Winter Wonderland Returns to Marina Park

A boy waits to ride on a special skating contraption at the New Martinsville Marina Park turned into a temporary ice rink thanks to frigid temperatures and water.
With sub-freezing temperatures and a foot of snow, the Marina Park was once again turned into a winter wonderland for local kids. Truth is, just as many adults enjoyed their time on the ice, or just talking with others of times gone by, as much as the kids of today enjoyed spending the time outside.
Each year for many, Danny Westfall along with his wife Cathy, have worked hard to bring this place to life by skating on the once-a-year ice. In reality, it is not so much work for them, as it is their way of giving back to the community. In the summertime, they can be seen creating giant bubbles with dozens of kids laughing and enjoying the magic of iridescent soap bubbles floating into the air. Come each winter, they bring out their trailer filled with skates and hockey equipment.
This year the New Martinsville Fired Department helped fill the low-lying depression in the park. They are not only there to help when emergencies occur, they are glad to help bring joy and fun to our community. Mother Nature supplied the freezing temperatures brought in all the way from Canada.
As I walked through the park, it was evident the dozens of visitors were having lots of free fun. Laughter and singing could be heard over the crackling fire in a true Winter Wonderland. Thanks Danny and Cathy with a ‘C’ for your dedication to the community and those who enjoy the winter outside