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Ice Carnival thrives with freezing temps
01/26/2013 07:32 PM
By: Christian Farrell

Some might disagree, but it actually was a great day to be outdoors. If you were in Livingston Manor. Our Christian Farrell was lucky enough to be there.

LIVINGSTON MANOR, N.Y. - Like most other Sullivan County communities, Livingston Manor gets kind of quiet during the cold winter months. Except for one weekend though, Ice Carnival weekend.

"It's our highlight of the community," said Diane Babich, the ice carnival organizer.

Diane Babich is the organizer of this year's 54th annual ice carnival. There's no charge for the outdoor event. Just make sure to bring your hats and gloves.

"I think a lot of people look forward to having it, so we can get together," said Annaliese Gorr of Livingston Manor.

"I like to ice skate. It's fun. I like the cold," said Kaitlyn Rau of Livingston Manor.

In order to host an event like the ice carnival, you certainly need some cooperation from the weather. That's something that did not happen last year when the ice carnival became a casualty of a mild winter.

"I believe that was probably the third time in history of the 54 years that it was canceled," said Babich.

Seemingly just another one in a series of unlucky breaks for this community. Flood damage has been an ongoing problem. In November, a fire destroyed several main street businesses. Locals say an ice cold January is just what the doctor ordered.

"This event you know brings everyone together. They have been through some rough times. It's a great community building event for all," said Alex Rau of Livingston Manor.

Other wintry activities on the schedule for Sunday include skating exhibitions, a parade, and of course, the crowning of the ice carnival king and queen.




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