
People of all ages lined the street's to see their neigh-
bours and friends in costumes and shake hands with
legendary characters like Tony the Tiger.
Sunday, the last day of the carnival, the Waiter's
Race drew a good crowd and it was the last chance to
view some of the many snow sculptures.
What attracted a lot of people away from the snow
and into a dryer climate was the casino run by the Win-
ter Carnival. It was the first time one has been held and
it drew a lot of people- not only to place a bet but those
who many came to satisfy their own curiosity.
"It was done well, professionally," said carnival
chairman John Musser of the dealers and others who
worked the casino. "They wanted to present a good im-
age and I think people were receptive. I haven't heard
any negative aspects but I'm sure I will."
All proceeds from the casino were going back into
the community and Musser suggested such groups as
the carnival itself, the Grand Bend Chamber of Com-
merce and the Playhouse.
The casino open Friday, Saturday and Sunday
and at nights had received special permission from council to stay open until 4 a.m.
While Windsor has been given the go ahead by the provincial government to have a
gambling casino, not too long ago a group in Grand Bend was trying to bring one here.
The casino was one of just a few new events which Musser,
vice-chairmen Gail Lawson and Barry Richman and an army of
volunteers decided to put together.
"I think what's happening with the Winter Carnival is people
are saying, 'let's try this.' It's just getting bigger and bet-
ter," said Musser.
The first weekend of the carnival featured the dog sled
races at the Pinery Provincal Park. This past weekend
there was a dozen activities for visitors and locals to
not only watch but participate in.
"There are more events this weekend, sno-pitch and
the Legion's Sweet Heart Dance," said Musser just to
name a few. "There are a lot of little events which,
come together as one."
Winners: Winners of the International Sno-
Sculpting Contest was Scott Johnson, Mark Mishaler
and Melody Lumsden of Michigan for their creation
of 'The Wizard'. Taking second was 'the Monster
Under -the -Bed and third , the People's Choice. went
to the 'Robatic Scorpion.
Local businesses got in on the sculpting act and
first place winners• in that group went to Finnegan's
for best colour; Patio Motel, best impact; Big V, best
detail; Karen Roberts, residential winner.
From the parade held Saturday, the winners were;
Shoreline Plumbing, best business float; Toy Shop
was second and honourable mention went to Love's
Nest Inn. Grand Bend Brownies and Guides had the
best club or organization float and the best school
was won by Grand Bend Public School.
The Wizard - first place
1994 Snow Sculpture
Colonel (Mayor) Tom Lawson
Catching a ride
Grand Bend firemen give chase to the Hayter Turkey during Saturday's parade.
Dave Russell is back on first during a sno-pitch game on Sun-
day.
Walters' race held Sund . y was "a hit. At right Grand Bend Council's Tom Lawson, Ed Fluter, Phi! Maguire, Bill Unlac, and Cern
Ivey pilot the spirit of Grand Bend.
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