By Carol McCracken (Post # 390)

Moments ago the City of Portland announced that the majority of Portland’s WinteRush activities have been canceled for this weekend. The reason: due to a lack of snow.

However, several events will go on. They are the PolarBear 5K, sponsored by TriMaine and Freezin for a Reason, and Maine Polar Plunge to benefit Camp Sunshine. The event was to have been held at Deering Oaks Park. Last year it was held at Lilncoln Park in downtown Portland.

“We are certainly disappointed to have to cancel the city’s winter festival, but the lack of snow was a hurdle we couldn’t overcome,” stated Mayor Nick Mavodones in a press release just issued. “Even though sledding and snowball fights do not appear on the horizon, there are still a lot of things, from ice skating to hiking that people can do to enjoy this winter in Portland.”

The press release went on to say that should the weather cooperate in the next two months and provide a solid snow base, Portland WinteRush organizers will hold a smaller outdoor festival with many of the same activities. Information will be updated at www.portlandwinterush.com.