The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
WINTER STORM TAKES A TOLL
WinterFest 2018 in Chardon canceled, power outages reported
— Chardon Tomorrow Facebook page
Like any outdoor festival organizers, those in charge of Chardon’s WinterFest are always hoping for optimum weather
This year they got too much of a good thing.
The event — started several years ago to celebrate the city’s snowy reputation — was scheduled for Jan. 13 on the city square, but was canceled because of the severe forecast.
On the morning of Jan. 12, Chardon Tomorrow shared the news on its Facebook page.
“We are disappointed to announce that the scheduled activities for tomorrow’s WinterFest have been cancelled due to unsafe ice accumulations and subzero wind chills anticipated. These situations present safety concerns for our participants, volunteers, and guests. On the bright side! We are working with the ice sculpture company to continue with the displays of ice and the tower throughout the square! We’ll keep you posted--stay safe and stay warm!”
"We are working with the ice sculpture company to continue with the displays of ice and the tower throughout the square!"
Over the years, WinterFest has been shifted away from snow-dependent activities and toward ice-related attractions — including the popular “Fire & Ice” tower lighting — because of lack of the white stuff. Last year, it was a balmy 70 degrees.
Commentors on Facebook expressed disappointment, and noted the irony.
“Aww, so sorry … too much winter, even for Chardon!” one wrote.
“(You) know the conditions (are) really harsh when a winter fest must be canceled. Another reason (why) I live in Florida,” read another.
“WinterFest is cancelled because of winter!” was another reply, including a few laughing emojis.
Chardon Tomorrow responded: “Snow we can handle; we’re Chardon after all! It’s that nasty ice layer and wind chill!”
Tthe event is an opportunity to bring people to the square and boost local businesses.
Chardon police issued a notice the morning of Jan. 13 about downed power lines and outages because of the wintry weather and gusting winds.
The storm system also caused canceled flights, emergency parking bans in some communities and
Last year, it was a balmy 70 degrees.
several minor accidents in Lake and Geauga counties.
“The roads were awful and really snow covered, but everyone seems to be driving really well,” Ohio Highway Patrol Dispatcher Dawn Stephens said. “We’ve had no major accidents so far.”
Conditions caused the Ohio Department of Transportation to lower the speed limit to 50 mph on Interstate 90 between Route 44 and Route 528 early on Jan. 13. It was increased to 60 mph by noon.