CHAD HARTSON … With three decades of expertise in ice sculpting, Chad Hartson, owner of Ice Creations of Napoleon, acquired his skills while studying culinary arts in school several years ago.
On Friday, December 15th, and Saturday, December 16th, Wauseon underwent a magical transformation and residents had the opportunity to witness ice-carving demonstrations hosted at various local businesses as they went about their daily activities.
The 3rd Christmas in Wauseon Ice Sculpting Event, sponsored by the Wauseon Chamber of Commerce, featured skilled artists from Ice Creations of Napoleon.
Rather than holding demonstrations in a single location such as a park, organizers opted to position sculptures at businesses and restaurants around the city to enhance visibility and foot traffic throughout the day.
Bill Drummer, the Executive Director of the Wauseon Chamber shared that this year’s event featured an impressive 34 sculptures, marking the largest display to date.
On Friday morning, the ice carving festivities kicked off at 9:00 a.m. at Special Grounds and Edward Jones – Kim Baker.
Throughout the day, skillful sculptors worked their magic at other Wauseon businesses, including Aquatek Water Conditioning, Wauseon Eye Care, Northwest State (County Admin Building), Days Inn, Biggby Coffee, Roots Salon & Spa, F&M Bank, The Lead Shed, Bargain Bin, Anything Grows/Tony’s Pet Shop, Blooms Flower Company, Chief Supermarket, Passion 4 Fashion Boutique, Baldy’s Furniture & Mattress, The Law Offices of Barber, Kaper, Stamm, McWatters, Whitlock & Maloney, LLP, Healthy Spot Wauseon, State Bank, Wauseon Chamber of Commerce, Shaw’s Clothing, Sullivan’s Restaurant, and Habaneros.
Saturday morning brought joy to kids as the Grinch and Cindy Lou Hou made a special appearance downtown before continuing their journey to Shoop Avenue.
The carving demonstrations continued on Saturday at RSM Services, Blue Ribbon Diner, Agua Fria Financial, Black Swamp Boots, Junk & Disorderly, Freedom Bound Quilt Shop, A Touch of Magnolia Boutique, Wauseon Public Library, Cordy Insurance Agency, Ace Hardware, and Red Rambler Coffee.
Following the ice-carving demonstrations, the sculptures were left on display at various businesses, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy a little holiday magic throughout the weekend.
