Rotary Club holds second Winterfest

BELLA VISTA — The second annual Winterfest, a signature project of the Rotary Club of Bella Vista in collaboration with the Bella Vista Property Owner’s Association, was held Feb. 3 at the Bella Vista Recreation Center.

“The POA has graciously worked with us. We have this center at no charge because they’re a cosponsor,” said Bob Ritschel, chairman of the event. He said POA surveys for amenities showed that a large percentage of respondents wanted more activities for young children. Winterfest is a response to that.

Last year the event was held at St. Bernard’s Parish Hall because the rec center was under construction, he added.

Registered attendance for the event was greater than last year, Ritschel said, with 118 children signed up to attend in the morning session and 116 signed up for the afternoon session. Everything was free to attendees.

“I’m encouraged,” he said. “You look and see all the games being played and kids having fun. The fact they get to play a game of their choosing and get their face painted or get a balloon — it’s a lot of fun, and that’s the purpose.

The parents like it too. It’s in a safe environment out of the rain. We hope to have this every year and just grow.”

There were a variety of games hosted by volunteers, door prizes, a cake walk, face painting and balloon animals. A person dressed in a polar bear costume attracted photo opportunities.

Altrusa International and the local girls’ Boy Scout Troop were also set up at the event.

Pat Schrad of Altrusa International said each child who attended Winterfest would receive a couple of books. She said the organization works with schools and libraries throughout the area.

Linda Krysl of Altrusa International said, “Literacy is what our programs are all about.”

Josie McMillan of the girls’ Boy Scout Troop 3401G said, “We’re trying to reach out and get our name into the community.”

(NWA Democrat-Gazette/Rachel Dickerson) Opal Australie (center) plays a game at Winterfest at the Bella Vista Recreation Center on Feb. 3 while her mother, Michele Australie (left) and Rotary Club volunteer Deborah Lukotch look on.

(NWA Democrat-Gazette/ Terri O’Byrne) Anna Stacey, daughter of Jenna and Josh Stacey, shows off the beautiful artistry of face painting. Children were invited to have their face painted at one of the Winterfest booths on Feb. 3.