A Tradition Reborn: Crafting Wonders from Ice
The excitement surrounding the early start to the Ice Palace construction has energized the community. Pontiac Bay in Lake Flower provided solid ice since Christmas, allowing work to commence on January 17, well ahead of the scheduled January 22 deadline. This extra time not only eases the pressure but also opens up possibilities for more intricate designs and unexpected features.
Ice as Canvas: The Art of Early Beginnings
Joe Plumb, now leading the Ice Palace Workers 101, reflects on the significance of starting early. "It’s like having an extended canvas," he explains. "The extra days allow us to experiment with new ideas and push the boundaries of what we can achieve." In recent years, tight schedules limited the scope of creativity. This year, however, the extended timeline promises a grander spectacle, especially with the theme of "Music Legends" inspiring carvers to craft ice instruments and even a stage.
Volunteers have been diligently clearing snow off the ice to facilitate faster growth. By Friday, an official block measured 10.5 inches deep, a promising sign given the forecasted sub-zero nights ahead. Each four-foot-by-two-foot block weighs approximately 500 pounds, and the team aims to cut close to 4,000 blocks this year. The potential for innovation and artistic expression grows with each passing day.
Community Spirit: A Legacy of Generations
The Ice Palace project thrives on the collective effort of dedicated volunteers. Despite a robust crew already at work, Plumb emphasizes the need for more hands. "This tradition has endured because it brings people together," he notes. "Each new volunteer adds their unique touch, ensuring the legacy lives on." Dean Baker, the former director, passed the torch to Plumb at the end of last year’s carnival. For Plumb, leading the build feels both familiar and profoundly meaningful.
The atmosphere around the worksite buzzes with anticipation. Volunteers bring their own tools, some personalized with names or symbols. Greg Washburn and Pat Bourcy traveled from Watertown with custom ice handsaws, while Tom Hyde introduced a chainsaw sled, a tool traditionally used by the Amish for cutting ice. These innovations add efficiency and a touch of novelty to the process.
Innovations and Traditions: A Blend of Old and New
Among the novelties, Stacy Annis brought a relic from the past—a block from last year’s Ice Palace that she preserved in her freezer. This unusual gift serves as a cornerstone for the new structure, symbolizing continuity. Annis managed to keep the block intact by storing it in a Ziploc bag, losing only about 20% of its size. The gesture sparked discussions about who would take on the role of curator in future years, as freezer space becomes a valuable commodity.
Elle Finocan contributed a personalized plaque honoring a friend, adding a personal touch to the communal effort. The blend of old traditions and new innovations creates a dynamic environment where every participant leaves their mark. As the Ice Palace takes shape, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and creativity.