We’re currently having a bit of January thaw. The latest word from the ice rink at the pavilion is that there have been a few youngsters skating and some just trying out the ice by sliding in their boots. It has been suggested that we have a skate swap meet during Winterfest to help some of us get rid of our unused skates, and others could trade skates that no longer fit for some that do. Mayor Anthony Bosley, the guiding force behind the rink, would also like to see a plaque and dedication of the rink to the memory of Jim Gates. “Jim Dog,” as he was affectionately known, maintained the rink at the tennis court for many years, and collapsed and died while working there. He loved doing things for the young people, and many think this would be a nice way to remember him.

Winterfest plans are underway and the theme is “Sweet Treats, Good Eats.” The committee has decided to focus the vendor portion of Winterfest to businesses, organizations, and individuals who sell edible items. There will be items to sample at each table, in addition to the usual chili cook-off, adult and kids brownie bake-off, and hot dogs to purchase. The “kids café” from the elementary parents group will also sell their cinnamon rolls first thing in the morning. If you are interested in participating with a vendor table Saturday, February 27, call Kathy Shiplett at (906) 297-6003. The snow sculpture contest will be a snowman contest with emphasis on the “Sweet Treat” theme. In conjunction with Winterfest activities, Sherry Bailey from Bailey’s School of Dance on Drummond Island is organizing a winter king and queen contest for elementary students at the Drummond Island and DeTour Schools. She will be sending information on how to participate in this event home from the schools. The winners will be announced at the end of Winterfest Saturday, February 27, and crowning will take place at a dance following the festivities. Watch The St. Ignace News for more details and a list of additional Winterfest activities.

Director David Rhinard announced that readings for the EUP Fine Arts Council’s May 27 to May 30 production of Larry Shu’s “The Foreigner” will be at his house, the Huron Street Inn Bed and Breakfast, Sunday, February 7, and Monday, February 8, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. If you are interested in performing in this comedy, call David at (906) 297-5608.

David is also currently rehearsing with students at DeTour School for the March production of an adaptation of Englebert Humperdinck’s opera “Hansel and Gretel.” Scott Bosley has been cast as Hansel, and Madison Wilkie as Gretel. A full cast and crew list will be available soon.

There was a Lower St. Mary’s Chapter Habitat for Humanity meeting Tuesday, January 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the school. This group has come a long way in a very short time. Property selection is near completion, and applications for a family to partner for the first Habitat home in our area are available. For more information on the program, call Bill Mordecai, president, at (906) 297-5021. Volunteer help is welcome and needed.

The athletic boosters club is working hard to raise money to support the teams. Raiders cards can be found at businesses around the area and at the school. You can leave the card with your name at the place of purchase, or take it with you to place in your car or a window at home.

The Boosters will host a fish fry before the boys basketball game Thursday, January 21, from 4:30 p.m. until game time.