People sled down “Snow Mountain” while others make their way back to the top of the hill Saturday morning, Feb. 24, at French Falls Park in Jay. The Jay Recreation Committee hosted the first Sled-In since 2020. Sledding, on the mountain created by the town’s public works department was a popular activity for many. Pam Harnden/Livermore Falls Advertiser
JAY — The Jay Recreation Committee hosted the first Sled-In held since 2020 on Saturday, Feb. 24, with lots of fun things for families to do.
Ben Coffin of Norridgewock holds his son, Brysen Merchant of Livermore Saturday morning, Feb. 24, at the Sled-In held at French Falls park in Jay. Pam Harnden/Livermore Falls Advertiser
“Snow Mountain” was a popular destination for many. Several people stood at the bottom as others waited at the top. As soon as somebody took off, one of two speed guns was activated. “17, 18,” and similar times were called out once the bottom was reached. As soon as possible afterwards, the enthusiastic participants headed back up to the top pulling sleds or tubes behind them.
A few younger children lucked out and were given rides back to the top.
In another section of the park, a group gathered while waiting to enjoy a snowmobile or sleigh ride provided by members of the Andy Valley Riders Snowmobile Club. One youngster rolled in the snow until it was her turn.
Several sections of the plowed areas saw mud and rivulets of running water or puddles due to recent warm weather.
“It’s a lot warmer than I thought it would be,” Town Manager Shiloh LaFreniere said. “First thing this morning the wind was blowing like crazy. There is not as much snow this year. It is muddier.”
A bonfire using pallets provided a place to take the chill off. Four year old Brysen Merchant of Livermore was held by dad Ben Coffin of Norridgewock. The boy wasn’t interested in the drink offered to him by his dad.
Nine-year old Sophia Spellman of Jay reacts as the marshmallow she is toasting catches fire Saturday morning, Feb. 24, during the Sled-In held at French Falls Park in Jay. Pam Harnden/Livermore Falls Advertiser
Further down the park a smaller fire pit was surrounded by those making s’mores. Julia Spellman of Jay prepared the graham crackers and chocolate while daughter Sophia toasted her marshmallow. Soon after mom said the marshmallow was cooking well, it had to be brought close to blow out a tiny fire that engulfed part of it.
Several folks took advantage of the free hot chocolate while others gathered inside a tent to grab a bite to eat or purchase raffle tickets. Recreation committee members were available to help with the scavenger hunt.
Two youngsters found large chunks of icy snow to play with.
LaFreniere said the fact the Sled-In hadn’t been held for years may have been a factor in participation this year.
“The snow hill has ben going since we opened,” LaFreniere said. “I’m really happy with the turnout.”
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