IceDistrict

The recent announcement of a potential deal involving the Oilers Entertainment Group, the province and the city funding an Ice District Event Park is the latest example of what can go wrong when governments get involved in business. There's little doubt that Event Park will be a boon to businesses around the Ice District, but it will probably hurt businesses that currently focus on the event business. Businesses in other areas of the city that cater to the same crowds that will be drawn to the Ice District Event Park will probably also experience a downturn.

I'm not against of an Ice District Event Park, but question why the province and city think they can use public/taxpayers money to pay for it. Governments at all levels should stay mind in their own lane and let entrepreneurs take care of business.

On Thursday to Saturday seven teams of ice carvers worked their creative magic with huge blocks of ice. A team comprised of carvers from Calgary and the Philippines won the competition with their sculture The Huntress. The sculptures will remain in the Ice District until the end of February or longer, depending on the weather. The public is invited to tour the sculptures and cast their vote for the People's Choice Award.