Ice sculptures, bell ringing and new year’s resolutions were part of First Night State College when families and visitors rang in the new year Sunday.
“We’re here to try the ice slide for the first time," said Megan Orient, who was there with her 3-year-old son, Michael. They were among those braving the chilly temperatures to enjoy the features of First Night State College. There was a windchill advisory for central and northern Pennsylvania Sunday night.
“We thought we’d come out before it got even colder,” said Orient before getting in line to slide down the ice, landing in bales of hay. The annual event gives residents and visitors a fun way to usher in the new year.
“It’s beautiful. We love to come see the ice sculptures," said Becky Elias, of College Township, who enjoyed the day with two children and a friend.
Her daughter, Mariella, 13, likes the bells visitors could ring in Central Parklet.
“It’s really cool, in the way it all echoes through,” she said.
Ernie DiMartino, of Jeanette, Pennsylvania, is in the ice sculpting business. His crew was carving an eagle throne for visitors to sit on.
“For us, it’s a tradition," DiMartino said. "We’ve been doing it for 23 years.”
Inside the borough building, visitors are warming up and writing New Year’s resolutions.
“My resolution is: Say what I mean and do what I say.”
“Be more positive, find more positive things in everything, everybody.”
“To be a better person.”
That was Kayleigh Powell, a native of State College; Judi Sittler, also from State College; and Darryl Cox, from Bellefonte, who shared their wishes for 2018.
