Putting the tradition on ice

LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY — The Livingston Manor Rotary Ice Carnival has been a tradition for close to five decades and weather permitting, this year the carnival will take place on January 15 and 16.

On January 15 the carnival kicks off in the morning with a snow sculpture contest for local school children in grades six through twelve. Community residents and businesses can also participate by making snow sculptures in front of their store or front yard. Prominent members of the community as well as media will judge the contest.

The fun continues into Saturday night with a dance for the youngsters complete with the crowning of a new Ice Carnival King and Queen.

	Contributed photo Now held at Rotary Park, the carnival is open to everyone and also features figure skating and hockey instructional programs. (Click for larger version) (Click for larger version) (Click for larger version)

On Sunday the events shift to Rotary Park, where professional and amateur skating exhibitions by national and world-renowned figure skaters as well as local youngsters take center stage.

And races are for kids and adults alike, with Olympic type gold, silver and bronze medals awarded to the winners.

Dog-sledders will mush around the ball field throughout the day and a horse-drawn sleigh is available for riding. Hot dogs and hot chocolate are provided to all of the children to fill bellies and warm hands.

This year, thanks to the funding of local businesses, who provided over $15,000, all events at the carnival are free. The organizing of the event involves more than 150 individuals and the cooperation and collaboration of many entities, including the Town of Rockland Highway Department, the LM fire companies, the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Patrol, the New York State Police Troop F, The LM Volunteer Ambulance Corp, the Livingston Manor Central School Student Council, Rolling V Bus Company, Price Rite RV Center, Hebrew National, Inc, Wal-Mart, Internet Solutions, Sullivan County Visitor’s Association, The Towne Crier, The River Reporter, the Sullivan County Democrat, Times Herald Record, Catskill Shopper, WVOS Radio, WSUL, WDNB All-News Radio, WJFF Public Radio, Cable 6 News.