Ice Dreams Showcase

Winter in Nova Scotia can mean one thing for many people, bitterly cold weather.

During our daily trudge to work, bundled up to ward off the cold and dreaming of tropical destinations, we seldom take the time to appreciate the good things winter has to offer. Take the Roof off Winter, an initiative co-ordinated by the Department of Health Promotion and Protection, and Recreation Nova Scotia, is trying to change that.

Every year, Take the Roof off Winter chooses outdoor rinks, created by a community, school or organization, for its Ice Dreams Showcase. The rinks, usually one in each region, are showcased to the rest of the province as an inspiration.

"We feel it is important to highlight the communities that have made a sincere effort in supporting spontaneous outdoor winter play," said Jody Conrad, outdoor recreation consultant, Department of Health Promotion and Protection. "The chosen rinks not only receive the Take the Roof off Winter red tuques, they also receive the highly coveted Hoser Award in recognition of their promotion of winter play."

The first two rinks chosen this year are in Chester and Truro, and will be showcased, Saturday, Feb. 14. As part of winter carnivals in the communities, open, public skates will be held at the rinks.

The events will take place in Chester from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Lordly Park, 133 Central St., and in Truro from noon to 4 p.m., at Victoria Park.

Take the Roof off Winter encourages Nova Scotians to become active during the winter. It provides people, community groups and businesses with ideas and support materials for all ages, such as tuques, banners and posters. Visit www.taketheroofoffwinter.ca for more information and fun activity ideas.