U of O Winter Games announced

(File photo) This University of Iowa Winter Games participant demonstates a cannonball into the frigid waters -- one of many activities offered during the annual event.

The dates for the 29th Annual University of Okoboji Winter Games are set for January 23-25, 2009. The Chairperson for this year's event is Molly Gildemeister and the Co-Chair is John Adams, Jr.

The University of Okoboji Winter Games will be centered in the Smith's Bay area (weather permitting), with other events held throughout the Lakes Region. Local and regional teams will have the chance to participate on the ice in U of O Winter Games classics, such as Broomball, Softball and Hockey.

RE/MAX of Spirit Lake and the Okobojis will again be hosting the Chili Cook-Off at the Dickinson County Expo Building. A free concert, sponsored by Northwest Bank and the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association, will follow the Cook-Off. New additions to this year's games will be an Opry-style concert at the SAMI Center, a tailgate at the Arnolds Park Pavilion, a Boy Scout Troop 152 food booth on the ice and a hot chocolate booth at the Fireworks Extravaganza, all taking place on Saturday.

Saturday night's Extravaganza, including the Burning of the Greens and the fireworks display, will be held at Preservation Plaza, formerly known as the Green Space. The University of Okoboji Winter Games Cheerleader nomination forms will be available later in November -- watch for details.

Molly Gildemeister, this year's Winter Games Chair said, "We're hoping for great ice, lots of snow and mild temperatures for the University of Okoboji Winter Games this year. The Games are looking to be bigger and better than ever. The activities that we have planned are wonderful for all ages, kids and adults alike."

Official University of Okoboji Winter Games Clothing is on sale at Fareway, Wal-Mart, Buy Rite, The Three Sons of Milford and The Chamber offices.

The next committee meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 10 in the Hedberg Theater, located at the Okoboji Spirit Center. The public and new event ideas are welcome. Please have event details finalized prior to the meeting, as the event schedules will be confirmed at that time. Anyone interested in assisting with an event is encouraged to attend. Contact Erin Roe at the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce at (712) 332-2107 or via email at erin@okobojichamber.com with questions or new event ideas.