The 3rd Annual Farewell to Winter Festival was held on March 4th,2023 at the Fountain City Auditorium. Loads of people came to celebrate saying goodbye to Winter but it seems that it’s not quite ready to go with several inches of snow back on our doorstep!
We had 7 entries for this years Chili Cook-off! Competition was fierce as there were only 3 votes distinguishing 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Twelve yr old Zoe Tepovich nudged ahead and walked away with the People’s Choice trophy, $50 cash prize and bragging rights for another year. When asked what the secret was to her chili, Zoe replied, “Don’t use ground beef in your chili!” AND don’t ask her for the recipe because she doesn’t have one!
Several local vendors joined the event this year with their handmade wares. Fran & Bel, Kriesel’s Wooden Creations, Create Happy, Erickson Farm, Buzzin’ Coffee, Gatherings at the Creek, The Nook Community Library and Hope 4 U. The day was rounded out with children’s games, face painting, Bingo and many, many happy conversations with friends and neighbors.
Over 17 artists shared their talents on the Judee Brone Memorial Stage. Attendees were awed with acoustic performances, a flexibility routine, magic tricks, and I think I saw Elvis. Our own FCBC officer, Jen Tepovich, nailed her lip sync routine of “Harper Valley P.T.A.” Jen said, “It’s the first time I’ve ever worn a mini skirt!” and she assured us she practiced her leap off the stage many times. The youngest talent, a 6 year old C-FC student, brought down the house at the evenings talent show with his rendition of the song “Life is a Highway”.
The Farewell to Winter Festival volunteers want to extend a huge thank you to all those that participated and attended. It doesn’t happen without all of you! We’ve learned a lot in our 3 years of Winter Festing and are making adjustments and new plans for next year. Save the date for March 2nd
Interested in getting involved? Send us an email!
