Arctic Fever drew roughly 144 attendees and 'Frosty the Snowplow' won naming contest; commissioners pick Lilo & Stitch for Movie in the Park

Parks and Recreation Manager Czech gave the Park Commission a recap of the Jan. 17 Arctic Fever event, telling commissioners that weather forced some changes but that the City held contests and activities that drew positive feedback.

Manager Czech said about 144 people attended the event, staff ran a 'Name a Snowplow' contest with 50 submissions and selected 'Frosty the Snowplow' as the winner, and that coloring contest entries — including one won by Council Liaison Gorham’s daughter — will be used in next year’s promotional materials. Czech listed event sponsors and noted that the City accepted a presenting sponsor for the first time for this event.

Commissioners praised performers and vendors, discussed whether to charge a small fee for face painting to allow hiring an additional artist to reduce lines, and suggested carrying some Arctic Fever features into a summer event. Chair Wenner said she felt 'it was a great event, especially under the circumstances.'

On the Movie in the Park item, Manager Czech reviewed available films for the Aug. 22, 2025 event at Eddy Station in Freeman Park and confirmed sponsorship and vendor opportunities in the City’s sponsorship guide. Commissioner Hirner moved to approve Lilo and Stitch as the movie for the 2025 Movie in the Park; Commissioner Garske seconded. The commission carried the motion 4-0 and also approved Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs as the second choice should the first title be unavailable. Commissioners discussed promotional tie-ins such as local vendors, themed food, demonstrations and costume contests to increase attendance within budget constraints.

Manager Czech asked the commission to notify staff of potential vendors or activities for future events.